And so, it's one and a half hours away from the countdown to 2012. Yes, it's been a good 7 months that I have forsaken blogging, and now I'm back. :p At least for one last post for 2011...
To say that it has been a totally 100% perfect year, it hasn't. To say that it's been totally messy and all wrong would be inaccurate too. It's been ... unexpected, incomprehensible, outstanding, incredible, awesome, great, somewhat dreamlike yet very real, sometimes surreal yet very down to earth and up to heaven, somehow strange and inexplicable yet experiential...
Too many things have happened that has changed everything, so much so that it's quite impossible to be recounted in detail here. But let's make a quick recall so that I'll read this by 31 Dec 2012 and see how much we've progressed in the span of a year :)
Jan - Feb 2011 was the time when we kept emphasizing on the grace and love of God, and to be hungry for Him and His presence. It was a time to shema shema (listen intently) to the voice of God, to His word, His instructions, His directions; allow Him to lead us. Mar 2011, some went to Singapore for Randy Clark's conference and got lots of insight to the things that God wanted to do in 2011 and in this region. End Mar early Apr 2011, some went to Singapore again for Patricia King's Glory School and came back with fire and much zeal. And on April 7, glory came.
WHC will forever mark our calendars on April 7, the unforgettable date when we were given a glimpse of the glory of God, the fire of the Holy Spirit, third heaven visitations, and soaking has taken on a new meaning for all of us. April 7, 2011, was the night when I truly truly experienced and knew how much the Lord loves me, and it was the night that I knew beyond a doubt that my dad is happily dwelling in the presence of God in heaven for eternity. It was the night that changed my life forever, and our church, and each of our lives, and I believe, our community and metrons. It was the night that marked a new beginning, a higher stage for the Lord to work in our lives and our church and in our metrons. It was a glorious night.
And then April 8. There's just no way to describe the beautiful "mess" that the Holy Spirit wanted to do in our midst. There's just no way to fathom it all, only to say, "God, you're so awesome, we can only bow and worship your greatness!" Holy laughter, speaking in new tongues, drunk in the spirit, slain in the spirit, prophesying in tongues and interpretation of tongues, visiting third heaven and swimming in the river glory (literally); you name it! I have never experienced anything so thick before 7 & 8 April...
April, May and June were months of learning and relearning many things and just yielding to the Spirit, letting Him work in our lives, letting the Fire of the Holy Ghost burn everything and anything undesirable in our lives, allowing Him to speak to us personally, learning to operate with Him. Well, not that we've never learned all of these in the Discipleship Program (thanks Ps. David for the Discipleship Program, for writing down everything that you've learned and relearned, for allowing us to grow), but we've sort of entered into the practical part of it, so to speak. :)
And soaking, yes, soaking has taken on a new meaning and new level. God's just been so personal to each of us.
July was more outpouring, more downloads of revelations, more experiences with God. August was Asia Ablaze where we met with Dr. Newberry and Dr. Rodney Howard Browne, both very anointed and very humble servants of the Lord. We all received tonnes of fire from the Holy Spirit and experienced so much in the span of 3 days in the Bukit Jalil Stadium. It was unbelievable, just the thought of having so much of fire, and we just went all out to preach the gospel, seeing souls saved, seeing people walk out from the hospital completely healed, seeing broken lives changed... (and what I'm writing here is just the tip of the iceberg.)
September was WHC Wind and Fire Camp, and... shall I say more outpouring? :D We were all ambushed by the Holy Spirit: slain, holy laughter, members prophesying and blessing pastors and leaders, imparting to pastors and leaders, speaking words of wisdom and words of knowledge, third heaven visitations, glory encounters, shaking uncontrollably, open visions of heaven, seeing angels, new tongues and interpretations of tongues, etc etc. Fire of the Holy Ghost!!
October was more soaking and the Lord dealt with each of us so personally and so deeply that everyone knew and could understand that each was going through the same season corporately. As we allowed the Lord to burn away every impurity, weaknesses, sins, undesirables, bitterness, root problems in our lives and allow His wind to blow zoe life into us, I could feel Him empowering us again and again, lifting us up from dirt and filth and exposing us to His glorious light, so that we ourselves would also shine once again, just as He has purposed us to be. God was just going to deep into our hearts, being so personal to us, because He loves us so much!
In November, Oliver Tham, the organiser of Asia Ablaze came and preached a message of God's love and our identity as God-man / God-woman in Christ. This was a very powerful message that set us on to the path of being who we are meant to be -- men and women of God, joined together with God, a being so powerful that in the name of Jesus Christ every knee will bow, every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, every demon be fearful, every darkness will dissolve, and everything would obey at the command in the name of Jesus. Again, the Lord was empowering us for greater heights.
As we stepped into December, it's as if we are already in 2012. Preparations of hearts, preparations for Christmas, but more like preparations for all of our prophecies to come to pass, for all of the revelations to become our personal experiences, for all of God's promises to come true. Even though there were many things that I hoped would happen in 2011 and it didn't, I believe nothing is wasted. Nothing is lost. Nothing is irredeemable. For the Lord, nothing is impossible.
Looking forward to a greater year ahead. There are things birthing forth in the spiritual realm and I can feel it. These are no eyes have seen, nor ears have heard, the things that the Lord has in stored for us and will work among us. We will reign together with Christ, govern and rule together as He gives us power and authority.
Thank you Lord, for your great love for us. I love you, Lord. <3
Hello, 2012! =)
Showing posts with label Habakkuk 2:14~Glory fill the earth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Habakkuk 2:14~Glory fill the earth. Show all posts
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Too Long
Yes, I know I haven't blogged for a looooong time. Too many things happened at the same time. Too many GOOOD things, to be precise. I'm sorry I can't share it here because they are too precious to be squandered. Let's just say the Lord is ALWAYS GOOD and He is sovereign, ruling over every disaster, every calamity, every situation, even the smallest matters that bothers your heart. Just let Him do that work He wants in your life -- setting you free from the old, renewing your mind and heart to reflect the Father's, and empowered to do His will so that His kingdom will come on earth.
I certainly hope to share more, perhaps next time I won't be lost for words when I encounter His awesomeness. But then again, when will that ever happen? XD
Love You so much, Jesus! <3
I certainly hope to share more, perhaps next time I won't be lost for words when I encounter His awesomeness. But then again, when will that ever happen? XD
Love You so much, Jesus! <3
Saturday, January 1, 2011
2011
And so, we ended 2010.
Last night / this morning's Thanksgiving and Rededication Service was totally awesome, praising God for all that He has given and done in our lives as individuals and as a church. Indeed, we've seen so much progress and so much fruit this year that can say we've stepped into the realm of multiplication. We've prayed and confessed and claimed growth and multiplication for many years, and here's the fruit we are experiencing and seeing -- and we rejoice to the MAX! Souls saved by more than double, lives rededicated to Christ, church finance increased and accruals almost disappeared! Hallelujah!
And the best part is the video (thanks to Bong Yang, Denion, Jetaime and others, really good job!) where the Great Commission and Great Commandment is made so clear -- win all, train all and send all; worship and ministry hand-in-hand. It was really awesome -- not on the quality of the video in terms of technical and editing skills, but the content and the depth of the understanding of what we practice as a church -- it was beyond words could describe. I looked at Ps. David, our beloved senior pastor, and I understood that this is his reward, this joy and sense of achievement that no amount of money can buy, no other earthly career or vocation can satisfy.
Let's do this again this year, and even more. Greater things are to come; it has become almost a tagline, but one that we all know will come to pass, and are putting all our hope on God. For we are not long here, our life is just a breath, so we better breathe it and know that we are made for love, to love, and to be loved.
Last night / this morning's Thanksgiving and Rededication Service was totally awesome, praising God for all that He has given and done in our lives as individuals and as a church. Indeed, we've seen so much progress and so much fruit this year that can say we've stepped into the realm of multiplication. We've prayed and confessed and claimed growth and multiplication for many years, and here's the fruit we are experiencing and seeing -- and we rejoice to the MAX! Souls saved by more than double, lives rededicated to Christ, church finance increased and accruals almost disappeared! Hallelujah!
