I Will Not Be Afraid
Sometimes while we’re walking in this life, we might feel scared-afraid and worried. It’s very natural as a human being and sometimes those feelings just come uninvited, so it’s something unavoidable.
But the Psalm today reminds us to trust in Him. Then, hopefully by that trust, we won’t be afraid anymore. Let’s say it loud, “ I won’t be afraid because I trust You, Lord!”
(-fon-)
In God, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?
--- Psalm 56:4
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
TOTD, May 30
Start from Our Family
Here’s a quote from Mother Teresa:
We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.
Mother Teresa
So, does this quote remind you of someone that has become a burden in your family? Whether he/she’s very talkative so that nobody can stand her at all or whether he/she gets angry easily and becomes a negative person who throws tantrum every time you have a family reunion… Well, somehow we need to face them, like or dislike, as a part of our family. And as disciple of Christ, we need to provide for our relatives. Sometimes we treasure our friends more than our family, but let’s make peace with our own family. We can’t choose them, they have been given to us as a part of our family by God. Let’s try to treat them in a better way.
(-fon-)
If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
--- 1 Timothy 5:7-9
Here’s a quote from Mother Teresa:
We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.
Mother Teresa
So, does this quote remind you of someone that has become a burden in your family? Whether he/she’s very talkative so that nobody can stand her at all or whether he/she gets angry easily and becomes a negative person who throws tantrum every time you have a family reunion… Well, somehow we need to face them, like or dislike, as a part of our family. And as disciple of Christ, we need to provide for our relatives. Sometimes we treasure our friends more than our family, but let’s make peace with our own family. We can’t choose them, they have been given to us as a part of our family by God. Let’s try to treat them in a better way.
(-fon-)
If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
--- 1 Timothy 5:7-9
Thursday, May 28, 2009
TOTD, May 29
Shall We Accept Good and Not Trouble?
I love reading the book of Job. Not only his faith really amazed me, but he’s an extraordinary person who can hold on still with his integrity even though he’s in pain.
So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes.
His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"
He replied, "You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"
In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.
--- Job 2:7-10
Imagine that you’re in his position. And your loved one (your spouse) asked you to curse God. Can you be like him? Can you say the same words as what he was saying? It’s really hard. But if only we realize that, we can reach the kind of faith like Job. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble? Let’s try to be a more mature person and accept things in this life as His gift, even though it’s good or bad because He has His own plan for us. (-fon-)
I love reading the book of Job. Not only his faith really amazed me, but he’s an extraordinary person who can hold on still with his integrity even though he’s in pain.
So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes.
His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"
He replied, "You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"
In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.
--- Job 2:7-10
Imagine that you’re in his position. And your loved one (your spouse) asked you to curse God. Can you be like him? Can you say the same words as what he was saying? It’s really hard. But if only we realize that, we can reach the kind of faith like Job. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble? Let’s try to be a more mature person and accept things in this life as His gift, even though it’s good or bad because He has His own plan for us. (-fon-)
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
TOTD, May 28
He Is the Door
In this world, we can choose a lot of doors. The door of drugs, the door of pornography, the door of alcohol, or any other doors to keep us happy, to keep us free. Only to find that in the end those doors give more bondage and addiction rather than make us free.
Jesus said He is the Door. Anyone entered through Him will be saved. We will come in and go out freely.
Find no other door, find Him! (-fon-)
I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture.
--- John 10:9
In this world, we can choose a lot of doors. The door of drugs, the door of pornography, the door of alcohol, or any other doors to keep us happy, to keep us free. Only to find that in the end those doors give more bondage and addiction rather than make us free.
Jesus said He is the Door. Anyone entered through Him will be saved. We will come in and go out freely.
Find no other door, find Him! (-fon-)
I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture.
--- John 10:9
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
TOTD, May 27
To Save the World
We might feel bad with our mistakes or sins, sometimes we think that we don’t deserve anything in this world because we’ve done so many unforgivable sins.
But, God sent His Son not to condemn to world, not to condemn us. He came to save the world through Him. He came to save us. And we need to act wisely because He has been so good to us. (-fon-)
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
--- John 3:17
We might feel bad with our mistakes or sins, sometimes we think that we don’t deserve anything in this world because we’ve done so many unforgivable sins.
