Step out, Rise up!

*

Was browsing through a book on the signs in America, and i chanced upon this:

Today's Weather:

God Reigns, and the Son rises.

such fine weather everyday!

Seriously, i got to say physical weather has such a huge influence on one's mood. But i guess being in Melbourne, i have come to see the importance of living my life independent of the weather. haha. seriously, if physical weather is directly related to a person's mood over here, o well, you will seriously experience people with extreme mood swings.

SUMMER, for the first time, i wish you are already here.

The Puzzle

A father wanted to read a magazine but was being bothered by his little daughter, Kelly. Finally, he tore a sheet out of his magazine on which was printed the map of the World. Then tearing it into small pieces, he gave it to Kelly, and said, "Go into the other room and see if you can put this together." He was sure that would keep her busy all afternoon! After only a few minutes, Kelly returned and handed him the map, correctly fitted together. The father was surprised and asked how she had finished so quickly. "Oh," she said, "on the other side of the paper is a picture of Jesus. When I got all of Jesus back where He belonged, then the World came together.."

"The Lord will guide you always;
He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.
Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins
and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls,
Restorer of Streets with Dwellings."

-Isaiah 58:11-12

was basically thinking through some stuff while brushing my teeth in the morning. and this came to my mind: keeping the main thing the main thing.

not something new, but yeah, it's like something finally snapped within me. what's my 'main thing' at this very moment, or rather, season in my life? do i know what is that main thing so that i can keep it the main thing?

right. feels confusing isnt it. interestingly, today's sermon brought me to explore philippians a lil more. and an a-ha moment occurred.

philippians 3:5-9

is all about focus. absolute focus. and it means, 'letting go of nice things that don't matter', as defined in the maxwell leadership bible.

Paul had a sharp focus. he discarded not only the things he once counted as gain, but he would rather lose it all if that allows him to gain intimacy with Christ.

Jesus told Martha- "only one thing is neccessary".

quoting from the maxwell bible- people base their decisions on a variety of things:

1. The Ultimate: first things first.
2. The Urgent: loud things first.
3. The Unpleasant: hard things first.
4. The Unfinished: last things first.
5. The Unfulfilling: dull things first.

Paul exemplifies a leader who focused on the Ultimate everyday. how about us? how about me?

i have a tendency to do the loud things first, and even sometimes, dull things first.

so what can i do?

as suggested by john c. maxwell.,

1. Work on yourself. -You are your greatest asset or liability.
2. Work on your priorities. -Fight for the important ones.
3. Work in your strengths. -You can reach your potential if you do.
4. Work with your colleagues. -You can't be effective alone.

great life lessons to learn from Paul.

going a little cross-eyed with doing up the darebin blog. but praise God, at least what was supposed to be put on it turned out readable. haha. hope to add more stuff along the way! a stepping stone!

check us out @ www.hopedarebin.blogspot.com

i promise you i have decided and am convicted today that IT is not my stuff. i seriously think that i have not much of a "rapport" to say with htmL, xmL, or whatever Ls. haha. i hate it when it goes out of alignment and they tell me that the codes are "not closed properly". WHAT's not close properly; WHERE's not close properly, i have no idea! haha. man. i need some dummies course.

but anw, praise Him. it manage to fall into some alignment somehow.

now i shall go do something else- cutting the pork belly into cubes as instructed by Atom, and marinate them. so she can cook tmr's church dinner. haha

now, that's another task i think i will take a long long time. hmmm.

with God, all things are possible. -matthew 19:26.

yea, amen. haha.

Something about worship.

"The authenticity of worship resides not in the composer of a song, but rather in the heart of the singer”-Batsirai Chada

how true.

i say,

the authenticity of worship resides not in the composer of a song (or worship leader, christian artistes etc.) , but rather in the heart of the worshipper.

i stumbled upon shenteng's and peiru's blog on missions. was previously on a sleepy mode, and when i viewed their testimony online, i am so touched by their hearts to do something great for Jesus!

and i went on to read their blog- chronicles of ecuador. Christ is indeed working in their lives over there, and using them greatly to impact the south americans!

and of course, their support and encouragement for each other in Christ's work! sweet!

the verse peiru quoted spoke heaps too- 2 Cor 12

9But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

You are my delight!

we were walking across the road aft lifegroup at uni a couple days ago, and the university security van drove past us.

and it read "obama university"

novel ways to communicate the news. :)

this song just came to my mind as i quieten my heart for the night.

honestly, i havent listened to this song since the time i went to penang, which was a year and half ago.

you-tubed it. and saw how mel greene sang for this. and it's almost like she is preaching it to me that yes, life now is so uncertain and fragile. we need to share to our loved ones, that they really need to know that they have an opportunity to taste and see, the love of His. and He is more than a story, more than words on the page, of history.

and truly. this song is my prayer for the night.

Avalon- Everything to me.

I grew up in Sunday school
I memorized the Golden rule
And how Jesus came to set the sinner free
I know the story inside out
I can tell you all about
The path that led Him up to Calvary
But ask me why He loves me
And I don't know what to say
But i'll never be the same
Because he changed my life when He became...

Everything to me
He's more than a story
more than words on a page of history
He's the air that I breathe
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
He's everything, everything to me

We're living in uncertain times
And more and more I find that i'm aware
Of just how fragile life can be
I want to tell the world I've found
A love that turned my life around
They need to know that they can taste and see
Now everyday I'm praying
Just to give my heart away
I want live for Jesus
So that someone else might see that He is...

Everything to me
He's more than a story
more than words on a page of history
He's the air that I breathe
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
He's everything
And looking back over my life at the end
I'll go to meet you saying you've been...

You're everything to me
You're more than a story
More than words on a page of history
You're everything to me
You're more than a story
More than words on a page of history
You're the air that I breath
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
You're everything to me
Lord, you're everything to me

birthday came; and birthday went. nevertheless, it marked an important journey for me. and it was a good and simple time. i enjoyed it.

i think the year as a 22 was probably the life's greatest learning lessons so far- of course, i know that there will be more along the way. it's a year filled with so much challenges, excitement, laughter, and definitely tears.

and so now. looking forward to a growing 23.

anyway, i thank the Lord for such a journey. couldnt ask for more.

i had a rather happy day today. i think a simple life, is quite a fulfilling life on its own. went to the supermart, browsed through Word, got home for dinner, watched amazing race and news.

listening: mark schultz- walking her home.

i finally bought his cd. i have thought about it for a whole year. haha. o well. :) no regrets.

5 days ago- i was battling with the coldest night of all at 5degrees. i squirmed in the bed and had sore muscles.

