He Is Merciful
Our God is merciful.
Many times, we’ve already been forgiven by Him, but we fail to forgive ourselves.
We thought that God will never be able to forgive us because we have done so many big mistakes in our life.
Then we condemned ourselves, we thought that we don’t deserve His love, we don’t deserve anything good in this life, we don’t deserve to dream HUGE dreams in our life…
Well, I think most of us know how it feels…
But, we are totally wrong. The forgiveness of God is so different with our thinking. When He forgives, He will purify us from all unrighteousness as long as we confess our sins and repent.
If our God is so merciful, why can’t we? Merciful to ourselves, merciful to others.
(-fon-)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness
--- 1 John 1:9
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
TOTD, May 30
From Everlasting To Everlasting
If we’re talking about true love in this world, what would your reaction be?
Some of us believe that it exists, while some of us will have a huge doubt if there’s any true love in this world (maybe due to previous painful experiences in love).
Well, I myself believe that true love does exist. And I’m also sure that true love is something that needs a lot of efforts, a lot of actions rather than sweet words only.
And in case you still don’t believe that true love exists, we need to remember our God’s love. He is very faithful. His love is from everlasting to everlasting. That’s amazing! True love in this world might have an expiry date, but not our God’s love. It’s so wonderful to trust Him with His everlasting love. (-fon-)
But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-
with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.
--- Psalm 103:17-18
If we’re talking about true love in this world, what would your reaction be?
Some of us believe that it exists, while some of us will have a huge doubt if there’s any true love in this world (maybe due to previous painful experiences in love).
Well, I myself believe that true love does exist. And I’m also sure that true love is something that needs a lot of efforts, a lot of actions rather than sweet words only.
And in case you still don’t believe that true love exists, we need to remember our God’s love. He is very faithful. His love is from everlasting to everlasting. That’s amazing! True love in this world might have an expiry date, but not our God’s love. It’s so wonderful to trust Him with His everlasting love. (-fon-)
But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-
with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.
--- Psalm 103:17-18
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
TOTD, May 29
Sincere Heart
We like someone who’s sincere. And in this world, it’s not easy to find one.
With all the hypocrisy, masquerade, it’s not easy to reveal the sincerity of one’s heart.
But, that’s the way that we should do. We’re His children and we need to make sure we have a sincere heart.
We need to maintain our sincerity, no matter how, no matter what, no matter how hard the condition that might force us to stay away from sincerity.
But No! We need to stand in faith and keep the sincere heart alive.
Now and forever. (-fon-)
let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water
--- Hebrews 10:22
We like someone who’s sincere. And in this world, it’s not easy to find one.
With all the hypocrisy, masquerade, it’s not easy to reveal the sincerity of one’s heart.
But, that’s the way that we should do. We’re His children and we need to make sure we have a sincere heart.
We need to maintain our sincerity, no matter how, no matter what, no matter how hard the condition that might force us to stay away from sincerity.
But No! We need to stand in faith and keep the sincere heart alive.
Now and forever. (-fon-)
let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water
--- Hebrews 10:22
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
TOTD, May 28
Imitate What Is Good
Watching my baby grows each day is something interesting.
She’s now in the stage of imitating. She will imitate the dancing in Hi-5, a children educational program. She’ll clap her hands whenever she sees someone’s clapping. That’s so cute.
But sometimes she imitates something that’s quite dangerous. She saw someone put the cotton bud on his ear, so she wanted to follow. She wants to put –not the cotton buds, but something else to her ear. That’s not good but she hasn’t understood yet. So, I directly grab that thing away from her.
That reminds me of our life. We have been living with imitating all this life.
We see someone’s doing something all our life, and then we imitate.
When we’re young, let say babies or toddlers under 3 years old, maybe we don’t understand what’s right or wrong, what’s dangerous or not. But as we grow older, we have the ability to differ the right from the wrong. It’s inside our heart.
And today, I read the verse about imitating. We need to imitate what is good and don’t imitate what is evil. For anyone who does what is good is from God. (3 John 1:11).
So, let’s imitate the good thing which is from God.
(-fon-)
Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
---3 John 1:11
Watching my baby grows each day is something interesting.
She’s now in the stage of imitating. She will imitate the dancing in Hi-5, a children educational program. She’ll clap her hands whenever she sees someone’s clapping. That’s so cute.
But sometimes she imitates something that’s quite dangerous. She saw someone put the cotton bud on his ear, so she wanted to follow. She wants to put –not the cotton buds, but something else to her ear. That’s not good but she hasn’t understood yet. So, I directly grab that thing away from her.
That reminds me of our life. We have been living with imitating all this life.
We see someone’s doing something all our life, and then we imitate.
When we’re young, let say babies or toddlers under 3 years old, maybe we don’t understand what’s right or wrong, what’s dangerous or not. But as we grow older, we have the ability to differ the right from the wrong. It’s inside our heart.
And today, I read the verse about imitating. We need to imitate what is good and don’t imitate what is evil. For anyone who does what is good is from God. (3 John 1:11).
So, let’s imitate the good thing which is from God.
(-fon-)
Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
---3 John 1:11
Monday, May 26, 2008
TOTD, May 27
Lead Me in the Way Everlasting
Like what's written in Psalm, we need to ask God over and over again to search us and know our hearts.
Our hearts are sometimes full of anxieties. Every time we see the oil price hits a new high, we get worried. Every time the price of the rice is increasing, we're also worried. Every time we hear a disaster happens in one part of this world, we're also have this fear inside of us.
And most importantly, we need to as Him whether there's a wicked way in us. We need to stay in a sincere way, in an honest way, but sometimes as we're only human, we might have the tendency to be wicked. That's why we need God to search our heart and not letting the wicked way take control of our heart.
And finally, we pray: Lead me in the way everlasting, oh God. Because we're so sure that only His way is the best way in this life and also in eternity.
Amen.
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.
--- Psalm 139:23-24
Like what's written in Psalm, we need to ask God over and over again to search us and know our hearts.
Our hearts are sometimes full of anxieties. Every time we see the oil price hits a new high, we get worried. Every time the price of the rice is increasing, we're also worried. Every time we hear a disaster happens in one part of this world, we're also have this fear inside of us.
And most importantly, we need to as Him whether there's a wicked way in us. We need to stay in a sincere way, in an honest way, but sometimes as we're only human, we might have the tendency to be wicked. That's why we need God to search our heart and not letting the wicked way take control of our heart.
And finally, we pray: Lead me in the way everlasting, oh God. Because we're so sure that only His way is the best way in this life and also in eternity.
Amen.
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.