But, God sent His Son not to condemn to world, not to condemn us. He came to save the world through Him. He came to save us. And we need to act wisely because He has been so good to us. (-fon-)
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
--- John 3:17
Monday, May 25, 2009
TOTD, May 26
If Only We Can Slowdown our Anger
We get angry easily.
Today, in the middle of the bustling road of Jakarta, you’re trapped in a traffic jam. You can’t do anything but you’re going to be late for an important meeting. In the frustration, you shout, you get angry with the traffic, with the lack of ability of government to manage the traffic. You also get angry with the amount of the cars that increase more and more each day. You get angry with almost everything at that moment.
But then, a soft whisper comes to make you realize that you should slow to become angry, so that you can have a more peaceful life.
If only we can slowdown our anger, I’m sure that more people will experience more peace at heart. And again, I do hope that the peace that you bring could be spread to your friends or families around you. Let’s make this world a more peaceful place.
(-fon-)
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.
--- James 1:19
We get angry easily.
Today, in the middle of the bustling road of Jakarta, you’re trapped in a traffic jam. You can’t do anything but you’re going to be late for an important meeting. In the frustration, you shout, you get angry with the traffic, with the lack of ability of government to manage the traffic. You also get angry with the amount of the cars that increase more and more each day. You get angry with almost everything at that moment.
But then, a soft whisper comes to make you realize that you should slow to become angry, so that you can have a more peaceful life.
If only we can slowdown our anger, I’m sure that more people will experience more peace at heart. And again, I do hope that the peace that you bring could be spread to your friends or families around you. Let’s make this world a more peaceful place.
(-fon-)
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.
--- James 1:19
Sunday, May 24, 2009
TOTD, May 24-25
Devoted to One Another
We should treat others in brotherly love, as the bible reminds us to stay devoted to one another in brotherly love. And don’t forget that we also need to honor one another above ourselves. And by doing this, hopefully, we can create a better world for each of us. (-fon-)
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
--- Romans 12:10
Lord Searches Every Heart
We tend to judge people from their first impressions on us. But God can see further, He can search every heart. He even understands every motive behind the thoughts. Nothing is hidden from Him. He knows everything. And let’s do like what Solomon was told, serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind. Seek Him and He’ll be found. He’s near…(-fon-)
"And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you...
--- 1 Chronicles 28:9
We should treat others in brotherly love, as the bible reminds us to stay devoted to one another in brotherly love. And don’t forget that we also need to honor one another above ourselves. And by doing this, hopefully, we can create a better world for each of us. (-fon-)
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.
--- Romans 12:10
Lord Searches Every Heart
We tend to judge people from their first impressions on us. But God can see further, He can search every heart. He even understands every motive behind the thoughts. Nothing is hidden from Him. He knows everything. And let’s do like what Solomon was told, serve Him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind. Seek Him and He’ll be found. He’s near…(-fon-)
"And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thoughts. If you seek him, he will be found by you...
--- 1 Chronicles 28:9
Friday, May 22, 2009
TOTD, May 23
Jesus Becomes Poor for Us
The 10-year-old child star of Slumdog Millionaire was awakened Thursday by a policeman wielding a bamboo stick and ordered out of his home. Minutes later it was bulldozed along with dozens of other shanties in the Mumbai slum he calls home."I was frightened," said Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail, who lost his pet kittens in the chaos. "Where is my chicken?" he asked forlornly, picking through the shamble of broken wood and twisted metal sheeting in search of the family hen. Eight Oscars and $US326 million in box office receipts have done little so far to improve the lives of the two impoverished child stars plucked from obscurity to star in the blockbuster. They have been showered with gifts and brief bursts of fame, but their day-to-day lives in the Garib Nagar slum - the "city of the poor" - are little changed.(source:www.theage.com.au)
Even though Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail has become star, he can’t avoid the fact that eventually his home was bulldozed. I felt sad as I read this, how popularity doesn’t help much in his case. He must face the reality and it’s not a pleasant one. Slumdog Millionare itself has won 8 Oscars and become box office, but again the picture of the poverty in India that it captured doesn’t change much.
