Wednesday, December 24, 2008
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hmmm everything seems to be changing.. slowly.. but surely.. however is it for the better? or for the worse?
Posted by
L
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
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ok havent done a post lately. family is over and there's just no privacy at all! even finding it hard to find time to read the Bible and and spend time with Him.. i really have to work something out, gotta figure out how i can just remove myself away from all the things of the day for a while and just to seek Him. Waking up early doesn't help since mum and grandparents are up really early, and sleeping later doesn't help since my brothers don't even sleep at all! Really gotta find a way..
Oh well.. looking forward to the weekend. Ps Jean Lim and her ministry team are coming over. Gonna be expecting great things. Then it's Christmas! It's gonna be Jesus all the way!!
love to be in Your presence.
Oh well.. looking forward to the weekend. Ps Jean Lim and her ministry team are coming over. Gonna be expecting great things. Then it's Christmas! It's gonna be Jesus all the way!!
love to be in Your presence.
Posted by
L
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
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siighs. so messed up. I'm getting there..slowly..working my way back up the ladder.. no more distractions.. no more getting sidetracked.. It's now or never.
I'm not content with just worshipping from afar, i want to be part of the worship.. giving something of myself to God. I don't want to be just someone in the crowd, but to be lifting up that worship. I want to be part of the worship.
Let the spirit of excellence rise up within me.
Day 151.
Ecclesiastes 5
10 He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver;
Nor he who loves abundance, with increase.
This also is vanity.
11 When goods increase,
They increase who eat them;
So what profit have the owners
Except to see them with their eyes?
12 The sleep of a laboring man is sweet,
Whether he eats little or much;
But the abundance of the rich will not permit him to sleep.
Whoever loves money, will never be satisfied with what he has, and whoever loves to be rich, will never be satisfied with his income. Is that so for us? The Bible calls this vanity. But may this be the case in our relationship with God. May we never be satisfied with where we're at in our walk with God. May we seek to constantly grow in Him, and to know Him more. May we treat our relationship with God something that is more precious than any gold or silver in this world, and yearn to go deeper with Him.
Our aim: To be more like Jesus. How? By spending time with Him, and learning more about Him. It's hard to spend time with somebody, and at the same time not know much about them.
I'm not content with just worshipping from afar, i want to be part of the worship.. giving something of myself to God. I don't want to be just someone in the crowd, but to be lifting up that worship. I want to be part of the worship.
Let the spirit of excellence rise up within me.
Day 151.
Ecclesiastes 5
10 He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver;
Nor he who loves abundance, with increase.
This also is vanity.
11 When goods increase,
They increase who eat them;
So what profit have the owners
Except to see them with their eyes?
12 The sleep of a laboring man is sweet,
Whether he eats little or much;
But the abundance of the rich will not permit him to sleep.
Whoever loves money, will never be satisfied with what he has, and whoever loves to be rich, will never be satisfied with his income. Is that so for us? The Bible calls this vanity. But may this be the case in our relationship with God. May we never be satisfied with where we're at in our walk with God. May we seek to constantly grow in Him, and to know Him more. May we treat our relationship with God something that is more precious than any gold or silver in this world, and yearn to go deeper with Him.
Our aim: To be more like Jesus. How? By spending time with Him, and learning more about Him. It's hard to spend time with somebody, and at the same time not know much about them.
Posted by
L
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
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internet was cut off last night coz it was getting reset, so couldn't post.. and my family is coming in 2 days time, and once they're here i wonder if i can even do daily posts.. all sense of privacy will be gone! zzZZ oh well..
He alone is everlasting, to Him alone do angels worship. He stood before all time began, and will last for all eternity. He shines brighter than the brightest star, and burns stronger than the sun. The weight of His glory alone is enough to cause anyone to fall face down. The magnitude of His greatness cannot even be measured or fathomed by anyone or anything. For He is limitless, and He is God.
Don't mess with Him. God doesn't joke around, He is serious and He means buisness.
Day 150.
Ecclesiastes 2
10 Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them.
I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure,
For my heart rejoiced in all my labor;
And this was my reward from all my labor.
11 Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done
And on the labor in which I had toiled;
And indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind.
There was no profit under the sun.
how true, how true.. we all know that it's pointless storing up earthly treasures because it's all gonna go to waste one day. But deep down do we really understand and fully grasp that concept? Or are we still trying in a way have our whole life revolve around money? Are we studying harder to give God the glory or to get a better job with a higher pay to live an easier life? Are we using God as an excuse to make ourselves look better or feel better? Once again, it's hard to keep focused on a goal which you cannot see! So we have to constantly remind ourselves, and visualise the goal that we are heading towards. We need to aim ourselves and everything we do towards the goal, so that we may never ever ever forgot what we're running to!
I need to seriously stop doing pointless and meaningless stuff..
He alone is everlasting, to Him alone do angels worship. He stood before all time began, and will last for all eternity. He shines brighter than the brightest star, and burns stronger than the sun. The weight of His glory alone is enough to cause anyone to fall face down. The magnitude of His greatness cannot even be measured or fathomed by anyone or anything. For He is limitless, and He is God.
Don't mess with Him. God doesn't joke around, He is serious and He means buisness.
Day 150.
Ecclesiastes 2
10 Whatever my eyes desired I did not keep from them.
I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure,
For my heart rejoiced in all my labor;
And this was my reward from all my labor.
11 Then I looked on all the works that my hands had done
And on the labor in which I had toiled;
And indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind.
There was no profit under the sun.
how true, how true.. we all know that it's pointless storing up earthly treasures because it's all gonna go to waste one day. But deep down do we really understand and fully grasp that concept? Or are we still trying in a way have our whole life revolve around money? Are we studying harder to give God the glory or to get a better job with a higher pay to live an easier life? Are we using God as an excuse to make ourselves look better or feel better? Once again, it's hard to keep focused on a goal which you cannot see! So we have to constantly remind ourselves, and visualise the goal that we are heading towards. We need to aim ourselves and everything we do towards the goal, so that we may never ever ever forgot what we're running to!
I need to seriously stop doing pointless and meaningless stuff..
Posted by
L
Saturday, November 29, 2008
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it's good to be back at worshipnet..Learn something new everyday!
Day 148.
Proverbs 26
4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly,
Lest you also be like him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly,
Lest he be wise in his own eyes.
[argh confusing.. are the verses contradicting one another??]
Proverbs 27
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend,
But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
[you know that you love someone when they do something that hurts you, because love hurts(in a good way)]
19 As in water face reflects face,
So a man’s heart reveals the man.
[what is the state of our heart? because God looks directly at the heart, nothing can fool Him]
23 Be diligent to know the state of your flocks,
And attend to your herds;
[sounds like a great verse for leaders! it's important to know the state of our flock :)]
Proverbs 28
13 He who covers his sins will not prosper,
But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
[mercy, mercy, we all need God's mercy, but how do we get it? By confessing and forsaking our sins.]
Day 148.
Proverbs 26
4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly,
Lest you also be like him.
5 Answer a fool according to his folly,
Lest he be wise in his own eyes.
[argh confusing.. are the verses contradicting one another??]
Proverbs 27
6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend,
But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
[you know that you love someone when they do something that hurts you, because love hurts(in a good way)]
19 As in water face reflects face,
So a man’s heart reveals the man.
[what is the state of our heart? because God looks directly at the heart, nothing can fool Him]
23 Be diligent to know the state of your flocks,
And attend to your herds;
[sounds like a great verse for leaders! it's important to know the state of our flock :)]
Proverbs 28
13 He who covers his sins will not prosper,
But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.
[mercy, mercy, we all need God's mercy, but how do we get it? By confessing and forsaking our sins.]
Posted by
L
w00t passed all my exams! really only by God's grace. Thank You God!
Someone said tonight in cell something along the lines of "God will supply..". Which is true, since God is Jehovah Jireh, our provider.. at the same time, it is also said that our God will supply for all our needs. When that came into my mind, it felt as though God was asking me what the difference between 'need' and 'want' was, or do we treat it as the same thing? Our 'needs', are our essentials, things that are needed to live. Our 'wants' on the other hand are things that make our lives more comfortable. Simple example, everyone needs a house to live in, but we don't need a huge mansion to live luxuriously.. to have a big and fancy house would just be a want. God has promised to supply all our needs, and never promised to give us all our wants. Many times what we want isn't neccesarily what we need. And i think many people have the wrong idea of God being a person who gives us whatever we want, like winning the lotto, or driving a ferrari, and when they don't get what they want, they start doubting God and questioning Him. We have to becareful and remember what we learn from the Bible, and not to add or subtract from it. God keeps His word and does not lie!
Day 147.
Proverbs 20 -> drinking and getting drunk is a no-no
1 Wine is a mocker,
Strong drink is a brawler,
And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
24 A man’s steps are of the LORD;
How then can a man understand his own way?
Proverbs 23 -> something thats taking me a while to learn..
17 Do not let your heart envy sinners,
But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day;
18 For surely there is a hereafter,
And your hope will not be cut off.
Proverbs 24
13 My son, eat honey because it is good,
And the honeycomb which is sweet to your taste;
14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul;
If you have found it, there is a prospect,
And your hope will not be cut off.
Someone said tonight in cell something along the lines of "God will supply..". Which is true, since God is Jehovah Jireh, our provider.. at the same time, it is also said that our God will supply for all our needs. When that came into my mind, it felt as though God was asking me what the difference between 'need' and 'want' was, or do we treat it as the same thing? Our 'needs', are our essentials, things that are needed to live. Our 'wants' on the other hand are things that make our lives more comfortable. Simple example, everyone needs a house to live in, but we don't need a huge mansion to live luxuriously.. to have a big and fancy house would just be a want. God has promised to supply all our needs, and never promised to give us all our wants. Many times what we want isn't neccesarily what we need. And i think many people have the wrong idea of God being a person who gives us whatever we want, like winning the lotto, or driving a ferrari, and when they don't get what they want, they start doubting God and questioning Him. We have to becareful and remember what we learn from the Bible, and not to add or subtract from it. God keeps His word and does not lie!
Day 147.
Proverbs 20 -> drinking and getting drunk is a no-no
1 Wine is a mocker,
Strong drink is a brawler,
And whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
24 A man’s steps are of the LORD;
How then can a man understand his own way?
Proverbs 23 -> something thats taking me a while to learn..
17 Do not let your heart envy sinners,
But be zealous for the fear of the LORD all the day;
18 For surely there is a hereafter,
And your hope will not be cut off.
Proverbs 24
13 My son, eat honey because it is good,
And the honeycomb which is sweet to your taste;
14 So shall the knowledge of wisdom be to your soul;
If you have found it, there is a prospect,
And your hope will not be cut off.
Posted by
L
Friday, November 28, 2008
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exam results are slowly coming out! suspense or faith?
Day 146.
Proverbs 16
32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
33 The lot is cast into the lap,
But its every decision is from the LORD.
Found v32 interesting.. never knew we could rule our spirit? but in the verse, to be able to rule/control one's spirit is a good thing, it is compared to having patience which is better than power. To rule one's spirit, is that refering to our fleshly nature? e.g to be able to rule one's fleshy nature and desires which are after the things of this world? If it is, then it is definitely something that everyone has to work towards to.. we need to train up our spirit and discipline the flesh! Not finding it that easy to do so myself.. Daily crucifying the flesh!
v33. Does that mean that we get the options to choose, but ultimately every decision is made by the Lord? hmmm just something that struck me.
Day 146.
Proverbs 16
32 He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty,
And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.
33 The lot is cast into the lap,
But its every decision is from the LORD.
Found v32 interesting.. never knew we could rule our spirit? but in the verse, to be able to rule/control one's spirit is a good thing, it is compared to having patience which is better than power. To rule one's spirit, is that refering to our fleshly nature? e.g to be able to rule one's fleshy nature and desires which are after the things of this world? If it is, then it is definitely something that everyone has to work towards to.. we need to train up our spirit and discipline the flesh! Not finding it that easy to do so myself.. Daily crucifying the flesh!
v33. Does that mean that we get the options to choose, but ultimately every decision is made by the Lord? hmmm just something that struck me.
Posted by
L
Thursday, November 27, 2008
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Day 145.
Proverbs 12
14 A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth,
And the recompense of a man’s hands will be rendered to him.
15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
But he who heeds counsel is wise.
16 A fool’s wrath is known at once,
But a prudent man covers shame.
17 He who speaks truth declares righteousness,
But a false witness, deceit.
18 There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword,
But the tongue of the wise promotes health.
25 Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression,
But a good word makes it glad.
Proverbs 15
9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
But He loves him who follows righteousness.
10 Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way,
And he who hates correction will die.
11 Hell and Destruction are before the LORD;
So how much more the hearts of the sons of men.
Proverbs 12
14 A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his mouth,
And the recompense of a man’s hands will be rendered to him.
15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes,
But he who heeds counsel is wise.
16 A fool’s wrath is known at once,
But a prudent man covers shame.
17 He who speaks truth declares righteousness,
But a false witness, deceit.
18 There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword,
But the tongue of the wise promotes health.
25 Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression,
But a good word makes it glad.
Proverbs 15
9 The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
But He loves him who follows righteousness.
10 Harsh discipline is for him who forsakes the way,
And he who hates correction will die.
11 Hell and Destruction are before the LORD;
So how much more the hearts of the sons of men.
Posted by
L
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
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Many times when we pray for God to have His way in our lives, or when we pray 'Your kingdom come, Your will be done', are we really meaning it and letting God take control of EVERYTHING in our life? Or are we praying that, and the next minute asking God to fulfill one of OUR needs and wants. To have all of God and none of us, would that mean that what we want for our lives wouldn't matter anymore since it wouldn't be ours to live but God's? We want the benefit of having God rule and be in control of our life, because we know that when God is in control nothing will go wrong.. but at the same time, we still cannot let go of the little things that we want. Like we want certain things and pray to God, asking for Him to give it to us, and sometimes we want it so badly that we desperately pray to God pleading for it.. But does that still mean that God is in control? For God to be in total, total control, does that mean that our little needs and wants don't matter anymore? Since at the end of the day, God's way of life is the best life we could ever get.. He is God and created all things after all. So is it right to give God total control of our life, but at the same time still pray to God about our needs?
Day144.
Proverbs 11
4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath,
But righteousness delivers from death.
