1 Kings 15:14
14 Although the pagan shrines were not removed, Asa’s heart remained completely faithful to the Lord throughout his life.
A rather simple verse but it spoke to me. King Asa was a descendant of King David and unlike all the other ancestors before him who went against God, except David, Asa had his heart solely fixed on God and this pleased God.
Actually i do not know why he did not remove the pagan shrines. I guess he did not want to upset others? More importantly, his heart did not falter.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Monday, September 5, 2011
Genesis 6:8
God saw the wickedness in men. And he grieved for them in his heart.
That's why He wanted to destroy them from the face of the earth. But Noah found grace in God's eyes.
so what did Noah do to find grace in.God's eyes ?
Noah was a just man who walked with God.
Also I always find it amazing that God gave such detailed instructions to Noah to build the ark.
what more things He can teach us if we ask Him! Be it our studies, work or even when we choose our direction in life!
ask Him many questions today!
That's why He wanted to destroy them from the face of the earth. But Noah found grace in God's eyes.
so what did Noah do to find grace in.God's eyes ?
Noah was a just man who walked with God.
Also I always find it amazing that God gave such detailed instructions to Noah to build the ark.
what more things He can teach us if we ask Him! Be it our studies, work or even when we choose our direction in life!
ask Him many questions today!
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Sunday, August 14, 2011
Acts 23- 25
Acts 23
Before the Sanhedrin
Paul was brought before the Sanhedrin (The highest court of justice and the supreme council in ancient Jerusalem.) because of the offenses that he brought upon the jews when he shared that Jesus is the Messiah, and that He resurrected from the dead.
During the trial, he shared his own story on how he himself was born a Pharisee (1. A member of an ancient Jewish sect, distinguished by strict observance of the traditional and written law, and commonly held to have pretensions to superior sanctity) He declared that he is standing on trial because of his hope in the resurrection of Jesus. At that, there was a dispute that broke out between the Pharisees and the Sadducees.
Some background information is that the Sadducees do not believe in angels, spirits, resurrection. But the Pharisees acknowledges all of them.
So the dispute became so violent that the commander was afraid that Paul would be torn to pieces. So he ordered troops to take him away and bring him to the barracks.
The next night, God stood near to Paul and told him that even as he testified about Him in Jerusalem, he will also do so in Rome.
The plot to kill Paul
There were some Jews (about 40 of them) who came together and plotted to kill Paul. Son of Paul's sister heard and ran to the barracks to inform Paul.
Paul transferred to Caesarea
The commander sent for 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen and 200 spearmen to escort Paul to Governor Felix.
Can you imagine the no, of people that is escorting Paul so that he can reach Caesarea safely?
The commander also wrote a letter to Governor Felix. Paul was placed under guard in Herod's palace.
Acts 24
The trail before Felix
The high priest Ananias came down to Caesarea before Felix. Governor Felix listened to both Ananias and Paul. And then said that he will take some time to decide the case. But before that, he ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard but to allow him some freedom and he also permitted Paul's friends to come and take care of his needs.
Wow. God's favour is upon Paul even as he sit in jail. Amazing huh. No matter where we are (in the high or low) God will always take care of us as long as we stay close to Him.
A few days later, Felix and his wife sent for Paul and listened to him as he shared about his faith in Jesus. However, Felix was afraid and sent him back. Said that when it is convenient, he will send for Paul. (Was just wondering, what is Felix so afraid about?) At the same time, he was actually hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe so because of that he sent for Paul frequently and talked to him.
After 2 years, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus but because Felix wanted to do a favour to the jews, he left Paul in prison.
Even though Paul didn't get out of prison, I feel that during the 2 years, he was really well taken care of.
Acts 25
The trail before Festus
3 days before arriving in the province, Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalme where the priests and Jewish leaders appeared before him and presented their charges against Paul. They urged Festus to transfer Paul to Jerusalem so that they can kill him along the way. (They have planned an ambush)
Festus did not allow that. Instead, he insisted that Paul will be trialed in Caesarea and the Jews should send their leaders there. (Wise man!)
On the day of the trial, the Jews who had come from Jerusalem brought down many serious charges against Paul, many by which they could not prove. Paul made his defenses. Festus proposed to Paul whether he is willing to be brought to trial in Jerusalem. Paul insisted that he should be tried in Caesars court. He appealed to Caesar.
Festus consults King Agrippa
King Agrippa arrived at Caesarea. Festus consulted him and asked how he should go about to try Paul. Cos he don't really see that Paul has done anything wrong. King Agrippa said that he want to hear Paul for himself.
Paul before Agrippa
Festus announced to everyone that he did not find that Paul did anything which deserved death. But because of Paul's appeal to Caesar, he will be sent to Rome. However, he does not know what to write to Caesar because there are no specific charges against Paul.
END OF CHAPT 25
(to be continued)
Before the Sanhedrin
Paul was brought before the Sanhedrin (The highest court of justice and the supreme council in ancient Jerusalem.) because of the offenses that he brought upon the jews when he shared that Jesus is the Messiah, and that He resurrected from the dead.
