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.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Friday, June 20, 2008
A tribute to Mi
Mi will be going back to Brunei for a few months. We're all going to miss her dearly. No worries, I believe that you will still catch her here blogging.
Anyway, just a simple message to Mi.
My dear sis, Mi,
It's been really amazing this year. Thank you for a beautiful friendship and wonderful sweet memories. I'll never forget them. Enjoy yourself this holiday and take good care ya. Go back and make more memories. Let God shine through you and let them see how much you've changed and how real God is to you. It's been great riding along side with you through everything. Thanks for letting me be a part of your journey here. I'm very happy and proud to see you come so far. I will miss you very much Mi. Can't wait to hear all about your stories from Brunei. I will always keep you in prayer and always know that I'm here for you. Love you very much. I know Daddy will take care of you.
Love always, Me
Till then, we shall all wait till she blogs again. **winks**
Anyway, just a simple message to Mi.
My dear sis, Mi,
It's been really amazing this year. Thank you for a beautiful friendship and wonderful sweet memories. I'll never forget them. Enjoy yourself this holiday and take good care ya. Go back and make more memories. Let God shine through you and let them see how much you've changed and how real God is to you. It's been great riding along side with you through everything. Thanks for letting me be a part of your journey here. I'm very happy and proud to see you come so far. I will miss you very much Mi. Can't wait to hear all about your stories from Brunei. I will always keep you in prayer and always know that I'm here for you. Love you very much. I know Daddy will take care of you.
Love always, Me
Till then, we shall all wait till she blogs again. **winks**
Let go, Let God
So many of us have our very own walls that were built up over the years from broken families, broken friendships, broken dreams, hurt, tears and fear. Painful times right? The kind of pain where your stomach twists and your heart sinks and you cry so hard and wish so much that things will be different. In all of us, we're so convinced that no one in this entire world will ever be able to understand us. So we hide away in our little corner and bottle up those emotion and shelf up all those thoughts and move on. Besides bad things happen... life goes on.
One day we just crack! Then we break! And the whole process of feeling the same pain comes back. No one understands. No one can make it right. Things are not ever going to change. In this life that we live, we will never cease to face trials, temptation, persecution, misunderstandings and hurdles. We think we can manage it on our own but we end up keeping it somewhere in our heads. Besides if we knew how to deal with it we wouldn't have to face it.
But...
Just when we think that our walls are thick enough to protect us, to keep us from looking like a total loser to someone else, or when we think that not-thinking-about-it will keep us going, God breaks us. He breaks our walls and they come crumbling down. We're forced to face all those shelved up emotions and sort them out one by one. Truth is, when we keep these things in our hearts and shelf them, the shelf is going to be full some day. But God wants us to come to Him for all things. Especially when we're hurt. He's suppose to be the One to take it all away. So how come the pain doesn't go away? Because we never gave it to Him. We never let go.
In those times when we think God had forsaken us cause He never took the pain away, He never left. He was waiting for us to let go of the hurt so He can take it away. Most of the time we're so convinced that no one will understand us that's why we don't share our problems. Truth is, God sends people into our lives for a reason. He never leaves us alone. He never lets us go through the hard times alone. That's where our brothers and sisters play their parts. They uphold us in prayer and remind us that we need to let go and let God take over. They may not have the answers but through prayer, God does.
How many of us will give our broken dreams to God to mend them? How many of us hold on to those broken dreams and try to fix them ourselves? Why not claim the promise that God will never forsake us and just let Him take care of it?
So how do we do that?
Are you willing to be vulnerable to go to God to take away all your troubles? Do you trust Him enough to let it go?
Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, all You who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
In everything that we do, God is there. In every tiny detail of our lives, God is there. He's there to help us, to take care of us. It is whether we will let Him. If we do, we go through trials by His strength so it doesn't become so hard. If we do, we have the joy of the Lord in our hearts so we can smile in the darkest moments and say "I'm okay, I'm letting God take care of it"
So how do we know we're actually doing it right? As in how do we know that we've let go? It's when we can share the past with someone and not be afraid of how the person see us to be. It's when we can talk about the matter and it doesn't bother us at all.
Will you give Him your broken dreams? He'll take care of it. He doesn't give broken promises.
Through everything we do, God doesn't let us go through it alone. Friends will be around. And some just want to be there for you, the choice is up to you if you want to let them. Don't struggle alone, share your burden so that they can pray for you and comfort you. That's what friends are for.
Let go and let God.
I'm always here for you.