5 days later- i was still battling with the weather, the hottest at 30degrees.

man, when will it come to a nice equilibrium! haha.

my delight; You are my delight...

it's one of rhema's nightly lullabies. her room is just beside mine. and i listen to it almost every night.

read her bible today too. the children's one. was refreshing, colourful, and insightful. how great are the hands of those who pen and draw the bible with such creativity, simplicity, yet not losing it's full meaning.

from the bible, i finally could remember the names of the twelve disciples. haha. i am going around to ask people to name the 12 disciples now!

saw on shirley m's blog that a good laugh, a good sleep are the best cures in a doctor's book.

i think i am regressing bit, like an infant since i came back melb; i seem to need at least 10 hours of sleep before i feel kinda satisfied. 12 hours the best; but rare are those days.

and yeah, a gd laugh is what i need too. :))

was reading a devotional blog. and it was uplifting to the heart.

"garment of praise". from Isaiah 61:3

it was an entry of what are we clothing ourselves with day to day. we make decisions- major or minor every single day to choose what to put on on our physical body.

what about choosing what garment to put on, on our spiritual body?

Colossians 3:5

1Peter 5:5

my prayer, is that i'll be able to consistently clothe myself with a garment of praise, in every season, in every circumstance. amen.

Desert Song- Brooke Fraser, Hillsong.
This is my prayer in the desert
And all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in the hunger in me
My God is a God who provides

And this is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames

And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain

I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here

And this is my prayer in the battle
And triumph is still on it's way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand

All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow

blessed birthday suettty ho on children's day!!

The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever.

Psalms 19:8-9

not sure where i heard this or saw this from, but yea, it must have hit me loads when i saw/heard this cos i have hurriedly typed these words into my mobile and saved it in my drafts.

now clearing my drafts, reading this brings a renewal and refreshment to what 'community' means.

In a world of flawed communication, community is possible through understanding others.
In a world of painful alienation, community is created by accepting others.
In a world of broken trust, community is sustained by forgiveness...

isnt it powerful?

The Armor of God

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

can't say enough thanks to all friends. meet ups have been the most enjoyable for me. and a mini impromptu tour around KKH today was great too. thanks hannah ceyu and steph! :))

you guys know who you are, and truly appreciate the friendships and the time spent!

and of cos, not to forget the very very advanced birthday surprise. that was reaallllyyy coolll. :)

being singaporeans, all farewells comes with foooddd. and i have been very much stuffed with food for the past week especially. great delight!

some more packing to go. once again, it's so surreal. i must truly say, i have enjoyed my bit of time much with family. and it's a period of time that i think i've truly spent time with every family member. and so of cos, it makes it harder to bear the thought of going away from home tmr.

o. i shall stop thinking. shall shower. pack up the last bit. sleep.

and how i pray my nose will stop runninnngggg. amen. :)

and a pic of grad last fri w the folks! :) (haha. dad's actually much kinder than what he looks on photos!!)

yesterday, my dad did something small in surprise that actually brought tears to my eyes. i was extremely touched by the simple love of a father.

and just as i was pondering about life- ups, downs, challenges and celebrations, i really must admit that there's more to life than what currently meets the eyes.

before i snoozed off in bed, i was reminded of this chapter in matthew:

Ask, Seek, Knock

7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

as i was being updated about the lives of some friends, and seeing how strong they are still in Christ despite what i deem big obstacles in faith, i praise the Lord for such people in my life. i can so see Christ in them.

praise the Lord, and i know that the Lord's protection and guidance willl always be on them.

i often dream dreams. but honestly, i dont often remember the dreams that i dreamt.

but i remembered vividly a tiny part of my dream yesterday. before i heard my mum's voice to wake me up.

i was in this building that looked contemporary. as i walked in, i can't help but to see that at the front of the place, it had a cross, and the three digits of 3 on it. it was either "3:33" or "33:3", i can't remember. but anw. it was as if it was some sharing going on in the place; i can't remember what was shared, but all i remember was a sense of peace, and calmness as i sat in that place with others.

i woke up, and as i brushed my teeth and ate my breakfast, i was thinking of this scene. when i entered the train, i just decided to say a simple prayer, and to spend a lil time on the connect journal.

i was on day 2, which was talking about fanning the flame of the gift of God in our lives. Jeremiah 1:11-19 shares about him receiving his first vision from God, and he is able to interpret it. It further shares that God does not only empower us with gifting and anointing, He also encourages us to walk in our specific calling.

so a snippet of my personal response to the questions of the devotional went like this:

? community welfare

• to have spirit of love, compassion. enduring spirit.

? pw/ intercessory
? restoration ministry?- spirit of compassion...

just as i wanted to close up the bible and connect journal, thought about the dream again. thought of jeremiah 33:3, since i am currently on jeremiah.

an all time m&m: 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'

not an unfamiliar verse, but certainly, this time round, i felt a deep prompting within me to just pray and mull over the Word, since the Word is already so clear- 'call to me.'

honestly, i dont know what i ought to pray for. not that there's nothing that i want to pray about; maybe there are simply so many that i dont know where to start. the thought of Him telling me 'great and unsearchable things' that i do not know excites me, cos it's so true, there's so much about everything that i always find myself having no answers to. and i am assured by His Word, that as we call to Him, He will find most pleasure in answering us, and talking to us.

as i flipped the pages to read on chapter 33, it was a passage on the promise of restoration on jerusalem from the Lord to jeremiah! how timely!

you know, i haven had this great sense of confidence that it's a direct Word from the Lord to me for quite a while. so, with this time, there was overwhelming sense of comfort within me. in my walk with Christ, as i read the Word, there were occasional struggles to have greater faith to claim what i read, to acknowledge that the Word is for me. everytime, i got to go on and confess to the Lord that i really need mustard seeds of faith to trust that my Lord is a personal Lord, that He will speak to me just like how He spoke to the people in the Bible of the old testament.

and i know that the Lord has never given up on me for this. :)

of cos, it may seem like life are full of coincidences, like i dreamt this, and i flipped to that, here and there. but i always remember something that's shared by someone before-: coincidences are God's ways of remaining anoynomous.

all i know is that everything that's being placed in our lives adds to the bigger picture of our lifetime. i've encountered great things today; similarly, i was really upset over an incident. i took really, really long to get over it, in fact.

but i praise the Lord for the great things, and for the encounter with this particular stranger. i give thanks for them (not easy thou. haha. i am still human.). but i am really convicted that God has purposed them, and there's a season and reason for everything that's happened. amen.

was listening to some praise and worship songs on my lappie, and yea, the process of just listening and singing along or humming does wonders to the soul! ptl!

heard that the Supernatural Service at Darebin was powerful! Peter Truong is visiting the melbourne churches and he had spent some time with the student group over the week. Praise God for the students with great faith to invite people in need of healing from the uni! Praise the Lord for the healings of the visitors!

and of cos i know Carl must be jumping up and down for his finger- bet his young faith has further been touched by the grace and healing of Christ!

