WCC Student's Ministry!

I AM

2009-09-16T14:29:00.001+08:00

A Message from Nick

Dear Friends,

Thank you for your support and prayer that enables me to point more and more hearts to Jesus-All praise to God who has lavished His unending mercies on you and me!

"My grace is sufficient for you,
for my power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Cor. 12:9)

I AM
From great surrender comes great joy. I can personally testify to the truth of that statement because I have lived through it, and still live it every day of my life. When I yielded my greatest personal pain and struggles to the Lord, it was He alone who was able to take that pain and turn it into something good, which brought me real joy. What was that "good thing"? For me, it was purpose, significance. It was that my life mattered. God gave my life meaning when no one and nothing could-not I, not my family, not my money, or my possessions; not even my hopes and dreams were able to sustain me.

I have been asked many times, how can I possibly be so joyful when my suffering still exists and how could I possibly surrender to a "God" who has allowed this to happen to me? If God can take my pain away, which should make me happy, then why make me suffer through it in the first place, which brings sadness? Well, others have told me that He has all the answers, and that one day, when I'm in heaven I will find out. That didn't give me confidence. Instead, I chose to believe and live by what He says to me today, in His Word, which is "I AM" the answer - today, yesterday and always. He says,

"I AM thy shield. (Gen 15:1) I AM the Almighty God. (Gen 17:1) I AM the Lord. (Gen 28:13) I AM who I AM. (Ex 3:14) I AM the LORD your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you'. (Isaiah 41:13) I AM the LORD, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another. (Isaiah 42:8)I AM the LORD who exercises loving-kindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things. (Jer. 9:24)I AM the LORD who sanctifies. (Ezek 20:12)I AM the LORD, and I will bring you out from under your burdens. (Ex 6:6)"

I got my answer in Jesus, the Great I AM! It was experiencing Him working in me that gave me incredible joy and fulfillment. When I did let go of my bitterness, I didn't let it go for nothing.

With a little faith, I let go knowing that He would do something about it, and believing that His divine power would pull me through regardless of my weakness. In those moments of surrender, I felt a strength in me that I knew was absolutely not my own. The little faith I had was stretched beyond anything I thought possible. Since then, I've learned to keep surrendering to God. He has graciously let me be a part of changing peoples' lives. I surrendered to Him, and he changed me on the inside, so that I could be used as a "chosen vessel unto Him to bear His name" around the world. (Acts 9:15)

"...because God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong". (1 Cor. 1:27 NIV)

You might be standing on the edge of something right now - wanting to take that leap of faith, yet paralyzed in fear. What will it take for you to trust Him? Let me encourage you to count the cost of what your life might be like without Him, without the Lord in all your decisions. Believe His promises for you today. Let Him be your Joy and Satisfaction. Let God be the one to define the purpose of your life and for your life. His wisdom is profound, his power is vast! (Job 9:4)

Be blessed and filled with joy. Shalom, Nick Vujicic

Facing my fear with God

2009-08-24T00:47:00.000+08:00

Many of us struggle with telling our non-Christian parents about our desire for baptism. And so did June Chin. Read her account written after she talked to her father.

Just now, I finally plucked my courage to break the news of my upcoming baptism to my Dad.

My Dad knows that I have been attending baptism class from my Mum, but he has not heard me say that I want to be baptised.

I procrastinated in telling him, giving excuses that I need to find a perfect timing to inform him.

It is close to 3 months since baptism class started, but it was only just now my dad heard it from me. (I really regret it. Why didn't I have the decency to inform him earlier?)

Well, the "right" moment won't have come if not for God who spoke to me
through my Ngee Ann Crusade friend. "Taking the step of faith to get baptised honors God, so there should be pride and joy as you inform your father"

"Pride and joy"
"Pride and joy"
This phrase kept resounding in my head.

Upon reaching home, I told myself that I had to do it by TONIGHT. There's no better timing cause the baptism is just next tues, and I will not be able to talk him this week.

"Pride and joy"
"Pride and joy"

I said a quick prayer, went up to him, and started off with what I had rehearsed in my mind earlier.

"Daddy, I have something to tell you.
I have been attending baptism class for a while,
and I have decided to get baptised."

I quickly added,
"I think baptism will do me good."

There wasn't a single doubt for my dad concerning my decision.
All he asked was, "When is it?"

"25 Dec."

"I'll need to take leave on that day.
That means that I will earn lesser, but it's ok."

I know that my dad was always the supportive one, but when it comes to major decision like this, giving me the green light to be baptized and accepting me as Christian means a lot to me.

I couldn't contain it any longer, I said out loud, "I feel like crying."

And I really did.

The tears just fell. In front of my dad.

"Why are you crying? I'm proud of you."

My dad may not know the true significance of baptism, but I was just simply overwhelmed with his love and support for me.

As I was crying, my hand reached over and touched his.

At that moment, it was hard for me to say this, but I knew that I just had to. I couldn't contain it.

"Daddy, I hope you will come to believe in the Lord Jesus too."

And you know what my dad said?

"I will. Give me time."

Can you believe my dad said that? I really can't.

The whole conversation felt so unbelievable.

There were tears.
There was love.
There were vulnerability and honesty.
There was God.

GOD WAS THERE.
He was in the picture.

I cannot believe it! I was so afraid to break the news, but God surprised me!

No Limbs, No Limits!

2009-08-16T12:03:00.000+08:00

Being born limbless has not stopped Nick Vujicic from going places. Glenis Lyndley caught up with Nick to find his motivation. Although you thank God for the many blessings He’s bestowed upon you, have you ever thought about how you’d react if God seemingly passed you by? Or, worse still, more than ignoring you, if He’d seemingly dealt you an overwhelming impediment for life? It wasn’t until I met Nick that such thoughts ever entered my consciousness.

Nick Vujicic is a young man, 22 years of age, a resident of suburban Brisbane, Queensland. Nick has a positive approach to life, is outgoing and friendly, with a happy, cheerful personality. He has a smile that makes anyone feel comforted and at ease. But life hasn’t been easy for him.

His parents, both lifelong Christians, had eagerly anticipated the birth of Nick, their first child. But when he arrived, all his mother could say was, “Please, take him away!”

Nick, although generally healthy, had neither arms nor legs.

There was no medical explanation as to why this should have happened, and they had no idea it was going to, so when his devastated parents were presented with a baby with such disabilities, it tested their faith, says Nick. They loved God, and, if God loved them, why would He let something this bad happen to them? they reasoned.
But parents’ love being what it is, Nick was soon accepted, and became as much-loved as any family member, even though he required almost 24-hour care as he grew through infancy.

When old enough, Nick went to school like any other youngster, becoming one of the first with such a disability to be integrated into mainstream education in Melbourne. But things didn’t go smoothly. In his loving Christian home and environment, Nick was surrounded and supported by family members. At school, he soon learned the difficulties of loneliness and trying to make friends. He suffered bullying, teasing and had his self-esteem all but destroyed. There seemed to be an assumption by some that people with physical disabilities also had some mental disability that rendered them senseless to taunts and hurt.

But having endured that, around age 10 and with thoughts of his own, he began an even more difficult period. He just couldn’t see any point in living. He realised he was a burden to his parents and family.

“I got so angry because I was made like this,” he admits. “I couldn’t see a future or hope for one until a few years on when I read the words of Jeremiah.”

He quotes them: “‘I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end’ [Jeremiah 29:11, KJV].”

It’s Nick’s belief that we suffer only so God can strengthen us—drawing us closer to Him and growing with Him—if we seek Him.

Again, he quotes the words of Jeremiah: “‘And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found . . . saith the Lord’ [Jeremiah 29:12-14].”

And that became Nick’s life: God first.

Nick attended primary and high school in Brisbane before continuing his studies at university, graduating with a double degree in accounting and financial planning. Around that time, after many prayers “talking” to God, he began to realise God had a life plan for him.

“Instead of questioning God—‘Why me?’—I found purpose in God, and today there’s no greater satisfaction than being able to glorify Him, knowing that He is with me,” he says.

“I do remember, however, reading in the Bible that God created man in His image. I thought, Right! It was a little confusing then, because if God loved me and created me in His image, why would he make me like this?”

With a love of God and acceptance of his situation, Nick was able to achieve an inner peace. He realised there was a lot he couldn’t do, and nothing that couldn’t be overcome with God’s help, if that was in God’s plan for his life.

He says his Christian belief was also strengthened by accepting the words of the apostle Paul in Romans 8:28: “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

“God won’t let anything happen to you unless He has a good purpose for it,” says Nick. “So when we think that God doesn’t answer our prayers, He may just be strengthening our hearts—preparing our hearts for something more—teaching us. We must trust in God,” he says, turning again to the wisdom of Proverbs, this time quoting the Living Bible: “‘Don’t ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success,’ Proverbs 3:5, 6.”

Nick does have feet of sorts, and so although Nick learned to kick a soccer ball and tennis ball around the house, he admits he missed not being able to play with his friends. But a strong desire for independence enabled him to do most personal things for himself, even if it sometimes takes a little extra help from his younger brother, whom he calls his official carer. His parent’s house, where he lives, has many adaptations to his needs. Nick showers and dresses himself; he uses ingenious and novel devices to perform many simple tasks, such as brushing his hair, shaving and cleaning his teeth. Such is his personality that he enjoys such challenges, meeting and overcoming obstacles. He writes using an attachment on his toe, doing far better than many able-bodied persons; he operates his computer using the racing drivers’ “heel ’n’ toe” method to type); and plays a synthesizer, all quite astounding achievements. But this is Nick.

Does he ever get depressed, I asked, despite an amazingly positive attitude?

“Absolutely!” (He’s also forthright and honest.) “I’m not happy 24 hours a day; I’m just like everyone else—little things get me down from time to time. But I recover, just like everyone else. Not having arms and legs doesn’t worry me at all—although I used to wish I could play soccer better.

“Now that I’ve found my purpose in Christ, there’s no greater satisfaction than being able to glorify Him—to speak to people about God and his love for them and encourage them to fulfil their dreams.”

And that’s part of what he does for a living, working as a motivational speaker. Nick was pushed in this direction, inspired by a friend Phil Toth who, at the age of 22, without warning woke up and found he was having difficulty speaking. Doctors were mystified but eventually diagnosed his problem, discovering a form of muscular degeneration, which soon spread throughout his body. Phil was given three months to live. Despite suffering pain, he lived for five years more years.

“It was Phil’s smile that inspired me, says Nick. “It’s a humbling experience when someone like that, who couldn’t move a muscle, could manage a smile.”

I’m sure Nick’s personality and smile affects people similarly as he speaks to school and church groups around the nation. He says he especially loves talking to young people, although he’s comfortable with people of any generation. He tells how at one school he met a 15-year-old boy who had never hugged his parents or anyone else. After Nick spoke, the boy came up and hugged Nick, bringing tears to his teacher’s eyes.

Nick says his interest in young people is because he has a deep concern about the high rate of suicide among teens. “If I can save just one, I’d feel I’ve achieved,” he says.

Although Nick says he’s already seen God’s glory revealed through his own early struggle of life without limbs, he continues to dream big. “My dreams won’t be fulfilled until I take my last breath, but I’m content right now, with my life in God’s hands.”

He’s achieved peace, but probably still has one unfulfilled wish. He’s looking to find the right girl and be happily married. With all his heart and faith, Nick believes this will happen. In the meantime, he says, he appreciates the encouragement, the hugs and prayers for his focus on ministry, for his faith, and for his future.

Continuing his professional corporate motivational speaking is high on his list of priorities. He also makes television appearances (to be on Oprah is his goal). His is just finishing writing his story, tentatively titled No Arms, No Legs—No Worries! and has also produced a video.* He also finds time for such normal pursuits as swimming, music and fishing. (How do you fish if you don’t have arms? He has a fishing rod with an electronic reel.)

My short time with Nick revealed him to me for just what he is—an extraordinary guy and an inspiration. But for that, as with everything in his life, he attributes it to his bond with God: “‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,’” says Nick, quoting Philippians 4:13.

Inspiring article, and I hope it speaks to you! :)

2009-07-28T22:09:00.000+08:00

Women: Friend or Foe?
Rachel Olsen

"I'm a friend and companion of all who fear you, of those committed to living by your rules." Psalm 119:63 (MSG)

Devotion:
Not long ago I would've told you that I don't much like women. I counted a few as friends, but the rest of the gender I dismissed categorically as too much trouble. Never a "tomboy" by any stretch of the imagination, I just found guys so much easier to deal with. They generally say what they mean, let you know where you stand, and never size you up to determine who has the better haircut.

I didn't want to distrust women, but the majority of females in my life at the time evoked that response. They were catty, competitive, and conniving. They gossiped, backstabbed and manipulated. I have to admit that I often responded in kind. Isn't it strange how addictive relational drama can be?

I'm told you can put a frog in a pot of cold water on the stove and gradually turn up the heat, and it will stay in the pot until it reaches a fatal boil without attempting escape. Evidently the frog doesn't realize how unhealthy the situation is slowly becoming. I can't vouch for the accuracy of that fable - I'd never boil a frog! - but I've been in a few friendships that were like that. I stayed way too long in the pot before I realized this isn't healthy for me, and I got burned.

So what lead me to flip-flop my position on having girlfriends? First, I decided to follow Christ. This sparked many beneficial changes in my mind and spirit. Where I had been cynical and guarded, God's love penetrated and softened my heart. I learned the meaning of Proverbs 18:24, "There are friends who pretend to be friends, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother" (RSV). Christ was now my forever friend who could be trusted completely.

I also made changes in my choice of girlfriends. With the help of the Holy Spirit and lessons on character from the book of Proverbs, I learned to recognize which people and relational patterns were unhealthy for me. I was ready to be rid of the drama! The Bible teaches, "He who walks with the wise grows wise" (Proverbs 13:20, NIV). I wanted to walk with wise women through life. Many of my current-at-the-time friendships ran their natural course and dissolved. A few transformed along with me. But a few I deliberately phased out because my own character wasn't strong enough yet to remain Christ-like in their company.

Meanwhile, I prayed for quality friendships with women of faith. God heard my prayers, just as the Bible promises He does. Fun-loving, God-loving, gracious women at my church sought me out and invited me out. And I made the choice to trust them and invest. I discovered how beneficial it is to surround yourself with women who inspire your walk with God.

Over time, God birthed in me a huge love and great compassion for women. I began seeing them through His eyes and not just the lens of my own hurtful past. I realized that not all women are like those I had known. I also learned to forgive and pray for those who've hurt me. Today I cherish my friendships with the women in my life.

What about you? How are your friendships? Do you find yourself entangled in an unhealthy relationship? Are you in emotional hiding after being burned? Maybe you've written off the entire gender because of the trouble you've seen. Take that to God and ask Him to heal and bring restoration to your heart. Ask Him to send godly, wise women into your life. Then muster up the courage to respond and befriend them.

Neither gender is categorically a foe -- but I count myself happy to be sipping tea, playing Dominos, doing Bible study, shopping and sharing my dreams with sisters of the fairer sex. Won't you join us?

Dear Lord, I want to have good friends, and to be a good friend. Help me to develop godly friendships, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Study the book of Proverbs in the Bible and learn the traits of trustworthy character so you can develop them yourself and recognize them in others.

Is there someone you can befriend? Striking up a friendship can be a great way to introduce a girl/guy to Christ.

Reflections:
What is the current state of your friendships -- are they nurturing? Godly?

Are you open to making new friends? Why or why not?

Power Verses:
James 2:23, "And the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,' and he was called God's friend." (NIV)

Proverbs 22:11, "If you love purity of heart and graciousness of speech, the king will be your friend." (GNT)

GET MAD WITH US!

2009-07-16T23:59:00.002+08:00

Join us at MAD this Saturday, 12pm-5pm at Campus Impact, Blk 151 Yishun!
You will get to know many new friends, Play MAD Games, Enjoy a wonderful Live Band, a neatly collaborated Skit, and PIZZAS for Free! See YOU there!

I Will Sing

2009-06-01T19:57:00.001+08:00

Lord You seem so far away. A million miles or more it feels today.
And though I haven't lost my faith, I must confess right now that it's hard for me to pray.
But I don't know what to say and I don't know where to start.
But as you give the grace with all that's in my heart.

I will sing.
I will praise even in my darkest time through the sorrow and the pain.
I will sing. I will praise.
Lift my hands to honor You because Your word is true. I will sing.

Lord is hard for me to see all the thought and plan You have for me.
But I will put my trust in You. Lord will meet Your guide to set me free.
But I don't know what to say and I don't know where to start.
But as you give the grace with all that's in my heart.

I will sing.
I will praise even in my darkest time through the sorrow and the pain.
I will sing. I will praise.
Lift my hands to honor You because Your word is true. I will sing.

230509

2009-05-23T23:55:00.004+08:00

Hey Guys and Girls! :)

I hope you all enjoyed YF today, from playing the "Bomb" game and eating sweets to Worship and watching FireProof! To find out more, go to http://fireproofmymarriage.com :)

Here're the songs While I'm Waiting by John Waller and You Belong to Me by Grey Holiday during the movie, FireProof:

Enjoy the songs and the few verses below:
James 1:19~ "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."
Genesis 2:24~ "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."

2nd May Warm Sharing

2009-05-03T00:22:00.004+08:00

I have not been close to God for a long time - I was... Struggling, hardly had any time or heart to just sit down and say a quiet prayer. I was stressed, troubled, distracted, and my mind was full of things, while my heart was somewhere else. During that week, I too, had no heart to read God's word - The Bible, even though deep down, I knew I should.

Have you experienced what I experienced? :)

My heart was in a total mess, I couldn't think properly, sit still nor answer questions, much less give directions accurately. My mind was in a whirl!

Just then, I had a relative who claimed she could "see things" and on most occasions, "what she said came true". It was unbelievable and I dismissed it; You know what? My heart was saying, "I don't need her help, I'm sufficient. She's not a Christian yet, neither did she pass her PSLE." But that day, she insisted on seeing me. It was just this Sunday that has just passed.

She said, "You're deeply troubled. I see it, God knows it, but I won't tell. It's like you are in the centre. On your left and right, front and back are four walls. Whichever way you turn to, there seems to be no way out. I sense that You're at a loss, and you don't know what to do."

My heart cringed for a moment, and I thought it was partially true. But still, I dismissed it.

On my way home that night, the Holy Spirit prompted me to listen to a worship song called "Take All of Me". And I was greatly comforted by God. After such a long time being distant from Him, I finally got to my senses, I finally came back to His presence again. I finally understood why it is "God who initiates this love relationship with us", rather than we initiating this love relationship with God.

The God we serve... is an Almighty God, and a Living God. I urge all of you, if you've fallen away from God because of your studies, your family problems, your other commitments... Maybe you were once on fire for God, you used to love and enjoy His presence so much. But now, perhaps like me, you've lost your position when you ran after God. Will you allow Him to soften your heart tonight? Will you come before Him and speak to Him tonight? Will you let Him speak to you, encourage you and comfort you?

It's just a prayer away. The BEST GIFT in life is finding REAL JOY in everything you do. And the GREATEST GIFT is found in Jesus Christ - Our GREATEST JOY!

Here's the video, enjoy!

With Love,
Venus

GAMES DAY @ 430pm this saturday!

2009-04-19T23:57:00.004+08:00

Mark 12:28-31~ One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"
"The most important one" answered Jesus, "Is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."

With love,
Venus

Enjoy Good Friday! :)

2009-04-09T23:48:00.002+08:00

Hebrews 2:18~ Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Jesus my Saviour
My Lord and My King
Insulted, rejected
for all our sins
Knowing pain
He went through it all
So I turn to Jesus
He's there when I fall

Lord I need you
Lord I cry out to you
My only refuge
from this world
Lord I need you
Lord I cry out to you
My only shelter
my hope and saviour

Jesus my comfort
my strength and my shield
Sorrow and sadness
He knows how I feel
Knowing my struggles
He went through it all
So I turn to Jesus
Who's been there before

Welcome to Year 2009!

2009-04-05T03:31:00.003+08:00

Hey guys, let's start afresh this year. We want to thirst more for God's Holy Spirit, more of God's Kingdom and more of God's Anointing in our lives! No more laid-back nor discouraged Christians in our walk with God. Let's get on fire for Him, so that everyone around us gets excited about God's Work too! ;)

Here's this month- April's Memory Verse:
Matthew 7:7~ Ask and it will be given to you, Seek and you will find, Knock and the door will be opened to you.
马太福音7:7~ 你们祈求，就给你们；寻找，就寻见；叩门，就给你们开门。

Remember to commit the friend we're inviting for EASTER, the friend we're inviting for Adrian's Exam Techniques Sharing, and 2 friends we're inviting for the Jun Hols Yishun Stadium Adventure into God's hands. Prayer moves mountains! ;)

Enjoy your week ahead!

With Love,
Venus

2008-12-21T23:09:00.000+08:00

i miss camp. i really do.
anyways, here are the pics to the yf camp 2008'
christmas service in 3 days time:D

& HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. MELISSA:D

2008-11-16T20:38:00.000+08:00

There's a Jesus in Heaven who loves you. :)

Cooked Through

2008-10-23T15:01:00.002+08:00

By Gina Parcells, She Speaks! Graduate
Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.
1 Samuel 16:7b (NIV)

Despite the fact that I cook every night, my spiritual gift is definitely not in the kitchen.

Last night, I was running behind as I cooked burgers on the grill. I needed the meat to cook more quickly so, novice cook that I am, I figured that turning up the heat was a pretty good option. I cooked, I flipped, and I added cheese. I garnished each masterpiece with lettuce, tomato, and onion, and I waited for the compliments to rush in from my beloved family.

"Mom, why is my bun soaked?"

"Whoa, look at how gushy and red this meat is."

My youngest tried to come to my rescue, "Well, from the outside, this burger looks amazing!"

The outside...I thought that if it looked good on the outside then surely the inside must look just as good.

As women, we can be so focused on our outward appearances that we neglect the meat of what God sees.

Each morning, we spend time applying our makeup and fixing our hair, but do we have the same resolve to prepare ourselves inwardly to face the day, every day? Maybe the shine from the lip gloss is imperative for the world, but what about the shine that God wants to develop from within?

We take time to dress in our stylish clothing and accessorize with our fashionista jewelry, but even with these condiments, we become like that burger--cooked on the outside but not yet ready on the inside. The pathetic truth is that quite often the necessity for personal grooming to look good to the world pushes aside the quiet times of grooming that would make me look better to God.

I have to wonder whether God looks at me some mornings and says, "Are you going out looking like that? Baby, you're not ready. Why don't you let Me help you?"

What I really need to realize is that it's only man who looks at my outward appearance. The Lord is looking right at my heart. All the makeovers in the world will do nothing for my beauty compared with the daily heart makeovers that He wants to perform.

Next time I'm grilling burgers, I'll be certain to leave enough time to cook them completely. And tomorrow morning, beyond the primping time, I'll be certain to leave plenty of room for God to work as the Master Chef ensuring that I, too, am "cooked through."

Dear Lord, show me what it means to have a heart that is wholly devoted to You, and help me to desire the inner beauty that only You can provide. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Designate a time to intentionally meet with God each day, and commit this time to Him even if it's only for five minutes.

As you prepare dinner for those you love, pray for your resolve to be "cooked though" for the One who loves you.

Reflections:
If God were to describe the condition of my heart, what might He say?

Specifically, how do I need to adjust my schedule to ensure that I have time to let God help me get ready for each day?

Power Verses:
Psalm 16:8a, "I have set the LORD always before me." (NIV)

Psalm 143:6, "I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land." (NIV)

1 Peter 3:3-4a, "Your adornment must not be merely external--braiding the hair and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart." (NASB)

Mankind is no Island

2008-10-06T11:06:00.002+08:00

prayer request!

2008-09-26T18:07:00.009+08:00

heyhey. :D
PRAY FOR VENUS!
pray that God may heal, comfort and protect her.

jiayous for you eoys.

love, amanda.

