God's Perfect Timing

stop with the excuses

2012-01-28T23:17:00.002+09:00

What fresh and fiery mission is God calling you to trust Him with, friend? Let me encourage you to stop with the excuses. I'm living proof that God will free anyone from her shame and can use anyone for His purpose. Step up to the burning bush-into God's presence. Listen to His voice. Obey. Follow. Take courage. Trust Him with your past and with your tomorrows. Allow His grace and love to decide what your mission should look like.

Little children

2012-01-03T21:41:00.001+09:00

Sometimes little children don't realize that some things just aren't possible. Little Jennifer Land was expecting something that hadn't even been invented yet. She trusted and believed that everything is possible. Sometimes as we grow up, we forget how to believe in amazing things like little children do. Jesus is just asking us to trust that what seems too good to be true really is true!

Mark 10:15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

http://www.todayinsci.com/L/Land_Jennifer/LandJennifer-Quotations.htm

Sometimes it's hard

2012-01-02T21:37:00.001+09:00

Sometimes it's hard to be kind or forgiving when someone is in our way or is ruining our big plans, or when we're doing something much too important to be stopped. But those are the times we most need to follow the Bible when it says, Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Jan 1, 2012

2012-01-01T22:05:00.000+09:00

No matter how we count the days or try to figure out what will happen in each one of them, the Bible reminds us what really counts. Psalm 118:24 The LORD has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. God wants us to appreciate and enjoy each day, and be thankful to Him for the gift of life He give us everyday we are here on earth. That is the best way to keep track of what will happen to our hearts and spirits through the months and years, no matter what other things may happen.

When we all get to heaven...

2011-12-11T20:24:00.003+09:00

day 4 @Osaka - shine brightly in a life of suffering

2011-11-23T22:11:00.000+09:00

Though suffering is often a part of Christian life people anticipate with fear, God uses it to produce deep and lasting peace, joy & hope. These shine most brightly in a life of suffering. Joy is, to some degree, a choice. Are you to simply ignore your circumstances and live outside reality?

Accept your circumstances & be thankful in them
Choose not to worry
Fix your eyes on Jesus
Put your hope in future glory

day 3 @Osaka - trust & comfort

2011-11-22T22:57:00.001+09:00

Trusting God does not mean He will tell us what's ahead. It means we're safe with Him no matters what happens. We can meet our troubles head-on because we know God will provide. Trust allows us to accept and appreciate all the surprises of life.

God's comfort has a definite purpose. He comforts us so that we can comfort those in trouble with the comfort we have received from God. God's comfort to us will be so great that it will overflow to others. Others will be comforted in their sufferings by our example, empathy and encouragement.

day 2 @Osaka - commitment

2011-11-21T21:39:00.000+09:00

The difference between a student and a disciple can be viewed as a difference in the level of commitment. While a student merely studies a master's teachings, a disciple fully accepts and applies those teachings to her life. Many are unwilling to make such a commitment. They find some of Christ's teachings difficult to accept. What is our response when faced with a hard teaching that we disagree with or find difficult to accept? Without Jesus we cannot have eternal life. We must go beyond intellectual belief to a life-sustaining relationship. Our relationship with Jesus is our life. Unfortunately this is where many refuse to follow...

day 1 @Osaka - hinderance & hope

2011-11-20T20:58:00.002+09:00

Repentance is the pathway to heaven and Jesus is the door. To live a kingdom life, you must leave self-interest behind and walk into life through Jesus. What is the chief hinderance to living a kingdom life? What do you love? Power, status, relationships, career, material things? Is something (even something good) holding you back from a wholehearted love for Jesus?

How often do you come to God with more hope than faith? Is this kind of hope actually unbelief? Faith produces true, trusting hope. Faith then takes hope and make it a certainty.

trapped...

2011-11-14T11:34:00.001+09:00

We all know what it is like to be trapped in a pit of some kind. It is probably not a collapsed mine, but pits are all basically the same.

Our world has collapsed under the weight of fear and pain.
No one seems to care. In fact, a lot of people have written us off as a lost cause.
People are too busy to recognize or understand our hopelessness.
Darkness prevails and rescue seems impossible.
We are wounded, sick and tired.
Civil war rages in our souls.

I do not want to be like the priest who nonchalantly strolled by the wounded and bleeding man lying on the road. I want to be like the Good Samaritan who stopped and saved the wounded man's life. I want to be "God with skin on."

Father, I come to You today with a heart of praise for the way You meet every need in my life and how You constantly rescue me from the darkness. I want Your heart, Lord. I want to be Your hands and feet to the people You place in my path. Give me eyes to see their need and the courage to do something about it. Please guard my heart against pride and selfishness. I want to please and honor You alone.

a scar

2011-11-13T20:52:00.000+09:00

I have a scar to remind me of a few facts about fighting foes.

The enemy cheats.
The enemy slings more than just dirt.
The enemy has great aim.
The enemy's attacks sometimes leave scars.
The enemy is not playing a game.

I don't fight at least, not the human kind. But I do have one nemesis that challenges me regularly. The Bible calls him the "great deceiver," "the accuser," "the devil," "the evil one." Do you know how to fight the spiritual battles in your life? Ephesians 6:10-20 is a great place to start.

praise

2011-11-12T23:23:00.000+09:00

When we come to Jesus Christ, all of His promises are credited to our spiritual account. And there is a money-back guarantee on every promise of God. That is why we can praise Him - no matter what.

