The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

I recently read Matt 20:1-16 The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

It is quite interesting. There can be many thoughts if one allow his imagination to run wild.

One of the question i explore: Is God unfair?

Well..maybe not.
God just have the right to do whatever he wants with his money. God's gifts are god's and are distributed not through the merit of the receiver..but on the full graciousness of God.

Likewise, through the entering of the kingdom of God as referred in v1, it seems to imply that the criteria to enter is the grace of God...and never on our merit and ability

Is this the correct reading of this verse?

Ed

Logical decision?

We are always being told that we should try to discern God's plan for us. We should try to listen to God's small voices to us. I've been thinking of my future plans for the past few months and I have been trying hard to practise this. But I just find it hard.

At one moment, the circumstances that I was presented directed me to option A, but within twenty-four hours, something could happen that pushed me to opt for option B. It's just difficult to know what God's plan for me really is.

I've been discussing and writing to a dear Christian friend about me wanting to listen to what God really wants me to do, whether the path that I am taking is really honouring and serving God . She told me that she has stopped trying to go for this fast and easy option to seek what God's will for her is. She said what is more important and real is to search your heart and see what you really want. God has planted what he wants in our hearts. So if we search our hearts thoroughly, we should know what ultimately God wants us to do. Doesn't it sound illogical and emotional?

Her reply is probably in contrary to what most books are suggesting. On the other hand, if I think about it deeper, I guess this can be so if God is sitting right in the middle of our hearts occupying a very important position. Otherwise, we would be blinded by our selfish motives to satisfy our selfish needs and desires.

If this is really true, I am back to square one. I've tried to leave this decision-making task to God, thinking that He will have planned it and He would drop hints for me to pick up. But now, my friend is suggesting that the solution is to ask myself what my heart really wants, because God has already planted the answer there. In fact, this is the questions that a number of friends have asked me when I discussed my trouble in making decisions.

This is probably a big challenge for me because I am very logical. No matter how much I desire something, I would not go for it if it is illogical, never have I really added this element of what my heart really desires to the decision-making process. It's probably logical and necessary to add this element to the derivation of the decision now.

Yan

Why was I tense and frowning on my baptism?

I received comments that I looked tense during the whole baptism service. I didn't really notice that, but I can probably explain by telling you what was on my mind during the service.

Actually I was amazed by the timely reassurances on Friday and Saturday, just before the baptism day itself. They were just so last minute and yet in time. I decided to go for the baptism only on last Friday after Aunty Suat Ngoh ressured me that my parents would be fine with my baptism as long as I was sure that I wanted to go for it.

Their consents have been bugging me for a few months. I mentioned to them once a month ago and they advised me to wait until I have decided to stay in Singapore or leave. If I were to leave, there was no point in getting baptised now and here. That sounded logical to me and there was indeed a point there. So even though the baptism was my own desire to make my commitment clear and to express my personal faith and does not depend on the place, it seemes that it's difficult to bring this up to my parents again. Although I strongly believed that baptism was actually just between me and God, but my parents' understanding and consents were very important to me.

I have then decided not to mention it to my parents before baptism, just only maybe if the opportunity arised, I would mention it. I was chatting with my parents over MSN on Saturday night, there was a main topic to discuss: we have just found a buyer who was willing to give a price for the flat that was agreeable to us. So the whole night I was busy with communicating between my parents and the agent-in-charge. There was no chance that I could mention the baptism. Until when my father suddenly asked me why I went to church on Saturday and then again on Sunday. So I told him that I would be going for baptism the next day. They were shocked of course. But after hearing that I was very certain about it, they gave their consents. That was relieving.

Aunty Suat Ngoh has also asked if there is an additional name, like Christian name that I would like to put in the baptism cert. I just told her "Aileen". That was natural. It has been with me for the past 16 or 17 years, though I seldom use it in Singapore. It was chosen by my teacher in HK. I have not been using it because I found it a bit meaningless to use an English name just like that. Since I were to make it formal, I would rather ask my father about it. I asked him to choose between Aileen and Anna (starts with "A"; means Grace and by just the feel of the pronounciation, I feel is suitable for my personality). In the end he chose Anna, so I changed this to Anna only on Sunday, the baptism day itself.

I told my sister about the baptism also only on Saturday night when I had dinner with her. I didn't even have the courage to ask if she would like to attend. I only asked her after lunch on Sunday. Though she hesitated for awhile, but she agreed in the end.

So, with all these happening just before baptism, I think my mind was just so deformed and couldn't get back to the normal relaxed state immediately. So, I was tense right till the moment when I got baptised. It was also compounded with gratitude that they were able to happen just before my baptism. This was exactly how I felt when I was in front of the pool and Edmund took that picture of me looking tense.

After the baptism, when I was standing in front of the congregation, overlooking the whole hall, something else was on my mind. I was astounded, amazed by the work of God on me in this House of God over the past few months. I converted to Christianity when I was in Munich, the belief must have been strong and convincing at that time; I came back from Munich and attended services at Adam Road Presbyterian. The church environment was nice and so were the members. But during those times, I have never felt the connection with, the strong presence of God so strong as I am now experiencing in COR. I just found it amazing, incredible, awesome and I was deeply touched. That was what was on my mind when you all saw me frowning while standing in front of the congregation.

I think I was only eventually competely light-hearted and joyful when we took group photos at the end of the service.

Thanks a lot for your presence on my Baptism. And thanks a lot for the stylish devotional, the CD and the meaningful card. And of course the pictures that you all have taken.

Yan

Hoi Yan --> Anna

Look at the tension on Hoi Yan's face. Is she willing to give up her old self?



Getting ready now...Rev John Sim is assuring her and praying for her.



Unflattering photo. Nevertheless, it is evidence of Anna's baptism. Cannot run away liao..haa...Dead to her old self...(she will be forever young...)



As a cell, we stand by her and prayed for her. Beautiful



Finally, the lighting of candle. Sweet. Look at Anna glowing in angelic white.

Impossible

I was reflecting on some things yesterday and i came out something. Just thought i share with you guys.

----
There are many things in life that baffles me – the unaminous collapse of the western banks, various genocides, world wars, etc. Closer to home, I see a lot of impossibilities in many areas of my life. For example, despite losing my father during my teenage years, I still manage to live out a reasonable standard of living (My father is a sole breadwinner who is a taxi driver and he has to raise 3 young kids). Certainly, my circumstance warrants grumbling if I chose to look at things in a myopic fashion. If I go down this slippery road, I will say that I should have a better life of riches. I will complain on why my Father must die so early and rob me of his companionship. Life can really be bitter. Fortunately, I did not see life poorly. Instead, I see a life of impossibilities made possible by one decisive factor – God.

Jesus said, “With men this is impossible, but all things are possible with God.”(Matt 19:26) Further on, in Hebrews, it is mentioned that without faith, it is impossible to please and be satisfactory with God. Also, in Luke 1:37, For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment.