During the trial, he shared his own story on how he himself was born a Pharisee (1. A member of an ancient Jewish sect, distinguished by strict observance of the traditional and written law, and commonly held to have pretensions to superior sanctity) He declared that he is standing on trial because of his hope in the resurrection of Jesus. At that, there was a dispute that broke out between the Pharisees and the Sadducees.
Some background information is that the Sadducees do not believe in angels, spirits, resurrection. But the Pharisees acknowledges all of them.
So the dispute became so violent that the commander was afraid that Paul would be torn to pieces. So he ordered troops to take him away and bring him to the barracks.
The next night, God stood near to Paul and told him that even as he testified about Him in Jerusalem, he will also do so in Rome.
The plot to kill Paul
There were some Jews (about 40 of them) who came together and plotted to kill Paul. Son of Paul's sister heard and ran to the barracks to inform Paul.
Paul transferred to Caesarea
The commander sent for 200 soldiers, 70 horsemen and 200 spearmen to escort Paul to Governor Felix.
Can you imagine the no, of people that is escorting Paul so that he can reach Caesarea safely?
The commander also wrote a letter to Governor Felix. Paul was placed under guard in Herod's palace.
Acts 24
The trail before Felix
The high priest Ananias came down to Caesarea before Felix. Governor Felix listened to both Ananias and Paul. And then said that he will take some time to decide the case. But before that, he ordered the centurion to keep Paul under guard but to allow him some freedom and he also permitted Paul's friends to come and take care of his needs.
Wow. God's favour is upon Paul even as he sit in jail. Amazing huh. No matter where we are (in the high or low) God will always take care of us as long as we stay close to Him.
A few days later, Felix and his wife sent for Paul and listened to him as he shared about his faith in Jesus. However, Felix was afraid and sent him back. Said that when it is convenient, he will send for Paul. (Was just wondering, what is Felix so afraid about?) At the same time, he was actually hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe so because of that he sent for Paul frequently and talked to him.
After 2 years, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus but because Felix wanted to do a favour to the jews, he left Paul in prison.
Even though Paul didn't get out of prison, I feel that during the 2 years, he was really well taken care of.
Acts 25
The trail before Festus
3 days before arriving in the province, Festus went up from Caesarea to Jerusalme where the priests and Jewish leaders appeared before him and presented their charges against Paul. They urged Festus to transfer Paul to Jerusalem so that they can kill him along the way. (They have planned an ambush)
Festus did not allow that. Instead, he insisted that Paul will be trialed in Caesarea and the Jews should send their leaders there. (Wise man!)
On the day of the trial, the Jews who had come from Jerusalem brought down many serious charges against Paul, many by which they could not prove. Paul made his defenses. Festus proposed to Paul whether he is willing to be brought to trial in Jerusalem. Paul insisted that he should be tried in Caesars court. He appealed to Caesar.
Festus consults King Agrippa
King Agrippa arrived at Caesarea. Festus consulted him and asked how he should go about to try Paul. Cos he don't really see that Paul has done anything wrong. King Agrippa said that he want to hear Paul for himself.
Paul before Agrippa
Festus announced to everyone that he did not find that Paul did anything which deserved death. But because of Paul's appeal to Caesar, he will be sent to Rome. However, he does not know what to write to Caesar because there are no specific charges against Paul.
END OF CHAPT 25
(to be continued)
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Today, I read Mark 10 -12. Feel that there is so much to absorb from New Testament! So many things to think about, to talk about, etc.
Okay here goes.
Mark 10
Divorce
Jesus addressed the issue of divorce and how Moses had set the law in place that time was because the people's heart were hardened. But Jesus said that whoever divorces his/her wife/husband for another woman/man, is committing adultery towards his/her ex-wife/ex-husband. Haha this sentence is confusing to read.
Little children and Jesus
People were bringing little children to Jesus but then the disciples rebuked them. Jesus felt indignant and said this: "... anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
This struck me. I feel that when children trust in someone (like their mom or dad) they do not doubt that person. Their trust is complete.
Lord, today it is my prayer that both joel and i will learn to trust in You like little children. In Jesus name, amen!
The rich young man
Talks about how this rich young man goes to Jesus and told Him how he has followed all the commandments in the scriptures. But yet when Jesus told him to sell away his possessions and give to the poor, he didn't obey.
I feel that sometimes in our world, we base everything on like what we have, money and all these kinda things.
But God is saying that there is much more than that.
Jesus predicts his own death
Scary thing for Jesus to do :(
Request of James and John
To sit at the right hand and left hand of Jesus. But Jesus answered that this decision was not up to Him. By this, He is acknowledging to them both that there is someone greater than Him up there. God the Father!
Trinity is a difficult concept that I still find hard to grasp. But well, His ways are higher!
And in vs 43 Jesus said: "Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant."
And it reminds me of one of the lessons that we taught the children in children church. About acts of service to others. Like how we ought to learn from Jesus' example, how He put others before Himself, etc,
Blind Bartimaeus recieves sight.
Bartimaeus is quite thickskinned in some sense. When he heard Jesus was entering town, he kept shouting for him. Even though people around him rebuked him, he continued to shout to Jesus. And Jesus upon hearing him, healed him.
I think what amazes me about Bartimaeus is that he can't see. He doesn't know how Jesus look like (you know how everyone base things on first impressions) and he can't even see where he is. But he just continues to shout and shout for Jesus. (I think he must have heard alot of exciting things that Jesus was doing) And it just struck me how his faith was in something he could not see. Reminds me of Hebrews 11:1.
Today, let's have faith like Bartimaeus. (blind faith in some sense) haha Although we can't see the future, let's trust that God has a plan for us (for you at work) and that our parents are coming to know Him as their personal Lord and Saviour.
Mark 11
The Triumphal Entry
Palm Sunday. Very magnificent sight. People were spreading cloaks on the ground so that the donkey that Jesus was riding on had some sorta red carpet! JESUS ROCK STAR! YOU ROCK MY LIFE!
Jesus clears the temple
cos people were selling things in the temple where its supposed to be a place of worship. They turning the temple into a market and Jesus was very angry (i think it's from another account - either John, Luke, Matthew that describe Jesus whipping the ground/tables)
The withered fig tree
Earlier, Jesus cursed a fig tree cos it bore no fruit. Then the next day, the tree withered (machiam fringe)
Okay I like vs 24 and 25 here (:
24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prater, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
This reminds me of what you have learnt today. Jiayou jiayou jiayou!
Authority of Jesus questioned
by the chief priests and pharisees. By now, they really don't like Jesus. They went up to Him and questioned "by whose authourity are you doing all these things?" And Jesus asked if they believed in John the Baptist's Baptism. (whether its from heaven or from men) They couldn't answer the question (fickle minded people) cos they wanted to say heaven (but then Jesus would ask "then why don't you believe him?) or from men (but they were afriad the crowd would tekan them cos the crowd believes in John)
So they answered I don't know.
So Jesus gave best answer: " Neither will I tell you by whose authority I am doing these things."
WA JESUS SO ZAI
Mark 12
Parable of the tenants
you should read it. very difficult to type here. But its a parable against the chief priest and pharisees.
So they angry and want to arrest Jesus.
Paying taxes to Caesar
As I said, they want to arrest Jesus so they find all sorts of ways to trap Jesus.
Like they asked HIm whether they should pay taxes to Caesar. Then again Jesus answer very ZAI
He said "Give to Caesar's what is Caesar's and to God what is God's"
I believe in this passage Jesus tells us to submit to authority. (and this is also what you have learnt today)
Be it the gahmen, our parents, our leaders or whoever, God has placed these people in our lives for a reason.
Marriage at resurrection
Greatest commandment
my fave (: Mark 12:30
the 2nd is love your neighbour as yourself.
whose son is Christ
Widow's offering
okay finito.
Okay here goes.
Mark 10
Divorce
Jesus addressed the issue of divorce and how Moses had set the law in place that time was because the people's heart were hardened. But Jesus said that whoever divorces his/her wife/husband for another woman/man, is committing adultery towards his/her ex-wife/ex-husband. Haha this sentence is confusing to read.
Little children and Jesus
People were bringing little children to Jesus but then the disciples rebuked them. Jesus felt indignant and said this: "... anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
This struck me. I feel that when children trust in someone (like their mom or dad) they do not doubt that person. Their trust is complete.
Lord, today it is my prayer that both joel and i will learn to trust in You like little children. In Jesus name, amen!
The rich young man
Talks about how this rich young man goes to Jesus and told Him how he has followed all the commandments in the scriptures. But yet when Jesus told him to sell away his possessions and give to the poor, he didn't obey.
I feel that sometimes in our world, we base everything on like what we have, money and all these kinda things.
But God is saying that there is much more than that.
Jesus predicts his own death
Scary thing for Jesus to do :(
Request of James and John
To sit at the right hand and left hand of Jesus. But Jesus answered that this decision was not up to Him. By this, He is acknowledging to them both that there is someone greater than Him up there. God the Father!
Trinity is a difficult concept that I still find hard to grasp. But well, His ways are higher!
And in vs 43 Jesus said: "Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant."
And it reminds me of one of the lessons that we taught the children in children church. About acts of service to others. Like how we ought to learn from Jesus' example, how He put others before Himself, etc,
Blind Bartimaeus recieves sight.
Bartimaeus is quite thickskinned in some sense. When he heard Jesus was entering town, he kept shouting for him. Even though people around him rebuked him, he continued to shout to Jesus. And Jesus upon hearing him, healed him.
I think what amazes me about Bartimaeus is that he can't see. He doesn't know how Jesus look like (you know how everyone base things on first impressions) and he can't even see where he is. But he just continues to shout and shout for Jesus. (I think he must have heard alot of exciting things that Jesus was doing) And it just struck me how his faith was in something he could not see. Reminds me of Hebrews 11:1.
Today, let's have faith like Bartimaeus. (blind faith in some sense) haha Although we can't see the future, let's trust that God has a plan for us (for you at work) and that our parents are coming to know Him as their personal Lord and Saviour.
Mark 11
The Triumphal Entry
Palm Sunday. Very magnificent sight. People were spreading cloaks on the ground so that the donkey that Jesus was riding on had some sorta red carpet! JESUS ROCK STAR! YOU ROCK MY LIFE!
Jesus clears the temple
cos people were selling things in the temple where its supposed to be a place of worship. They turning the temple into a market and Jesus was very angry (i think it's from another account - either John, Luke, Matthew that describe Jesus whipping the ground/tables)
The withered fig tree
Earlier, Jesus cursed a fig tree cos it bore no fruit. Then the next day, the tree withered (machiam fringe)
Okay I like vs 24 and 25 here (:
24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prater, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
25 And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your father in heaven may forgive you your sins.
This reminds me of what you have learnt today. Jiayou jiayou jiayou!
Authority of Jesus questioned
by the chief priests and pharisees. By now, they really don't like Jesus. They went up to Him and questioned "by whose authourity are you doing all these things?" And Jesus asked if they believed in John the Baptist's Baptism. (whether its from heaven or from men) They couldn't answer the question (fickle minded people) cos they wanted to say heaven (but then Jesus would ask "then why don't you believe him?) or from men (but they were afriad the crowd would tekan them cos the crowd believes in John)
So they answered I don't know.
So Jesus gave best answer: " Neither will I tell you by whose authority I am doing these things."
WA JESUS SO ZAI
Mark 12
Parable of the tenants
you should read it. very difficult to type here. But its a parable against the chief priest and pharisees.
So they angry and want to arrest Jesus.
Paying taxes to Caesar
As I said, they want to arrest Jesus so they find all sorts of ways to trap Jesus.
Like they asked HIm whether they should pay taxes to Caesar. Then again Jesus answer very ZAI
He said "Give to Caesar's what is Caesar's and to God what is God's"
I believe in this passage Jesus tells us to submit to authority. (and this is also what you have learnt today)
Be it the gahmen, our parents, our leaders or whoever, God has placed these people in our lives for a reason.
Marriage at resurrection
Greatest commandment
my fave (: Mark 12:30
the 2nd is love your neighbour as yourself.
whose son is Christ
Widow's offering
okay finito.
No judging please!
Before I started my qt today, I was just reminded of how David spared Saul's life not once but twice in 1 Sam. I mean, here is a king sending everyone out to bring David back dead or alive, yet, when David had 2 clear opportunities to behead Saul, he didn't! How noble is David! I'll never forget the reason David gave,
1 Sam 26:9
9 “No!” David said. “Don’t kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the Lord’s anointed one?
It constantly made me realised that I should stop judging people, especially when it comes to commenting on drummers on the worship stage.
who am I to judge who is good enough to serve God when they are the ones who initiated in the first place
Now, to my qt today. 2 Sam 1-3
hmmm, basically, Saul's army (soldiers in Israel) led by Abner was going to war with David's army (soldiers from Judah) led by Joab. And from what I read today, the fights were initiated generally by the commands of Abner and Joab. If they said fight, means fight. If they said rest, means rest. If they said only let 12 men fight, means only 12 men fight (2:15).
It just made me wonder, here are 2 men with the control of the armies, and they could have easily prevented bloodshed if they had decided not to fight. I felt Joab was not in keeping with David's belief of sparing 'the Lord's anointed' since Joab defeated the Israelites later. He could have just walked away from battle when he met Abner or just simply reject Abner's war proposal.
It also made me thought of another question, am I submitting enough to my leaders/elders/parents? Or am I jsut turning a deaf ear to them like what Joab did to David's advice?
hmmmmm...something to think about.
1 Sam 26:9
9 “No!” David said. “Don’t kill him. For who can remain innocent after attacking the Lord’s anointed one?
It constantly made me realised that I should stop judging people, especially when it comes to commenting on drummers on the worship stage.
who am I to judge who is good enough to serve God when they are the ones who initiated in the first place
Now, to my qt today. 2 Sam 1-3
hmmm, basically, Saul's army (soldiers in Israel) led by Abner was going to war with David's army (soldiers from Judah) led by Joab. And from what I read today, the fights were initiated generally by the commands of Abner and Joab. If they said fight, means fight. If they said rest, means rest. If they said only let 12 men fight, means only 12 men fight (2:15).
It just made me wonder, here are 2 men with the control of the armies, and they could have easily prevented bloodshed if they had decided not to fight. I felt Joab was not in keeping with David's belief of sparing 'the Lord's anointed' since Joab defeated the Israelites later. He could have just walked away from battle when he met Abner or just simply reject Abner's war proposal.
It also made me thought of another question, am I submitting enough to my leaders/elders/parents? Or am I jsut turning a deaf ear to them like what Joab did to David's advice?
hmmmmm...something to think about.
Friday, May 13, 2011
God is not deaf
Just read 1 sam 14.
King Saul was deciding whether to attack the Philistines at night and plunder them or not. But the priest that was with him told him to ask God first on such a huge decision (which required him to bring so many people along to risk their lives).
