His Wonderful Works

The end of 2011

2011-12-28T00:45:00.002+08:00

Perhaps another reason to keep this blog going is to reflect about the year that is going to end. or perhaps boredom has cause me to write this. This entry has no apparent content. Just sharing it out loud from my thoughts.

Certainly, many things happened - too much to be said in an entry and too little to sufficiently share it here.

There are no doubt happy, sad, encouraging, discouraging, disappointed and regretted moments. I thank God for all for He has used it all to groom me.

2011 resolutions
Did you manage to get your resolution achieved? accomplished? forgotten? ignored? or cancelled? I have never really set mine this year because I have already set them a few years back. Perhaps I'd like to call it my life resolutions. Well, too much to be said in an entry and too little to sufficiently share it here.

Life in 2011
Life has always be tough, never meant to be easy or fair. Until one realizes it, complaints would reduce and compliments would be more. There are so many discouraging remarks made compared to encouraging ones in the social media. No wonder, it is hard to stay positive at times. When good things happens, few appriciated and when bad things surfaced, many criticized. This is the nature of our being. Denying it could bring you no where but defying it could change a situation 180 degrees.

Relationships in 2011
I've come to fully realized that a family without a father would cause a power struggle in the house at times. Where the son would try to take lead and the mother would want the son to obey. Thankfully, there's a Father who keep watch and controls every situation.

Relationship with friends has gone rather shallow. I meant no negativity. But I have always feel that a true friend is someone who knows you, not just the everyday you. A person always longed to be truly cared for, and constantly be listened by someone trustworthy.

Relationship precedes ministry/everything. I always abide by that. But I am still struggling to be outgoing and initiative. Well it's not all bad. At least I have something to strive for. To take courage and 'go out' is a real deal to me.

Faith in God - active or passive?
We are called to have faith in God, not lose hope and believe in miracles. I have learnt that we need to do it both consciously and unconsciously. If not, desires will take control. I have many desires, so big that it can be one of my aims in life. I have committed those desires to God in prayers and asked Him to show me in His will and time. But it is hard to maintain prayerfully. I dont know but when there are things that you know you just cannot afford to lose, you will try your best to achieve it in your own strength. Most often than not, I failed miserably and realized 3 things - wasn't God's will, wasn't God's time, or something Better has been prepared.

I wouldn't want to be passive and just sit by waiting for God's time and will. And whenever I am active, things does not work out or at least it hasn't been.

Staying optimistic, still
My desires, resolutions, aims, goals or dreams aren't simply academic results, physical fitness or buying something expensive. But mostly lifelong commitments such as career, family and future. Everytime it seems impossible, I'd always remind myself of the miraculous events that God has accomplished in my life. They are always the right things happening at the right time. When such things happen, that particular event will always be a miracle, and a testimony. You will never get tired of sharing it so many times.

I pray that the upcoming year will be a prosperous year for all when your dreams come true at the right time. Till then, share it with me (if u've read this entry) so that I can share your joy.

Agape
Eugene
28 December 2011

The voice from within

2011-06-10T12:53:00.002+08:00

Stagnant for a long time.

Decide to write, perhaps for the sake of writing.

Perhaps this may serve as a platform to share and voice my thoughts when certain things are just not practical to share with others.

Since ‘people care about how much you care and not how much you know’.

This blog was originally created to commit to God.

So I guess, it will eventually end with the greatest life testimony and grace I will be experiencing in the near future.

I have blogged one of my latest and greatest grace in the previous entry so I shall end with another greatest grace (obviously it is not going to be the last) in time to come.

Praise God.

To those who STILL read this blog, despite of its stagnancy, I thank you.

Because you know the purpose of this blog – that is to glorify God primarily, and subsequently, encourage and remind you how faithful God is.

I hope, certainly, that my next greatest testimony will be written in the next 2 to 3 years. And perhaps the subsequent one in the next 4 to 5 years.

That is, if blogspot is still available.

Of course, I have also recorded mini testimonies I experienced all these years in a small booklet kept inside my Bible and share during fellowships and cellgroups.

I encourage you to do the same.

For this booklet is going to worth more than any of your assets.

It is going to be ‘your legend’ with God after you have passed on.

Lastly, for memorable sake, this entry is written during my attachment (Opps!).
Year 3 semester 2 of Civil Engineering in NTU.

10^th June 2011, Friday, 1315hrs.

Recap on His grace (Recap yours too!)

2010-06-05T22:30:00.024+08:00

The Miraculous Journey Began ...

I was enlisted in 2007 into BMTC Cougar company (coy). During that point of time, I joined the JC badge, therefore that makes me 2 years older than them. Even my commanders are younger than me. Putting age aside, we managed to find similaries among ourselves and started to bond as a section, and eventually as a platoon.

My BMT was considered a short one as I was put with the enhanced badge with just 8 weeks of training. After 2 months of basic military training, I passed out as a private (PTE).

Upon passing out from BMTC school 1, I was subsequently enrolled into the School of Infantry Specialist (SISPEC) for Basic Section Leader Course (BSLC) in Foxtrot coy, where we were taught how to become a section commander with the charge of 6-7 men. It was fun but 'xiong', but it wasn't that 'xiong' until I realized what is the meaning of the 'true xiong-ness' in the later stage.

After 3 months or so, I passed out from BSLC as a corporal (CPL) with the old implemented system. With new trainee rank implemented, they call it the Specialist cadet or the SCT now.

My next course was a specialised one - Combat Engineer Specialist Course (CESC). This period was also the turning point of my life asymptotically.

After CESC, I got posted to 30SCE to become a section commander. All the skills I have learnt from the previous courses were put into test. Despite so, I realized it wasn't sufficient as all the knowledge and skills I acquired were just 'scatches on the surface.'

A Miracle happened. Perhaps one of the greatest YET. And I joined the Officer core since 1st Dec 2008. This was the period when I understood the meaning of tough training. Although trainings from the Engineer Officer Cadet Course (EOCC) has toned down alot mainly due to the commanders' changing of appointment, we suffered but not as bad as those from the previous badge of EOCC. Thankfully, the sufferings were worthwhile. Not only becoming physically fit, we also became mentally stronger.

After our final overseas exercises, we returned to SAFTMI during our joint term and enjoyed our final 3 weeks as a cadet with lots of marching drills. It was satisfying despite all the sunburns!

Appointment Certificate Presentation Ceremony if i remembered correctly (ACPC) was a glorious moment when all of us put on our No.2 uniforms and received our certificates and swords from the Chief of Army.

