Chill-Lax with the Audience of ONE

Reflections on Psalm 4

2008-09-10T09:35:00.002+08:00

Looking at the psalm in whole, I see the following of God.

1) God hears everything, and will respond when we need / desire His response.

One thing that comes to mind is how some people can ask "Where is God", but live like they don't care to know the answer, or they don't expect God to respond. Such a perspective will keep us from seeing God and how He responds to our needs. While it's true that God is not limited by our perspectives, He does take into consideration what we want, and if we question him but aren't really seeking a response from Him, it is unlikely that we will see any.

2) God does not tolerate sin, but He also prefers transparency to pretense.

This is regards to v. 4 - "In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent."

The phrase "do not sin" is so hard to abide with. Ever noticed how sin always starts off with some emotion, one that is usually not pleasant to experience? Speaking of sin itself, I always think back to the 10 commandments, which comprehensively cover all the ways we might sin, and how avoiding sin sometimes feels like the Chinese idiom 十面埋伏 (literally means "ambushed on 10 sides").

So it is a great relief to know that with God, it is okay to feel all the emotions which eventually lead to sin and be honest about them.

I personally feel that God gave us such capacity for emotions not so that we might sin, but for higher / better purposes. Looking at David, as the supposed author of this psalm and many others, one such purpose could possibly be to help us discover more of God and see His promises fulfilled. Throughout the psalms, David's emotional expressiveness really brings out the reality of God's presence in his own life.

3) God gives abundantly.

It occurred to me that only after we have set down and detailed the full extent of our desires and expectations, can we know what abundance we receive from God. I had a good laugh reading the last two verses of The Message version (quoted below), which also serves as a reminder why do I have any faith in God at all about how much He loves me - because I have seen Him answer my requests, although not always in the way I expected - and that gives me reason to expect that He will continue to do so in my life.

"I have God's more-than-enough,
More joy in one ordinary day
Than they get in all their shopping sprees.
At day's end I'm ready for sound sleep,
For you, God, have put my life back together."

Life lessons I learnt from leading worship (Part 1)

2008-09-07T02:02:00.004+08:00

Having been in worship teams and leading worship for some years, I have often been asked questions ranging from heart issues to the practical day-to-day stuff. So it triggered me to jot down some important lessons I have learnt through leading worship, creative people and teams over these years. Would like to qualify that this list is not exhaustive, in no order of importance and from personal experience. These lessons are not just applicable to worship team dynamics but also in life. I hope it helps and encourages.

Investing in the next generation is critical
Somebody somewhere took the risk to believe in me and gave me my first opportunity to develop my gift and ability to lead worship. Without that, I will never be doing what I’m doing now. Over the years I have had leaders and mentors who dared to act on what they believed God had for my life, and provide me the guidance, inspiration and platforms to grow. Even though I made many mistakes along the way, they never gave up on me. This has made me deeply aware of the need to believe in others and provide them opportunities to spread their wings and fly. These wonderful leaders assured me that it was ok to fail and encouraged me to stand up and try again. They taught me what they knew but always allowed me space to be myself. Investing in a young person can be risky and can cause much inconvenience and sacrifice, but the rewards far outweigh the cost. Every time I find myself breaking through in the level of my influence, I never fail to remember and give thanks for all the people who have allowed me to stand on their shoulders so I may see further.

2 Tim 2:2
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.

Be yourself
When I first started off as a worship leader, I did it by copying what I saw someone else in church do. Gradually my role models began to change as I grew older and gained more experience. There was a stage in my life where “everything I learnt about worship leading, I learnt from Darlene Zschech”. And that drove most people around me crazy! I was searching for the true meaning of worship because I knew deep down inside me that leading worship was not just about singing songs and jumping around. It took me years to accept that I must be myself and many more years before I discovered who that really is. I have had strong influences from many people in my previous churches and they really helped to balance out some of my extremities. Coming before God just as I am was such a wonderful and freeing experience. God assured me that there will never be another me and He loves me the way I am and He wants me to be who He made me to be. Wow. From that point, my worship leading took on a new level of freedom and authority because I was no longer bound to the comparison and criticism of people. Knowing that I must lead out of who I am in God was one of the most powerful things I learnt.

Submission to leadership pleases God and releases blessing
Leaders are not perfect and I’m sure we all know at least one leader who makes us wonder how he or she could even become a leader. As a worship leader, we are under the covering and authority of either the worship pastor or senior pastor. During a service, they give spiritual oversight. I have often heard the funny observation that many times worship leaders tries to act like the senior pastor and the senior pastor tries to become the worship leader. What results is a tussle of roles while the congregation watches on. Submitting to the authority given over you is equal to submitting to God’s authority, for He is the one who establishes all authority. Even when you feel your leader is wrong, remember it’s probably a matter of preference and should not become a point of conflict or bitterness.

I have also had the privilege of working with musicians and singers who are such a pleasure and joy to work with because they have such a humble and servant heart. Unfortunately I must also admit that I have encountered many musicians and singers who struggled greatly with submitting to leadership, either to the worship leader or the senior pastor. Those were trying times because every rehearsal felt like we were in a war. It was emotionally and mentally draining for everyone, but eventually they either repented from their lack of submission, or simply left the team, and some, the church.

Sometimes we think we have valid reasons for not submitting to a leadership decision. Sometimes we even think we’re morally higher than a leader whom we might not have high regard for. However in these times I’m always reminded of the story of David and King Saul. King Saul was clearly not leading a Godly life and was after David’s life. However David never took on a self-righteous nor judgmental attitude, choosing at every moment to honour God’s decision to make Saul king. We all know the outcome of the story and can learn lots from David’s example.

Heb 13:17
Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.

Team matters
This is probably one of the top lessons I have learnt from leading worship and being in worship teams. Some musicians are incredibly skilled and established in their own right, but it has always amazed me when they simply cannot work in a team. Putting many talented musicians together does not make a worship team! There is so much that goes into team dynamics and I believe that the most important is a heart of love and humility. When you deem others better than yourself, and also look out for one another, there will be a great team. I suggest to you that many people find it hard to work as a team because of their own insecurities and fear about themselves. I have certainly walked through this myself, feeling threatened when I felt someone was better than me. Pride rears its ugly head and destroys the unity of the team.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of doing life outside of playing together for church. A group of talented musicians can come together and play a wonderful set of songs, but walk away never knowing anything about each other’s lives, struggles, hopes and dreams. I don’t think that’s the heart of God for our teams and ministries. The best teams I have been with are those who played, prayed, cried and laboured together. Even years after we stop playing together, many of us remain firm friends and continue to encourage each other in the faith.

Teams must be built. It is the job of the leader to build teams, but it cannot be achieved without the effort of every member of the team. Having said that, I have seen many leaders discouraged and worn out because their people just would not do their part. I feel sad for them because it is truly an uphill task to lead unwilling people and I pray we never have to go through that ever again.

1 Cor 12:27
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

Handle conflict the Biblical way
I stand by the “Matthew 18 principle” when conflicts arise. Matthew18:15-17 says "If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” Every time I have done this, it has worked. Every time I attempted to bypass what Jesus taught in conflict resolution, I have not done so well. Conflicts will arise as we work together as a team. Unresolved conflict will spread like a cancer through the body and will allow the enemy to have a foothold. Keep short accounts and always be ready to forgive. There is such power and freedom when we choose forgiveness and honour.

Know your role
It is a common saying in church circles that if you are in the worship ministry, you don’t have to be skilled or really good in what you do as long as you are a worshipper. I can only agree with half of that statement. I absolutely agree that you must be a worshipper and that’s the primary call of every Christian. I also passionately agree that if you are to be playing in a worship team, you must have a heart of worship. However, we must know our roles. If we were to consider the role of the Levites in the Old Testament (many people like to equate our modern worship ministries to the ministry of the Levites. I choose to take a broader, non-literal interpretation of that), the Levites were not just skilled in ministering in the Temple with their instruments, they were also very much involved in incredibly elaborate duties within the Temple. Every Levite had a specific role and it went beyond their musical abilities.

I have learnt that as a worship leader, I am to be worshipping on or off the platform. But when I am leading worship, I am primarily a leader. Which means I must lead! It does not mean that I become a dictator and do whatever I like, but I must know my role as a worship leader and what I am supposed to do. I work in partnership with the Holy Spirit and function under His leading. Every musician and singer on the platform has that role as well. They are to be worshipping already, but when they take the platform, it is to come together to lead as a team. Some of the most powerful worship teams I have been part of, or have seen, are those where every person in the team knows their role as a servant-leader, and proceeds to function confidently in that role.

Lead worship in life
This is the most important lesson I have learnt from leading worship. In fact, I have since discovered that this is my personal mission in life. I am a worship leader in life. In all areas of my life, I seek to lead people to worship God at whatever point they are in their lives. In order to live this out, I must continuously worship and encounter Jesus in my life, and consciously tell others about Jesus and lead them to encounter and worship Him in their lives. Leading worship has taught me to be a worshipper and that every part of my life is to be offered to Jesus as worship. I started leading worship through songs and music but I now know that worship goes beyond the music and is about life. I was made to worship God, the Creator of heaven and earth who revealed His love for me through Jesus Christ His Son. To that, there is no other fitting response, but worship.

Razi Grew!

2008-08-24T22:30:00.003+08:00

After a tiring rehearsal with Vertical Rush, we were ready to pack up and head off for dinner when Jean - who was helping out on vocals with us - suddenly said we should pray for Razi - who is a longtime friend of ours and who also runs the practice studios that we rehearse at.

Now I have to tell you what mental state i was in. I was pretty grouchy by the time practice was over. I had to wake up a bit early in the morning (anytime before lunchtime on Sunday is early for me), and practice was pretty rough. We only managed to run through a third of the songs we wanted to do and we wasted a lot of time. Not only that, for some reason my guitar amp wouldn't work, and I had to drag another amp in from the other studio. To make matter worse, the vocals PA kept feeding back, my guitar sounded really awful and I ended up getting more and more frustrated through practice. By the time we ended practice, i was literally ready to bite someone's head off!

in any case, i gathered up what little was left of my good humour and head out with jean and esmond, not quite knowing what to expect, or what i was going to get myself into. we bundle razi out of the noisy studio into the *scape corridor. we make esmond and razi stand side by side and mark their arms with a sharpie.

after that, jean, esmond and myself laid hands on razi's legs and start to pray some really simple prayers. all this while my right brain was going like, oh man what if this doesn't work?!? sure very malu - not just for us but for Jesus as well. then my left brain was like - oh, even if there's a difference it'll probably be parallax error or something that could be rationalised away.

such a man of faith i am.

anyway even as we are praying, i could feel razi's leg growing. i laid my hand on his kneecap and notice its positioned right over the edge of the couch he was sitting on. when we finished praying for him, it looked like his knee was clear of the edge of the couch. i'm still thinking it might be parallax error at this point.

when we get esmond and razi to stand side by side, the results are just absolutely mind-boggling.

no way that could be parallax error. thank you Jesus. thank you Jesus. You've just totally taken me to school again about what living in faith really means.

back to the story: i basically went ballistic at that point. i totally had no clue that the results would be so clear, so obvious. in hindsight, its easy to say "duh, of course it would be this obvious. i mean, its GOD we're talking about right?" but at the time i was just going "WHOA!" at the top of my voice. i was completely stunned!

i think razi is still in a state of shock at how much he's grown! we said good bye and we hugged - as we did that i prayed for him again, and i could just feel him shaking and i could feel his heart racing.

this totally made my day. and i hope it did for razi too.

Reflections on Psalms 4

2008-08-11T00:24:00.002+08:00

Thoughts:

1) v1 : Even King David laments and complains to God, Reminds me that its fine to be real to God.

2) v5: Study Bible says that to God, our attitude of submission and obedience is more important than the actual sacrifice. Reminds me that there is more to "doing and serving".

3) v6 - 7: These verses remind me that trusting in the Lord is the key to joy. Many times, I worry and think too much of things around, career, future, house, etc. Trusting in the Lord yields a joy that is "greater" than "that of the world". The former is dependent on God, who is never changing and perfect, whilst the latter is dependent on the "grain and new wine" which is temporal. v7 - God alone makes us dwell in safety, this reminds me of God's sovereignty and that He is truly in control.

Olie

Reflections on Psalms 4

2008-08-10T23:59:00.002+08:00

This psalm is often considered as a prayer for relief after a calamity. To me, though I'm not going through a period of distress or calamity, it is an assurance to know that God will always hear me when I call out to him (v3). Sometimes, I run out of patience when I ask God for something, some truth, some justice to be instilled, but yet I 'see' (physically) nothing happening. My tendency is to then take charge and work it out on my own. I find that my lack of patience can be a potential hindrance from seeing God's answers revealed in my life. And this lack of trust and tendency to be self-sufficient is something I need to work on.

(v4)'In your anger do not sin, when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.'

It is always a timely reminder or even warning to me regarding what I should do or not do when in anger; not anger in explosive spurts but mostly brewing displeasure/s that can be equally lethal. I am an escapist by nature and often shy away from confrontations of all sorts, and as a result, I do realise that I tend not to want to search my heart to discover my naked feelings as they make me real uncomfortable and uneasy. This verse reminds me to face up to the 'search' process that will allow me to be transparent with God, albeit an uneasy task. But I believe this step is crucial so that I don't harbour bitter sentiments that may brew and even fester into something worse. I'm reminded of the need to make right with God in terms of my every emotion and even the people that I may have been offended or whom I have offended.

Sharon

Psalm 4 - Marcus

2008-08-09T13:53:00.000+08:00

In your anger do not sin

Its so easy to let emotions take over, to let emotions be an excuse for acting inappropriately. Its so easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment, to do something that doesn't please God, and try to brush it away or justify it by saying that it was "situational", that this case was "different". But the fact is, God's Word is not "situational", His Truth doesn't differ in every situation. It is the same today, yesterday and tomorrow, and it is uncompromising, unchanging.

There is no excuse for giving in to sin, and we should always be mindful not to let our lips or our actions let loose that which does not glorify the Lord, no matter how hard the circumstances are, no matter how irritating some people may be, or how stupid the situation may seem. God's Word still holds true for every person and circumstance. And as His Children we are called to do likewise - to be as God is, full of grace and love. However small or however challenging, we are to be God's people of grace.

You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound

Its also very easy to get caught up in the things of the world. The temporary, transient pleasures. To let these things distract ourselves from what is most important, from the one thing that truly gives the greatest joy. The things of the world give happiness - but that in itself is transient, fleeting, momentary - the things of God give joy, a deep lasting and unshakeable sense that all is as it should be, such that even in the midst of the storm we can celebrate and praise God. That's real joy.

We are challenged to think about why we spend money on that which is not bread, and labour on that which does not satisfy (Isaiah 55:2). Many a time in my life, I've spent nights partying and doing things that I shouldn't have, or which ultimately didn't satisfy. And I'd return home to the four walls in my room, and sink to the floor in despair feeling empty and joyless. God changed all that. He truly satisfies. And I'm still discovering new depths of how He can satisfy, and how His joy has transformed me.

God truly satisfies. And whilst He does allow us to find happiness in things, in people, in activities, He also wants us to know and embrace His joy. May we learn how to lean on Him for strength, courage, and joy in our lives, and not look to people, things or circumstances.

Reflection on Psalm 3

2008-08-07T16:02:00.003+08:00

Reflection on Psalm 3 (I know im so so late)...

I think this Psalm really speaks of God's grace and mercy. Even during times of trouble, God is never far from us.

