What's the truth? What's right and what's wrong?
We've learned so many 'facts', so many 'truths' that it's become what we pick and choose, and then it's our version of the truth, our facts that we hold so steadfastly to. Or something like that.
I discovered another reason as to why I believe in God.
Because He is REALITY.
Waitaminute. You already kinda knew that didn't you?
Look around you. Everything that's made, is made from something by someone, and everything including relationship are held together by something. By what?
I quote this from Velvet Elvis that I really like.
"I don't follow Jesus because I think Christianity is the best religion. I follow Jesus because he leads me into ultimate reality. He teaches me how to live in tune with how reality is."
In John 1:1, it says
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the word was God.
The word WORD is logos in Greek, to which we get the word logic from.
God = Word, which also means logic.
Logic to which reality is what it is.
Colossians 2:
17These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.
The reality can ONLY be found in Christ. No where else. And THAT is the reality of it all.
Showing posts with label the word. Show all posts
Showing posts with label the word. Show all posts
Friday, February 01, 2008
yours or mine?
Who's opinion is right? Who's opinion is wrong?
Mine came from the bible. So, not to say yours is wrong, but mine is simply just from the bible.
First time I read that statement, I myself had not seen anything that was wrong. In fact, isn't that supposed to be the truth? I mean, if the bible isn't right, why am I following it so closely?
Rob Bell in his book Velvet Elvis says that it's wrong.
Wrong? Wait a minute, the bible wrong? He playfully put questions like this back and fourth, but had really asked it out of seriousness.
You see, the bible is really an open interpretation. In the olden days, when each village probable had only one bible, they came together to read and discuss to come up with the best conclusion or about a passage. No single person came up with their own interpretation out of reading solitary. It wasn't a solo effort.
So, quite well put when it says, who are we to tell someone that what they believe in is wrong, when what we believe in sometimes, is also something we had deciphered on our own from the bible? Just because we QUOTE the bible, or a part of it, doesn't make the statement right.
Don't get me wrong, or don't get Rob Bell wrong. The bible is ultimately VERY important. As much potential it has to give answers, we can misconstrue the information, and teach the wrong things.
Jeremiah 17:
9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.
Who can understand it?
Mine came from the bible. So, not to say yours is wrong, but mine is simply just from the bible.
First time I read that statement, I myself had not seen anything that was wrong. In fact, isn't that supposed to be the truth? I mean, if the bible isn't right, why am I following it so closely?
Rob Bell in his book Velvet Elvis says that it's wrong.
Wrong? Wait a minute, the bible wrong? He playfully put questions like this back and fourth, but had really asked it out of seriousness.
You see, the bible is really an open interpretation. In the olden days, when each village probable had only one bible, they came together to read and discuss to come up with the best conclusion or about a passage. No single person came up with their own interpretation out of reading solitary. It wasn't a solo effort.
So, quite well put when it says, who are we to tell someone that what they believe in is wrong, when what we believe in sometimes, is also something we had deciphered on our own from the bible? Just because we QUOTE the bible, or a part of it, doesn't make the statement right.
Don't get me wrong, or don't get Rob Bell wrong. The bible is ultimately VERY important. As much potential it has to give answers, we can misconstrue the information, and teach the wrong things.
Jeremiah 17:
9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.
Who can understand it?
Thursday, January 31, 2008
intermission
It's been a while since I blogged. A hiatus from the typing world. I haven't written anything for a while, and have not quite been regular, simply because, my brain felt drained. Nothing creative to write, or nothing inspiring to share.
However, I did read of some things interesting, and thought it might be good to share.
Especially for all those who may be feeling a little burnt out from over doing, and not getting anywhere.
What am I talking about?
Sustainability.
How to sustain years and years of what your are supposed to do.
In the book Courageous Leadership by Bill Hybels (which I finally finished yesterday), he talks about
1) Knowing your calling
2) Having the courage to change
3) Surrounding oneself with 'safe' ppl
4) Looking at it from an eternal point of view
Not to say that I've fully mastered it, but 1,2, and 4 didn't impact me as much as surrounding oneself with safe people. Why you may ask?
I guess, I'm seeing the importance of just surrounding myself with like minded people. People who would say, come on, don't give up when I feel like it. People to cheer you on. People who work with you on the same page instead of going in a different direction. People who would agree not for the sake of agreeing, but for the sake of building together.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not whining here. I'm dreaming here. Having a vision of people working hand in hand and moving forward together. This are the people who would sustain each other through the tests of time, storms, disasters.
Ecc 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
People. We need to learn how to encourage one another full heartedly. No man is an island.
However, I did read of some things interesting, and thought it might be good to share.
Especially for all those who may be feeling a little burnt out from over doing, and not getting anywhere.
