God did not need to create us, but He chose to for HIS own enjoyment. We exist for His benefit, His glory, His purpose and His delight. At the same time, He wants us to enjoy life as well, not only to endure it. Thats why he gave us five sense and emotions so we can experience it. Knowing that we are created in His image, we need to remind ourselves that God has emotions too. The Bible tells us that He grieves, gets jealous and angry, feels compassion, pity, sorrow, happy, glad and satisfied!
Bringing please to God is called 'worship'.
Psalm 147:11 "The Lord is pleased only with those who worship Him and trust His love"
Anything we do that brings pleasure to God is worship. Worship is a lifestyle.
Worship is far more than music.
Many of us think worship is just a synonym for music in church or Christian gatherings, but its not. Or the term 'worship' is often misused to refer to a particular style of worship. Worship has nothing to do with the style, volume or speed of a song. ANY song if offered to God in spirit and truth, it is an act of worship. God loves variety and enjoys all kinds of music - as long as it is pleasing to Him.
Worship is not for your benefit.
When we worship, it is to bring pleasure to God, not ourselves. We don't worship to get something out of it - it is for His glory and pleasure. God's heart is not touched by tradition in worship or half-hearted worship, but by passion and commitment.
Worship is not part of your life, it IS your life.
We are told to 'worship Him continually' and to 'praise Him from sunrise to sunset'. Every activity can be transformed into an act of worship when we do it for the praise, glory, and pleasure of God. We do everything as if we were doing it for Jesus and by carrying on a continual converation with Him while we do it. Work becomes worship when we dedicate it to God and perform it with an awareness of His presence.
Are we living our lives as a worship unto Him? How can we apply this in our lives today?
Published on behalf of Peggen Ewe
Friday, June 30, 2006
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Day 7: The Reason For Everything
God is the reason for everything. The ultimate goal of the universe is to demonstrate God's glory. Does that sound like an egoistical God? Well, I guess if you were to create every single thing that exists, you should get some credit for it no?
We are here to glorify God, nothing else. Does that sound too narrow minded? No, I don't think so. Worship is not just singing songs and praises but worship is a lifestyle of enjoying God!
So how do we bring glory to God?
"Give yourselves completely to God since you have been given new life. And use your whole body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God." - Ro 6:13b (NLT)
1. Loving Other Believers
It is our responsibility to love others as God does, and since God is love, it honours Him when we love one another.
2. By Becoming Like Christ
God wants us to grow in spiritual maturity, the more we develop a Christlike character, the more we will bring glory to God. Since we've been given new life, would it make sense for us to be aimless in the new life? If so, what's the point? That's why we can't stand still, we have to dig deep into God in prayer, Word, worship...just being hungry for Him and letting Him work in our lives.
3. Serving Others With Our Gifts
Our gifts are not ours and it's not for us. It's on loan by God for us to steward and use to serve others! Not to glorify or serve our own selfish pursuits! Believe it or not, other people's gifts were meant to serve us! So start developing your talents and giftings and start serving God!
4. Telling Others About Him
If you found a good eating place, or a good sale, you won't keep it to yourself right? You'd want to tell and rave to everyone about it right? You know how some people would benefit from some products. If we can be so enthusiastic about evangelising such things, why can't we do so for the God of the universe? The One who created all things and having a perfect plan for you?
So, what is your choice? Are you willing to take that step of faith to live to glorify God? If you do, you'll need to be ready to make a huge shift in your priorities, your lifestyle, your relationships. It means taking the hard way instead of the easy one. But the hard way has it's abundance of perks...including a seal of approval from the Master! :) I know my choice!
We are here to glorify God, nothing else. Does that sound too narrow minded? No, I don't think so. Worship is not just singing songs and praises but worship is a lifestyle of enjoying God!
So how do we bring glory to God?
"Give yourselves completely to God since you have been given new life. And use your whole body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God." - Ro 6:13b (NLT)
1. Loving Other Believers
It is our responsibility to love others as God does, and since God is love, it honours Him when we love one another.
2. By Becoming Like Christ
God wants us to grow in spiritual maturity, the more we develop a Christlike character, the more we will bring glory to God. Since we've been given new life, would it make sense for us to be aimless in the new life? If so, what's the point? That's why we can't stand still, we have to dig deep into God in prayer, Word, worship...just being hungry for Him and letting Him work in our lives.