As we need to face the poverty in each part of this world, we need to remember that Jesus Himself was so rich. But for our sake, He became poor so that through his poverty we might become rich. We need to treasure His sacrifice for us. Thank You, Lord! (-fon-)
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
--- 2 Corinthians 8:9
The 10-year-old child star of Slumdog Millionaire was awakened Thursday by a policeman wielding a bamboo stick and ordered out of his home. Minutes later it was bulldozed along with dozens of other shanties in the Mumbai slum he calls home."I was frightened," said Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail, who lost his pet kittens in the chaos. "Where is my chicken?" he asked forlornly, picking through the shamble of broken wood and twisted metal sheeting in search of the family hen. Eight Oscars and $US326 million in box office receipts have done little so far to improve the lives of the two impoverished child stars plucked from obscurity to star in the blockbuster. They have been showered with gifts and brief bursts of fame, but their day-to-day lives in the Garib Nagar slum - the "city of the poor" - are little changed.(source:www.theage.com.au)
Even though Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail has become star, he can’t avoid the fact that eventually his home was bulldozed. I felt sad as I read this, how popularity doesn’t help much in his case. He must face the reality and it’s not a pleasant one. Slumdog Millionare itself has won 8 Oscars and become box office, but again the picture of the poverty in India that it captured doesn’t change much.
As we need to face the poverty in each part of this world, we need to remember that Jesus Himself was so rich. But for our sake, He became poor so that through his poverty we might become rich. We need to treasure His sacrifice for us. Thank You, Lord! (-fon-)
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
--- 2 Corinthians 8:9
Thursday, May 21, 2009
TOTD, May 22
Keep Us Safe
His ability to keep us from falling is marvelous. We still have the possibility to fall, of course, but even though we fall, we won’t be drowned as long as we’re holding on to our faith.
In this life, the ups and downs are unavoidable. It’s easy when we’re on upside curve of our life, but when it begins to decline, it will be more difficult to face.
So, keep the faith in Him! He deserves to get all the glory, majesty, power, and authority, forever and ever. Amen. (-fon-)
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
--- Jude 1:24-25
His ability to keep us from falling is marvelous. We still have the possibility to fall, of course, but even though we fall, we won’t be drowned as long as we’re holding on to our faith.
In this life, the ups and downs are unavoidable. It’s easy when we’re on upside curve of our life, but when it begins to decline, it will be more difficult to face.
So, keep the faith in Him! He deserves to get all the glory, majesty, power, and authority, forever and ever. Amen. (-fon-)
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
--- Jude 1:24-25
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
TOTD, May 21
Couldn’t Have Done It without You
HE HAS a degenerative disease that doctors said would not let him live past the age of 17.Weighing only 30kg, he cannot dress, bathe or feed himself, and needs a machine to help him breathe. But Kevin Lee, now 20, is a determined young man. Not only will he graduate on Tuesday with a diploma in Internet and multimedia development, he has already been working from home as a games moderator for a software company, earning $800 a month. He works about six hours a day. His inspiration? His mother, Madam Tay Et, who refuses to let her son's dreams fade away. Recognising the double act, Temasek Polytechnic (TP) will have both mother and son on the stage to receive his diploma. Madam Tay, 52, is no stranger to TP as she has been taking her son to his classes for the past three years. She helped him turn the pages of his books during lessons and also carried him from his wheelchair to the lecture hall. Said Kevin on the role his mother played in his success: 'I couldn't have done it without her. She has been by my side all my life.'(source:www.asiaone.com).
I felt touched, the moment I read this story in The Straits Times today. It’s not easy to accomplish a degree with such a condition. But, thank God, Kevin Lee did it. And thanks to his mother, Madam Tay who has always been so supportive, faithful and with him all his life.
With such a great inspirational story of Kevin Lee, I begin to think that this kind of faithfulness is rare. In God, we can expect that kind of faithfulness and actually more than that. Because He has been faithful in every season of our life. No matter what, no matter how, He’s there and will be there always. So, it’s our time to say, “ I couldn’t have done it without YOU, Lord. YOU have always been by my side all my life. Thank You, Lord! (-fon-)
O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?
