Share A Thought

A Stagnant Pool or a Flowing Stream

2011-12-15T08:52:00.004+08:00

I left Bethany Church at the beginning of this year and worship at a church near my home.

Some people may wonder why I do so. Have I backslide; one member of Bethany Church emailed me. Some see me as “quitter”, a famous word coined by a former Prime Minister for those who leave Singapore to stay in a foreign country.

I have been in Bethany church for 25 years. That is a long time. I have rendered my time, energy and money for the work of the church all these years without grumbling or complaining. Prior to coming to Bethany, I was with another church for 10 years which later closed down. I was also with the Navigators, a para-church organization during my youth and university days. So I am quite exposed to church growth, church health and how church fades away. All these years in Bethany, I have observed that the church health and growth have somehow impeded. Occasionally, I casually mentioned to the Pastor and sometime to the leaders. It is up to them to respond to my sharing.

Bethany is very small. In 1989 we had about 28 members. In 2011, I read from Facebook that Bethany have her 100th members. But, we know that not all the 100 members are still worshipping in Bethany. Most of these memberships are due to biological growth. Our children have grown up. Why is the growth slow? From my perspective, I see the church becoming a stagnant pool. I tried to change that many times. But after reaching the age of 50, I decide to find a flowing stream than to transform a stagnant pool into a flowing stream.

To grow, I need to drink from a flowing stream, not a stagnant pool.

I know that there are many good Bethany members also realize this. So they attend courses organized by other churches such as St. Andrew Cathedral and even the BSF classes. Some joined other churches on mission trips and training courses. I too, attended classes from the Singapore Bible College because Bethany is not feeding her flock. Sunday sermon is the bare minimum for every church. But primarily, the church should be feeding her lamb and her sheep. No, I am not talking about a 1 to 2 hours spur of the moment teaching or training. It must be a structured continuous feeding the lambs and sheep until they too are able to feed others.

With a change of leadership, my hope and prayer is that Bethany can become a flowing stream.

Psalm 1:3
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.

The Right Focus

2011-07-25T09:03:00.002+08:00

We are often distracted and discouraged when we see better competitors and challenges ahead.

Focus on the goal, not the obstacles.

A few days before the cross country race, my daughter found out that only the top 15 of each level will get a trophy. There were more than 300 runners in each level and also there are many athletes among here peers. As she is not actively involving in any sport in school, she got a bit concern and sent me an SMS:

“Bad news. The cross country only top 15 get price for per level… And plus all the sport, so many already.”

In a race, it is not about your competitors, but yourself. You are running against the clock. So I told her to just do her best and enjoy the run. Winning is secondary. Focus on the end point and sense your performance along the way … start slow, build up and end strongly.

During the race day, I prayed for her. I hoped that she learnt a vital lesson from this run. The lesson is to do her personal best.

After the race, she texted us:

“EVERYONE I GOT 10 POSITION FOR CROSS COUNTRY THANK GOD”

I am happy for her.

As I reflect on this, a verse came to mind:

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrew 12:1,2)

In life, there will always be better competitors, insurmountable challenges, difficulties and trials. All these will test my faith. The way to run this race of life then is to fix my eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.

Agape

2 are better than 1

2011-07-14T17:26:00.002+08:00

We need someone to pace with us.

Last weekend, my daughter and I ran 10 laps of 400metres track around the Sea Shell Park near my home. She was preparing for her school 4Km run and I thought this might be a good prep run for her. It wasn’t a very fast run, but for her age to clock about 22 minutes is quite a decent timing. Still, I think she felt the pain as she tried to endure through the whole distance.

Discipline, endurance, … self-control …

These words flooded my mind as I reflect on what we have gone through that afternoon. I am glad that she made it and completed her 4Km run.

Yesterday, she sent me an SMS and wrote that she tried to do it again on herself. This time she only managed to complete 7 laps.

Maybe it’s because she slept late last night (after 1am with all those school works :( )

Also, it’s easier to give up when the pain is building up and running alone. We runners all know that. Running in groups is easier. We motivate one another.

In our spiritual journey we also need someone to run with us.

Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor: (Ecc 4:9)

I thank God that when I first became a Christian, an older Christian came along and guide me in my growth. Oftentimes, he checked on my Scripture Memory verses, studied the Bible and shared his life with me. Later, he taught me how to do it to others. Then, it was my turn to teach them how to teach others. It’s exciting to be “spiritual grandfather”.

If it wasn’t for all this Christian brother to come along my way, I would just be a Sunday churchgoer today.

The "Still small voice"

2011-06-24T11:35:00.002+08:00

How often are we conscious of God’s presence in our midst?

Familiarity breeds contempt, so they say. That probably drowns my consciousness of God’s presence.

But on Wednesday, I had a change of routine. This week is Communic Asia Expo 2011 and I was on duty at Marina Bay Sand Convention Centre. Colleagues advised me to take the train there to avoid the exorbitant car parking price. OK, it has been a long time since I last took the Mass Rapid Transit and I have not even taken the Circle Line since it started operating.

In the train, a heard a lady about my age kept grumbling: “I am squeezed!” and the train I was in was not even fully packed. I was a bit irritated and start harboring ill feelings about her, when I felt within me whispering: “Don’t judge!” My mood immediately changed and I told myself that she was not feeling well. It was then that I heard her daughter asking her about her medication.

Hmmn, was God trying to teach me something?? Does God still speak to me? For me, whether God speaks loud and clear or the “still small voice” inside me speaking does not matter. What I need is able to response correctly to this “still small voice”. Maybe that is the way, God gets my attention …

… after the fire, came a gentle whisper … (1King 19:12)

Agape

Open or close door?

2011-05-24T16:56:00.002+08:00

Whenever there is a slight vibration on the adjacent wall of my office, the door just swing back and close by itself. The door’s magnetic holder has weakened its magnetic field, no longer strong enough to keep the door open. It takes me a while to ensure the door stays open every morning when I go into my office. This has been going on for weeks now and I found myself keep asking:

Should I just leave the door close at all time?

That’s what my bosses – the President of the Company, the General Managers do.
Likewise, other Vice Presidents also shut their doors.

I think those who shut their offices' doors prefer to do things in privacy, and maybe telling others not to disturb them unless necessary. This thought is not wild guessing. Working with them for more than a decade, I can safely say this is also in line with their characters.

For me I prefer to have my office door opens at all times. Colleagues can just pop in any time, without ever to knock. It’s my way of saying: “You are welcome to interrupt me. Just drop by for a chat!”

…

In life, I definitely like God to open doors of opportunities and ministries for me:
See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. (Rev 3:8)

In prayer, I long for open door:
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matt 7:7)

To others, I need to be like Job:
but no stranger had to spend the night in the street, for my door was always open to the traveler (Job 31:32)

To my Lord, I want to response with an open door:
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. (Rev 3:20)

I think I need to buy a door stopper soon … In the meantime; I will just fold a piece of paper many times and slide it under the door to keep it opens. :)

… and be an “open-door” person!

Agape

Lost ... and getting back on track

2011-05-19T17:48:00.001+08:00

It’s quite fearful when one is lost and does not know the way home!

Late last night, as I was walking around the quiet neighborhood, a teenager came out to me and asked for direction.

He asked, “How to go to Temasek Polytechnic?”

“Why do you want to go to Temasek Polytechnic, it’s so late now?”

Through the conversation (as I walked with him to a bus stop to catch a bus home), I found out that he was actually lost. He has taken a correct bus but headed toward the wrong direction and he ended up in Pasir Ris. He then wandered about in Pasir Ris. The fear in his face showed it all. But boy being boy (he is in Secondary 1), he was struggling to contain his emotion. I got him to talk to his father through my hand phone. …

After waiting for a long while with him at the bus stop, he finally got up the bus. It must be quite an experience for him.

…

All we like sheep has gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way …

Being lost and gone astray is quite scary. We need help to get back on track again. Spiritually, we are also like that. By making a wrong decision, we drift off and get further and further away (ending up in the East of Singapore!).

I also thought about my children who are not much age difference from this boy. How would they respond if they were lost? Are they smart enough to find their way home? More worrying is, would they know that they are spiritually going astray?

Agape

A Book of Complaining

2011-03-21T13:20:00.000+08:00

I have been reading the Bible quite constantly since the beginning of this year, alternating a book from the Old Testament and the New – Genesis, Mark, Exodus, Acts, Leviticus, Hebrews, Numbers … Intersperse reading with some wisdom chapters of Psalms and Proverbs to spice up the reading.

The Book of Number, in particular strike me as a book of complaining. The people complain of no food and no water. The spies complain of difficulty to take the land of Canaan. The Levites complain and rebel. Even Mariam and Aaron (sister and brother of Moses) complain.

It’s tough to live with people that’s always complaining and bitching around.

The results? … All these complainers die without entering the promise land. And they have to move about for 40 years aimlessly. The Book literally covers a 39 years span of time.

Maybe I complain too much also?

Well, thank God for reading this book.

It was quite enlightening.

I may spend a lot of time this year to study this book. :)

Shaming those who fail to turn up for Sunday worship

2011-03-14T11:53:00.002+08:00

A new and powerful way of shaming those who do not turn up for Sunday worship – publish their names on facebook (if they have a facebook account). The name list is not in alphabetical order. My name is first in the list. Clearly, I am the most hated person in Bethany Presbyterian Church now. :(

Only the powerful people in the church dare to do that to their sheep. The pastor’s sister-in-law is the church police now. This reminds me of the temple polices in Jesus’ time. They came and arrested Jesus during the night. … (you know the rest of the story)

Good sermons are hard to come by

2011-03-04T17:26:00.006+08:00

After missing so many good sermons for the past 20 years (?), the last 2 months of Sunday sermons have totally changed my life perspective and bring me closer to the Almighty.

Some people, if not, most people from Bethany may be thinking that I have backslided. Received an email lately:

Hi Mark

Its a long time since I last saw you in church. Hope everything is well with you. …

I hope you will return to church although I do not know what problem you are facing. From my own personal viewpoint, I believe it is very important to fix our eyes on Jesus and do not let happenings affect us. Ultimately it is to the Lord that we will answer when we meet HIM.

Brother Mark, I hope to see your family again. I will pray for you all.

My reply:

Thank you for your concern. We are fine and doing well.

… I am attending a church near my house that provides thought-provoking, soul-searching and practical sermons every Sunday. I wouldn't want to miss such sermons, yet.

Blessings

Yah, I have learnt alot from the sermons and the style of delivery, structuring, and oratory skills. Each Sunday is a different speaker. This month March, the church is inviting well- known Singapore Speakers - Rev Dr Edmund Chan, and Rev Dr (Bishop) Solomon, Then we will have Gordon MacDonald from the USA coming. We have read his books, now to hear him speak.

Problems? No! ... Growing? YES!! :))

How exciting!

Getting impatience?

2011-02-21T16:16:00.003+08:00

“Dad, the students are crossing!”

My daughter blurted out as I tried to ease my car through a seemingly never ending stream of students at the zebra crossing just outside her school this morning.

There was no road marshal to control the flow of students crossing today. School starts later on Monday.

I have been waiting at the zebra crossing for many minutes. And the students just stagger along, moving at their own sweet time with gaps in between. So, I just ease through the gap. It looks pretty harmless anyway.

Maybe I got a bit impatience after waiting for seem like a long time. As usual, I try to rationalize with her. “No lah, I just squeeze through. It quite safe”

On reflection, has my action being callous? What if a student suddenly walked faster and I happened to knock him down or just cause a minor injury? Certainly, I was at fault, no matter what. What if a traffic police is around …

Love is patience, Love is kind…

It’s good that she pointed this out to me. :)

A Good Sunday Sermon

2011-01-19T13:48:00.002+08:00

How does one consider a Sunday service sermon as a good message?

For me, the last 2 Sunday sermons that I heard keep appearing in my mind for the rest of the week. The message keeps re-appearing and prompting me to act and do what it says throughout my days.

It's amazing that how such a message can captivate me (and the congregation, I guess). Maybe, that is why the church is growing by leaps and bounds.

Last Sunday sermon was delivered by a Singaporean, definitely younger than me. A youth Pastor. Yet, the message is simple and clear. The strong point is that: he spoke to the congregation, not reading from a prepared write-out.

So different.

Glad I am there to here it.

Strange email

2010-12-31T16:19:00.000+08:00

I seldom check email these days, but received a strange email today from someone I know long time ago. (He had my email address):

Hello.

Hope you are doing well today? I am in great sorrow writing this note, I could barely think straight at this point, I'm sorry I didn't inform you about my travelling. I am presently in Madrid, Spain on short programme and as I write to you now, its unbelievable am stranded, got robbed at gun point on my way to a hotel and my money, credit cards, phone and other valuable things were stolen, thank almighty God for save keeping my passport. I really need your urgent assistance quickly, I need loan of $1,500 to sort out my hotel bills and other transactions or any amount you can raise for me, I promise to refund it back to you with interest once i get back home. I have some money in my account but i can't access any here right now, already cancelled all my cards immediately after the criminal stole my things. I am left at the public internet library where am making use of the free internet access so that I could contact whomever that can help me. I will forever be grateful if you can help me, Waiting to hear from you quickly because my return flight leaves soon but need to sort the hotel bills and other expenditures. Please save me from been embarrassed.

Name: XXX XXX XXX Sam

Address: Paseo De Las Delicias 26, 28045 Madrid, Spain.

Text Question: What is receiver's date of birth?
Answer: 21 Dec 1970

Please remember to send me full details of the transfer such as MTCN (money transfer control number) or scan copy of the transfer receipt so that i can get the money here without any delay or problem. Trust me; I will refund back the money to you including the transfer charges on my arrival. I will check my e-mail again later to have the western union transfer details.

Thank you for your help

How would you response?

Pants for the Flowing Water

2010-12-17T13:37:00.003+08:00

It's such a long time that I post in this blog, ... but yesterday morning I woke up with this song on my head - As a deer panteth for the water...

Maybe I was hoping to see more people thirst for God and a thought keeping coming to me.
So I started to write it all down on a piece of paper what to do.

Would the plan materialise or just shelf it somewhere in my cupboard like all the others?

Psalms 42

Me & My Big Mouth

2010-11-12T16:32:00.001+08:00

It has been weeks of deep thoughts!

All because I want to know what God is doing in Bethany. Maybe I shouldn’t ask HIM this question. Who am I to ask the Almighty what HE is doing. And, that kind of questions should be asked by the Pastor, the Elders and Deacon of the church, not me.

Me: “Lord, what are You doing in Bethany?”

Lord: “See all those who stray away and have not return for a long time?”

Me: “Huh! Sorry, have forgotten them …”

Lord: “Not me, I remember them. Always on the look out for them to come back to me.”