--- Psalm 139:23-24
Sunday, May 25, 2008
TOTD, May 26
Our Father in Heaven
The Fritzl case emerged in late April 2008 when a 42-year-old Austrian woman, Elisabeth Fritzl, stated to police that she had been sexually abused, raped, and physically assaulted by her father, Josef Fritzl, since 1977 and had been imprisoned by him for 24 years, since 1984. Her father had held her captive in a small, soundproofed and windowless cellar in the underground basement of the family home in the town of Amstetten in Lower Austria. During her captivity, she had given birth to a total of seven children, all of whom had been fathered by Josef. Three of them had been imprisoned along with their mother for the whole of their lives: daughter Kerstin, aged 19; and sons Stefan, 18; and Felix, 5. Of the other children, three had been raised by Fritzl and his wife Rosemarie in the upstairs home. Fritzl engineered the appearance of these children as foundlings discovered outside their house, giving the impression that their mother, Elisabeth, had abandoned them: Lisa at nine months in 1993, Monika at ten months in 1994, and Alexander at fifteen months in 1997. Alexander's twin died three days after birth. (Source: Wikipedia).
Maybe we’re all familiar with this case. We got surprised and speechless. How could a father do that kind of thing? Where’s his heart? I’m not here to judge, but I just want to show that it’s really hard with that kind of condition to understand the fatherhood that we have in our Lord in heaven.
We have our biological father, even how perfect he is, he’s still human. And in some cases, like the one that I read in Scott Hahn’s book, Understanding Our Father, it’s really hard to understand the fatherhood if let say we grow up in a single parent family. The father figure that we have in mind as how our biological father has shown us is really different with our father in Heaven.
Along this journey of life, we might feel the emptiness, the hunger of love. And that’s when we need to turn to God. Because only from our Father in heaven, we can get the kind of love that would last forever inside of our heart. (-fon-)
"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
--- Matthew 6:9-10
The Fritzl case emerged in late April 2008 when a 42-year-old Austrian woman, Elisabeth Fritzl, stated to police that she had been sexually abused, raped, and physically assaulted by her father, Josef Fritzl, since 1977 and had been imprisoned by him for 24 years, since 1984. Her father had held her captive in a small, soundproofed and windowless cellar in the underground basement of the family home in the town of Amstetten in Lower Austria. During her captivity, she had given birth to a total of seven children, all of whom had been fathered by Josef. Three of them had been imprisoned along with their mother for the whole of their lives: daughter Kerstin, aged 19; and sons Stefan, 18; and Felix, 5. Of the other children, three had been raised by Fritzl and his wife Rosemarie in the upstairs home. Fritzl engineered the appearance of these children as foundlings discovered outside their house, giving the impression that their mother, Elisabeth, had abandoned them: Lisa at nine months in 1993, Monika at ten months in 1994, and Alexander at fifteen months in 1997. Alexander's twin died three days after birth. (Source: Wikipedia).
Maybe we’re all familiar with this case. We got surprised and speechless. How could a father do that kind of thing? Where’s his heart? I’m not here to judge, but I just want to show that it’s really hard with that kind of condition to understand the fatherhood that we have in our Lord in heaven.
We have our biological father, even how perfect he is, he’s still human. And in some cases, like the one that I read in Scott Hahn’s book, Understanding Our Father, it’s really hard to understand the fatherhood if let say we grow up in a single parent family. The father figure that we have in mind as how our biological father has shown us is really different with our father in Heaven.
Along this journey of life, we might feel the emptiness, the hunger of love. And that’s when we need to turn to God. Because only from our Father in heaven, we can get the kind of love that would last forever inside of our heart. (-fon-)
"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
--- Matthew 6:9-10
Saturday, May 24, 2008
TOTD, May 25
A Cheerful Giver
What talents do you have? Or what possession do you have at the moment?
Well, if you want to give them to the people surround you for the glory of God, one thing that you need to remember all the time: don’t give reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver ( 2 Corinthians 9:7).
In reality of life, we sometimes see that people give with some purpose inside of them. It might have a hidden agenda. But, we need to try our best to give wholeheartedly.
Whatever it is that we want to give, we need to be sure about our heart. We need to be sure about our sincerity. And we need to be sure that we give it cheerfully.
God loves a cheerful giver, so we need to be one. (-fon-)
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
---2 Corinthians 9:7
What talents do you have? Or what possession do you have at the moment?
Well, if you want to give them to the people surround you for the glory of God, one thing that you need to remember all the time: don’t give reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver ( 2 Corinthians 9:7).
In reality of life, we sometimes see that people give with some purpose inside of them. It might have a hidden agenda. But, we need to try our best to give wholeheartedly.
Whatever it is that we want to give, we need to be sure about our heart. We need to be sure about our sincerity. And we need to be sure that we give it cheerfully.
God loves a cheerful giver, so we need to be one. (-fon-)
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
---2 Corinthians 9:7
Friday, May 23, 2008
TOTD, May 24
Live At Peace With Everyone
When I was small, I watched some kung fu movies. Those movies showed how to deal with their parent’s or teacher’s death. As usual, the kung fu master will definitely think of revenge. An eye for an eye.
But when I read the books of Romans today, I realize that our God has completely a different way in handling unfairness in this life. He forbids us to revenge. But we need to leave the room for Him because it’s His right to avenge and He will repay. On the contrary He asks us to feed our enemy when he’s hungry. To give him drink when he’s thirsty. Sounds impossible in real life, doesn’t it?
That’s what we should do in order to live at peace with everyone. If we keep thinking of revenge, we won’t be able to live a peaceful life and actually we’re the one who suffer. And by doing this, I do hope that all of us will have a more peaceful life. Peace within ourselves and peace with the people surround us. (-fon-)
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."
--- Romans 12:18-20
When I was small, I watched some kung fu movies. Those movies showed how to deal with their parent’s or teacher’s death. As usual, the kung fu master will definitely think of revenge. An eye for an eye.
But when I read the books of Romans today, I realize that our God has completely a different way in handling unfairness in this life. He forbids us to revenge. But we need to leave the room for Him because it’s His right to avenge and He will repay. On the contrary He asks us to feed our enemy when he’s hungry. To give him drink when he’s thirsty. Sounds impossible in real life, doesn’t it?
That’s what we should do in order to live at peace with everyone. If we keep thinking of revenge, we won’t be able to live a peaceful life and actually we’re the one who suffer. And by doing this, I do hope that all of us will have a more peaceful life. Peace within ourselves and peace with the people surround us. (-fon-)
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary:
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."
--- Romans 12:18-20
Thursday, May 22, 2008
TOTD, May 23
Free
All of us want to be free. No doubt about it. First of all, we want to be free to love. We don’t want to be forced into loving someone. And after that, we want to be free as a human being. We have our rights to live in this world to the fullest. We want to be free to speak our opinion, etc, etc.
The bottom line is: we want to be free in this life.
But sometimes we make wrong actions. We thought we will be free if we can do whatever we want to do. Sometimes, without thinking too much, we just enjoy our life and think that maybe this is the right way to freedom.
Then, some people start becoming alcoholics, they can drink alcohol as much as they want. They have the freedom to do so. Or maybe, some of them trying to break free by taking drugs, having free sex, gambling, or any other things that they thought would show their freedom. The freedom to choose whatever they want to do with their life.