You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
--- Psalm 89:8
HE HAS a degenerative disease that doctors said would not let him live past the age of 17.Weighing only 30kg, he cannot dress, bathe or feed himself, and needs a machine to help him breathe. But Kevin Lee, now 20, is a determined young man. Not only will he graduate on Tuesday with a diploma in Internet and multimedia development, he has already been working from home as a games moderator for a software company, earning $800 a month. He works about six hours a day. His inspiration? His mother, Madam Tay Et, who refuses to let her son's dreams fade away. Recognising the double act, Temasek Polytechnic (TP) will have both mother and son on the stage to receive his diploma. Madam Tay, 52, is no stranger to TP as she has been taking her son to his classes for the past three years. She helped him turn the pages of his books during lessons and also carried him from his wheelchair to the lecture hall. Said Kevin on the role his mother played in his success: 'I couldn't have done it without her. She has been by my side all my life.'(source:www.asiaone.com).
I felt touched, the moment I read this story in The Straits Times today. It’s not easy to accomplish a degree with such a condition. But, thank God, Kevin Lee did it. And thanks to his mother, Madam Tay who has always been so supportive, faithful and with him all his life.
With such a great inspirational story of Kevin Lee, I begin to think that this kind of faithfulness is rare. In God, we can expect that kind of faithfulness and actually more than that. Because He has been faithful in every season of our life. No matter what, no matter how, He’s there and will be there always. So, it’s our time to say, “ I couldn’t have done it without YOU, Lord. YOU have always been by my side all my life. Thank You, Lord! (-fon-)
O LORD God Almighty, who is like you?
You are mighty, O LORD, and your faithfulness surrounds you.
--- Psalm 89:8
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
TOTD, May 20
God Can Do Anything
If you see that currently nothing much is happening in your life and you feel bored. If you think that life is nothing but a series of monotone things, maybe you should be reminded of this verse: God can do anything! Far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!
So, don’t lose hope. Keep on hang in there with Him. And trust Him that eventually you’ll see some miracles in life. Not because you’re so great on your own, but we’re lucky to have an amazing God who can do all things. And more amazingly, He works within us through the spirit. (-fon-)
God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.
--- Ephesians 3:20-21
If you see that currently nothing much is happening in your life and you feel bored. If you think that life is nothing but a series of monotone things, maybe you should be reminded of this verse: God can do anything! Far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!
So, don’t lose hope. Keep on hang in there with Him. And trust Him that eventually you’ll see some miracles in life. Not because you’re so great on your own, but we’re lucky to have an amazing God who can do all things. And more amazingly, He works within us through the spirit. (-fon-)
God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.
--- Ephesians 3:20-21
Monday, May 18, 2009
TOTD, May 18
Like Mount Zion
If a good friend tells you her story, you’ll definitely trust her with all your heart. You will even cry together with her if she’s sad or laugh with her when she’s happy.
That’s what friends are for, right?
How about our relationship with God? Psalm 125 reminds us that those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
Trust is the base of every single good relationship. It applies the same with our relationship with God. Actually He’s our best friend. The one and only who’s available 24/7/365. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. I’m proud of those who trust in Him!
(-fon-)
Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
--- Psalm 125:1
If a good friend tells you her story, you’ll definitely trust her with all your heart. You will even cry together with her if she’s sad or laugh with her when she’s happy.
That’s what friends are for, right?
How about our relationship with God? Psalm 125 reminds us that those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
Trust is the base of every single good relationship. It applies the same with our relationship with God. Actually He’s our best friend. The one and only who’s available 24/7/365. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. I’m proud of those who trust in Him!
(-fon-)
Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.
--- Psalm 125:1
Sunday, May 17, 2009
TOTD, May 17-18
Everlasting Arms
Some of the women I met love their boyfriend’s/husband’s shoulder to be a shoulder to cry on. In all things, at all times. It’s always good to have a broad shoulder where they can feel safe.
For us, as the His children, we got an eternal God who can be our refuge at all times. He got not only a shoulder to cry on, but also the everlasting arms that will hold us no matter how difficult our situation might be. We’re just so blessed to have Him. (-fon-)
The eternal God is your refuge,
and underneath are the everlasting arms.
--- Deuteronomy 33:27
Letter From Christ
Let’s make our life as a letter from Christ. Let’s show the world that we’re written with the Spirit of the living God on tablets of human hearts.
