mi.me.mulling

What you see is what you get?

2010-03-10T09:23:00.000-08:00

One question...

Does everyone live their lives as who they truly are? Or are they just potraying the one image that they think ppl want to see or the image that they want ppl to see?

So when is it that what you say is real? It's so confusing sometimes when the characters of life are as such where one person can have such extreme personalities for different things. And yet, he / she is the same person? This is mostly difficult to comprehend. Do you think ppl get tired to being different all the time or being someone they're not?

Well, I guess sometimes ppl can't help themselves. After all, we are human. Different situation will call for different reactions at different time. Thankfully, God is consistent for He is the same today, tomorrow and forevermore. In the Christian world, we're called to be Christians all the time in all situations. Can you bring Christianity to your workplace and in all that you do? To be the person that you truly are... a Christian?

Interesting how the world is. Puzzling to some extend.

Observed the irony of one's life,
Me

Absolutely

2009-09-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

This is just my opinion, it's just what I think.

Because society has changed. People have become more open and "so what?" in their relationship towards others- "It's his life", "it's her decision", "it's their choice"- we should respect their freewill. After all, it's their life- nothing to do with me. Besides, who am I to impose my stands, values and beliefs on them? This is my take/perspective of things; that's your view of the matter. Who are you to dictate or decide what's good for me? How can you be so sure and say that this is "wrong" or "right"?

No wonder the world hates, looks down on or disregards Christians- we've (i.e. Christians) have closed mindsets, we're straight-thinking and hold on to 'archaic' ideologies (like, hello, it's the 21st century and Christians are STILL reading that how many thousand years old "history book", and living their lives according to it)!

To top it off, in an open-minded society where "there's no real right or wrong only differing perspectives"- we continue to hold firm and preach moral ABSOLUTES!

Meaning? Meaning that we'd declare unabashedly that's it's wrong to lie, it's wrong to lust, it's wrong to have pre-marital sex, it's wrong to be engaged in a homosexual relationship- Even though "white lies aren't really lies"; "it's natural for human beings being created as sexual beings to lust"; "everybody's doing it"; and "they really love each other and it's not like they're hurting anyone with that lifestyle choice".

Why? Because the Bible says so.

So you do everything that the Bible says? Try to- Unfortunately, I commit the acts I declare to be wrong too. There are Christians who are lying, stealing, lusting, fornicating... the difference is they know and accept that it's wrong and are struggling to stop it.

Christians are hypocrites then. We're often described as such because we're not living up to the standards we subscribe to... But people need to know: Being a Christian isn't a declaration of perfection- on the contrary, it's a confession of sinfulness/ imperfection. A Christian isn't a Christian if (s)he has never admitted, "I'm a sinner"- it's the first step in accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour.

You still haven't explained why you judge others when you make mistakes yourself. Getting to that... When we've accepted Christ as our Lord, we mean it literally- we want to live our lives according to His will/ standards- even if they're unattainable at this point. It's really the least we can do in response, when we consider that He has offered us the gift of eternal life even when we didn't deserve it (i.e. when we were still sinners). Heaven is a place of perfection- and an imperfect being like me, simply wouldn't pass if not because Christ had sacrificed Himself for me, or rather us Christians.

There's no intention to judge when we define an act as wrong- it's like you said, who are we to judge when we ourselves make the very same mistake? We say what we say because our value system in Christ has defined those acts as wrong. In other words, you can say- that's just our take on things. We've experienced how great and wonderful it is to live this life with God and with eternity secured for us... and what could be better than having others be a part of this awesome promise with us? Unfortunately, we've not always been most wise in our approach at times and come off as trying to impose ourselves on others. Guess you can say it's like how our parents or those who care about us would put it- "I'm angry with you because I love you".

That's a truckload of BULL! You expect me to believe that you "love" me when you don't know a hint about me?! Who're you trying to fool? Agreed. There's no sense in what I just said, but mind you, it's not nonsense. Consider this- why is it impossible for me to care about you when I know how it feels to be loved by Christ when I didn't deserve Him and it's Him that I'm trying to bring to your attention?

Well, I don't want your Jesus Christ. That's fine. But nevertheless, f.y.i., His gift of eternal life, forgiveness and a most unbelievably amazing relationship with Him is open to you, absolutely.

Just Mi.

Finding Hope

2009-08-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in life's many climbs,
when we yearn to fall, when we crave to cry.
But we hold our grip, we strain our strength-
we cannot afford- to simply quit.