Love always, Me
One day we just crack! Then we break! And the whole process of feeling the same pain comes back. No one understands. No one can make it right. Things are not ever going to change. In this life that we live, we will never cease to face trials, temptation, persecution, misunderstandings and hurdles. We think we can manage it on our own but we end up keeping it somewhere in our heads. Besides if we knew how to deal with it we wouldn't have to face it.
But...
Just when we think that our walls are thick enough to protect us, to keep us from looking like a total loser to someone else, or when we think that not-thinking-about-it will keep us going, God breaks us. He breaks our walls and they come crumbling down. We're forced to face all those shelved up emotions and sort them out one by one. Truth is, when we keep these things in our hearts and shelf them, the shelf is going to be full some day. But God wants us to come to Him for all things. Especially when we're hurt. He's suppose to be the One to take it all away. So how come the pain doesn't go away? Because we never gave it to Him. We never let go.
In those times when we think God had forsaken us cause He never took the pain away, He never left. He was waiting for us to let go of the hurt so He can take it away. Most of the time we're so convinced that no one will understand us that's why we don't share our problems. Truth is, God sends people into our lives for a reason. He never leaves us alone. He never lets us go through the hard times alone. That's where our brothers and sisters play their parts. They uphold us in prayer and remind us that we need to let go and let God take over. They may not have the answers but through prayer, God does.
How many of us will give our broken dreams to God to mend them? How many of us hold on to those broken dreams and try to fix them ourselves? Why not claim the promise that God will never forsake us and just let Him take care of it?
So how do we do that?
Are you willing to be vulnerable to go to God to take away all your troubles? Do you trust Him enough to let it go?
Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, all You who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.
In everything that we do, God is there. In every tiny detail of our lives, God is there. He's there to help us, to take care of us. It is whether we will let Him. If we do, we go through trials by His strength so it doesn't become so hard. If we do, we have the joy of the Lord in our hearts so we can smile in the darkest moments and say "I'm okay, I'm letting God take care of it"
So how do we know we're actually doing it right? As in how do we know that we've let go? It's when we can share the past with someone and not be afraid of how the person see us to be. It's when we can talk about the matter and it doesn't bother us at all.
Will you give Him your broken dreams? He'll take care of it. He doesn't give broken promises.
Through everything we do, God doesn't let us go through it alone. Friends will be around. And some just want to be there for you, the choice is up to you if you want to let them. Don't struggle alone, share your burden so that they can pray for you and comfort you. That's what friends are for.
Let go and let God.
I'm always here for you.
Love always, Me
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day!
Happy Father's Day, Daddy!!
To all the fathers in this world, we wish you the greatest Fathers' Day any father can ever have. May today be filled with love from your little children, your little miracles. The ones u wake every morning, kiss goodnight and the little ones you're extremely proud of.
To all the children in this world, we wish you had the greatest time making your daddies happy and proud daddies today. The one daddy that wakes you up every morning, kiss you goodnight and the one you run to for everything.
I'm very sure today is a very significant day even if it's just sitting at home.
Here, we wish to give tribute to the One Daddy that we often forget because we can't exactly see the Big Man. He's the One who had everything plan for us. Every little detail. He's the One who made everything possible, the impossible possible and the possible amazing. Darn, God must be pretty busy taking care of all of us. Every single one of us. Every cry, every tear, every prayer, every hurt. Tough stuff. Don't wanna be Him. Headache!!!
Haha!! Who am I kidding??!! He's God. He can do anything. Super Man, errr God!! err.. okay...
Anyway, I've been a Christian for only 2 years, but I have seen enough to know this Father that we can't tangibly see is absolutely real. And SuPer AweSOmE!!! There's literally no words to describe how wonderful, amazing and magnificent He is. God's been so very gracious to me and so kind to love me enough to have so many wonderful miracles in my life. He taught me how to love all that I have. He's blessed me with more than I can ever ask for. He gave me everything when I had nothing.
He's the One that kept me going. He's the One who promised to never leave me nor forsake me. And He never did. He's used everything I've been through to touch lives. But I must say, Daddy uses me in the weirdest moments, in the weirdest ways. Which is very profound I assure you. But He's very cool that way.
I read this somewhere a long time ago and I truly hold it close to my heart. A 5 year old boy told a 3 year old girl that he talks to Jesus everyday. And the 3 year old girl said this, "I don't talk, I just cuddle with Him". Its so cute!! Mi and I often sit and think how it's going to be like up in heaven. Maybe God will just be Daddy and He'll let us cuddle with Him. And all His hugs would be very warm, comforting and a whole lot of love with chocolate and cherry toppings!
