1 Peter 2:21

WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?
How do we follow in His footsteps? Christ is our model, thus we are to be like the Master and it can be helpful to ask what Jesus would do if he, for example, received a credit card in the mail, was driving in a 60kph zone, was invited to attend a PG movie, was filling out His income tax form, was given the opportunity to become rich, was tired on Sunday morning, or was faced with the decision about whether to take a job which would consume His time and pull Him away from family and church - but would also give an opportunity to help others in some unusual way.

Remember, Jesus' purpose on earth is to please the Father and do His will. So is mine.

"Are You God?"

One cold evening during the holiday season, a little boy about six or seven was standing out in front of a store window. The little child had no shoes and his clothes were mere rags. A young woman passing by saw the little boy and could read the longing in his pale blue eyes. She took the child by the hand and led him into the store. There she bought him some new shoes and a complete suit of warm clothing.

They cam back outside into the street and the woman said to the child, "Now you can go home and have a very happy holiday."
The little boy looked up at her and asked, "Are you God, madam?"
She smiled down at him and replied, "No son, I'm just one of His children."
The little boy then said,"I knew you had to be some relation."

Extracted from Chicken Soup for the Woman's Soul.

PRAYING WITH IMAGINATION

Learned this prayer exercise from "Exploring Prayer" by Sue Mayfield.

Imagine you are in a secret garden. Imagine the sights, the sounds, the smells and even the touch on your skin as the gentle breeze sweeps by. You see your favourite bench and walk towards it. As you sit there, Jesus comes to sit with you. He is pleased to see you. He has been hoping you would come.

Think about how do you feel as you sit beside him in the garden? Jesus asks you what you are thinking about - what are the things on your mind? Imagine the things you would tell him. How does he listen? How does He responds? Now he asks you what you need today and what you would like him to give you. Imagine the conversation. Listen to what He has to say to you. When the conversation is over. you say goodbye to Jesus and walk out of the garden. What would you bring with you from the garden? Take a moment to reflect on how you feel.

I find this type of prayer very powerful. So I desire to try it out, but I have no garden to go to. I am very fortunate. Each morning I have to take a 20-30 minute walk by the monsoon drain to the office. It's quiet and pleasant. Before I reach the entrance point, I imagine Jesus is already there waiting for me. Then I greeted him and hold His hand. And together we walk along the drain and talk and talk. I tell him what's bothering me, my disappointments and what I wish to have. Soon I reach my office and we bade farewell.

I find this prayer exercise very refreshing. It's like talking to your buddy or my boyfriend. If that day I cannot walk as weather does not permit, while on the bus, I imagine Jesus waiting for me in the office. I am usually the first one to be in and I have about an hour in the office to myself. So Jesus and I have a good time talking before my colleague arrives.

Sensing God

Extracted from Exploring Prayer by Sue Mayfield:

Think and thank God for all these things:
Your favourite colour
Your favourite sound
Your favourite smell
Your favourite taste
Your favourite physical sensation

Now spend time thinking:
What colour is God?
What does God sound like?
What does God smell like?
What does God taste like?
What does God feel like?

Invite God to reveal Himself to you, and then you could conclude with the following prayer:

God of rainbows, we look for you.
God of waterfalls and whispers, we listen for you.
God of fragrance, we sense your presence.
God of salt and sweetness, we taste you and know that you are good.
God of strength and tenderness, touch our lives.
Amen.

Questions of faith

Read "Exploring Prayer" by Sue Mayfield and enjoy it very much.

Binding and Loosing Prayer:
Liberating god, we pray for our world.
May your people care for the environment, respect each other and live as you intended.
Hear our prayer and set your people free.

Merciful God, we pray for countries where there is war.
May hope and vision untangle the cords of hatred and division and may those whose lives have been blighted by violence be liberated from bitterness.
Hear our prayer and set your people free.

Compassionate God, we pray for those who live in poverty.
May they be set free from the bondage of other people's greed and indifference and released from the chains of injustice and despair.
Hear our prayer and set your people free.

Life-giving God, we pray for those whose lives are dominated by illness, disability or pain.
May they find comfort and relief and the liberation of loving care.
Hear our prayer and set your people free.

Powerful God, we pray for those in the grip of addition or debt and for those whose lives are spoilt by vicious circles of abuse and neglect.
May the truth set them free and your healing untie the yoke of their oppression.
Hear our prayer and set your people free.

Father God, we pray for all whose lives are ruled by fear and for those whose minds are tied in knots with worry or depression.
May they know the freedom of peace that only You can bring.
Hear our prayer and set your people free.

Worship God

The main or chief activity of heaven is the worship of God. Each day this week, I will choose one thing that can be an inspiration to worship God here on earth. Perhaps one day it might be a sunset, next it might be the pleasure of a good meal!
I woke up this morning with a strong breeze in my neighbourhood. I realise that wind is something that God gives us. I don't understand how wind is created (what hot air rises etc) but I know that God is the Creator and I choose to worship Him. I can see God in the wind!

Luke 17:10

Today I prayed "Dear Father, teach me humility. Show me how to humble myself."
After that I turned to read my Minute Meditations for Each Day and I was totally touched by what God teaches me in Luke 17:10 ''We are unprofitable servants. We have done no more than our duty."

Reflections:Anything good that you do is only your duty and grace. Do not be proud of your deeds and do not think of what you have done, but of what you have Not done.
Then you will remain humble in spite of any successes that may come to you. Only in this manner will you be pleasing to God.

FORGIVE AND FORGET

When I first saw Joy, the latest member of our cell group, I was very stunned. She held an uncanny resemblance to my buddy friend of yesteryear. If not for the fact that Joy is not a Cantonese, I would have thought that she is my ex-classmate. Joy does not just look like my friend, the way she talks and behaves just seem to remind me of my good friend.

I begin to ask God why? Just a couple of weeks ago, our leader in BSF taught us about Jesus' death on the cross. She said Jesus chose to forgive and forget all the sins of the people. Then, I understood.

Yes Lord, I always told myself that I have forgiven her. But each time I think of her, I could not forget the pains and hurts. I just don't know why a blossom friendship turned so cold - not my fault, more of hers - I argued with God. But God says His Son Jesus chose to forget. And when I understood that, it became very clear to me that I was holding on to the negative emotions in me. So I gave them all to Jesus - on the Cross that day. And till today whenever I see Joy and think of my friend, I could not forget our wonderful times together in school. I chose not to think about the low points in our friendship. Pretty soon, I am able to more and more think good of her and treasure what we had. Thank You Jesus for this beautiful lesson and friendship.

Deuteronomy 22: 6 -12

Deu. 22:6-7

If you chance to come upon a bird's nest, in any tree or on the ground, with young ones or eggs and the mother sitting upon the young or upon the eggs, you shall not take the mother with the young; you shall let the mother go, but the young you may take to yourself; that it may go well with you and that you may live long.

When I read this passage, I was touched by God's tremendous love, both for the mother bird and for us! This passage kept me thinking and thinking - was God being uncaring for the young?
NO !

Deuteronomy 22:6-12 really shows us God's love, mercy and grace! I love it.

He hears my cries and saves me!

Recently there were many stories and news about floods in all parts of the world. There were even a few 'flash floods' in Singapore. The last time I experienced a flood was more than 40 years ago, so I have forgotten about the horrors and fears of a sudden encounter of a flood.

During a recent cell group meeting, two of us who were staying in the western part of Singapore were discussing about this topic. We were so grateful that we were not affected by the floods and were 'rejoicing'. Just then a sister living in the Bukit Timah area came in and heard what we were talking. She told us that she was in the recent flood and it gave her a very great fright, but she prayed very hard and the Lord helped her. The condo she was living in was flooded and the alarm went off. The men in the house were not around at the time, and so she went down to the carpark with her daughter to try to get the car out of the carpark which was in the basement. But everyone was also trying to do just that. So she was stuck there, but very soon the rain water just gushed in. When it seemed like no way out, she could not open the car door nor moved forward, she could only pray to God. Suddenly there was an open space on an upper ground for her to move her car to - just enough space and just in time. She was so thankful to God. When she retold the story, something happened to my heart. I somehow could feel the fear of drowning - I once was also caught in a flood (the water level went up to the windows) and there was once I almost drowned in the pool. That day we almost cried, but we were all so thankful to God that He kept us safe - for His purpose. Hallelujah! All glory to God.

Father, why hath Thou forsaken me?

Some time ago when doing some tough questions (BSF), I was so frustrated as I can't seem to understand the questions, lest alone giving the answers. I was feeling so wretched that I went into my room, knelt by the bed and cried to God. I told God that I would only return to the studies when I got peace and sense His Holy Spirit with me. After a while, peace came and also joy. Thus I knew His Presence was with me. So I went back to finish off the questions for the day with joy and understanding.

Today I was doing my own study on Matthew. One question puzzled me that again I was so frustrated. I cried to God "Why have You forsaken me?" Then I went to the bathroom, took a bath and also 'bargain' with Papa God. Strangely enough, I got the answers! It seemed so clear now, the answer. Thank You Lord, for You heard me and answered me.

Relationship with the Father

It has been quite sometime since I wrote on this blog. I am now writing in my journal as I do my Bible study - thus not writing on this blog as I do not want to repeat the message.

But I would really love to record this incidence down here.