With so much to carry, with so much to do,
and so little time- emotions are queued.
But this can't go on, at least not for long-
we all need a lift, a Saviour; a hope... ...

There is a hope
There is a hope that burns within my heart,
That gives me strength for every passing day;
A glimpse of glory now revealed in meagre part,
Yet drives all doubt away:

I stand in Christ, with sins forgiven;
And Christ in me, the hope of heaven!
My highest calling and my deepest joy,
To make His will my home.
~~~
There is a hope that lifts my weary head,
A consolation strong against despair,
That when the world has plunged me in its deepest pit,
I find the Saviour there!

Through present sufferings, future's fear,
He whispers 'courage' in my ear.
For I am safe in everlasting arms,
And they will lead me home.
~~~
There is a hope that stands the test of time,
That lifts my eyes beyond the beckoning grave,
To see the matchless beauty of a day divine
When I behold His face!

When sufferings cease and sorrows die,
And every longing satisfied.
Then joy unspeakable will flood my soul,
For I am truly home.

by Stuart Townend and Mark EdwardsCopyright (c) 2007 Thankyou Music.

Hopeful,
Mi.

What happened?

2009-08-02T06:37:00.000-07:00

Today I was at lunch with my colleagues and we had the most interesting conversation. Well it was very brief but it got me thinking for the longest time until I decide to put it up here. It went something along these lines...

... to have a child without getting married is fine in this generation. We shouldn't judge people. As long as the girl can support herself and the child, I don't think there's a problem....

... Yeap! If I had a child before I got married, I don't owe it to anyone to explain how I chose to live my life. If I get married because I'm pregnant is just so my parents wouldn't lose "face" to my relatives and at least they can say "She's pregnant and married, not pregnant and alone"

Basically, that's the gist of it.

As I am writing this, I'm speaking to a friend who thinks people shouldn't get married just cause there is a child involved. If they are not happy, then they should leave to lead their own lives and still love the child. Most people are happier that way rather than being at each other's necks all the time.

I stop to think... What happened? The very being that was created out of love has lost all sense of the meaning of love, marriage and family. How can we say that no one should get married because of the child? Answer: Because there is no point in getting married, let alone stay in the marriage if there is no love.

Then what about the child?

How can we say there is still a family when you have 2 mummies and 2 daddies when there is only suppose to be one each? How can there still be a family when your biological mummy and daddy is separated and not living together and will never be?

How can we say, its alright because the girl can support herself and she'll be fine raising the child?

Have we all forgotten about the child? How do you want your child to call you, mummy and daddy?? Doesn't a child need the love of a father too? Or how would a child say mummy 1 & mummy 2 and daddy 1 & daddy 2?

I'm not saying you should be married just cause you have a child. I'm just saying don't even attempt to have the slightest chance to have a child, meaning wait.

I'm not saying that a marriage should happen because of a child. I'm simply saying that we should understand the meaning of a marriage being the union of 2 people with completely different personalities, mood swings and bad tempers! Maybe if people remember that they are not always right, they are not the same, there will be differences and no one is perfect, just maybe people will not stop trying to work at it and be willing to forgive and reconcile.

So what happened? I wonder what God is saying.

In hopes for what used to be complete and beautiful,
Me

How much?

2009-04-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

It's such a common phrase, it feels cliche to say it's common! But really, none of us is free from this question- whether you're asking "How much?" it costs, questioning "How much?" more can you take, or wondering "How much?" longer will it be.

One might think this question would get boring by now, but no- one of the most favourite questions we read in magazines posed to celebrities, entrepreneurs, business men... is always, "How much more before it's enough?"

Truly, in this world, especially when it comes to money, wealth, success- there's never "enough". But I'm not posting this to "preach" contentment, rather, to ask you dear reader- In light of so much in your life- be it fun, money, friends, sadness, sorrow, stress...

How much do you have in eternity?

A story goes...
There was a farmer bringing a visiting missionary to his church on a tour of his farm. He led him to the top storey of an old look out-post situated on a nearby hill where the view of his whole farm could be seen.

The farmer declared,"See this entire piece of land before your eyes? They are all mine- the horses, cows and sheeps; the fruit trees, crops and gardens. Even the large barns over there! I started out as a farm hand working for the original owner of this estate with nothing to my name! But clearly, all my years of investment- the hard work, toil and savings; has given me very much."

The missionary nodded quietly, pointed to the sky and said with a gentle smile,"Indeed, but may I ask, how much have you invested up there?"