36 Then Saul said, “Let’s chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let’s destroy every last one of them.”
His men replied, “We’ll do whatever you think is best.”
But the priest said, “Let’s ask God first.”
37 So Saul asked God, “Should we go after the Philistines? Will you help us defeat them?” But God made no reply that day.
38 Then Saul said to the leaders, “Something’s wrong! I want all my army commanders to come here. We must find out what sin was committed today. 39 I vow by the name of the Lord who rescued Israel that the sinner will surely die, even if it is my own son Jonathan!” But no one would tell him what the trouble was.
40 Then Saul said, “Jonathan and I will stand over here, and all of you stand over there.”
And the people responded to Saul, “Whatever you think is best.”
41 Then Saul prayed, “O Lord, God of Israel, please show us who is guilty and who is innocent.[f]” Then they cast sacred lots, and Jonathan and Saul were chosen as the guilty ones, and the people were declared innocent.
42 Then Saul said, “Now cast lots again and choose between me and Jonathan.” And Jonathan was shown to be the guilty one.
43 “Tell me what you have done,” Saul demanded of Jonathan.
“I tasted a little honey,” Jonathan admitted. “It was only a little bit on the end of my stick. Does that deserve death?”
44 “Yes, Jonathan,” Saul said, “you must die! May God strike me and even kill me if you do not die for this.”
45 But the people broke in and said to Saul, “Jonathan has won this great victory for Israel. Should he die? Far from it! As surely as the Lord lives, not one hair on his head will be touched, for God helped him do a great deed today.” So the people rescued Jonathan, and he was not put to death.
When King Saul asked God, God didnt reply him immediately, and this caused King Saul to panic and make rash decisions.
He thought that someone had sinned that is why God chose not to reply. And his rash decision was initially led to him killing his son! But the people of Saul rebutted his decision as Jonathan helped Israel to beat the philistines. So thankfully johnathan was saved.
What I learnt here was that we should not panic if God takes a long time to answer us. That's where faith comes in. Do we have the faith to wait on the Lord? Knowing that He makes all things beautiful in His time. And while we wait, we should not make any rash decisions on ourselves.
King Saul was deciding whether to attack the Philistines at night and plunder them or not. But the priest that was with him told him to ask God first on such a huge decision (which required him to bring so many people along to risk their lives).
36 Then Saul said, “Let’s chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let’s destroy every last one of them.”
His men replied, “We’ll do whatever you think is best.”
But the priest said, “Let’s ask God first.”
37 So Saul asked God, “Should we go after the Philistines? Will you help us defeat them?” But God made no reply that day.
38 Then Saul said to the leaders, “Something’s wrong! I want all my army commanders to come here. We must find out what sin was committed today. 39 I vow by the name of the Lord who rescued Israel that the sinner will surely die, even if it is my own son Jonathan!” But no one would tell him what the trouble was.
40 Then Saul said, “Jonathan and I will stand over here, and all of you stand over there.”
And the people responded to Saul, “Whatever you think is best.”
41 Then Saul prayed, “O Lord, God of Israel, please show us who is guilty and who is innocent.[f]” Then they cast sacred lots, and Jonathan and Saul were chosen as the guilty ones, and the people were declared innocent.
42 Then Saul said, “Now cast lots again and choose between me and Jonathan.” And Jonathan was shown to be the guilty one.
43 “Tell me what you have done,” Saul demanded of Jonathan.
“I tasted a little honey,” Jonathan admitted. “It was only a little bit on the end of my stick. Does that deserve death?”
44 “Yes, Jonathan,” Saul said, “you must die! May God strike me and even kill me if you do not die for this.”
45 But the people broke in and said to Saul, “Jonathan has won this great victory for Israel. Should he die? Far from it! As surely as the Lord lives, not one hair on his head will be touched, for God helped him do a great deed today.” So the people rescued Jonathan, and he was not put to death.
When King Saul asked God, God didnt reply him immediately, and this caused King Saul to panic and make rash decisions.
He thought that someone had sinned that is why God chose not to reply. And his rash decision was initially led to him killing his son! But the people of Saul rebutted his decision as Jonathan helped Israel to beat the philistines. So thankfully johnathan was saved.
What I learnt here was that we should not panic if God takes a long time to answer us. That's where faith comes in. Do we have the faith to wait on the Lord? Knowing that He makes all things beautiful in His time. And while we wait, we should not make any rash decisions on ourselves.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Give thanks, with a grateful heart
1 Sam 12:20-22
20 “Don’t be afraid,” Samuel reassured them. “You have certainly done wrong, but make sure now that you worship the Lord with all your heart, and don’t turn your back on him. 21 Don’t go back to worshiping worthless idols that cannot help or rescue you—they are totally useless! 22 The Lord will not abandon his people, because that would dishonor his great name. For it has pleased the Lord to make you his very own people.
this few verses spoke to me the most. It just shows how weak and sinful we are as humans. At the same time, it shows the immense volumes of grace and love that God has for us (His people). The last line says 'it has pleased the Lord' really shows how much God wants us to be near to Him.
jiayou mong :)
20 “Don’t be afraid,” Samuel reassured them. “You have certainly done wrong, but make sure now that you worship the Lord with all your heart, and don’t turn your back on him. 21 Don’t go back to worshiping worthless idols that cannot help or rescue you—they are totally useless! 22 The Lord will not abandon his people, because that would dishonor his great name. For it has pleased the Lord to make you his very own people.
this few verses spoke to me the most. It just shows how weak and sinful we are as humans. At the same time, it shows the immense volumes of grace and love that God has for us (His people). The last line says 'it has pleased the Lord' really shows how much God wants us to be near to Him.
jiayou mong :)
Jeremiah 12
Jeremiah asked God why are wicked people successful? (vs 1 -2)
Like even though they always talk about God, they care nothing about Him.
Jeremiah told God to appoint a time for the wicked people in the land to be "slaughtered"
So harsh a word!
God later assured Jeremiah that He knows everything that goes on in the land.
And that He will abandon the nation, He will forsake them and turn them over to the enemies.
Because these people have turned their backs to God.
God will do it such that the land will lay in waste and lie empty.
But God also promised that after He has uprooted the people of those nations, He will relent and have pity on them. He will restore these people to their own lands and to their own country. But these people must make sure to follow the ways of God.
Jeremiah 13
An Object Lesson from Ruined Linen Shorts
God told Jeremiah to buy some linen shorts and wear them. And that he should not put it in water.
Jeremiah did so.
Then God told Jeremiah to take the shorts to this place called Perath and bury them in a crack in the ricks.
Jeremiah did so.
Many days later, God told Jeremiah to get the shorts from Perath.
Jeremiah did so. And realised that the shorts were ruined and good for nothing.
God spoke to Jeremiah through the shorts.
God will ruin the highly exalted positions in which Judah and Jerusalem take pride.
The people who are stubborn and worship other gods will become like the linen shorts - good for nothing.
Quite cute huh! God speaks through many funny situations. But quite sad for the Israelites. As I think about how they can stray away from God, even though He is so good. I feel that it can be the same for us- it is very easy to stray away from God. But being close to God takes a lot of intentional effort! So we need to be on our toes and always remember God because He is good! And always spend time with God!
Jeremiah asked God why are wicked people successful? (vs 1 -2)
Like even though they always talk about God, they care nothing about Him.
Jeremiah told God to appoint a time for the wicked people in the land to be "slaughtered"
So harsh a word!
God later assured Jeremiah that He knows everything that goes on in the land.
And that He will abandon the nation, He will forsake them and turn them over to the enemies.
Because these people have turned their backs to God.
God will do it such that the land will lay in waste and lie empty.
But God also promised that after He has uprooted the people of those nations, He will relent and have pity on them. He will restore these people to their own lands and to their own country. But these people must make sure to follow the ways of God.
Jeremiah 13
An Object Lesson from Ruined Linen Shorts
God told Jeremiah to buy some linen shorts and wear them. And that he should not put it in water.
Jeremiah did so.
Then God told Jeremiah to take the shorts to this place called Perath and bury them in a crack in the ricks.
Jeremiah did so.
Many days later, God told Jeremiah to get the shorts from Perath.
Jeremiah did so. And realised that the shorts were ruined and good for nothing.
God spoke to Jeremiah through the shorts.
God will ruin the highly exalted positions in which Judah and Jerusalem take pride.
The people who are stubborn and worship other gods will become like the linen shorts - good for nothing.
Quite cute huh! God speaks through many funny situations. But quite sad for the Israelites. As I think about how they can stray away from God, even though He is so good. I feel that it can be the same for us- it is very easy to stray away from God. But being close to God takes a lot of intentional effort! So we need to be on our toes and always remember God because He is good! And always spend time with God!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Jeremiah 9
Jeremiah cried for the people who have been killed.
The Lord laments that He has no choice but to judge them
God explained His reasons to Jeremiah:
That the people have become powerful in the land but not by honest means.
They do evil things and do not pay attention to God.
Everyone is on guard around people (even relatives) because everyone will find some way to cheat him.
wa very sad sia. Imagine living in those times. There is no one that can be trusted!
Therefore God is punishing them.
The coming destruction calls for mourning
Jeremiah 10
The Lord, not idols is the only worthy object of worship
Jeremiah 11
The people have violated their covenant with God
A plot against Jeremiah is revealedand he complains of injustice
God gave JEremiah knowledge that he might have understanding. And God showed Jeremiah what the people were doing. They actually made plains to kill him. So Jeremiah told God to vindicate his cause.
And God said that He will punish the people who threatened Jeremiah.
Jeremiah cried for the people who have been killed.
The Lord laments that He has no choice but to judge them
God explained His reasons to Jeremiah:
That the people have become powerful in the land but not by honest means.
They do evil things and do not pay attention to God.
Everyone is on guard around people (even relatives) because everyone will find some way to cheat him.
| 4Everyone must be on his guard around his friends. He must not even trust any of his relatives.12 For every one of them will find some way to cheat him.13 And all of his friends will tell lies about him. 5One friend deceives another and no one tells the truth. |
wa very sad sia. Imagine living in those times. There is no one that can be trusted!