Last Saturday I went to Mr Bean to get a bowl of hot beancurd with ''rice balls''. There was only one table available. So I sat down to enjoy my dessert. The lady behind me in the Q got a cup of ice-cream for her child - a little boy of perhaps 3-4 years old. So he too sat at the same table to eat his ice-cream. And we started talking. We talked about what we were eating, what's the toy he was playing with, where did he go before he came here for ice-cream and so on. And we just talked and talked. He was not shy and he spoke well - also very well-mannered. We enjoyed the conversation so much. We were at ease with each other. After I finished my dessert, I bid him farewell.

As I left that place, I felt so much joy. There was this unspeakable joy in my heart. Suddenly I realised that God also enjoyed my conversation with Him. I seem to hear Him say,"I too enjoy talking to you, dear child"

Jesus Heals A Centurion's Servant

I read up this story in Matthew chapter 8, using a few translations. I wanted to check and confirm the word ''under'' in verse 9. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, "'Go", and he goes; and to another, "Come." and he comes....

This word has so far escaped my eyes and understanding. I have always assumed this centurion was saying, "For I also am a man with authority..." When I read the word ''under'', this story seems to have even a deeper meaning. He did not equate himself with Jesus, but humbled himself and acknowledged that he is under Jesus' authority - just like the spirit of infirmities.

Prayer:Thank you Lord for teaching me new lessons each time I read Your Word - even if it's the same story. Same story, but a different lesson learned each time.

His Grace Is Sufficient For Me

Paul was afflicted with a thorn in the flesh, and he asked the Lord to remove it 3 times. But God says to him"My grace is sufficient for you." Thus I have always associate this verse to mean strength - God's strength is enough to see us through trials and tribulations.

But something happened yesterday and this verse popped out of my mind, and has given me a new meaning. My younger boy was taking his piano practical exam and I was with him. On the way to the exam. hall, I checked with him whether he brought along the letter from the exam board. He searched his bag and could not find it. I was angry because we were almost there and there's no way I could go home. Though I did not scold him, but I was mumbling about his carelessness, and wonder out loud how he could enter into the exam hall. Just then I checked my bag to see whether I could have brought it with me, and to my surprise it was with me, all along. Of course I apologized to my son, but I knew that I was not a good ambassador of Christ, and I was ashamed and feeling guilty. And at this point, this verse popped up. I almost cried because God is so gracious. By His grace, it's sufficient. His grace has forgiven me. His grace has made things right both for me and for my son. His grace has seen us through the ordeal. His grace has patch up things. His grace covers all guilt feelings and regrets. His grace is indeed sufficient.

The Work of the Holy Spirit

During the last lesson by the BSF on the work of the Holy Spirit, the teacher mentioned that one of the works of the Holy Spirit is tohelp believers know, love, obey and worship Jesus.

Then she asked us 2 questions:"What attitude do I take when I study the Bible?" and "What fruit might Jesus want me to produce?"

Prayer:Dear Lord, as I read Your Word, help me to search for You, know You, know Your will and Your character. I want to be bold and know for myself, for sure that Jesus is who He claims to be - the Son of God. I want to behold Jesus and '"catch Him and hold Him" and experience Him. I want to share His joy, His sorrow and His victory, His life. I want to be intimate with Jesus and obey Him as my Bridegroom. I want to please Him. Amen

Dear Lord, indeed "What fruit might Jesus want me to produce?" Lord, I can only say I am still at the starting point of the process of producing the fruit. May Thy Holy Spirit do the pruning work, teach me, counsel me, reproof me, and chastise me so that people may see the beauty and smell the fragrance of Jesus in me and that Your name be glorified. Yes Lord, more of love I desire, more of joy, more patience, more gentleness, more and more! In Jesus name. Amen

Philippians 4:5

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

In this chapter of his letter to the church at Philippi, Paul exhorts the believers to stand firm in the Lord. Paul asked that whatever they have learned or received or heard from him, or seen in him - put it into practice.

But when I read v5 "Let your gentleness be evident to all" I know Paul wants us to follow his example to be gentle. But the next part of this verse is ''The Lord is near''. I find it strange that these words are attached to v5 and I felt these words should be attached to the beginning of verse 6, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

As I ponder about it, the picture of a dove came to me. The Lord is as gentle as the dove. The dove sits or stands on my shoulder, thus He is near me. And should I lose my temper and shout or speak angrily, the dove is frightened by the loud noise and fly away. I have scared away the Holy Spirit who is ever the gentleman!

Prayer:Dear Lord, I desire to be gentle - just like You! Enable and empower me to be just like You. And may those around me see Your gentleness in me and glorify Your name. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen

WE ARE HIS DISCIPLES

To be a disciple, one has to be disciplined. If one lacks in discipline, one will also disobey or give up at the earliest possible opportune time.

To be disciplined needs self-control and most of all, practise it on an everyday basis until it becomes part of our lives - until we just do it automatically. For example, we brush out teeth everyday, make our bed, bathe everyday. One may be surprised that there are people who find these simple disciplines too difficult to do!

If one looks or thinks of the rewards of a certain discipline in the near future, one will press on. Because the smoker does not see the harm of smoking 1-2 cigarette today or tomorrow, he says to himself:""I don't see the harm, so why should I quit smoking?" If only he can see the harm done in the near future, he will press on to quit.

I have made a list of some simple disciplines that I desire to keep everyday:

1. Prayer and praise
2. Bible reading and study
3. Exercise (20-30 minutes)
4. Eat right
5. Do a few mental exercises (like Hangman, Sudoku)
6. Bedtime (in bed before 11pm)
7. Read a book, article etc
8. Write on my Journal or Blogging
9. Save the coins
10 Laugh heartily at least once per day

Prayer:Dear Papa God, in the name of Your Dear Son, Jesus Christ, I ask that You empower and enable me through Thy Holy Spirit to be disciplined in these simple acts for Thy glory. Amen

THE MOTHER AND THE MOUNTAIN

Read an interesting story and find I must record it so as edify and encourage one another.

There were two warring tribes in the Andes, one that lived in the lowlands and the other high in the mountains.

One day, the mountain people invaded the lowlanders and kidnapped a baby of one of the lowlander families and took the infant with them back up into the mountains.

The lowlanders didn't know how to climb the mountain. They didn't know any of the trails that the mountain people used, and they didn't know how to track them in the steep terrain.

The men tried first one method and then another, and one trail and then another. After several days of effort, they had climbed only several hundred feet.

Feeling hopeless and helpless, they decided that the cause was lost and prepared to return to their village below. As they were packing up to leave, they saw the baby's mother walking towards them.

They realised that she was coming down the mountain and they hadn't even figured how to climb. They also saw that she had the baby strapped to her back.

One man greeted her and asked, "How did you do this when we, the strongest and most able men in the village couldn't do it?

She shrugged her shoulders and said, ''Ít wasn't your baby."

HOSTILITY WILL HURT YOU

Does any of the following describes you?

1 sarcastic, cynical and filled with bitter humour
2 biting in your criticism of others
3 untrusting and suspicious of others
4 defensive, paranoid and self-protective
4 'self-focussed'rather than '"other focussed"
5 lacking in tolerance for the behaviour of others
6 turned off to other's conern, caring, or nuturing
7 bitter over real or imagined negative treatment you've received from others
8 quick to attack others for their real or imagined faults and failings
9 inwardly outraged over the unfairness of life
10 hide behind a wall or shield, unwilling to allow others into your life
11 feel like a bomb ready to be detonated

If you can identify with many of the above descriptions, you may be suffering from a dangerous emotional sydrome - hostility. Hostility not only hurts you and the people close to you, it can also kill.

Extracted from the book entitled EMOTIONAL FITNESS:coping skills for the ups & downs in life

GRATITUDE

4 Ways to Spark Gratitude

In the e-book, The Principle: A Golden Key To Happiness, Don Ginn suggests you try the following ideas to spark gratitude.

1. First of all, remember that anything that's uplifting and inspirational will spark gratitude. So add more colour, beauty, art and heartfelt music to your life.

2. Keep in mind that gratitude emerges easily when we're in the spirit of giving. So discover more ways to give back to life. Develop a heart that's full of generosity. Give freely to charities.

3. Make a point to practise random acts of kindness on a daily basis. A heartfelt smile, or a beautiful thank-you card, a sincere compliment, or a gift of any kind, will help gratitude to flourish in our lives.

4. Also, as simplistic as this sounds, live in wonder! Wonder will awaken a sense of miracle within you. Through wonder you can view the world with new eyes. You can begin to experience the magic within each moment.

CAN'T SLEEP?

Recently some sisters from my cell group and also from the Bible Study Group asked for prayers regarding their insomnia. They are unable to fall asleep not because of worries or concerns, nor of sickness or because of the intake of caffeine, but simply because they just couldn't sleep!

For those who have no problems in sleeping (except when they are troubled), they are not able to empathesize with those who simply have difficulty in falling asleep. It's even worse when they do not want to disturb their family members by moving around in the house in the night or switch on the bed light to do some reading. Someone once shared with me how terrible it is not to be able to sleep, but to just lie still on the bed (not wanting to disturb her hubby) and stared at the ceiling until daybreak!

As I ponder over this and read the Bible to behold the beauty of His Word, the Lord is good and He gave me these few verses to comfort and encourage me.
Psalm 3:5 I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the LORD sustained me.
Psalm 4:4 Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.
Psalm 4:8 I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.

What I learned:When I cannot sleep, don't fret. Just lie still and meditate on God's Word and talk to Him. Be always grateful and thankful and be filled with joy, in whatever situations we are in. Indeed, we must not take for granted anything. God is good and His mercy endures forever!