13th June 2009 was the defining moment when we donned on No.1 uniforms and marched our way through the SAFTI parade square to mark the end of our cadet training phase. It was the day, that tears of Thankfulness welled up my eyes before we marched out to the parade square.

This was perhaps the second Miracle led from the first. God gave me an opportunity to study at NTU and even provided me with a awesome room in Hall 12! Praise the Lord!!

School started in August '09. Study groups were formed and new friends were made. The camaraderie forged is strong and always memorable. And I am truly Thankful for all the friends I have in NTU - be it those from my course or those from the Christian fellowship.

This is a picture taken from Bible camp jointly organized by Christian fellowships of NTU and NUS. An intensive Bible study camp I would say. But it was the cooperation between the committees from the both institutes and God's grace that made this camp possible.

The Journey continues...

agape

eugene

Officership

2010-06-03T21:51:00.004+08:00

I am an Officer of the Singapore Armed Forces.

My duty is to Lead, to Excel and to Overcome.

I lead my men by example.

I answer for their training, morale and discipline.

I must excel in everything I do.

I serve with pride, honor and integrity.

I will overcome adversity with courage, fortitude and determination.

I delicate my life to Singapore.

I have not been reciting this creed for quite some time now. Come to think of it, it brings back the memories during the cadet training days. Not forgetting this magnificent grace God gave me to become a cadet one and a half year ago. I am still thankful though.

All the sufferings and 'tekan-ing' session I had during those days were nothing comparable to what I have went through from BMT to becoming a specialist. I am thankful nevertheless.

This blog serve as a reminder of God's grace for me. Truly a magnificent miracle. Definitely an impossible made "I-m-possible".

Praise the Lord. Always.

I believe more and greater miracles are coming. Greater transformations is going to happen.

agape

eugene

Thoughts..

2009-10-15T21:47:00.005+08:00

Perhaps a little time for myself and some space for my thoughts..

Today’s sharing from Rev Ong from NTUCCF was really great. It’s been a long time since my thoughts is triggered into thinking for things that perhaps I have been missing..

Or should I say that I have been missing a lot of things that I should be thinking in depth with regards to my daily life. Perhaps I have taken too much for granted? Think about it..

Towards the end of Rev Ong’s sermon, he asked –

1. ‘Are you a happy Christian?’

If not, what is the reason why we aren’t? Are we doing things for the sake of doing? Are we doing things just to please others? Are we doing it to ‘show off’ ourselves?
If we are not doing it for Christ regardless of anything and everything, we wouldn’t be happy and sooner or later find it to be like a chore of doing and thus losing the joy in it and gradually stop doing. There are lots more to it than what is mentioned.

2. ‘Is your prayer being answered?’

There are a few reasons why prayers are not answered in the first place (Yet).

First, Not for you. We wouldn’t know what is good or bad for us in the beginning. And that is why God make the decision for us by giving, withholding or preventing us from having certain things we are asking in prayers. A child wouldn’t know sweets will cause tooth decay if he/she eats too much, but the parents know and prevent them. Likewise for the opposite, we might not like what we are going through but God sees it good when it is over – rainbow after a rain, spiritual growth after trials or suffering may illustrates this.

Second, God’s timing. We have to understand and eventually (due to our weakness) acknowledge that God’s timing is Perfect. Anytime before or after isn’t His will for anyone of us. Therefore, there wouldn’t be any benefit in receiving it. For example choosing a partner isn’t like changing clothes. We need to see (inwardly,spiritually and with God’s view), choose (wisely and God-ordained), try out (through fellowship and sharing) than pay the price to buy it. It’s definitely not as easy as abc.

Third, Attitude. Is our attitude sincere? Why would God answer your prayers if its a selfish prayer? Of course I am not saying God wouldn’t answer it totally but our attitude should be right before God. In this way, we will create a pathway for God to work in.

Fourth, Willingness. Are we willing enough? We have been asking this and that, but having an unwilling heart does not get you anywhere. Praying for a good result without putting in effort in studies is an example. Be willing to be willing is a good attitude.

Agape
Eugene

Psalms 118

2009-08-14T22:47:00.001+08:00

1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.

2 Let Israel say:
"His love endures forever."

3 Let the house of Aaron say:
"His love endures forever."

4 Let those who fear the LORD say:
"His love endures forever."

5 In my anguish I cried to the LORD,
and he answered by setting me free.

6 The LORD is with me; I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?

7 The LORD is with me; he is my helper.
I will look in triumph on my enemies.

8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in man.

9 It is better to take refuge in the LORD
than to trust in princes.

10 All the nations surrounded me,
but in the name of the LORD I cut them off.

11 They surrounded me on every side,
but in the name of the LORD I cut them off.

12 They swarmed around me like bees,
but they died out as quickly as burning thorns;
in the name of the LORD I cut them off.

13 I was pushed back and about to fall,
but the LORD helped me.

14 The LORD is my strength and my song;
he has become my salvation.

15 Shouts of joy and victory
resound in the tents of the righteous:
"The LORD's right hand has done mighty things!

16 The LORD's right hand is lifted high;
the LORD's right hand has done mighty things!"

17 I will not die but live,
and will proclaim what the LORD has done.

18 The LORD has chastened me severely,
but he has not given me over to death.

19 Open for me the gates of righteousness;
I will enter and give thanks to the LORD.

20 This is the gate of the LORD
through which the righteous may enter.

21 I will give you thanks, for you answered me;
you have become my salvation.

22 The stone the builders rejected
has become the capstone;

23 the LORD has done this,
and it is marvelous in our eyes.

24 This is the day the LORD has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.

25 O LORD, save us;
O LORD, grant us success.

26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD.
From the house of the LORD we bless you. [a]

27 The LORD is God,
and he has made his light shine upon us.
With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession
up [b] to the horns of the altar.

28 You are my God, and I will give you thanks;
you are my God, and I will exalt you.

29 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his love endures forever.

Some Reflections

2009-06-26T20:04:00.003+08:00

Just today, I saw this little girl of age about 4 years old when I was taking the same train as her while I was heading home. She sat with her mother at the reserved seat in one of the cabin while I stood in front of her beside the opposite door. She caught my attention. Her smile especially. She’s just so cheerful and cute. Hugging her mum’s hand and just smile for no apparent reasons. She shook her legs on the seat like any other normal child would do…

…but she’s blind.

I felt for her and ask God why He allowed this in the first place. She’s just a child and so cheerful. Can you imagine not knowing how your parents and yourself look like since born?