Thank You for Giving to the Lord

2008-09-19T21:58:00.002+08:00

who am i

2008-09-10T08:48:00.002+08:00

Who Am I - Casting Crowns

Hillsong - Only You

2008-08-10T19:55:00.003+08:00

update!

2008-07-27T21:24:00.003+08:00

hello!

i don't know who on earth comes here anymore, but still (:

anyway, sometimes the simplest reminder can be just one statement repeated over and over. for example, Our God Reigns.

point asides, we have VERY VERY VERY interesting programs coming up!

2nd August (Saturday):

- Baptism Service!

- Special YF!

in lieu of our Baptism service later in the evening, instead of the usual welcome-worship-warm-work-word routine, we get to enjoy the whole experience of worshipping God with Hillsongs! God had worked in the worship team of Hillsongs' life the whole of last year when some of them were battling with cancer, or recovering from a tragedy. to find out how God had worked on them into the new and improved version of Hillsongs worship team, come on down and join us at the Campus Impact activity room at 4.30pm (:

address of Campus Impact:

Blk 151, yishun. Opposite Yishun MRT Station.

also, there will be no YF on the 9th and the 16th of august.

why no YF on the 16th? because, Operation Black Panther is on the 17th August, Sunday! Its a great chance to invite your friends to join us for a fun-filled afternoon at Sentosa! details are as follow:

Meeting Point: Harbourfront Bus Interchange

Time: 9am to 5pm

Cash needed: $10 ($5 for Transport and $5 for Lunch)

*water and snacks will not be provided so please bring extra cash to finance those needs.

**dinner is not provided.

that's about it. in the meantime, continue to pray for ourselves, our events and the friends that we want to bring to church! (:

with love,

cherie

God's Plan VS Our Plans

2008-07-20T13:11:00.002+08:00

Nothing lately has gone according to plan… my plan, anyway.

That’s where God has the most space to work…

In-between my plan and His perfect will.

So, I’ve decided that a departure from my planned and set course is something for me to celebrate…

Celebrate that I don’t have to be in control..

I don’t have to map out every step and every move.

To be frank, it’s actually better if I’m not in control and if I’m not sure where the path is leading.

Instead of holding on more securely, I’m becoming more and more excited about letting go.

Totally letting go.

Upside down and inside out transparancy and intimacy with God isn’t as terrifying as I would have thought.

Matter of fact, maybe it’s where I should have been all along...

will you let go totally? let this be a reminder and and your reflection after marcus' sharing yesterday (:

2008-07-13T14:47:00.000+08:00

American Final 8 sings 'Shout to the Lord', twice

2008-07-06T22:25:00.000+08:00

Don't Worry

2008-06-23T22:39:00.001+08:00

One of life’s important lessons is just this -- “Do not worry.” The key is found in the Bible, in the book of Philippians 4:6 7. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.”

So how do you not worry? As a Christian, you can take your worries and concerns to God, your heavenly Father who loves you and cares for you. Offer up to Him your worries in prayer; be thankful; rest in Him; and God will give you peace.

This week, let us pray

For peace to replace anxiety in your heart

Only through knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior can people have true lasting peace in their hearts.

have a grreeeaaaatttttt week! :D

How to Handle Failure

2008-06-20T00:12:00.002+08:00

hey guys,

hope you guys enjoyed bbq today though most of us there just rushed down from work and school. (: anyway, i thought some of you may find this material useful. so feast your eyes! *yumyum*

- Rick Warren

Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways. Proverbs 20:30 (GNT)

*** *** *** ***

No one’s life is an unbroken chain of victories. We all experience setbacks, defeats, losses, and failures. Nobody bats a thousand. We all make mistakes.

Since failure is common to all of us, one of the most important life-skills you can learn is how to respond to it. Mature people know how to turn every failure into a learning experience, a stepping stone for future success.

The first thing to do is to analyze why you experienced failure. Although there may be a variety of reasons – many out of your control – here are five common causes of failure:

· When we don’t plan ahead – As the old saying goes, “If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail.” Proverbs 27:12 (LB) says, “A sensible man watches for problems ahead and prepares to meet them.” Remember, Noah had to start building the ark long before it started raining!

· When we think we’ve “arrived” – Remember the lesson of the whale: just when you get to the top, and you start to blow– that’s when you get harpooned! Proverbs 16:18 (GNT) says, “Pride leads to destruction, and arrogance leads to downfall.” In other words, the man who gets too big for his britches will be exposed in the end.

· When we’re afraid to take necessary risks – The fear of failure can cause failure. We worry about what others will think of us if we fail, so we don’t even try. Former U.S. football player Fran Tarkenton says, “Fear sets you up to be a loser.” We fail to take advantage of golden opportunities. “Fear of man is a dangerous trap” (Proverbs 29:25 LB).

· When we give up too soon – Many times, success is just around the corner. Remember, the game is often won in the final seconds. If at first you don’t succeed … you’re normal! Keep on keeping on! The value of a postage stamp is found in its ability to stick to one thing until it gets there. “A lazy fellow has trouble all through life” (Proverbs 15:19 LB).

· When we ignore God’s advice – The Bible is our owner’s manual for life. It is filled with practical instructions and guidelines for work, home, finances, relationships, and health. When we fail to follow these, we’re asking for trouble. “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death” (Proverbs 14:12 NIV).

But remember failure is never final unless you let it be!

If you’ve experienced failure, here are some steps for starting over:

· Accept responsibility for your own failure – If you’ve made a mistake, admit it! Welcome to the human race. Don’t blame others. “A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance” (Proverbs 28:13 LB).

· Recognize the benefits of failure – For instance, it shows you what doesn’t work. The great inventor Thomas Edison said, “Don’t call it a failure. Call it an education!” Failure forces you to be more creative.

· Failure prevents arrogance and egotism – If everything you did was a stunning success, no one could live with you! It causes you to re-evaluate what’s important in life. Failure is one way God gets us to reflect on the direction of our lives. “Sometimes it takes a painful experience to make us change our ways” (Proverbs 20:30 GNT).

· Ask God for wisdom to understand the cause for the failure – Ask, “Why did I fail? Is there any reason I might have set myself up to fail?”

· Forget the past and focus on the future – Your past is past! It’s water under the bridge. You can’t change it so you may as well stop worrying about it.

Brothers and sisters, I can’t consider myself a winner yet. This is what I do: I don’t look back, I lengthen my stride, and I run straight toward the goal to win the prize that God’s heavenly call offers in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 (GWT)

Be encouraged!

if you've enjoyed FTG...

2008-06-14T10:52:00.002+08:00

hey guys (:

day camp was nice :D haha...the movie part was the best, i think. anyway, i went to find out more about Facing the Giants, and the lead actor and producer and director is Alex Kendrick. he's a pastor from some church in Georgia.

anyway, the interesting thing about this man, AK, is that he has produced 3 films so far, one of them is in the post-production period. the first one was Flywheel, that came out in 2003. its about this man called Jay Austin, acted by AK, who goes to church but when its not sunday and he's working, he'll do anything just to let money roll in. so more or less when he was at that stage he was what people like to call 'Sunday Christians'. anyway, the film's message was that there is a turning point in every man's life and when AK did, God poured out more blessings than he ever had.

second movie that AK produced was Facing the Giants, which we watched and we enjoyed (: i think the full movie can be found on youtube. in 12 parts.

the third movie is coming out this year, in mid september if i'm not wrong. its called Fireproof. its about marriage and how marriages work out with God. if you're wondering why its called fireproof, the wife in the movie has always dreamt of marrying a fireman like his dad when she grows up. but when she does, it was romantic at first but when the sparks slowly disappeared both of them found themselves starring at a marriage that was falling apart and how eventually things worked out when the man went back to God :D

a little more about AK and his films. they were all written by AK and his brother Stephen Kendrick. the great part about the movies is that although it was produced with a very tight budget, the acting was pretty cool right? all the actors were volunteers from AK's church. so most of them don't have acting backgrounds and stuff. (: but i know FTG made US$10million.

seeya at the next day camp (:

resist discouragements

2008-06-13T18:20:00.000+08:00

- by Rick Warren

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while, “He who is coming will come and will not delay.” Hebrews 10:36-37 (NIV)
*** *** *** ***
If you’re discouraged because of God’s delay in answering your prayers, understand the delay is NOT a denial. Just because the answer or the miracle hasn’t come – yet – that doesn’t mean God isn’t going to answer, or that he’s forgotten you, or that he doesn’t care about you. It simply means “not yet!”
Spiritual maturity is knowing the difference between “No” and “Not yet,” between a denial and a delay. The Bible tells us, “He who is coming will come and will not delay” (Hebrews 10:37 NIV).
The delay may be a test of your patience. Anybody can be patient once. And, anybody can be patient twice. And, just about anybody can be patient three times. So God tests you patience over and over and over.
Why? To see how patient you are?
No, he does it to show you how patient you are. So you’ll know what’s inside of you, and you’ll be able to know your level of commitment. God tests you so that you can know he is faithful, even if the answers you seek are delayed.

If you’re discouraged, turn it around by remembering God teaches you patience during delay. Ask him to transform your discouragement into patience.
You may be going through difficult times right now and feel like dropping off the planet. You’re discouraged because the situation you face seems unmanageable, unreasonable, or unfair.
It may seem unbearable and inside you’re basically saying, “God, I can’t take it anymore. I just can’t take it anymore!”
But you can.
You can stay with it longer because God is with you. He’ll enable you to press on. Remember, you are never a failure until you quit.
Don’t quit. Resist discouragement and finish the race God has set before you.
© 2008 Purpose Driven Life. All rights reserved.

ahah!

2008-06-05T07:37:00.002+08:00

haha finally! it's been ages since this place has been revived, let alone revamped...hope its more informative and more useful and closer to us...in some way. :D

anyway, this place has been improved with the duty roster, calendar and sort of more organised, ain't it? something nice:

Praise You in this Storm

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:
And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to You
and raised me up again
my strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You
and as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

Chorus

Jiayou with pia-ing the rest of your homework :D hehheh...and don't neglect your spiritual life too D:

God's Dream

2008-06-05T05:59:00.002+08:00

This' is so good (:

With All I Am (Hillsong)

2008-06-01T15:12:00.002+08:00

A Little Prayer for You

2008-05-19T19:48:00.003+08:00

I said a little prayer for you and I asked the Lord above
To keep you safely in His care and enfold you in His love.
I did not ask for fortune, for riches or for fame.
I only ask for blessings in the Saviour's Name.
Blessings to surround you in times of trial and stress
And inner joy to fill your heart with peace and happiness.

Hey,
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept trying when there seemed to be no hope at all. ~ by Dale Carnegie
So...
If hope seems nearly gone,
Let's bristle up and grit our teeth
And keep on keeping on! :)

A Prayer for You

2008-05-14T22:51:00.008+08:00

Jesus, Master of my life, I turn my eyes towards You, begging You to forgive me. I forgot about You and that Your mercies are new every morning. All I can think about right now is the problems of today, and how I am going to deal with each difficult assignment. Yet You have promised to guide me in all wisdom, if I would just come to You and ask. You provide for me and You protect me. You are the perfect Master, and I trust that You will lay out a path for me today, in Your comforting Name, Jesus, I pray, Amen.

Where were my eyes? Had I focused yet this morning? Yes, most certainly on my own dreaded issues. Yet, here right before my eyes, my dedicated dog had a message for me. His first act upon waking: turn toward the master, and focus.

At that moment I realized, "My eyes are not focused on my Master." Knowing what to do, I walked over to the window and knelt down to pray.

The Faith of a Child

2008-05-12T16:26:00.002+08:00

The Faith of a Child
By Kathy Lay, She Speaks Graduate

"I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." Mark 10:15 (NIV)

Devotion:
On a recent gorgeous afternoon my husband was eager to get out and enjoy the woods. The kids are always up for a hike and rushed to put on long sleeves, pants, and rubber boots so they could tromp around with Dad. My young son, Skylar, was bound and determined that he'd be in full camouflage and he found his camo pants with no problem. But his camo shirt wasn't where it was supposed to be. He checked his pants drawer just in case it had found its way into the wrong spot, but to no avail. Then he did what any self-respecting six-year-old would do... "Moooooom!"

I went through the same procedure he'd already been through and even checked his closet in case I'd been really ambitious the day I'd put the shirt away, but it was nowhere to be found. I heaved a big sigh and said, "Buddy, just pick a different shirt. I can't find that one."

That's when my boy, laying comfortably on the floor as he waited for me to search, said, "Can I pray to God and Jesus first, and then we'll look again?"

Okay, here's the part of the story that I wish could be different. This is the point I wish I could write that my response was an enthusiastic, "Yes, Skylar! That's exactly what we need to do!" But instead, I actually hesitated. I mean, I had just looked through those entire drawers and that shirt was not there. So I ended up softly saying, "Go ahead, Buddy," and biting my tongue so that I didn't add, "but don't be disappointed if we still can't find it."

I watched as my little man of faith rolled to his side, folded his hands, and prayed silently with his precious eyes screwed shut. I said my own little prayer that went something like this: "God, this could be a faith-breaker for this little boy. Please help us find that shirt!" But I confess I offered it up while already trying to decide how to phrase the lesson when the shirt still wasn't there.

I can imagine Jesus shaking his head, saying to me "Oh, ye of little faith," and smiling because he was about to astound me. When Skylar said "Amen" the shirt drawer was opened for a third time and...Voila! There was the camo shirt! How had we missed it? Sure it was buried, but I'd dug through the whole drawer. I told Skylar with much ado that Jesus sure did hear his prayer and see his faith. But he simply put on his shirt and said, "Yep! Thanks, Jesus" very matter of factly, but happily. He was not surprised. He expected it all along. And I really hate that I didn't.

Why are we like that sometimes? We know we are to walk by faith, not by sight. We know to ask in expectation, right? Today's scripture illustrates exactly what happened: I didn't approach the throne as a little child and that prevented me from entering into a higher realm in my relationship with God. Instead of Skylar's, "Thanks, Jesus, I knew you'd come through" approach--which just added another solid layer to his faith--I was lagging behind, stupefied at what seemed a miracle. My faith increased too, but Skylar was in camaraderie mode and I was just kind of a dumbfounded observer.

I never want to lose my sense of awe, but I guess I want to move from being surprised when my prayers are answered to simply being appreciative and grateful. Just like a little child.

Dear Lord, Your Word tells us that the love You've lavished on us is so great and we are Your children. Help us come to You with the faith of a child. Help us to pray in full expectation of Your power being manifested in our lives, so that when we experience it, we marvel at it and appreciate it, but we're not surprised by it. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Think back to times you've been utterly floored by God - thank and praise Him for His faithfulness.

Reflections:
What is your reaction when God answers prayers so immediately? Does your reaction seem to match where you are in your faith journey?

Power Verses:
Luke 10:21, "At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, 'I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.'" (NIV)

Galatians 3:26, "For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus." (NLT)

Psalm 116:6, "The Lord takes care of the childlike. I was brought down, and He saved me." (NLV)

2008-05-02T16:19:00.003+08:00

hmm.. decided to post more since my exams are all over..
--------------------------------------------------------

GOD'S ETERNAL CIRCLE
December 1, 2004

God is love.

Love is giving.

Giving is holiness.

Holiness is kindness.

Kindness is gentleness.

Gentleness is strength.

Strength is faith.

Faith is assurance.

Assurance is hope.

Hope is Divine.

Divine is God.

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

Lord, I'm grateful.

God, how can I say thanks for all you've done for me?

For standing beside me on the lonely road of fear,

For lifting me out of the dry valley of despair,

For holding me close during the thundering storms of doubt,

Lord, I'm grateful.

For walking before me through the dark forest of trepidation,

For carrying me over the river of worry,

For bathing me in the fountain of peace,

Lord, I am grateful.

For clothing me with the robe of your forgiveness,

For covering me with the veil of your mercy,

For pouring over me the perfume of hope,

Lord, I am grateful.

--- Copyright © 2004 Marsha Jordan

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

MY E-MAIL PRAYER
February 2, 2004

Every single evening
As I'm lying here in bed,
This tiny little Prayer
Keeps running through my head.

God bless all my family
Wherever they may be,
Keep them warm and safe from harm
For they're so close to me.

And God, there is one more thing
I wish that you could do,
Hope you don't mind me asking
Please bless my computer too.

Now I know that it's unusual
To bless a motherboard,
But listen just a second
While I explain it to you, Lord.

You see that little metal box
Holds more than odds and ends,
Inside those small compartments
Rest so many of my friends.

I know so much about them
By the kindness that they give,
And this little scrap of metal
Takes me in to where they live.

By faith is how I know them
Much the same as you,
We share in what life brings us
And from that our friendships grew.

Please take an extra minute
From your duties up above,
To bless those in my address book
That's filled with so much love.

Wherever else this prayer may reach
To each and every friend,
Bless each e-mail inbox
And each person who hits send.

When you update your Heavenly list
On your own CD-ROM,
Bless everyone who says this prayer
Sent up to GOD.com

AMEN

--- Author Unknown --- Submitted by Karen McGriff --- Texas

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

THE CHRISTIAN ALPHABET POEM
October 2, 2002

Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able
Hold on to what you know
Imagine life without His love
Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things
Love imparts to thee
Move out of "Camp Complaining"
No weapon that is known
On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone
Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship
To "thank" is a command
Until we see Him coming
Victorious in the sky
We'll run the race with gratitude
Xalting God most high
Yes, there'll be good times and yes some will be bad, but...
Zion waits in glory...where none are ever sad!

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

NOTES TO GOD
October 2, 2002

A nun asked her class to write notes to God.
Here are some of the notes the children handed in:

Dear God:
I didn't think orange went with purple until I saw the sunset You made on Tuesday. That was cool.

Dear God:
Instead of letting people die and having to make new ones, why don't You just keep the ones You have?

Dear God:
Maybe Cain and Abel would not have killed each other so much if they had their own rooms. That's what my Mom did for me and my brother.

Dear God:
If You watch me in church on Sunday, I'll show You my new shoes.

Dear God:
I bet it is very hard for You to love all of everybody in the whole world. There are only 4 people in our family and I'm having a hard time loving all of them.

Dear God:
In school they told us what You do. Who does it when You're on vacation?

Dear God:
Are You really invisible or is it just a trick?

Dear God:
Is it true my father won't get in Heaven if he uses his bowling words in the house?

Dear God:
Did You mean for the Giraffe to look like that or was it an accident?

Dear God:
Who draws the lines around the countries?

Dear God:
I went to this wedding and they kissed right in the church. Is that okay?

Dear God:
Did You really mean "do unto others as they do unto you"? Because if You did, then I'm going to get my brother good.

Dear God:
Thank You for the baby brother, but what I prayed for was a puppy.

Dear God:
Please send me a pony. I never asked for anything before. You can look it up.

Dear God:
I want to be just like my Daddy when I get big, but not with so much hair all over.

Dear God:
You don't have to worry about me; I always look both ways.

Dear God:
I think about You sometimes, even when I'm not praying.

Dear God:
Of all the people who work for You I like Noah and David the best.

Dear God:
My brother told me about being born, but it doesn't sound right. They're just kidding, aren't they?

Dear God:
I would like to live 900 years just like the guy in the Bible.

Dear God:
We read Thomas Edison made light. But in Sunday school they said You did it. So, I bet he stole Your idea.

--- Author Unknown --- Sent in by Patricia Love --- California

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

A MEMO FROM GOD
April 1, 2002

Date: TODAY
To: YOU
From: THE BOSS
Subject: YOURSELF
Reference: LIFE

I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I do not need your help.

If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do not attempt to resolve it. Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. All situations will be resolved, but in My time, not yours.

Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it by worrying about it. Instead, focus on all the wonderful things that are present in your life now.

If you find yourself stuck in traffic, don't despair. There are people in this world for which driving is an unheard of privilege.

Should you have a bad day at work, think of the man who has been out of work for years.

Should you despair over a relationship gone bad, think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and be loved in return.

Should you grieve the passing of another weekend, think of the woman in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed her children.

Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance, think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk.

Should you notice a new gray hair in the mirror, think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine.

Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all about, asking what is my purpose? Be thankful. There are those who didn't live long enough to get the opportunity.

Should you find yourself the victim of other people's bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities, remember, things could be worse. You could be one of them!

Should you decide to send this to a friend, thank you, you may have touched their life in ways you will never know!

--- Author Unknown --- Sent in by Patricia Love --- California

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

SO MUCH TO THANK GOD FOR
January 9, 2002

A grateful heart is all that you need
to let God know that you are pleased.

When you are thankful for things you have been blessed,
remember to thank God first before anyone else.

When things turn out the way you want them to,
clasp your hands in gratitude to God to whom credit is due.

When you're at peace and contented, thank God in silence,
for no one else in the world could have given you that solace.

When you pray for amenities and don't get what you expect,
thank Him just the same with all due respect.

Times when you're bestowed the things you have not sought,
thank God cheerfully for possibilities you have not thought.

Sometimes you'll receive some things you most need,
thank God for not waiting your call and for taking heed.

At other times you ask God for things you need to live,
understand the long wait 'cause He knows when to give.

Thank God promptly for daily desires granted,
even if these do not come in the amounts wanted.

God knows what you need or what you want,
so thank Him with relief for deciding what to grant.

When you escape a mishap thank God in a snap,
Praise Him for His goodness, shout His Name and cheer up.

When you're hard up and don't know what to do,
thank God for trusting that you can get through.

During days of tribulations when you almost give up,
try thanking God you'll see, your troubles will ease up.

Thanking God in a few words is worth a thousand praises shouted.
It's enough to lighten your load when you need to tread the road.

When you want to pray and don't know what to say,
oftentimes a "Thank you, Lord" is just enough to make your day.

Therefore, give thanks and give your best thanks always,
and leave it all to God to understand what's more.

--- Copyright © 2001 Portia E. Calleja

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

DEAR GOD
August 2, 2000

I feel there is no need in this world,
For me to suffer as a young girl.
My struggle begins from the time my eyes open, 'til they close,
I feel I am falling over there is nowhere to go.

Four closed walls, no windows or doors in sight,
All I can do is hate myself as I cry in fright.
I go to school, but I can't get the grade,
There is nothing I do right, my life seems to fade.

I cannot confide, because a secret is not a secret today,
Things get turned around and I get pushed away.
The clothes I wear, aren't what others accept,
And because I try so hard I get no respect.

I feel so violated in this world,
I feel like I was put here to be a miserable girl.
Help me God, find the way,
Help me in school, help me all day.

Be with me when I cry at night,
Wrap your arms around me say I'll be alright.
When I close my eyes watch me close,
Be with me through the night, don't let me go.

Tomorrow, when I wake up,
Don't let me have a frown,
Turn my mouth into a smile,
I know you won't let me down.

Lord, I love you and I know you love me too,
Good night dear God, thanks for all you do!
AMEN

--- Jessie A. --- Submitted by J.W., Age 16 --- Texas
---------------------------------------------------------------------

hmm. thats all i have... heehee(

love, amanda(:

2008-05-02T14:27:00.006+08:00

Something i got from the net(:

WHERE ARE YOU GOD?
October 4, 2004

Where are you God?
I need to know.
How do I find you?
Where should I look or go?

God answered,

"I am the air and a breeze.
I am the tall majestic trees.
I am the west, east, south, and north.
I am the sky, heaven, and earth.
I am the bright morning star.
I am the strength you need when opening a jar.
I am the enchanting moonlight and radiant sun.
I am the Almighty One.
I am the Artist that painted nature's canvas.
I am the man, woman or child you walk past.
I am the wind that kisses your cheek.
I am the creator of the seven days of the week.
I am the first and the last.
I am the present and the past.
I am the breath you take.
I am the ocean, sea, bay and lake.
I am the only way.
I am the night and day.
I am the truth, life and vine.
I am the judge of all mankind.
I am the destructive hurricane and tornado.
I am the cause of many calamities and fiascos.
I am the light of the world.
Did I answer your question my child, my girl?"