And the best part is the video (thanks to Bong Yang, Denion, Jetaime and others, really good job!) where the Great Commission and Great Commandment is made so clear -- win all, train all and send all; worship and ministry hand-in-hand. It was really awesome -- not on the quality of the video in terms of technical and editing skills, but the content and the depth of the understanding of what we practice as a church -- it was beyond words could describe. I looked at Ps. David, our beloved senior pastor, and I understood that this is his reward, this joy and sense of achievement that no amount of money can buy, no other earthly career or vocation can satisfy.
Let's do this again this year, and even more. Greater things are to come; it has become almost a tagline, but one that we all know will come to pass, and are putting all our hope on God. For we are not long here, our life is just a breath, so we better breathe it and know that we are made for love, to love, and to be loved.
Love never fails.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
No Words to Describe
Where do I start? Today is the day we've been anticipating for. It's A Day in the Secret Place - a day of soaking in the presence of God and praying for Malaysia, in conjunction with Malaysia's 53th Independence Day. I know we've always been doing this, utilising public holidays to set a day of prayer and worship, but today is just ... different. One of the reasons is because we have invited an Evangelist to share a message with us and impart God's grace for evangelism to us; another is because it's one of the few times our church is packed during A Day in the Secret Place. Packed until seats need to be added at the back! Woot!
Evangelist Philip Yeoh (or Brother Philip Yeoh, as he likes to be known) is 70 years old this year, but he looks like just in his 50s, full of the zeal and compassion for the lost, full of the anointing for God, full of the power of Holy Spirit. His hair looks as though it has just begun to grey, not turning white for a long time yet. And his voice... the hymns that he sang... now I know the power of hymns...
Brother Philip shared a lot of testimonies with us. He says, there are many people who waited until their last days before making the decision to go to heaven. There are people who believed but chose to go to heaven empty handed, without any rewards. There are even people who are OCBC (Orang Christian Bukan Christian). But we only have one life, and with this one life, we MUST be CIMB (Christian Ini Memang Bagus!) and serve God gao gao (to the max). If you think evangelism is difficult, let me tell you, it's not. If a 70-year-old uncle can be on fire for God still and been winning more than 1000 souls; if a bedridden aunty who has just received Christ tells her fellow bedridden patients that she's not afraid of death because she now has a passport to heaven; if a taxi driver tells his fellow taxi driver friends that he goes to visit his rich Father every Sunday; if a prisoner on his death roll takes the only 1 hour he has a day to share with his inmates and asked for more and more Bibles to be brought into the prison -- YOU can do it. WE can do it. I, Stacy Phang, commit to do it!
There are many ways to witness Christ. Sometimes you may meet this person whom you think it's pretty impossible to talk to him/her about Jesus, but God is the One who commissioned us, so He has all the answers. Ask Him for wisdom and understanding, and obey. Sometimes we have the fear of rejection in us and it inhibits us from sharing Christ, but think about this: what's the worst that can happen? If the person you're reaching out rejects what you say, or at worst, rejects you altogether, are you losing anything? Maybe the friendship, but in heaven, God has credited a reward to your account just based on your obedience of sharing the gospel and doing the Great Commission. We won't lose; in fact we gain, because we are already winners and victors when we believe in Jesus.
This is just the first part of today, which built up to the second part - the showing of Jaeson Ma's 1040 movie.
The 1040 movie is about nations in Asia that is situated in the 10-40 Altitude on the world map. These include China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia. It's a testimonial movie that interviewed many pastors, church leaders, Christian celebrities, ministers of God from these nations and the move of God in Asia. When I watched that, I just thank God and treasured my heritage as an Asian, especially a Chinese Malaysian. I felt so much like crying as I watched the mighty move of God swept through these nations, but there was no tears; yet I know deep inside me my spirit was crying, crying out to God, crying out for Him to move in Malaysia, in our midst. The urgency...
After that, we went into another round of worship. If the first and second round was already awesome and more awesome, this last round just has no words to describe. I stood there at the 2nd keyboard and I just felt like I shouldn't be standing there; I shouldn't be playing at all, that it wasn't right for me to be worshiping with my instrument then. I wanted to kneel and prostate immediately and to just cry out to Him, but I stood on and played the keyboard. There's just no words to describe this accurate enough. I wanted to cry, but there was no tears. I didn't know what to do with my body; it felt so numb and blank and like there was nothing I could do to be able to express what my spirit was feeling. Finally, I just stopped playing and knelt down under the keyboard and put my head on the floor and just started crying out in my spirit (still no tears), crying out for Him to move in my life, crying out for Him to move in Malaysia, crying out for Him to save all my loved ones...
Now I truly know that I love Him more than anything, anyone. Because He first loved me.
Lord, whatever that You have started in me today, the fire, the sense of urgency, the responsibility, the stewardship You have entrusted to me, the people that You have placed in my life, the destiny You have written of my life - fulfil them, bring them to full completion. This, is the joy that You want us to have, the joy of being who we are meant to be. Your beloved.
Evangelist Philip Yeoh (or Brother Philip Yeoh, as he likes to be known) is 70 years old this year, but he looks like just in his 50s, full of the zeal and compassion for the lost, full of the anointing for God, full of the power of Holy Spirit. His hair looks as though it has just begun to grey, not turning white for a long time yet. And his voice... the hymns that he sang... now I know the power of hymns...
Brother Philip shared a lot of testimonies with us. He says, there are many people who waited until their last days before making the decision to go to heaven. There are people who believed but chose to go to heaven empty handed, without any rewards. There are even people who are OCBC (Orang Christian Bukan Christian). But we only have one life, and with this one life, we MUST be CIMB (Christian Ini Memang Bagus!) and serve God gao gao (to the max). If you think evangelism is difficult, let me tell you, it's not. If a 70-year-old uncle can be on fire for God still and been winning more than 1000 souls; if a bedridden aunty who has just received Christ tells her fellow bedridden patients that she's not afraid of death because she now has a passport to heaven; if a taxi driver tells his fellow taxi driver friends that he goes to visit his rich Father every Sunday; if a prisoner on his death roll takes the only 1 hour he has a day to share with his inmates and asked for more and more Bibles to be brought into the prison -- YOU can do it. WE can do it. I, Stacy Phang, commit to do it!
There are many ways to witness Christ. Sometimes you may meet this person whom you think it's pretty impossible to talk to him/her about Jesus, but God is the One who commissioned us, so He has all the answers. Ask Him for wisdom and understanding, and obey. Sometimes we have the fear of rejection in us and it inhibits us from sharing Christ, but think about this: what's the worst that can happen? If the person you're reaching out rejects what you say, or at worst, rejects you altogether, are you losing anything? Maybe the friendship, but in heaven, God has credited a reward to your account just based on your obedience of sharing the gospel and doing the Great Commission. We won't lose; in fact we gain, because we are already winners and victors when we believe in Jesus.
This is just the first part of today, which built up to the second part - the showing of Jaeson Ma's 1040 movie.
The 1040 movie is about nations in Asia that is situated in the 10-40 Altitude on the world map. These include China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia. It's a testimonial movie that interviewed many pastors, church leaders, Christian celebrities, ministers of God from these nations and the move of God in Asia. When I watched that, I just thank God and treasured my heritage as an Asian, especially a Chinese Malaysian. I felt so much like crying as I watched the mighty move of God swept through these nations, but there was no tears; yet I know deep inside me my spirit was crying, crying out to God, crying out for Him to move in Malaysia, in our midst. The urgency...
After that, we went into another round of worship. If the first and second round was already awesome and more awesome, this last round just has no words to describe. I stood there at the 2nd keyboard and I just felt like I shouldn't be standing there; I shouldn't be playing at all, that it wasn't right for me to be worshiping with my instrument then. I wanted to kneel and prostate immediately and to just cry out to Him, but I stood on and played the keyboard. There's just no words to describe this accurate enough. I wanted to cry, but there was no tears. I didn't know what to do with my body; it felt so numb and blank and like there was nothing I could do to be able to express what my spirit was feeling. Finally, I just stopped playing and knelt down under the keyboard and put my head on the floor and just started crying out in my spirit (still no tears), crying out for Him to move in my life, crying out for Him to move in Malaysia, crying out for Him to save all my loved ones...
Now I truly know that I love Him more than anything, anyone. Because He first loved me.