Jesus Wrote on the ground (John 8:6)

This is a very heartwarming story of Jesus who loves sinners (a woman caught in adultery). Jesus does not condemn anyone.

In the 4th Gospel, we read in Chapter 8:6-7, " But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."

The Bible does not reveal what Jesus wrote on the ground, but I remember someone once told me that most probably Jesus wrote about the sins of the world - pride, lies, unkindness etc. When the people who wanted to trap Jesus saw those words, they were somehow ashamed and left, one by one. This may be credited to the words Jesus spoke 'if any one of you is without sin'.

But as I read this passage this morning, somehow I think that Jesus being a person full of love and compassion, did not write about sins. I imagined Jesus writing words of affirmation, of love, of comfort, of encouragement, of forgiveness etc. Jesus might have written :
Forgiveness Love Compassion Tolerance Acceptance Peace Kindness

I believe these words would have left a mark on the people's hearts too! When I want to teach my sons about being generous to the poor, I don't remind them of their wastefulness or carelessness in spending, instead I encourage them to give by saying how much joy we get when we give etc.

Lesson learned: The Holy Spirit will convict us of our sins and faults in different ways. Sometimes He is so gentle and patient that we miss His lessons!

GIVING THANKS IN PUBLIC

Hurdling Social Barriers:
When we are dining with non-believers, we do not want to offend them so that there's always an opportunity to share the Gospel with them.

When we are alone in a restaurant, we should have no question about bowing our heads to give thanks. But what about when we're out with a group or at a business lunch? Giving thanks can be awkward at times. Check to see if your way of saying grace implies to another person,"You're pagan; you don't give thanks." To avoid creating this barrier to friendship. it may be best for us to keep our eyes open while we thank God for our food. No verse of Scripture dictates "Thou shalt say grace with thine eyes closed." God looks at our motivation and our hearts. We can always ask."It's my custom to give thanks for my food. Would you like me to say grace for both of us?" In the right situation, this is not usually an affront.

Extracted from the book "how to Give Away Your Faith"

THE EFFECTIVE AMBASSADOR

Here are some help to those who need to develop further interpersonal skills, especially with non-believers so that there is interaction in order to share the Gospel.

1) Establish good eye contact.
Do you look people in the eye or do you tend to stray? The eye conveys the soul's intention. A cold eye distances you from others. A warm eye draws you closer. Ask a good friend to tell you honestly if you have warm eye contact.

2) Develop good listening skills.
Do you focus your attention on what other people are saying? Or are you thinking only of what you are going to say next? And are you genuinely interested in understanding what they are saying? Does it matter to you? If you listen, they will come closer to you.

3) Foster an attitude of encouragement.
Are your responses more likely to be negative than positive to other people's ideas? Do you put people down? Are you always looking for ways to appear smarter or more knowledgeable than others? Or do others feel warm and affirmed when they are with you?

4) Make yourself interesting to others.
A good knowledge of current events can give us a common ground socially. Developing some hobbies and finding ways to share them with others is helpful too.

Extracted from the book 'How to Give Away Your Faith' by Paul E. Little

THE INDECISIVE SQUIRREL

"But Jesus told him,'Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.'" Luke 9:62

As I was driving down the road, a squirrel ran out in front of my car. I was far enough from him that I started braking, trying to miss him. He went one way, then he turned and ran back, then he turned and went back the other way again. I managed to miss him, but he was the most indecisive squirrel I've ever seen!

Indecision is a dangerous thing. As Christians, if we don't know what we believe and why we believe it, people will see through us. If we say we are a Christian but don't act like one at home or at work, people won't respect us. In our faith, we can't be like the squirrel in the middle of the road. We have to make a decision about which way we are going and then follow through.

By Teresa Bell Kindred

Living With The Enemy

In John Chapter 13, we study the betrayal by Judas. I will consider him to be an enemy. Just imagine living with someone you dislike - life must be intolerable. Or try living with someone who at every opportunity takes advantage of me. But did Jesus treat Judas as His enemy? NO. He loves Judas and treats him the same as the other disciples - those who are closest in His inner circle. In fact, Jesus even let Judas be in charge of the money purse! WHY? Because Jesus wants to give Judas ample chances to see his mistakes and sins so that he could repent, and then Judas could be with Jesus in heaven forever. Such amazing grace and love! That's why Jesus parting words to his disciples is to love others as Jesus loves. Do away with the old teaching "Love others as yourselves"

Reflections:Lord, teach me how to love others the way You love - even my enemy.

John 14:2-3

Jesus is going away to prepare a place for us in heaven!

When I read this verse again, I was awed by what He said. I believe that Heaven already exists, so why does Jesus has to leave us so to get us a place?

Reflections:1) Jesus could have said." Let there be...." But here it seems He is preparing something wonderful for us!
2) Jesus is taking quite a while to prepare this place for us..... I just wonder this must be such a beautiful place that Jesus is there to 'supervise' the project.
3)The more I think about it, the more I cannot imagine with my human and earthly perception how this place is like. There is just no words in this world to describe it!

ACTION SPEAKS THE TRUTH (1 JOHN 3:18)

There is an adage that says, "actions speak louder than words."

You can tell people that you love them, but without showing them, the message of love won't be received. Giving a hand to your spouse, offering your service to the community, being generous to the needy, being willing to listen attentively, hugging someone in grief, patting somebody on the back who did a good job, and smiling at all times are actions and gestures of love. Love should be incorporated with action. And of course, when you say something pleasant, be it a greeting or compliment, be truthful and be sincere. Put your love into action with gestures that are clear.

By Esther B. Jimenez

Lies Which We Believe In

Right from the start in the garden of Eden, ever since Eve has been deceived by Satan, we have all been believing in lies.
1) Eve must have believed that she is a failure.
2) Adam must have believed that he is not able to rise up to his position as the man of the house.
3) Adam must have believed that he will have to hide behind his woman every time something wrong or bad props up.
4) Both of them must have believed that a lie will covers up the mistake made.
Etc Etc. the list goes on

All lies can only be broken when we believe in the Truth as the Truth will set us free.

Does Jesus have favourites?

Last Friday I went for lunch with two good friends. One of them asked:"Do you think Jesus have favourites? Though He has 12 disciples, He has singled out Peter, James and John (the disciple whom Jesus loved) to be with Him in the Garden and at the Transfiguration.

Reflections: In Mark 3:31-35, Luke 8:19-21 and Matthew 12:48-50, Jesus said:"Who is my mother and brothers?....whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother, and sister and mother" Also in Luke 5:8-11 and Mark 1:14-20, we read about Jesus' first disciples - the 4 fishermen. So, do you think Jesus has favourites?

Jesus Heals A Paralytic (Matthew 9:1-8)

The speaker today in church told us that her pastor once asked his church members to identify themselves in the story of the paralytic. If you are in the story, who do you think you will be?

Interestingly, many (even doctors in the parish) identify themselves with the sick man. Few identified themselves as the friends. Few identified themselves as the chief priests, Pharisees etc. But no one (not even one) identify himself as Jesus. The pastor said that we as God's children should identify ourselves with Jesus - we should be like him, healing people with compassion, with healing power, with love.

Reflections: I find this very soul searching. Indeed, why so many identify themselves with the sick man and no one with Jesus? What are about you?

A TALE OF TWO SISTERS

The story of the two sisters in Luke 10:38-42 is very real to me - sibling rivalry!

Questions for reflections:
1) What preconceived ideas (and even judgmental ones) did I have about these two sisters?

2) Do I relate more to Mary or Martha?

3) If I were a Martha, will I always remain a Martha?

4) How would I respond to Jesus when I asked Him"Lord, don't you care?" and He replied me the same way He answer Martha?

5) What can I learn from Mary and Martha? Can there be a balance - in the Living Room and the Kitchen?

A TEST OF LOVE

Saint Augustine once preached a sermon in which he proposed a kind of self-test to see if we truly love God.

Suppose God proposed to you a deal and said,"I will give you anything you want. You can possess the whole world. Nothing will be impossible for you...... Nothing will be a sin, nothing forbidden. You will never die, never have pain, never have anything you do not want and always have anything you do want........ except for just one thing:you will never see my face."

Augustine closed with a question:

Did a chill rise in your hearts, when you heard the words, "you will never see my face"? That chill is the most precious thing in you; that is the pure love of God."

Mark 8:36 'What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?'

Jesus Understands

"Jesus wept" is famous as the shortest verse in the Bible, but that is the real power of the assurance that Jesus understands what life is like for us.

Jesus knew temptation: Mark 1:13

Jesus knew frustration: John 2:15-16

Jesus knew proverty :Matthew 8:20

Jesus knew weariness : John 4:6

Jesus knew disappointment : Luke 13:34

Jesus knew rejection : John 6:66

Jesus knew sorrow : Matthew 26:38

Jesus knew ridicule : Mark 15:19

Jesus knew loneliness : Matthew 27:46

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)

Extracted from the book HAVING A MARY HEART IN A MARTHA WORLD

THE PRACTICE OF THE PRESENCE OF GOD

I like this part of Brother Lawerence's 7th letter.

...spend the remainder of your life only in worshipping God. He requires no great matters of us: a little remembrance of Him from time to time, a little adoration; sometimes to pray for His grace, sometimes to offer Him your sufferings, and sometimes to return Him thanks for the favours He has given you, and still gives you in the midst of your troubles, and to console yourself with Him the oftenest you can. Lift up your heart to Him, sometimes even at your meals and when you are in company; the least little remembrance will always be acceptable to Him. You need not cry very lout; He is nearer to us than we are aware of.