We can make this world a better place and show this world the love that we’ve already been experienced. Love from our Abba Father. (-fon-)
You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
--- 2 Corinthians 3:3
Some of the women I met love their boyfriend’s/husband’s shoulder to be a shoulder to cry on. In all things, at all times. It’s always good to have a broad shoulder where they can feel safe.
For us, as the His children, we got an eternal God who can be our refuge at all times. He got not only a shoulder to cry on, but also the everlasting arms that will hold us no matter how difficult our situation might be. We’re just so blessed to have Him. (-fon-)
The eternal God is your refuge,
and underneath are the everlasting arms.
--- Deuteronomy 33:27
Letter From Christ
Let’s make our life as a letter from Christ. Let’s show the world that we’re written with the Spirit of the living God on tablets of human hearts.
We can make this world a better place and show this world the love that we’ve already been experienced. Love from our Abba Father. (-fon-)
You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.
--- 2 Corinthians 3:3
Friday, May 15, 2009
TOTD, May 16
I’m Your Servant
Living our life as God’s children, we need to realize that we need to have a different way in our spiritual life. We wanted to be a servant. Realizing that how small we’re and how BIG our God is, made us humble and like the verse from Psalm below, really, I’m your servant, Lord. You have freed me from my chains.
In the fullness of life in Christ, life will be more meaningful if we serve, rather than to be served. (-fon-)
O LORD, truly I am your servant;
I am your servant, the son of your maidservant
you have freed me from my chains.
--- Psalm 116:16
Living our life as God’s children, we need to realize that we need to have a different way in our spiritual life. We wanted to be a servant. Realizing that how small we’re and how BIG our God is, made us humble and like the verse from Psalm below, really, I’m your servant, Lord. You have freed me from my chains.
In the fullness of life in Christ, life will be more meaningful if we serve, rather than to be served. (-fon-)
O LORD, truly I am your servant;
I am your servant, the son of your maidservant
you have freed me from my chains.
--- Psalm 116:16
Thursday, May 14, 2009
TOTD, May 15
You Created Me
Thank YOU, God for creating me. Remembering those time inside my mother’s womb, you created my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Moreover, I want to thank YOU, because YOU have created a unique me. Just me. Completely and totally different from others. And my presence in this world isn’t coincidence. It isn’t a mistake. Even though it might look like one, let’s say my parents wanted to abort me, but YOU gave me life. YOU gave me the chance to breath the air until now.
I thank YOU and I praise YOU because I’m fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Thank YOU, Lord. Not a single word can express my gratitude for YOU. Thank YOU a zillion times, Lord. (-fon-)
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
--- Psalm 139:13-14
Thank YOU, God for creating me. Remembering those time inside my mother’s womb, you created my inmost being. You knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Moreover, I want to thank YOU, because YOU have created a unique me. Just me. Completely and totally different from others. And my presence in this world isn’t coincidence. It isn’t a mistake. Even though it might look like one, let’s say my parents wanted to abort me, but YOU gave me life. YOU gave me the chance to breath the air until now.
I thank YOU and I praise YOU because I’m fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Thank YOU, Lord. Not a single word can express my gratitude for YOU. Thank YOU a zillion times, Lord. (-fon-)
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
--- Psalm 139:13-14
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
TOTD, May 14
Woman in the Bible
Bible has some verses about women. One of them is Proverbs 31:30. It reminds us how a woman shouldn’t depend on her charm and beauty only because charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting. But a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
So, if you’re a woman, let’s try to develop a character that fears the Lord. Outer beauty might go away, but inner beauty and spiritual beauty will last forever.
If you’re a man, please send this thought to the woman that matters a lot to you. Your wife, your girlfriend, your sisters, your best friends, your friend, etc.
(-fon-)
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
--- Proverbs 31:30
Bible has some verses about women. One of them is Proverbs 31:30. It reminds us how a woman shouldn’t depend on her charm and beauty only because charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting. But a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
So, if you’re a woman, let’s try to develop a character that fears the Lord. Outer beauty might go away, but inner beauty and spiritual beauty will last forever.
If you’re a man, please send this thought to the woman that matters a lot to you. Your wife, your girlfriend, your sisters, your best friends, your friend, etc.