1) He is our shield- protection and favour

2) He answers us- He listens and continue to converse with us

3) The Lord sustains us- He will give us the strength we need

4) From the Lord comes delieverance - He wont leave us in the lurch and He will deliver us

Application:

I know and believe that no matter how tough a situation may be, God is never far. He will still be there to listen and provide us with His strength. His grace and mercy will always be evident and ultimately, He will deliver us.

Brings me back the my verse of the year:

2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1: 2-4

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Leaning on the Lord,

Evie

Reflections on Psalm 3

2008-08-07T09:42:00.002+08:00

Would like to apologize for not posting earlier, many things have been going on, and I also wanted to read up on the background of Psalm 3 before posting my reflections. Unfortunately, that took a lot of time to think through.

Personally, reading this psalm tells me a lot more about the psalmist's attitude than about God himself. It's a little frustrating when one is looking to learn about God without having to go through the psalmist and the emotion he pours into the psalm, and for awhile I felt like I identified more with people who have no understanding about why we are willing to have faith in Him than with being someone who truly knows God.

I suppose it's something we all have to go through periodically, so that when we finally recognize God's participation in our lives, it becomes truth and real knowledge, not merely blind faith. Anyway, thankfully, the psalm had a preceding description - "A psalm of David. When he fled from his son Absalom." So I turned to 2 Samuel 15-18 to read the story behind the psalm.

To briefly summarize, Absalom was David's son, he took over David's throne by conspiracy, and later set out to kill David. Thus, David had to flee for his life, and along the way, he discovered many people who turned against him. Some of his trusted advisors, his men, and his friends were among these people.

Given his situation, David had every reason to despair and question God, yet he still chose to put his faith in God and expressed it in a psalm. And what really stands out in 2 Samuel 15-18 is that David received everything that he had declared in faith within Psalm 3. I've decided to leave further details on above to the end of this entry, otherwise this will eb very long.

My personal takeaway from this is that God rewards us for both our faith in Him and the subsequent actions undertaken out of that faith. Such actions don't have to be very significant or visible, it could be as simple as choosing to praise Him despite not feeling like we want to. The most important thing to know is that living out our faith is THE condition we need to satisfy in order claim His blessings.

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List of ways in which God answered David's declarations within the psalm in 2 Samuel 15-18. Verses listed are from the Psalm.

v3. "you bestow glory on me and lift up my head."
- God restored his status as king, both officially and in the hearts of his people.

v4. "To the LORD I cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill."
- God sent many others who were willing to follow him and flee with him or take his instructions to do what they could while Absalom was in power. When we think about David's position, it's actually a very lonely one - can anyone else understand what it means to receive such betrayal from a son, especially for a king? Yet God never left Him alone, and He showed it by allowing David to meet people who supported Him.

v5. "I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me."
- I'm not sure if we can fully understand David's plight, imagine running long distance with great fear for your life and the others with you. But God sustained David so that he covered a great distance as he fled.

v6. "I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side."
- One interesting thing I noticed in 2 Samuel 15-18 is that David still undertook actions against Absalom's plans. For instance, he had people within the palace tell him of Absalom's plans, and frustrate Absalom's advisors' advice, even though he had no guarantee that God would indeed return him to the throne. Indeed, though David feared the results of Absalom taking the throne, he still had the courage to plan against Absalom and eventually planned a battle Absalom's men.

Reflections on Psalm 2

2008-07-15T20:28:00.003+08:00

I wanted to save a draft of this entry and continue it later, but apparently it wasn't saved, so I've to rewrite it.

The first thing I see is that God is powerful and mighty, Lord over all, completely impervious to the ways of men yet not unaware of them (verses 1-6). Yet He is also exceedingly loving and generous (verses 7-9). I am amused at the contrasts the psalmist presents - the God who rebukes and scoffs at people in power who plot against Him and rebel against His decrees, is the same God who says He would give us the nations if we asked Him.

When you think about these people in power as described in the psalm - all those kings and rulers, right? Aren't they the same people who would want nations to conquer and rule?

Simply put, everything in this world rightfully belongs to God. He created it and rules over everything in it, and the reason why man gets to decide anything at all is because He allows it. If God is happy to grant us the nations when we ask of Him, it means we are allowed to desire the nations! He is not pleased however, when we resort to scheming and conspiracies to fulfil our desires like the kings and rulers described earlier, because then we completely disregard who He is, and His relation to us / our relation to Him.

My interpretation of verses 10-12 for life application is never lose sight of the greatness of God.

There are a few ways to look at it. One is that nothing is impossible with God. We may present God with our bold, even crazy "are-you-insane??" requests, and have faith that He will grant us all that we ask for. After all, they're probably nothing compared to the nations, right?

Another perspective is one of reverence and awe of God. Even respect, yes that might be appropriate too. He is above us in every way, even our lives and our deaths are set by Him, our own character and personality were all His ideas. So really, who are we to turn against Him or away from Him? Even if He has given us the free will to do so, should we still do it?

Lastly, it is also a personal reminder for myself, that immense joy and fulfilment may be found in submitting to His ways and His desires. I've found that out at least once. After all, He's got me all figured out (so to speak), and He loves me, so things do work out, sometimes better than expected. Along the way, I may have gone through many things I would've rather not experienced in doing so, and it's probably my own subjective and short-sighted opinion as to whether or not they were necessary. But I definitely wouldn't want to change anything God's already done in me, and I'm pretty sure I can continue saying that. Even if I don't feel like it at times.

Psalm 2

2008-07-14T09:03:00.001+08:00

The Messiah’s Triumph and Kingdom

In this psalm, it shows that no matter how chaotic the world can be with wars, destruction, hypocrisy, deception and all the negative likes of it, (Psalm 2: 2 – 3) God is still in control of the situation. (Psalm 2: 4 -6) Even though we as His children may be in the midst of all these chaos, God still watches over us, protecting us from harm.

As His children, we have the privilege of being able to come to Him without fear as He always loves us. Anything that we ask of Him, it will be given to us.

Character of God: He is always in control no matter the circumstance, regardless of the situation

Application:

How does this aspect of God’s character affect me in my life?

Knowing that God is in control of my life helps me to be able to trust him in all my circumstance. When all hope seems to be gone, at least I know that I can trust and count on God to help and see me through in every single aspect of my life such as relationship with my parents, friends, colleagues, in my studies, and many more. He will always be there to watch over me.

Posted By: Nat

Psalm 3 - Marcus

2008-07-12T13:01:00.000+08:00

But you are a shield around me, O Lord

A traditional shield can only cover one side of the person, and only to a limited extent. But the Word says that God is a shield around me - that means that His protection is complete, and encircles me, hedges me in. what a beautiful promise, that God offers complete and holistic protection. He looks out for my complete being. He sees things that I don't see, He perceives things that I can't perceive. Even whilst David, the psalmist, was facing a popular uprising against him led by his own son, he could still walk without fear because he knew that the Lord protected him completely. Therefore I too can live without fear or worry that the challenges i face in life will overwhelm me - I can trust in the Lord to protect me and guard me in all circumstances.

you bestow glory on me and lift up my head.

Even as David was being shamed and ridiculed by his opponents, he knew that the Lord's glory rested on him, and that he did not have to live in shame for the things he has done, or in shame for the things that people say he has done. His glory and pride is in the Lord, who washes him clean and is his righteousness and strength. Likewise, I need not live in fear of what falsehoods others may say about me, or may think about me, neither do I have to live in shame from my mistakes. I can live completely free because Jesus has set me free to lift my head and look upon the Lord's face in awe and wonder. I can live completely free because Jesus is my righteousness - Jesus has won my righteousness on the cross. I can worship and sing and dance in the presence of the Lord because He has set me free!

To the Lord i cry aloud, and he answers me from his holy hill

God is a God who answers prayer - He does not remain silent. And even if i perceive Him to be silent, it is because He has already spoken and I did not listen. I know that when I take my prayers, my fear, my joy, my anxieties, my praise to God, He responds. Likewise, when we worship Him, He responds as well!

I lie down and sleep; i wake again, because the Lord sustains me.

There are so many mornings that I don't feel like waking up - either because I'm not looking forward to work, or because I'm just so tired, drained and exhausted that I just don't have the strength to get out of bed. But somehow I find the strength to get up and go out - and that is completely because the Lord sustains me. Just as He sustained David during his time of trial, He sustained me during mine - and He continues to sustain me every morning when I wake. He is my strength and my shield, He gives me hope for a better today and a brighter tomorrow. And because He has set me free, He has loved me so, I am able to wake again!

God gives and takes away.....

2008-07-09T01:33:00.002+08:00

This 1 whole week - I was reminded by God abt this..... that He gives and takes away. Last Friday, at SMU cell, when Bob shared and this statement came by, it was as though the entire earth paused and all I felt was..... God's assurance that when He give, He really gives..... but when He takes it away, will I still praise Him as usual?

I came to the point that I had to surrender my rights. Yes, my entire rights to my everything. On Saturday, when Chris shared from Job..... God spoke thru my heart again. This time, I simply fell to my knees knowing that I just needed God to take away all my rights. Still, it's tough but yes, it's easier when we are a step nearer to the end of the race.

What comforts me most is that He gives the best (to His knowledge of coz) and takes what is not good for us (which we sometimes think is good)..... I just want to thank God for the wonderful practice we had, the wonderful job He has provided, the wonderful life He created me to be.

Be Blessed!

Psalm 2 - Marcus

2008-07-08T08:57:00.001+08:00

Hey folks, I know this one is a bit overdue. Was somewhat overtaken by events over the weekend so couldn't get this up till now. Anyway, my brief thoughts on Psalm 2:

God is a God of Power and Might. He has the power to give and the power to take. He also loves his children - so much so that He has made the world their inheritance if they so choose it. He has a plan for the world, and He has already installed the King of Kings in the place of power and sovereignty over all the earth.

I am reminded not to take Him for granted - to be like the rulers of the earth who serve Him with fear and rejoice with trembling. What an image! But I am reminded that I should not take His Character for granted, that He is everything the Bible says He is. And if He so deigns to give me the world as my inheritance, I should live a life that expresses a worthy response to God's first act of love, salvation and blessing.

Psalm 2 reflection - Josh

2008-07-04T16:39:00.003+08:00

This is an awesome psalm of promise as well as warning.

For me, God shows up as first being a God of promises. And BIG promises! He's gonna give us the nations! And nothing! Not even the kings of the earth, are going to stand in His way. He has promised us good things, and will also at the same time protect us.

However, I was reminded of the fact that we have to be careful that we do not turn into those kings. Verses 10 & 11 were stark reminders for me, that even as we have been given much, much is expected of us. Being given the title of Pastor, Worship Leader or Musician does not automatically equate to me doing the job well. I have to continue to work at it "with fear and trembling", always remembering why I do what I do and who I am doing it for. And we have to WANT it! Verse 8 says that we must "ask of Him".

Do we desire it? Do I desire it? It comes with consequences too.

*NOTE* Chris, this is where i find one way to help you with your struggle with verse 11. The trembling refers to reverence and awe. The Message translates it as "trembling awe". The NASB cross references it with "reverence". So perhaps the idea is that while we rejoice in Him, the manner and posture that we are to do it in is still one of reverence and awe. I think it is an important point, especially in our season in the Youth Ministry, where rejoicing can sometimes be done in a flippant manner?

Psalm 2

2008-07-03T23:29:00.003+08:00

One character of God that really jumps up at me in the first part of this Psalm would be Justice.

As revealed in Psalm 1, God is fair in His judgement.

"For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous but the way of the wicked will perish." (Psalm 1: 6)

This is most prevalent in verse 4 of Psalm 2, where He expresses His wrath on those who go against Him.

Yet He extends his love, grace and blessing in verses 7-9.

In verse 8, it says, "Ask of me, and i will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession."

Verses 8 to 12 really showed me specifically how this is relevant and applicable to my life.

This is further explained in verses 11 & 12, "Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling (not sure also, but Kenny's explanation does make sense :) any one with a different explanation?). Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in Him."

I think to 'ask of Him' is not to just call his name when we need His help, or just ask of Him to come into our hearts to be born again (not that we shouldnt). But rather, as highlighted above, to serve Him with reverent fear, to allow Him to be Lord of our lives and to take refuge in Him. For Him to be first in our lives. Having that intimate relationship with Him. To make that choice.

Additionally, in verse 12 it says, "... for his wrath can flare up in a moment..."

I don't think the purpose of this line in verse 12 is to SCARE us, but i think its to encourage us to have that sense of urgency- to ask of Him.

Reflections on Psalm 2

2008-07-01T01:27:00.002+08:00

Verse 1: Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain?

Verse 2: The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the LORD and against his Anointed One.

From these 2 verses, it showed me that the very people that God had come to save are the ones that turned against Him. However, from verse 1, it has shown me that all the kings and the nations and its people have plotted in vain against Our Sovereign King. The two words "in vain" in verse 1 sums it all. The world we live in is the place where Satan operates. Satan does not operate in Heaven because he does not belong there. However, he works on this world. The kings of the earth gathered against the Lord and His Anointed One, who is Jesus Christ.

However, the Sovereignty and great power of our Lord is revealed to me from verse 4 and 5. He is a Just God. His character incorporates the element of Just and Wrath. God is love. That is truth. He is merciful and full of grace, yet we must also remember that He is a God of justice as well.

Verse 4: The One enthroned in heaven laughs, the Lord scoffs at them.

Verse 5: Then he rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath saying . . .

Our God is a Just God.

Yet in His wrath against those who oppose Him, God's love and mercy is also showed in this Psalm.

Verse 7: He said to me, "You are my Son, today I have become your Father.

Verse 8: Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.

Verse 9: You will rule them with an iron scepter

From verse 7 to 9, it showed what He has install for us. What He wants to give us. He will make the nations our inheritance. That to me is a GREAT prize and it just shows the amount of love He has for me. All i need to do is ask Him. I will get the nations as my inheritance and the ends of the earth my possession. He simple said, "Ask of me". WOW. He is so full of grace and SO SO generous.

Verse 11: Serve the LORD with fear and rejoice with trembling.

Verse 12: Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Blessed are all who take refuge in him. You will dash them to pieces like pottery."

To me, God is a great gentleman. He gives us a choice. He will never force us. In this Psalm, He has showed us both sides. One, where we can get nations as our inheritance and the ends of the earth our possession. The other side, be destroyed.

God is both a loving AND a just God. We have to understand both sides of His character and not just one side.

For me, these characters of God reminds me in my daily life, that I have to constantly make a choice. He will tell me something that He wants me to do, but I have to partner Him by obeying Him. That is why Obedience is better than sacrifice. It is a partnership with Him. And He has showed both sides of the outcome I will get. He has provided very clearly, the outcomes and answers. The ball is now in my court.

Will I take refuge in Him and be blessed and proclaim the Lord's decree, or will I go on my own ways?

P.S: One thing I am still asking the Holy Spirit --> In verse 11, it says "rejoice with trembling". How do we rejoice and yet tremble? What does this mean? I am still processing and asking Him. If any of you have any insights, do share ok?

Chris

Reflection on Psalm 1

2008-06-29T00:39:00.002+08:00

Reflection on Psalm 1:

1. What does this psalm show me about God’s character?

I think verse 6 truly sums up God's character that is revealed in this Psalm. It says, " For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish."

God delights in righteousness.

In verses 2-4 it also talks about His faithfulness that comes out of that righteousness. Verse 3, "He is like the tree planted by steams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers."