Praise invites God to take up residence in the middle of whatever mess we are facing.

Psalm 22:3 "But You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of Israel."
Praise produces trust in God and strengthens our faith.
Psalm 42:11 "But, O my soul, don't be discouraged. Don't be upset. Expect God to act! For I know that I shall again have plenty of reason to praise him for all that he will do. He is my help! He is my God!"

In Africa, there is a fruit called the "taste berry" that literally changes a person's taste buds so everything tastes sweet and pleasant. Sour fruit, even if eaten several hours after the taste berry, becomes sweet and delicious.

Praise is the "taste berry" for every Christian. Praise is more than emotions or spoken words, singing songs or lifting up hands in worship. True praise is the celebration of God, His power, His works and His greatness. Praise is the fruit of a committed heart and the tool of a life completely surrendered to God.

When we are discouraged, praise reminds us that there is hope in God.
When we are afraid, praise reminds us that no matter what happens, God is with us.
When we are lost, praise reminds us that God has already been where He is leading us.
When we are confused, praise reminds us that heaven is not in a panic.

burdens

2011-10-30T23:12:00.000+09:00

There are times when your heavy heart-burdens cry so loudly that you struggle to hear the voice of Peace. Times when your prayers seem to go unanswered and your broken situations seem unfixable and painful. Oh, so painful! We all know ache. We can't get through this life without knowing ache. The Bible says that not a tear falls from your eye that isn't known to God. (Psalm 56:8)

He knows all about your heart-burdens. He knows that you need a word of encouragement today. Hear His whisper now, friend. Whispers from His Word, from His heart, "I will never leave you or forsake you. I know your name and have engraved it on the palm of my hand. I hold your tears in a bottle and ache with you. My grace is sufficient and I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. I'm right here." (Deuteronomy 31:6, Psalm 139, Psalm 56:8, 2 Corinthians 12:9, John 16:33)

God's unique plan

2011-10-29T20:20:00.000+09:00

God has a unique plan for each one of us that is beyond human understanding or expectation. It is called His will. God has been making His will known from the very beginning of time. In the Garden of Eden, God revealed to Adam and Eve His will or plan for their lives. It is important to note that with the revealed plan He also gave them the choice to obey because He is a loving Father and a gracious God. Knowing that His way was right, God still allowed Adam and Eve to choose the wrong way. They blew it by making the wrong choice - but He still loved them and forgave them. He will do the same for you.

rekindle the fire

2011-10-28T07:54:00.001+09:00

No matter where you are on the continuum of blazing spiritual passion or smoldering wick, here are some ideas to avoid burnout or rekindle the fire.

Rest often. (God rested on the 7th day.)
Refresh with proper diet.
Re-evaluate priorities and responsibilities on a regular basis (monthly).
Relegate and delegate.
Review commitments regularly (monthly).
Resist saying "yes" to demands and requests that do not line up with what God has called you to do.
Resist being ruled by your schedule and allow for divine appointments from God that may not be on your schedule.
Remove superfluous activities that interfere with or choke out with God's agenda.
Refocus on what God has called you to do rather than what others would like for you to do.
Remain in close and constant communion with God.

burnout

2011-10-27T07:49:00.001+09:00

How do we avoid those same feelings of burnout? The first step is to realize that it can happen and does happen to the best of us.

What was God's response to Elijah? Let's take a look at 1 Kings Chapter 19.

He allowed Elijah to sleep. (19:5) - rest
He sent an angel to provide food for him to eat. (19:5) - refreshment
He allowed Elijah to sleep again. (19:6) - more rest
He sent an angel to provide food for him to eat again. (19:7) - more refreshment
He caused Elijah to ponder what he was doing. "What are you doing here?" (19:9) - reflection
He spoke to Elijah personally. (19:11) - response
He caused Elijah to ponder what he was doing, again. "What are you doing here?" (19:13) - reflection
He told Elijah what to do next. (19:15) - redirection
He showed Elijah who He had appointed to help him. (19:16) - reinforcement

How do we discover our life plan?

2011-10-24T23:18:00.003+09:00

Consider the following questions when praying about and asking God to reveal His plan for your life:

What are your spiritual gifts?
What are you passionate about?
What are your natural abilities?
What is your personality type?
What are the spiritual markers in your life?
What do others see in you?

I love U, Lord!

2011-10-16T23:52:00.001+09:00

I thank You, Lord, for all You've done,
I don't deserve Your love;
When I was lost You saw my need,
And left Your home above.

I love You, Lord,
I love You, Lord,
because of Calvary;
I love You, Lord,
I love You, Lord,
You're everything to me.

You proved Your love on Calvary,
You bore my sin and shame;
I'll live for You through all my days,
I'll praise Your holy name!

Words and Music by Ron Hamilton

common sense

2011-09-22T23:51:00.000+09:00

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years.

No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:-Knowing when to come in out of the rain; - Why the early bird gets the worm;- Life isn't always fair; - And maybe it was my fault.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies, don't spend more than you can earn and adults, not children, are in charge. His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition. Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Common Sense lost the will to live as the churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault. Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death, by his parents, Truth and Trust, by his wife Discretion, his daughter Responsibility, and his son, Reason. He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers; I Know My Rights,I Want It Now,Someone Else Is To Blame,I'm A Victim.Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. - Chole Chan

friendship & forgiveness

2011-09-10T20:25:00.000+09:00

We often make the mistake of thinking forgiveness depends upon feelings, rights, justification or a variety of other man-made excuses. Forgiveness is a deliberate choice, a chosen attitude and a discipline of the heart and will. In fact, forgiveness is a choice that leads to an action that may or may not result in a feeling. Healthy friendships practice forgiveness.