All these verses spoke deeply into my heart. It certainly brings a fresh perspective of my life circumstances and the things around me. It tells me that human logic has limited possibilities. Human situations are fraught with finite options. With men, one can only reach the domain of impossibilities. However, with God, nothing is ever impossible. The Creator and Author of our life is simply God. He saves not out of human ways or with a swoosh of his hand. Instead, he sent his son to die on the Cross for us. despite constrained by his values of one having to die for one’s sins. Mind-boggling. How can this impossible act happen?!

Using human rationality, this does not make sense. Though this solution is perfect and free, the world cannot believe it. Perhaps it requires the scales of their eyes to fall down. Maybe, it needs more persuasion and better presentation. Possibly, Christians can try to be better witnesses. I am sure human efforts can bring about an extension of God’s kingdom. But, any efforts without Jesus will at be most human. It will be a situation of impossibilities. On the contrary, any efforts that have a mustard seed-like faith will surely move the mountains. It will cause heavens to roar with rejoicing. It will bring a smile to our Heavenly Father.

So, let us all take this season of Easter to glorify Jesus who came to die on the Cross for our sins. Let us tell this simple story of Jesus to our friends. The opportunity is knocking. Let us pray. Let us ask God how. Let us move mountains. With God, all things are possible!

Church Events for the coming weeks

Hi all,

I encourage everyone to consider the coming church events (see below for more details). These events are specially planned with all of us in mind. Specifically, I urge all to attend the "Come Discover Hope" on Good Friday. This is conducted by Leon Evans whom i heard has a great ability to connect with people as young as us :> i sincerely hope that all can invite your friends esp those that you all brought down for MY HOPE.

Main Event for Cell:

1) Guest Service on 28 March - Neville Tan (the guy who spoke in MY Hope) is coming. I strongly urge all people who come for MY Hope to come. We will going out for dinner after the service to celebrate Brenda's age of maturity :>

10 April (friday), 1930 to 2130: "Come Discover Hope"
Cell may meet up for earlier dinner later. Lishan + HY, please take note. This is so that you can plan the cell activity accordingly.

People gg so far: Sarah (Dancer), RJ, Amy & Ed

Sub Event for Cell:
1) COR 30th Anniversary Dinner, 1800. Must pay money. So, please confirm by this coming cell.

People gg so far: Sarah, Brenda, HY, RJ, Amy & Ed

2) Easter Convention on 10 & 11 Apr..please refer to bulletin or COR website for more info

People gg so far:
Sarah for Creative Arts,
Edmund for Plenary Sessions for both days

Other Events

SAJC Life Concert (3 April night)- the church need counsellors. So, Edmund and Sarah have volunteered. Unfortunately, Sarah is the BS leader. So, may need to change cell to Sat 130. Is this ok for everyone? Still deciding...depends on feedback fro pple

Cell Prayer Requests

Nissi - Getting the firm foundation right
Be real followers of Jesus Christ

HY - 1)For Alice (her sister). Her work is quite bad and she is feeling restless and unhappy. That God will speak to her.
2) To be able to decipher God's plan for me so that I can make up my mind and have courage to carry out the plans.

Billy - Pray for Good Health for his Grandma
Pray that the job application with LTA will be successful.

Lishan - To be less stubborn

Brenda - To continue to be more hungry for God’s word
To focus on him

Karen - Pray for K's manager. She is very cruel to her.

MJ - Pray for God's widom upon him
Amy- Ability to handle the demands of her difficult boss…and also with regards to her relationship with all bosses

Jonathan - Wisdom to know the next step ahead for his life

Ling - Passion to live for Christ & Her exams on Tuesday
Sarah - Keep her mind on Jesus

Ruijie - Exams which are starting in April
Good health and time management

Edmund - Strength & wisdom

Faith

I was watching a christian movie the other day "Facing the Giants"... and one part caught my attention:

The coach was very disheartened about what was happening, and was asking the pastor about what it means to have faith... and this was the reply.

"There are 2 farmers, both desperately crying out for rain. Both were in dire need for rain, and both looked to God for help. Yet only 1 of them went out to prepare the fields, so that when the rain came, he'd be ready. Which of the farmers do you think had greater faith?"

Interesting food for thought eh... How often do we just sit back and wait for God to take the first step... only to grumble when we don't see things moving? What's the attitudes of our hearts when we pray? Are we really enTRUSTing our situations to God?


"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
Hebrews 11:1


-amy

The meaning of marriage

I went to a friend’s ROM recently. It got me into thinking about the meaning of marriage. My conclusion is:

Marriage is meaningful to me only when I link it with God.

I used to think that there was no need to get married. To me, it’s meaningless to be with someone who doesn’t love me. If I am not in his heart, what’s the point of keeping him by my side? A marriage certificate is not a guarantee that both would love each other forever, even if both have said the vow passionately and determinately. The feeling, the chemistry will just eventually vanish.

I was, however, eventually convinced that two people should come together in a marriage and be “one flesh” to serve God. That was after reading the book “Kiss dating goodbye”. I couldn’t summarise or rephrase and give a good explanation for that at that time. I was not a Christian at that time and that was two years ago. This thought came to my mind again after attending the friend’s ROM.

It’s hard for two people to stay together, loving each other for a life time. No matter how compatible, how good the chemistry is, there will be bound to be times when you are just irritated by the other person; there will be bound to be times when there are disagreements. How great can the love be for the other person, especially when you know that you can choose whether you want to marry this person? It is a free will. There are bound to be doubts. I think the only guarantee and binding force for this love is the love for God. In God’s Kingdom, there is a set of rules to guide how people should live. Without following these laws, the society is just chaotic, so is the case for marriage.

Ephesians 5:21-33
21 subjecting yourselves one to another in the fear of Christ.
22 Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, and Christ also is the head of the assembly, being himself the savior of the body.
24 But as the assembly is subject to Christ, so let the wives also be to their own husbands in everything.
25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the assembly, and gave himself up for it;
26 that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word,
27 that he might present the assembly to himself gloriously, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
28 Even so husbands also ought to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself.
29 For no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourishes and cherishes it, even as the Lord also does the assembly;
30 because we are members of his body, of his flesh and bones.
31 “For this cause a man will leave his father and mother, and will be joined to his wife. The two will become one flesh.”
32 This mystery is great, but I speak concerning Christ and of the assembly.
33 Nevertheless each of you must also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

It is by following this law and following God’s words that the two people can stay together for a life time.

“For with God nothing is impossible” (Luke 1:37).

Therefore, marriage is only meaningful when God comes into place.

In the process of growing up, I have been taught that marriage is a milestone in life, maybe a stage that one must go through. However, I just found that somehow all the reasons given to me, supporting marriage were insufficient to convince me. At least, with this reason here, I am convinced.

There are still a lot of things that I have yet to find meaning to...

Yan

Servant Leadership

I have been reflecting on John 13:1-17 for the past few months.