Whereas the wicked will be like chaff, that will be blown away.

He is faithful. He will bless the righteous but punish the wicked.

2. How does this aspect of God’s character affect me in my life?

I think, based on the above, knowing that God delights in righteousness, I need to choose to be on the path of righteousness. Knowing that through this, I will grow (yielding fruit & prosperity) & I will delight Him.

This links back to another verse in Psalm 37. Verse 4 says, "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Of course, this choice should not be one that is selfish and self centered. Where we are seeking for prosperity.

Rather, it should come from a heart where we we want to delight in the Lord because we love Him and long to please Him because He is worthy!

(i could go on and on about why he's worthy and thats where the attributes will all come out and it'll boil down to love and it'll go on and on and on!)

I believe and trust that you get what I mean :)

Reflections on Psalm 1

2008-06-27T00:40:00.002+08:00

In the mere 6 verses of this Psalm, verse 2 is the line which is most revealing about God's character - "But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night." It brought up a few questions - What is law? Why does God value someone who delights / abides by His laws? - and in finding answers to them, some light was shed on a few aspects of God's character.

Firstly, to understand what is law, we must start from justice. The best definition of justice I found which links with law is this - "Justice is love built into structures". Thus, law is the structure by which love prevails.

What does this then, coupled with the contents of the Psalm, tell us about God's character?

1) God is loving. For instance, look at the ten commandments as an example of His laws. If we put ourselves in the shoes of those who have been sinned against as such, we can see that they are designed out of love for both ourselves and others.

2) He is just, as revealed by the psalm's example, that He blesses the righteous and punishes the wicked.

3) Surprise surprise... God values order (and by that I mean, "a condition in which each thing is properly disposed with reference to other things and to its purpose; methodical or harmonious arrangement"). Why? Because He creates things with purpose. Since He created us out of love, He gave us His laws so that we may act according to His purpose, ie. to choose to love and to make the choice freely, not merely loving because He designed (or programmed, for a better contrast) us to love.

How do these aspects of God’s character affect me in my life?

On the one hand, knowing that God is loving and that we are created to love and be loved, has given me a lot more security and/or confidence since I first came to Christ. It's also helped a lot in the way I relate to other people, and is in a way much less of a struggle than before, however it's still not over.

Personally, after having reflected on this psalm, I find that it is harder to ignore the consequences of not choosing the (most?) loving option in anything I do, or regarding anyone I deal with. (If this seems off-tangent to the above conclusions on God's character and how all the law stuff ties in, let's just say that I'm thinking about the simplified version of God's laws - "Love the Lord your God etc" and "Love your neighbour as yourself".) It's so easy to choose not to love or be loving if it will cost me more than what I am willing to give. And I have been selfish, too many times to count, without giving any thought to the consequences. It is indeed a sobering thought when you know that God is will judge everything we have done. Like Bao Qing Tian.

In view of that blessing God grants to those who love Him and abide by His laws accordingly (as described in verse 3), perhaps every time I have to think about what would the most loving thing to do, I should seriously consider whether or not I would like to receive such blessing.

A series of Blessed events

2008-01-08T13:30:00.000+08:00

This is a post that i published on my own blog, and because i cannot keep silent about the good things God has done, i shall put it here too. It's SUPER long lah and unedited, but aiya, God is so good. The longer the better!

***

Hi folks! Hey, you know, i'm pretty much brimming with shorts stories here and there about how God has really just shown himself to me in such cool ways. I think that there's no better time to do it then now, otherwise i'd simply forget and all of it would fade into the deep depths of my memory. So, without further babbling, here is my truckload of testimonies!

1. The exam grades

Last semester was a busy one for me because i was juggling schoolwork, workplace work and project, church and mission trip stuff and my own running training. Remember that terrible paper i had last year, the module called Acculturation Psychology? I studied for it, but i studied all the "wrong" things! Whatever that came out in the exam were stuff i did not study for. I left the exam hall 30minutes earlier, and that is something i've never done in my entire schooling life.

So i pretty much felt that i messed up my whole paper, and i began preparing myself mentally to redo that module. The only complication with that would be: if that module is only available in the july semester, then i'd be wasting the first 6 months (Jan to June), and effectively, one whole year!

I went about my holidays trying not to think about the possibility of what might happen. I just told myself that whatever happens, God has a reason for it and that i trust him for whatever that may come. I had to ready my folks mentally too should i really have to repeat. But nothing could erase that feeling of dread that made my heart sink to my stomach just thinking about seeing a red mark on my transcript.

When i returned from my mission trip on the 23rd of december, i immediately checked for my exams results when i came home after dinner. And you know, God is good... I had gotten a B- for that terrible module. I had procured a B-! Like, WOOOOOWWWWWWW!

Knowing the state of my exam script, with the contents being either big blanks, general knowledge, and scanty bits of hazily recalled information, and having left early, it is only by a PURE MIRACLE that i passed, let alone obtain a B-.

***PRAISE GOD!***

2. Overcoming Sickness

2A. (prior and during the mission trip)

Apparently, a few weeks before leaving on my mission trip to East Timor, my bloating from IBS starting acting up again, and the day before my departure, i started experiencing sharp pains in my left ear. The pain just came out from the blue, and i don't remember having ever felt them before and i sure didn't have any prior injury to warrant the pain.

My folks suggested that these may be signs of anxiety, but since i didn't feel anxious, i had a feeling that these obstacles coming my way could be something more spiritual in nature (when we are bent on doing God's will and work, the enemy would want to get us down!). Knowing the possibility of that, I refused to be discouraged and i asked my parents to pray for me.

In addition, i kept having these persistent and disturbing thoughts that i was going to be sick on the trip, and that i will surely be bogged down by it. The thoughts kept bugging me and in some ways, the mental happenings manifested a bit into the physical and i began to feel a little headachey and nauseous. I had to keep rejecting those thoughts.

When my team and i arrived in Kupang, they celebrated my birthday! HAH, with a really cool doughnut with a candle on top. So cute lah, i wonder who brought the doughnut all the way from Singapore. So i told them about the health related struggles i was having and they prayed for me.

Suffice to say, i was NOT SICK throughout my trip. The only time when i got motion sickness was after a 12 hour long van ride, which i recovered from after a night's rest. And yes, NO BLOATING from IBS during my trip! AND, NO EAR PAIN either! HAH!

2B. (during my Worship Team Advance, aka, camp.)

A few days before going for camp, i went shopping at Jurong Point, and i think i caught some bug. My nose became really itchy, stuck AND runny, and i would sneeze ever so often. It was uncomfortable and i know i wasn't exactly sick. This uncomfortable respiratory problem prolonged for close to one week.

I slept through one night at camp with a clogged and itchy nose. But the next morning, something amazing happened.

During the worship session, Pastor Jenn told us about how God had given her an annointing on her hands. It had happened some time ago when a visitor speaker had visited our church (Kobush? i think.) and had prayed for her. And when the speaker had prayed for her, she felt a supernatural sensation in her hands and she has been able to recognise the same sensation which signified that God has his annointing on her to do His work. Meaning that He will work with and through her whenever she uses her hands to pray for and bless others (correct anot?).

So, she told us that after asking God if she could, she said that she wanted to symbolically pray for each of us so that we could receive this same annointing. She did, and prayed for pretty much everyone. When she came and prayed for me, i didn't feel anything significant, but i believed in whatever God can do anyway, whether or not i can see or feel.

After she prayed for me, i sat down thinking about my stuffy nose. I realized that: hey, it's NOT normal for me to have this stuffy nose. I'm NOT sick, and i know that for a fact because my condition wasn't getting worse, it was just stagnant, as if i had a perpetual allergy to something. Even in air conditioned rooms, i don't have this kind of problem. I missed my freed air passageways!

So, i thought to myself, since my hands have been prayed for, i shall use them!

I laid both my hands around my neck and prayed. I asked God: Ok, God, i pray that you will clear out my air ways, and that i'll be able to breathe freely again like i've always been able to. I don't normally have sinus issues, so Lord, i pray against this problem. (end)

I did not experience anything SUPER INSTANT or like thunder and lightning or anything moving through my body.... But you know what. In the next few minutes, i actually felt my air ways clearing. First it was one nostril that cleared up, and then the next one also cleared up. And suddenly, i could breathe freely again! As in, seriously! It was like, my nose moved from being totally blocked and dripping to completely clear.

Isn't GOD AWESOME?!

***YEAY! THANK GOD!***

3. Hearing His Voice of Love (happened during the Timor trip)

Although i've been a Christian pretty much all my life (second generation Christian), there're times when i struggle with knowing whether God loves me. You know, you hear the same line: Jesus Loves You, so many times but yet you don't FEEL it like the way you would when someone says it to you personally or hugs you or something.

But during one morning worship session in East Timor with my team, the Lord spoke to one of us about how much he loved us, and that team member shared it. In confirmation, another team member also felt God tell her that he loved her.

For myself, during worship i was singing really loudly but something inside said: stop singing so loudly, just be still. So i stopped and sat down and asked God, "God, what do you want to tell me or the team?"
And i thought i heard Him say so tenderly: I just love you.
Even as i am typing this, my eyes fill with tears remembering His insistent and gentle reminder.

After worship was over, the team shared their experience during worship, and i shared mine... And i tell you. I DON'T KNOW WHY AND HOW, but when i narrated to them what i had heard, i started to tear, and then all of a sudden, i started to BAWL. YES, BAWL. Like, the kind of crying which involves -wailing- and a lot of tears. I mean, like, hello, i COULD NOT CONTROL IT, it just came out so strong from the depths of my subconscious being and i had to HIDE my embarrassment by laughing with a "hee hee hee" in the midst of my crying. HAHAHAHA. I bet i scared my team mates a bit. I was really fighting to suppress whatever sound that was coming out through my lips.

I've NEVER cried like that in front of strangers (yes, i love my team, but they are not super close to me that i would cry in front of them, except for maybe one or two) as an adult.

I was quite shocked by what was happening. I'm no stranger to the notion of crying when God touches me or someone, but wailing? And in front of others? NO WAY! That kind of crying, i do only in privacy, and even then, it is very rare.

One of my team mates rallied the others to pray for me during that extraordinary moment and i felt so odd. HAHA. So yes... God really surprised me that morning, and it's an experience i won't be forgetting.

4. Repairing the broken areas (during the Timor trip)

Just a bit of background information:

As a child, i've always been jealous and starved of attention and affection. It's not that my parents never gave me any. I just wanted to be treated with devotion ALL the time. So you can imagine what kind of horror breaks loose when there was even a tiny mention of having another sibling. Finding that out was the most horrifying thing to me because to me at that time, if my mom had another kid, i would no longer be loved as much and i was not going to allow that to happen.

It did not help that in the presence of babies and young children, my mom would coo over and cuddle them and "forget" all about me. And because of what i saw and felt, it did not assure me that she would still love me if another sibling arrived.

Ever since, i had hated young children because of what they represented. I had the notion that they were irritating, troublesome and that i'd be far better off without children. And i always thought that young children did not take to me well like they would to my other peers.

Another one of my struggles is related to how i look. I'm part confident of myself, but a part is also always seeking man's approval and praise. So when i went to East Timor (now don't you laugh ok!) i craved the admiration and approval of the people.

Sounds stupid i know, but you know how as locals, we might find foreigners interesting? Yeah, same concept here. As a foreigner, i had also wanted some form of attention.

But on one of the days on a visit to a secondary school, i felt rather rejected and insignificant in comparison to my team mates, and though i was smiling, laughing and looking like i was enjoying myself, i felt a wound inside festering.

But let me tell you... GOD WORKS IN REALLY FUNNY WAYS. Listen to this:

Our Timor co-ordinator, Dick, who is also a member from my church who helped us with the arranging of transport and everything else, was hanging out with the neighbours' kids next door. I was hanging around outside our house (which is next door to Dick and the kids) when
Dick yelled over to me: JOLINE!!!

J: (turns to look over the fence to the house next door) Yeah?
D: You've got a FAN CLUB! (gestures to the children)
J: HUH?!
(then suddenly, ALL the children yelled, "HI JOLINE!!!!!!!")
D: (says something i could not hear)
J: Huh?!?
D: Never mind!

Later on, i popped over to the neighbour's house with my team leader and i found out from Dick that, the children became my "fans" because....... HAH, AIYO, this is so weird! Apparently, one of the kids was from the secondary school we had visited earlier and she saw me. So when i got to meet her at her home, she told me in Tetun (the language used there), "You, Bonita.". "Bonita" means "beautiful" in Tetun.

I was quite astounded by all this because never in my life have i been told by anyone so unabashedly and with so much admiration that i was beautiful. And the more i thought about it, the more i was beginning to see God's hand in it. You see, God did two things through this situation.

He had brought and used his innocent little children to touch and soften my heart (my first problem) and at the same time, he was assuring me that i was already beautiful (my second problem).

I then knew that i was hearing God, through his little children (that i found so hard to love for so many years), and that I was hearing and receiving his love for me.

I brought a camera over and took pictures with them, kind of like an unspoken way to tell them that i will remember this moment and that they were important enough for me to remember them. And the girl who spoke to me hugged me so tightly during the phototaking!

Isn't God cute? :-D
I certainly think so!

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

Ok, that was a REALLY long post lah. But i KNOW that for God's glory, i shall speak of His goodness in my life! And here it is!

I just realized that the testimonies cover areas of inner (emotional and mental) as well as physical healing. AHAHAHA! I so happy man.

Think the post is too long to edit now lah, so i won't bother to for now. I am just too excited to let it sit in my draft box! So, here it is! (will update if i can remember more that happened to me in the past months)

Worship Ministry Advance 2008

2008-01-06T23:57:00.000+08:00

Yes! We are back from Worship Advance 2008! I believe we had a life transformation experience. Let's post our experiences and honour God here if possible.

Updated my blog and here's it - http://historymakerforchrist.blogspot.com/

Choose 'Edit post' to add our experiences in this post. =)

A Brand New Year

2008-01-01T23:35:00.000+08:00

Welcome to 2008. The year of Supernatural and of course a year of refreshing. As we start this new year, I hope we are excited about it especially that the Music Advance is this coming weekend and we're coming as a ministry to get to know each other better, build trust and build stronger bonds.

Thinking back from 2005 till now, we've come a long way. Each transition reminds me of God's faithfulness in each of our lives. Relationships have strengthened and we've grown spiritually and physically over the past 3 years!

At Fuel Up Camp, Shan Yu and I have experienced God and met new friends and seen a change in the youth itself. It was an experience for us, facilitating worship and learning from each other. For those who were at Youth Service last Saturday, you've seen what God has done to our youths and transformed them through His Holy Spirit.

And from now till our Advance, let's open our hearts to God and allow Him to work within us. This year will be a year of revival for us. So, let's chill-lax with the Audience of One this weekend.

Happy New Year and blessed 2008.

Thoughts on leading worship... 5 years ago

2007-09-18T23:55:00.001+08:00

Dear all,

I discovered this article I wrote in Oct 2002 on leading worship. It was interesting to see my thought processes then...

=============================================================

I had been pondering a long time about this thing called “leading worship”. What exactly does it mean? I remember years ago, when I first became a Christian, worship leaders were known as “songleaders”, which most would agree is a much easier call to live up to. However somewhere down the road there was a paradigm shift. Or was it a revelation? Someone decided to change “songleader” into “worship-leader”.

I’ve been reading books, talking to people, even asking God many many times, to show me what this “worship” was. Beginning with baby steps, I discovered, to the amazement of my immature heart, that worship was not the singing or the music. It wouldn’t be so difficult if it was just that! I listened to celebrated worship leaders like Darlene Zschech, Bob Fitts and Paul Baloche speak about their experiences as worship leaders, and they almost NEVER spoke about the music! They expounded on sacrifice, relationships with God and man, surrender, humilty, servanthood, unity, but never gave significant mention to the “gifts and talents” that I’d so coveted.

So how was I to lead worship when I didn’t really know what it was? True, now I had a vague idea that it was a lifestyle, something more than song and dance, ushering people into God’s presence etc, but that was all head knowledge. The reality of the matter hadn’t set in.

It is true that God pursues us – He pursued me. My Daddy God wanted to teach me something, and He taught me through my time in Bethesda Cathedral. All my pre-conceived ideas of wonderful music and even dreams of producing chart-topping albums were dashed in the short 2-half years I was there. My struggle to discover MY worship to Him had only just begun. God had only just begun to speak to me about what it means to truly worship Him. From the time I stepped up the platform with the controversial label of “first female worship leader in BC” to the time I realised I had been doing it all wrong, God was always faithful and patient in teaching me His ways. I tried to introduce “excellence” to the musicians, not realising that they could not even worship God with their hearts, much less worship with skillful hands. I tried to inspire the team with promises of God’s mighty move during church services, but overlooked that many of them did not even experience God in their own personal lives. I moved ahead of God, trying to be everything and yet achieving nothing. It was a humbling, yet vital learning period of my life.

I could relate stories of what other “famous” worship leaders have had to go through for their ministries, but didn’t have a personal account myself to speak. It disturbed me to think that I was up there on the platform, supposedly leading others into worship, when I didn’t truly understand what it was all about.

I’ve always been fascinated by the story of Mary and her alabastar jar. In the song “Alabastar”, there’s a line that says “you don’t know the cost of my alabastar box”. What WAS the cost of my alabastar oil? Was it the costliest, the most precious? The song says it “I will not offer anything to Him that costs me nothing”. Oh what conviction! It pierces my very being! How could I have been singing empty songs, making empty music, devoid of any true worship to God, while all the time claiming to be “leading worship”? It’s true – how can you lead others in worship when you can’t even worship God yourself?

I have also discovered that many examples of worship that touched God’s heart hardly featured any singing or music. Mary poured the costly oil on Jesus’ feet, washing them with her tears and wiping them with her hair. David “worshipped God’ when his son was killed. Mary worshipped Jesus by sitting at his feet listening to what He had to say while Martha busied herself with chores. None of them were singing pretty songs nor jamming in a band and yet theirs were examples of worship which God smiled upon.

An article by Paul Woodburn entitled “Worship or What?: Worship Defined” says this:

“Worship is indefinable and in reality it is the one thing that we do not need to be taught. Like a cherry tree produces apples and rose bush roses, humanity worships. It is what we are designed to do… programmed if you will. So really… worship is life… life is worship. The question is not "What is worship?" or "How does one worship?" If you are breathing… you're worshipping. The real question is "Who (or what) are you giving your worship to?"

That is so true! As long as I’m breathing, I should be worshipping God. That’s why it’s called a “life-style” – breathing keeps me alive, so since I have life, I should be worshipping like I’m breathing. And the issue is who I worship, not how or where or when.

Often times as I prepare to lead worship for church, sometimes I get this disturbing, nagging feeling that something is not right. I get down on my knees, I cry to God to show me what He has in store for the service but sometimes I don’t hear from Him. I start to wonder what’s wrong with me. Why am I not hearing God? Why is God not giving me the “right songs” for the service?

It is then, when I’m most distressed and upset, that the Holy Spirit gently reminds me, that it is about the object and not the method of my worship that pleases God. Yes God uses songs to minister to us, but at the end of the day, it’s all about our offering to Him. It’s all about our lives saying Thank You Father, Thank You Jesus, Thank You Holy Spirit. It’s about focusing on the Giver instead of the Gift. It’s about knowing Him and allowing Him to have His will done in your life. It’s about bringing a smile to the Father’s heart. It’s about offering up an irresistible incense of worship made up of lives which are transparent, grateful, yielded and completely at peace with their Creator.

In my journey so far, I’m gradually discovering truths through God’s Word which reveal God’s heart towards me, and that helps me understand the whole “worship” thing. For now, worship, to me, is life. On stage, I use the abilities which God has given me to help better express myself to Him, and I encourage and edify and exhort my brothers and sisters to look unto God who’s the Giver of all good things. Off-stage, I’m only me – in my personal moments with Him, what He sees (in my heart) is what He gets.

And I know that’s all He requires of me.

Psalm 127

2007-09-17T23:28:00.001+08:00

A song of ascents. Of Solomon.

1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
its builders labour in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the watchmen stand guard in vain.

2 In vain you rise early
and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat—
for he grants sleep to those he loves.

3 Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
children a reward from him.

4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are sons born in one's youth.

5 Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their enemies in the gate.

King Solomon – reputably the wisest man on earth besides Jesus – wrote this psalm. I love it that he addresses the most basic needs of humans – to have family and work.

The first part of the psalm addresses work. I see the parallel with Ecclesiastes where he spent a considerable amount of time talking about how futile and meaningless work and toil can be when we do not have the right motivations. Working “in vain” is when we think we can do better than God. The key word in verse 1 “unless” is to be pondered. Unless the Lord does it, we labour in vain. All our works and efforts are temporary and futile. Unless we acknowledge His sovereignty over all things, what we do is “in vain”. Let’s be reminded not to make the mistake of leaving God out in our lives. We should make God our highest priority – and He will do the building.

I’d just like to add that God is not against hard work. Hard work honours God (Proverbs 31:10-29). The key thing here is knowing that our primary purpose is to worship Him, and if we think we can make Him love us more by working, we are wrong. Trust Him both in your work and your rest.

The second part of the psalm talks about the gift of children. None of us have our own children (yet) but we are all children. We are a “reward” from Him to our parents! (v.3) Sometimes we might feel like we’re a burden or liability to our parents. But remember that the Lord sees us as a heritage and reward from Him. We matter to Him.

To end off this short devotion, I’d like to add an additional point from verse 2. This is normally not something that’s highlighted when studying this psalm but I felt I need to bring this up because some of you will find freedom and rest in this.

Verse 2 says “he grants sleep to those he loves.” The New King James version translates this as “He gives His beloved sleep.” If you have been experiencing difficulty in sleeping or resting, meditate on this verse. Every time you lie in bed restless, pray this verse and speak it into your spirit. Some years ago I suffered from serious insomnia, often going 3 straight days without sleep. I was stressed out and anxious about things. Someone highlighted this verse to me and I have prayed it ever since. Nowadays I seldom have insomnia (mine’s the opposite… I love to sleep!!) but if I do ever feel restless, I will pray this verse and the Holy Spirit ALWAYS ministers and grants me sleep and rest. I use this verse as ammunition against the enemy who tries to steal my rest.

So, have a good night’s rest and remember that our labour is not in vain when it’s for the Lord.

Love you all incredibly much,
jenn

Psalm 126

2007-08-29T23:57:00.000+08:00

Psalm 126 (NLT)
A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.
Author: Anonymous

1 When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem,
it was like a dream!
2 We were filled with laughter,
and we sang for joy.
And the other nations said,
“What amazing things the Lord has done for them.”
3 Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us!
What joy!

4 Restore our fortunes, Lord,
as streams renew the desert.
5 Those who plant in tears
will harvest with shouts of joy.
6 They weep as they go to plant their seed,
but they sing as they return with the harvest.

This psalm is believed to be referring to Ezra chapter 1 where those who were exiled from Judah (Israel) returned to their homeland – about 50,000 of them made the journey. Verses 1 to 3 express the exceeding joy of those who made it back. “It was like a dream!” they sang. Even the other nations exclaimed that the Lord has done amazing things for them. “Amazing things…!” Sense the excitement and joy!

Verses 4 to 6 go on as a prayer of faith and restoration. As an exiled people, they have lost much and wept much while being kept away from their homeland. But now that they are back, they are able to sing and recognise that even though it seemed like much tears and sorrow were experienced, at some point, the Lord is faithful and will restore what was taken from His people.

I see many relevant applications of this psalm in our lives.

Whether it’s on a personal or corporate level, when God begins to move in His amazing ways, it’s hard to keep it a secret. When you experience something wonderful from God, don’t you just have to tell someone? More often than not, people already can see God’s amazing work in your life and praise God for it!

For the past few months, God has showed up in amazing ways in youth service. How amazing! I have been really joyful and excited when I see what God is doing. I tell everyone about it!

It is especially key to note that the whole theme of this psalm focuses on restoration. We may have experienced some kind of loss in our lives – perhaps sin has drawn us far from God. But when we are restored by God in His mercy, don’t we feel so happy and alive?

The use of contrast is important to note as well:

Streams and the desert – deserts represent dry, lifeless places. To have streams flow in deserts is firstly a miracle, and secondly a sign that there is a source of life deeper than the surface. Do you have dry and lifeless areas in your life? Will you pray for streams in the desert? God is a God of miracles. He can provide life in areas where you seem to be dry and fruitless. Jesus is the Source of Life.

Tears and joy / Weeping and singing – From crying to joy. From heartbreak to hope. Personally, I relate this very much to my own life often. Many times, when I “plant”, sow and invest in people out of love for God, it can be accompanied by lots of tears and heartbreak because I don’t see the fruit for a long time. The sowing can be painful because it requires sacrifice, pain and setting aside my own agenda. However there is always a time of harvesting with joy. When I see the seeds that I have planted in people begin to bear fruit, it is all worth it. I have learnt that God is the one who causes growth. I’m only in charge of sowing and harvesting.

“God’s ability to restore life is beyond our understanding. Forests burn down and are able to grow back. Broken bones heal. Even grief is not a permanent condition. Our tears can be seeds that will grow into a harvest of joy because God is able to bring good out of tragedy. When burdened by sorrow, know that your times of grief will end and that you will again find joy. We must be patient as we wait. God’s great harvest of joy is coming!”
- Commentary on Psalm 126 (Life Application Bible)

No sound no picture...

2007-08-25T00:35:00.000+08:00

It's been awfully quiet around here theses days... I hope it's because everyone's just flocking to the forum. Hey if you are wondering, har? got forum ah? Then go check it out at:
http://amphillah.30.forumer.com/index.php?act=idx

Had a really intense time with Jesus this afternoon. I love Him so much. =)

I miss all of you......! (and chicken rice)

2007-07-04T14:52:00.000+08:00

OK... 4 days more...

Week 2 in Redding

2007-06-21T08:41:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

I'm writing this while sitting in line for the "On Earth as it is in Heaven" conference which starts tonight till Friday. It's in the middle of our school term so the conference is part of our school - 2 in 1! This conference will have speakers like Tommy Tenney, Ray Hughes and Shawn Bolz, and an amazing worship leader and pastor called Lindell Cooley. We've had Lindell for the past 2 days in school leading us in worship and teaching us and words escape me... I can't describe the experience except that it's truly of the Holy Spirit and I'm drenched!

Sitting in line with laptops. The line goes round the sanctuary and the service starts in 2 hours time. How fun.

Yesterday, the moment Lindell sang the first line of his song, it was like electricity ran through my body and I just felt like my heart was going to burst with praise, love, excitement, delirium and I was just enjoying every moment of the Holy Spirit's presence. It was so easy to enter into His presence - it was pure magnetism. Wow... this same access is available for us every day if only we would pay attention to His abiding presence in our lives! It felt like heaven opened and POURED out rain like never before. We all swam in the river and no one wanted to come out and we didn't have to either! Woohoo.....!

Week 2 is just beginning and I must say I'm expecting more and more of Him each day. It's more than the amazing worship times or the inspiring teaching or the fun activities we get to do. All these things are wonderful and I'm enjoying every moment of this mountain-top experience. But the more important thing is God is affirming His works and creation on earth, and I'm a part of that. How awesome to be a child of God.

There is more to come, more to learn. What is God doing in and to my heart? A renewed call to intimacy and out of that, power and authority to speak things on His heart to being. I'm so enjoying this time of rest in Him. Not a passive, do-nothing kind of rest (although that's been nice too :)) but a rest and hope in Him that results in renewed strength as described in Isa 40.

Hey worshippers, don't ever compromise on your standards of obedience to God. Love Him with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. We love because He first loved us.

luv,
jenn

Children Ministry Music Workshop

2007-06-15T23:46:00.000+08:00

On Wednesday (13th) and Thursday (14th), some of the musicians from Adults, Youth and Children ministry collectively conducted the workshop and it's a success! Through the workshop, I've learned more than I teach. In fact, this started out in my dream and then Pastor Jenn asked some of us to help out.

1, 2, 3, 4! Rock the House!

We can show the adults - We can do it!

Wanna know what instrument is that?
*Will post up a video shortly*

One of the groups.

That's Seth for you.

Gerald

Auntie Serena sharing about worship

The Future Warriors!

It's really a joy to serve the kids. In fact, Gerald and I were supporting Auntie Serena in vocals and Gerald said it was his first time in a way. LOL! For me, it was really a challenge too. As we shared all that we could, we really feel blessed by the kids, each and everyone of them. What really draws me to them would be their childlikeness.

Don't worry! I'm ready!

Wait! Wait! I'm preparing!

Preparing for Practice!

Rebecca

Joy

Jonathan

Timothy

Kenny with the guitarists

Uncle Steven with the guitarists

The most surprising thing is the love gift I received. I believe each of us received it too. It's really amazing. Shall not spoil any markets here. Anyway, all the glory goes to Jesus. He made it happen and best of all, we have them worshiping and leading us into worship.

Get Ready!

I'm all ready! Don't worry, I'm not stoning!

Uncle Steven said..... worship like a blind man!
*Feeling!*

The Ensemble Song: Lord I Lift Your Name On High

Girl Power!

Johan leading the team.

Good Job, Children of God!

Auntie Belinda in action!

It will come to pass! =) Thanks Pastor Jenn for giving us this opportunity to learn and to facilitate. We sure had fun! =)

Be Blessed!

Psalms 124-125

2007-06-15T04:14:00.000+08:00

Psalm 124
A song of ascents. Of David.

1 If the LORD had not been on our side—
let Israel say-
2 if the LORD had not been on our side
when men attacked us,

3 when their anger flared against us,
they would have swallowed us alive;

4 the flood would have engulfed us,
the torrent would have swept over us,

5 the raging waters
would have swept us away.

6 Praise be to the LORD,
who has not let us be torn by their teeth.

7 We have escaped like a bird
out of the fowler's snare;
the snare has been broken,
and we have escaped.

8 Our help is in the name of the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 125
A song of ascents.

1 Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion,
which cannot be shaken but endures forever.

2 As the mountains surround Jerusalem,
so the LORD surrounds his people
both now and forevermore.

3 The scepter of the wicked will not remain
over the land allotted to the righteous,
for then the righteous might use
their hands to do evil.

4 Do good, O LORD, to those who are good,
to those who are upright in heart.

5 But those who turn to crooked ways
the LORD will banish with the evildoers.
Peace be upon Israel.

Dearest dearest people,

I can't believe how much I'm missing church. Haaa.... and I've only been away a few days. OK they say absence makes the heart grow fonder so I can only say that's true for me now! :)

It's been more than a month since I last posted my meditation on the "Songs of Ascent" so I'm going to do a double-whammy here. It comes timely as well since I'm in Redding and surrounded by mountains so it gives more meaning to ascending onto the mountain of the Lord.