Truly, if all is vanity (Quote: King Solomon) and life but a mist (Quote: James)- how much are we investing in eternity?

Having little yet much,
Mi.

Not enough, good enough?

2009-03-14T10:06:00.001-07:00

Not enough time.
Not enough money. Not good enough.
Not pretty enough. Not smart enough. Not outstanding enough.

The list goes on....

No matter how much time, money or anything else, ironically, it'll never be enough. Then what is enough? When we've done a great job at something, its a great job. But why didn't we get there faster.

I guess it is human nature to want more whether its time, money or affection and attention, etc.

But the irony of God's teaching is selfless living. Where we give more than we can give, we say enough even if its little, and we say its amazing even when it's not the best.

So even if we don't have enough, ever wondered if its good enough?

Just enough for me,
Me

New Mercies for the New Year

2009-01-04T08:21:00.000-08:00

First of all, Happy New Year!!

Secondly, sorry for being missing for so long.

Wow.. Time seems to have just flew by in a flash. Everything feels like it just happened yesterday. To think that this is the start of a whole new year. Questions on "How's this year going to be?" "What's going to happen this year?" "Will it be just as bad or will it be better?" would have occur in everyone's mind. The year ahead seems to be unknown and such a blur. To some, they have probably started planning how much to save, what to do, make new year resolutions and set goals for their year ahead. But who really knows what's going to happen. Before you know it, a month passes by, two months, half the year, then it'll be the end again.

The start of the year is the perfect time to reflect on the past. Its a time where we recall the lessons learned, reminisce the beautiful moments and collect the memories made. It is a time to realise that so much has passed, so much has happened and all of it had happened for every good reason God has decided. He has probably done so much for us in the past year and we will never even begin to know. He has probably thought us so much in the past year that we can't even remember every single lesson learned.

And these are the lessons that will continue to be taught to us until we truly learn and know it in our hearts. How many of us really look forward to wake up each day and see what God has to teach today? How many of us take note of what God is doing around us to help us grow? How many of us truly embrace the joy of the Lord every moment of the day to notice that His glory is manifested in the things that will only happen by His miracle? The answer is not many of us do. We tend to neglect God in our everyday lives. We tend to complain about the things that don't go well and things that are not in favour of us.

We fail to realise that everyday is a new day, and everyday His mercies are new. So in this new year, lets do something different for a change. How about doing something back for our Lord in magnifying Him and bringing Him glory through the way we live our lives. How about not complaining about our day and figure out why things happen the way they do. Maybe we could take the extra effort to notice God in our daily routine.

And just maybe, this year it wouldn't be so routine. Maybe by the end of this year, we can say we've come a distance with God. Only to strive to go further with God next year and the year after. The journey with God never ends.

To realise that till today, God is still with us, means everything. To know that till today, His mercies are new everyday, is priceless.

Awaiting gratefully for His new mercies for the New Year,
Me

Santa Claus

2008-12-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-22T22:16:00.000-08:00

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...

2008-12-07T08:42:00.001-08:00

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...

2008-11-28T04:29:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-11T09:02:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

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

2008-10-29T22:34:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-10-26T10:05:00.000-07:00

"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

2008-10-19T08:02:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-08T05:59:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

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"

2008-09-30T21:33:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-26T08:47:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-09-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-14T19:48:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-13T09:21:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-06T06:27:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-01T01:32:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-08-31T07:44:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-22T22:16:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-08-12T22:20:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-08-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-07T02:24:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-08-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

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

2008-08-03T21:14:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-30T03:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-20T08:37:00.000-07:00

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?

2008-07-14T09:32:00.000-07:00

"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.

2008-07-08T02:59:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-07-06T07:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-06-28T05:25:00.000-07:00

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.

A tribute to Mi

2008-06-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

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**

Let go, Let God

2008-06-20T10:05:00.000-07:00

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

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T03:26:00.000-07:00

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

It's been nothing but perfect!

2008-06-12T04:52:00.000-07:00

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

The truth... The whole truth?

2008-06-09T08:41:00.000-07:00

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.

Robbed

2008-06-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

It's amazing...

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.

Just waiting and waiting... for answered prayers

2008-06-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

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.

A piece of mi mind

2008-05-31T11:20:00.000-07:00

“She’s so smart” “I got to pass this exam!”
“She’s a capable individual” “I better do the best I can…”
“She’s such a great child” “Come on now, mi, smile! You need to look good.”