How does one become an effective leader?

I believe it takes a combination of aptitude, people skills, attitude, etc. I shall elaborate on attitude as illustrated in John 13.

Jesus actually washed the feet of his disciples. This is profound and serves as a yardstick of humility and servitude.

When I was in secondary school, my principal and a few teachers actually washed some the feet of some students. This takes place in front of the entire school assembly. The students will sit in a row and my principal will wash their feet. This takes place to show the humility of Jesus Christ.

This simple event has made an impact in my life. It constantly reminded me of the need to be humble and have a golden heart of servitude. I also believe that Jesus deliberately carry out this significant activity before the Last Supper. He wants the disciples to constantly adopt a heart of humility and servitude.

To conclude, I will leave some quotes which I got from Wikipedia.

a) Chanakya or Kautilya, the famous strategic thinker from ancient India, wrote about servant leadership in his 4th century B.C. book Arthashastra:

"the king [leader] shall consider as good, not what pleases himself but what pleases his subjects [followers]"
"the king [leader] is a paid servant and enjoys the resources of the state together with the people".

b) In approximately 600 B.C., the Chinese sage Lao Tzu wrote The Tao Te Ching, a strategic treatise on servant leadership:

The greatest leader forgets himself
And attends to the development of others.
Good leaders support excellent workers.
Great leaders support the bottom ten percent.
Great leaders know that
The diamond in the rough
Is always found “in the rough.”

c) "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:42-45)

-ed-

Running the race!

Hebrews 12:1-3

1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles , and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus , the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Good appearance, good heart

Recently I've recovered a bookmark given to me by a friend whom I've known since my internship. She has really sowed seeds for me to know Christ by talking me to across the toilets almost every night. (The layout of the hostel was that there was a common toilet in between two rooms. Both rooms have access to the toilet from either room.) I think I got that bookmark from the toilet door to my room.

Anyway, that's a bookmark with a Bible verse on it:

"For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."

1 Samuel 16:7

It didn't appeal to me when I received that bookmark. I just thought that's cool. A bookmark with a German Bible verse on it and my friend wrote some touching words behind together with the translations of the verse. But when I read it now, it speaks much to me.

I was at first quite disturbed and felt helpless by this verse. I am naturally drawn to good appearance. That may make me look shallow, but I must admit that appearance is definitely something that bothers me. When I am walking on the street and come across some handsome guys or girls, I will definitely take a longer glance. It's just natural. I believe that's also natural for many people. So why shouldn't we look at the appearance?

I finally checked out the whole story from which the verse was taken from. The story was about Samuel anointing the King chosen by the Lord. All the sons of Jesse appeared before him. Samuel saw Eliab and thought that this was the one to be anointed because of his appearance. But the Lord told Samuel that that was not the one and so came that verse. Later on, the Lord told Samuel the one that He has chosen. It came out that this chosen one is "ruddy, with bright eyes, and good-looking". Therefore, the one that the Lord has chosen not only has good look but also a good heart. So essentially, it's not telling me not to look at good look , it's just that the person must have a good heart also.

I always believe that there is a link between the appearance and the heart. A person can have nice features: the nose can be very straight, big eyes, good complexion...but if the heart is not good, the combination of all these attractive features will not form a good appearance. I will just feel that somehow something is not right and it's not comfortable to look at. On the other hand, there are people with average features yet the whole combination is nice and peaceful to look at.

So after all, it's not wrong for me to look at the appearance. I am not looking at the outward appearance only, but I try to see beyond the outward appearance and know the heart of the person. =)

Yan

Godliness with contentment

Recently, I was led into this verse in 1 Tim 6:6 "But godliness with contentment is great gain"

This is a really interesting verse and it has much relevance with life.

There are essentially 2 main parts here - godliness & contentment. I have seen cases of godliness w/o contentment, contentment w/o godliness, and, of course, godliness with contentment. Needless to say, the optimal state will be godliness with contentment. So, it begets the question on how do we achieve that.

Do we fight for it? Is it a matter of attitude? Or is it just one's circumstance that allows you to follow your principle? Or is it even the people around you that encourages and moves one to adopt godliness with contentment?

Well, i will say all and/or some of the above. It really depends on 2 factors - God & you.

Firstly, godliness with contentment requires grace from God. And grace requires love & generosity. The God I know have all these; He loves us and he is wonderfully generous. Through His character, the outpouring of His grace overflows. There are so many examples in my life whereby his simple & beautiful grace touches me deeply.

Therefore, if God allows & in his perfect will, one will surely have godliness with contentment.

Next, if godliness with contentment depends on the individual. A father may give you good gifts but if you do not accept it, it is really too bad. The receiver needs to play his part. God may you give you a powerful toolkit - bible, church, friends and family, and even the Holy Spirit. But, if you one refuses to be a carpenter and build & repair your life, the wonderful gift of Jesus Christ can be futile.

In short, it can be tough or even easy to be godly with contentment. It really depends on God & you.

-ed-

Beautiful Worship Song

Hi everyone , I would like to share a beautiful worship song to encourage all of us. The lyrics of this song speaks of the identity that we have in Christ and the hope and promise that God has given to us as His children. Hope that it will encourage you as it has encouraged me.

The title of this song is Before the Throne of God Above.

Here is the youtube link,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_xUK2Dx5RkY&feature=related

Thanks,

Ruijie

Lyrics:

Before the throne of God above
I have a strong, a perfect plea:
A great High Priest, whose name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.

My name is graven on his hands,
My name is written on his heart;
I know that while in heaven he stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart
No tongue can bid me thence depart.

When Satan tempts me to despair,
And tells me of the guilt within,
Upward I look, and see him there
Who made an end of all my sin.

Because a sinless Savior died,
My sinful soul is counted free;
For God, the Just, is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me
To look on Him and pardon me

Behold him there, the risen Lamb
My perfect, spotless righteousness,
The great unchangeable I am,
The King of glory and of grace!

One in himself, I cannot die
My soul is purchased by his blood
My life is hid with Christ on high,
With Christ, my Savior and my God
With Christ, my Savior and my God

Sunday Service_15 Feb

1) Those who know how to pray & give thanks - will usually have a healthy life

2) Be a man of joy and thanksgiving & prayer

3) 1 Ths 5: 16 - 18 Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.

4) Thanksgiving is a gift of God. We must have a positive mood of thanksgiving and appreciation. This will be a blessing to others.

5) Count your blessings. Name them one by one

6) Instead of being critical and complaining, remember the small blessings from God.

7) 1 Tim 4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving.
Don’t complain about food. Give thanks for your food.

8) Let us focus on God and not our problems. God is bigger than our problems.
Rom 8:28: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.

9) Pray always, Give thanks

10) We should practice thanksgiving as our lifestyle

11) Thanksgiving => more joy

12) If we are thankful for one another, we will complain less about other people.