"So, my child, just remember that I am always around.
And that my greatness and splendor can always be found.
Spread this revelation and goods news all over town.
Go and let your poetry be like a trumpet sound."

--- Copyright © 2004 Monique Nicole Fox

The One forming light and creating darkness, Causing well-being and creating calamity;
I am the LORD who does all these.
~Isaiah 45:7~

JIAYOU FOR MYE! (:

love, amanda(:

POST NO 100!

My Words

2008-04-10T17:59:00.001+08:00

My Words
Shari Braendel

"The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly."

Proverbs 15:2 (NIV)

My eyes filled with tears when I heard the news. I found out I offended someone. I mean, really offended her. My words hurt her so deeply, she cried all night. A few weeks earlier, I had met this woman and in our brief conversation, I said something she could not forget or get over. I thought it was innocent conversation -- I never meant to hurt her -- but she was upset.

For several days, I thought about what I had said and how I had spoken to this woman. I wrestled with what I should have or could have done differently. I replayed the conversation over and over. I couldn't undo what I had said or how I said it. I couldn't explain it away or give a dozen excuses. I couldn't cover it over with my own tears, guilt or shame. It was "out there" and there wasn't much I could do to take it back. After a time of prayer and reflection, I was able to locate the woman's address. I wrote her a note of apology and mailed it.

I wonder how many times my words offend? How many times during a day do my words hurt someone? I am called to edify others, lift others up, and encourage others in all things. I try to encourage my husband, my children and my friends. I try to encourage women in their daily walk with Him. And then an "oops." A big "oops" happens that rocks my world and someone else's. A misspoken phrase or an inappropriate tone, and in an instant, someone feels struck down by my words.

I felt truly awful about hurting this person and I knew I needed to go to God. I shared all my thoughts, feelings, inadequacies, words, and regrets with the Lord. I gave it all to Him. I prayed for the woman and her pain. I prayed for forgiveness. I prayed for guidance and healing in this situation. I let God know I wanted my words to be wise and full of knowledge, rather than gush folly as today's verse says.

God heard my prayers, forgave me, and even encouraged me a few days later as I stood in the foyer of my church. Someone I didn't know approached me and asked me my name. She said, "I've been wanting to find you because a few months ago I contacted the church prayer team and requested a prayer for my husband's job. You wrote me the most beautiful e-mail and included a prayer. It meant so much to me. I copied it word for word into my journal. I just wanted to thank you. Your prayer for me and my husband really touched me." After she had gone, I whispered, "Thank you, God." How awesome He is to remind me that my words have been messages of His hope and love, and not all folly.

What are your words saying to others?

Dear Lord, thank You for bringing us sweet reminders about Your care for us in every detail of our lives. I pray my words today will encourage others and spur them on in their quest to know You. Please help me to think before I speak.

In Jesus' Name, Amen.

How have you been speaking to others? Are you lifting others up by encouraging them? Pay attention to your words today and the response of others. Ask God to help you think before you speak.

Recall a time when you were wounded with words. Have you asked God to heal it for you? Have you wounded someone recently with your words, or your tone of voice? Write them a note of apology today and ask their forgiveness.

Power Verses:
Psalm 19:14, "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer." (NIV)

2 Samuel 19:7, "Now go out and encourage your men." (NIV)

Worship Conference 10th, 11th and 12th April 2008

2008-03-18T22:18:00.002+08:00

AN EVENING OF WORSHIP with TIM HUGHES and PLANETSHAKERS

Venue : The MAX PAVILION @ Singapore Expo Hall 10

Time : 7:30 PM

Date : 10^th & 11^th April, 2008

FREE ADMISSION

WORSHIP CENTRAL SATURDAY hosted by TIM HUGHES & AL GORDON

Date : 12^th April, 2008

Time : 0900 AM - 5:00PM

Venue : FAITH METHODIST CHURCH (opposite Commonwealth MRT station)

Cost : $35/ per personal

Hey guys,

anybody interested in going? (: registration and reservation ends on 31st March.

can register as a group, so pull some people along...from church or school or some good friends or friends you wanna spread gospel to yeah (: 10th on a thursday, and 12th needs $35 so...haha you may want to go on the 11th. friday night and everything (:

okays, toodles! seeya around

p.s. i dont think any souls will see this but CALL PRAYER CONFERENCE EH (: TMR

2008-03-10T16:53:00.003+08:00

Making Time
By Rachel Olsen

"But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father."John 15:7-8 (NIV)

How can I find time to have a "quiet time" with God? Even if I found the time, how do I know what to do during this time?

Ever ask yourself these questions? I have. There was a time when these questions left me speechless because I didn't know how to answer them. I knew people who would spend an hour alone with God each day, and I wondered what their secret was. What was it that enabled them to do that? What kept them from falling asleep sitting there alone with the Bible? How did they know what to say, read or think about during all those minutes? How did they keep from getting distracted? How did they even manage to find an hour of free time each day? I kept waiting for a season of my life to come during which a block of time would regularly present itself and my spirit would drive me to God. I wasted a lot of time waiting for that to happen and I've learned it never will without some effort.

"Rachel, how do you find time to have a quiet time?" I was asked not too long ago. "I don't find the time," I answered. "I have to make the time. I can't expect to find time -- that'll never happen. There's always going to be something needing my attention, calling my name. I have to make the time, and that means sometimes I have to let other things slide. I have to be OK with letting less important things slide," I confessed.

I've come to realize it's a matter of choice, a matter of discipline... and a matter of active investment. E.M. Bounds wrote, "The lazy man does not, will not, cannot pray, for prayer demands energy." What a simple but profound statement. When I don't pray or spend time reading the Bible, it's because I simply don't want to expend the energy on it. Bounds is saying that people who do not pray much probably claim to be too busy or too bored with it, but in reality are too lazy to press into God. Wow. Ouch!

I believe we have to be earnest in pressing into God and this will bring glory to God as today verse says. In the words of a little shoe company called Nike; we have to "just do it." Let's carve some time in our days to be quiet before the Lord, to read His words and pray. We can trade a small portion of our time and energy for a large portion of His grace and power.

Purpose to stick to it for several weeks until it sinks into your schedule, and your soul begins to respond. If you want some help being accountable on this, or some ideas for how to start, visit my blog listed below and we can do it together for the next six weeks. I know we'll find it is more than worth the effort.

Dear Lord, I want to make time for You. I want to read the Bible and understand it. I want to pray and see You answer. Help me to press in closer to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Isaiah 28:23, "Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say." (NIV)

Isaiah 32:9, "You women who are so complacent, rise up and listen to me; you daughters who feel secure, hear what I have to say!" (NIV)

1 Corinthians 14:15, "So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind." (NIV)

Psalm 119:11, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you" (NIV)

encouragements

2008-02-17T22:39:00.002+08:00

dear girls, and guys.

encouragements shouldn't be taken for granted, neither should grace, nor forgiveness, nor concern, nor love.

as much as we do not see it most of the time, God encourages us, God gives us miracles and hope, God forgives us for every single wrong doing we did as long as we admit it, God cares for us, and on top of all, God loves us to bits.

i don't care how many valentine's day gifts you have had received. the amount of gifts you received should not, and never be the measure of how much love you receive because you must never forget the person who loves you and i most, is the Most High God.

it's nice to receive gifts, i love it too, who doesn't. but we should never take the popularity as our own. God gave us so many friends, christian or non-christian, they're for us to love. they're for us to spread gospel to. thank God for the favour among friends.

today, Sunday, i challenge you to write down one thing a day God showed you throughout the week. may it be love, or grace or concern. make everyday your thanksgiving day.

lotsa love,
cherie

Week of February 8

2008-02-08T23:20:00.000+08:00

Changed from the Inside Out
by Max Lucado

When you believe in Christ, Christ works a miracle in you. You are permanently purified and empowered by God himself. The message of Jesus to the religious person is simple: It's not what you do. It's what I do. I have moved in. And in time you can say with Paul, "I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Gal. 2:20).

If I'm born again, why do I fall so often?

Why did you fall so often after your first birth? Did you exit the womb wearing cross-trainers? Did you do the two-step on the day of your delivery? Of course not. And when you started to walk, you fell more than you stood. Should we expect anything different from our spiritual walk?

But I fall so often, I question my salvation. Again, we return to your first birth. Didn't you stumble as you were learning to walk? And when you stumbled, did you question the validity of your physical birth? Did you, as a one-year-old fresh flopped on the floor, shake your head and think, I have fallen again. I must not be human?

Of course not. The stumbles of a toddler do not invalidate the act of birth. And the stumbles of a Christian do not annul his spiritual birth.

Do you understand what God has done? He has deposited a Christ seed in you. As it grows, you will change. It's not that sin has no more presence in your life, but rather that sin has no more power over your life. Temptation will pester you, but temptation will not master you. What hope this brings!

Hear this. It's not up to you! Within you abides a budding power. Trust Him!

Think of it this way. Suppose you, for most of your life, have had a heart condition. Your frail pumper restricts your activities. Each morning at work when the healthy employees take the stairs, you wait for the elevator.

But then comes the transplant. A healthy heart is placed within you. After recovery, you return to work and encounter the flight of stairs--the same flight of stairs you earlier avoided. By habit, you start for the elevator. But then you remember. You aren't the same person. You have a new heart. Within you dwells a new power.

Do you live like the old person or the new? Do you count yourself as having a new heart or old? You have a choice to make.

You might say, "I can't climb stairs; I'm too weak." Does your choice negate the presence of a new heart? Dismiss the work of the surgeon? No. Choosing the elevator would suggest only one fact--you haven't learned to trust your new power.

It takes time. But at some point you've got to try those stairs. You've got to test the new ticker. You've got to experiment with the new you. For if you don't, you will run out of steam.

Religious rule keeping can sap your strength. It's endless. There is always another class to attend, Sabbath to obey, Ramadan to observe. No prison is as endless as the prison of perfection. Her inmates find work but never find peace. How could they? They never know when they are finished.

Christ, however, gifts you with a finished work. He fulfilled the law for you. Bid farewell to the burden of religion. Gone is the fear that having done everything, you might not have done enough. You climb the stairs, not by your strength, but His. God pledges to help those who stop trying to help themselves.

"He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:6.) God will change you from the inside out.

From Next Door Savior
Copyright (W Publishing Group, 2003) Max Lucado

prayer board

2007-12-28T00:58:00.000+08:00

hi guys, i'm sorry for changing the prayer board...i sort of messed it up...anyway, here are the latest prayer requests...

27 Dec 07, 21:31
manda: hey. thanks for praying for me.. feeling better already.
27 Dec 07, 21:20
Prayer Outreach: get well soon!
27 Dec 07, 21:19
Prayer Outreach: 26dec: 1) thank God wholeheartedly for 118+23=141 people at our 22nd christmas service! Thank God for answering our prayers! 2) Pray for more friends at church who fire for God! 3) Pray for amanda to
21 Dec 07, 22:19
cherie: heehee
21 Dec 07, 22:19
cherie: and a huge smile and huge BEARHUG for God (:
21 Dec 07, 22:19
cherie: thanking the Lord again for answering my prayers
21 Dec 07, 15:43
cherie: thanking God for the camp, for my prayers been answered. ((: and that God really blessed me during the camp for He kept my rash back till after camp. (:
15 Dec 07, 03:47
cherie: and put it into our lives such that other people can see Christ in our lives. (: and that we can better testify for Him (:
15 Dec 07, 03:46
cherie: for a few people and that we'll be able to learn and grow as a cell, as a church. and that camp's not just for fun, but also we'll be able to learn something important and bring it back home with us
15 Dec 07, 03:46
cherie: pray that this camp will be a fruitful camp and that we will learn that coming to church is all about loving God and the people around us. pray also that camp will be enjoyable for all of us, not just
12 Dec 07, 23:44
prayer-daemon: more, etcetcetc), Christmas service (target 100 people to attend service, preparation, costume party, hopefully can settle by this week) (:
12 Dec 07, 23:42
prayer-daemon: prayer focuses this week: cambodia trip and people (safety and fruitfulness), youth camp (camp preparation, logistics, fruitfulness of camp, that we'll learn to love God and our siblings in Christ
8 Dec 07, 04:19
Casino: Best online casinos http://casino.nichezzz.com
20 Nov 07, 14:08
miTch: hey pple! pray for me, im sick, like big time. sore throat, flu, headache, cough, fever, whotever u name it. u guys take care ya? tis' the season to be sick ya!

cherie..

p.s. those who want the youthcamp07 videos...message me BY SATURDAY MORNING. thanks loads (:

Beautiful Saviour

2007-12-23T02:19:00.000+08:00

Jesus, Beautiful Saviour,
God of all Majesty,
Risen king,
Lamb of God,
Holy and righteous,
Blessed redeemer,
Bright morning star

All the heavens shout your praise,
All creation bow to worship You

How wonderful, how beautiful,
Name above every name,
exalted high
How wonderful, how beautiful,
Jesus your name, name above every name, Jesus

I will sing forever, Jesus I love you, Jesus I love you

2007-12-17T11:15:00.001+08:00

TODAY IS CAMP!!!

YAY:)

verse of the day

2007-12-15T03:49:00.000+08:00

hi guys,

today's verse totally impacted me and struck me still. there's been a lot of tension going on and i think some of us know what's going on. but today God showed me this verse, and really. it was there. and i'd like to put it up here in this post.

"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love."
1 John 4:18 (NASB)

what's keeping us from loving each other with that perfect love? that we fear loneliness in church, that we fear to be cast out. love...(:

God is Awesome

2007-12-14T04:24:00.000+08:00

Hey guys (:

camps's next monday! thats pretty quick ya know ((: haha...how're things? homework or anything, jiayou okay (: anyway, theres this prayer daemon thing. that is, every wednesday we have prayer net right, so maybe on late wednesday evening or early thursday morning, someone will be the prayer daemon person to update the prayer tagboard ya (: haha...have a great friday.

today's flier giving out session was great (: i think. i mean it was better personally, since the other time i was under the wings of elysa. and it was like, if you're scared or what you can run back to her haha. but ths time we were sort of more on our own which i think is a good thing cause we get to learn and to talk (:

anyway, you guys have probably seen this email, but i'll post it up here.

in chemistry...
HE water into wine

in biology...
HE was born without the normal concepton

in physics...
HE disproved the law of gravity when he ascended into the Heavens

in economics...
HE disproved the law of diminishing return by feeding 5000 men with 2 fishes and 5 loaves of bread

in medicine...
HE cured the sick and the blind without administering a single dose of drugs

in history...
HE is the beginning and the end

in government...
HE said that HE shall be called wonderful counselor, Prince of Peace

in religion...
HE said no one comes to the Father except through HIM

so...

WHO is HE?

HE IS JESUS!

Join me and lets CELEBRATE HIM!
HE is WORTHY!

the eyes beholding this message shall not behold evil,
the hand that will send this message to everybody shall not labor in vain,
and the mouth saying 'Amen!' to this prayer shall smile forever.
remain in God and seek His face, always! AMEN.

In God, i've found EVERYTHING!

the Greatest Man in History...

Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Jesus had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Jesus had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
Jesus had no army, yet kings feared Him.
Jesus won no military battles, and yet...
He conquered the world!

Jesus commited no crime, yet they crucified Him.
Jesus was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.

I feel honoured to serve such a Leader who loves us!
If you believe in God and in Jesus Chrst His Son, pass this on...to everyone! Don't be afraid of what they will say about you...

Don't ignore Him. Just remember that Jesus said, "If you deny me before man, I will deny you before my Father."

God's blessings are overflowing!

Have a blessed day (:

Running After You - Planetshakers

2007-12-09T22:51:00.000+08:00

Your Word is a light unto my path
Your Love guides me through my darkest night
And even though sometimes Your ways
I cannot understand
I’ll never walk away because my future’s
In Your hands

I don’t care what people will say
I’m running after You
I won’t turn back and go their way
Coz I’m running after You
Yeah I’m running after You
I’m running after You(I will run to You)

I don’t care what people will say
I’m running after You
I won’t turn back and go their way
Coz I’m running after You
Don’t matter what may come my way
I’m running after you
It’s You I’m following today
I’m running after You
I’m running after You

click here to watch 'Running After You' Video

Youth Camp '07

2007-12-09T22:35:00.000+08:00

:D yo people!

those who didnt get the 'Packing List' from meiqin on saturday, which was yesterday, which is also 8th December 2007, here you go!

Packing List for Youth Camp '07

Sleeping Bag (compulsory, cause there're not enough beds, so everyone will be sleeping in sleeping bags. (:)
at least 5 sets of clothes (includes at least 2 dark coloured shirts)
toiletries (shampoo, shower foam/bar, toothbrush, toothpaste, sanitary napkins etcetcetc)
sport shoes
slippers/sandals
bible and writing materials
water bottle (1.5litres)
towels
cash (minimum $10, maximum $20)
insect repellant
torchlight
personal medication (if you have)
windbreaker/sweater (optional if you're NOT afraid of the cold, i doubt it'll be that cold either)
christmas gift, for gift exchange (maximum $5, or is it minimum?)

for the christmas gift cause you dont know who will receive your gift, best if you can get something unisexual in case people like lewis get a pair of earrings or something. ((:

invite people for youth camp kay. dont give up, though all the friends you have asked have rejected you. ((:

loves

God Is Good

2007-12-09T21:48:00.000+08:00

WET PANTS

Come with me to a third grade classroom.....There is a nine-year-old kid sitting at his desk and all of a sudden, there is a puddle between his feet and the front of his pants are wet. He thinks his heart is going to stop because he cannot possibly imagine how this has happened. It's never happened before, and he knows that when the boys find out he will never hear the end of it. When the girls find out, they'll never speak to him again as long as he lives.

The boy believes his heart is going to stop; he puts his head down and prays this prayer, 'Dear God, this is an emergency! I need help now! Five minutes from now I'm dead meat.'

He looks up from his prayer and here comes the teacher with a look in her eyes that says he has been discovered.

As the teacher is walking toward him, a classmate named Susie is carrying a goldfish bowl that is filled with water. Susie trips in front of the teacher and inexplicably dumps the bowl of water in the boy's lap.

The boy pretends to be angry, but all the while is saying to himself, 'Thank you, Lord! Thank you, Lord!'

Now all of a sudden, instead of being the object of ridicule, the boy is the object of sympathy. The teacher rushes him downstairs and gives him gym shorts to put on while his pants dry out. All the other children are on their hands and knees cleaning up around his desk. The sympathy is wonderful. But as life would have it, the ridicule that should have been his has been transferred to someone else - Susie.

She tries to help, but they tell her to get out. 'You've done enough, you klutz!'

Finally, at the end of the day, as they are waiting for the bus, the boy walks over to Susie and whispers, 'You did that on purpose, didn't you?' Susie whispers back, 'I wet my pants once too.'

May God help us see the opportunities that are always around us to do good..

Remember.....Just going to church doesn't make you a Christian any more than standing in your garage makes you a car.

Each and everyone one of us is going through tough times right now, but God is getting ready to bless you in a way that only He can. Keep the faith.

This prayer is powerful, and prayer is one of the best gifts we receive. There is no cost but a lot of rewards Let's continue to pray for one another.

The Prayer:
Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and those that I care deeply for, who are reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your grace. Where there is need, I ask you to fulfill their needs. Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings. Amen.

amanda testifying

2007-12-02T21:11:00.000+08:00

heyys... was bored and i din really noe what to post about.. so ill just post my testimony.. so here it is....

==============================================================================================

还记得去年，当学生营要来临时，我的父母和Elysa一直鼓励我参加，但是那时候，我在这个教会还很新，所以对待学生营我是十分的害怕的。但是，在他们的不停的鼓励下我终于参加了。但那时的我还不知道我这个小小的选择却将会改变我的生命。

从小，我就是一个基督徒。我每个礼拜都有去教堂；去教堂这件事对，我来说是我必需要做到的事。我就这样，每个星期都去教会，但是我不会特别的想要去, 也不是很特别喜欢去教堂。
当我去了这个营会后，认识了很多要好的朋友。在这个营会，我们玩的游戏都很好玩，很有趣；我们的凝结力也更强。在这个营会让我们更认识主耶稣。营会后我都很盼望星期六的到来，因为我又能到教会去了，和我的朋友在一起；但是更重要的是可以崇拜和更认识主耶稣。现在，只要功课不是太忙，我也会到小组去。星期天，有时也会到读书小组去，在Elysa的帮助下我学校的功课进步了很多。

去年，当我刚刚来到这间教会时，我是个很害羞的女孩,每次多躲在妈妈的后面，别人看不到最好，什么事都要问妈妈，去哪里也要妈妈。当英圣老师知道我从来没自己搭地铁时，他眼睛大大地看着我，好像看怪物一样。

现在，我还是个害羞的女孩，不过我已经敢自己一个人搭地铁了，到不同的地方，陌生的地方已难不倒我。我也敢一个人到教会来，不用妈妈陪了。现在，当你们看到我的妈妈时，不一定看到我；看到我也不一定看妈妈了。

我希望我们能尽心尽力邀请我们的朋友来到这个营会，就好像Pastor David上个星期在小组说的一样，圣经里写到“你们要从火中抢救他们，犹大书23章”；他们才能有机会成为主的孩子，同时我们也在建立主的天国。

所以我希望我们大家都能尽我们的能力去邀请朋友，不管被拒绝了多少次；因为这个营会将会改变他们的一生；就好像它改变了我的生命一样。

=============================================================================================

lovess

amanda :)

You can make a difference Today

2007-11-16T21:04:00.000+08:00

Dear Friend,

You probably have experienced times—perhaps after a long hike, or just being outside on a scorching hot day—when you felt as though you would give almost anything for a drink of water. Today I will tell you about a village in Uttar Pradesh, India, where many yearned for just one sip of clean drinking water.

Because of their position in society, many in this village were forced to draw water from dirty, stagnant ponds. They were spiritually parched too, not knowing there was a Savior who loved them. But we can rejoice in seeing how God has ministered to their needs through a Jesus Well.

I am so grateful for you, and for your heart to pray that spiritually thirsty souls in Asia will find the living water Jesus offers. Your prayers are making a huge difference for villages like the one you will read about today.

Yours for the unreached,

K.P. Yohannan
Founder & President

BGR

2007-11-16T02:07:00.000+08:00

wanna know what i found out about BGR? click on 'BGR' below.

BGR

PRAY: Tense Situation for Orissa Missionaries

2007-11-11T01:45:00.000+08:00

Tense circumstances are not stopping GFA's missionaries in Orissa from spreading the Good News.

"The situation against Christians in this area is now very tense," wrote Gospel for Asia's correspondent in Orissa, India, where missionary Durga Gedam works. Durga, who is pastor of a GFA-related church with more than 50 believers, has faced numerous dangerous situations in his recent ministry there, including being beaten just a few months ago. Now, he is in danger again.

Several weeks ago, Durga visited a village near his home and shared the Gospel with Answar, a well-known and revered guru in that area. Answar chose to receive salvation, and as word of his new faith spread, many villagers grew angry. Numerous anti-Christian extremist organizations vowed to kill Durga, and at one point one group did surround him with the intent to take his life. But one of Durga's cousins helped him get away. Durga hid in the nearby jungle overnight.

This latest threat of violence against Durga came on the heels of a controversial caste-related decision by the government of Orissa. State officials plan to change the designation of a low caste made up mostly of new Christians. The change would group them together with another caste, whose members objected to sharing their affirmative action benefits with the Christians. The government's decision fueled strong anti-Christian sentiment.

While the caste system is officially illegal in India, these religious-based social divisions run deep in society. Designations are made so that affirmative action benefits can be administered to individuals who fall into certain groups based on their caste designation under the old system.