Looking at her in the train really trigger my thoughts into this reflection. This little girl does not have one of the most important senses that God gave everyone and Yet she is smiling and laughing. Her smile are smiles from within – no string attached – just plain happiness and cheerfulness. Her smiles also tells me she is satisfied with what she has.

If she is satisfied at her level (from what I saw), why wouldn’t we be satisfied even the more? So many complains in our daily lives only to mean that sometimes we are like a spoilt child who never satisfies.

I thank God for her condition that she is in. She might be blind, but her heart isn’t. God has wonderful plan for her just like He has for us. Praise Him for everything.

All things happen for a reason. No doubt it for His purpose. And indeed it’s good one.

Agape
eugene

One Love Got Talent (Champion!)

2009-06-23T19:35:00.002+08:00

Title: Cho Bi Bi (in Hokkien) from En Community Church

Phillip Mantofa - A Trip to Hell

2009-06-21T23:16:00.028+08:00

For those who do not know who is this person, He's one of the most famous pastor in the Indonesia who had recently came to Singapore for an event proudly organized by 17 Churches on the 18th - 20th June 2009.

For those who came for this event at Bethesda Church, you have gained much. For those who didn't, there will be more events coming up subsequently which the guest of honour would none other than pastor Phillip Mantofa.

The following video features his experience in hell when he was being revealed by the annointing of Jesus.

13th June 2009, Saturday

2009-06-14T22:32:00.007+08:00

The day I have been waiting for has finally came. We jumped and threw our peak caps for the first and the last time of our lives.

We hugged, shouted in joy and running around aimlessly like never before.
I was happy. Too Happy. Its the joy that comes from within. Almost expressed in tears when we were at the formed up point before the parade started.

He knows that I can't thank Him enough for what He has done. And I have proclaimed countless time that getting the rank on my shoulder wasn't a coincidence nor my good conduct. For it is His goodness and flavor He has for me.

No sword of honour, or even the merits but I thank Him nevertheless.
Yes, feelings of disappointment was haunting me since the day the results were made known. I have blamed for the final exercise in Thailand that I did not do well and of my incompetency.
In the midst of it, He told me gently that He wants me to be an Normal officer who leads by His footsteps so that the glory I give will be more.

When I shared about how His grace is magnified in the parade square, a dear fellow Christian cadet of mine reminded me of how God wanted to give Abram the promise Land in Genesis 12:1-3. How amazing.

I have cherished every step I took in the camp and can't be thankful enough. Its only when I realized how limited human is when giving thanks and praise to the Lord is never enough. Its beyond words.

Perhaps the simplest word that can expressed the most gratitude is...

Thank You.

For those who have came down to my parade, you have my most sincere gratitude for you have witnessed His grace magnified in the parade square of SAF MI, OCS.

Most popular in camp (As deemed by EOCC only!)

2009-06-06T19:40:00.004+08:00

Perhaps this is the latest 'in' thing in camp especially for the Engineer cadets.. I was curious why suddenly people around the bunk area started singing this song by themselves. When I asked my buddy who shared the same bunk as me and he showed me this (Youtube) video via his PSP.

During the PT Excellence challenge organized by the OCS school appointment cadets, we had a showdown to see who was the best for that particular IPPT station. And when it comes to the 2.4km station, two cadets from Combat Engineer formation ran in the first wave. They managed to take the lead till the 3rd round...

Upon running past the crowd, the PA system happen to play this song and the 2 leading jokers 'danced' (not bad la, as we the Engineers were thought how to multi task and do concurrent activities..) as what the 'Wondergirls' did in the video and were Disqualified. Reason being - inappropriate behavior.

That is why how this song ('Nobody' by wondergirls) became so popular among us.

It was memorable and funny though..

NOBODY, NOBODY BUT YOU! (EOCC, you rock my life!)

Phillip Mantofa

2009-05-24T17:53:00.000+08:00

2009-05-18T23:54:00.000+08:00

5cm/s - Poem of sky & sea

2009-04-30T14:51:00.000+08:00

Living Without Limbs

2009-04-10T09:00:00.003+08:00

Dating and Commitment

2009-04-04T17:02:00.005+08:00

Have you ever heard your friends telling you how handsome / pretty they want for their future partner to be? What they have? How they dress? What they want their partners to do for them.. And tons of it – mainly the outlooks, expressions and worldly views.

In today’s context, the media is showing us the wrong concept of dating and how a person can fall in love in the wrong way. Often we watch drama, we see how a guy and a girl fall in love – love at first sight, a guy save a girl from trouble and fall in love, one night stand, a woman got pregnant but don’t know whose child is it, strangers revealing themselves as ‘true parents’ after 20 years due to untold secrets, and many complicated storylines, only to grab the high viewership for a particular show as their purpose.

If you have realized, worldly dating don’t and won't last. For a relationship based solely on physical attraction and romantic feelings will last only as long as the feeling last. Too often in my daily life, I have seen too many examples of such cases and in addition to that, people tend to isolate themselves from vital relationships.

Having a desire to be attracted and attached to the opposite gender isn’t wrong. For God made each of us with a desire for intimacy and He intend to fulfill it (His way, if we choose to follow it). While we are still single, God doesn’t expect these longings to disappear, but it’s the patience to wait for the Lord. In the meantime, seek close relationships family and deep nonromantic relationships with the brothers and sisters in Christ.

What about being single? It is also a gift from God. Perhaps many don’t realize the incredible opportunity it holds. As a single, we have the freedom right now to explore, study, and tackle the world. No other time in our life will offer these chances.

For Christian dating, Joshua Harris – famous author for Christian BGR topics says that one is not ready to be attached until he or she is ready to consider marriage. Yes it might seem far but this is how a True relationship should work in Christ – Love founded in Faithfulness and rooted in Commitment.

Subsequently, the joy of intimacy is the reward of Commitment. In another word, I say that intimacy is proportional to Commitment. And to simplify further, it is deciding to do what is best for others by never asking for intimacy that we are unable to match with commitment.

This Commitment is not really the commitment to one another but the Commitment of one another in relation to Christ – for the world will know we follow Christ by the way we love others. For this reason, we must practice love as God defines it – sincere, servant-hearted, and selfless – not the world’s brand of selfish and sensual love based on what feels good.

Set your priorities well and wait for the Lord.

Agape
eugene

Testimony

2009-03-28T11:53:00.000+08:00

This is a Changed person. 180 degree changed.

When His will is Done

2009-03-14T22:59:00.004+08:00

Have you ever pray to God your prayer requests and tell Him how you want certain things to happen? But of course, may His will be done – that’s the first and foremost we must state in our prayers.