(-fon-)
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
--- Proverbs 31:30
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
TOTD, May 13
Overjoyed
There’s a joke about marriage. Marriage is a three ring circus: engagement ring, wedding ring, suffering. It seems that when people enter the gate of the marriage, they need to prepare for the third ring, that’s suffering.
But, where is on life that has no suffering? If marriage is having a risk of suffering, how about single life? Will there be no suffer while being single?
Whether a baby, child, teenager, adult, or elder people, all will have to experience suffering.
Suffering isn’t something strange according to the bible. Don’t be surprised of it. And we need to rejoice while participating in the suffering of Christ, so that we can be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.
(-fon-)
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
--- 1 Peter 4:12-13
There’s a joke about marriage. Marriage is a three ring circus: engagement ring, wedding ring, suffering. It seems that when people enter the gate of the marriage, they need to prepare for the third ring, that’s suffering.
But, where is on life that has no suffering? If marriage is having a risk of suffering, how about single life? Will there be no suffer while being single?
Whether a baby, child, teenager, adult, or elder people, all will have to experience suffering.
Suffering isn’t something strange according to the bible. Don’t be surprised of it. And we need to rejoice while participating in the suffering of Christ, so that we can be overjoyed when His glory is revealed.
(-fon-)
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
--- 1 Peter 4:12-13
Monday, May 11, 2009
TOTD, May 12
Forgiving Each Other
If only people could forgive one another, lots of new beginning would be made. Lots of more peaceful and cooperative things will color this world. Lots of new collaboration in works will be the result.
But too many times, we’re just too busy with our ego, our pride, our hurt and decided to stay in painful situation.
We need to move on by forgiving each other and compassionate to one another. God has already forgiven us, why don’t we try to do the same thing for others? (-fon-)
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
--- Ephesians 4:32
If only people could forgive one another, lots of new beginning would be made. Lots of more peaceful and cooperative things will color this world. Lots of new collaboration in works will be the result.
But too many times, we’re just too busy with our ego, our pride, our hurt and decided to stay in painful situation.
We need to move on by forgiving each other and compassionate to one another. God has already forgiven us, why don’t we try to do the same thing for others? (-fon-)
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
--- Ephesians 4:32
Sunday, May 10, 2009
TOTD, May 11
Be Discipline
Today’s homily of Sunday mass was very wonderful. Father John-Paul Tan said that pain is a part of this life. It’s the fact. Whether you’re 5 or 75 years old, pain is unavoidable. How true his statements are!
These verses from Hebrews remind us again that what is painful at this moment is most probably God’s tool to discipline us. Our Father in Heaven disciplined us for our good so that we may share in his holiness.
And to tell you the truth, discipline is unpleasant and painful.
But, eventually, we’ll see the result. We’ll see the harvest of the righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
It’s our duty to stay faithful and be discipline while at the same time trust Him that He’s doing everything He could to train us so that we can share His holiness.
(-fon-)
Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
--- Hebrews 12:10-11
Today’s homily of Sunday mass was very wonderful. Father John-Paul Tan said that pain is a part of this life. It’s the fact. Whether you’re 5 or 75 years old, pain is unavoidable. How true his statements are!
These verses from Hebrews remind us again that what is painful at this moment is most probably God’s tool to discipline us. Our Father in Heaven disciplined us for our good so that we may share in his holiness.
And to tell you the truth, discipline is unpleasant and painful.
But, eventually, we’ll see the result. We’ll see the harvest of the righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
It’s our duty to stay faithful and be discipline while at the same time trust Him that He’s doing everything He could to train us so that we can share His holiness.
(-fon-)
Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
--- Hebrews 12:10-11
Saturday, May 9, 2009
TOTD, May 10
True Worshipers
In Indonesia, there’s a popular group of worshipers, named after this verse: the true worshipers. And yes, it’s true, God wants to seek these kind of worshipers, who worship Him in spirit and in truth.
Let’s worship Him -anywhere, anytime- in spirit and in truth to glorify His Name. Let our life be a nice fragrant that spread a nice smell to this world.
(-fon-)
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
--- John 4:23-24
In Indonesia, there’s a popular group of worshipers, named after this verse: the true worshipers. And yes, it’s true, God wants to seek these kind of worshipers, who worship Him in spirit and in truth.