Durga is stuck in the middle of a tense situation in a state already known for its lawlessness. But, he refuses to stop ministering despite the fact that anti-Christian extremists are putting pressure on him. In addition to the death threats, the extremists tried to poison him three times, but each time, the poison failed to harm him. Gospel for Asia leaders in Orissa request prayer for Durga. They specifically want Christians to pray that the Lord will continue to protect his life and bear eternal fruit through his ministry. Another prayer request is that Durga will remain encouraged in the Lord and remain strong. They also ask for prayer for Answar, who could be instrumental in leading many to the Lord.

Read about Durga Gedam's persecution earlier this year.
Read about Orissa, a dangerous state, but one where God is working.

From http://www.gfa.org/tense-situation-for-orissa-missionaries

With Love.

East to West - Casting Crowns

2007-11-11T01:23:00.000+08:00

Here I am Lord and I’m drowning,
in Your sea of forgetfulness
The chains of yesterday surround me,
I yearn for peace and rest
I don’t want to end up where You found me
And it echoes in my mind
Keeps me awake tonight

I know you’ve cast my sin as far as the East is from the West
And I stand before You now as
though I’ve never sinned
But today I feel like I’m just one mistake away
From You leaving me this way

Chorus:
Jesus can you show me just how far the east is from the west
‘Cause I can’t bear to see the man I’ve been
Rising up in me again
In the arms of Your mercy I find rest
‘Cause You know just how far the east is from the west
From one scarred hand to the other

I start the day, the war begins
Endless reminding of my sin
And time and time again
Your truth is drowned out by the storm I’m in
Today I feel like I’m just one mistake away from
You leaving me this way

I know You’ve washed me white
Turn my darkness into life I need
Your peace to get me through
To get me through this night
I can’t live by what I feel
About the truth Your word reveals
I’m not holding on to You
But You’re holding on to me
You’re holding on to me

i find this a great song, in relation to the warmth for cell today.

2corinthians12:9
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.

Miracle Maker - Delirious

2007-11-11T01:20:00.000+08:00

I?m waiting here for my life to change,
When the waters stir you can rearrange me.
Just one touch is all I need,
I?ve nothing much but the wounds I feel,
I?m looking for the hand of the miracle man.

Holy, you are holy,
Who was and is and is to come.
Holy, you are holy, Saviour, Healer,
I?m standing at the feet of the miracle maker.

I?m holding on, with your life in mine,
Living water?s come,
And you?ve rearranged me.

Holy you are holy,
Who was and is and is to come.
Holy, you are holy,Saviour, healer,
I?m staring in the face of the miracle maker.

Holy, you are holy,
Who was and is and is to come.
Jesus, precious Jesus,
Thank you, Saviour,
I?m walking in the shoes of my miracle maker.
I?m standing with the faith of a miracle maker.

Rain Down Lyrics :)

2007-11-09T20:21:00.000+08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_KIDCvvpEI

okay, this' a drum duet, i think, since there were 2 drummers but they named it as a drum solo. anyway, i think its pretty awesome unless they do it in the middle of worship. haha! watch it...they're really good. hehe.

heres the Rain Down video, its by Delirious? btw (seems like i cant embed it here so use the link below):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjzpKeJgY_s

it sounds little muffled but its still nice. haha. enjoy your week.

Looks like tonight, the sky is heavy
Feels like the winds are gonna change
Beneath my feet, the earth is ready
I know its time for heaven's rain, it's gonna rain

It's gonna rain, again
Cos it's living water we desire
To flood out hearts with holy fire

Rain down all around the world we're singing
Rain down can you here the earth is singing
Rain down my heart is dry but still I'm singing
Rain down rain it down on me.

Back to the start, my heart is heavy
Feels like it's time, to dream again
I hear your voice, and yes I'm ready
To dance upon this barren land
Hope in my hands

Do not shut, Do not shut, Do not shut the heavens
But open up, open up, open up our hearts

Give me strength to cross the water
Keep my heart upon your altar
Give me strength to cross this water
Keep my feet don’t let me falter

yay! its sat tmr :D teeheehee

wth ref. to the chain mail: Read only if you have time for God

2007-11-07T01:14:00.000+08:00

I've read this for a dozen of times already. people send it again and agan and again. when i first see it, i feel...sick of it. like, 'hey i've read it. and why is it that people keep sending it back to me?' i feel that way because i feel guilty and do not want to feel guilty for the rest of the day such that i will do devotion out of guilt for a week just because i am suddenly reminded of God's love and also that God is watching me.

i've read chainmails like the joke email 'tenjewberrymuds' a dozen of tme already, also. but everytime i read it, i wll get a good laugh. and then i talk about it for a week and then i'll finally get tired of it and stop talking about it. but when the joke email is sent back to me again, i get a good laugh, also. and then the cycle repeats. till about a year later, when i decided that i've read it enough. then i delete it wthout looking.

i believe i've forwarded this email many times already, since i was in primary 6. 2 years. but although i felt guilty everytime i see it, but i never get sick of it. never. everytime read it, i dont get a good laugh. but i get the fire to push on for God again. i do my quiet time. and everything else. on top of that, i know that the whole article is long. the message is long and its almost impossible for one to get the gist of the whole essay at once.

as for me, i get somethng new to bring back with me every time i see this and thank God for it.

in context of the lifes we're leading now, in our church. we all know that the youth camp and the 11nov event is coming. i saw this mail 1/2 hour ago and i felt that i have this renewed passion to ask people and invite people for this sunday's event. there are people who still have yet got back to me yet, those whom i have asked. although i've given back all the tickets already, i still feel the need to ask people whom i've not met for 2 years. teachers who i had no courage to ask before, like my math teacher. people who i think they wouldnt come. i feel this renewed strength and courage to ask.

philippians4:13. its and 'old' verse. one of the first few verses that i was told to memorise. but it stuck on with me. no matter how dscouraged you get when people turn u down for the events you invited them for, remember philippians 4:13.

most of all, pray. pray before you spread the word of God

you mght have heard this before and thought it was only said to be a word of comfort. but heres what i have: whenever i you mention God and tell people about God, a 'seed' has already been planted in them. the more you mention, the greater the impression.

you, the first one to tell them about God might not see them though their salvation, might not see them through their baptism or see them rise in the various ministries. but that seed has been planted. there, and when more people talk to them about God, one day they will go back to Him. :)

so heres the mail:

We try to keep God in church on Sunday morning..

Maybe, Sunday night...

And, the unlikely event of a midweek service.

We do like to have Him around during sickness..

And, of course, at funerals.

However, we don't have time, or room, for Him during work or play...

Because.. That's the part of our lives we think... We can, and should, handle on our own.

May God forgive me for ever thinking...

That... there is a time or place where..

HE is not to be FIRST in my life.

We should always have time to remember all HE has done for us.

If, You aren't ashamed to do this...

Please follow the directions.

Jesus said, 'If you are ashamed of me, I will be ashamed of you before my Father.'

Not ashamed?

Pass this on ONLY IF YOU MEAN IT!!

Yes, I do Love God.

HE is my source of existence and Savior.

He keeps me functioning each and every day. Without Him, I will be nothing. But, with Christ, HE strengthens me. (Phil 4:13)
This is the simplest test.

If You Love God... And, are not ashamed of all the marvelous things HE has done for you...

Send this to ten people and the person who sent it to you!

I don't think I know 10 people who would admit they love Jesus. Do You love Him?

THE POEM

I knelt to pray but not for long, I had too much to do. I had to hurry and get to work For bills would soon be due. So I knelt and said a hurried prayer,

And jumped up off my knees.

My Christian duty was now done

My soul could rest at ease.

All day long I had no time

To spread a word of cheer. No time to speak of Christ to friends,

They'd laugh at me I'd fear.

No time, no time, too much to do,

That was my constant cry,

No time to give to souls in need

But at last the time, the time to die.

I went before the Lord, I came, I stood with downcast eyes. For in his hands God held a book; It was the book of life.

God looked into his book and said

'Your name I cannot find.

I once was going to write it down...

But never found the time'

Now do you have the time to pass it on?

Make sure that you scroll through to the end.

Easy vs. Hard

Why is it so hard to tell the truth but Yet so easy to tell a lie?

Why are we so sleepy in church but Right when the sermon is over we suddenly wake up?

Why is it so hard to talk about God but yet so easy to talk about nasty stuff?

Why is it so boring to look at a Christian magazine, but yet so easy to look at a nasty one?

Why is it so easy to delete a Godly e- mail, but yet we forward all of the nasty ones?

Why are the churches getting smaller but yet the bars and dance clubs are getting larger?

Do you give up? Think about it . Are you going to forward this, or delete it?

Just remember-God is watching you. Prayer Wheel-Let's see the devil stop this one!

Here's what the wheel is all about. When you receive this, say a prayer for the person that sent it to you....

That's all you have to do....

There is nothing attached....

This is so powerful....

Do not stop the wheel, please....

Of all the free gifts we may receive, Prayer is the very best one....

There are no costs, but wonderful rewards... GOD BLESS!

May God keep you and bless you. If this doesn't give you chills, nothing will...this message is very true. Hope you are all as blessed as I was from this story. I wonder how many people will delete this without reading it because of the title on it?

There once was a man named George Thomas, pastor in a small New England town. One Easter Sunday morning he came to the Church carrying a rusty, bent, old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit. Eyebrows were raised and, as if in response, Pastor Thomas began to speak...'I was walking through town yesterday when I saw a young boy coming toward me swinging this bird cage. On the bottom of the cage were three little wild birds, shivering with cold and fright. I stopped the lad and asked, 'What you got there, son?' 'Just some old birds,' came the reply.

'What are you gonna do with them?' I asked.

'Take 'em home and have fun with 'em,' he answered 'I'm gonna tease 'em and pull out their feathers to make 'em fight. I'm gonna have a real good time' 'But you'll get tired of those birds sooner or later. What will you do?'

'Oh, I got some cats,' said the little boy. 'They like birds. I'll take 'em to them.'

The pastor was silent for a moment. 'How much do you want for those birds, son?'

'Huh?? !!! Why, you don't want them birds, mister. They're just plain old field birds. They don't sing. They ain't even pretty!'

'How much?' the pastor asked again.

The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy and said, '$10?'

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill. He placed it in the boy's hand. In a flash, the boy was gone.

The pastor picked up the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley where there was a tree and a grassy spot Setting the cage down, he opened the door, and by softly tapping the bars persuaded the birds out, setting them free.

Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the pastor began to tell this story.

One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation. Satan had just come from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting. 'Yes, sir, I just caught the world full of people down there. Set me a trap, used bait I knew they couldn't resist. Got 'em all!'

'What are you going to do with them?' Jesus asked.

Satan replied, 'Oh, I'm gonna have fun! I'm gonna teach them how to marry and divorce each other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to drink and smoke and curse. I'm gonna teach them how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other. I'm really gonna have fun!'

'And what will you do when you get done with them?' Jesus asked. 'Oh, I'll kill 'em,' Satan glared proudly. 'How much do you want for them?' Jesus asked

'Oh, you don't want those people. They ain't no good. Why, you'll take them and they'll just hate you. They'll spit on you, curse you and kill you. You don't want those people!!'

'How much?' He asked again.

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, 'All your blood, tears and your life.'

Jesus said, 'DONE!'

Then He paid the price.

The pastor picked up the cage he opened the door and he walked from the pulpit.

Notes: Isn't it funny how simple it is for people to trash God and then wonder why the world's going to hell.

Isn't it funny how someone can say 'I believe in God' but still follow Satan (who, by the way, also 'believes' in God).

Isn't it funny how you can send a thousand jokes through e-mail and they spread like wildfire, but when you start sending messages regarding the Lord, people think twice about sharing?

Isn't it funny how when you go to forward this message, you will not send it to many on your address list because you're not sure what they believe, or what they will think of you for sending it to them.

Isn't it funny how I can be more worried about what other people think of me than what God thinks of me.
I pray, for everyone who sends this to their entire address book, they will be blessed by God in a way special for them.

And send it back to the person who sent it, to let them know that indeed it was sent out to many more.

p.s:
Guys, if you receive this in your email, is not because I want to just forward any email to you. But because I thought of you when forwarding this. That you are one who may need to read this as well.. like me..
Be blessed and have a nice day.... ;) Jr.

Psalm 55:22 --- "Friends are God's way of taking care of us."

2007-10-31T23:10:00.000+08:00

This was written by a Metro Denver Hospice Physician:

I was driving home from a meeting this evening about 5, stuck in traffic on Colorado Blvd., and the car started to choke and splutter and die - I barely managed to coast, cruising, into a gas station, glad only that I would not be blocking traffic and would have a somewhat warm spot to wait for the tow truck. It wouldn't even turn over. Before I could make the call, I saw a woman walking out of the "quickie mart" building, and it looked like she slipped on some ice and fell into a Gas pump, so I got out to see if she was okay.

When I got there, it looked more like she had been overcome by sobs than that she had fallen; she was a young woman who looked really haggard with dark circles under her eyes. She dropped something as I helped her up, and I picked it up to give it to her. It was a nickel.

At that moment, everything came into focus for me: the crying woman, the ancient Suburban crammed full of stuff with 3 kids in the back (1 in a car seat), and the gas pump reading $4.95.

I asked her if she was okay and if she needed help, and she just kept saying " don't want my kids to see me crying," so we stood on the other side of the pump from her car. She said she was driving to California and that things were very hard for her right now. So I asked, "And you were praying?"

That made her back away from me a little, but I assured her I was not a crazy person and said, "He heard you, and He sent me."

I took out my card and swiped it through the card reader on the pump so she could fill up her car completely, and while it was fuelling, walked to the next door McDonald's and bought 2 big bags of food, some gift certificates for more, and a big cup of coffee. She gave the food to the kids in thecar, who attacked it like wolves, and we stood by the pump eating fries and talking a little.

She told me her name, and that she lived in Kansas City. Her boyfriend left 2 months ago and she had not been able to make ends meet. She knew she wouldn't have money to pay rent Jan 1, and finally in desperation had finally called her parents, with whom she had not spoken in about 5 years. They lived in California and said she could come live with them and try to get on her feet there.So she packed up everything she owned in the car. She told the kids they were going to California for Christmas, but not that they were going to live there.I gave her my gloves, a little hug and said a quick prayer with her for safety on the road. As I was walking over to my car, she said, "So, are you like an angel or something?"

This definitely made me cry. I said, "Sweetie, at this time of year angels are really busy, so sometimes God uses regular people."

It was so incredible to be a part of someone else's miracle. And of course, you guessed it, when I got in my car it started right away and got me home with no problem. I'll put it in the shop tomorrow to check, but I suspect the mechanic won't find anything wrong.Sometimes the angels fly close enough to you that you can hear the flutter of their wings...

Psalms 55:22 "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee. He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

Prayer:"Father, I ask You to bless my children, grandchildren, friends, relatives and email buddies reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your grace, In Jesus' precious name. Amen."

I know I picked more than four -- you can, too.

When Satan is knocking at your door, simply say, "Jesus, could You please answer that door for me."

Reflections

we all know we face challenges and tests everyday. maybe tonight on the 31st oct during your devotion you already prayed to God to help you overcome your challenges that you will be facing the next day. you see, we all already know that we'll be facing challenges. but say on 1st nov, will you remember what you prayed before? i do, but only sometimes.

and this article does not only reminds me about angels, but what really struck me still was the last sentence of the article.

When Satan is knocking at your door, simply say, "Jesus, could You please
answer that door for me."

Psalms 55:22 "Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee. He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

why take the chance yourself? leave it ALL up to Jesus. no reservation :)

Are we happy plastic people?

2007-10-30T00:45:00.000+08:00

i saw this (Stained Glass Masquerade) on my friend's blog and i decided to listen to the song. and it made me cry. like crazy. ask yourself today, are you happy painting a grin on your face while you're mad like shit inside? or would you rather let it out to your brothers and sisters and let Jesus set you free?

every week i go to church, and when i see people paint grins on my face when i know that theres something crazily wrong with their lives, it tears me from inside. it tears me with my skin raw and alive.

maybe that's where i got the idea of the column from. but yeah. whatever happens, just give it all up to Jesus yeah.

If there's no one whom you can trust in church, then remember that these 3 ppl below are people whom you can trust, forever.

Three things that are truly constant -
1.Father
2.Son
3.Holy Spirit

are you happy being a plastic-y person today?

column

2007-10-29T19:23:00.000+08:00

hello people...

do you guys want to have a column? like if you have any problems that you want to voice out but dont want people to know who are you then you write to this column and the editor'll send you replies etc etc.

do you guys want it?

devotional

2007-10-29T17:14:00.000+08:00

There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm.

He was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods.

He practiced in the woods; but he could never hit the target.

Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner.

As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck.

Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head and killed it.

He was shocked and grieved!

In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile; only to see his sister watching!

Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing.

After lunch the next day Grandma said, 'Sally, let's wash the dishes.'

But Sally said, 'Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen. '

Then she whispered to him, 'Remember the duck?'

So Johnny did the dishes.

Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, 'I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper.'

Sally just smiled and said, 'Well that's all right because Johnny told me he wanted to help.'

She whispered again, 'Remember the duck?'

So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help.

After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's; he finally couldn't stand it any longer.

He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck.

Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug and said, 'Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you.'

Thought for the day and every day thereafter? Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done... and the devil keeps throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt, fear, bad habits, hatred, anger, bitterness, etc.)... whatever it is... You need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing.

He has seen your whole life. He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you.

The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness; He not only forgives you, but He forgets. It is by God's grace and mercy that we are saved.

Go ahead and make the difference in someone's life today. Share this with a friend and always remember: God is at the window! When Jesus died on the cross; he was thinking of you!

loves,amanda:)

God's Love - Pass it ON

2007-10-28T22:08:00.000+08:00

Every Sunday afternoon, after the morning service at the church, the Pastor and his eleven year old son would go out into their town and hand out Gospel Tracts.

This particular Sunday afternoon, as it came time for the Pastor and hisson to go to the streets with their tracts, it was very cold outside, aswell as pouring down rain. The boy bundled up in his warmest and driest clothes and said, 'OK, dad, I'm ready.'

His Pastor dad asked, 'Ready for what?''

Dad, it's time we gather our tracts together and go out.' Dad responds, 'Son, it's very cold outside and it's pouring down rain.' The boy gives his dad a surprised look, asking, 'But Dad, aren't people still going to Hell, even though it's raining?'

Dad answers, 'Son, I am not going out in this weather.' Despondently, the boy asks, 'Dad, can I go? Please?'

His father hesitated for a moment then said, 'Son, you can go. Here are the tracts, be careful son...''Thanks Dad!' And with that, he was off and out into the rain. His eleven year old boy walked the streets of the town going door to door and handingeverybody he met in the street a Gospel Tract.

After two hours of walking in the rain, he was soaking, bone-chilled wetand down to his VERY LAST TRACT. He stopped on a corner and looked for someone to hand a tract to, but the streets were totally deserted.Then he turned toward the first home he saw and started up the sidewalk tothe front door and rang the door bell. He rang the bell, but nobody answered. He rang it again and again, but still no one answered. He waited but still no answer.

Finally, this eleven year old trooper turned to leave, but something stopped him. Again, he turned to the door and rang the bell andknocked loudly on the door with his fist. He waited, something holding him there on the front porch! He rang again and this timethe door slowly opened. Standing in the doorway was a very sad-lookingelderly lady. She softly asked, 'What can I do for you, son?' With radiant eyes and a smile that lit up her world, this little boy said, 'Ma'am, I'm sorry if I disturbed you, but I justwant to tell you that *JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU* and I came to give youmy very last Gospel Tract which will tell you all about JESUS and His great LOVE.'With that, he handed her his last tract and turned to leave. She called tohim as he departed. 'Thank you, son! And God Bless You!'

Well, the following Sunday morning in church Pastor Dad was in the pulpit. As the service began, he asked, 'Does anybody have anytestimony or want to say anything?' Slowly, in the back row of the church, an elderly lady stood to her feet.As she began to speak, a look of glorious radiance came from her face, 'No one in this church knows me. I've never been here before. Yousee, before last Sunday I was not a Christian. Myhusband passed on some time ago, leaving me totally alone in this world.Last Sunday, being a particularly cold and rainy day, it was even more so in my heart that I came to the end of the line where I nolonger had any hope or will to live.So I took a rope and a chair and ascended the stairway into the attic of my home. I fastened the rope securely to a rafter in the roof, then stood on the chair and fastened the other end of the ropearound my neck. Standing on that chair, so lonely andbroken-hearted I was about to leap off, when suddenly the loud ringing of my doorbell downstairs startled me. I thought, 'I'll wait a minute, and whoever it is will go away.' I waited and waited, but the ringing doorbell seemed to get louder and moreinsistent, and then the person ringing also started knocking loudly. I thought to myself again, 'Who on earth could this be? Nobody everrings my bell or comes to see me.' I loosened the rope from my neck andstarted for the front door, all the while the bell rang louder and louder.When I opened the door and looked I could hardly believe my eyes, for thereon my front porch was the most radiant andangelic little boy I had ever seen in my life. His SMILE, oh, I could never describe it to you! The words that came from his mouthcaused my heart that had long been dead, TO LEAP TO LIFE as he exclaimedwith a cherub-like voice, 'Ma'am, I just came to tell youthat JESUS REALLY DOES LOVE YOU.' Then he gave me this Gospel Tract that I now hold in my hand.As the little angel disappeared back out into the cold and rain, I closed my door and read slowly every word of this Gospel Tract. Then I went up to my attic to get my rope and chair. I won't be needing them any more.

You see---I am now a Happy Child of the KING. Since the address of yourchurch was on the back of this Gospel Tract, I have come here to personallysay THANK YOU to God's little angel who came just in the nick of time and by so doing, spared my soul from an eternity in hell.'

There was not a dry eye in the church. And as shouts of praise and honour toTHE KING resounded off the very rafters of the building, Pastor Dad descended from the pulpit to the front pew where the little angel was seated.He took his son in his arms and sobbed uncontrollably. Probably no churchhas had a more glorious moment, and probably this universehas never seen a Papa that was more filled with love & honour for his son... Except for One.

Our Father also allowed His Son to go out into a cold and dark world. Her eceived His Son back with joy unspeakable, and as all ofheaven shouted praises and honour to The King, the Father sat His beloved Son on a throne far above all principality and power andevery name that is named.

Blessed are your eyes for reading this message.

Don't let this message die, read it again and pass it to others. Heaven is for His people! Remember, God's message CAN make thedifference in the life of someone close to you. Please share this wonderful message...

'Faith is the affirmation and the act that bids eternal truth be present fact.' Coleridge

==============Just 3 Words==============

Three things in life that, once gone, never come back -
1. Time
2. Words
3. Opportunity

Three things in life that can destroy a person -
1. Anger
2. Pride
3. Unforgiveness

Three things in life that you should never lose-
1. Hope
2. Peace
3. Honesty

Three things in life that are most valuable -
1. Love
2. Family & Friends
3. Kindness

Three things in life that are never certain -
1. Fortune
2. Success
3. Dreams

Three things that make a person -
1. Commitment
2. Sincerity
3. Hard work

Three things that are truly constant -
1.Father
2.Son
3.Holy Spirit

I ask the Lord to bless you, as I pray for you today; to guide you and protect you, as you go along your way.God's love is always with you, God's promises are true.

And when you give God all your cares, you know God will see you through.Pass this along to People you want God to Bless!

No one falls in love by choice, it is by CHANCE.
No one stays in love by chance, it is by WORK.
And no one falls out of love by chance, it is by CHOICE if you love Jesusp

please forward this message.

He did something for you, now do something for Him.
Spread His word, and you'll be rewarded.
How will you be rewarded?