Me: “Must need a lot of patience though”

Lord: “Sure have. Want to join me to bring them back?”

Me: “What? Me? Lord, You ask the wrong guy. I don’t have the persuasiveness to talk. I can’t talk lah!”

Lord: “Well, why then ask me what I am doing in Bethany?”

Me: (thinking) “Ooop! Me and my big mouth” :(

Morale of this experience – It’s better not to be able to hear what God is speaking than to hear and not obey. I now know why being an Old Testament prophet is a tough job.

Agape

The parable of the COMING HOME

2010-11-01T08:51:00.003+08:00

Last night, as I was walking along the quiet street along my house, thinking and praying for some people, the thought about “COMING HOME” struck me. I shall call it the parable of the COMING HOME.

OK, probably, I have read a lot about parables for the last 3 weeks. And so, it infiltrates my thoughts. You know, the story in Luke 15:11-32 about a boy who left home and was warmly welcome home by the father? Yeah, I always love to write a parable like this but with a modern and local version that is close to all our hearts. And yes, this one speaks to me right now.

I was praying for those who have left our “HOME” and have not yet come back. We or rather I as a longing father is looking out for them. Then there is another son who is helping in my home. I want this son to also join me in bringing the other brother home. Got the hint? Can guess what and who I am praying?

If you are reading this, think:
(1) Am I the son who has left home?
(2) Am I the other brother who is working at home? Would I join the father to get my brother back home?
(3) I may be not the sons or father, would I join this father (that’s me, Mark) to help bring back the son?

OK, I am blogging in parable and if it speaks to you, you probably understand what I am writing.

Agape

That's Life!

2010-10-29T08:18:00.003+08:00

My colleague is back from medical leave for one month and yet my boss still wants me to report and cover some of his jobs which I was doing during his absence. :(

My feelings are …. %#@^ ??? :(

And the projects -many and difficults -are still in development with problems. (which probably stir up fear)

But my LORD is my strength, I will not be shaken.
He makes my feet like hind feet,
He steers me through the quicksand;
And in HIS strength, I will gladly do what is before me!

Learning to seek peace

2010-10-19T09:24:00.001+08:00

When things go wrong, finger pointing is very common :(

Worst is when you are unknowing caught into it. And that is what I am in the midst of it now.

Since last year, we have collaboration with an Australian guy (stationed in Singapore) on a UK project. My engineer, who resigned last month was working on it and has handed over to this Australian guy since September 2009. We thought everything was going on smoothly, since we have not heard of it for the whole one year or so… Then last week, he started to find faults. He started to question our design, the way we did things and all the craps … emails that are very hard to read and swallow, and arouse an immediate retaliation.

And on many occasions, my spirit within me was very stirred up. It’s a challenge to hold on to peace. Many times, I felt like speaking up and replying to all the emails but … still it take great strength to remain calm. And thank God, the fruit of the Spirit is GENTLENESS – strength under control.

And so, I just keep to the technical issues and try to resolve the problem. As to the sarcastic remarks about our design not properly done, poor ways of doing things, etc… these are just personal opinions that I choose to ignore.

During Sunday Bible study, one verse seemed like God’s voice telling me what to do:

Depart from evil and do good;
Seek peace and pursue it.
(Psalm 34:14)

No wonder I was very much constrained in spirit not to do evil things.

Monday (yesterday):
As I was talking to my product manager who was also involved in this project, he started cursing and using the f*** word at the Australian guy (though not in his presence). I thought I was the only one getting emotional.

I am still learning to seek peace.

Devotional Thought: Being Approachable

2010-10-13T13:26:00.001+08:00

How approachable are you?

When people have trouble or need an advice, would they approach me to seek me out for help?

NO! :(

These thoughts linger on my mind as I read today’s devotions from Our Daily Bread on Mark 2:13-17. Our Lord Jesus Christ was so approachable that even sinners and tax collectors ate with him.

As for me, no, I don’t think people see me as approachable. There are even people in the church who reject me as friends in Facebook. At least 5 people, as far as I can remember. So, that says so much about me.

And that is the main reasons why I am disqualified to be a leader in the church. It is not about doing things here and there in the church.

It is about connecting with people.

Sermon reflection: The sanctity of Life

2010-10-04T09:14:00.006+08:00

Actually, the passage on Leviticus 17 is not about calling us to respond with:

“Lord, what can I do for you?”

or

“Lord, what do you want me to be?”

The whole passage is about BLOOD. And blood is LIFE (verse 14).

(Ya lah!, the word “blood” keeps repeating in the whole passage)

When an animal is killed, the blood is taken out and the animal dies. In Leviticus 17, the Israelites were told not to anyhow dispose the blood or even eat (or drink) the blood (verse 4 and 10).

If the animal is used as a sacrifice, the blood must be brought to the entrance of the tent of meeting (verse 4). If the animal is slaughtered for food, the blood must be poured out on the ground and cover with earth (verse 13). Here, we see that when death occurs, it must return to the LORD. (The tent of meeting is GOD’s presence (v4). The earth (v13) belongs to GOD). So, life or death, the animal belongs to God.

We all know that God is the creator and giver of LIFE (Genesis 1 & 2). So this passage reminds me that God is also the receiver of DEATH. Whether I live or die, I belong to GOD. Likewise for every creatures that have life, including animals and human. Do not take the life (which is the blood) and offer it to idols or abuse it by drinking it. Only God has the right to life.

It’s all about putting God in first place of my life, even if I were to die (Lev 17:1-9). Secondly, it’s all about the sanctity of life - the life of people (Lev 17:10-16). That pretty much sum up the GREAT COMMANDMENT – love God, love people (Luke 10:27.28).

It calls me to my relationship with GOD and with people. It’s not about doing things for GOD. Neither do I need to be someone for GOD. It’s like the story of the footprint in the sand.

OK, so I need to always look at all people with respect, they too have the rights of life as they are also created in the image of God, no matter how lowly they are in society.

The most important in this earth is LIFE, it last for eternity.

Change my perspective, change my life! :)

2010-09-10T18:55:00.002+08:00

I am learning to see the present in the light of the end.

The last one month of difficult encounters and maintaining reflective silence has taught me many things. Above all, I learn to look at things from different perspective.

Recently I am reading this book – Finishing Well by Dr. David Wong. It’s about Bible people living their lives and how they close their life’s chapters. It is a wonderful book with many insightful lessons to learn – how Joseph closing a chapter of hurt; Naomi closing a chapter of loss; David; Samuel; etc. I wish all my Christian friends read this easy-to-read book. (David Wong is a Singaporean pastor, trained in Fuller Theological Seminary).

In this book, he shared a wonderful illustration:

In 1946, following the end of the Second World War, a Jewish prisoner-of-war published a book about his years in the concentration camp of the Nazis. In his book, Viktor E. Frankl describes his time in prison as “one misery after another.” He was constantly worrying about whether there would be enough food for the day, whether the foreman at work would be cruel, whether he could find a string to tie his shoes.

This went on for a while. One day he decided that enough was enough. He saw a vision of himself standing in a well-lit auditorium addressing hundreds of people sitting in posh cushioned chairs. He was dressed in a suit and giving a lecture on what life was like under Hitler during the war.

“I became disgusted with the state of affairs which compelled me, daily and hourly, to think of only such trivial things. I focused my thoughts to turn to another subject. Suddenly, I saw myself standing on the platform of a well-lit, warm and pleasant lecture room. In front of me sat an attentive audience on comfortable upholstered seats. I was giving a lecture on the psychology of the concentration camp!

“All that oppressed me at that moment became objective, seen and described from the remote viewpoint of science. By this method I succeeded somehow in rising above the situation, above the sufferings of the moment, and I observed them as if they were already in the past.”

From the day Viktor Frankl saw his life’s final outcome, every experience was viewed differently. Every experience was viewed from the perspective of his vision. Every experience, however hard and painful, became material for his lecture on life in a German concentration camp. His life took on a different perspective, a life’s perspective.

***

This wonderful life’s perspective of Viktor Frankl has changed tremendously my recent feelings and encounter. It no longer become stressful, but become material for my future use…

Pondering ...

2010-08-17T08:17:00.003+08:00

Many personal things happened to me for the past 2 weeks. Stress started to build up.

I guess the best way to handle it is to be silent, be reflective and prayerful.

Hence, I did not write anything for the last few weeks.

Isa 43:2

Is God with me?

2010-08-04T13:54:00.004+08:00

Caught up in the daily hustle and bustle of life, how do I find the presence of God in my daily activities?

“Busy” is a common reply I hear these days when we ask: “How are you today?” My daily offices work can drive me to the wall. Problem … problems … more problems …

How then can I still maintain an open communication and sensitivity with HIM as I do my daily work, rushing through events and even engaging in a conversation with colleagues?

2 recent incidents came to mind:

On Monday night, as I was driving out of my company’s drive-way, a car came to a sudden stop right in front of me, blocking my exit. He could have stopped a bit further up for me to move on. Clearly, it was inconsiderate. Any driver would give a loud honk. (That was my first reaction). Interestingly, the spirit within me, prompted: “Be gracious, be gracious”.

“Good reminder, thank you” I replied. The busyness during the early part of the day may have made me forget about HIM. HE is with me all along, and appeared when I was almost going to do some stupid thing! How can I forget that? :(

***

We had a 2-hour long project meeting chaired by a project manager yesterday. Sure, there was a lot of “overlooked” errors and unknown. Big bosses tend to make comments as if they are omniscient. Everything they say is right (only in their own eyes). Sitting there, I somehow silently prayed for the project team. This is the first time I did that during an office meeting. Perhaps, we are in the midst of something difficult and I need God’s guidance. Or maybe I happen to sense HIM around. Whatever it is, it is good to know that the LORD is present.

This morning devotion is on Psalms 63. Wonder how David sought God?

O God, you are my God,
earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
in a dry and weary land
where there is no water. (Psalms 63:1)

Looking for help – found it!

2010-07-28T08:50:00.003+08:00

I kinda finally see some light coming out of the tunnel!

For the past 9 months, I was working & supervising my engineer on this research and development project in my company. I wrote a research proposal and submitted to the government for funding last year. After some many months of arduous work and many help from my boss, it was finally approved.

Then come the toughest part – to start working on it. It is a 20 and 30GHz satellite communication transceiver. Honestly, it is something quite beyond me. And in the proposal I have left out some very difficult portions of the project unknowingly!

I lift up my eyes to the hills – from where will my help come? (Psalms 121:1)

The past few months were tough. But … thank God we have a very good Australian friend, John from Queensland. I knew him since 1997 when I visited his company and learn some work from him. He is near retirement now but still moving around giving consultant here and there. Dr. John was also and adjunct professor in Queensland University. I manage to correspond with him regularly on this project and through the emails, he has been very helpful in his comments and still as sharp in his thinking and analysis. (And the thing is, he doesn’t want us to pay him, even though I mentioned to him about consultation payment).

My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth (Psalms 121:2)

Yesterday was my best day in this project. We finally managed to get some good results for the 30GHz waveguide transition. At this frequency, a 0.1mm different in length is like day and night, a total error to a near perfect results.

There are more hurdles to cross. We manage to get through this one! So the work can now continue to move…. after months of dead block.

Thank you John, and THANK YOU LORD! :)

The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time on and forevermore (Psalms 121:6)

Devotional Thought: When is a good age to serve God?

2010-07-22T14:22:00.006+08:00

Today’s devotion from the Daily Bread is kind of interesting. Ever since I past my 50th Birthday last year, I felt that I just need to do thing differently in the church. I need to be more focus in my area of service rather than be a “generalist” – whatever people want me to do. But I could not pin point why I have that kind of feelings. Reading today’s Bible passage, my thoughts went: “ah- hah!”

http://odb.org/2010/07/22/don%e2%80%99t-just-retire/

Levites starting serving from age 25 to age 50. After age 50, they perform supervisory and mentoring role.

The Scripture passage is from Numbers Chapter 8.

23 The LORD said to Moses, 24 "This applies to the Levites: Men twenty-five years old or more shall come to take part in the work at the Tent of Meeting, 25 but at the age of fifty, they must retire from their regular service and work no longer. 26 They may assist their brothers in performing their duties at the Tent of Meeting, but they themselves must not do the work. This, then, is how you are to assign the responsibilities of the Levites."

First, I did it right by not continuing in the English Service committee!

Secondly, I am doing mostly as supervisory and teaching / mentoring role. This is what I felt strongly after crossing the Jubilee years.

Now I know what I need to do! :)

Coming to the end of my role …

2010-07-04T23:32:00.008+08:00

Performing my role as a ministry leader in the church is no easy task …

For the past few weeks, I have been evaluating and pondering over my role as the Share Groups co-ordinator. It has been almost 3 years now. I could easily do the bare minimum and still get by, by remaining status quo. But being a highly driven person, I set out with a highly ambitious plan to move the share groups forward. But as I prayed for the Bible Study leaders, I realized that most of them may not be able to move as fast as I want. My plan was shelved and I need to focus on the leaders.

Are they willing to bear the cross as leaders?

Are they willing to walk the second mile as servants?

How close are their relationships with God?

I wanted very much to raise the standard of the Bible Study leaders and inculcate in them a love for the Word of God. How faithful are their devotional lives?

I believe that a leader should lead by example and be transparent in their lives. And so I started this blog, sharing my life with you all – my daily struggles, my personal thoughts and encounter with the Almighty. Hopefully, as they see my life, they will learn to shares theirs with their flock.

Secondly, I personally take on the task of training the leaders. I have voluntary taught many lessons – (1) Overview of the Book of Judges; (2) Overview of the Old Testament; (3) Studies of the Book of 1 Timothy; 2 Timothy and Titus (4) Understanding Epistles; (5) Understanding Biblical Narratives; (6) Study of the Book of 1 Peter. The most recent one is the study of 2 Samuel. How I wish the Bible Study leaders have this hunger for the Word of God. But sad to say, most of them have not showed any interest and attendance for learning are usually low. And so I could not even have more regular Bible discussion with the Bible Study leaders. Most likely, I am just NOT qualified to teach. I don’t even have a theological degree to start with. Only the church Pastor has a Master of Theology. How I wish I can learn from him! But I only hear him preach on Sunday. So my bible knowledge is limited and I failed as a teacher. Also, in my zeal to teach, I have on many occasion use life examples to point out biblical lessons. This has made many to see me as judgmental. Just today, Pastor mentioned this in his sermon that he has learnt not to be judgmental. (a repeat of what he has hinted to me previously) I understand what he meant. Thank you. I will be more careful and not give any negative life examples as I do my duty as a teacher so as not to be seen as judgmental.

So, the end of the road is near. It is about time to step aside and move on to do other things and find new pasture.

Devotion Thoughts: Watch my words!