What am I talking about?
Sustainability.
How to sustain years and years of what your are supposed to do.
In the book Courageous Leadership by Bill Hybels (which I finally finished yesterday), he talks about
1) Knowing your calling
2) Having the courage to change
3) Surrounding oneself with 'safe' ppl
4) Looking at it from an eternal point of view
Not to say that I've fully mastered it, but 1,2, and 4 didn't impact me as much as surrounding oneself with safe people. Why you may ask?
I guess, I'm seeing the importance of just surrounding myself with like minded people. People who would say, come on, don't give up when I feel like it. People to cheer you on. People who work with you on the same page instead of going in a different direction. People who would agree not for the sake of agreeing, but for the sake of building together.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not whining here. I'm dreaming here. Having a vision of people working hand in hand and moving forward together. This are the people who would sustain each other through the tests of time, storms, disasters.
Ecc 4:9-10 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
People. We need to learn how to encourage one another full heartedly. No man is an island.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
new years...
This time round, I'm wasn't around in Malaysia to celebrate the advent of the new year. Yeap. I was away. Tucked in my bed, in a hotel room, in New Jersey. I didn't even stay awake to countdown with the people on tv in Times Square. I was just too tired from my flight.
Wanted to do this yesterday, JUST as most people did before the year ended: a quick reflection of 2007.
This was a very odd year for me. Plenty of farewells, and parting of ways. Many weddings (though I did not get to go for many), many new friendships forged, and had friends who had pregnancies.
The first half of the year I was in a different continent, then in the second half of the year. My perspective, my outlook on things has also changed.
Honestly, I believe my second half of the year was really good. Who knew that as soon as I came back, I would jump into ministry and reach out to students. I guess after all the years of being a 'senior' student, trying to help 'junior' students, I've finally found a calling.
Leading. Mentoring. Shepherding. Dare I say it? Pastoring.
In the midst of wanting to do all this, I had exams. It did not stop me, however, as I already had made a decision to do what was important, and what God wanted me to do. I am glad that I had worked hard in the midst of studying, or else I would have missed out on a lot. I would have missed being God's instrument, and missed the joy of seeing some growing up, and KNOWING that I had a part to play in it.
Thank you God for including me.
If there were big words this year that I would carry to 2008, these would be it:
Decided, obedient, follow, lead.
Some verses that truly applied to me:
Matthew 6:
33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Romans 8:
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Phil 3:
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Happy new year peeps! May 2008 be a blessed year for many. Another year to push forward and grow!
Wanted to do this yesterday, JUST as most people did before the year ended: a quick reflection of 2007.
This was a very odd year for me. Plenty of farewells, and parting of ways. Many weddings (though I did not get to go for many), many new friendships forged, and had friends who had pregnancies.
The first half of the year I was in a different continent, then in the second half of the year. My perspective, my outlook on things has also changed.
Honestly, I believe my second half of the year was really good. Who knew that as soon as I came back, I would jump into ministry and reach out to students. I guess after all the years of being a 'senior' student, trying to help 'junior' students, I've finally found a calling.
Leading. Mentoring. Shepherding. Dare I say it? Pastoring.
In the midst of wanting to do all this, I had exams. It did not stop me, however, as I already had made a decision to do what was important, and what God wanted me to do. I am glad that I had worked hard in the midst of studying, or else I would have missed out on a lot. I would have missed being God's instrument, and missed the joy of seeing some growing up, and KNOWING that I had a part to play in it.
Thank you God for including me.
If there were big words this year that I would carry to 2008, these would be it:
Decided, obedient, follow, lead.
Some verses that truly applied to me:
Matthew 6:
33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Romans 8:
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Phil 3:
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Happy new year peeps! May 2008 be a blessed year for many. Another year to push forward and grow!
Monday, November 26, 2007
plank!!!
It's so easy to pick out other people's faults. I know that for certain, because I'm in the habit of doing that daily. I don't know whether I'm overly critical or just finding ways to shooting my mouth off.
This verse comes to mind each time, I judge others, or when other people make judgments of their own.
Matthew 7:3
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
Not the best picture that comes to mind, but I don't think I can sketch it better. So...
Yowzaass...
This verse comes to mind each time, I judge others, or when other people make judgments of their own.
Matthew 7:3
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?
Not the best picture that comes to mind, but I don't think I can sketch it better. So...
Yowzaass...
Friday, November 23, 2007
lest we forget
Luke 15
1Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. 2But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."
I put this up after a conversation with a friend, and how this was part of this person's life at one point of time. I think we forget. We forget how important we are to Christ, to God, that despite all our shortcomings, He still wants us back. Beyond waiting, beyond hoping, He goes out in search. What moves me most, is that, when He finds us, He just doesn't hug us in joy, but He carries us home. If I may just highlight this part, "he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home".
