As we start a new year, it would be good to set some goals for yourself and your family. To begin with, you may want to write down a short statement that encapsulates your purpose for life, for example, "To touch lives for God". Ask God for a theme verse to guide you in the new year. You could meditate on this verse and ask God how it should apply to your life.
There are seven aspects to consider in your goals setting. You could add on. For each, write down a couple of measurable goals you want to accomplish next year.
1. Spiritual: You may aim to read the entire Old Testament by end 2011. Or perhaps set aside time once a week to fast and pray for certain needs.
2. Professional: You may want to include specific courses you would like to attend to help you in your professional development. Or perhaps being able to move into another area of work.
3. Finance: You may want to consider how much to save each month. Or perhaps reconsider some of your investment options.
4. Family: You may want to consider what you hope your family can accomplish together this year. It could perhaps be the salvation of one particular member of your family or spending time together once a week to have family devotional time.
5. Home: You may want to consider delineating home responsibilities for each member of the household to accomplish.
6. Leisure: It could be reading a certain number of books/magazines. Or perhaps pick up a new sport/hobby.
7. Health: It could be exercising three times weekly or taking fruits after every meal.
Whatever your goals, they should be measurable and realistic. That is, by the end of the year, you should be able to note down whether those goals have been accomplished.
Finally, let me leave you with a few quotes to encourage you in your endeavours.
“There are infinite possibilities in little beginnings if God is in them.”
“What you are is God’s gift to you; and what you make of yourself is your gift to God.”
“You are God’s project and God never fails.”
“Success is progressive realization of worthwhile goals.”
Wishing each of you a blessed and fruitful New Year!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Have a CHRIST-filled Christmas
Christmas is just next week; it's a time to commemorate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Jesus' birth was unique in many ways:
1. It was prophesied long ago by many (Gen 3:15;22:18; Is 7:14; 9:6-9; Mic 5:2).
2. His birth was through a virgin Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit (Lk 1:34-35).
3. He was the Incarnate Son of God (Jn 1:14; Ps 2:7,12).
4. He was born in a stable, announced by angels and proclaimed by the shepherds (Lk 2:7-18).
5. Worshipped by the magi (Mt 2:11).
6. Born to be the Saviour of the world (Mt 1:21).
Christmas has always been a season of giving and parties, coming at the end of the year where people receive their bonuses. The commercial world has captilised on this to get people to part with their money. Lest the true meaning and intent of Christmas be lost in the celebrations, here are a few thoughts on Christmas even as wrap up 2010:
Contentment: Learning to live within our means and trying not to live on credit. Whatever God has blessed us with, we ought to be content and possibly share it with those in need (Phil 4:12; 1Tim 6:6).
Harmony: Learning to co-exist with one another on this planet and especially those who are closest and dearest to us. Forgiving one another and receiving forgiveness should be part of our DNA (Phil 4:2).
Righteousness: The wrath of God has been laid on Jesus Christ that we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21). Let's not live our lives without God in total abandonment because one day the wrath of God would be unleased again towards those who reject His Son (Rom 1:18-32).
Investment: Not so much of making a quick buck in business, shares, properties, etc. but more so in building up of lives of people we come into contact with on a regular basis. One great investment is to share the good news of salvation and to disciple them for the Lord (Mt 28:19-20).
Service: We have been created by God for good works (Eph 2:10). We have heard the phrase that we should move from success to significance. Significance comes about when we do something meaningful with our lives to help impact society for good.
Thanksgiving: Let's thank God for the greatest gift He has given - Jesus Christ (Jn 3:16), and also the many blessings He has dropped along our way. When we cultivate the attitude of thanksgiving in our lives, we learn to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God (1 Pet 5:6; 1 Th 5:18).
I wish you a CHRIST-filled Christmas!
May you personally experience the CHRIST of Christmas this holiday season.
1. It was prophesied long ago by many (Gen 3:15;22:18; Is 7:14; 9:6-9; Mic 5:2).
2. His birth was through a virgin Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit (Lk 1:34-35).
3. He was the Incarnate Son of God (Jn 1:14; Ps 2:7,12).
4. He was born in a stable, announced by angels and proclaimed by the shepherds (Lk 2:7-18).
5. Worshipped by the magi (Mt 2:11).
6. Born to be the Saviour of the world (Mt 1:21).
Christmas has always been a season of giving and parties, coming at the end of the year where people receive their bonuses. The commercial world has captilised on this to get people to part with their money. Lest the true meaning and intent of Christmas be lost in the celebrations, here are a few thoughts on Christmas even as wrap up 2010:
Contentment: Learning to live within our means and trying not to live on credit. Whatever God has blessed us with, we ought to be content and possibly share it with those in need (Phil 4:12; 1Tim 6:6).
Harmony: Learning to co-exist with one another on this planet and especially those who are closest and dearest to us. Forgiving one another and receiving forgiveness should be part of our DNA (Phil 4:2).
Righteousness: The wrath of God has been laid on Jesus Christ that we might become the righteousness of God (2 Cor 5:21). Let's not live our lives without God in total abandonment because one day the wrath of God would be unleased again towards those who reject His Son (Rom 1:18-32).
Investment: Not so much of making a quick buck in business, shares, properties, etc. but more so in building up of lives of people we come into contact with on a regular basis. One great investment is to share the good news of salvation and to disciple them for the Lord (Mt 28:19-20).
Service: We have been created by God for good works (Eph 2:10). We have heard the phrase that we should move from success to significance. Significance comes about when we do something meaningful with our lives to help impact society for good.
Thanksgiving: Let's thank God for the greatest gift He has given - Jesus Christ (Jn 3:16), and also the many blessings He has dropped along our way. When we cultivate the attitude of thanksgiving in our lives, we learn to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God (1 Pet 5:6; 1 Th 5:18).
I wish you a CHRIST-filled Christmas!
May you personally experience the CHRIST of Christmas this holiday season.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Last week, I brought my children to watch the 3-D movie adapted from the C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia series. This was book five of his 7-parter children's adventure series; only 3 have been made into motion pictures so far. The first that appeared was The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe , followed by Prince Caspian. In this recent movie, the screenplay writer and director exercised a lot of freedom to depart from the original script written by Lewis in the 1950s. However, watching reel movie, you would realise that there're lessons to learn as it applies to real life as well.
This is the first time we are watching a movie with 3-D effect together and it was quite an experience; it brings the characters of the show nearer to you for good theatrical effect. Of course, you would have to put on special googles that they provide. Some don't like wearing the googles though, well cheer up, the 2-D version also came out last Thursday. Buying a 3-D ticket would set you back by another about $3 compared to a 2-D version. Looks like we're going to have more movies being churned out with 3-D effects in future, until of course the novelty wears off.
The movie began with the Pevensies' children Edmund and Lucy, together with their cousin Eustace, going back to the magical land of Narnia through a picture hanging on a wall. Edmund and Lucy were reunited with Prince Caspian (or rather King now) on board the Dawn Treader, albeit with a reluctant crew Eustace, who couldn't help griping along the way. The lessons to be learnt as you watch the movie are aplenty. But one important thread the film is getting at is that we are all on a journey of faith, with temptations and tribulations lining our pathways. Lucy had to resist the temptation to make herself more beautiful while Edmund had to fight the temptation of power and ambition that so frequently haunts him. Eustace typifies a person who lusts after wealth and fame.
On their journey to find out what happened to 7 Lords, whom young Caspian's wicked uncle got rid off by sending them to explore the unknown Eastern Seas beyond the Lone Islands, they met with all kinds of tests and temptations that the prince of darkness put in their way. However, they were told, "To defeat the darkness out there you must defeat the darkness in yourself." And how true that is in life. The greater darkness lies deep within each one of us. Many times the beastly nature in us comes to the fore when we least expect it. That's why the Scripture tells us that we need to put to death the deeds of the flesh (Col 3:5). When a quarrelsome spirit tries to ensnare us, we need to be reminded and apply Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath."
As they encountered each Lord, whether dead or alive, they had to reclaim their 7 swords, which symbolically represent the sins that so easily entangles us (Heb 12:1). It is only when these swords are laid down at Aslan's table (before God), that God empowers us to defeat the evil both within and without. Our submission and surrender to God enables Him to accomplish great things through us. On the other hand, if we cling on to pride and lusts within our hearts, we would not be effective in His kingdom. When we call on the name of the Lord, as Lucy did towards the end, He comes in His own special way to provide a way out in our dilemma and conflict. May you and I reach the shores of heaven triumphant having passed the tests of life.
One final note: My children enjoyed the show with the younger one being inspired to create some artwork accompanied by some literary devices for one of her projects in the future. Go and watch it with your family, if you've not done so.
This is the first time we are watching a movie with 3-D effect together and it was quite an experience; it brings the characters of the show nearer to you for good theatrical effect. Of course, you would have to put on special googles that they provide. Some don't like wearing the googles though, well cheer up, the 2-D version also came out last Thursday. Buying a 3-D ticket would set you back by another about $3 compared to a 2-D version. Looks like we're going to have more movies being churned out with 3-D effects in future, until of course the novelty wears off.
The movie began with the Pevensies' children Edmund and Lucy, together with their cousin Eustace, going back to the magical land of Narnia through a picture hanging on a wall. Edmund and Lucy were reunited with Prince Caspian (or rather King now) on board the Dawn Treader, albeit with a reluctant crew Eustace, who couldn't help griping along the way. The lessons to be learnt as you watch the movie are aplenty. But one important thread the film is getting at is that we are all on a journey of faith, with temptations and tribulations lining our pathways. Lucy had to resist the temptation to make herself more beautiful while Edmund had to fight the temptation of power and ambition that so frequently haunts him. Eustace typifies a person who lusts after wealth and fame.
On their journey to find out what happened to 7 Lords, whom young Caspian's wicked uncle got rid off by sending them to explore the unknown Eastern Seas beyond the Lone Islands, they met with all kinds of tests and temptations that the prince of darkness put in their way. However, they were told, "To defeat the darkness out there you must defeat the darkness in yourself." And how true that is in life. The greater darkness lies deep within each one of us. Many times the beastly nature in us comes to the fore when we least expect it. That's why the Scripture tells us that we need to put to death the deeds of the flesh (Col 3:5). When a quarrelsome spirit tries to ensnare us, we need to be reminded and apply Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath."
As they encountered each Lord, whether dead or alive, they had to reclaim their 7 swords, which symbolically represent the sins that so easily entangles us (Heb 12:1). It is only when these swords are laid down at Aslan's table (before God), that God empowers us to defeat the evil both within and without. Our submission and surrender to God enables Him to accomplish great things through us. On the other hand, if we cling on to pride and lusts within our hearts, we would not be effective in His kingdom. When we call on the name of the Lord, as Lucy did towards the end, He comes in His own special way to provide a way out in our dilemma and conflict. May you and I reach the shores of heaven triumphant having passed the tests of life.
One final note: My children enjoyed the show with the younger one being inspired to create some artwork accompanied by some literary devices for one of her projects in the future. Go and watch it with your family, if you've not done so.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
The Book of Proverbs
At the end of this month, those of us who have been faithfully following the daily Bible reading would have completed the New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs. Keep up the readings and you'd have wisdom beyond your years! May I congratulate you on your perseverance and diligence in reading God's Word.
The Book of Proverbs has many brief, pithy sayings that reflect the experiences of Solomon and other wise men of that time. Someone has said that proverbs are "short sentences drawn from long experience." Every culture has proverbs, some unique to a particular group, others similar to those of other people. Both the OT and NT contain many proverbs that grew out of the experiences of the Jewish people, which the Holy Spirit has recorded and preserved for our instruction.
Proverbs is not organised as a sequence of ideas that flow from one to the next. It is rather a patchwork with a variety of segments that can be studied independently. The first nine chapters contain the closest approach to an extended discussion of a theme. Following the introduction (1:1-7), comes a series of 12 parental admonitions introduced by "my son" (1:8,10, 2:1, etc.) These were designed to strengthen a young man's resolve not to fall for wicked companions and beguiling women, but to whet his appetite for the pursuit of wisdom.
The heart of the book, and the source of its name, begins with chapter 10 right up to 22:16. This contains the major portion of Solomon's recorded proverbs, consisting of 374 of the 3000 proverbs he is said to have spoken (1 Kg 4:32). Next comes two collections called "the sayings of the wise" (22:17-24:22; 24:23-34). They are given by other men known for their wisdom and tend to be more extended. Then comes another collection of Solomon's proverbs (25:1-29:17), collected and transcribed at a later time by scholars working under King Hezekiah. Many are expressed as similes or comparisons here. Ch 30 contains the words of Augur; Ch 31 is ascribed to King Lemuel, both personages we know nothing much about other that what was stated.
There are different types of proverbs (similar to what was mentioned about psalms):
1. Contrast: second line says something in opposition or contrast to the first. When read as an entity, the two lines reflect different dimensions of the same truth. Contrasting proverbs predominate in Ch 10-15. eg. "The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous." (15:29, NASB)
2. Parallelism: the same thing is stated in two different ways so as to reinforce or bring out additional aspects of the main idea; found mostly in Ch 16-20. eg. "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling." (16:18)
3. Addition: the second line completes and enlarges the meaning of the first, which cannot be properly understood by itself. Appears frequently in Ch 17, 20-21. eg. "He who returns evil for good, evil will not depart from his house." (17:13)
4. Comparison: usually in the form of a simile; found in the second collection of Solomon's proverbs beginning at Ch 25. eg. "Like apples of gold in the settings of silver is a word spoken in right circumstances." (25:11)
5. Extension: basic proverb consists of two lines but some are longer, which occurs mostly in "the sayings of the wise". eg. Pr 22:17-21
As you read the Book of Proverbs, let the wisdom of the wise guide you in your everyday living. "Strike while the iron is hot" - a contemporary proverb reminding us to seize the day whenever opportunity presents itself, to do good rather than evil. Many proverbs give us practical advice as to what we ought to do. For instance, Pr 1:10ff counsels us not to follow the ways of sinners but to walk away from them. Of course, sinners here could also be the tempter who comes to put evil thoughts into our minds, in order that we may accomplish his plans and purposes. Do not consent has to do with resisting the devil (Ja 4:7) that he may flee from you. Seize each moment to live for God.
Carpe Diem!
The Book of Proverbs has many brief, pithy sayings that reflect the experiences of Solomon and other wise men of that time. Someone has said that proverbs are "short sentences drawn from long experience." Every culture has proverbs, some unique to a particular group, others similar to those of other people. Both the OT and NT contain many proverbs that grew out of the experiences of the Jewish people, which the Holy Spirit has recorded and preserved for our instruction.
Proverbs is not organised as a sequence of ideas that flow from one to the next. It is rather a patchwork with a variety of segments that can be studied independently. The first nine chapters contain the closest approach to an extended discussion of a theme. Following the introduction (1:1-7), comes a series of 12 parental admonitions introduced by "my son" (1:8,10, 2:1, etc.) These were designed to strengthen a young man's resolve not to fall for wicked companions and beguiling women, but to whet his appetite for the pursuit of wisdom.
The heart of the book, and the source of its name, begins with chapter 10 right up to 22:16. This contains the major portion of Solomon's recorded proverbs, consisting of 374 of the 3000 proverbs he is said to have spoken (1 Kg 4:32). Next comes two collections called "the sayings of the wise" (22:17-24:22; 24:23-34). They are given by other men known for their wisdom and tend to be more extended. Then comes another collection of Solomon's proverbs (25:1-29:17), collected and transcribed at a later time by scholars working under King Hezekiah. Many are expressed as similes or comparisons here. Ch 30 contains the words of Augur; Ch 31 is ascribed to King Lemuel, both personages we know nothing much about other that what was stated.