2010-06-22T23:30:00.002+08:00

Have I been talking too much in the church lately? Am I shouting like a fool?

Many things cross my mind today as I read the Daily Bread which talk about Ecc 9:13-18

http://odb.org/2010/06/22/no-one-remembered/

We all have our ways of doing things. Some do to impress. Some do to show authority. As for me, it is always that I do so that I can build up others. But sometime, my actions and words can be mistaken with insincere motives. I am also very careful not to overstep those in authority, especially the Pastor and Elders – “Never slay the LORD’s anointed with words”.

In particular, verse 17 reminded me again of how I should speak:

The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded
than the shouts of a ruler of fools

I used to think very hard and long before I ever make a comment, a suggestion or sharing a personal experience. But today, I am reminded to speak quietly. Once said, I should hold my peace whether it is accepted or not.

I like this word: ALIVE

Always
Live
In
View of
Eternity

When I see things with eternity in perspective, then I will be more careful in my words and actions.

A Wise person speaks with eternity in perspective.

You reap what you sow!

2010-06-04T15:39:00.007+08:00

Are we seeing the ill-effect of the Casinos in Singapore now?

The recent serial of murder and assaults at the Kallang area has heighten fear among many. Singapore is no longer a safe place to walk alone at night. My boss, who goes for his daily night walk is now wearier whenever he sees a group of foreign workers gathering together. He has a theory behind the many crimes that recently spook Singapore. He is a foreigner and so he can identify with how a foreign worker feels. His told me this:

“When a foreign worker gets his pay, he thinks of making rich quick. So, he steps into the casino. Unfortunately, as always be, gamblers always loose in the casino. However, the foreign worker needs to send money home. The only resort is to steal and kill to get that few hundred dollars.”

Hearing what he says, I am reminded that “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. (Gal 6:7)

In life, we always think we can do away with a small sin and indulgence and get away with it. Like cheating on small things and some compromises – paying less for our car parking fees; taking more than what we required from company office’s stationery; breaking the speed limits; reporting what is not accurate at work reports; …

Likewise, in our church, we sow the spirit of lethargy and complacency. And so, we reap lukewarm and stagnant growth for many years. I shall not elaborate less I be labeled as critical.

Singapore is willing to sow the seed of greed with the incoming of 2 casinos, believing that it will create 35,000 jobs and boost the economy. But, there is a price to pay – the nation can never be called a safe country anymore.
.

Money, in the name of religion

2010-06-01T09:37:00.005+08:00

Many years ago, my big boss sneered when the topic on religion was being discussed : “All religions are just out to get people's money!” Unfortunately, he is always right

In Singapore, we have seen Catholic priest, Buddhist monk, Muslim cleric, and now church all involving in money tussles with the Law.

Yesterday, another church in Singapore is being probed by the Commercial Affair Department (CAD) about the church money matters.

http://sg.yfittopostblog.com/2010/05/31/city-harvest-church-members-under-investigation/

More significantly is the testimony of one comment:

Atheist on May 31, 2010 at 7:20 pm
I am glad this is happening. Its high time, the authorities checked all these churches, temples and mosques, so many ppl give with the intention that the $$ goes for good causes like to the poor, less fortunate and etc. In particulr, so many of these churches practice the old testament of giving 10% of ur salary to the church and on top of that weekly donations.
Many years back, i joined City Harvest and after gg thru 3 month orientation with them, I was a “member” of the church. Then they started asking for 10% of our pay and the church actually have ” cell group leaders” or “debt collectors” to harrasses us for that $$. I wasnt too happy but I gave them my 10% which was a 3 figure sum. Things went out of hand when they requested for my payslip to check if I was really giving 10% of my pay in which I immediately stopped gg to the church as I felt something was not right.
And of significance, it is notably that since the birth of this church, the pastor has apparently upgraded his cars, to condominiums and etc.
This checking of financial records should be an annual thing. Just the other day, I saw a monk driving a BMW 7 series at my block to attend a funeral to chant prayers. When he stepped out, you shld have seen the faces of the family and relatives at the wake. I too was surprised.

Well, my fellow BSG leaders, hope we can all reflect and learn from this comment (whether his comment is true or not).

In God's Timing

2010-05-30T00:36:00.003+08:00

Gracious and God-dependent is what make a man after God’s heart.

For the last 3 weeks, I spent a lot of time reading, meditating and studying on the Book of 2nd Samuel chapter 1 to 10. The ways David dealt with life situations are phenomenal! Everything he did is about God – HIS timing, and love for God.

While others may seek the opportunity to rise to the throne, he simply continued to wait upon the LORD’s timing! Yes, even after waiting for more than 15 years, he still insisted on waiting! Even evil doers wanted to hasten his ascension. Unlike Saul who has no heart for God, David long to seek fellowship with God. We never heard about the ark of God when Saul was king. But the moment David became king, he sought to bring the ark back to his capital. And what a procession and celebration! There is so much to learn from this man, the way he dealt with evil men, helpless man, enemies, and with God.

But there is one weakness of him at this point in time. He has a problem handling his closest subordinate, his general, Joab. Joab, a nephew of David was an excellent warrior but a brutal man.

Yes, I am learning to live by God’s timing. As I reflect my reading, I see my life always on a rush, always in a hurry. From the moment I woke up very early in the morning, it is always rushing to send the children to school, rushing to get problems solved in my job, rushing the engineers to get the design and development work done, rushing the suppliers to delivery their parts … I must confess on numerous occasions, I try to beat the traffic light. Once, I even drive across the red light :(. I just felt very lousy after that.

Teach me to wait upon YOU, O LORD!!

Looking Backward … Moving Forward :)

2010-05-16T06:53:00.006+08:00

Suddenly I feel very old!

A few days ago, my daughter put up some very old pictures on her Facebook:

The 3 girls are the most important things God has given to me.

The pictures were 10 years old. “What have I done all these years?” Not much.

OK, maybe I have gone to the Singapore Bible College and do some serious study. OK, maybe I have done a marathon at the age of 42. Other than that, life has been more or less stagnant and waiting for the children to grow up. Church has been a routine.

Presently I am reading the Book of Second Samuel. King David started very well in this life, but ended up poorly. His family was in a mess. He finished his life poorly. This may serve as a warning to me.

Maybe I need some very difficult goals for the next 10 years:
1. Brush up my Greek
2. Read all the New Testament Books in Greek
3. Run a marathon
4. Memorise at least 100 verses, one from each book of the Bible
5. Write a book?

OK, these are written at the spur of a moment. Not sure how far I can go (?). We shall see.

Agape :))

How to please the LORD?

2010-05-07T08:16:00.006+08:00

A thought just came to mind while reading Our Daily Bread:

Do all tasks not just as a job, but as an offering, an aroma pleasing unto the LORD.

Thank you LORD,

For today devotion.

I was disappointed by carelessly making quite

a number of mistakes yesterday.

You know, I have always put my best in whatever I do.

Not just for self, but for

your glory. I just could not accept the silly mistakes

I have made.

Thank you for reminding me to see that whatever

I do is an offering and pleasing to you.

Remembering this help me to be more careful and thoughtful.

Amen! :)

Avoid Unwholesome Words

2010-05-03T13:42:00.008+08:00

“Did I blurt out those words?”

As I left the church yesterday afternoon, this question kept flashing in my mind. I was sharing my experience about my early Christian life during the workshop conducted by the Pastor that morning. I may have used un-appropriate words carelessly. Thinking about it, one Bible verse came to my mind:

“Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Eph 4:29 NASB)

When I first became a Christian some 30 plus years ago, my Bible Study leader listed certain unwholesome words that were not appropriate for us to use (not just swear words and filthy words). Through the years, the list may have changed:

1. dnmaed
2. btrsaad
3. tlak ccok
4. siht
5. blul siht

(I have scrambled the in-between letters of each word). You may disagree with this list and may have your own list of unwholesome words. I like to hear from you.

I made a confession and prayed that I may be more careful with my words in future. Peace within, at last!

This morning, as I turned to Our Daily Bread,

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2010/05/03/devotion.aspx

hmmn, the issue of proper words cropped out again. On further meditation, I realized that in this internet world, certain abbreviations can fall under the category of unwholesome words, which I only learnt about them recently:

1. WTF
2. OMG!

You may not agree with me, but I think OMG! would be breaking the third commandment of “using the LORD’s name in vain”. Ancient devoted people were always careful not to take the LORD’s name lightly.

Ponder over what I have written.

And let’s encourage one another with wholesome words. :)

Is there a Green Pasture for me?

2010-04-29T17:34:00.004+08:00

What can I do if one day I am fired from my job?

For the past few months, I was pondering over this question. With each passing months, the D-day get nearer and the thoughts get more intense.

Since last October, there’s a UK company thinking of buying over our company. They carried out due diligence for quite a number of times and basically audit everything. The company also flew in their lawyer, accountant, and a small team of people. My big boss (the president of the company) was very excited and announced in December that they would make a decision by end of March 2010. He sounded very confident that they will buy us over.
(And that will make him very rich!!)

For me, my position as an engineering staff sound precarious. If they were to reduce head-count, engineering / R&D staffs are usually the first to be replaced by their own people. Moreover, my job scope would not fit into their whole company structure.

For the past 10 years, my company has survived economy downturn and 3 companies who we worked for default in payment amounting to million of dollars. We have always been blessed even in difficult times. Though my bosses are not God-believers, yet I see the hand of God leading me here. Just the other day, I heard my boss, the General Manager (who is not a Christian) saying, “We are lucky, God is helping us.” He knows I am a Christian as I used to share the Christian faith with him.

I have been praying about this for quite a long time. Would I need to look for green pasture? Can I say with confident: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lies down in green pasture …” ?

Would this be the last of me here in this company since the day of start-up?

Then the beginning of April 2010 came. The big boss told us that they decided not to buy our company but will continue to just do business with us. He sounded disappointed but he will look for new buyers.

Thank God, I guess HE wants me to stay here a bit longer.

But still I need to prepare for Green Pasture should the day I need to move. Retirement is not the option at this moment as my children are still schooling. And so the question still lingers on …

What can I do if one day I am fired from my job?

Emails - Thanks for replying

2010-04-28T08:35:00.003+08:00

I was a bit surprise to receive a reply from my email yesterday :)

Thank you! :)

I know that people from Bethany Church usually don’t bother to acknowledge or even reply email. Last year I sent out my teaching Power Point on Biblical Narratives to some 20 people – Sunday school teachers, Bible Study Leaders and even church leaders. Yet I did not receive a single reply. So I know that people in the church like to remain anonymous – no reply, no comments.

Recently I sent out quite a number of emails weekly. Perhaps I am intruding into others’ privacy? Am I trying to influence others by my thoughts? We usually sent email thinking that by doing so, it may help others. Usually, the recipients see it as intruding or nuisance. So after browsing it, it is then simply discarded and forgotten.

Well, this is my last term as Bible Study ministry co-coordinator. Once this is done and over with. I will not need to bother others with my many emails, and even my blogging.

Cheers!

Be Cheerful! :))

2010-04-15T07:48:00.008+08:00

"Why are you so happy today?"

"Is that so?" I asked curiously.

"Oh, you are smiling and singing." A colleague of mine replied.

Hmm, I didn't know that I was smiling. I could not see my face. Maybe I was happy about many things. Even bad things.

But I guess I started the day right. That is the most important thing. Somehow, I just have the urge to listen to the song:

"In Christ Alone, my hope is found;
He is my light, my strength, my song"

And I have replayed it so many times and trying to sing it also.

What heights of love, what depths of peace
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease
My Comforter, my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

And probably that was reflected on my face that I didn't know - the depths of peace, the anxiousness, striving gone.

Later, the boss saw me and came to me, thinking that I have a new discovery in my work.
I told him, "NO".

"You are smiling, there must be something interesting." He said.

You see, my job as the head of engineering is to solve problems and create new things for the company. Other's people problems become my problems, so to say. Life in the office is always dealing with difficulties and maybe that is why, when my mood change, everybody see it. When I smile, there must be some big invention, new design or idea.

But really:

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand'
Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

I can be cheerful inspite of facing problems and difficulty daily, because IN THE POWER OF CHRIST I'LL STAND!

Cheers!

God's Money or Mine?

2010-04-13T08:40:00.010+08:00

The most often used item in our daily life is MONEY!

Last Sunday, we had a Church class conducted by the Pastor after worship service, talking about money. The big question of the class is: “God’s money or mine?”

As we broke into groups, I thought everyone wanted to play it safe and since the class was conducted by the pastor, we all unanimously agreed that it’s God’s money and we are his stewards to what He has given us.

Sure enough, the Pastor gave the following verses to support his view that the money we have is God’s money:

Psa 24:1
The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it;

1Chron 29:11,12
Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power
and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is yours.
Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom;
you are exalted as head over all.
12 Wealth and honor come from you;
you are the ruler of all things.
In your hands are strength and power
to exalt and give strength to all.

One brother also quoted Deut 8:17,18
You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." 18 But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today.

Interestingly though, near the end, one sister, Mrs. Catherine Goh, spoke up: “After I give 10% to God, the money is mine. And I can use the money for shopping!”

Is she wrong?

Did the Bible specifically says that money belong to God even though you have it in your hand?

If you look at the verses – Psa 24:1&2 and 1 Chron 29:11&12 - the psalmist (who is David) is thinking in general terms that everything ultimately comes from God. I don’t think that when they said this, they are thinking about money belongs to God, but that you and I belong to God so He gave us strength to get it.

But there is a clearer verse that talk about God's money:

"The silver is mine, and the gold is mine," says the LORD of hosts (Haggai 2:8)

Jesus Christ has more to say about money (from the earthly perspective):

There’s a story about the Pharisees coming to ask Jesus a question:

Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"
But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, "You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? Show me the coin used for paying the tax." They brought him a denarius, and he asked them, "Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?"
"Caesar's," they replied.
Then he said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."
(Mat 22:17-21)

What do you think Jesus is saying?

Is money belongs to God?
Is money belongs to you and I?
Money belongs to Caesar!! --- the government of the country.

I take out my $50 dollar bill and I see the face of my former president. On it is the signature of the chairman of the monetary authority of Singapore. The dollar bills also stated: “This note is legal tender FIFTY DOLLARS”

So, the money I have belongs to the country of Singapore but given to me for transaction of anything that is legally worth fifty dollars.

Such is the power of money, the more I have, the more I can do anything of that’s worth.

And money has power that can be a god. Jesus Christ goes on to say:

"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. (Mat 6:24)

Here we see that Money is a rival to God for our servanthood. Either you serve God or serve Money. No other option is given to us. Matthew 6:24 makes it very clear that Money does not belong to God. In fact, it is evil (as stated in Richard Foster's book on Money, Sex and Power)and challenges God for our services.