3. Serving Others With Our Gifts
Our gifts are not ours and it's not for us. It's on loan by God for us to steward and use to serve others! Not to glorify or serve our own selfish pursuits! Believe it or not, other people's gifts were meant to serve us! So start developing your talents and giftings and start serving God!
4. Telling Others About Him
If you found a good eating place, or a good sale, you won't keep it to yourself right? You'd want to tell and rave to everyone about it right? You know how some people would benefit from some products. If we can be so enthusiastic about evangelising such things, why can't we do so for the God of the universe? The One who created all things and having a perfect plan for you?
So, what is your choice? Are you willing to take that step of faith to live to glorify God? If you do, you'll need to be ready to make a huge shift in your priorities, your lifestyle, your relationships. It means taking the hard way instead of the easy one. But the hard way has it's abundance of perks...including a seal of approval from the Master! :) I know my choice!
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Day 6: Life is a TEMPORARY Assignment
As we've learnt that life IS a test, and a trust, today i pray that we will also see life as a temporary assignment.
Bible says in Psalm 119:19 (TEV) - I am here on earth for just a little while.
Life is really brief, compared to eternity.. and it is but our temporary residence. So why do many of us get so attached to the things of this world? Why do we more often than not, run after the things of the world that has no eternal value when God has created us for something greater and better that is everlasting? Why do we then get so attached to what's around us, adopt the values, priorities and lifestyles of the world when we know that this is not being kingdom-living?
Many of us have heard that Christians are ambassadors of Christ. Whats that supposed to mean, you ask. The dictionary says that an "ambassador" is an accredited diplomat sent by a country as its official representative to a foreign country.
Imagine being asked by your country to be an ambassador to an enemy nation. You'd have to learn a new language, adapt to some customs and cultural differences to be polite and accomplish your mission. As an ambassador, you wouldn't be able to isolate yourself from the enemy. To fulfil your mission, you would have to contact and related to them.
But suppose you became so comfortable with this foreign country that you fell in love with it, preferring it to your homeland. Your loyalty and commitment would change. Your role as ambassodor would be compromised. Instead of representing your country, you would start acting like the enemy. You'd be a traitor.
Likewise, the bible says that we are in the world but not of the world; and that this world is not your home, so don't make yourselves cozy in it, don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. With all the 'attractions' and 'fun' times in the world today, its easy to forget that the pursuit of happiness is not what life is about. Yes, we need to be 'in' the world to reach out to our friends and family who are yet to come to know of His love (our mission), however, we need to remember that we are not OF this world - we are merely here temporarily to prepare for something greater.
I've come to realise that i'm never satisfied or contented with my life especially when i think 'If only i have that, i would be so happy and i'd not need anything else'. After awhile, when i've gotten my 'if onlys' and longings, i'd still be dissatisfied and feel the void. Well guess what? God allows us to feel that way because these are longings that will never be filled on this side of eternity! We're NOT supposed to be completely happy here because this is not our final home! We ARE created for something WAYYYYYYYY better!
As a fish would never be happy living on land, and an eagle could never be satisfied if it was not allowed to fly, we will never be completely satisfied on earth.. because we were made for MORE!
Let's be kingdom people, have kingdom mindsets, have eternal values and realise that our lives are just a test, trust and temporary assignment!
Bible says in Psalm 119:19 (TEV) - I am here on earth for just a little while.
Life is really brief, compared to eternity.. and it is but our temporary residence. So why do many of us get so attached to the things of this world? Why do we more often than not, run after the things of the world that has no eternal value when God has created us for something greater and better that is everlasting? Why do we then get so attached to what's around us, adopt the values, priorities and lifestyles of the world when we know that this is not being kingdom-living?
Many of us have heard that Christians are ambassadors of Christ. Whats that supposed to mean, you ask. The dictionary says that an "ambassador" is an accredited diplomat sent by a country as its official representative to a foreign country.
Imagine being asked by your country to be an ambassador to an enemy nation. You'd have to learn a new language, adapt to some customs and cultural differences to be polite and accomplish your mission. As an ambassador, you wouldn't be able to isolate yourself from the enemy. To fulfil your mission, you would have to contact and related to them.