Sometimes Mi and I wonder when we do mull about all that has happened, there's something in our heads that tells us that God is having an absolutely swell time seeing how we are, like little children at His feet. He probably enjoys the fact that we see Him to be so cool, weird, awesome and profound ALL AT THE SAME TIME!!
*puzzled face*
We often forget that God is really just Daddy. We forget that He watches over us all the time, He plans everything for us, He has our best interest, He will never let us go through the things we cannot manage and most of all, we forget that He, just like any other father here on earth, loves us. He sent His Son to die for us. He must love us a whole lot.
I've been called naive many times because I always think that things are perfect. I've been told many times "News flash!! The real world isn't perfect". Yes, the real world isn't perfect. But God is perfect. In every weakness and every flaw, God's strength and the manifestation of His glory is perfect. So the world is a sad sad place, but God is One what makes miracles. There must be some miracles in this sad sad place. If we look closer, with our hearts and not our minds, there's a whole lot of miracles to see. No disappointments there.
I don't know about you, but I like to see God as Daddy. The One that wants nothing but the very best for me. He's the same today, tomorrow and forevermore. He won't change =)
We just need to go to Him for everything. Just like a child. We find wisdom, strength, comfort, joy and peace from Him. Let us all keep the childlike faith where we trust Daddy for everything, and trust Him to lead our lives for us.
Dear Daddy,
I'm sorry for all the wrong things I've done. Wish I never did it. But thank You for forgiving me and still loving me just the same. I can't thank You enough for everything.
I love you Daddy
Love always,
Me
To all the fathers in this world, we wish you the greatest Fathers' Day any father can ever have. May today be filled with love from your little children, your little miracles. The ones u wake every morning, kiss goodnight and the little ones you're extremely proud of.
To all the children in this world, we wish you had the greatest time making your daddies happy and proud daddies today. The one daddy that wakes you up every morning, kiss you goodnight and the one you run to for everything.
I'm very sure today is a very significant day even if it's just sitting at home.
Here, we wish to give tribute to the One Daddy that we often forget because we can't exactly see the Big Man. He's the One who had everything plan for us. Every little detail. He's the One who made everything possible, the impossible possible and the possible amazing. Darn, God must be pretty busy taking care of all of us. Every single one of us. Every cry, every tear, every prayer, every hurt. Tough stuff. Don't wanna be Him. Headache!!!
Haha!! Who am I kidding??!! He's God. He can do anything. Super Man, errr God!! err.. okay...
Anyway, I've been a Christian for only 2 years, but I have seen enough to know this Father that we can't tangibly see is absolutely real. And SuPer AweSOmE!!! There's literally no words to describe how wonderful, amazing and magnificent He is. God's been so very gracious to me and so kind to love me enough to have so many wonderful miracles in my life. He taught me how to love all that I have. He's blessed me with more than I can ever ask for. He gave me everything when I had nothing.
He's the One that kept me going. He's the One who promised to never leave me nor forsake me. And He never did. He's used everything I've been through to touch lives. But I must say, Daddy uses me in the weirdest moments, in the weirdest ways. Which is very profound I assure you. But He's very cool that way.
I read this somewhere a long time ago and I truly hold it close to my heart. A 5 year old boy told a 3 year old girl that he talks to Jesus everyday. And the 3 year old girl said this, "I don't talk, I just cuddle with Him". Its so cute!! Mi and I often sit and think how it's going to be like up in heaven. Maybe God will just be Daddy and He'll let us cuddle with Him. And all His hugs would be very warm, comforting and a whole lot of love with chocolate and cherry toppings!
Sometimes Mi and I wonder when we do mull about all that has happened, there's something in our heads that tells us that God is having an absolutely swell time seeing how we are, like little children at His feet. He probably enjoys the fact that we see Him to be so cool, weird, awesome and profound ALL AT THE SAME TIME!!
*puzzled face*
We often forget that God is really just Daddy. We forget that He watches over us all the time, He plans everything for us, He has our best interest, He will never let us go through the things we cannot manage and most of all, we forget that He, just like any other father here on earth, loves us. He sent His Son to die for us. He must love us a whole lot.
I've been called naive many times because I always think that things are perfect. I've been told many times "News flash!! The real world isn't perfect". Yes, the real world isn't perfect. But God is perfect. In every weakness and every flaw, God's strength and the manifestation of His glory is perfect. So the world is a sad sad place, but God is One what makes miracles. There must be some miracles in this sad sad place. If we look closer, with our hearts and not our minds, there's a whole lot of miracles to see. No disappointments there.