There are different types of proverbs (similar to what was mentioned about psalms):
1. Contrast: second line says something in opposition or contrast to the first. When read as an entity, the two lines reflect different dimensions of the same truth. Contrasting proverbs predominate in Ch 10-15. eg. "The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous." (15:29, NASB)
2. Parallelism: the same thing is stated in two different ways so as to reinforce or bring out additional aspects of the main idea; found mostly in Ch 16-20. eg. "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before stumbling." (16:18)
3. Addition: the second line completes and enlarges the meaning of the first, which cannot be properly understood by itself. Appears frequently in Ch 17, 20-21. eg. "He who returns evil for good, evil will not depart from his house." (17:13)
4. Comparison: usually in the form of a simile; found in the second collection of Solomon's proverbs beginning at Ch 25. eg. "Like apples of gold in the settings of silver is a word spoken in right circumstances." (25:11)
5. Extension: basic proverb consists of two lines but some are longer, which occurs mostly in "the sayings of the wise". eg. Pr 22:17-21
As you read the Book of Proverbs, let the wisdom of the wise guide you in your everyday living. "Strike while the iron is hot" - a contemporary proverb reminding us to seize the day whenever opportunity presents itself, to do good rather than evil. Many proverbs give us practical advice as to what we ought to do. For instance, Pr 1:10ff counsels us not to follow the ways of sinners but to walk away from them. Of course, sinners here could also be the tempter who comes to put evil thoughts into our minds, in order that we may accomplish his plans and purposes. Do not consent has to do with resisting the devil (Ja 4:7) that he may flee from you. Seize each moment to live for God.
Carpe Diem!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
God notices (Mark 12:41-44)
Jesus observed how people put money in the treasury. He saw the rich putting in money out of their abundance and a poor widow putting in a lepta (two small copper coins) out of her poverty. The lepton was a currency used in ancient Greece; and a lepta has the equivalence of 1/64 of a denarius, a Roman currency. In early Roman Empire, the daily wage for an unskilled labourer and common soldier was 1 denarius. So even though it was a very meagre amount, she was commended by our Lord for her generosity. I wonder how she lived after that? At any rate, those who sow bountifully shall reap bountifully (2 Cor 9:6).
James said that pure and undefiled religion is to visit the orphans and widows in their distress (Jas 1:27). Earlier on, the religious leaders were plying Jesus with questions, trying to trap Him. But they were unable to do so. Jesus ended the exchanges with the remark that religious people like to make a show of themselves. And unlike what James advised, they would not hesitate to take advantage and swindle widows (Mk 12:38-40). It takes a widow, and a poor one at that, to demonstrate what God looks at. God does not look at the external performances of men but rather the internal workings their hearts.
God also notices when we give to Him today. Whether we give tithes or offerings, He knows because Malachi talked about the nation of Israel robbing God (Mal 3:8). We open ourselves to curses if we fail to pay our tithes and give our offerings. On the other hand, we if honour the Lord with our substance, He would open heaven's windows to rain down blessings on us. Those who fear God and esteem His name will be remembered by Him and will be a part of His special possession (Mal 3:16-18). The arrogance of men is again taken note of by God (Mal 3:13-15). Let's examine daily our hearts' condition before God that we may present unto Him acceptable offerings of both our praise and substance.
James said that pure and undefiled religion is to visit the orphans and widows in their distress (Jas 1:27). Earlier on, the religious leaders were plying Jesus with questions, trying to trap Him. But they were unable to do so. Jesus ended the exchanges with the remark that religious people like to make a show of themselves. And unlike what James advised, they would not hesitate to take advantage and swindle widows (Mk 12:38-40). It takes a widow, and a poor one at that, to demonstrate what God looks at. God does not look at the external performances of men but rather the internal workings their hearts.
God also notices when we give to Him today. Whether we give tithes or offerings, He knows because Malachi talked about the nation of Israel robbing God (Mal 3:8). We open ourselves to curses if we fail to pay our tithes and give our offerings. On the other hand, we if honour the Lord with our substance, He would open heaven's windows to rain down blessings on us. Those who fear God and esteem His name will be remembered by Him and will be a part of His special possession (Mal 3:16-18). The arrogance of men is again taken note of by God (Mal 3:13-15). Let's examine daily our hearts' condition before God that we may present unto Him acceptable offerings of both our praise and substance.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Children
The Bible tells us that children are a gift or heritage from the LORD (Ps 127:3). In an age and time when couples are having difficulty conceiving and our population is not replacing itself, indeed the fruit of the womb is a reward. The Scripture continues, "How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them." (Ps 127:5). Unlike the generations of our forebears who had many children, the younger generations are not keen on having more than two. It could be due to the effective campaign by the government to stop at two or more possibly, the changing demands in modern living, where the cost of raising children does not come cheap. Well those who have more are certainly blessed by the LORD; some say a quiver full contains at least a dozen arrows like Jacob of old.
Children, when they are young, are bundles of joy to behold and cradle. Young parents would soon find that their lives would revolve around their child(ren). From changing diapers (or nappies) to feeding and outings, these are the exciting journeys every parent goes through. Whenever they are not well, not only will there be the anxious moments but also the long wait to see the pediatrician, especially a popular one. Feeding your sick child with medicine could also pose a great challenge and sometimes we need God's wisdom to guide us. I remembered we tried mixing the medicine with our child's milk one time to get the sugar to go down. Somehow the young child would be able to detect the difference and refused to drink. But we managed nonetheless.
When children are slightly older, we can do a lot more talking, reading and playing with them. The time invested in our children when they are young would certainly not go to waste. Many young parents leave it to their child-minders to look after their kids without counteracting the possible harmful effects this arrangement could bring. As parents, we read to our children Children/Bible stories and taught them how to pray. It's wonderful to hear their prayers when they were young because it reveals the simplicity of a child-like faith. In one of the many voice recordings made when they were younger, they prayed for an oikos couple who longed for a child but were apparently unable to conceive. Together with the prayers of the saints, the couple eventually conceived the next year and had yet another child later.
The Bible instructs fathers not to provoke their children to anger but to raise them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Eph 6:4). Implied in this verse is the control men ought to have over their faculties and emotions, especially their temper. Because they are young and impressionable, the things we say and do would leave a lasting impression on our children. Instead, we are to role model the life of a believer in the way we live out our Christian life. There is a need to teach them the Word of God and how to pray; more importantly how to go about maintaining a consistent devotional time with God. This is all part and parcel of Christian discipline and virtues that we ought to inculcate in them. Our elder child does not seem to have much problem in this area but the younger one needs more reminding. As we train our children in the way they should go, when they grow old they will not depart from it (Pr 22:6).
Children's education is an area where parents can fret much over. Many would start planning ahead of time where they would like to put their child(ren), whether it be playgroup, nursery, kindergarten or primary school. Young children have no choice to determine their school destiny; parents would choose for them based on their judgment as to what is expedient for them. We chose for our children a kindergarten and a primary school that is affiliated to an Anglican church as we would like to imbue in them Christian principles and values. Of course, the reputation of the schools concerned also played an important role in our choice. Getting into the primary school wasn't automatic as my wife had to volunteer her services. It was through much prayer and fasting that our elder child secured a place.
Now that they are much older, our children can and have made a choice regarding which secondary school they would like to attend. However, we still had to guide them and give them all the necessary information to help them make an informed choice. We encouraged them to work towards their respective goals by attaining good results for their PSLE, pumping in resources wherever possible. Sheryl by virtue of her artistic talents would like to go to SOTA but admission was through DSA. She didn't have an art portfolio, so I got her to see my Art teacher colleague who graciously agreed to help and guide her. I believe the skills sets that she picked up in building up her portfolio and going through the Talent Academy selection test cum interview would stand her in good stead for future challenges. To cut the long story short, she got into SOTA and has successfully completed Year 1. She has been inspired during the holidays to do a lot of artwork to hone her skills.
Shermaine on the other hand went to Anglican High, another missions school near our place. She has been doing very well in her studies and is enjoying her CCA which is NPCC. The camaraderie forged both in class and in her CCA has been wonderful. In their teenage years, friends or peers play an important role in shaping our children's destiny. We have to keep an eye on the people they are mixing with to ensure that there are no harmful influences. This year she applied for the Temasek Academy (through DSA) after having visited the School Open House and talked with us. Again to cut the long story short, she has been accepted and would start the new term next year in the Integrated Programme of TJC. She made it through on the basis of her own merits. It would certainly be a new chapter for her as she works toward getting a good A level certificate, while Sheryl her International Baccalaureate diploma.
Children in their teenage years will have a mind of their own, learning to assert their independence yet at the same time still dependent on us. As parents, we have to continually engage them. Our roles would have to evolve as well; from that of being a parent to that of being a friend or mentor as they grow up. At any rate, the joys and tribulations of parenthood continues.
Children, when they are young, are bundles of joy to behold and cradle. Young parents would soon find that their lives would revolve around their child(ren). From changing diapers (or nappies) to feeding and outings, these are the exciting journeys every parent goes through. Whenever they are not well, not only will there be the anxious moments but also the long wait to see the pediatrician, especially a popular one. Feeding your sick child with medicine could also pose a great challenge and sometimes we need God's wisdom to guide us. I remembered we tried mixing the medicine with our child's milk one time to get the sugar to go down. Somehow the young child would be able to detect the difference and refused to drink. But we managed nonetheless.
When children are slightly older, we can do a lot more talking, reading and playing with them. The time invested in our children when they are young would certainly not go to waste. Many young parents leave it to their child-minders to look after their kids without counteracting the possible harmful effects this arrangement could bring. As parents, we read to our children Children/Bible stories and taught them how to pray. It's wonderful to hear their prayers when they were young because it reveals the simplicity of a child-like faith. In one of the many voice recordings made when they were younger, they prayed for an oikos couple who longed for a child but were apparently unable to conceive. Together with the prayers of the saints, the couple eventually conceived the next year and had yet another child later.
The Bible instructs fathers not to provoke their children to anger but to raise them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Eph 6:4). Implied in this verse is the control men ought to have over their faculties and emotions, especially their temper. Because they are young and impressionable, the things we say and do would leave a lasting impression on our children. Instead, we are to role model the life of a believer in the way we live out our Christian life. There is a need to teach them the Word of God and how to pray; more importantly how to go about maintaining a consistent devotional time with God. This is all part and parcel of Christian discipline and virtues that we ought to inculcate in them. Our elder child does not seem to have much problem in this area but the younger one needs more reminding. As we train our children in the way they should go, when they grow old they will not depart from it (Pr 22:6).
Children's education is an area where parents can fret much over. Many would start planning ahead of time where they would like to put their child(ren), whether it be playgroup, nursery, kindergarten or primary school. Young children have no choice to determine their school destiny; parents would choose for them based on their judgment as to what is expedient for them. We chose for our children a kindergarten and a primary school that is affiliated to an Anglican church as we would like to imbue in them Christian principles and values. Of course, the reputation of the schools concerned also played an important role in our choice. Getting into the primary school wasn't automatic as my wife had to volunteer her services. It was through much prayer and fasting that our elder child secured a place.
Now that they are much older, our children can and have made a choice regarding which secondary school they would like to attend. However, we still had to guide them and give them all the necessary information to help them make an informed choice. We encouraged them to work towards their respective goals by attaining good results for their PSLE, pumping in resources wherever possible. Sheryl by virtue of her artistic talents would like to go to SOTA but admission was through DSA. She didn't have an art portfolio, so I got her to see my Art teacher colleague who graciously agreed to help and guide her. I believe the skills sets that she picked up in building up her portfolio and going through the Talent Academy selection test cum interview would stand her in good stead for future challenges. To cut the long story short, she got into SOTA and has successfully completed Year 1. She has been inspired during the holidays to do a lot of artwork to hone her skills.
Shermaine on the other hand went to Anglican High, another missions school near our place. She has been doing very well in her studies and is enjoying her CCA which is NPCC. The camaraderie forged both in class and in her CCA has been wonderful. In their teenage years, friends or peers play an important role in shaping our children's destiny. We have to keep an eye on the people they are mixing with to ensure that there are no harmful influences. This year she applied for the Temasek Academy (through DSA) after having visited the School Open House and talked with us. Again to cut the long story short, she has been accepted and would start the new term next year in the Integrated Programme of TJC. She made it through on the basis of her own merits. It would certainly be a new chapter for her as she works toward getting a good A level certificate, while Sheryl her International Baccalaureate diploma.
Children in their teenage years will have a mind of their own, learning to assert their independence yet at the same time still dependent on us. As parents, we have to continually engage them. Our roles would have to evolve as well; from that of being a parent to that of being a friend or mentor as they grow up. At any rate, the joys and tribulations of parenthood continues.
Friday, November 12, 2010
The Book of Galatians
This is an epistle on freedom - not a freedom to do anything we like but a freedom given to us through faith in Jesus Christ. The key verse is found in Gal 5:1, "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Apparently, some Judaizers who professed to be Christians were demanding the people to obey the Jewish law for full salvation and spirituality. Paul had to correct the Galatians for their erroneous thinking by telling them that Christ has indeed set them free from observing the ceremonial laws of the Old Testament (Gal 5:2-3). What's important for believers is that they walk by faith and be led by the Holy Spirit (5:16-18).
We are free in Christ but that freedom does not mean we can indulge in the deeds of the flesh (5:19). Paul listed specifically what these acts of carnality are:
1) Desires: immorality, impurity, sensuality (sexual sins & perversion)
2) Divination: idolatry, sorcery (witchcraft/deception/bondage)
3) Disharmony: enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger
4) Disunity: disputes, dissensions, factions, envying
5) Destruction: drunkenness, carousing
The ultimate goal of Satan is the destruction of our soul/body.
The antidote against licentious living is to live by the Spirit, allowing Him to reproduce His fruit in our lives (5:22-26). Notice the singular fruit consists of 9 aspects: love, joy, peace (Godward attributes), patience, kindness, goodness (outward attributes), gentleness, faithfulness and self-control (inward attributes). When we exercise the fruit of self-control, we prevent disharmony, disunity and destruction from rearing their ugly heads.
How do we cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our lives?
1) Spend time communing with God.
2) Respond to the Holy Spirit's conviction.
3) Pray and ask God for His fruit to be reproduced in us.
When you act on #3, be prepared that God will bring about situations in which you would be put to the test. It does not matter how many times we may have failed God, the important thing is to rise up again and walk with God, repenting of our wicked ways and seeking His ways once again.
Gal 2:20 is a verse which I memorised when I was in Sunday School, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." This verse talks about our identification with Christ in His death; our carnal flesh should be crucified with Him. When we are in the body, that is still on earth, we need to exercise faith in the Son of God. And this we will continue to do until we see Him face to face in heaven, by then there would be no need for faith. The verse ends with the fact that God loves us dearly. Let us reciprocate that love by living for Him.
We are free in Christ but that freedom does not mean we can indulge in the deeds of the flesh (5:19). Paul listed specifically what these acts of carnality are:
1) Desires: immorality, impurity, sensuality (sexual sins & perversion)
2) Divination: idolatry, sorcery (witchcraft/deception/bondage)
3) Disharmony: enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger
4) Disunity: disputes, dissensions, factions, envying
5) Destruction: drunkenness, carousing
The ultimate goal of Satan is the destruction of our soul/body.
The antidote against licentious living is to live by the Spirit, allowing Him to reproduce His fruit in our lives (5:22-26). Notice the singular fruit consists of 9 aspects: love, joy, peace (Godward attributes), patience, kindness, goodness (outward attributes), gentleness, faithfulness and self-control (inward attributes). When we exercise the fruit of self-control, we prevent disharmony, disunity and destruction from rearing their ugly heads.
How do we cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our lives?
1) Spend time communing with God.
2) Respond to the Holy Spirit's conviction.
3) Pray and ask God for His fruit to be reproduced in us.
When you act on #3, be prepared that God will bring about situations in which you would be put to the test. It does not matter how many times we may have failed God, the important thing is to rise up again and walk with God, repenting of our wicked ways and seeking His ways once again.