But suppose you became so comfortable with this foreign country that you fell in love with it, preferring it to your homeland. Your loyalty and commitment would change. Your role as ambassodor would be compromised. Instead of representing your country, you would start acting like the enemy. You'd be a traitor.
Likewise, the bible says that we are in the world but not of the world; and that this world is not your home, so don't make yourselves cozy in it, don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. With all the 'attractions' and 'fun' times in the world today, its easy to forget that the pursuit of happiness is not what life is about. Yes, we need to be 'in' the world to reach out to our friends and family who are yet to come to know of His love (our mission), however, we need to remember that we are not OF this world - we are merely here temporarily to prepare for something greater.
I've come to realise that i'm never satisfied or contented with my life especially when i think 'If only i have that, i would be so happy and i'd not need anything else'. After awhile, when i've gotten my 'if onlys' and longings, i'd still be dissatisfied and feel the void. Well guess what? God allows us to feel that way because these are longings that will never be filled on this side of eternity! We're NOT supposed to be completely happy here because this is not our final home! We ARE created for something WAYYYYYYYY better!
As a fish would never be happy living on land, and an eagle could never be satisfied if it was not allowed to fly, we will never be completely satisfied on earth.. because we were made for MORE!
Let's be kingdom people, have kingdom mindsets, have eternal values and realise that our lives are just a test, trust and temporary assignment!
Monday, June 19, 2006
Day 5: Seeing Life From God's View
How do you describe your life?
A pivotal question you'll have to ask yourself. How do you view your life? Is your life a race, battle, marathon? Simply put, what metaphor you use to describe your life would determine your values in life.
If you say life is a race, you'll want speed in everything. If you say life's a battle, you'll want to win and be victorious. If you say life is a marathon, you'll value endurance.
How does God view our lives here as?
It's a TEST!
Wow...that's something we've never thought of? I never really thought of life as being a test, as a proving ground before moving on to eternity! God continually tests us our character, faith, obedience, love, integrity and loyalty. Many great men and women of God have failed their tests, Adam and Eve failed in the Garden of Eden, David a couple of times...there are also many who passed their tests with flying colours! Joseph, Job, Ruth, Esther.
Once we start living in the revelation that everything in life is a test, you'll start to understand the implications our actions will have in eternity. Eternity is a long time by the way. God constantly watches your every single move, how you respond to people, the traffic, the weather, situations, everything!
One of the ways God can test us is with major shifts in our lives, delayed promises, impossible problems, unanswered prayers and even sometimes hiding His presence from us!
I've personally experienced that before and it's certainly no fun but it's a test of my faith and I think I only got a Pass for that, but am glad He did as I know how important it is to continue seeking Him, reading His Word, praying and worshipping eventhough things may look bleak and impossible! If you have been feeling dry and like bones, it may be a sign that you have been neglecting spending time with God rather than Him really hiding Himself.
How else does God view our lives here as?
It's a TRUST!
Everything we have belongs to God, like it or not. It's true, all our gifts, our belongings, our job, our relationships, everything belongs to God! He was the one who entrusted all these things to us for us to care and steward. Everything we have are merely on loan from God.
One famous parable of Jesus is the parable of the talents. If we took good stewardship of everything God gave us...we will be amply rewarded and praised on His return.
"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" - Mt 25:23
It's another revelation that would change your life, imagine that? God trusts us so much to actually put us in charge of so many things! But be warned, with many things in hand, many things are expected from you as well, so be quick and start seeking God to reveal the hidden talents and giftings in you and develop them to serve Him! He'll certainly show it to you...just ASK!
A pivotal question you'll have to ask yourself. How do you view your life? Is your life a race, battle, marathon? Simply put, what metaphor you use to describe your life would determine your values in life.
If you say life is a race, you'll want speed in everything. If you say life's a battle, you'll want to win and be victorious. If you say life is a marathon, you'll value endurance.
How does God view our lives here as?
It's a TEST!