“Fools serve money and leave it all behind. Shrewd believers serve God and invest in eternity.”

Want to know how to invest in eternity?

What is your view about money?

PTL

3 type of people

2010-04-08T08:38:00.009+08:00

I think you know this - there are 3 types of people in the church (or anywhere else):

1. People who make things happen.
2. People who see things happen.
3. People who don’t know what happen.

Last night, a few of us gather at the church cafeteria and discuss about the coming fellowship outing. These are the people who I call ‘people who make things happen’. And they are the one who are always making things for the church, for the people in the community, for the disinterested. They think how to spice up others’ lives, help the hurtful and suggest ways for improvement even if the suggestions fall on deaf eyes. They are what I call the “Kay Poh” (busybody in Chinese dialect), and I am one of these “Kay Poh”.

Then, there are those who see things happen. Somebody call them Sunday friends. They come on Sunday worship and then off they go with a few friends to catch up with a cup of coffee. They see things happen, decide whether they benefit from it or not. If it benefits them, they join in or contribute to their advantage. Silently they watch or read (what others write/blog) without a comment or involvement. Unless they are touch by the Holy Spirit and being transformed (Rom 12:2), they remains status quo for years.

I shall not write about people who don’t know what happen. You know them better than me.

So, my suggestion during last night meeting to the ‘people who make things happen’ to have a program that can move those ‘people who see things happen’ to be more forthcoming in their Christian faith. I didn’t say this actually as I write here but the intention is clear. (I leave it to imagine how this is to be done).

What type of people are you?

The first wealth is Health

2010-03-31T07:59:00.002+08:00

I rather be healthy than be wealthy.

Yesterday, I went for a full body health screening. While talking to the doctor, I asked him about some discomfort at my lower part of my body and sought his advice. His suggestion stroked some fear in me. Perhaps at my age, I should not be exerting too much force and carry heavy load too often. This has weakened my muscles. It may be a warning signs for me.

To be healthy, I have always exercised regularly, careful of my diet, and have adequate rest. Now, I need to add another factor – avoid exerting too much force on my body. In my work, I occasionally have to carry those heavy and bulky equipments around. Perhaps that is the cause of my weaken muscle on the lower part of my body.

I will have my health review with the doctor next week. Pray for God's protection.

It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Being Thankful

2010-03-25T08:15:00.004+08:00

It’s amazing how a prayerful and thankful attitude make life all the more different.:)

But it’s not going to be easy especially when facing a seemingly insurmountable task that is beyond our control. After writing my Monday (previous) post I decided to be thankful. What better way to do that than to memorize God’s Word? So I type the verse Phi 4:8 on a small piece of paper:

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Let’s face it, my problem is true (real). I need to response fast to the customer’s request for 2 product samples within 2 weeks. Buying the material takes 3 weeks. Would I be able to give them what they want in a short time, knowing that I don’t have the materials to do what they require? Only God is in control. And to get to HIM, I need to pray… (and be thankful)..

While praying, I realized that I needed to tidy up my office. It’s full of junk accumulated over the past 10 years working in this company. It’s like that kind of prompting inside me: “Clean up your room!!”

And guess what? As I was cleaning up the mess, I found materials among the junk that I could use to build one sample!! OK, not exactly what the customer wants, but at least close to their requirement and specifications. :)

That was what happened on Monday when I decided to “Be thankful in all circumstances”. The week kind of went through smoothly and I managed to get the sample built, tested over temperature of -30 degree to +70 degree Celsius. It will be shipped out today. Also, I might be able to complete the other samples as well next week. (God just bring people to help you when you pray!)

God just “open doors” when we pray and be thankful in all circumstances.

Praise the LORD (PTL)

Stress here, stress there... Stress Everywhere!

2010-03-22T08:41:00.009+08:00

It has been a tough week. Probably, this week going to be quite stressful.

Finally, I received the crystal oscillators (after 6 months of waiting) from my supplier and continued to work on my project. I tested some and it seemed to work to about -20 degrees. The testing procedure is very tedious and we have to use Liquid Nitrogen to cool the cystal oscillators down to that temperature. Unfortunately, most of the crystal oscillators are not working well at about -15 degrees Celsius even though we specified to the supplier that we wanted the crystal oscillator to function properly to -30 degrees Celsius. As the products are going to the United Kingdom, I am getting very concerned. The thoughts, “Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in ALL CIRCUMSTANCES” kept appearing in my mind. Perhaps, the LORD wants to teach me to be thankful?

This morning, as I opened my email, my boss forwarded a mail from a potential customer wanting me to send them 2 sample products for their evaluation in 2 or 3 weeks times. Suddenly, my stress level shot up.

My mind shouted: “I don’t have the material to build the samples!”

There you go, any stressful week ahead. How should I answer the boss and the customer? Would I loose a very good business opportunity?

How would I “rejoice always, and give thanks in all circumstances”?

Surely, I will pray continually.

A worship service that is so … different!

2010-03-15T18:56:00.003+08:00

“What do you think about today’s worship service?” I casually asked my 16 years old daughter yesterday as we were on our way home.

“Eh, it’s so … different!”

“What’s so different?”

“Just different, lah!” She still couldn’t find the words to describe the experience we had in this church's service.

Yesterday, we had an opportunity to visit a church near our home. My first visit to this church was May last year. The feeling of Spirit’s presence was just as strong as it was then. The worship bulletin did not have any mission statement or purpose, the theme for the year or any announcement. There was no need to remind worshippers to worship God “in spirit and in truth” on paper. It was written in every hearts that are present. The songs still linger in my minds as I am writing this. The whole service ministers to the hearts. Perhaps that was what my daughter meant when she said, “It’s so different”. She was sitting between me and my wife. I could sense her complete attention during the service.

The worship handouts just contained the outline of the sermon, wonderfully and clearly layout. There were also insert of the church mission activities. When I saw the sermon outline, I knew we were going to have a dynamic speaker even before he spoke. The topic was on revival. This grandfatherly preacher was able to swings our mood as he injected humor to make us laugh and illustrations to bring tears to our eyes. At the end, hundreds came down to response to the altar call of re-commitment to Christ.

I left the worship service wondering why I am still staying with my presence church after 24 years there.

The Dark Side of Men

2010-03-12T08:35:00.004+08:00

Another big sex scandal has happened, similar to that of Tiger Wood.

Except that it is now in our shore – Singapore. It involved a successful Singapore film- maker who has received many awards from the Singapore government, one equivalent to the UK knighthood title. We would be calling him Sir Jack Neo, except that it is written in a Malay title: PBM. (Why would Singapore want to give a title that nobody understands??). Also, the saga gets juicier because Jack Neo portrays himself as a moralist.

I would not be writing this, if he did not profess to be attending a Christian church. His whole family is attending City Harvest Church, the largest church in Singapore with a congregation of about 33,000. So, even those who claim to go to church and worship God also fall by this deadly sin.

After so many sex scandals – Tiger Wood, John Terry, Ashley Cole and now Jack Neo, it’s high time we men be honest with ourselves. We all have a dark side inside us. Let’s not pretend. I like Dr. Jason Wolfe’s website cartoon (Humorous but actually true)

http://www.wolfescape.com/Humour/MenWomen.htm

No, I am not blogging to attack any of these people but to reflect as a man, what God is speaking to me about all these sex scandals like I am reading from the Bible in 1Samuel Chapter 11.

First, whatever happened to them can also happen to me when the circumstances are right. Even the most godly man is not exempted from such temptation. King David, the man after God’s heart fell into it. There is another man who also faced the same temptation but overcame it strongly with the strength of God. It is Joseph, the son of Jacob in Gen 39.

The young Joseph of not more than 30 years old, when tempted with sexual sin, replied: “How then could I do this great wickedness and sin against God” (Gen 39:9). Sexual sin is not just a sin against my wife, my family or other girls. It is a sin against God.

So what is the different in circumstances? One has all he can get – a king – rich and powerful and lives only to please himself. Another is a slave, struggling in an alien land, serving to please his master. So the circumstances are when one gets money (lot of it) and fame, then the sexual dark side starts to creep out. Even if we are not rich and famous, this dark side is still in all men.

So what should men do?

Unfortunately, most Christian men avoid talking about it all together. We want to keep secrets. And so our discussions are never personal, always about politics, economy, careers, work, hobbies …, never about our inner self, never transparent. Dr. Larry Crabb, in his book, “The Silence of Adam” calls it the monster lurking inside us, guys. And I fully agree with him that to overcome this monster, men must share secrets. Share it with one person with whom you can trust and uphold in prayer. It sure will break the chain of bondage by this monster.

I like one of his statements:
“Fathers encourage by leading the way, by walking ahead of us on the path. Brothers encourage by sharing our struggles, by walking with us.”

Isaac, our brother-in-Christ, once mentioned about the accountability group that he attended with the missionaries when serving in Yunnan, China. He wondered why our church did not have one. The truth is … we like to keep our privacy and hide our secret and dark side. But those who confess their sins and pray for one another are most often the ones on the path of overcoming this dark side. (read James 5:16)

I have much to share but will just stop here. Any of you guys who are reading this and want to have a personal talk, do feel free to call me :)

Friend No More :(

2010-03-08T13:52:00.004+08:00

For some unknown reasons, this facebook friend of mine removes that friendship.

And I am still trying to figure out why and what I did that broke off that facebook friendship. Perhaps it was something I posed that she felt offended? Or was it my reply to her husband's wall-to-wall comment that she disagreed? In the first place, it was she who extended the facebook friendship to me.

Her husband and I have a very close friendship since University days. We were room-mates, Bible study mates, jogging mates, all kind of mates you can think of. And I was his best man during their wedding. Something though, I don’t really know her well to guess why.

It puzzles me what causes friendship to terminate.

I am still trying to figure it all up. This is my very first encounter.

Have you experience situations like this?

Chasing our Dreams & our Happiness

2010-03-04T08:25:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, the boss walked into my office to discuss a business opportunity. In the midst of the conversation, he sigh, “I am very stressed up with the company’s businesses”

11 years ago, the boss together with a few of us started this electronic company. We wanted to chase our dream. We believe we have what it takes to compete globally. Life has always been stressful since then. It is difficult to compete with the big multi-national companies. But, thank God, we are never in the red.

But are we happy?

This morning, as I read Our Daily Bread on Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 , I feel that true happiness is not self-seeking. The whole passage is about the “I” (mentioned 18 times), “my” and “me”. And at the end of all the achievement,

what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun. (Ecc 2:11)

I received this story from a colleague:

Some time ago, at the Seattle Olympics,
nine athletes, all mentally or physically challenged,
were standing on the start line for the 100 m race.
The gun fired and the race began.
Not everyone was running, but everyone wanted to participate and win.

They ran in threes, a boy tripped and fell, did a few somersaults and started crying.
The other eight heard him crying.
They slowed down and looked behind them.
They stopped and came back… All of them…

A girl with Down’s Syndrome sat down next to him,
hugged him and asked, “Feeling better now?”

Then, all nine walked shoulder to shoulder to the finish line.

The whole crowd stood up and applauded.
And the applause lasted a very long time…

People who witnessed this still talk about it.
Why? Because deep down inside us, we all know that the most important thing in life is much more than winning for ourselves.

The most important thing in this life is to help others to win.
Even if that means slowing down and changing our own race.

"A candle loses nothing if it is used to light another one.”

One of my most cherished quotations was written in my autograph book by my Primary 6 teacher before I left that school:

Only one life, it will soon be past.
Only what’s done for Christ, will last

Agape :)

Lesson learnt: Be Gracious & Meek

2010-02-27T10:23:00.011+08:00

I have a nervous week. Thank and praise the LORD! My Shepherd leaded me through.

Yes, nervous because I needed to account to my customer why I am delaying his project due to the late arrival of the crystal oscillators which I ordered since last September (see post on Feb 19 – Waiting …Hoping … :( or :) ? ).

Also, I was nervous because my team had a presentation on a new design to make to the bosses. It is a sort of an accountability presentation. Will there be fire and storm??

After a long distance call and talking to the supplier of the crystal oscillators, I took a few days to pray for wisdom how I should answer to my UK customer of the frequent delay of the project which we promised to deliver. I also prayed that my customer be gracious to me and not penalize my company for the overdue. After much prayer, I decided to be honest and state the situations, giving them the assurance that I will do my utmost best to expedite the work. God is good, the customer is quite gracious and there is no penalty or cancelation of the project. Now I need to honor my words and praying that my supplier of the crystal oscillators will deliver their goods next week as promised.

Still waiting … and hoping.

Then in the mid-week, the presentation wasn’t that smooth as I would hope to. This is a team work project (and is still on going). One of my junior engineers did make an honest mistake and the computer simulation of a part of the design did show some potential problem. Perhaps, he did not realize it. I didn’t spot it either during the preparation of the presentation. But during the presentation, it appeared quite obvious to everyone! (Why is it that when something is not right it seem so obvious :(??)

At that point, one of the Vice-president started to attack the engineer. And it got quite merciless. It was like what Jesus said, when I read today’s devotion on Our Daily Bread Matthew 20:20-28

Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,(Mat 20:25,26)

Reflecting back on the week, the LORD seems to speak me to be gracious to people. In life, there will always be mistake, delay and hold-up. How should I response to such situations?

Be gracious when others are at fault.

Be meek when I am at fault.

Sermon thoughts: Submission between spouses!!

2010-02-23T18:41:00.009+08:00

OK, I am going to put my head on the chopping board and blog about submission in a marriage! :(

Well, that’s because last Sunday, our worship sermon was on 1Peter 2:12-3:13.

This is by far the most sensitive issue for Christian marriage. I remember way back about 20 plus years ago when I was attending this young adult cell group in San Jose, California. One newly married couple spoke strongly against submission. The wife, a Taiwanese lady but raised in America claimed that the passage was “a mistake” in the Bible. Her American husband smiled and nodded. The discussion centered mostly on cultural issues, where submission was a Middle East ancient culture which women normally submit to men (father, brother, and husband). So, the group unanimously agreed that submission in marriage is subjective to culture and does not apply to Americans. Hooray!!

Back track couples of years when I was student in Polytechnic trained under the para-church, Navigators. In one of the leadership training session, my ministry leader made a profound statement which I still remember till this day. He said, “In any organization, system or animal group, there must only be one head (one leader). If there is no head, it is a demon. If there are 2 or more heads, it is also a demon. There must be only one head.” On reflection, this apply also to a family, there must be one head (one leader). Even in the Trinity Godhead, it is the Son submitting to the Father and never the Father submitting to the Son.

OK, so why can’t wife be the leader at home and husband submit to wife?

I know it is very hard for the sisters to swallow if I said that God told Eve that he (referring to Adam, her husband) will rule over her (Gen 3:16) after they sinned. Before they sinned, Eve is Adam’s helper (Gen 2:18-25). To be able to help someone means that you must be capable in order to be of help. It is only after they sinned that Adam is designated as the ruler of the home.