Lord, whatever that You have started in me today, the fire, the sense of urgency, the responsibility, the stewardship You have entrusted to me, the people that You have placed in my life, the destiny You have written of my life - fulfil them, bring them to full completion. This, is the joy that You want us to have, the joy of being who we are meant to be. Your beloved.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Ears (Part 2)
I looked back at one of the blog post I have written a few weeks ago and I suddenly realised that I'd forgotten to include an important revelation, hence this is part 2. (This is why God tells us to write down all the words He has spoken to us. [Jeremiah 30:2] )The Lord gave me a pair of ears during Church Camp and spoke to me about hearing and obeying Him. Sometimes we may think that obeying the Lord is something very hard to achieve, because although we are born-again and spirit-filled, we still have the old nature of sinning against God.
Did you know that when we become Christians, we belong to God? Okay, maybe you know this. But do you know this as a piece of information and knowledge, or do you really take it as your new identity in Christ? This is what makes the difference.
I realised that as I learned more and more about the grace of God, the more I could appreciate what the Lord has done to give me a new identity, a new life. This statement "I belong to God" gives an underlying meaning that He owns me. God owns every part of me -- spirit, soul and body. He owns everything I have -- relationships, career, finance, health, talents, spiritual giftings, etc. God owns my heart, my inward parts, the deepest and most profound part of me.
Now imagine this: The Master has just bought a slave who have been in the bondage of a cruel, heartless enemy for years. He bought the slave with His livelihood, not because He wants to impose control over the slave, but because He wants to free him. Now the slave has been set free from all the bondages of the enemy, he no longer needs to endure tortures and sufferings, and he can now serve the new Master. Yet, the Master knows that the servant would probably take some time to understand the new ways of obeying serving his new Master, and He is gracious to his servant. Would it be right if the servant abuses his Master's grace and betrays Him?
God says His grace is sufficient for us and His strength is made perfect in weaknesses. By grace, we are no longer slaves to sin, but we are now slaves of righteousness. Sin shall have no dominion over us, for we are not under law but under grace (Romans 6:14). Therefore, we are able to walk in the newness of life, for we know that our old nature was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. For he who has died has been freed from sin (Romans 6:6-7).
More than that, God calls us as His children. We are no longer slaves, but sons and daughters of God, and if sons and daughters, then heirs of God through Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:26, 4:7). We truly, truly belong to God.
And if we belong to God, as children of God we love Him and obey His commandments. Not that we are able to by our own strength, but simply because He has given us the grace to hear and obey Him. 1 John 5:3 says: "For this is the love of God that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome."
King David understood that he belonged to God and ought to do His will in Psalm 40. Not only that, he knew that doing the Lord's will is a delight, and not a burden.
6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,The New International Version has verse 6 translated as "my ears you have pierced" -- precisely what it means to be a slave to someone. The piercing of ears means you are marked as your Master's slave. King David understood that the Lord did not want them to come to Him with sacrifices and offering, but with a heart that knew Him to be a God of love.
but my ears you have pierced ;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require. (NIV)7 Then I said, “Behold, I come;
In the scroll of the book it is written of me.8 I delight to do Your will, O my God,
And Your law is within my heart.” (NKJV)
Again, as what 1 John 5:3 had said, when we know that God is love, our ears have been pierced so that we can hear and obey Him. And because He first loved us, doing what He says will be a delight.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Ears
World Harvest Church Camp day 2, night session with Ps. Dennis. I was with those few who didn't manage to join the whole 4 days 3 nights but still travelled all the way to Rawang every night for the night sessions.
We were late that day because of the rain and massive jam, so by the time we reached Rawang it was towards the end of the worship. Nevertheless, as we stepped into the hall, I could immediately feel the strong presence of God in the place. I quickly found a seat to settle down and opened my heart to draw in His beautiful presence.
At this point, Ps. Dennis had started to prophesy. He was speaking as he saw what was happening in the spiritual realm. He said that there were angels ascending and descending in that place. He spoke of turning points, that for many it was turning points for their lives. The Holy Spirit was filling each of us. He said that the Lord was there and He was giving to each of us gifts, all wrapped nicely in beautiful boxes.
Having my eyes closed, I was drinking from the Spirit, literally. I was gulping in fresh water from the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to fill me and refresh me, desiring Him more and more. And when Ps. Dennis said there were gifts for each of us, I just stretched my hands out in front of me as a sign of receiving from the Lord.
I saw a beautiful square box delivered into my hand. I looked into the box and saw a pair of ears. I received them, but I was thinking to myself, "Ears? Not eyes to see better, but ears? Lord, what is it that I need to be hearing?" It wasn't because I didn't welcome what the Lord had given me, but I was curious to know if I haven't been hearing the Lord.
The Lord reminded me of Romans 10:17 -- Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Pondering upon this, He also spoke to me another verse in Matthew 7: 24 - 27:
I believe the pair of ears were the spiritual empowering that God has given me, so that not only will I hear faith, but I would do accordingly.
Over the past 3 weeks or so, I have experienced this frequently. It felt like I had installed a large speaker over my spirit or heart; I felt myself being very sensitive in knowing what the Holy Spirit was saying. I'm still learning to hear more and do according to what He says. The Lord would impress upon my heart what advices to give, what to pray, what I should do or say, etc. This is especially true when I'm desperate and don't know what to do. It ALWAYS works.
Isn't this the coolest way to work with God? you hear from Him and just do accordingly? Ministry doesn't need to be difficult or need us to strive so hard to persuade people to believe in Jesus. People don't need persuasion; they need a demonstration of the power of God, and that's what preaching the gospel is all about. Hear and do. hear AND do.
We were late that day because of the rain and massive jam, so by the time we reached Rawang it was towards the end of the worship. Nevertheless, as we stepped into the hall, I could immediately feel the strong presence of God in the place. I quickly found a seat to settle down and opened my heart to draw in His beautiful presence.
At this point, Ps. Dennis had started to prophesy. He was speaking as he saw what was happening in the spiritual realm. He said that there were angels ascending and descending in that place. He spoke of turning points, that for many it was turning points for their lives. The Holy Spirit was filling each of us. He said that the Lord was there and He was giving to each of us gifts, all wrapped nicely in beautiful boxes.
Having my eyes closed, I was drinking from the Spirit, literally. I was gulping in fresh water from the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to fill me and refresh me, desiring Him more and more. And when Ps. Dennis said there were gifts for each of us, I just stretched my hands out in front of me as a sign of receiving from the Lord.
I saw a beautiful square box delivered into my hand. I looked into the box and saw a pair of ears. I received them, but I was thinking to myself, "Ears? Not eyes to see better, but ears? Lord, what is it that I need to be hearing?" It wasn't because I didn't welcome what the Lord had given me, but I was curious to know if I haven't been hearing the Lord.
The Lord reminded me of Romans 10:17 -- Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Pondering upon this, He also spoke to me another verse in Matthew 7: 24 - 27:
Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine [Jesus], and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.God was saying to me, "Hear and obey". It was an instruction for what I was going through currently, as well as something that He was building in me for the future. I needed to hear what God says and obey it, do it. I need to hear the right things, not gossips and destructive words. I needed to hear the word of faith, which is also the word of Christ. I needed to hear truth and follow it.
I believe the pair of ears were the spiritual empowering that God has given me, so that not only will I hear faith, but I would do accordingly.
Over the past 3 weeks or so, I have experienced this frequently. It felt like I had installed a large speaker over my spirit or heart; I felt myself being very sensitive in knowing what the Holy Spirit was saying. I'm still learning to hear more and do according to what He says. The Lord would impress upon my heart what advices to give, what to pray, what I should do or say, etc. This is especially true when I'm desperate and don't know what to do. It ALWAYS works.
Isn't this the coolest way to work with God? you hear from Him and just do accordingly? Ministry doesn't need to be difficult or need us to strive so hard to persuade people to believe in Jesus. People don't need persuasion; they need a demonstration of the power of God, and that's what preaching the gospel is all about. Hear and do. hear AND do.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
God the Builder
World Harvest Church Camp 2009 is here! HURRAY!!