For me, I often pray to God of the things I want and need and provide God with ‘solutions’ in telling Him how the situation may turn out eventually. In the end, as you know – your will might not be God’s will anyway. And that is why we say ‘His will be done in His way and His time’. So that in this way, we may give thanks and praises to Him even when things don’t happen according to what we want. This is obedience – spiritual obedience.

I can say that all the prayer requests that God answered is always through a situation and circumstance such that I would have never (ever) thought of. For example, I have made a prayer to God and state all the possible means I could thought of in accomplishing certain task. In other words, I couldn’t think of how this specific task can be accomplished without going through the means I have thought of. But the amazing thing is, when the task was accomplished and I thought back, it wasn’t through ANY of the means that I have told God about. Instead, God made it possible through a way and means that I never could have thought of or imagine.

God can perform all things that far exceed our imaginations. Therefore, it is only to our imagination if we limit God of what He can do.

For we are limited. Far too limited. Perhaps limited to the extent that is far greater than we can imagine.

In retrospect, understand First His ability – not even the word ‘infinity’ can define. For there is no words that can be used to describe His fullness. For anything is describable by words is limited afterall.

Second, keep the right attitude by not limiting God by stating how things, situations or circumstances is ‘going’ to happen. For its going to happen the ‘Extraordinary’ way – a way that we never dare dream or imagine about.

agape

Parody

2009-03-09T00:45:00.006+08:00

Mid-Course Gathering > Paint ('Pain') Ball Challenge

2009-03-06T18:34:00.006+08:00

This gathering marks the end of our Basic phase of Engineer Officer Cadet Course (EOCC).
The end of one chapter leads to the begining of the other - the specialized phase.
Though seperating, the memories will stay on.
The day awaits, when we will meet again in the consolidation phase before the Parade.

The officers' creed
"I am the officer of the singapore armed forces
my duty is to lead, to excel and to overcome
I lead my men by example
I answer for their training, morale and discipline
I must excel in everything I do
I serve with pride, honor and integrity
I will over adversity with courage, fortitude and determination
I will delicate my life to singapore"

With respect to the creed, I shall fulfill it with Your grace.

agape

Honoring God in Dating

2009-02-07T21:58:00.003+08:00

1. Master

2. Mission

3. Mate

HAPPY VALENTINES' DAY TO ALL!!

agape

Leaders vs. Followers

2009-01-31T11:40:00.002+08:00

When leaders make a mistake, they say, "I was wrong."
When followers make mistakes, they say, "It wasn't my fault."

A leader works harder than a follower and has more time;
a follower is always "too busy" to do what is necessary.

A leader goes through a problem;
a follower goes around it and never gets past it.

A leader makes and keeps commitments;
a follower makes and forgets promises.

A leader says, "I'm good, but not as good as I ought to be;
"a follower says, "I'm not as bad as a lot of other people."

Leaders listen;
followers just wait until it's their turn to talk.

Leaders respect those who are superior to them and tries to learn something from them;
followers resent those who are superior to them and try to find chinks in their armor.

Leaders feel responsibile for more than their job;
followers say, "I only work here."

A leader says, "There ought to be a better way to do this;"
followers say, "That's the way it's always been done here."

Adapted from: http://www.inspirationalarchive.com/texts/topics/leadership/leadfol.shtml

Powerful!

2009-01-26T20:40:00.001+08:00

Chang Quan (20 yrs old!)

Standard Jumping methods

Moulding process

2009-01-25T22:46:00.001+08:00

Tough.
Tougher than I thought.
Toughest of all trainings.

Busy.
Busier than before.
Busiest of all time.

Sometimes I feel like giving up, just throwing in the towel,
When all I feel is pain and doubt, and start to wonder how I'll ever make it through the day,
and through the long, dark night.

But somehow, Lord, You come along, and make everything all right.

Perhaps the moulding process before the final product.
How gracious He is.
Praise the LORD!

Replacing fear with Hope!

agape

The Bible in Fifty Words

2009-01-24T21:01:00.000+08:00

God made
Adam bit
Noah arked
Abraham split
Joseph ruled
Jacob fooled
Bush talked
Moses balked
Pharaoh plagued
People walked
Sea divided
Tablets guided
Promise landed
Saul freaked
David peeked
Prophets warned
Jesus born
God walked
Love talked
Anger crucified
Hope died
Love rose
Spirit flamed
Word spread
God remained.

2009-01-11T22:56:00.000+08:00

I am alive.
Thank You.
I love You.

Your beloved son,
eugene =)

新酒

2009-01-01T18:50:00.000+08:00

新酒 - 異象工場音樂製作

Recipe for a Miracle

2008-12-31T16:43:00.003+08:00

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup Tension
2 cups Stress
1 ½ teaspoons of Guilt
2 heaping cups of Limited Time
3/4 tablespoon of Urgency
A dash of "No Other Choice"
3 heaping cups of Faith

STEPS:

1. Fold ingredients gently into a bowl.
2. Mix vigorously and add a few tears.
3. You'll sweat a little as you knead the dough.
4. Pack it firmly between your hopes and dreams and form into a perfect littleball.
5. Sprinkle it with a little faith (I recommend Hebrews 11),
6. rolling the ball in the flour until fully covered.
7. Place it under a veil of belief and allow it to rise.
8. Put it in an oven that has been pre-set at the perfect temperature for the heat of trials and tribulations.
9. Allow it to brown under the warmth of God's love.
10. Remove after due season and allow to cool in the confidence of His promise.
11. Garnish with your praises.
12. Arrange neatly on a platter of thankfulness and serve to friends, families and,
13. oh yes, strangers . . . invite them too!

p.s: Pass on the recipe to all who request it and let them know that with this recipe, they have the makings of a miracle!

Adapted from Inspirational Christian stories, poems and thoughts

The Implication : Wait

2008-12-27T11:09:00.005+08:00

Most people know the story of Lazarus in the Bible (John Chapter 11) – the person who rose from the dead by Jesus.

How impossible yet remarkable true story:

There was a man who was very sick to an extend whereby he was at the verge of dying. So one of the sisters went and sent words to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” (John 11:3)

What Jesus reply simply was, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” (John 11:4)

Upon hearing was Jesus said, I believe no one know what He meant at that point of time, until the Work is being done in a few days later. The interesting thing what Jesus did is at verse 6: “Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was for two more days.” (John 11:6)

We may ask why did Jesus want to stay for another 2 more days despite knowing that His beloved one was dying? We don’t understand. We would want to rush to the scene and be with our love ones if know our love ones is dying.