The problem is the more they wanted to be free, the more they’re going to fall deeper into a neverending bondage.
But, the word ‘free’ in God’s dictionary is very different from what the world thinks. We are called to be free. But do not use our freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love. (Galatians 5:13).
The word ‘free’ doesn’t mean that we can do whatever we want to please or to indulge our sinful nature because we know that those things will bring more miseries in the end by trapping ourselves in the middle of bondages.
So, let’s understand the word ‘free’ in a better way. Free to serve one another in love, that’s what we should do. (-fon-)
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.
--- Galatians 5:13
All of us want to be free. No doubt about it. First of all, we want to be free to love. We don’t want to be forced into loving someone. And after that, we want to be free as a human being. We have our rights to live in this world to the fullest. We want to be free to speak our opinion, etc, etc.
The bottom line is: we want to be free in this life.
But sometimes we make wrong actions. We thought we will be free if we can do whatever we want to do. Sometimes, without thinking too much, we just enjoy our life and think that maybe this is the right way to freedom.
Then, some people start becoming alcoholics, they can drink alcohol as much as they want. They have the freedom to do so. Or maybe, some of them trying to break free by taking drugs, having free sex, gambling, or any other things that they thought would show their freedom. The freedom to choose whatever they want to do with their life.
The problem is the more they wanted to be free, the more they’re going to fall deeper into a neverending bondage.
But, the word ‘free’ in God’s dictionary is very different from what the world thinks. We are called to be free. But do not use our freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather serve one another in love. (Galatians 5:13).
The word ‘free’ doesn’t mean that we can do whatever we want to please or to indulge our sinful nature because we know that those things will bring more miseries in the end by trapping ourselves in the middle of bondages.
So, let’s understand the word ‘free’ in a better way. Free to serve one another in love, that’s what we should do. (-fon-)
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.
--- Galatians 5:13
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
TOTD, May 22
There Is None Like Him
Today’s paper in Singapore showed a very touching picture of a girl who’s holding a barbie doll closely to her heart in one arm. The title of the article: Young Ballerina’s Dashed Dreams.
This is the story:
Li Yue, 12, was a girl who loved to dance. She started ballet lessons six months ago and took to it like a natural. She had talent, trained hard, and looked like she had the makings of a ballerina, a teacher said. Then the Sichuan earthquake struck on May 12 and changed everything. She was trapped under rubble when her school building collapsed in Beichuan county. Li Yue survived, but rescuers who found her on May 14 could not free her. The next day they amputated her left leg. Li Yue’s divorce mum works in Xinjiang and her father works in the Middle East. She and her older sister live with their grandfather.
( The Straits Times, May 21, 2008).
I cried inside when I read her story. So young, so promising, and yet so unlucky. But who can say which part of this life is lucky or not? As God’s children we believe that everything happens for a reason. The good thing she survives. And I believe that God has a wonderful plan for her which maybe she can’t see at the moment while her dream was scattered.
Just like Li Yue, we have dreams. And sometimes our dreams were dashed as well. They were scattered when reality come to wake us up with such an unpleasant surprise. But we need to hold on to our faith. We need to believe that God will give nothing but the best for us in His plan. We need to believe in Him because there’s none like Him.
Keep the faith.
(-fon-)
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD,
"and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me.
--- Isaiah 43:10
Today’s paper in Singapore showed a very touching picture of a girl who’s holding a barbie doll closely to her heart in one arm. The title of the article: Young Ballerina’s Dashed Dreams.
This is the story:
Li Yue, 12, was a girl who loved to dance. She started ballet lessons six months ago and took to it like a natural. She had talent, trained hard, and looked like she had the makings of a ballerina, a teacher said. Then the Sichuan earthquake struck on May 12 and changed everything. She was trapped under rubble when her school building collapsed in Beichuan county. Li Yue survived, but rescuers who found her on May 14 could not free her. The next day they amputated her left leg. Li Yue’s divorce mum works in Xinjiang and her father works in the Middle East. She and her older sister live with their grandfather.
( The Straits Times, May 21, 2008).
I cried inside when I read her story. So young, so promising, and yet so unlucky. But who can say which part of this life is lucky or not? As God’s children we believe that everything happens for a reason. The good thing she survives. And I believe that God has a wonderful plan for her which maybe she can’t see at the moment while her dream was scattered.
Just like Li Yue, we have dreams. And sometimes our dreams were dashed as well. They were scattered when reality come to wake us up with such an unpleasant surprise. But we need to hold on to our faith. We need to believe that God will give nothing but the best for us in His plan. We need to believe in Him because there’s none like Him.
Keep the faith.
(-fon-)
"You are my witnesses," declares the LORD,
"and my servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe me
and understand that I am he.
Before me no god was formed,
nor will there be one after me.
--- Isaiah 43:10
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
TOTD, May 21
United Hearts and One Voice
In this world, we might find so many differences in this life that lead one argument to another. Sometimes we argue over trivial matters, sometimes we argue over some very principle matters, but above all, we are different, we're all unique and have different thoughts.
But despite all the differences, we need to remember that we need to live in harmony according to God's wish. We can find it in Romans 15:5-6 which said that may God give the power of patience endurance to live in mutual harmony and full of sympathy with one another in accord with Christ Jesus. And after that we may with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify God.
So today, by realizing we're different, let's put aside those differences and start to live in harmony. And with united hearts and one voice, let's praise His Name so that He will be glorified more and more. (-fon-)
Now may the God Who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and Who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,
That together you may [unanimously] with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah).
--- Romans 15:5-6
In this world, we might find so many differences in this life that lead one argument to another. Sometimes we argue over trivial matters, sometimes we argue over some very principle matters, but above all, we are different, we're all unique and have different thoughts.
But despite all the differences, we need to remember that we need to live in harmony according to God's wish. We can find it in Romans 15:5-6 which said that may God give the power of patience endurance to live in mutual harmony and full of sympathy with one another in accord with Christ Jesus. And after that we may with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify God.
So today, by realizing we're different, let's put aside those differences and start to live in harmony. And with united hearts and one voice, let's praise His Name so that He will be glorified more and more. (-fon-)
Now may the God Who gives the power of patient endurance (steadfastness) and Who supplies encouragement, grant you to live in such mutual harmony and such full sympathy with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,
That together you may [unanimously] with united hearts and one voice, praise and glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah).
--- Romans 15:5-6
Monday, May 19, 2008
TOTD, May 20
Pleasant Words
Sometimes, due to our tiredness or in a fatigue condition, quite often we throw unpleasant words to the people surround us. It’s not easy to control each word that comes from our tongue.
But we need to try to. Try to pick the pleasant words in our conversation. Of course once in a while, we might forget it and talk in such an unpleasant way. But let us all be reminded by Proverbs 16:24 today that pleasant words are as a honeycomb, they are sweet to the mind and healing to the body.