Last night was our first session of preaching with Ps. Dennis Lee from River Glory Ministries, Singapore. I guess most if not all of us are so hungry and thirsty for the Word, that it was truly a refreshing and restrengthening time as we listened to His preaching.
It's awesome to have the opportunity to hear from this man of God again. Though I am unable to join the camp at MBS Recreation & Training Centre, Rawang, I know I treasure it even more because I can only attend the night sessions after work. Thanks Denion, for driving us to and fro every night. :)
Ps. Dennis started off the message for this camp as his usual self -- seriously humourous. Yet in his jokes there was deep, profound truth that you couldn't overlook.
It was a message that struck the exact chords and notes that Ps. Gloria had delivered last Sunday -- God builds. And Ps. Dennis, full of the Holy Spirit and completely speaking under His anointing, spoke exactly the same message -- God is a Builder and He builds us individually, that we will build up one another and to build His Church.
He began by saying that it is time we Christians recover our positions as salt and light to the world -- salt as an antiseptic and anti-decaying agent, and light as the source for direction to truth. And He said, "It's time to BUILD! to join ranks as the body of Christ and push back the darkness to advance and expand the Kingdom of God!"
The Lord spoke to me about Ps. Gloria's message where she preached 3 points: (1) God builds on revelations; (2) God builds on relationships; and (3) God builds through generations. And He impressed upon my heart the word 'BUILD'. I checked up the definition for this word and this is what it means:
From all these definitions, we can clearly see that God has a construction plan -- a blueprint -- for our lives, and He builds according to it. Yet, He doesn't rush in to build us, but this building project of our lives is a process, step-by-step, increasing little by little, built upon what has already been founded and established previously, and will eventually heighten to fulfil the fullness of our destiny.
God builds on what we have already known and on our knowledge of who He is in our lives. If we believe that Jesus is our God, Healer, Provider, Saviour, Redeemer, Deliverer, Renewer, Restorer, Creator and Sustainer -- if we really, really believes that He is -- then the gates of hell will not be able to prevail against us (Matt 16:18), we will stand fast and not fall away.
In Matthew 7: 24 - 27 it says that if we establish ourselves on the Word of God, hearing and obeying Him, we are building our house (our lives) on the Rock -- on Jesus, the Beginner and the Finisher of our faith. This is what it says:
Incidentally, these are also the closing words of Jesus' long Sermon on the Mount. Now, that means 'these sayings of Jesus' were all the principles He taught in that three-chapter long sermon. And Jesus described us as the salt and light to the world in the early part of the sermon. (Wow! Go figure!)
Perhaps we have always known Him as the Creator, or as the Master Painter of our future, or as the Potter who moulds us to become who we are, but He is no lesser the Builder of our lives. And He's still building us, shaping us, not giving up on us even though we may have given up hope on ourselves many times.
Do you know why He doesn't give up on us? I believe it's because He must have seen something in us that we can't see. He must have seen that no matter how misshapen we are because of our past failures and ugly sins, His blueprint of building us is never with flaws and mistakes. He knows what He's doing. And if we hear Him and let Him build us the way He wants to, then we will never be shaken, no hell is going to prevent us from living out His will for us, because we are founded on the Rock.
Prayer of response:
Lord, build me, the way that You want to build. I may not understand what You're doing, but Lord, have Your way in my life. I just want to surrender myself to Your love and let You build me til I'm complete and mature, lacking nothing in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Your will be done in my life. Amen.
Last night was our first session of preaching with Ps. Dennis Lee from River Glory Ministries, Singapore. I guess most if not all of us are so hungry and thirsty for the Word, that it was truly a refreshing and restrengthening time as we listened to His preaching.
It's awesome to have the opportunity to hear from this man of God again. Though I am unable to join the camp at MBS Recreation & Training Centre, Rawang, I know I treasure it even more because I can only attend the night sessions after work. Thanks Denion, for driving us to and fro every night. :)
Ps. Dennis started off the message for this camp as his usual self -- seriously humourous. Yet in his jokes there was deep, profound truth that you couldn't overlook.
It was a message that struck the exact chords and notes that Ps. Gloria had delivered last Sunday -- God builds. And Ps. Dennis, full of the Holy Spirit and completely speaking under His anointing, spoke exactly the same message -- God is a Builder and He builds us individually, that we will build up one another and to build His Church.
He began by saying that it is time we Christians recover our positions as salt and light to the world -- salt as an antiseptic and anti-decaying agent, and light as the source for direction to truth. And He said, "It's time to BUILD! to join ranks as the body of Christ and push back the darkness to advance and expand the Kingdom of God!"The Lord spoke to me about Ps. Gloria's message where she preached 3 points: (1) God builds on revelations; (2) God builds on relationships; and (3) God builds through generations. And He impressed upon my heart the word 'BUILD'. I checked up the definition for this word and this is what it means:
1. to construct (esp. something complex) by assembling and joining parts or materials.Now, we often hear of the phrase 'Build up' in preachings, and we are always told that it means 'to edify'. But if you really break it up to details, it means precisely this way:
2. to establish, increase, or strengthen (e.g. to build up)
3. to mold, form, or create.
4. to base; found. E.g. a relationship is built on trust.
5. to form or construct a plan, system of thought, etc. (usually followed by 'on' or upon'). e.g. He built on the philosophies of the past.
6. to increase or develop toward a maximum, as of intensity, tempo, or magnitude; to heighten to a climax
a. to develop or increaseI love the last definition -- aren't we suppose to build up with praise? Aren't we suppose to build up in our praises and worship to God, to exalt Him in shouts of praise and to just cry out to Him?
b. to strengthen.
c. to prepare in stages.
d. to fill in with houses; develop into an urban area.
e. to praise or flatter.
From all these definitions, we can clearly see that God has a construction plan -- a blueprint -- for our lives, and He builds according to it. Yet, He doesn't rush in to build us, but this building project of our lives is a process, step-by-step, increasing little by little, built upon what has already been founded and established previously, and will eventually heighten to fulfil the fullness of our destiny.
God builds on what we have already known and on our knowledge of who He is in our lives. If we believe that Jesus is our God, Healer, Provider, Saviour, Redeemer, Deliverer, Renewer, Restorer, Creator and Sustainer -- if we really, really believes that He is -- then the gates of hell will not be able to prevail against us (Matt 16:18), we will stand fast and not fall away.
In Matthew 7: 24 - 27 it says that if we establish ourselves on the Word of God, hearing and obeying Him, we are building our house (our lives) on the Rock -- on Jesus, the Beginner and the Finisher of our faith. This is what it says:
24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine [Jesus], and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:
25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:
27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”
Incidentally, these are also the closing words of Jesus' long Sermon on the Mount. Now, that means 'these sayings of Jesus' were all the principles He taught in that three-chapter long sermon. And Jesus described us as the salt and light to the world in the early part of the sermon. (Wow! Go figure!)
Perhaps we have always known Him as the Creator, or as the Master Painter of our future, or as the Potter who moulds us to become who we are, but He is no lesser the Builder of our lives. And He's still building us, shaping us, not giving up on us even though we may have given up hope on ourselves many times.
Do you know why He doesn't give up on us? I believe it's because He must have seen something in us that we can't see. He must have seen that no matter how misshapen we are because of our past failures and ugly sins, His blueprint of building us is never with flaws and mistakes. He knows what He's doing. And if we hear Him and let Him build us the way He wants to, then we will never be shaken, no hell is going to prevent us from living out His will for us, because we are founded on the Rock.
Prayer of response:
Lord, build me, the way that You want to build. I may not understand what You're doing, but Lord, have Your way in my life. I just want to surrender myself to Your love and let You build me til I'm complete and mature, lacking nothing in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Your will be done in my life. Amen.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Direction Found >>
"Looking for Direction?" shouts the flyer for Graduates Seminar.
Personally, it was a night of liberty for me. I hope many of my friends and church members who attended the seminar had found direction in their life with regards to entering into the working world.
As for me, I believe I have found guidance from the Lord, even though I myself was one of the speaker for the night.
The night started with us picking up the food from food stalls, getting the hall ready, welcoming friends and church members, distributing the door gifts to them, enjoying the light refreshments, etc etc. I was feeling nervous about what I was going to share, as it has been quite some time since I have delivered a testimony. I had only started to prepare my script about two days prior to the event. Oops.