the upcoming weeks will be tight ones with all the meet-ups once more. and doing some shopping around. haha. i think for food factor, i have fulfilled much already; meeting up friends factor- still have plenty to go. shopping factor- fair- window shopped most of the time; movies factor- fail- i think i only caught 2 so far since i returned. :(

ok. so my goal is to catch some more movies, get some decent shopping done for my needs, and meet up more friends over food. haha.

oh, and i am slowly becoming a mini couch potato. (maybe thats why i am not really getting myself out to movies nowadays?) tears of the sun that was on tv ytd was fab. i mean, how bad can shows with bruce willis get? :) it spoke to me a lot about compassion. strange, but yes, compassion. a war movie, all military, but the power of the compassionate heart of a doctor that led the leader of military group to make decisions that goes in line with his conscience- that is to save one if they can save one.

i love the moral of the whole show; the only element required for evil to triumph, is for the good to do nothing.

similarly perhaps, the only element required for the world to not experience the love of Christ, is for the followers of Christ to do nothing.

if you can save one, save one.

now-

• going to catch project RUNWAY on channel 5!!!!!

tomorrow-

• Data entry @church office.
• "UNVEIL" @ nexus; a superstar contest of the young adults in church! catch the talents!

OK! PROJECT RUNWAY NOW!

working in the airport has enabled me to meet with people of all walks.

i've learnt a common lesson, that is; appreciation.

it may be appreciation of gifts, of things, of service, of people, of facilities, but really, there's so much to thank God for by just living around in Singapore.

was just having my break one night, and i sat near where the boarding lounge was. eating my siew mai, i just sat down and gazed at the aircraft. It was an aircraft that was preparing to take on passengers in a while's time. suddenly, as i peered harder, i saw many many people walking around near the aircraft.

it dawned upon me, they were the aunties and uncles who were cleaning up late in the night, with bags and bags of trash that they carried down the stairs.

i dont know if that day i was emo or what, but i just thought of "unsung heros". I mean, maybe these things are not considered heroric, but they are the "backstage" peeps who contributes largely to make your flight a pleasant one.

and they work in the darkness where no one sees (unless you happen to be eating siew mai peering through the glass panels like me..).

just like any occasion, the people unseen are often easily forgotten, aint they? like backstage peeps, planners for a party etc etc.

even as i took the whole break just relishing four siew mais and watching them work, i know that Holy Spirit was speaking to me about groups of people in life and how we have not seen them at work, how we have taken them for granted, and how we have forgotten to thank them for their great contributions in your personal life.

what a time to meet with God tonight under the sky. it was awesome.

i thank the Lord for ministering to me through the words of this particular song.

you-tubed. and chanced upon this keyboardist who worshipped the Lord with this song. what a personal and powerful time of worship.

i yearn to grow in my personal worship to the Lord.

Complete
Parachute Band

Here I am, Oh God
I bring this sacrifice- my open heart.
I offer up my life.
I look to You, Lord
Your love that never ends
Restores me again

So I lift my eyes to You, Lord
In Your strength will I break through, Lord
Touch me now, let Your love fall down on me
And I will be complete in You.

Here I am, Oh God
I bring this sacrifice- my open heart.
I offer up my life.
I look to You, Lord.
Your love that never ends
Restores me again

So I lift my eyes to You Lord
And by faith, I will walk on, Lord
Then I'll see beyond my calvary one day,
And I will be complete in..

I look to You, Lord
Your love that never ends
Restores me again

So I lift my eyes to you Lord
In your strength will I breakthrough Lord
Touch me now, let Your love fall down on me
I know Your love dispels all my fears.

Through the storm I will hold on Lord
And I pray I will hold on, Lord
Then I'll see beyond my calvary one day
And I will be complete in
I will be complete in
I will be complete in You

saw sis's msn nick:

" Your 'I.Can' is more important than your 'I.Q.' "

today was a fruitful day. will share more about insights from the lesson learnt from the course by campus crusade.

but for now; for tonight. i shall do what i need to do to be on balance again.

all to You Lord.

and shall sleep it off.

good night.

4 life lessons i've learnt today :) ;

1. advertisement can either direct you, or mislead you. lesson learnt: power of accurate advertisement.

2. to always be aware AND meet the needs of others; be sensible, be sensitive, be observant, apply clinical knowledge learnt; man with symptoms of parkinson's with fine motor issues who won a mini luggage combination lock. displays difficulties in fine motor manipulation and handwriting issues. finally clicked within me that should have changed the gift to something that he may enjoy better; which we did change for him in the end. and he enjoyed the bag way better than the lock. lesson learnt: an occ.therapist in life; not in name. striving to allow others to enjoy maximum quality of life according to their abilities!

3. "a gift is a gift". gift defined as something that is bestowed voluntarily and unconditional. hence, in essence, no better gift than another. "a gift is a gift". a gift is only "better" when you know how to appreciate it at its value, and understanding the principle of that we have it though we did not earn it, or perhaps, we didn't even deserve it. lesson learnt: always be grateful, and full of thanksgiving- and you will enjoy life to its worth.

4. a smile is a common language, despite language barriers. lesson learnt: smile more and you will never go wrong. when it goes wrong, it's probably we've being stingy with our smiles.

what powerful lessons are there in life, praise the Lord! how creative is the Lord, to always teach and guide with the H.S., using all circumstances.

yearning for more lessons everyday.

current two favourite everyday past-times;

1. people-watching in the airport transits and terminal everyday.
2. of course, the ever eyeball-peeling olympics.

and series of happenings have stirred within me a great sense of thanksgiving.

Praise Him for His unfailing faithfulness.

fr left: yupy (think i spelt it wrong!), irene, kelly, meagan, CN, ben, christine, tian tian, mx, lucy!

this is JEDI 1. :) the caregroup that i've been with for the past weeks.

it's an interesting mix of peeps fr all over- indo, hongkong, m'sians and of cos, s'poreans.

and it has been great time sharing lives with them. i thank God for their open hearts and united desire to see JEDI shine for Jesus.

p/s. a special thanks to kelly. our chat at maxwell market- i knew it was fr the Lord to me. thanks for your sincere and open heart. i sense it and it's an inspiration to me. :)

thank you Lord.

and last by not least!

we rejoice with loges! (thou apparently unimelb does not have motarboards to throw in the air as a symbol of celebration. haha).

Dear Lord,
Please bless these graduates
as they go out into the world
to make it a better place,
while they pursue their dreams.
Gently guide them, lead them,
show them Your way to success and happiness
through service to others,
as they maximize their own potential.
Fill them with joy when they reach their goals.
Strengthen them, as they deal with life's obstacles,
and show them that every challenge
is a path to character development.
Give them the intelligence
to make a plan for their futures.
Give them the patience and persistence
to pursue their ambitions.
Most of all, give them caring hearts
to look for ways to help the people they meet
on their life's journey.
Encourage them and lift them up now,
as they spread their wings
into a clear sky of limitless opportunity.
Let each and every graduate here
be wrapped in the warmth of Your infinite love,
and let Your wisdom show them the way
to make the most of their lives.
In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

By Joanna Fuchs

seeing this at google reminds me!