Not only we are amazed that Jesus stayed on 2 more days, we are also amazed that Jesus was willing to go back to the place where He was not welcomed where Lazarus was laid. There might be a possibility that Jesus and His disciples may be stoned to death if they went back to where Lazarus was. But it was of no concern of Him for He said, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world’s light. It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light.” (John11: 9-10)

When Jesus reached Bethany, He found out that Lazarus had been dead for 4 days. And Martha said to Jesus IF you had been there, her brother would not have died. (John 11:21 & 32) The word ‘IF’ implied Martha’s limitation on believing what Jesus can do to the impossible just like how we have difficulties in believing God will deliver us from all sufferings we are experiencing nowadays.

As the story goes by, Jesus wanted to see Lazarus who have been dead for 4 days and may had a bad odor already but He reminded all again just as He had said in John 11:4 – “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you would see that glory of God?”

The people agreed with Jesus and took away the stone where He released Lazarus from the dead by calling out to him, ““Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came out, his hand and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.” (John 11:43-44)

Moral: Are we willing to wait for God? The 2 days that Jesus delayed might not be our 2 days. It might be longer – weeks, months or even years..
But if we are willing to wait on Him, we’ll experience something that is beyond our imaginations. Something so great that we could never have thought that God will do for us – just like how Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead.

An impossible possibility (Linked) I termed it. Impossible for us, and possible for God.

Impossible is nothing.

Believe.

Agape

eugene

Next Phase - Advance & Overcome

2008-12-25T14:18:00.005+08:00

It not easy.

It's never meant to be easy in the first place.

The reason I am able to conquer such great heights is all because of Him.

All Praise and Glory be given to Him.
Rely on Him is not one of the options but the Only option.

For without Him, I am nothing.

Nothing at all.

Farewell to all. Although I know them for only a short period of 4 weeks, the relationship and the bonding was certainly a strong one.

Jokers, slackers, hard-workers, toilet cleaners, extras-takers we are..
But no doubt, we are all leaders of Singapore.

Infantry, Armour, Engineers, Logistics, Signallers - No matter where we go, I believe we'll remember the day we suffered together, joked together, scrubbed toilet together, knock-it-down together and certainly everything.

See you guys on June 10, 2009. SAFTI MI Parade Square. =)

Agape
eugene

Last Gathering, Tango Wing OCS

2008-12-20T10:40:00.010+08:00

Eugene & Eugene
- The 1st person who talked to me when I first step in to Tango wing

Buddies
Karan & Eugene

Tango Platoon 3, Section 3
(L-R) Shimon, Benny, Yu Hui, Siang Yi, 2LT Ethan, Eugene , Zhong Xing, Karan, Nicholas, Eugene
(Not in photo: Timothy & Parthi )

Although I have only been in Tango Wing for only 4 weeks, the relationship developed with one another is more than I could imagine.

The hardships we went through is something that words cannot describe.

Everyday spent in Tango wing is a grace experienced from Him. If not for Him, I would not been there.

I thank God for every moment I gone through.

One more week to go

before promoting to senior cadet together

before seperating to various vocations

before we bid our farewells to one another

memories always..

Praise the LORD!

agape

eugene

Tango Wing

(73rd badge/08)

Life

2008-12-13T10:56:00.006+08:00

Our life is a short time in expectation, a time in which sadness and joy kiss each other at every moment.

There is a quality of sadness that pervades all the moments of our life.

It seems that there is no such thing as a clear-cut pure joy, but that even in the most happy moments of our existence we sense a tinge of sadness.

In every satisfaction, there is an awareness of limitations.

In every success, there is a fear of jealousy.

Behind every smile, there is a tear.

In every embrace, there is loneliness.

In every friendship, distance.

And in all forms of light, there is the knowledge of surrounding darkness...

But this intimate experience in which every bit of life is touched by a bit of death can point us beyond the limits of our existence.

It can do so by making us look forward in expectation to the day when our hearts will be filled with perfect Joy, a Joy that no one shall take away from us.

By HENRI NOUWEN

(Adapted from 'Reaching for the Invisible God' by PHILIP YANCEY)

Agape

Spiritual Buddies

2008-12-08T13:38:00.011+08:00

L to R - me, Yu qiang, Jing qiang (no, they're not brothers but bro-in-Christ)

Thank God for this relationship.
For they are the ones who are always there for me and encourage me.
We share almost everything under the sky -

- our life experiences,
- painful thoughts from the past and present,
- problems faces in school, work and army,
- family,
- spiritual reflections,
- relationships,
- prayer requests
- and such.

Age gaps doesn't matter.
For we are all spiritually mature.

Praise the Lord.

Agape
Eugene

Cadet course

2008-12-06T18:05:00.010+08:00

Rush.Regimental.Stress.Tough.

3 more weeks to professional term.

6 more months to commission.
I give Thanks.

No matter what.

Servant Leadership

2008-11-28T15:00:00.005+08:00

For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many
(Matthew 20:28 / Mark 10:45)

This verse implies of a servant-leader qualities. How can a servant not serve and yet called a servant? On the other hand, how can a Leader lead and yet not to be served but to serve at the same time? The world does not understand.

Just like Jesus – a leader who not only teach about the meaning of Life but also serve and tend to the needy. Can we be like Him? Yes, but hard. A life-time lesson perhaps.

Although all of us are natural leaders – we lead our financial, lead a team in a project, lead a child and in a family and such as, that does not mean we are leaders whom He pleases.

Let us humble ourselves and learn.

How to be a Servant in Christ and a Leader in men.

No doubt we’ll prosper in His name.

Agape
eugene

~ a Reflection blog

3 Types of Willingness

2008-11-22T23:04:00.005+08:00

1. Unwilling and yet Willing

This type of willingness suggest of pressing towards someone to do things that are not desired – things that one dislike to do and yet out of obligation, perform it. An insincere act.
Are we unwilling to spread the good news and yet out of obligation, we do so just to compromise?
Are we spending a few minutes to read His word upon knowing that we have not been doing so for the past few weeks to keep ourselves away from the guilt?
Because of pride, are we unwillingly spending money to help those in need in front of your friends?

2. Willing and yet Unwilling

This type of willingness involves much of a chore or perhaps sacrifice to perform a task. Just like the parable that Jesus mentioned in the Bible: The rich man who wanted and was willing to follow Jesus and yet unwilling to give up his possession for the poor because he was very rich.
Are we willing to come for service or prayer meetings and such but unwilling to sacrifice the time?
Are we willing to help those in need but unwilling to help out financially or physically?
Are we willing to pray for someone but unwilling to do so due to forgetfulness and laziness?
Are we willing to tithe but unwilling to offer the 10% which might be a large sum of money?