Ps. Monica shared about tips for interview, what's the right job, confidence in interview, etc. Her topic was actually a long, extensive sharing if it should be carried on without time constrain. However, she only managed to skim through the booklet on all the topics; yet it was good enough to let the audience read on their own so they get the full picture of it. Praise God, it was a good delivery.
Ps. Lois' sharing was enlightening. She shared about Peter and his fishermen partners at the shore and how Jesus called him to be a fisher of men, even though they were total failures just the night before, having caught nothing for the whole night. She shared that God is able to use us. Even if we have made mistakes before, but He is able to help you let go of the defeat and failure and to let us start afresh. I could relate it with myself, having made countless mistakes... It was really comforting knowing that the Lord could let me start afresh, if I would just put my trust in Him...
As for my part of the sharing, actually it's already in this blog, titled 'The Rainbow'. I spoke about how the Lord had blessed me in this job, about how He has seen me through many times that I had wanted to give up -- even right when I was sharing the testimony (though I didn't announce it to the audience, of course). I spoke about the Rainbow -- the one that the Lord has created for me to see so that I could set my eyes on Him.
I had wanted to leave so badly, but there were so many things that happened and caused my plans to be thwarted. For the first time I understood what it means to be hindered by the Spirit of the Lord, like how Paul was hindered from going to Macedonia initially. I experienced and knew the difference between a holy hindrance and a hindrance sent by Satan, a.k.a. a thorn in the flesh. I felt it in my spirit.
This very night that I shared my testimony again about God's Rainbow of Promise, it seemed that there was a clarity in my spirit against all the confusion that has been built up in me for the past few months. As I finished my sharing and sat down at the back, I felt an assurance deep down in me, and I know that I know that I know that Jesus was speaking to me. He wasn't just telling me that He loves me; He was saying that He is with me, right where I am, right where He will be bringing me.
There are times it seems that we have been running for a long time for a long distance and we suddenly feel so tired of everything in life. We look at others and we start to compare. We wonder how it would be for us if we were at where others are. We ponder about how it would be if we were at a different environment. But we don't really have the answers. I didn't have the answers, and I don't think I ever will, but I knew it deep down inside that it was never meant to be. I would rather be at a place where I know the Lord is with me than at where it seems good to human standards but it's not God's will for me.
Just want to encourage you, deep down inside you will find the answers, because God reveals them to you.
Verse to Remember:
"Then you will call upon me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord…” -- Jeremiah 29:12-14
Personally, it was a night of liberty for me. I hope many of my friends and church members who attended the seminar had found direction in their life with regards to entering into the working world.
As for me, I believe I have found guidance from the Lord, even though I myself was one of the speaker for the night.
The night started with us picking up the food from food stalls, getting the hall ready, welcoming friends and church members, distributing the door gifts to them, enjoying the light refreshments, etc etc. I was feeling nervous about what I was going to share, as it has been quite some time since I have delivered a testimony. I had only started to prepare my script about two days prior to the event. Oops.
Ps. Monica shared about tips for interview, what's the right job, confidence in interview, etc. Her topic was actually a long, extensive sharing if it should be carried on without time constrain. However, she only managed to skim through the booklet on all the topics; yet it was good enough to let the audience read on their own so they get the full picture of it. Praise God, it was a good delivery.
Ps. Lois' sharing was enlightening. She shared about Peter and his fishermen partners at the shore and how Jesus called him to be a fisher of men, even though they were total failures just the night before, having caught nothing for the whole night. She shared that God is able to use us. Even if we have made mistakes before, but He is able to help you let go of the defeat and failure and to let us start afresh. I could relate it with myself, having made countless mistakes... It was really comforting knowing that the Lord could let me start afresh, if I would just put my trust in Him...
As for my part of the sharing, actually it's already in this blog, titled 'The Rainbow'. I spoke about how the Lord had blessed me in this job, about how He has seen me through many times that I had wanted to give up -- even right when I was sharing the testimony (though I didn't announce it to the audience, of course). I spoke about the Rainbow -- the one that the Lord has created for me to see so that I could set my eyes on Him.
I had wanted to leave so badly, but there were so many things that happened and caused my plans to be thwarted. For the first time I understood what it means to be hindered by the Spirit of the Lord, like how Paul was hindered from going to Macedonia initially. I experienced and knew the difference between a holy hindrance and a hindrance sent by Satan, a.k.a. a thorn in the flesh. I felt it in my spirit.
This very night that I shared my testimony again about God's Rainbow of Promise, it seemed that there was a clarity in my spirit against all the confusion that has been built up in me for the past few months. As I finished my sharing and sat down at the back, I felt an assurance deep down in me, and I know that I know that I know that Jesus was speaking to me. He wasn't just telling me that He loves me; He was saying that He is with me, right where I am, right where He will be bringing me.
There are times it seems that we have been running for a long time for a long distance and we suddenly feel so tired of everything in life. We look at others and we start to compare. We wonder how it would be for us if we were at where others are. We ponder about how it would be if we were at a different environment. But we don't really have the answers. I didn't have the answers, and I don't think I ever will, but I knew it deep down inside that it was never meant to be. I would rather be at a place where I know the Lord is with me than at where it seems good to human standards but it's not God's will for me.
Just want to encourage you, deep down inside you will find the answers, because God reveals them to you.
Verse to Remember:
"Then you will call upon me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the Lord…” -- Jeremiah 29:12-14
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Graduates Seminar
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I remember the time when I was going to graduate in about 3 months' time, I was pretty nervous and unsure of what I was going to do. Even though I knew by God's grace and help, I have obtained a good qualification that enables me to soar to great heights, I didn't know where I was heading to. The future felt pretty scary with a lot of uncertainties.
And it was at that time that I thought to myself, how nice it would be if we could have a Graduates Seminar at church. People will learn more about the working world, how is working life different from student life, the dos and don'ts for interview, how to choose the right job by the guidance of God, etc etc.
But most of all, it would guide people to know the love of Jesus Christ and how He loves to bless us in all areas of our lives, including in our working life.
Praise the Lord, by His grace and strength, I am organiser for the Graduates Seminar 2009!
Honestly, there's only one statement that could summarise my part in this event: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (Phil 4:13)
My hopes and dreams: that people would receive useful tips and guidance on finding the right job; have a clear understanding about how the working world is; receive overflowing blessings from the Lord by trusting Him; experience financial liberty in times of economic crisis as we trust in Him.
Come join us!
Date: 11 March 2009 (Wednesday)
Time: 8 p.m.
Venue: World Harvest Church (Wangsa Maju, KL)
Admission is free, refreshment are served.
Remember to bring your friends :)
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Christmas!
It's the season of giving, loving and caring! It's the season of bringing in those who do not know what Christmas is all about. If you fall into this category, this piece is for you.
But first, what Christmas is NOT about:
It's not about Santa Claus and reindeers or Christmas trees and socks over the fireplace or turkey dinner and ginger breadman or jingle bells and snowman, and the list goes on.
It's not about spending time with family, although it's a good time to do so because of the holidays.
It's not about going church to sing carols, if you don't know the meanings of the songs.
There's no magic about Christmas.
What then? Christmas is not about all these things that the media has been showing us? Yea, that's right. If the word itself says anything, Christmas is about Christ -- Jesus' birth to this earth and its significance.
Personally, I have never been fascinated much by the manner of Jesus' birth besides that the angel announced it to shepherd and they came to worship Him at the manger. But on what it really means to have Christ born for us, born to die -- I feel that has more stories to tell, more real stories and more essence than a fat old man name Santa.
It's the story of stories. It's a triumphant story: the bad guy supposedly won but it was the good guy ultimately. It's a story of ultimate sacrifice: an innocent Child born of a virgin with the purpose of dying for the world. It's a story of suspense: Jesus was crucified when He was at the height of His ministry and for a moment it seemed that all hope was lost -- but no, He came back to life. It's the story of grace: unworthy sinners given pardon and redemption with the coming of the Saviour of the world.
It's a story for you and me, a story that everyone is in, and everyone is the main character. It's a story of love: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. This was what He was born to do, that anyone who believes in Him will not be eternally separated from God, but that he will be living this life to the fullest, having an intimate relationship with God, and to be with Him forever in heaven.