-ed-

Sat Service Notes_14 Feb

I took down some notes/minutes from Rev John Sim and there were some really good gems. I thought i share them with you all.

1) Great attitude to love God’s word – equivalent to loving God with all of our mind.

2) Cornelius’ problem with the Jews have not deter him from knowing God
What do our colleagues and friends see in us? What do our colleagues and friends see in us? Like Cornelius, people hope to see a Christian friend. People want to see us handle work with passion, enthusiasm, Christian ethics, hope and fear.

3) We are privileged to know God who lavishes us with so much grace
The world is searching for God. People are looking for church to provide us that.

4) Each one of us must experience spiritual reality for ourselves. Spiritual reality has got to do with belief in God and your walk with God.

When is the last time you heard His voice? It is something we need to reclaim and restore it in our lives. We must be passionate for God’s word if we want to hear his voice.

Key to spiritual growth is training, discipline and your heart. We must be mindful to guard your heart

5) Peter is ready and, thus, was used by God to reach out to Cornelius. Thus, the divine encounter took place.

6) Be an example to others when reach out to other people.
People don’t need to know what you fail. Don’t tell people about the bad news.
Instead, share with people on how good God is. People want to hear how good God is, how he has helped us. People don’t want to hear any more complaints, like everyone.

God is good. Say Good morning to the Holy Spirit.

7) Don’t be like Peter and be judgmental. There maybe something that you dun like but dun let it hinder you.

8) Sometimes, we are anxious and miss God out. Sometimes, our lives are filled with problems and frustration. Maybe our hearts are weighed down by the anxieties and our ground is not saturated by the Holy Spirit. And, because we are anxious, we miss out the things that God is working at. Perhaps, his plans and purposes are through the problem and through the people that God brought to our hearts. And we come away defeated.

-ed-

What is your love languages?

When two people are in a relationship, it is important for each one of them to demonstrate in some way the importance of the other in his/her life. The problem often arises in a relationship when these two people don’t speak the same love language. They don’t speak to the other’s deepest emotional need (a need that has been shaped by their childhood). We want to be loved by the other and valued as worth loving by that person. So how you express your love is important in a relationship. You may be saying, “I love you,” to your significant other, but he isn’t hearing it because he doesn’t speak the same love language.

The Five Love LanguagesBy Gary Chapman:

1) Words of Affirmation-Some people need to hear the words from their loved one to believe they are loved. They need verbal compliments and praises.

2) Receiving Gifts-To others the receiving of a gift from their loved one tells them they are loved by that person. The gifts don’t necessary have to be expensive. The thought behind the gift is what is most important. It tells the person he was thinking about her. In a time of turmoil the gift of your presence can be what is valued the most.

3) Acts of Service-There are some who need love expressed through doing something for them. It could be something like doing the dishes or taking out the trash. It is important that the act of service is given freely, not demanded.

4) Quality Time-Another love language is spending quality time with your loved one. I don’t just mean being with him. I mean really talking and listening to him. You must be totally focused on him to the exclusion of everything else. Within this are also quality activities. When doing things together, one should want to do the activity and the other has agreed. You are showing your love by doing the activity together.

5) Physical Touch-A touch on his arm as you walk by, holding hands on a couch, or a back rub when he is tense can be to some an expression of love. There are many levels of physical touch and not all have to be intimate to show you love someone.With your characters determine which love language he/she speaks and use that in your story to show love as well as to keep a distance between two people. An example: A woman who needs words of affirmation from the man she is dating and he is the strong, silent hero—doesn’t express his feelings well. There are so many possibilities to use the five love languages.

To find your love languages, go to this link:
http://www.afo.net/hftw-lovetest.asp

00's Reflections...

v23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. V24 See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139

v8 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the Lord. V9 As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55

I hope that by mediating onto these verses, my heart and my mind can be refine by Him daily. As the Lord says in Jeremiah 17 v 9 " The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"

Love, 00

Past, Present, Future

Recently, a colleague commented that the three most terrible people on the floor are all Christians. I quite agreed with him. No sense of commitment in their work, no compassion and respect for other people and no sign of professionalism. But when I look at them, they are all very happy.

On the other hand, some Christians that I know who may have a good attitude for work and yet they seem to be very unhappy. Maybe they are at a very low point of their lives. But I am not quite convinced that this is the root cause of their unhappiness. They are very devoted and faithful Christians. Are faith and trust in God not enough for them to be reassured and stop being angry or fearful of the situations that they are in?

This is quite disturbing for me. I do want my friends to be happy, but I know there is nothing that I can do. They are smart and matured people. They understand completely the situation they are in and what they should do. They also know turning to God for guidance and support. But why are they still unhappy? I remember receiving a powerpoint presentation called "A Present" ( A Present from God). I think this is the key to this. Smart and matured Christians sometimes hink too much. They think about the Past, the Future, but have forgotten about the Present. Knowing that you are living in the Present is innate to us. But when people start to think too much, this knowledge is forgotten. Babies are happy because they don't know much and they don't think much. This innate knowledge is obvious to them.

C.S. Lewis has said that God wants us to concern with eternity or with the Present only.

“either meditating on the eternal union with, or separation from, Him, or else obeying the present voice of conscience, bearing the present cross, receiving the present grace, giving thanks for the present pleasure.”

When people are unhappy, they have probably forgotten that they should treasure whatever they have in the Present. It’s only at Present, are all the “duty, all grace, all knowledge, and all pleasure dwell”. The Past is unchangeable, we can only learn from it; the future is unrealistic, we can only labor faithfully in the present and commend the cause to God. Our lives may be taken away the next day or even the next minute. If you are told that you only have ten more minutes to live, I am sure that all the things that you cannot let go can be let go. All you want to do is to use this ten minutes to tell the people that you love you love them, or you may even love those around you whom you may not quite like if not at this last moment.

The present from God may not be a nice and happy one everyday. But it's still a present from God. We should enjoy each day given by God. If we are being reminded of this, maybe we can be happier.

Yan

The beauty of Esther (esther 2:22-24)

When Queen Esther was faced with the impending destruction of her people, she knew she had to break the law to make a request to the King. Instead of panicking and focusing on the problem, she told Mordecai to fast and pray for three days before she goes to see the king.

This is amazing. It is a tremendous display of courage and faith. Such bravery can easily put Mel Gibson from Braveheart to shame. She is willing to sacrifice her life, reputation and good life.

Over the week, I was reflecting on my personal meaning of success. I shared that it is fulfillment and satisfaction. When I drill this down further, I realize that a lot of things can make me satisfied. A friend shared with me that value creation is his definition of success. I realize that it makes a lot of sense. When one adds and creates value in other people and the things (environment, work, etc) around you, you become useful. It makes you successful. It begins to make me wonder how do I make enhancement to my surroundings and the people I care about. I am not advocating that I am going to be Mother Teresa. But, somehow, I have a feeling that Mother Teresa derives her success in her ability to help the poor.