This is the relationship that will not be severed by sin. Yet, sometimes we cheapen His work by saying we are not worthy (not out of praise, but really out of self condemnation). We dilute His grace, we put away His love as if it were nothing. Then, we find it hard to love others, because we feel ourselves do not have enough love. As IF His love wasn't enough.
He loves us. Very much. So much so, He'll run after you in tears, even as you turn your back on Him and run in further away from Him. Even if He had to carry that cross again, He probably would, just for us.
Lest we forget. Lest we forget.
1Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. 2But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them."
3Then Jesus told them this parable: 4"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' 7I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
I put this up after a conversation with a friend, and how this was part of this person's life at one point of time. I think we forget. We forget how important we are to Christ, to God, that despite all our shortcomings, He still wants us back. Beyond waiting, beyond hoping, He goes out in search. What moves me most, is that, when He finds us, He just doesn't hug us in joy, but He carries us home. If I may just highlight this part, "he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home".
This is the relationship that will not be severed by sin. Yet, sometimes we cheapen His work by saying we are not worthy (not out of praise, but really out of self condemnation). We dilute His grace, we put away His love as if it were nothing. Then, we find it hard to love others, because we feel ourselves do not have enough love. As IF His love wasn't enough.
He loves us. Very much. So much so, He'll run after you in tears, even as you turn your back on Him and run in further away from Him. Even if He had to carry that cross again, He probably would, just for us.
Lest we forget. Lest we forget.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
encounter
When was the last time you met someone so influential over your life, you totally changed? Made anew, not just the skin, but all the organs inside. So new, that when you walk, it'd squeaked.
I'm not just talking about bad habits, I'm talking about HUGE character flaws.
From the bible, I've met someone who's changed, walked in a 180 degree direction from his original path. From being a skeptical, to a believer, from a prosecutor, to be the prosecuted, from a man of noble position, to a man put in jail multiple times.
Paul, was a Jew, who studied under Greek philosophy was also a Roman citizen. As Ravi Zacharias to appropriately summed it in one sentence: The Hebrews gave the world its moral categories; the Greeks its philosophical categories; and the Romans its legal categories - Paul (or previously known as Saul) had everything that one would need.
BUT... he didn't believe in Christ... initially. In fact, he persecuted all who believed in Him. Christ wasn't his Savior, wasn't his Lord. Not until he met Christ on the way to Damascus. Then, he changed. Not just out of fear, but I believe the encounter was so real, he couldn't turn away from it. He could no longer deny Christ. From that day on, he gave up everything that was his, and gave all to Christ.
Similarly, in this day and age, I've met so many people, who have come to know Christ, and have walked in a totally different direction in their lives soon after. Angry people becoming the most patient and calm, anxious people being able to achieve peace. True encounters with influential people, will definitely change the person. Can we then deny that Christ or God does not exist, even for those who've met Christ and truly changed?
I'm not just talking about bad habits, I'm talking about HUGE character flaws.
From the bible, I've met someone who's changed, walked in a 180 degree direction from his original path. From being a skeptical, to a believer, from a prosecutor, to be the prosecuted, from a man of noble position, to a man put in jail multiple times.
Paul, was a Jew, who studied under Greek philosophy was also a Roman citizen. As Ravi Zacharias to appropriately summed it in one sentence: The Hebrews gave the world its moral categories; the Greeks its philosophical categories; and the Romans its legal categories - Paul (or previously known as Saul) had everything that one would need.
BUT... he didn't believe in Christ... initially. In fact, he persecuted all who believed in Him. Christ wasn't his Savior, wasn't his Lord. Not until he met Christ on the way to Damascus. Then, he changed. Not just out of fear, but I believe the encounter was so real, he couldn't turn away from it. He could no longer deny Christ. From that day on, he gave up everything that was his, and gave all to Christ.
Similarly, in this day and age, I've met so many people, who have come to know Christ, and have walked in a totally different direction in their lives soon after. Angry people becoming the most patient and calm, anxious people being able to achieve peace. True encounters with influential people, will definitely change the person. Can we then deny that Christ or God does not exist, even for those who've met Christ and truly changed?
Friday, November 02, 2007
God is good! :)
Was told to put this up, and finally have decided to:
Matthew 6:33 says But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.
This is a verse long familiar to me, but not something i practiced.
The excuse was always the same: my studies were tough, it was not easy
to pass, and I had a lot of ground to cover. In short, I had a hundred
and one excuses, and never wanted to spend more than the allocated
time I had put aside for God's work.