'Whoever acknowledges Me before men, I will acknowledge him before My Father in heaven. But whoever disowns Me before men, I will disownhim before My Father in heaven'
- Matthew 10:32

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

hit counter

2007-10-22T23:27:00.001+08:00

hi guys,

should we get a hit counter for our blog?

loves, springonion

nicknames

2007-10-09T20:35:00.000+08:00

for those who are in dilemna. here are a few crazy names:

potato
mrlion

and i can't think of anything else. :/ haha. nvm...just choose :D

there is a poll...to sabo meiqin. :D oh yeah. people who never choose their nikky namey will be saboed the same way also :)

SPRING ONION STRIKES

2007-10-03T22:33:00.000+08:00

okay people. if you guys are wondering who on earth spring onion is, read on.

recently a character called, pig, was bored and random. (obviously) so she decided to name her sister spring onion just to spte her back.

to her horror, her sister actually loved the name and went on a springonioncraze. and i am that spring onion.

anyway people, lets make this blog a more, homely place. more wcc-studministri-ish. so that we will not leave this place to rot anymore.

any ideas?

you'll see that i have listed down the names, on the left. YAY! we are recognised. basically we have some overage people, but still they are students, so we have to accept them, anyhow. but gladly. :) in a sacarstic way. :)

some people don't like their name being splashed on webpages, so do come up with a smart nickname like how pig came up with one. :)

and those who would like to be linked or in the process of making a blog so that wcc stud ministry will link them, do tag. :)

lastly, for those who have the last few laps to chiong for eoys (whether you've finish mugging or not), do add oil though some people have used their car too much that their oil tank is holey or holy and the oil is leaking at a crazy rate. no worries though :)

for philippians4:13 says

through god, everything is possible. :)

take heart people! :D

love ya loads!!!!
and Jesus reigns! :D

Because God Chooses To

2007-09-29T22:11:00.000+08:00

Week of September 28, 2007

Because He Chooses To...
by Max Lucado

Love. We've all but worn out the word. This morning I used love to describe my feelings toward my wife and toward peanut butter. Far from identical emotions. I've never proposed to a jar of peanut butter (though I have let one sit on my lap during a television show). Overuse has defused the word, leaving it with the punch of a butterfly wing.

Biblical options still retain their starch. Scripture employs an artillery of terms for love, each one calibrated to reach a different target. Consider the one Moses used with his followers: "The LORD chose your ancestors as the objects of his love" (Deut.10:15 NLT).

This passage warms our hearts. But it shook the Hebrews' world. They heard this: "The Lord binds himself to his people." Hasaq speaks of a tethered love, a love attached to something or someone. I'm picturing a mom connected by a child harness to her rambunctious five-year-old as the two of them walk through the market. (I once thought the leashes were cruel; then I became a dad.) The strap serves two functions, yanking and claiming. You yank your kid out of trouble and in doing so proclaim, "Yes, he is as wild as a banshee. But he's mine."

In this case, God chained himself to Israel. Because the people were lovable? No. "GOD wasn't attracted to you and didn't choose you because you were big and important--the fact is, there was almost nothing to you. He did it out of sheer love, keeping the promise he made to your ancestors" (Deut. 7:7--8 MSG). God loves Israel and the rest of us because he chooses to.

Let's love one another as God loves us!

Enjoy a fruitful week ahead,
May God bless you.

QUIET TIME

2007-08-28T19:37:00.000+08:00

By Luann Prater

"Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." Mark 6:31 (NIV)

Devotion:
I was on my way to work when an ambulance raced past me. The road was a two lane highway, so it startled me to see it blow by. Soon I heard several sirens and saw the brake lights tapping on the car in front of me. A sheriff was at the crossroads ahead detouring everyone into the country. He told us the road would be shut down for quite some time because of the terrible wreck ahead. My stomach knotted.

Later that morning, the phone rang; my colleague answered and said, "No! Don't tell me that!" Norma was traveling with a group of teenagers from her church on their way to camp when a driver fell asleep, crossed the center line and hit them head on. Norma didn't make it. Everyone said she was a fine Christian woman and only 60 years old. The papers said she had just returned from a mission trip with the teens 3 weeks earlier and was always ready to help those in need.

That night I couldn't stop thinking about Norma. I didn't know her, but her life made a final impact on mine. I wonder how she spent her last morning? People that barely knew her gave witness that she was a godly lady. So how did they know that? In Exodus 34:29 the Bible gives us a clue. It reads: "When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord."

Norma must have spent quiet time with the Lord because she was radiant with God's love. It is not something you can fake. It is not something you can imitate. There is only one way to illuminate God to others, spend time with him. That doesn't mean feverishly working on programs at church, or feeding the poor, or volunteering for one more project. All of those things are necessary and God uses them as tools to shape and mold us, but before we can give his love to others...we must get alone with God.

Sometimes it is hard to get away from the noise and the clutter of everyday life. We mean to make time, but it seems the clock won't cooperate. Like the key verse says, often we don't even take the time to eat. Can you find a quiet place: In the waiting room at a doctor's office? Stopped in a traffic jam? In the morning before anyone else is up? On a plane? Taking a walk? Watching your children play? On a coffee break? Turning off the TV? James 4:8 tells us, "Come near to God and he will come near to you."

Last year we started a new tradition. We gave everyone in our family the same devotional book. On any given day we know that our family may be reading the same passage from God. There is something unifying about that. This year I plan to give out P31's new devotional book.

There is no doubt about it...Norma radiated God's love to others because she spent time with Him. The Great Healer has written a prescription for your hurried life and weary soul: Quiet time with Him, everyday.

Dear Lord, you know the pace we keep. Teach us to utilize unsuspecting moments in quiet time with you. Give us the desire to come near to you. May our lives reflect your radiance. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Set your alarm 15 minutes earlier and GET UP! Read a passage and talk to the Lord before your hectic life begins.

Reflections:
What robs your time?

How can you find quiet moments throughout your day?

Who can hold you accountable in this walk of quiet time?

Power Verses:
Hebrews 10:22, "let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith..." (NIV)

Matthew 4:4, "Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." (NIV)

Mark 4:34, "But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything." (NIV)

STRESS RELIEF

2007-08-22T21:22:00.000+08:00

Hey guys and girls, these are ways you can relieve stress!

1 - Manage Your Time Effectively: Keep a To Do list or daily planner and make sure to include time for yourself and time for stress reduction activities.

2 - Take a Break: Schedule several short breaks throughout your day to help minimize your stress. Get up and stretch, read a book, go for a walk or simply call a friend.

3 - Minimize Interruptions: When focusing on something important, make sure to block off a period of time when you can work without being disturbed or distracted.

4 - Eat Healthy Foods: Try to avoid foods high in fat, sugar and sodium. Be sure to snack on something healthy and do not skip meals because this will lower your energy levels.

5 - Exercise: Regular physical activity is one of the best ways to deal with stress. It releases endorphins and gives you a natural high. Try walking, bike riding or simply exercising in the comfort of your own home.

6 - Think Positively: Instead of focusing on negative thoughts, focus on the positive things in your life and say to yourself at least one positive thought each day.

7 - Learn to Say NO: Dont feel guilty when you have to tell others no. Taking on additional projects or work for others when you are busy will only cause you more stress.

8 - Put Stressful Situations in Perspective: Will it matter a month from now? What about a year from now? Is it something that you can control? Ask yourself these questions when you are faced with a stressful situation.

9 - Get Enough Sleep: Studies show that most people need between 6-9 hours of sleep, but most people give up sleep when they are under stress to finish more work. Be sure to get the proper rest so that you can energize your mind, body and spirit.

10 - Find Someone to Talk to: Talking to your friends or family can help because it gives you a chance to express your feelings. However, problems in your social life or family life can be the hardest to talk about. If you feel like you cant talk to your family or a friend, talk to someone outside the situation. This could be your priest, minister, a therapist, your family doctor or a coach.

11 - Pray to our Father
* Ever wondered how we should pray in a way that's pleasing to God's eyes?
Find out at http://www.gfa.org/pray

With Love.

God's Idea or Good Idea

2007-08-19T01:47:00.000+08:00

God is good all the time and
all the time, God is good.

Don Moen

I'm going to share about me experiencing God for the past 6 months.

I've always had this dream yo go into theatrical studies, but being in a musical group cca, I hardly come across chances to learn about how to be a stage director and so on. Something which i think is important if i were to try to enter NAFA. I prayed about this dream of mine because i knew that i had to do so. As a Christian, you hace to pray about everything you do. In other words, i prayed forthe sake of praying. In my opinion, i have lost my faith in Christ. Not because
He failed me, but because i've failed Him.

One thing that we have to know is that God never fails us. It's just us who think that He failed us just because things do not turn out as what we wish it to be. But we always forget God. We need to be constantly reminded to remember God,

On the 28th July, the ex-co members of 2006/2007 announced the ex-co of 2007/2008. I had prayed constantly to God that He would allow me to be the new vice-pres. But i didn't get the post. I got the property manager post instead.

After cca, a guzheng mate told me "Cherie, i thought' you'd be VP! How come they never let you be VP?"

My immediate response was, hah! because i'm lousier. that's why.

But on the way to where i penned this testimony, i thought about the comment. Undeniably, she was mopre capable than I am. She was good at schoolwork, she is a councillor, and i believe that she plays guzheng better than i do. But what had she done for guzheng so far?

I had literally slogged for guzheng. working hard to ensure that i'll get the post that i desired, the power, the glory, the honour. and most of the time being the sec 2 vp, you secure your post as the pres the following year.

But what is in a name? It is neither hand, nor foot, nor face. Deny thy father and refuse thy name and i'll no longr be a Capulet.

Juliet said that in romeo and juliet. even a normal, common, girl from a rich family knows that. what about me?

I had read too much into the practical, earthly, humanly world. I had become so arrogant that i believed that i could achieve what i want. I have forgotten God in the midst of all these fierce competition. praying only wehn i needed help.

I had forgotten that:

Faith is not a belief, but a trust without reservation.

I have forgotten to trust God wholeheartedly,to give Him my 100% trust.

Mu Future Decided. God has a plan for me. I finally saw it today. It is in this case, God's plan.

He had let me be a logistic head for a purpose. Stage director. Drawing stage plans. A chance to teach the sec1'08 batch.

Isn't this what i truly would love and would like to do to serve guzheng?

Yes, being a vice-president, it certainly sounds nice. A golden badge would definitely look nicer than a plain brown badge. People look up to you. It sounds like a pretty good idea. But was what God's idea for me?

If your life were a movie, would you let God direct it?

Direct my sail. Romeo wanted Queen Mab to dirct him to find his true love.

But today, i want God to direct my life. I want to live for Him. I believe it'd God's plans to have a fellow believer as my assitstant. I believe that He has a purpose for me today.

Proverbs 16:9

You make your plans, but God directs your actions.

To end off, I encourage all of you to live a purpose driven life. It is always easy to differentiate a good idea from a bad one.

But its not always easy to differentiate a good idea from God's idea, for like i mentioned. VP sounds like a good idea. but what is God's idea? Property managr. It sounds bad. But in the long run, it is certainly much better.

It was meant to be a private diary entry of mine. But after penning it, i realised that ity could change lives, so i decided to ask for a chance to share this with you.

Cherie
Written 28th July 2007

before i end this blog post, i'd like to share a song.

Now, all I have is now
To be faithful
To be holy
And to shine
Lighting up the darkness
Right now, I really have no choice
But to voice the truth to the nations
A generation looking for God

Chorus
For such a time as this
I was placed upon the earth
To hear the voice of God
And do His will
Whatever it is
For such a time as this
For now and all the days He gives
I am here, I am here
And I am His
For such a time as this

You - Do you ever wonder why
Seems like the grass is always greener
Under everybody else's sky
But right here, right here for this time and place
You can live a mirror of His mercy
A forgiven image of grace
Repeat Chorus

Can't change what's happened till now
But we can change what will be
By living in holiness
That the world will see Jesus

Repeat Chorus

have a purpose driven life!
cheers!

Untangling Life's Knots

2007-08-17T22:47:00.000+08:00

It's your best friend's wedding. "I'll take care of the reception," you'd volunteered. You planned the best party possible. You hired the band, rented the hall, catered the meal, decorated the room, and asked your Aunt Bertha to bake the cake.

Now the band is playing and the guests are milling, but Aunt Bertha is nowhere to be seen. Everything is here but the cake. You sneak over to the pay phone and dial her number. She's been taking a nap. She thought the wedding was next week.

Oh boy! Now what do you do? Talk about a problem! Everything is here but the cake...

Sound familiar?

It might. It's exactly the dilemma Jesus' mother, Mary, was facing. Back then, wine was to a wedding what cake is to a wedding today.

What Mary faced was a social problem. No need to call 911, but no way to sweep the embarrassment under the rug, either.

When you think about it, most of the problems we face are of the same caliber. We're late for a meeting. We leave something at the office. A coworker forgets a report. Mail gets lost. Traffic gets snarled. The waves rocking our lives are not life threatening yet. But they can be. A poor response to a simple problem can light a fuse.

For that reason you might want to note how Mary reacted. Her solution poses a practical plan for untangling life's knots. "They have no more wine," she told Jesus (John 2:3). That's it. That's all she said. She didn't go ballistic. She simply assessed the problem and gave it to Christ.

It's so easy to focus on everything but the solution. Mary didn't do that. She simply looked at the knot, assessed it, and took it to the right person. "I've got one here I can't untie, Jesus."

"When all the wine was gone Jesus' mother said to him, 'They have no more wine'" (John 2:3).

Please note, she took the problem to Jesus before she took it to anyone else. A friend told me about a tense deacons' meeting he attended. Apparently there was more agitation than agreement, and after a lengthy discussion, someone suggested, "Why don't we pray about it?" to which another questioned, "Has it come to that?"

What causes us to think of prayer as the last option rather than the first?

From A Gentle ThunderCopyright (W Publishing Group, 2006) Max Lucado

When Examinations Come

2007-08-12T20:31:00.000+08:00

Lord, grant me a quiet heart,

Before examinations start,

Lead me to use my leisure hours,

To reinvigorate my powers.

My mind from daydreams liberate,

Give me the will to concentrate.

From all distractions set me free,

That in my studies I may be.

A student with a sole intent,

To make my work a sacrament.

From my faint heart in love expel,

All failure, fears that therein dwell.

And from my pillow drive away,

All dark forebodings of the day.

Help me in faith to rest so deep,

That I may have untroubled sleep.

While notes and subjects I prepare,

May I not lose my zest for prayer.

And may I not forget to look,

For daily guidance in Thy Book.

In quietness, confidence and peace,
May I have quick and sure release

From needless fears and apprehension,

From outward strain and tension.

So may examinations find,

Each one alert in heart and mind.

Thus inward joy and peace possessing,

May examinations prove a blessing.

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant,but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to thosewho have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 (ESV)

LET'S PROVE A GOOD TESTIMONY FOR JESUS! =)

BUCKET OF BLESSINGS

2007-08-12T00:48:00.000+08:00

“Bucket of Blessings”
By Zoë Elmore

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Devotion:
It was Friday afternoon and Tom arrived home early from work carrying a beautiful arrangement of cut flowers. I took the flowers from him, placed them on the counter then threw my arms around his neck squealing with delight and kissed his face.

Tom lowered my arms and he lowered his head as he began to tell me that his job had just been eliminated, and in a few short weeks, he would be unemployed. I couldn’t breathe or even speak.

We spent much of the night crying and discussing the details of what we would need to do while we waited for the Lord to open the next job opportunity. Over that next week I enjoyed carrying my beautiful flower arrangement from room to room not wanting to miss one moment of their beauty. Sadly, the blooms on my beautiful arrangement began to fade and I removed the wilted and brown flowers from their container and placed them in the garbage. I thought about holding on to a few of them as a memory of my husband’s tenderness toward me, but the Lord whispered, “Throw the blooms away but save the little blue container. I am going to fill it to overflowing.” Reluctantly I threw out the flowers, placed the little blue container in my kitchen and named it our “bucket of blessing”.

Throughout the long ten months of waiting for Tom to begin working again we received many cards, e-mails and phone calls encouraging us to persevere. Month after month we placed these encouragements in our bucket of blessing and before long it was filled to overflowing. It contained words of encouragement from friends and family, and stories of my husband’s integrity in his former job. Additionally, we placed in there reminders of kind gestures, unexpected gifts of kindness and nuggets of gold from God’s holy word. When either of us was tempted to feel discouraged we would remove one of those blessings from the bucket and read it. Each one was not only a reminder of God’s faithful provision to us but also God’s very presence with us.

Although Tom and I did not know what our future held, our confidence that God’s hand sustains and provides through times of uncertainty was greatly magnified. Although the flowers in that container were beautiful, their beauty only lasted a few days; however the blessings now held in our bucket will last a lifetime. Our circumstances may have changed, however God’s faithfulness does not ever change. The Bible is filled to overflowing with rich words of encouragement to trust the One who created us and who is faithful to sustain us.

Jehovah Jirah - He is faithful to provide!

Dear Lord, You are faithful beyond measure and I thank you for sustaining my family through difficult and trying times. Thank you for the Bible that reminds me of your faithfulness; and thank you for holding my future securely in your hand of provision. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Create your own “bucket of blessing” and begin filling it with encouragement from God’s Holy word.
When you’re tired and discouraged, reach in the bucket, and pull out a blessing. Read it and know that the one who holds your future in his hands is with you and providing for you.

Reflections:
Have you drawn from the bucket of blessing today?

Are you relying on the beauty of the flowers to lead you through life today or are you relying on the One who created the flowers?

Power Verses:
Psalms 84:11, “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.

Romans 8:32, “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"

Deuteronomy 30:9, " Then the Lord your God will make you most prosperous in all the work of your hands and in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your land. The Lord will again delight in you and make you prosperous, just as he delighted in your fathers”

Boy Girl Relationship

2007-08-09T20:51:00.000+08:00

Many a young person have allowed themselves to be deceived by the influence of friends, human emotions and fairy tale romance, into choosing the "wrong" mate. If your feet are not sincerely and prayerfully planted in the Word of God you are a target for deception.

If your relationship with Jesus Christ doesn’t take preeminence over all other human relationships you are at an even greater risk for deception. Jesus Christ must have first place in your life. Being the Lord of your life He will guide you in your choice of a mate.

Solomon knew, from experience the sorrow of living with a mis-matched mate. In the days when God "permitted" Polygamy Solomon had a thousand mates, resulting in almost a thousand mis-marriages. And the spiritual toll it took on his relationship with God was disastrous.

It’s my prayer that the Lord may remind every young person and their parents of what He has spoken in the Scriptures and revealed through His Servant the Prophet in this deceiving age; and to help guide you in your search for your predestinated mate.

In a crazy mixed-up world, surrounded by mixed-up churches with mixed-up theology, there has sounded forth a "Divinely Vindicated" Voice to answer our questions and dissolve our doubts, by taking us back to the "Divinely Vindicated" Word of God. To answer our questions and dissolve our doubts concerning the subject of Boy - Girl Relationships let’s consult that "Vindicated Voice" that has sounded forth the last dispensation of God’s Truth to the Gentiles.

Let God answer the following questions for you:

1. How To Choose A "till death do us part" mate?

2. Once Engaged (Betrothed) - Can It Be Broken?

3. What About Displays Of Intimacy In Public?

4. What About Believer/Unbeliever Marriages?

5. What About Inter-racial Marriages?

May the grant us the courage, by Grace, to accept the Truth and a willing spirit to heed His counsel. In Scripture, it was Samson who forsook the counsel of God by giving his "strength" to God, but his "heart" to a woman". God wants first place in your heart.

In your search for a mate you begin with Christ. Sit at His feet awhile in prayer and meditation, making your own calling and election sure, and asking for His guidance and wisdom in finding the "right" companion. Marriage is not meant to be "horizontal" only - just between a man and a woman. There is a vertical aspect to marriage. It is this aspect which brings a balance in any relationship. That vertical aspect is God. A Christian Marriage is 'two hearts' united in faith toward 'One God', who alone is able to keep them from falling into the snare and trap of the Devil.

Take some time to seriously consider what "qualities" you feel are necessary in the individual whom you expect to live closely with for the rest of your life. NEVER judge his or her Christian testimony or experience by church attendance, his or her knowledge or enthusiasm during Bible/Message discussions - watch their actions and/or re-actions to the challenges of everyday living - Do you see genuine humility, faith and absolute trust in God? Are they seeking to please God, first and foremost in all they do? NEVER allow a potential mate to usurp the "headship" of Christ in your own life or hinder your relationship with Him.

These things are very important if your relationship is to experience victory in the midst of the trials and challenges which comes with marriage - especially in these last days. Learn to discern between "fairy tale" and "reality" romance. Know what you expect to find in your partner after the initial burst of romance and the excitement of being "in love" has settled down to "normal" everyday living of raising the children, balancing the budget and expressing love for one another in more mature ways.

Remember, this is a union that MUST continue so long as life shall last. If you choose a house and afterwards feel it is not suitable, you may sell and buy another; if an employee fails to meet the expectations of the employer, that employee can be replace. But should husband or wife find that they have been mistaken in their choice, there is no alternative open to them. They may deeply and bitterly regret their decision, but there is no place for repentance. "Marriage, according to God's original plan, is a world-without-end bargain". This is God's perfect will.

The Bible clearly states that "God hates divorce". In Malachi 2:16 (Amplified) we read, "For the Lord, the God of Israel, says, "I hate divorce and marital separation and him who covers his garment [his wife] with violence, Therefore, keep a watch upon your spirit [that it may be controlled by my Spirit], that you deal not treacherously and faithlessly [with your marriage mate]." Based on this Scripture, I think we can safely say that there will be no divorce in the world to come.

In this present evil world the only Biblical justification whereby a man is "permitted" to "put away" [divorce] his wife is "for the cause of fornication" (Matthew 19:9). If, after marriage the man discovers that his bride is not a virgin, he is, according to the words of Jesus in Matthew 19 and other Scriptures, permitted to divorce her. If she repent of her sin then the man would be obligated to "forgive" her as Christ forgives His Bride.

Remember, according to the Bible, the man can divorce the woman [only because of fornication], but the woman cannot divorce the man. God will still hold the man accountable for his unconfessed sins of fornication (or adultery), but still the woman cannot "put him away". Referring to his sin with Bathsheba, David said, "Against Thee [the Lord], and Thee only have I sin and done this evil in Thy sight....." The Bible further states in Matthew 19 that "whosoever marrieth her that is divorced doth commit ADULTERY." Here, it is clearly stated that the Lord forbids a man to marry a divorced woman. We're talking SERIOUS things here. "Choose you this day whom ye will serve" - the Word of God, the word of a church or your own ideas. [Joshua 24:15].

In Matthew 19:8 Jesus, reminds us that "from the beginning it was not so". From the beginning it was "one" man and "one" woman; and divorce wasn't even in the picture. The Prophet and Messenger of Malachi 4 was sent to "restore ALL things" and take us back to God’s "original" plan and purpose.

Concerning the revelation given to the prophet regarding "Marriage and Divorce" many people today take "one" aspect of what he preached and build a doctrine, attempting to justify divorce and re-marriage, appeasing the conscience of those who want "out of a marriage" for reasons other than what the Scriptures allow. They fail to take into consideration what he said BEFORE and AFTER he preached the Message entitled "Marriage and Divorce". There are things he mentioned previous to that Message which he DID NOT CHANGE during or after the February 22nd, 1965 Revelation on the Marriage and Divorce issue.

Notice the following quotes from two messages by Brother Branham, preached 3 months and 10 months AFTER preaching on "Marriage And Divorce".

Now, it's a serious thing when we go to choose a wife. For the vows here is until death do we part. That's how we should keep it. And you take that vow before God that only death will separate you. ... A man in his right mind that's planning a future, that he should choose that wife very careful; be careful what you're doing. And a woman choosing a husband, or accepting the choice of a husband, should be real careful what she's doing and especially in these days. A man should think and pray before he chooses a wife.

If God could give a man anything better than salvation, He give him a wife. See? And so then, if He could give anything better, He would've done it. And then, to see some of them turn and don't even act like a wife, unloyal to their marriage vows and their husbands the same. You remember, you're bound as long as you live to one another. What God joins on earth is joined in heaven also. See?