08 08 08 at 8pm- OLYMPICS GRAND OPENING!

directed by zhang yimouuu!

olympics! more gymnastics, more swimming, more tabletennis!

on a sidenote,

PTL for jack's and kyle's salvation at lifegroup! go go la trobbeeeeee!

pray and fast; fast and pray!

check out this blog on singapore's playgrounds by an occupational therapist.

Room full of Fun!

there's more to playgrounds than what meets the eyes! :)

destination.

Philippians 3-4

devotion. decision. destination.

will get there!

thanks liyan for your three 'I's! :)

Impact. Impart. Influence.

going to take a good shower. and sleep early!

night was great. :) thanks shannon shera enghow. shera shares her auditing job's ups and downs; shannon shares US time; enghow shares about cells growth. HAHA. and coupled with the lamest-of-the-century jokes. man. but i like it! haha. awaiting photo!

****

want to re-cap on what Jasmine shared in service last sat. a wonderful msg on servanthood leadership of Jesus, from Matthew 20:25-28.

"25Jesus 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, 27and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

1. Consider the popular view of greatness (v25)
Leadership is top-down
Consider position, consider power

Deut 28:13.
What's the underlying motivation?
Job 24:1
Matthew 19

2. Discover God's view of greatness! (v26-28)
Others-centred stewardship

(a) Begins with a cause
Galatians 5:13-14
We serve because we love!
We love because He loves us first!

(b) involves a sacrifice
Acts 4:32
1 Chronicles 29:2-3

(c) Leads to life!
Be a channel instead of a reservoir!

So, be a great steward that God has made you to be today! :)

oo. calling the bursary awardees of Hope Centre has been interesting. :)

while i am still very in touch with my mandarin, the grandma that requested me to speak hokkien or teochew caught me off-guard! rusty rusty ah! haha where has the built-up dialects from clinicals gone to!

i could only say basics of my name, when is the ceremony, where, how many people and the basic "thank-you". anything else, i just masked up my incompetence with some nervous laughter and saying "tio tio" (yes yes) to her active questions. haha!

nevermind. practice makes perfect.

oooo. and challenge 2. a mother asked me if i could speak melayu!

sedikit sedikit! hahaa.

heard about the story of The Golden Goose by Hans Christian Anderson before?

was at the library yesterday, and one of the books that i borrowed made a reference to this childhood story.

a simple story, but a timeless message. The poor farmer had the goose laying one golden egg for him everyday, and he soon became prosperous and life was well. However, due to his impatience, he decided to cut up the goose one day in hope to get all the golden eggs at once.

of course, not only did he not get any eggs, he lost the golden goose due to the moment of foolishness and impatience.

i recall the moral of the story that i learnt as a child. it was to teach us about greed. not to be greedy; and to be happy with what you are blessed with.

now when i read this again, what spoke to me seems to be 'patience'. the momentary impatience can get the better of us, and we try to be in control of our lives, as if we know best. we speed-rush the process and do what we think is right, when very often, His ways are higher than our ways.


let the hustle and bustle of life be the training field of patience and perseverance!

and, we are more than blessed. :)

SIS-ticide?

HAHA. my sister is looking for it.

HAHAHA. its good therapy to drive my sis to the wall some times.

but just in case it appears that she is the victim; she is doing the same to me too; she has played the song rainbow connection on her laptop for the zillionth time!

sometimes, feels good to do stupid things and laugh together.

BEHOLD, I AM THE LORD, THE GOD OF ALL FLESH. IS
THERE ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR ME?
( JEREMIAH 32:27 *NKJV )

WATCH, STAND FAST IN THE FAITH, BE
BRAVE, BE STRONG. LET ALL THAT YOU DO BE DONE
WITH LOVE. ( 1 CORINTHIANS 16:13-14 )

amen!

blessed first birthday to baby rhema!

ah, i miss her; the joyful baby, with her ever-snorty nose. :) she will grow to be a Godly and fine ladyyyy :)

and birthday girls ahead- pris and reg! :) of cos, not as young as a single digit like rhema. haha.

anw, pleasantly surprised by kok how's email of the photos that we took eonnnns ago! i totally forgot about it. and now looking at the photo, its interesting. for one, this group is really eclectic. i dont know how we all got together for a movie that night! haha!

call that, movie-watching beyond boundaries? haha, or maybe serving-the-Lord-together beyond boundaries!

interesting interesting :)

thanks kok how for the phots!

today's e-devotional. so apt.

NOW THIS IS THE CONFIDENCE THAT WE HAVE IN HIM,
THAT IF WE ASK ANYTHING ACCORDING TO HIS WILL, HE
HEARS US. AND IF WE KNOW THAT HE HEARS US,
WHATEVER WE ASK, WE KNOW THAT WE HAVE THE
PETITIONS THAT WE HAVE ASKED OF HIM.
( 1 JOHN 5:14-15 *NKJV )

Dear Mingxiu,
We often find ourselves to busy to stop and say a prayer
when we have a rough day. In this life everything seems like
it has to be accomplished A.S.A.P. So we often forget to
speak to God in prayer about it before we react.

Therefore one must remember that; THE PRAYER OF A
RIGHTEOUS MAN IS POWERFUL AND EFFECTIVE!.
( JAMES 5:16 *NIV ) More powerful and more effective than
anything else on this Earth, even when we must react
As Soon As Possible.

Now Mingxiu, have you ever wondered about the
abbreviation A.S.A.P.? Generally we think of it in terms
of even more hurry and stress in our lives. Maybe if we
think of this abbreviation in a different manner, we will
begin to find a new way to deal with those rough days
along the way...

So when.......
There's work to do, deadlines to meet;
You've got no time to spare,
But as you hurry and scurry-
ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER

In the midst of family chaos,
"Quality time" is rare.
Do your best; let God do the rest-
ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.

It may seem like your worries
Are more than you can bear.
Slow down and take a breather-
ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER

God knows how stressful life is;
He wants to ease our cares,
And He'll respond to all your needs
A.S.A.P. - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.
- God's Minute

Something better!

congratulations to the graduates! prayer- that we can shine for Him in our respective professions! be it healthscience, engineering or even teaching. let's be key spokes of influence!

today- a not so great day. there were mixed emotions and i really got to sit up and take captive of every negative thought that yearns to seize me. of course, i did my fine share of whining and wallowing in self-pity for some time. my time-out period. settled some angry feelings over some correspondence with an organisation and attempt to think sanely again. 2 Cor 10:5b. o well.

i am sad, nonetheless. cos, i am a little lost.

but again, after that sadness, i am strong-er. cos, let me just learn from this and move on. and keep trying.

i was reminded of Romans 8:28, again. All things work together for our good. for my good, for those who love Him.

yes 'it is done'. shall just prick my ears up to His voice to see how it shall all lead to.

praise the Lord.

praise the Lord too, for tuition assignment tmr, and to help out in Hope Centre's busary-interview, and to visit celestine's cg for some co-sharing on thurs.

praise the Lord!