This season, as I prepared for USMLE, an entrance exam to apply to the
United States, I was really convicted to do more for God's kingdom
first before anything else. I had about 2 months to prepare for my
Step 2 exam (part of the USMLE) and about another 1.5 months after
that to prepare for my Step 1 exam. It was very easy for me to delay
serving in campus ministry as 3.5 months wasn't a long way off right?
However, I was really convicted to be faithful even while I was busy
because, I knew that a lot of times procrastination would only kill
off a desire,
After my 2 month preparation and my gruelling 8 hour ++ exam, I was
finally done. I couldn't tell if I did okay or not, but I committed it
to God. A few weeks later, my results was in my inbox.
I passed! With a 90th percentile. It was a big deal for me, because I
was never an 'A' student, so to both pass and score sufficiently well,
I knew it could only come from God!
The one thing I really learned from this whole ordeal was that if I
honor God, He will honor me too! When I chose to spend time doing His
work, instead of saying "I need to study", He blessed me tremendously.
It was not an easy ordeal to cram almost 5 years of knowledge into 2
months of studying, and at the same time do His work. I truly believe
that if we give God our time and our efforts, and trust in Him, He
will never let us down, as all things are indeed possible with God!
When we seek His kingdom first and His righteousness, many things WILL
be added onto us.
Matthew 6:33 says But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.
This is a verse long familiar to me, but not something i practiced.
The excuse was always the same: my studies were tough, it was not easy
to pass, and I had a lot of ground to cover. In short, I had a hundred
and one excuses, and never wanted to spend more than the allocated
time I had put aside for God's work.
This season, as I prepared for USMLE, an entrance exam to apply to the
United States, I was really convicted to do more for God's kingdom
first before anything else. I had about 2 months to prepare for my
Step 2 exam (part of the USMLE) and about another 1.5 months after
that to prepare for my Step 1 exam. It was very easy for me to delay
serving in campus ministry as 3.5 months wasn't a long way off right?
However, I was really convicted to be faithful even while I was busy
because, I knew that a lot of times procrastination would only kill
off a desire,
After my 2 month preparation and my gruelling 8 hour ++ exam, I was
finally done. I couldn't tell if I did okay or not, but I committed it
to God. A few weeks later, my results was in my inbox.
I passed! With a 90th percentile. It was a big deal for me, because I
was never an 'A' student, so to both pass and score sufficiently well,
I knew it could only come from God!
The one thing I really learned from this whole ordeal was that if I
honor God, He will honor me too! When I chose to spend time doing His
work, instead of saying "I need to study", He blessed me tremendously.
It was not an easy ordeal to cram almost 5 years of knowledge into 2
months of studying, and at the same time do His work. I truly believe
that if we give God our time and our efforts, and trust in Him, He
will never let us down, as all things are indeed possible with God!
When we seek His kingdom first and His righteousness, many things WILL
be added onto us.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
are who we say we are? (part 2)
How are we supposed to tell the world, we are christians, which basically means followers of Christ, if we don't follow what He says?
Sounds a bit like an emo blog, but it isn't really.
This is not so much of a complaint, more so a rhetorical question.
Do you know, as a christian we are constantly being watched?
Have we ever thought that, what we do, may affect one's decision to come to know God?
I'm not to say, that I'm a perfect shining example, but....
1Cor 10:
31So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 32Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— 33even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
Be careful of your every action.
I'll have to be careful with mine too. I really don't want someone quoting me, in a "Why as a christian he does this?".
Sounds a bit like an emo blog, but it isn't really.
This is not so much of a complaint, more so a rhetorical question.
Do you know, as a christian we are constantly being watched?
Have we ever thought that, what we do, may affect one's decision to come to know God?
I'm not to say, that I'm a perfect shining example, but....
1Cor 10:
31So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 32Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God— 33even as I try to please everybody in every way. For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.
Be careful of your every action.
I'll have to be careful with mine too. I really don't want someone quoting me, in a "Why as a christian he does this?".
Monday, September 17, 2007
trust
The recurring theme this time round as I prepare for my exams (this Thurs), is really the issue of trust. Just looking at my preparation up to this point, I feel is inadequate, for whatever reason, I am uncertain. It's been really hard for my to sit and face God, as I feel that I have not done sufficiently in what I'm supposed to do.
But since when has it been about what I do anyway?
On Saturday, we sang the song that basically to me, talks about trusting God's name. There is no other name.
The week prior, I read Luke 11, it talks about asking, and Jesus gave the example of asking from a friend in the middle of the night, and how it would be given to the person not out of friendship but out of his tenacity.
Today, as I read Isaiah 30, there were a few key reminders as to who I'm supposed to trust.
Observe closely. ;)
From verse 15 onwards:
15 This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says:
"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.
16 You said, ' No, we will flee on horses.'
Therefore you will flee!
You said, 'We will ride off on swift horses.'
Therefore your pursuers will be swift.