There’s no way around it - these statements have to be taken into account and included with the other things Bro. Branham preached in his Message on "Marriage And Divorce" We have to face "Bible facts" and "let the Message speak"..

It would be great agony indeed to wake up after the matrimonial knot has been tied and find that a life-time mistake has been made. Unfortunately, some make their mistake 'before' the matrimonial knot has been tied. I, therefore, advise every young man and woman to reflect prayerfully upon the sort of person likely to prove "suitable for life". As Believers, standing for righteousness, we MUST act with wisdom, lest we bring reproach on the Gospel. Therefore it is of utmost importance that you NOT RUSH into any relationship. "Wait on the Lord.....Wait, I say, on the Lord" (Psalms 27:14).

You must look beyond the initial "best foot forward" relationship and observe your potential companion in the different situations and circumstances of life to make sure he/she possesses genuine, out of the heart, Christian (Christ-like) qualities. Use "Spiritual discernment to protect yourself from making a serious mistake, by choosing a partner based on deceptive or pretended qualities.

Above all other characteristics a life-time mate must possess:

1. .....a "living" relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, a Spiritual mind, even the mind of Christ, with all humility.
2. .....a heart controlled by the Love of God, always putting God first, the body of believers second, themselves last.
3. .....a godly life, lived by the power of the Holy Ghost, endeavoring [by Grace] to daily exercise themselves unto godliness (holiness and reverence toward God and the things of God).

For a Believer to knowingly enter into a relationship with a make-believer or a non-spiritual, lukewarm church goer is religious insanity. Such a union cannot be sanctioned by God. I remind you again of the Scripture quoted above wherein Paul admonished the Believers in his day: "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers:;" or make-believers.

Never allow yourself to be cajoled by unconverted would-be mates, persuaded by worldly relations, or led by sentimental fairy tale fantasy, or, worst still, animal passions, into a union with the 'wrong' companion. You put your relationship with God at risk. Christless unions produce Christless families, living Christless lives, traveling to a Christless destiny. Remember, in mixed marriages (believer with unbeliever), more often than not the Believer goes over to the enemy. Error is contagious but Truth is not. Let the Love of God anoint your phileo love and let the Dove of Divine Love lead.

I urge you to seriously consider the following counsel and allow it to govern your decisions. Remember also that in this link we are not discussing the subject of "Marriage And Divorce", but rather making right decisions before marriage.

Life Story Of William Branham - 08/20/50a
And notice this one thing now. Later on down through life, I had girlfriends like all boys. And I remember I was a little skeptic of girls; I seen the way women act. And frankly, I never did have very much use for women. I don't mean you sisters, now, but just to see how untrue they were, some of them.

Life Story Of William Branham - 08/20/50a
And I said I'd never get married; never want nothing to do with one [women]. I'll be a trapper and a hunter all my life, and I'll never have nothing with the girl. When I was even seventeen, eighteen years old, I'd pass down the street. I'd see a girl on one side, and I thought she was going say something, I'd cross over and go over on the other side, because I just didn't want nothing to do. That's all, didn't want to hook up - caught up with it or anything, I wanted to keep away from it. And so I went ahead. But finally I found a girl that was a real girl. She was a Christian. She afterwards become my wife.

Scarred

2007-08-07T23:20:00.000+08:00

By Susanne Scheppmann

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)

Devotion:
The bullet grazed across my friend’s cheek upward toward his forehead. The physician in the emergency room told him that he was lucky to be alive. My friend just shrugged his shoulders and exited the sliding door. I could see revenge in the depth of his eyes, framed by the purplish-red slice that would soon become a scar for life.

I wish that was the only scar my friend brandished. However, pockmarks from the methamphetamines mix with the freckles on his face. Tracks the size of pinpricks run up and down his inner arm from heroin needles. Hepatitis wastes his liver. And those are only the physical marrings. The scars of drug abuse penetrate his heart and mind.

The fire of hatred and revenge sears my friend’s soul. The years of drug abuse twists his thoughts. His personality is lost in the torment of heroin highs and downer lows. Peace of mind eludes him as the potent drugs delude his senses.

Thankfully, no one - not even my addict friend - is beyond redemption and healing. Jesus loved the scarred people of society. He hung on the cross for every drug addict. He died for those filled with hate. He rose from the grave, so that every drug dealer could experience the full extent of God’s love through His nail-scarred hands.

Lord Jesus, Help my friend to discover and believe that You were pierced for his transgressions. Grant him the understanding that You were crushed for his iniquities. I ask that my friend accept You as Savior and be healed by Your wounds. Touch my friend with Your nail-scarred hands. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Search your local library or the Internet for information on helping family or friends with drug addictions.

Set an appointed time each day to pray exclusively for your relative or friend to find freedom from the drug addiction through Jesus Christ.

Reflections:
What words of encouragement can I give them?

How can I offer assistance without enabling my friend or relative?

Power Verses:
Isaiah 61:1, “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” (NIV)

Galatians 5:1, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (NIV)

A Teachable Heart

2007-08-05T01:09:00.000+08:00

A Teachable Heart
By Lysa TerKeurst

Isaiah 2:3, “He will teach us his ways so that we may walk in his paths.” (NIV)

Devotion:
As a mom, I often find myself in the role of teacher and instructor. Whether I am showing them how to tie their shoes, how to ride a bike, or how to finish their homework, I love teaching my kids how to do new things. I rejoice when they succeed and try my best to guide them in the way that is right and best for them. However, my teaching and instruction can only work if they are willing to listen and receive what I have to share.

Today’s key verse tells us that God teaches and instruct us, His children, how to do godly things so we may walk in the paths that are right according to His Word. Just as I want my children to follow my instruction so they are successful, our Heavenly Father also wants to see us succeed. But in order for that to happen, we must also be willing to receive and take in the things God has to share with us. Thankfully, He loves us enough to do whatever it takes to keep us on the right path -- a path that leads to Him.

Isaiah 28:26 says, “His God instructs him and teaches him the right way.” Interestingly enough, the next two verses that follow describe the methods a farmer must use to harvests a crop in order to make it into something worth eating. Here are some of the ways different crops are brought into abundant fruition:

Caraway – beaten with a rod
Cumin – beaten with a stick
Grain – must be ground

Threshing is a process of beating or separating the straw from the seed or grain of the crop, so that the farmer is able to get rid of the parts of the plant that are not useful. Verse 28 sums up the process by telling us that once the separation is completed the farmer can stop beating his crop. Sometimes, in order for us to become people worth using to spread God’s fame, we must receive discipline from Him and that doesn’t feel good. As moms, we know that to bring up a well-behaved child, we must discipline them sometimes. It is not the best part of our job, but it is necessary. God feels the same way about you and me.

In Deuteronomy 8:3, Moses tells the Israelite people, “He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” (NIV).

We can find God’s instruction throughout the Bible. If we want to know how to make our plans succeed, we can go to His Word for answers. He is there for us just as we are there for our kids. His character is woven into every story; His wisdom etched in every line of the text. All we have to do is look.

Unfortunately, when we ignore the instruction God maps out for us in His Word, we end up having to learn through a harder path that may be much more painful. That is why having a teachable heart is so important. As I long for my children to be continually open to my instruction for their benefit, God wants us to be open to His teaching for our benefit. The farmer who continually has to thresh his crop brings about no harvest. Don’t give God a reason to keep threshing you before you make an impact for Him. Will you be willing to humble yourself and submit to all the incredible things that He has to teach you today?

Dear Lord, search my heart today and show me where pride has kept me from learning the good things You want to teach me. My desire is to have a teachable heart, so I can succeed. I know that instruction and discipline doesn’t always feel good, but my greater desire is to know You and I’m willing to go to the threshing floor if that’s what it takes to bear fruit. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Read Psalm 25:4-10 and Psalm 32:8. Write down your answers to the following questions:

When your plans fail, what does that mean to you?

Does it mean your plans were wrong?

Does it mean that God did not bless your plans?

Reflections:
What is your definition of having a teachable heart?

In what areas do you struggle with being teachable?

What steps do you need to take in order to be “taught”?

Power Verses:
Proverbs 15:5, “A fool spurns his father’s discipline, but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.” (NIV)

Isaiah 28:26, 27b-28a, “His God instructs him and teaches him the right way…caraway is beaten out with a rod, and cumin with a stick. Grain must be ground to make bread; so one does not go on threshing it forever.” (NIV)

Afraid

2007-08-05T01:05:00.000+08:00

By Luann Prater

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

Devotion:
I was afraid of you. Yes, you. Do you know how long God has tried to work completely through me and yet was continually blocked because of my fear…of you? Most of my life my confident exterior has been a mask, like siding slapped on an imperfect house. I’ve been here, you just couldn’t see me. You saw the white vinyl siding that looked bright and cheery, but you didn’t see the real me.

If I dared rip off the façade you would see my rotted frame, gaping holes and leaky life. I was afraid you would run screaming at the sight, if you saw me exposed. I was afraid of your reaction.

I had lived with that shambled life for so long I couldn’t imagine myself as a new creation. I pictured the old hiding behind the veneer. What would you truly think of me if you knew the intimate details of my past? I was afraid to find out, so I hid it from you.

The Holy Spirit tried to comfort me, speaking softly to my heart, “You are a new creation. Live like it.” I would rebut, “Have you seen my past?” Then I would dutifully pull out my wallet-sized memories and begin flipping through them as a reminder of just how decayed my life had been.

I would question, “Do you see this? Do you understand how people react to this sort of mess? They don’t embrace it, they separate from it! They run from this!” Timidly I cried, “Can’t you see this rotting foundation? See the lies that leaked in over here? Surely you can see right through these holes in my judgment!”

“Here is what I see,” the Holy Spirit whispered, “a new creation.” And He pulled out a mirror and held it up to my heart. The images that burned in my brain seemed to be blocking my view. They fogged the mirror. Then a nail-scarred hand gently wiped the fog away and I saw a snowflake; first one, then another. As the reflection of my heart panned out, the view became crystal clear. There was no run-down frame wrapped in white vinyl. No! For the first time I could see it, a brand new home glistening on a solid foundation surrounded by a blanket of white! And it was breathtaking!

Was this really MY heart? Streak-free windows allowed me to peak in at the brand new furnishings of peace, joy and kindness that were scattered in each room. For years Christ stood on the outside of my broken down heart, knocking. But once I let him in, all things were changed. I became a new creation.

So how about you? Are you afraid? As I speak to women across the country I find that 90% can’t let go of their past. They are afraid others will condemn them. Romans 8:1 tells us there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

We each have a past, remember ALL have sinned, but you no longer need to be afraid of your dark past. Ephesians 5:8 promises, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” You don’t have to be afraid. Christ is calling you to live in fearless freedom.

Dear Lord, Thank You for throwing our sin in the sea of forgetfulness and making us bright shining children of light. Help us each day to walk in that light and see Your reflection in our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Reflections:
What triggers memories of the past?

How has your life changed since you became a new creation?

Who can you trust to share a story from your past? God will use your story to help others find hope.

Power Verses:
1 Peter 2:10, “Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy." (NIV)

John 8:12, “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (NIV)

Ephesians 4:22-24, “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

A Strong Enough Rope

2007-08-01T20:49:00.000+08:00

By Amy Carroll

“If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! … Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:10- 11 (NIV)

Devotion:
I really hit the end of myself after 2 ½ miles. My breathing wasn’t the problem this time, but I my legs felt like lead. I gasped to my friend, “Rhonda, I’ve got to stop and walk.” She reminded me to stop thinking about this difficult run. I needed to focus on finishing for my friend who had died from cancer and for my friend who had lived. Rhonda urged me to praise God for the use of my legs and the strength of my body. I turned my thoughts to Jesus and kept running.

Even when I’m just walking through my daily routine, my focus often wanders. I can start off a morning with glorious prayer and Bible study only to become clouded over by noon with the demands of life. Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 to “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” (NIV) During my race I pondered the intentional act of turning my full attention on God. Sometimes it takes a faithful friend to remind me.

About a fourth of a mile later, I turned to Rhonda and pleaded, “I’ve got to stop and walk….REALLY this time!” She reminded me that Satan wants to steal, kill and destroy. This time he was after my dream of being able to complete a 5K run. Are you in the midst of a spiritual battle? Is Satan attacking your family, your job, your body or your mind? Grab a godly friend and pray! So many times I become unaware of my enemy as I become consumed by my circumstances. A good friend protects my back with hers as we face outward and swing our swords with the power of God’s Word and His presence. We do have an enemy, but our God is stronger. My friend Rhonda reminded me of this fact as we ran onward.

Homeowners in the neighborhood had turned on their hoses or were wielding super soakers to refresh the runners as we passed. Rhonda encouraged me to run through the streams. Toward the end when I began to despair of finishing, Rhonda looked up. “Did you feel that sudden breeze?” she asked. “God knew that you needed a cool breeze to be able to finish, and He sent it!” she rejoiced. I hadn’t even noticed. I was bogged down in my own misery again, but I took notice of the breeze as she spoke and lifted my dragging feet a little higher. Thank goodness for friends who point out God’s goodness!! Even in the darkest times, God sends His children glimmers of light if we are watching. The problem is the watching. We need friends to remind us of His promises like, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5b).

We were close to the finish line, but I just couldn’t go any more. I took two walking steps and Rhonda immediately grabbed my arm. “Don’t stop! We’re almost there! Your husband and kids are waiting for you!” Even now when I had given up on myself, she wouldn’t let me quit. I ran on toward the finish line and threw up my arms to praise Him as I finished. Sobs caught in my throat and erupted when I finally fell into my husband’s arms. A former couch potato had finished the race!! The main lesson I had learned was clear. God created us for fellowship with Him and with others. I absolutely would not have finished the race without the encouragement, refreshment and prodding provided by my friend. It is the intertwining of our lives with God’s and others that gives us a rope strong enough to sustain us through even the hardest times.

Dear Lord, Thank You for the godly friends that You have provided in my life. Help me to also reach out to others with encouragement, refreshment and prodding. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Reach out to a friend in a practical way today with a phone call, a card or a thoughtful gift.

If you do not belong to a church, begin to visit and pray for a place to create friendships.

Reflections:
Have I allowed my friends to know about my struggles so that they can help me?

Which of my friends needs godly support in her struggle?

Power Verses:
Acts 2:42, “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (NIV)

Proverbs 17:17, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (NIV)

Do You Hear Him Calling?

2007-07-31T21:12:00.000+08:00

By Tracie Miles

“And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep”. Luke 15:5-6 (HCSB)

Devotion:
My family recently went on a vacation to the Caribbean. One beautiful day we ventured onto the white sands and crystal waters, prepared for a wonderful day of sun and fun. This beach offered lots of family activities including paddle boats, kayaks, snorkeling and a water trampoline. Two of my children were not interested in jumping on the water trampoline due to it’s’ long distance from the shore. However, my fearless ten year old daughter was pleading with me to allow her to play on it, assuring me it was perfectly safe. Against my better judgment, but being confident of her swimming abilities, I agreed. About fifteen minutes after she had swum off into the distance, I lost sight of her. I tried to distinguish her little head from all the other bobbing heads in the ocean, but they all looked the same so far away. Out of sheer panic I convinced my husband to swim out and look for her.

After what seemed like forever, he finally reached the trampoline. Although I could not see his face, I could see his body language change as he searched for her on, around, and even under this huge blown up water toy. He jumped off the trampoline and began swimming to another water activity even further into the ocean. He was yelling out her name. Total strangers joined in and began calling her name, as well. Meanwhile I was begging the beach guard to take the rescue boat out. He finally did, but could not locate her. Twenty more minutes passed. I was in a sheer state of panic and despair, tears streaming down my face, barely breathing, and repeating out loud, the words, “No! No! No!” My other two children clung to me, crying and worrying about their sister. My oldest daughter was blaming herself, regretting that she had not gone with her sister to play in the water. In my heart, I fought off the fear that my daughter had perished in the strong currents. I prayed and cried to God for his mercy on her, not to take her little life, but instead to save her. Rescue her. Bring her back to me safely.

Minutes later, as my heart was beating out of my chest, I saw them - my husband, and my little girl, swimming towards the shore. My legs felt weak and I dropped to my knees. I thanked God for this blessing and for His mercy on us. When they finally arrived to shore, I grabbed my precious daughter and held her tightly in my arms. Her confusion quickly turned to tears, because all the while, she had just been having fun and had no idea that we were fretting over where she was. She had been completely unaware that we were frantically searching for her.

Later, as I thought back on this scary ordeal, I thought about how God must ache for His lost children. He loves His children more than I can love my own, and scripture tells us He is yearning to rescue those who are lost (Psalm 50:14-15). Many people live day after day; completely unaware that God is searching for them and frantically calling their name. If you have never truly accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, dear friend, know that He is searching for YOU today, and He wants you to find Him. If you feel like you are drowning in the sea of life, take heart in the truth that Jesus is searching for you, anxiously waiting for the moment when your eyes will meet, and He can wrap His loving arms around you, and rescue you. He is patiently waiting for you to hear Him calling your name, so that He can rejoice in knowing that you have been found. God knows YOUR name… He is calling YOU… are you listening?

Dear Lord, search my heart, call my name, and help me to hear Your loving voice. I want to know You. I am in desperate need of rescue from the churning sea of life. Rescue me Father. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Spend time in prayer and ask God for the discernment to clearly hear His voice.
If you feel you are lost, and in need of a Savior, visit the Do You Know Him link above.

Reflections:
Is my heart open to Christ, so my ears can hear His voice?

Power Verses:
1 Corinthians 5:3, “But the man who loves God is known by God.” (NIV)

John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” (NIV)

Festival of Praise 2007

2007-07-29T22:55:00.000+08:00

Day of His Power

2007-07-29T22:49:00.000+08:00

2007-07-27T21:31:00.000+08:00

Missing the Forest for the Trees
By Lysa TerKeurst

“What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart.” 2 Corinthians 5:11b-12 (NIV)

Devotion:
Sometimes I’m guilty of being such a rule follower that I tend to miss the forest for the trees, as the old saying chides. I look at things from too narrow a perspective, only to miss the bigger picture. It’s easy to slip into the mode of looking at but not really seeing others. Our hectic schedules leave little white space to venture beyond the surface issues. Because of this, it’s easy to pay attention only to the negative. We also have a tendency to cast judgment on those whose hearts we cannot understand. We are guilty of simply being human because, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

For example, I recently gave my children a Language Arts assignment. They were to write a one-page paper about a place they wanted to visit and what they would do there. As they turned in their papers I was intrigued by their responses.

I was instantly frustrated with my daughter, Ashley’s (9 years old) paper because the city name was misspelled. I also found many grammatical errors. I thought, “She doesn’t think enough of this assignment to do her best work. Is she really struggling with spelling and grammar or is this a heart issue? What does this say about her work ethic? What does this say about her character? What does this say about her educational future?”

I sent her to her room to re-write the paper – and do her best this time. Then I noticed her original work tossed aside on the counter, so I read it one more time. Here is an excerpt:

Monrwia (Monrovia)

I want to go to Africa and see the litter (little) kids in the orfneg (orphanage). And brig (bring) them sutuff (stuff) like clous (clothes), toys, shous (shoes), blakits (blankets), and moms and dads. I want to pick up the litter (little) kids and hug them. Maybe I can be an ortnesig (orphanage) helper one day and make it a good place.

Talk about not seeing the forest for the trees! I had totally missed the beauty in Ashley’s heart because I was looking at the surface, catching every mistake I came across. Her compassionate heart was plain to God, and putting her desire on paper should have made it plain to me as well. But I was so busy worrying about the spelling errors that I callously overlooked her heartfelt response.

Ashley wasn’t trying to impress me with her grammatical skills; she was sharing a God-given desire with me. It was a chance for me to take pride in the way God is shaping her for a possible future ministering to orphanage-bound children. She needed me to see her heart, but I only saw her writing flaws as they appeared on paper.

Let me encourage you to learn from my mistake. Capture a moment today where you really see someone else. Look beyond their surface mistakes to see their heart. Maybe it’s your child. Or maybe it’s a spouse, neighbour or friend.

Heavenly Father, forgive me for often making judgments of others based on outward appearances. Help me to take time to really see their hearts and understand where they are coming from, and when they align with the things of you, to affirm and support their choices. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Spend today focusing on someone’s heart. Don’t focus on what they look like, act like, or talk like. Don’t let Satan tempt you into misdirecting your attention towards superficial things. Dig past all the stuff on the outside, all the stuff screaming for your attention. Dig deep. Listen. Ask questions. Pray with them and hear their souls echoing in their prayers. Push out the busyness and sit.

Reflections:
What prevents you from really hearing someone’s heart? Is it busyness? A pre-existing negative attitude toward them? The desire to make yourself look good?

Choose to take captive these potentially dangerous factors and make them obedient to God’s will – His desire to look at the heart.

Power Verses:
1 Samuel 16:7, “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (NIV)

1 Chronicles 28:9, “For the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts.” (NIV)

John 7:24, “Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment.” (NIV)

Romans 2:29, “Circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God.” (NIV)

2007-07-26T23:03:00.000+08:00

Feeling Different
By Laura Boggess, She Speaks graduate

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.” Revelation 2:17 (NIV)

“If I could change three things about me, they would be my hair, my freckles, and my name.”

I looked in the rear view mirror at my redheaded, freckle-faced boy named Theodore, and my heart ached.

“I love those things about you. They’re part of what makes you who you are. Why would you want to change them?”

“Because they’re different. Everybody else just looks normal, and has normal names. Not like me.”

I chose my words carefully, trying not to chastise or judge. Something in his tone reminded me of a little girl I used to know. A little girl who hated her freckles too.

“That’s what makes them so special. Believe me, sweetie, it’s not a good thing to be like everyone else. That’s boring. That’s why God made us all different. It keeps the world interesting.”

“Oh, Mom, you just don’t understand.”

Some truths are given little credence when spoken from a mother’s lips. No matter what I said, he remained unconvinced. I felt like I had failed him somehow.

My son is not the only one who struggles with feeling “different”. Countless adults battle feelings of inadequacy every day when they look in the mirror. Whether it’s that extra ten pounds, an undesired birthmark, or a secret emotional scar; we all have some mark on our being that we are sure others will revile.

Our differences can leave us feeling insecure and alone. Still, there is One who celebrates our uniqueness, One who is charmed by our oddities and loves even our scars. This One sees every part of us and still calls us beautiful. He is El Roi, the God who sees.

Yet, we, like my son, turn our ears away from our loving Parent. It’s too difficult to grasp that He loves us with all of our flaws and imperfections. We say, “Oh, Father, you just don’t understand.” But we are wrong. He understands all too well.

Scripture tells us, “…He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering…” (Isaiah 53:2b-3a NIV).

Yes, He understands how it feels to be different.

That week, I prayed for God to help me explain this truth to my son in words that he would hear. I wanted so desperately for him to understand how special he is, not just to me, but to his Heavenly Father, as well.

The Lord is faithful, and He placed Revelation 2:17 in my hands. I sat my son down and shared this scripture with him, explaining that God has a special name set aside just for him. I told him that no matter what he is called during his time here on earth, there is a name waiting for him in heaven. A name that will have nothing but love attached to it.

While we were at it, I read him Psalm 56:8, and told him that God loves him so much, He keeps track of every tear that has fallen from his eyes. Then: Luke 12:7; He knows the number of hairs on our heads. (No matter what color they are!) And He probably counts freckles for fun.

We are set apart, dear ones, but we are not alone. Our Heavenly Father sees us... all of us ... every secret scar and past sin... every freckle that has ever graced a nose... each and every red hair.