Frankly, I am ok that my wife wants to be the leader of the house. Since she wants to take leadership and there can be only one leader so that it is not a “demonized” home, I do my part and give love, respect and consideration to her (1Peter 3:7). But, sisters, bear in mind one day, you need to stand before God and answer Him: “Why do you want to be the leader of the home?”

Finally, to sisters who are not yet married: marry only a Christian man whom you can accept him as the leader of the home. If you can’t, he is probably not good for you.

Agape :)

Waiting …Hoping … :( or :) ?

2010-02-19T08:00:00.010+08:00

Waiting can be daunting. Even now, I am still anxiously waiting.

I wait because I believe there is hope. Otherwise, there is no point waiting.

You see, I had ordered some crystal oscillators on 3 September 2009 for my project which must be delivered on 8 January 2010. At first, the supplier confirmed his delivery date to be November 27. Then as the day came and gone, I was told that it’s going to be December 18. So there was still hope. Unfortunately, it turned out to be false hope. They delayed the delivery date to 19 February 2010. This set me wondering, is this finally going to be real?

A week before Lunar New Year (14 Feb), I emailed them. Sadly, it was another false hope and they shifted the new date to be the first week of March. I began to get anxious and worried.

And I am still waiting and hoping, hoping and waiting. In the midst of all this kan-chong (anxiousness), I was also praying and seeking God for wisdom. But HE chooses not to speak – silence.

I took leave on 12 Feb and was at the Singapore Bible College Library. As I was browsing through the books for only a short while, one particularly book caught my attention.

WAITING – Finding hope when God seems silent

Yep, this is the book I have read during the last 4 days of this holiday period. Is this what the Almighty is directing me to do? If Abraham has to wait for 25 years to see his child born (at the age of 100!), what does waiting mean to me?

Then yesterday’s devotion from Our Daily Bread passage was on Psalm 62. I was reading from my New Revised Standard Version and verse 5 & 6 just jumped out of the text:

For God alone, my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.

Waits … in silence … hope is from him …He alone … not be shaken.

Mere coincidence?? This verse speaks volume to me today.

Roger, over!!

Moving forward or staying put?

2010-02-18T08:35:00.006+08:00

Ever since I read what Dr Albert Ting (Principal of Singapore Bible College) wrote in the Jan-Feb 2010 edition of the SBC newsletter:

"Vision without action is only good intention."

Shall I or shall I not continue with what I have planned to do?

Devotional Thought: Who else are invited?

2010-02-13T15:07:00.005+08:00

Whenever I received a wedding dinner invitation from a friend, my mind usually ask: “Who else are invited?”

Also, to be invited to one’s wedding is a show of good friendship and relationship. After all, we want to celebrate our joyous occasion with good friends and relatives only. So, I never, never turn down a wedding invitation unless I am oversea or in army (reservist) training.

Last month, one of my company’s former engineer invited me to his wedding dinner. He did not invite his boss (who is my colleague and peer ) to his wedding. I guess they are not in good working relationship. That is also probably a reason for leaving my company.

In today’s Our Daily Bread, as I read Revelation 19:1-9 , I know one very important day will come where I will be invited to a wedding supper. I am excited about going to this wedding supper. To miss this wedding supper is as important as Heaven and Hell. Are you sure that you will be invited to this wedding supper? And so, I will ask “Who else are not invited?”

This wedding supper is only for those who have received the blood of the Lamb, and have a good relationship with the groom, our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us reach out to those who we know and introduce them to the groom. They will then be invited to this wedding supper.

See you are the wedding supper of the Lamb! :)

'Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!'

Devotional Thought: Wealth - Sharing or Hogging?

2010-02-10T09:02:00.003+08:00

We all like to get rich. And there is nothing wrong with it.

But then, the question is, what do I do with the vast amount of money if I am rich?

As I read Our Daily Bread this morning on Luke 12:13-21 , I can’t help but ask this question to myself. No, I am not rich, just enough to live the day, sufficient to sustain my family of 5 (I am the only bread-winner), and keep some for the children’s university education in the near future.

The rich farmer in Jesus’ parable, did nothing wrong actually. He continues to grow his wealth. However, what Jesus says is wrong with him is that he is rich only to himself and not rich towards God (Luke 15:21). How then does one become rich towards God?

Last Saturday, I attended a friend’s daughter wedding dinner. In Singapore, a wedding usually cost a fortune and guests usually give cash gift in the form of Ang Pao (red packet). As I was deciding how much to give, the words “Be a Blessing” kept ringing in my mind. It is good to have money to be able to bless someone. Perhaps, that is what Jesus means when He calls us to be rich towards God – sharing our wealth and not hogging it all for self?

Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." (Luke 12:15)

Dinner @ Crab Party

2010-02-01T13:35:00.005+08:00

Last Saturday night, the Young Adult! ministry had a group dinner at this place called Crab Party.

About 14 of us were there. Shannen and her boyfriend came later and left shortly.

Luh Sy came, what a surprise. :) Thank you, we need more of the "older generation" to come. OK, sorry for calling you old. I am just as old (haha!!)

It was just a gathering, nothing much. We have been thinking about how we can improve this group meeting to draw more of the young adult who had left us to come back. It is tough to get them back. Seem like we have been paying the price of not spending time in nurturing them spiritually when they were younger. Now that they have left - Erina, Rachel, Faith, James, Cecilia, Eunice, ... , I wonder the church have realised the mistake some ten years back to just leave the Youth Alive! to be run by the youth themselves.

May be not. We still think we are doing well. .... :(

Devotional Thoughts: The Visible Mind

2009-11-05T13:03:00.002+08:00

Imagine what will happen if every human mind is like a visible computer monitor or a television. Other people can see instantly what you are thinking!! Haha! :)

It will be interesting to see what a man is thinking when a skimpily dressed, sexy, gorgeous lady walks by him. Haha! No hypocrisy or pretentiousness is needed in very situations.

In one sense, we do have a visible mind, but only the Omniscient Creator can see.

Well, as you turn to our Daily Bread this morning, http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/11/05/devotion.aspx and read your Bible from Psalm 139: 3

You discern my going out and my lying down;

you are familiar with all my ways.

Today devotion is more of a soul searching and self-evaluation of my life. When I try to see myself as the LORD sees and is honest with myself, then all the good things that I think I have done are really just like filthy rags.

How about you?

And so, like the Psalmist, this is my prayer:

Search me, O God, and know my heart;

test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting.

Let others see what God can see in you!

Serving with LOVE! :)

2009-11-03T13:21:00.006+08:00

Finally, someone prepared my breakfast today!

It’s always the only man of the house that prepares breakfast for the family. No, I am not complaining. :D In fact, it is always nice to serve my family – cleaning and mopping the whole house, whenever it is a public holiday or I am on leave, running around getting things fix, etc.

Yah, my second girl is always the one to volunteer and work with me, whenever I do house chore. She is also the one who will follow her mother and help carry the grocery.

So you can guess who prepares my breakfast. No prizes for that. I actually took a photo of it, but somehow I could not upload into the computer. Will try it sometime. Anyway, you can guess what it is by this google picture, haha!!

Perhaps, it runs in the blood. She is the only person in the family that has the same blood group as me. The only girl who will go jogging with me.

It's great to serve with Love.

Devotional Thoughts: Loosing & Finding Love

2009-10-29T08:23:00.005+08:00

We all rejoice when we hear that a couple in the YA! is pairing up. :)

But it saddens me when another couple breaks up after many years of relationship. One choose to remain single, the other moves to a new relationship (seen from the Facebook photo and status). The single remains hurt; the other is probably enjoying the new relationship.

Yah! Can sense it mah! Read and see their FaceBook posting, lah.

We who are friends are still wondering, questioning, and learning from the episode. And praying for them also.

Do you?
Well, at least, I am

Aaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh! Lost and found … emotions are often triggered when I loose or find something. Just a few days ago, I picked up a ten cents coin early in the morning while walking to the HDB car park. It is not the amount, but the sudden small impulse of hilarious feeling is enough to brighten the outlook of a new day. (naïve feelings?)

As I turn to today’s Daily Bread devotion, http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/10/29/devotion.aspx
(Luke 15:4-24)

my mind just wanders to those couples who have lost or found love, relational love.

In the 3 parables, what cause the shepherd to loose a sheep, the lady to loose a coin, and the father to have a prodigal son? Perhaps they are careless?

But the point of the parables is to rejoice when a sinner repents and come to Heavenly Father, whose name is LOVE.

So when you find something, treasure it and don’t loose it again, especially love.

TREASURE the things that you have found, especially LOVE! :)

Claustrophobia? !#@ :((

2009-10-26T12:52:00.003+08:00

It was so cramped!!

Like craps all squeezing inside a basket.

I guess the youth themselves feel it. All 25 of them (or more?) cramp into a room meant for 10!!

This was my first visit to the BCPES youth sing-piration yesterday since they shifted to this place. And got a shock!

Why is it that the youth has never given a proper place to fellowship and run-wild, and be creative with their time together?

If I were to invite my lecturer, Dr. Koh who taught me on Christian Education from SBC to give a talk to these youth, I will surely get a scolding from her.

“Mark, didn’t I teach you that facility and environment is important to learning?”

“The size of the room is inversely proportional to the age of the student.”

Our youth need space!!

OK, just abit Kay-Poh here.

Mask?

2009-10-23T18:06:00.012+08:00

It's kind of hard to see through people, ... until the mask is down :(

People see us as goody goody and maybe spiritual when we start serving in church ... BSG leader, Sunday school teacher, committee member, worship leader... but really are we getting right with God?

Serving in church becomes our mask! Recently heard something sad. Had to pray really hard.

If it is true, it is scary.

Very likely, it is true, from my own discovery.

How sad, the mask is there and I miss it.

Devotional Thoughts: Having my Sword ready at all times

2009-10-22T08:21:00.003+08:00

“Every good Christians bring along their swords!” My Bible study and follow-up leader used to tell me when I was young.

Indeed, the sword of the Holy Spirit which is the Word of God (Eph 6:17) is the only offensive weapon that Scripture tell us how Jesus Christ defeat the temptations of Satan during his 40days fast in the wilderness. If the LORD uses Bible verses to overcome temptation, how much more I need to follow in HIS steps.

Today’s Quiet Time from the Daily Bread (Psalm 119:33-40): http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/10/22/devotion.aspx

reminds me again of Scripture Memory and its power to shape my life. I remember when I first started Bible study with my leader, the first thing he did with me was to memorise Bible verses. We did that for one year, covering over more than 60 verses. These verses are the pinnacle of my Christian foundations which become my sword ready for all times of need. Since then, I have moved to keeping important passages like Psalm 1, Psalm 23, Psalm 121 and 1 Cor 13 into memory. They are in my sub-conscious mind. Often times, they surface in my thoughts unknowingly and suddenly to remind me to take a certain cause of action. I take this as the Holy Spirit using His word to prompt me to move towards His direction.

It is a pity that I see the younger generations of Christian not being trained in Scripture memory. In our Singapore education system, every students must memorize the 26 alphabets, the multiplication tables, the periodic tables (Chemistry), and if you are good at mathematics all the differentiation and integration in Calculus. I still remember them till these days.

How much more as Christians, we need to memorise the names and order of the 66 Books, important verses like John 3:16, 1John 1:9, Prov 3:5-6 and many more.

Have your sword ready at all times – in the head and heart!

Are there any Nazirite youth in BPCES (Amos 2:11)?

2009-10-18T23:26:00.005+08:00

Does today's sermon speak to you?

Not much. But the sermon passage on Amos 2 showed me that maybe God is still working in Bethany PCES. Or was it just my imagination? Wonder how many of the congregation felt as I did?

When the Scripture reader was reading the passage, a verse seemed like leaping out of the page to me:

"And I raised up some of your children to be prophets and some of your youths to be nazirites. Is it not indeed so, O people of Israel? Says the LORD" (vs 11, NRSV)

Perhaps the NIV version uses "young men", so those who are reading in NIV may not feel as deeply as I do. I was anticipating that the speaker would speak abit about these nazirites youth that God has raised in Israel and how we Bethany can also raised some nazirites youth. But it was totally pass off :(

You see, for the whole week, I was thinking and praying about why we didn't reproduce our own disciples. I remember when we were studying the book on "Experiencing God" we learnt that God is always at work around you. So shouldn't we be on the look out how God is working at Bethany PCES? My prayer is "Lord, are there any youth who want to give themselves to you?" No answer for the whole week.

Then this morning, this verse in Amos leap out of the page to me. Nazirite (Number chapter 6) is someone who consecrate himself (or herself) to serve God.

Can we find any of our Bethanians who will set apart themselves for God??

Devotional Thoughts: Preparing For Christ’s Returns (1Thess 4:15-18)

2009-10-16T08:35:00.004+08:00

“How prepared are you to face Christ Jesus at His 2nd Coming?”

Last Saturday, three of us turned up at the Drifter’s BSG. That was a question in our BSG on 2Timothy chapter 4. Both of them shake their heads.

“I don’t think I am prepared. :( “

As we sit there in silence for a minute or so, my mind was pondering: “How do I measure my preparedness for Christ’s return?”

This morning as I look into the Daily Bread website: http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/10/16/devotion.aspx

The passage is definitely talking about Christ’s return and not about victory in death. (Perhaps the writer of the Daily Bread has gone a bit off tangent, but, never mind.) Christ can come even when we are still alive! Am I ready to meet Him in the air (1Thess 4:17)?

As a Boy Scout, who live by my motto: “Be Prepared”, I know I am ready to meet my master and Lord. I stand free of guilty conscience, doing what I believe a faithful Christian should do – obeying what the Bible commands as sins, helping the need of others, sharing Christ with unbelievers …, Moreover, I strive to live a Christ-like character of love. But I am still a sinner, with occasionally clashes with the old self within me. I believe all Christians face the same struggle. And so, we and I need the prompting of the Holy Spirit day by day in our daily routine, controlling our emotions, creating that awareness that HE is there to counsel us (John 16:7).

This preparedness is never ending.

BE PREPARED for Christ’s Coming!

Devotional Thought: The Handbrake in my Life (Psa 46:10)

2009-10-14T08:15:00.008+08:00

I was quite agitated, yesterday.

Max, the new technician seemed hard on learning. I had to repeat a simple instruction a few times. And he showed doubt on my explanations.

“Frequency is inversely proportional to wavelength. This is PHYSICS. IF YOU DON”T KNOW THIS YOU CAN’T BE A MIROWAVE or RADIO FREQUENCY ENGINEER!”

He is on probation. We had a few clashes before and he does not take my instructions easily. Is this an obedient or teachable problem?