I don't know about you, but I like to see God as Daddy. The One that wants nothing but the very best for me. He's the same today, tomorrow and forevermore. He won't change =)
We just need to go to Him for everything. Just like a child. We find wisdom, strength, comfort, joy and peace from Him. Let us all keep the childlike faith where we trust Daddy for everything, and trust Him to lead our lives for us.
Dear Daddy,
I'm sorry for all the wrong things I've done. Wish I never did it. But thank You for forgiving me and still loving me just the same. I can't thank You enough for everything.
I love you Daddy
Love always,
Me
Thursday, June 12, 2008
It's been nothing but perfect!
It's finally the end of the semester. Exams are finally over and I'm actually finally going out to work. I was suppose to do all that last March after results came out but I didn't make it to pass my final two papers. Since then, so much has changed.
Let me take you back about four months ago.
It was right after Monday morning prayer meeting, I checked my email and I received the email that changed so much more that there was to change. Clearly Daddy had everything planned. I failed two papers and passed the other two. That meant that I had to spend another 4 months in college when I was clearly so ready and prepared myself to work. I was ready to start the next chapter of my life, going in with the right heart and attitude, having the right expectations but I guess the Lord decided that I wasn't all that ready. I had a lot of faith that God would see me through.
He still did, but I guess my idea of seeing me through wasn't His idea of seeing me through. I was sad, I cried. So many question marks in my head and I fought so hard not to question God. I had no idea what was the reason God keeping me here but I knew that He had a perfect reason why. I was very happy that all my sisters made it through their papers but I wished so hard I did too. In the midst of dealing with my emotions and thoughts, I told Mi that I'll be alright and that maybe God will bless me in some other way.
And so He did. More than I could have ever asked for.
In this four months I have not been blessed more than I have been in the past, I have seen myself grow more than I ever thought I could because God granted me wisdom to know so much more about Him, the one thing I've always wished I could do. I discovered the gifts that He's given me and I found the purpose He had for me and the ministry that He put me in.
I knew all that happened to me was fair and just. God had His reasons. After much prayer, I knew that if I had walked into the working world without the knowledge of God and risk turning away from Him or being distant from Him, I might as well have not passed in the first place. But in the last four months, He taught me patience, faith, hope, love, kindness, prayer, trust and gratefulness. The lessons learned and the memories shared with Mi and Fe and many more people that He had have share my life with me are priceless and I will never have it any other way.
I learned to trust Him, even though the prayer I had for myself was not answered the way that I wanted Him to. Then i realized that it was not what I wanted, but what He wanted for me. Why I failed was very justifiable. It wasn't because I didn't work hard enough but it was because I made a mistake. But that mistake was probably pre-planned so I could have so much more. Guess you could say I'm being silly. But I'd say I'm just doing what I've always wished I could do. Which is to uphold my life to God and have Him lead me through the darkest valleys and the hardest paths because in all of that, I got saw the brightest star and the most beautiful rainbow.
The memories engraved in my heart may be little ones compared to others but I don't need the big ones to pull me through. That, Daddy taught me. To see joy in the finest things are the ones that are all worth it and all fulfilling. The memory of seeing my sisters grow, my friends smile, or achieving something, fall and pick themselves up again, or from seeing how hard it was for them and now wonderful things are for them. These are the ones that I hold so very dear. I would live that moment again. Even if it means failing again. From where I stand, even though sometimes people may not notice me or I'm no big shot, but I have been given the privilege to watch every seed grow, every flower blossom and every sun shine. Life is absolutely fulfilling that way.
So it's been absolutely perfect. Even though it was so hard. Even though it took pain and hurt to get here now, four months later. But yes, I wouldn't change it. Would you change all that you've been through? Even if you knew you didn't have any choice being in the position that you are and you don't like it? Would you trust God to take care of you? Would u see joy in the finest things, the darkest valleys and hardest paths? Would you re-live the hard times just to see the brightest star and have the most beautiful memory? I know I won't change it. I won't change what is made perfect for me by the One that is anything but perfect.
He didn't answer my prayers last time round. Maybe He'll answer it this time, or the next. But I know He will answer it in His perfect timing, in the most perfect way. Either way, I'll be just fine. I may be scared but I will be fine. I know He'll carry me through.
I hope you know that too.
Phillippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 - ... "My Grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in your
weakness.
He promised not to leave us nor forsake us. How much to you believe that? I know I do.
Claim His promises and hold on to Him. I promise you, you've got nothing to lose but everything to gain.