Gal 2:20 is a verse which I memorised when I was in Sunday School, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." This verse talks about our identification with Christ in His death; our carnal flesh should be crucified with Him. When we are in the body, that is still on earth, we need to exercise faith in the Son of God. And this we will continue to do until we see Him face to face in heaven, by then there would be no need for faith. The verse ends with the fact that God loves us dearly. Let us reciprocate that love by living for Him.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Sowing Generously (2 Cor 9:6-11)
The apostle Paul wrote 2 Corinthians in defense of His apostleship. Apparently false teachers had challenged his authority and right to be an apostle. They accused him of vacillating in his promise to come and as such his words could not be trusted (1:15-24). However, Paul was legitimately delayed until he knew of their repentance since he wished to come in order to carry the collection to Jerusalem and exercise apostolic authority in disciplining the unrepentant (2:1-11). There were most likely two other letters which Paul wrote to the Corinthians which were lost (1 Cor 5:9; 2 Cor 7:8).
Coming back to our text at hand, "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." (v 6). Whatever holds true in the agricultural sense, is also true in real life. A farmer who sows plenty of seeds would naturally expect a bountiful harvest compared to one who sows very little, baring any unforeseen circumstances. Paul was encouraging the people to give generously to help the poor in Jerusalem. And when they do so, God would cause all grace to abound to them (v 8). Notice that this grace enables one to keep doing good work at all times and with all our needs being met.
There are certainly many opportunities to give apart from the church tithes and offerings. I remembered in my school/uni days, I used to support a child under World Vision for several years; contributed to para-church organisations for Bibles/Christian materials to be printed and exported to countries where there were great needs. I also supported a fellow church brother who did missions work with Operation Mobilisation in U.K. In non-monetary terms, we can give through providing services or goods. I remembered giving free tuition to some church friends during vacation period.
When we give, we don't expect anything in return because God's grace will continue to abound in us. We cannot outgive a God who is generous towards those who exercise faith (Jas 1:5). God provides seeds for us to sow or bread for us to eat (v 10). For all of us who are able to work to earn a living, we should be thankful that Jehovah has given us the ability to make wealth (Dt 8:18). We are to be wise stewards of the manifold blessings (be it money, goods or services) God has bestowed on us. Certainly we can put bread on the table for our family to eat and at the same time give of our additional resources to help others. That's should be a good working model for a believer (Eph 4:28).
Ask God to show you whom you can bless today. For some, it may be a financial need and yet for others, it may be an encouraging word or help that could be rendered. As we give, God will enlarge the harvest of our righteousness. Hopefully the people whom we touched would be drawn closer to the Lord.
Coming back to our text at hand, "Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." (v 6). Whatever holds true in the agricultural sense, is also true in real life. A farmer who sows plenty of seeds would naturally expect a bountiful harvest compared to one who sows very little, baring any unforeseen circumstances. Paul was encouraging the people to give generously to help the poor in Jerusalem. And when they do so, God would cause all grace to abound to them (v 8). Notice that this grace enables one to keep doing good work at all times and with all our needs being met.
There are certainly many opportunities to give apart from the church tithes and offerings. I remembered in my school/uni days, I used to support a child under World Vision for several years; contributed to para-church organisations for Bibles/Christian materials to be printed and exported to countries where there were great needs. I also supported a fellow church brother who did missions work with Operation Mobilisation in U.K. In non-monetary terms, we can give through providing services or goods. I remembered giving free tuition to some church friends during vacation period.
When we give, we don't expect anything in return because God's grace will continue to abound in us. We cannot outgive a God who is generous towards those who exercise faith (Jas 1:5). God provides seeds for us to sow or bread for us to eat (v 10). For all of us who are able to work to earn a living, we should be thankful that Jehovah has given us the ability to make wealth (Dt 8:18). We are to be wise stewards of the manifold blessings (be it money, goods or services) God has bestowed on us. Certainly we can put bread on the table for our family to eat and at the same time give of our additional resources to help others. That's should be a good working model for a believer (Eph 4:28).
Ask God to show you whom you can bless today. For some, it may be a financial need and yet for others, it may be an encouraging word or help that could be rendered. As we give, God will enlarge the harvest of our righteousness. Hopefully the people whom we touched would be drawn closer to the Lord.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
The Waters of Baptism
Spoke at the Water Baptism service this afternoon based on the following text (1 Pet 3:18-21 NIV):
18For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, 19through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison 20who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Water baptism has a rich symbolic meaning. It's a sacrament instituted by our Lord Jesus Christ to remind us of our identification with His death and resurrection. The flood waters in Noah's days speak of the death of the wicked, which typifies carnality in our sinful flesh. Baptism also speaks of the death of Christ and the believer who places his trust in the Lord. The apostle Peter mentioned that water baptism is not to be seen as a ritual to remove dirt from our physical body but rather a step of obedience taken to pledge in following God fully.
The way to live with a good conscience before God is to allow our spirit man to be washed by the "waters" of baptism. The waters of baptism is a picture of
1. The Word of God - Christ has cleansed the church by the washing of water with the Word. When you're submerged in the waters, it represents the Word having full authority over your life. It should govern your thought and behaviour in life.
2. The Holy Spirit - the river of life that flows from the throne of God and of the Lamb (Rev 22:1). When you're submerged in the waters, it represents the Spirit having full control over your life. He would lead and guide you into all truth.
When we bathe, we clean ourselves on the outside. However, the clean ourselves on the inside, we need to allow God's Word and Spirit to rule over our inner man; obeying His Word and responding to the Spirit's prompting would cause us to speak and act in a manner pleasing to God. When we do so, we take steps in crucifying the sinful nature and to allow God's grace to work in our lives. It is important that we spend time in solitude with God - praying in the spirit and meditating on His Word. May the sacrament of water baptism reminds us of our pledge to live before God as such - letting His Word richly dwell within us (Col 3:16) and being constantly filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18) in order that praise and thanksgiving will flow freely from our lips to God the Father. That's how water baptism saves us - when we allow God to complete His work in us through His Word and His Spirit on a daily basis.
18For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, 19through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison 20who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, 21and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Water baptism has a rich symbolic meaning. It's a sacrament instituted by our Lord Jesus Christ to remind us of our identification with His death and resurrection. The flood waters in Noah's days speak of the death of the wicked, which typifies carnality in our sinful flesh. Baptism also speaks of the death of Christ and the believer who places his trust in the Lord. The apostle Peter mentioned that water baptism is not to be seen as a ritual to remove dirt from our physical body but rather a step of obedience taken to pledge in following God fully.
The way to live with a good conscience before God is to allow our spirit man to be washed by the "waters" of baptism. The waters of baptism is a picture of
1. The Word of God - Christ has cleansed the church by the washing of water with the Word. When you're submerged in the waters, it represents the Word having full authority over your life. It should govern your thought and behaviour in life.
2. The Holy Spirit - the river of life that flows from the throne of God and of the Lamb (Rev 22:1). When you're submerged in the waters, it represents the Spirit having full control over your life. He would lead and guide you into all truth.
When we bathe, we clean ourselves on the outside. However, the clean ourselves on the inside, we need to allow God's Word and Spirit to rule over our inner man; obeying His Word and responding to the Spirit's prompting would cause us to speak and act in a manner pleasing to God. When we do so, we take steps in crucifying the sinful nature and to allow God's grace to work in our lives. It is important that we spend time in solitude with God - praying in the spirit and meditating on His Word. May the sacrament of water baptism reminds us of our pledge to live before God as such - letting His Word richly dwell within us (Col 3:16) and being constantly filled with the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18) in order that praise and thanksgiving will flow freely from our lips to God the Father. That's how water baptism saves us - when we allow God to complete His work in us through His Word and His Spirit on a daily basis.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
In Praise of God (Ps 145)
This is a lovely psalm to meditate on as it declares the praises of God, who is the object of our worship. The psalmist, David, began by extolling God himself (v1-2) and then brought in the generation(v4), followed by the whole of creation (v10). God is praiseworthy and we can't do enough praising by ourselves. So we see the progression from the single to the many.
Next, we note the frequency of praising God. David talked about praising God everyday (v2). Do we do so, or is it just on Sundays or days when we meet together as a church? This is one major pre-occupation of the angelic hosts in heaven and would be ours too when we get there (Rev 5:11-14). So we had better learn how to praise God aright here, because as David declared, "I will praise Thy name forever and forever." Within his heart, David knew that he would continue living beyond this world's existence because God's kingdom is everlasting (v13).
We moved on to the name or character of God. The Hebrew concept of a person's name carries with it the identity of the person. Just as the name Daniel means "God is my Judge", Daniel lived his life to a ripe old age walking righteously, knowing that the pagan kings whom he served were not really his judges, but God alone. When we bless or exalt the name of God, we are declaring His worth as a person of character and substance. Let's take a look at some of the characteristics of God that David praised Him for:
1) Great God & King (v1,3) as seen in His glorious splendor (v5) and through His mighty acts (v4) and awesome works (v6).
2) Abundant goodness and righteousness (v7,17)
3) Gracious and merciful (v8)
4) Slow to anger and rich in love (v8)
5) Faithful to all His promises (v13)
6) Kind (v17)
We can follow David's example in praising God by declaring His worth. God is our Protector (v14) and our Provider (v15-16). This psalm closes with wonderful promises to those who
a) call upon Him in truth (v18) - His presence is assurd
b) fear or reverence Him (v19) - His provision is abundant
c) love Him (v20) - His protection is encompassing
Let's speak of the praise of the LORD and bless His holy name forever and ever (v21).
Hallelujah!
Next, we note the frequency of praising God. David talked about praising God everyday (v2). Do we do so, or is it just on Sundays or days when we meet together as a church? This is one major pre-occupation of the angelic hosts in heaven and would be ours too when we get there (Rev 5:11-14). So we had better learn how to praise God aright here, because as David declared, "I will praise Thy name forever and forever." Within his heart, David knew that he would continue living beyond this world's existence because God's kingdom is everlasting (v13).
We moved on to the name or character of God. The Hebrew concept of a person's name carries with it the identity of the person. Just as the name Daniel means "God is my Judge", Daniel lived his life to a ripe old age walking righteously, knowing that the pagan kings whom he served were not really his judges, but God alone. When we bless or exalt the name of God, we are declaring His worth as a person of character and substance. Let's take a look at some of the characteristics of God that David praised Him for:
1) Great God & King (v1,3) as seen in His glorious splendor (v5) and through His mighty acts (v4) and awesome works (v6).
2) Abundant goodness and righteousness (v7,17)
3) Gracious and merciful (v8)
4) Slow to anger and rich in love (v8)
5) Faithful to all His promises (v13)
6) Kind (v17)
We can follow David's example in praising God by declaring His worth. God is our Protector (v14) and our Provider (v15-16). This psalm closes with wonderful promises to those who
a) call upon Him in truth (v18) - His presence is assurd
b) fear or reverence Him (v19) - His provision is abundant
c) love Him (v20) - His protection is encompassing
Let's speak of the praise of the LORD and bless His holy name forever and ever (v21).
Hallelujah!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
School Examinations
"Examinations" - that's a dreaded word for all students who have to go through it, which is usually around this time of the year or end Oct/early Nov for the 'O' and 'A' levels respectively. The P6s would have completed their PSLE and some secondary students have ended their final examinations; they are heaving a great sigh of relief. Whether taken in the middle or end of the year, examinations serve several purposes for which they've been constructed.
For one, it enables students to revise and review their work in order to keep abreast with knowledge and skills set that are essential for the next level of work. Often times, future topics/subjects to be covered build upon earlier materials learnt. Though exams may create stress and anxiety amongst students, it nonetheless provides the impetus for students to work on grounding their concepts. This is where they could turn to their peers or tutors for help. As they do so, they pick up the important soft social skills in communicating and relating with one another. It is also a good way for them to develop courage and initiative.
Secondly, examinations serve to provide feedback to teachers and students concerning their level of mastery where different subjects are concerned. Teachers often practised "positive marking", which means, rewarding students for the correct knowledge and skills they have displayed. So a well constructed test paper would be able to ascertain the amount of acquisition a student has attained. If it is a formative exam, it would allow teachers to tailor their lessons accordingly to help their students level up their knowledge and skills. However, some exams are placement exams which serves as an instrument to allocate students into different schools according to their ranking amongst their cohort; the PSLE being a case in point. In this regard, competition for choice schools are thus decided.
For the students, examinations do provide them with feedback regarding where they've gone wrong such as making a careless mistake or not understanding a topic well. Taken in the right spirit, it should spur a child to improve on his/her performance the next time round. Students often lament that they do not have the time to cover the topics for the exams due to their heavy commitment in CCAs or other activities. This is where they need to learn how to plan and organise their schedules and priorities, which again are essential life-skills.
Parents are keenly involved in their children's exams, especially in the lower levels of education. Some would even coach or provide tuition support for their children while others can only provide moral support. This is inevitable as human resource is a precious commodity in our country. In a meritocratic society, the attainment of a paper qualification assures one of a good well-paying job. Of course, some do buck the trend but in general, it is so. Little wonder then that tuition centres and private tutors are making big bucks. To emphasize more on continual assessment, many primary schools are doing away with exams for the first few years. This would entail carefully crafted rubrics (hard work by teachers) to gauge the performance of students in order to provide appropriate feedback.
We may not be taking exams now but the Bible exhorts us to conduct an examination on ourselves. And this is with regard to our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Cor 13:5). The Corinthians were slow to respond when sin was manifested in their camp and that was why Paul had to use harsh terms to wake them up (2 Cor 13:1-3). When we have Christ in our lives, we would do the right thing especially standing up for what is true and not to rationalise things away (2 Cor 13:8). If we do the latter, according to Paul, we have failed the test of our faith.
Like David of old, let's cry out to God:
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Ps 139:23-24 KJV)
May we all, who confess the name of the Lord, pass the test of life.
Shalom
For one, it enables students to revise and review their work in order to keep abreast with knowledge and skills set that are essential for the next level of work. Often times, future topics/subjects to be covered build upon earlier materials learnt. Though exams may create stress and anxiety amongst students, it nonetheless provides the impetus for students to work on grounding their concepts. This is where they could turn to their peers or tutors for help. As they do so, they pick up the important soft social skills in communicating and relating with one another. It is also a good way for them to develop courage and initiative.
Secondly, examinations serve to provide feedback to teachers and students concerning their level of mastery where different subjects are concerned. Teachers often practised "positive marking", which means, rewarding students for the correct knowledge and skills they have displayed. So a well constructed test paper would be able to ascertain the amount of acquisition a student has attained. If it is a formative exam, it would allow teachers to tailor their lessons accordingly to help their students level up their knowledge and skills. However, some exams are placement exams which serves as an instrument to allocate students into different schools according to their ranking amongst their cohort; the PSLE being a case in point. In this regard, competition for choice schools are thus decided.
For the students, examinations do provide them with feedback regarding where they've gone wrong such as making a careless mistake or not understanding a topic well. Taken in the right spirit, it should spur a child to improve on his/her performance the next time round. Students often lament that they do not have the time to cover the topics for the exams due to their heavy commitment in CCAs or other activities. This is where they need to learn how to plan and organise their schedules and priorities, which again are essential life-skills.
Parents are keenly involved in their children's exams, especially in the lower levels of education. Some would even coach or provide tuition support for their children while others can only provide moral support. This is inevitable as human resource is a precious commodity in our country. In a meritocratic society, the attainment of a paper qualification assures one of a good well-paying job. Of course, some do buck the trend but in general, it is so. Little wonder then that tuition centres and private tutors are making big bucks. To emphasize more on continual assessment, many primary schools are doing away with exams for the first few years. This would entail carefully crafted rubrics (hard work by teachers) to gauge the performance of students in order to provide appropriate feedback.
We may not be taking exams now but the Bible exhorts us to conduct an examination on ourselves. And this is with regard to our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (2 Cor 13:5). The Corinthians were slow to respond when sin was manifested in their camp and that was why Paul had to use harsh terms to wake them up (2 Cor 13:1-3). When we have Christ in our lives, we would do the right thing especially standing up for what is true and not to rationalise things away (2 Cor 13:8). If we do the latter, according to Paul, we have failed the test of our faith.
Like David of old, let's cry out to God:
"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Ps 139:23-24 KJV)
May we all, who confess the name of the Lord, pass the test of life.