As my feeling was boiling inside me, suddenly something within me whisper: “Cool, man!”

Last night, I had a soul-searching time evaluating my emotion and the whole situation. God has gotten my attention. Or was it just my imagination that He is restraining me? Am I just trying to spiritualize the whole incident? Not sure who stop me, but it is good to have a handbrake that when “an accident” is going to happen, someone just pull that handbrake.

This morning, as I turned to the Daily Bread for my quiet time (Psalms 46):

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/10/14/devotion.aspx

The passage just hit right on to my thought that still linger from last night.

10 "Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth."

Thank you, LORD for pulling the handbrake in my life. Amen!

Devotional Thought: Thankful or Complaining?

2009-10-12T08:47:00.013+08:00

We Singaporeans like to complain!

Parents are again complaining about the PSLE examinations questions!

http://sg.news.yahoo.com/cna/20091010/tap-464-parents-arms-psle-mathematics-pa-231650b.html

And it is usually the top students who are complaining when they stumbled on a few difficult questions for fear that they will miss out the top few position. This is the Singaporean “Kiasu” mentality.

There was this problem sum posed:

According to posts on an online forum for parents, one example of the problem sums given was: "Jim bought some chocolates and gave half of it to Ken. Ken bought some sweets and gave half of it to Jim. Jim ate 12 sweets and Ken ate 18 chocolates. The ratio of Jim’s sweets to chocolates became 1:7 and the ratio of Ken’s sweets to chocolates became 1:4. How many sweets did Ken buy?"

I tried solving this question. Usually, it takes a while to understand the question. Once I know what the question is talking about, the solution comes easily.

Top students can solve it easily, lah!

Why Complain ah? If cannot solve, cannot be top students already lah, so no need to complain.

This brings me back to Yesterday Devotion from the Daily Bread on Col 3:12-17.
http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/10/11/devotion.aspx

In this passage, I learn about 4 things:

(1) The Love of Christ (vv 12-14)
– my actions and behavior towards others

(2) The Peace of Christ (v15)
– be in harmony and at peace with others.

– BE THANKFUL in all situations.

(3) The Word of Christ (v16)
– dwelling in me richly

(4) The Name of Christ (v17)
– whatever I do, I carry it out in the LORD’s name

Be Thankful, not complain-full.

Things don't turn out the way it is!

2009-10-10T10:39:00.005+08:00

I woke up early these morning and discovered that my crop in my "farm" in farmville was blue berries instead of tomatoes!! Moreover, they have all withered. Tomotoes take 8 hours to grow but blue berries take only 4. I felt very cheated because farmville changed my crops and killed them all.

In life, there are many instances that things happened to us beyond our control, even though we are very meticulous and do things carefully. I know very clearly I planted tomatoes because tomatoes like grapes, need sticks to support their climbing branches. Also, the coins are doubled - tomoto cost 100 coins each, while blue berry cost only 50 coins.

Even though it is just a game, it reminds me that we cannot be fully in control of our life, the environment can also change our course in life.

Only God is full in control.

Different sexes solve problems differently

2009-10-09T08:05:00.009+08:00

When a man encounters a difficult problem, he will analyze and think about how to solve it. When a woman faces the same problem, she will ask for help. In the end, the woman find the solution, while the man is still thinking of the problem!

I see this happen many times in Amplus. I have ladies engineers - Yang Ling and Xu Fan, and guy engineers - Resmond, Andrew, and now Max. All of them do the same thing. The guys will not approach me for help and will always try to show that they can do it. The ladies will almost immediately come to me for help and learn how to solve the problems.

Man has a big ego! He trys to show that he can do it without help :(
This apply also to me. It taught me to ask and be open to discuss. I don't need to show that I know everything and so I usually ask around from those who have done or experiment with certain engineering areas before, to get some knowledge.

Presently, only Max is now working under me. All the other engineers have left the company. After 3 weeks, I still see him struggling with his project. And I am still waiting to see if he will approach me to ask for help. Before him was Xu Fan. The moment she faced some problem, she would ask me for help, just like Yang Ling.

I always tell my engineers - "There is no penalty in askig questions." "Always ask if you don't know." (For those who are Christians, you will know Matt 7:7 - Ask and it will be given to you)

Watch my ego!!

BPCES Church Planning retreat briefing

2009-10-06T13:53:00.003+08:00

Does it really make any difference year after year to this church even if we don’t have any planning retreat?

After last Sunday (4 Oct) briefing by Pastor, which was more like assigning what job to which people (hope I am wrong), I feel like “here we go again, looking for people to get things going”. The church is like going on a “maintenance mode”.

We have nearly come to an end of year 2009. But, do we see any transformation of people lives? Do we see more people getting more eager to know God – Bible study, talking about spiritual things, … Do we see more care and concern for one another? Do we see an increase in church attendance? Or do we see more slackers, more people not coming for BSG, same old people doing the “job of the church”?

The answer is - yes, and no to some extent.

Which boil down to one thing more personal to me (since I am being appointed to be the BSG coordinator), have we achieved what we want to see in the BSG in 2009?

Sorry, ah, what is the objective for the BSG in 2009? (forget already lah!)

Ok, in 2008 BSG planning retreat, I talk about this:

It has been said:
A leader is a person with a magnet in his heart and a compass in his head.
- Vance Hainer.

If this is true for a leader, then,
A Christian leader is a person with a Cross in his heart and a Bible in his head.
- Mark Lim

(1) Have our BSG leaders develop the Cross Mentality?
(2) Have they grown in the knowledge and love for the Word of God?
(3) Have we found the “Mary” – who have a heart to learn, the “Martha” – who have a heart to serve, the “Lazarus” – spiritually dead or lethargic but can be made alive ; the “Zacchaeus”, the “Bartimaeus”

Think about these 3 questions as we move into year 2010.

The most difficlut relationship

2009-10-05T08:02:00.007+08:00

In life we have many relationship. The most difficult one is the husband and wife relationship. We see each other everyday. We even sleep at the same bed, that is how close the relationship is.

Last night, a relative talked to me about her daughter's Boy-Girl Relationship. This relationship has intertwined to the extend that both the familys are very much closer. They had been receiving gifts like moon-cakes and festive goodies from one another, attending family dinners and special occasions. However, the boy friend is not a Christian, and is just not ready to consider Christ at this moment.

The daughter is talking about breaking up. This hurt her family.

Marriage is like putting two very different people into a burning furnace. Either they slowly burn to ashes or being purified.

Don't rush into it if you are not ready!!

Study in SBC

2009-09-29T22:19:00.003+08:00

I really need to seek God's direction whether I should go ahead and apply for the MABS at SBC.

After seeing the application form, I realized that I need to seek approval from my wife and employer. These are the two most difficult criteria for me. Also, I need to get my employer to assess my character. This really put me off.

Today, as I spend time in devotion and reading on Col 4:2, I am somehow led to be more cautious in making decision. Rather, I need to be Prayerful, be Watchful and be Thankful in all situations.

Ok. I will pray about this for 40 days and 40 days whether to pursue my study on MABS in SBC. If the fire is quenched or re-kindled as each passing day, then I will know.

Today is the first day and night praying for this decision. :)

Amplus 10th Anniversary - Family Day

2009-09-29T12:59:00.007+08:00

Last Saturday, my company, Amplus Communication Pte Ltd celebrated her 10th Anniversary at the Big Splash Playground at East Coast Park.

We had a good time and fun together. Euodia came along with us and she really gone all out to win prizes and volunteered herself in the magical performance.

Having my portait and shadow traced out. The artist just took about 2 minutes to sketch out my face. He also did paper cutting by tracing my face's profile.

That is Euodia, enjoying her golf at Liliput!

I joined this company since her beginning. Received my gold coin for the 10th Anniversary. This is also the first time I won a lucky draw - 6th prize; Cannon Power Shot Camera. Maybe, it is because my wife is attending this Company Family Day, the first time that family members are invited! :)

It has come a long way for me.... to stay in this company. Not sure how far more I will continue. Must wait for God's timing. :)

Everything has its timing

2009-09-25T08:08:00.010+08:00

Yesterday, the boss said, "A date line is a dead line!"

Ok, Actually he meant, "a date line is a date line". But when he said it, it seems to imply that we need complete the work in time, so a date line is like a dead timing for us. When we can't fulfill the schedule,we are dead.

Yes, in life, everything has its timing. Time is Life. Which leads me to think of Ecclesiastes chapter 3. If I learn to walk in HIS time, He will make everything beautiful (verse 11). He controls everything of my life, if only I learn to walk in HIS PRESENCE.

A date line is a .... line.

Why Blog? - Journeying Through Life

2009-09-25T07:46:00.008+08:00

It has been a week since I close down this site, and just keep it to myself. No sure when will I open up to others. Maybe, never.

My initial plan to set up this site was to promote interaction and sharing. At least, I start a topic and keep the ball rolling. But it turn out that only one or two are commenting, abate only once in a long while. Others attitudes are just "Great, now I know!" without a single comment on this blog. They take this site as peeping into others lives without sharing or disclosing their thoughts. Such a selfish attitude. That is the last thing I want to avoid. This blog has promote selfishness, so I need to close it.

"Hey, my blog is not for people to come and "know" about things :( " It is about sharing and connectng with one another. Mute readers are not welcome!! :( Go, start your own blog.

But seriously, blogging has taught me to glaze at every moment of life more intimately and reflective. Reflective of what God is doing in my every moments. I became more observant of things around me, more careful in listening to some remarks, more proactive to some actions. All these so that I can blog about it and learn from the journeys through life.

So, blogging will continue. ...

Going back to School!?

2009-09-24T08:00:00.002+08:00

After much thoughts and prayers, I sent an email to the School of Theology (English) of the Singapore Bible College to ask for the application form.

I want to apply for the MA (Bible Studies). If I can get into SBC again, I will study Hebrews and learn to read the Bible in Hebrew.

This is still preliminary. Let’s see how things turn out to be.

Closing Blog

2009-09-17T08:32:00.006+08:00

Two nights ago, Euodia said to me, “Your blog is very boring!” Looking at her expression, I know she said it from her heart. This is the only feedback I got for my blog. The response and comments are also very few.

I have written about 21 devotion thoughts. Except from Wei Lin's sporadic comments, no reader is interested in devotion, which is my primarily objective of writing this blog - to help people to be more regulare in their devotions. The devotion thoughts are a FAILURE.

I don’t like to do things that continue in failure. I like to win. Everything that I do must have a “winner” feeling. I don’t go for mediocre or lukewarm. It’s either hot or cold. Since the readers decide to let it be “cold”, the blog is now officially closed.

It is now a diary.

PS: A blog has many readers, followers, comments and reactions. A diary has only one reader.

Devotional Thoughts: Lying to the Church

2009-09-11T08:10:00.007+08:00

How often do we lie to the church?

In today Daily Bread devotional passages (Acts 5:1-11):

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/09/11/devotion.aspx

We sometimes behave like Ananias and Sapphira, giving a portion of what we have and pretending that we have given our all so as to look good in front of others.

Have you and I done a similar thing like them? Dare to be honest?

I have.

One similar situation would be giving Tithes. A tithe is actually 10% of our incomes. Imagine if the Holy Spirit will to strike down all who offer their money as Tithes that is less than 10% of what they received for that month? I would be long dead. I usually give less than 10% as Tithes and the rest to missions' organizations and missionaries in need, adding up to about 15% on average. That is about the best I can give away each month. I just feel that BPCES is not doing enough for the money collected and so members are talking about putting them into fix deposits instead of investing into lives of missionaries and Kingdom works.

Still, it is not an excuse for me to give less than 10% and write it as "Tithes". As such, I have changed it to "Thanksgiving" instead of "Tithes". Yeah, I think I have again put it as tithes for the past two months. So this devotions is a good reminder for me to put things right as be honest.

Beside money, there are other areas. Our talents, our services ...

Is giving excuses not to do something for the church when we can, considered lying?

Forever Friends

2009-09-10T13:51:00.004+08:00

Meeting a long lost friend and having some wonderful time together is always a joy and delight to the soul. All thanks to Facebook.

It was through Facebook that I found my old buddy and room-mate during NTI students’ days. Last Tuesday during lunch, we had a wonderful time talking about those days and how our lives have been.

It’s amazing to know that we remained as room-mate for the whole 3 years, a feat no students would do. Most broke up after a year or two. With him, we can almost talk about anything, no secret! I remember the time when he was interested in another girl in our Christian fellowship group. He told me all about his struggle. People use to say that guys don’t talk about personal feelings. But with him, we talk about almost anything. Best of all, we encourage one another spiritually. We even make a covenant that whoever got married first, the other person would be the best man. Guess who got married first?

Then we got married, have our own family, stayed oversea and slowly we lost contact.

It was through facebook that I found him. Thankfully, his photograph was in it.

Yah! Forever friends.

I am back!

2009-09-07T13:45:00.005+08:00

Hi! I am back.

Whether you are a Sunday friend, an acquaintance or even a stranger passing by this blog, feel free to check it out.

And drop a comment, others may like to know your thoughts also.

Adios, amigo! :)

The “Cannot Make It” Kid

2009-09-07T13:34:00.009+08:00

Being in the elite group also has its struggle. They measure against one another whether they “make it” or “cannot make it”. Those who can’t are called the CMI kid.

Last Friday night, I had a gathering with 2 of my closest friends in one of their house. We know each other since NUS graduate school days more than 19 years ago. No, we don’t meet every Sunday, only once or twice a year. Still, I consider them best of friends. Even though we rarely meet, I know that I can count on them when I am really in need or help. And they are from the elite group, very successful in their careers and lives. They are also evangelical Christians. However, they see themselves as the “Cannot Make It” - CMI kid.

You see, one of these friends came from the elite schools – RI and ACS. There is a saying among the elite that “The RI boys rule Singapore and the ACS boys own Singapore”. So this elite group measure themselves by whether they rule Singapore – politically successful or own Singapore – successful bankers and wealthy businessmen. This friend has classmates like the Law Minister, the Transport Minister and the Minister in the PM offices to measure and compare to. As such, he sees himself as the CMI kid, even though he has a big house, and is a top civil servant.

I spent the 4 hours listening to their “elite” talk, mostly in silence. The phrase - "CMI kid" kept repeating didn’t know for umpteen times.

As I left the big 5,000 square foot, 3-storey house almost before mid-night, the CMI kid thingy was lingering in my mind. If I were to compare to them, I am nothing, just an alumni of a neighborhood school and living in a HDB flat. Probably worse than a CMI kid.

Driving in the still silence of the night, I heard my serene spirit whispering to me:

“You are a CMI kid – Certainly Make It (to heaven) kid”. What a blessed assurance.

Devotion Thoughts: What is Friendship?

