Santa Claus

Many Christians know that Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Christ- the greatest gift of all (as, from what I understand, in brief: His birth meant the fullfillment of Scripture- that a Saviour was born! Not a political but spiritual one- to reconcile us to God through forgiveness of our sins by bearing them on our behalf by His death on the cross; and sending us the Holy Spirit)

But what about Santa Claus? We tend to perceive him as the season's social icon, perhaps one that has deviated the proper attention due to Jesus Christ; whilst some actually bothered to take note or find out that Santa Claus is actually an eponomy of St. Nicolas, and well, that's about all they know about the person or character.

Curious about the matter myself, i googled ^-^
http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=38
Summary: Santa Claus DOES originate from St. Nicolas, Bishop of Myra—a natural phonetic alteration from the German Sankt Niklaus and Dutch Sinterklaas. He is actually worshipped by certain religious groups.

So how did a saint turn into rolly polly jolly Santa with the red suit?
http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=35
Summary: Washington Irving's satirical fiction "Knickerbocker's History of New York"+ John Pintard who commissioned artist Alexander Anderson to create the first American image of Nicholas + "The Night Before Christmas" poem+ (Believe it or not) Coca-cola =)

Now that that's fully understood- let us return our hearts and minds to the true reason of Christmas celebration- Jesus Christ!


~**~Blessed Christmas dear reader~**~


Very merry,
Mi.

Psalm 55:2

This came as a forwarded email... read it and weep ;)

~*~*~
I was driving home from a meeting this evening about 5, stuck in traffic on Colorado Blvd., and the car started to choke and splutter and die - I barely managed to coast, cursing, into a gas station, glad only that I would not be blocking traffic and would have a somewhat warm spot to wait for the tow truck. It wouldn't even turn over. Before I could make the call, I saw a woman walking out of the quickie mart building, and it looked like she slipped on some ice and fell into a gas pump, so I got out to see if she was okay.

When I got there, it looked more like she had been overcome by sobs than that she had fallen; she was a young woman who looked really haggard with dark circles under her eye s. She dropped something as I helped her up, and I picked it up to give it to her. It was a nickel.

At that moment, everything came into focus for me: the crying woman, the ancient Suburban crammed full of stuff with 3 kids in the back (1 in a car seat), and the gas pump reading $4.95.

I asked her if she was okay and if she needed help, and she just kept saying 'I don't want my kids to see me crying! ,' so we stood on the other side of the pump from her car. She said she was driving to California and that things were very hard for her right now. So I asked, 'And you were praying?' That made her back away from me a little, but I assured her I was not a crazy person and said, 'He heard you, and He sent me.'

I took out my card and swiped it through the card reader on the pump so she could fill up her car completely, and while it was fueling, walked to the next door McDonald's and bought 2 big bags o f food, some gift certificates for more, and a big cup of coffee. She gave the food to the kids in the car, who attacked it like wolves, and we stood by the pump eating fries and talking a little.

She told me her name, and that she lived in Kansas City . Her boyfriend left 2 months ago and she had not been able to make ends meet. She knew she wouldn't have money to pay rent Jan. 1, and finally, in desperation, had called her parents, with whom she had not spoken in about 5 years. They lived in California and said she could come live with them and try to get on her feet there.

So she packed up everything she owned in the car. She told the kids they were going to California for Christmas, but not that they were going to live there.

I gave her my gloves, a little hug and said a quick prayer with her for safety on the road. As I was walking over to my car, she said, 'So, are you like an angel or something?'

This definitely made me cry. I said, 'Sweetie, at this time of year angels are really busy, so sometimes God uses regular people.'

It w as so incredible to be a part of someone else's miracle. And of course, you guessed it, when I got in my car it started right away and got me home with no problem. I'll put it in the shop tomorrow to check, but I suspect the mechanic won't find anything wrong.

Sometimes the angels fly close enough to you that you can hear the flutter of their wings...

Psalms 55:22 ' Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee. He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.'

~*~*~

This Christmas season, instead of wishing to meet angels, why not BE an angel to someone instead? =)

We don't always have to fork out money like what the guy in the story did to touch a life- sometimes it's the few extra words of encouragement, a warm hug, a gentle pat, a short lil chat that makes all the difference.

Very merry blessed Christmas dear reader!



Your "regular person",
Mi ^-^

I should be studying...

I should very well be studying for my paper on Tuesday. But I had the sudden urge to blog or to simply put down what I'm feeling now. As I was going through some questions to prepare myself for exams, memories from the past started coming back. I had been really nervous about doing well for my last paper and finally graduate not because I can't stand it but because I really should by now. In the last 3 months I have had such a hard time keeping myself together from having a complete emotional break down from all the stress and pressure that I'm facing. Surely you must be saying " Girl, there are bigger things out there, and you're worried about not passing your exams? "

You know, that made perfect sense. There are bigger things out there. This is nothing by comparison. But somehow it was a huge emotional and spiritual struggle. Did I bring it upon myself? I don't know. I guess I won't ever need to. Maybe not knowing is the best part of this whole experience. I've come to admit how helpless I am without Him. How He is in complete control of my life and all that's happened and will happen for me. If anything, He didn't fail me. I failed Him for not trusting Him enough and doubting Him every now and then. We always say He's got other plans and He will see us through everything. We need to wait on Him. Definitely easier said than done.

Its very true. Tonight, all the memories of how faithful He was before came right back like it happened just yesterday. Though it wasn't very long ago. There's this sense of peace that tells me no matter what happens, He will be there. No matter what, God is ever so faithful and He will decide my life for me. I don' t know if taking myself away from studying for just a bit to share this is the right thing to do. But I know this 15 minutes of Selah, mulling and be overwhelmed in the peace that only God can give, is worth every minute. I am clueless on what's going to happen. But I guess we'll find out.

Thanks for listening =)

The one who eagerly awaits His miracle to bring all things to completion. Me.

I almost forgot how great it feels...

Today is just one of those days that God proves Himself to be ever so wonderful. I've been so caught up with work and studies which has led me to almost losing my sanity because it's so hard to juggle everything. But ironically, the nearer exam is, the more at peace I feel. Weird don't you think? Just proves that God is faithful. I had an opportunity to share just a small portion of God to my colleagues today. I hope that I lived my life with Him shining through. I almost forgot how amazing it feels to be given the opportunity to sow a seed for Him. To share a part of Him to someone else feels so great because I shared how wonderful and real He truly is, the God that made me who I am. I hope to share this testimony with you (dear reader) once He's brought everything to completion. Till then, take care

Love always,
The one that lives to share His amazing love, Me

Frenz 4Eva

I stumbled upon this post reading up some of my friends' blogs...

For a reason,for a season,for a lifetime..
People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.
When you know which one it is, you will know what to do for that person..,

When someone is in your life for a REASON,
it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.
They have come to assist you through a difficulty,
to provide you with guidance and support,
to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually.
They may seem like Godsend and they are.
They are there for the reason you need them to be.

Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time,
this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.
Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away.
Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand.
What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done.
The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON,
because your turn has come to share, grow or learn.
They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh.
They may teach you something you have never done.
They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy.
Believe it,it is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons,
things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation.
Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person
and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.

Thank you for being a part of my life...
whether you were a reason,or for the season or maybe even for a lifetime..

I believe this is very true,as many people walk in and out of our lives so often.
So which one will you want them to be in?
Will it be for a reason,for a season or for a lifetime?
Will they leave footprints in your heart,only to be washed away with time,
or will the footprints last long enough to be remembered,
or will your footprints always be next to this person's footprints for a lifetime?
So,what would it be? A reason? A season? Or a lifetime?
=====

Reading this sure stirred up my thoughts, my memories, my emotions.