Shalom
Monday, October 4, 2010
The Lord's Supper
Yesterday was the first Sunday of the month, and as is customary we celebrated Holy Communion in our church, Bethesda Cathedral. This is a love feast instituted by our Lord before His sacrifice on the cross. God knows that we're frail in our knowledge and understanding. That's why He gave us vivid symbols to remember Him by; where memory fails, the emblems of the bread and wine are there to remind us. The bread symbolises the body of our Lord Jesus Christ, broken for humanity. Indeed, by His wounds (39 lashes on His back) we've been healed (made whole). The wine represents the blood of holy Lamb of God that was shed for the forgiveness of sins. As a church, when we partake of the bread from a common loaf it speaks powerfully of a meal that unites us together, inasmuch as the waters of baptism divides. In the latter, the division speaks of separating the old life (which should be buried) from the new life (symbolised through resurrection).
In partaking of the Lord's Supper, the Bible tells us that as often as we eat the bread and drink of the cup, we proclaim the Lord's death till He comes (1 Cor 11:26). And this we shall do, since the efficacy of the blood of Jesus will never wane. As long as humanity exists, they need to know the love of Christ. When Christ returns, a new world order begins and there is no longer a need to celebrate the Lord's Supper as we would be invited to a greater feast in heaven, the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. This was probably what Jesus alluded to when He told His disciples that He would not drink of the fruit of the vine until He drinks it anew with them in His Father's kingdom (Mt 26:29).
Some church members are not able to come to church for one reason or another on Sundays. These are usually people who are sick or immobile. Because of this, I had the privilege of ministering holy communion to three members of our church yesterday. This isn't the first time I've broken bread with them; it started a few months back. One was warded in the hospital while the other was at home. They were grateful for the gesture I had taken. I took the opportunity to pray for them, claiming the healing stripes of the Jesus as symbolised by the bread. One sister wanted the Lord to take her home as she was exasperated with living, having suffered so much physically. I told her that our times are in the hands of the good Lord (Ps 31:15). As long as He gives us breath and life, we continue to praise Him (Ps 150). I also told her that we'd all be receiving new bodies (even though we may not be healed on this side of heaven) and that our redemption and ultimate healing has been fully paid for by Christ. Hallelujah! What a Saviour!
In partaking of the Lord's Supper, the Bible tells us that as often as we eat the bread and drink of the cup, we proclaim the Lord's death till He comes (1 Cor 11:26). And this we shall do, since the efficacy of the blood of Jesus will never wane. As long as humanity exists, they need to know the love of Christ. When Christ returns, a new world order begins and there is no longer a need to celebrate the Lord's Supper as we would be invited to a greater feast in heaven, the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. This was probably what Jesus alluded to when He told His disciples that He would not drink of the fruit of the vine until He drinks it anew with them in His Father's kingdom (Mt 26:29).
Some church members are not able to come to church for one reason or another on Sundays. These are usually people who are sick or immobile. Because of this, I had the privilege of ministering holy communion to three members of our church yesterday. This isn't the first time I've broken bread with them; it started a few months back. One was warded in the hospital while the other was at home. They were grateful for the gesture I had taken. I took the opportunity to pray for them, claiming the healing stripes of the Jesus as symbolised by the bread. One sister wanted the Lord to take her home as she was exasperated with living, having suffered so much physically. I told her that our times are in the hands of the good Lord (Ps 31:15). As long as He gives us breath and life, we continue to praise Him (Ps 150). I also told her that we'd all be receiving new bodies (even though we may not be healed on this side of heaven) and that our redemption and ultimate healing has been fully paid for by Christ. Hallelujah! What a Saviour!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
The Knowledge Explosion
Daniel 12:4b tells us that in the end times knowledge will increase and certainly it has by tremendous amount in our internet age. But our knowledge of things in this world can make us proud (1 Cor 8:1) or insensitive to the feelings of others. In the context of this verse, it talks about believers having the right knowledge of God but not displaying the virtue of God, which is love. Indeed, knowledge puffs up but love edifies.
The Bible tells us that the LORD gives wisdom and from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding (Pr 2:6). The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom (Pr 1:7; 9:10). Who then is the wise and knowledgable person in this world of expanding knowledge? The Bible is clear in this regard. The wise person always include God in his/her thinking, preparing oneself not only for the here and now but also for the world to come.
We tend to equate wisdom with a high IQ or the ability to solve complex problems. Seldom do we equate it with humility, faith in God and service to mankind. The Bible's perspective is different. One who has neglected to cultivate and develop the mind of God is never called wise. To be wise then is to acknowledge God and trust Him (Pr 3:5-7). We can be wise in our own eyes, but then that would not win the favour of God. The paths that we travel along would not be straight but crooked.
The root of the Hebrew word translated "wise" occurs more than 100 times in the Book of Proverbs, usually referring to human beings and their behaviour. Four other related words, "understanding", "intelligence", "discernment" and "knowledge" bring to almost 200 the number of references to wisdom or its equivalent. Solomon, the wisest man on earth, had this to say in the final days of his life on earth, "My son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body. The conlusion, when all has been heard is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person." (Eccl 12:12-13).
Indeed, there're many books being produced each day either online or in the printed form. The reading of good books can inspire and motivate us into positive action. And I've read quite a substantial number to date. The converse is also true, that is, the reading of unwholesome things can cause us to behave in an unrighteous way. Paul, writing to Timothy, exhorted him to give attention to the public reading of Scripture (1 Tim 4:13). Above all else, the Word of God is able to convict us of sin, righteousness and judgment (Jn 16:8); drawing us close to God and being able to equip us for every good work (2 Tim 3:16-17).
In a world where truths, lies and half-truths are inter-mingled together in the world wide web, it's important to have as an anchor for our souls the eternal standard of God's Truth in our hearts to discern between good and evil (Heb 5:14). We have to pray daily for God to give us the mind of Christ - a mind of humility and love in our daily interaction with others as well as to shun every appearance of evil (Phil 2:5; 1 Th 5:22). So keep reading books to improve your knowledge and skills but also read the Bible daily for spiritual nourishment and guidance. In so doing, you would be wise in God's eyes.
The Bible tells us that the LORD gives wisdom and from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding (Pr 2:6). The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom (Pr 1:7; 9:10). Who then is the wise and knowledgable person in this world of expanding knowledge? The Bible is clear in this regard. The wise person always include God in his/her thinking, preparing oneself not only for the here and now but also for the world to come.
We tend to equate wisdom with a high IQ or the ability to solve complex problems. Seldom do we equate it with humility, faith in God and service to mankind. The Bible's perspective is different. One who has neglected to cultivate and develop the mind of God is never called wise. To be wise then is to acknowledge God and trust Him (Pr 3:5-7). We can be wise in our own eyes, but then that would not win the favour of God. The paths that we travel along would not be straight but crooked.
The root of the Hebrew word translated "wise" occurs more than 100 times in the Book of Proverbs, usually referring to human beings and their behaviour. Four other related words, "understanding", "intelligence", "discernment" and "knowledge" bring to almost 200 the number of references to wisdom or its equivalent. Solomon, the wisest man on earth, had this to say in the final days of his life on earth, "My son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body. The conlusion, when all has been heard is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person." (Eccl 12:12-13).
Indeed, there're many books being produced each day either online or in the printed form. The reading of good books can inspire and motivate us into positive action. And I've read quite a substantial number to date. The converse is also true, that is, the reading of unwholesome things can cause us to behave in an unrighteous way. Paul, writing to Timothy, exhorted him to give attention to the public reading of Scripture (1 Tim 4:13). Above all else, the Word of God is able to convict us of sin, righteousness and judgment (Jn 16:8); drawing us close to God and being able to equip us for every good work (2 Tim 3:16-17).
In a world where truths, lies and half-truths are inter-mingled together in the world wide web, it's important to have as an anchor for our souls the eternal standard of God's Truth in our hearts to discern between good and evil (Heb 5:14). We have to pray daily for God to give us the mind of Christ - a mind of humility and love in our daily interaction with others as well as to shun every appearance of evil (Phil 2:5; 1 Th 5:22). So keep reading books to improve your knowledge and skills but also read the Bible daily for spiritual nourishment and guidance. In so doing, you would be wise in God's eyes.
Friday, September 24, 2010
1 Timothy
This book is like a leadership training manual, very much like the book of Titus. Paul began by telling Timothy, his son in faith, the noble aspiration one has if he aspires to the office of an overseer (3:1). Having a desire to be a leader is one thing, having the qualities of a leader is another. Paul envisaged the leadership structure of the church to be male (2:11-12). He went on to list some of the qualities required in being an elder/leader:
1. Blameless (v2,7): not one where people can point an accusing finger at but having a good testimony
2. Husband of one wife (v2): practising monogamy
3. Well-disciplined (v2-3): temperate, sober-minded and of good behaviour/gentle, not violent/quarrelsome
4. Hospitable (v2): a people's person, caring for their needs
5. Able to teach (v2): probably the truths and principles found in the Word
6. Well-controlled (v3): not addicted to wine or liquor
7. Not envious (v3): not greedy for money nor covetous
8. Manage own house well (v4): children are in submission or obedient
9. Not a newbie (v5): would still be subjected to a lot of temptations
A slightly shorter but somehow similar list is given for deacons to be (v8-13). The key idea Paul told Timothy was to put candidates to a test first before giving them a leadership position. From the qualities listed above, it seems that God wants us to be blameless in body, soul and spirit.
In body, we have to learn how to control ourselves and not be easily enticed by various lusts. In our soul, we have to imbibed the Word of God in order to be able to teach and we are not to allow the devil to throw his fiery darts at us. In spirit, we have to be strong in faith in order to extinguish the enemies' fire power. Prayer is featured quite prominently where Timothy was instructed to pray for all men especially those in authority (ch 2). The Scriptures is emphasized in 2 Timothy 3. Together, prayer and the Word make for a mighty combination that prepare and equip every believer for every good work (2 Tim 3:1-17).
It is good for Timothy to have a mentor in Paul. Likewise, for new believers, it is good that they be mentored by someone more senior in spiritual age. The relationship should not just be an impartation of knowledge but also of life's lessons learnt. When we do that, the multiplier effect kicks in (2 Tim 2:2) and the lives we touch could very well touch many other lives in return.
1. Blameless (v2,7): not one where people can point an accusing finger at but having a good testimony
2. Husband of one wife (v2): practising monogamy
3. Well-disciplined (v2-3): temperate, sober-minded and of good behaviour/gentle, not violent/quarrelsome
4. Hospitable (v2): a people's person, caring for their needs
5. Able to teach (v2): probably the truths and principles found in the Word
6. Well-controlled (v3): not addicted to wine or liquor
7. Not envious (v3): not greedy for money nor covetous
8. Manage own house well (v4): children are in submission or obedient
9. Not a newbie (v5): would still be subjected to a lot of temptations
A slightly shorter but somehow similar list is given for deacons to be (v8-13). The key idea Paul told Timothy was to put candidates to a test first before giving them a leadership position. From the qualities listed above, it seems that God wants us to be blameless in body, soul and spirit.
In body, we have to learn how to control ourselves and not be easily enticed by various lusts. In our soul, we have to imbibed the Word of God in order to be able to teach and we are not to allow the devil to throw his fiery darts at us. In spirit, we have to be strong in faith in order to extinguish the enemies' fire power. Prayer is featured quite prominently where Timothy was instructed to pray for all men especially those in authority (ch 2). The Scriptures is emphasized in 2 Timothy 3. Together, prayer and the Word make for a mighty combination that prepare and equip every believer for every good work (2 Tim 3:1-17).
It is good for Timothy to have a mentor in Paul. Likewise, for new believers, it is good that they be mentored by someone more senior in spiritual age. The relationship should not just be an impartation of knowledge but also of life's lessons learnt. When we do that, the multiplier effect kicks in (2 Tim 2:2) and the lives we touch could very well touch many other lives in return.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Ministering to people
God has commissioned us to not only preach the gospel but also to heal the sick and cast out demons (Mark 16:15-18). In doing so, we proclaim the full gospel, ministering to body, soul and spirit. Paul writing to the Thessalonians mentioned, "Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Th 5:23 NKJV). Because man is a tripartite being, God has made it possible through the death of Christ on the cross to redeem us in our body, soul and spirit.
"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed." (Is 53:4-5 NKJV). At the cross, Jesus took away our sins, sicknesses and sorrows; bringing about healing to our spirit, body and soul respectively. Notice that the healing God promised is a present reality - we are healed.
Until we recognise that we have transgressed against God through our thoughts and acts of iniquity (evil intentions), we will not acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Saviour. The malady of sin has infected human kind since the day of Adam and Eve but many are still blind to it. In fact, Jesus said that it is not the healthy who need a physician but those who are sick (Mt 9:12). In making this comparison, Jesus is saying that the self-righteous don't see a need for Him because they have no sin-sickness to confess. That's why He said that He has come not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance (Mt 9:13).
In the natural scheme of things, when one is sick, he or she would choose to get well by whatever means possible. Most would go and consult a doctor to remedy the situation. Jesus is saying that He's the Great Physician of our spirits. He offers forgiveness and cleansing through His precious blood bringing us peace with God (1 Jn 1:7,9). More than that, He also extends healing to our physical bodies and emotions. We can experience divine health in the here and now through the grace and mercy of God. And there are many testimonies that can vouch for the goodness of the Lord in this respect. But know also that if God does not heal us now, He has already purchased wholeness for us when we cross the veil into heaven. This body of sin will be exchanged for a glorious body (1 Cor 15:51-53).
When we minister to people then, it's important that we touch their body, soul and spirit. Sometimes, we touch their body first before we can touch their soul/spirit. At other times, God opens their heart to receive Christ first before they are being ministered to in the body. In praying for people, I would usually pray the promises of God as found in His Word. The Word of God is the Truth of God and it is helpful to speak it out. In so doing, we speak life to the person concerned and because the Word of God is able to edify us. When medical science tells us that there's no hope, God's Word or Truth offers a different perspective. And because God is our Creator, He is able to break through into the natural realm to offer us the wholeness that we seek. However, we have to confess to Him what we desire in our heart (Mk 10:51). Those who choose to not to get well will remain in that condition till they die.
Another important thing to have when we minister to people is faith. We may not have the gifts of healing but we do know that God honours faith (Heb 11:6). James says that it's the prayer of faith that would make the sick well (Jas 5:14-15). Notice that for certain sicknesses, it is connected with sins in our lives. However, God would forgive as well. When I pray for people, I recognise that it is God who would answer my prayers not on any basis of merit of my own but rather through the merits of Jesus Christ. I also thank God for faithful intercessors who uphold me in their prayers on a consistent basis. It is their prayers that have enabled me to stand and minister. All glory to Jesus Christ!
"Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed." (Is 53:4-5 NKJV). At the cross, Jesus took away our sins, sicknesses and sorrows; bringing about healing to our spirit, body and soul respectively. Notice that the healing God promised is a present reality - we are healed.
Until we recognise that we have transgressed against God through our thoughts and acts of iniquity (evil intentions), we will not acknowledge Jesus Christ as our Saviour. The malady of sin has infected human kind since the day of Adam and Eve but many are still blind to it. In fact, Jesus said that it is not the healthy who need a physician but those who are sick (Mt 9:12). In making this comparison, Jesus is saying that the self-righteous don't see a need for Him because they have no sin-sickness to confess. That's why He said that He has come not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance (Mt 9:13).
In the natural scheme of things, when one is sick, he or she would choose to get well by whatever means possible. Most would go and consult a doctor to remedy the situation. Jesus is saying that He's the Great Physician of our spirits. He offers forgiveness and cleansing through His precious blood bringing us peace with God (1 Jn 1:7,9). More than that, He also extends healing to our physical bodies and emotions. We can experience divine health in the here and now through the grace and mercy of God. And there are many testimonies that can vouch for the goodness of the Lord in this respect. But know also that if God does not heal us now, He has already purchased wholeness for us when we cross the veil into heaven. This body of sin will be exchanged for a glorious body (1 Cor 15:51-53).