3. Willing to be Willing

This is the Willingness that will prosper one who performs it. It is not easy as it requires one to Truly sacrifice – be it in terms of time, physical help, financial help or spiritual help etc. It involves full commitment to someone or something. Its goal is to complete a task that requires much of an effort which most will choose not to do it for it either physically, mentally or financially drained one out.

Therefore, when we are willing to be willing, we not only becomes a better person/Christian, our life will prosper too.

So let us learn not just willing to do things that we can do comfortably but also willing to sacrifice ourselves for others – just like how we have become a living sacrifice for God.

Invisible

2008-11-17T16:51:00.003+08:00

Recently, I have been reading on a book by Philip Yancy- 'Reaching for the Invisible God'. In his book, he spoke about many issues and life experiences of both himself and others on how to come to know this 'so far yet so near' Being who have been constantly living within those who have accepted Christ.

"Somehow, somewhere, I know the He loves me, even though I do not feel that love as I can feel a human embrace, even though I do not hear a voice as I hear human words of consolation, even though I do not see a smile, as I can see in a human face. Still God speaks to me, looks at me, and embraces me there, where I am still unable to notice it" He said in one of the chapters.

Have you been complaining to God why there is no one to care for you during your downturns when you most needed someone to? I did. I have been asking for help when I most needed one. A worldly help. Instead of a Spiritual one. When I do so, I failed to get one most of the time. And sad to say, it also happens the vice versa way. (which I am terribly sorry for those who have ever asked for my help and I turned them down due to reasons).

Why not ask for the Spiritual help when we know that we ought to? I believe inside our sub-conscious mind, we have set it to a 'default' mode - that is to seek for a worldly help - a help we can see, hear and feel physically, therefore making us feel more of an 'assured' help that one might deem that a problem could be solved without consulting the One who allowed the problem to surface in the first place. That, alone can show our limited mindset which ultimately limit the power of the Almighty.

Do not limit Someone who is limitless. Although due to our fallen nature, we can't seem to help at times but if we always keep in mind the Verse - Mark 9:23 (read!) I believe we can 'awaken' our sub-conscious mind to a state whereby no obstacles, problems, trials, suffering or whatsoever can prevent us from journeying to the destinations we Ought to go.

"My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following Your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire* to please You does in fact please You." (Thomas Merton)

--Note the word 'desire' - this word implies that pleasing God is subjected to our choice.

Agape
Eugene

~ A reflection blog ~

Nice

2008-11-03T13:08:00.000+08:00

Jubeis Theme - Capcom

Parents' Wisdom

2008-11-02T16:07:00.005+08:00

Wisdom is knowledge, understanding, experience, discretion and intuitive understanding along with a capacity to apply these qualities well towards finding solutions to problems. -- (wikipedia)

We, as children tend to argue with parents with respect to matters which may seems trivial at times. We always thought that they do not understand what we are facing or what we need most at the moment and so to prevent them from giving instructions and advices, we often quarrels with parents.
We want to state our stand, we want more freedom from them but ultimately, we do not know what we are missing out.

To share a testimonial, I have been defying to my mum at times. Her way of doing things is always the opposite from mine and its frustrating when she tries to blend in her's into mine by making me do things her way. Only to realize that in the end, I have been wrong when the results surfaced.

Be humbe to learn from our parents for they have gone through life longer than us and therefore, more experienced. My mum always says," I have eaten more salt than you eat rice." (In chinese) which is true though if we are humble enough to accept it.

I (we) have been proud of myself - too proud to resist important advices and instructions.
Learn to be humble and wise and honour your parents by listening to them.

agape

Random photos

2008-10-29T15:24:00.010+08:00

Possible Impossibilities VS Impossible Possibilities

2008-10-25T15:05:00.000+08:00

We have always imagine about how wonderful we can be, what we will achieve, what we want in life and such. When we get down our feet and think of how to accomplish them, we were drawn aback by negative thoughts - thoughts that seems to limit us. Which ultimately limit our God.
I termed it as 'Possible Impossibilities'.

In this concept, I classified all thoughts and imaginations that came from 'Us' are only possible in our thoughts and imagination but impossible to accomplish in this real world when we come to think of it. Wonderful thoughts like - meeting your life partner, overcoming our weakness/temptations, be a leader who influence and changes life, have a wonderful family of your own and any other more beautiful dreams and hope u ever thought of.
This, in other words are the mindset of a limited being. No, it is not wrong being like this for we are of a fallen nature anyway. However, we can Choose to be better.

'Impossible Possibilities' concept refers to what God can perform in our life. Especially things we don't expect God will do. Or perhaps things we thought impossible. Whatever that is mentioned above seems impossible to us, but for the One who creates All things - Nothing is impossible and Nothing is too hard for Him. For it is already mentioned - All things are possible for the one who believe (mark 9:23).
Therefore, it shall be said: Impossible for us, Possible for Him.

To conclude, the 'gap' between Possible Impossibilities and Impossible Possibilities IS:
1.) The Faith to believe and expect.
2.) The willingness to do so.

So are you willing to believe and expects your wonderful thoughts that you thought impossible become otherwise?

I am.

Things are beginning to change now.

agape
eugene
(a POP-up blog)

Faith Hope Love

2008-10-04T13:22:00.002+08:00

Faith is believing what cannot be seen or proven. Faith is committing to that of which we can never be sure of. A person who live in faith must proceed on incomplete evidence, trusting in advance what will only make sense in reverse.
“Mystery is not the absence of meaning, but the presence of more meaning that we can comprehend.” (Dennis Covington)

Hope gives us the power to look beyond circumstances than otherwise appear hopeless. Hope keeps hostages alive when they have no rational proof that anyone cares about their plight; it entices farmers to plant seeds in spring after three straight years of drought. “Hope that is seen is no hope at all,” Paul told the Romans. He mentions some of the good things that might come out of difficulties: “Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” He lists hope at the end, instead of where I would normally expect it, at the beginning, as the fuel that keeps a person going. No, hope emerges from the struggle, a byproduct of faithfulness.

Love involves caring about people most of us would prefer not to. In Paul’s words, love is patient, does not envy, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs; it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Such a program may seem reasonable on another planet run by different rules, but not on our planet where people act with injustice, meanness, and vengeance. By nature we keep records, right wrongs and demand our rights; love does not.