Maybe that’s just me, but I’m not surprised if you (dear reader), have had the same thoughts one way or another- Being so afraid to disappoint, so stressed to meet expectations, so bounded by others’ definitions… It feels like… nobody knows who you really are anymore. They think they know, but they have no idea. Not that what they perceive is not true, it’s just that there’s so much more to you than that- you’re deeper than what they see. But no, that’s a side of you that you can never show. Thinking about it, what for? What good is there to show it? They prefer to see you the way they perceive you now. And besides, how do you start?

Simple

Brace yourself, prepare your heart, and pray to God- ask Him to break down these walls that you’ve built up in the heart and mind of your life that’s keeping you from loving Him with your all.

How can I share this so that it wouldn’t just make sense, but register in your life? May the Holy Spirit prompt your heart, and correct me if I’m wrong, but…

As Christians, we strive to live our lives for the glory of God. And it’s so… hard. We’re told to rejoice always, to pray without ceasing and to give thanks in everything- which would pretty much translate to: be positive- smile always; “God” this “God” that; and don’t complain.

We should carry ourselves in such a manner that whoever sees us would exclaim “(S)he’s a Christian for sure- just look at how (s)he’s so holy, holy, holy!” Oh yes, not to mention being “mocked” by our friends because we’re believers- what an honor! It’s definitely hard, but truly that’s who we need to portray ourselves because… well, we’re Christians. We have God in our lives. We’re changed- a new creation. How else will they know what God can do for them if we don’t carry ourselves right? Yes, for God, the one who loved us so much to die on the cross for our sins, that’s the least we should do! In fact, if we say we love God with all our heart, soul, strength and mind; this is the very least we can do!

I used to think that way.

Wow, was life tough. Not that it’s difficult to do all the abovementioned tasks, it’s just that it comes to a point where you don’t know how to ask for prayer support for the stresses in your studies or work because you’ve always looked strong! So you ask your fellow brothers and sisters to “just pray that God will help me with my studies/work”.

That’s got to stop.

Life as a Christian should look like that, yes; but it should not “feel” that way… We don’t live our life “wanting” to please God and “making every effort” as though we have to force it or push ourselves. No. It should be a reaction- because God loves us SO much it’s only just natural for us to do that. Can’t get the picture?

Let’s put it this way- A wife doesn’t wake up every morning feeling “I love my husband so much! Oh if only he knew how my heart skips a beat at the sight of him!” There will be days when the feelings of love are very “shallow”; or sometimes, none at all. But love in a marriage is more than a feeling. It’s a knowing.
So the wife might not feel very loving towards her husband- that doesn’t mean she will not do everything that she usually does for him because she feels that way. No. Because she doesn’t need to feel he loves her all the time or feel that she loves him all the time, to do something loving for him. And no, I don’t think it’s a “habit” because “she’s always done it”. I think it’s love.

It’s so much easier to say “God is good to me” when our prayers are answered; “Our Heavenly Father is so amazing” when we’re involved in a Christian event / just participated in one; live a more Christ-like life when we’re on fire for God or in church with fellow believers. But this “feeling” is not supposed to be a feeling. It’s supposed to be a knowing.

Do you know that you love God? Enough to live for Him without having to “force” and “push” yourself to do all that you do?

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength and all your mind.”

Where it begins

2008-05-28T23:34:00.000-07:00

What a year it has been. It has been nothing but absolutely amazing. The memories are priceless. Money does not come close to buying it. Life’s been different since. From the very start, He made it happen. The hurt, the tears, the pain, the confrontations, the truths.

Then it began.

The smiles came. The warmth, the comfort, the peace, the memories, the treasures, and the stories came. And He made that happen too.

A year ago, we never knew. But a year later, we know so much. So much more. It’s His blessing to us. To Mi, to Me. We didn’t only keep the memories, we get to keep the friendship. So much was learned, taught, and lived. All in one year.

One simple year. Can you believe it?

I know both Mi and Me are still very much overwhelmed by this fact. And still very amazed by how it happened and how Daddy was in it from the very beginning. *points fingers at God*

A year ago. That was when it all started. Our stories, our memories. His blessing for us. His story for us. To tell you will take too long. And we’ll have to take you way back.

Now, here, it’s where it begins. A beginning of another memory. But hey, maybe we’ll take you back a year ago, where it all started and the stories thereafter *wink*

That’s what “MuLLiNG” is after all. We’ll leave you to wonder what happened and what will happen for now. Just for a little while. We’ll tell His story soon. His story for us.

Till then, live His miracles for you.

Love always, Me.