When we minister to people then, it's important that we touch their body, soul and spirit. Sometimes, we touch their body first before we can touch their soul/spirit. At other times, God opens their heart to receive Christ first before they are being ministered to in the body. In praying for people, I would usually pray the promises of God as found in His Word. The Word of God is the Truth of God and it is helpful to speak it out. In so doing, we speak life to the person concerned and because the Word of God is able to edify us. When medical science tells us that there's no hope, God's Word or Truth offers a different perspective. And because God is our Creator, He is able to break through into the natural realm to offer us the wholeness that we seek. However, we have to confess to Him what we desire in our heart (Mk 10:51). Those who choose to not to get well will remain in that condition till they die.
Another important thing to have when we minister to people is faith. We may not have the gifts of healing but we do know that God honours faith (Heb 11:6). James says that it's the prayer of faith that would make the sick well (Jas 5:14-15). Notice that for certain sicknesses, it is connected with sins in our lives. However, God would forgive as well. When I pray for people, I recognise that it is God who would answer my prayers not on any basis of merit of my own but rather through the merits of Jesus Christ. I also thank God for faithful intercessors who uphold me in their prayers on a consistent basis. It is their prayers that have enabled me to stand and minister. All glory to Jesus Christ!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Psalm 100
This is a thank you psalm written probably after the temple in Jerusalem was rebuilt, after being destroyed by the Babylonians. It encourages all humanity (v1) to know and celebrate the goodness of the LORD by examining our attitudes we bring before the LORD. Firstly, we are exhorted to shout joyfully to the LORD; this means to make a joyful loud noise to the One who saves and delivers. There is no need to be ashamed to declare what the good LORD has done for you and me.
Secondly, we demonstrate our love for Him through worship and service (v2). This we do so through joyful singing - note that it's a hilarious time of connecting with our God and not simply going through the motions of singing. Our service to Him must also be marked by gladness and not be seen as a choreful duty. Thirdly, as we move from joyful celebration to contemplative worship, we're reminded of the fact that the God whom we worship is our Creator and Shepherd. We are but creatures of the earth (finite), the sheep of His pasture (cared for by Him).
People in the OT time would bring an animal sacrifice together with a meal as part of thanksgiving offering to the LORD (Lev 7:11-12). Hence the exhortation to enter the gates of the temple with thanksgiving and into the courts with praise (v4). As believers under the new covenant, the thanksgiving and praise sacrifices we bring before the LORD is the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name (Heb 13:15). Thank God for the blessings you have received each week and praise Him for His lovingkindness and faithfulness throughout all generations (v5). Indeed, our God is good all the time, even though things may not seem to be the way you want it to be.
Today marks the 9th anniversary of 9/11. It is a day of great loss and grief; a day where the atrocities of evil are made manifest. We pray for the families who are still affected by this great tragedy and at the same time pray that the works of terrorism would not prosper. And as the psalmist would say, "That the man who is of the earth may cause terror no more." (Ps 10:18b).
Secondly, we demonstrate our love for Him through worship and service (v2). This we do so through joyful singing - note that it's a hilarious time of connecting with our God and not simply going through the motions of singing. Our service to Him must also be marked by gladness and not be seen as a choreful duty. Thirdly, as we move from joyful celebration to contemplative worship, we're reminded of the fact that the God whom we worship is our Creator and Shepherd. We are but creatures of the earth (finite), the sheep of His pasture (cared for by Him).
People in the OT time would bring an animal sacrifice together with a meal as part of thanksgiving offering to the LORD (Lev 7:11-12). Hence the exhortation to enter the gates of the temple with thanksgiving and into the courts with praise (v4). As believers under the new covenant, the thanksgiving and praise sacrifices we bring before the LORD is the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name (Heb 13:15). Thank God for the blessings you have received each week and praise Him for His lovingkindness and faithfulness throughout all generations (v5). Indeed, our God is good all the time, even though things may not seem to be the way you want it to be.
Today marks the 9th anniversary of 9/11. It is a day of great loss and grief; a day where the atrocities of evil are made manifest. We pray for the families who are still affected by this great tragedy and at the same time pray that the works of terrorism would not prosper. And as the psalmist would say, "That the man who is of the earth may cause terror no more." (Ps 10:18b).
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Our Great Teacher
Today we commemorate Teachers’ Day; a day set aside to show appreciation to those who have taught us and imparted more than knowledge to our lives. I remember one of my secondary school Mathematics teachers who motivated and encouraged me to excel in the subjects, both E Maths and A Maths. Not only that, he also entrusted me to be the monitor which I was not willing to take on. At that point in time, I was in a class that was notorious for being noisy and rowdy. Knowing myself, I wasn’t one who could keep ill-disciplined folks under control. However, my form teacher, who happened to be my Maths teacher, encouraged me along the way in the responsibility I had to undertake. That’s the power of a teacher: to lead, care and inspire his/her charges in the way they should go. Because of my teacher’s influence, I majored in Mathematics at a local university, and faring not too badly.
Now being a teacher myself and a teacher at heart, I have also tried to impart not just knowledge but important skill sets and values to my students. The influence that I have on their lives can only be seen and felt much later. It is heartening to note that ex-students do remember their teachers and some still do keep in touch even though they have left college many years ago. I met an ex-student on the MRT train while on my way to the Teachers’ Day Reception at the Istana just a few hours back. He has just started teaching Economics in another school and among other things we talked about Maths. The knowledge gained in his JC years were put to good use when he gave guidance to his current students. Another colleague of mine who attended the Reception as well also mentioned about an ex-student who kept in touch with her even when she’s overseas studying. Such is the power of a teacher’s influence! However, the influence can also be felt negatively by students if a teacher does not wield his/her authority in a fair and judicious way.
All of us grow up with significant others in our lives, whether parents, relatives or guardians whom we are close to. They are our teachers when we’re young and definitely, they wield an influence in our lives whether for good or bad. Likewise, when we grow up, we become parents, aunts, uncles or grand-relatives to young lives in our circle of influence. Let’s endeavour to make a positive influence over their lives by not only instructing but role-modelling good behaviours. Speaking of role-modelling, there’s a great teacher mentioned in the Bible who exemplified the way of humility for His disciples to follow. I am, of course, referring to the Lord Jesus Christ. He was called a rabbi (Jewish teacher) by His disciples (Mk 9:5; Mt 26:25). After washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus spoke to them thus, “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (Jn 13:14 NASB).
The greatness of our teacher is seen in His perfect example of humility. As the Son of God, He chose to humble himself by taking the form of man to die for us at the cross of Calvary (Phil 2:5-8). Are we able to role-model for our children, grandchildren, students, nephews and nieces the important virtue of humility in a world that seeks to constantly put pride and ego on the pedestal? May God continue to teach and instruct us in the way that we should go especially in relation to our role as people of influence (Ps 32:8). Remember that the Holy Spirit residing in the believers, is also our teacher, who would bring to our remembrance the words of Jesus (Jn 14:26). Indeed, the Godhead is seen as a trinity of instructors, guiding our souls towards godliness and Christ-likeness.
To all teachers and those who are teachers at heart: Blessed Teachers’ Day!
Now being a teacher myself and a teacher at heart, I have also tried to impart not just knowledge but important skill sets and values to my students. The influence that I have on their lives can only be seen and felt much later. It is heartening to note that ex-students do remember their teachers and some still do keep in touch even though they have left college many years ago. I met an ex-student on the MRT train while on my way to the Teachers’ Day Reception at the Istana just a few hours back. He has just started teaching Economics in another school and among other things we talked about Maths. The knowledge gained in his JC years were put to good use when he gave guidance to his current students. Another colleague of mine who attended the Reception as well also mentioned about an ex-student who kept in touch with her even when she’s overseas studying. Such is the power of a teacher’s influence! However, the influence can also be felt negatively by students if a teacher does not wield his/her authority in a fair and judicious way.
All of us grow up with significant others in our lives, whether parents, relatives or guardians whom we are close to. They are our teachers when we’re young and definitely, they wield an influence in our lives whether for good or bad. Likewise, when we grow up, we become parents, aunts, uncles or grand-relatives to young lives in our circle of influence. Let’s endeavour to make a positive influence over their lives by not only instructing but role-modelling good behaviours. Speaking of role-modelling, there’s a great teacher mentioned in the Bible who exemplified the way of humility for His disciples to follow. I am, of course, referring to the Lord Jesus Christ. He was called a rabbi (Jewish teacher) by His disciples (Mk 9:5; Mt 26:25). After washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus spoke to them thus, “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” (Jn 13:14 NASB).
The greatness of our teacher is seen in His perfect example of humility. As the Son of God, He chose to humble himself by taking the form of man to die for us at the cross of Calvary (Phil 2:5-8). Are we able to role-model for our children, grandchildren, students, nephews and nieces the important virtue of humility in a world that seeks to constantly put pride and ego on the pedestal? May God continue to teach and instruct us in the way that we should go especially in relation to our role as people of influence (Ps 32:8). Remember that the Holy Spirit residing in the believers, is also our teacher, who would bring to our remembrance the words of Jesus (Jn 14:26). Indeed, the Godhead is seen as a trinity of instructors, guiding our souls towards godliness and Christ-likeness.
To all teachers and those who are teachers at heart: Blessed Teachers’ Day!
Friday, August 27, 2010
What can we praise God for? (Ps 86)
This psalm is a prayer of David expressing his confident trust in God who answers prayer (v 7). In his prayer of supplication, David ascribed generous praise to God, declaring His wonderful attributes. When you praise someone, you declare something good about the person especially in the area of character. Let's learn from David what he thought of God.
Firstly, David addressed God as LORD (YHWH) which is the unpronounceable name of God (v 1). He is the "I am that I am". And certainly God shall be to us what we declare Him to be. Do you need peace, then confess Him as your Jehovah Shalom. If you need healing, then confess Him as your Jehovah Rapha.
Secondly, the LORD is good and ready to forgive, abundant in lovingkindness (v 5). Even though David was afflicted and in need, he looked beyond the horizon to a God who is ready to forgive and bless. Indeed, no one and no gods can be compared to Him; the works of His hands are also unique (v 8).
Thirdly, God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in faithfulness (v 15). He is merciful because He does not punish us according to what our sins deserve. He is gracious because He delights to bless us with good things even though we don't deserve them. God could have wiped out humanity completely in the early days when there was gross immorality during Noah's time. But He was patient with that wicked generation until Noah entered the ark. Righteous Noah and his family were preserved through the great deluge.
He is a God who keeps His word - a faithful God. In a day and age when promises can be easily broken, God's fulfillment of His Word serves as a contrast to the practices of the world. There are many promises relating to the second coming of Jesus Christ that have yet to be realised. But as surely as night follows day, we can be rest assured that Jesus Christ would return for His bride.
As we contemplate the character and goodness of God, remember that He wants us to be transformed into His likeness as well. The transferable characteristics of God, like being merciful, gracious and faithful, are the qualities He would like us to have and exhibit on a day to day basis. Even as we do so, we reflect the Lord's love and character in a very tangible way. For indeed, we are the only Jesus some will ever see.
Firstly, David addressed God as LORD (YHWH) which is the unpronounceable name of God (v 1). He is the "I am that I am". And certainly God shall be to us what we declare Him to be. Do you need peace, then confess Him as your Jehovah Shalom. If you need healing, then confess Him as your Jehovah Rapha.
Secondly, the LORD is good and ready to forgive, abundant in lovingkindness (v 5). Even though David was afflicted and in need, he looked beyond the horizon to a God who is ready to forgive and bless. Indeed, no one and no gods can be compared to Him; the works of His hands are also unique (v 8).
Thirdly, God is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in faithfulness (v 15). He is merciful because He does not punish us according to what our sins deserve. He is gracious because He delights to bless us with good things even though we don't deserve them. God could have wiped out humanity completely in the early days when there was gross immorality during Noah's time. But He was patient with that wicked generation until Noah entered the ark. Righteous Noah and his family were preserved through the great deluge.
He is a God who keeps His word - a faithful God. In a day and age when promises can be easily broken, God's fulfillment of His Word serves as a contrast to the practices of the world. There are many promises relating to the second coming of Jesus Christ that have yet to be realised. But as surely as night follows day, we can be rest assured that Jesus Christ would return for His bride.
As we contemplate the character and goodness of God, remember that He wants us to be transformed into His likeness as well. The transferable characteristics of God, like being merciful, gracious and faithful, are the qualities He would like us to have and exhibit on a day to day basis. Even as we do so, we reflect the Lord's love and character in a very tangible way. For indeed, we are the only Jesus some will ever see.
Friday, August 20, 2010
The Epistles of 1 & 2 Thessalonians
The two epistles talk alot about the seconding coming of Jesus Christ and are often designated as eschatological letters. Eschatology has to do with doctrine concerning final things like judgment and future state. 1 Thessalonians is especially comforting for those who have experienced bereavement, as it mentions the glorious hope of Christ's second coming. It is also a book where ministers of God turn to bring encouragement to the bereaved families.
Let's trace the thoughts of the apostle Paul as he penned the two epistles. Paul began by giving thanks for the Thessalonians because their faith has gone forth to every place. We are now waiting for God's Son to return from heaven - indeed He's the One who saves us from the wrath to come (1 Th 1:10). "Souls" is the currency of heaven and Paul was delighted to boast that the Thessalonian Christians will be his pride and joy at the coming of the Lord (1 Th 2:19). Will you have any crown of exultation to show forth when Christ returns?
Next Paul encouraged the believers to keep abounding in love for one another in order that our hearts may be established unblameable in holiness before God at the coming of Christ with all His saints (1 Th 3:13). One of the specific wills of God for us is revealed here - our sanctification, that is, to be set apart in holiness for Him (1 Th 4:3). Paul continued with the theme of Christ's second coming by telling the believers that He would come with His saints i.e. those who have died in the Christ (1 Th 4:13-17). Those who are still alive when He comes would not die but be raptured or translated up to heaven like Elijah of old. This is known as the Omega-transition generation according to Bishop Bill Hamon.
Paul concluded 1 Thessalonians by saying the the Lord's coming would come like a thief in the night i.e. unexpectedly to the world. But to the believers, we should not be caught by surprise because we're children of light (1 Th 5:2-6). As children of God, we should be able to discern the signs of the end of times. All the signs point to the fact that we're living in the last hour of God's time piece. We're therefore urged to live and behave in a manner that befits a King's kid (1 Th 5:6-22).
The eschatological theme continues in 2 Thessalonians. Christ would come not only with His saints (to be glorified) but also His mighty angels to execute judgment on the unbelieving, who would be cast away from the presence of God (2 Th 1:7-10). At the same time, the man of lawless (agent of Satan) together with all who believed in a lie would be destroyed by the Lord when He returns (2 Th 2:8-12). Paul's final encouragement to believers is to continue standing firm, praying for the servants of God and doing good (2 Th 2:17; 3:1,13).
Let's pray that God may count us worthy of our calling and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power (2 Th 1:11).
Let's trace the thoughts of the apostle Paul as he penned the two epistles. Paul began by giving thanks for the Thessalonians because their faith has gone forth to every place. We are now waiting for God's Son to return from heaven - indeed He's the One who saves us from the wrath to come (1 Th 1:10). "Souls" is the currency of heaven and Paul was delighted to boast that the Thessalonian Christians will be his pride and joy at the coming of the Lord (1 Th 2:19). Will you have any crown of exultation to show forth when Christ returns?
Next Paul encouraged the believers to keep abounding in love for one another in order that our hearts may be established unblameable in holiness before God at the coming of Christ with all His saints (1 Th 3:13). One of the specific wills of God for us is revealed here - our sanctification, that is, to be set apart in holiness for Him (1 Th 4:3). Paul continued with the theme of Christ's second coming by telling the believers that He would come with His saints i.e. those who have died in the Christ (1 Th 4:13-17). Those who are still alive when He comes would not die but be raptured or translated up to heaven like Elijah of old. This is known as the Omega-transition generation according to Bishop Bill Hamon.