The reason why I shared this is that it seems Esther’s definition of success is about others. It is not about falling back to her wealth and status as Queen. Her heart to help others portray her true beauty. It is her success story. Besides her beauty, she displayed tremendous wisdom and effectiveness. Perhaps her three days of fasting give her time to assess her situation well and plan her steps. This can be seen in how Esther orchestrate the salvation of her people, despite facing oppositions in Haman.

Dear God, help me to have that reflexive reaction to turn to you in prayer. And grant me wisdom to solve life’s man-made problems. I also prayed that I may possess the strength and courage like Esther and Joshua (Joshua 1:9). Amen

-ed-

29th jan 09, Captivating at curry flavors jap restaurant

Hi all... just to update on our ladies outing on 29th jan 09. We are on our way to do a book(Captivating) that our bro, jon who has kindly brought us a long time ago......We did managed to discuss a bit on the first chapter of the book(10-15mins)... but...we all concluded that we need to read more chapters in order to gain a deeper understanding of what the authors are trying to bring across to us....so...we spent the rest of the hours eating and chatting about other stuffs....hee...anyway it was a great time of fellowship together w/o the presence of the guys in our cell....haha...just joking, no offence.

Okay, personally i find that the first chapter of this book helps us to explore the condition of our hearts as a woman. It also encourages us to examine the common desires that set deep in our hearts but we fail to acknowledge it and downplay it instead. Therefore we need to constantly examine our heart to identify the "pulling forces" in our lives...eg: what are we driven to and why...The things that we are pursuing now, are they a result of our insecurity...? Is God in the picture of our plans? It is important not to miss the heart of a woman as the authors remind us that the scriptures tell us the heart is central. Proverbs 4:23 "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."

Well, I hope that as we continue to meet up monthly to study and share more about the book, we will be about to build each other up spiritually. We can also feel free to share about the area in our lives that we are struggling...or anything...=)

Love: 00

A Persevering Spirit

was reading Nehemiah a few times this week. What a wonderful book! So many lessons you can get from this book. It seems like almost every passage jumps out at me when i read it. I will share one lesson i learn - perseverance.

Neh 4 & 6 are really amazing. I will focus on these verses v 14, 19, 20.

[v14]...Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome,

[v19 & 20]...The work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!”

Nehemiah is so focused on God. When he faced a big problem, he further magnify God. He knows that God is not one who walks on crutches. He knows God is great and awesome. He knows God will fight for us.

Personal Application

When i faced certain problems like work or personal issues, i often look at the problem. Sometimes, i get immobilized and use "eye" and "heart" power to try to wish the problem will be solved by itself.

But, i have learnt to go past the 'immobilization' step and take an active role in solving the problem. I have to become less problem-centric but more problem -solving centric. Although, the problem do not get solved overnight. But, at least i try.

It definitely takes a lot of perseverance. In the past, I will give up if i cannot solve the problem. I am one of those students who will immediately look at the worked solutions when i cannot solve the Maths problem. Why work so hard when there is a solution in the next page? I didn't realize that this problem became a nasty habit of mine.

Now, i realize i cannot go on like that. I want to solve problems. I want to persevere. I want to be Nehemiah and those builders and use every ounce of their strength to press on and finish the task at hand.

I hope i can be like them.

Ed

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

I have been brought to the attention of this parable several times for this past two months: I read about it in the evangelistic materials; I listened to it in the Christmas musical; I read about it during quiet time; I read about it even when I was reading the notes on the Law of Tort. Surely, I know the emphasis here is for me to remember that I should love my neighbour.

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus said:

36"Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers' hands?"

37And he said, "The one who showed mercy toward him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do the same."

(Luke 10 v36-37, NASB)

From the lecture notes, it is stated in DONOGHUE VS STEVENSON [1632] HL that:

"You must take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions which you can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure your neighbor. Who, then, is my neighbor? The answer seems to be – persons who are so closely and directly affected by my act that I ought reasonably to have them in contemplation as being so affected when I am directing my mind to the acts or omissions which are called in question."

The definitions of "neighbour" are slightly different. The later is a more restricted one. One is on offering help, the other is on not inflicting harm. However both are about caring and loving each other.

To love our neighbour is not easy. I think before one can really love, one must first forgive. Last year, I couldn't bring myself to forgive some people who acted selfishly and did things to hurt me. I didn't want to see them at all. The sight of them just made me shiver. Surprisingly, I find myself being able to forgive them this year. My attention has been directed to the word "Forgiveness" in many occasions. If God can forgive our sins, why can't I forgive others? After being able to do so, I feel less burdened.

Hoi Yan

The Parable of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast (Luke 13:18-21)

Recently, I am starting a series of reading the parables that Jesus preach on. Today, I am studying the above mentioned parables. So, what did I learnt?

1. As obvious as it sounds, everything needs time for it to grow. No one becomes great overnight. Beckham does not become a great crosser of the ball overnight. From something raw, they grow and become good. Like the mustard seed, all things start small and grow to something fruitful.

2. Everything needs to work hard to get something. Again, this is obvious. Like the yeast parable, the woman has to work through the dough to get something she wants. Like Tiger Woods and Beckham, they practice and practice and work very hard. In fact, somebody says it takes 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration to be great.

3. So, how do I get the fine balance between work and relaxation? I was exploring this question. Would I rather be overwhelmed with work or overwhelmed with lack of work? Honestly, I prefer the earlier. Naturally, I am a lazy guy. But, I know that I like to achieve something. I like to make my life meaningful. So, I prefer to be overwhelmed with work and challenge myself to complete them efficiently and productively.

Back to the first question, I believe it is all about prioritizing and planning. For me, I split my work to a “Things to do” quadrant (of Urgent/Non Urgent; High Margin/Low Margin) and Schedule of “Things to do”.


4. Applying this to Nissi, I realize that cell is like a mustard seed and it takes time for it to grow. Success in cell does not come overnight. It takes time and hard work. But, surely, it will grow and become good. I am confident of it.
5. In other areas of my life, I am very excited and involved – work, church, cell and evangelism. I just can’t wait for it to grow and let God do such a wonderful work in it. As of now, I am prepared to work hard and work hand in hand with God. Like the woman in the parable, God will provide the large amount of flour and I will work through all the dough. So, help me, Lord I pray.

Ed

Edmund Chan's testimony

Dunno whether if u all interested. Here is my testimony. Hope you will be encouraged.

I was a non-Christian for the most part of my life until the first year of army. In the past, I have attended catholic schools during primary and secondary school, and finally, a Christian JC. Along the way, I was, of course, exposed to Christian teachings. Though I innately believed in them, I didn't give much thought to becoming a Christian. I mean who will actually think so much about such stuffs! Anyway, there were many other reasons why I did not want to be a Christian. Who wants to sacrifice their Sunday mornings? Also, I have a perception that most Christians are hypocrites. And, I believe that all religions lead to god and it doesn't matter what you believe as long as you are a good guy. So, why bother?