It is not necessary for being with God to be always at church; we may make an oratory of our heart wherein to retire from time to time, to converse with Him in meekness, humility, and love. Ever one is capable of such familiar conversation with God, some more, some less; He knows what we can do.

Galatians 3:22 (God's promise)

Not long ago I had one of those nights when sleep wouldn't come, no matter how many sheep I counted. My heart was troubled and I couldn't let go of my worries no matter how hard I prayed.

Later the next day the heat and humidity exploded in a summer thunderstorm. After the storm passed I went outside to enjoy some cooler air. What I saw took my breath away. It was the most beautiful rainbow I had ever seen. Each colour was as vivid as if God had hand painted the rainbow in the sky just for me.

"God's promise," I said softly, and the rainbow is just a reminder of one of His promises.

God promised that He would answer my prayers. It may not be soon. It may not be the answer I want, but it will be the answer I need.

I know because He promised. God keeps His promises. By Teresa Bell Kindred

CREATIVE QUIET TIMES

If you've found yourself yawning during devotions-or just eager for a change-you may want to consider the following suggestions for creative intimacy with God.

1. Take God out for coffee. Find a quiet corner in a cafe or even McDonald's and meet with God. Take your Bible and a notebook. Grab a cup of coffee and you're set for a heart-to-heart with your very Best Friend.

2. Put feet to your faith. Take a walk with God! Praise Him for His handiwork. Listen to the Bible or a sermon on tape. Pray. Your body and spirit will appreciate the workout.

3. Journal your journey. Keep a spiritual diary. Record thoughts as you meditate on Scripture. Write love notes to the Lord.

4. Hide the Word. Memorizing Scripture plants the Word of God deep in your heart. Write down on sticky notes and take them with you to practice.

5. Come before Him with singing. Add music to your devotions. Use a prasie tape or sing a cappella. Read a hymn out loud.

Extracts from the book entitled "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World"

John 12:1-3

Jesus was anointed at Bethany in the house of Lazarus, Martha and Mary. I like to read the story of these 3 siblings. Though there were not many things written about them, but there are so many things to learn from them.

In Luke 10, we read that Martha was so busy in the kitchen preparing food for the guests. She was so flustered that she came to Jesus and demanded that the Lord tell Mary to help her. Well, the rest of the story is history.

Now in John 12, we too read that Jesus was eating at Martha's home again. In verse 2, we were told that Martha served and Lazarus was reclining near Jesus. But note the difference, Martha did not come to the Lord and asked Him to get help for her. What has happened?

Reflections: Martha will always be Martha - she has a heart and the gift to serve others. But she has learned not to be flustered but serve with gladness and love - not as a duty. Like Brother Lawerence, we can glorify God even when washing dishes in the kitchen. We can draw near to God anytime, any place and whatever we are doing.

but only one thing is needed (Luke 10:41-42)

The one thing that Jesus said was needed in Martha's life was fellowship with him - and that's true for us, too. Here are some ways to practice one-thing thinking when you feel overwhelmed:

1) Invite Jesus to rule and reign each morning when we get out of bed. Let Him come and take the throne of your life - to be the 'one thing'

2) Ask God to reveal the next step. "What is the one thing I need to do next?". Then take the next step.... and then the next.

3) Have faith that what needs to get done will get done, since you have dedicated your day to the Lord.

4) Be open to the Spirit's leading. You'll be amazed at the joy and freedom that comes from surrendering your agenda and cooperating with His.

Extracted from "Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World"

"Lord, the one you love is sick."

In John 11:2-3, Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha was dead. We were told that the sisters sent Jesus a word. The message was very simple "Lord, the one you love is sick."

Imagine the worry, grief, sorrow and sadness of these sisters. Yet their note to Jesus was so simple. The note did not demand Jesus to come quickly, to heal Lazarus immediately or requested Jesus to do this or that according to their wishes. So, in our earnest prayers to God, just state plainly the facts to the Lord and let God be God. We don't have to tell God what to do or how to do and when to do for us according to our wishes. What a lesson!

Also note that in this message, it stated plainly that Jesus loved Lazarus. It's not necessary to know whether Lazarus loved Jesus or not - Jesus will perform a miracle whether Lazarus loved him or not. It's an act of grace! And I was amazed that Jesus knew who was sick, even though the note did not state the name!

Some ways to Tame Your Worry Habit

In her book 'Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World', Joanna Weaver shares with us some ways to tame our worry habit, as worry can be a habit:

1) Pray (Colossians 4:2)
2 Mediate on God's promises (2 peter 1:4)
3) Trust God (Psalm 112:7)
4) Prepare for the unexpected (Proverbs 21:20)
5) Control your imagination (Isaiah 35:3-4)
6) Look on the bright side (Ephesians 4:29)
7) Do what is right (Acts 24:16)
8) Take care of yourself (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
9) Don't worry alone (Proverbs 27:9)
10) Separate toxic worry from genuine concern (Proverbs 16:3)

Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things

Pastor and teacher Gary E. Gilley sums up the difference between a healthy conern and worry like this:"Worry is allowing problems and distress to come between us and the heart of God."

When we are conern : Involves a legitimate threat
Is specific (one thing)
Addresses the problem
Solves problems
Look to God for answer

When we worry: Is often unfounded
Is generalized (spreads to many things)
Obsesses about the problem
Creates more problems
Looks to self or other people for answers

Extracted from the book entitled:Having a Mary Heart in a Martha world

Having a Mary heart in a Martha world

Found this book in the library. The author talks about finding intimacy with God in the busyness of life - Haveing a Mary heart in a Martha world

Love to share some pointers extracted for encouragement:

We all dip down now and then into discouragement. The secret is not to stay there. Here are some ways you can beat the downward spiral of the Deadly D in your life:

1) Allow for rest stops. Remember the Sabbath rest? Be still and know that I am God.(Exodus 34:21)

2) Get a new point of view. Take a few steps back and ask God to help you see His perspective on your situation. (Isaiah 33:17)

3) Have patience. (Romans 8:28)

4) Mingle. Discouragement feeds off isolation. It's amazing how good, old-fashioned fellowship can life our spirits. (Psalm 133:1)

5) Set the timer. Just a 10-minute good cry is good for you. Jesus wept too! (Ecclesiates 3:4)

Remembering Thy Wonders

I just want to record these 2 wonderful incidents so that I will remember God's goodness and grace to me - I must not forget how good He is to me.

1) Elder son Jon wanted me to watch World Cup final with him. I agree as his dad is not in town to watch with him. But Jon also suggest we watch the match between Spain and Germany together. I could not agree as I have to work the next morning. He must be disappointed. But Papa God is good. Somehow during the night, I was awakened. I wanted to go back to sleep, but I knew that bonding with Jon is important. So I watched the later part of the 2nd half with Jon and saw how Spain won the match! (I know nothing about soccer)

2) Younger son Tim asked me to wake him up this morning at 5:30am. He wanted to print something on the computer to bring to school. So I set the alarm clock at 5:15am, but somehow it did not ring. Even my mobile alarm did not go off. But Papa God is good. He woke me up just in time - 5:25am.

Reflections: God is good. God is good all the time. God does good all the time. God watches over me all the time. Amen

GOD'S TIMING IS PERFECT. HE IS IN CONTROL

Very recently, my faith was put to the test!

I had an examination on Wednesday. In order to pass, I had to have a live model. And I had only just half an hour more, if no model appeared, then I failed! If you want to show that your skills in trimming some one's hair is good, you must have a live model, you just can't cut a dummy's hair to pass the test.

Lord, I have really done my homework well. I prepared well for the test. And I have prayed and submitted this exam. into Thy loving hands, so where is my live model? Just when I felt that all is lost, the Lord sent me a very beautiful live model! Praise the Lord, all glory to Him. And of course, I passed. Hallelujah!

Reflections: The Lord's timing is perfect. Just trust in Him. I have prayed, He has heard. Don't fret, don't worry - just believe.

P.S. The above example is only an illustration of my case. I am not a hair dresser, nor a doctor.

THE DEATH OF LAZARUS (JOHN 11:6)

Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days.

We are always impatient. When we are sick, we pray for healing IMMEDIATELY. When we are anxious about our loved ones who are sick, we pray that God will heal NOW. After taking medicine for 1 day, we will doubt the effectiveness of the drugs. When our prayers are not answered soon, we will question where God is. We are always so impatient. We always want instant gratification.

But look at Jesus. He is never in a hurry. His timing is always perfect - never too early nor late.

Reflections:Lord, help me to trust in You. Even though I am so short-sighted and could not see any good or improvement, help me in my myopia. Empower me to just leave my every concerns upon that Cross and ....... well, just leave them there!

FIREWORKS DISPLAY!

As we celebrate our National Day, burst after burst of fireworks light up the sky. And without fail, everyone utters collective ooohs and aaahs! (especially children)

But when God lights up the sky with His fireworks, most people (especially children) are so terrified and tremble in fear.Why are we afraid of God's lightnings in the sky, and why can't we hear God's powerful voice in the thunder? God's fireworks are for our good - not just for entertainment. They usually come with rain that cools us and water our thirsty land so that we can have food. All God's deeds are done for a purpose.

God's fireworks reveals His power and His bounty for His glory!