This morning, I was at the prayer house and it was such a beautiful time of being in God's presence. There is a special anointing upon this prayer house called "Alabastar House" here at Bethel Church. I walked in the place and within 10 seconds I'm in tears from sensing the nearness and embrace of Father. How beautiful.

The Prayer House from the outside

View from the Prayer House. Can you see the mountains?
The little pool is called the Pool of Bethesda.

And so I looked at Psalms 124 and 125 and let's look at Psalm 125 as a continuation of 124. Psalm 124 is a fine picture of how God delivers us from every evil and persecution. Are we able to give testimony of God's presence in our lives when we encounter times of attack from the enemy or when our own weaknesses and giants confront us? More importantly, let's remember that we have ultimately been rescued from paying the price of sin that is death. In verses 6-7, the psalmist talks about us being "torn by their teeth" and us escaping from the the fowler's snare. Those illustrations point to the hold of satan over those who do not choose to turn from sin ("torn by teeth", "fowler's snare) but in Christ, we have "escaped" because the "snare has been broken"!

Next, look at Psalm 125. Can you just sense the confidence and boldness the psalmist has as he writes about the Lord's trustworthiness? The psalmist says that those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion - a holy mountain supported by providence and promise and cannot be removed from confidence in God. I'm here in Redding and it's surrounded by beautiful mountains. So is Jerusalem. The surrounding of mountains signify a circle of unmovable protection. Those that trust in the Lord are safe from their enemies. Nothing can move them. It's like having a impenetrable shield of defense. We need not be afraid of the fiery darts that may fly at us.

Be steadfast in God. Use and trust His shield around us. There is nothing that can upset the trustworthiness of God because He is faithful and unchanging. Look up the mountain and see your help in time of need. God is your source of help and strength.

love you all,
jenn

"I will not be afraid, for You have given me a new way to be brave."

Up and Away to Redding

2007-06-11T16:39:00.000+08:00

Dearest beloved team,

I'm just hours away from getting on the plane to leave for Redding, California (USA) to attend School of Supernatural Worship in Bethel Church. Those of you curious to find out exactly what this school is may click here.

I'd like to share my reflections and expectations about this trip, which I believe comes timely. When I tell people about me going for this summer school programme that focuses on "supernatural worship", the 2 most common responses I received were:

1) "I thought you're in youth ministry now, why are you attending a worship conference?"
2) "Haa..... supernatural worship.....? What's that?"

These simple responses triggered my thoughts and beliefs about ministry, church and worship of God. However it was also a reminder for me to focus on what's important. Above all things, I want to worship God, and to lead others to do the same.

Some years ago when I had spent a period of time leading worship in church, I started to think really hard about what it means to be a worship leader. There was something in me that refused to accept that worship leading is only about being good in music, singing and choosing the right songs for the right time. It wasn't even about having the Holy Spirit move whenever I lead, even though I absolutely love it when He does! After some time of soul-searching and Word-searching, this verse helped to consolidate my thoughts:

Romans 12:1-2
Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

With this verse, "worship as a lifestyle" made sense. If I were to offer my body as a living sacrifice that is holy and pleasing to God, that is my act of worship. Therefore when I "lead worship", it is in this order:

1) I worship God in every part of my life
2) I worship God when leading people to do the same
3) I worship God with my musical and leadership abilities
4) I worship God when standing on the platform and using song and music to lead people to worship Him

What this means is I am more than a worship leader confined by music and platforms, but I am a worship leader IN LIFE, with the sole purpose of leading people to worship God. So when I attend School of Supernatural Worship, I am first a worshipper and when I am worshipper that pleases God, I can then be able to "test and approve what God's will is" for myself and every part of my life, including my role as a youth pastor. I'm excited and looking forward to a time of refreshing and revelation as I worship God during School of Supernatural Worship.

As for the 2nd response - it's almost a no-brainer because worship IS supernatural and we must know that. Is there such a thing as "natural worship"? I don't believe so, because worship is about WHO you worship. Our God is supernatural, so our worship must be supernatural too!

The next 3 weeks are going to be a great time of refreshing, revelation and building relationships for me. Please keep me and John, Ps Edwin, Chris and Paul Seow in prayer as well. I will miss you all and do have fun worshipping God as a team!

luv,
jenn

Music Advance 2007 - Mid Year

2007-06-02T02:05:00.000+08:00

It's time again for our Music Advance this year! The theme was Servanthood. I believe that we've so much to share. Let's discuss it in forum. Feedback, etc.

For now, I'll upload the pics here. In any case, this advance was really bringing back and challenging us the essence of Servanthood. The visitation of the Children's home, even down to the simplest thing like serving others within our ministry and out of the ministry.

Pretty much enjoyed this advance with a sense of purpose and renewal of the mind and refreshing of the heart.

Be Blessed!

Hope has found its way

2007-05-18T00:58:00.000+08:00

Simply heard from that still small voice in my heart..... "Hope has found its way". Hope is found in you. Jesus is that hope. Cling onto Him right now. As I was going through the questions from the fasting month devotion, I've seen hope seeping into each of us literally.

Situations may not be that lovely at this point in time but we have access to God. As we continue to cling on to Him, Jesus Christ, hope will find its way through. Seek Him. He's waiting for us to seek Him. I simply found hope in the ONE who saves.

Simply Him. More of Him, less of me.

Psalm 123

2007-04-30T18:58:00.000+08:00

(New Living Translation)
A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.

Author: Unknown. Some suggest Hezekiah.

1 I lift my eyes to you,
O God, enthroned in heaven.
2 We keep looking to the Lord our God for his mercy,
just as servants keep their eyes on their master,
as a slave girl watches her mistress for the slightest signal.
3 Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy,
for we have had our fill of contempt.
4 We have had more than our fill of the scoffing of the proud
and the contempt of the arrogant.

What picture comes to your mind when you read this psalm? Stop a while and imagine how the scene may look, when a servant who has suffered injustice, or maybe done something wrong, looks to his master for mercy, for a kind word, for help.

The scene here describes how the pilgrims (remember they are on a journey of ascent to the Lord’s temple) suffer contempt from their enemies as they press in to the Lord. The important thing for us to learn is that the pilgrims continue to look to the Lord for help, for mercy.

We are taught to go to God in prayer when we are in trouble. However many times that is only something we know but do not do. “The Message” translates this psalm - “like servants, alert to their master’s commands… We're watching and waiting, holding our breath, awaiting your word of mercy. Can you sense the desperation mingled with hope and trust? Such words of expectation and faith, as if every word and command from God will deliver us from certain death, which in fact, is true!

When we are in trouble, we are to look to God for the help He has promised. Looking for that daily bread, that grace that is sufficient, that protection. Where can we look for help except our Master? Those of the world will look to the world for help, but our help is in God who is enthroned in heaven.

Little mercy and comfort is found in the world. Our Saviour Jesus Christ was scorned and rejected. Why should we as followers complain when we encounter pain and suffering as if our Lord does not understand? When you are weighed by troubles and worries, in faith, cast your cares upon Him and look to Him as servants to their master.

O what peace we often forfeit
O what needless pain we bear
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer

Apply this:
Reflect on the words of the song “What a friend we have in Jesus”. Find comfort as you sing and worship the Lord with the song.

Prophetic Word for COOS by Joan Hunter's husband, Kelley

2007-04-29T00:59:00.000+08:00

January 2007

Revival is coming to Singapore. Many are called, few are chosen. So, it may not hit everyone or all the churches even. God said THIS CHURCH is called. You have done something to capture God’s heart or a part of His heart. When you captured God’s heart, His favour is unleashed on your behalf.

When this revival comes, THIS CHURCH is going to experience a great part of the revival. There will be times when you are going to have 24-hour-day prayer and worship right here. There will be times when people will come out of the neighbourhood and high-rise apartments. And they will be going in the middle of the night to get saved, to get delivered and to get healed. People are going to call up the church and they don’t even know why. They are going to say, ` I need to get saved. I need to get delivered.’ They are not going to even know why. God is just going to draw them off the streets.

He is going to provide the parking that you need. This church is going to have a healing ministry (It already has a healing ministry). The healing power of God is going to be unleashed here. God has already chosen you to do that. He is going raise up people to do it. And it is going to happen miraculously. At times, you will just be sitting out in the congregation. But many times, it is going to be because the people here, your healing team members, elders and ministers laying hands on them and they are going to get healed. God is going show Himself powerful on your behalf.

God is going to unleash financial resources on some of the membership here. And He is going to draw people to you. Some of them are not even Christians, who are going to bankroll your projects, to pay for your parking building or a new auditorium or whatever you need to do what God wants you to do. Whatever God wants you to do, God is going to send people to pay for it. It is not even going to come out from your pockets. God is going to miraculously do it. Why..? Because He wants to take the glory. What He is going to do in Singapore, He does not want any church or any individual or any ministry to take the credit. He is going to do things only He will take the credit for.

Something is going to happen to the worship of this church. God is going to use this worship to transform the city. Your worship team is going to more like traveling ministry squads. You are going to hit various places and people will just get saved. They just going to walk by the worship team, and get saved! Your prayer teams are going to be there and people are going to get healed. Why? Because God just want to do it. It is not because you are so great but because the favour of God is going to be unleashed on this congregation and on the membership. And you are going to get drenched. The oil of God is coming upon you.

How many of you are called by God to be intercessors? Listen. It does not need to take many of you. It is not the number but it is the level of commitment. It is the level of Your Commitment. You can change the city by just the 5 or 6 of you. Don’t give up. This is your hour. This is your time.

Breakthrough. Breakthrough. Breakthrough! Do you hear me? Do not stop. Do not give up!

Psalm 122

2007-04-13T12:42:00.000+08:00

Psalm 122
A song of ascents. Of David.

1 I rejoiced with those who said to me,
"Let us go to the house of the LORD."

2 Our feet are standing
in your gates, O Jerusalem.

3 Jerusalem is built like a city
that is closely compacted together.

4 That is where the tribes go up,
the tribes of the LORD,
to praise the name of the LORD
according to the statute given to Israel.

5 There the thrones for judgment stand,
the thrones of the house of David.

6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
"May those who love you be secure.

7 May there be peace within your walls
and security within your citadels."

8 For the sake of my brothers and friends,
I will say, "Peace be within you."

9 For the sake of the house of the LORD our God,
I will seek your prosperity.

“Going to God’s house can be a chore or a delight. For the psalmist, it was a delight. As a pilgrim attending one of the three great religious festivals, he rejoiced to worship with God’s people in God’s house. We may find worship a chore if we have unconfessed sin or if our love for God has cooled. But if we are close to Him and enjoy His presence, we will be eager to worship and praise Him. Our attitude toward God will determine our view of worship.”
- Commentary of Ps 122:1. Life Application Study Bible.

I decided to quote this entire commentary from the Life Application Study Bible because I felt it so accurately and truthfully explained why we sometimes struggle with worshipping God.

We all know we must worship God, but sometimes that word “must” brings such a negative feeling to worship. It’s as though someone forced you to do it. When we feel that way, we need to ask ourselves why we do. More often than not, it's because we are affected by circumstances and situations around us.

For example, if you are angry with someone, it’s very likely you will find it hard to worship God. The root of that unwillingness could be thinking that God is unjust, or that you “deserve” to be treated better, which is a very subtle form of pride, which is sin. Therefore it is not surprising that you will struggle with worshipping God.

Lifting your eyes towards the Lord can change that perspective. In the midst of your own struggles, if your attitude towards God is always one that wants to please Him and to enjoy His presence, the circumstances around should not drive you away from Him but TOWARDS Him. However it is not magic. It involves our choice. Before it becomes a natural reflex, we must exercise our will to worship God simply because He is worth it.

This reflection is largely based on verse 1 and its commentary. Bringing it back to where we are right now, remember that these are a series of songs which were written and sung as people were travelling to the temple to worship God.

So even as we are all on different journeys with God, it is unavoidable that we will encounter times and situations when we will find it hard to worship God. At that time, are we able to say “I rejoiced with those who said to me, Let us go to the house of the LORD"?

Act on it:
1. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you any sins which you have not confessed and repented of. Receive God’s forgiveness.
2. Are the waters of difficulties quenching the fire of God in your life? Go to God and ask Him to rekindle the fire, then look for someone you can be accountable to.

I just want to end of by saying I’m so proud of you because you did so well at CCR! More importantly, you were a blessing to others, which is on the heart of God.

Luv,
jenn

Psalm 121

2007-03-21T00:14:00.000+08:00

A song of ascents.
Author: Anonymous. Some suggest Hezekiah.

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

We continue on our journey, our ascent to the “mountain of the Lord”.

At first glance, this Psalm is full of assurance of God’s protection, of His presence and guidance. It is a psalm of faith and trust in God. Remember that this psalm was probably written and sung in the beginning of the journey of ascent where danger and peril still lie ahead of the pilgrims.

The psalmist needs help and where does he look? He lifts his eyes and looks at the journey ahead. It’s tough, it’s uphill, and he wonders “where does my help come from?”

That’s a rhetorical question - the rest of the Psalm answers it. Our help comes not just from any one or any god, but from THE Maker of heaven and earth, the Creator Himself.

When we are afraid, there are times we think God has left us or fallen asleep. Those feelings can be very real, but that’s not the truth.

Proverbs 3:26 says “For the Lord shall be your confidence, firm and strong, and shall keep your foot from being caught in a trap or some hidden danger.” Danger and difficulty may be ahead of us, but the Lord knows every step we take and He shall protect us from any hidden danger!

I love verse 5. What does “the LORD is your shade at your right hand” mean?

In the days of the Old Testament, when soldiers go to war, they carry their shield in their left hand and their sword on their right. When they fight, every front part of their body is protected by the shield except for their right hand. They are most dangerous when they use their sword, and also the most vulnerable.

In the Amplified Bible, verse 5 reads “The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand [the side not carrying a shield].”

Imagine yourself fighting a war. You have a shield in your left hand to protect yourself but need your right hand to wield the sword in attack. You can’t attack and protect yourself at the same time. The assurance is that God protects the parts we can’t protect! He covers all ground! There is nothing that is beyond His protection!

I don’t know about you, but the word “watch” used in verse 7 gives me the impression that it’s a passive word, almost like God is a spectator “watching” over my life and not doing anything about it. So I delved into the original word and found that this word “watch” used in this psalm is from the Hebrew word “shamar”, which means to preserve and protect – 2 words which need action! So God is not just watching over you like He’s watching a movie, but He’s actively preserving and protecting your life. Oh yes, He’s actively involved in everything about you because He loves you so so much.

I hope that by now you get the idea that God is absolutely trustworthy and 100% involved in protecting and guiding you. When we lift up our eyes from our current circumstances, whatever they may be, let’s be confident that our help does and will come from Him.

I wonder what your song will be when you face dangers, perils and difficulties in your life. Will you sing a psalm like this one, full of hope and trust in God’s protection? We have much to learn from this Psalm and its writer. Keep your eyes on Him.

Apply it:
Pray this Psalm over yourself or somebody you know who’s facing a difficult time. Declare the truth in every single sentence in faith and trust.

Praying for and believing in God's love for each of you...

luv,
jenn

Psalm 120

2007-03-11T00:43:00.000+08:00

Dear precious ones,

I was thinking of how much I love each of you and how wonderful it is seeing the amazing work of God in your life. And I was looking through the Psalms to find an appropriate expression of how I felt in the Scriptures, and my eyes rested on Psalm 121: a song of ascents.

As I read the Psalm, meditated on it and allowed it to edify myself, I discovered that this psalm is a series of “Pilgrim Psalms” or “Songs of Ascent” which were sung by those who journeyed (and thus “ascended”) to the temple for the annual feasts, and each psalm is a “step” in that journey.

I thought about how appropriate it is for us in this season, as we are all on a Godward journey heading towards His “temple”. It is a journey of worship.

For the next few months, let’s journey together as we “ascend His holy hill” to seek His face and stand in His presence. To help us keep on the same page, I’m going to write a devotion for each psalm (Psalms 120 – 134) every one to two weeks and email it out. I will also place these devotions on our ministry blog.

Let the journey begin…

Psalm 120 (NIV)
A song of ascents.
Author: Anonymous. Some suggest Hezekiah.

1 I call on the LORD in my distress,
and he answers me.

2 Save me, O LORD, from lying lips
and from deceitful tongues.

3 What will he do to you,
and what more besides, O deceitful tongue?

4 He will punish you with a warrior's sharp arrows,
with burning coals of the broom tree.

5 Woe to me that I dwell in Meshech,
that I live among the tents of Kedar!

6 Too long have I lived
among those who hate peace.

7 I am a man of peace;
but when I speak, they are for war.

It is interesting that the first of these “songs of ascent” begins on a somewhat depressing mood. The psalmist cries out to God in distress, asking Him to save him from liars and accusers. The background is that the pilgrims who are heading to the temple of the annual feasts usually begin their journeys in hostile surroundings. Meshech and Kedar were nations known to be warlike and barbaric. The psalmist was likening his journey to being in hostile lands like Meshech and Kedar.

The very word “ascent” means to climb, to get from a lower place to a higher place. It is against gravity, so it’s definitely harder than going down. When we begin to journey towards God, it is usually from a place where it is hostile and against God. Sometimes it is our circumstances which are difficult. Some of us face family objections. Sometimes, we are our greatest obstacles!

As we journey towards God, it is an ascent. It is not natural in our human condition, much like climbing mountains go against gravity (if you climbed a mountain before, you’ll know what I mean). Are you struggling with taking the first step towards God in your circumstance? Know that it will be an uphill climb and it will go against your flesh. But cry out to God because He will answer you.

Words are often the most powerful weapons used against us. Notice that the psalmist appeals to God to deliver him from “lying lips” and “deceitful tongues” in verses 2 to 4. Have you been discouraged by negative people who shoot arrows at you through their words, especially when you’re working hard at journeying towards God? As you embark on your journey towards God, watch out for discouragers and accusers who will seek to bring you down through their words. Satan is known as the accuser of the brethren and his weapons are lies and accusations that contradict who you are in God.

Lastly, we look at verses 6 and 7, where the psalmist expresses frustration about dwelling among people who hate peace. As we journey towards God, we will encounter people who will walk in opposite spirits from us. How will we respond to those who don’t want peace but seek strife and unrest? Remember Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” What a privilege to be bringers of peace and identified as children of God!

Apply this psalm to your journey:
1. What do you struggle with in your journey towards God?
2. Have you been discouraged by negative people through their words?
3. How can you be a peacemaker when you encounter people who hate peace?

Enjoy the week and walk in the knowledge of His love for you. Find a way to bless someone out of their socks!

Love,
jenn

HOW TIGHT DO YOU WANT IT TO BE??

2007-03-10T00:03:00.000+08:00

Dear all,

Just something for you all to think about. Broke down in His presence this morning and He taught me something so true. How tight do you all wish for God to hug you? Imagine you hug a person.If it is just a side hug, there is still space right? But when it is A BIG WARM SQUEEZE, the person has no room left cause he or she is being embraced fully by you. That is what Daddy wishes to do to us. Give us tight warm squeezes. BUT, if we want it, it means there will be no room left for our agendas, but to submit all to Him and let Him take over. The tigher He squeezes and hugs us, the less space there is for our own agendas. His will be done in all our lives. AMEN!

Lord, may we are long for Your tight embrace and be ready to say, let Your will be done, not ours. Amen!

In His love,
Chris

History Makers

2007-02-15T18:13:00.001+08:00

Ever so often in the course of history there are individuals born who defy common reason and statistical explanation. These are the great ones, who break the tether of their generation’s expectations and rise to the high call that seems to echo from somewhere beyond the grave.

The prophets of old peered into the future and spoke of these violent ones who would force their way into the Kingdom, take hold of Heaven and pull it down to earth. These reigning saints refuse to have their exploits be a mere reflection of the past, but instead break the gravitational barriers of naysayers and doubters, and journey far beyond the boundaries of reason into places where no one has ever gone before. Ultimately they capture the prize of the upward call of God that lies in Christ Jesus. These are God’s history makers, the Lord’s chosen people, His mighty men, His holy nation.

Many of us can feel the vacuum of this vortex drawing our hearts into this divine destiny. We find our inner man longing, stirring, and burning for the great adventure. Live or die, we must press through the walls of mediocrity and find the Promised Land of our souls. We live with a passion to be numbered among those who have gained fame in the halls of Heaven and are feared among the prison guards of hell. If we are going to walk as God’s ruling royalty, we have to:

➢ Pray unceasingly
➢ Give sacrificially
➢ Dream unreasonably
➢ Serve wholeheartedly
➢ Love unashamedly
➢ Walk innocently
➢ Believe undoubtingly
➢ Live powerfully

These are the qualities of the Bride of Christ in all of her glory. She is called to be the most creative force on the face of the earth. Therefore, we must not allow ourselves to become known for our boxes, that is, famous for what we don’t do because of our “righteous” constrictions. Abraham Lincoln, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin had certain moral values that restrained their behavior, but they were famous for what they did, not for what they didn’t do! It would be tragic if the most creative people on the face of the earth allowed themselves to be reduced to rent-a-cops guarding a box (The Ark of the Covenant) that God vacated 2,000 years ago.

The truth is that if we don’t take our rightful place in the earth, we will relegate sinners, void of the mind of Christ, barred from the wisdom of the ages, and wandering in utter darkness, to being the most brilliant minds of our time! If the brightest light in this world belonged to those locked in darkness, how great would the darkness be in our world? Something is fundamentally wrong with this picture, but this is our brain on religion. Religion is like kryptonite to Superman. Religion can conform the most righteous, reigning saints into mindless zombies, puppets repeating someone else’s convictions they don’t even understand themselves.

Attack Of The Clones
I am convinced that religion is the father of genetic cloning. Religion invented cloning long before the world ever thought of it. Religion has a way of sucking the most powerful people on the planet into a spiritual look-a-like contest, calling it discipleship. True discipleship is meant to empower people to be transformed into the image of their Creator, but religion redefines the terms, conforming people into replicas of their leaders. Religion takes God’s mighty men and makes them artifacts in a museum.

Religious people, like the Pharisees of old, have the hardest time reaching out to folks who think “outside of the box” and don’t behave inside their hopeless shackles. Part of the struggle comes from what they have done to the Savior of the world. They have sterilized the gospel. Jesus took water and turned it to wine, but 2,000 years later, today’s Pharisees have diluted it to grape juice. Religion has reduced the supernatural power of God to a history lesson about serving the dead body of a helpless Christ who, still nailed to the Cross, is incapable of rocking their sacred boat. They emphasize the drowning of baptism, arguing over how people should get wet and what should be said over them during their dipping. Religious people have lost touch with the fact that the bold print of baptism is not on the descent but on the ascension. The death of Christ paid for our sins, but it was His resurrection that gave life to our mortal bodies. Religion embraces death sadistically and moves the risen Christ out of the garden and back to the tomb. Religious people pray things like “God, kill me,” not realizing that even the One who came to give His life as a ransom for us all prayed, “Father, if You are willing, remove this cup (of death) from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Jesus did not want to die; He wanted to do His Father’s will. If religion had its way, it would rewrite Mary’s proclamation to read, “He is in the tomb just where we laid Him!” We have lost sight of the fact that the Cross was for the old man not the new man, and that the true Christian life is not about dying for Christ, but living in the life He purchased for us to establish His Kingdom on earth! The Church must shake off the shackles of religion and embrace our supernatural destiny.

Our Commission
The world is crying out in distress, and we must not miss this kairos moment, the opportunity of the ages. In the late sixties, the Beatles took America by storm. In a few short years, four boys from Liverpool altered the course of our nation’s history. Soon after, the world was swept into the wake of their anointing—all while they were singing “Yeah, yeah, yeah.” But it wasn’t long before the Fab Four started to experience a crisis in their own souls. They began to cry out in desperation, singing,

Help, I need somebody
Help, not just anybody
Help, you know I need someone, help

When I was younger, so much younger than today,
I never needed anybody’s help in any way.
But now those days are gone, I’m not so self-assured
Now I find I’ve changed my mind and opened up the doors

Help me if you can, I’m feeling down
And I do appreciate you being ‘round
Help me get my feet back on the ground.
Won’t you please, please help me
Help me, help me, ooh.

But their cry for help fell on deaf ears in the sanctuary of hope, and soon they were calling Hare Krishna their “sweet lord.” The Church can’t afford to fall asleep in the harvest today as we have done so many times in the past. We are not supposed to reflect our culture; we are commissioned to transform it.

We are called to disciple all the nations of the world. Discipling nations means submerging them in God—not religion—and “teaching them all I commanded you” (Matthew 28:20). Teaching nations how to think is the transformational catalyst to changing cultures. But as long as Christians aren’t valued in society, they will have no influence in the world. (You only have as much influence in people’s lives as they have value for you. Anytime you try to have more influence than someone has value for you, you will manipulate them.) It is imperative that we become kings who understand the ways royal people influence authority. Otherwise, we will reduce ourselves to social begging, hoping that the BIG, powerful people feel compassion for us and help our cause. This poisonous poverty mindset reduces the Christian message to a cry for help instead of a call for leadership. We don’t need nations to change for our sake. We have a living, abiding, unshakable Kingdom that dwells within us and prospers under all circumstances. We need the nations to change for the sake of those still lost in darkness. They need the culture around them to create a safe environment for them until they get the Kingdom within them.

This cultural begging has relegated the Kingdom of God to a subculture. God never intended Christianity to be a subculture. Subcultures are those cultures that are subservient to a more powerful culture. The world’s commentary on the first century Church reflects the true influence we are meant to have in society. They proclaimed, “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too” (Acts 17:6 NKJV). We are called to turn the world around and set it back on its feet again. We are to be counter-culture until the mindset of the nations begins to take on the attitude of the Kingdom. Christians are not subservient to the world because God has assigned us the highest level of authority that exists on this planet. When Christians lose their desire and courage to confront the evils of our day honorably, we begin to be influenced by the lying principalities that are also commissioned to disciple the nations, but with an antichrist agenda. These demonic forces work to dethrone the Prince of Peace, Who is the rightful prince of the principles that make societies prosper, and instead enthrone the prince of darkness. Consequently, the enabling principles of a culture become demonically inspired instead of Kingdom in-Spirited. This dark prince works to establish evil thinking that leads to destructive behaviors. But when Jesus rules, He enables the principles of the King to transform the culture through the mind of Christ. In other words, people in a nation governed by the Kingdom begin to think like God!

However, it is important that we learn how to carry His power and authority. If we believers become combative instead of honorably confronting we will reduce our influence to the small pond of the church and render ourselves powerless in the ocean of humanity. We are to carry God’s authority into the lives of people and nations through invitation, not through intrusion or invasion. Although we are called to be combative to the powers of darkness, we are to be honorably confronting to people, demonstrating the benefits and rewards of a superior Kingdom.

By Kris Vallotton (Snr Associate Pastor, Bethel Church, Redding CA)
http://www.ibethel.org/features/journal/index.php?f=journal.php&id=22

Pray.

2007-02-12T21:10:00.000+08:00

I do not know how this short post will speak to you all. But right now, these are the only words that is left in me.

"Teach us how to pray Daddy. Even if there are no words left to speak, see thru our hearts and let us keep looking to You. That is all i ask for myself, for this ministry, this family."

Chris.

Trust, Perspective & Reality

2007-02-12T11:03:00.000+08:00

We live in a world full of mistrust, different perspective (positive/negative) and chose to avoid reality. Living on this Earth, how much do you trust people? What is the extent of Trust? Are we always living in denial? What's our perspective of our future? Is it good or bad?

All these questions came forth as I ask myself, my purpose of living. Since young, I was "Fatherless". My dad wasn't with me, my mum was working and always striving hard for this family, all for one purpose, to live happily as a family. Sometimes, we look back and wonder whether it is really worth it. What do I mean by "Fatherless"? I lived through most of my life with a dad who spent his life away from the present life. He was in prison while I needed that love so much.

I knew the Lord when I was 10. Followed Jesus when I was from 10 to 12 when I had Sunday school at Evangel Assembly of God (known as Evangel Family Church now). When I was 15, I went over to St Hilda's Church, baptized and thought I lived a proper life. I was changed but in the midst, I was mislead and I fell. Till last year, my life was still in sin, unrepentant, full of nonsense. I guess even in the beginning of this year, I was struggling. Now I'm more confident and trust my Lord and Saviour. His name is Jesus, my best friend.

My perspective changed. I was living a sinful, unrepentant life. I cheated many girls in my relationship life. I've hurt them in many ways. I've not been a good disciple of Jesus Christ! But Jesus has been with me, drawing me near to Him. At the start of this year, I fell to my knees, asking for a renewal, revival and restoration of my life. I dare to admit all these and more because I believe in Jesus. He doesn't condemn. His perspective is about forgiveness, love, mercy, hope, peace, joy and many more. Many of us, our perspective is about hate, merciless, hopeless and etc.

The Reality is that Jesus loves us. I testify that as I reflect upon my life. My life was rotten but He restored it. My life was full of sin but He cleanses it each day. It's been a daily affair and I hope that Jesus will keep dealing with my life and change my perspective. No one can change my life except Jesus. And I truly know that. Do you want to know Jesus? If you do, drop us a message on our tagboard and we'll get back to you. [http://worldofsinners.tk]

Jesus loves you! You are His princes and princesses of God!

Be Blessed!

Love,
Kenny@

Happy Birthday, Guan Wen!

2007-02-06T12:12:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday, Guan Wen! May the Lord bless you richly and use you in SMU! Enjoy your 23rd birthday though! Thanks for being a great brother in this BIG family, this ministry.

Josh + Guan Wen

Guan Wen + Chris

Lynn + Guan Wen + Cheryl + Chris

Lynn + Guan Wen + Cheryl + Kenny

Continue to serve the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strength.

Be Blessed!

2007-02-04T02:07:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone...

This is a kind of maiden post for me in this blog and as much as i don't exactly like to start on a negative note, well sort of, i just felt that i needed to share this in light of what happened this saturday. It's rather personal and maybe a bit long winded, so i hope i don't scare you guys...

This year started off pretty well enough for me on the surface, but there was one particularly nagging problem at the back of my mind. That is: my lessons at school clash with cell group on friday nights. That means, that for one whole semester, i can't go for cell at all. Actually, additional info would be, because of some administration issues in school, i even have 2 modules on friday that clash at the same time. Which means that i pay for classes i cannot attend. D'oh.

Regarding the cell issue... This is by no means a small issue to me because cell group has been a very integral part of my life, given the circumstances that resulted in me even getting involved in cell in the first place.

On top of that, i must admit that my walk with the Lord has grown cliched and tired and this actually kind of crept up on me gradually. On the surface, i knew that God was with me, i've been reading the bible, i talk to God, but somehow there was a disconnection that i knew too well existed.