When a person changes, their relationships will also change. If friendship falters when one friend changes, the relationship is likely built upon the wrong foundation and operates with erroneous motives. The heart of every healthy friendship has a thread of elastic running through it. Without the freedom to change and grow, friendship becomes a prime target for jealousy. True friends give each other freedom.

friendship & "love"

2011-09-04T20:40:00.000+09:00

The earthly ministry of Jesus constantly demonstrated the power of love poured out through His touch. The touch of Jesus brought healing to the sick, sight to the blind and life to the dead. In Matthew, He stretched out his hand and touched the leper (Matthew 8:3). Mark tells us that Jesus took the children in His arms (Mark 10:16). He often chose to touch the broken ones in order to make them whole. Physical touch is a powerful communicator of love.

Silence is agreement and just as dangerous as holding a friend's hand as he or she walks toward the edge of a steep, deadly cliff. When a warning bell goes off in your mind, when you have a question in your spirit about any part of a friend's life, you are called to confront that friend in love. Failure to do so may very well result in their destruction.

friendship & walls

2011-09-03T19:06:00.003+09:00

Friends will hurt you. Friends will wound you. In reality, depending on a friend to make us happy sets that friend up for failure in the relationship and positions that friendship for inevitable destruction. For example, if you have a friend who simply cannot keep a secret. She would do anything in the world except keep her mouth closed. Simply choose to be cautious about what to share with her. Every friendship has a price tag of some kind attached. We just need to get to the place where love covers the cost.

Jesus made a deliberate choice to be transparent, modeling friendship at its best. He was hurt, betrayed and rejected by those He called friends. Still today, He waits for you and for me, longing to be the most transparent and authentic friend we have. Life can be a very lonely place. Jesus knows. Friendships are not only an important source of encouragement but a valuable source of strength as well. If we built fewer relationship walls, we would have more friends and be a better friend.

counting down to 3rd month @HabourFront :-)

2011-08-31T23:04:00.001+09:00

As I build new relationships and friendships at my new workplace, I will be sharing posts about Friendships for the month of September. Inclusive of Biblical facts.

Fact 1: Friendships have many different levels. There are friends we see occasionally and then there are soul-mates with whom we share everything. There is a place for both in our lives.

Fact 2: Friendships may change with the seasons of life. We are naturally drawn to those who face the same problems and share the same dreams.

Fact 3: We all need friends. Friendship is part of God's plan for our lives.

We tend to spend time instead of investing it. The depth of the friendship depends upon the investment of time we can make or the investment of time we are willing to make. Friendships take time.

thought for the week

2011-08-21T20:25:00.003+09:00

It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that we are able to control this little muscle that rests between our teeth. However, change does require our cooperation. We must work in tandem with the Holy Spirit to reign in this feisty force. The Holy Spirit gives us the power, but our responsibility is to put God-given principles into practice. So I am a sinner because I sin...or I sin because I am a sinner?

heart matters

2011-08-10T23:25:00.000+09:00

The book of Proverbs has much to say about how the condition of our heart affects what we say.

Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. (Proverbs 4:23)

An anxious heart weights a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. (Proverbs 12:25)

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.(Proverbs 15:30)

The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. (Proverbs 16:21)

The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction. (Proverbs 16:23 TNIV)

One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend. (Proverbs 22:11 TNIV)

As the water reflects a face, so one's life reflects the heart. (Proverbs 27:18 TNIV)

So, how's your heart today?

team bonding June - August

2011-08-06T00:39:00.001+09:00

June - Bowling

July - Universal Studio Singapore

August - Level 33

With Forrest & Richard

counting down to 2nd month @new workplace

2011-07-30T12:34:00.001+09:00

When our lives get too busy...When life piles up in our homes and the burdens pile up in our hearts, we often forget the power of quiet.

The power of being still before God. The power of listening, expecting, soul-pouring...The power of receiving rest. His presence sorts souls and never leaves an unmatched burden. His presence never leaves and un-lifted burden.

Take time to power-down and be still before Him. Remember the power of quiet as you exchange your burdens for His peace. This came so aptly when planning for my vacation...

Dear Lord, Your mercy is fresh each day, and Your grace piles higher than all my burdens. Please align my heart to Yours. Quiet me with Your love, direction, and peace today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Laura Story - Blessings

2011-07-24T15:06:00.003+09:00

'Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise

Jayesslee - What Faith Can Do

2011-07-17T01:27:00.001+09:00

I've seen dreams that move the mountains
Hope that doesn't ever end
Even when the sky is falling
And I've seen miracles just happen
Silent prayers get answered
Broken hearts become brand new
That's what faith can do

don't worry be happy...

2011-07-10T20:16:00.001+09:00

The Comanche Indians tortured and killed their enemies by staking them to the ground. They then took a wet leather strap and placed it around the neck of their enemy. As the leather strap slowly dried in the blazing desert sun, it would gradually cut off the air supply until their enemy finally choked to death. Worry does the same thing.