On the Shoulders of the Father

As a toddler, you may have sat on your daddy's shoulders to see more things. You did not worry of falling down because your daddy's hands were holding you, giving you security. This is just like a very young Christian - our Heavenly Father putting us on His shoulders so that we can get a better perspective of what's happening all around us. We are so small - small in stature, small in faith, small in wisdom and knowledge, so Papa God helps us along by putting us upon His shoulders and though we are afraid of falling at first, but we are confident as His hands are holding our hands.

As an adult with worries of a different sort, I need the support and comfort of my Father. I can tell Him my problems and know He will shield me all day long. Challenges diminish when I am resting on His shoulders, reassured that He is in charge. Shielded by His shoulders, I see that my concerns are really quite small.

The Lord is my helper.

Our Lord is very good. He knows what's bothering me and come to my aid even before I asked!

Recently I was very bothered and concerned about a practical test I had to go through. I was rather worried about it because I don't feel good about someone sitting beside me watching what I do! It's nerve racking. Anyway I don't know the day I have to sit for the test, so I just push it right at the back of my mind. But I know the 'fear' was residing at the back of my mind. I refused to think about it - though I know that sooner or later, I will have to take the test.

On Tuesday night I had a dream. I dreamed I was taking the practical test! When I woke up, I remembered the dream very vividly. So I wondered could it be my test is today? Well, so I took out my notes and read up on the subject matter. I would not have done that if I did not have the dream. Guess what? I was called in to sit for the test on that particular day! Praise the Lord. The examiner said I actually did pretty well! Would I have done well if I did not dream about it?

Reflections: Thank You Lord, I knew You are the one who helped me - giving me strength and peace and calmness. All glory to Your name. Amen

Search me, O Lord.....

Ever since I shifted into this house in 1988, I have never cleared or cleaned my store-room. Countless times I have done spring-cleaning of all the other rooms and wardrobes, but never the store-room.

But this time, I pluck up my courage and just go ahead with the job I disliked. Why? Because this room is so cluttered with junk that I just don't know where to start. Golf-sets, bowling balls, umbrellas, broken sewing machine, obselete typewriter, lots of stationery and base-ball caps (smelly too!), luggage bags with winter clothings, even dirty army boots and sleeping bags, tool boxes etc etc etc......

Reflections:Dear Lord, cleaning and clearing the store-room is like cleaning my heart! I have a hard time doing a fair job of it, I believe You too had a difficult time cleaning up my heart that is so cluttered with unwanted attitudes - jealousy, pride, self-righteousness, self-reliance, complacency, selfishness, conceitedness, apathy, judgmental attitudes, lack of love and compassion etc etc etc Dear Holy Spirit, please strengthen me with the joy of the Lord for You are the one I rely on. In Jesus' name, Amen

STORE UP TREASURES IN HEAVN

Recently I have been busy doing some spring (or summer) cleaning in my house. I renovated my apartment about 2 1/2 years ago, and at that time I had discarded many unused and unwanted items - giving them away or sold them to the Cash Converters.

But less than 3 years on, I realised I have started accumulating many items that are useless and worthless. I begin to search the house (especially the store room) and found a large amount of things that I need to discard, once again.

Reflections: Lord, help me to store up treasures in Heaven above and not things that will rot and rust here on earth. The treasures in heaven will not be discarded for they are of value in God's eyes!

IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD

How can someone look at the ocean and not feel small in the presence of God? Or look up at the endless blue of the sky and not give thanks for the creation of our universe? Or feel a summer breeze and not know that it's God touch? How can anyone look at a baby and not know that God's greatest blessing is the miracle of life? God is merciful and loving and He wants everyone to come to know Him, I want to shine my light so that others see Him living in me. Extracted.

Mark 10:32-34

Jesus Again Predicts His Death

They were on their way up to Jerusalem, with Jesus leading the way, and the disciples were astonished, while those who follow were afraid.

As I read this, I was very touched by Jesus. He knew He is going to His death on the Cross, but did you not notice that He was leading the way while others were frightened. Jesus did not shrink from His destiny, but moved forward leading the way!

Reflections: Dear Lord, help me in my weakness. I want to be like You and move forward - even when the going is tough.

The Healing of a Blind Man at Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26)

As I read this story once again, I find some more questions to ask the Lord. He has yet to reveal the answers to me, but I believe that perhaps the next time I read this story again, He will. His timing is the best.

In verse 22, Jesus and his disciples came to Bethsaida and some people brought a blind man to Jesus. But Jesus led the blind man outside the village and healed him. Then in verse 26, Jesus sent him home saying, "Don't go into the village." Why?

In this healing process, Jesus did not heal the blind man the first time he touched his eyes. The man could only see people like trees walking around. If I were this man, I just wonder how would I feel? This is a very testing time of faith.

Reflections: Lord, help me, enable me and empower me to just trust You, even when I don't see things clearly - just believe in Your love and power.

Note:Previously I don't uinderstand why Jesus spit on the man's eyes, but I learned later that there is such a thing as "fasting spittle" - very clean and powerful. It's just like we suck our cut fingers with our mouth (saliva) for cleansing and healing!

A Dead Girl (Mark 5:21-43)

As I was reading this much read and loved story of Jesus healing the daughter of a synagogue ruler, Jairus, I was once again bowled over by Jesus.

In verse 24 Jesus went with him (Jairus), apparently to heal the sick girl.

In verse 35 they were told that the girl had died and that there is no need to bother Jesus.

But Jesus told Jairus to just believe and not be afraid. In the end, the little girl was raised up from the dead. In this story, Jesus told everyone to leave the place except the parents. Compare to the story of Lazarus, many people witness the miracle.

Reflection:If I am given an assignment by God, I must complete it no matter what happens. Even if people tell me that there is no hope, no need for my 'help', I will be still obedient to God. In the end, God will get all the glory.

John 6:4-13

The account in John 6 is a familiar passage about Jesus feeding the five thousand. When the disciples brought to Jesus the five loaves and two fishes, that was all they had. But Jesus used what they had to feed a multitude. This is another important principle in ministry. You might feel you have little to give to God - your imperfect talents, your impure motives and your limited resources. But what He asks from you is your availability - what He has given, He wants you to consecrate back to serve where He has called you to. For He will be your resource. He will supply the ability. Then, a divine synergy of multiplication will take place. Our talents and abilities + His omnipotent power = a world touched and changed for His glory. Jesus already know what He wants to do. The question is whether we have the faith to co-operate.

Rules of VICTORY by Adriel Loh

Hebrews 13:5-6

There's a stream of trouble across my path;
It is dark and deep and wide.
Bitter the hour the future hath
When I cross its swelling tide.
But I smile and sing and say:
"I will hope and trust alway;
I'll bear the sorrow that comes tomorrow,
But I'll borrow none today."


Tomorrow's bridge is a dangerous thing;
I dare not cross it now,
I can see its timbers sway and swing,
And its arches reel and bow,
O heart, you must hope alway;
You must sing and trust and say:
"I'll bear the sorrow that comes tomorrow,
But I'll borrow none today."
Selected from Streams in the Desert

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. (Psalm 37:3)

I once met a poor woman who earned a meager living through hard domestic labour but was a joyful, triumphant Christian. Another Christian lady, who was quite sullen, said to her one day, "Nancy, I understand your happiness today, but I would think your future prospects would sober you. Suppose, for instance, you experience a time of illness and are unable to work. Or suppose your present employers move away, and you cannot find work elsewhere. Or suppose --

"Stop!" cried Nancy, "I never 'suppose.' The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. And besides," she added to her gloomy friend, "it's all that 'supposing' that's making you so miserable. You'd better give that up and simply trust the Lord."

Extracted from Streams in the Desert

1 Corinthians 4:20

"For the Kingdom of God is not in talk but in power".

A 'second-generation' Christian is someone who grows up in a Christian home with Christian parents. To many of these Christians, Christianity is only a religion of their parents. They know all the Bible stories but they have not experienced God for themselves. There is a lot of head knowledge about God but they do not know God personally.

The need to experience God personally is pertinent to this present post-modern generation. To accept something as true, we need to experience it for ourselves. Truth to us must be verified by experience - our subjective experiences. What we are not able to verify by experience, we tend to doubt as true. Therefore, the need to experience God is vital if we are to sustain our faith in the long run. For if we do not, we run the risk of eventually falling away from the faith.

Challenge: Write down at least 3 ways people you know have experienced God in their lives. Then, write down at least 2 ways you have experienced God in your own life.

Extracted from the book entitled:Ruels of VICTORY by Adriel Loh

TALKING TO YOURSELF

"Why am I discouraged? Why so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will prasie him again - my Saviour and my God!" (Psalm 42:11)

Have you ever seen people talking to themselves? I have even caught myself dong it! David talked to himself. It was actually his spirit chastising his soul :"Why am I discouraged? Why so sad?"

Our spirit-soul interface is where the greatest battles are fought. Our spirit needs to continually monitor our soul. Many people can discipline their sensual or physical appetites. But the old man, the inner self, wants its own way.

David tells his soul what to do. "I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again!" Saying the right things to yourself is healthy, growing, and disciplined. Have you challenged your soul today?

By Kenneth M. Hansen

James 4:8

Is your night one of bereavement? Focusing on God often causes Him to draw near to your grieving heart, bringing you the assurance that He needs the one who has died. The Lord will assure you He has called your departed loved one to be with Him. And as this thought enters your mind, along with the knowledge that your loved one is engaged in a great heavenly mission, a song begins in your heart.