Let’s worship Him -anywhere, anytime- in spirit and in truth to glorify His Name. Let our life be a nice fragrant that spread a nice smell to this world.
(-fon-)
Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
--- John 4:23-24
Friday, May 8, 2009
TOTD, May 09
The Amazing work of God
Sunday, 10th of May will be celebrated as Mother’s Day. And as a mother, now I realize the work of God in my life is really amazing. The bible tells us that we don’t know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb. Yes, the medical information could support how the body is formed inside the womb, but still, I think it’s really God’s work that amazingly forms it.
In this life, we can’t understand all things. Not to mention the work of God, that’s why we need to be thankful and treasure His work with all our heart.
(-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
Sunday, 10th of May will be celebrated as Mother’s Day. And as a mother, now I realize the work of God in my life is really amazing. The bible tells us that we don’t know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb. Yes, the medical information could support how the body is formed inside the womb, but still, I think it’s really God’s work that amazingly forms it.
In this life, we can’t understand all things. Not to mention the work of God, that’s why we need to be thankful and treasure His work with all our heart.
(-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
Thursday, May 7, 2009
TOTD, May 08
No Matter What, No Matter How: Give Thanks
Today, the recession is getting worse in most of the countries plus the swine flu and some of the natural disasters here, there and everywhere, made people can’t even think of saying thanks to the Lord.
Let’s try to be different. Let’s thank Him because we’re still alive, because we’re still breathing, because we still can eat 3 (or sometimes 4) times a day. For every simple reason that shows His goodness in our life.
The act of gratefulness means that even in the midst of storm, we still can see the light of Jesus. Still believe in faith that He will be there for us in every moment of our life.
give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
--- 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Today, the recession is getting worse in most of the countries plus the swine flu and some of the natural disasters here, there and everywhere, made people can’t even think of saying thanks to the Lord.
Let’s try to be different. Let’s thank Him because we’re still alive, because we’re still breathing, because we still can eat 3 (or sometimes 4) times a day. For every simple reason that shows His goodness in our life.
The act of gratefulness means that even in the midst of storm, we still can see the light of Jesus. Still believe in faith that He will be there for us in every moment of our life.
give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
--- 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
TOTD, May 07
Greater Hunger
Here’s a quotation from the famous, the one and only, Mother Teresa:
Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.
Mother Teresa
Sometimes we think, by fulfilling the material needs only for our loved ones, we have fulfilled our task. But Mother Teresa reminds me that more importantly, people got greater hunger, greater poverty if the feel unwanted, unloved, uncared, or forgotten. That’s why we need to remember to love one another, like our God has already done so by loving us. Money isn’t everything, money can’t buy love or happiness. (-fon-)
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
--- John 13:34
Here’s a quotation from the famous, the one and only, Mother Teresa:
Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.
Mother Teresa
Sometimes we think, by fulfilling the material needs only for our loved ones, we have fulfilled our task. But Mother Teresa reminds me that more importantly, people got greater hunger, greater poverty if the feel unwanted, unloved, uncared, or forgotten. That’s why we need to remember to love one another, like our God has already done so by loving us. Money isn’t everything, money can’t buy love or happiness. (-fon-)
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.
--- John 13:34
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
TOTD, May 06
Judge Nothing
I can see that we’re judging more and more easily. We think with our own thoughts with only whatever we see or read. Like the case of Nasruddin Zulkarnaen’s murder, linked to Indonesia’s KPK leader: Antasari Azhar , a caddy girl behind the motive and love triangle among them. Lots of people with their own version or assumptions are trying to get into the matter. Some with the evidence, some with their own perception. The bible asks us to judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring the light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts.
Judge nothing in other people’s problem. We’re not in the position to do that. Leave all to God’s appointed time. (-fon-)
Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
--- 1 Corinthians 4:5
I can see that we’re judging more and more easily. We think with our own thoughts with only whatever we see or read. Like the case of Nasruddin Zulkarnaen’s murder, linked to Indonesia’s KPK leader: Antasari Azhar , a caddy girl behind the motive and love triangle among them. Lots of people with their own version or assumptions are trying to get into the matter. Some with the evidence, some with their own perception. The bible asks us to judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring the light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts.