...
18 Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
19 People of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you.
So, who is it that I trust? It's easy to prepare oneself to go into battle, having the best horses to ride you in battle, with the best weapons and best armor, the biggest number between the two sides, but does that necessarily equate victory?
Also, read psalms 20:7 and Luke 11:5-13.
But since when has it been about what I do anyway?
On Saturday, we sang the song that basically to me, talks about trusting God's name. There is no other name.
The week prior, I read Luke 11, it talks about asking, and Jesus gave the example of asking from a friend in the middle of the night, and how it would be given to the person not out of friendship but out of his tenacity.
Today, as I read Isaiah 30, there were a few key reminders as to who I'm supposed to trust.
Observe closely. ;)
From verse 15 onwards:
15 This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says:
"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.
16 You said, ' No, we will flee on horses.'
Therefore you will flee!
You said, 'We will ride off on swift horses.'
Therefore your pursuers will be swift.
...
18 Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!
19 People of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you.
So, who is it that I trust? It's easy to prepare oneself to go into battle, having the best horses to ride you in battle, with the best weapons and best armor, the biggest number between the two sides, but does that necessarily equate victory?
Also, read psalms 20:7 and Luke 11:5-13.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
I thank Him...
For the longest time, I don't know what to put for a blog title. I could not think of a suitable title, without it sounding too cliched or overused, but in all honesty, as simple and as plain as it is, that is how I feel deep down inside.
As I continue my journey studying for my USMLE step 1 which is on Sept 20, I am in faith, that God knows what He is doing, even if I don't.
Anyhow, I would like to share WHY I am thankful to begin with. Today, as I checked my email accountS (yes more than ONE), I stumbled upon a result email that came in. Yes. Lo and behold, right before my very eyes, were the result for Step 2CK. Something that I have been dreading as I really could not gauge how well I did for this exam.
After clicking here and there, downloading the results, I said a little prayer and committed it to God, then I opened it.
bla bla bla...
Continue scanning.
Saw a pass.
Good.
Looked further down.
219.
Further.
90%.
That moment, the background music was Chris Tomlin's 'Your Grace Is Enough', and tears just starting flowing from my eyes. I repeated over and over again: Thank You God!
Why is it so significant? Well, for all those who don't know me that well, I am not an 'A' student, and I've always been just one to get by. To score 90 was beyond my wildest dreams. Some might say, it's not a 99%, but honestly, God is good. All the time.
I am constantly reminded by this verse as this happened to me today -
"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." Romans 8:28
Thank You God!
As I continue my journey studying for my USMLE step 1 which is on Sept 20, I am in faith, that God knows what He is doing, even if I don't.
Anyhow, I would like to share WHY I am thankful to begin with. Today, as I checked my email accountS (yes more than ONE), I stumbled upon a result email that came in. Yes. Lo and behold, right before my very eyes, were the result for Step 2CK. Something that I have been dreading as I really could not gauge how well I did for this exam.
After clicking here and there, downloading the results, I said a little prayer and committed it to God, then I opened it.
bla bla bla...
Continue scanning.
Saw a pass.
Good.
Looked further down.
219.
Further.
90%.
That moment, the background music was Chris Tomlin's 'Your Grace Is Enough', and tears just starting flowing from my eyes. I repeated over and over again: Thank You God!
Why is it so significant? Well, for all those who don't know me that well, I am not an 'A' student, and I've always been just one to get by. To score 90 was beyond my wildest dreams. Some might say, it's not a 99%, but honestly, God is good. All the time.
I am constantly reminded by this verse as this happened to me today -
"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." Romans 8:28
Thank You God!
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
i hate....
I hate people who don't think, but just shoot their mouth. I hate how people try to take advantage of me when I'm nice. I hate how nasty people can be when I'm being polite. I hate smart comments for the sake of it, or for the sake of argument, just to show who's on top and who's boss. I hate people who don't get their facts right and assume.
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
It's so easy to hate or dislike somethings. Just as I was unwinding after a long day (although not the end), God spoke to me very clearly. It was a reminder.
John 21:15-17
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," he said," you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
The third time he said to him, " Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep...
Do I really love His sheep? Am I doing what He would do? I'm trying my level best. It's really easy not to love people especially, when they bug you about things and you have a million other things to do. Or if something else takes priorities, ie: books. It's convenient to love someone when they are in fact, loveable, and when they don't disobey you.
How can I best paint this picture?
Do I say I love Jesus?
Then, am I feeding His sheep?
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate... I hate...I hate... I hate... I hate...
It's so easy to hate or dislike somethings. Just as I was unwinding after a long day (although not the end), God spoke to me very clearly. It was a reminder.
John 21:15-17
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"
"Yes, Lord," he said," you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."
Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?"
He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."
The third time he said to him, " Simon son of John, do you love me?"
Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep...
Do I really love His sheep? Am I doing what He would do? I'm trying my level best. It's really easy not to love people especially, when they bug you about things and you have a million other things to do. Or if something else takes priorities, ie: books. It's convenient to love someone when they are in fact, loveable, and when they don't disobey you.
How can I best paint this picture?
Do I say I love Jesus?
Then, am I feeding His sheep?
Sunday, August 05, 2007
tired, but fulfilled
I must say. It has been a long 2-3 weeks. So many things that happen, but I must say, God's words has never rung so loud and so clear.
It has been tough. Tough to humble myself, swallow my own pride, to allow God to do the things He does. No more complaining out loud, no more whining to people how certain people react and how I don't like it.
Why?
Simply because I'm learning to edify people.
I knew it was never simple to raise, rally or reach people, but today, I realized it was more difficult than I thought. I am learning to appreciate my leaders on a higher level now.
Today, as I sang in worship to God, the song Here I Am (by 1 A.M.), I really surrendered all. I felt I managed to come to a place, where I was truly at peace in God's presence.
This bit especially:
You said in Your word, oh God
You have many plans for me
Plans of hope, plans of peace
I will soar above each and every storm
and live the dreams You have for me
I lay my life for You, I set my faith in You
So, I did. Whichever that I have not surrendered, I did. If I had not obeyed, I will.
I hold to this verse true: John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Time to claim the fullness that God has offered.
It has been tough. Tough to humble myself, swallow my own pride, to allow God to do the things He does. No more complaining out loud, no more whining to people how certain people react and how I don't like it.
Why?
Simply because I'm learning to edify people.
I knew it was never simple to raise, rally or reach people, but today, I realized it was more difficult than I thought. I am learning to appreciate my leaders on a higher level now.
Today, as I sang in worship to God, the song Here I Am (by 1 A.M.), I really surrendered all. I felt I managed to come to a place, where I was truly at peace in God's presence.
This bit especially:
You said in Your word, oh God
You have many plans for me
Plans of hope, plans of peace
I will soar above each and every storm
and live the dreams You have for me
I lay my life for You, I set my faith in You
So, I did. Whichever that I have not surrendered, I did. If I had not obeyed, I will.
I hold to this verse true: John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Time to claim the fullness that God has offered.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
the countdown
Tick tock tick tock. The days quickly slip away from my grip, as I try to prepare myself for the upcoming USMLE step 2. The harder I hold on to my day, the faster it escapes through my fingers. I can see why they call it the sands of time. Each day, I have to come to endure and face the fact that my exam is just around the corner, and I'm nowhere near to being prepared.
Panic ensues, as if the sky were soon to fall on my head, as I feel like running helter skelter as the rabbit who thought the world was coming to an end.
5 more days 5 more days! Most people would be glad that their exams would soon be over, but I really wish for more days. More time to read and be totally confident before going in.
It's in times like this I cry out the Lord and ask, "Are you SERIOUS about wanting me to do this?"
Joshua 1: 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
My trust will be in God, who knows what He is doing. As opposed to me.
Panic ensues, as if the sky were soon to fall on my head, as I feel like running helter skelter as the rabbit who thought the world was coming to an end.
5 more days 5 more days! Most people would be glad that their exams would soon be over, but I really wish for more days. More time to read and be totally confident before going in.
It's in times like this I cry out the Lord and ask, "Are you SERIOUS about wanting me to do this?"
Joshua 1: 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
My trust will be in God, who knows what He is doing. As opposed to me.
Friday, July 20, 2007
sold out
I just bought the album 'Sold out' made by ECF, after going in circles trying to get one. Perhaps I did not make enough effort, but it's finally here, and I've heard it over and over again. I must say, it really does speak to me, especially the song 'sold out' itself, where somewhere in the middle, PC quotes from 1Kings19, where Elisha basically left all that he had, behind as he was called by God.
From verse 21 onwards:
So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his attendant.
Elisha was sold out for God, gave his all in pursuit of God.
What about you? When was the last time we gave up something for God, be it excuses, our time, or something that was really hindering our relationship with God. Will we ever set out hearts to follow God no matter what the circumstances?
I believe God is already sold out for us, always blessing us and looking out for us.
Isn't it about time we did the same?
From verse 21 onwards:
So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his attendant.
Elisha was sold out for God, gave his all in pursuit of God.
What about you? When was the last time we gave up something for God, be it excuses, our time, or something that was really hindering our relationship with God. Will we ever set out hearts to follow God no matter what the circumstances?
I believe God is already sold out for us, always blessing us and looking out for us.
Isn't it about time we did the same?
Friday, July 13, 2007
not at peace, but...