"Worry" literally means "to be pulled in different directions." The old English root from which we get our word "worry" means "to strangle." Worry literally strangles our peace and weakens our faith.

Worry is a control issue.Worry is wasted energy. Worry is consuming and unhealthy. Worry is a joy thief. Worry is the interest that we pay today on tomorrow's problems. Worry makes everything seem bigger than it really is.

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

blessed by Psalm 119

2011-07-03T20:15:00.000+09:00

Is God's Word more important than food?Psalm 119:103 "Your promises are sweet to me, sweeter than honey in my mouth" (NCV).

Is God's Word more important than money?
Psalm 119:72 "Your teachings are worth more to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver" (NCV).

Is God's Word more important than sleep?
Psalm 119:147-148 "I wake up early in the morning and cry out. I hope in your word. I stay awake all night so I can think about your promises" (NCV).

PTL for Happy 1 Month @BAML. Counting down to remaining 26 weeks of 2011 as well as many more Happy Months @work.

counting down to one month @ new workplace

2011-06-26T21:22:00.003+09:00

Time flies. Counting down to almost a month at BAML when I received my first paycheck last Friday. At least 3 friends showed concern how I was doing there. I must admit BAML is so different from CS as well as GS. But I'm enjoying my new work, enjoying my new colleagues, enjoying the different culture and am really thankful for God's provision. I'm happy, contended & thankful, learning to treasure what I have - from work to friendship to relationship. Praise the Lord!

Some important truths I learned this week.

1. Why is it that people won't go to the doctor regularly but only want help on demand when they have an emergency? "I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer (Psalm 17:6 NIV)"

2. In this busy world in which we live, taking time out to be with our Heavenly Father can be somewhat of a struggle. But the rewards are so great. "In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation (Psalm 5:3-4 NIV)"

3. Dr. Billy Graham tells the story of a little child who was playing with a very valuable vase. The child put his hand into the vase but could not pull it out. His father tried to free the little boy's hand, but couldn't. They were thinking of breaking the vase when the father said, "Son, let's try one more time. Open your hand and hold your fingers out really straight and then pull." The look of alarm on the boy's face surprised the dad until the little boy explained, "Oh no, Father. I can't hold my fingers like that. If I did, I would drop my penny."

Very important this week was "The LORD is my strength, my shield from every danger. I trust in him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy (Psalm 28:7)"

friendship & angels...

2011-06-19T20:44:00.001+09:00

1. This came into my mind when I met up with my precious friends from China...

In Matthew 15, just as Jesus "had to go to Samaria," He had to go to Tyre. A woman who had cried out to God for the life of her child. Would Jesus go through all that trouble for one woman and her little girl? That's how significant God's children are to Him.

2. Praying for my fellow Christians when I read this...

When we come to Jesus Christ in a personal relationship, He takes full responsibility for us. That means He takes care of us. And one of the ways that God cares for us is through the ministry of His angels. What an amazing and comfort-filled promise - that God sends His angels to encourage, protect and guide us on our life journey. As God's messengers and our helpers, angels serve and honor Him through their praise and obedience as they carry out His will here on earth. As believers, we can count on the presence and power of angels.

3. Forever friends? Definitely, if we put down our pride...

We all need friends. We need people in our lives that will love us where we are and help us get to a place of higher living. We need friends that will hold us accountable to God's standards - friends that sharpen us. Today, ask God if there is someone you need to forgive, if there is something you need to "forget," or if there is some ground you need to cease plowing. Then give the memory to God and ask Him to plant good seeds for an incredible harvest!

PTL for a blessed week - at work, at home, at church, at play...
~ Happy Father's Day Daddy ~
Looking forward to the week ahead ;)

rest for the stressed...

2011-06-12T21:12:00.000+09:00

Matthew 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

faith...doctor...God

2011-06-10T01:44:00.000+09:00

My best take away this week was -

We all have faith. We go to a doctor we hardly know. He hands us a prescription we cannot read. We take that prescription to a pharmacist we have never met. He gives us a medication we do not recognize or understand and we take it ... all in faith. Faith in God does not come all at once. Faith is a step-by-step process that begins with one small step and increases as we go.

I'm enjoying my new workplace, the environment, people & culture. We've Healthy Mondays, Sunshine Fridays as well as this month is Charity month. Hair for Hope 2011 came to our firm today and I was reminded about cancer & doctor & subsquently remembered what I read earlier this week.

Step by step in faith. Step by step at work. Infact Step by step in many things helps to cultivate Patience.

be alert

2011-06-04T21:08:00.000+09:00

Dear Father, help me to always be alert. I know that the devil roams around like a roaring lion looking for those who are aimlessly drifting through life. He sneaks in when we least expect it. Help me never get so comfortable with my life that I drift aimlessly along rather than stay alert to the changing winds and tides - holding fast to You in the storms of life and in the calm seasons as well. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Thank God for a great start of a new journey. On day 1, You showed me in James 1 that "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry..." as well as "Wisdom is doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason" (Proverbs 25:28). On day 2, HR reminded me to clear 12.5 days of annual leave by Dec 31. On day 3, my boss said Friday's work rule is to shutdown PC by 6pm. Praise the Lord...

June 1 - Be quiet & wise...

2011-06-01T22:58:00.000+09:00

Be quiet.

James 1:19 Everyone should be slow to speak and slow to become angry...

Listen to the other person before responding. Try counting to ten before saying anything. This may not address the anger directly, but it can minimize the damage you will do while angry.