Adapted from ‘Reaching for the Invisible God’ by PHILIP YANCEY

agape

Believe in His Time

2008-09-21T17:29:00.002+08:00

When God do things, it’s unique. We don’t understand why He does it this way and not the other which may seems to us the best possible way. The reason behind why God does things that might often be in contrast of what we does thing may beyond the reach of humanity understanding.

We question and ponder. And perhaps we termed it as ‘miraculous’ when we acknowledged it was from the work of God. Can someone ask to be Prosperous despite of many negative things going on? God can. Why during This particular period when we see it’s most impossible to fulfill things turn out to be possible? For He has His reason which is subjected to His perfect timing.

Divine providence is a mystery that only God understand at times. However, He revealed to us sometimes too so that it may become a testimony to others which ultimately, give glory to Him and thus caused others to develop a deeper faith in Him. It’s wonderful if you know the reasons that you could never thought of.

We may pray, seek, ask and knock but it’s all subjected to His timing. We may not receive in whatever we ask mainly due to 2 reasons. First, we are not ready for what we are asking for. Second, it might not be the best for us at this particular time. Our time is not equal to God’s time. And as mentioned earlier, His time is never made logical to our thinking and understanding. Despite of that, we are to be faithful no matter what.

And when its Time for God to perform His work, no forces of evil can stop, withstand, restrain and limit Him.

So, wait earnestly and patiently before the Lord's timing.

For in due time, we will receive.

No matter what.

Agape~

Willingness

2008-09-13T11:54:00.002+08:00

This is all it takes to become a new you. A new beginning. Brand new.

Willingness, however is subjected to choices and decisions. “If you are willing..” implies that “If you choose to..” or “If you decides that..” and if you really put your heart to what you want for a change, it’ll be done. I emphasize of the word ‘really’.

Many people are just saying the words rather than putting their actions behind it conforming it to be done. “I am willing to trust God..” says one person and doubted almost immediately when trial sets in.

Am I (Are we) ‘surface Christians’? I asked myself that. Perhaps I am at times when my spiritual being seems fragile due to many unforeseen circumstances which caused my spiritual fall. Everyone does. “But shouldn’t ‘In-depth’ Christians don’t fall so easily?” one claimed.

Many times we thought we are ‘in-depth’ Christians because we attend services weekly, prayed fervently and share for prayer requests but we must also come to our attention that we can also be a ‘surface Christian’ which spread over a ‘large surface’ causing us to be so spiritual at times when all things are favorable to us. It is the ‘Depth’ that matters, not ‘surface areas’.

And when we realized that when we are actually a ‘surface Christian’ just like the Pharisees, we must be willing to acknowledge it and humbly come before the Lord and asks for forgiveness.

Some people are at times unwilling, which includes me, choose to rebel against God due to our fallen nature. “I trust and love God but I am not going for cellgroups because of…(many reasons)”

If you love and trust God, you should come even more knowing that God will provide.
We can’t seems to understand deep within us. Our problems are always bigger than God not knowing that God can ‘calm the storms’ and ‘fights the battle for you’.

Are we willing to let Him? No doubt the answer should be a yes. ‘Yes’ is a word. A word by itself is dead if it is not performed. So let us put actions behind and reinforced with our Faith in Him.

You might not know, the aftermath of putting your actions reinforced by your faith behind your words and rely completely on Him may take you.

Far greater than you can imagine.

Be willing to let Him.
Be willing to pray.
Be willing to believe.
Be willing to expect.

For you will receive.

“All things are possible for the one who believe.” Mark 9:23

Agape~

2008-09-13T11:05:00.002+08:00

Oh God, I don't love You, I dont't even want to love You,

But I want to want to love You.

Teresa of Avila

Catwalk

2008-09-10T02:13:00.001+08:00

This video is tested and proven on my personal pet cat.

It really worked.

However, please do not try too many times to prevent fur-loss.

agape

2008-09-10T01:15:00.002+08:00

All I need to do is to be still?Teach me to be still.Still as a wise man.For the wise man listen and act according to You.Your Time for everything.Wait.Not yet.But getting nearer.And nearer.

Each day..........
Each hour.........
Each minute.......
Each second......

It's getting nearer.....

And nearer....

Press on...

Hang on..

Be still.

Smile

2008-08-30T13:43:00.002+08:00

Develop a habit of smiling on purpose. We have to learn how to smile by faith. If we’ll smile by faith, soon the joy will follow.

Smiling sends a message to our whole body that everything is going to be okay. When we smile, chemicals are released throughout our physical system that make us feel better. Beyond that, when we smile we’ll have more of God’s favor.

Smiling will help us in dealing with people. Numerous studies show that people who smile are friendly, people who have a pleasant demeanor, get more breaks than other people who are solemn and unfriendly.

God is concerned about our countenance. Fifty-three times in the Scripture, He mentions it. when we smile, its not only good for yourself, but it’s a good witness to others. They will want the sort of happiness that we have. Its one thing to talk about our faith, but it’s a far better thing to live it out. One of the best witness we could ever have is simple to be happy, to have to smile, to be friendly and pleasant to be around.

Some people always seem to look as though they’ve lost their last friend. Even when they go to Church, they look as though they were attending God’s funeral! No, we’re not supposed to be merely holding on or dragging through life. Get your song back and quit allowing the burdens of life to weigh you down. Don’t allow your problems and circumstances to steal our joy.

And don’t allow someone else to rob you of God’s best. Too many people people are being dragged down because somebody in their life is negative. Somebody else won’t do right. Maybe we work around people who always complain. Or we live with somebody who seems perpetually discouraged and wants to wallow in self-pity. Don’t get into the pit with them. Keep your song.

No.1 – Get in a habit of smiling on purpose.
No.2 – Check our posture.

Our body language is communicating constantly, so make sure we are saying what we want to say..

Adapted from
Joel Osteen’s – Become a Better you.
(Chapter 29 - Keep Singing Your Song)

Agape

~a lesson I must learn. Truly..

Inspiration

2008-08-30T00:08:00.000+08:00

Agape~

Gift from above

2008-08-21T19:47:00.004+08:00

Inspired by Mun's anime DVD collection (casing).

agape

Yesterday

2008-08-21T18:28:00.002+08:00

It was just another typical day in the camp while I march the company to the cookhouse for lunch. Queued up, wait for my turn and the aunty dished all the food on the plate before putting on my tray.

Looking at the food, I thanked God and find a seat while I was drooling. I was hungry. Took myself a drink and sat down. Gave thanks and before I plunged my spoon into the rice, I notice someone looking at me. I looked back and found that it was my company storeman – Yogen staring at me.