5 The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright,
But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness.
6 The righteousness of the upright will deliver them,
But the unfaithful will be caught by their lust.
Day144.
Proverbs 11
4 Riches do not profit in the day of wrath,
But righteousness delivers from death.
5 The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright,
But the wicked will fall by his own wickedness.
6 The righteousness of the upright will deliver them,
But the unfaithful will be caught by their lust.
Posted by
L
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
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uugghh holidays.. getting too engrossed into fun and games that i am spending less and less time with God..which is bad. I should be spending more time with God, and not let the holiday mood get in my way. Need to start over again and stop wasting precious time doing useless things.. Had big plans for this holidays and i plan to stick to it. I need to go deeper..
Jesus, be my Lord, be my God. Have Your way in my life. Help me to keep focused. To be God-centered at all times.
Day 143.
There's so much to learn just by reading the first 6 chapters of proverbs. Just reading it, there were so many things that struck me and reminded me about what we should be doing. A lot on wisdom, understanding, discipline, and God's teachings. There's too much to even write on because everything is so important. God's just so amazing..
Jesus, be my Lord, be my God. Have Your way in my life. Help me to keep focused. To be God-centered at all times.
Day 143.
There's so much to learn just by reading the first 6 chapters of proverbs. Just reading it, there were so many things that struck me and reminded me about what we should be doing. A lot on wisdom, understanding, discipline, and God's teachings. There's too much to even write on because everything is so important. God's just so amazing..
Posted by
L
Monday, November 24, 2008
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loong day of church.. Sunday is most probably my longest day in the whole week! But it feels good being back at church after a long week. It always has a sense of peace, and relaxation in the atmosphere, but mainly because God is there!
Day 142.
Read more about how wise King Solomon was, and about all the fame and fortune that he had gathered because of his great wisdom. It was counted that he composed 3000 proverbs, and wrote 1005 songs, so that is pretty amazing.. But the main thing is that that wisdom came from God, and God blessed Solomon and made him to be where he was. May we be like King Solomon and pray for wisdom, because wisdom is supreme!
Psalm 89
5 And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O LORD;
Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints.
6 For who in the heavens can be compared to the LORD?
Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the LORD?
7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints,
And to be held in reverence by all those around Him.
8 O LORD God of hosts,
Who is mighty like You, O LORD?
Your faithfulness also surrounds You.
9 You rule the raging of the sea;
When its waves rise, You still them.
Day 142.
Read more about how wise King Solomon was, and about all the fame and fortune that he had gathered because of his great wisdom. It was counted that he composed 3000 proverbs, and wrote 1005 songs, so that is pretty amazing.. But the main thing is that that wisdom came from God, and God blessed Solomon and made him to be where he was. May we be like King Solomon and pray for wisdom, because wisdom is supreme!
Psalm 89
5 And the heavens will praise Your wonders, O LORD;
Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the saints.
6 For who in the heavens can be compared to the LORD?
Who among the sons of the mighty can be likened to the LORD?
7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints,
And to be held in reverence by all those around Him.
8 O LORD God of hosts,
Who is mighty like You, O LORD?
Your faithfulness also surrounds You.
9 You rule the raging of the sea;
When its waves rise, You still them.
Posted by
L
Saturday, November 22, 2008
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It's time to let our light shine!
Day 141.
The queen of Sheba heard of Solomon's great wisdom, wealth, and fame, and wanted to see for herself. So she went to Jerusalem and spoke with Solomon. After speaking to him, she said this:
5 Then she said to the king: “It was a true report which I heard in my own land about your words and your wisdom. 6 However I did not believe their words until I came and saw with my own eyes; and indeed the half of the greatness of your wisdom was not told me. You exceed the fame of which I heard.(2 Chronicles 9:5-6)
And after that she went on to bless the Lord, who was the God of Solomon, for blessing Solomon so greatly. So we first have to realize that every good thing that we have comes from God. After realizing that, we have to acknowledge it and give thanks to God for it. And then God will multiply the blessings that he has given us.
Another thing was that, the response that the queen of Sheba gave i reckon is pretty similiar to the one we have when we just think about God's greatness. We all have heard of God's greatness and magnitude, but it is only when we see it first hand, will we realize how big He actually is. God exceeds all expectation, because He is an infinte God. No matter how big we know He is, He is also bigger than that.
Day 141.
The queen of Sheba heard of Solomon's great wisdom, wealth, and fame, and wanted to see for herself. So she went to Jerusalem and spoke with Solomon. After speaking to him, she said this:
5 Then she said to the king: “It was a true report which I heard in my own land about your words and your wisdom. 6 However I did not believe their words until I came and saw with my own eyes; and indeed the half of the greatness of your wisdom was not told me. You exceed the fame of which I heard.(2 Chronicles 9:5-6)
And after that she went on to bless the Lord, who was the God of Solomon, for blessing Solomon so greatly. So we first have to realize that every good thing that we have comes from God. After realizing that, we have to acknowledge it and give thanks to God for it. And then God will multiply the blessings that he has given us.
Another thing was that, the response that the queen of Sheba gave i reckon is pretty similiar to the one we have when we just think about God's greatness. We all have heard of God's greatness and magnitude, but it is only when we see it first hand, will we realize how big He actually is. God exceeds all expectation, because He is an infinte God. No matter how big we know He is, He is also bigger than that.
Posted by
L
Yaf was fun today! Had lots of fun during worship, thank God for the wonderful worshipnet we have with all the wonderful members! I remembered the great experience we had during worship at the hillsong conference.. There was so much freedom in that place, and it really felt like it was just you and God even though there were thousands of other people in the acer arena. At the conference, you wouldn't even care about what the people around you are thinking, because they would all be so focused on worshipping God, and somehow their presence just disappears, and the next thing you know it's just you worshipping God with all you have! hehe i wish one day, our church could be like that.. where we have a time of worship where everyone is just so focused on God, till the point where the thought of other's in the room doesn't even cross their mind! The feeling of freedom and liberty to worship God is great!
Posted by
L
Thursday, November 20, 2008
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hmmm gotta be a lot more disciplined this hols..
Day 139.
So started on the book Song of Songs, which i think is also known as the Song of Solomon, and found that it's a rpetty intereting book to read.. also not very easy to understand at the same time haha.. Solomon narrates like a story, and even has different characters in it.
Solomon 1
1 The song of songs, which is Solomon’s.
For your love is better than wine.
3 Because of the fragrance of your good ointments,
Your name is ointment poured forth;
Therefore the virgins love you.
4 Draw me away!
We will remember your love more than wine.
Haha.. So what's it mean?
Day 139.
So started on the book Song of Songs, which i think is also known as the Song of Solomon, and found that it's a rpetty intereting book to read.. also not very easy to understand at the same time haha.. Solomon narrates like a story, and even has different characters in it.
Solomon 1
1 The song of songs, which is Solomon’s.
THE Shulamite
2 Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—For your love is better than wine.
3 Because of the fragrance of your good ointments,
Your name is ointment poured forth;
Therefore the virgins love you.
4 Draw me away!
The Daughters of Jerusalem
We will run after you.The Shulamite
The king has brought me into his chambers.The Daughters of Jerusalem
We will be glad and rejoice in you.We will remember your love more than wine.
Haha.. So what's it mean?
Posted by
L
phew exams are finally over! i guess now is the time to get serious?
Day 138.
Solomon does a pretty long prayer which is recorded in 2 Chronicles 6, and again in 1 Kings 8. What amazed me was when Solomon stood on the platform in front of the the entire congregation of Israel to pray, he knelt down and spread his hands towards heaven. I mean Solomon was the king of Israel, and i would be guessing that for a king to kneel down, would show some serious humility. What's more was that Solomon did this in front of the whole coomunity of Israel, in public. That to me deserves great respect, because im sure the entire congregation of Israel that was present, must have been a lot! King Solomon, even though being made king, still was wise enough and humbled himself to kneel before the King of kings. A good leader is one that leads by example, and i'm sure that Solomon act of humility was a great example. If he could do it, will we do it?
Day 138.
Solomon does a pretty long prayer which is recorded in 2 Chronicles 6, and again in 1 Kings 8. What amazed me was when Solomon stood on the platform in front of the the entire congregation of Israel to pray, he knelt down and spread his hands towards heaven. I mean Solomon was the king of Israel, and i would be guessing that for a king to kneel down, would show some serious humility. What's more was that Solomon did this in front of the whole coomunity of Israel, in public. That to me deserves great respect, because im sure the entire congregation of Israel that was present, must have been a lot! King Solomon, even though being made king, still was wise enough and humbled himself to kneel before the King of kings. A good leader is one that leads by example, and i'm sure that Solomon act of humility was a great example. If he could do it, will we do it?
Posted by
L
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
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yesss last exam tomorrow! can't wait for it to be over..
Day 137.
So the temple is completed and now the ark of the covenent of the Lord is being brought into the temple. As the Levites and the elders were bringing the ark into the temple, it is recorded that King Solomon and the entire congregation of Israel who were assembled before the ark were sacrificing sheep and oxen, and they sacrificed so many of them that it couldn't even be counted! haha i found that pretty cool.. Goes to show how big of an importance it was to them. Then it goes on in 2 Chronicles 5:11-14, saying that after the ark was in the temple, the priest came out of the Most Holy Place and the Levites along with the musicians started praising and thanking God in song.
13 indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying:
“For He is good,
For His mercy endures forever,"
Day 137.
So the temple is completed and now the ark of the covenent of the Lord is being brought into the temple. As the Levites and the elders were bringing the ark into the temple, it is recorded that King Solomon and the entire congregation of Israel who were assembled before the ark were sacrificing sheep and oxen, and they sacrificed so many of them that it couldn't even be counted! haha i found that pretty cool.. Goes to show how big of an importance it was to them. Then it goes on in 2 Chronicles 5:11-14, saying that after the ark was in the temple, the priest came out of the Most Holy Place and the Levites along with the musicians started praising and thanking God in song.
13 indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying:
“For He is good,
For His mercy endures forever,"
that the house, the house of the LORD, was filled with a cloud, 14 so that the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.
It was really cool in v14, how the priests couldn't minister anymore because the glory of the Lord filled the whole place in a form of a cloud. It must've been a pretty thick cloud to actually stop them from ministering! Hopefully i will be in a place like that one day too! But the amazing fact is that what caused the glory of the Lord to fill the house of God in the first place was their worship! They were singing, and praising God and in the process, God's glory just fell in that place. How awesome is that.
Posted by
L
It is said that time heals all wounds, but i believe that it is time with God that heals all wounds. God is just so amazing, and i can't think a single reason to not love Him. He really is all we need. What i want, is to have a deep and intimate relationship with God, one that is strong and never ending. Everything just pales in comparison to that. All relationships or any kind and amount of love that anyone can give, will never be able to compare to the love that God has. Truly deeply amazing..
Day 136.
Psalm 128
1 Blessed is every one who fears the LORD,
Who walks in His ways.
2 When you eat the labor of your hands,
You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.
3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine
In the very heart of your house,
Your children like olive plants
All around your table.
4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed
Who fears the LORD.
Day 136.
Psalm 128
1 Blessed is every one who fears the LORD,
Who walks in His ways.
2 When you eat the labor of your hands,
You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.
3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine
In the very heart of your house,
Your children like olive plants
All around your table.
4 Behold, thus shall the man be blessed
Who fears the LORD.
Posted by
L
Sunday, November 16, 2008
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Next exam tomorrow afternoon! Hopefully i will be ready then.
Day 135.
Read part of proverbs 31 which was about being a good wife, pretty random.. I think the main passage today was 1 Kings 6, which talked about the description of the temple. Like all the fancy stuff that it had, and all the other details like the dimensions, and materials used. As always, there was so much precision in the building of the temple, everything was so precise and perfect. Well it was the Lord's temple, and so i'm sure that everything would have been with a very high standard. Everything also ran smoothly because it was ultimately God's will for the temple to be built. Psalm 127:1
1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
They labor in vain who build it;
Unless the LORD guards the city,
The watchman stays awake in vain.
Day 135.
Read part of proverbs 31 which was about being a good wife, pretty random.. I think the main passage today was 1 Kings 6, which talked about the description of the temple. Like all the fancy stuff that it had, and all the other details like the dimensions, and materials used. As always, there was so much precision in the building of the temple, everything was so precise and perfect. Well it was the Lord's temple, and so i'm sure that everything would have been with a very high standard. Everything also ran smoothly because it was ultimately God's will for the temple to be built. Psalm 127:1
1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
They labor in vain who build it;
Unless the LORD guards the city,
The watchman stays awake in vain.
Posted by
L
Saturday, November 15, 2008
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2 down, 2 to go! Hmmm exam today was pretty tough.. praying for good results now! Next exam is on Monday, which leaves me with 1 day to prepare for it! Shouldn't be a problem.
Day 134.
Solomon makes a treaty with Hiram, the king of Tyre. Solomon gets Hiram to send over cedar logs from Lebanon to build God's temple, and in return Solomon will provide the workers with food. So all the other preperations were also completed in the process and the work of building the temple begun. The responsibility of building God's temple must have been pretty big for Solomon, especially when it was meant to be one that was going to be great and majestic, which would display God's glory. But Solomon was very organized and had everything all planned out almost perfectly. Was it because he was the king and was very wise? It could be the case.. But one thing that is for sure is that God was on his side, helping him and ensuring that everything would go smoothly. All Solomon was, was just a vessel for God to use on this earth, because Solomon had allowed God to use him, God worked through him to build His temple. When we allow God to use us, and work through us, He will make our path straight. We become the channels in which the blessings will flow through, and we don't need to do anything but to make sure that we don't restrict God in the work that He is doing through us. Be an open channel.
Day 134.
Solomon makes a treaty with Hiram, the king of Tyre. Solomon gets Hiram to send over cedar logs from Lebanon to build God's temple, and in return Solomon will provide the workers with food. So all the other preperations were also completed in the process and the work of building the temple begun. The responsibility of building God's temple must have been pretty big for Solomon, especially when it was meant to be one that was going to be great and majestic, which would display God's glory. But Solomon was very organized and had everything all planned out almost perfectly. Was it because he was the king and was very wise? It could be the case.. But one thing that is for sure is that God was on his side, helping him and ensuring that everything would go smoothly. All Solomon was, was just a vessel for God to use on this earth, because Solomon had allowed God to use him, God worked through him to build His temple. When we allow God to use us, and work through us, He will make our path straight. We become the channels in which the blessings will flow through, and we don't need to do anything but to make sure that we don't restrict God in the work that He is doing through us. Be an open channel.