As much as I wish I could say that my friendships to date have been "forever", the reality is very much as the poem described- some for a reason, others for a season, and this one- possibly a lifetime.

However it has been for me, most have stayed on as friends in my life. And in meeting those friends- bumping into them being the most common- it's amazing to look back and realize how these moments we are spending to catch up, are hinged upon the reason or season that has passed us by; but ah~ the reasons and the seasons... They have definitely been real, beautiful, wonderful... And will always be kept amidst the cherished memories of a time gone by...

That said, it dawned upon me a special Friend- who has been there for a reason, a season, AND (of this I'm sure,) a lifetime.

Oh how many times I have turned to Him for a reason, remained faithful for a season... Still He is here beside me. His footprints never left mine... Only mine, was now and then, not there to be found.

How could that have happened? Well, I was too tired, too weary to move on, and as I braced myself for the 'beautiful freefall'- He stretched out His firm yet gentle hands and carried me on. I shall always remember the times my eyes looked back and beheld only one set of footprints in the sand... The times when He lifted me.

[At this point, a dear old friend happened to call!!! You know who you are =) ]

Friendships are such a blessing.

That reminds me...
I haven't always been the best friend to the people in my life- especially during college and university times cos I was so flooded by everything @.@ So if you're reading this, and in your heart, I've already been categorized as your friend from a reason or your friend from past season(s); [as David Cook had put it,] before it's too late, what about now? I would love to (re)start/continue keeping in touch =)


Well, gotta go... GOD bless.

*humming*
You've got a friend,
in Mi~

I dare you to HOPE

Brother J faithfully sends out sermon summaries every week. This one struck a chord in my heart.

In a time like this- whatever it may be for you- exams, peak periods, recession, depression... I pray this message which encouraged me (for I go through dark valleys in my life as well), will go on to encourage you.

[As per the email- If you're short of time, catch the bold]

The Surprises of God

This Sunday, we were privileged to have brother Chin Ee Tek give the message on the Surprises of God, which focused on the story of Elisha and the Shunemmite woman.

The background of the story was the Kingdom Divided, the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Elisha’s ministry was mainly to the Northern Kingdom, as was the ministry of his master before him, Elijah. Whereas Elijah’s message was mainly of judgment and in very public settings, Elisha’s message was of the grace, mercy and love of God, and he ministered mainly to individuals, privately. Shunem was only a small place in Israel, near Mount Carmel and it could hardly be found in the map. Still, Elisha must have passed there on his circuit, and a small Shunemmite couple there decided to show kindness and hospitality to this man of God. They even went to the extent of preparing a small room for Elisha so that he could stay there when he was in the area. Elisha was touched and wanted to repay their kindness. However, they seemed to have no physical needs. They were well to do, and did not ask Elisha for anything. Still, Elisha’s observant servant, Gehazi highlighted to him that the couple had no children, and this would have been a matter of great sadness to them. And so Elisha promised them a son, even prophesying the time he would be delivered. The main lesson of this first scene was that God’s grace is shown to common people, like you and me.

At this point, brother Chin also told us some aspects of the story of Eric Lidell, the famous runner who chose not to run the 100m because the event was on a Sunday, and he felt doing so would be dishonoring God. The headlines the next day blared “God before country”, and his decision sent shockwaves across the whole sporting world. Still, he had the opportunity to run in the 400m and this event he won amazingly against the odds, breaking the world record. Before his race, it was said that his sister had passed to him a note quoting 1 Samuel 2:30, the words of the Lord “Those who honor me I will honor” and he held the note to the finishing line. His story is of course immortalized in the great film, the Chariots of Fire, and he lived a great life of service to God in his missionary work in China. The key point of the entire message was exactly that “Those who honor the Lord will be honored”, and this was exactly true of the Shunnemite woman.

In the second scene, we see a terrible tragedy, for the son of the Shunnemite woman had died prematurely. In her agony, she immediately set out to find Elisha in Mount Carmel. She had serious questions. Why did God allow this to happen? Why bring this sorrow upon her when she had not even asked for a son? Why do bad things happen to good people? Still, her actions showed that she had not given up hope. She believed Elisha could do something. It was an exercise of faith that caused her not to prepare the funeral but to immediately seek Elisha. In her urgency, she did not slow down to explain the matter to Gehazi. She was persistent. She pleaded for her son. There are certain burdens we do not tell others, but here the Shunnemite woman poured out her troubles to Elisha.

The initial action did not work, for even the great staff of Elisha had not raised the boy, and there was a sense of desperation in the air. However, Elisha and the Shunnemite woman still hoped, still believed, and God eventually answered and restored the son to life.

In the final scene, we see another moment of crisis involving this same Shunnemite lady. In response to Elisha’s prophecy of a famine that would last seven years, she fled to the land of the Philistines with her family. After that time, she came back to beg the King of Israel for her land back. In the first scene, she had been well-to-do, with no physical wants, but now, she was in serious trouble, and could lose everything she had if the king did not listen to her request. Just so happened, at that very moment when she came in, Gehazi, the servant of Elisha was there, talking to the king. In fact, he was talking about the exact miracle Elisha had done concerning her, in raising her son to life. And when she came, Gehazi quickly pointed out to the king that she was the one. Amazed, the king granted her request, and even better, ordered that all the income due from her land during the 7 years be restored to her! God is in control of all things, and His timing is always perfect!

In closing, brother Chin exhorted us to always remember that God honors those who honor Him, and never give up hope, but trust that God will make all things perfect in His good timing. May the Lord indeed help us honor Him and trust Him at all times to the end. In Jesus name, Amen.


Hopeful,
Mi.

The mill will never grind with the water that has passed

Greetings!

As you're reading this post, I'm actually off at Johor on a job. (Yes, this is actually a "post-dated post") But I want to share this with you, and I hope you grasp its meaning. For I loved this poem dearly having realized what it means...

The Lesson of the watermill

Leave no tender word unsaid;

Love, while life shall last!

The mill will never grind

with the water that has passed.

And the proverb haunts my mind

like a spell that's cast.

The mill will never grind
with the water that has passed.

Power, intellect and strength

may not, cannot, last;

The mill will never grind
with the water that has passed.

Take this lesson to your heart,

Take, oh! Hold it fast;

The mill will never grind
with the water that has passed.

by: Sarah Doudney

Did you learn the lesson of the windmill?

from afar,
Mi.

Allowance, Budget, Claims...

"If I had the money right, I'd definitely...."
"I wanna go! But... No time lar..."
"Sure sure, no problem, oh.. can claim for this?"

One way, one form, one mean or another, we've made at least one of those statements in the course of life- some more so than the other.

To some extent, sometimes, it feels that way as well for our spiritual lives- we'd love to fast and pray, but we have things to do (legitimate ones like attending class, working, meeting up with old friends); we want to commit to regular quite time with God but with 24hours in a day and 48 different commitments here and there, it's really hard to set aside that time regularly, *and the BiG one...* we want to share the word of God, but we really, really don't know how (i.e. Don't know how to start, what to talk about, what NOT to talk about, who to share with, how to share with a person like that, where to share, when to share...)

It's great to know that our Christian life and the spreading of God's Word is not rested on our capabilities.

Our Father in Heaven is not like an employer that tells you to do this and that given a specified amount of resources... [Matthew 28]
18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Leave it to Daddy to give us a mission in life so we won't have to scratch our heads after accepting Him as our Lord and Saviour thinking, "Ok, so what now?"