Be wise.

Proverbs 25:28 "Like a city whose walls are broken down, is a man who lacks self-control."

Wisdom is doing the right thing at the right time for the right reason...

Praise the Lord for a great start at BAML...

531

2011-05-31T01:55:00.001+09:00

I did many things I wanna do in the last 2 months. Like a free spirit, I traveled from Seoul to Hong Kong to Tokyo. I had great family times, met old friends as well as new ones. I also found a new job which I'll start work on 1st June. Today is the last day of my freedom. Thank God for the things I've done and many things still not done. I made a new year resolution this year to pursue my dream. 22 weeks have passed and I've 30 weeks left for 2011. Will I reached my dream? God willing, yes. Regardless how it looks now, I believe God will make a way, if its His will...

In April & my 2 weeks trip to Tokyo, God led my heart. I saw a different Japan due to 311 crisis she is facing. I actually felt uncomfortable seeing many things in Tokyo Hands are Made in China. I knew somehow these stuff will be replicated in China Hands almost immediately at a lower price & quality. Most importantly, I saw the gospel is urgent for them...

Counting my blessings & Pray for Japan.

530

2011-05-30T01:32:00.000+09:00

As believers in Jesus Christ, you and I must guard our hearts and watch over our homes. The Bible warns Christians to keep watch. Beyond things seen, there are spiritual battles taking place around us continually. If you are a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, then you have an enemy and his name is Satan. If you live to listen to the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, then strap on your battle gear, because your enemy has a mission to destroy you...

529 going home...

2011-05-29T19:14:00.000+09:00

Pray for Japan

I will miss you Doutor lol

528 joy

2011-05-28T19:13:00.000+09:00

I came across this quote: "Joy is the flag that flies above the castle of our hearts indicating that the King reigns within." If that is true, then why are so manyliving lives with little or no joy? I'm afraid that we have bought the lies of the enemy, allowing him to steal our joy. Discouragement, weariness, disillusionment, shattered dreams and unrealized goals are some of his favorite weapons, but the truth is that the enemy can only use what we allow him to use.

527 life is a marathon...

2011-05-27T22:39:00.000+09:00

Life is a marathon - not a fifty yard dash. When the psalmist says, "I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever," he is reminding us that we were created for eternity. But instead of focusing on eternal things, we waste precious emotional energy and priceless spiritual power by fixing our gaze on the here and now. I am not saying that we need to ignore what God gives us to do today because the truth is that each step on each day's path is filled with God ordained opportunities. What I am saying is that much of our stress comes when we measure life and hold it up against the wrong backdrop.

526 dealing with pride...

2011-05-26T10:21:00.000+09:00

We all struggle with pride and must constantly battle the tendency to measure every circumstance and relationship against the narcissistic viewpoint of "What's in it for me?" Pride has no place in the life of a Christian because pride steps between God and us. To think that God stands in opposition against prideful people is a strong and sobering statement that should send us all running to the place of humility. Because He is a loving Father, God opposes pride, in part, for what it does to His children. "Pride will destroy a person; a proud attitude leads to ruin. It is better to be humble and be with those who suffer than to share stolen property with the proud" ( Proverbs 16:18-19). Learning to deal with pride is an important and essential part of spiritual growth.

525 thankfulness by Kennedy Smith, age 10

2011-05-25T21:20:00.004+09:00

Have you ever thought your life was going to end? That the world wasn't spinning anymore and nothing can get worse? Well you don't have to feel that way because every day, all day, there is a God that loves you so much! If you're going through those tough times just think the God Almighty loves you, listens to you and is with you every day all day too.

Have you ever felt that you haven't gotten enough sleep and are stressed with your job? Well everyone should know that the Lord Almighty understands you and your pain and is there with you every step of the way.

Have you ever felt like no one knows you're there and that you're invisible? Well you should know that there is a wonderful, magnificent God out there that sees you every step of the way - that knows every breath you take. There is a God who sees you all the time.

Have you ever felt like no one can hear you and you're being ignored? Well you should know that there is an amazing Lord that hears everything you say and everything you think. This is everything we should be thankful for.

524 Beautiful Japan. Can Go!

2011-05-24T22:28:00.000+09:00

523 upside down blessings...

2011-05-23T07:34:00.000+09:00

Come to think of it, many of God's promises seem like upside down blessings by the world's standards. Let's consider a few:

    "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave-- just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:26-28).

    "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, it will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Luke 6:38).

    "Then he said to them, "Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all--he is the greatest" (Luke 9:48).

    "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me" (2 Corinthians 12:9).

    Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord and He will lift you up." (James 4:10 NKJV)

522 proceed with caution!

2011-05-22T07:47:00.005+09:00

Unfortunately I shared this with a very stubborn girl who thinks that she is always right...

519 contentment

2011-05-19T22:24:00.004+09:00

I saw a picture of contentment in fulfilling God's call. She was doing what God had made her to do for this season of her life, and she was intent and content in doing it. Regardless of the storms, regardless of what seemingly showy people were doing, regardless of the endless stream of activity passing by, regardless of the stares or others, she was unmoved from her task at hand.

ps. I will be away May 20th & 21st...