Paul concluded 1 Thessalonians by saying the the Lord's coming would come like a thief in the night i.e. unexpectedly to the world. But to the believers, we should not be caught by surprise because we're children of light (1 Th 5:2-6). As children of God, we should be able to discern the signs of the end of times. All the signs point to the fact that we're living in the last hour of God's time piece. We're therefore urged to live and behave in a manner that befits a King's kid (1 Th 5:6-22).
The eschatological theme continues in 2 Thessalonians. Christ would come not only with His saints (to be glorified) but also His mighty angels to execute judgment on the unbelieving, who would be cast away from the presence of God (2 Th 1:7-10). At the same time, the man of lawless (agent of Satan) together with all who believed in a lie would be destroyed by the Lord when He returns (2 Th 2:8-12). Paul's final encouragement to believers is to continue standing firm, praying for the servants of God and doing good (2 Th 2:17; 3:1,13).
Let's pray that God may count us worthy of our calling and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power (2 Th 1:11).
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Epistle of Titus
Titus was one of Paul's converts, left on the island of Crete to organise the church there (1:4-5). On the day of Pentecost, there were Cretans who witnessed the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Ac 2:11). No doubt, the seed of faith had already been implanted in these visitors who brought back the good news of Jesus Christ to their homeland, making it easy for Paul and Titus to minister to the community there. Titus was tasked by Paul to appoint elders in every town. This letter brought instructions as to how to go about selecting elders who were to be defenders of sound doctrine, exemplified by godly behaviour and good deeds.
The qualifications of elders are spelt out (1:7-9) which more or less parallels that found in 1 Tim 3:1-7. Then there's an exhortation regarding how (younger and older) men and women ought to behave (2:2-8); and how bondslaves are to be subjected to their masters (2:9). The duties and responsibilities of citizens to the governmental authorities were also urged (3:1). In contrast to the Christian virtues espoused by Paul, the Cretans were noted for being liars, lazy gluttons and evil beasts (1:12-13). Indeed, those who are defiled and unbelieving, their minds and consciences will continue to be corrupted and defiled (1:15).
For the believers, God's grace has brought salvation to us. It instructs us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives (2:11-12). In this way, we can look forward to the blessed hope of our faith - the second coming of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ (2:13). In the meantime, we are to devote ourselves in doing what is good, providing for daily necessities and not to live unproductive lives (3:8,14).
In a world that is constantly bombarded by the deceitfulness of evil and riches that is being purveyed through the different mass media, Christians are to guard themselves against the lusts of the flesh and eye and the pride of life (1 Jn 2:15-17). The way out of this evil influence is to deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily and follow Christ (Lk 9:23). We have to crucify the flesh life in us on a daily basis even as it rears its ugly head each time. We also need to ask God for daily cleansing the renewal in our lives (3:5).
The qualifications of elders are spelt out (1:7-9) which more or less parallels that found in 1 Tim 3:1-7. Then there's an exhortation regarding how (younger and older) men and women ought to behave (2:2-8); and how bondslaves are to be subjected to their masters (2:9). The duties and responsibilities of citizens to the governmental authorities were also urged (3:1). In contrast to the Christian virtues espoused by Paul, the Cretans were noted for being liars, lazy gluttons and evil beasts (1:12-13). Indeed, those who are defiled and unbelieving, their minds and consciences will continue to be corrupted and defiled (1:15).
For the believers, God's grace has brought salvation to us. It instructs us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives (2:11-12). In this way, we can look forward to the blessed hope of our faith - the second coming of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ (2:13). In the meantime, we are to devote ourselves in doing what is good, providing for daily necessities and not to live unproductive lives (3:8,14).
In a world that is constantly bombarded by the deceitfulness of evil and riches that is being purveyed through the different mass media, Christians are to guard themselves against the lusts of the flesh and eye and the pride of life (1 Jn 2:15-17). The way out of this evil influence is to deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily and follow Christ (Lk 9:23). We have to crucify the flesh life in us on a daily basis even as it rears its ugly head each time. We also need to ask God for daily cleansing the renewal in our lives (3:5).
Monday, August 9, 2010
A Prayer for Singapore
Heavenly Father,
As we celebrate our 45th birthday today, we acknowledge that You're the One who has established this island nation. For indeed, You made from one blood, every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times, and the boundaries of their habitation, that they should seek God (Ac 17:26-27). We pray that Singapore will fulfill the redemptive purpose and destiny that You have for her; that she will be a light to the nations all around her.
May You continue to bless our government and judiary with wisdom, knowledge and understanding to rule and guide this nation along, established on the foundation of righteousness and justice (Ps 89:14). Let the doers of iniquities not go unpunished but be brought to justice (Rom 13:4); let there be peace, harmony and prosperity in our land, so that Your people can continue to worship You and proclaim Your goodness and truth (1 Tim 2:1-4).
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so we beseech of You to surround this nation with your favour and wall of protection (Ps 125:2; 5:12; Zech 2:5). Every work of terrorism and evil doers will not prosper in our land but their plans and deeds would be exposed and thwarted. Preserve and protect our nation from calamities and natural disasters. We pray for godly wisdom to be upon all government and private institutions to meet all the challenges that lie ahead of us. And that compassion and kindness will flow out of a heart of love and generosity.
Finally, we pray that Singapore would be a blessed nation, whereby the people would turn Godward and acknowledge You as their sovereign God (Ps 33:12; 144:15). Indeed, we are grateful to You, dear Father God, that you have brought this nation through her tumultuous years to where we are today. We are confident that You who began a good work in this lion city, You will bring it to completion (Phil 1:6), and certainly all glory and honour will redound to Your great and matchless Name!
As we celebrate our 45th birthday today, we acknowledge that You're the One who has established this island nation. For indeed, You made from one blood, every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times, and the boundaries of their habitation, that they should seek God (Ac 17:26-27). We pray that Singapore will fulfill the redemptive purpose and destiny that You have for her; that she will be a light to the nations all around her.
May You continue to bless our government and judiary with wisdom, knowledge and understanding to rule and guide this nation along, established on the foundation of righteousness and justice (Ps 89:14). Let the doers of iniquities not go unpunished but be brought to justice (Rom 13:4); let there be peace, harmony and prosperity in our land, so that Your people can continue to worship You and proclaim Your goodness and truth (1 Tim 2:1-4).
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so we beseech of You to surround this nation with your favour and wall of protection (Ps 125:2; 5:12; Zech 2:5). Every work of terrorism and evil doers will not prosper in our land but their plans and deeds would be exposed and thwarted. Preserve and protect our nation from calamities and natural disasters. We pray for godly wisdom to be upon all government and private institutions to meet all the challenges that lie ahead of us. And that compassion and kindness will flow out of a heart of love and generosity.
Finally, we pray that Singapore would be a blessed nation, whereby the people would turn Godward and acknowledge You as their sovereign God (Ps 33:12; 144:15). Indeed, we are grateful to You, dear Father God, that you have brought this nation through her tumultuous years to where we are today. We are confident that You who began a good work in this lion city, You will bring it to completion (Phil 1:6), and certainly all glory and honour will redound to Your great and matchless Name!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
BC Overnight Prayer Session
Hearts Aflame! began on 30 July at 2200 and lasted till 31 July, 0545. This was BC's first overnight prayer held in the Cathedral grounds with an initial gathering of about 160. It started off with praise and worship; moving on to prayers of thanksgiving, repentance and seeking of God's face. Each prayer segment was preceded by our very own ingenious self-made videos plus others that were produced elsewhere. I guess the intention was to capture our attention and to make it less monotonous. The entire session was interspersed with breaks in between, making it more easy to bear. Nonetheless, there were times when I almost dozed off into deep sleep, coming from a long day at work.
This reminds me of the words of Jesus when He chided His disciples for not being able to watch and pray (Mk 14:-40). Certainly the spirit of praying is there but the flesh is weak. When one is physically tired, the tendency is for our body to switch off (sleep) to recover. However, our Lord and Master showed us how despite the agony which was soon to follow, He could still spend time talking to the Father in travailing prayer (Mk 14:32), probably for about an hour.
Jesus prayed, "Abba Father! All things are possible for Thee; remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what Thou wilt." (Mk 14:36). He committed His fears to God and ultimately submitted Himself to the Father's will. Jesus recognised the omnipotence of God to spare Him from the hour of agony, both physical and spiritual. Not only did He have to undergo the physical pain and humiliation but more importantly, the separation from God when the sins of the whole world was laid upon Him. God the Father did not spare His own Son but gave Him up freely for us all so that we might become the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:32). Hallelujah, What a Saviour!
At the end of our prayer session, we still had about slightly less than a hundred prayer warriors in the Chapel. It will augur well for the church if the spirit of prayer and supplication continues because that's the only way to usher in the revival that we seek. God has certainly heard the prayers of His children as we cried out to Him for the fulfillment of all the prophecies He has given to BC.
This reminds me of the words of Jesus when He chided His disciples for not being able to watch and pray (Mk 14:-40). Certainly the spirit of praying is there but the flesh is weak. When one is physically tired, the tendency is for our body to switch off (sleep) to recover. However, our Lord and Master showed us how despite the agony which was soon to follow, He could still spend time talking to the Father in travailing prayer (Mk 14:32), probably for about an hour.
Jesus prayed, "Abba Father! All things are possible for Thee; remove this cup from Me; yet not what I will, but what Thou wilt." (Mk 14:36). He committed His fears to God and ultimately submitted Himself to the Father's will. Jesus recognised the omnipotence of God to spare Him from the hour of agony, both physical and spiritual. Not only did He have to undergo the physical pain and humiliation but more importantly, the separation from God when the sins of the whole world was laid upon Him. God the Father did not spare His own Son but gave Him up freely for us all so that we might become the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (Rom 8:32). Hallelujah, What a Saviour!
At the end of our prayer session, we still had about slightly less than a hundred prayer warriors in the Chapel. It will augur well for the church if the spirit of prayer and supplication continues because that's the only way to usher in the revival that we seek. God has certainly heard the prayers of His children as we cried out to Him for the fulfillment of all the prophecies He has given to BC.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
The Book of Revelation
Revelation means unveiling or revealing, and in this case the unveiling of Jesus Christ and the end of human history. History is linear (though there are cycles), moving towards a culmination of Christ's victory over the powers and establishment of darkness. Indeed, there's a special blessing pronounced on those who read and take heed to the words of this apocalyptic book (1:3).
John the apostle wrote this book around AD 95, while being exiled to the island of Patmos. As with the Gospel of John which he also wrote, where there were mentions of sevens ("signs" and "I ams"), likewise in Revelation the number seven features quite prominently. Seven represents perfection and completeness. The reason for the book was that John received a revelation from Jesus Christ, with a message each to the seven churches in Asia Minor. It was to encourage them in a time of persecution; challenging them not to be complacent nor to compromise with the things of the world.
During John's era, the believers were living under the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian who was an egomaniac, demanding worship from the people. Domitian wanted to succeed emperor Nero in his hatred and hostility towards God, by bringing persecution to God's people. No doubt there are people today who are still championing this cause. But praise be to God, we know how history would end. Those who are evil will continue in their evil ways, and those who are good will continue to be good (22:11). God will the ultimate judge of both the living and the dead.
Outline of Revelation
1. Vision of Jesus Christ (Ch 1)
2. The vision of the 7 churches (Ch 2-3)
3. The vision of the day of the Lord (Ch 4-22)
i. Three groups of judgments (Ch 6-18)
a. Seven seals
b. Seven trumpets
c. Seven bowls
ii. The marriage supper of the Lamb (19:1-10)
iii. The second coming of Jesus Christ (19:11-21)
iv.The millenium (20:1-10)
v. The Great White Throne judgment (20:11-15)
vi. The eternal state (21-22)
With God on our side, we're on the winning side. Good will ultimately triumph over evil. Hallelujah! For the Lord God the Almighty reigns! (19:6)
The book ends with a warning not to add or subtract from the prophecy of this book (22:18-19).
Come, Lord Jesus, come!
John the apostle wrote this book around AD 95, while being exiled to the island of Patmos. As with the Gospel of John which he also wrote, where there were mentions of sevens ("signs" and "I ams"), likewise in Revelation the number seven features quite prominently. Seven represents perfection and completeness. The reason for the book was that John received a revelation from Jesus Christ, with a message each to the seven churches in Asia Minor. It was to encourage them in a time of persecution; challenging them not to be complacent nor to compromise with the things of the world.
During John's era, the believers were living under the reign of the Roman emperor Domitian who was an egomaniac, demanding worship from the people. Domitian wanted to succeed emperor Nero in his hatred and hostility towards God, by bringing persecution to God's people. No doubt there are people today who are still championing this cause. But praise be to God, we know how history would end. Those who are evil will continue in their evil ways, and those who are good will continue to be good (22:11). God will the ultimate judge of both the living and the dead.
Outline of Revelation
1. Vision of Jesus Christ (Ch 1)
2. The vision of the 7 churches (Ch 2-3)
3. The vision of the day of the Lord (Ch 4-22)
i. Three groups of judgments (Ch 6-18)
a. Seven seals
b. Seven trumpets
c. Seven bowls
ii. The marriage supper of the Lamb (19:1-10)
iii. The second coming of Jesus Christ (19:11-21)
iv.The millenium (20:1-10)
v. The Great White Throne judgment (20:11-15)
vi. The eternal state (21-22)
With God on our side, we're on the winning side. Good will ultimately triumph over evil. Hallelujah! For the Lord God the Almighty reigns! (19:6)
The book ends with a warning not to add or subtract from the prophecy of this book (22:18-19).
Come, Lord Jesus, come!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Philemon
This was a letter written by Paul to a slave owner by the name of Philemon; requesting him in a very tactful manner to forgive his runaway slave, Onesimus. The slave had apparently stolen something from his master (v 18) and under Roman law, was punishable by death. But somehow by divine appointment, Onesimus landed in Roman prison and met the apostle Paul, who led him to Christ. Paul must have convinced Onesimus to return back to his master to seek forgiveness with this letter he had written.
Notice the way Paul organised his appeal in this short letter. He started off by building rapport, affirming Philemon of his love to all saints, and certainly Onesimus is one of them now (v4 - 10). Next, he appealed to his mind (v11 -19) and then to his heart (v20-21). We can learn from Paul how to handle difficult human inter-personal relationship issues. Often times, it is good to give positive strokes first before moving on to reason and then appealing to the heart to be more gracious and forgiving. Church history tells us that Philemon responded with grace by receiving Onesimus back, who later became a bishop!
This letter also gives us a primer on how masters ought to treat their slaves. Or in our day and context, how employers ought to treat their household helpers or maids. Just as Paul wanted Philemon to forgive Onesimus for the wrong done to him, so likewise, we ought to forgive our helpers for whatever slowness of action they are so accustomed to back in their homeland. Granted that some of our maids may not be so quick in their thinking or agile on their feet, these are no excuses to ill-treat them; for they are also human beings like us. I often cannot help but think that maids who do harm to the people they're helping is because they've been ill-treated in the first place. However, the law has been put in place to take care of situations whereby maids attempted or succeeded to physically harm family members. In this case, justice will be served.
One of the beautiful things that can be seen from the story of Onesimus is that there's hope for those who are given a second chance. Slaves and maids are also people in need of a Saviour. It took Paul to save Onesimus; however, one wonders whether Philemon has tried to reach out to Onesimus. Praise God for employers who encourage their maids to go to church on Sundays.
Notice the way Paul organised his appeal in this short letter. He started off by building rapport, affirming Philemon of his love to all saints, and certainly Onesimus is one of them now (v4 - 10). Next, he appealed to his mind (v11 -19) and then to his heart (v20-21). We can learn from Paul how to handle difficult human inter-personal relationship issues. Often times, it is good to give positive strokes first before moving on to reason and then appealing to the heart to be more gracious and forgiving. Church history tells us that Philemon responded with grace by receiving Onesimus back, who later became a bishop!