Wow...that's something we've never thought of? I never really thought of life as being a test, as a proving ground before moving on to eternity! God continually tests us our character, faith, obedience, love, integrity and loyalty. Many great men and women of God have failed their tests, Adam and Eve failed in the Garden of Eden, David a couple of times...there are also many who passed their tests with flying colours! Joseph, Job, Ruth, Esther.
Once we start living in the revelation that everything in life is a test, you'll start to understand the implications our actions will have in eternity. Eternity is a long time by the way. God constantly watches your every single move, how you respond to people, the traffic, the weather, situations, everything!
One of the ways God can test us is with major shifts in our lives, delayed promises, impossible problems, unanswered prayers and even sometimes hiding His presence from us!
I've personally experienced that before and it's certainly no fun but it's a test of my faith and I think I only got a Pass for that, but am glad He did as I know how important it is to continue seeking Him, reading His Word, praying and worshipping eventhough things may look bleak and impossible! If you have been feeling dry and like bones, it may be a sign that you have been neglecting spending time with God rather than Him really hiding Himself.
How else does God view our lives here as?
It's a TRUST!
Everything we have belongs to God, like it or not. It's true, all our gifts, our belongings, our job, our relationships, everything belongs to God! He was the one who entrusted all these things to us for us to care and steward. Everything we have are merely on loan from God.
One famous parable of Jesus is the parable of the talents. If we took good stewardship of everything God gave us...we will be amply rewarded and praised on His return.
"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" - Mt 25:23
It's another revelation that would change your life, imagine that? God trusts us so much to actually put us in charge of so many things! But be warned, with many things in hand, many things are expected from you as well, so be quick and start seeking God to reveal the hidden talents and giftings in you and develop them to serve Him! He'll certainly show it to you...just ASK!
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Day 4: Made to Last FOREVER
Have you ever wondered where you'd go after you die? Well whatever one believes, the truth is that we WILL go somewhere for eternity: heaven or hell. Life is not all it is here, there is more to it! Life on earth is the preschool, the tryout for your life in eternity. It is the practice workout before the actual game; this life is the preparation for the next. Just like the nine months you spent in your mother's womb were not an end in themselves but preparation for life, so this life is the preparation for the next.
We were made to last FOREVER. Ecc 3:11 says "God has... planted eternity in the human heart." God designed us, in His image, to live for eternity. It is our relationship with God on earth which determines our relationship with Him in eternity. If we love and trust Jesus, we will be invited to spend the rest of eternity with Him, but if we reject His love, forgiveness and salvation, we would spend eternity apart from God.
We need to choose how we live our lives here on earth because every decision counts and has its consequences. Measured against eternity, our time here on earth is just a blink of an eye but the consequences of it will last forever. The deeds of this life are the destiny of the next. When we begin to understand and realise that life here on earth is just preparation for eternity, we would live differently. Many things that we deem important - fame, wealth, achievements, more fun - would appear trivial and unworthy of our attention. Our values would change. Our priorities reordered. So true are Paul's words, "I once thought all these things were very important, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done." Phil 3:7
God certainly does have a purpose for your life here on earth, but it doesn't just end here. The bible says "His plans endure forever; His purposes last eternally" Ps 33:11.
Since we now know that we are made to last forever, what are some things that we must stop doing, and what are some things that we should start doing? Remember, every decision on earth has its eternal consequences.
We were made to last FOREVER. Ecc 3:11 says "God has... planted eternity in the human heart." God designed us, in His image, to live for eternity. It is our relationship with God on earth which determines our relationship with Him in eternity. If we love and trust Jesus, we will be invited to spend the rest of eternity with Him, but if we reject His love, forgiveness and salvation, we would spend eternity apart from God.
We need to choose how we live our lives here on earth because every decision counts and has its consequences. Measured against eternity, our time here on earth is just a blink of an eye but the consequences of it will last forever. The deeds of this life are the destiny of the next. When we begin to understand and realise that life here on earth is just preparation for eternity, we would live differently. Many things that we deem important - fame, wealth, achievements, more fun - would appear trivial and unworthy of our attention. Our values would change. Our priorities reordered. So true are Paul's words, "I once thought all these things were very important, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done." Phil 3:7
God certainly does have a purpose for your life here on earth, but it doesn't just end here. The bible says "His plans endure forever; His purposes last eternally" Ps 33:11.