The Bible is a harp with a thousand strings. Play on one to the exclusion of its relationship to the others, and you will develop discord. Play on all of them, keeping them in their places in the divine scale, and you will hear heavenly music all the time.

--William P. White

mediating on the Word of God at its fullness and wholeness.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work..."
2 Timothy 3:16-17.

was a fruitful day.

the japanese place at cathay was pretty novel. it was interesting to place orders by picking up the sticks. creative- makes normal meals interesting. glad to satisfy yet another craving- cold soba. and i got to eat my favourite chawanmushi and soft shell crab. feeling satisfied. thanks deb for the treat! :) unexpected visitor eh. good to catch up again. somethings dont change! haha.

i love these times of chats. no agenda, but just chat. i like.

also had some random bumpings into people. and just stop and talk. and derek. as he welcomes me back, i am waving him goodbye for US. haha.

service presented surprises too. was pleasantly surprised when i saw carrie co-leading praise and worship with meihwa. :)) great team effort! was ministering.

wenjiang preached today, from Psalms 25:16-18.

shall summarise what i've learnt.

Coping with Loneliness

• 2 primary types of loneliness- Loneliness in relationships; Loneliness in cause.
• Quantity of contact with people is not equivalent to the quality.

1. Look to God for His grace (v16)

v16- Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.

• When continually meeting the needs of others, have you neglected receiving from others?
• or do you lack people giving Godly advice on what to do?

To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul;

2 in you I trust, O my God.
Do not let me be put to shame,
nor let my enemies triumph over me.

3 No one whose hope is in you
will ever be put to shame,
but they will be put to shame
who are treacherous without excuse. - Psalms 25:1-3

• Key: Acknowledge these needs that are within us! Be vulnerable about them to the Lord!

• E.g King David was very aware of his needs.
  
• 'Unless you go the Lord with a need, He cannot meet your needs.'

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. -Matthew 11:28

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."- Hebrews 13:5

Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.- James 4:8

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.-Galatians 6:9

• Sometimes, loneliness is a call to go to the Lord.

For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.- Psalms 72:12

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. -1 Peter 5:72.

2. Look to God for His help (v17)
v 17-The troubles of my heart have multiplied; free me from my anguish.

• Compare: Worldly solutions and Godly solutions
• What's your method of coping with loneliness? God? Man?
• Acid Test: Who do we go to for our needs to be met?

3. Look to God for His salvation (v18)
v18- Look upon my affliction and my distress and take away all my sins.

• Among causes of loneliness, one of which is- sin
• Sin causes us to withdraw from community
  

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. -Psalms 139:23-24

:)

the WOG is ever-rich, and a simple verse breathes life. :)

time to rest!

anw, random!- elva is on tv now! i rarely admire artistes. but she is one of them that i notice. though her voice's just so-so, she has a lovely attitude, pleasant disposition and i simply love her groove! :)


-segolssimi.

perfect satisfaction in fulfilling cravings for hotpots. had 2 in mere 2 days.

and had great catch-ups.

but. no more hotpots for the time being. haha! :) moderation is key.

anyway, some random thoughts that excite me:

1. national day celebrations!
2. OLYMPICS!! 080808! huat ah! hahaha!
3. mum's birthday!

loges doing gym. sis doing gym. everyone's gymming. man, i need discipline to start exercising too!

be fit physically. be fit mentally. be fit emotionally. be fit spiritually.

dinner with shera was a great time.

simple, yet the time spent was special. shared heart, and shared life. and it warms my heart to see how far we've come.

she was the one who brought me to know God. and i am thankful for her step of faith! and we've been through much tog, though in between we were serving in different groups and places, but at the end of it all, i rejoice in my soul and heart, that we are still in the race tog.

go go shera!

so much on my heart, that i've no idea how to express them in clarity. all i know, what i am feeling at the moment is purely- thankful.

The Lord is good; His LOVE endures forever!

HE is good; He's above all things; His LOVE endures forever!

despite unsettling circumstances, there's a deep sense of confidence and peace. and i rejoice. i rejoice that, I have a loving God who is for me, who looks after me.

and He expresses His love through people and circumstances. blessed.

doing some checks of circumstances that happened in my life. i can only say i am just really grateful in learning the beauty of surrendering.

when my eyes were least focused on my wants, God took care of my needs. He blessed in ways I cannot see. He healed the pain, and made the broken whole.

there were some things on my agenda which i purposefully left unchecked a year ago. the reason that they were left unchecked were not much to do with spiritual reasons, i hasten to admit; it was simply cos i have no idea how to move those situations on. i have cried over them i have questioned Him for answers and i have battled with the loneliness in those times.

but the saving grace of all was the clarity of one eternal agenda in my mind. no matter how much tantrum i can throw in my quiet time; i can sulk cry be bitter and pout, i can never run away from the grace and love that God has unconditionally lavished.

you know, today even as i relooked at what i have left unchecked, there was immense peace. i did not look back with a sense of dismay and nostalgia; i looked back as i reminisce and smiled- i truly smiled. i was surprised. it had no foothold in me. there's freedom.

that's what makes me so convicted about freedom in surrendering. cos i've tasted it. and like the song by Avalon, it's sweet surrender.

All belongs to You.

Gracias A Dios!

amen.

bond of a Father and son.

how's my bond between my father and me?

how's my bond between my Father in Heaven and me?

:)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cS596VsNEOE

Father's love.

*

how audible is the voice of my father in my heart?

how audible is the voice of my Father in heaven in my heart?

*

this week, heard romans 8:28 thrice- through devotional; through a worship song on sat; through a person's blog entry whose blog i've never visited before, expounding on romans 8:28.

Romans 8:28 (Amplified Bible)

28We are assured and know that [^[a]God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.

'We give thanks

We give praise

For we know, that all things work together for our good

We give thanks

We give praise

For by faith

We know Your grace, will see us through...'

sis and friends' education centre- opened early in march this year. haha i have a hard time pronouncing the name though.