Love always,
Me
Let me take you back about four months ago.
It was right after Monday morning prayer meeting, I checked my email and I received the email that changed so much more that there was to change. Clearly Daddy had everything planned. I failed two papers and passed the other two. That meant that I had to spend another 4 months in college when I was clearly so ready and prepared myself to work. I was ready to start the next chapter of my life, going in with the right heart and attitude, having the right expectations but I guess the Lord decided that I wasn't all that ready. I had a lot of faith that God would see me through.
He still did, but I guess my idea of seeing me through wasn't His idea of seeing me through. I was sad, I cried. So many question marks in my head and I fought so hard not to question God. I had no idea what was the reason God keeping me here but I knew that He had a perfect reason why. I was very happy that all my sisters made it through their papers but I wished so hard I did too. In the midst of dealing with my emotions and thoughts, I told Mi that I'll be alright and that maybe God will bless me in some other way.
And so He did. More than I could have ever asked for.
In this four months I have not been blessed more than I have been in the past, I have seen myself grow more than I ever thought I could because God granted me wisdom to know so much more about Him, the one thing I've always wished I could do. I discovered the gifts that He's given me and I found the purpose He had for me and the ministry that He put me in.
I knew all that happened to me was fair and just. God had His reasons. After much prayer, I knew that if I had walked into the working world without the knowledge of God and risk turning away from Him or being distant from Him, I might as well have not passed in the first place. But in the last four months, He taught me patience, faith, hope, love, kindness, prayer, trust and gratefulness. The lessons learned and the memories shared with Mi and Fe and many more people that He had have share my life with me are priceless and I will never have it any other way.
I learned to trust Him, even though the prayer I had for myself was not answered the way that I wanted Him to. Then i realized that it was not what I wanted, but what He wanted for me. Why I failed was very justifiable. It wasn't because I didn't work hard enough but it was because I made a mistake. But that mistake was probably pre-planned so I could have so much more. Guess you could say I'm being silly. But I'd say I'm just doing what I've always wished I could do. Which is to uphold my life to God and have Him lead me through the darkest valleys and the hardest paths because in all of that, I got saw the brightest star and the most beautiful rainbow.
The memories engraved in my heart may be little ones compared to others but I don't need the big ones to pull me through. That, Daddy taught me. To see joy in the finest things are the ones that are all worth it and all fulfilling. The memory of seeing my sisters grow, my friends smile, or achieving something, fall and pick themselves up again, or from seeing how hard it was for them and now wonderful things are for them. These are the ones that I hold so very dear. I would live that moment again. Even if it means failing again. From where I stand, even though sometimes people may not notice me or I'm no big shot, but I have been given the privilege to watch every seed grow, every flower blossom and every sun shine. Life is absolutely fulfilling that way.
So it's been absolutely perfect. Even though it was so hard. Even though it took pain and hurt to get here now, four months later. But yes, I wouldn't change it. Would you change all that you've been through? Even if you knew you didn't have any choice being in the position that you are and you don't like it? Would you trust God to take care of you? Would u see joy in the finest things, the darkest valleys and hardest paths? Would you re-live the hard times just to see the brightest star and have the most beautiful memory? I know I won't change it. I won't change what is made perfect for me by the One that is anything but perfect.
He didn't answer my prayers last time round. Maybe He'll answer it this time, or the next. But I know He will answer it in His perfect timing, in the most perfect way. Either way, I'll be just fine. I may be scared but I will be fine. I know He'll carry me through.
I hope you know that too.
Phillippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
2 Corinthians 12:9 - ... "My Grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in your
weakness.
He promised not to leave us nor forsake us. How much to you believe that? I know I do.
Claim His promises and hold on to Him. I promise you, you've got nothing to lose but everything to gain.
Love always,
Me
Monday, June 9, 2008
The truth... The whole truth?
The truth:
I am living in temptation and I want to quit it. I want to stop sinning against God. But it's very, very hard. Temptation can be SO strong. My will- so weak.
But I know it's not impossible!
So I shall strive on- I will not give up eventhough I should fall, because I know that God will forgive me , and let me try, and try, and try again until I finally stand victorious over it!
(some popularly quoted "support" verses)
[1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempte, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.]
[1 John 1:9- If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness]
The whole truth?
Well, erm... to be honest, part of me actually enjoys indulging in my temptation. It's like chocolate- fattening, but you enjoy eating every-"sinful"- little- bite. Yes, I know it's wrong. Just give me some time... I just need a little more time...