518 new Cabinet lineup

2011-05-18T22:25:00.000+09:00

Went to my favorite bookstore and Singapore's new Cabinet lineup was announced today http://www.straitstimes.com/GeneralElection/News/Story/STIStory_669848.html

517 the story of Jonah

2011-05-17T22:55:00.000+09:00

Watch the story of Jonah http://vimeo.com/16404771

516 Japan May 2011

2011-05-16T21:25:00.000+09:00

515

2011-05-15T20:02:00.002+09:00

A strong volleyball team is one that relies on each other in the game. As Christians, we have the advantage. We have God on our team. And with God on our team, we cannot fail. Seriously. If God is for us, who can stand against us? We just need to talk to Him and trust him, rather than trying to play the game of life on our own. We have to remember that practice makes progress! We will learn to trust as we practice trusting the Lord through prayer.

514

2011-05-14T19:58:00.002+09:00

Before speaking, ask yourself the following questions.

T      is it true
H      is it helpful
I       is it inspiring
N      is it necessary
K      is it kind

Think before you speak. Use the five to one ratio when correcting - five positive remarks to one negative comment. The harder the truth, the more love we should use in saying it.

Today in Singapore - Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew on Saturday said they have decided to leave the Cabinet for Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his team to have a fresh clean slate...

513

2011-05-13T23:55:00.000+09:00

Family is important to God. He created it before He created the church and He has a plan for the family to succeed. At the heart of that plan is love. To be part of a family is to be loved. So the real challenge is...how can we love our family? Praise the Lord for my family. I want to love them like they need to be loved...

512

2011-05-12T23:47:00.000+09:00

A mother wears many hats during the years of raising her children. And while they take off those hats one-by-one as her children grow and mature, there is one that will always remain - the hat of a mother who prays. Praise the Lord for my mummy...

511

2011-05-11T10:07:00.000+09:00

Some of the most effective witnesses are those who have gone through painful, trying circumstances. Consider how the gospel has spread in parts of the world that are poor, oppressed, and troubled. Or think of your response to the triumphant stories of former criminals, abuse victims, and religious prisoners. God’s power is manifest in man’s weakest moments.

Whether believers develop into stronger witnesses as a result of difficulties depends on their response to crisis. Many people make the mistake of focusing on the will of man instead of God’s sovereignty. Then they find it impossible to believe that God will bring positive results from their pain.

Those who rise above their circumstances understand that God uses every experience for good (Rom. 8:28). To trust that principle, we must realize that anything we experience is under the authority of a kind, loving Father. Paul’s time in prison yielded better and more abundant fruit than he could have produced any other way (Phil. 1:13). He spread the gospel to the most elite Roman soldiers because he was chained to one after another every day for years. As we turn our attention to Christ, He reveals opportunities for impacting people with the gospel. These are often chances we wouldn’t have had apart from trying circumstances.

You are always in God’s hand. Focusing upon His sovereign will and the good He has in store for you is not easy in hard times. I understand. But I also know that God never allows anything to touch us that He will not turn to our benefit and the good of His kingdom.
Effective Witnesses by Charles Stanley

5/10 George Yeo Press Conference, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

2011-05-10T23:45:00.001+09:00

5/9

2011-05-09T00:12:00.000+09:00

Why would anyone place her trust in the unstable, un-powerful, unfulfilling things of earth when she can place her trust in a stable, powerful, satisfying God? Seems like such a no-brainer - yet, don't you and I do that all the time?

5/8

2011-05-08T18:34:00.001+09:00

Thanks to SQ and my friend SL I managed a quick and relaxed trip to HK. My interview last Friday with BOA Singapore also went well. Praise the Lord for GE2011 yesterday. I prayed and He answered. Although I'm sad, we know it is His will for George Yeo to step down...The strangest thing happened this morning. I couldn't goto church as I fell off my bed. The result was a big bump on my head, an aching neck and some blue blacks on my legs. It has never happened...

5/1 Labour day

2011-05-01T16:09:00.002+09:00

May 1st - Bin Laden's death was announced. Hitler's death was announced on May 1st, 1945.
May 2nd - Family time
May 3rd - 5th - in Hong Kong
May 6th - job interview in Singapore
May 7th - GE2011 Singapore. Thank God. Pray for Singapore. Pray for PAP. Pray for God's will.
Blogger will resume writing on May 8th...

430

2011-04-30T15:55:00.000+09:00

Though we won't always rejoice in our circumstances, we are commanded to always rejoice in the Lord. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” (Philippians 4:4, 6-7).

429

2011-04-29T23:53:00.000+09:00

428

2011-04-28T23:15:00.000+09:00

Sheep are dumb, can never be left alone and often stray, requiring the shepherd to find and rescue them. A shepherd never pushes his sheep but rather leads his sheep, going before them, making sure they are not walking into danger. The needs of sheep, compared to the needs of other animals, are greater because of their instinct to be afraid and when faced with a fearful situation, to run. Without a shepherd to care for the sheep, they will not last long.

Lord, I am so thankful that You are my Shepherd and that no matter how deep the valley or dark the pit, You have gone before me and made a way. Help me to understand that Your ways are higher than mine. Forgive me when I complain that the way You have made for me is harder than I want it to be. I surrender my life to you, Lord, my God and my Shepherd.

427 Nomination day...

2011-04-27T15:51:00.001+09:00

Do you know why rests are so important in music? The music that comes after the rest is the most beautiful music of all. I did not understand the deeper meaning of those words, but life and time have illustrated their importance and their truth.