Educelogy. Read E-Duce-Logy.

looking forward to have a look this thurs. :) know that sis has been working hard on this, (and even as i'm typing this, she's hard at work on setting assignment papers).

so anyone needs secondary or jc tuition? hahahas!

try Educelogy's clinical sessions!! :)

http://www.educelogy.com/AboutEducelogy.htm

greetings from sg, at 5.51pm. :)

so odd- the sky's still bright and blue at 5+. and streets are still bustling with people.

i guess the peeps in melb are having their weekly JG meetings at atom's. haha.

so far, so great. flight was delayed for a terrible 5 hours, nevertheless, it was compensated for the fact that we each received 40bucks food vouchers. and also, made friend with a patu pahat auntie too while waiting. so we were each other's company; chatting, buying almost the whole of starbucks food with our combined 80 bucks voucher, and helping one another to guard bags while the other goes to the restroom. how true, that two are better than one!

but the flight back was tiring. i could barely open my eyes by the time i boarded the plane. guess the only times i have had them open are during meals.

it is great to be welcomed home again! blessed to have everything prepared and ready when i got back. and a special thanks to my sis. haha. she is exceptionally helpful. HMMM. haha. settled my internet connection, and helped me with my stucked luggage lock, played me a song that she learnt on the elec piano, and organised a tuition assignment for me to make some time useful for me. hmmm. one year apart is good stuff. haha!

still trying to get used to the fact that i am alr in sg. the weather, the currency- the sg coin of 10-cents suddenly feels v small-sized. and trying to get some rest- a bit groggy from bad sleep on the flight.

all else, all good. :)

was planning to catch some sleep at least.

but the match is between nadal and federer! and their points are really close!

hope that i can get some good sleep on the plane tmr. :)

looking forward to- breakfast time, and the trip back to home! it's about time to be home for this break, although i will miss much of melb too!

how exciting! :))

ytd's worship prac was different. and i truly appreciated it.

it was a worship prac turned prayer+intercessory time for the church. and it was truly a blessed time.

the word spoken to me hit me. and it really cut my heart. i know its true, so true, and i can't help but cry out to Him once again. and i am so touched by His love and comfort.

one of the best gifts that you can really provide for anyone is prayer, and being a messenger of God's word to them.

a growth-point would be, to share in love despite ppl's rejection of the Word. like Jeremiah the prophet.

honestly, i have been worn-out by the disappointments sometimes. just like the word shared, sometimes i feel as though i am being attacked by flaming arrows. and it hurts bad.

but am encouraged to know that as long as we continue to walk in His way, we are armoured with His shield of protection. and will be better equipped for the next battle. march onwards as soldiers of Christ. no fear, and march on.

praying on- reminded of His word that we just need to focus our eyes on what is excellent in His eyes, be innocent of evil as far as we can. Romans 16:19.

"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... "Philippians 4:19

amen.

In matters of style, swim with the current
In matters of principle, stand like a rock
– Thomas Jefferson

Shepherd of my soul

Shepherd of my soul I give you full control,
Wherever You may lead I will foll-ow.
I have made the choice to listen for Your voice,
Wherever You may lead I will go.

Be it in a quiet pasture or by a gentle stream,
The Shepherd of my soul is by my side.
Should I face a mighty mountain or a valley dark and deep,
The Shepherd of my soul will be my guide.

Shepherd of my soul Oh You have made me whole,
Where’er I hear You call how my tears flow.
How I feel your love how I want to se-rve
I gladly give my heart to You O – Lord.

Be it in the flowing river or in the quiet night,
The Shepherd of my soul is by my side.
Should I face the stormy weather or the dangers of this world.
The Shepherd of my soul will be my guide.

heard of this song once last year in one of the prayer meetings, and the lyrics really ministered.

Psalm 23:2
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

***

as i pack my room, a huge sense of reflections just came over me. i dont know why. flashbacks of the past year just keep coming back. the good, the tough, the joy, the tears. and all of it are really emotive stuff.

maybe it's night.

maybe they are growth that are really close to my heart.

randomly, was just reminded of this story once more-


One day, God handed two people a piece of blank paper and told them to write in that piece of paper what they wanted Him to do.

The first one wrote a list of things that he wanted God to do. The second one wrote nothing.

Nothing? Nothing!

Both handed the piece of paper to God. God asked the second "My child, why didn’t you write anything?"

The second answered, “God, I've left it blank for you to tell me what you want me to do.”

i think i am an understudy of 'karang-guni'.

how did i manage to have so many papers and stuff in just one year! hahas.

anyway, it was also a joy to do some spring cleaning. found cards that people wrote a year ago here and there and everywhere. and each time i see one, it warms my heart to read them again.

i even felt like crying reading some. it touched my heart, and spoke to me right here right now. i'm amazed, how timely these words of kindness and encouragement can come. God knows when i need them.

thanks for all the encouragement. and all your prayers.

i know that i have been held stronger cos of you guys praying and remembering me.

true enough, i can't thank Him enough for placing me here, and surrounding me with people and friends to sharpen one another in Christ.

back to basics:- i recalled how i simply trusted, and how He answered.

so i know for sure, there's no rush- when i trust, He guides. and He will do so ever beautifully.

journey of faith for the past year.

in ministries-
p+w; prayer and intercessory.

in heart-
great joy in His providence, and greater capacity to love even when i know it can be hurting sometimes. still fail time to time. Maybe He is teaching me more about the Father's heart of unconditional love.

in character-
growing in strength and resilience; at the same time, increase dependence on the Lord.

in family-
grew in appreciation of what my family has done to love me in ways that i do not see in the past. the quiet love. and their quiet discipline that shapes me. thank you Lord for blessing me with them, for them setting a great example so that i may follow.

in friendships-
am thankful for all the friendships forged. and they are going stronger, and sturdier. i rejoice in them, cos i know the connection of it all is Christ. the unbreakable link and bond.

in leadership-
always awed by the servanthood-leadership of eric+atom. i know that God will add onto them more and more, and MORE for the KOG! Praise God for baby rhema too; i look forward to serving the Lord with her.

in household-
have been a great memory living in Southern Rd with the sg girls. i'm glad that we have spent the year together. a huge contribution to my personal growth and i enjoyed the times of sharings and living, and all the tears and joy.

in you-
i can't say enough. you are a beautiful creation in the Lord, and i look up to you. thanks for bearing me in love and sharing with me all that you have.

praise You Lord, for all things.

nearly fell off the chair when i saw this on- the ever-used Facebook.

HAHA.

brought back good memories thou. :) the table-tennis days. and the coach i love-chen wen.

thats why i always treasure the bat i have. thou its old and cracky, but its a gift from her. used in her glorious days as she said. hahas.

HAHA. looking at the photo, many things change, but one thing seems to remain constant..

my skin colour. :))

This post from Jeana over at the blog Days to Come is enjoyable. :) and it's encouraging.

enjoy. :)

Things that Don't Make Sense to Me

1. How having four children quadrupled the love I have for my kids instead of dividing it into four.

2. How focusing on meeting my husband's needs results in my needs getting met.

3. Why having a lot of "me" time tends to make me more self-centered, not less.

4. Why serving other people makes me more content, not less.

5. How spending time with God usually results in me accomplishing more that day, not less.

6. Why exercising gives me more energy, and not exercising makes me more tired.

7. How submitting to God's will brings freedom rather than confinement.

8. Why things that taste good often are not good for me.

9. Why having fewer things makes me enjoy them more--and vice versa.

10. How I can know all of these things are true and too often behave as though they are not

water baptism tmr! :) carl and agnes; alice and binod! praise the Lord!

my first time to witness baptism in a bathtub. contextualised! winter's too cold for outside.

so praise the Lord! Baptism is not dependent on the seasons and not just reserved for sunny summer!

work was great today. rhema was around, with lukie too. i love them. the child-like disposition of each child.

praying they will grow up, strong and healthy- physically and spiritually. can't wait to see rhema taking steps!

her 1st birthday's soon. :)

how time flies.