Since we now know that we are made to last forever, what are some things that we must stop doing, and what are some things that we should start doing? Remember, every decision on earth has its eternal consequences.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Day 3: What Drives Your Life?
What is drive?
drive |drīv|
verb ( past drove |drōv|; past part. driven |ˈdrivən|)
- propel or carry along by force in a specified direction : the wind will drive you onshore.
So, what propels you? What carries you along in life? Is it: guilt, resentment/anger, fear, materialism, need for approval? These are all negative drives, they drive alright but there is a big side-effect to them: they always hurt YOU.
For example, being driven by resentment and anger will make you bitter, grumpy and easily ticked off. Fear will cause you to miss heaps of opportunities because you aren't courageous enough to step out. Being driven by the need for approval will cause you to have depressing days when people don't recognise your works. They are all sad consequences of being driven by the wrong motives.
So, is there a way to be driven by the right thing? That has no side-effects?
YES. Purpose.
Knowing your purpose will:
1. Give meaning to your life
We've gone through this. Without God, there is no purpose, without purpose there is no meaning to life. I certainly don't want to drift aimlessly in life!
2. Simplifies your life
With a purpose in life, you have a mission. Missions have clear cut objectives and with those objectives you'll know what exactly you have to do and not end up doing everything!
3. Focuses your life
You'll be able to concentrate your effort and energy on things that are important. Without a purpose, you'll end up changing externals like jobs, relationships, church without ever finding it solving you problems!
4. Motivates your life
Nothing energises like a clear purpose, it gives you the drive in the morning when you wake up. No, coffee SHOULD NOT be the main kick in the morning! :)
5. Prepares you for eternity
We'll be having an entrance exam at the end when Jesus comes again...and there are only 2 questions:
"What have you done with my Son, Jesus Christ?"
Have you accepted Christ as your Lord and Saviour? If not...boy, you're gonna fail this entrance exam. So take the first step NOW! This gurantees you a pass!
"What have you done with your life? With the gifts I have given you?"
This question determines your final mark...a Pass, Credit, Distinction or High Distinction. It determines what you'll be doing for eternity. So, act NOW! Start living your life for God!
I certainly want a HD in this entrance exam! So I'm definitely gonna start finding out my purpose and living a life that God has purposed for me! A fish loves swimming, an eagle loves flying...we too have a purpose! Let's go!
drive |drīv|
verb ( past drove |drōv|; past part. driven |ˈdrivən|)
- propel or carry along by force in a specified direction : the wind will drive you onshore.
So, what propels you? What carries you along in life? Is it: guilt, resentment/anger, fear, materialism, need for approval? These are all negative drives, they drive alright but there is a big side-effect to them: they always hurt YOU.
For example, being driven by resentment and anger will make you bitter, grumpy and easily ticked off. Fear will cause you to miss heaps of opportunities because you aren't courageous enough to step out. Being driven by the need for approval will cause you to have depressing days when people don't recognise your works. They are all sad consequences of being driven by the wrong motives.
So, is there a way to be driven by the right thing? That has no side-effects?
YES. Purpose.
Knowing your purpose will:
1. Give meaning to your life
We've gone through this. Without God, there is no purpose, without purpose there is no meaning to life. I certainly don't want to drift aimlessly in life!
2. Simplifies your life
With a purpose in life, you have a mission. Missions have clear cut objectives and with those objectives you'll know what exactly you have to do and not end up doing everything!
3. Focuses your life
You'll be able to concentrate your effort and energy on things that are important. Without a purpose, you'll end up changing externals like jobs, relationships, church without ever finding it solving you problems!
4. Motivates your life
Nothing energises like a clear purpose, it gives you the drive in the morning when you wake up. No, coffee SHOULD NOT be the main kick in the morning! :)
5. Prepares you for eternity
We'll be having an entrance exam at the end when Jesus comes again...and there are only 2 questions:
"What have you done with my Son, Jesus Christ?"
Have you accepted Christ as your Lord and Saviour? If not...boy, you're gonna fail this entrance exam. So take the first step NOW! This gurantees you a pass!
"What have you done with your life? With the gifts I have given you?"
This question determines your final mark...a Pass, Credit, Distinction or High Distinction. It determines what you'll be doing for eternity. So, act NOW! Start living your life for God!