The best part of life comes after we rest in God. The most beautiful service follows time at His feet. Rest is a powerful part of our life song. Just as the rest in music prepares the listener for what comes next, time spent in rest is an invaluable time of preparation and restoration. Yet, we often buy the enemy’s lie that to rest is a waste. The psalmist disagrees when he writes: He makes me to lie down in green pastures ... He restores my soul... (Psalm 23:2-3). Now that word “makes” takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to God’s work in and through us. Understand that if we refuse to rest, the Father will “make” us rest. The good news is that time spent in rest is the prelude of God’s restoration power.

Today, make the commitment to carve out a daily time to spend in rest. Sit at His feet. Allow Him to restore, replenish and refocus your heart and mind. Then rise to serve Him and lead others to the “quiet waters” of rest.

426

2011-04-26T12:36:00.002+09:00

All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever

425

2011-04-25T11:40:00.000+09:00

God is always with us and will help us breathe through the difficult situations we face. He allows us to go through trials as a part of our refining process. Struggles send us running to God for help, for faith, for strength, for protection and direction. They are often pregnant with pain. Bursting with heartache. If we yield them to God, He uses them to rid our lives of fear and doubt, and to bring glory and honor to Him. There are many life contractions that hurt us, but there is no earthly pain that can diminish the hope of our salvation. We must simply breathe - continue practicing those spiritual disciplines that bind us to the heart of God.

424 Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T11:42:00.000+09:00

There are times when circumstances press us in waves, contractions of life that are seemingly endless. When the waves of trials hit our heart and home, the spiritual discipline of trusting God helps us to breathe through the squeeze of each pressure. When we hunker down and put into practice the act - the discipline - of faith. Dear Lord, your perfect timing for me to take the next step of faith...PTL

423

2011-04-23T00:45:00.001+09:00

Choose life, that you might live

422 Good Friday...

2011-04-22T14:26:00.002+09:00

When we are sick and exhausted, we are in danger of following the wrong voice. Our defenses are down and our discernment is dulled by the stress of life. Rest heals and restores. Fatigue is definitely not one of the spiritual gifts. Rest in Him

421

2011-04-21T09:48:00.001+09:00

Easter is about life. Easter celebrates the certainty of Jesus’ death on the cross, the fact that He was buried, and the reality that He came out of that burial tomb to conquer death - so that we can have life - eternal life with Jesus in Heaven and abundant life with Him here and now.

420

2011-04-20T00:29:00.001+09:00

This story unfolds through the eyes of a criminal who receives the same brutal crucifixion sentence as Christ. "My Last Day" is a short film of regret, repentance and redemption.

Animé created by The JESUS Film Project, with Barry Cook and Studio 4C (株式会社スタジオよんどしい Kabushiki-Gaisha Sutajio Yondo Shii). They created Animatrix, Tekkon Kinkreet and Gotham Knig

419

2011-04-19T15:07:00.005+09:00

雨ニモマケズ Strong in the rain. A better translation can be found here -> http://www17.ocn.ne.jp/~h-uesugi/strongintherain.htm

418

2011-04-18T00:19:00.004+09:00

What is your GOAL in life?

Will achieving it bring U the happiness & satisfaction U desire?

Come join us to find a goal worth living for!

417

2011-04-17T00:16:00.000+09:00

416

2011-04-16T00:30:00.003+09:00

Sometimes our lives are like that science fair project.

We invest in others and are eager to see the harvest. We obey God, trust His plan and walk according to His Word. We plant seeds into the soil of our relationships and water them with love, hope and truth. We plant seeds into the life-soil of our friends and water them with loyalty, time and encouragement.

We long to see the fruit of our labor.

At times we see fruit.

At times we don't.

415

2011-04-15T22:41:00.001+09:00

time flies - 4 Fridays since I left ORQ (- . -)v PTL!

414

2011-04-14T00:27:00.000+09:00

God is too wise to be mistaken.
God is too good to be unkind.
So when you can't understand
When you don't see His plan,
When you can't trace His hand,
Trust His heart.

413

2011-04-13T00:24:00.001+09:00

What at first may appear to be an ending, is often a new beginning...PTL!

Sometimes life doesn't turn out like we had hoped but "The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made" (Psalm 145:13 NIV)

one red paperclip - Kyle MacDonald

2011-04-04T19:21:00.001+09:00

one red paperclip - Kyle MacDonald: one red paperclip: "Share Tweet This might not surprise you, but below is a picture of a paperclip. It is red. This red paperclip is currently sitting..."

水的話

2011-04-01T23:48:00.001+09:00

love the words...

琵琶湖疏水と南禅寺の桜　デジカメHDムービー　河口恭吾桜のBGMで

2011-04-01T13:09:00.001+09:00

back from Seoul. but I miss 花見 in Japan...

Does God exist?

2011-03-21T12:47:00.000+09:00

Here are six straight-forward reasons to believe that God is really there.
http://www.everystudent.com/features/isthere.html

This is i Elizabeth ...: Life Is Short

2011-03-14T23:12:00.000+09:00

This is i Elizabeth ...: Life Is Short: "Today, I received news that a long time, long lost friend Lee Yan Kuen had passed away. Yan Kuen use to join us in our many crazy outdoor ac..."

we cannot control everything in life

2011-03-04T22:22:00.002+09:00

We cannot control everything in life, but we can always do our best.

To those who have supported me and shown me love, I want you to know that I will always do my best.

