I graduated with masters! hehe..

One of the photos taken I like very much.. heee.. :D
and I also wanna take this time to praise God for all that He has blessed me with.. family, friends and so much more... I really feel so so blessed and loved!.. *grin*

New release...

the release of my very first newsletter.. that I have written for my friends back home to update them of what I have been up to and for them to remember me in prayers.. *grin* Hope there will be many more to come!.. hehe.. and I know that if the inspiration does not come from God, it will be done in vain.. My prayer is that it will always be inspired by God.. hee.. :)

"There is no going back..."

hmmm... got this as a title to the daily devotion I receive everyday... and that is today's title.. and it just spoke into my spirit... this reading talks about Abraham that

'By faith Abraham… went out, not knowing where he was going' (Hebrews 11:8 NKJV)

I am pondering upon Him the Almighty.. *wink*

the question "WHY"...

Currently, reading a book by Elizabeth Elliot titled "Keep a Quiet Heart".. and just want to share something that she wrote here.. on the whole area of asking the question "why".. She said, "do not be afraid to tell God exactly how you feel. God can take it.".. and according to her, it is not sinful to ask the question. However, what is sinful is when we have resentment against God and His dealings with us & doubt that He loves us.. So, let us not be afraid to ask the question "why" if we need to. The beautiful truth she shared was that in the darkness of her perplexity and sorrow, she has heard God say quietly, "Trust Me". I believe that He is saying that to me this day too.. :)

She ended with saying.. as we ask God, the why... we then listen for His answer... Below are six scriptural answers to the question WHY that she shared. His Word says it rather clearly.. and I have used NKJV except for one of the verses.. Enjoy and reflect.. Allow His Word to minister to us in a deep deep way... *wink*

1 Peter 4:12-13

¹² Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; ¹³ but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

Romans 5:3-4

³ And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; ⁴ and perseverance, character; and character, hope.

2 Corinthians 12:9

⁹ And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

John 14:31 (New Living Translation)

³¹ but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father. Come, let’s be going.

Romans 8:17

¹⁷ and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him,that we may also be glorified together.

Colossians 1:24 

²⁴ I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church,...

Be it unto me....

Been listening to this song for the past two days now.. Just one of those song that speaks so deeply in my heart and I just want to let it be sang over me.. and be transformed in my heart from inside out.. God can do that if I am willing.. *grin*

Lyrics as follows.. :)

Chorus:

Be it unto me

According to your Word

According to your promises

I can stand secure

Carve upon my heart

The truth that sets me free

According to your Word O Lord 

Be it unto me

You promised your word will deliver

Lord, we believe it's true

You promised us joy like a river 

Lord we receive it from you 

These things you have spoken 

And you're bringing to pass

This world's disappearing 

But your word will last

Chorus

You promised to carry our sorrows

Lord, we believe it's true

You promised unending tomorrows 

Lord we receive them from you

These things you have spoken 

And you're bringing to pass

This world's disappearing 

But your word will last

Chorus

Is this true?

"Pentecostal church - prayed 10 days - preached 10 minutes - 3000 saved
vs

Today's church - pray 10 minutes - preach 10 days - ecstatic if anyone saved"

A mate shared few quotes with us in the recent cell group and the above stood out for me.. sad but yet it is true.. and it is scary to see how things are turned upside down these days.. Something for us to ponder about and pray..

Freedom.. New?

Just felt a sense of freedom at this moment of time.. 

Strange yet true.. 

Is this new? New discovery? 

hmm.. whatever it may be, I like it!.. 

Maybe or very likely that God is teaching me great lessons of life.. to prepare me for what is ahead... *wink*

His Word says...

Proverbs 3:9-10 (New King James Version)

⁹ Honor the LORD with your possessions, 

And with the firstfruits of all your increase; 

¹⁰ So your barns will be filled with plenty, 

And your vats will overflow with new wine. 

Believing in God's Word & promises.. Pressing in; claiming His promises in Jesus' Name.. Amen.. :)

James 3:1...

This particular verse seems to stand out for me today... and therefore, decided to look at it from various versions.. and it was interesting to see how things are put into place... I thought it would be interesting to put all the versions here.. just to share.. the seriousness of what this verse implies.. In fact, I think just by looking at the different versions, we could get an overall picture of what God is saying about teaching His Word.. without even me emphasising anything further.. I guess that is really the beauty of His Truth.. How His Word always stands for itself without being defended. I love it!.. *grin*

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. 
(KJV)

My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. 
(NKJV)

Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 
(NIV)

Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment. 
(NASB)

Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. 
(NLT)

Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.
(ESV)