I certainly want a HD in this entrance exam! So I'm definitely gonna start finding out my purpose and living a life that God has purposed for me! A fish loves swimming, an eagle loves flying...we too have a purpose! Let's go!
Day 2: YOU are NOT an accident
We have to always keep reminding ourselves that THERE'S NO SUCH THING as an ACCIDENT in God, there are only God incidences. Meaning that everything about us, our parents, our birth - time, day, month, year; skin colour, face features, natural talents, personalities etc - NOTHING about us is an accident. He's planned it looooooooong before our parents even came into exsitance. You are ALIVE, breathing and kicking now only BECAUSE God created you to be! So despite all thats been said to us, about us ie "you were an unplanned child" kinda talk, that's all pretty much rubbish because the WORD OF GOD says:
'Long before He laid down the earth's foundations, He had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of His love' - Eph 1:4 (Msg)
'You know me inside and out, You know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something' - Psalm 139:15
'You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in Your book' - Psalm 139: 16
' From one man He made every nation,... and He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live' - Acts 17:26
'The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me' - Psalm 138:8a
Wow.. isn't it amazing KNOWING that God loves us so much that He's created us all for a purpose, HIS purpose? This truly just speaks to me that nothing in our lives are accidents. I was born in Penang for a purpose, i am studying in Monash Clayton for a purpose, i am who i am.. for a purpose! Likewise YOU too! He planned everything.. and i mean EVERYTHING and His purpose for us even takes into account human error and sin. And really all we need to believe is that there is a God out there who created us for a purpose - far greater than our puny minds can comprehend! That also means that our lives now has MEANING!
However, we can only discover that meaning and purpose when we make God the reference point in our lives.
'The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what He does for us' - Romans 12:3
You are who you are for a reason
You're part of an intricate plan.
You're a precious and perfect unique design,
Called God's special woman or man.
You look like you for a reason.
Our God made no mistake.
He knit you together within the womb,
You're just what He wanted to make!
The parents you had were the ones He chose,
And no matter how you may feel,
They were custom-designed with God's plan in mind
And they bear the Master's seal.
No, that trauma you faced was not easy.
And God wept that it hurt you so;
But it was allowed to shape your heart
So that into His likeness you'd grow.
You are who you are for a reason,
You've been formed by the Master's rod.
You are who you are, beloved,
Because there is a God!
Let's think about the situations and circumstances in our lives that we're struggling with right now, and ask God to help us to accept that its God-incidences, and ask Him to help u deal with it His way. Also think about the areas that you are struggling to accept aabout yourself. REMEMBER, God created you - uniquely!
'Long before He laid down the earth's foundations, He had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of His love' - Eph 1:4 (Msg)
'You know me inside and out, You know every bone in my body; You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was sculpted from nothing into something' - Psalm 139:15
'You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe. Every day was recorded in Your book' - Psalm 139: 16
' From one man He made every nation,... and He determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live' - Acts 17:26
'The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me' - Psalm 138:8a
Wow.. isn't it amazing KNOWING that God loves us so much that He's created us all for a purpose, HIS purpose? This truly just speaks to me that nothing in our lives are accidents. I was born in Penang for a purpose, i am studying in Monash Clayton for a purpose, i am who i am.. for a purpose! Likewise YOU too! He planned everything.. and i mean EVERYTHING and His purpose for us even takes into account human error and sin. And really all we need to believe is that there is a God out there who created us for a purpose - far greater than our puny minds can comprehend! That also means that our lives now has MEANING!
However, we can only discover that meaning and purpose when we make God the reference point in our lives.
'The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what He does for us' - Romans 12:3
You are who you are for a reason
You're part of an intricate plan.
You're a precious and perfect unique design,
Called God's special woman or man.
You look like you for a reason.
Our God made no mistake.
He knit you together within the womb,
You're just what He wanted to make!
The parents you had were the ones He chose,
And no matter how you may feel,
They were custom-designed with God's plan in mind
And they bear the Master's seal.
No, that trauma you faced was not easy.
And God wept that it hurt you so;
But it was allowed to shape your heart
So that into His likeness you'd grow.
You are who you are for a reason,
You've been formed by the Master's rod.