And so, this was what our Christmas celebration is about. Praise God, though we have little time to prepare, it was great! We had our celebration at KL International Hotel this year. It all went well: Pre-event outside the hall, song presentations, Deborah and Bong Yang shared testimonies of their life, skit performance, sharing... We had a good time, although some parts were a bit messed up. We had a large crowd with different nationalities. Our friends were supportive and happy at the end. And a friend of mine said she is now certain of the love of Christ and wants to receive Him as Saviour. Hallelujah! Seeds are sown, weeds are thrown!
But first, what Christmas is NOT about:
It's not about Santa Claus and reindeers or Christmas trees and socks over the fireplace or turkey dinner and ginger breadman or jingle bells and snowman, and the list goes on.
It's not about spending time with family, although it's a good time to do so because of the holidays.
It's not about going church to sing carols, if you don't know the meanings of the songs.
There's no magic about Christmas.
What then? Christmas is not about all these things that the media has been showing us? Yea, that's right. If the word itself says anything, Christmas is about Christ -- Jesus' birth to this earth and its significance.
Personally, I have never been fascinated much by the manner of Jesus' birth besides that the angel announced it to shepherd and they came to worship Him at the manger. But on what it really means to have Christ born for us, born to die -- I feel that has more stories to tell, more real stories and more essence than a fat old man name Santa.
It's the story of stories. It's a triumphant story: the bad guy supposedly won but it was the good guy ultimately. It's a story of ultimate sacrifice: an innocent Child born of a virgin with the purpose of dying for the world. It's a story of suspense: Jesus was crucified when He was at the height of His ministry and for a moment it seemed that all hope was lost -- but no, He came back to life. It's the story of grace: unworthy sinners given pardon and redemption with the coming of the Saviour of the world.
It's a story for you and me, a story that everyone is in, and everyone is the main character. It's a story of love: For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. This was what He was born to do, that anyone who believes in Him will not be eternally separated from God, but that he will be living this life to the fullest, having an intimate relationship with God, and to be with Him forever in heaven.
And so, this was what our Christmas celebration is about. Praise God, though we have little time to prepare, it was great! We had our celebration at KL International Hotel this year. It all went well: Pre-event outside the hall, song presentations, Deborah and Bong Yang shared testimonies of their life, skit performance, sharing... We had a good time, although some parts were a bit messed up. We had a large crowd with different nationalities. Our friends were supportive and happy at the end. And a friend of mine said she is now certain of the love of Christ and wants to receive Him as Saviour. Hallelujah! Seeds are sown, weeds are thrown!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Parting to a New Beginning
This one is for Pr. Kenneth & Pr. Sharon and their cute little daughter Sophia.
When I first got the news about their leave, I could tell that this was something different. I felt it in my heart, although the sadness and feelings of having to part was also present. Yet, there was an assurance that came along, a peace that says, "this is good".
In Ecclesiastes it says to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. Of course, it could be something easier said than to accept. It's quite easy for one to use it as an excuse, but to really say it with the conviction of the Holy Spirit and knowing so deeply in the heart that this is the truth that is set upon them -- there is no denying the purpose of God that comes directly from Him, and with it comes assurance and peace.
This is a difficult piece to write, because there's just so much thoughts to it, so much to convey yet with so little words to describe...
Roman 8:28 is always quoted as a favourite verse when we acknowledge the Lord's goodness though we may not fully understand His plans. But at this moment, I think I shall quote Isaiah 54:2-3 instead:
It says, "do not spare". Do not spare what? Do not spare everything that you have. That includes yourself. Aren't we good at sparing ourselves from trouble or work? Oh, please spare me from the chores, I have exams coming. I'm a spare in the team; only if the guy injures I will play. Spare tyres are only used in emergencies. Spare parts only come in handy when the originals are spoiled. But NO! God says, DO NOT SPARE. That means, don't spare the ones that are the best, nor the ones that are not so good. Don't reserve anything.
Dear Pr. Kenneth & Pr. Sharon, this is my prayer for you:
Father God, they have not spared anything from You, because they know that You have not spared Your only begotten son for us. They have laid down, and they are ready to labour for Your Kingdom. So Lord I pray that every blessing and anointing and need that they have, it shall be poured out to them. Every journey that they walk, may they be upright in Your will and purpose, that Your glory will come as is promised.
Lord, we don't know and may not understand where You are leading us, even as a whole church, but God, we do know that we are not lost, but in Your divine purpose and destiny. Lord, I pray that as they will build Your church in Penang, let the souls pour in and the darkness be reduced to nothingness. God, You know the significance and every landmark of the state. We pray that Your sovereign hand will take charge and that it will turn this nation as You have willed.
God, as You have made us to be more than conquerors, please make Pr. Kenneth and Pr. Sharon victors to triumph over every challenge. Bless them Lord in all things. We are parting, but we know that in You we will always be united. This is not the end, but the beginning, for both World Harvest, and for this family. I pray that Your angels will be their guide and shield, take charge over them.
God, You are good. May all the goodness and greatness that You have intended for them and for us be so evident. We thank You for all that You've done and all that will come. In Jesus' mighty name, AMEN!
Bye, Pastors, but we shall surely meet again. I have never thought that great joy and sadness could be felt at the same time, but now I have experienced it and know that only God could place this unique emotion in me. I will always remember our first meeting and every word that you have imparted and spoken over my life.
You will always be in our hearts. Take care. We love you.
When I first got the news about their leave, I could tell that this was something different. I felt it in my heart, although the sadness and feelings of having to part was also present. Yet, there was an assurance that came along, a peace that says, "this is good".
In Ecclesiastes it says to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. Of course, it could be something easier said than to accept. It's quite easy for one to use it as an excuse, but to really say it with the conviction of the Holy Spirit and knowing so deeply in the heart that this is the truth that is set upon them -- there is no denying the purpose of God that comes directly from Him, and with it comes assurance and peace.
This is a difficult piece to write, because there's just so much thoughts to it, so much to convey yet with so little words to describe...
Roman 8:28 is always quoted as a favourite verse when we acknowledge the Lord's goodness though we may not fully understand His plans. But at this moment, I think I shall quote Isaiah 54:2-3 instead:
2 Enlarge the place of your tent, And let them stretch out the curtains of your dwellings; Do not spare; Lengthen your cords, And strengthen your stakes.I believe God is really expanding us and speeding up the process of expansion so quickly that we've just got to avail ourselves for Him to fulfil His purpose. There's no delaying, no doubting, only total trust, total surrender.
3 For you shall expand to the right and to the left, And your descendants will inherit the nations, And make the desolate cities inhabited.
It says, "do not spare". Do not spare what? Do not spare everything that you have. That includes yourself. Aren't we good at sparing ourselves from trouble or work? Oh, please spare me from the chores, I have exams coming. I'm a spare in the team; only if the guy injures I will play. Spare tyres are only used in emergencies. Spare parts only come in handy when the originals are spoiled. But NO! God says, DO NOT SPARE. That means, don't spare the ones that are the best, nor the ones that are not so good. Don't reserve anything.
Dear Pr. Kenneth & Pr. Sharon, this is my prayer for you:
Father God, they have not spared anything from You, because they know that You have not spared Your only begotten son for us. They have laid down, and they are ready to labour for Your Kingdom. So Lord I pray that every blessing and anointing and need that they have, it shall be poured out to them. Every journey that they walk, may they be upright in Your will and purpose, that Your glory will come as is promised.
Lord, we don't know and may not understand where You are leading us, even as a whole church, but God, we do know that we are not lost, but in Your divine purpose and destiny. Lord, I pray that as they will build Your church in Penang, let the souls pour in and the darkness be reduced to nothingness. God, You know the significance and every landmark of the state. We pray that Your sovereign hand will take charge and that it will turn this nation as You have willed.
God, as You have made us to be more than conquerors, please make Pr. Kenneth and Pr. Sharon victors to triumph over every challenge. Bless them Lord in all things. We are parting, but we know that in You we will always be united. This is not the end, but the beginning, for both World Harvest, and for this family. I pray that Your angels will be their guide and shield, take charge over them.
God, You are good. May all the goodness and greatness that You have intended for them and for us be so evident. We thank You for all that You've done and all that will come. In Jesus' mighty name, AMEN!