Don't be in any rush to become a teacher, my friends. Teaching is highly responsible work. Teachers are held to the strictest standards. And none of us is perfectly qualified. We get it wrong nearly every time we open our mouths. If you could find someone whose speech was perfectly true, you'd have a perfect person, in perfect control of life. 
(The Message; v1-2)

NOT MANY [of you] should become teachers (self-constituted censors and reprovers of others), my brethren, for you know that we [teachers] will be judged by a higher standard and with greater severity [than other people; thus we assume the greater accountability and the more condemnation]. 
(Amplified Bible)

As I reflect, I really think it is so vital to take it seriously with what we say and teach.. In fact, I find myself going to God even more these days, asking Him to show me how to manage this role.. for honestly, I am unworthy to teach His Word as I am still a sinner.. Who am I to bear such authority to teach? However, if this is what the Lord wants me to do, i.e. to teach His Word; He has to show me how and what.. And at the same time, He has to convict my heart in any areas of my life where I am not holy.. O! I pray for mercy and gentleness as He shows me those areas... for I am weak in my flesh..

The only thing that I do know is that I want to obey Him.. to fulfil the calling that He has given me.. "..to impart His Word to His people.." but the first part of His calling is to establish strong foundation in His Word which is something I am constantly looking at.. trying at least.. and by His grace, He always gives me understand as I read His Word. I am thankful for His many gifts upon my life.. and pray that I would be good steward of them as I live this one life... to make it count for Christ!.. *wink*

He will do it again...

This song spoke to my spirit today as I was randomly listening to the music I have on my laptop, while thinking and preparing for the coming talk that I am going to give.. God knows and He never fail to appear at the right time when I need it.. *grin* Hope it speaks to you as it has to me... The lyrics as follows...

VERSE 1 

You may be down and feel like God

Has somehow forgotten

That you are faced with circumstances

You can't get through

But now it seems that there's no way out

And you're going under

God's proven time and time again

He'll take care of you

CHORUS

And He'll do it again

He'll do it again

If you'll just take a look

At where you are now

And where you've been

Well hasn't He always come through for you

He's the same now as then

You may not know how

You may not know when

But He'll do it again

VERSE 2

God knows the things you're going through

And He knows how you're hurting

You see he knows just how you're heart

Has been broken in two

But He's the God of the stars, of the sun and the sea

And He is your Father

You see He can calm the storm

And He'll find some way to fix it for you

CHORUS

BRIDGE

Oh He's still God and He will not fail you

Oh He's still God and He will not change

Know, Know that He's God and He's fighting for you

Yes, just like Moses, just like Daniel,

And just like Shadrach and Meshach, Abednego

CHORUS

TAG

You may not know how

And you may not know when

You may not know how

You may not know when

But I know that He'll do it again

He'll do it again, again

indeed, He will do it again... even though don't know when and how... the assurance is that He will do it again!.. Thank You O Lord for this song.. for speaking deep in my soul and spirit this day...

Is this right? hmm..

Been thinking about something... and a clear thought that came to mind moments ago... and I have decided that until God shows me a very clear "YES", I am taking it that He is saying "NO"... Is this wise? risky? well.. I don't really know but that is the peace that I have as the thought came to mind.. :) and I believe it is the safest to be in God's hands..

Well.. that settles it then!.. coool.... what is next?

2010! such wonderful beginning......

Even though on the last day of 2009 I experienced some challenging thoughts.... God is so good to bless me with such wonderful beginnings for the new year 2010.... especially when I start the new year with my birthday..... and this year, I thoroughly enjoyed myself in a mini adventure with three other lovely friends..... Hope to scribble more as I get hold of all the photos... and post them here.. but for now, I would post this one up...... a gift from a dear sweet gal.... not sure if she is aware or have I told her about it but actually, the little bear is an answered prayer from God through her.. :)

God always gives the unexpected gifts...... I prayed for good weather.. with sunshine and clear sky and He gave me that today.... aww..... I feel so so so loved by Him..... and I know there are so much installed for me from Him in the days to come..... yippee....... and today, God also reminded me of something which I have meant to do..... well.... I am praying for the provision of a car to be able to achieve that in a more effective way.... The other prezzie He gave me is the UK driving license..... I am so blessed!.. *wink*

My sweet family.. :D

Miss my sweet family.. think I emo today.. lol..

all about me!.. is it?

well... it seems like it.. with my recent photos... they were taken while having hotpot with the uni students group that I am part of and involved in currently... I love these two photos taken.. and so, I put them up here.. *grin*

and it is not all about me.. in this particular scribbling... coz I wanna put the group photo of the uni students group here too.. the recent one where almost everyone were there.. :) and each & every one of them are precious to God... please say a prayer as you look at the picture... that each of us in the group would personally encounter God in special ways.... that is my daily prayer.. *wink*

by the way.. not sure why but I was right smack in the middle!.. hehehe..

who is right?.. who is wrong?...

it just boggles my mind as I think about words spoken by people.. I wonder, who is right and who is wrong.. or is that such a thing, in fact? or could it be that both are right to some extend? in a sense, that is what I call the complexity of communications... so, how do I handle this confusion? this bizarre thought..? My first instance would be to run to my sweet Lord Jesus and ask Him.. but sometimes (unfortunately it does happen), I try to unravel it myself... and I fail tremendously with more "heartaches".. and it just dawns on me.. "aiya.. why didn't I ask God?"... *doink* *doink*.. call it "pride"... call it "ego".. well.. that is what people call "learning process", I guess.. or at least, that is what I would call it.. hehe..

Why are we so preoccupied of being right? ah-ha.. something to ponder about.. something to ask God about.. hehe.. *wink* and I also remembered a saying that goes something like this.. "does it matter in 1000 years time? if it doesn't, means it is not worth the time 'arguing' about".. but what is the balance? how do we strike a balance? I am learning.. heee..

Reconciliation...

The ministry of reconciliation as written in 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (NIV)......

Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 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. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

first, be reconciled to God.. and then to one another......

May the word of God speaks true in our hearts..

Who is reading my scribblings?

I am a curious cat today.. Just wondering who has been reading my scribblings..... So, if you are reading my scribblings, could you drop a line or two? haha.. I would love to know who you are.... I already have a few names off my head.. but it would be great to hear from you..... *hugs*

Where is home?

This is an extension of my earlier scribbling....... there are many definitions for "home".. but one very interesting definition is.. "dwelling place"..

We people need the Lord......

Indeed.. people need the Lord.. only if they realise that in their hearts... It is so easy to think that people need "me" or "us".. actually, it is really the Spirit of God within me and us that they need..... That something different about "me" or "us" that attracts people...... That peace of God.. that joy of God.... that love of God...

Well.. I ponder about this even as I think of the days ahead.. whether to go home in March? Actually, come to think of it, where is "home"?

Home is where I find myself rested.. where I feel belonged.... Is it really about the place/ country where I was borned? Or somewhere else? Hmm.... Interesting.. very interesting, in fact..... Only the Lord knows where my coming "home" would be..... I am clueless.... I tried figuring it out.... but could it be figured out? Only in His time, it will be revealed....... so, in the meantime, I just wait in Him..... :)

Logical?

Is life logical? depending on what we are referring to, I guess.. which areas? and my guess is that when life is utterly illogical to me, my eyes would be fully turned to the One.. And I emphasize the usage of word.. "Fully".. not partially.. not quarterly.. but fully.. Hmm.. but will life be utterly illogical to some point? and will my eyes be "fully" turned to Him if it does happen?

My best guess is that life to be utterly illogical would happen..... perhaps it is even happening now for my own.. However, my eyes will never be "fully" turned to Him in life because I am still a sinner and still fall short of His Glory.. That's where His Grace and His Love comes in... He knows I always end up doing wrong things and looking at things the other way.. eventhough how much I try.. Which is why He came and die for me.. In a sense, it is truly a learning journey of life to fix my eyes on Jesus..... Of course, when life seems utterly illogical, it would be seemingly quicker for my eyes to fix on Him because there is no one else, there is no other place... yet, there are other distractions... I wonder what the Lord would do with me, being so weak, so silly... hehe.... Well, He still loves me.. He still welcomes me.. He wants to be every part of my life.. It is so comforting and so restful to know that deep in my heart.. and knowing His truth sets me free..

So, from that perspective, it is okay for life to be illogical....... it can be rather fun, in fact.... but God has to be in the picture...... He has to be every part of it.......... *wink*

Do I really know?

how to live by the "Faith Rule"? What does it mean? Well, the following devotion reading spoke about it.. Interesting to read and reflect on it.. :D

****

Living By 'The Faith Rule'

These all died in faith...

Hebrews 11:13 NKJV

The Bible says, 'These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them… ' (Hebrews 11:13 NKJV) People of faith anticipate what God promised, whether they ever experience its fulfillment or not. 'How can I believe in a promise I don't see fulfilled?' you ask. People like Abraham didn't live to see the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise in their lives, yet they died believing it. Trusting God means banking on His Word, even when there's nothing visible to demonstrate that what He says is going to come true. Even when you're on your deathbed and it still hasn't happened, you still trust Him. That's living by faith. The words 'in faith' in this Scripture are different from the words used in all the verses that read 'by faith.' The words 'in faith' actually mean 'according to faith.' These people lived by 'the faith rule.' Faith was the ruling principle in their lives! So even if they went to their graves without seeing God's promises fulfilled, they exited saying, 'God still told the truth.' They knew that the fulfillment was coming, and they lived in anticipation of it. That's what God is asking of you today. He wants you to live before Him in such a way that you anticipate His promises, even when every circumstance seems opposite to what those promises say. It also means you don't manipulate the circumstances to 'help God out' as Sarah did when she produced Ishmael. It means trusting God to do it His way, in His time, and for His glory.

****

 

It does seem tough to live by that, don't you think so? Well, I would think so.. It really stretches me even just by thinking of it.... what about living it? Hmm.. Only by His strength that I am able to live before Him in such a way that I anticipate His promises, even when every circumstance seems opposite to what those promises say..... Lord, have Your way, indeed..... I want to trust You to do it Your way, in Your time and for Your glory..... *smile*

God will never let go of me......

Yup.... He will never.... *grin*

This song just touched my heart early in the morning as I went for the morning prayer.......

Actually, I have already decided not to go for the morning prayer this morning but yet, there was the tugging in the heart to go.... God seems to say.. go not because you feel like going.. but go because I have called you to go.. So, it is not by feelings but by being obedient to Him... And, I am glad that I went... God always has some thing installed for me.....

I wonder.. why am I feeling tired today? Why do I feel downcasted? Oh Lord.. You know me.. and even as I think about these things, I am reminded of the famous prophet of all time.. Elijah.... how for one moment he could be so energetic and strong.. and then, another moment, he felt that he wants to die.... Lord.. Lord... what are You showing me? What am I to glean in this time? at this hour? Would I ever regret when I look back with hindsights that I have decided to stay on in UK? Did I actually hear You correctly? O Father.. I want to hear You clearly..... Please take away all those hindrances that are blocking my communication with You, Lord..... Open my ears and eyes to hear and to see...... That is my cry...... I want to hear You.. I want to see what You are revealing to me; in spirit as well as physically......

Thank You Lord for never ever let go of me...... *grin*

Utterly Disappointment..

I wonder.. did I feel that towards people or was it actually towards myself? Hmm.. Could it be that "perfectionism" has kicked in subtly? Oooh.. perhaps.. perhaps it has.. darn.. where did it come out from? Hmm.. What dear Lord is showing me? What am I to learn?

Just feeling downtrodden at the moment... and it is not even about having no job... haha...... This is absolutely crazy, I would think...

But am glad that I went for morning prayer this morning.... He reminded me again that life is not about me, not about others but it is about God.. so.. surrendering this feeling of disappointment to God and trust that He would turn it to something absolutely beautiful! in His Time.. *wink*

*grin*

Joshua has two cakes for his bday!..

cool, isn't it? hehehe.. He has two cakes..... He is so blessed!.. *wink*

My little nephew.. no longer that little anymore..

Josh has grown so much over the years and just turned 4 recently on 2nd November 2009..

Joshua, da-ku is very proud of you.. *grin* and will always be praying for you...... that you would grow up in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men just like Jesus (Luke 2:52)

2 Chronicles 16:9 says..

For the eyes of the LORD
range throughout the earth

to strengthen those whose hearts
are fully committed to Him.

What are you doing?

Keep Preparing Yourself

I have seen a son of Jesse... who is skillful...

1 Samuel 16:18 NKJV

David didn't suddenly become an expert marksman with a slingshot when Goliath showed up, or a master harpist when King Saul invited him to the palace. He took the long, slow, disciplined route. David had no idea what his future held, he simply found joy and fulfillment in discovering and developing his gifts. Your greatest obstacle to personal growth isn't ignorance; it's the illusion of knowledge. It's in believing you've 'arrived.' When that happens you're done growing, which means you're done! Which zone do you live in? The challenge zone: 'I attempt to do what I haven't done before.' The comfort zone: 'I only do what I already know I can do.' The coasting zone: 'I don't even do what I've done before.' Phillips Brooks said, 'Sad is the day for any man when he becomes absolutely satisfied with the life he is living, the thoughts he is thinking, and the things he is doing; when there ceases to be forever beating at the doors of his soul a desire to do something larger which he seeks and knows he was meant and intended to do.'

David's brothers knew his skills, yet none of them told King Saul about him. Be encouraged; you'll get there without them! 'Then one of [Saul's] servants… said, "Look, I have seen a son of Jesse… who is skilful in playing, a mighty man of valour… "' (1 Samuel 16:18 NKJV) David didn't compete with his brothers or complain about his status as a sheepherder. He just kept developing his relationship with God and sharpening his skills, and when the time was right God promoted him. So, keep preparing yourself.

*************

 

I like this devotion reading...... so.. what am I doing.. keep preparing myself in ways God reveals in my heart to prepare.... yippeeee... *wink*

a MAP... a PRAYER.. hee...

Pencil...

I read this quote by Mother Teresa yesterday
and it stayed with me... :D

"I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God
who is sending a love letter to the world"

"We are all pencils in the hand of God"

When does Rainbow comes?

n the midst of all the rain.. and all the gloomy times.. well... that was my observation... Rainbow comes during the rain and gloomy times especially when the rain is goin to stop and the gloominess starting to clear.. Is that coincidence? Hmm.. I don't think so.. It is really how God has created it to be such... Cool, isn't it? See the pictures that I have taken when I was in Coventry..... Rainbow appears in the midst of gloom and rain.. and then glimpses of clear sky in the second picture..... bits of the blue sky was visible.. Do you see what I saw? or what I am trying to illustrate? It is like.. Rainbow is a "sign" that gloomy times are going to be over and clear sky will come soon.... Comforting isn't it?

Ezekiel 1:28 (ESV) says, "Like the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking."

I just love His Word..... don't you? *grin* and He put ideas in my mind as I reflect upon His Word.. and He inspires me to scribble away... As I have mentioned before, it is a form of releasing what God has put in my heart.. to be shared with many.. when they are prompted by God to read my scribblings.. Frankly, the world does not need to know me.. They only need to know Jesus.. but if by knowing me could point them to Jesus, I pray He would use me.. I pray I am walking close with God enuf and way much more in order to reflect glimpses of Jesus to people who knows me..

Rainbow... an indication of Hope... and also that God knows what we are going through in our lives, our thoughts, our emotions.. Rainbow is definitely my kind of thing..... my soft spot.. heeeee...

Is this what I am going through? I wonder...

A recent devotion reading says, "If you are going to be used by God, He will take you through a number of experiences that are not meant for you personally at all. They are designed to make you useful in His hands, and to enable you to understand what takes place in the lives of others. Because of this process, you will never be surprised by what comes your way.". How interest this reading was.. and I do wonder whether is this what I am going through currently.. with no job coming along, lots of uncertainties looming ahead.. Hmm.. it is a rather nice way of putting things, don't you think so? This season of waiting is another block of experience to prepare me for what is ahead? I guess I would only know with hindsights in the days to come when I look back at this season of waiting.. awww.. that'd be really fascinating for the days to come.. However, currently, I can honestly say that I have a mix feelings of things.. coz I am still weak.. so, there are times, I feel rather lousy.. but thank God for His strength that sustains me where most times, I feel excited about what is happening currently.. It is really the matter of perspective.. and what I choose to see..

And the devotion reading continues with these questions and reflections, "Are we partakers of Christ’s sufferings? Are we prepared for God to stamp out our personal ambitions? Are we prepared for God to destroy our individual decisions by supernaturally transforming them? It will mean not knowing why God is taking us that way, because knowing would make us spiritually proud. We never realize at the time what God is putting us through— we go through it more or less without understanding. Then suddenly we come to a place of enlightenment, and realize— "God has strengthened me and I didn’t even know it!"" I am longing for that place of enlightenment... and yet realise the need to be in the present and to be available "mindfully"... I could have gotten carried away with my own situation/ circumstance and be completely useless.... I thank God that He remind me all the time about being intentional and being overcomer of my own situation.. and to look at Jesus.. focusing on Him..

Just as 1 Peter 4:12-13 says, "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed." To choose to rejoice... and then be overjoyed when His glory is revealed in my current situation... His Word holds true.. even if I couldn't see what is ahead.. Like 2 Corinthians 1:5 says "For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.", He always comfort me... He never fails to do that which is just amazing and very assuring.. Though I can't see what is ahead of me or even be certain of what I am going to do or where I am going to go, His Word is what I am holding on to and not let go. and you know, that is where being headstrong (stubborn in another word) comes in very handy indeed!.. God has His reasons for me to be who I am.. not justifying myself but just merely putting things into perspectives... *wink*

Randomness...

This word just came to my mind as I was thinking what to scribble in my bloggie.. and obviously, looking at the picture I have included in this scribbling shows the randomness of my thoughts.... *wink* Being random at times is a good thing.. as things do surprise me when I am being random in the things that I do or even think about.. especially with the things i do.. or people that I decide to visit or meet... or texts that I have decided to send out..

Anyway, coming back to the picture.. See the little reindeer on top right of the picture? hehe.. that's my new buddy... well, just couldn't resist myself and got him yesterday.. and I named him Brownie.. sweet fella isn't he? Little things like this just makes me happy and thankful about life.. and this is what I need, in a way.. being intentional about things.. Seeing God's goodness in lives around me and in my own life.. Being available to be used by God to touch lives, to encourage, to love.. because these reflect the core of God's heart.. Being random means being flexible and free as God prompts my heart to do.. Amazing stuff will take place... In fact, I have seen lots of amazing taken place in the past as I waited and prayed..

Funny, I always seem to be at a junction of life.. waiting and praying.. and this time round, the waiting seems to be rather long and quiet even..... I do wonder what will take place.. I do wonder what God has in mind.. At one hand, I am excited.. at the other, I am trying to wait gracefully even when it is tough at times..  and a recent devotion I read spoke the very thing that was in my mind which I would like share here today... :) I have highlighted my favorites with Bold and Red.. just my favorite part of the reading... and what has spoken to my spirit..

******

Daily Manna

November 13, 2009

Grace Abounds

By Os Hillman

And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need,
you will abound in every good work

2 Corinthians 9:8

God always knows what we need before we even ask. I recall a few years ago when God was allowing my business to dry up - it happened in order to lead me to an entirely new calling. Lack of provision is one way God leads us to a new place. This was a scary proposition because I had many outstanding obligations to banks and others, and I had to have some significant cash flow to make these payments.

I was ending a consulting contract with a client and saw no prospects for replacing it. Days before the contract expired, I received a call from a new ministry that was consistent with the calling I sensed God was leading me to. They asked me to consult with them for the next year. At the end of that year, I learned that God spoke to the ministry's founder to pay my entire salary out of his own pocket in order to meet the needs I had at that time. This was no insignificant amount either.

At the conclusion of my contract with them, I was wondering where my income was going to come from for the next year. The day before I was informed that their commitment would decrease by 50%, I received a call from the administrator of our foundation. They informed me that a supporter had just given $20,000 to our ministry. God encouraged me through this gift to know that He was my provider.

God equips us to fulfill the mission He has for us. Whenever there is a lack of resources, God is either teaching us to trust Him in greater ways or He is using this to direct our path to new sources of income. Trust the Lord to bring you what you need in the timing that He determines.

Suggested Prayer:

Dear God, Thank you for sending special people into our lives. I can think of a very few who have meant so much to me and been such an encouragement and inspiration. I appreciate them so much...and miss the ones who have left this earth to be with You in eternity. Thank you, God, for the Holy Spirit, the Great Comforter who fills my heart, lifts my spirit, satisfies my soul, and brings your presence into my life. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.

 2 Corinthians 12:9
And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

******

 

Intentionally making life count.. is a lifelong intention.. just like forgiveness.. which is interesting to me.. very interesting, in fact.. so much to learn.. and it is in His timing.. no rush.. no hush about it.. especially when there is the willingness to flow and move according to the leading of the Holy Spirit.... Being in His presence is such an awesome experience regardless what we are going through in life.. It feels real safe and joyful.. It may appear to be foolish and "crazy" to people who do not understand.. or do not know my Almighty God.. My prayer is that more and more people would come to know Him personally and be wonderfully touched in their lives.... and would join me in this journey of life of pleasing Him.. of walking the narrow but secured path in my Lord Jesus.. Not that I am there in "perfection"... I am still very much learning and will always be learning.... because I will always fall short and makes mistakes again and again... that just shows how much I need Jesus to be my guide, counselor and friend... *wink*

Gifts in a ShoeBox...

hmm.. I am just reflecting even as we (Seeds) are to go and buy little gifts to fill many shoeboxes later in the evening.. to be given to kids... Wouldn't it be lovely to see the faces of these kids as the shoeboxes are given to them? The smiles? The joy?

Even as I ponder.... thoughts about my little shoebox of life.... and thoughts about my Giver... and the look of my face when I receive gifts from Him.... Am I thankful? Am I overjoyed? Am I contented? It is amazing to even think about these things... it may be small but yet... meaningful.. sweet in many ways... *wink*

God has said...

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

So we say with confidence,

"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"

(Hebrews 13:5-6)

I am praying and asking God to teach me to be confident in Him.. to hold my head high because I have the Lord as my helper.. He will turn the impossible to possible.. So comforting, isn't it? *grin*

Fruitful day..

I think.. today is another fruitful day.. had my 2nd driving lesson.. bad habits still lingering around.. nevertheless, it has better improvements.. :D Then, it was visiting the recruitment agencies... I was feeling nervy to go but I prayed.. and I told God that it is not by my strength but by His Spirit that I am going.. In a way, I sort of guess what people may say.. However, now, I have done my part to the fullest that I know...... Hmm.. and leave them to God.. I am waiting in anticipation of His miracles to take place at this time when jobs are scarce where the employers are very picky...

As I think about it.. if I do get a job this time round, it is definitely a miracle from God.. and God never fail me..... *wink*

Let God's Word Settle It!...