All these things change one month after my A Level. My beloved father was diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer. It also didn't help that my family is not well to do. My father is the sole breadwinner and he is a taxi driver. My sister is also in her primary school and my mum has been a house-wife for the past 20 years. Also, it doesn't help that my brother and I were going to NS soon. In short, my situation looks quite bleak.

In such dire circumstances, I turn my eyes to Jesus. I don't know why. I just pray and pray, but, nothing happen. Instead, things took a turn for the worse. I witnessed my father change from a bubbly fat man to a very skinny man with an inflated belly. Simply horrible! I cried; I complaint; I got angry; I pray. But, still nothing happen. I was desperate.

To cut the long story short, my father passed away after 7 months. My entire family witnessed his last breath at SGH. God doesn't seem to be there. Where is God?

A few weeks later, I realized that God is indeed there. It appears that some of my mum's Christian friends came to visit my dad in the hospital. They prayed for his health and, guess what, my father choose to accept the lord as his savior during one of the visits. Amazing! This news was broken to me when my mum's friends came and visit us a few weeks later. It was then our entire family accepted the Lord as our personal savior and friend.

Becoming a Christian is definitely not an easy journey. In fact, until now, a lot of my questions were not answered. Why must my father who is a really good and honest man die? Why didn't God save his life? Is God cruel? Our family all love each other so much. Why must God take away something that is good?

However, over the years, I have learned that, despite these questions, it does not mean that there is no God. There is! God is Jesus who dies on the cross. He loves us so much that he paid the price for our sins. He truly loves us and all we need to do is to reciprocate. Leave all the questions to when you reach heaven and focus on what is really important in life - knowing your creator God and getting to heaven.

Most people who share their testimonies will often illustrate how God has blessed them so much. Likewise, I can go down this route. God has blessed me infinitely, way beyond what I expect. Off the top of my head, I have many examples – getting 4.01 cap score for 2nd Class Upper honours (must get 4 and above to have 2nd Class Upper), passing my first driving test despite getting a failure score of 22 pts. I can share a lot more. Trust me. However, I will go deeper. I will proclaim why I love and accept this beautiful God.

Three main reasons:
1) Look at creation- the birds and the bees, the sun and the moon. All these bear testimonies to a creator God
2) Look at historical records. They will show you that the bible is true. They will tell you that Jesus walk on earth and it is more than enough to prove objectively that Jesus is God
3) Look at the lives of my cell group members. They have many evidences and stories to prove how God is so real and how God loves them so much.

At the end of the day, I can say until the cows come home. It is pretty much up to you all. In this Christmas, many people exchange and receive gifts. And the greatest gift you can ever receive is Jesus Chris who loves you so much and died on the Cross for our sins. And like all gifts, it depends on whether the receiver wants to accept the gifts or not. I hope you can accept this gift. Amazing love.

Merry Christmas

Prayer Requests

Ling:
1) Her mind be transformed by God
2) Godly mindset
3) Always meditating on God

Hoi Yan
1) Communicate better with God
2) To learn how to pray to God
3) To know how to relate to God
4) Need better guidance

Joshua
1) More discipline
- Not to snooze after alarm clock ring
- Not to find excuses not to do QT
2) To focus on what is important
- Not to do things just to satisfy conscience, but to do QT coz he loves God

Amy
1) Meditating on God's word
2) To focus
3) To enjoy learning and growing in God

Jon
1) To be contented in God in where he is and where God is going to lead him
2) To relinquish his life
3) To listen more and spend more time to listen; not to talk so much when communicationg with God

Ed
1) Fix his eyes on God; and not on circumstances & man
2) To love God

Questions abt Christianity

I've been out with a few friends lately. Had lots of sushi and food over the weekend. Many questions were raised while talking to my friends about Christianity. The same questions were repeated over and over again.

Here is a sample, answers anyone? I will be doing some research on these topics too. I think it is good knowledge to have.

Enjoy.

1)How was the early church formed?

2)Are Roman catholics, catholics? What's the difference?

3)What are the fundamental differences between Catholics and Christians? Do we all believe in the same God? Should I view a catholic as a brother/sister in Christ as well?

Are catholic practices right or wrong? Who is right? Christian or Catholic?

4)Do muslims believe in the same God as Christians? i.e Is Allah the same god as the God we believe in?

5)What happens when we die? Is hell an ever-burning place like the Lake of Fire described in the book of Revelations?

6)What about those that died before Jesus came? Do they stand a chance?

7)Do the Jews believe in the same God we believe in? What will eventually happen to them since they still do not believe that Jesus is the Messiah.

Anyone has any answers or books to recommend? I dont really trust wikipedia. Thanks.

Ruijie

Sermons on COR website

Hm, not sure if you all are aware of this... but COR actually has our own website and the sermons (only adults and praise services i think) are recorded and downloadable here: http://www.cor.org.sg/index.php?option=com_ionfiles&Itemid=38

Just thought some of you might be interested in listening.


-amy

Duty Roster for Oct - Dec 2008 is out!

Here's the link for the new Duty Roster.
Do take note of your dates and do a mutual swap if you're unable to make it.
Thanks!

Duty Roster (Jul to Sep 2008)

Hi all,

Here's the duty roster*. Please arrange for the swap in duties if you're not able to make it for the allocated slot. Pls try to update this spreadsheet too so that all will be informed. You'll need to login to update.

* Last updated on 13th July.
**Note: Person in charge of leading Word will have to arrange time and venue as well.


Regards,
Amy

Choices & God's Will

Read a friend's blog recently and was really quite enlightened about the question we have about God's will: How do we know the choice we make is God's will for us when faced with two good choices? This is a question that has been asked in cell group and a question that Christians usually ask.

When You Have Two Good Choices

Ray Pritchard

Keep Believing Ministries

An email arrived from a friend with a question that came up during a discussion time with some young women–most of them in their early 20s. All the young women are single. Here is the question that came up during the discussion:

“How do you make decisions in life when both roads seem to be good?” We were talking about having a “willing spirit”, and I asked them if there was anything God was asking them to do and if their answer would be yes to whatever he was asking of them. Some of them are faced with future decisions and not sure how to come about with making those decisions, especially like I said before that both roads seem good. I think they just don’t want to make a “wrong” decision. Thoughts?

This is a nice kind of question compared to a lot of things people ask me. The real answer is that with the Lord, when your heart is truly willing and open, there are no “wrong” decisions. Sometimes we get hung up on doing the “perfect” will of God and being in the “center” of his will. While I understand what those phrases mean, they are not describing a biblical perspective. The truth is, you can’t know in advance how your decisions will turn out. Sometimes (often) we choose to go in one direction only to find out later that it didn’t work out the way we expected. And sometimes we seem to foul up only to discover that God uses that difficult time to deepen our walk with him and ultimately to get us where he wants us to be.