(supporting verse)
[James 1:14 But each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed]
... ...
Ever thought of being honest with yourself as to what's "the truth" in your battle with temptation?
Because, technically- There's no way a person can overcome your temptations by deceiving themself as to what is the "true" current state of battle with it, right?
"How can you overcome something you still love?"
"How can you love indulging in sin when you know very well it means NOT loving God?"
"Really, really now... Who or what do you love more?"
Oh pride... please do not hide my heart from the whole truth.
Mi.
I am living in temptation and I want to quit it. I want to stop sinning against God. But it's very, very hard. Temptation can be SO strong. My will- so weak.
But I know it's not impossible!
So I shall strive on- I will not give up eventhough I should fall, because I know that God will forgive me , and let me try, and try, and try again until I finally stand victorious over it!
(some popularly quoted "support" verses)
[1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempte, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.]
[1 John 1:9- If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness]
The whole truth?
Well, erm... to be honest, part of me actually enjoys indulging in my temptation. It's like chocolate- fattening, but you enjoy eating every-"sinful"- little- bite. Yes, I know it's wrong. Just give me some time... I just need a little more time...
(supporting verse)
[James 1:14 But each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed]
... ...
Ever thought of being honest with yourself as to what's "the truth" in your battle with temptation?
Because, technically- There's no way a person can overcome your temptations by deceiving themself as to what is the "true" current state of battle with it, right?
"How can you overcome something you still love?"
"How can you love indulging in sin when you know very well it means NOT loving God?"
"Really, really now... Who or what do you love more?"
Oh pride... please do not hide my heart from the whole truth.
Mi.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Robbed
It's amazing...
But...
We would allow a little glitch in our night or evening, to rob us of the joy the rest of the whole day has brought.
e.g. Terrible traffic jam on the way home, a sudden assignment turning up, a ditched appointment, headaches, an "overly honest and sincere" comment from a friend...
Okay, as much as I said "we", that's really pretty much Mi =) At least, I hope, who I used to be =P You see, I wouldn't be able to help feeling down even when the whole day has been SO GreaT if this or that came along midway or towards the end of the day. What's worse, I'd allow it to make me "emo" through the night. But hey, isn't it sad? That an absolutely positively perfect day just HAD to have something wrong in it?
Well, one night, one of our (Mi & Me's) conversations opened my eyes..
Me: " I don't get it, how is it you can have such a wonderful day with Daddy, be SO happy about everything that has happened in the day, but choose to let this little, little thing bug you SO much! That you can't appreciate everything else that has happened anymore!" [Note: Of course this is not verbatim! (My memory is not fantastic ^-^) But it was along these lines =P]
Needless to say, I got defensive. But Me had a point- Why can't I make the effort to look past that little bad spot in a beautiful day and choose to be happy with everything else especially when what was wonderful was so much more?
Some time or other, later, as we took a break from studies and entered into another one of our usual conversations on Daddy...
Me: 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! 6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4:4,6-7]
Mi: Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. [1 Thessalonians 5:16-18]
Touche.
I may have insurance, carry with me protective devices, use lock and keys to secure my belongings, but I've failed to guard my heart and mind against the little sad things that come into my day and try to ruin it for me. Failed to rejoice and be happy- which is what God wants for me since now I have Jesus Christ in my life and things are not suppose to be like this. I'm suppose to pray with thankfulness in everything and enjoy the peace that comes after entrusting it all to God...
What happened?
I guess in my course of securing my future (studying hard), I've become so focused on wanting to enjoy what's good, I've become obsessive compulsive about any hint of bad in it.
How silly of me! When I've always been one to say "it's the bad that makes the good much better"- allowing us to appreciate the good things in life much more!
Well, that's that. It's a new dawn, a new day, a new life with new mercies, new spirit and new hopes, fresh from Daddy! So ya, as you make your way through the rest of your days, I hope you'll remember to secure your heart and mind- guard it. It requires you to invest in it too- time, in prayer.
Agape,
Mi ^-^
p.s. When I said "I may have insurance, carry with me protective devices, use lock and keys to secure my belongings"- it's not to state that I actually do. It's meant as an illustration. *Pictures myself holding pepper spray in one hand and my handbag chained with a huge lock in the other*... O.O I must be overstressed.
- We allocate a portion of our monthly savings for insurance to protect ourselves and our loved ones should an unlikely accident strike us, so we don't have to worry about life robbing us of financial security.
- We spend a part of our savings in security features for home, car(s)... That we may deter and detect anyone who has the guts to try and rob us of our personal belongings.