AND, letting us know that when we're on this mission, the same authority that is given to Christ our Lord is given to us- in fact He Himself is with us!

There's no limit to our resources! No budgets, no need for "claims" because we will never need to put in our own resources first, no allowances because it's "all for us" when it's "all for Him".

Would you say that your spiritual life has been limited because you've been living it on your own resources and abilities?

Feel free to share your thoughts and feelings.


Paid-in-full,
Mi

Food for thought

Mi gave me a food for thought the other day. We were deliberating on something and having our usual conversations then she gave me something to think about. Feels like she had given this a whole lot of thought. But I never thought about it that way. So it was good.

So Mi said this, "Food for thought. Do you think we should ask God for wisdom do be humble or humility to be wise. Does humility come with wisdom or does wisdom come with humility?" (It was something along those lines. Of course this doesn't apply to everything but it should for most.)

So I gave it some thought and she was right. She said that with humility comes wisdom. I think so too. Pride is one of our biggest sins. And most of the time, we fail to see that we sin that way. We often ask God for wisdom in dealing with certain circumstances; to know what to say or what to do and to be humble. But who would ever thought that if we humbled ourselves in all things, we'll be wise enough to know what to say or what to do. For one thing, we are not blinded by what we already know and what we are so sure about. I guess in a lot of things we can't be exactly sure about everything. Only God is sure.

I don't exactly know if I'm right about this but it makes a whole lot of sense in a peculiar way.

Maybe Mi would have something to say. That girl has been "MIA" for awhile now. She had started a new journey and is busy busy busy.

"With humility comes wisdom" What do you think? Comments are welcomed. Hope we can all learn from this.

Love always,
Me

Wonderfully and fearfully made

This month, my schedule is packed with birthdays. This week itself there is going to be 3 birthday celebrations. We celebrate this day every single year. Each year tells us that we grow older and its time to grow up. Little that we know, that this day signifies God's miracle. He created us on this day and knitted us in our mother's womb (Psalms 139:13). And how are we made into living beings, with something called a soul with a body filled with veins and organs that functions in such a complex way that till date, we, humans are still trying to find out how our mind and body works. Here we are trying to quantify what we do and why we do it. Investigating how the right brain differs from the left brain. We try to measure the ways of our lives and try to make sense out of it. Amazingly, we find the answers. At least, we find the answers to some of the questions. These answers describes God perfectly and it explains exactly how we are made.

The complexity of the human body proves that God is an amazing creator as He has carefully designed everything so perfectly that it is beyond the comprehension of the human mind. These answers proves that God is into the details and we are made in such a way that no man can make sense to another or can it ever be explained in simple terms.

So if you're celebrating your birthday, take just awhile to look at how you've been created, from the hair on your head to the toes at your feet. It's truly mesmerizing how we turned out to be. In Paul's wise words of praise to the Lord, I will praise thee; for I am WONDERFULLY and FEARFULLY made: marvellous are thy works; and my soul knoweth right well - Psalms 139:14.

You are wonderfully and fearfully made

Love always,
Me

Hugs

I love hugs.

I love the way it speaks not with words, but in an action- an embrace.

The best wishes and fondest hopes for a beloved are usually best secured with a hug... it's as though that simple act takes the words both spoken and kept in one's heart, and allows the beauty and wonder of a touch to sign, seal and deliver it all.

I cherish the PEACE that comes with each hug... that 'someone', had not just seen me, wished me "all the best" and walked on; (s)he pressed the mute button on the remote of my life so I could see past the hustles and bustles that are swirling around me, take position, and face- no, dance through- the music that life plays for me.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. [John 14:27]

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4:7]

I rest in the COMFORT a hug devotes... "You'll be alright", "I'm here for you"...

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. [Isaiah 43:2-3a]

I love the LOVE a hug conveys... the knowing- that no matter what happens, no matter what you decide, no matter where life takes you, I will still love you. Because it's not what you are, and it's not what you do, it's just you- I love, you.

The LORD appeared to us from afar, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. [Jeremiah 31:3]

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
[Romans 5:8]

I rest in the promise of BELONGING that a hug assures.

But now, this is what the LORD says— he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. [Isaiah 43:1]

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.
[Jeremiah 15:1a,b]

I shelter in the SECURITY hugs commit- that you're safe now, you don't need to be afraid, be strong.

But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you. [Psalm 5:11]

The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. [Psalm 9:9]

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. [Psalm 18:2]

There are so many things that a hug can say... And you know, though I do no see Him, and my touch can't seem to touch Him, I can feel- my Father's hugs.

The wonder...

-=-=-=-

Psalm 23

1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, the darkest valley;
I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

-=-=-=-

Hugs,

Mi.

"Money made"

I don't think there's such a word... but like to coin it every now and then to imply something that isn't "personally hand made"- i.e. its something that can be hand-made like a cake, card, or artwork, but it's actually purchased.

Food for thought: which is more precious? Is something worth "less" if it was purchased as opposed to hnad-made?

For myself, I used to think that what was hand-made was more special- it carried a personal touch for which there can be no other, except imitations or replicas. Of course as I grew older, other considerations on this "hand-made" concept came in- does something hand-made for you lose its uniqueness if the same thing was made to others? Is it wrong that the giver loves others as much as the giver loves you, and thus gives the same gift to them?

~~

There are some things that are do-able but you just can't do, but money can. I enjoy baking but I doubt I'd be able to bake a cake as good as the ones in bakeries and so I'd rather drive out and spend that money.

There are things that you can afford but carries meaning only if someone else buys it for you- like an accessory or a box of chocolates!

Money can't buy happiness, but within the right contexts, it can buy something special that brings the receiver happiness. Not that the gif itself makes the receiver happy, but the intrinsic values embedded within the gift does- like... a ring.

~~

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created them."
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb."
"I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."
"My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth."

"Then what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: They took the thirty silver coins, the price set on him by the people of Israel."
"You were bought at a price."

~~

Made and paid for,
Mi.

Gracious in every way

Once again, God had not failed to show me that He is there, watching over me, every step of the way. He's been so gracious and I am nothing but grateful for His everlasting love for me. I wish so bad that I can say thank you enough to make up for what He has done. Tonight is one of those nights when I sit and reminisce and be overwhelmed by His greatness and goodness in my life.

Today He led me to see the kingdom that He's started right here in the office!! He opened my eyes to something I would have never expected to see. I'm just so very happy with everything right now. Studying and working is indeed a huge challenge but He makes it easy when He makes me stronger and when He grants me the strength only He can give. Everything I see at work each day is like being in a new place and being mesmerized by everything around me.

I hope in time to come the joy will not fade but will be more apparent and over-flowing to all who see. Looking back, He's been gracious in every way. From the day He saved me, through all the trials and testings, for all the blessings and in every event. It was all very special in its own way. He's been nothing but gracious. Thanks Daddy! More than I can say it.

Love Always,
Me

Since when?

Since when did Christianity became about everyone else but you and God?

Since when did it became about what people see us to be but about how God sees us?

Since when did it become what we should do as Christians instead of just being?

Since when it became being perfect in the eyes of the world but not being who we really are? Who God made us to really be?

Well, maybe we ought to ask those questions from time to time. Has Christianity become about the church instead of really just about God? Many a times we want to do it right so we can be a testimony for God. So why not just do it because it's a part of us and who we are. Maybe we should stop trying to do the right thing but really just be Christians.