2009-08-25T13:45:00.005+08:00

Every time I read about David and Jonathon, I think about their friendship. Then I think about my friendship. Or are they really my friends?

I was reading the Daily Bread online today (2Sam 1:11, 17-27)

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/08/25/devotion.aspx

Saul and Jonathon had died in battle. David laments for them, more so for Jonathan, his friend whom he greatly loved.

What then is friendship? Isaac Lim says it right – the bottom line of friendship is trust. http://izinmid.spaces.live.com/?lc=18441

(1) Friends trust one another
Read what Isaac wrote:

Who can we talk to? Who can we trust? Sometimes we want to talk to new people, to connect, to help them know more about us, but yet some of the things we tell them can be easily used against us. We want to have friends whom we can trust with the going ons of our lives, we want to share our struggles and pain, and yet sometimes, even people we think we know and can trust aren't exactly who we think they are. I guess sometimes we need to take a little risk to know if someone can be trusted. It isn't easy to open up; clamming up is so much easier.

David trust Jonathon that he will not betray him to his father, after Jonathon visits David while he is on the run from his father (1Sam 23:16-18). Without that trust, David might be wondering whether Jonathon is going home to tell Saul of David’s whereabout.

Without trust, there is no friendship.

(2) Friends rejoice and weep with one another.
When someone says (or blog) it’s their birthday, we greet, “Happy Birthday!” When she blogs about her good results, we congratulates her. When I read others' blog, I also like to know whether people care to comments on their blog. It is the comments arena that reveals how strong the bloggers’ friendships are. There was this simple blog with just ordinary postings - joy and pain that she goes through. But, everytime she share some things, her friends will write comments to encourage her. Blogging has become her motivation. In this aspect, of encouragement, I think non-Christian's blog fair better. Maybe I am wrong ...

(3) Friends are tolerant with each other
Not too long ago, a person from the English congregation called me and voiced displeasure at me because I did not do something. Maybe it was because I am an English Committee member in BPCES, I am expected to do what other can choose not to do. OK, so much about friendship! I began to see church members as … just church members, not friends anymore. Hence, I need to scrutinize who is reading my blog.

What then is true friendship?

Devotion Thoughts: Check my Attitude

2009-08-21T12:57:00.003+08:00

I am thinking about this question: “What does it take to be a good Christian?”
Perhaps some answers will be:

A good Christian worships God every Sunday in worship service.

A good Christian does his daily devotion.

A good Christian talks to others about Christ regularly.

A good Christian gives his tithes.
…

If you ask the Lord Jesus Christ this question, what will HIS answer be?

In today’s Daily Bread’s devotion on Matt 5:3-12

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/08/21/devotion.aspx

Jesus’ answers would be: “your attitude towards God and towards people” Hence we call this passage the Be-attitude.

Our attitude towards God:
(1) poor in spirit v3
(2) mourn v4
(3) humble v5
(4) desire to get right with God v6
(5) purity v8

Our attitude towards people:
(1) humble v5
(2) doing what is right – morally and integrity v6
(3) merciful v7,
(4) purity v8
(5) peacemaker v9

Poor in spirit – seeing our spiritual situation as what God would see (we are spiritual bankrupt in God’s sight, Isa 64:6)

Mourn – to mourn for our sins and sinful nature.

Once we are able to see ourselves just as spiritually bankrupt and as sinful as anybody else, no matter how much I know the Bible, how much tithes I give, or how regular I come for Sunday worship service, then my attitude towards the common people will be more amicable and friendly.

Many months ago, my company employed a part-time middle age Indian man as a cleaner. He either comes to work after office hour or very early in the morning before anybody comes to the office. From the look, I suspect he was an ex-prisoner, with tattoo all over his hands (and body also?). He doesn’t talk to us. He just does his work and went off.

When he first came to work one late evening, I was perhaps the only one to greet him, he appeared surprised. Usually, people keep away from such a person. Now, when he sees me, he would smile a bit.

Likewise, there is the Ah Soh (auntie) who cleans the pantry and clears the office's rooms. Showing some respect to such people by greeting them daily help to build our way of getting along with people

It is not the things we do that make us a good Christian;
It is the Be-attitude inside us.

Is there such a thing as CONSCIENCE?

2009-08-20T08:34:00.000+08:00

Integrity – that’s the word that I keep thinking for a quite a while now.

Living in truth and honesty don’t mean much to people so long as they can get what they want, sometime at the expense of others. Wonder how their conscience feel?

Well, about 4 months ago I recruited a fresh poly graduate as my Engineering Assistant after the previous staff tendered his resignation. So far, all these young workers just can’t persevere in engineering work. Engineers live a dog life, at least mine is like that. I fight problems almost everyday.

This fresh grad was a China scholar. I thought she has a desire to do engineering as I asked her during the interview. Now that she has gotten her Permanent Resident (PR) pass, she tendered her resignation immediately. So her intention to get a job is to qualify for the PR status.

I have spent a lot of time teaching her and training her. At first, I was wondering why a bright student (with good results) can be such a slow learner. I have to keep teaching her the same thing. Now I know, her intention is just to get the PR. That is why she is not interested to learn. Also, she is so prone to take medical leaves and go on leaves; it becomes a liability to the company.

We all like to put on a false front (like this staff), but how does one conscience feel?

Song Humming in my head

2009-08-17T14:08:00.003+08:00

Lord, my heart is prone to wander
Prone to leave the God I love
Here's my heart
Lord take and seal it
Seal it for
Your courts above.

I woke up this morning with this song humming in my head.
Maybe, I was reading Brother Lawrence’s book:
“The Practice of the Presence of God”
and was deeply immersed in his writing.

Every time I pause in what I am doing,
this song just come back by itself,
as if somebody is singing behind my ears.
It just sticks in my head the whole morning,
even as I am writing this.
…

Lord, my heart is prone to wander
...

Sowing & Reaping

2009-08-14T08:20:00.005+08:00

Everyone needs to understand and learn the meaning of sowing and reaping.

It all started when Auntie Lily invited us (my daughter and me) to join her in FARMVILLE in facebook. Euodia then started clicking on the icon, “play Farmville”. It was just a small plot of land. And so we planted eggplant and strawberry. Nothing much, looks boring.

After many days past, she again went into the farm, only to find that all her plants had overgrown and withered. She was sad but learnt a great lesson. Living things can die. We learn the lesson that what we sow, we will reap. So, we got more meticulous and pay more attention to what length of time each plant takes to grow, bear fruits and wither if we fail to harvest them.

Farmville gets interesting when we make neighbours. We can also send and receive gifts from neighbours. We also visited our neighbours’ farm and took pictures. The children love to visit Auntie Lily’s farm. We also learnt from her farm; how she arranged the animals and the decorations she had. It’s very beautiful. Farming becomes a community affair! Harvesting time is always an excitement for the children. Some plants take days, others a few hours before fully grown. We need to know them well or else they will wither. I am also thinking about who I should invite to start a farm in Farmville.

There are many more things we’ve yet to explore. But we will.

Spiritual life is also about sowing and reaping.

Is your spiritual land (farm) vacant? Do you visit it daily? How about getting more “neighbours” to help you spiritually? Or maybe visit your neighbours’ spiritual farm and see how they grow theirs? We need to send spiritual encouragement to one another also. There are friends who have no Spiritual life yet. Shouldn’t we also invite them into this Spiritual Farmville (Kingdom)?

Each time I lock into Farmville, I am reminded to also tend my spiritual farmville.

Come, join me in “FARMVILLE”, …

to learn about sowing and reaping,

and be a community of “spiritual” farmers…

“A man reaps what he sows. … for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

PS: This will be my last post. I rather be a farmer than a blogger. See you at FARMVILLE.

Adios!! :)

20th Anniversary of BPCES

2009-08-11T08:46:00.015+08:00

What changes do you see after 20 years in Bethany PCES?

I was pondering over this question for a long time. Should I or shouldn’t I blog about my thoughts on this? I shelved the idea …, until I happen to read about another church who is also in her 20th anniversary.

http://www.konghee.com/www/2009/08/what_chc_is_all_about/#more-4793

In 1989, we formed the "new" Bethany PCES with a sad beginning. There was a church division. It was not that we wanted to grow for the LORD. We just wanted to stay in Bethany while the other group wanted to build their own church. I had just returned from the United States and was not fully aware of the issue. I was free to join any groups or to go to another church.

I came to Bethany in 1986, after attending another church for 10 years. So, it was not appropriate to move to another church again. All my close “working” church friends joined the out-going group, Bethany Emmanuel, except David Lim who remained in BPCES. Ever since I came to Bethany, they were my regular partners during street evangelism. However, I was not comfortable to be under the leaders of Bethany Emmanuel. Whether the church will grow or die depends on the leaders. “But they have taken all the ‘working’ people and the youth.” That was my parting thought.

In 1989, we started with less than 30 people. In 2009, we had about 89 members and probably about a 100 worshippers each Sunday. In 20 years, we increased less than 4 times, many of these are biological. We were waiting for our kids to grow up and take over. When they reached their late teens, we were already talking about handling the church leadership to them. They are now playing active role in worship, Bible Study and even as committee members of the English service.

Bethany PCES is never strong and dedicated to prayer, Word and evangelism – the pillars for spiritual revival and growth.

We started that way, we will continue to move in that way.

We just wanted to stay in Bethany. ...

Devotional Thoughts: Be an evangelist?

2009-08-09T15:55:00.003+08:00

“That person doesn’t behave as if he is a Christian” my General Manager / boss blurted out after we were talking about dealings with people issue.

The passage today from The Daily Bread brought back thoughts of my conversation with my General Manager last Friday:

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/08/09/devotion.aspx

Seizing the opportunity to talk about Christianity, I emphasized that we are sinners and that is why we all need Christ as our Saviour. But when we are pardoned from our sin, we need to develop a life changes toward Godliness. It is sad that sometime, Christian don’t display a life that is required of our faith and so stumble unbelievers.

While our ministry may not be that of an evangelist, like Timothy (2Tim 4:5), what we can do as a Christian is to look out for opportunity to share the Gospel, not forcefully, but help others see the need to put their faith in Christ.

There are a few ways to create opportunities for sharing the Gospel. First of all, we need to make our faith in Christ public. If we are ashamed to be identified as Christians, there is no way we can be Christ’s witness. Praying before meal is a good practice. Wearing a cross round your neck (for ladies) is another testimony. Some Christian put Bible verses as screen-savers on their computer. For me, I usually leave my Bible on my desk.

Be a witness – by word and by behaviour.

Devotional Thoughts: The Input & Output of our lives

2009-08-08T10:20:00.002+08:00

People know us by our output, not by our input.

Today’s devotion from The Daily Bread triggers the following thoughts:

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/08/08/devotion.aspx

Input = listening (by our ears), seeing & reading (by our eyes), thinking (by our hearts and minds)

Output = Doing (by our hands), talking (by our mouth & body languages)

It is our inputs that shape our lives. It is our outputs that will shape others lives.

The inputs are our private lives. My daily inputs are the books (including the Bible) that I read, the internet websites that I surf, the conversation that I heard, the thoughts that came suddenly to me, the nature that I observe, the newspaper, … Are these inputs healthy nourishment or pollution to my life (Jas 1:27b)?

You don’t know what my inputs are until, I blog or talk about it. Are my writing and talking timely that lessen stress to you, or encourage you? Or are they words that rub salt to your wounds? Likewise, when I do something, you evaluate them and see whether they are in line with Biblical teaching. Am I a doer of the word (Jas 1:22) and so prove that I am consistent with what I read from the Bible? Do my actions bring about blessing to the needy (Jas 1:27a)?

Beware the input and output of our lives.

Devotional Thoughts: Changing of Mentality

2009-08-07T07:56:00.003+08:00

I see my children grow from having a mom’s mentality to herd’s mentality.

Today’s devotion from the Radio Bible Class, The Daily Bread brings my thoughts to my family and my youthful days.

http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/08/07/devotion.aspx

When they are toddlers and in their primary school, it’s usually, “Mom says this …, mom says cannot do this …”

Now that they are in their secondary schools, decisions are made usually by following their friends. The mobile phone is a very important item in their lives. They switch from mom’s mentality to herd’s mentality and do things in groups. Friends’ decisions take priority.

This is the process of growing up.

It also happened to me when I was young. It was the herd’s mentality that I chose to go to the polytechnic instead of staying in the Junior College.

Hopefully, they will grow up from this herd’s mentality and move on to … Cross mentality. One day, when they grow towards spiritual maturity, they will learn to make decision base on the Cross of Christ.

Mom’s mentality … Herd’s mentality … Cross mentality.

Whether they have reach the Cross mentality or not, they will know it themselves.

Paying 60cents for a 10cents share

2009-08-06T13:37:00.004+08:00

Pardon my ignorant, but can someone explain to me this ...

Why would people want to buy a share for 60 cents that is value at 10 cents?

My company has been offering me share at this price and state that its value is 10cents per share. It happened so many times and no, I have not bite it yet. Is this a bait or what? Yet, I don't see the logic of this.

I try to ask someone in the company and the answer is: "It's like that what!"

I have not buy any share (except SingTel share which the government do it for me) so I am really blur in this.

Travelling in the bus … reading …

2009-08-04T13:44:00.002+08:00

It just brings back fond memory of those times when I used to read in the bus. …

I sent my car for servicing early this morning. It’s such a long time since I took a bus. So I took out my Bible and read the Psalms. When was the last time I read the Bible in the bus? Those were the days when Bible reading and scripture memory done in the bus was common to me. Ever since I started driving, this habit has long gone.

I use to think that driving a car can buy me time, at least I can reach home earlier or waste less time travelling. But this morning, I seem to have a more fruitful time reflecting and reading. So it is not time wasted in the bus. No, money does not necessarily buy time.

This verse in Psalm 55:22 that I read this morning, seem to give assurance of what happened last week in work (see previous post):

Cast your burden on the LORD,
and he will sustain you;
he will never permit
the righteous to be moved.

This verse sound familiar (1 Pet 5:7), but I was much encourage by what I read this morning.

Sermon Reflection: 1Sam 28 & 31 – How to live/die well?

2009-08-03T08:26:00.011+08:00

Sunday morning …

To live or die well – listen to the voice of God. That was the gist of the sermon as the preacher said it loud and clear.

But how does one listen to the voice of God?

Have you heard God or the Holy Spirit speak directly to you?

Maybe the preacher was talking about obeying the commandments in the Bible? For Saul, God’s voice is through the Prophet Samuel. So does it mean listening to the voice of God is from the Pastor’s sermon? Or is it, to listen to the voice of God means whatever you learn from the Bible, just follow and do?

Doesn’t sound right, leh. :(

If I can listen to the voice of God like King David, using what they call a Urim, or have a prophet like Nathan, then easy lah!