Therefore God is punishing them.
The coming destruction calls for mourning
Jeremiah 10
The Lord, not idols is the only worthy object of worship
Jeremiah 11
The people have violated their covenant with God
A plot against Jeremiah is revealedand he complains of injustice
God gave JEremiah knowledge that he might have understanding. And God showed Jeremiah what the people were doing. They actually made plains to kill him. So Jeremiah told God to vindicate his cause.
And God said that He will punish the people who threatened Jeremiah.
Monday, April 25, 2011
04.25.2011
Jeremiah 7
Faulty Religion and Unethical Behaviour will lead to judgement.
Faulty Religion and Unethical Behaviour will lead to judgement.
| 6Stop oppressing foreigners who live in your land, children who have lost their fathers, and women who have lost their husbands. How often is it that we discriminate against the foreigners who live in Singapore (think about the Ah Tiongs) ? Question for thought. In this passage, God is angry at the people. Because even though they sin against Him and all, they still can go into His temple and say that "We are safe". Like quite shameless hor. God was so angry that He instructed Jeremiah not to pray for these people. - the extent of His anger. God was also angry that they built places of worship so that they can sacrifice their sons and daughters by fire and God was angry because He did not command them to do so. Jeremiah 8 God said that judgement will come upon the land but even then He will leave some survivors alive and banish them to other places. But these survivors would wish that they had died instead of lived. Wilful disregard of God will lead to destruction Jeremia laments ove r the coming destruction Jeremiah is sad over what is going to happen. he has compassion on the Israelites. |
Friday, April 22, 2011
Jeremiah 6
The destruction of Jerusalem depicted
God has given the people warning time and again.
But again and again they ignored His warnings.
God is sending an army from the north to siege Israel.
They will be cruel and show no mercy.
God made Jeremiah observe how the people behave.
And Jeremiah observed that they are a stubborn people.
The destruction of Jerusalem depicted
God has given the people warning time and again.
But again and again they ignored His warnings.
God is sending an army from the north to siege Israel.
They will be cruel and show no mercy.
God made Jeremiah observe how the people behave.
And Jeremiah observed that they are a stubborn people.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Jeremiah 3
God is angry with the Israelites because they have prostituted themselves to other gods.
I feel that in this context maybe the Israelites were into some occults that has sexual practices.
Because of this, the land is defiled.
Thus, the rains have been withheld. Even though they have done wrong, they still dare tell God
But then after saying that, they still continue to do wrong.
God says that even though Israel received punishment from God because of their sins, Judah saw God's judgement on Israel but they too continued to sin against God. God said that they had pretended to turn back to Him but without any sincerity.
The Lord calls on Israel and Judah to repent.
God is a forgiving God. Even though Israel and Judah have both turned away from Him and worshipped other gods, He still called them back and ask them to repent. But however, He said that they must confess that they have done wrong.
Even though God wants to punish them already, He still so compassionate. Still give chance and ask them to repent before He carries out the punishment.
Jeremiah 4
Warning of Coming Judgement
Jeremiah 5
Judah is justly deserving of coming judgement
God told Jeremiah to look around the streets of Jerusalem and find a single person who deals honestly and tries to be truthful. And if he can, then God will not punish Jerusalem. God says that some of the people make empty promises to Him.
When we promise God something, we need to fulfill it. If not, He would be upset.
Jeremiah told God that everyone refuse to be corrected even when God nearly destroys them. They are described as hardheaded as a rock- VERY STUBBORN. And at first he thought that only the ignorant poor people are stubborn but even when Jeremiah went to the leaders, they also refuse to submit to God.
God commanded the enemy to ruin Israel and Judah. Even though He is punishing Israel and Judah, He still had compassion for them . He commanded :
God said to Jeremiah that He will put the words in his mouth like fire and the people like wood so that when Jeremiah speaks, the fiery judgement he speaks will burn up. (so metaphorical i dont know what it means)
God will send a nation (Babylon) from far away to attack Israel.
God is angry with the Israelites because they have prostituted themselves to other gods.
I feel that in this context maybe the Israelites were into some occults that has sexual practices.
Because of this, the land is defiled.
Thus, the rains have been withheld. Even though they have done wrong, they still dare tell God
| 'You are my father!10 You have been my faithful companion ever since I was young. 5You will not always be angry with me, will you? You will not be mad at me forever, will you?'11 |
God says that even though Israel received punishment from God because of their sins, Judah saw God's judgement on Israel but they too continued to sin against God. God said that they had pretended to turn back to Him but without any sincerity.
The Lord calls on Israel and Judah to repent.
God is a forgiving God. Even though Israel and Judah have both turned away from Him and worshipped other gods, He still called them back and ask them to repent. But however, He said that they must confess that they have done wrong.
Even though God wants to punish them already, He still so compassionate. Still give chance and ask them to repent before He carries out the punishment.
Jeremiah 4
Warning of Coming Judgement
Jeremiah 5
Judah is justly deserving of coming judgement
God told Jeremiah to look around the streets of Jerusalem and find a single person who deals honestly and tries to be truthful. And if he can, then God will not punish Jerusalem. God says that some of the people make empty promises to Him.