Is your night one of discouragement or failure, whether real or imagined? Do you feel as if no one understands you, and your friends have pushed you aside? Take heart: your Maker "will come near to you" and give you a song - a song of hope, which will be harmonious with the strong, resonant music of His providence. Be ready to sing the song your Maker imparts to you.

Selected from Streams in the Desert

Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night? (Job 35:10)

Do you ever experience sleepless nights, tossing and turning and simply waiting for the first glimmer of dawn? When that happens, why not ask the Holy Spirit to fix your thoughts on God, your Maker, and believe He can fill those lonely, dreary nights into song?

What then? Shall we sit idly down and say
The night has come; it is no longer day?
Yet as the evening twilight fades away,
The sky is filled with stars, invisible to day.

The strength of a ship is only fully demonstrated when it faces a hurricane, and the power of the gospel can only be fully exhibited when a Christian is subjected to some fiery trial. We must understand that for God to give 'songs in the night', He must first make it night.

By Nathaniel William Taylor

Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temption (Matthew 26:4)

Dear friends, never go out into the danger of the world without praying first. There is always a temptation to shorten your time in prayer. After a difficult day of work, when you kneel at night to pray with tired eyes, do not use your drowsiness as an excuse to resign yourself to early rest. Then when the morning breaks and you realise you have overslept, resist the temptation to skip your early devotion or to hurry through it.

Once again, you have not taken the time to 'watch and pray.' Your alertness has been sacrificed, and there will be irreparable damage. Temptations are waiting to confront you, and you are not prepared to withstand them. Within your soul you have a sense of guilt, and you seem to be lingering some distance from God. It certainly is no coincidence that you tend to fall short of your responsibilities on those days when you have allowed your weariness to interfere with your prayer life.

When we give in to laziness, moments of prayer that are missed can never be redeemed.
By Frederick William Robertson

Mark 4:35 "Let us go over to the other side"

Even though we follow Christ's command, we should not expect to escape the storm. In this passage of Scripture, the disciples were obeying His command, yet they encountered the fiercest of storms and were in great danger of being drowned. In their distress, they cried out for Christ's assistance.

Gently rebuking His disciples, Christ asked, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" In effect, He was saying, "Why didn't you face the storm victoriously and shout to the raging winds and rolling waves, "You cannot harm us, for Christ, the mighty Saviour, is on board?'

If your are ever to "be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power", your strength will be born during a storm.

Christ said, "Let us go over to the other side" - not "to the middle of the lake to be drowned."

Selected and extracted from Streams In The Desert.

Ecclesiates 3:11

God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human hearts, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end.

Sand in your shoes. People in your family. Coworkers in your office. All these things can be a source of irritation. We want to put things right, now. Sometimes we can. Other things take time.

God has all the time in the world. He is willing to wait for fruit to ripen, for light to dawn, for promises t be fulfilled. He knows we are just dust, but He puts us in right places to make us shine. Sometimes we feel like the oyster, constantly trying to smooth over life's irritations. But He wants us to know deep down we're really His pearls. And He won't stop polishing until we're perfect!

Jesus hung on a cross to pay for our deficits. He'll help us hang in there with each other until the process is complete.

By Marcia Swearingen

Deuteronomy 28 :God's Blessings

Father God is a very caring and generous God. He is the master of my house and everything in it is His and is under His care.

Last week I left the house earlier than my son. I knew he would close the windows before he leave the house, but there are times he may left out some windows. It rained quite heavy in the afternoon but it did not bother me because I have left it and all in the house to my Father's care. When I reached home, I found out that the windows in the dining room opened. But God took care of everything, the floor was not wet at all, and no furniture was damaged. Praise the Lord!

Last Thursday it was raining cats and dogs. I closed all the windows and did not give a thought to it. I was not concerned whether the rain will seep in or not as the master of my house is God. After the rain has stopped, I went to open the windows. The rain did seep in, but only up to the ledge and no further! Not a trickle of water went to the floor! How great is our God. All glory to God. He loves me and everyone in my family. He loves my home, my house and everything in it and He takes good care of everybody and everything in it! Praise the Lord!

NOT MY WILL, BUT YOURS BE DONE (LUKE 22:42)

We are strong with God only when self is conquered and is dead, only when we let God be God.
An incident from the prayer life of Charles H. Usher illustrates how 'wrestling prayer' is a hindrance to prevailing prayer. He shared his story:"My little boy, Frank, was very ill, and the doctors held out little hope of his recovery. I used all the prayer knowledge I possessed on his behalf, but he continued to worsen. This went on for several weeks. One day I realised my defeat and told God that I will leave Frank to God and give myself up to prayer for others. I chose God's will - surrendered myself entirely to God.From that time forward my son began to get better. I then realised that it was the 'wrestling' of my prayers that had hindered God's answer, and that if i had continued to wrestle, being unwilling to surrender him to God, he would probably not be here today!"

Extracted from Streams in the Desert.

TRUTH NUMBER 1:YOU HAVE BEEN SPECIALLY CHOSEN

Jerrmiah 1: 4-5
"Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying:'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations."

The truth is out : Even before we are born, God has chosen us for greatness!
We are here to be heroes for God, overcomers and victors for Him in this corrupt dying world.
We are not here to merely get by - we are called to change and impact the world for Him.

But greatness does not always mean largeness. For some of us, that greatness will involve doing large and awesome things for God. But for others, that greatness is achieved in the small, selfish, unseen things we do each day. Let's begin today to seek God for the destiny He has placed on your life, the mark of greatness He has placed on you. And step up to that greatness.

Extracted from the book entitled :Rules of VICTORY by Adriel Loh

Serving God With The Wrong Attitude

Last Sunday, a brother in church shared his testimony about serving in a church ministry. He chose to serve in the "Fire Up" ministry - a ministry that helps the deaf and mute. One day while in church, he was so impressed by what he saw. Two brothers were "talking" during service and yet not disturbing anyone. These brothers were using sign language. He thought it was so cool to be able to carry on a "conversation" even when your friend had alighted from the bus, with sign language. It's even more cool to be able to "ask" your friend who is "chopping" the table whether he wanted more chilli, more cockles or more beansprouts in his 'char keow teow' with sign language. So he confessed that he joined this ministry with the wrong motive.

But God is love and full of grace. And God work for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. God bless this brother with many deaf and mute friends, These friends come to trust him to be their mouthpiece and earpiece. He is able to help them when they need to go to the doctor or the bank etc. And most of all, he is able to lead some of them to Christ! He is so touched by God's love for these people and for him - that God does not mind his initial wrong motive in helping others. God use him when he offers himself.

GROW DEEP ROOTS

"But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they go right on producing delicious fruit. "Jeremiah 17:7-9

I don't know about you, but many days I find myself putting my 'roots' down into the world. I find myself worrying about my kids, my husband, and my finances. I think of the future, without spending enough time thinking of the One who holds us in His hands.

When I place my trust in this world, I place it in things that will not last. My roots are planted in shallow ground. When I place my trust in the Lord, and make Him my confidence and hope, my roots are secure for eternity.

God does not promise to be with us if we have troubles in this life, but when we have them. If we will root ourselves in Him and His Word, we will have the strength to face the troubled times and those periods of drought. By Sue Rhodes

Romans 10:17

"So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"

Consciously or unconsciously, we 'speak' to ourselves all the time. Psychologists say that we 'speak' to ourselves up to 50,000 times a day - in the words we use, the things we say, the thoughts we think, and the 'truths' we confess. What we say has a profound impact on what we end up thinking and believing. This consequently affects how much faith we have in God and in His grace.
When we speak out loud words of God's truth, our minds will 'hear' our words and our thinking will then be rewired. Don't just read the Bible silently in your mind. Stand up, speak it out loud and claim it! As we confess the truth once, twice, three times, each time claiming it in our hearts, soon the seed of faith will be sown in our hearts, and bloom to firm and confident conviction. Then, when faith rises up in our hearts, it opens us up to receive and experience God's incredible grace in our lives.
Extracted from the book "Rules of VICTORY" by Adriel Loh

John 8:32 "...the truth shall make you free"

There are 12 things the Bible says about us that the devil does not want us to know:
1. I have a chosen destiny to change the world for Jesus Christ
2. God loves me perfectly and unconditionally
3. God has made me His son/daughter
4. God reveals Himself and His will to me
5. God has forgiven my sins -past, present and future
6. I am freed from the power of sin
7. I am healed from sickness and disease
8. I am blessed with abundance, favour and fruitfulness
9. I have the authority of Jesus Christ to overcome circumstances & evil powers
10 I am empowered with every gift of the Holy Spirit
11 I have a heavenly inheritance
12 I will be victorious in everything that I do

Challenge:Read out loud the 12 statements of faith above. Open your eyes to the amazing truth of grace - and the truth will set you free!

Extracted from the book "Rules of VICTORY" by Adriel Loh

1 John 5:1-13

ARE YOU A CHILD OF GOD?

These are some signs of a born-again Christian:

THIRST FOR GOD:"my soul thirsteth for God for the living God;when shall I come and appear before God?' (Ps. 42:2)

THIRST FOR GOD'S WORD: "as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby" (1 Peter 2:2)

STOP LIVING IN SIN HABITUALLY:"whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him, and he cannot sin, because he is born of God" (1 John 3:9)

BELEIVE THAT JESUS IS THE CHRIST:"whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God; and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him" (1 John 5:1)

HAVE THE GUIDANCE AND WITNESS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT: 'for as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.... The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God." (Romans 8:14,16)

BE SEPARATE FROM SIN, UNBELIEF, WORLDLINESS AND WRONG DOCTRINES:"wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty"(James 1:27)

REPENT RIGHT AWAY WHEN CONVICTED OF ONE'S SINS: Psalm 51

PRAYING FOR OUR CHILDREN

We can pray 31 different biblical virtues into our children every month. Claim and believe that God is working each one of these virtues into the children's lives.