You are who you are, beloved,
Because there is a God!
Let's think about the situations and circumstances in our lives that we're struggling with right now, and ask God to help us to accept that its God-incidences, and ask Him to help u deal with it His way. Also think about the areas that you are struggling to accept aabout yourself. REMEMBER, God created you - uniquely!
Friday, June 16, 2006
Girls Night 2006
albeit late but nevermind..can't seem to upload pics till now =(
.
while the guys had their manly Redline event *grunts*
we, GIRLS, had a comfy-night of indulgence-girly night
*ha, beat that guys!!*
=)
..
it was a pyjamas theme party so obviously we wore pyjamas..hehe
we had a time of worship led by sherlynn, a time of sharing by our beloved president and games
the highlight of the day has to be the yummylicious deserts =)
all in all, we had heaps of fun =)
.
*the OCF girls looking all comfy and ready to plop into bed*
big kudos to everyone who made this event a memorable one
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Purpose Driven Life: Day 1
"Why am I here on earth for?"
Ever asked yourself that question? I think it's the fundamental question that we should ask ourselves at least once in our lifetimes. If not then, WHY are you here for?
This is the main purpose of Rick Warren's book, "The Purpose Driven Life". To help us find out our purpose in life. I'll share shortly on my experience with it as I've read through it before and felt God tell me to go through it again...so
Day 1: It All Starts With God
It's not about you, it's not about me. It's all about God. Have you ever read self-help books before? I have, my dad always encourage (read: shove) me to read books written by great men, "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Steven Covey, "How To Make Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie and so on where one of those I've read. These are really great books and do have some useful pointers in them. But that's it, it's just merely self-help. You, helping yourself!
I remember one main thing in the 7 Habits book that says we have to get our life's center right, not fame-centered, not boyfriend/girlfriend centered, not sports-centered, not self-centered etc. but be principle-centered. Hmm...it all makes sense, principles NEVER change, principles are non-negotiables. They are set. Like honesty, if you hold honesty as your principle, you'll always choose to be honest when in doubt. That all made perfect sense to me, before I met God. Then my life changed...my life's center is now God-centered.
The world does not acknowledge God exist and all these philosophies are sound and good if you believe the fact that there is no God. However, what if there is? If there is a God of creation, if there is a God that is almighty, who knows it all. Then should we still be principles-centered? Shouldn't we instead, being creation seek God and ask the CreatorWHY He created us for?
You see, the world and great philosophers tries to find the answer to life from within us, starting with "What do you want to be when you grow up?". Then the world teaches us to clarify our dreams, set goals, aim high, go for it! You can do it! Believe in yourself! These are all noble notions and they work, they can bring success...but does being successful mean that you're living a purposeful life? What are you after? Money? Fame? Respect? Happiness? Or do you want a life where you live every day knowing full well that YOU have a mission here on earth and whatever that mission is, God WILL provide and see you through it? A life where you are walking with your Creator, a relationship that lasts for eternity? How cool is that?
"It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone." - Eph 1:11 (MSG)
Yes, God created you and He knows you, so well that once you've accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, He starts talking to you! He's so intimate that He's beyond verbal communication, He speaks right into your THOUGHTS!
So have a think about it..."Without God, life makes no sense."
Ever asked yourself that question? I think it's the fundamental question that we should ask ourselves at least once in our lifetimes. If not then, WHY are you here for?
This is the main purpose of Rick Warren's book, "The Purpose Driven Life". To help us find out our purpose in life. I'll share shortly on my experience with it as I've read through it before and felt God tell me to go through it again...so
Day 1: It All Starts With God
It's not about you, it's not about me. It's all about God. Have you ever read self-help books before? I have, my dad always encourage (read: shove) me to read books written by great men, "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Steven Covey, "How To Make Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie and so on where one of those I've read. These are really great books and do have some useful pointers in them. But that's it, it's just merely self-help. You, helping yourself!
I remember one main thing in the 7 Habits book that says we have to get our life's center right, not fame-centered, not boyfriend/girlfriend centered, not sports-centered, not self-centered etc. but be principle-centered. Hmm...it all makes sense, principles NEVER change, principles are non-negotiables. They are set. Like honesty, if you hold honesty as your principle, you'll always choose to be honest when in doubt. That all made perfect sense to me, before I met God. Then my life changed...my life's center is now God-centered.