This letter also gives us a primer on how masters ought to treat their slaves. Or in our day and context, how employers ought to treat their household helpers or maids. Just as Paul wanted Philemon to forgive Onesimus for the wrong done to him, so likewise, we ought to forgive our helpers for whatever slowness of action they are so accustomed to back in their homeland. Granted that some of our maids may not be so quick in their thinking or agile on their feet, these are no excuses to ill-treat them; for they are also human beings like us. I often cannot help but think that maids who do harm to the people they're helping is because they've been ill-treated in the first place. However, the law has been put in place to take care of situations whereby maids attempted or succeeded to physically harm family members. In this case, justice will be served.
One of the beautiful things that can be seen from the story of Onesimus is that there's hope for those who are given a second chance. Slaves and maids are also people in need of a Saviour. It took Paul to save Onesimus; however, one wonders whether Philemon has tried to reach out to Onesimus. Praise God for employers who encourage their maids to go to church on Sundays.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Epistle of 2 Peter
Whereas 1 Peter is a response by Peter to attacks from without, resulting in persecution and suffering, 2 Peter is in response to infiltration from within the ranks. In particular, false teachers and false prophets arising to deceive the very elect of God (2:1). Peter instructed the saints to reject these false ministers of God and to live righteously in view of God's coming judgment. They are to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ (3:18).
The authorship of this letter can be attributed by both external and internal testimony. It was not ascribed to Peter until Origen's time (AD 185-253) and he himself started the letter with his salutation (1:1). It was written between AD 64-67.
The outline of the letter can be summarised as follows:
Ch 1: Cultivation of holiness
Ch 2: Condemnation of heresy
Ch 3: Confident hope
One of the key passages of this book is 3:9, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." God's time frame is different from man's. We live in finite time and space; while God inhabits eternity - a place without space-time constraints. That's why Peter said that a thousand years is like a day to the Lord. So to the God, it's been like 2 days since Christ ascended to heaven. And God is currently very patient with all men (and women); desiring that they repent of their sins and believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.
But the time will come when the patience of God will run out and He would unleash his judgment on mankind (3:10). The fire of God's wrath would destroy the earth completely which would bring about the hope of a new heaven and a new earth (3:13). During the time of Peter, it's unthinkable how earth could be completely destroyed. In our day, it's not impossible due to nuclear warheads. The exhortation for believers then is to live spotless, blameless lives and to be at peace with God (3:14). Jesus will deliver His saints from the wrath of God to come (1 Thes 1:10).
Dear friends, are you at peace with God? If not, why not allow Him to come into your life today by opening the door of your heart. Prayer is the key that unlocks the door of our hearts to allow Christ, the Prince of Peace to enter in. This is a simple prayer that can be said, "Dear God, I confess that I am a sinner in need of your grace and mercy. Forgive me of all my sins. Thank you Lord Jesus Christ for paying the price of my redemption. I open the door of my heart and ask you to come in. Come and take control of my life and be my Lord and Saviour. Amen."
The authorship of this letter can be attributed by both external and internal testimony. It was not ascribed to Peter until Origen's time (AD 185-253) and he himself started the letter with his salutation (1:1). It was written between AD 64-67.
The outline of the letter can be summarised as follows:
Ch 1: Cultivation of holiness
Ch 2: Condemnation of heresy
Ch 3: Confident hope
One of the key passages of this book is 3:9, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." God's time frame is different from man's. We live in finite time and space; while God inhabits eternity - a place without space-time constraints. That's why Peter said that a thousand years is like a day to the Lord. So to the God, it's been like 2 days since Christ ascended to heaven. And God is currently very patient with all men (and women); desiring that they repent of their sins and believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour.
But the time will come when the patience of God will run out and He would unleash his judgment on mankind (3:10). The fire of God's wrath would destroy the earth completely which would bring about the hope of a new heaven and a new earth (3:13). During the time of Peter, it's unthinkable how earth could be completely destroyed. In our day, it's not impossible due to nuclear warheads. The exhortation for believers then is to live spotless, blameless lives and to be at peace with God (3:14). Jesus will deliver His saints from the wrath of God to come (1 Thes 1:10).
Dear friends, are you at peace with God? If not, why not allow Him to come into your life today by opening the door of your heart. Prayer is the key that unlocks the door of our hearts to allow Christ, the Prince of Peace to enter in. This is a simple prayer that can be said, "Dear God, I confess that I am a sinner in need of your grace and mercy. Forgive me of all my sins. Thank you Lord Jesus Christ for paying the price of my redemption. I open the door of my heart and ask you to come in. Come and take control of my life and be my Lord and Saviour. Amen."
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Epistle of 1 Peter
This letter was written by the apostle Peter with the help of Silas (1 Pet 5:12), which probably accounts for the polished Greek used in the letter. Where John is known as the apostle of love; Paul, the apostle of faith; Peter is known as the apostle of hope. And he began his letter by telling us that God has given us a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1:3). That despite the terrible persecution and suffering taking place, he encouraged the believers to respond based on their salvation, characterized by humble submission and godly conduct.
The outline of his letter is as follows:
1. Salvation for the believer (1 - 2:12)
2. Submission of the believer (2:13 - 3:12)
3. Persecution of the believer (3:13 - 5:14)
The theme of submission extends from the state to the home.
State: kings, governors, etc. (2:13)
Workplace: masters, employers, etc. (2:18)
Home: Wives to husbands, who should love their wives (3:1,7; Eph 5:25); chidren are to submit to parents (Eph 6:1-3).
Peter made the point that we should submit to authority even if they're harsh in their treatment towards us (2:18-19). This is not an easy thing to do because human nature tends towards self-preservation; and the natural consequence is to retaliate to preserve our pride and dignity. However, he held up Christ as our role model of suffering who though innocent, endured insults and beatings thrown at him without retaliating (2:21-23). Ultimately, God would be the judge and vindicator of all things (2:24). So when we have done good and yet have to suffer for it, count it a privilege to suffer for Christ's sake.
On the other hand, if we have done evil then the natural consequence of punishment and suffering that ensued is our just deserts (2:20). Those in authority have been placed there by God for a purpose. Their job is to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right (2:14). In this way, law and order would prevent any society from degenerating into anarchy. It is imperative therefore, as believers, we pray for our government leaders as exhorted by Paul (1 Tim 2:1-2). In this way, we may live in peace and harmony, doing the Lord's work unhindered.
Submission is a key test for leadership in the church. If we're unable to submit to earthly authority, we would not be able to submit to divine authority. Jesus mentioned that those who have been faithful with a few things would be put in charge of many things later (Mt 25:21,23). The only exception to submission is when the authority prohibit us from worshipping God or proclaiming Him name (Ac 5:27-29).
The outline of his letter is as follows:
1. Salvation for the believer (1 - 2:12)
2. Submission of the believer (2:13 - 3:12)
3. Persecution of the believer (3:13 - 5:14)
The theme of submission extends from the state to the home.
State: kings, governors, etc. (2:13)
Workplace: masters, employers, etc. (2:18)
Home: Wives to husbands, who should love their wives (3:1,7; Eph 5:25); chidren are to submit to parents (Eph 6:1-3).
Peter made the point that we should submit to authority even if they're harsh in their treatment towards us (2:18-19). This is not an easy thing to do because human nature tends towards self-preservation; and the natural consequence is to retaliate to preserve our pride and dignity. However, he held up Christ as our role model of suffering who though innocent, endured insults and beatings thrown at him without retaliating (2:21-23). Ultimately, God would be the judge and vindicator of all things (2:24). So when we have done good and yet have to suffer for it, count it a privilege to suffer for Christ's sake.
On the other hand, if we have done evil then the natural consequence of punishment and suffering that ensued is our just deserts (2:20). Those in authority have been placed there by God for a purpose. Their job is to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right (2:14). In this way, law and order would prevent any society from degenerating into anarchy. It is imperative therefore, as believers, we pray for our government leaders as exhorted by Paul (1 Tim 2:1-2). In this way, we may live in peace and harmony, doing the Lord's work unhindered.
Submission is a key test for leadership in the church. If we're unable to submit to earthly authority, we would not be able to submit to divine authority. Jesus mentioned that those who have been faithful with a few things would be put in charge of many things later (Mt 25:21,23). The only exception to submission is when the authority prohibit us from worshipping God or proclaiming Him name (Ac 5:27-29).
Monday, June 28, 2010
The Book of Colossians
Our Bible reading has moved into the Book of Colossians. The church at Colosse was started by Epaphras who received Christ through Paul (Ac 19:10; Col 1:7-8). We see the work of Paul being multiplied through this faithful servant of God. Also as a result of Epaphras and other converts of Paul, Christian churches were also established in nearby places like Laodicea and Hierapolis (Col 4:15; Phm 21). Pastor Tay in his message two Sundays ago also mentioned the faithfulness of our late Bro Seet Poon Soo in bringing him and his siblings to church when they were younger. The labour of love shown and seeds sown have definitely yielded fruit; a thriving church in Chai Chee ministering to the community around. We should therefore not underestimate the impact that we can make to the life of one soul when fully given unto the Lord.
The Colossian church was plagued with heresies. Paul attempted to address the four-fold heresy through proclaiming the supremacy and suffering of Christ (Col 1:15-22). The four-fold heresy are:
1) Humanistic Philosophy (2:1-10): false worldly, religious teachings.
2) Ritualism (2:11-17): strict rules abt kinds of permissible food and drink, religious festivals & circumcision.
3) Mysticism (2:18-19): secret knowledge of spiritual things - gnostics.
4) Asceticism (2:20-23): self-imposed harsh treatment of body.
Paul began his letter by detailing the sufficiency of Christ:
a) In creation (1:15-18)
b) In redemption (1:19-23)
c) In the church (1:24-29)
Christians are to submit to Christ (Ch 3-4)
a) Set our hearts and minds on things above (3:1-4)
b) Put off the old self and put on the new self (3:5-17)
c) Complete and submissive relationships (3:18-4:6)
d) Final greetings (4:7-18)
In our day and age, there're so many humanistic philosophies propagating through the printed and online media. If we are not careful, we can get caught and be ensared by lies and deceits. Hence, it is vital for us to read the Word and pray in the spirit to build up our most holy faith. We have to put on the whole armour of God inorder for us to counteract the schemes of the devil, enabling us to stand in the evil days (Eph 6:10-18).
The Colossian church was plagued with heresies. Paul attempted to address the four-fold heresy through proclaiming the supremacy and suffering of Christ (Col 1:15-22). The four-fold heresy are:
1) Humanistic Philosophy (2:1-10): false worldly, religious teachings.
2) Ritualism (2:11-17): strict rules abt kinds of permissible food and drink, religious festivals & circumcision.
3) Mysticism (2:18-19): secret knowledge of spiritual things - gnostics.
4) Asceticism (2:20-23): self-imposed harsh treatment of body.
Paul began his letter by detailing the sufficiency of Christ:
a) In creation (1:15-18)
b) In redemption (1:19-23)
c) In the church (1:24-29)
Christians are to submit to Christ (Ch 3-4)
a) Set our hearts and minds on things above (3:1-4)
b) Put off the old self and put on the new self (3:5-17)
c) Complete and submissive relationships (3:18-4:6)
d) Final greetings (4:7-18)
In our day and age, there're so many humanistic philosophies propagating through the printed and online media. If we are not careful, we can get caught and be ensared by lies and deceits. Hence, it is vital for us to read the Word and pray in the spirit to build up our most holy faith. We have to put on the whole armour of God inorder for us to counteract the schemes of the devil, enabling us to stand in the evil days (Eph 6:10-18).
Friday, June 25, 2010
Greatly Blessed, Deeply Loved and Highly Favoured
The above was the theme of our recently concluded church camp at Holiday Villa, Subang M'sia. We were blessed to have Rev Raymond Mooi to teach us God's Word over the 4 days of camp. In addition, he shared with us faith-building stories that lifted up our spirits; that we should continue to lean and trust God even during times when things don't seem to go right. God is never too late in delivering what He has promised, He's always on time. We, on the other hand, are often too impatient to wait on God, resulting in problems which we cannot extricate. Abraham, at the urging of Sarah, brought forth Ishmael, which was not the one whom God had promised Abraham (Gen 16). Likewise, King Saul because of his impatience offered sacrifices which he shouldn't have as he was not a priest (1 Sam 13).
During camp, I shared a morning devotion on the Favour of God. We all like to be shown favour - assistance, goodwill, preferential treatment, promotion - and especially God's favour because it opens up to the favour of men. There are five characteristics of God's favour or grace, which I would like to share in brief over here:
Grow: reading Luke 2:52, we see that favour can increase in one's life, just as we can grow physically (stature), intellectually (wisdom) and socially (favour with men). In each of these, effort is required; so to grow spiritually and experience God's favour we have to put in effort to follow and obey God. In camp, we were encouraged to truly worship God in spirit and in truth, as that is one of the ways God's presence/favour can be seen and felt in our lives.
Righteous: reading Ps 5:12, the righteous man is blessed with favour as a shield. In the OT, righteousness has to do with the keeping of the Law and being blameless before God. That was indeed a hard act to follow. But praise God, those of us who put our faith in Christ, we have been made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus! (2 Cor 5:21). Shield speaks of protection. Know then, whether as an individual or as a church, God has been protecting us with His favour.
Assistance: reading Gen 39:21-22, Joseph experienced the favour of the jailer because God was with him. The favour of God prevented Joseph from being killed by his brothers; God's favour also elevated him in prison and later in the palace. I want you to note that God's favour will shine through for us despite the difficulties in life we may face from time to time.
Current: reading Luke 4:19, we see that we are living under the grace/favour of God. Jesus did not continue reading from the book of Isaiah regarding the vengence of God. There'll come a day when we would not experience God's grace anymore, only His wrath. So we are encouraged to seek the Lord while He may be found and to call upon Him while He is near (Is 55:6).
Entreat: reading 2 Kg 13:4; Ps 119:58, we can entreat God's favour over our lives daily. Though King Jehoahaz did not follow God fully, when he sought the Lord's favour, God answered him. What more about us who are His righteous children through the blood of the Lamb! If you have not done so, learn how to declare God's favour over your lives daily. A good verse to pray through is Luke 2:52; that God would cause you to grow in wisdom, stature and in favour with God and men.
During camp, I shared a morning devotion on the Favour of God. We all like to be shown favour - assistance, goodwill, preferential treatment, promotion - and especially God's favour because it opens up to the favour of men. There are five characteristics of God's favour or grace, which I would like to share in brief over here:
Grow: reading Luke 2:52, we see that favour can increase in one's life, just as we can grow physically (stature), intellectually (wisdom) and socially (favour with men). In each of these, effort is required; so to grow spiritually and experience God's favour we have to put in effort to follow and obey God. In camp, we were encouraged to truly worship God in spirit and in truth, as that is one of the ways God's presence/favour can be seen and felt in our lives.
Righteous: reading Ps 5:12, the righteous man is blessed with favour as a shield. In the OT, righteousness has to do with the keeping of the Law and being blameless before God. That was indeed a hard act to follow. But praise God, those of us who put our faith in Christ, we have been made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus! (2 Cor 5:21). Shield speaks of protection. Know then, whether as an individual or as a church, God has been protecting us with His favour.
Assistance: reading Gen 39:21-22, Joseph experienced the favour of the jailer because God was with him. The favour of God prevented Joseph from being killed by his brothers; God's favour also elevated him in prison and later in the palace. I want you to note that God's favour will shine through for us despite the difficulties in life we may face from time to time.
Current: reading Luke 4:19, we see that we are living under the grace/favour of God. Jesus did not continue reading from the book of Isaiah regarding the vengence of God. There'll come a day when we would not experience God's grace anymore, only His wrath. So we are encouraged to seek the Lord while He may be found and to call upon Him while He is near (Is 55:6).
Entreat: reading 2 Kg 13:4; Ps 119:58, we can entreat God's favour over our lives daily. Though King Jehoahaz did not follow God fully, when he sought the Lord's favour, God answered him. What more about us who are His righteous children through the blood of the Lamb! If you have not done so, learn how to declare God's favour over your lives daily. A good verse to pray through is Luke 2:52; that God would cause you to grow in wisdom, stature and in favour with God and men.