I was in the car on the way home with my dad. He was just saying this... "Why do people carry the badge of Christ but really praise the church more than Christ?" (Note: My dad is not Christian) I guess the answer is this... we lose sight of what's important. So many times we've made it to be something else than it being just all about God.

All I'm trying to say, we don't have to try. We just need to be. We do it not for fame or recognition. Really, we do for something greater, God! Not to tell the whole world but just to glorify Him.

Let's be!

Love always,
Me

Providence

Matthew 27:57-66

Providence is a word that's not found in the Bible but rather is implicit or explicit on every page (like Trinity). It refers to God's independent superintendency of the universe through the operation of normal and natural processes and happenings. In other words, through God's sovereign providence, He is able to take the virtually infinite number of events and circumstances, as well as innumerable personal attitudes, ambitions, and abilities that exist in the natural and demonic worlds (yes, Christians believe that there exists a demonic world, not just the existence of evil) and cause them to work together in meticulous perfection to perfectly fulfill His divine will.

Unlike miracles (another mean by which God executes His will) in which God "simply" replaces the natural events and circumstances with His own making that's usually within a short period of time and instantaneous; providence involves the infinitely more complex task of taking natural events and circumstances, as well as the limited but real freedoms of human and demonic minds and wills and, often over vast periods of time, superintending all of those elements in flawless fulfillment of His foreordained plan. Multiple myriads of individual and seemingly random plans, choices, actions and events continually work together in a divinely synchronized strategy to perform God's predestined plan.

The MacArthur NT Commentary
(personal notes included)

God's providence can be seen in that short passage Matthew had written in that all those individual people who did what they did- with good or evil intentions, came to fulfill the prophecies of Jesus as stated in the Old Testament.

I came upon this passage just as life was "picking up" again after a series of events and reading the above extracts, I knew I had to share this... for His glory...

I had just sent my application to D Co. (I'm calling it D Co. as it was THE company that I had set my heart and hopes to work in) and despite my confidence and convictions up till that moment in time, something came up- there was a stirring in my heart that seemed to tell me that though I had that peace, the qualifications... just before I sent the application in- I'm actually not going to get the job.

I was devastated. Broken. I cried out to God and shared with Me the fears in my heart and though I wish this was the turning point of my story, it wasn't. The call came, followed by the e-mail. I was rejected (though those were not the actual words).

Little rays of hope came in to try out for D Co. again so I took it, though this time around, I knew was only trying because I still couldn't let go of it- God had something better in store but at that point in time, I wasn't greedy, I would gladly settle for D Co.

But throughout that time, something that Me said to Mi rang in the back-burner of my mind... It went along the lines of "Going out into the working world is such an important step in your life. Do you think Daddy will just let you go into it like that? If He had allowed so many things in your life while you were in college, He will definitely make "a big deal" out of this as well to glorify Himself through you."

"Y Co.?" (Y because I was wondering "Why this co.?") I didn't want to try. It seemed a little silly to do so: Their website said they did not have open positions, a reliable source working inside personally enquired of their Human Resource Department and was told that they were indeed not hiring (in the department I was trying out for), and Y Co. has been known to me as being strict about fresh graduates in the department that I wanted to apply to.

At that point in time, where I stood, with my heart still clinging on to D Co., I could not see it. I could not recognize the great "Wow, it MUST be God if you got into Y Co. then" if I did get in. So how come I applied for it anyway? I did it purely out of obedience to my parents.

The call to attend an interview came and I rushed back to Malaysia. I shall not enter into the exact details of the interview and assessment, but it was good though it was very tough- My assessment included 2 additional essays that were technical Qs (Note: Candidates are usually required to write only 1 personal essay according to the topics available to choose from, so I did that and 2 more) and my interviewer asked me a lot of scenario based and open ended questions that left me convinced I was not going to get the job because I didn't have experience. The fact that it ended with a note that I needed to go through a second interview with the partner himself sealed my disappointments.

Oh, how I was wrong. The interview with the partner came through! Turns out they were actually impressed and pleased with my assessment and first interview- which is still beyond my comprehension even to date, and thus, I was offered the job.

In retrospect, I see now that if I did get into D Co., although it would still be by God's grace, most likely, I would've turned proud. The rejection had to happen that I may be humbled and abandoned to God so He could glorify Himself and I would be reminded to depend on Him in everything.

Clearly, our God works in all things for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28)

God's divine providence is just... amazing.


Lost in wonder,
Mi.

Please pray

Dear reader,

Here's a cry for your most earnest prayers. Much has happened in our country lately and we've been the talk of the world. Imagine what the world thinks when we ourselves think the same. Many bloggers have written angry and sad posts regarding this sensitive but yet very serious matter. It has been very difficult to witness such acts in ones that we entrust our nation's future upon. So many have been hurt and outright betrayed in rtheir faces.

This post is not meant to be one that is sad, angry nor it is meant to be a hurtful post. It is one to bring hope to this country. A plea for prayer for this country. The end times are here. We've been praying for revival, and now there is. But it also means persecution comes with it. So please be strong, don't stop praying for this nation. Pray for His hand to move. This event is to show how much we need Him and how we should never turn away and disobey Him. He is an amazing God, One that is worthy for our worship and praise.

Visions have come upon churches that pockets of light are appearing and in these lights are the ones who are praying. Prayer brings hope for our Father in heaven hears every prayer, every cry. Let us cry to Him to have His will be done. The darkest moment of the day is just before dawn comes. Press on dear all, and please pray. That's the least we can do but the BEST thing we can do.

Thank you for your prayers. Your rewards are in Heaven. May you be blessed abundantly.

Love always,
Me

More than meets the eye

Its was the first week of the brand new chapter of the story of my life. And like always, it started with an amazing testimony for dear Daddy! He was indeed forevermore absolutely awesome like how he's always been in my life.

I just started work. Well, its only been orientation but God has been so wonderful as to reveal the room whose door He had just opened for me. It was really great to see that my long wait was so rewarding in the end. I think many people will say that I'm pretty nuts to say that I'm very eager to start work and especially to meet my new colleagues, get to know them and work hand in hand with them. They seemed like an interesting bunch. The plan was not to come here, but after applying, I became so convicted that made the wait all worth it.

I'm starting to see how I can serve Daddy right here where I worth by just being who I am. I hope to be a testimony for Him here and He'd use me to touch the lives of the ones around me. I was very wrong about this place where I work. I would have never expected to have experienced all of this, at least not here. But I was so wrong. The funny thing is, I'm glad I was. It was indeed more than meets the eye.

A shout out to Daddy!!

THANKS DADDY! FOR ALWAYS BEING SO WONDERFULLY AWESOME! I APPRECIATE THIS MORE THAN I CAN SAY IT REALLY!!

So right now, it'll be harder, it will be tiring, it's gonna take many sacrifices, late nights and maybe some discouraged hearts but I will have faith! I will trust God to give me the strength, the peace, the conviction and most of all the joy in this busy busy and hectic part of my life. But for Daddy, I'm willing and I'm excited to see what more surprises He has installed for me.

Thanks for all my lovely brothers and sisters that has always stood by me and encouraged me and kept me in constant prayer. (I still need it very much by the way... winks... thankies!!) Your love for me, I can't thank you enough and I pray that God will indeed bless you and reward you in return. Someone told me, if she were to write a character like me in a book, she'd write of many trials and testings but loads more joy and blessing given from above. I can't wait to see what happens. I'm overwhelmed by God's presence in my life. I hope I'll always be. I hope this post can bring you (dear reader) hope and be amazed by Him if you only trust that He is there.

I hope to bring you more updates in due time. Till then, take care!!

Love always,
Me

Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes and Zealots

We read about them in the Bible or Christian books but who exactly are they and how do they differ?

Well, most simply, they are the 4 main groups within the religion of Judaism. In brief...

Pharisees
The Phatisees believed happiness was found in tradition or legalism. They were hot on the past. To them, real happiness came through obeying the traditions of the fathers.

Sadducees
The Sadducees believed happiness was found in the present, in modernism and liberalism. "We're here," they would say;"We've got to interpret things according to modern standards." Theirs was an updated religion, a brand new liberalism. Chuck the old stuff.

(In a sense, both the Pharisees and Sadducees had a little bit of the truth. True religion has to be based on the past. And true religion has to work in the present.)

Essenes
The Essenes said, "No, happiness is in seperation from the world." Oooh, that sounds good, doesn't it? Only they were stressing geographical seperation. They just moved out of town, into the wilderness.

Zealots
Finally, the Zealots said, "Happiness is found in political revolution, in knocking off Rome.

So..
The Pharisees were saying Go Back.
The Sadducees were saying Go Ahead.
The Essenes were saying Go Out; and
The Zealots were saying Go Against.

Pharisees were Nostalgia buffs.
Sadducees were Modernists.
Essenes were Isolationists.
Zealots were Social Activists.

What a mess!

In fact, it sounds just like today!

Extracted from: The Beattitudes,
The Only Way to Happiness,
John MacArthur.

Hahaha~ Hope you found that helpful, dear reader =)




This is Mi, signing off.

Songs of Praise!

This is something cool I started. See if you can figure it out =)

"This is my desire" to live a life that is "Magnificent".
Long ago, whenever I sat alone I always wished that "Better is one day"
How I wished that I could find "Sanctuary" in this busy busy life.
I often wonder what was "The reason I live". But I never found out why.
Later on, someone told me about an "Amazing love".
Then they talked about an "Amazing grace".
They told me that everything was done "So you (I) would come".
They said "We are the reason", that "Above all",
"Till the ends of the earth" He will always be there for"Evermore".
As I felt a little tug, I felt the call to "Come to Jesus"
As my journey with Him was just beginning, my life changed completely.
For the first time, I felt like I was riding on "Eagle's wings".
Truly, "There was none like you (Him)". He is the "King of Majesty",
He is "Mighty to save". He will be there "Through it all".
Lord, "Great is thy faithfulness". "Now that You're near", "I offer my life to you".
I know that I am in my "Potter's Hands" and I can be "Still" as I wait on Him.
"And now my lifesong sing" as a testimony to show "How great is our God"
for "His love endures forever".
Here I just want to "Give thanks" for His "Saving Grace"

If you can guess, it is a selection of song titles. They're all beautifully written songs to praise and worship our magnificent God. But no word or lyrics can begin to describe Him in a nutshell.

Thanks for always being so amazing Daddy!!

Love always, Me

He is faithful

Remember recently I blogged about God not answering my prayers the way I had wanted Him to? Well, turns out He did in some other way and more than I expected Him to. I wonder why and what else He has planned for me. I guess that will probably be a huge mystery waiting to be solved and to be revealed. At least, in His time.

Last week, I thought Daddy left me (well I know He won't but it really felt that way). Next week, I'm starting on a whole new adventure!!! I'm really excited to see what He brings for me to learn. I hope He'll teach me more and more and bring me closer to Him each day.

This whole month was a lot of waiting for me. And now, Mi is facing the same challenge. I know how she feels. You kinda get lost in the wait even though you didn't exactly go anywhere. But all we can do is wait. Well, a little dedication to my dear sister, "Mi, its going to be really amazing. Like how it has always been. You know that. Wait a little while more 'kay, I'll be here praying and waiting with you *winks"

To all who have been waiting for a long time for something dear to you, I guess it just means that you keep on waiting. God answers prayers and this wait will mould us to be greater testimonies for Him to witness His miracles and glory.

Don't let go!

May your prayers be answered in its most special and unique way, and MOST of all, at the right time!

I hope this post won't discourage you to think that God is trying to "kill" you waiting for Him, but to wait on Him and KNOW that He brings greater news and greater miracles to come.

Love always,
Me

Test of faith

It was most probably one of the hardest week of my life. It was really hard because this one thing I had been praying very hard for was one that I had hoped He answered a long time ago. But His answer was "not right now". I did my part, I prayed so hard for it, I had faith, I trusted Him. I thought He'd grant me my heart's desire this time.

But He didn't. He had something else planned. It was really hard for me to deal with everything. But thank God, He blessed me with something else and many brothers and sisters who were there for me when I had it hard. I was given many verses that I knew. I knew that God had a better plan for His glory (Romans 8:28), I knew that His ways are higher than mine (Isaiah 55:9). I knew that by trusting Him, He will lead my path straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).

I knew I had to be strong, I had to continue to trust Him and believe in Him. But I was in pain. It hurt a lot. Felt like Daddy didn't hear me, for the 3rd time. Felt like Job in the Bible. Though I'm probably not as upright like Job, but at that point, I wish I wasn't in that position, and I rarely think that way. So that means, it was not good.

I understood all that I needed to. I really did, but of course some were worried (sorry!). After much prayer, I took time to recover, Today, I can stand tall for God again. He took the pain away. I don't know what He's got planned. But I guess I'll find out. To be honest, I can't wait.

This past 2 months God has taught me to wait on Him in an whole new level. I realised that waiting can be long, tiring and very hard. And in this time of wait, I knew that I could do nothing but wait and trust and to cling on Him. I am willing, and I will wait for Him in His timing, for His glory.

I guess it's just mulling for me today =)

Me

On Bended Knee

2 Chronicles 14:2-15 (New International Version) (for full passage)
Asa (pronounced: Aye-sah) King of Judah

8 Asa had an army of three hundred thousand men from Judah, equipped with large shields and with spears, and two hundred and eighty thousand from Benjamin, armed with small shields and with bows. All these were brave fighting men.
9 Zerah the Cushite marched out against them with a vast army (with an army of a thousand thousands or with an army of thousands upon thousands) and three hundred chariots, and came as far as Mareshah.

You don't need a calculator to know the odds are against Asa. To say he was outnumbered is an understatement! He's GONERS! The Cushite (or Ethiopians) had a HuGe army against their tiny 580 thousand men, and they had 300 chariots! Modern technology! But what determined the battle? What was the strategy? The tactic? Did they discover the Cushite's archiles heel? Because against the odds, Asa's army was victorious!

This is a frustrating passage for war fanatics- because the only matter mentioned, THE determining factor- was prayer.
11 Then Asa called to the LORD his God and said, "LORD, there is no one like you to help the powerless against the mighty. Help us, O LORD our God, for we rely on you, and in your name we have come against this vast army. O LORD, you are our God; do not let man prevail against you." 12 The LORD struck down the Cushites before Asa and Judah.

Q: When did Asa say this prayer? How do you think you would have felt if you were told to say that prayer in the same position?

10 Asa went out to meet him, and they took up battle positions in the Valley of Zephathah near Mareshah.
11 Then Asa called to the LORD his God...

Picture the sight in King Asa's shoes!

Asa wasn't praying in his leisure time- He was at a CRISIS! A time when vital decisions needed to be made! Scout reports had to be read, tents prepared, army trained, food provisioned, strategies and army formations established... He was "busy- got a lot of work to do", he had "no time- I need to make important decisions, file important papers, meet the general to discuss our plans"... He FOUND time to pray. And we see later that his victory was secured through prayer. And it you read from the beginning on the passage, you'd see that Asa had always been a man of prayer, a man that "sought the Lord".

Prayer is simple, and yet so difficult. That's why we need to DISCIPLINE ourselves to pray. self-denial is involved! Why? Because most of time is already taken up with legitimate activities: work, studies, children, ministires, church, quiet time, sports... we must NOT surrender those times but when we DO have leisure time, let's be honest, we're more concerned about self-satisfaction -sleeping, watching tv, eating... than prayer.

We need to deny ourselves of legitimate things if we truly believe that prayer is powerful and it is really the determining factor of everything in our lives, in our church, in our society.

Is life getting harder? You need to make important decisions but there are so many things to consider? PRAY

Is your church not growing? PRAY! Or do you naively believe that holding rallies and games is what will help the church grow? [Psalm 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.] Unless you pray for God's blessings and direction, all attempts to grow the church will be in vain! It's God that makes the church grow. [Acts 2:47 ... And the LORD added to their number daily those who were being saved.]

Are you concerned with Malaysia's state of politics and social decay? If you "can't do anything", you're "only one person" let me assure you- you can pray!

But please, let it be sustained time in prayer.

Great spiritual warriors in the Bible and in Christian history have always been great prayer warriors as well- Daniel, Elijah, Jesus Christ, John Calvin, Martin Luther... Revivals are ALWAYS marked with a passion for prayer.

Do you sincerely believe that prayer is powerful?

Then start finding time to pray.

It requires denying ourselves of what is legitimate and good. It WILL be tiring- Jesus Christ in Gethsemane struggled in prayer till he sweat drops of blood. It IS humiliating- admitting we are not capable at all, that only with God can we do anything. It is God's COMMAND- 1 Thessalonians 5:17


It's such an irony to share my mulling on prayer because it's my personal struggle as well- I shake, quiver and despair faster than I get on my knees and pray. Sustained prayer? Unless I'm with a group of friends or set my mind on praying, I just end up falling asleep. But let's not give up. Let us deny ourselves, carry our cross daily, and follow Christ.

Just mi. mulling.

The truth is this...

You know how people like to say "Wake up! Reality isn't all that beautiful"

Or "That can't be it. There's no way things are that good"

"Careful. No friend is all that genuine. It's everyone for themselves these day"

Well, the truth is this. It is possible. Reality can be all that beautiful. Things can be all that good and friendships can be all that genuine. Our lives today have been clouded with thoughts of how it is impossible these days to find true friends, that reality bites. Yes, I really do mean clouded.

You must be thinking "She's got it all perfect. She's never had any hardships in her life. She probably has never felt any pain that's why she can say all this. Life is perfect bla bla... She's going to get hurt someday. Naive person. Grow up"

=) I get that a lot. Trust me, over the years, I have heard so much that I can write a whole chapter. But till today, I stand by that truth. You must be thinking "Man, this girl never learned anything did she?" Haha.. Well, I have learned enough to know that the world isn't a perfect world. I know that we can't change the world to our own liking. But we can change the way we see it and how we choose to live it.

Hardships? You mean the kind of pain where you can literally feel it in your heart? Or the kind that your stomach twists inside? And the time where you sit in the corner of your room in the middle of the night wanting to cry but the tears just won't come? Or is it the time when you feel so helpless and you just want things to end, literally? Yea, I've been through that too. Been through that enough to know that I can't do it on my own.

How many times have we been hurt by people that we have decided that "I need to live for myself and I don't need anyone because all they do is hurt me". I have had one of those friendships too. But I've been blessed to have a friendship that's always about being genuine, truthful, giving and forgiving.

So really, what is the truth? Sad and painful reality? Or in that painful reality there is something wonderful that we ourselves wouldn't believe it? I think I'll hold on to the latter. The blessings in life are God sent. The trials we face, God allowed them. So we can learn from them, grow stronger, become who He wants us to be and most of all, to know how helpless we are without a Father that we can hold on to. The hardest part of life isn't what we face or to what degree, it is facing it these trials alone. The best part of life isn't avoiding the trials we have to face, it is overcoming them by God's strength.

Jeremiah 33:3 - Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know. See? Daddy promised great things.

And we only need to ... seek the LORD your God, you will find Him if you look for Him with all your heart and with all your soul. (Deuteronomy 4:29)

The truth is this... The world isn't perfect, but God is. The world isn't fair, but God is.

Love always,
Me

How deep is your love?

Matthew 18:
15"If your brother sins (against you), go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.

I think most of us would not point out the fault/sin of our brother or sister- why potentially jeopardize a fine, growing relationship?

Good point.

But how can you see someone that you claim to love living in sin, and be indifferent about it? If you can be indifferent about something, it means that you don't care all that much after all, because otherwise- you'd so something about it!

Notice the verse uses the words "won your brother over".

You can't win something over unless it was lost.
When you see a sin gripping onto your beloved brother/sister's life- (s)he's losing the battle of her soul! Why? Because no true believer would continue to live in sin! A true Christian would hunger and thirst for righteousness and desire to live a holy life.
[Note: it's NOT "A true Christian is righteous and holy"- we're bound to make mistakes, we're bound to fall. Christians are NOT perfect. But we love God, and hence His love enables us to strive for that.]

Moving on...
To have someone "listen" to you doesn't mean the person must completely eradicate the sin as though sin is like a typo in a document that is so easily resolved! If they can acknowledge it and realize they need God's strength to start dealing with it- that's good enough!

BUT.. what if they refuse to admit it's "a problem"? (we all have our pride and ego whether you're a guy or girl so it could very possibly happen- heck, who would admit "Yeah, you're right, I'm struggling with porn or alcohol addiction" (for example) just like that?!)

(continued)
16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' 17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.

If you're not all that close to the person, it's not surprising that the individual will simply refuse to tell you anything at all [(s)he'd probably just laugh it off and walk away from you when you approach him/her]. But the above verses doesn't mean you start spreading the news around that X is struggling with sin!

These 2 or 3 witnesses should be people that are in authority over the individual (eg: X's youth or Bible Study leader) or those that most likely know about the matter as well (eg: VERY close Christian friends- if any) so that the 2 or 3 of you can try to approach X about the matter GENTLY but firmly.

The idea is NOT everyone ganging up on one person to force him/her to change! It's only to let the person realize they are doing something wrong because only GOD can change a person.

After exhausting all that, if the person refuses to acknowledge it, then you've done your part. Everyone has done their part. Leave the person to God (and continue to keep him/her in prayer).

Most of the time, there's no need to go THAT far. Most of the time we (as Christians) know when we're living in sin ( 'cos the Holy Spirit would prompt us), but somehow we're just holding on to it... because, well, we've not been caught yet. Or more likely because (as much as we hate sinning,) we enjoy it- even though we know it's wrong.

I guess sometimes we're just waiting for "someone" to show up. Someone that's God-sent who can be around. Doesn't have to be the opposite gender, just a genuine friend. A friend that's like a brother from another mother that we can share our burdens with; because sometimes, it's just too hard to go through on our own though we know that God is there... if you can agree with that, perhaps that's exactly what your brother/sister is looking for in you.

How much do you love your fellow brother/sister?
Are you gonna "wait first" because (s)he still looks quite fine on the outside?
Are you gonna wait until (s)he has fallen ALL the way- physically looks pale, crying and devastated, going to be sent for rehab or counseling before you say,"Actually, I've been wanting to tell you about that for a long time"?
Or do you love him/her enough to care about his/her soul?

How deep is your love?

The price of Pride

Pride is one of the hardest sins to overcome. Many a times we know ourselves so well that no one knows us better. Is that confidence or is that pride? Other times we know something so well or we stand on something so firm that no one can even talk to us about it. Are those convictions or is that pride of not wanting to be wrong?

I guess you could say that between confidence and pride is a thin line to cross. Similarly, convictions and pride has a dangerous line in between. Once not aware, we might cross it and not even know it. And at this point, can we say that we lead our lives on our own for all the things we believe in or have God lead the life He gave us for us?

It is hard to stay humble sometimes when you really do know so much and you are really convicted. And when we receive praises, it's hard not to be proud of all the hard work we've put in and all the hardship we've gone through. All hard work is finally paid off, so what's not to be proud of?

But really, where does the blessing come from? Who does the glory go to?
James 1: 17 - Every good gift and every perfect gift comes from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

For every blessing comes from God and therefore, all glory goes to Him.

We should always check ourselves if pride consumes us. Unlike lust, pride is very subtle. I would say we are proud when we stop listening to other's comments and thoughts and insist that we are right. We start being proud when we think we can never be wrong. We have pride when we start taking glory for the blessings in our lives.

The price of pride? Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 1:27 - But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put shame the things that are mighty. When we come to a point where we have forgotten how to humble ourselves and God humbles us, it's a very painful lesson to learn. We may not always remember and we will fall again and again, but we must always try our hardest.

May we all not need to pay the price of pride and in all thing give all glory unto God for without a doubt, He is worth it, and He is worth everything.

Hope to always be His humble child and servant,
Me

When your feelings cry...

When your feelings cry, "Oh, if only life would get easier," may this quote from Phillip Brooks motivate you to choose a different attitude- to open your arms wide and receive what God gives you to do, along with His sufficiency to accomplish it:

Do not pray for easier lives;
Pray to become stronger men.
Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers;
Pray for powers equal to your tasks.

Then your life shall be no miracle,
But you shall be the miracle.
Every day you shall wonder
At that which is wrought in you
By the grace of God.

John 16:33 I (Jesus Christ) have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you WILL have trouble. But take heart! Be courageous! I have overcome the world.
(note: emphasis added)

Adapted from:
The Satisfied Heart
Ruth Myers

Your fellow sojourner,
Mi.

Take time to realize... Love

You see her there.

Rumor has it she's going through a rough patch in life right now. To be technically exact, she's actually living in sin- she's in a relationship with a non-Christian guy and its been getting 'physical' in non-violent ways. "At least she's still coming to church."

The guy in the corner.

He's a nice guy. Friendly, fun, funny... He just... It's just that... He swears. He smokes. He clearly has issues, but he's not sharing. "I hope God will touch him through today's message."

... ... Is that enough on our part?

Galatians 6
Doing Good to All
1Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.
2Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
3If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
4Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, 5for each one should carry his own load.

Granted that ultimately each of us are responsible for our own spiritual walk, we must not overlook the fact that in Christ, we are family. We NEED to love each other. Not just as we love and care about our secular friends, but as Christ loves us. If we can't even love our brothers and sisters who are in the family of Christ, how can we love others? How can others trust us when we say we love and care about them?

John 13
34"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Goodness!! How many times must our Lord Jesus Christ say the words "love one another" before it registers in our heads and overflows through our action from our hearts?
[FunFact: Throughout biblical times, importance and emphasis of what is being spoken is expressed through repetition of what is being said. Jesus Christ repeated "love one another" THREE times in 2 verses.]

We earnestly desire to evangelize for God, to share His message and His love to the lost souls in our Jerusalem (where we are), Judea (our immediate neighbours) and Samaria (all those around us).. Let's not get so excited about Judea and Samaria that we neglect our own Jerusalem.

It's not going to be easy- We need to be spiritually firm, yet gentle in our approach. We need to be carrying each other's burdens yet remembering that ultimately we're responsible for our own spiritual walk, not others; and..

Galatians 6
9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

We are told we'll only see the success of these efforts IF we do not give up, and we're suppose to love each other at every opportunity!

That's where God's love and strength comes in.

If we loved those around us with our own capacity and desire- we're bound to burn out, give up, fall out. But if we love others because it's very much an overflowing of the love of God we have experienced in our lives- it's never hard. It's kinda like sharing a pie or your meal with your friend- it's nothing at all to you if you have SO MUCH extra (which should be the case for us as our God is a generous giver and provider as King David describes in Psalm 23: 5-6).

For myself, I know I've let go of many opportunities to love others. I've also had my fair share of giving up as well. But we don't give up. To phrase it up, I'd like to quote Apostle Paul:
Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.. (Philippians 3:13)

Phileo agape,
Mi

Deep inside the armor

The warrior is a child
Lately I've been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I'm amazing
I'm strong beyond my years
But they don't see inside of me
I'm hiding all the tears

Chorus:
They don't know that I come running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
'Coz deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child

Unafraid because His arrow is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I'm amazing
I never face retreat,
But they don't see the enemies
That lay me at His feet

Chorus:
They don't know that I come running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
(I cry for just awhile)
'Coz deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child
(Aahhh)

They don't know that I come running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
(Look up for His smile)
'Coz deep inside this armor
The warrior is a child
(Aahhh)

When I first heard this song I thought to myself how true is it that we put on our armors to face the world. Be it at work, to look out for every opportunity, to challenge ourselves, to survive. Or at home, to be strong for our family no matter how hard things are. And even in the kingdom of God, we are constantly putting on the full armor of God as we carry the name of Christ in this world.

No matter how hard the road ahead, no matter how tough our trials may be, we find the strength within ourselves to keep going. Others will see us to be strong individuals that can face all things and nothing will break our stride. But like the songs says "they don't know that I come running home when I fall down. They don't know who picks me up when no one is around"

When things are hard and when we feel tired, God is there to see us through, because deep inside this armor, the warrior is a child. At times we just want to take of our armors because we're only just a child. But we are God's child. He will extend His open arms when we come running home when we fall down. He will be the One who picks us up when no one is around.

I've been reflecting all that has happened (like I always do). I realised that no matter how much I try doing something on my own, my strength will run out. And whenever I fall, I knew where to run home to and who will pick me up. Lately, Mi and I have been praying for strength and wisdom for all things.

I particularly like to pray this prayer...
Father, may You continue to be here with us everyday of our lives. May You lead us with you right in front, may You watch us from above, may You support and carry us through from below and push us from behind so we will never fall back.

This prayer goes out to you too (dear reader). Remember that in the hardest times, God is around, in all corners of our lives. We can always run home, we can cry, and we can always look up for His smile. That smile will have us know that all things will be okay. We can because this warrior is His child.

Love always,
Me

A Father's Love Letter

My Child

You may not know me, but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image. Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being. Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring. Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb. Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me. John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father. Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore.
Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires. Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus. John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being. Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love. Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. 1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again. Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen. Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father. Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is…Will you be my child? John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32

Love, Your Dad.
Almighty God

From: http://www.fathersloveletter.com/

Agape,
Mime

Laminin

This is an absolutely powerful message. It shows the glory of our God, the One that created us and pieced us together in a way that till date, scientist are still discovering the mysteries of it day after day.

Bet you're wondering what on earth this word even means. Well, its a protein molecule that holds every single cell in our body together. But this message means so much more than just how complex and how special the structure of the human body is that is beyond our limited comprehension.