Bye, Pastors, but we shall surely meet again. I have never thought that great joy and sadness could be felt at the same time, but now I have experienced it and know that only God could place this unique emotion in me. I will always remember our first meeting and every word that you have imparted and spoken over my life.
You will always be in our hearts. Take care. We love you.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Apostolic Program Intake 11
It's been almost 1.5 weeks since the Apostolic Program Intake 11 ended. Sitting here typing this, I actually don't know what to write, because it's just too huge and awesome to actually have any words that are fitting to describe the Lord's greatness...
Y08's AP is somewhat different from the previous 10 intakes; it just felt different. And though I believe everyone, both participants and church members, had experienced God and received many great things from Him, I felt that the manifestation of the presence of God was just different. It felt like 2 weeks was just too short for Him to have fully shown Himself to us, like there were so many things yet to be released, like there was something else that He wanted to do. I wished it could go on for another 2 weeks, or just go on and on and that none of us would have to worry about time, our career, ministry back in our nations, family, etc. Yet at the same time it felt that the parting with our beloved participants, now alumni and friends of MTI, was the beginning of something even greater ahead, and the 2 weeks of soaking together in the presence of God was just a glimpse of the great work of the Lord yet to come.
I was truly delighted to see many alumni coming this year and to hear them share how it has been for the past year. Some I barely remember, some I have anticipated their coming and so glad to see them arrive safely, but all in all it was a joyous time fellowshiping with all of the participants.
I realised that I have come to a level of commitment that I undertsood there were just so much that we could give. I realised that sometimes we can feel so tired in our bodies and even our soul, and we tell God, O Lord, I have given so much already... Whether it's in our service to Him, in giving to the Lord, in any sense, from the amount that we have given, we could actually give yet more to the Lord. There are still so much that we hold on to, and the Lord always wants us to give Him our all.
Yea, I know it sounds very unreasonable, like God is so unfair, why He always want to strip us and rid us of everything of our own, until we have nothing left. Well, seeing that He owns us and our lives, doesn't He also own everything of us? Then why does He still wants us to lay down our lives for Him? That's because He owns us, but He doesn't own our freewill. And He wants us to love Him with all of us, because that's how He loves us -- He gave us Himself, all of it.
I think this realisation and understanding came when I had to constantly told myself that it wasn't because of my talents or skills or anything of myself that I'm qualified to serve Him. It was purely because of His great grace. It was because of Him and for Him. I had to constantly pray that "God, when I'm playing the keyboards, let them not see me, but that they would see You and only You." This was because by His grace, the Holy Spirit had touched many people through the worship team.
There were times I remembered that my fingers were trembling as they moved across the keyboard. Those were the times when I felt that I didn't know where my fingers should go next; my mind was blank, but there was that faithful input of a tune from the Holy Spirit, and it was more than enough.
The one thing that I remembered most clearly was during the final day of the program on Friday oct 31. The participants all gathered together and a representative from each nation came forward to pray and bless Pr. David, Pr. Gloria and the whole team in their own national language. The presence of God was immediately so evidently strong as soon as we started to pray in the Spirit, and stronger still as each took the mic to pray in their national language. Of course, we understood very little of what they were all praying, but it was really awesome to hear people pray in Aramic, Tamil, African dialects, Filipino dialect, English and etc.
But it was when our fellow Malaysian participant started to pray that I had tears in my eyes and my heart so touched by the presence of God. When she started praying in Bahasa Malaysia, I could feel such a heat over my head, a heat that comes from above and only on my head and not my body. I knew immediately that was the kabod presence of God, though I have never experienced it this way before.
Seldom do we actually pray in BM because we are so used to conducting everything in English or Mandarin or a Chinese dialect. And I understood that whenever we sing or pray in BM, it brings us to a higher level of experiencing Him, especially in the area of praying for revival for our nation. I realised that when we lift up His name in BM, there's always an uncontested reverence, an unfathomable awesomeness in the air that meant that He is THE LORD of Malaysia and nothing would stand against it.
I believe He still has great things in stored for us, for our church, for this nation and the nations that had come by His call. And though this might be just the beginning of a huge outpouring, I think it's not a slow movement or a process that would take long to complete, but we all know in deep in our hearts that nothing will hinder it from being accomplished, for the Word of the Lord shall not return to Him void. Amen.
Y08's AP is somewhat different from the previous 10 intakes; it just felt different. And though I believe everyone, both participants and church members, had experienced God and received many great things from Him, I felt that the manifestation of the presence of God was just different. It felt like 2 weeks was just too short for Him to have fully shown Himself to us, like there were so many things yet to be released, like there was something else that He wanted to do. I wished it could go on for another 2 weeks, or just go on and on and that none of us would have to worry about time, our career, ministry back in our nations, family, etc. Yet at the same time it felt that the parting with our beloved participants, now alumni and friends of MTI, was the beginning of something even greater ahead, and the 2 weeks of soaking together in the presence of God was just a glimpse of the great work of the Lord yet to come.
I was truly delighted to see many alumni coming this year and to hear them share how it has been for the past year. Some I barely remember, some I have anticipated their coming and so glad to see them arrive safely, but all in all it was a joyous time fellowshiping with all of the participants.
I realised that I have come to a level of commitment that I undertsood there were just so much that we could give. I realised that sometimes we can feel so tired in our bodies and even our soul, and we tell God, O Lord, I have given so much already... Whether it's in our service to Him, in giving to the Lord, in any sense, from the amount that we have given, we could actually give yet more to the Lord. There are still so much that we hold on to, and the Lord always wants us to give Him our all.
Yea, I know it sounds very unreasonable, like God is so unfair, why He always want to strip us and rid us of everything of our own, until we have nothing left. Well, seeing that He owns us and our lives, doesn't He also own everything of us? Then why does He still wants us to lay down our lives for Him? That's because He owns us, but He doesn't own our freewill. And He wants us to love Him with all of us, because that's how He loves us -- He gave us Himself, all of it.
I think this realisation and understanding came when I had to constantly told myself that it wasn't because of my talents or skills or anything of myself that I'm qualified to serve Him. It was purely because of His great grace. It was because of Him and for Him. I had to constantly pray that "God, when I'm playing the keyboards, let them not see me, but that they would see You and only You." This was because by His grace, the Holy Spirit had touched many people through the worship team.
There were times I remembered that my fingers were trembling as they moved across the keyboard. Those were the times when I felt that I didn't know where my fingers should go next; my mind was blank, but there was that faithful input of a tune from the Holy Spirit, and it was more than enough.
The one thing that I remembered most clearly was during the final day of the program on Friday oct 31. The participants all gathered together and a representative from each nation came forward to pray and bless Pr. David, Pr. Gloria and the whole team in their own national language. The presence of God was immediately so evidently strong as soon as we started to pray in the Spirit, and stronger still as each took the mic to pray in their national language. Of course, we understood very little of what they were all praying, but it was really awesome to hear people pray in Aramic, Tamil, African dialects, Filipino dialect, English and etc.
But it was when our fellow Malaysian participant started to pray that I had tears in my eyes and my heart so touched by the presence of God. When she started praying in Bahasa Malaysia, I could feel such a heat over my head, a heat that comes from above and only on my head and not my body. I knew immediately that was the kabod presence of God, though I have never experienced it this way before.
Seldom do we actually pray in BM because we are so used to conducting everything in English or Mandarin or a Chinese dialect. And I understood that whenever we sing or pray in BM, it brings us to a higher level of experiencing Him, especially in the area of praying for revival for our nation. I realised that when we lift up His name in BM, there's always an uncontested reverence, an unfathomable awesomeness in the air that meant that He is THE LORD of Malaysia and nothing would stand against it.
I believe He still has great things in stored for us, for our church, for this nation and the nations that had come by His call. And though this might be just the beginning of a huge outpouring, I think it's not a slow movement or a process that would take long to complete, but we all know in deep in our hearts that nothing will hinder it from being accomplished, for the Word of the Lord shall not return to Him void. Amen.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Rain of Revival
This blog is titled "Rainbow of Promise".