When we promise God something, we need to fulfill it. If not, He would be upset.
Jeremiah told God that everyone refuse to be corrected even when God nearly destroys them. They are described as hardheaded as a rock- VERY STUBBORN. And at first he thought that only the ignorant poor people are stubborn but even when Jeremiah went to the leaders, they also refuse to submit to God.
God commanded the enemy to ruin Israel and Judah. Even though He is punishing Israel and Judah, He still had compassion for them . He commanded :
| "March through the vineyards of Israel and Judah and ruin them. But do not destroy them completely. Strip off their branches for these people do not belong to the LORD. |
God will send a nation (Babylon) from far away to attack Israel.
| It will be a nation that was founded long ago and has lasted for a long time. It will be a nation whose language you will not know. Its people will speak words that you will not be able to understand. |
| 18Yet even then57 I will not completely destroy you," says the LORD. 19"So then, Jeremiah,58 when your people59 ask, 'Why has the LORD our God done all this to us?' tell them, 'It is because you rejected me and served foreign gods in your own land. So60 you must serve foreigners61 in a land that does not belong to you.' |
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
04.20.2011
Jeremiah's name means "Yahweh exalts". One of the main prophets of the bible. Jeremiah was also known as the weeping prophet (also written Lamentations) BECAUSE his job was to reveal the sins of people and explain the reason of impending disaster (which is destruction by Babylonian army and taken into captivity into Babylon)
Jeremiah 1
The Superscription
The Lord spoke to Jeremiah in the 13th year of the reign of king Josiah (King of Judah)
The Lord spoke to Jeremiah during Jehoiakim reign, Son of Josiah (King of Judah) until -->
the 11th year of the Zedekiah's reign, son of Josiah (King of Judah)
This is the period where the people of Jerusalem taken into exile.
Jeremiah is a prophet who has seen both God's favour (during King Josiah's reign) and anger (During Jehoiakim and Zedekiah's reign. )
Jeremiah's Call and Commission
God has called Jeremiah even when he was in his mother's womb.
And even though Jeremiah felt that he was too young to do God's work, God assured him.
Jeremiah 1
The Superscription
The Lord spoke to Jeremiah in the 13th year of the reign of king Josiah (King of Judah)
The Lord spoke to Jeremiah during Jehoiakim reign, Son of Josiah (King of Judah) until -->
the 11th year of the Zedekiah's reign, son of Josiah (King of Judah)
This is the period where the people of Jerusalem taken into exile.
Jeremiah is a prophet who has seen both God's favour (during King Josiah's reign) and anger (During Jehoiakim and Zedekiah's reign. )
Jeremiah's Call and Commission
God has called Jeremiah even when he was in his mother's womb.
And even though Jeremiah felt that he was too young to do God's work, God assured him.
| 7The LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am too young.' But go13 to whomever I send you and say whatever I tell you. 8Do not be afraid of those to whom I send you,14 for I will be with you to protect15 you," says the LORD. And even assured him that He will give Jeremiah the words to speak. In our context, I feel that God has called us to be His even when we were in our mother's womb too. And sometimes, perhaps, we feel inadequate to do God's work (be it serving in Youth or Children ministry) But God says that He will give us the words to speak. So we must seek Him to ask Him to teach us how to teach our young ones! Also, I feel that God is saying like how we shouldnt be afraid of sharing the gospel with people older than us (example our parents). Because He is there to protect us. Visions Confirming Jeremiah's Call and Commission. - The branch of an almond tree which means that God is watching that His threats are carried out (His anger towards the people during Jehoiakim and Zedekiah time) - The pot of boiling water tipped towards them from the north which means tht there will be destruction from up north on all who lives in the land. God is passing His judgement on people of Jerusalem and Judah because they have turned away from Him.
Even though Jeremiah has such scary visions about the country that he lives in, God still assured him that He will be with him. And that, He will protect him. Jeremiah 2 The Lord Recalls Israel's Earlier Faithfulness The Lord reminds them of the Unfaithfulness of their ancestors I feel that Israel is kinda like us. LIke sometimes, we can be faithful towards God but sometimes we are unfaithful when we turn away from Him and turn to the other "gods" in our life. E.g. school/dance,, etc,,, And God remembers all these times when we are faithful and unfaithful. God, today I come before You and acknowledge that there are times when I am unfaithful towards You when I spend so much time studying my schoolwork but none to study Your word. I am sorry for these times. God, help me be faithful towards You and that I'll be so excited to spend time with You each and every day. Thank You God. In jesus name, amen. The Lord charges Israel with Spiritual Adultery Israel's Reliance on Foreign Alliances The Lord Expresses His exasperation at Judah's Persistant Idolatry |
Samson
Samson has blessed HAIR!!!
Imagine my leg hair were as blessed as his head hair.. WAHHHHHH soccer sure pro hahaha
Imagine my leg hair were as blessed as his head hair.. WAHHHHHH soccer sure pro hahaha
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