Posted by
L
Friday, November 14, 2008
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Ok exam tomorrow morning, most probably my hardest paper for me this semester! Gonna sleep early tonight, so a short post?
One thing that came to my mind during worship tonight at yaf: For God, everything is simple, so simple.
Day 133.
Just gonna write something short that i read from onr of the passages tonight, it is from 1 Kings 3. God appears to Solomon in a dream and asks him what he wants. This is Solomon's reply.
6 And Solomon said: “You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. 7 Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. 8 And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. 9 Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”
10 The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.
Solomon had asked for an understanding heart to judge God's people. One that could discern between good and evil. And because his heart's desire was on the things of God, and not of this world, God was pleased with him. And this was God's reply.
12 behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. 13 And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. 14 So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”
Amazing how God gives us what we ask for, and on top of that, He even gives us what we don't ask for! This is what happens when our minds are centered on the things of God, he will provide us and bless us to the overflowing, giving us more than what we expected!
One thing that came to my mind during worship tonight at yaf: For God, everything is simple, so simple.
Day 133.
Just gonna write something short that i read from onr of the passages tonight, it is from 1 Kings 3. God appears to Solomon in a dream and asks him what he wants. This is Solomon's reply.
6 And Solomon said: “You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. 7 Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. 8 And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. 9 Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”
10 The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.
Solomon had asked for an understanding heart to judge God's people. One that could discern between good and evil. And because his heart's desire was on the things of God, and not of this world, God was pleased with him. And this was God's reply.
12 behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. 13 And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. 14 So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”
Amazing how God gives us what we ask for, and on top of that, He even gives us what we don't ask for! This is what happens when our minds are centered on the things of God, he will provide us and bless us to the overflowing, giving us more than what we expected!
Posted by
L
What faithfullnes so great
that none can compare
So righteous in all Your ways
And in all that You do
We praise Your holy name
We bless Your Majesty
Come fill us with Your love
As we open up our hearts
Next paper on sat, most probably gonna be my hardest paper!
Day 132.
David dies and passes the throne to Solomon, his last words to Solomon was this: 1 Kings 2:1-3
1 Now the days of David drew near that he should die, and he charged Solomon his son, saying: 2 “I go the way of all the earth; be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. 3 And keep the charge of the LORD your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgments, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn;
This was a last piece of advice from a very wise man to his son, so it is definitely worth listening to. David told Solomon to be strong, to keep the charge of the Lord, to walk in his ways, to keep His statues, His commandments, His judgements, and His testimonies. Why? So that he may prosper in all that he does, and wherever he goes! Basically for us, it is just obedience to the word. Everything that we need to know is all in the Bible, and all we need to do is to follow it, and do whatever it says. But it's always much easier said than done! That's why we have to constantly remind ourselves, and be in communion with the Holy Spirit all the time.. then again.. it's much easier said than done. That's why we need God's help.
that none can compare
So righteous in all Your ways
And in all that You do
We praise Your holy name
We bless Your Majesty
Come fill us with Your love
As we open up our hearts
Next paper on sat, most probably gonna be my hardest paper!
Day 132.
David dies and passes the throne to Solomon, his last words to Solomon was this: 1 Kings 2:1-3
1 Now the days of David drew near that he should die, and he charged Solomon his son, saying: 2 “I go the way of all the earth; be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. 3 And keep the charge of the LORD your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgments, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn;
This was a last piece of advice from a very wise man to his son, so it is definitely worth listening to. David told Solomon to be strong, to keep the charge of the Lord, to walk in his ways, to keep His statues, His commandments, His judgements, and His testimonies. Why? So that he may prosper in all that he does, and wherever he goes! Basically for us, it is just obedience to the word. Everything that we need to know is all in the Bible, and all we need to do is to follow it, and do whatever it says. But it's always much easier said than done! That's why we have to constantly remind ourselves, and be in communion with the Holy Spirit all the time.. then again.. it's much easier said than done. That's why we need God's help.
Posted by
L
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
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1 down, 3 more to go! Thank You God!
Praying a good night of sleep for the rest of the week..haven't really had one because of the heat!!
Day 131.
Some more psalms today.. David wrote really nice psalms, especially when he is describing about God's greatness/glory/splendor/majesty! Very wise man indeed..
Psalm 145:10-21
10 All Your works shall praise You, O LORD,
And Your saints shall bless You.
11 They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom,
And talk of Your power,
12 To make known to the sons of men His mighty acts,
And the glorious majesty of His kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
And Your dominion endures throughout all generations.[c]
14 The LORD upholds all who fall,
And raises up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look expectantly to You,
And You give them their food in due season.
16 You open Your hand
And satisfy the desire of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all His ways,
Gracious in all His works.
18 The LORD is near to all who call upon Him,
To all who call upon Him in truth.
19 He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him;
He also will hear their cry and save them.
20 The LORD preserves all who love Him,
But all the wicked He will destroy.
21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD,
And all flesh shall bless His holy name
Forever and ever.
God's just awesome fullstop. One last verse which i read, and thought that i'll make it my prayer is Psalm 86:11. Great verse! A desire from the bottom of my heart!
11 Teach me Your way, O LORD;
I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name.
Praying a good night of sleep for the rest of the week..haven't really had one because of the heat!!
Day 131.
Some more psalms today.. David wrote really nice psalms, especially when he is describing about God's greatness/glory/splendor/majesty! Very wise man indeed..
Psalm 145:10-21
10 All Your works shall praise You, O LORD,
And Your saints shall bless You.
11 They shall speak of the glory of Your kingdom,
And talk of Your power,
12 To make known to the sons of men His mighty acts,
And the glorious majesty of His kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom,
And Your dominion endures throughout all generations.[c]
14 The LORD upholds all who fall,
And raises up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look expectantly to You,
And You give them their food in due season.
16 You open Your hand
And satisfy the desire of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all His ways,
Gracious in all His works.
18 The LORD is near to all who call upon Him,
To all who call upon Him in truth.
19 He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him;
He also will hear their cry and save them.
20 The LORD preserves all who love Him,
But all the wicked He will destroy.
21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD,
And all flesh shall bless His holy name
Forever and ever.
God's just awesome fullstop. One last verse which i read, and thought that i'll make it my prayer is Psalm 86:11. Great verse! A desire from the bottom of my heart!
11 Teach me Your way, O LORD;
I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name.
Posted by
L
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
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Exam starts tomorrow for me! Wooo, can't wait till next week, because it's gonna be over all so fast! No stress, no pressure, with God on my side. plus i've done all that i could already anyway. Exam times = time for children of God to show the glory of God through their results!
Day 130.
More readings in Chronicles with lots of names.. People assigned to be temple guards, treasurers, and others for the administrative duties. God's house can be seen to be one that is very orderly and organized, very well planned indeed! King David says some stuff to Solomon which i think was very good to take note of, 1 Chronicles 28:9-10
9 “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever. 10 Consider now, for the LORD has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong, and do it.”
Lots of stuff to learn from those two verses(especially v9!), but i really like v10 because Solomon was chosen by the Lord to do something(to build the temple), and David's instructions to him was "be strong, and do it". Likewise for each of us, we have been called by God to do something for Him, and the instructions are simple. Just be strong, and do it!
Day 130.
More readings in Chronicles with lots of names.. People assigned to be temple guards, treasurers, and others for the administrative duties. God's house can be seen to be one that is very orderly and organized, very well planned indeed! King David says some stuff to Solomon which i think was very good to take note of, 1 Chronicles 28:9-10
9 “As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever. 10 Consider now, for the LORD has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong, and do it.”
Lots of stuff to learn from those two verses(especially v9!), but i really like v10 because Solomon was chosen by the Lord to do something(to build the temple), and David's instructions to him was "be strong, and do it". Likewise for each of us, we have been called by God to do something for Him, and the instructions are simple. Just be strong, and do it!
Posted by
L
Monday, November 10, 2008
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Pumped and hopefully ready to go! 1 more day till first exam!
Day 129.
David makes heaps of preperation for the temple that is going to be built by Solomon for the Lord. Lots of gold, silver, bronze, and iron were prepared for the temple. Lots of workers were also provided like stonecuters, masons, carpenters, and other skilled people in every kind of work. Even though David knew that he wasn't the one who was gonna build God's temple, still he wanted to do whatever he could to help in the process. David had a genuine love and respect for God, and wanted God's fame and glory to be known throughout world.. he pretty much did all that he could possibly do for God! Definitely an amazing guy.
After the preperations for the temple was complete, David went on to assign different people their different roles and duties that they will have in the temple. There were roles such as people who were in charge of the temple, officers and judges, gatekeepers, and those that praised God with their instruments(the worshippers!) The rest of the passage went on with the whole process of allocating different people to their roles, and a whole long list of the names of different people. Lesson learnt, everyone has their place in God's house, we just need to find our place, and do our best serving God!
Day 129.
David makes heaps of preperation for the temple that is going to be built by Solomon for the Lord. Lots of gold, silver, bronze, and iron were prepared for the temple. Lots of workers were also provided like stonecuters, masons, carpenters, and other skilled people in every kind of work. Even though David knew that he wasn't the one who was gonna build God's temple, still he wanted to do whatever he could to help in the process. David had a genuine love and respect for God, and wanted God's fame and glory to be known throughout world.. he pretty much did all that he could possibly do for God! Definitely an amazing guy.
After the preperations for the temple was complete, David went on to assign different people their different roles and duties that they will have in the temple. There were roles such as people who were in charge of the temple, officers and judges, gatekeepers, and those that praised God with their instruments(the worshippers!) The rest of the passage went on with the whole process of allocating different people to their roles, and a whole long list of the names of different people. Lesson learnt, everyone has their place in God's house, we just need to find our place, and do our best serving God!
Posted by
L
Sunday, November 9, 2008
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hmm the exams are taking up too much space in my mind thats it has become one of the only things that are on my mind now.. Not easy putting God first all the time when im subconciously thinking of the exams all the time. I've been brought up with my life always centered around the exams and how well i fare, that even now i get worried at every single exam i go to. Which isn't really a bad thing because it motivates me to study, but whenever we enter into this exam period, the 'God' time always decreases, and many times doesn't even come across my mind.. which is bad. I've got to learn to actively put God first in all i do and no matter what i'm facing. Definitely not an easy thing to be done, but is possible. Remember Ps Chris sharing that the more time we spend with God doesn't mean less time on studies, however it means that the more time we spend with God, the more God helps us to study, and the more we'll get done in a shorter period of time. I've gotta start applying that in my life.
Day 128.
King David grows old and his son Solomon becomes the next king. Adonijah tries to make himself king by exalting himself as the next king in line, but ends up failing. Solomon gets anointed by Zadok the priest to be the new king, and rode on king David's own donkey. Solomon who was another man of God could have easily killed Adonijah the moment he was made king, but didn't end up doing it, and instead spared his life. We can all try to be someone else, and exalt ourself to be a person of authority..but if we aren't anointed to do it, we will never end up succeeding. We can try to do all the fancy things like Adonijah did, like setting a feast and inviting lots of people over to celebrate. However at the end of the day, we have to be anointed and chosen by God, if not nothing good will come out of it. So lesson learnt, don't try to be someone that you're not meant to be.
Day 128.
King David grows old and his son Solomon becomes the next king. Adonijah tries to make himself king by exalting himself as the next king in line, but ends up failing. Solomon gets anointed by Zadok the priest to be the new king, and rode on king David's own donkey. Solomon who was another man of God could have easily killed Adonijah the moment he was made king, but didn't end up doing it, and instead spared his life. We can all try to be someone else, and exalt ourself to be a person of authority..but if we aren't anointed to do it, we will never end up succeeding. We can try to do all the fancy things like Adonijah did, like setting a feast and inviting lots of people over to celebrate. However at the end of the day, we have to be anointed and chosen by God, if not nothing good will come out of it. So lesson learnt, don't try to be someone that you're not meant to be.
Posted by
L
Saturday, November 8, 2008
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time flies so fast, if you think about it, life isn't very long at all... Who know's how much time we have left in this world, no one does.. but one thing that we can be certain of is the place that we will be going after. It definitely is a much better place, where we will spend the rest of ETERNITY at! I got reminded of again today that life is so short, and we have to live it to the full! Living it out the Jesus way. We can try our best to make our life here on earth fun and enjoyable for ourselves by getting good jobs, houses, friends, and family.. But ultimately they will all fade away one day, and none of that will mean anything. Whats the point of doing something that will result to nothing in the end? That's like the biggest waste of time ever.. Why not do something useful, that will ensure our salvation and our eternal future up in heaven? We can do this and do that, want this and want that, but is that what God has for us? If it isn't, then i'd rather God not give it to me. I only want what's best for my life, which is what God wants for me. Even if we end suffering, how long will that last for? A few months or years perhaps? But that's nothing compared to the goal that is waiting for us at the finish line. Focus! With eyes on the prize!
Day 127.
I didn't quite understand a few things from the passages i read today. The main passage was 2 Samuel 24:1-9, which is sort of repeated in 1 Chronicles 21:1-6. So i read the first verses of each passage and was confused..
2 Sam 24:1
1 Again the anger of the LORD was aroused against Israel, and He moved David against them to say, “Go, number Israel and Judah.”
1 Chron 21:1
1 Now Satan stood up against Israel, and moved David to number Israel.
I'm not too sure but does the first part of those verses mean the same thing by any chance? Anger of the Lord and satan?? So anyway David sent Joab and a few others other to take a census of all the troops he had. And again the number of troops recoreded in both passages were different..not too sure why.. Then for some weird reason in 2 Samuel 24:10
10 And David’s heart condemned him after he had numbered the people. So David said to the LORD, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done; but now, I pray, O LORD, take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have done very foolishly.”
Did David sin because he counted the number of troops he had?? Was that the sin or was it something else? For the remaining part of the chapter, God gives David 3 choices of punishment because of his sin, and God ended up sending a plague on Israel which killed 70,000 men.
Day 127.
I didn't quite understand a few things from the passages i read today. The main passage was 2 Samuel 24:1-9, which is sort of repeated in 1 Chronicles 21:1-6. So i read the first verses of each passage and was confused..
2 Sam 24:1
1 Again the anger of the LORD was aroused against Israel, and He moved David against them to say, “Go, number Israel and Judah.”
1 Chron 21:1
1 Now Satan stood up against Israel, and moved David to number Israel.
I'm not too sure but does the first part of those verses mean the same thing by any chance? Anger of the Lord and satan?? So anyway David sent Joab and a few others other to take a census of all the troops he had. And again the number of troops recoreded in both passages were different..not too sure why.. Then for some weird reason in 2 Samuel 24:10
10 And David’s heart condemned him after he had numbered the people. So David said to the LORD, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done; but now, I pray, O LORD, take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have done very foolishly.”
Did David sin because he counted the number of troops he had?? Was that the sin or was it something else? For the remaining part of the chapter, God gives David 3 choices of punishment because of his sin, and God ended up sending a plague on Israel which killed 70,000 men.
Posted by
L
zzZZ it's late! thx for birthday wishes, but i don't think it's anything special haha.. It's really late and im really tired so i'm not gonna do a post tonight, will do it tomorrow night though.. Once again thank God for the wonderful family He's placed me in, and for all the great friends that i have. These 18 years wouldn't have been possible without Him. So thank you God!
Posted by
L
Thursday, November 6, 2008
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hmmm is God's anointing over our lives for a special purpose? or is it like a general anointing that can work for everything.. What if someone is called to and is anointed for a special role and purpose in God's house, and decides to do something else instead which he really likes and loves doing.. does the anointing that is over his life still work? Simple example i can think of.. Person A is called and anointed to be a great evangelist(or whatever role), but he really loves doing something that is different like singing(plus the fact that he is good at it, and has a sincere passion for it). I know you can be good at both at the same time, but what if you focus more on the thing that your not called and anointed to be.. does it matter? will the same anointing still be there?
Bottom line, can u be anointed to do something that you have not been called to do?
Day 125.
Interesting how the first thing David asked the messengers when they came running back with the good news was if his son Absalom was all right. To think that Absalom, the son who rebelled agianst David, who stole his title as king, publicly disgraced David by sleeping with all his concubines, and even made David to flee from his own home, that David who was the king and had everything, would still care for such a son. King David had many many sons, but still he loved them as a father. It's pretty amazing..any normal person would be glad that the person who was after their life is now gone, and that they would be able to return to their kingdom! But David turned the day of celebration because of the battle's victory into a day of mourning. When David learnt that his son had died, he was deeply moved and went into his chambers to weep. David was even willing to die in the place of his son Absalom. If this isn't a father's love and forgiveness, i don't know what it is. After all that Absalom his own son, flesh and blood, did to him, David was still able to forgive him.. That seems like such an impossible thing to do.. David must have a really really big heart or something, either that or a really high tolerance level..
Bottom line, can u be anointed to do something that you have not been called to do?
Day 125.
Interesting how the first thing David asked the messengers when they came running back with the good news was if his son Absalom was all right. To think that Absalom, the son who rebelled agianst David, who stole his title as king, publicly disgraced David by sleeping with all his concubines, and even made David to flee from his own home, that David who was the king and had everything, would still care for such a son. King David had many many sons, but still he loved them as a father. It's pretty amazing..any normal person would be glad that the person who was after their life is now gone, and that they would be able to return to their kingdom! But David turned the day of celebration because of the battle's victory into a day of mourning. When David learnt that his son had died, he was deeply moved and went into his chambers to weep. David was even willing to die in the place of his son Absalom. If this isn't a father's love and forgiveness, i don't know what it is. After all that Absalom his own son, flesh and blood, did to him, David was still able to forgive him.. That seems like such an impossible thing to do.. David must have a really really big heart or something, either that or a really high tolerance level..
Posted by
L
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
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Prayer meeting in the sanctuary tonight was good, although everyone felt so far.. maybe it was because i was right at the back! But God's presence was definitely there, and it was really good to just to come together as a church family and to seek God together. Found it really easy to worship tonight because we had so much extra room to just spread our hands and do whatever we want, it felt so much less restricted. Looking forward to this sunday again, can't wait to be back in God's house!
Day 124.
David led a pretty interesting life, first being chased by his father-in-law, Saul, and now he's being chased by his very own son Absalom. I think the life that he had was pretty crazy.. the first part of his life was consisted of running for his life against the king, but after many years, God delievered him and he became king instead. Then after being king of Israel, his own son rises up against him and causes a rebellion, which lead David to run for his life yet again! But amazingly throughout his whole life, David trusted in God no matter what happened. He never blamed God, or cursed Him, but instead continually prayed to Him trusting in Him to provide and to protect him. I can't imagine myself going through the same thing, i might have given up a long time ago.. Anyway, David's army went against Israel, which was under Absalom's control, and David won. Absalom was killed in the forest because his head got tangled in the branches of an oak tree..
This is my prayer today.
Psalm 27:4-5
4 One thing I have desired of the LORD,
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the LORD
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the LORD,
And to inquire in His temple.
5 For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.
Day 124.
David led a pretty interesting life, first being chased by his father-in-law, Saul, and now he's being chased by his very own son Absalom. I think the life that he had was pretty crazy.. the first part of his life was consisted of running for his life against the king, but after many years, God delievered him and he became king instead. Then after being king of Israel, his own son rises up against him and causes a rebellion, which lead David to run for his life yet again! But amazingly throughout his whole life, David trusted in God no matter what happened. He never blamed God, or cursed Him, but instead continually prayed to Him trusting in Him to provide and to protect him. I can't imagine myself going through the same thing, i might have given up a long time ago.. Anyway, David's army went against Israel, which was under Absalom's control, and David won. Absalom was killed in the forest because his head got tangled in the branches of an oak tree..
This is my prayer today.
Psalm 27:4-5
4 One thing I have desired of the LORD,
That will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the LORD
All the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the LORD,
And to inquire in His temple.
5 For in the time of trouble
He shall hide me in His pavilion;
In the secret place of His tabernacle
He shall hide me;
He shall set me high upon a rock.
Posted by
L
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
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Worship, the key to entering into God's presence. It's foolproof and works anywhere, anytime! God's presence is everywhere, but when we worship, it sharpens our spiritual sense, and helps us to feel the flow of the Holy Spirit much easier.. or at least thats how it works for me. And being in God's presence is by far the greatest feeling there is in this world, and nothing that this world can offer can beat that. How can anyone not love worship!
Day 123.
Mainly just reading of psalms today..
Psalm 4
3 But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly;
The LORD will hear when I call to Him.
4 Be angry, and do not sin.
Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness,
And put your trust in the LORD.
6 There are many who say,
“Who will show us any good?”
LORD, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us.
7 You have put gladness in my heart,
More than in the season that their grain and wine increased.
8 I will both lie down in peace, and sleep;
For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Really great verses that stood out to me as i was reading the psalms, it's all so meaningful and true! But then again, the Bible is.
And just a verse i read, which i think is pretty good for students now, especially now that we're in the exam period.
Psalm 55:22
22 Cast your burden on the LORD,
And He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.
Cast our burdens on the Lord, and He will support/sustain us! He will never allow the righteous to be moved or shaken! Goodbye burden of exam!
Day 123.
Mainly just reading of psalms today..
Psalm 4
3 But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly;
The LORD will hear when I call to Him.
4 Be angry, and do not sin.
Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness,
And put your trust in the LORD.
6 There are many who say,
“Who will show us any good?”
LORD, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us.
7 You have put gladness in my heart,
More than in the season that their grain and wine increased.
8 I will both lie down in peace, and sleep;
For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Really great verses that stood out to me as i was reading the psalms, it's all so meaningful and true! But then again, the Bible is.
And just a verse i read, which i think is pretty good for students now, especially now that we're in the exam period.
Psalm 55:22
22 Cast your burden on the LORD,
And He shall sustain you;
He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.
Cast our burdens on the Lord, and He will support/sustain us! He will never allow the righteous to be moved or shaken! Goodbye burden of exam!
Posted by
L
Day 122.
Psalm 14:2-5
2 The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men,
To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
3 They have all turned aside,
They have together become corrupt;
There is none who does good,
No, not one.
4 Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge,
Who eat up my people as they eat bread,
And do not call on the LORD?
5 There they are in great fear,
For God is with the generation of the righteous.
v2-3 are the 'scary' verses.. The Lord is looking to see if there are any who understand, and who seek God. But all have turned aside and together become corrupt. There is no one who does good, not even one! God is looking for people who understand.. understand what thought? Understand Him? or His word? Or what we're meant to do? And is also looking for people who seek Him! God is looking for seekers! People who are seeking Him! So if we want to be noticed by God, we must understand and seek Him, because God is looking for such people. Understand and seek Him...Understand and seek Him..
In v4 'Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge,..." is saying something like "do they not know?". God is with the generation of the righteous! Another key if we want God to be with us, and that is righteousness. May our generation be known as the generation of the righteous, the generation that God is with! v5, there they are in great fear. the 'there' refers to the workers of iniquity which im guessing represents the forces of evil. And it is always good to know that they are in great fear. Who are they afraid of? God. Why? Because He has the power to destroy them! So if we have God in us, there is no reason for us to fear them, because they would be afraid of us!
Psalm 14:2-5
2 The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men,
To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.
3 They have all turned aside,
They have together become corrupt;
There is none who does good,
No, not one.
4 Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge,
Who eat up my people as they eat bread,
And do not call on the LORD?
5 There they are in great fear,
For God is with the generation of the righteous.
v2-3 are the 'scary' verses.. The Lord is looking to see if there are any who understand, and who seek God. But all have turned aside and together become corrupt. There is no one who does good, not even one! God is looking for people who understand.. understand what thought? Understand Him? or His word? Or what we're meant to do? And is also looking for people who seek Him! God is looking for seekers! People who are seeking Him! So if we want to be noticed by God, we must understand and seek Him, because God is looking for such people. Understand and seek Him...Understand and seek Him..
In v4 'Have all the workers of iniquity no knowledge,..." is saying something like "do they not know?". God is with the generation of the righteous! Another key if we want God to be with us, and that is righteousness. May our generation be known as the generation of the righteous, the generation that God is with! v5, there they are in great fear. the 'there' refers to the workers of iniquity which im guessing represents the forces of evil. And it is always good to know that they are in great fear. Who are they afraid of? God. Why? Because He has the power to destroy them! So if we have God in us, there is no reason for us to fear them, because they would be afraid of us!
Posted by
L
Monday, November 3, 2008
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"Success comes in cans!"
Day 121.
Absalom starts a rebellion by badmouthing David and in the process winning the hearts of many Israelites. Slowly he gained more popularity, and power among the Israelites, and devised plans to overthrow David as king. What spoke to me as i was reading this was that many of the Israelites didn't even know about what Absalom was doing, and what he was planning, but they still followed him and supported him.
2 Samuel 15:11
11 And with Absalom went two hundred men invited from Jerusalem, and they went along innocently and did not know anything.
This was when Absalom was making his way to Hebron under the disguise of offering sacrifice to God. I found it really interesting how so many people treated Absalom as their leader and followed him not knowing anything at all! It wasn't just a few people, but 200 people followed him from Jerusalem all the way to Hebron.. how clueless could people be? Do we know who we're really following? Or are we just following aimlessly not knowing where we're even heading? It is very important for us to make sure that our leaders, the people we follow, are godly people. For us christians, we believe in Jesus, and in the Bible, and know that who we are following is the way to life. But there are many others out there, who are lost, aimless without anyone to follow..they would just follow anyone who would invite them like Absalom did. We have to be the ones who rise up to be the leaders and not just the followers, we have to lead others into the right direction, and not let them be dragged down into the wrong way. When i read the second part of the verse, i thought of animals or livestock that were being lead to the slaughter, innocent and not knowing where they're going. But in this case we're talking about humans, may we have compassion and love for them, and lead them into the right direction of life.
Day 121.
Absalom starts a rebellion by badmouthing David and in the process winning the hearts of many Israelites. Slowly he gained more popularity, and power among the Israelites, and devised plans to overthrow David as king. What spoke to me as i was reading this was that many of the Israelites didn't even know about what Absalom was doing, and what he was planning, but they still followed him and supported him.
2 Samuel 15:11
11 And with Absalom went two hundred men invited from Jerusalem, and they went along innocently and did not know anything.This was when Absalom was making his way to Hebron under the disguise of offering sacrifice to God. I found it really interesting how so many people treated Absalom as their leader and followed him not knowing anything at all! It wasn't just a few people, but 200 people followed him from Jerusalem all the way to Hebron.. how clueless could people be? Do we know who we're really following? Or are we just following aimlessly not knowing where we're even heading? It is very important for us to make sure that our leaders, the people we follow, are godly people. For us christians, we believe in Jesus, and in the Bible, and know that who we are following is the way to life. But there are many others out there, who are lost, aimless without anyone to follow..they would just follow anyone who would invite them like Absalom did. We have to be the ones who rise up to be the leaders and not just the followers, we have to lead others into the right direction, and not let them be dragged down into the wrong way. When i read the second part of the verse, i thought of animals or livestock that were being lead to the slaughter, innocent and not knowing where they're going. But in this case we're talking about humans, may we have compassion and love for them, and lead them into the right direction of life.
Posted by
L
Saturday, November 1, 2008
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So at worshipnet today as we were praying, i had a vision which i think was for myself. There was this small plant(something like wheat) that was growing, and it was still pretty young, because it was still in it's growing stage. Then all around were these tall shoots/plants that were surrounding. So i saw a small plant being surrounded by lots of other older and bigger plants that were definitely much more mature than the smaller one. And God told me that i was that small plant that was surrounded by many other bigger, stronger, and more mature plants(brothers and sisters at church). That i was trying to keep up with them, and forcing myself to be more like them, but in the process suffocating myself and doing myself more damage than good. It's like God was telling me that i will grow at my own rate/speed and should not be forcing myself to be more like the more mature Christians because there are certain steps that i have to take, and by trying to jump the queeue and speed up the growing process won't help. The older and more mature Christians have gone through more than i have, and some things are learnt through lessons and test. So in order for me the grow to where they are, i should just keep at what im doing and not give up. Because many times i see things happening to them that isn't happening to me, and i wonder why that is the case, and end up being disappointed. So i realised that i shouldnt speed or rush things up, but to go at the speed that God has planned for me, which is ultimately best for me as well.
Then after that anne had a vision of me being a farmer, breaking soil in a huge plot of land with nothing in it at all. And i was there all alone, breaking up the ground slowy. I think i was meant to persevere and not be discouraged, and something to do with breaking of stones and rocks in people hearts? I couldn't really remember much, because it was pretty long, but i know that what i saw and what anne said were pretty much confirmation. I got the same message from God either way, and it really spoke to me.
Day 120.
Problems occured in David's family with his kids..Amnon forced his sister Tamar to sleep with him, and because of that disgraced her. Then her other brother Absalom ended up killing Amnon because of what he did to her sister, and ended up running away. At the end, Absalom comes back to Jerusalem because of the help from Joab. Don't know what i could learn from the passage, but one thing i know was that there definitely was some issues going on within David's family..
Then after that anne had a vision of me being a farmer, breaking soil in a huge plot of land with nothing in it at all. And i was there all alone, breaking up the ground slowy. I think i was meant to persevere and not be discouraged, and something to do with breaking of stones and rocks in people hearts? I couldn't really remember much, because it was pretty long, but i know that what i saw and what anne said were pretty much confirmation. I got the same message from God either way, and it really spoke to me.
Day 120.
Problems occured in David's family with his kids..Amnon forced his sister Tamar to sleep with him, and because of that disgraced her. Then her other brother Absalom ended up killing Amnon because of what he did to her sister, and ended up running away. At the end, Absalom comes back to Jerusalem because of the help from Joab. Don't know what i could learn from the passage, but one thing i know was that there definitely was some issues going on within David's family..
Posted by
L
Friday, October 31, 2008
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congratz to yang and patty!
Great night at yaf tonight! think worship was good, or at least that's what i think. Life group was good too! Atmosphere at church tonight was great overall i feel.
Day 119.
So Nathan comes and tells David this parable about a rich man and a poor man, and the poor man had a sheep which he bought and treated it like his daughter. Then came a traveller came to the rich man, and the rich man couldn't bear to one of the many sheep or cattle that he had to prepare it for the traveller, so he took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for the guest. Such a sad story.. But anyway that was pretty much what David did to Uriah, David being the rich man with everything he needed, and Uriah being the poor man with only one wife which he dearly loved. Anyway after David realaized this, he knew that he had sinned against God and was in the wrong. However it was too late, because David treated the Lord with contempt, He struck the son that was borned to him by Bathsheba. So then there are all these psalms written by David praying for forgiveness, mercy, and help. In the end the baby still died. Then after that, he had Solomon! Interesting how it required Nathan to explain the parable to David before he realized that he had sinned against God. And by that time, it was too late. May that not be the case with us as well.
Great night at yaf tonight! think worship was good, or at least that's what i think. Life group was good too! Atmosphere at church tonight was great overall i feel.
Day 119.
So Nathan comes and tells David this parable about a rich man and a poor man, and the poor man had a sheep which he bought and treated it like his daughter. Then came a traveller came to the rich man, and the rich man couldn't bear to one of the many sheep or cattle that he had to prepare it for the traveller, so he took the poor man's lamb and prepared it for the guest. Such a sad story.. But anyway that was pretty much what David did to Uriah, David being the rich man with everything he needed, and Uriah being the poor man with only one wife which he dearly loved. Anyway after David realaized this, he knew that he had sinned against God and was in the wrong. However it was too late, because David treated the Lord with contempt, He struck the son that was borned to him by Bathsheba. So then there are all these psalms written by David praying for forgiveness, mercy, and help. In the end the baby still died. Then after that, he had Solomon! Interesting how it required Nathan to explain the parable to David before he realized that he had sinned against God. And by that time, it was too late. May that not be the case with us as well.
Posted by
L
Thursday, October 30, 2008
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Day 118.
More fighting and war continues, this time against the Aramean forces. One smal detail i noticed that is pretty intriguing is that the same battle is described in two different parts in the Bible, which is in 2 Samuel 10:15-19, and 1 Chronicles 16-19. However in 2 Samuel 10:18 it says that David killed 700 charioteers, but in 1 Chronicles 19:18 it says that David killed 7,000 charioteers! It's the same story, but the numbers don't match up..how come?
Anyway after that, i read about the story of David and Bathsheba which is a very well known story. If David had not been lazy and went out to war with the army, he wouldn't have sinned. Not only that, one sin lead to another, which resulted in him having to kill one of his loyal soldiers Uriah. Poor guy did nothing wrong, but had to end up being killed. 2 Samuel 11:27, it states that what David did displeased the Lord. I know i don't want to anything that displeases the Lord! Not that because it is sin, but knowing that how much God loves us, and how much we hurt Him when we do things like that. I want to be pleasing to God.
Just something nice i read in Psalm 20
4 May He grant you according to your heart’s desire,
And fulfill all your purpose.
5 We will rejoice in your salvation,
And in the name of our God we will set up our banners!
May the LORD fulfill all your petitions.
6 Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed;
He will answer him from His holy heaven
With the saving strength of His right hand.
7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;
But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Amen! May we remember and trust in the name of the Lord our God, because we are His anointed!
You paid the price
When You laid down Your life
The sacrfice
You alone had to bear
More fighting and war continues, this time against the Aramean forces. One smal detail i noticed that is pretty intriguing is that the same battle is described in two different parts in the Bible, which is in 2 Samuel 10:15-19, and 1 Chronicles 16-19. However in 2 Samuel 10:18 it says that David killed 700 charioteers, but in 1 Chronicles 19:18 it says that David killed 7,000 charioteers! It's the same story, but the numbers don't match up..how come?
Anyway after that, i read about the story of David and Bathsheba which is a very well known story. If David had not been lazy and went out to war with the army, he wouldn't have sinned. Not only that, one sin lead to another, which resulted in him having to kill one of his loyal soldiers Uriah. Poor guy did nothing wrong, but had to end up being killed. 2 Samuel 11:27, it states that what David did displeased the Lord. I know i don't want to anything that displeases the Lord! Not that because it is sin, but knowing that how much God loves us, and how much we hurt Him when we do things like that. I want to be pleasing to God.
Just something nice i read in Psalm 20
4 May He grant you according to your heart’s desire,
And fulfill all your purpose.
5 We will rejoice in your salvation,
And in the name of our God we will set up our banners!
May the LORD fulfill all your petitions.
6 Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed;
He will answer him from His holy heaven
With the saving strength of His right hand.
7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;
But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Amen! May we remember and trust in the name of the Lord our God, because we are His anointed!
You paid the price
When You laid down Your life
The sacrfice
You alone had to bear
Posted by
L
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
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study..study..study.. last week of uni, and 1 week of swot vac before exams! Gonna do well this semester to glorify God's name!
Day 117.
Read Psalm18, and 144 as part of devotion. With Psalm 18 being repeated in 2 Samuel 22. A very nice psalm of David just praising God and saying who God is. What stood out to me was psalm 18:25-30.
25 With the merciful You will show Yourself merciful;
With a blameless man You will show Yourself blameless;
26 With the pure You will show Yourself pure;
And with the devious You will show Yourself shrewd.
27 For You will save the humble people,
But will bring down haughty looks.
28 For You will light my lamp;
The LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.
29 For by You I can run against a troop,
By my God I can leap over a wall.
30 As for God, His way is perfect;
The word of the LORD is proven;
He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
The first part talks about us being rewarded for what we do, like sowing and reaping. I like how it is said that with the blameless, and the pure, God will show Himself blameless and pure as well. So how we see God will determine on our actions and what we do. It's like an aim to work towards, to be a merciful, blameless, and pure person, so that we will see God in that same way as well. Then i really liked v29, it says "By my God I can leap over a wall"!! Haha, i was pretty shocked when i first read it, never expected to see that appear in the Bible with the wordings like that. Im guessing that in that context the 'wall' is a form of obstacle that is blocking us from moving forward or going somewhere.. in the first part of the verse talks about running against a troop. So anyway, we all have walls in our lives, and right here int his verse it specifically tells us that with God we are able to leap over the wall, to overcome it, and to breakthrough it! Hmmm it might be just me, but that verse really struck me when i first read it.
Lastly, psalm 144:15
15 Happy are the people who are in such a state;
Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!
Day 117.
Read Psalm18, and 144 as part of devotion. With Psalm 18 being repeated in 2 Samuel 22. A very nice psalm of David just praising God and saying who God is. What stood out to me was psalm 18:25-30.
25 With the merciful You will show Yourself merciful;
With a blameless man You will show Yourself blameless;
26 With the pure You will show Yourself pure;
And with the devious You will show Yourself shrewd.
27 For You will save the humble people,
But will bring down haughty looks.
28 For You will light my lamp;
The LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.
29 For by You I can run against a troop,
By my God I can leap over a wall.
30 As for God, His way is perfect;
The word of the LORD is proven;
He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
The first part talks about us being rewarded for what we do, like sowing and reaping. I like how it is said that with the blameless, and the pure, God will show Himself blameless and pure as well. So how we see God will determine on our actions and what we do. It's like an aim to work towards, to be a merciful, blameless, and pure person, so that we will see God in that same way as well. Then i really liked v29, it says "By my God I can leap over a wall"!! Haha, i was pretty shocked when i first read it, never expected to see that appear in the Bible with the wordings like that. Im guessing that in that context the 'wall' is a form of obstacle that is blocking us from moving forward or going somewhere.. in the first part of the verse talks about running against a troop. So anyway, we all have walls in our lives, and right here int his verse it specifically tells us that with God we are able to leap over the wall, to overcome it, and to breakthrough it! Hmmm it might be just me, but that verse really struck me when i first read it.
Lastly, psalm 144:15
15 Happy are the people who are in such a state;
Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!
haha we are meant to be happy people! It is said so in the Bible as well! Happy are the people who are in such a state, means those who are blessed by God, which is all of us! And happy are the people whose God is the LORD! that is all of us who believe in Jesus as well! We're meant to be happy people! Not many Christians show that though.
We bow our knees,
At the feet of Your cross
We lay our lives,
To the will of our God
Posted by
L
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
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arggh road block! cmon me get over it..
Day 116.
Read about more of David's great victory over the various armies, and how God was with him and delievered the enemies into David's hand. Then read about all the great people that were with David, who were with him all the time in his battles. First there were the Three, who i think were the highest rank in the army, then after them were the Thirty, who were also great fighters. In all of David's battles, he never went in alone to fight.. sure he had God's help, but with him in the battles were also his warriors who helped him and supported him to the position of king over Israel. In the same way, Jesus had His twelve, then following that he had the 72 which he sent out later on. As we can see from the Bible, around every great leader, always will be great warriors that they can rely, depend, and trust on. To fight in a war, you would have to depend on the person beside and behind you to cover and protect you, David trusted in these men, and because of that he managed to rise up to the position and calling that God had for him. We likewise need to find for ourselves people who are strong, and capable, and trustworthy, who we may fight this war with. God has placed such people in our lives, and all we need to do is to listen to God and follow His promptings.
Day 116.
Read about more of David's great victory over the various armies, and how God was with him and delievered the enemies into David's hand. Then read about all the great people that were with David, who were with him all the time in his battles. First there were the Three, who i think were the highest rank in the army, then after them were the Thirty, who were also great fighters. In all of David's battles, he never went in alone to fight.. sure he had God's help, but with him in the battles were also his warriors who helped him and supported him to the position of king over Israel. In the same way, Jesus had His twelve, then following that he had the 72 which he sent out later on. As we can see from the Bible, around every great leader, always will be great warriors that they can rely, depend, and trust on. To fight in a war, you would have to depend on the person beside and behind you to cover and protect you, David trusted in these men, and because of that he managed to rise up to the position and calling that God had for him. We likewise need to find for ourselves people who are strong, and capable, and trustworthy, who we may fight this war with. God has placed such people in our lives, and all we need to do is to listen to God and follow His promptings.
Posted by
L
Monday, October 27, 2008
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I've gotta be the stronger influence, i mustn't let the people around me affect the way i think or feel! I must stand strong and firm on the character of Christ in me and not be easily swayed by what other's opinion or the the way they act are.. It's so easy to be influnced by the things of this world and not of God, by the tv, by common cultures or traditions that we have been brought up with. Even for Christians both old and young, many have been too used to the world that we're living in and have unknowingly one way or another been wrapped up or entangled by the things of this world. Many churches, and friends that are i have who are Christians, they call themselves Christians and seem mature and know so much about the Bible, yet by the life that they live, they fail to see that they have become part of this world.. following the cultures, traditions, and trends that people of this world follow. We are called to be God's holy people, set apart for Him, and our actions speak louder than words. We can preach to others and teach others all these great things about the Bible and how to live life, but if the next moment we're spotted doing what everyone else is, we will lose all respect and credibilty. You don't see pastors giving a great sermon on a sunday service at church, and the next day find him at a bar or pub drinking.. it just doesn't match, and they don't go together. How we act and what we do should be influnced only by one person and one thing, that is Jesus and the Bible. Jesus never went to parties to get drunk, He never gambled, and never fooled around with people.. All He ever did was to do the work of His father, and spent every moment of His life training up disciples.
We need to have a total brainwash and renewal of mind, to forget and erase everything that we have been taught by this world and brought up with, especially all these traditions and cultures that we were brought up with. The only tradition and culture we should keep and follow is the one from the Bible, and nothing else.
Oh God, help me to love You like You have loved me, because when i have truly loved You with the love that You have. Because then everything that i do for You will be easy, because i would love the things that You love, and find joy in the things that You find joy in. Teach me Your ways, that i may live a life full of Your purpose.
Day 115.
David wanted to build a house for the ark of God to be in, but God spoke to the prophet Nathan who then spoke to David saying that David will not be the one to build God a house, but instead on of his sons will build the house instead. When David heard that, he started giving thanks to God for all the things that God had done for him, and all the promises that God had said He would do for his house in the future. All that God has promised to do for Israel and David was fulfilled, God will do what He says, and His promises will always come to fulfillment.
Psalm 2:10-12
10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
11 Serve the LORD with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
Yes! Blessed are those who put their trust in Him! We are blessed because our trust IS in God!
A good verse for our church! Isaiah 54:2
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.
Forever i am Yours, and You are mine..
We need to have a total brainwash and renewal of mind, to forget and erase everything that we have been taught by this world and brought up with, especially all these traditions and cultures that we were brought up with. The only tradition and culture we should keep and follow is the one from the Bible, and nothing else.
Oh God, help me to love You like You have loved me, because when i have truly loved You with the love that You have. Because then everything that i do for You will be easy, because i would love the things that You love, and find joy in the things that You find joy in. Teach me Your ways, that i may live a life full of Your purpose.
Day 115.
David wanted to build a house for the ark of God to be in, but God spoke to the prophet Nathan who then spoke to David saying that David will not be the one to build God a house, but instead on of his sons will build the house instead. When David heard that, he started giving thanks to God for all the things that God had done for him, and all the promises that God had said He would do for his house in the future. All that God has promised to do for Israel and David was fulfilled, God will do what He says, and His promises will always come to fulfillment.
Psalm 2:10-12
10 Now therefore, be wise, O kings;
Be instructed, you judges of the earth.
11 Serve the LORD with fear,
And rejoice with trembling.
12 Kiss the Son, lest He be angry,
And you perish in the way,
When His wrath is kindled but a little.
Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him.
Yes! Blessed are those who put their trust in Him! We are blessed because our trust IS in God!
A good verse for our church! Isaiah 54:2
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.
Forever i am Yours, and You are mine..
Posted by
L
Sunday, October 26, 2008
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Sunday, a great day! Church was great, except for bilingual worship which the congregation seemed pretty dead to me.. I didnt even hear any noise coming from them, not sure if it's because we sounded bad?
Day 114.
Wow didn't know that some stuff in psalms were repeated in 1 Chronicles. Anyway Psalm 105
1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD!
Call upon His name;
Make known His deeds among the peoples!
2 Sing to Him, sing psalms to Him;
Talk of all His wondrous works!
3 Glory in His holy name;
Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the LORD!
4 Seek the LORD and His strength;
Seek His face evermore!
5 Remember His marvelous works which He has done,
His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth,
6 O seed of Abraham His servant,
You children of Jacob, His chosen ones!
v3-5 are great verses! How very true.. Read about the story of Michal despising David because he was dancing to the Lord in front of everyone, and because of that, she never gave birth after that! So because she despised David, who was a man of God, she got taken care by God. So when we are obedient to God, He will take care of us! God's side is always the winning side!
Day 114.
Wow didn't know that some stuff in psalms were repeated in 1 Chronicles. Anyway Psalm 105
1 Oh, give thanks to the LORD!
Call upon His name;
Make known His deeds among the peoples!
2 Sing to Him, sing psalms to Him;
Talk of all His wondrous works!
3 Glory in His holy name;
Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the LORD!
4 Seek the LORD and His strength;
Seek His face evermore!
5 Remember His marvelous works which He has done,
His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth,
6 O seed of Abraham His servant,
You children of Jacob, His chosen ones!
v3-5 are great verses! How very true.. Read about the story of Michal despising David because he was dancing to the Lord in front of everyone, and because of that, she never gave birth after that! So because she despised David, who was a man of God, she got taken care by God. So when we are obedient to God, He will take care of us! God's side is always the winning side!
Posted by
L
hmmm worshipnet this morning was good. Everyone got a chance to rededicate their lives to God once more, and it was really good because every made it a public declaration through their prayer to God. Everyone prayed individually, and prayed from their hearts, just telling God their hearts desire and really casting all else aside and humbling themselves. Everyone in the room this morning was all family, and it was really good to see that the level of trust and tranparency that is in the worshipnet is growing. It's also good to know that everyone is on the same page with the same goal/aim, and with a strong desire in their heart to really just give their life to God. Thank God that His anointing is on the team, because the anointing is not something that can be substituted. As for me, i made it clear and said what i wanted to say to God, not just individually, but publicly to the whole net as well, so that they can hold me accountable. I realised that many times whenever we pray alone, it is always not as effective as when you pray as a group. The people in the group are there to help/support us, and at the same time keep us accountable. I'm not too sure if what i even prayed for even made sense this morning because i was just blurting stuff that just came from my heart, but the one thing i knew for sure, was that when i was praying i lost all conciousness of me being in a room of people, and i really felt as though it was just me and God. It felt as though for once i was being honest to myself, and just ignoring everything around me.. If you can't even be honest to God at church among fellow brothers and sisters, then where else can you be honest to God?
I really miss those times where it's just God and i, and His presence was just so strong that you just feel His love wrapping you and engulfing you. But that is the most secure and safe place that you'll ever find yourself to be.. the joy that you experience is unspeakable because it is just so overwhelming, and it just puts a huge smile on your face. That is the place where i rather be for all my days, and that is the place where i long to be found.
Jesus i need You.
Day 113.
The ark is being restored back to it's rightful place, and how else does David do it but by leading it with praise and worship to God! It is recorded many times in the Bible where music and singing were the ones that were leading the way in the front, and there were trumpets, cymbals, and the playing of harps and lyres! What better way is there to usher in the presence of God but with worship! The picture that is painted in the Bible is a very joyful one, with people singing, shouting, jumping, and dancing, a picture of celebration! That's why when we go to church we always start with praise and worship? An important thing is that David specifically hand picked and chose the musicians. The musicians were people who were specially appointed by the leaders, just like how the Levites were appointed by God. So the people in the worshipnet, the people who lead the others into worship, they have an important role to play, they to be appointed to be a worship leader!
And one thing for the people in the worshipnet, we have to be good at what we do, we are required to be skillful!
1 Chron 15:22
Chenaniah, leader of the Levites, was instructor in charge of the music, because he was skillful;
To finish, Psalm 68:35, a verse which i find very nice
35 O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places.
The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people.
Blessed be God!
I really miss those times where it's just God and i, and His presence was just so strong that you just feel His love wrapping you and engulfing you. But that is the most secure and safe place that you'll ever find yourself to be.. the joy that you experience is unspeakable because it is just so overwhelming, and it just puts a huge smile on your face. That is the place where i rather be for all my days, and that is the place where i long to be found.
Jesus i need You.
Day 113.
The ark is being restored back to it's rightful place, and how else does David do it but by leading it with praise and worship to God! It is recorded many times in the Bible where music and singing were the ones that were leading the way in the front, and there were trumpets, cymbals, and the playing of harps and lyres! What better way is there to usher in the presence of God but with worship! The picture that is painted in the Bible is a very joyful one, with people singing, shouting, jumping, and dancing, a picture of celebration! That's why when we go to church we always start with praise and worship? An important thing is that David specifically hand picked and chose the musicians. The musicians were people who were specially appointed by the leaders, just like how the Levites were appointed by God. So the people in the worshipnet, the people who lead the others into worship, they have an important role to play, they to be appointed to be a worship leader!
And one thing for the people in the worshipnet, we have to be good at what we do, we are required to be skillful!
1 Chron 15:22
Chenaniah, leader of the Levites, was instructor in charge of the music, because he was skillful;
To finish, Psalm 68:35, a verse which i find very nice
35 O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places.
The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people.
Blessed be God!
Posted by
L
Saturday, October 25, 2008
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Day 112.
Wherever God dwells, He will bless! David decided to move back ark back, and so they began the process of transporting it back. Then the oxen that was carrying it stumbled, and Uzzah reached out to hold the ark.. but then God's anger burned against him and struck him dead on the spot! I think anyone would have reached out to hold onto the ark to prevent it from falling though.. Learnt that it's not just important to look out for what we see or what we say, but it is also important to look out for what we touch! Uzzah got struck down because of his error, but it seemed like some kind of innocent mistake!! Anyway, wherever God is, there He will bless. So the ark of God was moved to the house of Obed-edom, and the Lord blessed him, his family, and all that he had! How great isit to be blessed by the Lord! I think everyone wants to be blessed by God, and the way of being blessed is when we have God dwelling within us! Not just anywhere within us, but for God to take the center stage and the top priority in our lives too!
Wherever God dwells, He will bless! David decided to move back ark back, and so they began the process of transporting it back. Then the oxen that was carrying it stumbled, and Uzzah reached out to hold the ark.. but then God's anger burned against him and struck him dead on the spot! I think anyone would have reached out to hold onto the ark to prevent it from falling though.. Learnt that it's not just important to look out for what we see or what we say, but it is also important to look out for what we touch! Uzzah got struck down because of his error, but it seemed like some kind of innocent mistake!! Anyway, wherever God is, there He will bless. So the ark of God was moved to the house of Obed-edom, and the Lord blessed him, his family, and all that he had! How great isit to be blessed by the Lord! I think everyone wants to be blessed by God, and the way of being blessed is when we have God dwelling within us! Not just anywhere within us, but for God to take the center stage and the top priority in our lives too!
Posted by
L
Friday, October 24, 2008
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Cmon me! What am i doing??! it time to pull up those socks!
Day 111.
David continues to expand his territory, and his army grows and he continues to become more powerful. Why? Because the Lord of Hosts was with him! Hallelujah! Read the passage about David pouring out the cup of water, and reading it reminded me of the sermon back at one of the hillsong electives. It's all by God and For God!
Psalms 93
1 The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty;
The LORD is clothed,
He has girded Himself with strength.
Surely the world is established, so that it cannot be moved.
2 Your throne is established from of old;
You are from everlasting.
3 The floods have lifted up, O LORD,
The floods have lifted up their voice;
The floods lift up their waves.
4 The LORD on high is mightier
Than the noise of many waters,
Than the mighty waves of the sea.
5 Your testimonies are very sure;
Holiness adorns Your house,
O LORD, forever.
Day 111.
David continues to expand his territory, and his army grows and he continues to become more powerful. Why? Because the Lord of Hosts was with him! Hallelujah! Read the passage about David pouring out the cup of water, and reading it reminded me of the sermon back at one of the hillsong electives. It's all by God and For God!
Psalms 93
1 The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty;
The LORD is clothed,
He has girded Himself with strength.
Surely the world is established, so that it cannot be moved.
2 Your throne is established from of old;
You are from everlasting.
3 The floods have lifted up, O LORD,
The floods have lifted up their voice;
The floods lift up their waves.
4 The LORD on high is mightier
Than the noise of many waters,
Than the mighty waves of the sea.
5 Your testimonies are very sure;
Holiness adorns Your house,
O LORD, forever.
Posted by
L
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
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Day 110.
David becomes king over Israel, and under his command, Israel unites! David's path to becoming was definitely a long and hard one. God made a promise with David when he was young and still a boy, and the promise was only fulfilled after many many years. Even then the path that David had to take in order to get to where God had promised him was a very tough path where he had to go through many difficulties and circumstances, many times with him on the run for his life and not knowing whats gonna happen next. But David trusted in God and made sure that he was righteous in all that he did, and because he endured and held on to God's promise, he made it to become the king of all Israel.
God has great plans for our lives, and whenever we hear of God's great calling over our life we always get exicited and happy.. It's definitely a good thing to know God's call over one's life, and know that each one of us is destined for greatness.. but people always tend to overlook and conveniently forget that in order to get to where God wants them to be, they have to work towards it. We know our goal and finishing line, but do we know about the path we're meant to take in order to get there? Are we willing to pay the price that needs to be paid? David was called to be the king of Israel from a very young age, and after that for the next 20-30 years his life was a mess of ups and downs. The path that David took was a very demanding path, but David accepted it and stood focused on the goal. If we were to go through the same amount of hardships, and endure the same duration that David had to wait in order to see our calling come to fulfilment, will we be like David? David gave up everything he had, his family, friends, wife, comfort, and lots more things that he could have gotten by just staying at his father's house. But David decided to rise up to the calling that God had for him, and allowed himself to be tested and trained by God. Will we let God take away everything we have for his purpose? Do we know about the path we're meant to be taking?
David becomes king over Israel, and under his command, Israel unites! David's path to becoming was definitely a long and hard one. God made a promise with David when he was young and still a boy, and the promise was only fulfilled after many many years. Even then the path that David had to take in order to get to where God had promised him was a very tough path where he had to go through many difficulties and circumstances, many times with him on the run for his life and not knowing whats gonna happen next. But David trusted in God and made sure that he was righteous in all that he did, and because he endured and held on to God's promise, he made it to become the king of all Israel.
God has great plans for our lives, and whenever we hear of God's great calling over our life we always get exicited and happy.. It's definitely a good thing to know God's call over one's life, and know that each one of us is destined for greatness.. but people always tend to overlook and conveniently forget that in order to get to where God wants them to be, they have to work towards it. We know our goal and finishing line, but do we know about the path we're meant to take in order to get there? Are we willing to pay the price that needs to be paid? David was called to be the king of Israel from a very young age, and after that for the next 20-30 years his life was a mess of ups and downs. The path that David took was a very demanding path, but David accepted it and stood focused on the goal. If we were to go through the same amount of hardships, and endure the same duration that David had to wait in order to see our calling come to fulfilment, will we be like David? David gave up everything he had, his family, friends, wife, comfort, and lots more things that he could have gotten by just staying at his father's house. But David decided to rise up to the calling that God had for him, and allowed himself to be tested and trained by God. Will we let God take away everything we have for his purpose? Do we know about the path we're meant to be taking?
Posted by
L
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
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wooo passion was in sydney tonight and they had a concert! xohn went for it and he's totally pumped now, so praise God! Lots of crazy christians around the world who are just nuts for Jesus, watching passion or hillsong videos really just show us that there are many people who are so on fire for God, and that we are not alone! There's a whole world out there that needs to be saved, and at the same time, there is a whole generation that is out there trying to save the world.
Day 109.
David becomes the king of Judah! And he was only 30 years old when he became king. so young! What came as a shock was when the guy who brought david the news of Saul's death and the Israelites defeat got killed by david, because the same man was the one who helped Saul end his life. David killed him because he killed the Lord's anointed. One thing im not too sure about is that even when God had left Saul, David still recognized Saul as the Lord's anointed.. is that right? Didn't the anointing move from Saul to David?
Anyway David sang a song of lamentation, and what he wrote about Jonathan was pretty cool..
1 Samuel 1:26
26 I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan;
You have been very pleasant to me;
Your love to me was wonderful,
Surpassing the love of women.
Day 109.
David becomes the king of Judah! And he was only 30 years old when he became king. so young! What came as a shock was when the guy who brought david the news of Saul's death and the Israelites defeat got killed by david, because the same man was the one who helped Saul end his life. David killed him because he killed the Lord's anointed. One thing im not too sure about is that even when God had left Saul, David still recognized Saul as the Lord's anointed.. is that right? Didn't the anointing move from Saul to David?
Anyway David sang a song of lamentation, and what he wrote about Jonathan was pretty cool..
1 Samuel 1:26
26 I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan;
You have been very pleasant to me;
Your love to me was wonderful,
Surpassing the love of women.
haha.. liked the last line, how he called Jonathan's love one that surpasses that of a women.. That must have been pretty crazy, but the love they had for one another was genuine and definitely something special! Then there's God's love for us, which is far greater than anyone can ever give or experience! Do we truly understand the love of the Father?
Posted by
L
had a long day of uni, and it's just gonna get longer! Thank God that i have Him in my life, don't know what i'll do without Him.. Just something interesting, i realised that today i saw some of the people who went for the miracle encounter to get healing. e.g im 99% sure i saw the lady who came in the wheelchair who got shot in the back, i know she was healed at the encounter and left the first night walking.. but i saw her again today on my way to the bus stop, and she was back in her wheelchair! Not sure what happened.. Then i saw one of victor's blind friends who came to the miracle encounter, and i met Joe who had the stuttering problem. They all seem to still have their problems.. I realised how important it is to maintain the healing that you got, definitely gotta learn more about it.
Day 108.
God continues to lead and guide David. When Ziklag was raided by the Amalakites, David consulted God and God helped him to gain back all that was taken from him. Even when his life was being threatened by his own soldiers, the first thing David did was to turn to God. David walked close with God and as a result, he was blessed. Then there was Saul, who had turned away from God. When the Philistines had gathered to fight agaisnt Israel, Saul saw their camp and became afraid and trembled. Only when Saul was in great trouble and in need, then he remembered God and turned to Him for help, but God didn't answer Him. Why was that? Even Saul knew that the Lord had turned away from him, in his unfaithfulness God removed the kingship out of Saul's hand and into David's. Saul managed to get to Samuel's spirit through a medium (which i thought was pretty weird), and consulted Samuel. At the end, Samuel told Saul that the day after, he and his sons will be killed, and the Lord will hand Israel's army over to the Philistines. What God gives, He can take it away. This can be seen many times throughout the whole Bible. So lesson learnt, we have to treasure what we have been given, and not to lose what God has blessed us with. If we have been given something special from God, like a talent, or skill, or ability, we must make to use it the way God wants us to use it, and not take it for granted. If not God might just take it away from us one day, and then we will regret it.
Day 108.
God continues to lead and guide David. When Ziklag was raided by the Amalakites, David consulted God and God helped him to gain back all that was taken from him. Even when his life was being threatened by his own soldiers, the first thing David did was to turn to God. David walked close with God and as a result, he was blessed. Then there was Saul, who had turned away from God. When the Philistines had gathered to fight agaisnt Israel, Saul saw their camp and became afraid and trembled. Only when Saul was in great trouble and in need, then he remembered God and turned to Him for help, but God didn't answer Him. Why was that? Even Saul knew that the Lord had turned away from him, in his unfaithfulness God removed the kingship out of Saul's hand and into David's. Saul managed to get to Samuel's spirit through a medium (which i thought was pretty weird), and consulted Samuel. At the end, Samuel told Saul that the day after, he and his sons will be killed, and the Lord will hand Israel's army over to the Philistines. What God gives, He can take it away. This can be seen many times throughout the whole Bible. So lesson learnt, we have to treasure what we have been given, and not to lose what God has blessed us with. If we have been given something special from God, like a talent, or skill, or ability, we must make to use it the way God wants us to use it, and not take it for granted. If not God might just take it away from us one day, and then we will regret it.
Posted by
L
Sunday, October 19, 2008
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Alright exams are coming up! I'm gonna be ahead of it this time!
Day 107.
David spares Saul's life again today for a second time. David said "who can lift a hand against the Lord's anointed and be blameless?" Daviddespite having God with him, knew where he stood, and understood the authority that God palced over him. Even when he was staring right in the eye of the root of his problems, David still had his morales and trust in God. And instead of staying in Israel where he knew that Saul would search for him, David moved into the Philistine land where he knew that Saul would not search for him. In the process, he gained favour with the king of the Philistines, and not only that, God helped him grow his army when he was in Ziklag. God took care of David every step of the way, and why? because David followed everything that God asked him to do, and was righteouss in all that he did.
1 Chronicles 12:22
Day 107.
David spares Saul's life again today for a second time. David said "who can lift a hand against the Lord's anointed and be blameless?" Daviddespite having God with him, knew where he stood, and understood the authority that God palced over him. Even when he was staring right in the eye of the root of his problems, David still had his morales and trust in God. And instead of staying in Israel where he knew that Saul would search for him, David moved into the Philistine land where he knew that Saul would not search for him. In the process, he gained favour with the king of the Philistines, and not only that, God helped him grow his army when he was in Ziklag. God took care of David every step of the way, and why? because David followed everything that God asked him to do, and was righteouss in all that he did.
1 Chronicles 12:22
22 For at that time they came to David day by day to help him, until it was a great army, like the army of God.
May that be for our church too! May we get people coming to us day by day, until we become a great army, because we are the army of God!
Posted by
L
Saturday, October 18, 2008
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Seated at Your throne
Your majesty
You gave it all
You gave it all
You rule and reign
You're victorious
Above all
Above all
You bore cross
For all our sin and shame
You paid it all
You paid it all
Lifted high to life
For all to see
You're glorified
You're glorified
Day 106.
So lesson i learnt today, David had the chance to kill Saul, the person who has been chasing after his life for ages, and making his life horrible. A normal person would think that God has definitely delievered Saul to David, and because of that David should take that chance and end Saul's life, in the process making life easier for himself. David did nothing wrong, and was a righteous person. On the other hand, Saul was like the total opposite, being moved by pride and jealousy, and because of that took advantage of his power and took the lives of many. I would say killing Saul would have been a favour to the Israelites, and to everyone else! But David's reaction was one that was hard to see coming, he ended up sparing Saul's life because he continued to see Saul as the king of Israel, and someone who God placed over him. David made a decision to submit to Saul, even when Saul was after his life when he did nothing wrong. Now that would take a lot of courage i would say.. Not many people in that same situtation would do the same thing though.. But if David could even submit to the bad authority placed over him, there should be no problem for us to submit to the good authority that has been placed over us. We have been blessed, and let us take our blessing to a further step by submitting to those that God has placed over us. There is always ultimately only 1 leader.
Your majesty
You gave it all
You gave it all
You rule and reign
You're victorious
Above all
Above all
You bore cross
For all our sin and shame
You paid it all
You paid it all
Lifted high to life
For all to see
You're glorified
You're glorified
Day 106.
So lesson i learnt today, David had the chance to kill Saul, the person who has been chasing after his life for ages, and making his life horrible. A normal person would think that God has definitely delievered Saul to David, and because of that David should take that chance and end Saul's life, in the process making life easier for himself. David did nothing wrong, and was a righteous person. On the other hand, Saul was like the total opposite, being moved by pride and jealousy, and because of that took advantage of his power and took the lives of many. I would say killing Saul would have been a favour to the Israelites, and to everyone else! But David's reaction was one that was hard to see coming, he ended up sparing Saul's life because he continued to see Saul as the king of Israel, and someone who God placed over him. David made a decision to submit to Saul, even when Saul was after his life when he did nothing wrong. Now that would take a lot of courage i would say.. Not many people in that same situtation would do the same thing though.. But if David could even submit to the bad authority placed over him, there should be no problem for us to submit to the good authority that has been placed over us. We have been blessed, and let us take our blessing to a further step by submitting to those that God has placed over us. There is always ultimately only 1 leader.
Posted by
L
Friday, October 17, 2008
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Isit time for us to take off yet? We always gear up when there are events, but when are we actually gonna gear up into top speed and take off?
Day 105.
Psalm 31(random verses)
1 In You, O LORD, I put my trust;
Let me never be ashamed;
Deliver me in Your righteousness.
2 Bow down Your ear to me,
Deliver me speedily;
Be my rock of refuge,
A fortress of defense to save me.
3 For You are my rock and my fortress;
Therefore, for Your name’s sake,
Lead me and guide me.
4 Pull me out of the net which they have secretly laid for me,
For You are my strength.
5 Into Your hand I commit my spirit;
You have redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
19 Oh, how great is Your goodness,
Which You have laid up for those who fear You,
Which You have prepared for those who trust in You
In the presence of the sons of men!
20 You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence
From the plots of man;
You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion
From the strife of tongues.
21 Blessed be the LORD,
For He has shown me His marvelous kindness in a strong city!
22 For I said in my haste,
“I am cut off from before Your eyes”;
Nevertheless You heard the voice of my supplications
When I cried out to You.
23 Oh, love the LORD, all you His saints!
For the LORD preserves the faithful,
And fully repays the proud person.
24 Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the LORD.
Day 105.
Psalm 31(random verses)
1 In You, O LORD, I put my trust;
Let me never be ashamed;
Deliver me in Your righteousness.
2 Bow down Your ear to me,
Deliver me speedily;
Be my rock of refuge,
A fortress of defense to save me.
3 For You are my rock and my fortress;
Therefore, for Your name’s sake,
Lead me and guide me.
4 Pull me out of the net which they have secretly laid for me,
For You are my strength.
5 Into Your hand I commit my spirit;
You have redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.
19 Oh, how great is Your goodness,
Which You have laid up for those who fear You,
Which You have prepared for those who trust in You
In the presence of the sons of men!
20 You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence
From the plots of man;
You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion
From the strife of tongues.
21 Blessed be the LORD,
For He has shown me His marvelous kindness in a strong city!
22 For I said in my haste,
“I am cut off from before Your eyes”;
Nevertheless You heard the voice of my supplications
When I cried out to You.
23 Oh, love the LORD, all you His saints!
For the LORD preserves the faithful,
And fully repays the proud person.
24 Be of good courage,
And He shall strengthen your heart,
All you who hope in the LORD.
Posted by
L
Jesus lives in me :)
Day 104.
So Saul is really determined to kill David no matter what.. He learns about the priest who gave David some bread, a sowrd, and inquired of God for him, and then judged the priest as conspiring agaisnt him along with David. Just because of that, Saul punished the priest and his father's whole family by killing them. Did Saul have no respect for God at all? Killing the priest, which was God's anointed people, and not only that, his whole family as well.. was Saul not scared of getting punished from God? Saul was too caught up and got blinded by the problem infront of him, that he forgot all about the things around him. It's like standing right in front of this wall, and not being able to see anything else but the wall. And Saul was soo focused on getting that wall out of the way, that he totally forgot about God. All i've been reading is Saul chaing after David, in pusuit of him, trying to take his life.. Saul had a very strong determination, too bad it was placed on the wrong things. One interesting is that when David was constantly running away from Saul, what he found comfort and security in was writing songs. Many of the psalms that David wrote, im guessing is written when people are after his life, because we can see that from the psalms. Writing songs were like David's source of strength and hope, and many of them are really meaningful too.
Day 104.
So Saul is really determined to kill David no matter what.. He learns about the priest who gave David some bread, a sowrd, and inquired of God for him, and then judged the priest as conspiring agaisnt him along with David. Just because of that, Saul punished the priest and his father's whole family by killing them. Did Saul have no respect for God at all? Killing the priest, which was God's anointed people, and not only that, his whole family as well.. was Saul not scared of getting punished from God? Saul was too caught up and got blinded by the problem infront of him, that he forgot all about the things around him. It's like standing right in front of this wall, and not being able to see anything else but the wall. And Saul was soo focused on getting that wall out of the way, that he totally forgot about God. All i've been reading is Saul chaing after David, in pusuit of him, trying to take his life.. Saul had a very strong determination, too bad it was placed on the wrong things. One interesting is that when David was constantly running away from Saul, what he found comfort and security in was writing songs. Many of the psalms that David wrote, im guessing is written when people are after his life, because we can see that from the psalms. Writing songs were like David's source of strength and hope, and many of them are really meaningful too.
Posted by
L
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
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blehh everything seems so distant and far.. where has all my hope gone to.. why does everything seem so dull all of a sudden..
OK prepration for exam prep is done! now to start the exam prep.. I've got about a month before the exams, which gives me 4 weeks for 4 subjects. If i divide it equally, i have 1 week for a subject, but since my weekends are usually gone, i have 5 days for each subject - not including uni which will be on at the same time! Arrgghh time seems to be getting shorter and shorter!
Day 103.
I'm just amazed at the friendship that David and Jonathan had. David trusted Jonathan with his life, and Jonathan loved David as he loved himself. They shared the their burdens with one another, and did everything they could to help the other out. Many times David had to trust and depend on Jonathan to see how Saul was doing, and to decide what his next step was.. Jonathan even almost got killed once by his father for trying to help David escape. The friendship that i am reading about is just so pure, and something that is just so whole. When David had to flee his country, Jonathan and him met for the last time, and they kissed each other and wept with each other..you don't see many guys doing that, you won't even see many friends do that. But both Jonathan and David knew that it was gonna be their last meeting that they'll have for a long while, and the thought of having lose a friend by their side must have been a really big thing for both of them. Just that scene of them weeping together because of their love for each other and the value of their friendship just seems so genuine and moving.. That's what i would call a real friend, someone who is literally there through thick and thin, and someone who would love you with as much as they love themselves, till the extent of even risking their own life for yours. David and Jonathan is a great example of what true friendship is, but a pity but such friendships are so rare nowadays.
OK prepration for exam prep is done! now to start the exam prep.. I've got about a month before the exams, which gives me 4 weeks for 4 subjects. If i divide it equally, i have 1 week for a subject, but since my weekends are usually gone, i have 5 days for each subject - not including uni which will be on at the same time! Arrgghh time seems to be getting shorter and shorter!
Day 103.
I'm just amazed at the friendship that David and Jonathan had. David trusted Jonathan with his life, and Jonathan loved David as he loved himself. They shared the their burdens with one another, and did everything they could to help the other out. Many times David had to trust and depend on Jonathan to see how Saul was doing, and to decide what his next step was.. Jonathan even almost got killed once by his father for trying to help David escape. The friendship that i am reading about is just so pure, and something that is just so whole. When David had to flee his country, Jonathan and him met for the last time, and they kissed each other and wept with each other..you don't see many guys doing that, you won't even see many friends do that. But both Jonathan and David knew that it was gonna be their last meeting that they'll have for a long while, and the thought of having lose a friend by their side must have been a really big thing for both of them. Just that scene of them weeping together because of their love for each other and the value of their friendship just seems so genuine and moving.. That's what i would call a real friend, someone who is literally there through thick and thin, and someone who would love you with as much as they love themselves, till the extent of even risking their own life for yours. David and Jonathan is a great example of what true friendship is, but a pity but such friendships are so rare nowadays.
Posted by
L
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
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It's time to keep both my physical and spiritual body fit! A weak soldier is of no use in a war!
Day 102.
So Saul is after David's life even though David didn't do anything wrong. God blessed David greatly, and the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. Whenever David went out to war, he would always return with a great victory because the Lord was on his side, and as a result, his fame increased throughout the land. Saul became jealous of David even though he was the king, and thus decided to kill David on many occasions. David writes multiple Psalms regarding protection from the Lord against his enemies, and the worst thing is that people are coming after his life even when he did nothing wrong. David was literally running for his life, not just on one occasion, but many times. But obviously in God, we find the greatest security we can ever find. Everytime David would turn to God, and God would deliver him. When we reach a dead end and have no where else to go or turn to, can our confidence be found in God? Will we have such faith and trust in God like David did? And literally trust God with our lives? I still find it interesting how David gets into trouble because the Lord is with him and blesses him.. usually i would think that the opposite would happen.
Day 102.
So Saul is after David's life even though David didn't do anything wrong. God blessed David greatly, and the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. Whenever David went out to war, he would always return with a great victory because the Lord was on his side, and as a result, his fame increased throughout the land. Saul became jealous of David even though he was the king, and thus decided to kill David on many occasions. David writes multiple Psalms regarding protection from the Lord against his enemies, and the worst thing is that people are coming after his life even when he did nothing wrong. David was literally running for his life, not just on one occasion, but many times. But obviously in God, we find the greatest security we can ever find. Everytime David would turn to God, and God would deliver him. When we reach a dead end and have no where else to go or turn to, can our confidence be found in God? Will we have such faith and trust in God like David did? And literally trust God with our lives? I still find it interesting how David gets into trouble because the Lord is with him and blesses him.. usually i would think that the opposite would happen.
Posted by
L
What doesn't breaks us, makes us! Nothing starts off perfect and smooth, it's only as we go through a series of tough refining processes till we end up being ready to be displayed. I pray that as we grow together as a church, that when problems arise, we will learn from it. Not just individually, but together as a family, with love and care, the way Jesus would teach us. It's these things that will unite us, cause us to grow closer, and stronger as we learn more about one another, and go through hardships together. God has GREAT plans for our church! No doubt. But to get there, a price has to be paid!! Are we ready for the change at our current stage? God will not give us something that we won't be able to handle.. and God will know when we're ready. So till then, we have to get things right in our lives, and with our church. To fix all problems, and outstanding issues. Then we can blast off!
Just wanna write down something pretty interesting that happened to me today.. So i was in this tutorial room doing some study and listening to music, killing time till it was my tutorial which starts at 4.10pm. At around 3.30, i got pretty tired so decided to take a short nap.. So with the music still going on in my ears, i somehow managed to sleep, and i think i was pretty tired because i slept pretty deep without even hearing the music in my sleep which was pretty loud. Then all of a sudden, i heard my name being called twice by someone behind me.. it wasn't loud and clear or anything because the music was still going on, and i was half asleep. So it just registered in my head that there was someone behind me calling me. Then i stopped, and thought for a bit.. i was alone in this tutorial, and none of my friends know i'm here, so why would there be someone behind me calling my name? So i immediately woke up and spun my head around to see who it was.. and to my surprise there wasn't anyone there! So i was pretty puzzled because i was sure i heard someone calling me.. Then i looked at the time, and it was 4.02pm! woah just in time for my tute, and I would have missed it if i slept any longer! So i came to the conclusion that God must have woken me up from my nap by either calling me, or by making me seem as though there was someone was calling me. haha praise God for that!
Day 101.
David was awesome from young, even as a youth! He killed lions, and bears while looking after his father's sheep, and as a youth he managed to kill the great Goliath! You don't really see any youths nowadays killing lions and bears with their bare hands, so he must have been really strong. And it must've been pretty amazing, for a mere youth who looks after sheep to be able to defeat Goliath who was terrorizing and oppressing the great Israelite army who had won many battles before! This shows that age doesn't matter in the equation of greatness! What matters though, is if the Spirit of God is upon that person. Throughout the Bible, all the great people who did amazing things in God's name, all had the Spirit of God with them. They also had utter dependence and trust in God. David knew that he needed God, and many times he prayed to God for protection and deliverence from his enemies in Psalms. Even as a young man, David had great wisdom, and courage, and was greatly blessed by the LORD. As he was faithful with the little like looking after his father's sheep, God knew that he would be faithful with much, and so when the time was right, God raised him up to be a mighty man of God! David was a true shepard, and in Psalms 23:1, he recognized God as his shepard.
Just wanna write down something pretty interesting that happened to me today.. So i was in this tutorial room doing some study and listening to music, killing time till it was my tutorial which starts at 4.10pm. At around 3.30, i got pretty tired so decided to take a short nap.. So with the music still going on in my ears, i somehow managed to sleep, and i think i was pretty tired because i slept pretty deep without even hearing the music in my sleep which was pretty loud. Then all of a sudden, i heard my name being called twice by someone behind me.. it wasn't loud and clear or anything because the music was still going on, and i was half asleep. So it just registered in my head that there was someone behind me calling me. Then i stopped, and thought for a bit.. i was alone in this tutorial, and none of my friends know i'm here, so why would there be someone behind me calling my name? So i immediately woke up and spun my head around to see who it was.. and to my surprise there wasn't anyone there! So i was pretty puzzled because i was sure i heard someone calling me.. Then i looked at the time, and it was 4.02pm! woah just in time for my tute, and I would have missed it if i slept any longer! So i came to the conclusion that God must have woken me up from my nap by either calling me, or by making me seem as though there was someone was calling me. haha praise God for that!
Day 101.
David was awesome from young, even as a youth! He killed lions, and bears while looking after his father's sheep, and as a youth he managed to kill the great Goliath! You don't really see any youths nowadays killing lions and bears with their bare hands, so he must have been really strong. And it must've been pretty amazing, for a mere youth who looks after sheep to be able to defeat Goliath who was terrorizing and oppressing the great Israelite army who had won many battles before! This shows that age doesn't matter in the equation of greatness! What matters though, is if the Spirit of God is upon that person. Throughout the Bible, all the great people who did amazing things in God's name, all had the Spirit of God with them. They also had utter dependence and trust in God. David knew that he needed God, and many times he prayed to God for protection and deliverence from his enemies in Psalms. Even as a young man, David had great wisdom, and courage, and was greatly blessed by the LORD. As he was faithful with the little like looking after his father's sheep, God knew that he would be faithful with much, and so when the time was right, God raised him up to be a mighty man of God! David was a true shepard, and in Psalms 23:1, he recognized God as his shepard.
Posted by
L
Sunday, October 12, 2008
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eeep.. tonight got a bit ugly :S Hope everyone can get over it.. Need God to speak to everyone and clear things up! And for God to shut the mouths of those out there who are just causing trouble or sowing discord.
Day 100!
So yesterday because Saul was afraid of his soldiers, and obeyed them instead of God. He rejected the word of the LORD, and because of that, the LORD rejected him. So now a new king was required to be found, and that person was David! God brought Samuel to find David, and anointed him. Right after David was anointed, the Bible states that the Spirit of the LORD took control of David from that day forward. Before this happened, because David was the youngest, Samuel had a look at his older brothers first, and one of the explanations that God gave to Samuel for not picking one of the older brother was this: 1 Samuel 16:7
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
It's good to know that God looks at the heart, and not by physical stature. It is very easy to judge people according to their physical stature, especially when you meet a new person you would scan him physically and you would decide in your mind what sort of person he's gonna be. But God's different, He looks at the heart, and the heart is all that God is concerned about. I pray for eyes that will see what God sees, that i will look at people's hearts, and not just their physical being.
Then there was the story of David and Goliath, where David delivers food to his older brothers at the camp. What's cool was when he called Goliath and uncircumcised Philistine, and asked who he was that he should defy the armies of the living God! David knew who he was and who his God was. David knew of the great power and works that God did for Israel in the past, and he believed in them. He called the army of Israel, the army of the living God! David was very confident, and full of faith, despite the fact being the youngest boy in the family. We have to realize that we still are the army of the living God, and do armies do? They fight in wars! So we are fighting in God's army, where victory has already been guranteed!
Day 100!
So yesterday because Saul was afraid of his soldiers, and obeyed them instead of God. He rejected the word of the LORD, and because of that, the LORD rejected him. So now a new king was required to be found, and that person was David! God brought Samuel to find David, and anointed him. Right after David was anointed, the Bible states that the Spirit of the LORD took control of David from that day forward. Before this happened, because David was the youngest, Samuel had a look at his older brothers first, and one of the explanations that God gave to Samuel for not picking one of the older brother was this: 1 Samuel 16:7
7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
It's good to know that God looks at the heart, and not by physical stature. It is very easy to judge people according to their physical stature, especially when you meet a new person you would scan him physically and you would decide in your mind what sort of person he's gonna be. But God's different, He looks at the heart, and the heart is all that God is concerned about. I pray for eyes that will see what God sees, that i will look at people's hearts, and not just their physical being.
Then there was the story of David and Goliath, where David delivers food to his older brothers at the camp. What's cool was when he called Goliath and uncircumcised Philistine, and asked who he was that he should defy the armies of the living God! David knew who he was and who his God was. David knew of the great power and works that God did for Israel in the past, and he believed in them. He called the army of Israel, the army of the living God! David was very confident, and full of faith, despite the fact being the youngest boy in the family. We have to realize that we still are the army of the living God, and do armies do? They fight in wars! So we are fighting in God's army, where victory has already been guranteed!
Posted by
L
Saturday, October 11, 2008
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looooong day today.. a test at uni, then had to practice drummz then yaf, which ended exceptionally late today.. But we watched the relationship session from the miracle encounter, part 1 of it, which was Ps Victor teaching, and i think it was really good for the yaf'fers to hear it since it's pretty relevent to the younger generation. Q&A session after that was good as well, learnt lots of stuff through other people's questions.. we should have more of these practical sorta stuff more often, it's really useful especially for christians who still don't know so much about the Bible and God's view and so many things. Looking forward to this weekend and church!
Day 98.
Saul saves the people who lived in Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites who attacked them, and after that happens, the people of Israel rejoice over their victory. Then they decided that Saul should be the king over them and they renewed his kingship. Funny how people won't recognize you until you've done something for them? But then further on, Saul fights agaisnt the Philistines, and because they start to lose, many of the Israelites start to desert him, even his own soldiers. Interesting how people forget so fast about the things you did for them in the past.. When Saul did good, they rejoiced, but once he was down, they start to lose their hope. Similarly, many times we forget of all the things that God has done for us in the past whenever we reach a road block, or a dead end. Are we grateful for a second, then ungrateful the next? God did the ultimate sacrifice for us on the cross, and nothing can top that. Have we forgetten all the pain, shame and sorrow he took on our behalf?
Day 98.
Saul saves the people who lived in Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites who attacked them, and after that happens, the people of Israel rejoice over their victory. Then they decided that Saul should be the king over them and they renewed his kingship. Funny how people won't recognize you until you've done something for them? But then further on, Saul fights agaisnt the Philistines, and because they start to lose, many of the Israelites start to desert him, even his own soldiers. Interesting how people forget so fast about the things you did for them in the past.. When Saul did good, they rejoiced, but once he was down, they start to lose their hope. Similarly, many times we forget of all the things that God has done for us in the past whenever we reach a road block, or a dead end. Are we grateful for a second, then ungrateful the next? God did the ultimate sacrifice for us on the cross, and nothing can top that. Have we forgetten all the pain, shame and sorrow he took on our behalf?
Posted by
L
Friday, October 10, 2008
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Hmm sometimes i wonder if i even know what i'm really praying for.. i've realised that i've prayed many prayers, asking God for many things. But do i really know what i asked for? do i know what i'm getting myself into by praying those prayers? It came to me that some of the prayers that i prayed for, weren't answered, and because of that i am grateful. I have prayed many 'stupid' prayers i would say, many times not realizing that God has something much better installed for me, and that He has a perfect plan for my life. Many times i've tried to take 'control' over my life by asking God to give me this, or place me in this situtaion so this thing will happen to me, thinking that at that point in time it was the best thing for me. But as time slowly goes on, God begins to reveal to me that the things that i prayed for, were actually quite foolish, because what i thought was best for me, God had something much more planned! Some of the things that we pray for, we know the consequence and what the end result will be, so we have counted the cost and decided that we want it, so we pray to God about it. But do we really know what we are praying for, and when God actually gives us what we want, will we be able to handle it? e.g we can pray for a new job with better pay and etc.. but when we end up with that job, we realize that it even though we get paid more, it ends up stuffing up our personal life and our spiritual walk with God. How? It would require more time, which would lead to more stress, and maybe even isolating ourselves from fellow brothers and sisters, and slowly before you know it, it even stops us from coming to church! For me i'm just glad that some of my prayers were not taken seriously, because i can see that only God knows what the future will be like, and that His plan for me is ultimately the best plan. So if we ever want anything, we always gotta ask God about His opinion first.
Day 97.
Wow.. read about how Samuel anoints Saul as king. And the whole story just seems so amazing, because Samuel was so in tune with God, and said everythingwith such precision and accuracy. The directions given were so clear, and obvious that it is not made up from man, but definitely from God. This is something that seems to be rare these days, i don't know anyone who can do such a thing. Samuel must have had great faith to be able to confidently say what God is telling him, and believing without any doubt that it will come true. I pray that i will be able to do the same one day.
Day 97.
Wow.. read about how Samuel anoints Saul as king. And the whole story just seems so amazing, because Samuel was so in tune with God, and said everythingwith such precision and accuracy. The directions given were so clear, and obvious that it is not made up from man, but definitely from God. This is something that seems to be rare these days, i don't know anyone who can do such a thing. Samuel must have had great faith to be able to confidently say what God is telling him, and believing without any doubt that it will come true. I pray that i will be able to do the same one day.
Posted by
L