1 Salvation (2 Timothy 2:10)
2 God's Grace (2 Peter 3:18)
3 Love (Ephesians 5:2)
4 Integrity (Psalm 25:21)
5 Self-Control (1 Thessalonians 5:6)
6 Love For God's Word (Psalm 19:10)
7 Justice (Micah 6:8)
8 Mercy (James 5:11)
9 Respect (1 Peter 2:17)
10 Self-Esteem (Ephesians 2:10)
11 Faithfulness (Proverbs 3:3)
12 Courage (Deuteronomy 31:6)
13 Purity (Psalm 51:10)
14 Kindness (1 Thessalonians 5:15)
15 Generosity (1 Timothy 6:18)
16 Peace Loving (Romans 14:19)
17 Joy (1 Thessalonians 1:6)
18 Perseverance (Hebrews 12:1)
19 Humility (Titus 3:2)
20 Compassion (Colossians 3:12)
21 Responsibility (Galatians 6:5)
22 Contentment (Philippians 4:12-13)
23 Faith (1 Timothy 6:12)
24 A Servant's Heart (Ephesians 6:7)
25 Hope (Romans 15:13)
26 Patience (Galatians 5:22)
27 Passion For The Lord (Psalm 42:1)
28 Wisdom (James 1:5)
29 Prayerfulness (Luke 18:1)
30 Gratitude (Ephesians 5:20)
31 Boldness (Ephesians 6:19)

Lost In The House (Luke 15:11-32)

In this parable of The Prodigal Son, the elder brother is lost in the house. We can see the 5 characteristics of a person who is lost:-
1) Anger and resentment (verse 28)
2) Joyless fear-serve base on his compliance to rules (verse 29)
3) Strong sense of his own superiority (pride) (verse 30)
4) Unforgiving and judgmental spirit
5) Lack of assurance of his father's love (v29b)

So, the pastor lost some members in his church because they have the Elder brother syndrome.
Am I also like the elder child?

The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:3-11)

During the Sunday worship service, I heard a very interesting story from the pastor who came from UK.

Some time ago, some church members approached him and told him that they were leaving that church. The pastor asked why they would do so. They told him that the pastor allowed this couple with their six children to worship in church. They were leaving because this couple was not married and therefore living in sin. Upon hearing this, the pastor said he was not aware that this couple was not married and that he would check it out.

The pastor paid this couple a visit and heard their story. The man was divorced with 2 kids. The woman's husband left her with 2 kids without any trace. She tried to locate him for several years but there was just no news of him. The law in UK states that as long as the spouse is not dead, this woman was still married to him, even if he had left for many years, and she was not supposed to divorce him.

The man and woman met and fell in love and so they lived together and have 2 more kids. After that the woman fell in love with Jesus and became a Christian. Later the husband also gave his life to Jesus. So now what do you think the pastor should do?

The pastor's sermon was entitled :Lost In The House (Luke 15:1-2, 11-32).

WALKING IN THE LIGHT

God's remedy for darkness is light. To walk in the light means making sure God is our spiritual leader each day. It means recognizing our tendency to sin and being willing to cooperate with God when He shines a light on actions that need to change. God is the "Father of lights," and walking with Him dispels the darkness and allows us to receive every perfect gift.

Here's a checklist for walking in the light:
1 Have offenses moved you to seek revenge, or are you learning to forgive?
2 Do you point out sins in others to divert attention from your own sins, or are you working on your own issues?
3 Do you blame others for your failures, or do you take responsibility for your own actions?
4 Are you promoting your own agenda with others, or are you yielding to God's purposes?
5 Are you projecting a phony image, or are you becoming more transparent with others?
6 Have you sought out some kind of honest accountability relationship, or are you seeking to mislead people?
7 Are you growing in your yieldedness to God, or are you harbouring strongholds of self-will?
8 Are you setting boundaries on your passions and channeling them into godly outlets, or are you letting them control you?
9 When you are tempted, do you submit yourself to God and resist the devil, or do you just give in.
10 Is your regular devotional time with God restoring your soul (Psalm 23:1-3) or is it infrequent and in decline?
(Extracted)

WAYS TO DE-STRESS

Do not be burnt out. Take control of your stress level. Choose to do something today to reduce stress!
1. Deep breathing/relaxing exercise. (eg clenching and spreading out fingers, opening/closing palm)
2. Meditate on God's word. (clear mind, be quiet)
3. Have a passion. (eg. music, juggling, drawing, origami, arts, handicraft, knitting etc)
4. Talk and chi-chat with friends. (sms, msn, facebook, nothing beats meeting up for a cuppa)
5. Laugh (read Archie/OMQ comics, joke books, watch funny shows etc)
6. Massage. (eg by yourself relaxing in OSIM chair etc)
7. At least 8 hrs of restful sleep. (deep and sound)
8. Exercise daily (at least 20-30 mins , with lots of sweat)
9. Go for nature walk or at the beach. (morning/evening)
10.Keep a pet!
11. Aromatherapy. (lavender, sandal wood), bathe with essential oils .
12. Balanced diet (plenty of water ,less carbohydrates, plenty of water, less coffee, tea,oily foods,dark chocolates is good. No drugs or smoking. Don't forget your medicine)
13. Listen to soothing music, praise and worship songs, healing songs.
14. Learn to let go, forgive and forget.
15. Find a cause (eg. charity work, go green)
16. Have a hobby. (eg. stamp collection)
17. Play a game that is relaxing (eg. golf, snooker)
18. Pamper yourself. (go for SPA, holiday etc)
19. Positive thinking. (change mindset, it's helpful not to dwell on past)
20. Realistic thinking (eg. set goals, standards that are attainable)
21. Stay connected. No one is a hermit. We are created for fellowship.Go to church, cell groups.
22. Ask for support/help from family/friends/teachers/counsellors etc
23. Write a journal/blogging to express feelings/frustrations etc.
24. Call the help-line when you need to talk to someone who cares and listen with empathy.
25. Know that you are loved! God loves you. Family loves you. You are unique and valuable. You are special and important to God!
26. Read God's Word.
27. Pray/talk to God.
28. Throw pebbles into the river/sea. Throw eggs in the toilet etc to let out frustrations.
29. Shout it out loud! (in the bathroom or where no one is around)
30. Go out, Get out. Don't stay enclosed by oneself.
31. Do a kind deed. (Offer your seat to someone in need, help someone cross the road etc)
32. Praise is powerful. To lift up a spirit of heaviness, put on the garment of praise. Sing psalms of praises and hymns to God.Be grateful and thankful for what you have. Count your blessings!

Men see not the bright light which is in the clouds (Job 37:21)

I cannot know why suddenly the storm
Should rage so fiercely round me in its wrath;
But this I know - God watches all my path,
And I can trust.

I may not draw aside the unseen veil
That hides the unknown future from my sight,
Nor know if for me waits the dark or light;
But I can trust.

I have no power to look across the tide,
To see while here the land beyond the river;
But this I know - I will be God's forever;
So I can trust.

Selected from Streams in the Desert

ANNIE JOHNSON FLINT

I pray for strength, and then I lost awhile
All sense of nearness, human and divine;
The love I leaned on failed and pierced my heart,
The hands I clung to loosed themselves from mine;
But while I swayed, weak, trembling, and alone,
The everlasting arms upheld my own.

I prayed for light; the sun went down in clouds,
The moon was darkened by a misty doubt,
The stars of heaven were dimmed by earthly fears,
And all my little candle flames burned out;
But while I sat in shadow, wrapped in night,
The face of Christ made all the darkness bright.

I prayed for peace, and dreamed of restful ease,
A slumber free from pain, a hushed repose;
Above my head the skies were black with storm,
And fiercer grew the onslaught of my foes;
But while the battle raged, and wild wind blew,
I heard His voice and perfect peace I knew.

I thank You, Lord, You were too wise to heed
My feeble prayers, and answer as I sought,
Since these rich gifts Your bounty has bestowed
Have brought me more than all I asked or thought;
Giver of good, so answer each request
With Your own giving, better than my best.

We do not know what we ought to pray for (Romans 8:26)

Often it is simply the answers to our prayers that cause many of the difficulties in the Christian life.
We pray for patience, and our Father sends demanding people our way who test us to the limit.
We pray to be unselfish, and God gives us opportunities to sacrifice by placing other peoples' needs first and by laying down our lives for other believers.
We pray for strength and humility, and 'a messenger of Satan" comes to torment us.
We pray to the Lord, as His apostles did, saying,"Increase our faith!". Then our money seems to take wings and fly away; our children become critically ill; an employee becomes careless, slow, and wasteful; or some other new trial comes upon us.
We pray for a Christlike life that exhibits the humility of a lamb. Then we are asked to perform some lowly task, or we are unjustly accused and give no opportunity to explain.
We pray for gentleness and quickly face a storm of temptation to be harsh and irritable. We pray for quietness and suddenly every nerve is stressed to its limit.
We pray for love for others, and God sends unique suffering by sending people our way who are difficult to love and who say things that get on our nerves and tear at our heart.