But...
We would allow a little glitch in our night or evening, to rob us of the joy the rest of the whole day has brought.
e.g. Terrible traffic jam on the way home, a sudden assignment turning up, a ditched appointment, headaches, an "overly honest and sincere" comment from a friend...
Okay, as much as I said "we", that's really pretty much Mi =) At least, I hope, who I used to be =P You see, I wouldn't be able to help feeling down even when the whole day has been SO GreaT if this or that came along midway or towards the end of the day. What's worse, I'd allow it to make me "emo" through the night. But hey, isn't it sad? That an absolutely positively perfect day just HAD to have something wrong in it?
Well, one night, one of our (Mi & Me's) conversations opened my eyes..
Me: " I don't get it, how is it you can have such a wonderful day with Daddy, be SO happy about everything that has happened in the day, but choose to let this little, little thing bug you SO much! That you can't appreciate everything else that has happened anymore!" [Note: Of course this is not verbatim! (My memory is not fantastic ^-^) But it was along these lines =P]
Needless to say, I got defensive. But Me had a point- Why can't I make the effort to look past that little bad spot in a beautiful day and choose to be happy with everything else especially when what was wonderful was so much more?
Some time or other, later, as we took a break from studies and entered into another one of our usual conversations on Daddy...
Me: 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! 6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4:4,6-7]
Mi: Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. [1 Thessalonians 5:16-18]
Touche.
I may have insurance, carry with me protective devices, use lock and keys to secure my belongings, but I've failed to guard my heart and mind against the little sad things that come into my day and try to ruin it for me. Failed to rejoice and be happy- which is what God wants for me since now I have Jesus Christ in my life and things are not suppose to be like this. I'm suppose to pray with thankfulness in everything and enjoy the peace that comes after entrusting it all to God...
What happened?
I guess in my course of securing my future (studying hard), I've become so focused on wanting to enjoy what's good, I've become obsessive compulsive about any hint of bad in it.
How silly of me! When I've always been one to say "it's the bad that makes the good much better"- allowing us to appreciate the good things in life much more!
Well, that's that. It's a new dawn, a new day, a new life with new mercies, new spirit and new hopes, fresh from Daddy! So ya, as you make your way through the rest of your days, I hope you'll remember to secure your heart and mind- guard it. It requires you to invest in it too- time, in prayer.
Agape,
Mi ^-^
p.s. When I said "I may have insurance, carry with me protective devices, use lock and keys to secure my belongings"- it's not to state that I actually do. It's meant as an illustration. *Pictures myself holding pepper spray in one hand and my handbag chained with a huge lock in the other*... O.O I must be overstressed.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Just waiting and waiting... for answered prayers
Ever waited for so long for one thing to happen? Ever wish and prayed so hard for that one thing you hoped for? But it all seems so far away. Right now it seems so impossible. So what do you do?
You wait.
We wait on God for He knows what is best for our lives.
Sometimes it gets so hard and so painful that you don't want to wait anymore because you just can't hold on. You can literally feel your heart being squeezed and your stomach tying knots. Then the tears start rolling down so quickly, you don't even have the strength to wipe them dry. And sometimes they run down your cheeks and you don't even notice it. Because you have gone so numb and so oblivious to everything that is going on. Simply cause you can't help it.
You then ask yourself... Is it worth the wait? Is it worth the excruciating pain and the heavy tears? Just for that thing? That one thing that might never happen. What are you, NUTS?! Putting yourself in that position when you had a choice is just plain stupidity and utter dumbness as some would put it.
Pretty cool how our mind play tricks on us.
I remember all the prayers that were said on my part. Some have been answered and some not yet. I remember so clearly every painful heart ache, every hurtful tear. I still remember how hard i prayed. Prayed for that one thing that God will answer. And, I'm still praying.
Sometimes I ask, is it worth all these tears and heart ache? God, what's taking so long? Can't You answer it now? Cause I can't anymore. I don't know how much more I can take. I'm losing it. Can't You help me speed it up just a little bit?
Answer to that? I continue to wait on Him. I realized that our Heavenly Father is literally a Father. One that loves us enough to plan the very best for our worthless lives. Who are we to judge what is best for ourselves when our Creator is the One that makes it happen.
I remember every prayer answered. All that started then came to completion. Through all those tears, those painful conversations, those late nights, then suddenly it all came to pass. Every answered prayer was a miracle in itself. It is so amazing to see God's glory being manifested through everything. And all the hard times became all so very worth it.