But no such things already - no prophet, no Urim, cannot hear God speaking directly to me, only the Bible.

Ai yah, why the preacher never tell the congregation how to listen to the voice of God?

Maybe she did, I was not attentive.

So this good sermon has a difficulty… How to listen to the voice of God in order to live well?

That set my sermon reflection as I left the sanctuary yesterday morning.

******

Sunday afternoon …

Thinking about what was going on through the week …

I was supposed to finish 10 pieces of a subsystem before the month end of July. At room temperature, all the pieces were working perfectly. However, as I tested over the temperature range of -30 degree Celsius (or Centigrade, if you like) to +70degC, I noticed that 4 pieces failed marginally at -27degree. I could conveniently brush it off and “just close one eye” so to say, as it will not adversely affect the overall system when this subsystem is used.

But, I felt that I should do things right. It was a matter of having a right conscience and listening to that small still voice.

As a result, I kept trying to find what caused the faults, and repeated the testing at -30degC. It was very tiring and finally, at the last day and last minute, I completed the 4 pieces.

Praise the LORD! Trying to maintain a clear conscience has its price.

Is listening to my conscience also considered as listening to the voice of God?

Be alert – the sin that cling to us

2009-08-02T20:46:00.003+08:00

This evening, I saw a man in a T-shirt with the following words:

REMEMBER LOT’S WIFE:
AVOID THE BACKWARD GLANCE

Clearly, only Christians with some Bible knowledge will know what happened to Lot and his family. The story in Genesis 19 flashed through my mind. The Angel of God wanted to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah and told Lot and his family not to look back. His wife’s, still lingering over the lavish life in Sodom, looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt.

What are something that I still cling on to so tightly that it became a hindrance for me to flee from destruction?

Is there any bad habit, bad influence, petty sin that I toil with?

Time for some soul-searching …

“Let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, …”

Encourage an environment for Growth

2009-07-31T08:16:00.004+08:00

Sharing of information and knowledge is vital for growth.

This is what happens in my workplace.

Every Wednesday, 5:30pm, an engineer will do a half-hour presentation on any topics of his interest or expertise to the company. They will be assessed for their presentation. An award will be given to the best presenter. I am one of the judges. Last Wednesday (29 July), a mechanical engineer gave a talk on SCREW. Like he said, we need to know about screws and how they screw up our lives.

In a working environment, we can enforce compulsory learning and training. But can we do that in a church?

In my younger days as a Christian with the Polytechnic Navigators, studying and reading the Bible was normal. Not memorizing Bible verses was abnormal. Everyone who was with the Navigators for one year would have memorised a minimum of 60 verses. It is common to ask one another, “How’s your Quiet Time?” This is what we term a discipleship environment.
We can never survive spiritually alone; there is a tendency to follow the crowd. It is very easy to memorise Bible verses when everybody is doing it. Even in every Bible camp, we had Bible quiz and memory verses quiz. So that created excitement and encouragement.

BPCES does not have a tradition of Bible reading and memorizing Bible verses. Very seldom do we hear or read about each others devotion (except my blog, maybe). So I would say there is no discipleship environment in BPCES. As such, you don’t expect worshippers to be excited about bringing friends to evangelistic events.

How the church grows and move will depend on the leaders and committee members to set an example. They need to lead by example. How the BSG moves will also depend on the BSG leaders. They need to create a learning environment by sharing their lives openly, how they integrate their spiritual learning with their daily life.

In order to grow, it all starts with a healthy discipleship environment.

Create one. It is never too late.

It is him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone in all wisdom, so that we may present everyone mature in Christ (Col 1:28 NRSV)

You too have your story! :)

2009-07-28T08:27:00.005+08:00

We all journey through this world.

Each one has his story, whether he likes it or not.

I love this poem. It brings me down to earth … and helps me in my journey.

Desiderata

Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,

and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender,

be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly;

and listen to others,

even to the dull and the ignorant;

they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons;

they are vexatious to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,

you may become vain or bitter,

for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;

it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs,

for the world is full of trickery.

But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;

many persons strive for high ideals,

and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection.

Neither be cynical about love,

for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment,

it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,

gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.

But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,

be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe

no less than the trees and the stars;

you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you,

no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,

whatever you conceive Him to be.

And whatever your labors and aspirations,

in the noisy confusion of life,

keep peace in your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,

it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Fitting into the mould of Society? – Just Be myself

2009-07-26T16:19:00.002+08:00

Different people climb the corporate ladder differently.

Some make it rich by shrewd investment – like Warren Buffet. A few by backstabbing. But most may be by ways of engaging the society, like what Wei Lin’s comment on my 16 July’s post. There is nothing wrong in that mould so long as our faith in Christ is not compromised.

On reflecting about myself …

I am not exactly a likeable person.

I am probably that person whom Wei Lin commented: “people don’t exactly care two hoots about you”. I am OK with that.

Yah, I don’t try to make an impression, not outspoken, not confident. Just ordinarily, very ordinary. If there is a mould that society wants me to fit into, I would probably be a square peg trying to fit into a round hole.

Why?

I try to live as transparent as I can and let other see me as I am – my strength and also my ugly sides. I don’t intrude into people’s private space or engage in strategic talks. But if you share, I’ll listen with confidentiality.

I don’t have many friends, not even a few.

What I value most is trust. “A Scout is to be trusted.” That is the first Scout Law I learned and obeyed.

Faithful are the wounds of a friend;
Profuse are the kisses of an enemy
(Prov 27:6 RSV)

H1N1 Imagination?

2009-07-24T08:30:00.001+08:00

I started to have running and stuffy nose on Wednesday morning. Then it just dripped non stop.

Then I started to cough. And it got worse.

I remember reading somewhere in The Straits Times about the symptoms of H1N1 – fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, fatigues ….. “It seems that I am having it now.”

Suddenly began to feel cold. Then, feeling tired / fatigue.
The more I thought and analyzed, the more I coughed. Maybe it was psychological.

So I hid in my office and work on documents and computer simulations instead of mingling with others. Better be social responsible, just in case.

Went home early and drank a lot of honey lemon. Took a panadol and slept early.

Yesterday, I still had running nose and a mild cough but no fever. Maybe it was not H… Anyway, I had come to the office with a big container of honey lemon and a pack of strepsils.

OK, I still had a lot of work to do in the laboratory. “Just keep away from people”, so I thought.

Today, I woke up perfectly all right, except with a sore throat. It happened since Saturday, when I talked too much.

Well, just thinking too much!!

Legalism - right or wrong?

2009-07-22T07:54:00.010+08:00

Can a Christian smoke?

No, lah!

Why not?

Bad for health, Christian should take care of his body.

Added to this were some other rules that I learnt when I first became a Christian in 1976. Here are some of them:
- Christian should not patronize a discotheque.
- Christian cannot go to a night club
- Christian cannot gamble
- Christian cannot get drunk
- Christian cannot marry a non-Christian
- Christian cannot go to a cinema!!

The last one may have shock you. But that was what my pastor would nicely encourage us to keep away from such places.

From what I understand, legalism then is the adherent to a system of rules and regulations (similar to the above) so as to protect us from sin. It is similar to the way of the Pharisees where they set up rules and regulation to protect the Mosaic Laws..

So should Christian abide by these legalism?

I remember many years ago when my wife and I are holidaying in Rome during the cold autumn. We saw 2 men dressed in priestly gowns drinking coffee and smoking. My wife was shocked and said to me: “How can Christians smoke?”

But honestly, there is no rule in the Bible that literally says that we cannot smoke or dance. Avoiding such things does not make us more holy. But indulging in them may lure us further and further away from the LORD. Our only commandment is Love God and Love others (Matt 22:37-40).

How then do we draw the line?

For me, I usually follow this principle, the 6-8-10 principle (from 1Cor 6, 8, 10):

1Cor 6:12 (NASV)
All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything

Avoid anything that will addict me.

1Cor 8:9 (NASV)
But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak

Avoid anything that will stumble another Christian.

1Cor10:31 (NASB)
Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

If it glorifies God, then it probably OK. If it is neutral, then check the other 2 principles.

These are my personal principles and not to be imposed on anybody. If others opinion differs from mine, then I need to act in grace. Remember the story of the woman caught in adultery by the Scribes and Pharisees in John 8? Clearly, the woman has committed a sin but Jesus Christ has gracefully pardoned her. Likewise, I don’t condemn Christians who marry non-Christians – deliberately or due to circumstances. They did nothing wrong (that is my view), but hopefully they can live godly lives and influence their spouses to Christ one day.

My final principle in life

Let all that you do be done in love. (1Cor 16:13)

Gal 5:13 (NASV)
For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

(freedom in Gal 5:13 mean free from the Law or legalism)

PTL :)

Why so Busy, ah?

2009-07-20T07:50:00.005+08:00

Man is a mere phantom as he goes to and fro: He bustles about, but only in vain; he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it.
(Psa 39:6)

A few nights ago, I saw an elderly couple running toward a bus stop as the bus was approaching. I guess they wouldn’t want to miss the bus and had to wait for another 10 minutes or so. I believed the bus driver might have noticed them (like me) running and was kind enough to wait for them at the bus stop.

My first thought was: “Why the hurry?” It was about 9:30pm. I was taking my usual stroll and reflection.

Yes, why so busy ah?

Am I bustling about in life, only in vain?

Anger kills feelings :(

2009-07-16T12:58:00.008+08:00

The boss was very angry this very morning. :(

He called for a meeting at 9.30am through email. Not sure when he sent the email but I didn't receive it. Double check, yeah, no email.

The meeting started with a firing squad. Firing at everyone and nobody in particular.

That's how the day started :(

Death is the beginning of another New Life

2009-07-15T08:13:00.003+08:00

Attending a funeral wake is better than going to a birthday party.

Although there are tears in a funeral, the emotions can be much deeper than just the fun and laughter in a party. The impact is more lasting.

Each time I attended a funeral wake, I am reminded of my earthly journey. One day, it will be my time to go. I must make use of the time left for me here, to do my master’s will.
Attending a non-Christian funeral always leave me very sad, sad that another soul has lost in eternity. But a Christian funeral is always a joyous occasion. We know that death is not the end of life, but the beginning. It is the beginning of a new journey in heaven with the Creator LORD.

Last night, at Jenny Lim’s mother funeral wake, this verse kept ringing in my mind: “For me to live is Christ, to die is gain”. Yes, death for a Christian is gain because it is a passage to a better place where there is no pain, sorrows and tears. Thank you, LORD, for Jenny’s mother who has known you and gone to be with you.

Thank you, LORD for being my Savior.

It is better to go to a house of mourning
than to go to a house of feasting,
for death is the destiny of every man;
the living should take this to heart.
(Ecclesiastes 7:2)

Never Too Old to Learn

2009-07-08T18:13:00.004+08:00

I have finally done it!!

For the past few weeks, I was busy preparing the power point. Hence, all the focus is on doing this Understanding Biblical Narratives Power point.

Spend alot of time reading and searching the web sites for good illustrations. Also, I have studied many Bible passages for using as examples in the power point.

So no time to update this blog.

Never too old to learn :)

Non Stop Thinking …

2009-06-30T08:58:00.002+08:00

I couldn’t sleep on Sunday night.

It has been a month since I last set the alarm to 5:50am. But the Light Emitting Display (LED) did not light up to indicate that the alarm was properly set. Would it ring at the appropriate time tomorrow morning? Would the children be late for school? Could I trust the digital alarm clock? I started getting a bit morbid as more questions flew.

Soon one thought drifted to another and then to another…

First thoughts were on my three girls. How will they grow up? Will I survive to see them grow up and their children? What kind of life will they be? …

Aiyah! Why think so far?

OK, better think about myself. It has been almost 10 years working in my company – Amplus Communication. Dealing with technical issues can be stressful. Then, thinking about retirement. But, the children are still so young. And there is not much saving. So, I probably have to work till 62. Not sure, I can last that long.

When I retire, I like to do some writing. Write on Christian stuffs.

Sure or not, who bother to read?

Yah, I better close down the Equipping the Saints blog. It is rotting. No comments and no interest.

Thinking about blog, It has been more than a year since I started one. And I have written more than a hundred posts. Just to practice my writing and reflection. But the response is poor. There is hardly any comment. Have I been writing a lot of rubbish? Or is it the kind of “silent” friends who prefer “to know and not to be known”.

Yah, everybody likes to keep their privacy.

But God knows our privacy!! So I decided not to have any privacy but be transparent. Or maybe I should write more general stuff and not personal thoughts and encounters.

…..

I didn’t realize that the thoughts drifted for hours.

And so ….. a tired Monday :o

Must Visit this site

2009-06-27T20:24:00.003+08:00

My SBC lecturer, Rev Dr Rick Griffith has set a website.

http://web.me.com/singaporerick

Insides this website has all his lectures notes and powerpoints.

Lectures include Old Testament surveys, New Testament surveys, and many more.

The power points are very well done with alot of nice pictures that I copy from.

Do visit this site if you want to learn more about God's WORD.

Wasted Opportunity to help fellow Black Americans

2009-06-27T15:11:00.001+08:00

Before Tiger Wood, there was Michael Jackson. Before Barrack Obama, there was Michael Jackson.

They were the well known black Americans. But Michael Jackson is better known than any black Americans in the world.

A very famous black American, Michael Jackson has died this week. Everybody loves his music, even a novice in music like me. Black, white, Hispanic and Asian love to hear him sing and watch him dance. Music unites races.

And he is perhaps the best black Americans to remove racial prejudice in the USA. But he didn’t. And he is perhaps the best black Americans to help his fellows black have a better life – build a Michael Jackson foundation, a Michael Jackson College, a Michael Jackson Hospital, a Michael Jackson Scholarship. But he didn’t.

Now, he is only remembered for his music, the king of pop. And nothing more.

***

Before Michael Jackson, there was Martin Luther King.

The Rev Dr Martin Luther King, a black American who was a pastor of a Baptist Church in the USA. He was neither rich, nor famous as compared to Michael Jackson. Few would have heard of his name. Yet, he lived to fight for civil right for his fellow black companion in the USA. And he died for his cause.

At the age of thirty-five, Martin Luther King, Jr., was the youngest man to have received the Nobel Peace Prize. When notified of his selection, he announced that he would turn over the prize money of $54,123 to the furtherance of the civil rights movement.

On the evening of April 4, 1968, while standing on the balcony of his motel room in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was to lead a protest march in sympathy with striking garbage workers of that city, he was assassinated.
.
http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1964/king-bio.html

Will Tiger Wood follows the step of Michael Jackson or Martin Luther King?

Will Barrack Obama follows the step of Michael Jackson or Martin Luther King?

How will they end their lives?