Yes, we pray to be like Jesus,and God's answer is "I have tested you in the furnace of affliction". Will your courage endure or your hands be strong?" "Can you drink the cup?"

Extracted from Streams In The Desert

NEED A LIFT?

"So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time." Galatians 6:9

It feels good when someone pays us a compliment or commends our efforts. Our spirit feels uplifted by such acknowledgments. It also feels good to give out commendations, compliments, and kind gestures. The ripples of kindness can go on and on.

Consider this scenario. You are in the grocery store checking out and a man comes up behind you visibly agitated and in a rush. You offer to let him go ahead of you in line. Though amazed, he accepts and his demeanor shifts.

Because of your act, he heads home in a more pleasant and relaxed mood. He greets his wife and kids with warm affection instead of the usual gripe of the day. The next day, each family member goes out into the world with a slightly more positive outlook and that touches others.

By acting on daily opportunities to lift up others, many are blessed, including ourselves.
Be an encourager to all you meet. By Elaine Britt

The Adulterous Woman

John 8:1-11

This is a very touching story. The Pharisees and teachers of the law brought a woman caught in adultery to Jesus so as to catch Him when he makes a mistake. Either way Jesus answered Yes or No, it seems there is no way out for Him. But the 2 things that I found interesting is in verse 4 and verse 10. In verse 4, these people came to Jesus and addressed Him as Teacher. How wicked can they be! On one hand they gave Jesus the honoured title of Teacher, on the other hand they sought to kill him. I wondered if Jesus wrote the word "hypocrite" on the ground?

In verse 10, Jesus addressed this person as 'woman'. In John 2:4, Jesus also called Mary, His mother as 'woman'. Jesus addressed this adulterous woman in a very respectful and dear manner because He loves her with the love of God. So sincere, so kind, so gracious, so gentle and so forgiving. Jesus came to give abundant life, not to judge.

Psalm 66:12 "We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance.

The adverse winds blew against my life;
My little ship with grief was tossed;
My plans were gone-heart full of strife,
And all my hope seemed to be lost-
"Then He arose"-one word of peace.
"There was a calm"- a sweet release.

A tempest great of doubt and fear
Possessed my mind; no light was there
To guide, or make my vision clear.
Dark night! 'twas more than I could bear-
"Then He arose," I saw His face-
"There was a calm" filled with His grace.
My heart was sinking 'neath the wave
Of deepening test and raging grief;
All seemed as lost, and none could save,
And nothing could bring me relief -
"Then He arose"-and spoke one word,
"There was a calm!" "IT IS THE LORD."

Extracted from Streams In the Desert

My Hero: Mum

Proverbs 31:28 Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her.

My mom has never run a marathon -but she has run to the store at midnight for medicine for sick kids. She has never held public office - but she knocked on doors so my dad could win a political office. Mom has never climbed the corporate ladder - but she often climbed into our tree house with us. My mom has never worked outside the home, but she always worked at making the inside of our home an oasis. That's why she's my role model.

My mom dried hundreds of tears when I had boy troubles, comforted me when I had nightmares, and prayed thousands of prayers for me.

I've told my mom many times that she is my hero. And I smiled when people say i remind them of her - because there's no one else on earth I'd rather be like. By Dena Dyer

WARD OFF DEMENTIA-TRAIN YOUR BRAIN

Experts say that we need to take care of our brain to ward off or delay dementia. Our lifestyle is very important to our brain's health, and here are some helpful and useful tips:

1. Join clubs or organizations that need volunteers - you won't feel lost and unneeded. You have value.

2. Develop a hobby. It helps to train your brain to be robust as you try something new and complex.

3. Practice writing with your non-dominant hand every day for just a few minutes. This will exercise the opposite side of your brain and fire up those neurons.

4. Take dance lessons. You interact with people, you count steps, you remember your next move, you exercise etc. Dancing was the only regular physical activity associated with a significant decrease in the incidence of dementia, especially if you dance 3 - 4 times per week.

5. Start gardening. Not only does gardening reduce stress, but gardeners use their brains to plan, and visual and spatial reasoning to lay out a garden. And the joy you receive when you enjoy the fruits or your labour!

6. Buy a pedometer and walk 10,000 steps a day. Cardiovascular health is important to maintain blood flow to the brain. Even better, walk with someone or your pet dog.

7. Read and write daily as these activities stimulate a wide variety of brain areas.

8. Start knitting. Using both hands works both sides of your brain. And it's a stress reducer.....

9. Learn a new language - a foreign or even a sign language. You are working your brain by making it go back and forth between one language and the other.

10. Play board games like Scrabble and Monopoly. Not only are you taxing your brain, you are socializing too!

11. Take classes throughout your lifetime. Learning produces structure and chemical changes in the brain. Cooking classes, sewing classes, hairdressing or photography classes are not too heavy - something which you will enjoy too.

12. Listen to classical music. Worship and hymns and very powerful too!

13. Learn to play a musical instrument as you'll be developing a dormant part of your brain.

14. Travel. You train your brain to navigate a new and complex environment. Have fun too!

15. Pray. Daily prayer appears to help your immune system.

16. Learn to meditate. It's important for your brain that you learn to shut out the stresses of everyday life.

17. Get enough sleep. There is is link between interrupted sleep and dementia.

18. Eat more foods containing omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, sardines, tuna, herring, mackerel, flaxseed and walnuts etc.

19. Eat more fruits and vegetables as they contain antioxidants to mop up damage caused by free radicals.

20. Eat at least once a day with family and friends. You'll slow down and socialize.

Luke 18:1

Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

People often ask, "How long should I pray? Shouldn't I come to the place where I stop praying and leave the matter in God's hands?" The only answer is this:Pray until what you pray for has been accomplished or until you have complete assurance in your heart that it will be. Only when one of these two conditions has been met is it safe to stop persisting in prayer, for prayer not only is calling upon God but is also a battle with Satan. And because God uses our intercession as a mighty weapon of victory in the conflict, He alone must decide when it is safe to cease from petitioning. Therefore we dare not stop praying until either the answer itself has come or we receive assurance it will come.

In the first instance, we stop because we actually see the answer. In the second, we stop because we believe, and faith in our hearts is as trustworthy as the sight of our eyes, for it is 'faith from God" (Ephesians 6>23) and the 'faith of God" (Romans 3:3) that we have within us.

As we live a life of prayer, we will more and more come to experience and recognise this God-given assurance. We will know when to quietly rest in it or when to continue praying until we receive His answer. (Extract from Streams in the Desert)

Sprinkle Your Day with Prayer

"For what great nation has a god as near to them as the LORD our God is near to us whenever we call on him?" Deuteronomy 4:7

The other day, I lamented to my mother-in-law how my prayer life has evaporated since I gave birth to my children. I never seem to have a quiet moment.

She smiled knowingly and said,"Sprinkle your day with prayer."
"What do you mean?" I asked
"Mothers usually don't find many uninterrupted periods of time for prayer," she said. "Instead, you have to utilize small chunks of time throughout the day. Pray in the shower, or while driving to pick up the kids from school. Pray while you chop the carrots for dinner. Whatever time you find works for you, even if it's only for a minute, pray."

I tried her advice, and found success, especially during my morning run. I lace up my shoes and literally have a "running conversation' with God. It's refreshing to feel the nearness of Him again.
If you're having trouble finding time to pray, try sprinkling your day with prayer. Let prayer be the glue that holds your day together in Him. By Lori Z Scott

2 Chronicles 20:22

As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set ambushes against the men...... who were invading Judah, and they were defeated.

Oh, if only we would worry less about our problems and sing and praise more! There are thousands of things that shackle us that could be turned into instruments of music, if we just knew how to do it. Think of those people who ponder, mediate, and weigh the affairs of life, and who continually study the mysterious inner workings of God's providence, wondering why they suffer burdens and are opposed and battled on every front. How different their lives would be, and how much more joyful, if they would stop indulging in self-centered and inward thinking and instead would daily lift their experiences to God, praising Him for them.

It is easier to sing your worries away than to reason them away. Why not sing in the morning? And don't forget to sing in the evening. Oh, that we might offer up song after song of continual praise throughout our day! Taken from Streams In the Desert.

OUR AWESOME GOD

"And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows." Luke 12:7

I regularly think of this verse as I shower, watching strands of my long hair flow down the drain as I rinse out the shampoo. I find them all over the house, too, on the furniture and the rugs. I'm constantly shedding old hairs and growing new ones, yet God is so great that He knows how many are on my head-and on every person's head-at any moment of any day.

With a little research, I found that the average number of hairs per head is 100,000, and most people lose strands at a rate of 50 to 100 per day. With 6 billion people on His earth, all tracked-what an illustration of how awesome God is!

Is there anything He can't do? No. There's no need for us to worry with someone so awesome paying such close attention to us. Praise the Lord? By Kim Sheard

Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved (Joel 2:32)

So, why don't I call on His name? Why do I run to this person or that person, when God is so near and will hear my faintest call? Why do I sit down to plot my own course and make my own plans? Why don't I immediately place myself and my burden on the LORD?

Straight ahead is the best way to run, so why don't I run directly to the living God? Instead, I look in vain for deliverance everywhere else, but with God I will find it. With Him I have His royal promise: "I will be saved". And with Him I never need to ask if I may call on Him or not, for the word "everyone" is all encompassing. It includes me and means anybody and everybody who calls upon His name. Therefore I will trust in this verse and will immediately call on the glorious Lord who has made such a great promise. By Charles H Spurgeon