But Daddy doesn't leave us alone. He sends us people (friends, brothers and sisters) into our lives to help us through every trial and hardship. Daddy sent me, Mi along with 2 more very sweet sisters, Fe and Sz. They've prayed for me many many times, and so have I for them. They were there every step of the way. Mi and the rest stuck around for me, even though it was inconvenient and troublesome. Daddy made us true friends and wonderful sisters in Christ.
So i guess its not that bad to wait. Because when its all done, its so worth it that I'd do it all over again. The miracles are priceless. Truly unmeasurable. So yes!! Thank you my sisters for sticking around long enough to see the miracles!!
I've seen enough miracles to know that God's timing is perfect. And that waiting and waiting simply just means a miracle waiting to happen by His will. How do u deal with that long long wait then? We trust God and draw strength from Him.
For all that has happened, I wouldn't have it any other way because its perfect the way the prayers were answered. And for those that are not answered, I'll wait on God so that one day I can say, "I wouldn't have it any other way". Life may be hard and when it feels like the whole world is against you, you wait on God and sail through by His power and strength. Can you believe it? I have the ones I love most to share the burden and most importantly the joy ahead with me. Hard times can't get better than that =)
Try it! Wait on God and see what happens. You even might end up being glad to have cried all those tears. What's ahead is a mystery. What's right here is a memory.
Yet, another prayer yet to be answered, another memory yet to be written. Till then, let everything be a memory for a prayer waiting to be answered.
Love always, Me.
You wait.
We wait on God for He knows what is best for our lives.
Sometimes it gets so hard and so painful that you don't want to wait anymore because you just can't hold on. You can literally feel your heart being squeezed and your stomach tying knots. Then the tears start rolling down so quickly, you don't even have the strength to wipe them dry. And sometimes they run down your cheeks and you don't even notice it. Because you have gone so numb and so oblivious to everything that is going on. Simply cause you can't help it.
You then ask yourself... Is it worth the wait? Is it worth the excruciating pain and the heavy tears? Just for that thing? That one thing that might never happen. What are you, NUTS?! Putting yourself in that position when you had a choice is just plain stupidity and utter dumbness as some would put it.
Pretty cool how our mind play tricks on us.
I remember all the prayers that were said on my part. Some have been answered and some not yet. I remember so clearly every painful heart ache, every hurtful tear. I still remember how hard i prayed. Prayed for that one thing that God will answer. And, I'm still praying.
Sometimes I ask, is it worth all these tears and heart ache? God, what's taking so long? Can't You answer it now? Cause I can't anymore. I don't know how much more I can take. I'm losing it. Can't You help me speed it up just a little bit?
Answer to that? I continue to wait on Him. I realized that our Heavenly Father is literally a Father. One that loves us enough to plan the very best for our worthless lives. Who are we to judge what is best for ourselves when our Creator is the One that makes it happen.
I remember every prayer answered. All that started then came to completion. Through all those tears, those painful conversations, those late nights, then suddenly it all came to pass. Every answered prayer was a miracle in itself. It is so amazing to see God's glory being manifested through everything. And all the hard times became all so very worth it.
But Daddy doesn't leave us alone. He sends us people (friends, brothers and sisters) into our lives to help us through every trial and hardship. Daddy sent me, Mi along with 2 more very sweet sisters, Fe and Sz. They've prayed for me many many times, and so have I for them. They were there every step of the way. Mi and the rest stuck around for me, even though it was inconvenient and troublesome. Daddy made us true friends and wonderful sisters in Christ.
So i guess its not that bad to wait. Because when its all done, its so worth it that I'd do it all over again. The miracles are priceless. Truly unmeasurable. So yes!! Thank you my sisters for sticking around long enough to see the miracles!!
I've seen enough miracles to know that God's timing is perfect. And that waiting and waiting simply just means a miracle waiting to happen by His will. How do u deal with that long long wait then? We trust God and draw strength from Him.
For all that has happened, I wouldn't have it any other way because its perfect the way the prayers were answered. And for those that are not answered, I'll wait on God so that one day I can say, "I wouldn't have it any other way". Life may be hard and when it feels like the whole world is against you, you wait on God and sail through by His power and strength. Can you believe it? I have the ones I love most to share the burden and most importantly the joy ahead with me. Hard times can't get better than that =)
Try it! Wait on God and see what happens. You even might end up being glad to have cried all those tears. What's ahead is a mystery. What's right here is a memory.
Yet, another prayer yet to be answered, another memory yet to be written. Till then, let everything be a memory for a prayer waiting to be answered.
Love always, Me.
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