Maybe, you’re surrounded by not-so-pleasant-people who talk unpleasantly today. Or maybe, some members of your family have this anger every time they talk. But, let’s start with us, let’s start to talk in pleasant words. Don’t expect others to do it first, but let’s start from us at this point of time. (-fon-)
Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the mind and healing to the body.
---Proverbs 16:24
Sometimes, due to our tiredness or in a fatigue condition, quite often we throw unpleasant words to the people surround us. It’s not easy to control each word that comes from our tongue.
But we need to try to. Try to pick the pleasant words in our conversation. Of course once in a while, we might forget it and talk in such an unpleasant way. But let us all be reminded by Proverbs 16:24 today that pleasant words are as a honeycomb, they are sweet to the mind and healing to the body.
Maybe, you’re surrounded by not-so-pleasant-people who talk unpleasantly today. Or maybe, some members of your family have this anger every time they talk. But, let’s start with us, let’s start to talk in pleasant words. Don’t expect others to do it first, but let’s start from us at this point of time. (-fon-)
Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the mind and healing to the body.
---Proverbs 16:24
Sunday, May 18, 2008
TOTD, May 19
Jesus Has Compassion
Today, I read Matthew 20: 29-34, and I begin to imagine the story of the Bible.
It happened back then, when Jesus and His disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. Two blind men were sitting by the road side, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!"
The crowd told them to be quiet. And you know what happened next? They shouted even louder. And that made Jesus stop and asked them, what they wanted Jesus to do.
They replied that they wanted their sight. And the result was amazing! They immediately received their sight because Jesus had compassion on them.
Many times, we’re also blind in this life. Not physically blind, but sometimes our heart is blind. Or we’re emotionally blind while we don’t have any sympathy for others at all.
When we realized that we have this blindness inside of us and we shouted, “ Lord, have mercy on us!” He will hear us. And as long as we repent our faults and follow His commandments, we will get His compassion. For He’s compassionate all the time.
Thank God for being such a loving and compassionate God for us. And it’s our duty for not disappointing Him. Jesus has a great compassion and it’s our duty not to take it as a granted. (-fon-)
Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.
--- Matthew 20:34
Today, I read Matthew 20: 29-34, and I begin to imagine the story of the Bible.
It happened back then, when Jesus and His disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed Him. Two blind men were sitting by the road side, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!"
The crowd told them to be quiet. And you know what happened next? They shouted even louder. And that made Jesus stop and asked them, what they wanted Jesus to do.
They replied that they wanted their sight. And the result was amazing! They immediately received their sight because Jesus had compassion on them.
Many times, we’re also blind in this life. Not physically blind, but sometimes our heart is blind. Or we’re emotionally blind while we don’t have any sympathy for others at all.
When we realized that we have this blindness inside of us and we shouted, “ Lord, have mercy on us!” He will hear us. And as long as we repent our faults and follow His commandments, we will get His compassion. For He’s compassionate all the time.
Thank God for being such a loving and compassionate God for us. And it’s our duty for not disappointing Him. Jesus has a great compassion and it’s our duty not to take it as a granted. (-fon-)
Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.
--- Matthew 20:34
Saturday, May 17, 2008
TOTD, May 18
Don’t Worry
While everything changes and all the situation in this world seems uncertain – either it’s economic, political, or unavoidable natural disasters, we might feel the increasing of worry inside of us.
It’s very common to feel that way. We can easily get worried almost about everything in this life. We get worried about us, about our loved ones: children, spouse, family, and friends. We get worried about our future. We get worried about our health and wealth. We can get worried because of anything that comes into our mind.
But God’s Word will make us feel stronger since He’s giving us a new hope. He has told us not to worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34).
By worrying, we begin to feel uneasy. We’re going to lose our peace. So, we need to affirm our faith over and over again by trusting Him that He will provide us all the things that we need according to His plan. (-fon-)
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
--- Matthew 6:34
While everything changes and all the situation in this world seems uncertain – either it’s economic, political, or unavoidable natural disasters, we might feel the increasing of worry inside of us.
It’s very common to feel that way. We can easily get worried almost about everything in this life. We get worried about us, about our loved ones: children, spouse, family, and friends. We get worried about our future. We get worried about our health and wealth. We can get worried because of anything that comes into our mind.
But God’s Word will make us feel stronger since He’s giving us a new hope. He has told us not to worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own (Matthew 6:34).
By worrying, we begin to feel uneasy. We’re going to lose our peace. So, we need to affirm our faith over and over again by trusting Him that He will provide us all the things that we need according to His plan. (-fon-)
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
--- Matthew 6:34
Friday, May 16, 2008
TOTD, May 17
The Lord your God in Your Midst
Have you ever wondered maybe for just one moment in your life, that God is so far away from you? And you thought maybe as He’s too far, He won’t be able to be there all the time for you?
Well, let’s look at this verse from Zephaniah 3:17, it says that the Lord your God in your midst. He’s here among us, He’s here inside of our hearts. And His presence is wonderful because He is the Mighty one who will save us. His faithfulness endures forever and He will rejoice over us with gladness.
And if ever you wondered about Him today...
Hey friends, just want to let you know that He’s in our midst. He will save. He will rejoice together with us. And He’s not that far.
(-fon-)
The LORD your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.”
---Zephaniah 3:17
Have you ever wondered maybe for just one moment in your life, that God is so far away from you? And you thought maybe as He’s too far, He won’t be able to be there all the time for you?
Well, let’s look at this verse from Zephaniah 3:17, it says that the Lord your God in your midst. He’s here among us, He’s here inside of our hearts. And His presence is wonderful because He is the Mighty one who will save us. His faithfulness endures forever and He will rejoice over us with gladness.
And if ever you wondered about Him today...
Hey friends, just want to let you know that He’s in our midst. He will save. He will rejoice together with us. And He’s not that far.
(-fon-)
The LORD your God in your midst,
The Mighty One, will save;
He will rejoice over you with gladness,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.”
---Zephaniah 3:17
Thursday, May 15, 2008
TOTD, May 16
The Maker of All Things
When you look back in your life, sometimes you wouldn’t believe that so many things have happened far from you plans and yet those were the best things that you can get in your life.
It’s amazing but yet couldn’t be comprehend.
And it’s described beautifully by the Bible as we can see it in Ecclesiastes 11:5.
As we don’t know the path of the wind or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so we can not understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.
Yes, I find it hard to understand everything in this life. So many questions left unanswered. But, it’s not our task to find the answers of all questions. All we have to do is just seeking the Maker of all things, God Himself.
And trust Him that He will give nothing but the best for us, within His perfect plan.
(-fon-)
As you do not know the path of the wind,
or how the body is formed in a mother's womb,
so you cannot understand the work of God,
the Maker of all things.
--- Ecclesiastes 11:5
When you look back in your life, sometimes you wouldn’t believe that so many things have happened far from you plans and yet those were the best things that you can get in your life.
It’s amazing but yet couldn’t be comprehend.
And it’s described beautifully by the Bible as we can see it in Ecclesiastes 11:5.
As we don’t know the path of the wind or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so we can not understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.
Yes, I find it hard to understand everything in this life. So many questions left unanswered. But, it’s not our task to find the answers of all questions. All we have to do is just seeking the Maker of all things, God Himself.
And trust Him that He will give nothing but the best for us, within His perfect plan.
(-fon-)
As you do not know the path of the wind,
or how the body is formed in a mother's womb,
so you cannot understand the work of God,
the Maker of all things.
--- Ecclesiastes 11:5
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
TOTD, May 15
Marvelous are Your Works
When you look at the mirror, you see your reflection. And there are some parts of that reflection which you don’t like. Maybe you don’t like the shape of your mouth, eyes, eye brows, nose, or lips. Or maybe you don’t like the shape of your face, your legs, or even your arms, your height, your weight, just name it.
Well, you got so many things to complain for since those parts of your body don’t meet your expectation.
But let me tell you something which was written in Psalm 139:13-14:
God has already formed each part of our body perfectly. He formed our inward parts; He covered us in our mother’s womb.
And that’s why we need to praise Him for we are fearfully and wonderfully made.
“ Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.”
Yes, God! Today, let me look at my reflection with thanksgiving. Because I know that marvelous are Your works, and I know it very well.
Thank You, God. Thank You that I am so wonderfully made. (-fon-)
For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.
--- Psalm 139:13-14
When you look at the mirror, you see your reflection. And there are some parts of that reflection which you don’t like. Maybe you don’t like the shape of your mouth, eyes, eye brows, nose, or lips. Or maybe you don’t like the shape of your face, your legs, or even your arms, your height, your weight, just name it.
Well, you got so many things to complain for since those parts of your body don’t meet your expectation.
But let me tell you something which was written in Psalm 139:13-14:
God has already formed each part of our body perfectly. He formed our inward parts; He covered us in our mother’s womb.
And that’s why we need to praise Him for we are fearfully and wonderfully made.
“ Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.”
Yes, God! Today, let me look at my reflection with thanksgiving. Because I know that marvelous are Your works, and I know it very well.
Thank You, God. Thank You that I am so wonderfully made. (-fon-)
For You formed my inward parts;
You covered me in my mother’s womb.
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well.
--- Psalm 139:13-14
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
TOTD, May 14
Thanksgiving
Recently, with so many disasters keep happening around the world, like the cyclone in Myanmar or the earthquake in China. Or even the instability of political situation due to the oil price and food price increase in every part of this world, then we wonder, could we find the grateful attitude in every circumstance that we’re facing right now?
Of course it’s not easy, especially when our eyes are blurred with the problems. We can’t see clearly all the good things in this life.
Today, as I read the verse from Ezra 3:11, it reminds me once more that I need to come to the Lord with praise and thanksgiving. Because He is good, his love endures forever!
In the middle of every darkness, every sad situation, there must be something good to be thankful for. That’s why we need to give thanks to the Lord, that’s why we need to stay in thanksgiving attitude.
Whatever happens in our life, whatever happens in this life, don’t let thanksgiving run away from us. It’s our choice to stay in thanksgiving no matter how hard the situation might be. So, choose to be in thanksgiving attitude every moment in our life. (-fon-)
With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :
"He is good;
his love to Israel endures forever."
And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.
--- Ezra 3:11
Recently, with so many disasters keep happening around the world, like the cyclone in Myanmar or the earthquake in China. Or even the instability of political situation due to the oil price and food price increase in every part of this world, then we wonder, could we find the grateful attitude in every circumstance that we’re facing right now?
Of course it’s not easy, especially when our eyes are blurred with the problems. We can’t see clearly all the good things in this life.
Today, as I read the verse from Ezra 3:11, it reminds me once more that I need to come to the Lord with praise and thanksgiving. Because He is good, his love endures forever!
In the middle of every darkness, every sad situation, there must be something good to be thankful for. That’s why we need to give thanks to the Lord, that’s why we need to stay in thanksgiving attitude.
Whatever happens in our life, whatever happens in this life, don’t let thanksgiving run away from us. It’s our choice to stay in thanksgiving no matter how hard the situation might be. So, choose to be in thanksgiving attitude every moment in our life. (-fon-)
With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :
"He is good;
his love to Israel endures forever."
And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.
--- Ezra 3:11
Monday, May 12, 2008
TOTD, May 13
The Spirit of Sonship
Each of us has our own fear. Some of us fear of certain height, while most of us fear of our future or fear of rejection. Just name it, each of us has our own fear that we need to face inside of us.
But in God, we need to set ourselves free from those fear. Just look at Romans 8:15 which says, “ For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of SONSHIP.”
Yes, in Him we receive the spirit of Sonship, because all of us are His sons and daughters, we’re His children.
So, just surrender to God all of our fear that’s bothering us right now. And let Him remove those fears. Because we believe that we’re His children and He will set us free.
(-fon-)
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father."
--- Romans 8:15
Each of us has our own fear. Some of us fear of certain height, while most of us fear of our future or fear of rejection. Just name it, each of us has our own fear that we need to face inside of us.
But in God, we need to set ourselves free from those fear. Just look at Romans 8:15 which says, “ For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of SONSHIP.”
Yes, in Him we receive the spirit of Sonship, because all of us are His sons and daughters, we’re His children.
So, just surrender to God all of our fear that’s bothering us right now. And let Him remove those fears. Because we believe that we’re His children and He will set us free.
(-fon-)
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father."
--- Romans 8:15
Sunday, May 11, 2008
TOTD, May 12
Happy Mother’s Day!
Today, as I write down this TOTD on 11th of May, is Mother’s Day in many parts of the world including Singapore. Lots of celebrations offered in hotels and many gift’s ideas pop up in the ads for mothers such as: diamonds, flowers, bags, wallet, or even cakes, especially on mother’s day.
Just now when I went to the mass in St. Bernadette Church, I was quite touched, when the pastor asked all the mothers to stand up. After that He prayed for all of us, the mothers. I found that it’s a privilege to be a mother with all the concerns, worries, or even the exhausted feeling along the way. But on the other hand, experiencing joy and happiness along this motherhood made me realize that life will never be the same again.
The Strait Times today wrote about an HR expert in Singapore’s estimation on what’s a full time mom worth. He has written down and calculated with his own estimation, it’s around $ 23,000 (IDR 154,000,000 with the rate of 1 SGD = Rp. 6700).
Well, I believe most mommies won’t accept that calculation because most of them feel that it’s impossible to calculate a mother’s effort in doing all the chores as well as educate their kids and so on and so on. A mommy’s job will never stop, it’s a life time job. And wonderful moms will do those chores with love.
And as a Christian mom, we need to remember Proverbs 31:28, “ Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:”
So, for all the mothers out there, Happy Mother’s Day, be a mom that will make our God proud by remembering Proverbs 31:28. And for all the children out there, make your mommy proud, and be good to her, make her happy to have you as her child.
(-fon-)
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
---Proverbs 31:28
Today, as I write down this TOTD on 11th of May, is Mother’s Day in many parts of the world including Singapore. Lots of celebrations offered in hotels and many gift’s ideas pop up in the ads for mothers such as: diamonds, flowers, bags, wallet, or even cakes, especially on mother’s day.
Just now when I went to the mass in St. Bernadette Church, I was quite touched, when the pastor asked all the mothers to stand up. After that He prayed for all of us, the mothers. I found that it’s a privilege to be a mother with all the concerns, worries, or even the exhausted feeling along the way. But on the other hand, experiencing joy and happiness along this motherhood made me realize that life will never be the same again.
The Strait Times today wrote about an HR expert in Singapore’s estimation on what’s a full time mom worth. He has written down and calculated with his own estimation, it’s around $ 23,000 (IDR 154,000,000 with the rate of 1 SGD = Rp. 6700).
Well, I believe most mommies won’t accept that calculation because most of them feel that it’s impossible to calculate a mother’s effort in doing all the chores as well as educate their kids and so on and so on. A mommy’s job will never stop, it’s a life time job. And wonderful moms will do those chores with love.
And as a Christian mom, we need to remember Proverbs 31:28, “ Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:”
So, for all the mothers out there, Happy Mother’s Day, be a mom that will make our God proud by remembering Proverbs 31:28. And for all the children out there, make your mommy proud, and be good to her, make her happy to have you as her child.
(-fon-)
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
---Proverbs 31:28
Saturday, May 10, 2008
TOTD, May 11
A New Thing
Today, you might realize that life is nothing but a series of boring things. Nothing has changed recently and it seems that your life is going to follow the downward trend of it.
Then you feel fed up, stuck, and tired of this life since it doesn't give you any surprises at all.
But remembering God's promise in Isaiah, it reminds me once more that He is able to do everything. And that includes giving us a new thing if He wants to, right away.
We need to believe in Him and in faith we keep on trusting Him that He will do a new thing in our life. And He's capable of making the impossibles such as make roads in wilderness, or even rivers in the desert. Oh yes, He's capable of doing those things, just simply because He is God.
All we need to do is just be patient to wait on His promises. We need to believe that if His time has arrived, there's no human on earth or other creatures can stop us to receive His blessings that will be showered to our life. (-fon-)
See, I will do a new thing. It will begin happening now. Will you not know about it? I will even make a road in the place where no people live, and rivers in the desert.
--- Isaiah 43:19
Today, you might realize that life is nothing but a series of boring things. Nothing has changed recently and it seems that your life is going to follow the downward trend of it.
Then you feel fed up, stuck, and tired of this life since it doesn't give you any surprises at all.
But remembering God's promise in Isaiah, it reminds me once more that He is able to do everything. And that includes giving us a new thing if He wants to, right away.
We need to believe in Him and in faith we keep on trusting Him that He will do a new thing in our life. And He's capable of making the impossibles such as make roads in wilderness, or even rivers in the desert. Oh yes, He's capable of doing those things, just simply because He is God.
All we need to do is just be patient to wait on His promises. We need to believe that if His time has arrived, there's no human on earth or other creatures can stop us to receive His blessings that will be showered to our life. (-fon-)
See, I will do a new thing. It will begin happening now. Will you not know about it? I will even make a road in the place where no people live, and rivers in the desert.
--- Isaiah 43:19
Friday, May 9, 2008
TOTD, May 10
If the Lord Lets Us
The Word of God in James, reminds us to tell all of our plans to God and involve Him in every plan that we’ll take. Never forget about Him!
It’s easy to say that we’re going to do this and that. Or we have already planned this or that. But here are some good questions from the book of James: What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life?
The only this that’s sure about life is: there will always be uncertainty. Not only about tomorrow, but also we will never know what will happen in the next second of our life.
By realizing that, we ought to say that, “ If the Lord lets us live, we will do these things.”
That’s how we acknowledge Him as our Lord, as our Guide in this life.
We can plan anything, we can even have huge dreams in this life, as long as we communicate those plans and dreams to God. (-fon-)
You should know better than to say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to the city. We will do business there for a year and make a lot of money!" What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears. You should say, "If the Lord lets us live, we will do these things."
--- James 4:13-15
The Word of God in James, reminds us to tell all of our plans to God and involve Him in every plan that we’ll take. Never forget about Him!
It’s easy to say that we’re going to do this and that. Or we have already planned this or that. But here are some good questions from the book of James: What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life?
The only this that’s sure about life is: there will always be uncertainty. Not only about tomorrow, but also we will never know what will happen in the next second of our life.
By realizing that, we ought to say that, “ If the Lord lets us live, we will do these things.”
That’s how we acknowledge Him as our Lord, as our Guide in this life.
We can plan anything, we can even have huge dreams in this life, as long as we communicate those plans and dreams to God. (-fon-)
You should know better than to say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to the city. We will do business there for a year and make a lot of money!" What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears. You should say, "If the Lord lets us live, we will do these things."
--- James 4:13-15
Thursday, May 8, 2008
TOTD, May 09
With Blessing
In daily life, it’s so common to see people repay evil with evil, insult with insult.
What will most of people do when they get insulted? They’ll insult back. And sometimes, we can read in newspaper that because of one or two insults one person becomes so bitter and ends another person’s life easily.
That’s not what the Bible tells us to do.
We need to live in harmony with one another, be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. And most importantly do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with BLESSING, because to this we were called so that we may inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:8-9)
Again, the bible has reminded us to do good things instead of evil ones. To repay every painful word that has been thrown to us with love, with blessing. Just fill every tongue of ours with blessing, we’ll see the difference. (-fon-)
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
--- 1 Peter 3:8-9
In daily life, it’s so common to see people repay evil with evil, insult with insult.
What will most of people do when they get insulted? They’ll insult back. And sometimes, we can read in newspaper that because of one or two insults one person becomes so bitter and ends another person’s life easily.
That’s not what the Bible tells us to do.
We need to live in harmony with one another, be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. And most importantly do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with BLESSING, because to this we were called so that we may inherit a blessing. (1 Peter 3:8-9)
Again, the bible has reminded us to do good things instead of evil ones. To repay every painful word that has been thrown to us with love, with blessing. Just fill every tongue of ours with blessing, we’ll see the difference. (-fon-)
Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.
--- 1 Peter 3:8-9
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
TOTD, May 08
Be Joyful Always
As I was and am still experiencing some major changes in my life for the past one and a half year, I sometimes become a true worrier. No, not warrior, but worrier. I got worried when it comes to adaptation living in a new country, I got worried when it’s my first experience in having a baby, etc.. etc…
In this life, we have so many reasons to become worry. But 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 shows us how to be joyful always. It says that we need to pray continually and don’t forget to give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus.
Today, again… I start to see from a different perspective. I start to see things in a thankful perspective. That’s when I know that I need to be joyful in the Lord always.
No matter where I am, no matter what I do, no matter how tough the present condition that I’m facing at this moment, I want to rejoice. Of course it can happen by increasing the quality of my communication with Him through prayers and keeping myself to stay in a positive attitude. Not easy to do that, but we need to make a difference as God’s disciples, don’t we? So, be joyful always. (-fon-)
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
--- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
As I was and am still experiencing some major changes in my life for the past one and a half year, I sometimes become a true worrier. No, not warrior, but worrier. I got worried when it comes to adaptation living in a new country, I got worried when it’s my first experience in having a baby, etc.. etc…
In this life, we have so many reasons to become worry. But 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 shows us how to be joyful always. It says that we need to pray continually and don’t forget to give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for us in Christ Jesus.
Today, again… I start to see from a different perspective. I start to see things in a thankful perspective. That’s when I know that I need to be joyful in the Lord always.
No matter where I am, no matter what I do, no matter how tough the present condition that I’m facing at this moment, I want to rejoice. Of course it can happen by increasing the quality of my communication with Him through prayers and keeping myself to stay in a positive attitude. Not easy to do that, but we need to make a difference as God’s disciples, don’t we? So, be joyful always. (-fon-)
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
--- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
TOTD, May 07
Renew the Strength
While walking in this journey of life, we might feel weary, tired, depressed, or frustrated. This is normal but we need to do something about it. And Isaiah 40:30-31 shows us how.
We need to hope in the Lord because we know that’s when we get a renewal of our strength. Like a hand phone battery that needs to be charged occasionally, that should happen to our hope. It needs to be renewed in the Lord.
And that’s when we found the new strength to carry on in this life. The spirit and hope that allow us to soar on wings like eagles. Which was described beautifully as well in Isaiah: we will run and not grow weary, we will walk and not be faint.
Wow, that’s amazing! And that will happen when we put our hope in the Lord. (-fon-)
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
--- Isaiah 40:30-31
While walking in this journey of life, we might feel weary, tired, depressed, or frustrated. This is normal but we need to do something about it. And Isaiah 40:30-31 shows us how.
We need to hope in the Lord because we know that’s when we get a renewal of our strength. Like a hand phone battery that needs to be charged occasionally, that should happen to our hope. It needs to be renewed in the Lord.
And that’s when we found the new strength to carry on in this life. The spirit and hope that allow us to soar on wings like eagles. Which was described beautifully as well in Isaiah: we will run and not grow weary, we will walk and not be faint.
Wow, that’s amazing! And that will happen when we put our hope in the Lord. (-fon-)
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
--- Isaiah 40:30-31
Monday, May 5, 2008
TOTD, May 06
Present Your Requests to God
In our prayers to God, this conversation might occur…
You : God, the prices of food, housing, and every other things are getting higher each day. What should I do?
God : Don’t be anxious, because I’m Your God who can fulfill all of your needs.
You : But God, it’s almost impossible not to worry since everything is so expensive while my salary is still the same. And I have so many things to take care of: my spouse, my children, my parents, my grandparents, my brothers and sisters, my dog, my nephews and nieces, my etc.. etc…
The conversation shows that the worries are exceeding normal level. Nowadays, since the financial condition is getting tougher, people tend to worry more. That’s normal since the inflation rate is growing in each part of this world.
But God’s message is still very clear. Don’t worry about anything, but pray all of your requests to God in a thanksgiving attitude. And the peace of God which beyond understanding will be there in our hearts and minds (Philippians 4: 6-7).
We need to stay focus to God-present our requests to Him- while at the same time: give our best through our hard work in this life. And let God do the rest. (-fon-)
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.
---Philippians 4:6-7
In our prayers to God, this conversation might occur…
You : God, the prices of food, housing, and every other things are getting higher each day. What should I do?
God : Don’t be anxious, because I’m Your God who can fulfill all of your needs.
You : But God, it’s almost impossible not to worry since everything is so expensive while my salary is still the same. And I have so many things to take care of: my spouse, my children, my parents, my grandparents, my brothers and sisters, my dog, my nephews and nieces, my etc.. etc…
The conversation shows that the worries are exceeding normal level. Nowadays, since the financial condition is getting tougher, people tend to worry more. That’s normal since the inflation rate is growing in each part of this world.
But God’s message is still very clear. Don’t worry about anything, but pray all of your requests to God in a thanksgiving attitude. And the peace of God which beyond understanding will be there in our hearts and minds (Philippians 4: 6-7).
We need to stay focus to God-present our requests to Him- while at the same time: give our best through our hard work in this life. And let God do the rest. (-fon-)
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.
---Philippians 4:6-7
Sunday, May 4, 2008
TOTD, May 05
Be Self-Controlled and Alert
Sometimes I do find it hard to be self-controlled all the time.
But after reading 1 Peter 5:8-9, I asked God to grant me the ability to be more alert. Because I know that the devil will always try to persuade us through our mind by attacking our thoughts with negative thinking.
The Bible reminds us to be self-controlled and alert. Eventhough the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, but all we have to do is just resisting him, standing firm in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ, because we know that all throughout the world, people are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
We need to remember that we’re not the only one who’s facing this. We’re not alone.
But the message is still the same: be self-controlled and alert, so that the devil won’t be able to attack us.
Stand stronger and stronger in faith today and forever. Amen. (-fon-)
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
--- 1 Peter 5:8-9
Sometimes I do find it hard to be self-controlled all the time.
But after reading 1 Peter 5:8-9, I asked God to grant me the ability to be more alert. Because I know that the devil will always try to persuade us through our mind by attacking our thoughts with negative thinking.
The Bible reminds us to be self-controlled and alert. Eventhough the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, but all we have to do is just resisting him, standing firm in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ, because we know that all throughout the world, people are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
We need to remember that we’re not the only one who’s facing this. We’re not alone.
But the message is still the same: be self-controlled and alert, so that the devil won’t be able to attack us.
Stand stronger and stronger in faith today and forever. Amen. (-fon-)
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
--- 1 Peter 5:8-9
TOTD, May 04
God Will Hear, Forgive, and Heal
Today, as I read the verse from 2 Chronicles below, I found that God is really good.
Once more, He has shown me how great His love is.
He said, if we’d like to humble ourselves and pray and seek His face and turn from our wicked ways, then He will hear from heaven and will forgive our sin and will heal our land.
Yes, all of us has done something wicked in our life. We also have a lot of sins along the way. But God is willing-or actually He’s more than willing- to forgive us for all the things we’ve done.
And that’s not enough! He will give us mercy and heal us. He will heal our family, our church, our nations, and our world.
In this time of uncertainties, it’s always a soothing thing when we hear about God’s goodness. And it’s good to affirm our faith today by remembering that He will hear our prayer, will forgive us as soon as we repent and heal us.