I will live each day to the fullest and make my dreams come true.

I will never give up.

Dr Ivan Lin (Doctor turned patient diagnosed with Leukemia)
ST Forum 4 Mar 2011

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T22:22:00.000+09:00

Happy CNY

2011-01-30T19:59:00.000+09:00

I like what Tan Weilie wrote in yesterday's papers..."Easy wealth may be the season's tidings, but we should also adopt an appetitie for challenges, and not merely wait to receive overflowing buckets of gold. After all, adversitiy might sometimes turn out to be the best hongbao, giving us the gifts of resilience and character development rather than monetary endowment. These are traits that no instant windfall can buy."...Kudos to this realistic 21- yr- old NUS Political Science Student

changing how you think can change your life

2011-01-24T17:20:00.003+09:00

Recently I read a true story http://www.life-changing-words.org/my-story/. Two things he wrote strike me "Divorce, business failure, bankruptcy, bereavement... you name it, I have been through it all. In fact, I guess you could say I have been through hell — and made it back. Between 1994 and 2004, I lost everything I had: My career, family and even my son."

49 weeks to a new ending for 2011. Do you have to lose everything (because there's nothing else to lose) before you're ready to do something for yourself (not others)? Do you've 10 more years to waste?

The step of faith in Joshua 3:15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing.

missing u...

2011-01-23T22:40:00.000+09:00

understanding teamwork

2011-01-19T23:19:00.001+09:00

mind & dimension

2011-01-18T22:55:00.001+09:00

Christ liveth in me

2011-01-16T22:51:00.007+09:00

50 weeks to a new ending...Somehow the answer is near. Just 2 weeks passed and 4 life/death came along the way. 2 friends got cancer, 1 friend passed away suddenly and 1 uncle passed away peacefully. We all know life is short. The truth is each life is precious...

Last week I asked - "How we will end this year will be determined by how we started it. Do you want a new ending this year?". By faith answers came quickly - "Success isn't the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful" and "Move your resolve forward by breaking down your goal into smaller doable tasks...". Today a brother told me "One stroke at a time " .. that is what the Singaporean swimmer who swam across the English Channel said when he felt like giving up. Can I just manage one more stroke ? .... and he arrived!"

But God has the best valuable principle and still relevant today.

Galatians 2:20 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.

Praise the Lord!

new year resolutions?

2011-01-12T23:00:00.000+09:00

Fungi feed themselves by breaking down organic matter and in turn help other

Move your resolve forward by breaking down your goal into smaller doable tasks

success isn't the key to happiness

2011-01-10T13:25:00.004+09:00

Your desires are trying to tell you something. Honor the things you want. Give them value, weight, and importance in your life. Don't dismiss them as trivial or silly. You're having the desire for a reason.

“Success isn't the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”- Herman Cain

new beginnings make new endings

2011-01-09T21:04:00.000+09:00

I have a dream...

Thought of the day - Another week ahead, another month, and soon 2011 will become just another year in our busy lives. Often, we know not what we're doing or where we're heading to, but we run towards it anyway. How we will end this year will be determined by how we started it. Do you want a new ending this year?

I can think...I can talk...I can even feel...

2011-01-08T23:02:00.001+09:00

Jan 3 - 7: Tough week at work but PTL because I know He is with me, He is good...All the time...

"I can think. I can talk. I can even feel." ringing in my mind...I am convicted by the video that the gospel is most urgent!

1.2.11

2011-01-02T18:37:00.010+09:00

No one can go back and start a new beginning but Anyone can start today and make a new ending. PTL for a great day of worship @UniSim, afternoon nap & soba for dinner (- . -)v

1 Thessalonians 5:18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1.1.11

2011-01-01T00:08:00.002+09:00

relaxed brunch @Cedele & safe ride to Jurong Point (- . -)v PTL!

Isaiah 43:18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

AVALON - We are the Reason

2010-12-25T20:40:00.000+09:00

長渕剛 - しあわせになろうよ

2010-12-19T23:02:00.001+09:00

voices

2010-11-24T13:11:00.000+09:00

Genesis 3:1-13 Today's passage offers a picture of what happens when believers don't listen to God. Eve knew the Lord's instructions so well that she repeated them almost verbatim to the serpent. However, pride and fl...eshly appetites got the better of her, and she was deceived. Eve stopped listening to God and opened her ears to the wrong voices.

Think about how many voices we hear in a given day. Media, billboards, and even friends and family bombard our minds with ideas and philosophies. We hear vain and ungodly messages wrapped up in pretty language. It's easy to fall prey to deception unless we keep scriptural principles always before our eyes and heart.

Eve got into trouble simply by pausing long enough to take in the serpent's words. Satan twisted God's meaning sufficiently to tempt her away from truth and into error. He assured Eve that instead of falling over dead, she would become like God: her eyes would open, and she would know truth!

In one way, the Devil's words were accurate, but they weren't true. Eve's eyes were opened; however, the knowledge wasn't as wonderful as the serpent implied. She was awakened to her own sinful nature and the chasm that had developed between her and God. Moreover, Eve's physical body would undergo death as a result of her sin.

Exercise caution when messages vie for your attention. Satan, who is as crafty today as he was in Eden, dresses up deception so that it sounds like truth. But the Evil One lies when he speaks (John 8:44). Tune into God and the principles of His Word instead. He speaks only what is right. - in Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley