This is the concluding psalm to the book of Psalms in the Bible. And there is only one conclusion. God is so great and good that He deserves all our praises.
1 Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens.
2 Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
3 Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre,
4 praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute,
5 praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals.
6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
That made me reflect: Do I always praise God? When things are going well, I'm quite sure I praise God. But when things look yucky (like today), I found it not easy to praise God.
Like what Pastor Wes Richards shared today, we need to surrender our pains and disappointments to the Lord. Only then, we can praise God when we encounter disappointments.
When we praise God with all our heart, the demons and powers of darkness flee away from us. That's because we have a great and mighty God! Hallelujah!
Lord, teach me to surrender to you my hurts, disappointments, pains and finally, my whole heart.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Psalm 149 "Warriors of Light"
After almost a month, I finally have the movtivation to post my thoughts on the last two psalms.
From Psalm 149, I really believe that we, Christians are called to be warriors of light. Look at the following verses:
6 May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands,
7 to inflict vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples,
8 to bind their kings with fetters, their nobles with shackles of iron,
9 to carry out the sentence written against them. This is the glory of all his saints. Praise the LORD.
But at this time and age, the things that we're fighting against are not people. The wars that we wage are not supposed to be physical wars. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 gives us some insight on this.
3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.
4The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
5We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
We're fighting against the devil. We're fighting against the prince of the world. We're fighting against his influence in many areas. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us this:
12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
For instance, for so long, the devil's foothold in the media had been deeply entrenched. Pastor Khong is giving his best in wrestling the media world from the devil. That is the kind of fight that I'm talking about. Reclaiming what that has been lost.
However, we're not to do this alone. It is only possible, with the help and grace of God. And the people of God.
May the Lord grant you a desire to fight for Him.
From Psalm 149, I really believe that we, Christians are called to be warriors of light. Look at the following verses:
6 May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands,
7 to inflict vengeance on the nations and punishment on the peoples,
8 to bind their kings with fetters, their nobles with shackles of iron,
9 to carry out the sentence written against them. This is the glory of all his saints. Praise the LORD.
But at this time and age, the things that we're fighting against are not people. The wars that we wage are not supposed to be physical wars. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 gives us some insight on this.
3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.
4The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
5We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
We're fighting against the devil. We're fighting against the prince of the world. We're fighting against his influence in many areas. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us this:
12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
For instance, for so long, the devil's foothold in the media had been deeply entrenched. Pastor Khong is giving his best in wrestling the media world from the devil. That is the kind of fight that I'm talking about. Reclaiming what that has been lost.
However, we're not to do this alone. It is only possible, with the help and grace of God. And the people of God.
May the Lord grant you a desire to fight for Him.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Psalm 148 "Praise the Lord"
1 Praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD from the heavens, praise him in the heights above.
2 Praise him, all his angels,praise him, all his heavenly hosts.
3 Praise him, sun and moon,praise him, all you shining stars.
4 Praise him, you highest heavensand you waters above the skies.
5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created.
6 He set them in place for ever and ever; he gave a decree that will never pass away.
7 Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths,8 lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding,
9 you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,
10 wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds,
11 kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth,
12 young men and maidens, old men and children.
13 Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
14 He has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his saints, of Israel, the people close to his heart.
Praise the LORD.
This psalm is another one of those 'praise' psalm. It's all about praising the Lord. Let everything - really everything, including things that are inanimate, praise the Lord!And one key reason why we can praise the Lord is the fact that He gave us His one and only son, Jesus (v14) - who walked on the earth and went to the cross for our sins.
Let's recite this psalm once again, as an act of worship to the Lord. Let's NOT be tired of praising the Lord!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Psalm 147 "God is a Heart-Searcher"
As I read Psalm 147, two particular verses kept jumping at me.
10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man;
11 the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
I'm really thankful that God doesn't choose people based on their talents. He chooses people based on their hearts.
Our God is so wonderful that even if our talents are not that great - we may not be super-smart or super-athletic, yet when our hearts are right with God, He will multiply whatever giftings we have. We'll truly succeed where we are when our hearts are right with God - honor Him, fear Him and trust Him.
Man tend to be more superficial, even great man of God. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the LORD said to Samuel, "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
For the past few weeks, I felt that my heart seems to be a distant from God. O'Lord, help me draw close to You once again. I can't function alone.
10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of a man;
11 the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
I'm really thankful that God doesn't choose people based on their talents. He chooses people based on their hearts.Our God is so wonderful that even if our talents are not that great - we may not be super-smart or super-athletic, yet when our hearts are right with God, He will multiply whatever giftings we have. We'll truly succeed where we are when our hearts are right with God - honor Him, fear Him and trust Him.
Man tend to be more superficial, even great man of God. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the LORD said to Samuel, "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
For the past few weeks, I felt that my heart seems to be a distant from God. O'Lord, help me draw close to You once again. I can't function alone.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Psalm 146 "King of the underdogs"
God is not just concerned about people who are living in developed countries. God is also not just concerned about people who are successful.
In fact, in Psalm 146, it is very clearly stated. Our God is also King of the underdogs - those down and out.
7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free,
8 the LORD gives sight to the blind, the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down, the LORD loves the righteous.
9 The LORD watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
For people like me who are used to living comfortably, I think sometimes, God becomes my secondary source of comfort. This is because of all the good things that I enjoy in life now.
However, for those that are down and out - the poor and the needy, God may be their ONLY source of comfort and strength. Their relationship with God can be way more intimate than mine.
There is something for me to learn from the so-called underdogs. For all we know, the real underdogs may be people like me - who are used to comfortable life.
In fact, in Psalm 146, it is very clearly stated. Our God is also King of the underdogs - those down and out.
7 He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free,8 the LORD gives sight to the blind, the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down, the LORD loves the righteous.
9 The LORD watches over the alien and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
For people like me who are used to living comfortably, I think sometimes, God becomes my secondary source of comfort. This is because of all the good things that I enjoy in life now.
However, for those that are down and out - the poor and the needy, God may be their ONLY source of comfort and strength. Their relationship with God can be way more intimate than mine.
There is something for me to learn from the so-called underdogs. For all we know, the real underdogs may be people like me - who are used to comfortable life.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Psalm 145: "Why God is God"
1 I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever.2 Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever.
3 Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.
4 One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.
5 They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works.
6 They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds.
7 They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.
8 The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love.9 The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.
10 All you have made will praise you, O LORD; your saints will extol you.
11 They will tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might,
12 so that all men may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.
The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.14 The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
15 The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.
16 You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made.
18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.
19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
20 The LORD watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.
21 My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever.
God is God because of what has been described of Him in verses 3, 8, 13b and 17. Read them again. Our appropriate responses are clearly stated in verses 1, 2 and 21.
Like what Pastor Eugene shared, let's STEP OUT, STAND OUT and SPEAK OUT for Jesus!!!
Psalm 144 "Blessings, Blessings and more Blessings"
Can you imagine this picture? So much blessings that you're like a overflowing cup.
Your sons grow up to be fine young men - upright and wise.
Your daughters grow up to be beautiful women - beautiful both in the inside and outside.
Your every physical/financial needs are satisfied - you don't lack.
In fact, whatever investment you put in, your returns are doubled, tripled or even more.
No one will oppress you or cause you great distress.
All this have been clearly depicted by the psalmist in Paslm 144:12-14.
12 Then our sons in their youth will be like well-nurtured plants, and our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace.
13 Our barns will be filled with every kind of provision. Our sheep will increase by thousands, by tens of thousands in our fields;
14 our oxen will draw heavy loads. There will be no breaching of walls, no going into captivity, no cry of distress in our streets.
But v15 tells us of the condition for the above blessings to come true. We must worship God only - and none other.
15 Blessed are the people of whom this is true; blessed are the people whose God is the LORD.
Lord, I really want all of the above. If there are rival thrones in my heart that compete with You, may You take them away. Help me be a true worshipper of God.
Your sons grow up to be fine young men - upright and wise.Your daughters grow up to be beautiful women - beautiful both in the inside and outside.
Your every physical/financial needs are satisfied - you don't lack.
In fact, whatever investment you put in, your returns are doubled, tripled or even more.
No one will oppress you or cause you great distress.
All this have been clearly depicted by the psalmist in Paslm 144:12-14.
12 Then our sons in their youth will be like well-nurtured plants, and our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace.
13 Our barns will be filled with every kind of provision. Our sheep will increase by thousands, by tens of thousands in our fields;
14 our oxen will draw heavy loads. There will be no breaching of walls, no going into captivity, no cry of distress in our streets.
But v15 tells us of the condition for the above blessings to come true. We must worship God only - and none other.
15 Blessed are the people of whom this is true; blessed are the people whose God is the LORD.
Lord, I really want all of the above. If there are rival thrones in my heart that compete with You, may You take them away. Help me be a true worshipper of God.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Psalm 143 "Out of the Pits"
3 The enemy pursues me,
he crushes me to the ground;
he makes me dwell in darkness
like those long dead.
4 So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed.
Have you encountered the following situations before? 1) You feel defeated and hopeless. 2) You're trapped in a really bad situation. 3) Your so-call friends betrayed you.
We all know that the psalmist, David went through all of that, and much more. However, in Psalm 143:5-6, he wrote about 2 important attitudes that we need to have.
5 I remember the days of long ago;
I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.
6 I spread out my hands to you;
my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Selah
Firstly, from v5, we need to remember the things that God has blessed us with in the past. It can be a test well-done, or maybe even the creation of stars that make our night skies look beautiful. It al boils down to having a thankful heart.
Secondly, from v6, we need to hunger and thirst for God to fill us. We need to crave for God's presence in us. The question to ask is "Do we fill our lives with worldly things or with godly things?".
I really thank God for blessing me so much in the Year of Sabbath. In my r/s with Dawn, I'm getting married this year end. In my workplace, I'm really contented and thrilled. In my cell group, I could see my guys more united now and willing to rise up.
But I really need to be more hungry for God. Many times, I chose to do things my own way, without relying on God. Lord, please help me change in this area!
he crushes me to the ground;
he makes me dwell in darkness
like those long dead.
4 So my spirit grows faint within me;
my heart within me is dismayed.
Have you encountered the following situations before? 1) You feel defeated and hopeless. 2) You're trapped in a really bad situation. 3) Your so-call friends betrayed you.We all know that the psalmist, David went through all of that, and much more. However, in Psalm 143:5-6, he wrote about 2 important attitudes that we need to have.
5 I remember the days of long ago;
I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.
6 I spread out my hands to you;
my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Selah
Firstly, from v5, we need to remember the things that God has blessed us with in the past. It can be a test well-done, or maybe even the creation of stars that make our night skies look beautiful. It al boils down to having a thankful heart.Secondly, from v6, we need to hunger and thirst for God to fill us. We need to crave for God's presence in us. The question to ask is "Do we fill our lives with worldly things or with godly things?".I really thank God for blessing me so much in the Year of Sabbath. In my r/s with Dawn, I'm getting married this year end. In my workplace, I'm really contented and thrilled. In my cell group, I could see my guys more united now and willing to rise up.
But I really need to be more hungry for God. Many times, I chose to do things my own way, without relying on God. Lord, please help me change in this area!
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Psalm 142 "A Desperate Cry"
A description of a difficult situation. 1 I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift up my voice to the LORD for mercy.
2 I pour out my complaint before him; before him I tell my trouble.
3 When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who know my way. In the path where I walk men have hidden a snare for me.
4 Look to my right and see; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life.
A desperate cry to the Lord to deliver him.
5 I cry to you, O LORD; I say, "You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living."
6 Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me.
A definite promise from the Lord.
7 Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.
When you have lived long enough, you will surely have gone through difficult circumstances ALONE. Just like King David, who wrote Psalm 142 while hiding in a cave.
To a certain extent, I think it's a kind of test that the Lord will intentionally subject us to. Do we turn towards God? Or do we blame and curse God?
God wants to see if we would turn to rely on Him 100% when it comes to the crunch. Obviously, David passed the test with flying colors.
I recalled the days in Sweden (back in 2004) when I was alone with a sprained ankle. To make matters worse, I was supposed to go Old Trafford for a Man Utd match. I think I did cry out to God, and He miraculously help me sustain my ankle. He protected me from harm and I made the trip safely.
If today the Lord again subject me to such a test, by God's grace I hope I will pass.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Psalm 141
1 O LORD, I call to you; come quickly to me.
Hear my voice when I call to you.
2 May my prayer be set before you like incense;
may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.
3 Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD;
keep watch over the door of my lips.
4 Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil,
to take part in wicked deeds
with men who are evildoers;
let me not eat of their delicacies.
5 Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness;
let him rebuke me—it is oil on my head.
My head will not refuse it.
Yet my prayer is ever against the deeds of evildoers;
6 their rulers will be thrown down from the cliffs,
and the wicked will learn that my words were well spoken.
7 They will say, "As one plows and breaks up the earth,
so our bones have been scattered at the mouth of the grave."
8 But my eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign LORD;
in you I take refuge—do not give me over to death.
9 Keep me from the snares they have laid for me,
from the traps set by evildoers.
10 Let the wicked fall into their own nets,
while I pass by in safety.
Most of us do not like it when someone rebuke us. We prefer to be affirmed and encouraged. However, as a teacher myself, I really believe that there is a place for stern rebuke. If I see that a student is behaving in a negative way, and I don't do anything about it, that is akin to encouraging that particular bad behavior. That's bad.
It's just that we have to see who is the source of the rebuke. If the person who rebukes you is someone who doesn't care much about you, we shouldn't 'accept' the rebuke (just ignore it). For instance in NS, there will be people who rebuke you just for the sake of rebuking - using vulgarities is a norm (sigh).
Hence, I really agree with the psalmist when he said in v5 "Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness; let him rebuke me — it is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it."
A righteous man's rebuke is like a blessing! And this righteous man can be our parents, cell leaders, teachers or older and wiser friends.
I thank God for the righteous people in my life who have rebuked me out of love - my parents, my cell leader, my school teachers and of course, my fiancee. Though sometimes at the heat of the moment, their words may be difficult to accept, I know that they care about me enough to correct me so that I can become better.
Things to ponder
1. Who are the people in your life that would rebuke you out of love? List them down here.
2. What is your response every time they rebuke you? Is it very defensive? Or is it very receptive?
3. Do you in turn rebuke others out of love? Or rebuke others out of spite? Check your heart.
4. Pray for yourself to be receptive to the rebuke of those who love you. Pray for yourself too to be able to rebuke others out of love in an acceptable way.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Psalm 140
Message Version
A David Psalm
1-5 God, get me out of here, away from this evil; protect me from these vicious people.
All they do is think up new ways to be bad;
they spend their days plotting war games.
They practice the sharp rhetoric of hate and hurt,
speak venomous words that maim and kill.
God, keep me out of the clutch of these wicked ones,
protect me from these vicious people;
Stuffed with self-importance, they plot ways to trip me up,
determined to bring me down.
These crooks invent traps to catch me
and do their best to incriminate me.
6-8 I prayed, "God, you're my God!
Listen, God! Mercy!
God, my Lord, Strong Savior,
protect me when the fighting breaks out!
Don't let the wicked have their way, God,
don't give them an inch!"
9-11 These troublemakers all around me—
let them drown in their own verbal poison.
Let God pile hellfire on them,
let him bury them alive in crevasses!
These loudmouths—
don't let them be taken seriously;
These savages—
let the Devil hunt them down!
12-13 I know that you, God, are on the side of victims,
that you care for the rights of the poor.
And I know that the righteous personally thank you,
that good people are secure in your presence.
The theme of Psalm 140 is likely to be asking God to be our Protector and protect us against the hands of the wicked.
God reminded me about the people of Myanmar who are right now suffering because of the military government. Someone said this "What began as a natural disaster now has nearly evolved into a man-made catastrophe". The government initially didn't want to accept foreign aid and claimed that they can manage. As a result, the cyclone survivors are in danger of both starvation and diseases outbreak.
But the Lord's promise is that He is on the side of the victims and He cares for the rights of the poor (v12-13).
And we can see that God is beginning to answer our prayers. At an emergency summit in Singapore earlier today, the Myanmar government has just agreed to accept more foreign aid. Praise God!!
Yes, God does care for the victims. Will you continue to pray for the people of Myanmar with me? Pray and claim Psalm 140 for the cyclone survivors. And let's press on and pray that the government will be more open to foreign aid and allow aid to reach the cyclone survivors.
Things to ponder
1. Have you been praying for Myanmar or China? If not, make a commitment to the Lord and start doing it. Don't be just concerned about your own affairs. Every prayer counts!
2. Intercede on behalf of the cyclone survivors. Pray and claim Psalm 140 for them.
3. Continue to pray for the military government to be more receptive to foreign aid.
A David Psalm
1-5 God, get me out of here, away from this evil; protect me from these vicious people.
All they do is think up new ways to be bad;
they spend their days plotting war games.
They practice the sharp rhetoric of hate and hurt,
speak venomous words that maim and kill.
God, keep me out of the clutch of these wicked ones,
protect me from these vicious people;
Stuffed with self-importance, they plot ways to trip me up,
determined to bring me down.
These crooks invent traps to catch me
and do their best to incriminate me.
6-8 I prayed, "God, you're my God!
Listen, God! Mercy!
God, my Lord, Strong Savior,
protect me when the fighting breaks out!
Don't let the wicked have their way, God,
don't give them an inch!"
9-11 These troublemakers all around me—
let them drown in their own verbal poison.
Let God pile hellfire on them,
let him bury them alive in crevasses!
These loudmouths—
don't let them be taken seriously;
These savages—
let the Devil hunt them down!
12-13 I know that you, God, are on the side of victims,
that you care for the rights of the poor.
And I know that the righteous personally thank you,
that good people are secure in your presence.
The theme of Psalm 140 is likely to be asking God to be our Protector and protect us against the hands of the wicked.
God reminded me about the people of Myanmar who are right now suffering because of the military government. Someone said this "What began as a natural disaster now has nearly evolved into a man-made catastrophe". The government initially didn't want to accept foreign aid and claimed that they can manage. As a result, the cyclone survivors are in danger of both starvation and diseases outbreak.But the Lord's promise is that He is on the side of the victims and He cares for the rights of the poor (v12-13).
And we can see that God is beginning to answer our prayers. At an emergency summit in Singapore earlier today, the Myanmar government has just agreed to accept more foreign aid. Praise God!!
Yes, God does care for the victims. Will you continue to pray for the people of Myanmar with me? Pray and claim Psalm 140 for the cyclone survivors. And let's press on and pray that the government will be more open to foreign aid and allow aid to reach the cyclone survivors.
Things to ponder
1. Have you been praying for Myanmar or China? If not, make a commitment to the Lord and start doing it. Don't be just concerned about your own affairs. Every prayer counts!
2. Intercede on behalf of the cyclone survivors. Pray and claim Psalm 140 for them.
3. Continue to pray for the military government to be more receptive to foreign aid.
Psalm 139
For the director of music. Of David. A psalm.
This is really a beautiful psalm. Very often, we imagined God to be someone high up, who's very concerned with the nations and churches. However, we often neglect the fact that our God is also very much concerned with every individual. He don't treat us like numbers. He treats us as individuals - each with our own uniquness.
Psalm 139 really speaks about the personal relationship that God has with every individual. There's no one too small or insignificant that God won't bother Himself with. He knows our every thoughts (v2). Even before we speak, God already knew what we want to say (v4). And every day of our lives, God has already recorded them down in a book (v16).
And most importantly, the psalmist reminds us that each of us is specially created by God. Every individual has his own set of talents, giftings and even weaknesses. There's no need to compare individual A and B. Every creation of God is wonderful - v14.
What a wonderful and personal God we have!
There are times that I felt insecure about myself. I would be envious of someone else. But God always uses Psalm 139:14 to encourage myself that I'm unqiue in my own way - and it's really wonderful. I have to learn to stop comparing, and be contented in how God has made me.
Things to ponder
1.How contented are you with yourself? Rate 1 to 10 (10 means very contented).
2. What are 3 strengths/talents do you think you have?
3. What are 3 weaknesses?
4. Pray and thank God for creating you the way you are. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
1 O LORD, you have searched me
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake,
I am still with you.
19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
This is really a beautiful psalm. Very often, we imagined God to be someone high up, who's very concerned with the nations and churches. However, we often neglect the fact that our God is also very much concerned with every individual. He don't treat us like numbers. He treats us as individuals - each with our own uniquness.
Psalm 139 really speaks about the personal relationship that God has with every individual. There's no one too small or insignificant that God won't bother Himself with. He knows our every thoughts (v2). Even before we speak, God already knew what we want to say (v4). And every day of our lives, God has already recorded them down in a book (v16).
And most importantly, the psalmist reminds us that each of us is specially created by God. Every individual has his own set of talents, giftings and even weaknesses. There's no need to compare individual A and B. Every creation of God is wonderful - v14.
What a wonderful and personal God we have!
There are times that I felt insecure about myself. I would be envious of someone else. But God always uses Psalm 139:14 to encourage myself that I'm unqiue in my own way - and it's really wonderful. I have to learn to stop comparing, and be contented in how God has made me.
Things to ponder
1.How contented are you with yourself? Rate 1 to 10 (10 means very contented).
2. What are 3 strengths/talents do you think you have?
3. What are 3 weaknesses?
4. Pray and thank God for creating you the way you are. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Psalm 138
Of David
How would you feel if you know that whatever you do, you have the support of someone who's extremely powerful and influential? Wouldn't you be bold and stouthearted (v3)? This is because you know that when you ask or call for help, that someone will always answer.
All of the above is possible, when you have favour with Jesus - our King of kings and Lord of lords. Like what Pastor Tommy Tenney shared, put on the garment of praise (even when you don't feel like it) if you want God's favour.
But another key point that I think will win us favour with God is that we open our hearts and avail ourselves to be used by the Lord - to allow God's purposes in our lives to be fulfilled, as described in v8.
When I was in NUS Year 3, I begin to ask God what purposes He has for me. I was going to graduate soon, and I wanted to know what kind of work the Lord has in mind for me. I felt the Lord ask me to become a teacher. At first, I wasn't thrilled. I wanted to have a career that would allow me to earn lots of money (not very godly, right?). However, later on, I decided that I wanted God to fulfill His purposes in my life - hence, I went into teaching.
While I was in NUS Year 4 (not even in NIE yet), during one a tribe meeting, I felt the Lord impressed upon me to go Raffles Institution. I kind of said yes, but I didn't know how that can be done. When I was midway in my NIE course, the Lord opened doors for me. I applied for a teaching position in RI and got it!
Because of my obedience, I believed God has also given me many favours in the school. And I'm really glad and I'm at peace in my heart because I know that God will fulfill His purposes for me in RI. My faith in Him had also increased a lot.
My prayer is that I would continue to 1) allow Him to reveal His purposes to me, 2) so that I can obey and 3) He will fulfill His purposes in me.
Things to ponder
1. What is God's purpose for you right where you are now - be it in school or at workplace?
2. Are you acting in obedience to fulfill His purposes for you? If yes, how? If not, why?
3. Pray for yourself to be open and obedient to God's purposes in you. Just leave the results up to the Lord.
1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart;
before the "gods" I will sing your praise.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple
and will praise your name
for your love and your faithfulness,
for you have exalted above all things
your name and your word.
3 When I called, you answered me;
you made me bold and stouthearted.
4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD,
when they hear the words of your mouth.
5 May they sing of the ways of the LORD,
for the glory of the LORD is great.
6 Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly,
but the proud he knows from afar.
7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
you preserve my life;
you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes,
with your right hand you save me.
8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me;
your love, O LORD, endures forever—
do not abandon the works of your hands.
How would you feel if you know that whatever you do, you have the support of someone who's extremely powerful and influential? Wouldn't you be bold and stouthearted (v3)? This is because you know that when you ask or call for help, that someone will always answer.
All of the above is possible, when you have favour with Jesus - our King of kings and Lord of lords. Like what Pastor Tommy Tenney shared, put on the garment of praise (even when you don't feel like it) if you want God's favour.
But another key point that I think will win us favour with God is that we open our hearts and avail ourselves to be used by the Lord - to allow God's purposes in our lives to be fulfilled, as described in v8.When I was in NUS Year 3, I begin to ask God what purposes He has for me. I was going to graduate soon, and I wanted to know what kind of work the Lord has in mind for me. I felt the Lord ask me to become a teacher. At first, I wasn't thrilled. I wanted to have a career that would allow me to earn lots of money (not very godly, right?). However, later on, I decided that I wanted God to fulfill His purposes in my life - hence, I went into teaching.
While I was in NUS Year 4 (not even in NIE yet), during one a tribe meeting, I felt the Lord impressed upon me to go Raffles Institution. I kind of said yes, but I didn't know how that can be done. When I was midway in my NIE course, the Lord opened doors for me. I applied for a teaching position in RI and got it!
Because of my obedience, I believed God has also given me many favours in the school. And I'm really glad and I'm at peace in my heart because I know that God will fulfill His purposes for me in RI. My faith in Him had also increased a lot.
My prayer is that I would continue to 1) allow Him to reveal His purposes to me, 2) so that I can obey and 3) He will fulfill His purposes in me.
Things to ponder
1. What is God's purpose for you right where you are now - be it in school or at workplace?
2. Are you acting in obedience to fulfill His purposes for you? If yes, how? If not, why?
3. Pray for yourself to be open and obedient to God's purposes in you. Just leave the results up to the Lord.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Psalm 137
1 By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept
when we remembered Zion.
2 There on the poplars
we hung our harps,
3 for there our captors asked us for songs,
our tormentors demanded songs of joy;
they said, "Sing us one of the songs of Zion!"
4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD
while in a foreign land?
5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem,
may my right hand forget its skill .
6 May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth
if I do not remember you,
if I do not consider Jerusalem
my highest joy.
7 Remember, O LORD, what the Edomites did
on the day Jerusalem fell.
"Tear it down," they cried,
"tear it down to its foundations!"
8 O Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction,
happy is he who repays you
for what you have done to us-
9 he who seizes your infants
and dashes them against the rocks.
I think the context of the psalm was that the Israelites were being exiled to a foreign land - Babylon. They were driven out of their homeland, Jerusalem. The psalmist's deep longing for Jerusalem was evident in the whole of Psalm 137.
Recently, I had a little taste of how it feels to be in foreign land. In order to do a medical checkup (for reservist purposes), I had to spent a number of hours in a military camp. It has been 6 years since I've set foot into such a place.The whole place just felt so foreign to me (even though I'm still in Singapore). There was this spirit of fear and oppression in the air. Even right at the gates of the camp, I was 'welcomed' with someone shouting vulgarities. In my spirit, I was furious. How can someone just verbally abused me like this?
But thankfully, while waiting for my turn in the medical centre, I managed to take out my Bible and read. Despite being in 'hostile' (I perceived it to be) land, I took comfort in God's Word. I even managed to memorize Psalm 133.
I know that there will be a time when I would be placed in a foreign and hostile environment. Perhaps then, I would have to spend long periods of time there. But my prayer is that I would look towards God. Even if I can't sing songs of praise, at least I can read God's Word and take comfort in Him. Then maybe, my songs of praise will arise. Hope will fill my heart.
Things to ponder
1. Are there places that you've been in and you perceived them to be foreign and hostile to Christians?
2. Describe your experience at one of those places.
3. Pray for a heart to always seek comfort and refuge in God when in those places.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Pastor YC "Psalm 136: Lord of All"
PS 136:1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.
PS 136:2 Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever.
PS 136:3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.
PS 136:4 to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever.
PS 136:5 who by his understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.
PS 136:6 who spread out the earth upon the waters, His love endures forever.
PS 136:7 who made the great lights-- His love endures forever.
PS 136:8 the sun to govern the day, His love endures forever.
PS 136:9 the moon and stars to govern the night; His love endures forever.
v10-22 (The God of Nations)
PS 136:10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt His love endures forever.
PS 136:11 and brought Israel out from among them His love endures forever.
PS 136:12 with a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.
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PS 136:13 to him who divided the Red Sea asunder His love endures forever.
PS 136:14 and brought Israel through the midst of it, His love endures forever.
PS 136:15 but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea; His love endures forever.
PS 136:16 to him who led his people through the desert, His love endures forever.
PS 136:17 who struck down great kings, His love endures forever.
PS 136:18 and killed mighty kings--His love endures forever.
PS 136:19 Sihon king of the Amorites His love endures forever.
PS 136:20 and Og king of Bashan-- His love endures forever.
PS 136:21 and gave their land as an inheritance, His love endures forever.
PS 136:22 an inheritance to his servant Israel; His love endures forever.
v23-26 (The God of You and Me)
PS 136:23 to the One who remembered us in our low estate His love endures forever.
PS 136:24 and freed us from our enemies, His love endures forever.
PS 136:25 and who gives food to every creature. His love endures forever.
PS 136:26 Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.
God is not just high and mighty, aloof and distant. He is also personal and caring.
The greatest God of all, choosing to dwell in us - what a privilege!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Psalm 136
1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
2 Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.
3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.
4 to him who alone does great wonders,
His love endures forever.
5 who by his understanding made the heavens,
His love endures forever.
6 who spread out the earth upon the waters,
His love endures forever.
7 who made the great lights—
His love endures forever.
8 the sun to govern the day,
His love endures forever.
9 the moon and stars to govern the night;
His love endures forever.
10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt
His love endures forever.
11 and brought Israel out from among them
His love endures forever.
12 with a mighty hand and outstretched arm;
His love endures forever.
13 to him who divided the Red Sea asunder
His love endures forever.
14 and brought Israel through the midst of it,
His love endures forever.
15 but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea;
His love endures forever.
16 to him who led his people through the desert,
His love endures forever.
17 who struck down great kings,
His love endures forever.
18 and killed mighty kings—
His love endures forever.
19 Sihon king of the Amorites
His love endures forever.
20 and Og king of Bashan—
His love endures forever.
21 and gave their land as an inheritance,
His love endures forever.
22 an inheritance to his servant Israel;
His love endures forever.
23 to the One who remembered us in our low estate
His love endures forever.
24 and freed us from our enemies,
His love endures forever.
25 and who gives food to every creature.
His love endures forever.
26 Give thanks to the God of heaven.
His love endures forever.
It is true. God's love endures forever! Though God is the great creator of the sun and the moon, God's love for us can also be demonstrated very practically, sometimes even in miraculous fashion. Just look at the nation of Israel.
From Psalm 136:10-22, it was recorded how the Lord brought the Israelites out of Egypt where they were enslaved. He parted the Red Sea, did miracles for the Israelites in the desert, and even drove out great kings and gave His people land - all this despite them worshipping the golden calf, complaining and grumbling against Moses.
The Lord's LOVE for Israel is really AMAZING.
The Lord reminds me of China - which just had a massive earthquake in Sichuan. Right now, my heart just melts when I hear about the number of children trapped under collapsed buildings. To make matters worse, many of their parents only have 1 child each - due to the one-child policy. And according to reports, the death toll has hit 22,000 (with another 20,000+ or so missing).
The Lord had shown mercy on the Israelites, as mentioned in Psalm 136. I'm sure He loves the Chinese people in Sichuan too. I really pray for the Lord to turn the situation around and perhaps, the underground churches in China will rise up and gain acceptance from the government. After all, He is concerned with our needs - He gives food to every creature (v25).
Things to ponder
1. Pray for the rescue efforts to continue - so that more lives can be saved. Every single life count!
2. Pray for the government to also take care of the 5 million people who were left homeless because of the quake.
3. Pray for the churches in China to be united and rise up to be a blessing to the government.
4. Pray for the gospel to be shared in the nation, especially when the hearts of the people are open.
Psalm 135
1 Praise the LORD.
Praise the name of the LORD;
praise him, you servants of the LORD,
2 you who minister in the house of the LORD,
in the courts of the house of our God.
3 Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good;
sing praise to his name, for that is pleasant.
4 For the LORD has chosen Jacob to be his own,
Israel to be his treasured possession.
5 I know that the LORD is great,
that our Lord is greater than all gods.
6 The LORD does whatever pleases him,
in the heavens and on the earth,
in the seas and all their depths.
7 He makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth;
he sends lightning with the rain
and brings out the wind from his storehouses.
8 He struck down the firstborn of Egypt,
the firstborn of men and animals.
9 He sent his signs and wonders into your midst, O Egypt,
against Pharaoh and all his servants.
10 He struck down many nations
and killed mighty kings-
11 Sihon king of the Amorites,
Og king of Bashan
and all the kings of Canaan-
12 and he gave their land as an inheritance,
an inheritance to his people Israel.
13 Your name, O LORD, endures forever,
your renown, O LORD, through all generations.
14 For the LORD will vindicate his people
and have compassion on his servants.
15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold,
made by the hands of men.
16 They have mouths, but cannot speak,
eyes, but they cannot see;
17 they have ears, but cannot hear,
nor is there breath in their mouths.
18 Those who make them will be like them,
and so will all who trust in them.
19 O house of Israel, praise the LORD;
O house of Aaron, praise the LORD;
20 O house of Levi, praise the LORD;
you who fear him, praise the LORD.
21 Praise be to the LORD from Zion,
to him who dwells in Jerusalem.
Praise the LORD.
Seriously, I wasn't feeling too good these few days. My heart really goes out to the people of Myanmar. Because of Cyclone Nargis, it is estimated that a hundred thousand people have perished. 1.5 million people are in danger of diseases and starvation. To make matters worse, the local government refuses to accept foreign aid.
Like what Pastor Melvyn shared, the local goverment is almost like committing crime against humanity.
Psalm 135:5-12 tells us that the Lord is great. He can do anything that pleases Him. And obviously, He has the power to strike down nations and kings (governments in today's context) -v10.
Not just being great, Psalm 135:3 reminds us that the Lord is good. I have no idea why the cyclone had to hit Myanmar. But what I do pray now is that the Myanmar government somehow be open and allow foreign aid to reach the people of Myanmar. (Perhaps the Lord can change the key leaders of the government?)
Things to ponder
1. Pray for the Myanmar government to be open to receive foreign aid.
2. Pray for the Myanmar churches to unite and help those in need right now.
3. Pray for the people of Myanmar to be open to the gospels.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Psalm 134
A song of ascents.
Last Sunday, Pastor Tommy Tenney preached about having favor with God. His point was simple - since we all need favors, we might as well ask God to show us favors instead of asking man. I mean, if we have God on our side, who or what can stand against us?
And according to his study of the Bible, one key thing that can help us gain favor from God is that we put on garments of praise. Give our best to praise God, even when we don't feel like it.
Psalm 134 may be short, but it does reminds us to praise God (perhaps even if it's at night and we don't feel like it).
I've been bothered and burdened by quite a number of things recently. On some days at home, I really found it hard to praise God. But at least, when I'm in church, I usually give my best even when I feel down. My prayer is that I can praise God even when I'm not in church.
Things to ponder
1. Praise God - what does this phrase means to you personally?
2. What is 3 things you can praise God for?
3. Pray a prayer of praise to Jesus now.
1 Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD
who minister by night in the house of the LORD.
2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary
and praise the LORD.
3 May the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth,
bless you from Zion.
Last Sunday, Pastor Tommy Tenney preached about having favor with God. His point was simple - since we all need favors, we might as well ask God to show us favors instead of asking man. I mean, if we have God on our side, who or what can stand against us?
And according to his study of the Bible, one key thing that can help us gain favor from God is that we put on garments of praise. Give our best to praise God, even when we don't feel like it.
Psalm 134 may be short, but it does reminds us to praise God (perhaps even if it's at night and we don't feel like it).
I've been bothered and burdened by quite a number of things recently. On some days at home, I really found it hard to praise God. But at least, when I'm in church, I usually give my best even when I feel down. My prayer is that I can praise God even when I'm not in church.
Things to ponder
1. Praise God - what does this phrase means to you personally?
2. What is 3 things you can praise God for?
3. Pray a prayer of praise to Jesus now.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Psalm 133
A song of ascents. Of David.
It is clear that from Psalm 133, one of the things that really pleases the Lord is that the spiritual family lives in harmony, and the cell members love one another.
In this fallen world, the devil constantly tries to create differences between brothers. And these differences can come in many different forms. It could be being envious of one another. Or it could be being competitive doing ministry.
But when we walk in agreement with one another, the devil has to flee. And the Lord is extremely pleased.
This quarter, I really want to make it a point to be a blessing to my cell brothers. Lord, lift me up when I fall short. Help me to learn to depend on them too.
Things to ponder
1. Rate your cell group's level of unity - 1 to 10 (10 means the most).
2. What are some reasons why the cell group is not as united as you would like to be?
3. What are you going to do about it?
4. Pray for your cell group to be united in one heart one spirit, aligned to your cell leader and the church leadership.
1 How good and pleasant it is
when brothers live together in unity!
2 It is like precious oil poured on the head,
running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron's beard,
down upon the collar of his robes.
3 It is as if the dew of Hermon
were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the LORD bestows his blessing,
even life forevermore.
It is clear that from Psalm 133, one of the things that really pleases the Lord is that the spiritual family lives in harmony, and the cell members love one another.
In this fallen world, the devil constantly tries to create differences between brothers. And these differences can come in many different forms. It could be being envious of one another. Or it could be being competitive doing ministry.
But when we walk in agreement with one another, the devil has to flee. And the Lord is extremely pleased.
This quarter, I really want to make it a point to be a blessing to my cell brothers. Lord, lift me up when I fall short. Help me to learn to depend on them too.
Things to ponder
1. Rate your cell group's level of unity - 1 to 10 (10 means the most).
2. What are some reasons why the cell group is not as united as you would like to be?
3. What are you going to do about it?
4. Pray for your cell group to be united in one heart one spirit, aligned to your cell leader and the church leadership.
Pastor YC "Psalm 132: Pursuit of the God-Pursuer"
David the "God-Chaser"
PS 132:1 O LORD, remember David and all the hardships he endured.
PS 132:2 He swore an oath to the LORD and made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob:
PS 132:3 "I will not enter my house or go to my bed--
PS 132:4 I will allow no sleep to my eyes, no slumber to my eyelids,
PS 132:5 till I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob."
PS 132:6 We heard it in Ephrathah, we came upon it in the fields of Jaar:
PS 132:7 "Let us go to his dwelling place; let us worship at his footstool--
PS 132:8 arise, O LORD, and come to your resting place, you and the ark of your might.
PS 132:9 May your priests be clothed with righteousness; may your saints sing for joy."
PS 132:10 For the sake of David your servant, do not reject your anointed one.
God the "David-Chaser"
PS 132:11 The LORD swore an oath to David, a sure oath that he will not revoke: "One of your own descendants I will place on your throne--PS 132:12 if your sons keep my covenant
and the statutes I teach them, then their sons will sit on your throne for ever and ever."
PS 132:13 For the LORD has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling:
PS 132:14 "This is my resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it--
PS 132:15 I will bless her with abundant provisions; her poor will I satisfy with food.
PS 132:16 I will clothe her priests with salvation, and her saints will ever sing for joy.
PS 132:17 "Here I will make a horn grow for David and set up a lamp for my anointed one.
PS 132:18 I will clothe his enemies with shame, but the crown on his head will be resplendent."
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Psalm 132
A song of ascents.
I'm really amazed at what David said in v3-5. He made an oath before the Lord (I believe oaths were taken very seriously during his time) that he will not rest until he has found a place for the Lord.
Many of us, when physically tired, just want to rest, and forget all about God. When I'm exhausted, I would lay aside my bible, my guitar (used to worship God), my journal, etc. But David's heart was really for God. He chose to bless God at his own expense.
During GDOP 2008, Pastor Edmund Chan said that the church of this century has to love God with all our hearts (somewhat similar to David) - Deuteronomy 6:5 "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." What a word released!!
However, many of us (myself included of course) can't do it. Pastor Edumund said that there are 4 reasons. Some of us may have Primal Wounds - I'm hurt. Some of us may have the Cynicism of Mind - I doubt. Some of us may have the Paralysis of Will - I can't. Finally, some of us have Overcrowding of Soul - I'm too busy.
As I reflected, it seems that I have all four of the things mentioned. Lord, help me overcome all the "I hurt, I doubt, I can't and I'm too busy". Help me to be more like David, to love you with everything I have.
Things to ponder
1. Which of the four things mentioned above spoke to you the most? Why?
2. Pray for yourself to have a heart of change. So that you can love God with everything you have.
1 O LORD, remember David
and all the hardships he endured.
2 He swore an oath to the LORD
and made a vow to the Mighty One of Jacob:
3 "I will not enter my house
or go to my bed-
4 I will allow no sleep to my eyes,
no slumber to my eyelids,
5 till I find a place for the LORD,
a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob."
6 We heard it in Ephrathah,
we came upon it in the fields of Jaar:
7 "Let us go to his dwelling place;
let us worship at his footstool-
8 arise, O LORD, and come to your resting place,
you and the ark of your might.
9 May your priests be clothed with righteousness;
may your saints sing for joy."
10 For the sake of David your servant,
do not reject your anointed one.
11 The LORD swore an oath to David,
a sure oath that he will not revoke:
"One of your own descendants
I will place on your throne-
12 if your sons keep my covenant
and the statutes I teach them,
then their sons will sit
on your throne for ever and ever."
13 For the LORD has chosen Zion,
he has desired it for his dwelling:
14 "This is my resting place for ever and ever;
here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it-
15 I will bless her with abundant provisions;
her poor will I satisfy with food.
16 I will clothe her priests with salvation,
and her saints will ever sing for joy.
17 "Here I will make a horn grow for David
and set up a lamp for my anointed one.
18 I will clothe his enemies with shame,
but the crown on his head will be resplendent."
I'm really amazed at what David said in v3-5. He made an oath before the Lord (I believe oaths were taken very seriously during his time) that he will not rest until he has found a place for the Lord.
Many of us, when physically tired, just want to rest, and forget all about God. When I'm exhausted, I would lay aside my bible, my guitar (used to worship God), my journal, etc. But David's heart was really for God. He chose to bless God at his own expense.
During GDOP 2008, Pastor Edmund Chan said that the church of this century has to love God with all our hearts (somewhat similar to David) - Deuteronomy 6:5 "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." What a word released!!
However, many of us (myself included of course) can't do it. Pastor Edumund said that there are 4 reasons. Some of us may have Primal Wounds - I'm hurt. Some of us may have the Cynicism of Mind - I doubt. Some of us may have the Paralysis of Will - I can't. Finally, some of us have Overcrowding of Soul - I'm too busy.
As I reflected, it seems that I have all four of the things mentioned. Lord, help me overcome all the "I hurt, I doubt, I can't and I'm too busy". Help me to be more like David, to love you with everything I have.
Things to ponder
1. Which of the four things mentioned above spoke to you the most? Why?
2. Pray for yourself to have a heart of change. So that you can love God with everything you have.
Pastor YC "Psalm 131: The Warrior is a Child"
PS 131:1 My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me.PS 131:2 But I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me.
PS 131:3 O Israel, put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore.
On the outside: Wise and mighty men on great exploits.
On the inside: Calm in the eye of the storm - a child with his mum.
Dear Lord, whenever my soul frets, remind me again that I am but a little child taking on things that you have prepared for me long before, so that by walking the road, I may learn to put my hope in you.
Teach me that I will never get all excited over the great exploits and have eyes only for my achievements and talents. Instead let me look to the Giver of all gifts.
Warrior is a Child by Twila Paris
Lately I've been winning battles left and right
But even winners can get wounded in the fight
People say that I'm amazing
Strong beyond my years
But they don't see inside of me
I'm hiding all the tears
(Chorus)
They don't know that I go running home when I fall down
They don't know who picks me up when no one is around
I drop my sword and cry for just a while
'Cause deep inside this armour
The warrior is a child
Unafraid because his armour is the best
But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest
People say that I'm amazing
Never face retreat
But they don't see the enemies
That lay me at His feet
Chorus x2
I drop my sword and look up for His smile
Because deep inside this armour
Deep inside this armour
Deep inside this armour
The Warrior is a Child
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Psalm 131
A song of ascents. Of David.
Today's psalm is really timely. Pastor Tommy Tenney had just reminded us that we have to hunger for God in our lives. And Psalm 131 talks about how we need to humble ourselves and come to the Lord like a little child.
Christianity is not about a religion. It's about having a personal relationship with God. We need not always go for accomplishing big and spectacular stuff for Him. Often we just need to come before Him, quieten our souls and seek Him. He will give us the spectacular stuff and results, according to His timing. We need not worry.
Pastor Tommy's point was that the emptiness in our souls can only be filled up by God. Career, family, relationships, studies, and even ministry can't.
Recently, I've been very busy in school, preparing for wedding, church activities, etc. I really need to focus back on God and have a hunger for Him. I need to learn to lay aside all the great and wonderful matters. O Lord, help me.
Things to ponder
1. How hungry are you for God in your life right now? Rate yourself 1 to 10 (10 means very).
2. What are some things that cause you not able to still and quieten down your soul?
3. Pray and be hungry for God. Remember, only He can fill your emptiness. Bring all your empty jars to Him right now.
1 My heart is not proud, O LORD,
my eyes are not haughty;
I do not concern myself with great matters
or things too wonderful for me.
2 But I have stilled and quieted my soul;
like a weaned child with its mother,
like a weaned child is my soul within me.
3 O Israel, put your hope in the LORD
both now and forevermore.
Today's psalm is really timely. Pastor Tommy Tenney had just reminded us that we have to hunger for God in our lives. And Psalm 131 talks about how we need to humble ourselves and come to the Lord like a little child.
Christianity is not about a religion. It's about having a personal relationship with God. We need not always go for accomplishing big and spectacular stuff for Him. Often we just need to come before Him, quieten our souls and seek Him. He will give us the spectacular stuff and results, according to His timing. We need not worry.
Pastor Tommy's point was that the emptiness in our souls can only be filled up by God. Career, family, relationships, studies, and even ministry can't.
Recently, I've been very busy in school, preparing for wedding, church activities, etc. I really need to focus back on God and have a hunger for Him. I need to learn to lay aside all the great and wonderful matters. O Lord, help me.
Things to ponder
1. How hungry are you for God in your life right now? Rate yourself 1 to 10 (10 means very).
2. What are some things that cause you not able to still and quieten down your soul?
3. Pray and be hungry for God. Remember, only He can fill your emptiness. Bring all your empty jars to Him right now.
Pastor YC "Psalm 130: Fear the Only One Who Can Forgive..."
PS 130:3 If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand?PS 130:4 But with you there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared.
What an amazing thought! "Fear Him who forgives".
One would think that we fear those who do not forgive. But to fear "him who forgives"?
- "Fear him who does not forgive" - the understanding is that evil reigns. We live in fear. Don't offend the big & powerful bully who does not forgive.
- "Fear him who forgives" - a good God reigns in world of evil. Because of evil, we will all die. But God alone forgives and grants us life. Therefore we fear Him because we need his mercy and favour.
PS 130:5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope.
PS 130:6 My soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Psalm 130
A song of ascents.
"Waiting" is not a word commonly associated with modern-day man. Most of us dislike waiting. We want results out fast, especially when it seems that time is a precious commodity these days.
However, in Psalm 130:5-6, it is described that the psalmist actually waited for the Lord. Maybe he is waiting for the Lord to fill him with His love yet again. Maybe he is waiting for the Lord to assure him that all of his sins have been forgiven. Maybe he is waiting for the Lord to deliver him from the hands of his enemies. Maybe...
Actually, it perhaps doesn't matter what situation it is. We, Christians need to know that God is our heavenly Father, and He dotes on us. Hence, in every situation, if we seek Him sincerely as we wait upon Him, He will answer us.
Let's put our hope in His word. His word that says in Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
I had to trust God and waited almost two full days before the church venue of my wedding was confirmed. Dawn and I prayed and He answered. He is really faithful. And through this waiting phase, I learned to put my trust in God and leave Him to pave the way for me. God is really good!!
Things to ponder
1. When was the last time you waited for God to answer a prayer of yours? Did you try to over-do things using your own strength? What was the result?
2. Spend some time before the Lord during QT and wait for His presence to fill you. You can do some worship first.
1 Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD;
2 O Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
to my cry for mercy.
3 If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins,
O Lord, who could stand?
4 But with you there is forgiveness;
therefore you are feared.
5 I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
and in his word I put my hope.
6 My soul waits for the Lord
more than watchmen wait for the morning,
more than watchmen wait for the morning.
7 O Israel, put your hope in the LORD,
for with the LORD is unfailing love
and with him is full redemption.
8 He himself will redeem Israel
from all their sins.
"Waiting" is not a word commonly associated with modern-day man. Most of us dislike waiting. We want results out fast, especially when it seems that time is a precious commodity these days.However, in Psalm 130:5-6, it is described that the psalmist actually waited for the Lord. Maybe he is waiting for the Lord to fill him with His love yet again. Maybe he is waiting for the Lord to assure him that all of his sins have been forgiven. Maybe he is waiting for the Lord to deliver him from the hands of his enemies. Maybe...
Actually, it perhaps doesn't matter what situation it is. We, Christians need to know that God is our heavenly Father, and He dotes on us. Hence, in every situation, if we seek Him sincerely as we wait upon Him, He will answer us.
Let's put our hope in His word. His word that says in Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
I had to trust God and waited almost two full days before the church venue of my wedding was confirmed. Dawn and I prayed and He answered. He is really faithful. And through this waiting phase, I learned to put my trust in God and leave Him to pave the way for me. God is really good!!
Things to ponder
1. When was the last time you waited for God to answer a prayer of yours? Did you try to over-do things using your own strength? What was the result?
2. Spend some time before the Lord during QT and wait for His presence to fill you. You can do some worship first.
Pastor YC "Psalm 129: Prayer for Deliverance and Judgment"
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PS 129:1 They have greatly oppressed me from my youth--let Israel say--PS 129:2 they have greatly oppressed me from my youth, but they have not gained the victory over me.
Just how oppressed were the Israelites?
PS 129:3 Plowmen have plowed my back and made their furrows long.
Imagine long furrows ploughed down our back!
Well honestly I have not come near to this kind of experience. People may have poked me here and there but nobody has ploughed long furrows down my back.
PS 129:4 But the LORD is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.
Lord, remove the work of the darkness far away from my life!
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Psalm 129
A song of ascents.
Ever since the time of Jesus, the church has always been under constant persecution. Almost all of the 12 disciples of Jesus died a martyr's death. They were beheaded, crucified, crucified upside down and speared. This webpage shows quite a complete listing.
Even in recent times, the persecution of the church goes on in some parts of the world. Brother Yun, who was from China, suffered intense persecution because of his faith in Jesus. In his book "The Heavenly Man", he wrote
In my home area of Nanyang, believers were crucified on the walls of their churches for not denying Christ. ... One pastor was bound and attached to a long rope. The authorities, enraged that the man of God would not deny his faith, used a makeshift crane to lift him high into the air. Before hundreds of witnesses who had come to accuse him solely of being a "counter revolutionary," [Public interrogation and punishment built the public fear needed for government control] the pastor was asked on last time if he would recant. He shouted back, "No! I will never deny the Lord who saved me!" The rope was released and the pastor crashed to the ground below. (Page 21)
Despite all the things that the devil has done against the church, the church continues to grow and was never eliminated. Just like what the psalmist wfrote in Psalm 129:1-4. There's no way the church will be destroyed.
It is because we have a great and mighty God!
I really have to be more outward-looking. I have never been on a mission trip. I have not seen what it's like to believe in Jesus in other nations. Lord, give me a chance to go and serve another nation. Then I would be able to appreciate what I have in Singapore way much better.
Things to ponder
1. Do you feel persecuted in school or in your family because of you faith? If so, in what ways?
2. Pray and ask God to help Christians who are currently persecuted. You can search the internet to find out more.
3. Pray and ask God to give you a heart to serve the nations. Ask for an opportunity to go on a mission trip.
1 They have greatly oppressed me from my youth—
let Israel say-
2 they have greatly oppressed me from my youth,
but they have not gained the victory over me.
3 Plowmen have plowed my back
and made their furrows long.
4 But the LORD is righteous;
he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.
5 May all who hate Zion
be turned back in shame.
6 May they be like grass on the roof,
which withers before it can grow;
7 with it the reaper cannot fill his hands,
nor the one who gathers fill his arms.
8 May those who pass by not say,
"The blessing of the LORD be upon you;
we bless you in the name of the LORD."
Ever since the time of Jesus, the church has always been under constant persecution. Almost all of the 12 disciples of Jesus died a martyr's death. They were beheaded, crucified, crucified upside down and speared. This webpage shows quite a complete listing.
Even in recent times, the persecution of the church goes on in some parts of the world. Brother Yun, who was from China, suffered intense persecution because of his faith in Jesus. In his book "The Heavenly Man", he wrote
In my home area of Nanyang, believers were crucified on the walls of their churches for not denying Christ. ... One pastor was bound and attached to a long rope. The authorities, enraged that the man of God would not deny his faith, used a makeshift crane to lift him high into the air. Before hundreds of witnesses who had come to accuse him solely of being a "counter revolutionary," [Public interrogation and punishment built the public fear needed for government control] the pastor was asked on last time if he would recant. He shouted back, "No! I will never deny the Lord who saved me!" The rope was released and the pastor crashed to the ground below. (Page 21)
Despite all the things that the devil has done against the church, the church continues to grow and was never eliminated. Just like what the psalmist wfrote in Psalm 129:1-4. There's no way the church will be destroyed.
It is because we have a great and mighty God!
I really have to be more outward-looking. I have never been on a mission trip. I have not seen what it's like to believe in Jesus in other nations. Lord, give me a chance to go and serve another nation. Then I would be able to appreciate what I have in Singapore way much better.
Things to ponder
1. Do you feel persecuted in school or in your family because of you faith? If so, in what ways?
2. Pray and ask God to help Christians who are currently persecuted. You can search the internet to find out more.
3. Pray and ask God to give you a heart to serve the nations. Ask for an opportunity to go on a mission trip.
Pastor YC "Psalm 128: Man Who Fears God"
What happens when one fears God?
PS 128:1 Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways.
PS 128:2 You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.
PS 128:3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table.
PS 128:3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table.
The metaphor of the fruitfulness of the vine extends, not only to the bearing of children, but also to everything the wife contributes to the welfare of family
Olives are long-lived with a life expectancy of 500 years. The trees are also tenacious, easily sprouting back even when chopped to the ground.
PS 128:4 Thus is the man blessed who fears the LORD.
PS 128:5 May the LORD bless you from Zion all the days of your life; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem,
PS 128:6 and may you live to see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel.
PS 128:5 May the LORD bless you from Zion all the days of your life; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem,
PS 128:6 and may you live to see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel.
I've never actually imagined how it would be like to "see my children's children" until today. Sure it tells of one's longetivity. But also I guess, as a parent, I can understand it to be the ultimate indicator and milestone of one's parenting journey - to see my children becoming established and mature till the point that they begin to raise their own children.
In a sense, that must be the indicator that "I've made it!"
:) How will Elsie's and Anna's kids look like? :p
Psalm 128
A song of ascents.
If there's a title to Psalm 128, I think it would be something like "Blessings Of Christians Who Fear The Lord & Walk In His Ways". The reasons are listed down plainly.
Firstly, we will enjoy the fruit of our labour. We will be financially sound. Generally, Christians are more well-to-do than non-Christians. God is the provider of wealth.
Secondly, the Lord will bless us with stable homes. Our spouses will be fruitful and faithful (just like vines), and our children will be strong and firm in the Lord (just like olive shoots).
Since I'm getting married soon, I really pray that I will enjoy the blessings described in v3. But the pre-requiste is to fear the Lord and walk in His ways. Lord, teach me!
Things to ponder
1. What does fear of the Lord mean to u personally?
2. What does walking in God's ways mean to u?
3. Pray for yourself to become a man who fears the Lord and walks in His ways.
1 Blessed are all who fear the LORD,
who walk in his ways.
2 You will eat the fruit of your labor;
blessings and prosperity will be yours.
3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine
within your house;
your sons will be like olive shoots
around your table.
4 Thus is the man blessed
who fears the LORD.
5 May the LORD bless you from Zion
all the days of your life;
may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem,
6 and may you live to see your children's children.
Peace be upon Israel.
If there's a title to Psalm 128, I think it would be something like "Blessings Of Christians Who Fear The Lord & Walk In His Ways". The reasons are listed down plainly.
Firstly, we will enjoy the fruit of our labour. We will be financially sound. Generally, Christians are more well-to-do than non-Christians. God is the provider of wealth.
Secondly, the Lord will bless us with stable homes. Our spouses will be fruitful and faithful (just like vines), and our children will be strong and firm in the Lord (just like olive shoots).
Since I'm getting married soon, I really pray that I will enjoy the blessings described in v3. But the pre-requiste is to fear the Lord and walk in His ways. Lord, teach me!
Things to ponder
1. What does fear of the Lord mean to u personally?
2. What does walking in God's ways mean to u?
3. Pray for yourself to become a man who fears the Lord and walks in His ways.
Pastor YC "Psalm 127: 觉悟 and Sleep Well Again"
PS 127:2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat--for he grants sleep to those he loves.I fell asleep and missed an appointment late last night. As I lay awake after the incident, physically tired but mentally (very) alert, I realised that I've operated in this mode for probably the past 15-20 years.
Late nights (studying or working) and perpetually lacking in sleep. Always ready to fall asleep in the day (yet I don't) and very active at night. In short, 20 years of body-abuse since BMT & OCS days.
Of course it's gotten worse over these years because of children and intense work. My ex-pastor once told me that "all the great men of God" slept very little but spent a lot of time praying. I think I somehow took that and felt it was ok to sleep less and do work.
- OCS - I learned mind over body when we averaged 4 hrs of sleep over 9 months
- My ex-Pastor - I distinctly made a change to accept sacrifice of sleep as "good". Today I no longer demand for my sleep time.
- HP & lay-ministry days - I effectively did 2 jobs and cut my sleep to 5hrs/day
- Project CRuSH startup days - I went to 4hrs/day trawling the internet
But I know God spoke very clearly yesterday in those moments awake - crystal clear. I've got to stop this pattern. Sleeping enough has to become the norm rather than exception or the occasional relief.
OK this is quite weird, to come to such a decision after 20 years. But I guess I've found my energy waning and just know that my body is tired. I think I can press on for many years, but I do not know how much energy I will have in my body to journey with my kids in their grown-up years and to be my wife's companion.
This will have to be the psalm I cling on to, as I make the adjustments to my living pattern. Somethings will have to go and I'll have to depend more on God to build the house :)
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Darren's Reflection on Psalm 127
Thoughts: I noticed that in Psalm 127, the Psalmist mentioned alot of in vain we do this and that. From this, I can deduce that He's highlighting something important here. The consequences of doing things when we go by our own effort. We can succeed sometimes on our own, but as what Ps Khong shared, God's presence is not with us. Soon emptiness will settle in even when we succeed and we'll realise that no matter how hard we try, there are no fruits beared and all are in vain.
Application: The fact is God has to be placed in the centre of our lives as he is the source of all blessing. We find it difficult to accept this fact sometimes as we doubt he can prepare us well for the next attack of the devil. But we must recognise, as we welcome God in every situation, He will always birth forth in us fruits be it in successes or failures. Fruits that will prepare us for coming tests and temptations.
Application: The fact is God has to be placed in the centre of our lives as he is the source of all blessing. We find it difficult to accept this fact sometimes as we doubt he can prepare us well for the next attack of the devil. But we must recognise, as we welcome God in every situation, He will always birth forth in us fruits be it in successes or failures. Fruits that will prepare us for coming tests and temptations.
Psalm 127
A song of ascents. Of Solomon.
My cell leader challenged us to memorize this wonderful psalm (one of my favourites!). And yes, I will do it after memorizing Psalm 1.
Psalm 127 reminds us to enthrone Jesus in all that we do. Verse 1 and 2 reminds us the futile efforts of man when we do not involve God in our lives. How often we try to do things with our own strength? I'm definitely guilty as charged.
The second part of the psalm reminds us of the importance of the next generation. If brought up properly, they can be used mightily for God's kingdom!
In Wai Mun's cell, we already have about 20 youths. Lord, please teach the leaders (including myself) how to bring up the youths so that they will be able to contend with the kingdom of darkness!
Things to ponder
1. Name two areas of your life that you often rely on your own strength, and not on God.
2. Do you have the heart to be a disciple-maker, and bring up other youths to serve God?
3. Pray and commit yourself to the Lord. Ask Him to give you a heart to be a disciple-maker so that you can live out v3-5.
1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
its builders labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchmen stand guard in vain.
2 In vain you rise early
and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat—
for he grants sleep to those he loves.
3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
children a reward from him.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are sons born in one's youth.
5 Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their enemies in the gate.
My cell leader challenged us to memorize this wonderful psalm (one of my favourites!). And yes, I will do it after memorizing Psalm 1.
Psalm 127 reminds us to enthrone Jesus in all that we do. Verse 1 and 2 reminds us the futile efforts of man when we do not involve God in our lives. How often we try to do things with our own strength? I'm definitely guilty as charged.
The second part of the psalm reminds us of the importance of the next generation. If brought up properly, they can be used mightily for God's kingdom!
In Wai Mun's cell, we already have about 20 youths. Lord, please teach the leaders (including myself) how to bring up the youths so that they will be able to contend with the kingdom of darkness!
Things to ponder
1. Name two areas of your life that you often rely on your own strength, and not on God.
2. Do you have the heart to be a disciple-maker, and bring up other youths to serve God?
3. Pray and commit yourself to the Lord. Ask Him to give you a heart to be a disciple-maker so that you can live out v3-5.
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