Thank God. (-fon-)
if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
--- 2 Chronicles 7:14
Today, as I read the verse from 2 Chronicles below, I found that God is really good.
Once more, He has shown me how great His love is.
He said, if we’d like to humble ourselves and pray and seek His face and turn from our wicked ways, then He will hear from heaven and will forgive our sin and will heal our land.
Yes, all of us has done something wicked in our life. We also have a lot of sins along the way. But God is willing-or actually He’s more than willing- to forgive us for all the things we’ve done.
And that’s not enough! He will give us mercy and heal us. He will heal our family, our church, our nations, and our world.
In this time of uncertainties, it’s always a soothing thing when we hear about God’s goodness. And it’s good to affirm our faith today by remembering that He will hear our prayer, will forgive us as soon as we repent and heal us.
Thank God. (-fon-)
if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
--- 2 Chronicles 7:14
Friday, May 2, 2008
TOTD, May 03
Brokenness Brings Goodness
David said, “Lord, I am like a broken vessel” (See Psalm 31:12). Brokenness seems bad, but through brokenness we rid ourselves of the outer shell, the fleshly parts of us, that need to be thrown off in order to bring forth the good things that are in us.
(Taken from: Joyce Meyer’s Article)
Broken-hearted, broken-home, or all other brokenness will always be there in some stage of our life.
It’s painful and sometimes hurt us deeply.
But Joyce Meyer’s article made me see that sometimes we need brokenness. Because brokenness even though seems bad, but through brokenness we rid ourselves of the outer shell- the fleshy part of us in order to bring the goodness inside of us out and can be seen by others as something beautiful.
So, are you experiencing brokenness recently?
Be sure that brokenness will bring goodness in our life if we devote it to God.
(-fon-)
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
---Psalm 23:6
David said, “Lord, I am like a broken vessel” (See Psalm 31:12). Brokenness seems bad, but through brokenness we rid ourselves of the outer shell, the fleshly parts of us, that need to be thrown off in order to bring forth the good things that are in us.
(Taken from: Joyce Meyer’s Article)
Broken-hearted, broken-home, or all other brokenness will always be there in some stage of our life.
It’s painful and sometimes hurt us deeply.
But Joyce Meyer’s article made me see that sometimes we need brokenness. Because brokenness even though seems bad, but through brokenness we rid ourselves of the outer shell- the fleshy part of us in order to bring the goodness inside of us out and can be seen by others as something beautiful.
So, are you experiencing brokenness recently?
Be sure that brokenness will bring goodness in our life if we devote it to God.
(-fon-)
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
---Psalm 23:6
Thursday, May 1, 2008
TOTD, May 02
Love One Another
In my mind, I want to live in harmony with every one, I don’t intend to have any enemies along my life. But unfortunately, it’s not easy to do so.
In every day of my life I have to face people who dislike me or people that I don’t quite get along with. I can’t do much about that-about like and dislike- but it happens quite often in my life.
Today’s word of God reminds me once more to love one another. It’s easy to love the persons who are nice to us, such as our special boyfriend/girlfriend, spouse, children or best friends.
But how about the difficult people? And what if those difficult people are the members of our family? You dislike them but yet you have to live with them in each day of your life.
Still, God’s word stays the same: Love One Another. By doing that God lives in us and his love is made complete in us (1 John 4: 11-12).
We can only make it with the love of God. With God’s love, it will enable us to love the difficult people in our life.
So, love one another. Try to do it in each day of our life. (-fon-)
Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
--- 1 John 4:11-12
In my mind, I want to live in harmony with every one, I don’t intend to have any enemies along my life. But unfortunately, it’s not easy to do so.
In every day of my life I have to face people who dislike me or people that I don’t quite get along with. I can’t do much about that-about like and dislike- but it happens quite often in my life.
Today’s word of God reminds me once more to love one another. It’s easy to love the persons who are nice to us, such as our special boyfriend/girlfriend, spouse, children or best friends.
But how about the difficult people? And what if those difficult people are the members of our family? You dislike them but yet you have to live with them in each day of your life.
Still, God’s word stays the same: Love One Another. By doing that God lives in us and his love is made complete in us (1 John 4: 11-12).
We can only make it with the love of God. With God’s love, it will enable us to love the difficult people in our life.
So, love one another. Try to do it in each day of our life. (-fon-)
Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
--- 1 John 4:11-12
TOTD, May 01
The Truth
I read Bo Sanchez's book, 7 Secrets to Real Freedom, he pointed out some interesting things there:
We're all hypocrites. We're all wearing masks. We're all hiding something.
Believe me, I've met very religious people in the world who seem so holy on the outside, yet deep within, are hiding something. Perhaps it's pornography. Or adultery. Or a drinking problem. Or gambling. Or an approval-addiction. Or a huge temper problem. Or food addiction. And if it's not a hidden addiction, perhaps it's a crisis of faith. Or a depression. Or a debilitating self-doubt. Or an ugly resentment. Or a crippling insecurity. Or a financial crisis. Or a marriage breakdown.
And from my experience, the more spiritually arrogant, judgmental and self-righteous a person is, the darker his secrets are.
Well, it might be quite shocking fact for all of us. But, Bo Sanchez has already preached since he was 13 and I do think that He has seen much of those things he mentioned above.
First thing that we need to do is to admit that we have some masks that we're wearing. And realizing them. After that, Bo also suggested that we need to have the guts to take the lifelong journey of unmasking the darkness within us and to receive freedom from those negative things.
We need to seek the real truth within ourselves, the real truth in our one true God, and then take a quick step in getting ourselves free from all of the negativity.
God will show us the way, but of course we need to cooperate with Him along the way.
(-fon-)
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
---John 8:32
I read Bo Sanchez's book, 7 Secrets to Real Freedom, he pointed out some interesting things there:
We're all hypocrites. We're all wearing masks. We're all hiding something.
Believe me, I've met very religious people in the world who seem so holy on the outside, yet deep within, are hiding something. Perhaps it's pornography. Or adultery. Or a drinking problem. Or gambling. Or an approval-addiction. Or a huge temper problem. Or food addiction. And if it's not a hidden addiction, perhaps it's a crisis of faith. Or a depression. Or a debilitating self-doubt. Or an ugly resentment. Or a crippling insecurity. Or a financial crisis. Or a marriage breakdown.
And from my experience, the more spiritually arrogant, judgmental and self-righteous a person is, the darker his secrets are.
Well, it might be quite shocking fact for all of us. But, Bo Sanchez has already preached since he was 13 and I do think that He has seen much of those things he mentioned above.
First thing that we need to do is to admit that we have some masks that we're wearing. And realizing them. After that, Bo also suggested that we need to have the guts to take the lifelong journey of unmasking the darkness within us and to receive freedom from those negative things.
We need to seek the real truth within ourselves, the real truth in our one true God, and then take a quick step in getting ourselves free from all of the negativity.
God will show us the way, but of course we need to cooperate with Him along the way.
(-fon-)
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
---John 8:32
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