This whole week, whether my heart races, or my stomach feels turned inside out, or my bowels feel like it's doing the mexican wave over and over again (not to mention, how there's probably no more mosquitoes in my room due to poisonous gas... phew!).
Why? My exam for one and the reality that has hit my hard over the weeks.
Why am I on earth for?
Hence, the renewed desire to want to reach out, shape IMU, etc.
Well, I must say, I really feel God's been speaking to me LOTS this week. Specifically, this whole chapter that I read in 2 Cor 4.
Specifically this few verses: 7-11.
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body."
Exams? Trials? Tribulations? Motor vehicle accident?
How do we act in this situations? Are we crushed? In despair? At the brink of destruction or already destroyed to bits? Overworked until the point of quiting?
2 Cor 4:16-18
"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix out eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen, is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
I am encouraged beyond words. I don't know about you, but I guess life IS really too short to fret about things to the point that one cannot be fruitful. I want to continue to trust God in all matters.
phew. The mexican waves have left. Ai carumba. What a relief! :p
Why? My exam for one and the reality that has hit my hard over the weeks.
Why am I on earth for?
Hence, the renewed desire to want to reach out, shape IMU, etc.
Well, I must say, I really feel God's been speaking to me LOTS this week. Specifically, this whole chapter that I read in 2 Cor 4.
Specifically this few verses: 7-11.
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body."
Exams? Trials? Tribulations? Motor vehicle accident?
How do we act in this situations? Are we crushed? In despair? At the brink of destruction or already destroyed to bits? Overworked until the point of quiting?
2 Cor 4:16-18
"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix out eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen, is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
I am encouraged beyond words. I don't know about you, but I guess life IS really too short to fret about things to the point that one cannot be fruitful. I want to continue to trust God in all matters.
phew. The mexican waves have left. Ai carumba. What a relief! :p
Thursday, July 12, 2007
what's next
Today, the IMU core met, and for the first time, I believe I was doing what I felt IMU should have done in a long time. My only prayer is that, this will not be the first and last, but for many more to come. It'll sound a little too gung ho when I say this, but time to raise a generation for God.
I spilled my heart out about what I felt we should be doing for IMU, and how we can be a little more deliberate with what we do (notice how I used the word deliberate, haha). Among some of the points I shared was, about how deliberate about doing God's work, be it raising new leaders, following up with people, engaging one to one with new people, or people who have yet to know or come to know Christ.
I remember how when I was still studying in IMU, and how PC or Nai Yee would keep asking us about our progress with people, or teach us ways that were effective, I would listen, but at the same time, I only did when I was asked or what I was asked to. I don't know, whether I was being thick, or just apathetic, I never did quite go past the 'list' on my own initiative.
Looking back, it was fear and pride that halted my progress most of the time, fear of lack of time to study, fear of rejection, fear for a lack of listeners and being prideful, thinking that surely I am doing enough (right?).
As I was praying for the meeting today, I came across 1John 4:18
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."
God's perfect love for me, should be more than sufficient to drive me to do all things that is outside my comfort zone. God's love for people and hence, my love for people, should not and cannot be reigned by fear.
Hmmm, there's more to that verse that I'm not getting, I'll have to meditate on it. :)
I spilled my heart out about what I felt we should be doing for IMU, and how we can be a little more deliberate with what we do (notice how I used the word deliberate, haha). Among some of the points I shared was, about how deliberate about doing God's work, be it raising new leaders, following up with people, engaging one to one with new people, or people who have yet to know or come to know Christ.
I remember how when I was still studying in IMU, and how PC or Nai Yee would keep asking us about our progress with people, or teach us ways that were effective, I would listen, but at the same time, I only did when I was asked or what I was asked to. I don't know, whether I was being thick, or just apathetic, I never did quite go past the 'list' on my own initiative.
Looking back, it was fear and pride that halted my progress most of the time, fear of lack of time to study, fear of rejection, fear for a lack of listeners and being prideful, thinking that surely I am doing enough (right?).
As I was praying for the meeting today, I came across 1John 4:18
"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love."
God's perfect love for me, should be more than sufficient to drive me to do all things that is outside my comfort zone. God's love for people and hence, my love for people, should not and cannot be reigned by fear.
Hmmm, there's more to that verse that I'm not getting, I'll have to meditate on it. :)
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
in love
Before I proceed to misled anyone, I must clarify, this post is not about me falling in love. :p
Now moving on to business.
Talking about love has always produced many ideas. I have heard of so many discussions about love, whether it's about a BG relationship, a child-parent kind of love, and of course there is also the God and us kind of love. (There's a whole long list for types of love, but I'm not going to dive in that direction. Not today anyways).