Judge nothing in other people’s problem. We’re not in the position to do that. Leave all to God’s appointed time. (-fon-)
Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
--- 1 Corinthians 4:5
Monday, May 4, 2009
TOTD, May 04
Hardship Is Discipline
Many times we want it to be an easy way. Instant way. We want everything runs smoothly and fast. The less struggle, the better. But becoming a parent, has made me realize that I need to discipline my child if I want her to be a good person. I can’t follow every wish she wants. I need to say which is right or wrong, which is can or can’t.
Why would it be different as a child of God? As he is treating us all as His sons, He will definitely discipline us. Take hardship as discipline, then we will see problem from different perspective. (-fon-)
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?
--- Hebrews 12:7
Many times we want it to be an easy way. Instant way. We want everything runs smoothly and fast. The less struggle, the better. But becoming a parent, has made me realize that I need to discipline my child if I want her to be a good person. I can’t follow every wish she wants. I need to say which is right or wrong, which is can or can’t.
Why would it be different as a child of God? As he is treating us all as His sons, He will definitely discipline us. Take hardship as discipline, then we will see problem from different perspective. (-fon-)
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father?
--- Hebrews 12:7
TOTD, May 05
All These Things Will Be Given to You
As God’s children, we pray, we ask, we beg Him to fulfill our needs. Without a doubt, we often ask too much without seeking His presence. We only want our every wish to be granted. We don’t care much about other things.
But the bible today reminds us to do it differently. It’s not that God doesn’t know whatever is bothering you right now. He knows exactly your every need at this moment. All we need to do is just to seek his kingdom and his righteousness first, and all these things will be given to us as well. (-fon-)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
--- Matthew 6:33
As God’s children, we pray, we ask, we beg Him to fulfill our needs. Without a doubt, we often ask too much without seeking His presence. We only want our every wish to be granted. We don’t care much about other things.
But the bible today reminds us to do it differently. It’s not that God doesn’t know whatever is bothering you right now. He knows exactly your every need at this moment. All we need to do is just to seek his kingdom and his righteousness first, and all these things will be given to us as well. (-fon-)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
--- Matthew 6:33
Sunday, May 3, 2009
TOTD, May 02-03
Joyful and Faithful
This verse says it all. No need to ask too much, just put it into action. Hopefully, we can be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Amen.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
---Romans 12:12
Righteousness and Strength
You can try to search for other strength. Some of the people might go to black magic to get the power, while some others will go for martial arts, eg: karate, kung fu, etc. But in this life, we need to seek the pure righteousness and strength from God. The ones from God are everlasting and stronger than any other means that we could ever think of. So, don’t search any where else, just search them in the Lord, our God. (-fon-)
They will say of me, 'In the LORD alone
are righteousness and strength.' "
--- Isaiah 45:24a
This verse says it all. No need to ask too much, just put it into action. Hopefully, we can be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Amen.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
---Romans 12:12
Righteousness and Strength
You can try to search for other strength. Some of the people might go to black magic to get the power, while some others will go for martial arts, eg: karate, kung fu, etc. But in this life, we need to seek the pure righteousness and strength from God. The ones from God are everlasting and stronger than any other means that we could ever think of. So, don’t search any where else, just search them in the Lord, our God. (-fon-)
They will say of me, 'In the LORD alone
are righteousness and strength.' "
--- Isaiah 45:24a
TOTD, May 01
Believe His Existence
Some of the people would ask, why should you believe in God? Does He really exist? If He does, why sometimes people think that He’s so far away? He doesn’t come to help whenever we’re in trouble, so does he really exist?
Today’s bible reminds us the way to please God. By faith. We need faith to please God and believe that He exists. And for sure He will reward those who earnestly seek Him. Too many blessings, too many good things that couldn’t be missed to show His existence. (-fon-)
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
--- Hebrews 11:6
Some of the people would ask, why should you believe in God? Does He really exist? If He does, why sometimes people think that He’s so far away? He doesn’t come to help whenever we’re in trouble, so does he really exist?
Today’s bible reminds us the way to please God. By faith. We need faith to please God and believe that He exists. And for sure He will reward those who earnestly seek Him. Too many blessings, too many good things that couldn’t be missed to show His existence. (-fon-)
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
--- Hebrews 11:6
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)