The only thing God wants from us is an open heart to do his will. And if our hearts are open, when faced with two “good” choices, and when we have prayed, meditated, studied Scripture, considered the circumstances, weighed the pros and cons and sought godly counsel, when all of that is true and both options still seem good to you, well then, just close their eyes, take a deep breath, and then go and do whichever one you prefer. After all, God is perfectly able to lead us forward when we are willing to be led.

Sometimes we waste enormous energy seeking something God never promised. We want a guarantee. We want to know it’s all going to work out. We want all the uncertainty taken away. After preaching on this a few years ago, a man came up and said, “What you’re saying is, ‘We’ve still got to choose.’” Bingo! We’ve still got to choose. It’s going to be Wisconsin or Washington, dental school or the Army, Georgia Tech or Wheaton, Mike or John Mark, an SUV or a Mini-Cooper, a Mac or a PC, buying a new house or fixing up the one you have. You choose this doctor and that treatment and not some other doctor or some other treatment. And so it goes through all the decisions of life.

Knowing God’s will can never remove the uncertainty—nor should it. The uncertainty is good for us because it keeps us trusting and praying, it keeps us from being overly self-confident.

When your heart is right and you are faced with two good choices, take either one you like. And trust God with the result. If the heart is willing, the decisions of life will take care of themselves because God will direct your steps exactly where he wants you to be.

Final word. It all goes back to your view of God.

Is he sovereign?

Is he good?

Can I trust him?

It’s not about your decisions, and it’s not about your future, and it’s not even about you. It’s all about God. When we start from that perspective, we can make our decisions even in times of doubt and uncertainty, and we can sleep well at night knowing that our God will put all the pieces together in exactly the right way.

---Ruijie. Taken from an encouraging blog I've read. :)---

Listening to God all the time, & why i don't do it

The first question of yesterday's bible study got me thinking, and i realized it is a topic that i constantly think about. Most of what i am about to write is based on personal thoughts and do not immediately have theological references to base my thoughts on. Hence, feel free to correct me if i propose something theologically unsound or just feel free to discuss your ideas...

What it means to me to listen to God all the time: Personally, i have an analogy that describes what it means for me to listen to God all the time. The analogy goes as follows... My brain is like a radio, and I choose which channel i want to tune into. My boss talking to me could be 1 station, my selfish nature telling me to do something that only benefits me at the cost of others' is another channel, my grandma yelling at me is another channel, and the list goes on. Of particular interest is the God channel. I believe that God is constantly talking to us, as long as we try to tune into this 'God' channel. I think that it is a personal choice as to which channel/s i want to tune into at any point of time. 

For example, i get on a bus, and its crowded with other nationalities who are talking loudly. One channel could be telling me how irritating it is that i have to squeeze with all these people who are (in my opinion), making the bus ride unglam, and i get irritated. However, if i chose to tune into the God channel, maybe what i would be hearing is that all these people are God's creation that he truely loves and that maybe at that point of time, i should be making a short prayer for them. Or for example, maybe someone irritates me at work by talking a whole load of rubbish. Of course, the most obvious & easiest channel to tune into at that point of time could be the channel broadcasting how irritating that person could be and how much better life could be if he was given the SACK! However, if i made the conscious effort to tune into the God channel, maybe i would receive something of a whole different flavour.

 Why I don't listen to God all the time: I believe that if we are faithful with the little things, bigger things will come our way. So let's say i am constantly tuned into this God channel, and maybe i see a very sad & defeated looking person walking along the street and i think that the God channel is telling me to go over and just pop an encouraging word to that person. I lose almost nothing by going over to that person and saying ( of course at the same time looking real genuine), 'You look sad and i just wanted to come over and wish for you that life gets better'. Something like that doesnt cost me much, and issint too difficult for me to do. However, what if i am constantly obediant and one day, as i am thinking about my life and in general just tuning into the God channel and i hear this, 'Why don't you forgo the savings you have put aside for your PS3 and LCD tv and donate it to this particular charity fundraising cause or just give it to this person who you know needs the monetary help?' What am i to do then? give up my PS3 and my LCD tv? but can i do it? Or, what if after many years, i suddenly keep on hearing in this God channel that i am meant to leave singapore and go work in a less developed country... i can imagine what it is like to live in a poorer and less clean place, and the thought really doesn't make me excited. 

Of course, i know that God has a wonderful plan for me and that a life led according to his will is more satisfying than any PS3 , nice apartment, air-conditioned tennis courts, great Weiss Beer, that new Mini, could bring me (maybe his will also includes all this and more). But, the distance between the heart and mind is great, and i am comfortable with what i have now... And sometimes it makes me nervous to listen all the time just in case something sacrificial comes up and i have a great struggle to give it up... Of course, i plan to work on living the life God intends and align my life according to his will. I know it is not easy for me. 

Erm, and here i end my post abruptly...

Josh

Let's pray for the survivors of the Myanmar cyclone and Sichuan earthquake

I guess we're all aware of the 2 disasters that hit China and Myanmar.... so let's take some time daily to pray for the people there...

"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:19-20

--------------------------------------------------------------------

If you're not too sure where to start, here's a prayer list that my fren compiled...

Myanmar cyclone:

1. New storms worsen Myanmar's misery, many destitute victims begging for more aid on roadsides.
2. 2.5 mil people left destitute by the disaster.
3. Military government’s restrictions on movement for most international aid workers and ban on foreign journalists à can't assess the death toll accurately.
   
4. Military government refusing the entry of major aid distribution networks run by foreign agencies and workers.
   
5. Protests were planned in >30 cities around the world on Sat "to demand the world does more to aid cyclone victims", even if it meant acting without Myanmar's permission.
   
6. If emergency supplies don't get through in much greater quantities à increased likelihood of starvation and diseases e.g. diarrhoea, dysentery and skin infections (first cases of cholera already confirmed).
   
7. Rumour: local military units are expropriating trucks of food, blankets and water.

• Pray for better weather, so that the survivors can have better living conditions and the relief effort can be carried out smoothly.
• Pray that it won't develop into an epidemic.
  
• Pray that more emergency supplies (and potable water) and medical supplies will reach the survivors.
  
• Pray that God will sustain the survivors physically and emotionally and grant them good health despite unsatisfactory living conditions.
  
• Pray that international pressure would induce the military government to admit foreign aid workers and essential equipment into the disaster-stricken areas.
  
• Pray that more humanitarian aid can reach the destitute victims ASAP.
  
• Pray that the local military units will have more compassion and conscience towards the survivors, and don’t hoard the supplies and sell them for exorbitant prices.
  
• Pray that all the aid can be distributed in a transparent way so that the supplies would go directly to the victims
  
• Pray that from this disaster, Myanmar government will recognise the need to preserve and protect mangrove forest and rehabilitate degraded cover by establishing proper land-use plan.