Friday, June 18, 2010
GROW in the Lord
Spoke at the baptism service of our church last Saturday where 11 candidates were baptised. Here is the gist of what was delivered:
"And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." Col 2:6-7 (NLT)
I would like to share 4 ways (there are more of course) in which we can grow in our faith and walk with God, eventually becoming a mighty man or woman of God. To help you in your memory, I shall use the acronym, GROW.
Grace and knowledge of God (2 Pet 3:18); grace has to do with cultivating the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives (Gal 5:22) in which God wants us to grow into Christ-likeness. Knowledge here has to do with knowing God personally and not knowing about Him. This is accomplished through reading/listening to God's Word and praying to Him. As we get to know God and His expectations of us, we would be transformed to become more and more like Him.
Relationships - we grow in the company of the godly; that's where fellowship with God's people is vital. Where there're hurts and ill-feeling towards others, it has to be replaced with forgiveness and reconciliation. Where a wrong has been done to other people, we have to seek forgiveness and provide restitution, if necessary. As we relate to people, we grow to become like God in displaying unconditional love to one another.
Obedience - King Saul through disobedience forfeited the throne. David through obedience was know as a man after God's heart. Both men committed grievous sins before the Lord but what distinguishes David from Saul was his response to the Holy Spirit's conviction. Likewise, to grow in our faith, we need to learn obedience, just as Christ did at the cross (Heb 5:7-8). We'll fail many times in the tests of obedience, however, God expects us to repent and seek Him again.
Witness - we witness by our words and works. Words - telling others that we are Christians, how God has saved and transformed us. It may also mean a change of vocabulary where once 4-letter words were the norm. It may also mean an end to being part of a gossip chain or spouting lies and half-truths. Works - no longer participating in what is not acceptable eg. patronising pub, gambling den, visiting questionable websites, etc. It may also mean leaving a place of employment that promotes nicotine for instance. It may also mean parting company with people who would influence us in a negative way.
The ultimate goal of a Christian is to grow to become like Jesus Christ, reflecting God's glory on earth as it is found in heaven. Christians mean "little Christs". May we all increasingly reflect God's glory!
"And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." Col 2:6-7 (NLT)
I would like to share 4 ways (there are more of course) in which we can grow in our faith and walk with God, eventually becoming a mighty man or woman of God. To help you in your memory, I shall use the acronym, GROW.
Grace and knowledge of God (2 Pet 3:18); grace has to do with cultivating the fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives (Gal 5:22) in which God wants us to grow into Christ-likeness. Knowledge here has to do with knowing God personally and not knowing about Him. This is accomplished through reading/listening to God's Word and praying to Him. As we get to know God and His expectations of us, we would be transformed to become more and more like Him.
Relationships - we grow in the company of the godly; that's where fellowship with God's people is vital. Where there're hurts and ill-feeling towards others, it has to be replaced with forgiveness and reconciliation. Where a wrong has been done to other people, we have to seek forgiveness and provide restitution, if necessary. As we relate to people, we grow to become like God in displaying unconditional love to one another.
Witness - we witness by our words and works. Words - telling others that we are Christians, how God has saved and transformed us. It may also mean a change of vocabulary where once 4-letter words were the norm. It may also mean an end to being part of a gossip chain or spouting lies and half-truths. Works - no longer participating in what is not acceptable eg. patronising pub, gambling den, visiting questionable websites, etc. It may also mean leaving a place of employment that promotes nicotine for instance. It may also mean parting company with people who would influence us in a negative way.
The ultimate goal of a Christian is to grow to become like Jesus Christ, reflecting God's glory on earth as it is found in heaven. Christians mean "little Christs". May we all increasingly reflect God's glory!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Fears
Continuing with our Bible reading of the Book of Acts (Acs 21), we see the prophet Agabus giving Paul a personal prophecy - that he would be bound and handed over to the Gentiles in Jerusalem (Ac 21:10-11). What an unencouraging word! It definitely puts fear in the hearts of Paul's travelling companions and the people who were at Philip's house. They begged him not to go up to Jerusalem (v 12).
What would you do if you receive such a word? For one, we would certainly test the spirit of prophecy. If he/she is a fly by night prophet, we can certainly dismiss the word as coming from the flesh. But Agabus was a well-recognised prophet in those days having prophesied concerning a world-wide famine which came to pass (Acs 11:28). The fact of the matter is that God certainly knows the end from the beginning where our personal pilgrimage in life is concerned (Is 46:9-10). It is His prerogative to reveal certain aspects of our future if He wants to, by way of encouragement or warning.
In the case of the apostle Paul, God had already pre-warned him regarding how much he should suffer for Christ's sake (Acs 9:15-16). So, the word of the prophet Agabus did not take him by surprise as seen in his response, which was in contrast to the people around him. He accepted the word given saying that he was prepared to die in Jerusalem for the Lord's sake (v 13). In the book of Revelation, it tells us that this kind of response is one of the victories that overcome the devil (Rev 12:11); the other two being the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
The devil uses death as a weapon to put people under the bondage of fear (Heb 2:14-15). But praise God, Christ has rendered the devil powerless through His resurrection from the dead. We no longer need to fear death because it has been defeated by the life that God gives to Christ and to those who would believe in Him. Indeed, Christ is the first fruits of those who are dead (1 Cor 15:20). Jesus said to His disciples, "Do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." (Mt 10:28 NASB).
Beyond the fear of death, there are many other fears that plague us in life. It could be the fear of animals, insects, people, unknown circumstances etc. "The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord would be exalted." (Pr 29:25 NASB). This means that we can be paralysed by a phobia (in this case to man) that prevents us from being effective in doing things for the Lord. If Paul had listened to the people telling him not to go to Jerusalem, he would not have accomplished what was written of him; to be a witness to kings and those in authority like Festus and Agrippa.
Yesterday, I went to watch Karate Kid with my family. It was a very good show starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith. One of the lessons imparted was overcoming our own fears - this was seen in Dre Parker (Jaden) who despite the injuries sustained wanted to carry on fighting in the competition, because if he does not face his own fears head on, he would still be afraid when he leaves. We challenged one of our daughters, who is afraid of the dark, to overcome this fear by trusting in God to watch over her. The movie also illustrated the power of mutual encouragement to enable one to rise from despair to victory.
Finally, the theme verse for our church as we have been reminded at last Sunday's service is about our all-encompassing God:
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Is 41:10 NIV)
What would you do if you receive such a word? For one, we would certainly test the spirit of prophecy. If he/she is a fly by night prophet, we can certainly dismiss the word as coming from the flesh. But Agabus was a well-recognised prophet in those days having prophesied concerning a world-wide famine which came to pass (Acs 11:28). The fact of the matter is that God certainly knows the end from the beginning where our personal pilgrimage in life is concerned (Is 46:9-10). It is His prerogative to reveal certain aspects of our future if He wants to, by way of encouragement or warning.
In the case of the apostle Paul, God had already pre-warned him regarding how much he should suffer for Christ's sake (Acs 9:15-16). So, the word of the prophet Agabus did not take him by surprise as seen in his response, which was in contrast to the people around him. He accepted the word given saying that he was prepared to die in Jerusalem for the Lord's sake (v 13). In the book of Revelation, it tells us that this kind of response is one of the victories that overcome the devil (Rev 12:11); the other two being the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
The devil uses death as a weapon to put people under the bondage of fear (Heb 2:14-15). But praise God, Christ has rendered the devil powerless through His resurrection from the dead. We no longer need to fear death because it has been defeated by the life that God gives to Christ and to those who would believe in Him. Indeed, Christ is the first fruits of those who are dead (1 Cor 15:20). Jesus said to His disciples, "Do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell." (Mt 10:28 NASB).
Beyond the fear of death, there are many other fears that plague us in life. It could be the fear of animals, insects, people, unknown circumstances etc. "The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord would be exalted." (Pr 29:25 NASB). This means that we can be paralysed by a phobia (in this case to man) that prevents us from being effective in doing things for the Lord. If Paul had listened to the people telling him not to go to Jerusalem, he would not have accomplished what was written of him; to be a witness to kings and those in authority like Festus and Agrippa.
Yesterday, I went to watch Karate Kid with my family. It was a very good show starring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith. One of the lessons imparted was overcoming our own fears - this was seen in Dre Parker (Jaden) who despite the injuries sustained wanted to carry on fighting in the competition, because if he does not face his own fears head on, he would still be afraid when he leaves. We challenged one of our daughters, who is afraid of the dark, to overcome this fear by trusting in God to watch over her. The movie also illustrated the power of mutual encouragement to enable one to rise from despair to victory.
Finally, the theme verse for our church as we have been reminded at last Sunday's service is about our all-encompassing God:
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Is 41:10 NIV)
Friday, June 11, 2010
Change
I've changed my blog-skin; experimented with a few designs before settling for the current one. Hope it would be much easier to navigate.
The say that the only constant in life is change. Change is inevitable; something each one of us has to contend with in life. We all experience changes in the following areas at one point in our life:
1) Station in life: from singlehood to being married, with possible entry of children into one's life. As believers in the Christ, separation and divorce should not be an option. One could also possibly be happily unmarried and experience changes in other areas.
2) Employment status: from being a student to a working adult contributing to the economy; in working life, we could change employment a number of times or move within/across departments or up and down the organisational hierarchy.
3) Place of residence: again moving house can happen a number of times in a person's life or bolder still, moving to another country of residence. The place where we worship God can also be changed due to one reason or another.
4) Spiritual state: from a carnal and pagan mindset to embracing the Christian faith. When the Spirit of God works within our lives, the changes wrought in us can be accelerated. As the Scriptures say, "Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Cor 5:17 (KJV)
5) Relationships: death brings about a permanent separation where relationships are concerned; it's indeed a major change where we have to learn how to cope with. On a less intense but equally heart-breaking level is the severance of relationships through break-up, separation or divorce.
Finally, we all age and grow old. The inevitable change that results from aging will show forth in our vision (presbyopia for those above 40) and slowness in motion (not so agile). However, we don't have to succumb to sickness and disease, if we take care of our own health by exercising and watching what we eat. We believe in a God who heals but often times He chooses not to. Even if we are not healed physically on this side of heaven, we know that Christ has already purchased redemption for us fully at Calvary's cross. Our physical bodies would be fully redeemed at the resurrection when we would be given glorified bodies. Though our outward man is decaying, our spirit man can be renewed day by day (2 Cor 4:16) through cultivating the disciplines of Bible reading, prayer, fasting, meditation and worship. As we do so, we grow strong in the spirit to enable us to do great exploits for God even in our old age, like Caleb. That's the change God would like to see in us taking place day by day.
The say that the only constant in life is change. Change is inevitable; something each one of us has to contend with in life. We all experience changes in the following areas at one point in our life:
1) Station in life: from singlehood to being married, with possible entry of children into one's life. As believers in the Christ, separation and divorce should not be an option. One could also possibly be happily unmarried and experience changes in other areas.
2) Employment status: from being a student to a working adult contributing to the economy; in working life, we could change employment a number of times or move within/across departments or up and down the organisational hierarchy.
3) Place of residence: again moving house can happen a number of times in a person's life or bolder still, moving to another country of residence. The place where we worship God can also be changed due to one reason or another.
4) Spiritual state: from a carnal and pagan mindset to embracing the Christian faith. When the Spirit of God works within our lives, the changes wrought in us can be accelerated. As the Scriptures say, "Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." 2 Cor 5:17 (KJV)
5) Relationships: death brings about a permanent separation where relationships are concerned; it's indeed a major change where we have to learn how to cope with. On a less intense but equally heart-breaking level is the severance of relationships through break-up, separation or divorce.
Finally, we all age and grow old. The inevitable change that results from aging will show forth in our vision (presbyopia for those above 40) and slowness in motion (not so agile). However, we don't have to succumb to sickness and disease, if we take care of our own health by exercising and watching what we eat. We believe in a God who heals but often times He chooses not to. Even if we are not healed physically on this side of heaven, we know that Christ has already purchased redemption for us fully at Calvary's cross. Our physical bodies would be fully redeemed at the resurrection when we would be given glorified bodies. Though our outward man is decaying, our spirit man can be renewed day by day (2 Cor 4:16) through cultivating the disciplines of Bible reading, prayer, fasting, meditation and worship. As we do so, we grow strong in the spirit to enable us to do great exploits for God even in our old age, like Caleb. That's the change God would like to see in us taking place day by day.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
History Belongs to the Intercessors
The above statement is attributed to Walter Wink. When we look back in time and history, we can see that prayers played an instrumental role in changing the course of human history. God acts on behalf of His people who prayed. In the days of Esther the queen (about 480 BC), the call to prayer fasting resulted in the deliverance of Israel from total annihilation. During the birth of Christ, King Herod ordered the slaying of babies two years and below. God preserved the Christ child because there were people praying for the consolation of Israel to be fulfilled, one of whom was Anna the prophetess, who stayed day and night in the temple, worshipping God by praying and often fasting (Luke 2:36-37).
In the 20th century, the course of human history was changed when Israel was reconstituted in 1948 and the German iron curtain fell in July 1990. No doubt, the people of God had been praying for these events to take place. In the words of Paul Billheimer, "The church holds the balance of power in world affairs ... Even now, in this present throbbing moment, by means of her prayer power and the extent to which she uses it, the praying church is actually deciding the course of human events." Each one of us as a child of the living God, holds within ourselves the power of the Holy Spirit to effect transformation in the natural realm through prayers (Eph 3:20).
The history of our church Bethesda Cathedral is also a testament of the goodness of God displayed through prevailing prayers. In the early days, there were many things that militate against the existence of BC. From lack of resources to nay sayers and attacks from a worshipper of Satan, we have weathered the terrible storms that came our way. But praise God, BC has been built to the glory of God! And history will attest to the many lives that have been touched by the wonderful hand of God as a result of our move to Chai Chee.
You and I can be history makers in our own way. This can be accomplished through our prayers. The only way we can see the fulfillment of all the prophecies spoken over our church is through prevailing prayer. One of the early visions of our church was to have a prayer centre operating 24 hours; this is to be situated just underneath the steeple. Intercessors and prayer warriors can congregate there to pray and seek God's face. There would also be a hotline for people to phone in with their requests, which would be lifted up to God's throne room of grace. When a sister in our church told me of her desire to start an upper room ministry, I encouraged her to move in that direction. Indeed, when the watchmen and watchwomen of Bethesda Cathedral arise, things will begin to happen in the spiritual realm that would change the course of our church history, for the glory of His name.
May the will of God be done in Bethesda Cathedral as it is in heaven!
In the 20th century, the course of human history was changed when Israel was reconstituted in 1948 and the German iron curtain fell in July 1990. No doubt, the people of God had been praying for these events to take place. In the words of Paul Billheimer, "The church holds the balance of power in world affairs ... Even now, in this present throbbing moment, by means of her prayer power and the extent to which she uses it, the praying church is actually deciding the course of human events." Each one of us as a child of the living God, holds within ourselves the power of the Holy Spirit to effect transformation in the natural realm through prayers (Eph 3:20).
The history of our church Bethesda Cathedral is also a testament of the goodness of God displayed through prevailing prayers. In the early days, there were many things that militate against the existence of BC. From lack of resources to nay sayers and attacks from a worshipper of Satan, we have weathered the terrible storms that came our way. But praise God, BC has been built to the glory of God! And history will attest to the many lives that have been touched by the wonderful hand of God as a result of our move to Chai Chee.
You and I can be history makers in our own way. This can be accomplished through our prayers. The only way we can see the fulfillment of all the prophecies spoken over our church is through prevailing prayer. One of the early visions of our church was to have a prayer centre operating 24 hours; this is to be situated just underneath the steeple. Intercessors and prayer warriors can congregate there to pray and seek God's face. There would also be a hotline for people to phone in with their requests, which would be lifted up to God's throne room of grace. When a sister in our church told me of her desire to start an upper room ministry, I encouraged her to move in that direction. Indeed, when the watchmen and watchwomen of Bethesda Cathedral arise, things will begin to happen in the spiritual realm that would change the course of our church history, for the glory of His name.
May the will of God be done in Bethesda Cathedral as it is in heaven!
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