The world does not acknowledge God exist and all these philosophies are sound and good if you believe the fact that there is no God. However, what if there is? If there is a God of creation, if there is a God that is almighty, who knows it all. Then should we still be principles-centered? Shouldn't we instead, being creation seek God and ask the CreatorWHY He created us for?
You see, the world and great philosophers tries to find the answer to life from within us, starting with "What do you want to be when you grow up?". Then the world teaches us to clarify our dreams, set goals, aim high, go for it! You can do it! Believe in yourself! These are all noble notions and they work, they can bring success...but does being successful mean that you're living a purposeful life? What are you after? Money? Fame? Respect? Happiness? Or do you want a life where you live every day knowing full well that YOU have a mission here on earth and whatever that mission is, God WILL provide and see you through it? A life where you are walking with your Creator, a relationship that lasts for eternity? How cool is that?
"It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone." - Eph 1:11 (MSG)
Yes, God created you and He knows you, so well that once you've accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, He starts talking to you! He's so intimate that He's beyond verbal communication, He speaks right into your THOUGHTS!
So have a think about it..."Without God, life makes no sense."
Friday, June 09, 2006
EXAMS.. EXCITING!
Hello precious people! Just wanted you to know that each of you are being covered in prayer, whether you're part of OCF Clayton or anywhere else in any OCF centres.. we're praying each morning during this exam period!
Anyways, i know that sometimes in this stressful times, we tend to give God our leftover time and ask Him to understand that we need to focus on our studies, and will spend more time with Him, studying His word etc after this. HOWEVER, i want to encourage you to continue to be diligent in seeking Him as you are diligent in seeking good grades! There is NOTHING more refreshing and fulfilling than spending time with Him, replacing all fear, discouragements, stress and whatever else with HIS peace, love, joy, hope, and grace! How GOOD is our God! =)
For those who are a bit not-so-hardworking to study the word of God or do devotions but rather spend time using computer, i'd wanna encourage you to go to this site http://www.bible.com.. and follow the devotional materials there! Going thru Proverbs now, and its really an easy and helpful read.. especially for these period! =) Check it out yea?
If you need ANY prayer at all.. on ANY subject matter, don't hesitate to leave us a message, or you can contact your CG leaders and u can be assured that you'll be prayed for! Come on guys, lets not give up on anything, because certainly God's not given up on us.. and He HAS given us the victory! Let's continue to acknowledge that HE IS GOD, and cry out to Him for help! Love you all heaps! And remember to bring Jesus into the exam hall with u yes?
Monday, June 05, 2006
Exams Prayer List
This is the latest exams prayer list with most people's exams times. If your name is not in the list, please email me and let me know!
OCF Clayton Exams Timetable (Updated: 6 June 2006)
Print it out and replace your older ones with this one. Also check back every now and then for the latest, in case people still submit in.
Do remember to keep each other in prayer, I've been greatly encouraged by people who didn't care about distances and just called to pray for me! You guys truly understand the power of prayer and I'm very proud of you guys! Keep that praying spirit up and that's the only way we can impact the supernatural!
Exams Prayer Meets are daily, 9am at the Small Chapel in the Religious Building (The round building next to the Campus Centre bookshop). Get ready, be prayed up and be blown away by God! Today's prayer meet was awesome and there's nothing like passionate prayers meeting up and praying!
Keep praying y'all! Bless ya!
OCF Clayton Exams Timetable (Updated: 6 June 2006)
Print it out and replace your older ones with this one. Also check back every now and then for the latest, in case people still submit in.
Do remember to keep each other in prayer, I've been greatly encouraged by people who didn't care about distances and just called to pray for me! You guys truly understand the power of prayer and I'm very proud of you guys! Keep that praying spirit up and that's the only way we can impact the supernatural!
Exams Prayer Meets are daily, 9am at the Small Chapel in the Religious Building (The round building next to the Campus Centre bookshop). Get ready, be prayed up and be blown away by God! Today's prayer meet was awesome and there's nothing like passionate prayers meeting up and praying!
Keep praying y'all! Bless ya!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