Proverbs 23

12 Apply your heart to instruction
and your ears to words of knowledge.

13 Do not withhold discipline from a child;
if you punish him with the rod, he will not die.

14 Punish him with the rod
and save his soul from death. ^[c]

15 My son, if your heart is wise,
then my heart will be glad;

16 my inmost being will rejoice
when your lips speak what is right.

17 Do not let your heart envy sinners,
but always be zealous for the fear of the LORD.

18 There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.

19 Listen, my son, and be wise,
and keep your heart on the right path.

20 Do not join those who drink too much wine
or gorge themselves on meat,

21 for drunkards and gluttons become poor,
and drowsiness clothes them in rags.

22 Listen to your father, who gave you life,
and do not despise your mother when she is old.

23 Buy the truth and do not sell it;
get wisdom, discipline and understanding.

24 The father of a righteous man has great joy;
he who has a wise son delights in him.

25 May your father and mother be glad;
may she who gave you birth rejoice!

26 My son, give me your heart
and let your eyes keep to my ways

last lap!- presentation of the research.

:) pray that it will be great!

i woke up feeling like the world around me spun a thousand times.

nausea. and fatigue.

and i slept for 10 hours already!

why is it still so bad.

low blood pressure?

i need to gulp water now.

last lap for the final assignment of uni. then final-year proj presentation. then uni's done. mind's a lil' boggled with how to put all the stuff into writing. but guess its praying for His wisdom and just do my best. partnership with Him.

and,

so surreal. it's almost a year.

tlp loaded some pics on facebook, and yeah, looking back, i've never really wrote about the peeps in cg much. time zooms here flies there. hahas.

freshman orientation in uni. :) at the back from left, eric- our 'boss' the darebin church coordinator, anth- the president of Campus christian movement, logan- the boss of student group hahas.. and in the front: tlp- the '19-year-old' housemate, maggie- the sacrificial and encouraging sister, suet- the 'sleeps-little-but-always-so-energetic housemate', and lastly me.

dinner after caregroup. :) guy in black with blue stripes on his arms- that's danny, the big guy who's a great cook.
and here's some more missing peeps. Simon right in the front- the faithful bro who can walk miles and miles. in clockwise, Carl- the new bro who's into looking at who got longer toes. Agnes in pink- a new sis in christ too, and an ever cheery energetic lady whose laughter is infectious. Chris- need not say more-she's awesome. and the guy between Anth and Eric, that's Leo, a new bro in Christ too who is doing his best to know the Lord. and will forever remember the classic deed he did when we asked for his prayer needs before he knew God. :"just help me say hello to God." :)

that's my family in student group. more to come of the church. :)

now, back to work. :)

muffin-top;

thank-you.

sacrificial and selfless.

learnt a great deal.

looking forward to what's ahead.

ahead, and ahead.

thank-you, and many more thank-yous.

just ate a mandarin orange that christine gave me randomly on wed.

as i ate, i was touched and reminded of the many things that she has done so far, that has greatly blessed my life.

thanks chris, you are a blessing to CCM, and your overcoming spirit in Christ, amazes me.

the prayer with you gripped my heart. the heartbeat for your people was so strong. and am so awed by your humility to surrender everything to God's hands.

and just like the orange, the fruits that you bear in your life are always so sweet, so peace-filled. :)

thank you chris.

"Dear Lord, please make my words sweet and gentle because tomorrow I may have to eat them"

- from a Business Comms textbk. :)


Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.- 1 Timothy 4:12

bought a good book at op shop at sunshine coast ytd for the flight back to melb.

'Not in the Common Mould'- about the life of a man David Lithgow, who went to empower people in Papua New Guinea.

was truly encouraged, cos firstly, Papua New Guinea is Hope Melb's inheritance; and secondly, his life possess so much that i can learn from. Diligence and single-mindedness were his mantra, and his humility and strength in Christ allowed God to use him wherever he went. Although circumstances were difficult, he was often blessed, cos he loved and he gave whatever he had.

anw, back fr the bris trip, and photos up when i get them! :) twas a great time shared with what God has created. Was reminded when i saw a church banner down at Gold Coast- Look Around, God is EVERYWHERE! it really shouted out to me, to give the nature around me a closer look, cos that's how God shouts His love and His presence to me.

3 weeks to home. :) am definitely upbeat, yet i have lots to leave behind for a moment during the time when i will be away. but it will be all good.

cos, absence always makes the heart fonder. :)

Heart's Heaven

Dear love- like velvet to my tired head,
Soft evening-tinted fragrant garden grove,
Soul, spirit thrown into the sweet still air,
To love and satisfy my own, Dear Love!
Cold earthy me, by call of love awoke,
I come, I take; nor yet not give to thee
Thine own, and mine; our spirits blended, one;
In warm, rich peace, my arid questing slaked.

-David Lithgow

count-down to gold coast;

a good time for a 'restoration' break (before we face what's ahead in the weeks to come); haha though its really unwise of us to plan it plonk in the middle of the craziness of school work.

but, thank God, it didn't clash with any of our major dates too. awesome.

am not so much looking forward to the worlds though, but really upbeat about the snorkelling at great barrier reef.

and just be away fr the cold melb and enjoy the warmth of sunny brissie.

flu, flu go away.

and all you in exams; i pledge to pray as i play.

saw this off a blog; check out this wedding dance.

bride in converse.

fun. ;)

at least, this made my night a lil' brighter. :)

be strong.

be stronger.

it will not be numbness i promise. it will just be a higher tolerance for the pain.

will get there. will get there.

Wait

Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried:
Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied.

I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate
And the Master so gently said, “Child, you must wait.”

“Wait? You say, wait!” my indignant reply.
“Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have You not heard?
By Faith, I have asked, and am claiming your Word.

My future and all to which I can relate
Hangs in the balance, and YOU tell me to WAIT?
I’m needing a ‘yes’, a go-ahead sign,
Or even a ‘no’ to which I can resign.

And Lord, You promised that if we believe
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.
And Lord, I’ve been asking, and this is my cry:
I’m weary of asking! I need a reply!”

Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
As my Master replied once again, “You must wait.”

So, I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut
And grumbled to God, “So, I’m waiting… for what?”

He seemed, then, to kneel, and His eyes wept with mine,
And He tenderly said, “I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens, and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead, and cause mountains to run.

All you seek, I could give, and pleased you would be.
You would have what you want – But, you wouldn’t know Me.

You’d not know the depth of My love for each saint;
You’d not know the power that I give to the faint;
You’d not learn to see through the clouds of despair;
You’d not learn to trust just by knowing I’m there.