I came to PSP and church with a general attitude of "nothing's going to happen... it's all routine, this happens every week. Same words all the time. What's new?" I was all numbed out. Indifferent. Empty.

But what happened this saturday shook me up good.

Throughout the first part of the service, i was saying almost like a mantra: "God, i'm here just for you and i want to just worship you." just so that i could psycho myself into it. But spiritually, i couldn't commit to what i was saying. Eventually, i simply conceded to my weaknesses and was saying over and over: "God, i'm just so tired... (and fed up)" (not physically, but spiritually)

But when we began to sing "Hungry", and Joshua made the call for us to simply kneel before God, i promptly did so. (Interestingly, at the beginning of the service, i wanted to because i wanted to just surrender to God but felt like it wasn't appropriate due to silly socially-politically correct reasons) So i was glad for the opportunity.... And then the niagara falls just happened. (bit of info: all the 3 girls in my row were also crying. i believe that what was happening at that point was in season for each of us)

To cut the long story short, everything from "Sister Elaine's" prayer of embracing God's Love, to Pastor Jenn's vision of our Warrior God, to her sermon's message, had cut deep and brought me once again to that (wonderful) point of brokenness before the Lord.

But it was only during the debrief when Pastor Jenn reiterated once again that spiritual warfare will happen and has already begun, did i really realize the reality (that was a lot of rea-s) of the spiritual realm and the kind of attack i was already under: cell group (where we edify and minister to one another and seek God, etc) that is being taken away from me for 3 months, to my walk that has become stale and routine, to other personal struggles that has interfered with my walk. Not only have there been my own issues, but there've also been some issues manifesting among some of the people around me in church.

This post isn't meant to bring anyone down or to sow fear, but it is to share with you how we need to be EXTRA careful with our walks. Our war is not an Earthly one, but is one that's in the supernatural realm, which is not an airy fairy notion. Our God is supernatural, and being his children, our lives need to include the supernatural. I share this to remind us that we need to be vigilant over our thoughts, our beliefs, our words and our actions.

I share this also because i want to edify and affirm those who gave, have given, of themselves in whatever way, to say that despite all the improvements-that-need-to-be-made, you made a difference and God ministered to people through you.

Sometimes with all the years in church and with the seemingly same structure we're used to, we run the risk of feeling jaded and falling into an immune and numb mental state that we lose the intensity of the truth of what our lives in Christ stand for.

It is therefore my desire that we continue to truly understand and embrace fully our identity in Christ (first sermon of the year), and have faith and belief in all that we are capable of because of the Holy Spirit that lives in us. Sounded cliche yeah, even i would've cringed at this paragraph before saturday's service.

But truly, like what Pastor Jenn has said: Before you can see things you've never seen before, you need to do things you've never done before.

Each of us are at different stages in our walks. So if you have not trusted and embraced the truth, trust and embrace it. If you have not moved in faith before, move in faith. If you have moved in faith, continue to do so! Be that salt and light for Him! :-)

Supernaturally...

2007-01-31T21:25:00.000+08:00

Dear beautiful people,

My appreciation and thanks to those who served at Healing service on Sunday night. Was quite an experience yah? Especially for Evie, Justin, Sarah and me! Haaa... for those who weren't there, here's the story.

I led worship at the Sunday evening healing service with some of us youth worship ministry people. Before Joan Hunter ministered, her husband Kelley came up and gave a word for our church. [We're in the midst of transcribing it. When it's done, I will email to all of us as it's important for us to hear what the Lord's saying to our church].

After that, Joan started to pray for the sick and she asked a few of us "from the worship team" to go up to stage. Not knowing what we were getting ourselves into, Evie, Justin and I went up. Then Joan asked us to pray for those who came up with back pain. It was quite scary, to say the least.

I was up first. I held on to the feet of the woman needing prayer. I just did and said whatever Joan Hunter asked me to. And for the first time in my life, I saw a person's leg grow after I prayed for her. WOW! I was amazed! I mean, I've seen it happen before, but not when I prayed! The leg literally grew by about an inch! I was quite overwhelmed by God's power.

Next up were Evie and Justin. The problems got progressively worse. I could see Evie and Justin trembling, but it was great fun to see God working in and through us to heal. Later on, Sarah went up and it was an even more serious case. However we believe God touched and healed the sick.

This experience really renewed and recharged my faith. I loved the way Joan Hunter taught about God's healing power. It was so simple, straightforward and refreshing. And the evidence was so clear! Hands and legs were growing like crazy over the weekend!

For those of us who attended the Ministry Workers and Leaders meeting last week, you would have heard Ps Derek share that we are to "contend for the things of the supernatural". What does that mean? It means we will stand for and press in for the things of God, the supernatural, the things of the Spirit. And Ps Derek has always shared with me that he really believes the youth will take the lead in this. For those who were there at the service- you had a glimpse of what is possible. Do you believe that you are meant to function in the supernatural?

Having said this, I believe many of you have more questions than answers. Don't be afraid to ask the questions and keep desiring to find out more. Does anyone have questions about what you saw/experienced over the weekend? Please feel free to ask ok? I may not have all the answers but I can point you to the resources, or ask someone who can answer.

You know, it has always been said of COOS that our "worship is very strong". I believe that it is God's unmerited favour and presence with us. He alone inhabits the praises of His people. As the worship team, how are you stepping up to ensure we're always offering up praise and worship which pleases our Father, and leading the church to do the same?

I'm so very proud of each one of you and truly and passionately believe in you. I could go on and on but I shall save it for the next time we meet as a ministry - exciting days are ahead!

deeply humbled,
jenn

In the eyes of God

2007-01-23T21:20:00.000+08:00

It was during the Youth Baptism service that I witnessed something really special. So special that I felt it in the most powerful way in my heart and I cried. I couldn't help it... I just cried. This can only be because of I felt God's love for another person and it is very much the same love that He has for everyone of us no matter what our condition is. No matter who we are, what we used to be, where we came from, how rich, poor, fat, thin, good looking or scared ugly. He loves us just the same. Words fail me to express how and what the love of God feels like. It must be experienced.

So this is what happened:
There was this one guy who was getting baptised and what's really special about him was that he is not just like anyone of us, blessed with the ability to be mobile by ourselves, or be able to speak with fluency. He needs to be aided by someone to stand and walk. He struggles to utter a sentence coherently. It takes great effort on his part to do something that we all can do with so much ease.
My heart leap with intense joy when he struggled on his own to respond to the pastor these words " I turn to Christ" What got me crying was when he with the help of his dad, walked all the way up and into the baptism pool to get baptised. It was awesome and I was somehow trying to contain that emotion cos I was wondering why on earth am I crying for?
It's only a few hours later as I begun thinking of it and still having the emotional manifestation, that I realised with a deep appreciation of how much God loves us and beams with so much pride when we take great effort in our frailness and weakness to honor Him the best way possible.

I am reminded that our lives are so intertwined with so much stuffs that at times, we become so dysfunctional and we can't express ourselves logically, rationally and coherently. There are times when we struggle to stand on own two feet, feeling immobilised. We are broken and are in so much need of Someone who can meet our every needs. I am encouraged to know that whatever broken stage we are in, we can with perserverance and with the help of others around us, we can be overcomers, we can be restored, we can be renewed and we can become new once again, all because God is for us. All because God loves us dearly.

Hebrews 12:1-3:
1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Philippians 3:12-14 :
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.

Understudies Jamming Session #3

2007-01-23T20:05:00.000+08:00

A heart that's undivided, the heart of worship. During this session, it was a session that showed us about our hearts as we come before the King. In this session, we prayed and starting our jamming in a different setting.

The Ultimate Band! LOL!

Upcoming Worship Leader?

Shan Yu!

Zhong Kai!

Ultimate Partner, Joline!
[Thanks for being such a great coordinator!]

Overall, it was fun. Jenn popped by after meeting Chris. Guan Wen came by as well. Mr Chin came back from Australia the night before jam. LOL! Nat was sick and now she's feeling better. Cheryl, Chris and Justin came too. Not forgetting Oliver. Thanks for the support!

Through the session, I felt an intense moment of worship. It wasn't just a jam. In any case, we'll work on volume dynamics in the next jam. Stay Tuned! More of Jesus, less of us.

Be Blessed!

Called By God!

2007-01-14T23:53:00.000+08:00

I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me' - Isaiah 6:8

http://www.rbc.org/utmost/index.php?month=01&day=14&year=07

A timely word, through this devotion, My Utmost For His Highest, I've learnt that all of us are called by God, but few are chosen. Why? Coz of our condition of our ears and upon our spiritual attitude. Aurelia and I had a vision during the Prayer Generation (Prayer@8:30am) session. Many of us shared.

This common vision between Aurelia and me reveals this: God is building His army and He's going to anoint every single person in the Youth Ministry. Comprises of two parts, the front section was the the P6, Secondary, mainly the younger ones. The back portion was the leaders, older ones. Each and everyone in that place was anointed with oil and the Holy Spirit.

Who says we can't hear God? Yes, we can! Build the condition of the band.

Be Blessed!

Beautiful News

2007-01-12T23:38:00.000+08:00

Hi hi! Matt Redman [NOT Chris Tomlin] has a new album "Beautiful News" and you can listen to the whole album FREE at Worshipmusic.com.

Look for the "Worshipmusic.com Radio" link and click on it.

But I think it's only going to be there for a few more days so listen to it quickly!!

luv,
jenn

Prayer@8:30am

2007-01-07T18:55:00.000+08:00

Nothing beats than having that great morning, waking up early, just to prepare for this BIG day! Just to share what really happened was an outpouring of the Holy Spirit's work during our prayer session. For a start, we have a few newcomers and one of them is Nathania! I admit that it's not easy to wake up early just for this. But it's worth it.

Ho Wai (Facilitator) and I (Worship Leader) met up and discussed about the prayer meeting. Interestingly, on our own private time with God, we felt that we should let the prayer session be a time to let God deal with us individually. Never a time such as this that I felt totally immersed into the presence of God. It's like God wanting to pour out His heartfelt and many started to see visions, speak forth the Word and started to worship Him in Spirit and in truth.

Personally, I felt refreshed, renewed and restored during this time of prayer and it was crazy till I can't contain it or explain it in words. After the prayer@8:30am, Ho Wai shared with me about two things that God told him about Music Ministry.I believe that if we want to make that difference and impact the world, we have to start coming for prayer. Prayer changes everything.

Ho Wai's sharing on Music Ministry for 2007:
1) God will give the teams new voices and instruments of angels.
2) God will use the worship team not just to lead people into worship but to heal, minister and perform miracles. It will do more than within the church building and somehow it will minister to people outside.

Hope you are encouraged and I hope you will use this blog to edify each other as we serve as a family. What does a family do? Ask yourself and you will know. =)

Be Blessed!

Happy New Year 2007 & New IT Services For You!

2007-01-01T02:07:00.000+08:00

First of all, I would wish everyone a Happy Blessed New Year 2007! The 8:30am prayer group met up yesterday to spend the last day of the year together and shared our deepest thoughts for the prayer group. Besides all these, we had makan together, fellowship and I guess we really enjoy coming to pray together.

We had Bee Hoon, Otak & Chicken Wings!

Jon sharing about his experience

Time of Gathering, Sharing with Love

Cheryl + Chris

Keith, checking the schedule for prayer meetings

In the New Year, I would publicize more of our happenings in COOS, our lives and of course, more testimonies and business happenings. If you would like to support my business, do visit Bluedge Technologies at http://bluedge.blogspot.com and do support Gab & Evie in their venture of Plastick Bricks!

Juz + Julian + Elaine + Liz

Chris! Classic Moment!

Ben Yuan, one of the Pioneers of the prayer group

Intense Game..... Look at Jun Lynn + Rachel!

Liz + Ho Wai + Kenny

Let's support each other by sharing and edifying each other through the Word of God through this blog, emails, etc. I would like to encourage all of you to join the prayer group on Sundays, 8:30am at Blk 6C.

Be Blessed!

NEW STORE ALERT :D

2006-12-31T02:00:00.000+08:00

Hello :)

Gabriel and I have set up an online shop, PLASTICK BRICKS, selling very unique female accesories.

Please visit: http://plastickbricks.livejournal.com Do support us by dropping us a visit at the blog.

If you like something, leave a comment or email us at plastickbricks@yahoo.com.sg

Do pass this link to your friends, family and loved ones. Check back regularly for updates!

Thank you :)

With Much Love,

Evie

A Royal Christmas

2006-12-25T21:55:00.000+08:00

Hey Prince and Princess of Our King!

I came across this article that I had printed out 6 years ago while looking at some old files of mine. What a treasure. When I read it, I felt it brought a fresher approach of Christmas to me and hopefully it does for you as well. It is the birth of our Saviour and King that we are able to be called His very own prince and princess.

True Royalty
A beggar lived near the king's palace. One day he saw a proclamation posted outside the palace gate. The king was giving a great dinner. Anyone dressed in royal garments was invited to the party. The beggar went on his way. He looked at the rags he was wearing and sighed. Surely only kings and their families wore royal robes, he thought. Slowly an idea crept into his mind. The audacity of it made him tremble. Would he dare? He made his way back to the palace. He approached the guard at the gate.

"Please,sire, I would like to speak to the king." "Wait here," the guard replied.
In a few minutes, he was back. "His majesty will see you," he said, and led the beggar in. "You wish to see me?" asked the king. "Yes, your majesty. I want so much to attend the banquet, but I have no royal robes to wear. Please, sir, if I may be so bold, may I have one of your old garments so that I, too, may come to the banquet?" The beggar shook so hard that he could not see the faint smile that was on the king's face. "You have been wise in coming to me," the king said. He called to his son, the young prince. "Take this man to your room and array him in some of your clothes."

The prince did as he was told and soon the beggar was standing before a mirror, clothed in garments that he had never dared hope for. "You are now eligible to attend the king's banquet tomorrow night," said the prince. "But even more important, you will never need any other clothes. These garments will last forever." The beggar dropped to his knees. "Oh, thank you," he cried. But as he started to leave, he looked back at his pile of dirty rags on the floor. He hesitated. What if the prince was wrong? What if he would need his old clothes again. Quickly he gathered them up.

The banquet was far greater than he had ever imagined, but he could not enjoy himself as he should. He had made a small bundle of his old rags and it kept falling off his lap. The food was passed quickly and the beggar missed some of the greatest delicacies. Time proved that the prince was right. The clothes lasted forever. Still the poor beggar grew fonder and fonder of his old rags. As time passed people seemed to forget the royal robes he was wearing. They saw only the little bundle of filthy rags that he clung to wherever he went. They even spoke of him as the old man with the rags.

One day as he lay dying, the king visited him. The beggar saw the sad look on the king's face when he looked at the small bundle of rags by the bed. Suddenly the beggar remembered the prince's words and he realized that his bundle of rags had cost him a lifetime of true royalty. He wept bitterly at his folly. And the king wept with him.

We have been invited into a royal family--the family of God. To feast at God's dinner table, all we have to do is shed our old rags and put on the "new clothes" of faith which is provided by God's Son, Jesus Christ. But we cannot hold onto our old rags. When we put our faith in Christ, we must let go of the sin in our life, and our old ways of living. Those things must be discarded if we are to experience true royalty and abundant life in Christ.

