Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:30-31
Wow let me say, I do not have the stress/responsibility that comes from leading a bible study every week like I felt last year and I am already breaking down. As the semester went on, I thought that I would be stead fast and strong towards my small group members. I enjoy doing one on ones very much so and thought that I would and could make the time as the semester progressed. Boy was I wrong.
From previous years, I know that I live a very procedural lifestyle. Everything is the same week by week. Class, come back home, work, study, nap, etc. I did not want anything to change at all. But then I realized my selfishness.
Christ was not selfish in discipleship. If he was, there would be nothing left for mankind. Lucky for us, our God is merciful. Whew!
These two verses from Isaiah relate to me a lot, and probably to the majority of Christians out there. Trying to abide to His laws and commands are hard especially since we live in such a tempting world. I my case, I am tempted to take the easy way out rather than lead others to Christ. I mean, its not that I don't meet with my members, but I don't sacrifice my time and do it enough. This applies to reading the Word as well.
But I hope in the Lord that He will give me strength to do His good work. And I can only count on God to supply me with wisdom, the right words to say, and the right heart to serve. Those who rely on themselves will only grow tired and weary; they will also stumble and fall. But those who hope in the Lord will soar on wings like eagles and forever run on the fuel I like to call . . .
LOVE!
Amen!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
No Condemnation
"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." John 5:24
The words condemned and convicted get thrown around a lot. In prayers, small group discussions, sermons, etc. Although there are huge differences between the two, they seem to be interchangeable sometimes. When we get convicted, it seems as if God has just struck our hearts with the realization of the sin in our lives. In this case, we are convicted to be condemned. When Christians are convicted, it will most likely lead them to a feeling of condemnation.
Because we are Christian, these words are definitely not interchangeable. Conviction deals with what you do or are doing to bring yourself closer to God. Condemnation is who you are; are you with or without Christ in your life? Did you accept the blood of Christ on the Cross and know deep down in your heart that it was He who saved you from death?
So. What you do and who you are.
As Christians, there is a clear distinction between the two. As Christians, because we believe and have given up our hearts to our Savior, there is no condemnation. Our sin have been already washed away the day we accept Christ as our Savior. Conviction will ultimately lead us to repentance and bring us back to Him. Condemnation is the feeling that we cannot come to God due to our sins and failures, a very clever tactic of the devil.
But understand that if you confess with your heart that Jesus is Lord, and believe that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved past, present, and future.
Amen!
The words condemned and convicted get thrown around a lot. In prayers, small group discussions, sermons, etc. Although there are huge differences between the two, they seem to be interchangeable sometimes. When we get convicted, it seems as if God has just struck our hearts with the realization of the sin in our lives. In this case, we are convicted to be condemned. When Christians are convicted, it will most likely lead them to a feeling of condemnation.
Because we are Christian, these words are definitely not interchangeable. Conviction deals with what you do or are doing to bring yourself closer to God. Condemnation is who you are; are you with or without Christ in your life? Did you accept the blood of Christ on the Cross and know deep down in your heart that it was He who saved you from death?
So. What you do and who you are.
As Christians, there is a clear distinction between the two. As Christians, because we believe and have given up our hearts to our Savior, there is no condemnation. Our sin have been already washed away the day we accept Christ as our Savior. Conviction will ultimately lead us to repentance and bring us back to Him. Condemnation is the feeling that we cannot come to God due to our sins and failures, a very clever tactic of the devil.
But understand that if you confess with your heart that Jesus is Lord, and believe that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved past, present, and future.
Amen!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
My Fingers Hurt
It's been stressful you know? So to de-stress, I've been playing a lot of worship on my guitar (this does not mean I can play). It is always comforting to know that there is always someone willing to lift your troubles away.
God, singing and praising to you gives me so much joy. This joy does not come from merely playing the right chords and making the music sound good; no, this is my praise to God despite the difficult, confusing, painful, tiring, and stressful times.
So I'm praising God, how does that de-stress you?
Because giving praise to my Lord and Savior brings me joy. And this joy can overcome any task/problem that I am dealing with. This joy translates to love and care that I know God has for me, and this love gives me strength. Even though this seems like a math formula, it simply says, "God is my de-stressor.
I'm a terrible singer and guitarist, but I know God doesn't mind ^^
There is no verse this time; just a little something that I do that I wanted to share. And yes, my left ring finger hurts. Anyone got some finger healing advice?
Amen!
God, singing and praising to you gives me so much joy. This joy does not come from merely playing the right chords and making the music sound good; no, this is my praise to God despite the difficult, confusing, painful, tiring, and stressful times.
So I'm praising God, how does that de-stress you?
Because giving praise to my Lord and Savior brings me joy. And this joy can overcome any task/problem that I am dealing with. This joy translates to love and care that I know God has for me, and this love gives me strength. Even though this seems like a math formula, it simply says, "God is my de-stressor.
I'm a terrible singer and guitarist, but I know God doesn't mind ^^
There is no verse this time; just a little something that I do that I wanted to share. And yes, my left ring finger hurts. Anyone got some finger healing advice?
Amen!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Wisdom
As college students, we strive for academic success. There is always the conflict of balancing God and school work in our daily schedule. I've been finding that pretty hard to do recently. With Thanksgiving break coming up, there is absolutely no mercy from any of my professors. Paper after paper, after exam, and etc. They are ruthless.
This struggle between finding time to read the Word and doing my homework continues to ensue, but I need to come to realize that God would not want me or any of us to fail out of school. The worldly wisdom mentioned in 1 Corinthians 1:20 is not unnecessary wisdom, but wisdom that is not in the same category as the wisdom of God. As Paul put it, it is "foolish wisdom of the world." He put down wise men and philosophers not because their teachings are not of any merit, but because they do not preach of Christ crucified, His life and resurrection. Take on both challenges, but place the Word of God on a lower shelf where you can just pull it out and read anytime.
Owning both types of wisdom is necessary today; without a paying job, it will prove quite difficult to get anywhere. So continue to work hard, ultimately for the good of God!
Amen.
This struggle between finding time to read the Word and doing my homework continues to ensue, but I need to come to realize that God would not want me or any of us to fail out of school. The worldly wisdom mentioned in 1 Corinthians 1:20 is not unnecessary wisdom, but wisdom that is not in the same category as the wisdom of God. As Paul put it, it is "foolish wisdom of the world." He put down wise men and philosophers not because their teachings are not of any merit, but because they do not preach of Christ crucified, His life and resurrection. Take on both challenges, but place the Word of God on a lower shelf where you can just pull it out and read anytime.
Owning both types of wisdom is necessary today; without a paying job, it will prove quite difficult to get anywhere. So continue to work hard, ultimately for the good of God!
Amen.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Living for God
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.
1 Peter 4:1-2
Taking a verse and dissecting it word by word and phrase by phrase can help us understand what God is trying to tell us even further than just reading and glancing over a verse or passage.
The chapter/verse starts out with "therefore" as a means to the end. The ends referred in this passage is the done-ness of sin. The "suffering" of Christ as He hung on the cross is proof of this. Because Christ has displayed such an immense amount of love towards us in His suffering, verse 1 directs us to take upon the same attitude that Jesus had. This attitude will ultimately destroys sin and breed love.
Sorry God. I've been blogging too late and my mind is like Jello right now.
Amen.
1 Peter 4:1-2
Taking a verse and dissecting it word by word and phrase by phrase can help us understand what God is trying to tell us even further than just reading and glancing over a verse or passage.
The chapter/verse starts out with "therefore" as a means to the end. The ends referred in this passage is the done-ness of sin. The "suffering" of Christ as He hung on the cross is proof of this. Because Christ has displayed such an immense amount of love towards us in His suffering, verse 1 directs us to take upon the same attitude that Jesus had. This attitude will ultimately destroys sin and breed love.
Sorry God. I've been blogging too late and my mind is like Jello right now.
Amen.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Simply Love
I feel like I have a weekly theme that God wants me to think about. This week seemed to be about humility.
When I think about how society rules the cultural norm, humility plays no part in it. Defined from dictionary.com, humility is "the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc." Everyone wants to be heard. Everyone needs to be noticed, to have a voice and say in something that would make them feel important. There is a constant striving of becoming the best person in selective categories such as most outspoken, most popular, wealthiest, etc. A longing to be anything less of that is non-existent in this society. You have to be someone!
As Christians, this sort of self-ism stands nowhere in what we believe in. Our Savior and role model is our prime example. If you read John 13, Jesus washes his disciple's feet. How lowly can you get! Peter acknowledges that Jesus is Christ and refuses to let the Messiah wash his feet, but Jesus insists.
This is the attitude that could save mankind. Now its not saying that all Christians should be losers and always 2nd place in school or in the market. The message that we want to send out to all the people of the world is that it is all because of Christ. The very reason that I am a Purdue student with a loving family, friends, and an immense amount of things that has occurred in my life is solely because of Christ. Because of that, I will humble myself in His presence.
And thats not the end! Being humble is great and all, so lets take this even further.
The very thing that humility breeds is love itself. Christ died for our sins simply because He humbled Himself so that we may live.
He humbled Himself and loved us to the end, the very end of His life.
Just think about it. How would someone see you as when you walk with humility? When you do a favor for someone, will they see that you are doing it out of love or other reasons? and so on.
Jesus, you have shown me true love. With that, I love others and will bless your name!
Amen!
When I think about how society rules the cultural norm, humility plays no part in it. Defined from dictionary.com, humility is "the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one's own importance, rank, etc." Everyone wants to be heard. Everyone needs to be noticed, to have a voice and say in something that would make them feel important. There is a constant striving of becoming the best person in selective categories such as most outspoken, most popular, wealthiest, etc. A longing to be anything less of that is non-existent in this society. You have to be someone!
As Christians, this sort of self-ism stands nowhere in what we believe in. Our Savior and role model is our prime example. If you read John 13, Jesus washes his disciple's feet. How lowly can you get! Peter acknowledges that Jesus is Christ and refuses to let the Messiah wash his feet, but Jesus insists.
This is the attitude that could save mankind. Now its not saying that all Christians should be losers and always 2nd place in school or in the market. The message that we want to send out to all the people of the world is that it is all because of Christ. The very reason that I am a Purdue student with a loving family, friends, and an immense amount of things that has occurred in my life is solely because of Christ. Because of that, I will humble myself in His presence.
And thats not the end! Being humble is great and all, so lets take this even further.
The very thing that humility breeds is love itself. Christ died for our sins simply because He humbled Himself so that we may live.
He humbled Himself and loved us to the end, the very end of His life.
Just think about it. How would someone see you as when you walk with humility? When you do a favor for someone, will they see that you are doing it out of love or other reasons? and so on.
Jesus, you have shown me true love. With that, I love others and will bless your name!
Amen!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Right Words
I always find myself trying to look for the right words to say at the right time. You know, something, maybe a word or phrase, that is so applicable and comforting that you have just become a godsend for that small group member or just a random friend.
I've taken my role as a small group leader and one of the older guys at church into deep consideration. My actions and words echo. When it comes to judging, there is a certain pressure on me just because I "lead" and I'm "older". I've become frustrated and disappointed at myself for not upholding these roles in the correct fashion lately. My pride allows me to think that I know everything that has to deal with God; that because I am a leader, I am very holy (far from it). I need to snap out of it and realize that I am nothing; if it wasn't for Christ's love, I would have continued to dwell deeper into my sin.
So God, please help me to drop my pride. The words of this mouth is not from the heart that was born from your hands, but of my own selfishness. I've always had this misconstrued conception of standing so high when it was the Lord who has given me this opportunity as a leader to help others. The right words may sounds good, but I need to depend more on the Holy Spirit and God's Word[s]. I can lead with my own words, but how will it feel leading with the right heart, a heart after God's own?
Amen.
I've taken my role as a small group leader and one of the older guys at church into deep consideration. My actions and words echo. When it comes to judging, there is a certain pressure on me just because I "lead" and I'm "older". I've become frustrated and disappointed at myself for not upholding these roles in the correct fashion lately. My pride allows me to think that I know everything that has to deal with God; that because I am a leader, I am very holy (far from it). I need to snap out of it and realize that I am nothing; if it wasn't for Christ's love, I would have continued to dwell deeper into my sin.
So God, please help me to drop my pride. The words of this mouth is not from the heart that was born from your hands, but of my own selfishness. I've always had this misconstrued conception of standing so high when it was the Lord who has given me this opportunity as a leader to help others. The right words may sounds good, but I need to depend more on the Holy Spirit and God's Word[s]. I can lead with my own words, but how will it feel leading with the right heart, a heart after God's own?
Amen.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Witness Something Great
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us."
Hebrews 12:1
"The self-absorbed thinking conveyed in the line, "Well, me and Jesus got our own thing goin'," is hardly the defining characteristic of true believers. Being willing to stand alone against error is one thing, but individualism in general is nowhere commended in Scripture. Such thinking flies smack in the face of God's emphasis on building local communities of believers who are universally united in Christ around the true gospel."
-Crosswalk's Alex Crain (christianity.com)
As a kid, secrets were tough to handle. You just wanted to tell someone no matter who it was! It was like the secret itself was too much for my little, innocent boy brain to handle.
What about now? Should we continue to conceal the love of Christ within our own confined walls or do spread the love that is overflowing and never ending? God is not a secret at all; He's the most popular God on earth! The only secret is how God's love has been affecting your life, continuously molding you into a being that is worthy to call God's own as well as the world's witness in Christ.
Amen..! (Gotta wake up in 4 hours.. I'm pooped!)
Hebrews 12:1
"The self-absorbed thinking conveyed in the line, "Well, me and Jesus got our own thing goin'," is hardly the defining characteristic of true believers. Being willing to stand alone against error is one thing, but individualism in general is nowhere commended in Scripture. Such thinking flies smack in the face of God's emphasis on building local communities of believers who are universally united in Christ around the true gospel."
-Crosswalk's Alex Crain (christianity.com)
As a kid, secrets were tough to handle. You just wanted to tell someone no matter who it was! It was like the secret itself was too much for my little, innocent boy brain to handle.
What about now? Should we continue to conceal the love of Christ within our own confined walls or do spread the love that is overflowing and never ending? God is not a secret at all; He's the most popular God on earth! The only secret is how God's love has been affecting your life, continuously molding you into a being that is worthy to call God's own as well as the world's witness in Christ.
Amen..! (Gotta wake up in 4 hours.. I'm pooped!)
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Never Too Late
I've been having many conversations with people that have just been a real encouragement. Many of these people I would not even think would be having a talk about this topic is here right in front of me (well over the internet at times). The theme within all of these conversations were similar: I think I need God again.
These stories are similar as well. I know what is right, but I continue to do what is wrong. What is wrong has been such a drawing factor in their lives that this is what they believed was worth living for. Life has been so lively and fulfilling in terms of social life and social acceptance from other people that there is no longer a need for the love of an omnipotent God. The God that we once knew that pushed to the recesses of the mind and forgotten. God, in reality, who everyone needs in their lives, was just something else.
What we fail to realize, and I included need to hold this simple fact into my heart, that God actually waits for you. The common phrase goes, "Love waits for no one" is not entirely true; it does not apply to our Heavenly Father. Our God will wait for us, the prodigal sons and daughters, time and time again as we fall away. As we run away and decide that other things in our lives are of more important worth at the moment, I find it to be quite interesting that we always go back to God in the end.
Why to God? Why not to the things that we loved so much? I'm sure i don't have to articulate such a point because I am sure you have all felt it before and its not a good feeling.
In the end, it is never too late to go back to God. Take a sharpie and underline "never" on your computer screen.
Amen!
These stories are similar as well. I know what is right, but I continue to do what is wrong. What is wrong has been such a drawing factor in their lives that this is what they believed was worth living for. Life has been so lively and fulfilling in terms of social life and social acceptance from other people that there is no longer a need for the love of an omnipotent God. The God that we once knew that pushed to the recesses of the mind and forgotten. God, in reality, who everyone needs in their lives, was just something else.
What we fail to realize, and I included need to hold this simple fact into my heart, that God actually waits for you. The common phrase goes, "Love waits for no one" is not entirely true; it does not apply to our Heavenly Father. Our God will wait for us, the prodigal sons and daughters, time and time again as we fall away. As we run away and decide that other things in our lives are of more important worth at the moment, I find it to be quite interesting that we always go back to God in the end.
Why to God? Why not to the things that we loved so much? I'm sure i don't have to articulate such a point because I am sure you have all felt it before and its not a good feeling.
In the end, it is never too late to go back to God. Take a sharpie and underline "never" on your computer screen.
Amen!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Compromise
There are just some people you don't get along with right? With all the conflicting personalities and interests, there is no way that I can get along with that person. Roommates begin as friends will end up hating each other; friends, who you thought you were cool with, begin to talk behind your back. There is a countless number possibilities of what one person can do to hurt another. I've been hearing so many roommate stories that its starting to get old. It is not that I don't care about the lack of compromise, but because I am sad that there is a lack of consideration and realization of Luke 10:27.
"He answered: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
I am a hypocrite for writing this blog because I have [a] unsettled relationship[s]. Luke points it out very clearly to love the Lord AND your neighbor. Not one or the other; I believe that God would want his followers to obey His commands to love others as yourself rather than to hate others and just love Him only. I love God and this is why I will always attempt to love other people regardless of the situation. The basis of my love for you is because of who you are. The continuance and forgiveness of my love for you is because God tells me to never stop loving you when things go wrong. To forgive, let go, and to continue on encouraging one another in light of His's promises.
I believe that there is no such thing as no compromise. Although this is easier said than done, let God's will be done in that His love, in us and through us, shall endure forever.
Amen.
"He answered: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
I am a hypocrite for writing this blog because I have [a] unsettled relationship[s]. Luke points it out very clearly to love the Lord AND your neighbor. Not one or the other; I believe that God would want his followers to obey His commands to love others as yourself rather than to hate others and just love Him only. I love God and this is why I will always attempt to love other people regardless of the situation. The basis of my love for you is because of who you are. The continuance and forgiveness of my love for you is because God tells me to never stop loving you when things go wrong. To forgive, let go, and to continue on encouraging one another in light of His's promises.
I believe that there is no such thing as no compromise. Although this is easier said than done, let God's will be done in that His love, in us and through us, shall endure forever.
Amen.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Messenger
I couldn't find a specific verse, but I just wanted to write. I shared a passage on Wednesday for Cornerstone's weekly prayer meetings. The message was about sinful habits based off of Hebrews 10:26. This passage was on my heart for the past week and I really wanted to share it with Cornerstone. Throughout the first two songs, I kept my eyes on the door hoping more people would come. As I finished up and dismissed everyone to go out and pray, that is when everyone started to walk through the door. As I was about to pray, a friend of mine saw me punching the wall and gave me a weird look. I sighed with disappointment and spoke with God for the alloted time.
I don't want to sound like all is well between me and God, but I wanted to share something that deeply convicted me; something that was also definitely applicable to Cornerstone. Despite the fact that I missed a few of my main points and my presentation was bleh, I was angry that there were so many late comers.
As we were about to close, my friend sat next to me and told me, "The people who needed to hear that message definitely missed out tonight. Don't be so hard on yourself. You are only God's messenger. Just let God and the Holy Spirit work their way into their hearts."
And that was it. I am just a messenger that relied a little too much on myself that day. I hope I realize that and really pray that I will continue to seek the Lord for assistance. I also pray that this messengers will get other opportunities to be a light for my Savior.
Amen..!
I don't want to sound like all is well between me and God, but I wanted to share something that deeply convicted me; something that was also definitely applicable to Cornerstone. Despite the fact that I missed a few of my main points and my presentation was bleh, I was angry that there were so many late comers.
As we were about to close, my friend sat next to me and told me, "The people who needed to hear that message definitely missed out tonight. Don't be so hard on yourself. You are only God's messenger. Just let God and the Holy Spirit work their way into their hearts."
And that was it. I am just a messenger that relied a little too much on myself that day. I hope I realize that and really pray that I will continue to seek the Lord for assistance. I also pray that this messengers will get other opportunities to be a light for my Savior.
Amen..!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Pearly Whites
"He must increase, but I must decrease."
John 3:30
"How do you stay so happy all the time?"
I had to laugh a little when I was asked this. It is usually interesting how a non-Christian or a new believer views me. They tell me about life and complains about its hardship, yet they look at me. Am I an idiot? Has the world pushed me so far that I don't care anymore?
No!
When I was a young Christian, I had a group of guys that I always hung out with. I have to say that these guys were something else! They were funny, never uttered a single curse word, happy, optimistic, and just gung ho about everything. I thought that they were just a bunch of those closet angry people or something is missing in their heads, but no, something was definitely up.
.. and that was the love of Christ. As I was trying to comfort a friend, I explained, "I believe because I have seen; I have seen enough to know.. that God exists. I worship Him because He gave everything; gave and gave until He died. Likewise, I am trying to do the same because I know of this true Love. I am cheerful because I have the greatest Love in the world in my life!"
The response I got was something along the lines of, "Haha I should talk to you more often!"
Happiness isn't hard to come by. As a matter of fact, its usually right under your nose :)
Amen.
John 3:30
"How do you stay so happy all the time?"
I had to laugh a little when I was asked this. It is usually interesting how a non-Christian or a new believer views me. They tell me about life and complains about its hardship, yet they look at me. Am I an idiot? Has the world pushed me so far that I don't care anymore?
No!
When I was a young Christian, I had a group of guys that I always hung out with. I have to say that these guys were something else! They were funny, never uttered a single curse word, happy, optimistic, and just gung ho about everything. I thought that they were just a bunch of those closet angry people or something is missing in their heads, but no, something was definitely up.
.. and that was the love of Christ. As I was trying to comfort a friend, I explained, "I believe because I have seen; I have seen enough to know.. that God exists. I worship Him because He gave everything; gave and gave until He died. Likewise, I am trying to do the same because I know of this true Love. I am cheerful because I have the greatest Love in the world in my life!"
The response I got was something along the lines of, "Haha I should talk to you more often!"
Happiness isn't hard to come by. As a matter of fact, its usually right under your nose :)
Amen.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Prayer
For tonight's Cornerstone Large Group discussion, we talked about prayer. Prayer in the context of a sure "thing" that we have in our lives. Many of the responses that I got from my group was similar to things I have heard in the past before; this applies to me as well.
Our Prayers: selfish, only when we want something, only when we are happy, only when we
have time, easily forget to pray throughout our lives, non-existent prayer life.
It's time to stop fooling ourselves. When we say that God has been distant in our lives, who do you think is the one moving away? It sure as heck is not God that is running away from us.
Our lives revolve around so many things that it just pushes God to the back of our minds. We forget; but when we do remember, we are too busy and caught up with life to bring Him back.
I put it in this context: If you really cared for someone, what would be the one thing that you want them to have in their lives? God.
With God in your life, everything is bright and you should be able to taste the victory. Pray to your Lord and Savior because He is the most important thing in our lives; not because of what He does, but because of who He is.
Amen
Our Prayers: selfish, only when we want something, only when we are happy, only when we
have time, easily forget to pray throughout our lives, non-existent prayer life.
It's time to stop fooling ourselves. When we say that God has been distant in our lives, who do you think is the one moving away? It sure as heck is not God that is running away from us.
Our lives revolve around so many things that it just pushes God to the back of our minds. We forget; but when we do remember, we are too busy and caught up with life to bring Him back.
I put it in this context: If you really cared for someone, what would be the one thing that you want them to have in their lives? God.
With God in your life, everything is bright and you should be able to taste the victory. Pray to your Lord and Savior because He is the most important thing in our lives; not because of what He does, but because of who He is.
Amen
Monday, October 19, 2009
Humble Hearts
For this is what the high and lofty One says--he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite."
Isaiah 57:15
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James 4:10
God humbled me in terms of my abilities and what I can handle. I've heard stories from Purdue Alumni and how Cornerstone was run back in the past and I have to say, "WHOA!"
Having my heart and mind set, I thought that I had everything ready to be a small group leader. I was acting all high and mighty knowing that I had a direct influence on these people; I could actually save a life?? That gave me balls of steel.
But God gave me a wake up call. These abilities, emotions, wisdom, the knowledge, the leadership qualities, the laughter, the love was not of my own. I have been given provisions all my life and I've realized that I have not been giving enough credit to the One who gave it all. To humble myself to the One who is up in Heaven, knowing that this opportunity was given to me because of love for me.
Yes. A man who had everything came down to Earth to die for nothing worthwhile, but to choose to reside in this humbled heart of mine. Here I stand in humbleness and I am glad.
Amen.
Isaiah 57:15
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James 4:10
God humbled me in terms of my abilities and what I can handle. I've heard stories from Purdue Alumni and how Cornerstone was run back in the past and I have to say, "WHOA!"
Having my heart and mind set, I thought that I had everything ready to be a small group leader. I was acting all high and mighty knowing that I had a direct influence on these people; I could actually save a life?? That gave me balls of steel.
But God gave me a wake up call. These abilities, emotions, wisdom, the knowledge, the leadership qualities, the laughter, the love was not of my own. I have been given provisions all my life and I've realized that I have not been giving enough credit to the One who gave it all. To humble myself to the One who is up in Heaven, knowing that this opportunity was given to me because of love for me.
Yes. A man who had everything came down to Earth to die for nothing worthwhile, but to choose to reside in this humbled heart of mine. Here I stand in humbleness and I am glad.
Amen.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
And Naturally . . .
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33
"O you of little faith?" Yep thats me. Holding a leadership position in Cornerstone, been walking with the Lord for so long, yet. . .
Like a pagan, I run towards things that I want. Oh man there are just somethings that I want with all my heart. I cannot disclose them for you, but considering the world, I long to conform. I considered God's provisions for me and for my future, but I am still wavering.
On my drive back to Woodfield today waiting on traffic, I prayed a loud prayer. "God that you would just continually change me from the inside out; so that I will seek you with all my heart. Things of this earth will not please me or love me like you do. Oh Lord, with all my brokenness, I come to you and lay my transgressions at your feet. God, I am an idiot."
Amen.
Matthew 6:33
"O you of little faith?" Yep thats me. Holding a leadership position in Cornerstone, been walking with the Lord for so long, yet. . .
Like a pagan, I run towards things that I want. Oh man there are just somethings that I want with all my heart. I cannot disclose them for you, but considering the world, I long to conform. I considered God's provisions for me and for my future, but I am still wavering.
On my drive back to Woodfield today waiting on traffic, I prayed a loud prayer. "God that you would just continually change me from the inside out; so that I will seek you with all my heart. Things of this earth will not please me or love me like you do. Oh Lord, with all my brokenness, I come to you and lay my transgressions at your feet. God, I am an idiot."
Amen.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Profit and Salvation
But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ...
Philippians 3:7-8
As a business major, the only word that sparks in my mind and everyone else around me is profit. A positive return on investments will make the world go around.
We look at the life of Jesus Christ. He came down from Heaven from the right hand side of God and made himself nothing. Nothing was to be gained in a worthwhile sense that would benefit God in anyway. Yet Christ died on the Cross to save all of our lives.
Now in the business world, Jesus would get fired for sure.
When I was a wee little Freshman, I was asked by my leader Tim Chou if I was interested in leading for Cornerstone during my Sophomore year. The opportunity seeker that I am, accepted immediately. At that point, all I wanted was the status that could be put on paper, you know, like my Resume. But by the grace of God, I soon realized that the reasons that I was serving were all wrong. My entire Sophomore year resulted in my own spiritual growth rather than me attempting to lead others to Christ.
And what a ride it has been! God has been so good to me through the people that He has allowed into my life and the things that He has shown me. There are ups and downs and downs and downs, but I will praise my Father in Heaven nonetheless.
I will probably take another perspective on this verse tomorrow. Stay tuned!
Amen.
Philippians 3:7-8
As a business major, the only word that sparks in my mind and everyone else around me is profit. A positive return on investments will make the world go around.
We look at the life of Jesus Christ. He came down from Heaven from the right hand side of God and made himself nothing. Nothing was to be gained in a worthwhile sense that would benefit God in anyway. Yet Christ died on the Cross to save all of our lives.
Now in the business world, Jesus would get fired for sure.
When I was a wee little Freshman, I was asked by my leader Tim Chou if I was interested in leading for Cornerstone during my Sophomore year. The opportunity seeker that I am, accepted immediately. At that point, all I wanted was the status that could be put on paper, you know, like my Resume. But by the grace of God, I soon realized that the reasons that I was serving were all wrong. My entire Sophomore year resulted in my own spiritual growth rather than me attempting to lead others to Christ.
And what a ride it has been! God has been so good to me through the people that He has allowed into my life and the things that He has shown me. There are ups and downs and downs and downs, but I will praise my Father in Heaven nonetheless.
I will probably take another perspective on this verse tomorrow. Stay tuned!
Amen.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Heart Failure
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
Psalm 73:26
I am weak at heart. Scary movies, live performances, skits, singing in front of a crowd, COM 114 speeches, calling people up, you name it, I can't do it. I get the butterflies almost instantaneously as if I was actually a mutant butterfly man myself.
Just recently, an aura of dread and hopelessness has come upon me. It was very hard to see the light of things. I prayed for comfort and wisdom, but God did not deliver.
He did not deliver the one thing I wanted, but gave me something else instead: His Love.
I've recently realized how much I cannot do without depending on the Lord. My God, provider, portion, and redeemer. The Love that is the only one worthy to be considered true love.
So listen.
Through Him leading me through, I can lead Bible studies, I can pray in front of an entire church, I can share my testimony shamelessly, I can dance and sing, I can act a fool.. and a fool for God I can be!
Lord take this brokenness and piece it back together so that I can become more for you again.
Amen.
Psalm 73:26
I am weak at heart. Scary movies, live performances, skits, singing in front of a crowd, COM 114 speeches, calling people up, you name it, I can't do it. I get the butterflies almost instantaneously as if I was actually a mutant butterfly man myself.
Just recently, an aura of dread and hopelessness has come upon me. It was very hard to see the light of things. I prayed for comfort and wisdom, but God did not deliver.
He did not deliver the one thing I wanted, but gave me something else instead: His Love.
I've recently realized how much I cannot do without depending on the Lord. My God, provider, portion, and redeemer. The Love that is the only one worthy to be considered true love.
So listen.
Through Him leading me through, I can lead Bible studies, I can pray in front of an entire church, I can share my testimony shamelessly, I can dance and sing, I can act a fool.. and a fool for God I can be!
Lord take this brokenness and piece it back together so that I can become more for you again.
Amen.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Scary
My Fear is this verse:
"... But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'"
Luke 13:25
This verse is from a passage titled "The Narrow Door" in Luke 13:22-30.
Many believe that they are saved. In America, numbers of people professing as Christians reach up to 80-90% yet how many of us really know Christ. Facebook profiles tell me that you're a Christian, but I do not see any fruits growing on your branches. Why this passage scares me so much is because "many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to".
This narrow path is Jesus Christ. We must realize that association with Christ will not bring us salvation, but identification with Him. Eating and drinking is not enough to maintain a solid foundational relationship with someone. We have to do more than that.
Relationships can never be one sided for it to work. This passage may infer that we need to do deeds/work in order to receive salvation, but is this not true? We need to run after God just as He sent His Son down to us.
Hearing "... But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'" sends a chill down my soul. Let us repent and trust in the Lord.
Amen.
"... But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'"
Luke 13:25
This verse is from a passage titled "The Narrow Door" in Luke 13:22-30.
Many believe that they are saved. In America, numbers of people professing as Christians reach up to 80-90% yet how many of us really know Christ. Facebook profiles tell me that you're a Christian, but I do not see any fruits growing on your branches. Why this passage scares me so much is because "many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to".
This narrow path is Jesus Christ. We must realize that association with Christ will not bring us salvation, but identification with Him. Eating and drinking is not enough to maintain a solid foundational relationship with someone. We have to do more than that.
Relationships can never be one sided for it to work. This passage may infer that we need to do deeds/work in order to receive salvation, but is this not true? We need to run after God just as He sent His Son down to us.
Hearing "... But he will answer, 'I don't know you or where you come from.'" sends a chill down my soul. Let us repent and trust in the Lord.
Amen.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Repentance is First
This is what the Sovereign Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, says "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it."
Isaiah 30:15
Living according to this verse goes against all human nature. We live to run and succeed. Society elects only those worthy of status and ability. And that is why the second part of this verse say, "but you would have none of it." We are innately fixed on solving problems by ourselves. You should look to no one because that is only a sign of weakness, which disproves your own ability.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Matthew 11:28-29
God wants us to rest in Him, not to be burdened over and over again with sin. Our salvation is not borne from a list of good deeds, but from out dependence on Him. With that we need to repent; to free ourselves from the burdens of this world, which drags us away from our Savior.
This week tore me apart. Exams, studying, misc. I was stressing out to the max. But I need to learn to take up the yoke that will give me rest, not the heavy yoke that I think I can carry by myself. The Lord calls us to rest on his gentle and humble yoke. And to do this, we need to repent.
When we repent, we are in agreement with God. And there is nothing else but rest when we are in unity with our Lord.
Amen.
Isaiah 30:15
Living according to this verse goes against all human nature. We live to run and succeed. Society elects only those worthy of status and ability. And that is why the second part of this verse say, "but you would have none of it." We are innately fixed on solving problems by ourselves. You should look to no one because that is only a sign of weakness, which disproves your own ability.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."
Matthew 11:28-29
God wants us to rest in Him, not to be burdened over and over again with sin. Our salvation is not borne from a list of good deeds, but from out dependence on Him. With that we need to repent; to free ourselves from the burdens of this world, which drags us away from our Savior.
This week tore me apart. Exams, studying, misc. I was stressing out to the max. But I need to learn to take up the yoke that will give me rest, not the heavy yoke that I think I can carry by myself. The Lord calls us to rest on his gentle and humble yoke. And to do this, we need to repent.
When we repent, we are in agreement with God. And there is nothing else but rest when we are in unity with our Lord.
Amen.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Screw Stress Balls
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
God is my stress reliever.
The part of the verse that applies most to me is the transforming and renewing of the mind. I fantasize a lot. As I told Richard while we were studying at the humanities library at Purdue, I daydreamed for a good 5 minutes while I was suppose to be studying.
I find it hard to keep my mind off of somethings. Starcraft, Facebook, you name it. These distractions only hinder me from knowing and being with my God. I've realized that all I really wanted was to love these things, but never allow them to surpass God's #1 slot in my head.
Every little thing is ticking me off this week. But I don't need anger management. I need God.
"I pray for transformation and renewal of my mind. Liberate me from what is currently clouding my judgement. Would you be the light for my path again as I attempt to walk with you again? Save me from my transgressions and quell my anger. For what I am now is not pleasing to you."
God is good, all the [explict] time.
Amen.
Romans 12:2
God is my stress reliever.
The part of the verse that applies most to me is the transforming and renewing of the mind. I fantasize a lot. As I told Richard while we were studying at the humanities library at Purdue, I daydreamed for a good 5 minutes while I was suppose to be studying.
I find it hard to keep my mind off of somethings. Starcraft, Facebook, you name it. These distractions only hinder me from knowing and being with my God. I've realized that all I really wanted was to love these things, but never allow them to surpass God's #1 slot in my head.
Every little thing is ticking me off this week. But I don't need anger management. I need God.
"I pray for transformation and renewal of my mind. Liberate me from what is currently clouding my judgement. Would you be the light for my path again as I attempt to walk with you again? Save me from my transgressions and quell my anger. For what I am now is not pleasing to you."
God is good, all the [explict] time.
Amen.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Home is Where the Heart is
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name.
Ephesians 3:14-15
When I think about home, I always think about my home in Chicago. I tell people, "I will never call West Lafayette my home!" in all fun and foolishness. Purdue is where I go to school, not where I live.
My definition of home, in this case, was a point where my mother and father were, where my two sisters lived, along with all my cousins, aunts, and uncles.
I've come to learn that there can be more than one place called home. At Purdue, I've made so many friends and they've practically become family. We share stories with each other, give advice, and be there for one another when times are rough. We give each other Godly advice as well and share with each other the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
I am glad.
Because I have a family in Chicago and a family in West Lafayette. This I consider my earthly family.
Although my earthly family is not strong or stable. We fight at times and curse each other out. I am encouraged to know that my heavenly family is one with the Lord. Our heavenly family, with God taking care of us, will be so perfect that we will not realize the pain and bickering that we have caused each other here on earth, only to realize God's sovereignty and majesty.
"Home is where the heart is" My heart is with Jesus. Which means that my home is as well. I love my families everywhere and I pray that they will know Christ in any point of their lives, but I find much comfort in the greatest family of all in the body of Christ.
Amen.
Ephesians 3:14-15
When I think about home, I always think about my home in Chicago. I tell people, "I will never call West Lafayette my home!" in all fun and foolishness. Purdue is where I go to school, not where I live.
My definition of home, in this case, was a point where my mother and father were, where my two sisters lived, along with all my cousins, aunts, and uncles.
I've come to learn that there can be more than one place called home. At Purdue, I've made so many friends and they've practically become family. We share stories with each other, give advice, and be there for one another when times are rough. We give each other Godly advice as well and share with each other the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
I am glad.
Because I have a family in Chicago and a family in West Lafayette. This I consider my earthly family.
Although my earthly family is not strong or stable. We fight at times and curse each other out. I am encouraged to know that my heavenly family is one with the Lord. Our heavenly family, with God taking care of us, will be so perfect that we will not realize the pain and bickering that we have caused each other here on earth, only to realize God's sovereignty and majesty.
"Home is where the heart is" My heart is with Jesus. Which means that my home is as well. I love my families everywhere and I pray that they will know Christ in any point of their lives, but I find much comfort in the greatest family of all in the body of Christ.
Amen.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
What is Worship?
Music is just music, just as this song is. But if we take time to sit down and listen through all the beats and melodies of the instruments, we can hear the Holy Spirit speaking to us through these artists.
So let these lyrics pierce your heart as it did mine. As God washed away my blindness and broke through my deafness, He called to me time and time again hoping to catch me once more. Father, you've shattered my darkness.
The word "Again" in the chorus implies that there was more than one instance that we were alive. Being sinners, we have nowhere and no one to turn to except our Savior. By doing so we are saved and the gap is bridged from us to God. But because Satan is always trying to lure us back into Hell with him, we trip and we stumble.
Matt Maher's "Alive Again" helps portray the mercy that is of God. Whether we walk or fall, God is always trying to win us back. We die again and again, but because of God, we are Alive Again.
Amen!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Psalm 42:5,11
Because they're the same verse.
Here we go.
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
In this Psalm, the author repeats these lines twice. A repetition that I believe that comes from deep within the soul of this man. He asks himself why. Why am I so sad when I know of God? Why am I so disturbed when I know of my Savior?
The Psalmist knows, but cannot trust in the Lord.
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" - Matthew 6:25
This is me. I worry about the future and what God has in store for me. What? This is a oxymoron. I worry about what God has in store for me? This is truth; yet I cannot help it.
I will continue to pray for understanding for I know my God is a God whose hope does not disappoint.
Amen.
Here we go.
Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
In this Psalm, the author repeats these lines twice. A repetition that I believe that comes from deep within the soul of this man. He asks himself why. Why am I so sad when I know of God? Why am I so disturbed when I know of my Savior?
The Psalmist knows, but cannot trust in the Lord.
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" - Matthew 6:25
This is me. I worry about the future and what God has in store for me. What? This is a oxymoron. I worry about what God has in store for me? This is truth; yet I cannot help it.
I will continue to pray for understanding for I know my God is a God whose hope does not disappoint.
Amen.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Faith That Waits
And the Lord visited Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did for Sarah as He had spoken. For Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him. Genesis 21:1-2
Yeah God. You allowed a 100 year old woman to have a baby.
When we take a look at Abraham and Sarah and their son Issac, we can take into account of God's faithfulness. It was all going to happen, we just have no clue when.
I can't say that I am not anxious when I am waiting on the Lord's promises in my life. As a matter of fact, I cannot wait until I see what the Lord has in store for me!
"What will I do after college?" "Who will I fall in love with and marry?" "Kids?" "Church?" "Ministry?" "FUTURE????"
I really want to know now and thats that. But what about God's timing in my life? Since my timing itself is terrible (absolutely terrible), I need God to continuously work in me. With that, I need to learn to become patient and accept God's way of doing things. For it is written, Romans 5:5 . . .
"And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
I don't know what will happen next, but let your will be done in everything that I am!
Amen!
Yeah God. You allowed a 100 year old woman to have a baby.
When we take a look at Abraham and Sarah and their son Issac, we can take into account of God's faithfulness. It was all going to happen, we just have no clue when.
I can't say that I am not anxious when I am waiting on the Lord's promises in my life. As a matter of fact, I cannot wait until I see what the Lord has in store for me!
"What will I do after college?" "Who will I fall in love with and marry?" "Kids?" "Church?" "Ministry?" "FUTURE????"
I really want to know now and thats that. But what about God's timing in my life? Since my timing itself is terrible (absolutely terrible), I need God to continuously work in me. With that, I need to learn to become patient and accept God's way of doing things. For it is written, Romans 5:5 . . .
"And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."
I don't know what will happen next, but let your will be done in everything that I am!
Amen!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Small Groups Formed
What can I say, but to continually to encourage and cheer my fellow Cornerstone stewardship team on for the hard work thus far.
Joseph, Rachel, Dave, Chris, Alice, Chris, Gloria, Bryan, Sharon, and Esther.
Let's keep each other in prayer!
Every time we talk about small groups, I get pissed off. There is always an objectification of the members. "Love your small group!" and "Lets love these people!". There is a definite implication that we as leaders are to love these members just because they are a part of our small group.
Relationships go deeper than that. Especially since we are trying to model after the relationship that we have with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are to love them because they are our fellow brothers and sisters and they understand the meaning of True Love, not because it is an obligation.
Although it may seem easy to say now, relationships are hard to maintain especially if you fear the incompatibility between two persons. Just maintain a Christ like mindset no matter what. God sent Christ down knowing that the earth was full of weirdos (aka sinners eh eh). With that said, anything is possible with the Holy Spirit as our guide. Pray for your brothers and sisters who will have the pleasure of sharing their experiences/life/goals/walk with you in a small group environment!
Amen!
Joseph, Rachel, Dave, Chris, Alice, Chris, Gloria, Bryan, Sharon, and Esther.
Let's keep each other in prayer!
Every time we talk about small groups, I get pissed off. There is always an objectification of the members. "Love your small group!" and "Lets love these people!". There is a definite implication that we as leaders are to love these members just because they are a part of our small group.
Relationships go deeper than that. Especially since we are trying to model after the relationship that we have with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are to love them because they are our fellow brothers and sisters and they understand the meaning of True Love, not because it is an obligation.
Although it may seem easy to say now, relationships are hard to maintain especially if you fear the incompatibility between two persons. Just maintain a Christ like mindset no matter what. God sent Christ down knowing that the earth was full of weirdos (aka sinners eh eh). With that said, anything is possible with the Holy Spirit as our guide. Pray for your brothers and sisters who will have the pleasure of sharing their experiences/life/goals/walk with you in a small group environment!
Amen!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
In Athens
Acts 17:16-23
I missed basically the entire sermon this Sunday due to some bad Chapaghetti I had Saturday night. I ended up taking my bible and reading this passage in the stall. This just means the Word can be read anywhere.
This passage depicts the mission of Paul in Athens. As he roams throughout the streets, he faces many faces of worship. The Athenians do not settle for just one idol, but many. As Paul preaches the good news and Jesus of the resurrection, all found him odd and confusing.
What? So we love Jesus. Looking at us from hindsight, you would have to agree: Christians are weird. Why do they act this way? It would be weird, if other people didn't think that we were weird!
Do not be ashamed. Speak and act the truth that is of verses Acts 17:24-31 and proclaim the Word of God as our life.
How refreshing to know You don't need us.
How amazing to find that You want us.
Amen!
I missed basically the entire sermon this Sunday due to some bad Chapaghetti I had Saturday night. I ended up taking my bible and reading this passage in the stall. This just means the Word can be read anywhere.
This passage depicts the mission of Paul in Athens. As he roams throughout the streets, he faces many faces of worship. The Athenians do not settle for just one idol, but many. As Paul preaches the good news and Jesus of the resurrection, all found him odd and confusing.
What? So we love Jesus. Looking at us from hindsight, you would have to agree: Christians are weird. Why do they act this way? It would be weird, if other people didn't think that we were weird!
Do not be ashamed. Speak and act the truth that is of verses Acts 17:24-31 and proclaim the Word of God as our life.
How refreshing to know You don't need us.
How amazing to find that You want us.
Amen!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
I Finally Found the Reason for Living...
Its been a while since I've written here. The time between might not be written down, but it has definitely been memorable. The summer offered a countless number of blessings where God revealed Himself through the work of others. I was so humbled to the point where I threw myself at the mercy of the Lord. The love that pours out from the Cross and anoints my empty cup with overflowing love. What more can I say? I've never been so content!
During the summer, I did not get the job nor any other selfish things that I so longed for , but God provided me with so much more.
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:5
During the summer, I did not get the job nor any other selfish things that I so longed for , but God provided me with so much more.
And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. Romans 5:5
Saturday, June 13, 2009
June 13, 2009 - Tree 63 - I Stand for You
Jesus, I stand for You
No matter what You lead me through
They will chase me out, and close me down
but Jesus, I stand for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You
Jesus, I've stood my ground
When unbelief was all around
I have felt the sting rejection brings
but Jesus, I still stand for You.
I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You
A time will come when everyone
will turn their eyes on the risen son
Until that day, this world will turn away
So I'll take your hand, I'll always stand for You
Guilty of disgrace, but You took my place
Jesus, I'll always stand for You.
I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You
For you
I'll always stand for You
Let this song represent our hearts in all we do for Christ!
Amen!
June 12, 2009 - Indy!
28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28-30
I am currently on KJ's roommate's ginormous flat screen TV using the internet. Everyone one (Richard is asleep, except for those two lovebirds.
Tonight, I ventured down to Indianapolis with Richard to attend a praise night hosted by a church that Rachel, Jack, Alice, Gloria, and whoever goes to. The praise was pretty awesome and I had a great time worshiping the Lord! Pastor Joseph Kim was also there and he gave a message for us in between the praise sessions. The theme was Fear Factor.
When we think about Fear Factor, we automatically think back to that gruesome show where they make the contestants preform tasks that would induce fear. But what do I fear in life?
Oh there are many things: heights, roller coasters, scary movies (I actually want to watch a few now, but I'll need a group of people hahaha), and so many other things. These fears in life tire me to death. Sinning against God, with the guilt entailed, honestly stresses me out. The fear of sin happening again, the fear of the devil's temptation, and the fear of falling into that temptation is heart aching.
When you concur your fears, it is ideal to do it one step at a time. An example would be overcoming my fear of heights. First I would pull out a ladder, climb the first step, then the next, and then the next and so on until I finally get to the top and hopefully cure myself of that fear.
But this is not how it is like between us and God. Christ has offered us His life! The sacrifice of the Lamb has already cleared our sins just like that! The ENTIRETY of our sins disappear! When we need rest, God will give us the easy yoke.
Thanks guys for such an awesome night!
Amen!
I am currently on KJ's roommate's ginormous flat screen TV using the internet. Everyone one (Richard is asleep, except for those two lovebirds.
Tonight, I ventured down to Indianapolis with Richard to attend a praise night hosted by a church that Rachel, Jack, Alice, Gloria, and whoever goes to. The praise was pretty awesome and I had a great time worshiping the Lord! Pastor Joseph Kim was also there and he gave a message for us in between the praise sessions. The theme was Fear Factor.
When we think about Fear Factor, we automatically think back to that gruesome show where they make the contestants preform tasks that would induce fear. But what do I fear in life?
Oh there are many things: heights, roller coasters, scary movies (I actually want to watch a few now, but I'll need a group of people hahaha), and so many other things. These fears in life tire me to death. Sinning against God, with the guilt entailed, honestly stresses me out. The fear of sin happening again, the fear of the devil's temptation, and the fear of falling into that temptation is heart aching.
When you concur your fears, it is ideal to do it one step at a time. An example would be overcoming my fear of heights. First I would pull out a ladder, climb the first step, then the next, and then the next and so on until I finally get to the top and hopefully cure myself of that fear.
But this is not how it is like between us and God. Christ has offered us His life! The sacrifice of the Lamb has already cleared our sins just like that! The ENTIRETY of our sins disappear! When we need rest, God will give us the easy yoke.
Thanks guys for such an awesome night!
Amen!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
June 7, 2009 - John 3
Starting Over
In this chapter, Jesus answers Nicodemus, a Pharisee, who was considered a well educated and wealthy man, asks the ultimate question. The question was, "How do you get into Heaven?" or in other words, "Where is the start over button in my life?"
This question may have a simple answer (1 Peter 1:16), but people often misconstrue this simple answer. There are two inadequate answers: the curve and the balance.
The curve is like the bell shaped grading curve you get in your classes. You want to get good enough grades so that you are better than the majority of the people.
The balance is the balancing instrument with the two sides: one side is heavier than the other or they are both equal.
People often fall for these misinterpretations. You just have to be more holy than most people and you will be fine. Or you just have to have more holy deeds than sinful deeds and you will be fine. Pastor Green gave us an example about the church offering that is collected every service. A church would get a new roof just because the mafia thinks that they could knock off a guy and atone for their sin by just paying it back to God.
This "start over button" that God offers is only available through Jesus Christ! Only through faith in Jesus Christ can one reach Heaven!
And we know that people judge us view us differently as Christians and I'm glad they do! Hopefully they will see Heaven hungry, Christ-like servants and really question themselves about Christ. Now we know that we are ambassadors of Christ, but our faith in Him tell us more than just about ourselves:
Our faith in Christ reveals to others about just how faithful Christ really is!
He offers us this start over button that we never deserved and even allowed us to live with Him!
Praise the Lord for His faithfulness!
Amen.
In this chapter, Jesus answers Nicodemus, a Pharisee, who was considered a well educated and wealthy man, asks the ultimate question. The question was, "How do you get into Heaven?" or in other words, "Where is the start over button in my life?"
This question may have a simple answer (1 Peter 1:16), but people often misconstrue this simple answer. There are two inadequate answers: the curve and the balance.
The curve is like the bell shaped grading curve you get in your classes. You want to get good enough grades so that you are better than the majority of the people.
The balance is the balancing instrument with the two sides: one side is heavier than the other or they are both equal.
People often fall for these misinterpretations. You just have to be more holy than most people and you will be fine. Or you just have to have more holy deeds than sinful deeds and you will be fine. Pastor Green gave us an example about the church offering that is collected every service. A church would get a new roof just because the mafia thinks that they could knock off a guy and atone for their sin by just paying it back to God.
This "start over button" that God offers is only available through Jesus Christ! Only through faith in Jesus Christ can one reach Heaven!
And we know that people judge us view us differently as Christians and I'm glad they do! Hopefully they will see Heaven hungry, Christ-like servants and really question themselves about Christ. Now we know that we are ambassadors of Christ, but our faith in Him tell us more than just about ourselves:
Our faith in Christ reveals to others about just how faithful Christ really is!
He offers us this start over button that we never deserved and even allowed us to live with Him!
Praise the Lord for His faithfulness!
Amen.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
May 30, 2009 - Lamentations 3:25
The LORD is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him.
Lamentations 3:25
What do I want? I want what my better off friends have. Their lives don't seem as hard as mind and it sure looks like I am suffering a lot more than they are. When are you going to give me what I want and need? When is it my turn? How much longer do I wait until I get something good?
Personally, I ask these questions a lot. I see other people who are so much better off than I am and start questioning the Lord, why am I this way? But who knows how God works. He made us as beings to worship Him. So hopefully I see that I am that vessel for Him; my purpose in life is the glorify Him and enjoy it both as single actions. I pray that I can see what good things that God wants me to have and not the things that I personally want. And overall have Him on top of my list.
Amen.
Lamentations 3:25
What do I want? I want what my better off friends have. Their lives don't seem as hard as mind and it sure looks like I am suffering a lot more than they are. When are you going to give me what I want and need? When is it my turn? How much longer do I wait until I get something good?
Personally, I ask these questions a lot. I see other people who are so much better off than I am and start questioning the Lord, why am I this way? But who knows how God works. He made us as beings to worship Him. So hopefully I see that I am that vessel for Him; my purpose in life is the glorify Him and enjoy it both as single actions. I pray that I can see what good things that God wants me to have and not the things that I personally want. And overall have Him on top of my list.
Amen.
Friday, May 29, 2009
May 29, 2009 - AMBA - Hebrews 11:13-16
If you read the entire chapter, you will see that the entire chapter is filled with a short description of how these Bible characters lived faithfully for God.. EXCEPT! for verses 13 to 16. Odd isn't it.
13All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth.
14People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own.
15If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return.
16Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.
Today's speaker at Ambassadors.. I forgot his name.. talked about living by faith by using this passage. He first made us list our personal top three things that we currently want in life ie. being successful, making a lot of money, finding that special someone, getting good grades, finding a job, etc. The point of this was to "surprisingly" find out that loving God was not listed at number one or even number two or three!
Why was it so hard to live by faith? The biggest reasons that hit me was that persecution and pain. When we live by faith, we are persecuted why? In this day and age, everything needs a definite answer and therefore, to live by faith is to give up all intellectual thinking, in this case, to be stupid in the eyes of our non-believer loved ones. Also, I would assume that you all would agree that persevering through faith in troubling times is terribly difficult. We question God's love, His presence, as well as His Promise.
Overall, it was hard understanding him since he keep repeating vague points, but I think his main point was that: if you want to live by faith, you have to really want God!
If I really wanted God like I wanted a girlfriend, money, A+'s, then there would be no problem living by faith. As a matter of fact, if God was number one on our lists, I highly doubt that there will be a number two or number three!
NO NO NO
THAT IS NOT THE CASE! We should be living lives with all of that "stuff"! BUT with God as number one! There is no problem "living with the things promised" (Verse13), but if it hinders your relationship with God, then something has to be done. But we have to realize that we are aliens and strangers of this earth. We, as believers, do not belong here. Verse13, we do not receive the things promised doesn't mean that we don't get them, it means we don't love them in our lives as much as we should.
And if we go on to verses 15 and 16, we are continuously looking for a place; usually a place without pain, without grief, without suffering, where we can spend our times with our loved ones, etc. Without knowing, we are actually unconsciously looking for... Heaven :D
And in the end, it comes down to us wanting Heaven sooo bad! In that case, living by faith is a sound answer.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Another thing: (2nd Part of Verse 16)Do you live lives that God Himself is not ashamed to call Himself your God? Hopefully so! Personally, I have to re-evaluate myself and reset all my priorities and move God to His rightful first place in my life. Hopefully, God is not ashamed to call Aaron Lam his God :D and build me a nice city up in Heaven ^^
Amen!
13All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth.
14People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own.
15If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return.
16Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.
Today's speaker at Ambassadors.. I forgot his name.. talked about living by faith by using this passage. He first made us list our personal top three things that we currently want in life ie. being successful, making a lot of money, finding that special someone, getting good grades, finding a job, etc. The point of this was to "surprisingly" find out that loving God was not listed at number one or even number two or three!
Why was it so hard to live by faith? The biggest reasons that hit me was that persecution and pain. When we live by faith, we are persecuted why? In this day and age, everything needs a definite answer and therefore, to live by faith is to give up all intellectual thinking, in this case, to be stupid in the eyes of our non-believer loved ones. Also, I would assume that you all would agree that persevering through faith in troubling times is terribly difficult. We question God's love, His presence, as well as His Promise.
Overall, it was hard understanding him since he keep repeating vague points, but I think his main point was that: if you want to live by faith, you have to really want God!
If I really wanted God like I wanted a girlfriend, money, A+'s, then there would be no problem living by faith. As a matter of fact, if God was number one on our lists, I highly doubt that there will be a number two or number three!
NO NO NO
THAT IS NOT THE CASE! We should be living lives with all of that "stuff"! BUT with God as number one! There is no problem "living with the things promised" (Verse13), but if it hinders your relationship with God, then something has to be done. But we have to realize that we are aliens and strangers of this earth. We, as believers, do not belong here. Verse13, we do not receive the things promised doesn't mean that we don't get them, it means we don't love them in our lives as much as we should.
And if we go on to verses 15 and 16, we are continuously looking for a place; usually a place without pain, without grief, without suffering, where we can spend our times with our loved ones, etc. Without knowing, we are actually unconsciously looking for... Heaven :D
And in the end, it comes down to us wanting Heaven sooo bad! In that case, living by faith is a sound answer.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Another thing: (2nd Part of Verse 16)Do you live lives that God Himself is not ashamed to call Himself your God? Hopefully so! Personally, I have to re-evaluate myself and reset all my priorities and move God to His rightful first place in my life. Hopefully, God is not ashamed to call Aaron Lam his God :D and build me a nice city up in Heaven ^^
Amen!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
May 28, 2009 - Habakkuk
Habakkuk is one of those Old Testament books that are rarely mentioned. During the retreat, the 3 short chapters of Habakkuk were our daily devotionals.
I found Habakkuk to be very interesting. It is basically a conversation between God and Habakkuk in written format. From chapter 1 to chapter 2, Habakkuk gives two complaints, which are both followed with a response from the Lord. Chapter 3 closes the book with a personal prayer from Habakkuk.
As you read Habakkuk's story, you can't help but to feel his agony. His home, Judah, was being invaded by the Babylonians, yet, knowing that God sees the entirety of this happening, does not do a single thing. Living life, hearing things from other people and experiencing them yourself, you can't help but to know what Habakkuk is going through. We know that God is all powerful and the overseer of all things, yet he will allow these bad things to happen, in this case, allowing the Babylonians to pillage Judah.
What we learn from this book ie. Habakkuk's experience is that we have no idea what God is capable of. Our minds, although seemingly high in intelligence, cannot at all comprehend the greatness that is of God.
In chapter 1 verse 5, the Lord declares:
5 "Look at the nations and watch—
and be utterly amazed.
For I am going to do something in your days
that you would not believe,
even if you were told.
So there must be a reason, usually one that we cannot comprehend, that God is raising up these blood thirsty Babylonians. But why do it in such a cruel manner? Isn't God a God of peace and Love?
Very often, we question God's promise. The promise of salvation; eternal life to us was so easy to come by right? All we had to do was accept Jesus' sacrifice for us on the Cross.
3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time;
it speaks of the end
and will not prove false.
Though it linger, wait for it;
it will certainly come and will not delay.
In this verse, God reminds us that His promise will most definitely come. Even though it lingers (I take this as having a hard time in life), wait for it and it will certainly come. In other words, our faith is being tested. Tested, not in the sense of cruelty, but in hope that we can pull through.
Another thing that Habakukk questions is the presense of God. Is He here or not? If He is why doesn't He do anything to stop this?
20 But the LORD is in his holy temple;
let all the earth be silent before him."
The Lord is always here with us. As kids, we probably have had our time of bad mouthing the teacher when he or she was absent, but the Lord is in his holy temple, always.
Something that I need to learn from Habakukk is the entire chapter 3. Even though he is going through bad times, he realizes that there is just no one like our God. In chapter 3, he gives the Lord endless praise. Verses 17-18 :D
All praise and glory to Him!
Amen.
I found Habakkuk to be very interesting. It is basically a conversation between God and Habakkuk in written format. From chapter 1 to chapter 2, Habakkuk gives two complaints, which are both followed with a response from the Lord. Chapter 3 closes the book with a personal prayer from Habakkuk.
As you read Habakkuk's story, you can't help but to feel his agony. His home, Judah, was being invaded by the Babylonians, yet, knowing that God sees the entirety of this happening, does not do a single thing. Living life, hearing things from other people and experiencing them yourself, you can't help but to know what Habakkuk is going through. We know that God is all powerful and the overseer of all things, yet he will allow these bad things to happen, in this case, allowing the Babylonians to pillage Judah.
What we learn from this book ie. Habakkuk's experience is that we have no idea what God is capable of. Our minds, although seemingly high in intelligence, cannot at all comprehend the greatness that is of God.
In chapter 1 verse 5, the Lord declares:
5 "Look at the nations and watch—
and be utterly amazed.
For I am going to do something in your days
that you would not believe,
even if you were told.
So there must be a reason, usually one that we cannot comprehend, that God is raising up these blood thirsty Babylonians. But why do it in such a cruel manner? Isn't God a God of peace and Love?
Very often, we question God's promise. The promise of salvation; eternal life to us was so easy to come by right? All we had to do was accept Jesus' sacrifice for us on the Cross.
3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time;
it speaks of the end
and will not prove false.
Though it linger, wait for it;
it will certainly come and will not delay.
In this verse, God reminds us that His promise will most definitely come. Even though it lingers (I take this as having a hard time in life), wait for it and it will certainly come. In other words, our faith is being tested. Tested, not in the sense of cruelty, but in hope that we can pull through.
Another thing that Habakukk questions is the presense of God. Is He here or not? If He is why doesn't He do anything to stop this?
20 But the LORD is in his holy temple;
let all the earth be silent before him."
The Lord is always here with us. As kids, we probably have had our time of bad mouthing the teacher when he or she was absent, but the Lord is in his holy temple, always.
Something that I need to learn from Habakukk is the entire chapter 3. Even though he is going through bad times, he realizes that there is just no one like our God. In chapter 3, he gives the Lord endless praise. Verses 17-18 :D
All praise and glory to Him!
Amen.
Friday, May 15, 2009
May 15, 2009 - Amba(5/15/09) - Isaiah 6:8-13
This is a good passage to go over if you have time, but I am just going to comment a little on these six verses. If you need a guide to the rest of this chapter, just go to (http://www.enduringword.com/commentaries/2306.htm).
8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying,
"Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?"
And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
9 He said, "Go and tell this people:
" 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding;
be ever seeing, but never perceiving.'
10 Make the heart of this people calloused;
make their ears dull
and close their eyes. a]" style="font-size: 0.75em; line-height: 0.5em; ">[a]
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts,
and turn and be healed."
11 Then I said, "For how long, O Lord?"
And he answered:
"Until the cities lie ruined
and without inhabitant,
until the houses are left deserted
and the fields ruined and ravaged,
12 until the LORD has sent everyone far away
and the land is utterly forsaken.
13 And though a tenth remains in the land,
it will again be laid waste.
But as the terebinth and oak
leave stumps when they are cut down,
so the holy seed will be the stump in the land."
Isaiah 6:8-13
Here Isaiah displays a heart that is true. In verse 8, we see the Trinity asking, "Whom shall I send... who will go for Us..." God does not really need to ask any questions. He knows all and whomever will stand up, will stand up. This verse begs a difference between two types of servants: one that will say "Here I am, I will go!" and one that will say "Here I am, send me!" The "I will go" servant is a servant who determines that they themselves are ready to serve God, not when God calls him/her. The "send me" servant is a servant whose readiness is determined by God.
I consider myself the "Here I am, I will go!" servant mainly because I believed that I was ready to be a leader figure for the church, when I really wasn't. I did not wait on God's timing, but my own. Despite the fact that Cornerstone offered an amazing opportunity for me to grow, my mindset going into it was not the right one. Unlike Isaiah who was asking the Lord to send him, I told the Lord that I would go. See the difference?
The rest will come tmrw ^^
Amen!
Monday, May 11, 2009
May 11, 2009 - Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
I've heard this verse a million times, but I have yet to truly apply it into my life. It is not because I do not want to trust in God, it is because I don't know how much I should trust in Him. When there are downfalls in life, we usually ask the question why? Why this and why that. We look for answers to all of our problems because we want to know what justification was there for any of this, usually bad, things to happen. I look up to the sky, ever so often, in disbelief that God would have allowed some things that have happened to happen.
The thing is, we try to understand every little thing that God has set for us that we end up confusing ourselves and ultimately pinning all the blame onto Him. I need to learn how to trust in Him with ALL my heart. I am such a prideful person that I cannot stand help. I need to allow God to work in me and not selfishly pursue the life that I believe would be the best for me, but a life that is best for me for God.
Amen.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
May 10, 2009 - Mom's the Word
Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Proverbs 9:9-10, NIV
Fear is the origin of all understanding. According to this verse, the fear of the Lord will bring to anyone wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. But we must realize that this is not a relationship based of off apprehension, but a fear based off of love. What is this kind of fear is this you ask? It is the love shown through a sacrifice on the cross, but if you want a more literal example, you can look at your mother.
Yes it is mother's day. This is the day we celebrate our mothers for these many hard years of labor just so that we may have a plate full of food and a roof over our heads. When we think about benefitting from fear, moms usually take the cake. Having a general sense of momliness, I am sure that all of you have had a good arguement, beating, scolding, and whatever else that has caused you to run with your tail between your legs back into your room sobbing. Thats what moms do; its their job.
I've remember thinking to myself why my mom was such a queen bee. But looking back at those days of feather duster whippings, it was all for my own good; my mom was teaching me.
But God wants the best for us! The instructions that have been given to us over the past years in my life have not always been the most pleasing to ourselves or to our own benefit, but they have been imparted on us for a reason: growth! Although my mother was not and still not a Christian, she pushed onto me morals and ethics that I would not have learned at school. And by the grace of God, she had a little help from my neighbor who was a church counslor at that time who ultimately brought me to church. From that point on, she allowed me to go to church knowing that there could be some benefit from it. She wanted the best for me just as our Father in Heaven does. Honor thy mother today and thank the Lord for giving you such an amazing woman into your life! So let these seeds that are continuously being planted, be freakin' planted so that our good will ultimately result in God's good!
Amen!
Monday, May 4, 2009
May 4, 2009 - My Conversation With a Hedge
He who neglects discipline despises himself, But he who listens to reproof acquires understanding.
The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, And before honor comes humility.
Ever take a good look at your friends and realize how great everything is going for them compared to you? I feel this crap all the time. When I was younger, my parents never stopped comparing me to my cousin who was the same grade as me. Skillwise, gradewise, everything. He was considered the 'perfect child that every parent wants' and I was apparently lacking what he had. Now at that time, my parents were the ones giving me instructions and telling me to read more and play less games. What I've failed to realize was the love that that embedded behind those harsh words.
So often I have questioned God's plans in my life. "Why me? Why this? Why not him or her? Am I the only one to suffer?" It seems like God is treating me unfairly compared to others or that others are not challenged as hard as I am. But let it stand that God is a God of mystery and grace. We cannot see all the perspectives of what He has planned for us nor what He has planned for everyone else. All we do know is that God loves us enough to discipline us into stronger and better people. Praise the Lord forever and ever.
Amen.
Friday, May 1, 2009
May 1, 2009 - That Skip Over Verse
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
If I recall correctly, this was Gloria's favorite verse(s) that she shared with us one Wednesday evening.
The commands:
1) Be joyful always
2) Pray Continuously
3) Give thanks in all circumstances
You must be kidding me! Unless your life is complete happy, everyone loves you, and nothing but blessings are being poured out to you, it will be pretty difficult to be joyful always. to pray continuously, and give thanks in every situation no matter good or bad.
This verse, according to the author of today's devotional Laura MacCorkle, is the skip over verse simply because this is near impossible to do. It is easily stated and used as solutions to problems, but if we truly put forth an effort to apply this to our lives, we will most certainly come empty handed.
How can I be joyful when I study my butt off to get that failing grade when a slacker gets through with a passing grade? How can I be joyful when I go to every meeting and work hard only to come out short? How can I be thankful when a bus sees you there and drives through the puddle of water next to you anyways? How can I be joyful when a friend does not want to speak to you anymore? How can I pray when it seems like nothing is going the way that it should be?
These 3 instructions were from Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. Paul was reminding the church of Thessalonica how God's people should live and that our attitudes should not be influenced by circumstances.
As Christians, we have accepted that our lives are for the greater glory of God for He has given us a second chance. So how do we carry out Paul's seeming "impossible" instructions?
I can do everything through him who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13).
Anything is possible if we believe and have faith in our Father. It was through His grace and mercy that we were allowed to even breathe another breath of air. Christ died on the cross and took the wrath of mankind onto Himself so that we may live. And it is ONLY through Jesus Christ that helps us live this way. And this is the kind of living that God wants for His children just as Christ has lived.
Allow God to pick you up and smile ^^
Amen.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
April 29, 2009 - How I Came to Enjoy Raisins
Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble.
What is light? To throw some answers out there: God, Jesus, christians, Gandhi, etc. The list can go on and our perception of light can differ by opinion, but lets take a look at light in the context of this verse.
According to this verse, whoever loves someone is in the light and you cannot stumble when in this light. So from this, we see that light is a guide for us so that we do not stumble. What else? Everyone would kill to be living in a life where they do not have struggles. What is the requirement per se to have this light? The requirement is love.
I believe that light and love are synonomous. By loving someone, you are like... their light; a light that guides them whenever they are in need. Indeed, light is a perspective changer. It allows us to see the person the way they are and not hide or change anything about that person. With the light, we see who they truely are.
And here is the punch in the face: are you willing to love them when seeing their true self in the light? I would be so ashamed or embarassed or whatever if someone knew the quote unquote real me. But by the grace of God, Jesus was able to accept us even though He see all of us through the light! We are such sinful beings, yet, by the grace of His Majesty, we are saved!
"Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him that to make him stumble."
Whoever knows God, will love like no other! With this love of others as Christ has loved us, I believe that God will see your goodness and place His mighty hand upon your life.
Amen!
April 28, 2009 - Don't Bother Me With Details!
So Joshua took the entire land, just as the LORD had directed Moses, and he gave it as an
inheritance to Israel according to their tribal divisions. Then the land had rest from war.
Yes. I know I go through this and I am pretty sure everyone else does too. As I/we read the Bible, we have come to notice that some parts are more bland per se than others. But every word counts! There is no pic picking when we are searching for assurance of God's hand on our lives! We live for an almighty creator who has graciously left us the Word so that we may become more like Jesus! Let us continue to search for Him through the opportunities given to us by his Son's death on the cross and let that not be in vain because we don't feel like reading/learning/preaching about certain parts of the Truth.
Amen.
Monday, April 20, 2009
April 20, 2009 - Blessed are the Meek
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Matthew 5: 5 (NIV)
Matthew 5: 5 (NIV)
Whenever we think about meekness, you automatically think of weakness. But this is not the case.
Being meek can be translated into being "humbly patient". But how can those who are humbly patient inherit the earth? Those who are aggressive and active clearly has an advantage over those who are meek in terms of conquering the world.
Lets take a look at the life of Jesus. Jesus Christ walked on earth KNOWING that He was going to be sacrificed! To add more to that, He knew that he was going to be sacrificed for those people who he ministers to everyday!
Imagine yourself in the sandals of Christ. You walk amongst the land and preach the Word of God, but always come across those who blaspheme against you. There are even those who plan to kill you! Knowing that you are soon to die for the sake of these people would place me in an awkward situation. I would not want to save them at all.
But Jesus..
Jesus was meek. (I cannot say this as well as this person so here I quote!)
"It’s Christ’s humility, His lowliness, that beckons us into a relationship with Him. And ultimately, it was Christ's willingness to give up earthly glory that opened the door for us to share in His eternal glory."
Christ gave up everything for us. We are so unworthy and so sinful; but Christ allowed Himself to be killed by us and in turn, saved us all. It was his meekness that closed the gap between man and God. And it will be the meek that will inherit the earth.
Being meek can be translated into being "humbly patient". But how can those who are humbly patient inherit the earth? Those who are aggressive and active clearly has an advantage over those who are meek in terms of conquering the world.
Lets take a look at the life of Jesus. Jesus Christ walked on earth KNOWING that He was going to be sacrificed! To add more to that, He knew that he was going to be sacrificed for those people who he ministers to everyday!
Imagine yourself in the sandals of Christ. You walk amongst the land and preach the Word of God, but always come across those who blaspheme against you. There are even those who plan to kill you! Knowing that you are soon to die for the sake of these people would place me in an awkward situation. I would not want to save them at all.
But Jesus..
Jesus was meek. (I cannot say this as well as this person so here I quote!)
"It’s Christ’s humility, His lowliness, that beckons us into a relationship with Him. And ultimately, it was Christ's willingness to give up earthly glory that opened the door for us to share in His eternal glory."
Christ gave up everything for us. We are so unworthy and so sinful; but Christ allowed Himself to be killed by us and in turn, saved us all. It was his meekness that closed the gap between man and God. And it will be the meek that will inherit the earth.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
April 19, 2009 - Considering the Enemies of Christ - Even With Tears
For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.
Philippians 3:18 (ESV)
Philippians 3:18 (ESV)
Recently, on a friend's Facebook wall, I read posts of his brother typing in all caps denouncing the existence of God on Easter Sunday just because all his friends were too busy to hang out with him because everyone of them had to go to church. Other statements proclaimed that he was god and we should all let a little devil come inside of us. The reality of this was that I've met this guy before. He was a cool guy, but it was hard to talk to him mainly because he loved himself, girls, and getting drunk way too much. Those posts irked me a little (more than a little), but the truth of the matter is that there are so many people out there who have not known the love that is of Jesus Christ.
I get angry. When people talk down about my God, it makes me angry. I wanted God smite to hit them right there right then. I despise those kind of people. But is this really how I should feel? Am I not suppose to love thy neighbor as my own? They are human beings created by the hands of God just like I am.
Luke 9:54, “And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, ‘Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?’” made me realize that I acted like James and John.
When they said this, Jesus rebuked them.
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things (Philippians 3:17-19).
Like what Philipians 3:17-19 states, I need to realize that there are so many people who have yet to know the love that is Christ and many others denounce it. I've been so blinded by hatred of these non-Christians that I did not realize that there is always hope. But what can we do for these people who have destruction as their ends but pray for them even with tears in our eyes?
Amen.
I get angry. When people talk down about my God, it makes me angry. I wanted God smite to hit them right there right then. I despise those kind of people. But is this really how I should feel? Am I not suppose to love thy neighbor as my own? They are human beings created by the hands of God just like I am.
Luke 9:54, “And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, ‘Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?’” made me realize that I acted like James and John.
When they said this, Jesus rebuked them.
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things (Philippians 3:17-19).
Like what Philipians 3:17-19 states, I need to realize that there are so many people who have yet to know the love that is Christ and many others denounce it. I've been so blinded by hatred of these non-Christians that I did not realize that there is always hope. But what can we do for these people who have destruction as their ends but pray for them even with tears in our eyes?
Amen.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
April 16, 2009 - Prepare to Be Shot
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!"
Romans 10:14-15, NIV
Romans 10:14-15, NIV
When I thought about this verse, the song "I Will Go" by Starfield popped into my head. The lyrics in that song are so powerful to me. "I will go, I will go, I will go Lord send me.. to the world.." If we think about it in more "literal" terms:
'Lets say you received a letter in the mail. You open the letter and read it. The letter says, "On September 11, 2001, there will be a terrorist attack." With this information now in your possession, what do you do? The date is 9/10/01.'
You look at this illustration and think to yourself, 'Psh, the answer is obvious! You would tell everyone because people's lives are going to be lost! You would be insane to keep this information to yourself!"
There is the 'obvious' answer. In my blessed life with Christ, knowing that I am saved and that the only way to God is to acknowledge the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross, I hold this good news dearly in my own heart and mind and not to my mouth.
'Lets say you received a letter in the mail. You open the letter and read it. The letter says, "On September 11, 2001, there will be a terrorist attack." With this information now in your possession, what do you do? The date is 9/10/01.'
You look at this illustration and think to yourself, 'Psh, the answer is obvious! You would tell everyone because people's lives are going to be lost! You would be insane to keep this information to yourself!"
There is the 'obvious' answer. In my blessed life with Christ, knowing that I am saved and that the only way to God is to acknowledge the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the Cross, I hold this good news dearly in my own heart and mind and not to my mouth.
And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?
And how can they preach unless they are sent?
And how can they preach unless they are sent?
Think about it. If it weren't for one of your friends or family members, you would not know God. Whoever that person was, praise the Lord that you have met them! Personally, I remember a friend in high school who really brought me closer to Christ. I would always utter the phrase, "Oh my God" (ie. using the Lord's name in vain). That pissed him off one day and he finally cracked on me. At that time, I had no idea what he was so angry about, but it all makes sense now. Because of him, I decided to visit church more often to see what I was REALLY missing. And because of that wake up call, here I am now! Even though it was not the preaching of the gospel, that simple message of 'stop using my Father's name like that' woke me up.
If you are not ready to preach the gospel, you can glorify God by living it out. When you know that you have matured and grown, pray to God for wisdom and strength to take those 'beautiful feet' there and spread the good news!
Because in reality, time is running out and lives will be indeed lost if they are not saved.
Praise the Lord!
Amen.
If you are not ready to preach the gospel, you can glorify God by living it out. When you know that you have matured and grown, pray to God for wisdom and strength to take those 'beautiful feet' there and spread the good news!
Because in reality, time is running out and lives will be indeed lost if they are not saved.
Praise the Lord!
Amen.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
April 15, 2009 - More Than Forgiveness
“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.”
– 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
– 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Reconcile - to restore.
"Forgive and forget", the new American catchphrase. To me, this seems like the easiest route in solving this problem. But can we really forgive and forget at the same time? If you think about it, only God can really forgive and forget. I can only either forgive or forget, either or. It is hard for me to completely forgive and completely forget my enemies, but I know that God's grace is just so amazing that He is able to do so through His Son.
Amen.
"Forgive and forget", the new American catchphrase. To me, this seems like the easiest route in solving this problem. But can we really forgive and forget at the same time? If you think about it, only God can really forgive and forget. I can only either forgive or forget, either or. It is hard for me to completely forgive and completely forget my enemies, but I know that God's grace is just so amazing that He is able to do so through His Son.
Amen.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
April 14, 2009 - Is Suffering Inevitable?
For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong.
1 Peter 3:17, NAS
1 Peter 3:17, NAS
Everyone suffers. Christians, non-Christians and all people alike. The moment we were born to the moment we die, there will be a small trickle of unpleasantness that will always be with us. When we look at ourselves, depending on who we are, we will see either more good or bad.
For those who see themselves as the "greater sufferers", can't you see yourself instead as the most wise, knowing, strong, full of experience instead? Suffering gives birth to many qualities and honestly enough, makes you into a better person if you accept it.
That's it! Accept your suffering! Do not turn away the pain, blood, sweat and tears that have made you into what you are now. Christ brought us true love and died on the cross for us just so that we may be connected with God. If Jesus ever hated Himself or regretted that He went through that entire journey, the saved would mean nothing to Him. But the truth is, we mean everything to Him.
Praise the Lord.
Amen.
For those who see themselves as the "greater sufferers", can't you see yourself instead as the most wise, knowing, strong, full of experience instead? Suffering gives birth to many qualities and honestly enough, makes you into a better person if you accept it.
That's it! Accept your suffering! Do not turn away the pain, blood, sweat and tears that have made you into what you are now. Christ brought us true love and died on the cross for us just so that we may be connected with God. If Jesus ever hated Himself or regretted that He went through that entire journey, the saved would mean nothing to Him. But the truth is, we mean everything to Him.
Praise the Lord.
Amen.
Monday, April 13, 2009
April 13, 2009 - Oh Come Let Us Adore Him
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
Matthew 26: 40-41
Matthew 26: 40-41
Are your quiet times still and peaceful? Or are they distracted and rushed? What can you do to improve your quiet times? Do you have a special place set aside where you spend time with the Lord?
My quiet times have become loud times. The time that I have put aside for the Lord have become mere leftovers of my day that I deem myself too tired to continue on with anything else and therefore do my quiet time. This is not what God deserves. Usually I am too preoccupied with school work or other forms of non-beneficial, self-indulging entertainment that I completely forget about what I was created to do in the first place, to worship Him (Col 1:16).
Life has been so busy that I forgotten about God until the end of the day when its too late..! In this scenario, the devil has won; he has created enough distractions for me to keep me away from God. But this will be a constant battle for me. Just because I do not have a functional computer at my disposal doesn't mean that I cannot do my quiet time blog. Thats just an excuse.
I will constantly try to improve my quiet time, even if it does mean listening to music to drown out other music within the vicinity. I will find the Lord every morning and everyday of my life!
Amen.
My quiet times have become loud times. The time that I have put aside for the Lord have become mere leftovers of my day that I deem myself too tired to continue on with anything else and therefore do my quiet time. This is not what God deserves. Usually I am too preoccupied with school work or other forms of non-beneficial, self-indulging entertainment that I completely forget about what I was created to do in the first place, to worship Him (Col 1:16).
Life has been so busy that I forgotten about God until the end of the day when its too late..! In this scenario, the devil has won; he has created enough distractions for me to keep me away from God. But this will be a constant battle for me. Just because I do not have a functional computer at my disposal doesn't mean that I cannot do my quiet time blog. Thats just an excuse.
I will constantly try to improve my quiet time, even if it does mean listening to music to drown out other music within the vicinity. I will find the Lord every morning and everyday of my life!
Amen.
Friday, April 10, 2009
April 11, 2009 - Thank God it's Friday!
Currently in the Hilltop computer lab with an Indian guy that.. you know what Indian people are good at ;)
If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin-because
anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Romans 6:5-7,
anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Romans 6:5-7,
The Cross. Our Savior. His blood rolled down the wooden cross as the rust covered nails pierced his hands through the strength of the striking hammers. One by one. His hands, his feet. The cross was no longer the bare of a fresh cut of wood, but covered by the thick crimson of our Saviors life.
His death and our life. That is the truth.
When I view the cross, I see it as a torturing mechanism that was used in the old days; like the electric chair that is used in the present days. There is nothing celebratory about that. But for Christians and all believers alike the cross is all important. Because of His sacrifice on the cross, we are saved.
When He died, so did our sins. Every sin that came from our living soul was erased on that day. The image of Jesus pushing us aside and telling us its going to be okay, its going to be okay is so powerful to me. That one man is willing to take the wrath of God Himself for the sake of people that hate and blaspheme. As He takes every man on his shoulders and dies.
It is true. We should not be ashamed of our sins any longer because Jesus Christ is was and forever will be our ransom. Sin can no longer hold us down any longer for we have been freed because of Him!
Good Friday! Praise the Lord!
Amen!
His death and our life. That is the truth.
When I view the cross, I see it as a torturing mechanism that was used in the old days; like the electric chair that is used in the present days. There is nothing celebratory about that. But for Christians and all believers alike the cross is all important. Because of His sacrifice on the cross, we are saved.
When He died, so did our sins. Every sin that came from our living soul was erased on that day. The image of Jesus pushing us aside and telling us its going to be okay, its going to be okay is so powerful to me. That one man is willing to take the wrath of God Himself for the sake of people that hate and blaspheme. As He takes every man on his shoulders and dies.
It is true. We should not be ashamed of our sins any longer because Jesus Christ is was and forever will be our ransom. Sin can no longer hold us down any longer for we have been freed because of Him!
Good Friday! Praise the Lord!
Amen!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
April 10, 2009 - Killings Words
But they all cried out together, “Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas”—a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!” A third time he said to them, “Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no guilt deserving death. I will therefore punish and release him.” But they were urgent, demanding with loud cries that he should be crucified. And their voices prevailed. So Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, for whom they asked, but he delivered Jesus over to their will
(Luke 23:18-24)
(Luke 23:18-24)
Think about this situation: put yourself in the shoes of the commoners. What would you have done if you saw your Savior being put on trial and being sentenced to death on the cross when he was clearly innocent?
Putting yourself in lets say, YOUR OWN shoes at that time, would something have happened putting aside the fact that Jesus was destined to die for us? Personally, I would be too afraid. Knowing that Jesus, the guy under God, was being put through this; how much could I do then? This, I believe, comes down to how much faith we do have in God. The faith of what we are capable of doing and what we are not capable of doing. Under God, all things are possible no?
Short blog. Long talk :)
Amen.
Putting yourself in lets say, YOUR OWN shoes at that time, would something have happened putting aside the fact that Jesus was destined to die for us? Personally, I would be too afraid. Knowing that Jesus, the guy under God, was being put through this; how much could I do then? This, I believe, comes down to how much faith we do have in God. The faith of what we are capable of doing and what we are not capable of doing. Under God, all things are possible no?
Short blog. Long talk :)
Amen.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
April 9, 2009 - Easter: All That Matters vs. All I Live For
"What is truth?" Pilate asked.
The truth is... I've been forgetting about these blogs because I usually do them at night and without my computer, they've been slipping my mind.
With Easter coming up, there is a sudden realization that God is here? What? For some of us, there is life and then theres LIFE! When we look at the two, we see two distinct difference: one that lives for the world and the other that lives for God.
Jesus comes back to life! Its truly a glorious day, BUT I hate how it is almost retreat-esque. We sing of Jesus' ressurection with so much more heart than the previous friday night praises before when this should just be us praising the Lord. of course there are highs and lows in life, but that is besides the point.
the point is "He has risen!" and we know that.. NOT JUST ON EASTER SUNDAY DUDES! we have KNOWN of the ressurection since we were saved and that is not the end of it.
i turn on the tv and see this awesome move.. JOHN Q.. omg best movie ever. i watch this and mentally decide that it is news that must be spread. so i go on aim/msn and start spreading news about this movie like propraganda. (i even updated my fb status on this)
But when it comes to Jesus dying for the world, how does it fair in comparison to all else that matters? Have you ever proclaimed/exclaimed that Jesus lives! and that He does so in your heart! It is not just a religion that you can get into or not; it is a true relationship. So go. Just go and realize that there is everything and then theres One thing that IS everything!
Amen!
Jesus comes back to life! Its truly a glorious day, BUT I hate how it is almost retreat-esque. We sing of Jesus' ressurection with so much more heart than the previous friday night praises before when this should just be us praising the Lord. of course there are highs and lows in life, but that is besides the point.
the point is "He has risen!" and we know that.. NOT JUST ON EASTER SUNDAY DUDES! we have KNOWN of the ressurection since we were saved and that is not the end of it.
i turn on the tv and see this awesome move.. JOHN Q.. omg best movie ever. i watch this and mentally decide that it is news that must be spread. so i go on aim/msn and start spreading news about this movie like propraganda. (i even updated my fb status on this)
But when it comes to Jesus dying for the world, how does it fair in comparison to all else that matters? Have you ever proclaimed/exclaimed that Jesus lives! and that He does so in your heart! It is not just a religion that you can get into or not; it is a true relationship. So go. Just go and realize that there is everything and then theres One thing that IS everything!
Amen!
Monday, March 30, 2009
March 31, 2009 - Merciful Redeemer
[01:19] DraGonForCe66: good night beast
[01:19] jsk945: 99
[01:19] jsk945: yo
[01:19] DraGonForCe66: gg
[01:19] DraGonForCe66: wut
[01:19] jsk945: u do ur blog yet?
[01:20] DraGonForCe66: oh man
[01:20] jsk945: DO IT FAT HEAD
[01:20] DraGonForCe66: thanks joe
[01:20] DraGonForCe66: i love you too
But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.
1 Timothy 1:16 NIV
in this passage, paul calls himself "the greatest sinner". even the great paul cannot withhold himself from such a shameful past of persecuting christians! his sin is pitch black. but how is it compared to my own? i would have to say that my sin in these past 21 years are quite black as well. although i have no say in comparing sins with paul, God sees all of this and forgives us without a second thought.
the amazing thing is that God's mercy is so accessable. the bigger the sin, the more anxious God is to pour out His mercy on you at the first sign of repentence. the story of the alabastor jar and the prostitute explains this quite well. the man, whos debt was 500 denarii, would naturally love Jesus more. and that is exactly how i feel. for God to pardon a sinner like me, how can i not praise His name. God is and has always been on our side. the reason he sent down His Son was to save man that cannot save himself.
because we sin, we fall under the heavy burden of our guilt and think that God will never want someone like me to share Heaven with. but this is quite the contrary. no matter how bad the sin, no matter how much the sin, God desires to shower you with His love if you are willing to recieve it.
so pray the praise of your redeemed hearrt!
Amen,
Monday, March 23, 2009
March 23, 2009 - Are You Gifted?
Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;
and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one.
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
when i look at myself, i dont see anything special. just another normal, plain person. if there is a gift, i have not found it yet. but it is true that God has given everyone something whether you realize or not. in genesis, man was made in God's image. in this proposition, man was made in the image of God; God is perfect; therefore it is impossible for man not to have gifts from being made in the image of a perfect Creator.
but whatever gifts that we have and that i have, it is ultimately for God because it was given to us. dont even compare it to others because whatever your gift is, it can be used by God. in His eyes, everyone is of equal importance in what they can do for His kingdom.
messing up all the time and recieving so much love regardless as well as having these gifts from the Lord; how can i not praise Him.
Amen.
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