You’d not know the joy of resting in Me
When darkness and silence were all you could see.
You’d never experience that fullness of love
As the peace of My Spirit descends like a dove;
You’d know that I give and I save… (for a start),
But you’d not know the depth of the beat of My heart.

The glow of My comfort late into the night,
The faith that I give when you walk without sight,
The depth that’s beyond getting just what you asked
Of an infinite God, who makes what you have LAST.

You’d never know, should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that ‘My grace is sufficient for Thee.’
Yes, your dreams for your loved one overnight would come true,
But, Oh, the Loss! If I lost what I’m doing in you!

So, be silent, My child, and in time you will see
That the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me.
And though oft’ may My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still, ‘WAIT.’”

~Author unknown

beautiful. stumbled upon this and it hit me. especially the part: All you seek, I could give, and pleased you would be. You would have what you want – But, you wouldn’t know Me...

and the final bit of all..:My most precious answer of all is still, ‘WAIT.’”

i thank You Lord for the stretching my heart, to experience Your love in pain; power when i was faint; and seeing You work despite times of despair; and trusting You during my down times and knowing You are there.

in my eyes, perhaps, the waiting has been over. and its great relief and joy. but somehow it just stirred within me and i had this impression, to continue to work hard and pray even harder to understand His heart- it's not over yet. wait, and the best is yet to be.

Praise God. and i rejoice in this!

thank-you Lord for this timely reminder to continue to do everything with You.

amen.

A devotional;


INCLINE YOUR EAR TO ME, AND COME TO ME. HEAR, AND
YOUR SOUL SHALL LIVE; AND I WILL MAKE AN EVER-
LASTING COVENANT WITH YOU.
( ISAIAH 55:3 *NKJV )

Dear Mingxiu,
Our Heavenly Father appears to us in many different ways, and
often we may not even notice.

Now it is written; WHEN HE UTTERS HIS VOICE--THERE IS
A MULTITUDE OF WATERS IN THE HEAVENS: "HE CAUSES
THE VAPORS TO ASCEND FROM THE ENDS OF THE EARTH;
HE MAKES LIGHTNING'S FOR THE RAIN; HE BRINGS THE
WIND OUT OF HIS TREASURIES." For; THE VOICE OF THE
LORD IS OVER THE WATERS; THE GOD OF GLORY
THUNDERS. ( Jer 51:16 ) & ( Ps 29:3 )

Now, Today's Message...

The man whispered, "God, speak to me," and a meadowlark
sang.

But, the man did not hear. So the man yelled, "God, speak to
me" and the thunder rolled across the sky.

But, the man did not listen. The man looked around and said,
"God let me see you." And a star shined brightly.

But the man did not see. And, the man shouted, "God show
me a miracle." And, a life was born.

But, the man did not notice. So, the man cried out in despair,
"Touch me God, and let me know you are here." Whereupon,
God reached down and touched the man. But, the man brushed
the butterfly away ...and walked on.

The man cried, "God, I need your help!" And an e-mail arrived
reaching out with good news and encouragement. But, the man
deleted it and continued crying.

I have found this to be a great reminder that God is always
around us in the little and simple things that we take for granted
.... even in our electronic age ...

So don't miss out on a blessing because it isn't packaged the
way that you expect.

My instructions were to send this to people that I wanted God
to bless and I picked you, Mingxiu. Please pass this to
people you want to be blessed as well.

Expect the unexpected...and Have A Happy Day!
---Author Unknown

Child Dementia.

http://www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/8.30/helthrpt/stories/s37727.htm


"..As time goes on and the brain begins to fail more and more seriously, it's possible for a child to be alive, but no longer to relate. And this is a very sad part, one of the tragedies of dementia is that you lose the child emotionally, and in your relationship with them, before you actually lose them physically. There are the four things that I think parents have to face. The first thing is they have to face that pervasive uncertainty, all the things that are so hard to understand, to know, because we know so little about it, even though we've known for a long time many of these different diseases.

The second thing is the disintegration of their humanity. When you've got a young child who you've come to love and know, and their personality, and then you watch that personality being dismantled, piece by piece, that disintegration process, and one parent said to me very clearly, she said, 'I feel like I'm falling apart, piece by piece.'

The third thing is that over all of this is the prolonged sense of the Damocles Sword hanging over the child. That is, everyone knows at some stage they're going to lose this child.

And the fourth thing is that many of these conditions are genetic. And so you may have more than one child affected. So you've gone through all this tragedy, and often you've already had your children by the time the first one's diagnosed, only to know, 'I've got to face this again.' From the moment that there is some certainty, many of the parents begin to prepare for the loss within. They have to be able to play with their child, love their child, they have to be able to nurture their child's education, knowing that within a period of time, that education will probably be completely lost..."

today's JG (joshua generation) was refreshing. about praise and worship. we had a study on 2 Chronicles 5 :1-14.

sing a new song to the Lord everyday, every moment!

Psalms 33:3
Psalms 40:3
Isaiah 42:10
Ephesians 5:19
Psalms 96:1
Psalms 98:1
Revelations 5:9
Psalms 144:9
Psalms 149:1
Revelations 14:3

it brought to me a greater boldness, and freedom, to sing unto the Lord your heart, your here-and-now.

i have heaps to give thanks for. i know its bad of me to give thanks only when i see it. i pray i can grow to give thanks in all circumstances. give thanks.

thanks ma and pa and sis. thou i dont think you will ever see this.

and thanks to my churchies who have been supportive in prayers.

and thanks to a dear friend who has been ever assuring.

and all thanks to Him who made it possible.


i pray that i may not take everything for granted, but to continually keep my eyes on you, and my being in prayers and praise.

help me to know that this is the beginning of all hardwork that's ahead, and you will have your perfect plan for me, to fulfill Your will.

there's really freedom in surrendering, and it feels so good. praise the Lord.

the shows at 11.30am have been increasingly great. :)

i enjoyed ytd's: Yesterday's Children. it was talking about a lady from US who had recurrent dreams about this Irish lady of the 1930s, and she knew every single detail of their lives. She finally unites the children of the Irish lady, who were seperated after their mum's death. When they finally united, they were already well into their eighties.

Today's: Mom at Sixteen. a great educational show about teenage pregnancy. it portrayed the struggles of a teenage mum, Jacie, and how the world's media lies that premarital sex is not a huge responsibility and doesnt hold much consequences.

great company for school work in the cold morning.

"It’s a sweet little reminder of God’s care and what’s happening in our lives too....I’m learning that His will isn’t always easy or simple, and the journey may not be what we expect, but we can trust His heart..."

Sweet testimony i gotten from Dayspring. enjoy. :)

baby's so adorable! his hair! :)))

reminds me of little rhema- a ball of joy!

http://store.dayspring-store.com/julie.html

her testimony spoke to me. :)