"Behold, the old is passed away; the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17)
By: Author Unknown

Each one of you are so special in His eyes and heart. Let us continue to embrace our royal destiny in our King as we step forth into a new year. Here's a song from Hosanna Integrity (yah I know a bit old BUT... ever so good) it's called Resound in Praise by Billy Funk and Ron Kenoly. Take a look at those words and check out the song on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFOsPYtAabw

Resound in Praise
We've been created as kings and priests to worship Your royalty
To proclaim Your awesome mighty works Your excellence for all to see
Heaven and earth reflect Your glory
The sun, moon, and stars Give You praise
You are the Great and Mighty God
Forever Your kingdom will reign
Will reign

Let the sanctuary
Be filled with Your glory
We lift our voices up in praise
Let the sanctuary
Be filled with Your glory
Each instrument resound in praise.

Blessings In Christ
Juz

Merry Christmas, BAND!

2006-12-25T01:53:00.000+08:00

Merry Christmas to all! Personally, I'm really blessed to have you all serving in the ministry. It's been a long time and I just feel like it was yesterday! Time flies and some of us are getting older! Just to share something about the YCO.

I felt really encouraged seeing people responding to the altar call while I was serving on stage. Tears were in my eyes and I just feel excited about seeing youths coming to know Christ. What encourages me most was when J.T was sharing about that vision he saw. "Each of us has a special place in His heart. There are many rooms in His heart. Each room belongs to each and everyone of us." I'm honored to have one room in God's heart, all by myself. It was really encouraging. Serving with the band has helped me see many things in life. I just want to say, I love you all! Each and everyone of you count!

Wondering if you all will be at the lunch later on. Hope to see you all though. Time to sleep through the lovely morning of Christmas. Oh, just remembered that it's my birthday today! (I was baptized on Christmas day, 10 years ago!) LOL. Probably Milton and Dexter will know that beautiful baptism pool we have at St Hilda's Church.

Thank God for such a time as this. Let's continue to serve God with our best. Looking forward to see your blog entries to share about your life, your relationship with God and your experiences!

Be Blessed!

Happy Birthday, Jenn & Evie!

2006-12-21T01:58:00.000+08:00

Happy birthday to our beautiful ladies of the band! May the Lord bless you two richly as you serve Him fervently. Let's not ask about age since it's sensitive but remember to drop them a sms or call soon to wish them of their big day!

Jenn

Evie

Thanks Jenn for being there for us and supporting us in everything we do. You've been a great leader and pastor to us. Appreciate your time and effort! And for Evie, thanks for being a great team player and listener in the band. Awaiting for you to lead the band someday! You've grown and you are a blessing to many.

Enjoy your birthday!

Be Blessed!

Happy Birthday, Josh!

2006-12-18T23:22:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday, Josh! We didn't forget your birthday! Just in case, you wondered..... While you are still in Youth Leaders' Advance, we would like to tell you that you have been a great leader to us and thanks for your effort and love!

This is our dearest Amphora Leader, Josh Khoo!

Josh looks cool hor?

Hope that you are enjoying your trip there. If you got sabo-ed..... we can't help you. Sorry hor..... Lastly, may God bless you and strengthen you as you grow in Him. Happy 26th Birthday.

Be Blessed!

MY RESULTS! :)

2006-12-18T16:57:00.000+08:00

hey all!! :)))))

tab is here to give thanks! :)) many many many thanks to THE FATHER AND EVERYONE ELSE! :)))

as most of you may have known... my N LEVEL results were being released today.. AND... i MADE IT THROUGH!!! WOOHOO!! :)

YES I DID! and i'm really really thankful for what God has done! :) He is EVER faithful and indeed He will do the rest if i do my best! :) *yells from earth to heaven: THANK YOU JESUS!!!! :) *

let me do some explaining here because i know most of you guys were not in/did not go through the NORMAL ACADEMIC (NA) stream. hahah!

in NA stream... well, by right its meant to be a 5-year course... but by left, if you dont meet the criteria(which will be explained later), then it'll be a 4-year course... why 4-year course? cos if you dont meet the criteria, you CANNOT get promoted to sec5 and you've two choices...

1. go to ite. 2. take private.

now, i shall explain the criteria part. hahah.
to get promoted to sec5...

get a grade 5 or better in first language (ENGLISH)

AND

best three subjects MUST be 10 points and below.

yep. :)

and... i got 6 points! :) [thank yooou manymany JESUS! :)))]

i got a grade 2 in english/combined science(chem/bio)/principles of accounts(poa).
and
i got a grade 3 in combined humanities(history/social studies)/E math.

in case you're wondering how come i've only 5 subjects... reason being... i'm NOT taking CHINESE. i'm taking CHINESE SYLLABUS B (clb). for those who don't know what's the diff... CLB is like easier chinese for people(like me!) who are not so good in chinese. hahah! so normal chinese is what majority of sporean take... yeah. anws, CLB is NOT counted as an O level subject but we still have to sit for it (i find it quite pointless actually but oh well. LOL.) some of you may be like lost already... and i know its getting a lil complicated but pls bear with me.... thank yoou! :)

let you guys take a break from all the words... look at the beautiful sky and breathe.. then continue to read. haha! :)

done? great! now we shall continue! :)

hahah, yes. anws, i was saying i got 6 points! woohoo!!! let me tell you why i'm sooo happy and grateful. because i knew i sorta screwed my math and history paper...

story of the math paper...
tab didnt have enough time to complete her math paper two during the exam... and as a result, she left out like 20 over marks of questions BLANK. like literally BLANK. like NOTHING. she wasnt sure if she was going to make it through her math paper. the day came when she had to collect her results.. and she went crazy-mad not mad-mad or angry-mad because she PASSED! :)

yes and that was the story of my math paper. :D
now the story of the history paper...
tab usually scores like grade 1 or 2 for combined humans. but that day of the exam... the history paper sat in front of her facing her from her desk.. she flipped to the first-two pages and she went... "WHAT?!!!!!!!" in her mind of course. first section was source based questions and she totally DIDNT know what the source was all about. btw, later her humans teacher said that the whole spore was quite shocked cos the topic and format was weird... anws, she just wrote what she felt,thought and basically she was whacking the questions with FAITH. came out of the hall thinking cambridge had better moderate... and up till now, tab doesnt think they actually did any moderation... but nevertheless, the day came to collect her results.. and she PASSED! :) though not to her expectations but she was just grateful she made it! :)

yup. so just wanna take this opportunity to thank every single one of you for the support that you guys have shown during the time of my exams. Thank yoou for all the prayers and notes and all of your encouragement! i really and truly appreciate every single one of you and i know as long as we trust God in whatever we do and commit everything to Him, He will see us through! :)

yup. for now, after all the words... i'll leave you with the BEST photo that i can possibly take with what i have for the moment... my result slip! :)

you know what, actually its not very visible. HAHAH! anws, my name's on top. and my subjects are there with the grades. hahah!

alrightos, i'm gonna run for now cos i've class dinner!! YES! CLASS DINNER! HAHAHA! :)) i love my class and i miss my class! will see everyone soon! :)

love from tab! :)

Understudies Jamming Session #2

2006-12-17T21:54:00.000+08:00

Today, we had a great time again at 306! Jo led us into worship before we started our jam. We were exploring into volume control and dynamics as we figured certain issues out during the session. Overall, it was good.

As usual, inspired by Lorraine!!
Search YouTube!

Although some of the understudies couldn't come, we managed to have enough people for the instruments. Kai on the bass, Marcus on the electric, Jo & Nat on the keys, Small Chris on the drums, Kenny on the acoustic and of course, our vocalists, Shan Yu, Evie & Jesselene. Invited Evie to lead the Amphora set and Shan Yu (once again) to lead the Tehillah set. It was much better as we can identify the difficulty of the set and realize that it's never easy to play all these songs.

Evie

Marcus

Jo

Jo + Nat

Nat + Kenny

Gab

Chris

Chill-laxing

Courtesy from Shawn Wong
Artistic!

Nice effect hor?

Don't disturb Aunty Nat!

Shan Yu

Gerald + Jesselene

Most importantly, one learning aspect to bring home and reflect. This learning aspect is Communication. We need to communicate and give eye contact when we play together as a band. Though it was slightly messy, we need to hear each other and humbly learn from one another.

Overall, it was enjoying! Hope Jenn, Chris, Josh and the other leaders are enjoying themselves at the Youth Leaders' Advance.

Be Blessed!

cool chord chart

2006-12-15T18:10:00.000+08:00

Wouldn't it be nice if all our chord charts look like this?

Click here

Mr Brown's Christmas

2006-12-14T23:24:00.000+08:00

Hey guys,

heard this and thought it was hilarious. I think the working ones might appreciate it a little more. But funny nonetheless, forwarded to us by our own SP aka DH.

Click here!

Cheers
Josh

Happy Birthday, Joline!

2006-12-14T22:31:00.000+08:00

Happy Birthday, Jo! You've been a blessing to the band and the understudies. Continue to serve and bless others. Hope you didn't mind the small little surprise today.

Here's Jo for you!

For those who wants to wish her blessed birthday, you have another hour or so. Hope you enjoyed your day at your dinner and at Evangelizer!

Be Blessed!

Youth Christmas Outreach!

2006-12-13T00:36:00.000+08:00

Have you invited anyone yet? Is there anyone you have in mind? If not, get our phones, email and MSN messenger going! Having difficulties? You can help by availing yourself at the hospitality corner to mingle with new faces on that day after our PSP.

Youth Christmas Service
23rd December 2006 (Saturday)
6pm (party starts at 5:30pm at The Plaza)
Church Of Our Saviour Auditorium

In case you find it difficult to download the invites or the banner, it's readily here for you. Just ask your friends to visit our blog and show them how crazy we are!

Be Blessed!

a new way of being human

2006-12-12T00:23:00.000+08:00

"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see."
Hebrews 11:1 (NLT)

"If you want to see something you've never seen before, you've got to do something you've never done before."
- Ed Silvoso

These words still resonate in my mind and heart. Thinking back about our Advance, this is the first time we've ever had an overnight thingy together. We've never done this before, and when we finally did, we saw things we've never seen before. We saw strengthening of friendships, committed leadership and renewed power in the Holy Spirit amongst us.

I'm not saying we should always think about re-inventing the wheel for the sake of doing new things. It's not just about doing things differently. It's also about the condition of our heart and relationship with God. If you want to experience breakthrough in certain areas in your life, pursue a deeper level of intimacy with God, a higher degree of honesty and dependence upon Him. You will begin to see things in ways you've never seen before.

Becoming a believer of Christ is adopting a new way of being human. When we were born, we were born sinners, and only knew how to live an old life. but 2 Cor 5:17 tells us that we are now new creations. Living by faith is a new way of living. The "old human" says "Better play safe. Can't trust anyone but myself." The new creation says, "I am safe. I trust God."

Do you live by faith? Or do you constantly ask God to show you everything before you take a step for Him? My honest take is: Many times we don't dare to step out, to take a radical stand for Jesus because we're afraid that what we want to see happen won't happen. But when you take on a new way of being human, and you refuse to be intimidated by that fear and step out, you experience and see things you've never seen before. God will show up in ways that take your breath away.

living royally,
jenn

Music Advance 2006 - Chill-Lex!

2006-12-11T18:44:00.000+08:00

Welcome to COOS Youth Worship Ministry Blog!

Been very blessed by the members in the ministry and thought we could just fill the blog with our sharing, testimonies and to keep each other updated. Through this initiative, I hope we can grow together and keep each other in mind.

Let me get it started!

Personal blessings + reviews by Kenny (http://historymaker.tk):

Finally, I'm back home from HangOut@Mt.Emily and starting to blog the Music Advance 2006 updates. Photos and Videos will be up shortly. Anyway, the Music Advance (Not retreat hor.....) is really fun and I simply learn a lot of things. In any case, the team had fun since Friday afternoon till this evening. I've learned one word during this Advance. The word is Chill-lax or Chillax (basically, it's chilling and relaxing combined). Nat should be updating her blog soon and I've linked her blog to the new word!

**Warning: This is my longest entry, consisting of many pictures & videos. Loading time may be long. Sorry for the inconvenience caused!**

Starring the people from COOS Youth Worship Ministry at Music Advance 2006.....

Kor + Mei having lunch at PS (Day 1 of Advance)

Joline + Nathania

Joline + Kenny

Evie + Cheryl + Justin

Joline + Nathania

Gabriel + Evangeline

Zhong Guo + Kenny
We happen to have & worn the same shorts!

Justin - My Buddy!

The games we are playing.....

Look at John! LOL!

Look at the enthusiasm!

The moments.....

Shan Yu + Shawn

Gab

Chris Lim a.k.a Chris 'Tomlin'

Natty + Kenny
Night Chat!

The Key to 'Heaven' - Basically, the bedroom!

Quiet Moments.....

Praising God with our talents

While waiting for the rest.....

Waiting, Waiting, Waiting. LOL!

Roy - Cute right?

Chris 'Tomlin' + Aurelia

Part of the Family!

Kenny + Aurelia (Aure)
Kor + Mei - The Ong Family

Marcus - Happy Moments!

Evie + Cheryl

Evie + Cheryl

Help Help!

Shawn, what are you doing?

Look Out @ Hang Out

Chris + Kenny

The presence of the Lord was present and we had many chances to share our lives. I hope we took the opportunity to know each other better. Let's continue building the kingdom of God rather than keeping things to ourselves. I pray that the team will be involved in each and everyone's life, whether big or small. Never ceasing to help each other rise up to the same level. It's never easy. We need to rise up and move together. Let's help each other understand things better.

The food.....

Breakfast on 10th December..... Best!

This is where we had our breakfast for 2 days.

Jean - Amphora's coolest Electric Guitarist
Hey, you led well in worship on 10th Dec morning!

Nat + Aure + Ollie + Jenn

The party, the fun, the people - ONE Family for the Audience of ONE.....

Presenting COOS Youth Music Ministry!

ONE Family for the Audience of ONE!

Shawn: What are you doing, Jean?

Our big grown baby, Milton!

Alina + Chris

Josh - Amphora's band leader
Thanks for all the guidance, effort & love!

Natty + Juz

Nat + Juz + Jo + Kenny

Back: Nat + Juz
Front: Lynn + Jo + Kenny

Can you guess who is this? Cool right?

Back: Zhong Kai + Zhong Guo
Front: Shan Yu + Shawn

John showing Marcus guitar skills
School of ROCK!

Tehillah

Amphora

What is Alina doing?

Weird Faces.....

Hilarious! Milt, what's so funny? Share!!

Music Ministry Men!

What happened?
**To be continued.....**

Had the chance to talk to the people I wanna talk to and esp staying in the same room. I guess God must be speaking to all the leaders. LOL! I finally hear more and more of God's word and shared more and more. There are more to come! This is just the beginning. Today was the last session and also the most meaningful moment as Pastor Jenn shared the Vision and direction for the ministry and church for the next 2 years. Oh yeah, Joline and I are officially playing next year. There are many plans being mentioned. I thank God for rising us up and we're young. There's lots to learn.

Moments captured in Live Video.....

Meanwhile, while I upload the photos and update this blog again, just read this entry and pray for us if you are reading this blog. Pray for the team and pray for God's kingdom to grow bigger and bigger.

I love you all, Music Ministry! Amphora, Tehillah and SE! Most importantly, thanks to my buddy, Justin and my 'partner-in-crime', Joline for being entertaining and good listener. Thanks Nat, Zhong Guo, Jean, Shan Yu and others who I got to know better. It was a great Advance and remember, it's just the beginning. Love ya all!

Be Blessed!

In God's Wonderful Love,
Kenny Ong - History Maker