How comforting this is... and it came in so timely for me.... Thank You O Lord... *grin* Do read on the following daily devotion I received this morning.. :) and be assured and encouraged like me..... heeeee...

Let God's Word Settle It!

Your word is settled in heaven.

Psalm 119:89 NKJV

Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones writes: 'It is the spirit and the word, the spirit upon the word, and the spirit in us as we read the word.'

You say, 'It's impossible.' God says, '"What is impossible with men is possible with God." ' (Luke 18:27 NIV).

You say, 'I'm exhausted.' He says, '"But those who wait on the Lord, Shall renew their strength… "' (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV).

You say, 'Nobody loves me.' He says, '… "I have loved you with an everlasting love"… ' (Jeremiah 31:3 NIV).

You say, 'I can't go on.' He says, '… "My grace is sufficient for you"… ' (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).

You say, 'I don't know what to do.' He says, '… "And He shall direct your paths."' (Proverbs 3:6 NKJV).

You say, 'I can't do it.' He says, '"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."' (Philippians 4:13 NKJV).

You say, 'It's not worth it.' He says, 'we will reap a harvest if we do not give up' (Galatians 6:9NIV).

You say, 'I can't forgive myself.' He says, 'in Christ God forgave you' (Ephesians 4:32 NIV).

You say, 'I can't make ends meet.' He says, 'God shall supply all your need… ' (Philippians 4:19 NKJV).

You say, 'I'm afraid.' He says, 'God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power… ' (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV).

You say, 'I can't handle this.' He says, 'Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you… ' (Psalm 55:22NIV).

You say, 'I'm not smart enough.' He says, 'if any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God for it… ' (James 1:5 NCV).

You say, 'I'm all alone.' He says, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you'(Hebrews 13:5 NKJV).

Billy Sunday said, 'I stand on God's Word, and if the book goes down, I'll go with it.' Today, let God's Word settle it!

Who is holding your steering wheel of life?

an interesting question to ask.. I would think.....

John 12:24-26 says.. "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.

The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life."

Reflect on the above verse!.. :) I am.. *wink*

Vroooom.....

hehehe.... I am scribbling as if this is my first time driving on the road!.. well, first time in UK... anyway, kinda fun!.. learning new stuff.. or rather the right techniques.. LOL.. lets see what would happen when I go for the test!.. I am praying from now on... coz I have heard so much horror stories of people going through the test many times before passing..... *grin*

Pass!

Yippee.. I passed!... well.. the driving theory test on Friday... It was kinda nerving actually when I was doing the hazard perception test.. unsure of what score I would get.. especially when my first video clip was scored "zero" due to too many clickings!.. goodness me.. what sort of test is this? Well.. throughout the whole test, I was praying.. and taking deep breathes... and looking at the clips so intensively!.. It was so uncertain and the exact feeling was like just trust God!... :)

well.. well... Had my first attempt at driving in the UK yesterday... and was driving manual on top of that.. ooh.. how tired my feet were..... LOL..... and I personally sensed that God is building up my confidence in doing things.. and to come to Him in everything, every part of my life.. even in driving!.. Sweet... *wink* Also, really thank God for providing the different means of help in various areas of my life.. sending people into my life, to help me.. to teach me.. to laugh with me.. to cry with me.. Just amazing.. Thank You O Lord.. *grin*

a cup of tea......

that's my tea... English tea in this adorable mug which well.. was from my previous rental place.. hehe.. not sure who it belongs to before... well, now, it is mine!.. hahaha.. anyway, one thing I acquire for the past one year of being in UK is to acquire my new found love for tea... I literally drank tea everyday except when I was back in Malaysia or when I know I shouldn't be drinking them... Just enjoy drinking tea as I do my work.. hmm.. what work am I doing especially when I am not working..... hahah.. it is the question of what I do with my time.... and I am learning to really appreciate time that I have.. to do many things, books to read, people to meet.. activities to go for.....

I think today, I am being rather optimistic about many things.. I am actually rather surprise myself to see such optimism... but am really glad to have it.... also, during this time, though my mom is far away back home, I am talking to her much.. about so many things.... "complaining" to her about what had happened and even to talk about anything under the sky.. I guess, really.. this is one thing I treasure much and in a way, it is worth to be away from home.. to be able to recognise in greater depth that my mom and dad are the most important people in my life other than Jesus.. and that no matter how many times I fall and make mistakes, they are there to support me.. the sacrifices they made go beyond words could describe.. really.. I am truly blessed by God for putting me into their lives..... they just give me such liberty and freedom to try new things..

and in this time, I am also trying to read this book.. by David Pawson, a renown bible teacher.. "Unlocking the bible...... " what better time to have this time of my life to discover more about His Truth in His Living Word..... I really hope to be able to cultivate such habit in reading His Word with eagerness and desire to learn and grow; especially so when I get busy in the days to come, with work and other stuff..... I know the Lord is helping me.. He is showing me the way.. *grin*

Do we have questions?

what questions are they? What are they about? I remembered last Tuesday at Alpha course, the speaker shared about people carrying lots of questions in their lives... People with big, huge and heavy question marks.. sometimes, because they are so heavy and huge, it makes the "carrier" so tired and even cause the "carrier" to timble tumble all over in the journey of life.... The challenge was to set aside these question marks and ...... look at life..... and more importantly, look at what Lord Jesus is telling us... Hmm...... I thought it was really profoundly well said by the speaker..... and I just love the way he illustrated it....

Well.. tonight is another night of Alpha...... I am praying that His truth would truly sprout in the hearts of the guests of Alpha..... Seeds have been sown.. it is really about God working in the hearts of people and helping them to come to that place of awe and praise to the Living God..... That is my prayer today for all the alpha courses that are running this week in every part of the UK as well as worldwide.... Even as I scribble and pray, I could feel a spiritual sense of movement..... How to explain it? hmm.. words just not able to describe it.. except to feel it as we pray...... the move of God....

Embracing life..

Aww.. this phrase just popped into my mind today as I think about today and what had taken place.. with not being successful in my hazard test.. and yet pass with with flying colors for the multiple choice questions.... But the end result is that I have to take both all over again.. and I am gonna do that this coming Friday...

Thinking about it.. guess, the lesson learnt here is that sometimes, we can never really know how to be ready for things..... well.. for example, the hazard test..... I thought it would not be that difficult and yet because I have missed out on how to tackle it, I didn't get through it.. Well, that's my 31pounds lesson learnt...... and of course, it is hard on the "pride" department.... but well, embracing life is also about embracing "failures" as well as "successes"..... That is really the fun of things.... well, if I look at it optimistically..... I could have chosen to mourn over it.. and be depressed.. but what good would it do to me? Nothing!.. In fact, it would only make me feel miserable and down...

Well.. I think God is teaching me to embrace life more gracefully... embracing failures with a tinch of optimism or maybe more?.... to learn and to grow..... to actually be joyful in spite of situations.... to rejoice in the Lord!.. :) Is this radical? hmm.. For me, I guess it is.... and I am enjoying it much more than few months ago... To lead a radical life.. one that is full with excitements and challenges..... with one utmost and constant source of life = Jesus!..... yippeeeeee....

Traffic Signs? Theory test?

This whole weekend is all about traffic signs.. about the dos and don'ts of driving.. bla blah.. coz I am going for a test on Monday!.. It is ages since I went for such test.. hmm.. Well, just have to go through it again because I am in a new country.... it is really like I am starting anew..... the process of starting anew started last year and it is still in the progress.. time consuming and sometimes can be frustrating but it is rewarding at the end.... and it is something which God has blessed me with... *grin* well.. I am off to be swimming with traffic signs and etc etc... heeee...

On a sunday morning 940am...

I was sitting on a bench with the view above.. in a cool breezy day.. filled with much inspiration to scribble and I did.... the thought that came on sunday morning (18.10.09) as I was sitting there by myself was ... hmm.. A journey to be travelled alone and yet in the midst of many.. And in this instance, 'alone' is not a bad thing.. There is a need for time to be alone.. It is something to be discovered even more, something personal.. and it can be real fun because I am not really alone.. as God is with me all the time.. His love just overwhelms me inside out..

It just amazes me to see many things taking place... how little things seem to be unfolding, as it were.. I know I am excited.. and I am asking God what does all these means? and just reflecting of what I have been involving in the past weeks and months.. while I wait in God.. Being involved in lives is something God has put in my heart to do and yet sometimes, it can be risky.. as I am exposing myself to be vulnerable.. To be involved in lives require myself to be as transparent and true as possible to others.. hmm.. yet, it is so rewarding to see lives being touched and encouraged.. I am so thankful that I am able to see that truth.. and to experience such blessings....

well..... some of the stuff that I was reflecting on that sunday were truly personal and life-changing thoughts.. it shall go to my little journal instead of here.. But, truly.. sitting there at the bench, observing people coming and going, reflecting and thinking was truly refreshing to my soul....... and I am really glad that I heeded His voice to go somewhere and spend time alone with Him on that sunday morning..... *grin*

when the oceans rise and thunders roar......

I will soar with God above the storm................

Just want to share this song here... eventhough it has been there for years now.. Hmm.. It just spoke of my heart at the current state... being still and know He is my God..... finding rest in Christ alone... what an assurance.. what love He pours into my life...

*feeling so warm and so loved*