And He is “enthralled” by our beauty. (Psalm 45:11NIV)

Dear Lord, I know with my mind that you love me. Help me to know this with all of my heart. Help me to see my differences as you see them. Show me how to help others to accept the beauty of their differences by loving them as you do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Read the scriptures in today’s devotional and take them to heart.
Make a list of all the things about yourself that have ever caused you to feel different or ashamed. Write down today’s scriptures and place this paper over the first one. God’s love covers you in all things.

Ephesians 5:-2, “Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (NIV)

1 John 3:1-2, “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” (NIV)

2007-07-25T20:46:00.000+08:00

Lighten Up
By Wendy Pope

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest ([relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29 (AMP)

Devotion:
The writer of Hebrews describes me perfectly in 5:11, "but it is hard to explain because you are slow to learn." I describe myself to many as SLD, Spiritually Learning Disabled. When God is trying to teach me something and sees that I am just not getting it, He - through His grace and mercy - allows me to live it. Can anyone else relate?

Recently I was asked to speak at church and the theme of the day was taking on the yoke of the Lord. In preparation, God taught me the lesson and is still teaching me the lesson of trusting Him enough to lay down all the things that are going on in my life. I must allow His perfectly fitting yoke to lead me to a place of blessed rest in the assurance that He is in control.

Let's examine today's key scripture and see what the Lord's yoke is like. The Lord's yoke is:
· Easy
· Light
· A place to learn
· A place to find rest, relief, ease, refreshment, recreation and blessed quiet
· Useful, good (not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing), comfortable, gracious, and pleasant

That sounds like a yoke that I would like to wear. How about you? Contrary to modern fashion designers who claim "one size fits all" on the label of their garment, God's yoke is truly "one size fits all." Eugene Peterson translates our key verse this way:
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me???watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly" (MSG).
Try it on his yoke. Keep it on. Don't go shopping for another garment to wear such as pride, control, or self-sufficiency. This garment never wears out and doesn't need to be laundered. The God of the universe is inviting you wear His yoke and to keep company with Him. Come on! Try it on for size!

Dear Lord, I want to surrender control of all things to You right now. Lovingly and gently place Your yoke upon me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Write down the three things that are troubling you most. Read them aloud. Pray today's prayer aloud, replacing the words “all things” with your three things. As you dress each day, symbolically put on the yoke of the Lord and read today's key verse.

Reflections:
Describe the yoke you are currently wearing.
What hinders you from wearing the Lord's light yoke?

Power Verses:
Psalm 25:9, "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way." (NIV)

Matthew 11:28-30, "’Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.’" (NASB)

Colossian 1:29, "To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me." (NIV).

2007-07-24T20:27:00.000+08:00

Lord, What Should I Do?
By Micca Campbell

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3: 15-17(NIV)

Devotion:
Let’s be honest. When it comes to making decisions, we tend to base them on our emotions and our thoughts. This is what I call using our “feelers” and “thinkers.” You’ve done it. I’ve done it. Haven’t we all said something such as, I’m just not “feeling” it, so I’m not going to send my kid to that school. Or what about, I ” think” it’s the right thing to do.

I’m not saying that emotions and thoughts are entirely wrong; they’re just not entirely reliable. However, the principles of God are. So we need to trade in our indicators for God’s indicators. In today’s key verse, God lays out a map that will help us make good decisions based on His reliable principles.

First, our key verse tells us to let the word of Christ dwell in us. The truth of God is whatever God is saying to you. When you hide God’s Word in your heart, the Holy Spirit will use it to guide you in decision making. So before you decide who to date, what to do for a living, or which house to buy, listen to what God says first. Then compare what you think is right to what God says is right in His Word. The proverbs warn us that “there is a way that seems right to man [and woman] but the end is death” (Proverbs 14:12, NIV). God’s way always leads to a good decision and a great life.

Second, we’re told to let the peace of Christ rule or reign in our hearts. The Greek word for rule is the word we would use for referee. A referee is someone who wears a whistle. If the ball is about to go out of bounds, the referee blows the whistle. You and I have a heavenly referee, the Holy Spirit, who gives us a great deal of freedom to live our lives. The Christian life is not a restricted journey. We are free to live and move and make choices. Although, when we are about to step out of bounds, the Holy Spirit blows his whistle as a warning. That warning comes often in the form of a lack of peace.

Finally, today’s verses tell us that whatever we do, to do it in the name of the Lord. If I can’t take the name of Jesus and stamp it on what I’m about to do, say, or where I am about to go without embarrassment or apology, then its best to back off. It’s not worth it, whatever it is. If you and I have the nature of Christ living in us then it doesn’t make sense for either of us to do something that isn’t consistent with His nature. So, if we can’t stamp His name all over the decision we’re about to make, then we should not do it.

Some of us today have families in trouble, and we’re trying to figure out which way to go. Others may be struggling emotionally or with financial decisions. There are those who are facing their career ahead, and others who are facing their retirement. Decisions need to be made. Yes, you have feelings and thoughts about these situations. They are not entirely wrong; they’re just not entirely trustworthy. Only the principles of God are entirely dependable. So take God’s map and let the spirit of God walk you through it. He’ll lead you in the way you should go.

Dear Lord, I don’t want to do anything that I can’t put Your name on. Thank You for providing a way for me to make good decisions while glorifying Your name. As I meditate on Your Word, speak to my heart and guide me with Your peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Begin studying and meditating on God’s Word today so that He can speak to your heart about any situation you face. Remember to compare what you think to what God says. Wait for peace, and be sure that you can stamp His name on it. If you can, then go for it!

Reflections:
What is you method for decision making? How has your method been a benefit to you?

How will following God’s principles for decision making benefit your life?

Who do you think is wiser when it come to the decisions you need to make in life: you or God?

Power Verses:
Psalm 32:8, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” (NIV)

John 16:13, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” (NIV)

Isaiah 58:11, “The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” (NIV)

Luke 1:79, “to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace." (NIV)

2007-07-23T23:10:00.000+08:00

No Matter What
By MaryBeth Whalen

“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.” Ephesians 4:14-15 (NIV)

A few months ago, my husband and I attended a Dave Ramsey seminar. Dave is known for his financial topics, but on that day he said something that I have been pondering ever since. Dave said that he taught his children in their teens to establish “no matter what’s” in life. He was referencing a situation in dating, but this principle could be applied to many different situations. I wondered what my “no matter what’s” are. After spending some time thinking about that, I thought perhaps I should share it here, so you could also be challenged to set up your “no matter what’s.”
In the area of finances, my husband and I have determined to never again go into debt, no matter what. This means going without and planning ahead. It means staying in a house that is cramped, and driving older cars. It means taking large portions of any money we receive and socking it into the debt we currently have until we have paid it off.

In the area of marriage, my husband and I are committed to each other, no matter what. This means letting some things go when I really want to say something. It means embracing each other’s insecurities and inadequacies. It means loving each other even when we don’t like each other. It means forgiveness in some pretty hard areas. We are married, no matter what. We are committed to that fact???even when we don’t feel very committed to each other.

Most importantly, I am focused on God, no matter what. God and His word are what I turn to for wisdom and instruction in how to do life. God provides my comfort and strength. He grows and stretches me when I need it. He rocks me in His arms when I need it. I find rest and hope in Him. I have learned what it means to lean on His everlasting arms, as the old hymn says. I must walk out His call on my life no matter what. As I have learned to do this, I have also learned I can rely on an unchanging God as the culture seems to spin faster out of control.

God has used my “no matter what’s” to shape who He wants me to be. I know, above all else, I will continue to stay focused on these “no matter what’s” as the future unfolds. Have you considered how your “no matter what’s” could affect the lives of others???your children, your co-workers, your spouse or your neighbor? Look at where God is leading in your life, and how He might use you to help someone else form some “no matter what’s” of their own.

Dear Lord, Please show me what my personal “no matter what’s” should be. I want to live a life of conviction and commitment to the things that matter. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
In your journal, write down some “no matter what’s” that you already have in place.

Now write some that you would like to implement in your life.

What actions can you take this week to begin to do so?

Reflections:
Are you being tossed about by the waves? Or are you living a life of conviction? How are you modeling this for the people you love?

Power Verses:
Ephesians 6:11, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” (NIV)

James 1:6, “But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” (NIV)

Psalm 119:104, “I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path.” (NIV)

2007-07-22T14:36:00.000+08:00

Planted by Water
By Glynnis Whitwer

“He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:8 (NIV)

My daughter Cathrine came running into the kitchen saying that the flowers needed watering. Without waiting for my help, Cathrine grabbed a cooking pot, filled it with water and ran back outside. Curious, I followed to see which flowers worried her.
I walked outside to see Cathrine knelt beside an iris, carefully scooping water into her cupped hands and pouring it over the flowers. Over and over she poured water over a wilting blossom. Cathrine knew the flowers needed nutrition, she knew they needed water, and she was trying to help them in the most obvious way.
I know what it’s like to try and water something from the outside. I’ve tried to nourish my faith that way. I’ve done it by quickly reading a Bible passage without applying it to my life. I’ve sung the worship songs while planning lunch. And I’ve heard a sermon and thought it applied to someone else. I’ve also prayed on the run without spending time in quiet contemplation. Yes, I know what it’s like to try and nurture something from the outside. It doesn’t work very well.

It’s at those times of shallow watering that my spiritual roots curl their toes and shrink from healthy growth. Jeremiah 17:8 speaks of a completely different type of watering and growth … the kind that’s deep and rich: “He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit."

This passage depicts a tree that is “planted” by water so its roots grow deep and strong. Planted. What a concept. The only way to get roots that are deep is to stay planted by water. This Scripture invites me to place my trust in God, and inspires me to plant myself in His Word so that its truths wash over and through me. I’m drawn to rest in God’s presence while my soul is given refreshment. My heart is called to be open to God’s love as it fills me to overflowing. When my spiritual growth is healthy, I don’t have to worry about outside pressures.

A sprinkle of water didn’t help my flowers, despite my daughter’s good intentions. Those flowers needed to drink deeply from within. Just like them, I need to be planted by and drink deeply of God’s living water so my spiritual roots grow deep and strong.

Dear Lord, I thank You for your overflowing love that reaches deep in to my soul and waters my thirst for You. Help me to be planted in Your Word and to spend more time in Your presence in prayer. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Identify one thing you can do this week to deepen your spiritual roots.

Reflections:
Why is it sometimes difficult to go deeper into the things of God?

If spending time in prayer is a challenge for you, consider the reasons why.

How can you tell if your spiritual roots are receiving enough water?

Power Verses:
Romans 1:25, “They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator – who is forever praised. Amen.” (NIV)

Psalm 42:1, “As the deer pants for streams of water so my soul pants for you, O God.” (NIV)

1 John 1:6, “If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth.” (NIV)

2007-07-19T20:33:00.000+08:00

Keep on Shining
By Melissa Taylor

“Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all.” Matthew 5:15 (NLT)

Huge crowds were following him. He was the talk of the town, and everyone wanted to see him and hear what he had to say. Was this man who spoke with such wisdom for real? The crowds hung onto every word spoken by him. His name was Jesus.

In Matthew 5-7, Jesus delivers what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. This teaching, which took place on a hillside near Capernaum, was given over the course of a few days. Each day the crowds returned. They couldn’t get enough of Jesus. As Jesus taught rich and powerful lessons, he also presented the crowds (and us) with challenges. One of them is recorded in Matthew 5:14-16:

“You are the light of the world---like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (NLT)

I will be honest with you. I never thought of myself as the light of the world until I realized that I’m not the light, but Jesus is in me. This raises a few questions to which the answers came pouring out when I asked them to myself.

Is my light shining for all to see? No, not all the time.

What am I hiding the light (the light of Christ) under? What are my baskets? (Get ready, I bet you can relate to a few of these.)

1 - Focusing on me
2 - Worry
3 - Not spending daily time with God
4 - Being quiet when I should speak (or the other way around)
5 - Going along with the crowd
6 - Ignoring the needs of others
7 - Concern over how I look
8 - Fear of what others will think
9 - Insecurity and uncertainty
10 - Busyness

So often the light that lives in me cannot shine because it’s hiding under one of these baskets.

There will always be something in life that will compete to keep my light from shining. But these verses, specifically Matthew 5:15, tell us “don’t hide your light….” There is a good reason for that. When my light is dim, then others can’t see God’s power in my life. I want my family, friends, neighbors, and everyone I meet to know that my light is the light of Jesus Christ. I trust Him and love Him with all my heart.

If I focus on me, that light dims. When I focus on Him, that light keeps shining, even when faced with hardships.

Don’t listen to the thoughts that bring you fear, worry, and insecurity. Those are not from God and they will put out your light. Instead, remain focused on Jesus. Trust Him with your life, all of it, and shine that light of yours for everyone to see. Who knows, the light that shines through you may just be the light that will transform someone’s life today “…so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

Dear Lord, Today let Your light shine through me for all to see! I claim Your Word today and I give to You all the things in my life that are the baskets that hide it. I pray that others may know You as they see You shining in me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Reflections:
Is your light shining for all to see?

What are the “baskets” in your life that hide the light? Make a list and pray over it.

Power Verses:
Psalm 18:28, “You, O Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.” (NIV)

Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation---whom shall I fear?” (NIV)

John 8:12, “Jesus said to the people, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t be stumbling through darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’” (NLT)

2007-07-17T22:27:00.000+08:00

Reaping and Sowing
By Melanie Chitwood

“… for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap” Galatians 6:7 (NAS)

My friend Amy really made an impression on me by one simple little thing she did recently for her husband. She had scheduled a hair appointment on the day Mike was off work. She didn’t tell him about the appointment; she just knew that he loves to be with his little girls and that he’d agree to be home while she went to her appointment.

The day before, however, Mike said he was planning to go golfing with a friend on his day off. Now here’s where she impressed me! She simply said, “Sounds great! Have fun!” She didn’t even mention the hair appointment!

She could have responded in so many different ways. She could have begrudgingly responded, “I have a hair appointment, but I’ll reschedule.” She could have dug in her heels and said, “No way. I already have plans, and I need you to watch the girls.” She could have complained about her lack of freedom, as she’s the mother to two little girls and her husband travels frequently.

But she didn’t. Instead she responded selflessly. With her gracious response to her husband, she lived out Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” (NAS).

As Amy sows into her marriage godly principles such as selflessness instead of selfishness, she’s reaping the blessings of a unified, intimate, and joyful marriage.

Let’s ask ourselves today: What attitudes and actions are we sowing into our own marriages? Here’s a few to consider: Respect or contempt? Thankfulness or complaining? Submission or rebellion? Gentleness or harshness? Patience or irritability? Forgiveness or unforgivness?

If we’re experiencing strife or distance in our marriages, we need to ask God to show us if we might be reaping what we’re sowing. God will reveal to us any attitudes or actions which grieve Him. Then we can confess them and replace them with obedience to God’s principles for us as wives.

Dear Lord, Thank You for my husband and my marriage. Reveal to me any attitudes or actions which hinder my marriage. Please make me willing to obey You, knowing that in obedience I’ll find closeness to You and to my husband. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Write out on a 3 x 5 card one of the verses found in today’s devotion, or another which will help you in your marriage. Carry it with you and repeat it through your day.

Reflections:
Read the list of attitudes listed in the devotion. Does one of these stand out to you? Pray specifically today that the Holy Spirit will transform your heart to reflect a godly attitude.

What is one specific action you can do today which will foster unity in your marriage? For example, when you talk to your husband on the phone, even if you’re in the middle of something when he calls, can you respond with patience instead of shortness? Or if he wants to share a dream with you, can you listen with love and gentleness, instead of telling him what an impractical idea it is?

Sometimes it’s not necessarily the words we say, but the way we say them that might create distance in our marriages. Consider your tone of voice and the expression on your face as you talk to your husband.

Power Verses:
1 Corinthians 16:14: “Let all that you do be done in love” (NAS).

Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father” (NAS).

Colossians 3:12-14: “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity” (NAS).

2007-07-17T22:19:00.000+08:00

He’s Coming Back!
By Van Walton

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth… But you know him, because he lives with you now… and No, I will not abandon you as orphans??? I will come to you.” John 14:16-18 (NLT)

Recently I took an extended trip and, knowing that I would be gone for a month, my dog joined me. He had never been in the car except to go to the vet or to the kennel. Suddenly I thrust him into what must have been a most confusing experience. Sitting in the back of the SUV he traveled for two days, 1,000 miles. Finally we reached our destination – a house on the lake in the middle of wooded acres, completely different from his normal environment in suburbia. Here my little dog took some time to acquaint himself with his new surroundings. After two days I left him. My mother became his new caretaker. I had no qualms about leaving my faithful companion with Mother. After all, she had taught me all I knew about dogs. I knew her to be a trustworthy expert of “man’s best friend.”

I continued my travels. All along I knew I would return for my pet, but did he know? According to my mother he constantly watched the door, the place from which I had left. She knew he was checking to see if I would return. In the meantime she fed him, walked him, played with him and gave him lots of attention. He was in good hands. Ten days later I showed up. I cannot tell you how happy my puppy was to see me. He barked. He ran circles around me. His tail did not stop wagging. He did not want to leave my side.

I live a life similar to my dog’s life. God created me to live on this earth and to worship Him in all I do. He placed me in the midst of confusing and sometimes disturbing circumstances. He sent His Son to teach me how to maneuver through life’s trials and to offer me salvation. Then one day Jesus left. He did not leave without providing a care taker, a friend and counselor, one to comfort in time of trouble and loneliness.

Jesus has promised to return for me and you, if you have asked Him to be Lord of your life. I don’t know about you, but I am constantly looking toward heaven wondering when He will return. I want to be ready. I want to live a life of obedience and integrity defined by holiness and righteousness because when He comes back I don’t want to run in fear. I want to sing praises to Him. I want to run and leap and dance for joy before him. I want to sit at His feet and never let Him out of my sight.

Do you know that Jesus promised his disciples that he will return for his own one day? Are you aware that any day the clouds could open up and God’s Son will step into our atmosphere to call the believers to join Him in the place He is preparing for us? Are you ready?

Dear Lord, the promise of Your return fills me with hope and overwhelming excitement. I want to spend my days living for You, so that when You appear I will have confidence and not shrink from You in shame at Your coming. Give me wisdom to live for You. I pray these words in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Read Mark 13:34-37

Reflections:
According to the above passage in Mark, have I given much consideration to the instructions Jesus has given me?

Am I prepared for Jesus to return for me?

How will I react when I see Him face to face for the first time?

Power Verses:
Mark 13:32-33, "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.” (NIV)

John 14: 2-3, “In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” (NIV)

Philippians 2:10, “…so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” (NASB)
1 John 2:28, “And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.” (ESV)

2007-07-13T22:58:00.000+08:00

Friendship Choices
By Lysa TerKeurst

But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God." Ruth 1:16 (NIV)

“I want to quit school!” Oh such delightful words to hear from my twelve-year-old. Growing up is hard to do, especially in those ‘tween years. It turned out my daughter was having problems with her girlfriends. One of her friends had made plans with Hope and then cancelled when a more appealing offer came along from another girl. To me it seemed like a simple sign of immaturity on her friend’s part. But to Hope, it was devastating. So, I hugged her, prayed with her and gave her some tips on dealing with friends when they hurt your feelings.

A few days later she got in the car after school and said, “Mom, I’ve decided you have a choice with your friends. You can either deal with their quirks or stop hanging around them.”

I replied back, “Hope, that is profound wisdom. If you can remember that piece of relationship advice it will serve you well not just for the middle school years but on into your adult friendships as well.”

Do you ever find yourself struggling in your friendships and ponder how you can change those things about your friends that annoy you? Well, changing someone else is nearly impossible and very frustrating. Maybe we would do well to take the focus off of changing this other person and on improving ourselves. Making this subtle shift will allow real progress. Because while you can’t change the way someone else acts and reacts, you can control yourself. Make sure that your actions and reactions are honoring to God and reflecting the types of friendship qualities that you long for in a friend. After all, if we want a really good friend, we have to be a really good friend.

Once you’ve determined to make positive changes in yourself, pray for that friend that has qualities that are less than desirable. Chances are she has a lot of great qualities that you can choose to focus on. Praise God for her good qualities and mentally hand over each thing troubling you in your friendship. God will either give you the patience to love her despite your differences or He will show you how to create a healthy distance that will serve you both well.

Dear Lord, thank you for the precious gift of friendship. Help me to see and appreciate my friend’s good qualities without getting caught up and frustrated with her negative qualities. Lord, give me wisdom to know when to draw boundaries in my friendships and how to choose my friends wisely. My heart desires friendships that characterized by your love. Help me to be the kind of friend I long to have. Thank you for friends with whom I can laugh, learn and journey through life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Ask God to give you a lifetime friend that characterizes your desires in a friendship. If God has already given you this kind of friend, look for ways to bless her and thank her for her friendship. Let her know that you will stick by her through thick and thin. Look for ways to grow closer together by growing closer to God through praying, studying God’s word, or doing ministry together. Write her a note today that reminds her that she is loved and list all the reasons you appreciate her.

Reflections:
Do you have a friend whose occasional “quirkiness” bothers you? We all have friends that have annoying and often frustrating habits, but we choose to love them and stand by them anyway. God’s Word has a lot to say about friendships gone wrong, but Jesus came to teach us how to love unconditionally and bring unity. Read today’s power verses on what those scriptures tell us.

Power Verses:
Proverbs 12:2b, “A righteous man is cautious in friendship.”

Proverbs 12:18, “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.”

Ecclesiastes 4:10, “If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!”

2 Corinthians 1:12, “Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God. We have done so not according to worldly wisdom but according to God’s grace.”

2007-07-12T21:48:00.000+08:00

Freshen Up
By Wendy Pope

“Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." John 7:38, (NLT)

We are in the middle of a drought where I live. The air is stale. The luxurious feel of the once cool, green grass has long since faded into hard brown weeds that crunch under your feet when you walk. As I washed dishes the other evening I noticed my house plants were shriveled, as well. My heart saddened as the petals drooped on my beautiful Peace Lily. I thought to myself, "I can't ever keep any plants alive. I wish I had a green thumb." Then a thought popped into my head to, "give the plant some water." So I did. Do you know what happened? The next day the leaves were reaching out to me as if they were saying "thank you." Within the next couple of days I noticed a bloom opening. "Wow God," I said, "that is really cool."

I have confessed many times before I have a learning disability. I am "spiritually learning disabled." In layman's terms, it means that God has to take my face in His hands and speak real slowly to me. He held me face at this moment and said, "You need some water, too, my child. No water, no fruit."

In the long, hot, sometimes, drought days of summer, it is easy to become spiritually fatigued. Most churches, because of summer vacations and family activities do not offer Bible studies. It is so easy to mentally decide to "take the summer off" from in-depth study of God's Word. Oh friend, let me caution you to mentally be determined not to take the summer off.

Do something new with something old. Pull out a previously completed Bible Study and read your margins notes. Take the time to study your Sunday School lesson. Take a fresh look at scriptures your Pastor teaches in his sermon by looking them up in various translations. Nothing makes scriptures come alive for me outside of the Holy Spirit's power than reading the ancient words in other translations. Read aloud the following translations of Zephaniah 3:17 and see which one refreshes your soul more.

“The LORD your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing." (NIV)

"For the Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will give you victory. He will rejoice over you in great gladness; He will love and not accuse you." Is that a joyous choir I hear? No, it is the Lord Himself exulting over you in a happy song." (LB)

Can you almost hear the happy song? Dear sister, take time to refresh your walk with the Lord this summer. Those who drink His living water will never thirst again, even in a drought.

Dear Lord, The majesty and glory of Your name overwhelms me. Lead me to the refreshing living water of Your Word. Awaken my soul with a happy song. I pray that I will delight myself in You and that You will enjoy my company. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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Pull out a previously completed Bible Study and read your margin notes.

Take the time to study your Sunday School lesson.

Take a fresh look at scriptures your Pastor teaches in his sermon by looking them up in various translations.

Reflections:
What can I do to renew my relationship with the Lord?

How much time do I spent with the Lord each day?