When I pictured it in my head before launching it out, I knew it is going to be a blog for the Lord, to publish His things, His word, His working in my life. So even though sometimes I really feel like saying something about the political directions and the many things that are happening in our nation at the moment, I told myself I wasn't going to write them here.
I wasn't going to comment about what the politicians say or anything like that; my journalistic self isn't up to par to write political analysis pieces.
If I were to put any entries on political issues, it was all going to be copy and paste. XD so it defeats the purpose.
But yes, this blog is to give all glory to God, because He deserves it.
And hence, yes, praise the Lord that His promises are true.
And yes, though it may seem like the uncertainties of the future of Malaysia has increased even more after the by-election 2 days ago, I believe that God has something unprecedented in stored for Malaysia.
Budget 2009 is tomorrow -- but I believe everything that will tabled will be in favour of everyone, regardless of racial differences.
Aug 31 this year marks Malaysia's independence for the 51st year -- I believe it also marks the number of years that God has blessed this land with peace and development. It will also be the mark of a turning point for Malaysia, a new dawn that will bring about good changes in this nation.
Sept 16 is Malaysia Day. It's also D-day that is marked on everyone's heart, though it may not have been marked down on your calendar. Everyone is watching. Different parties are scrutinizing on different things. The old and the young are looking towards the date with a sense of anticipation and expectation. And we Christians ought to be watching plus praying.
Many prophecies have been released by prophets around the world that there will be a widespread of revival in Malaysia the way that has never happened before, and it will be one of the greatest in the whole of South East Asia. It's a call to pray.
Many people, regardless or race, are voicing out their demand for a change, through many forms of communication, especially through votes. Perceptions have changed since 10 years ago, but it has been changing and changing all these 50 years -- to my gladness. I don't believe it's due to advances in technology and influences of the West. I believe it's due to changes in the spiritual realm, that forces of darkness have continuously and will perpetually be more and more weakened as the Lord Jesus' Second Coming draws nearer each day.
I smell the rain of revival. It's time to pray. Gear up!
When I pictured it in my head before launching it out, I knew it is going to be a blog for the Lord, to publish His things, His word, His working in my life. So even though sometimes I really feel like saying something about the political directions and the many things that are happening in our nation at the moment, I told myself I wasn't going to write them here.
I wasn't going to comment about what the politicians say or anything like that; my journalistic self isn't up to par to write political analysis pieces.
If I were to put any entries on political issues, it was all going to be copy and paste. XD so it defeats the purpose.
But yes, this blog is to give all glory to God, because He deserves it.
And hence, yes, praise the Lord that His promises are true.
And yes, though it may seem like the uncertainties of the future of Malaysia has increased even more after the by-election 2 days ago, I believe that God has something unprecedented in stored for Malaysia.
Budget 2009 is tomorrow -- but I believe everything that will tabled will be in favour of everyone, regardless of racial differences.
Aug 31 this year marks Malaysia's independence for the 51st year -- I believe it also marks the number of years that God has blessed this land with peace and development. It will also be the mark of a turning point for Malaysia, a new dawn that will bring about good changes in this nation.
Sept 16 is Malaysia Day. It's also D-day that is marked on everyone's heart, though it may not have been marked down on your calendar. Everyone is watching. Different parties are scrutinizing on different things. The old and the young are looking towards the date with a sense of anticipation and expectation. And we Christians ought to be watching plus praying.
Many prophecies have been released by prophets around the world that there will be a widespread of revival in Malaysia the way that has never happened before, and it will be one of the greatest in the whole of South East Asia. It's a call to pray.
Many people, regardless or race, are voicing out their demand for a change, through many forms of communication, especially through votes. Perceptions have changed since 10 years ago, but it has been changing and changing all these 50 years -- to my gladness. I don't believe it's due to advances in technology and influences of the West. I believe it's due to changes in the spiritual realm, that forces of darkness have continuously and will perpetually be more and more weakened as the Lord Jesus' Second Coming draws nearer each day.
I smell the rain of revival. It's time to pray. Gear up!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Barbeque!
Yesterday was great. We had barbeque at church, for the first time, if I'm not mistaken. Managed to invite over 100 people to this seeker meeting -- good turn out in such a short time. Prayers are sent up to heaven and I'm 101% sure God really answered all of our prayers: good weather, good turnout, good response, good coordination and organising, etc etc etc.
We started cooking the food at 7.30pm, a little late, but nonetheless was able to cook relatively fast to feed the people. But everyone was kind of famish, so there was a break at 9pm, everyone went in for the video, followed by altar call and ministering. Video show was about Todd Bentley sharing testimonies and healing power of God -- great message. Ministering song: Because He lives -- beautiful touching song.
Meanwhile, a handful of us who remained outside continued to grill the chicken wings, cook sausages and toast garlic bread. I'm pretty good at thawing the sausages and toasting bread over the barbeque fire now, haha... Supply looks good to be able to feed the people again when they finish ministering inside, or so I thought at first. Well, it turned out that when the people come out they were still rather famish and in seconds (yes, mark the word seconds) all the food were gone and we were back to a kind of frenzy to cook as fast and as much as possible to keep the supply going. XD Though it was kinda slow because the fire is running low fast, I suppose the people are happy with the overall organising and it was all very well done because everyone had enough.
I think on our community side, some of them must have been touched by the message, but some of them I heard slept through the video because they couldn't really understand what was shown. Well, may the Holy Spirit still touch them and give them dreams. XD. Yea, really need to work on them, not just befriending them still, keep asking them how they are with their studies and all... God give us wisdom!
After all that, we started cleaning up, and boy it was a very messy cleaning up! I don't think I've ever seen the pantry area as dirty and muddy as it was last night. And trying to get the burnt stuff off the barbeque wire, ooohhh... it was tough. At one point I was thinking, God, please let us have a bigger toilet and pantry area! XD. So after washing all the oily cutleries and utensils and tools etc, we washed the toilet too, cos there was just too much mess. Oh, by the way, I was already covered with layers of sweat, smoke, ash, barbeque smell, mango cordial juice, oily water, etc at this point. XD Good, I needed some splashing to get off that sticky feeling.
But yea, over everything, I was extremely happy to be helping out. And with the kind of turnout, whooh, it's just a great sense of achievement for all of us. May the Lord continue to let the knowledge of His glory fill the earth, as water the sea.
We started cooking the food at 7.30pm, a little late, but nonetheless was able to cook relatively fast to feed the people. But everyone was kind of famish, so there was a break at 9pm, everyone went in for the video, followed by altar call and ministering. Video show was about Todd Bentley sharing testimonies and healing power of God -- great message. Ministering song: Because He lives -- beautiful touching song.
Meanwhile, a handful of us who remained outside continued to grill the chicken wings, cook sausages and toast garlic bread. I'm pretty good at thawing the sausages and toasting bread over the barbeque fire now, haha... Supply looks good to be able to feed the people again when they finish ministering inside, or so I thought at first. Well, it turned out that when the people come out they were still rather famish and in seconds (yes, mark the word seconds) all the food were gone and we were back to a kind of frenzy to cook as fast and as much as possible to keep the supply going. XD Though it was kinda slow because the fire is running low fast, I suppose the people are happy with the overall organising and it was all very well done because everyone had enough.
I think on our community side, some of them must have been touched by the message, but some of them I heard slept through the video because they couldn't really understand what was shown. Well, may the Holy Spirit still touch them and give them dreams. XD. Yea, really need to work on them, not just befriending them still, keep asking them how they are with their studies and all... God give us wisdom!
After all that, we started cleaning up, and boy it was a very messy cleaning up! I don't think I've ever seen the pantry area as dirty and muddy as it was last night. And trying to get the burnt stuff off the barbeque wire, ooohhh... it was tough. At one point I was thinking, God, please let us have a bigger toilet and pantry area! XD. So after washing all the oily cutleries and utensils and tools etc, we washed the toilet too, cos there was just too much mess. Oh, by the way, I was already covered with layers of sweat, smoke, ash, barbeque smell, mango cordial juice, oily water, etc at this point. XD Good, I needed some splashing to get off that sticky feeling.
But yea, over everything, I was extremely happy to be helping out. And with the kind of turnout, whooh, it's just a great sense of achievement for all of us. May the Lord continue to let the knowledge of His glory fill the earth, as water the sea.
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