Give thanks that…:

• Ordinary people are trying to help by sending trucks and vans into the delta with clothes, biscuits, dried noodles, rice provided by private companies and individuals.
  
• France and Britain are sending emergency supplies to Myanmar. Britain is contributing a total of 17 million pounds worth of aid. France is sending 1000 tonnes of emergency supplies (enough to provide 100,000 people with food and clean drinking water for 2 weeks).
  A French ship carrying mosquito nets and shelter for at least 60,000 people left Chennai port overnight and would take 3 days to reach Myanmar's waters.
  
• Pray that it would be authorised to enter Myanmar's waters.

China earthquake:

1. Powerful aftershock (5.9 on Richter scale) 4 days after the quake caused more havoc: cut off roads and destroyed newly repaired telecommunications.


• Pray that there won’t be any more serious aftershocks so that the rescue and relief efforts can be carried out smoothly.


2. Precautionary alert against possible radiation leaks: the disaster area is home to China's chief nuclear weapons research lab in Mianyang and several secretive atomic sites.


• Pray that there won't be harmful radiation leaks and that the authorities would be equipped with enough wisdom to handle this issue safely and effectively.


3. Frustration and exhaustion grew among survivors. About 4.8 million lost their homes


• Pray that God will grant them peace, comfort and hope, and sustain them physically and emotionally.


4. Aid and troops have yet to reach some victims --> not enough food and clean drinking water resulted in diarrhoea.


5. Supplies and rescuers struggled to reach the worst-hit areas (due to buckled and blocked roads).


• Pray for better weather to open up transportation to all areas.
  
• Pray that more emergency supplies and medicines can be delivered to the needy.


6. Concerns about epidemics (if the dead were not soon buried or cremated)


• Pray that the corpses can be buried or cremated asap to prevent epidemics.


7. Possible dangers of damaged dams collapsing or flooding (could flood cities and towns that are struggling to recover from the quake).


• Pray for the authorities to be equipped with enough wisdom and knowledge to repair the damaged dams asap to avert potential disasters.
  
• Pray that the contractors in China would adhere to the building safety regulations more strictly and construct earthquake-safe structures.

Give thanks that…

• China has accepted help from foreign rescue teams from Japan, Russia, Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore.
  
• World Food Programme is sending enough ready-to-eat meals for 118,000 people
  
• China has asked the US for satellite images to help locate victims and identify damaged infrastructure.
  
• China has requested talks with US experts on disease prevention.
  
• Pray that the proactive stance China has taken (and its willingness to accept foreign relief aid) in the rescue and relief efforts would enable the quake victims to get all the help they need to survive the aftermath of the quake and rebuild their lives.

--------------------------------------------------------------------- amy -

Doing God's Will

Hi everyone, I guess I'm officially the first person to start the blogging duty. Hope I won't be the last.

This is what I have learnt after doing my QT on Tues. I was reading John 7 where Jesus was teaching at the Feast of the Tabernacles. This event was one of the three Jewish religious festivals(according to Nelson's NKJV Study Bible), the other two were Passover and Pentecost.

The verse which Jesus spoke of which I want to share is from verse 16-17,

"My teaching is not my own, it comes from him who sent me. If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether I speak of my own." John 7:16-17

This verse speaks to me because I have been skeptical about doing God's will.

Eg. "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well." Matt 6:33. This verse means that nothing should be higher than God in my life. Not my career, relationships, grades, dreams and pursuits. This is a struggle because I want all these things of which most are really typical wants in a capitalist and prosperous nation like Spore.

Doing God's will requires a surrender of all these wants to God and seeking him first. This requires me to make different choices daily. One example would be choosing to take time to pray and read the bible at night instead of rushing to do work to impress my manager just because he can influence the grading for my attachment. Sometimes I feel that there is a conflict between what I want and what God wants.

Verse 17 reassures me because Jesus himself says that if I do God's will, I will find out if his words and promises in the bible like Matt 6:33 were empty words or whether he speaks the truth. That would either make Jesus a liar or truly the Son of God.

After meditating on this verse, I am confident of the promise that when I choose to do God's will, I will find out if all of Jesus's promises were from God and whether they were true. Only then will I be "able to test and approve what God's will is - his good pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2.

Thanks for reading. Do God's will today.


Ruijie

Loving pple who just seem to irritate you?

It's not my turn to blog but herez just a little para from "The Five Love Languages" book that caught my attention... probably most applicable for me at this point of time. heh... coz i keep grumbling... but also some food for thought for all....

C.S. Lewis said,
The rule for all of us is perfectly simple. Do not waste time bothering whether you “love” your neighbour; act as if you did. As soon as we do this, we find one of the great secrets. When you are behaving as if you love someone, you will presently come to love them. If you injure someone you dislike, you will find yourself disliking him more. If you do him a good turn, you will find yourself disliking him less.


--amy

Encouraging One Another

Good day to all. As discussed on Saturday, we will start sharing what we have learnt from the God and the bible at least once a month on this blog. This sharing will allow us to learn more about God’s word from one another and is started to encourage accountability within the cell. The first sharing will start from Wk 3; Me and Ling2

The template for the sharing will be as follows, this is just a guideline for those who have no idea how to start.

1. Verse. Place a verse from the bible or a thought that God has impressed on your heart. The thought could be something that you have learnt from your daily devotion or from a book you have read.

2. Observe. Eg. Who spoke of the verse? What was the background of the verse?

Interpret. Eg. What does this verse tell me about God’s character? Is he a faithful God?

Application. How does this verse apply to my life? How can I use it in future?

3. Conclusion. Pls remember to leave your name :)

The timetable for monthly blogging is as follows:

Week 2 Persons Sharing 1 Jonathan & Sarah 2 Edmund & Amy 3 Ruijie & Ling Ling 4 Brenda & Lishan

Please do not feel obliged to blog only once a month. Feel free to blog more than once a month about what you have learnt or any lessons that you feel God is teaching you.

Remember,

Let us not give up the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another- and all the more as you see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:25

--------Ruijie-------

Scripture Memory Verse (SMV) Update

Hello everybody, Ruijie here. As promised, these are the two new scripture memory verses.

THE GREAT COMMISSION
"Then Jesus came to them and said "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Matthew 28:18-20

FISHERS OF MEN
"Come, follow me," Jesus said "and I will make you fishers of men."

Matthew 4:19

I have already updated the scripture memory verse link(its on the right side) so you can print it out and also especially for those who are highly motivated to memorise the scripture ahead of the rest of the cell group.

I have also added the theme of each verse above the verses so that we can better understand what the verses are used for and it helps us better understand the theme behind each verse.

I want to encourage everyone not to see memorising scripture as a burden, but meditate and reflect on what the verses mean to you and how God would want his word to applied in your life everyday.
Try not to memorise these verses blindly, on the contrary allow the Lord's word to shape and your renew your mind daily especially after a hard day's work.

-Your friendly cell member ==Ruijie==