Is spending time with the Lord a priority in my life?

Power Verses:
Jeremiah 31:25, "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."

Psalm 51:10, "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

Ephesians 2:10, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

FREEDOM IN CHRIST OUR LORD!

2007-07-11T20:59:00.000+08:00

Living Free!
By Amy Carroll

“He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.” Psalm 18:19 (NIV)

What is it about the very word “freedom”? It brings a hope and lightness to my heart even as I say it. George W. Bush is quoted as saying, "Freedom is not America's gift to the world; it is the Almighty God's gift to every man and woman in this world." It’s true, isn’t it? Although we are blessed to live in a nation that esteems the freedom of men and women as one of our highest values, each of us has this sense that it’s something deeper than just our government or environment. God has created us each with a longing for freedom.

I’ve been thinking about the true meaning of freedom as I garden. I just love bringing home a carload of cell packs with tender little plants in them. The fun really begins, though, after I’ve dug the hole and popped the plant out of its temporary home. Many times I’m met with a plant that is “root bound”. As the plant grows in the confinement of that small space, the roots begin to wrap around and around inside the container. An experienced gardener knows that this is a situation that must be remedied before the plant is placed into the ground. Gently, I must pull the roots out of the tight ball. Sometimes it even requires breaking or cutting some of the roots. If something can “hurt” a plant, this must be it, but without loosing those roots, they will continue to grow in that tight ball. The plant will never grow and thrive. It doesn’t use all the space around it to expand and draw water, and it will eventually wither.

My heart aches as I look around the church and see so many root bound believers. In John 8:31-32, 34-36, Jesus says, “…’If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’….’I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.’” God has designed His children for lives of freedom and yet so many are living in the bondage of secret sin. Instead of bringing sin into God’s glorious light, repenting, and having God tenderly straighten out the roots for growth and thriving, Christians are daily sweeping sin and temptations under the rug. There are lots of reasons that people in the church do such a thing. There’s pride, but there’s also the fear of judgment and being dealt with harshly.

Let’s think about things that grow in the dark for a minute. The list includes mildew, mold, slime and other stinky stuff. Things that are swept under the rug don’t disappear or just lay there. They rot. What’s under some of our rugs? Anger toward our husband, a flirtation at the office, harshness with our children, addictions to alcohol, pain pills or pornography, sexual relationships outside of marriage…we can all fill in our own blanks.

I don’t want to beat you up with this. I want to plead with you! In this month that our country celebrates freedom, experience a renewed personal freedom. Don’t waste another minute. Drag all of your sin out of the dark and out from under the rug. Lay it all out in God’s light and trust Him to set you free from it. Share it with a trusted, godly friend and cry out to God together. Don’t spend another moment root bound by the confines and bondage of sin. Thrive and grow in freedom!

Dear Lord, help me not to waste another minute in bondage. I long for the freedom that is found in the righteousness given in your Son, Jesus. Give me the strength to clean out the dark places. I confess these things to you now. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Spend time with God, and ask Him to search your heart. Sit in silence and see what He reveals. Ask for forgiveness. Embrace freedom!

Reflect
* How much time do I let go by between sin and asking for forgiveness?
* How can I shorten this “gap time”?
* Who has God put into my path that loves me and would speak truth to me and pray with me?

Luke 4:18, "’The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed….’” (NIV)

Romans 8:2, “…because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.” (NIV)

2007-07-10T21:08:00.000+08:00

When God Stoops
By MaryBeth Whalen

“The Lord looks down from heaven on the sons of men to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.” Psalm 14:2 (NIV)

Devotion:
My four-year-old will often buzz by me in a flurry of motion?usually running too fast while fleeing the scene of a crime or carrying a sharp object. If I yell after him some form of admonishment, he rarely hears it. I have found that for my discipline and instruction to have the most effect, I must stop what I am doing, stoop down on his level, and look him in the eye. When I do this, he and I can connect on a meaningful level.

The other day I came across Genesis 6:8, which says, “But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” A note in my study Bible informs me that the word “favor” in this verse is from a root meaning “to bend or stoop.” Basically this verse points out that God stooped down from His place on high to offer His favor to a lowly human who didn’t really deserve it and could never earn it. God was condescending, which means “to deal as an equal with one of inferior rank.”

This idea is mentioned again in Zechariah 12:10, when God promises to “pour out… a spirit of grace and supplication” on the people. The image painted in this verse is of God, seated on His throne in heaven, pouring down His grace upon His people. Just like I must look down to see my precious child, God must look down upon us to truly see us.

The God of the Universe is willing to stoop down to connect with us. I don’t want to lose sight of His willingness to do that for me. I don’t want to be too busy and active?like my four-year-old?to hear His voice. How humbling it is to know that even when I do buzz by Him, unaware that He is calling out to me, He is still willing to pause in the midst of all His creation to offer me His favor - the grace and love He so freely pours out.

The other day, as my son was running out the door for a visit with his grandmother, I stopped him to tell him goodbye. I stooped down and looked him in the eye. I drank in the sight of his precious face and focused intently on him as I told him I loved him. This moment reminded me again that God loves me enough to stoop. I hope you will remember today that He loves you that much, too.

Dear Lord, help me to hear Your voice. Help me to remember how much You love me, and how much You long to connect with me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Write down what is keeping you from hearing God’s voice right now. What can you do to remove those things from your life? Take steps to do so today. If you are in a time of stress and feel overwhelmed, commit to pray more often and more fervently than ever before. Rest in the fact that God in heaven will stoop down to connect with you, His precious child.

Reflections:
How does your view of God keep you from seeing Him as a loving God who would stoop down in order to connect with you?

What can you do to refocus your view?

How much does knowing His love mean to you?

Power Verses:
II Samuel 22:36, “You give me your shield of victory; you stoop down to make me great.” (NIV)

Psalm 113:5-6, “Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high, who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?” (NIV)

Isaiah 57:15, “For this is what the high and lofty One says?he who lives forever, whose name is holy: ‘I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite’.” (NIV)

2007-07-09T22:07:00.000+08:00

Muscles
By Melissa Taylor

“I love you Lord; you are my strength.” Psalm 18:1 (NLT)

Devotion:
I just finished reading an article telling me that once you hit the age of 40, you start to lose muscle. Well, recently I hit 40, so this piqued my interest. After further reading, this same article stated, “Muscle loss slows down our metabolic rate, makes it harder for us to control our weight, weakens our bones, and leaves us more susceptible to diabetes” (“Saving Muscle”, Nutrition Action Newsletter, April, 2007).

Wow, I thought. The same is true of our spiritual muscles. With the exception of the age-40 part, the same thing happens to us when we don’t exercise our spiritual muscles. You know what spiritual muscles are, don’t you?

Our spiritual muscles are our heart and mind. In order to keep our heart and mind spiritually fit, we must exercise them by reading God’s Word, praying, and keeping a godly perspective in everyday life. If we stop doing these things, our spirit grows weak because we don’t have the fuel we need to handle life free of fear, worry, insecurity, and uncertainty. I’ve learned the hard way that when I don’t exercise my spiritual muscles daily, these weaknesses creep back into my life and I forget the awesome power I once had.

As I continued to read on in this article about saving our muscles, there was some good news. It said that even if we haven’t exercised in years, our bodies will give us a second chance. “Just two months of strength-building exercises can reverse two decades of a typical person’s muscle loss.” That’s encouraging!

Guess what ladies? There is even better news for our spiritual muscles. If you make a decision to spend time filling yourself with God’s Word, drawing strength from Him, pursuing an ongoing and personal relationship with Him, you can reverse a lifetime of hopelessness, weakness, fear, or any other kind of bondage. Our spiritual muscles can be built or rebuilt. It begins as soon as your first workout!

So, if you find that busyness, work, family, or just life in general has kept you from your spiritual workout, decide to make a change today. It’s never too late! God is all about second chances. Plus, when you tackle life with strong spiritual muscles, the rest just seems to fall into place.

Dear Lord, I love You, and You really are my strength. Help me to never forget that as I go through my days. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Read all of Psalm 18. Underline or highlight all the words that pertain to strength and being strong spiritually.

Reflections:
Are you taking good care of yourself both physically and spiritually?

What changes can you make so that you are getting a good spiritual workout each day?

Is the Lord your personal trainer?

Power Verses:
Psalm 18:32, “It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.” (NIV)

John 15:5, “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (NLT)

Philippians 4:13, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (NIV)

2007-07-05T23:09:00.000+08:00

False Advertisement
By Micca Campbell

“So clean house! Make a clean sweep of malice and pretense, envy and hurtful talk. You’ve had a taste of God. Now, like infants at the breast, drink deep of God’s pure kindness. Then you’ll grow up mature and whole in God.” 1 Peter 2:1-3

Devotion:
My youngest son loves chocolate milk. He doesn’t just love any kind of chocolate milk. It has to be made with Hershey’s chocolate syrup. One day as I stood stirring the syrup into a tall glass of milk, I noticed that the label read “Genuine Artificial Flavor.” I was shocked! What appeared to be real, looked real, and tasted real, was actually artificial! As I stood with my mouth hanging open in disbelief, I felt cheated, mislead, and deceived. Finally, I was able to speak out loud: “This is false advertisement!”

Earlier that morning, I had read today’s key verse. "So clean house! Make a clean sweep of malice and pretense, envy and hurtful talk. You've had a taste of God. Now, like infants at the breast, drink deep of God's pure kindness. Then you'll grow up mature and whole in God." At the time, the scripture didn’t seem to have much impact, but now the Holy Spirit was using the incident with the chocolate milk to speak to my heart.

As Christians I wonder how often we display false advertisement in place of genuine faith. Instead of feasting on God’s Word until it brings about real change in our lives, we taste just enough of God to pretend that our faith is genuine. We might know the right words to say, have memorized some key verses, and can even pray a prayer that is convincing to others, but inside we can’t convince ourselves that our faith is real.

Eventually, we won’t be able to persuade others either. How often do you and I fuss and fight with our families on Sunday mornings from the time we get up until we pull into the church parking lot? Isn’t it strange how the feuding stops there? It’s as if Satan jumps out of the car once we’re at church allowing us to return to our normally kind selves. Who are we fooling? Shouldn’t we be the same at home as we are at church?

What about gossip? Pretending to build one another up in love, we camouflage gossip with prayer. “Did you hear about sister so-and-so? We need to pray for her. I heard that…”

I don’t know about you, but I’ve stood guilty many times. That’s why the Holy Spirit brought me back to our key verse. Each phrase of it motivates me. I need to examine myself for symptoms of malice, pretense, envy, and hurtful talk. I need to stay close to God and become a mature Christian in His eyes and an authentic Christian to others. I don’t want my life to be a false advertisement for Christ, and neither do you.

God never meant for you or me to pretend. Genuine faith is real. It comes as we feast on God’s Word and learn how to apply His ways to everyday living. It’s a faith that should be recognized by a changed life that others can see as well in our actions, our speech, and our works. Genuine faith is our best advertisement for Christ. Let’s be intentional about it.

Dear Lord, Search me for any signs of malice, pretense, envy or hurtful talk. Then, Lord, lead me in Your righteous ways. Make my faith strong and genuine so that I can be a faithful witness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Allow today’s key verse to motivate you in displaying genuine faith. Ask God to sweep away all malice, pretense, envy and hurtful talk from your life. Then, drink in His righteous ways and apply them to your life. Soon, you’ll be a mature Christian whose life is an advertisement of genuine faith.

Reflections:
Why do you think people gossip about others?

How does gossip and envy affect your faith and ability to witness for Christ?

What does being a mature Christian mean to you?
In what areas of your life have you displayed false advertisement instead of genuine faith?

Power Verses:
Ephesians 4:22, “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires” (NIV)

Ephesians 4:25, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” (NIV)

Ephesians 4:13-15, “till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head???Christ.” (NKJ)

2007-07-05T23:01:00.000+08:00

God is Always There
By Glynnis Whitwer

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” Isaiah 49:15 (NIV)

Devotion:
The children in the first grade “special needs” class were excited about the upcoming performance. They had practiced the songs for weeks and were ready to show all they had learned to their parents. James was no exception.

James’ life was difficult. He was being raised by a somewhat detached father and grandmother. James’ dad was on disability, and could easily retreat into himself. In the classroom James had a hard time following the rules. His inappropriate talking, interrupting, and disobedience resulted in many consequences for him. In spite of James’ situation, he was excited about the program.

The day finally came for the recital. Invitations had been sent out and everyone was ready. It was planned at the end of the school day so parents could arrive a little early, then take their kids home after the performance.

The auditorium filled up with many of the parents. The kids sang with gusto and the parents smiled proudly. Lita Jo, the teacher’s assistant, sat in the front row making sure the kids stayed on course and actually sang.

Everyone sang, except James. “Oh James,” Lita Jo thought, “come on, sing.” She caught his eyes and tried to encourage him.

Then it hit her. James was looking for his father and didn’t see him. Tears were in his eyes, but he was TRYING to smile, TRYING to sing. But he was too occupied with trying to locate his father. He would start to sing, but then look out. No father. Every song! There were six of them. Still no father.

The performance ended and everyone applauded. James hung his head as the auditorium emptied. Lita Jo stood by his side, not saying anything about James’ father. It was too painful.

At the usual time, James’ dad came to pick him up. James immediately asked: "Where were you Dad? Why didn't you come? We were singing."

Lita Jo stood quietly by, anxious to hear the response. "Oh, I forgot about it … I was nursing a migraine."

A parent’s omission meant a child’s pain. How many James are there in the world? Little boys and girls, grown men and women, with no one to root for them. Standing on the stage of life, their tearful eyes scan the audience looking for someone to care, someone to love them enough to watch their singing. Although the audience might be devoid of human attention, God is always there.

Will someone tell James there is a Heavenly Father who will never miss a recital? Will James ever know the faithful love of God? Even the best parent can disappoint us at times. But what a joy that we have a Heavenly Father who is always watching. He never forgets. Never. When we worship Him, His eyes are on us. When we dance for Him, He delights in us. When our hearts are ready to break, our Heavenly Father comforts us.

If you have ever longed for this type of faithful love, we invite you to meet your loving Heavenly Father. He’s been watching you since you were born. He’s been at every concert, every recital, every game, cheering you on. If you’d like a relationship with this amazing Heavenly Father, there’s no better time than now. Visit Do You Know Him? for more information.

Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your faithful love. Thank You for always being near and for never forgetting me. Help me to accept Your love and to trust You more fully. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Identify a time when someone you loved let you down. Bring this memory to God, and ask Him to bring you comfort.

Reflections:
Does a person’s physical presence communicate his or her love? Why or why not?

How does knowing that God is always near make you feel?

Does this truth inspire you to make any changes in your life?

Power Verses:
Psalm 33:13-15, “From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth - he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.” (NIV)

Psalm 121: 2-3, “My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip ??? he who watches over you will not slumber …” (NIV)

Micah 7:7, “But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me.” (NAS)

2007-07-03T20:40:00.000+08:00

God’s Eyes
By Melanie Chitwood

"For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him."
2 Chronicles 16:9 (NIV)

Devotion:
One of my favorite things to do is watch my twelve-year-old son Zachary play basketball. I’m his biggest fan. Even though he’s at an age when he’s easily embarrassed, I cheer as loudly as I can knowing my cheers encourage him. When I’m watching his game, I am completely focused on my son.

This is how God looks at each one of us. We, His children, are the focus of His attention. The Bible tells us in 2 Chronicles 16:9 exactly who God focuses on and why: “the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.”

God’s focus is on “those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.” I can just imagine God’s eyes searching for the woman who would become the mother to his son Jesus. Then He sees Mary, nods His head and says, That’s the one. I can imagine God searching for the person to have faith to build the Ark even though he’s never seen a drop of rain. Then He sees Noah, nods His head, and says that’s the one. Imagine Him searching for the person who would persevere in the wilderness for forty years. He sees Moses, nods his head, and says that’s the one.

What are your thoughts as you imagine God’s eyes resting on you? Sometimes I’ve been unsure and even afraid of God’s eyes resting on me. I look at my failures and think I don’t measure up, that I won’t be the one God’s looking for. I see so clearly the days when I’ve selfishly thought of my own needs, instead of my husband’s. I see the days when I’ve spoken harsh words to my children, instead of responding with patience. I remember times when I’ve judged or criticized other women.

We have to be careful not to make this mistake. We have to believe what is true, not the lies and accusations of the enemy. God is not looking for the woman who’s perfect or serves in the most ministries. He’s not looking for the woman who never misses a quiet time with Him or who never doubts.

God is looking for the woman who’s fully committed to Him, a woman like you or me, whose heart is saying yes to God. Yes, I’ll love my husband for You, Lord. Yes, I’ll turn off the TV to read a Bible story to my kids. Yes, I’ll call a friend to encourage her. And yes, when I fail to do what You want me to do, I’ll confess my sin, receive Your forgiveness, and press on in faith.

God is our greatest cheerleader, not our greatest critic. When His eyes light on His children, they are eyes of compassion and lovingkindness, not criticism or judgment.

The verses in Chronicles tell us why God looks for us: He wants to strengthen us. His attention on His children is like that of a parent cheering in the stands. God’s focus says,
You can do it! I believe in you!

So how do we become a woman fully committed to Him? Not by pretending we have no fear, relying on our own strength, or by striving to be perfect. We sit at His feet and worship and adore Him, thanking Him for the blessings in our lives. We pour out our hearts in confession to the Lord, read His word and obey His commands.

Then our hearts will be knit with His, and we will be women fully committed to Him. When God’s eyes search the whole earth, they’ll stop on us, He’ll nod His head, and He’ll say,
“They’re the ones”.

Dear Lord, I want to be a woman fully committed to You. I pray that all my decisions and actions will lead me closer to You, Lord. Search me and know me, and if there’s anything keeping me from being fully committed to You, let me be willing to lay that down. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Take some time to be quiet with the Lord. Imagine His eyes of love resting on You. Let His love sink into you and take root.

Reflections:
What do God’s eyes of love strengthen and motivate you to be or do?

What attitudes or actions are preventing you from seeking the Lord wholeheartedly? Is anything drawing you away from God? Will you give that up?

Power Verses:
Ephesians 1:19, “Oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him” (MSG)

Isaiah 26:8, “Lord, we show our trust in you by obeying your laws; our heart’s desire is to glorify your name.” (NLT)

2007-07-03T11:12:00.000+08:00

Boondock
By Susanne Scheppmann

“So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NLT)

Devotion:
I dislike boondocking. If you vacation in a recreational vehicle, you probably know the definition of boondock. If not, it means spending the night in your “rig” without hooking-up to power or water. Most recreational vehicles hold only several gallons of water in a tank. I like taking long hot showers. Boondocking prohibits this luxury. A battery or small generator provides limited power. A trickle of power keeps things running, but not for an extended period of time. When you boondock there is a limited supply of vital resources that make life more comfortable.

Boondocking can apply to our spiritual life, too. Unfortunately, it’s easy to become unplugged with Bible study and prayer time during summer months. Our daily routines tend to change, so it’s easier to miss our quiet time. Our kids may be out school wanting “to do something” and we lay aside our Bible study. We vacation to rejuvenate ourselves. We traipse to sightseeing spots, but we neglect to seek Jesus as the day slips by.

If we allow ourselves to boondock spiritually, we will run dry. The Holy Spirit’s power will seem to fade and our souls will thirst for the living water of Jesus. Come the last day in August, we’ll be high and dry.

So what can we do to stay plugged in spiritually throughout the summer months? We should determine not to allow ourselves to become boondocked. Choose a time and place to refill yourself with God’s Word. Let’s try to follow the advice of Psalm 143:8, “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul (NIV). If we refuel ourselves early in the morning with God’s Word, it can sustain us the rest of the day.

Let’s choose to stay connected to the power of God during the upcoming summer months. Let’s follow the Apostle Paul’s advice to Timothy: “Work hard so God can say to you, ‘Well done.’ Be a good workman, one who does not need to be ashamed when God examines your work. Know what his Word says and means” (2 Timothy 2:15, TLB). This way we can enjoy the glorious summer with Jesus, rather than finding ourselves dried out and boondocked.

Dear Lord, as this summer wears on, help me to not neglect the study of Your Word. I know without its instruction I will lose my direction. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

Application Steps:
Choose a Bible study to work through during the summer months. Ask a friend to join you and then meet weekly to discuss the study.

Reflections:
Do I tend to neglect my quiet time and Bible study during the summer?

If yes, have I seen a personality change as a result?

What topic or book of the Bible would be a good summer study?

Power Verses:
Psalm 119:5-6, “Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands.” (NIV)

Psalm 119:10-11, “I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (NIV)

Matthew 22:29, “Jesus replied, ‘You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.’” (NIV)

2007-06-29T21:36:00.000+08:00

Cultivating a Grateful Heart
By Glynnis Whitwer

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Matthew 7:7 (NIV)

Devotion:
Have you ever wondered why God wants us to ask for things in prayer? I mean, after all, He knows everything! He knows my first thought in the morning and my last one at night. He knows my frustration when I’m late and stuck in traffic, and the words I’m biting my tongue not to say. When I think I “need” a brownie, He knows I really need a carrot. And I don’t have to tell God I need help keeping calm while trying to get five kids out the door each school morning. So, since He already knows what I’m thinking and what I need, why do I need to ask Him for help?

One reason I believe God wants us to ask for help is that when we ask and God answers, we appreciate His work in our lives in greater measure. If God provided everything we need before we asked, we could easily believe we are entitled to things. And, if we never saw how sweetly God cares for our needs, we might take His goodness for granted. I’ve learned this lesson a few times, but the one that stands out involved grapefruit.

When I was a child, my mother fixed our family breakfast before my dad left to teach for the day, and before my sister and I went to school. Since my dad enjoyed his routine, breakfast usually consisted of bacon, eggs and toast. On a cold day, Mom occasionally substituted hot cereal for the toast. And during the citrus season, we might have found halves of juicy pink grapefruit on the table.

I’ll never forget the first time I prepared my own grapefruit. I had moved away from home and was attempting to establish some of my own routines, so I had brought home a pink grapefruit. I cut it in half, grabbed a spoon and prepared to scoop out the individual segments like we had done at home. I planted my spoon at the grapefruit’s thick outer rind only to have the fruit not budge. I tried to saw it out with my spoon, but it was stuck fast. I thought I had purchased a defective fruit. My mother’s grapefruit sections slipped effortlessly onto our spoons!

So I did what every wise daughter does: I called my mother for advice. Imagine my surprise when she told me that before we got to the breakfast table, she had already separated the grapefruit sections with a small, serrated knife. For years I thought grapefruit came like that and was shocked to learn it wasn’t so! It was my mother who did all the work without being asked.

I never appreciated my mother’s work because I never knew she did it! Now I know how lovingly she cared for our needs by performing this time-consuming task. Now I am even more thankful for this small act of sacrifice on her part, which is just one of the many ways she cared for our family.

This is the same with God. If He removed all obstacles and challenges from our lives before we knew about them, we could easily become complacent. We wouldn’t see our need for Him and would think we could manage on our own. Each time we ask for God’s help and see Him answer, we appreciate Him even more. By having us ask, God is teaching us to cultivate a grateful heart, and a grateful heart is a good thing! Even sweeter than a pre-sliced grapefruit.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing me to come to You in prayer and share my daily needs and those deep in my heart. I thank You for caring about me and for acting on my behalf when I pray. Help me to be more aware of Your presence every moment of the day, and to see Your hand in every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Identify one way God has cared for your needs today. Thank Him in prayer.

Reflections:
Read Matthew 7:7-11. What is Jesus telling us about God’s character and abilities in this passage?

Since God already knows what we need, what are some other reasons He wants His children to ask for help?

What are some reasons God doesn’t answer every one of our prayers exactly as we pray them?

Power Verses:
II Corinthians 4:17-18, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (NIV)

Romans 12:12, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (NIV)

Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, 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.” (NIV)