God is like laminin. He is the One that holds us together no matter the circumstance. It is when the darkest days are here, He gives us strength to hold on. He is the One who will carry us through it all. And the best part of this message, is how laminin looks like.

Why don't you see it for yourself?



Some may say this to be just a coincidence but really now, what are the chances. It's too big a coincidence I think.

Will you let Him hold you together?

Love always,
(mi)Me

Did you care enough today?

"Don't go near them. They're HIV positive"

"Be careful around these people. They'll take advantage of you"

"Sorry I can't help. I'm too busy with my own issues"

"Can you ask someone else? I'm not good at this"

Very often we face different issues with people.

Sometimes it's just that we're too scared to be near them simply we don't want anything to happen to us.

"Don't go near them. They're HIV positive"

Sometimes it's just because we want to protect ourselves. After all, its every man for himself.

"Be careful of these people. They'll take advantage of you"

Sometimes we're just too caught up with our own issues we can't be bothered about someone else's.

"Sorry I can't help. I'm too busy with my own issues"

And other times we just give ourselves excuses that we're not that person to help. Besides who would like burdens on their shoulders.

"Can you ask someone else? I'm not good at this"

Having someone to care for us is the greatest gift anyone can have. But having the heart to care for someone is an even greater gift. Many lives are destroyed because we, humans simply care just for ourselves. We're too afraid to get involve in anything that troubles us and simply too self absorbed to take upon anyone else's burdens. Our own is just too much to carry as it is.

Then again...

Many lives have been saved because someone cared, someone gave a minute of their time to encourage and someone took time out to help even if it meant troubling themselves.

We'll never get all the answers right. We'll never be able to take away someone else's problems. But we can always do what we can. Lend a helping hand? Give someone a hug? Make someone smile?

Do we care enough to help someone even if it means troubling ourselves? Don't know about you but I'd like to see someone smile. That simple smile or simple thank you, is good enough for me. It's worth more than anything money can buy.

Daddy cared enough for us. Can we care enough for His children too?

Hope you'll see a smile today =)

Love always,
Me

Yes, Jesus loves me.

Question: How do you know that Jesus loves you?





Think about it.



Yes, He died on the cross for our sins and gave us the gift of eternal life if we confess our sins, accept Him as our Lord and Saviour; and really that is the ultimate expression of love. But. From the life that you're living each and every day, how can you tell that Jesus loves you?



Please take the time to pause and think about your answer before you read on. Thank you =)





I know of a brother who was a very successful lawyer. Knew his profession inside out and at a young age, was at the top of the league. It definitely helped that he received one of the most prestigious education possible and came from a well-to-do background. Then, he came to know Jesus Christ. He left his profession to become a missionary, and learned sewing/stitching to earn some money to support himself. In the course of his missionary work, he got beaten up, jailed... In the end he was killed.

Would you say Jesus loved him?

Actually, I would think you know this brother.. Because he is none other than the apostle Paul in slightly modernised terms.

Would you say Jesus blessed him?

If we saw fellow brothers and sisters in our church who are poor, would we say they're blessed? Will we feel that Jesus loves them very much?

How about those among our friends that don't make it through their exams? Struggling through times of temptations? Living in persecution?

Or do we only feel that they are in a difficult state?

mull, mull, mulling...
mi.

Selah...

A time to rest...

A moment

to pause...

to reflect...

to ponder...

[Psalms 4:4]

Most of us find time for everything so that every activity fits perfectly in our busy schedule. We're always finding time to do things and make things happen. There's always people to meet, places to go and things to talk about. Life then becomes a never ending journey of the hussle and bussle of the city life.

We then complain about how desperately we need a break. How we need a holiday, to rest and to pause from this busy life. Somehow, with that thought in mind, we find no purpose in our everyday life because all we think about is work. Then God seems to be so far away from this busy life. He's there but not quite there. He's around but He's always somewhere.

It's very true. We all need breaks from our hectic life. To pause and to rest need not necessary be a holiday on the beach or a week of relaxation. But rest is needed everyday.

Rest is to spend some quiet time with God, to reflect on all that has happened, to sit at His feet after a long day at work and know that He is there to comfort, to bring peace and joy. [Psalm 84:10-12] To lead a godly life is to know and live out where God stands in our hearts and how much of His presence we acknowledge throughout the day. So how can we live a godly life if we do not know the Creator of every being (,meeting Him only in bible study or church but never in a personal one-on-one manner)? And how can we possibly know Him if we're not even spending time with Him? [Psalm 119: 9-16, 33-40]

For me, I love resting and reflecting. I love sitting at His feet and just being overwhelmed with His presence and amazed with His glory. [Isaiah 6:1-3] Then I'm reminded of where I came from so I learn not to take things for granted and thank God for all that He's done and simply smile. I'll never get tired of resting with God there right by my side. Somehow, it's never boring. I suppose you can say once you've tasted the presence of God, nothing else can truly satisfy, cos there's no one that can possibly love us as God does- after all, how can anyone or anything compare to our first love?

I hope you'll be able to get some rest too because we all need it very much. Whether it's to be take a break, to reflect on His teachings or to remember how it was before so we can carry God's promises with us and move on.

2 Corinthians 4:16b - ... Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.

Let's rest!

Love always,
[mi]Me

Always, almost here

I wonder if you’ve ever felt this way…
The way the song’s chorus speaks…

And when I need you, you’re almost here
and I know that’s not enough.
And when I’m with you, I’m close to tears
Cos’ you’re always almost here.
(Brian McFadden & Delta Goodrem- Almost here)

It reminds me of a psalm…
As the deer pants for streams of water,
So my soul pants for you, O God,
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
When can I go and meet with God?
My tears have been my food day and night,
While men say to me all day long,
“Where is your God?”
These things I remember as I pour out my soul:
How I used to go with the multitude,
Leading the procession to the house of God,
With shouts of joy and thanksgiving
Among the festive throng
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
For I will yet praise Him,
My Savior and my God.
(Psalm 42:1-5)

God’s omnipresent, i.e. He’s everywhere- He seems to be all around me, beside me, with me, next to me, holding me, but… He feels so close yet so far…

I know He’s there. I just wish my heart could know it too…

_______________________________________________________________________

I don’t know about you, but for me, those moments have made me feel so empty that I was but a walking shell. Everything that happened seemed to happen around me but not to me. Pain was good- it confirmed I was alive. Sleep was good- it embraced me… until I opened my eyes, or unless, I couldn’t even sleep.

We all reach a point of depression in our lives. Living within it is not going to help- that’d be like falling down and wallowing in the pebbles and stones that have cut our feet- it’ll only hurt us more. Like crying over spilt milk, nothing’s going to change. The reality will just pierce us harder than before.

I love what the psalmist said “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, My Savior and my God”. Indeed, to overcome times of emptiness like that, it is not enough just to know- we need to HOPE. To TRUST that it WILL pass- not just living life or doing things but not liking it because you don’t have a choice or because you’re waiting for that pain to pass; but living life with JOY because you KNOW that moment WILL come; and THAT experience will be SO wonderful- you can feel it now!

Paul put it perfectly in Romans 5:2b-5 (emphases added): And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our suffering, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, HOPE. And hope does not disappoint us because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.

I hope this little post will give you some encouragement if you’re going through a depressing point in your life… It’s not the fact that you go through it that will help you grow- it’s HOW you go through it that will open your eyes to the miracles (big or small) that God has placed right there in your lives in times like that.

If you ever need an ear to hear out your problems, or somebody to pray for you, Mi and Me are here.

*Hugs*

Agape,
Mi.