During yesterday's campus meeting, there was the discussion of love, because there was a brief discussion about BG relationship. When love and the bible comes into discussion, I believe most people would instantly think about 1 Cor 13 (Myself at least anyways). Many years ago, if you would to ask me, I would say it is a feeling. That's why, when it's silent, I feel like I'm not being loved, or I'm not loving God. It's also the same reason I use, that everytime I feel a weird euphoric, I claim I am in love. (Hmmm, a bit shallow I was).
I will always remember during Stephen's stag party, when Josh gave him the advice, that love is not a feeling, that love is a choice, I came to realization that my version of love was somewhat incorrect. It makes a little more sense then that love is patient, love is kind etc, because all this are not innate capabilities. In verse 7 of 1Cor13, it goes on to say, "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."
Now, I always used to think that it's only natural that when one loves another, they will protect them from harm, from evil and the whole nine yards. Whether it is family, or a relationship.
Then, this was quoted during the campus meeting yesterday.
Philippians 1:9-11
And this is my prayer:that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God.
It speaks on many levels. The one that we talked about yesterday, is between opposite genders. To love a fellow brother or sister, one must be also aware, that in true love, one does not stumble the other, being in friendship or courtship. To discern what is best for one another, and not just for oneself. Love is not self seeking.
Even among friends, a great love between friends, would mean doing things in such a way that it will not cause another to fall. It means, watching each other's language, watching each other's actions. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
Hmm. I guess, I really have to be careful with what I say, or what I do. For truly, when we choose to love someone, we must also be committed to build that person, and not cause them to fall.
Does that make sense?
Now moving on to business.
Talking about love has always produced many ideas. I have heard of so many discussions about love, whether it's about a BG relationship, a child-parent kind of love, and of course there is also the God and us kind of love. (There's a whole long list for types of love, but I'm not going to dive in that direction. Not today anyways).
During yesterday's campus meeting, there was the discussion of love, because there was a brief discussion about BG relationship. When love and the bible comes into discussion, I believe most people would instantly think about 1 Cor 13 (Myself at least anyways). Many years ago, if you would to ask me, I would say it is a feeling. That's why, when it's silent, I feel like I'm not being loved, or I'm not loving God. It's also the same reason I use, that everytime I feel a weird euphoric, I claim I am in love. (Hmmm, a bit shallow I was).
I will always remember during Stephen's stag party, when Josh gave him the advice, that love is not a feeling, that love is a choice, I came to realization that my version of love was somewhat incorrect. It makes a little more sense then that love is patient, love is kind etc, because all this are not innate capabilities. In verse 7 of 1Cor13, it goes on to say, "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."
Now, I always used to think that it's only natural that when one loves another, they will protect them from harm, from evil and the whole nine yards. Whether it is family, or a relationship.
Then, this was quoted during the campus meeting yesterday.
Philippians 1:9-11
And this is my prayer:that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God.
It speaks on many levels. The one that we talked about yesterday, is between opposite genders. To love a fellow brother or sister, one must be also aware, that in true love, one does not stumble the other, being in friendship or courtship. To discern what is best for one another, and not just for oneself. Love is not self seeking.
Even among friends, a great love between friends, would mean doing things in such a way that it will not cause another to fall. It means, watching each other's language, watching each other's actions. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
Hmm. I guess, I really have to be careful with what I say, or what I do. For truly, when we choose to love someone, we must also be committed to build that person, and not cause them to fall.
Does that make sense?
Thursday, May 10, 2007
the word
I read something today, which struck me pretty hard. I never quite read it like this before. Let' just call it a new revelation.
I've read this passage so many times, but not like this, and not realizing how powerful the word can really be. Who said the bible wa outdated, and it's relevance in today's world, almost second to none? We forget, about what God has set aside for us, His word, and we take it for granted, thinking it's just another book for good teaching.
This passage with the highlighted bits speak VOLUMES to me:
Romans 8:
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,who have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
This passage is a real promise. I know I won't be alone when I run into certain problems, and I know I don't have to count on experiences more than God's word to know that He is real. The promise has been made, it's up to us, I believe to trust and know, that NOTHING seperates us from the love of God.
I've read this passage so many times, but not like this, and not realizing how powerful the word can really be. Who said the bible wa outdated, and it's relevance in today's world, almost second to none? We forget, about what God has set aside for us, His word, and we take it for granted, thinking it's just another book for good teaching.
This passage with the highlighted bits speak VOLUMES to me:
Romans 8:
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him,who have been called according to his purpose. 29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
31What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36As it is written:
"For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." 37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
This passage is a real promise. I know I won't be alone when I run into certain problems, and I know I don't have to count on experiences more than God's word to know that He is real. The promise has been made, it's up to us, I believe to trust and know, that NOTHING seperates us from the love of God.
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