I felt uncomfortable obviously. “What are you looking at?” I said in a joking manner.

He replied in a polite tone, “Sergeant, you look like a killing machine..”

I stared at him for a while showing him a ‘question mark’ expression. But actually inside of me, I felt an ‘exclamation mark’. Although people have once said that I looked fierce and unfriendly, but I guess this time is the worst.

‘Killing machine’.. Oh man… I have got nothing to say. Perhaps I really look like one even when I am just not smiling. Do you people really think I look like a ‘killing machine’?

Lol. I kept thinking throughout the day and I came to a conclusion – perhaps I look like a ‘killing machine’… …only when I am in my uniform.

Have I not smile enough?
Have my smile not obvious enough?

Although it is a simple expression by just stretching your cheeks, it takes the heart to do it. Sometimes, it’s a challenge for me to do so but nevertheless, I prefer smiling from the bottom of my heart rather than just some plain smiles.

So next time when I smile, it’ll from the heart. =D

It was just a comment from someone and it somehow triggered me to think deeper, spiritually.

Life Victories

2008-08-08T23:49:00.001+08:00

In life, there are victories and defeats. Victories are always forgotten very quickly while most like to dwell in defeats.

When we are faced with defeats in life, it can be academically like failing a subject or module, losing in a competition, someone may be walking out of your life, when you feel offended or got hurt emotionally etc, all the bad things you can think of happening to you at certain stages of your life. When such things happen, human’s normal reaction will usually feel sad, having self-pity on themselves and started to have more negative thoughts coming through the mind and eventually, be pessimistic about their life thinking that they are such a failures and such – dwelling in defeats.

Note that this is a matter of choice; you can choose to be happy or sad, to dwell on the negatives or positives, to stay in defeat or victory.

Whereas for victories, whenever we experiences victories like some event or situation happen in accordance to our favor etc, we’ll feel joyful. We forgot to thank God who is working behind the scene causing all the victories to happen. We seldom realize. Take note that things, situation and circumstances don’t happen coincidently or luckily. Anything and everything that happens – be it good or bad is from God. If we come to realize this constantly, we would thank God constantly even when things don’t happen in our favor because all things works together for Good for those to love God (Romans 8:28).

I want to challenge all of you who are reading this entry, take out a small or pocket notebook, write down all the victories that you have gone through – knowing and acknowledging that the victories you experienced come from God’s grace and love for you. Accumulate all the victories in your life from now onwards.

When facing any defeats, take out the notebook and read all the victories that you have gone through. You’ll feel happy. Because your faith will tell you that if God can change the impossible to possible and/or deliver you out from this situation, He will definitely do it again for you.

Why?

Because He loves you!

Agape
eugene

Spiritual Accounts

2008-08-07T23:39:00.000+08:00

Everyone has a Spiritual account – A spiritual account for others to deposit and withdraw from it.
The account contains not money but Love, Faith and Hope. You and I can both withdraw and deposit into one’s spiritual account.
When you encourage someone who needs encouragement, you are depositing into his or her spiritual account. In other words, when you do something good to someone – be it in general or in specifics, you are depositing.
It’s the same for the opposite – When you blame, scold or do something that you shouldn’t be doing against someone else, you are withdrawing from their spiritual accounts. In the long term, that particular person will generate hatred and distrust towards you. If this happens, you have failed one of the general commandments and that is to love your neighbors.

Note that we all make mistakes in life and not all people love you. There’s bound to have someone in your life that doesn’t like you and sometimes, vice versa. Therefore you might somehow offend someone in your life that you didn’t mean to. This leads to the withdrawal from his or her spiritual account towards you. Maybe his or her impression and opinion of you is not as good as before.

To prevent one’s spiritual account from reaching zero or even a negative value, we should always deposit into everyone’s account. It doesn’t need money. All it needs is only some effort and time spends towards somebody – whether he or she is a stranger or not. It can be a smile, an encouragement, a praise etc.

So lets starts depositing into one anothers’ spiritual account now!

Agape
eugene

2008-07-30T12:52:00.002+08:00

Painful feelings scattered from within as though it was physical
You thought if it was real
You thought if it was a dream
Then you found out it's not
Things dont just happen by chance
nor by coincidence
It's all thoroughly planned
with a message from the Lord
There are ways the Lord wants to get His message across
It might be in a cruel way
But it's all meant for Good
For it reflects all His glory in it
He always does things the unique way
Or the extraordinary way
No doubt it's a Good way

Praise the Lord

For God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supply.

Amen

Instant Messaging with God

2008-07-06T09:42:00.000+08:00

God: Hello! Did you call me?
Me: Called you? No... who is this?

God: This is GOD. I heard your prayers. So I thought I will chat with you.
Me: I do pray. Just makes me feel good. I am actually busy now. I am in the midst of something...

God: What are you busy at? Ants are busy too.
Me: Don't know. But I can't find free time. Life has become hectic. It's rush hour all the time.

God: Sure. Activity gets you busy. But productivity gets you results. Activity consumes time. Productivity frees it.
Me: I understand. But I still can't figure it out. By the way, I was not expecting YOU to buzz me on instant messaging chat.

God: Well I wanted to resolve your fight for time, by giving you some clarity. In this net era, I wanted to reach you through the medium you are comfortable
with.

Me: Tell me, why has life become complicated now?
God: Stop analyzing life. Just live it. Analysis is what makes it complicated.

Me: Why are we then constantly unhappy?
God: Your today is the tomorrow that you worried about yesterday. You are worrying because you are analyzing. Worrying has become your habit. That's why
you are not happy.

Me: But how can we not worry when there is so much uncertainty?
God: Uncertainty is inevitable, but worrying is optional.

Me: But then, there is so much pain due to uncertainty.
God: Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.

Me: If suffering is optional, why do good people always suffer?
God: Diamond cannot be polished without friction. Gold cannot be purified without fire. Good people go through trials, but don't suffer. With that experience
their life becomes better not bitter.

Me: You mean to say such experience is useful?
God: Yes. In every term, Experience is a hard teacher. She gives the test first and the lessons afterwards.

Me: But still, why should we go through such tests? Why can't we be free from problems?
God: Problems are Purposeful Roadblocks Offering Beneficial Lessons (to) Enhance Mental Strength. Inner strength comes from struggle and endurance, not
when you are free from problems.

Me: Frankly in the midst of so many problems, we don't know where we are heading.
God: If you look outside you will not know where you are heading. Look inside. Looking outside, you dream. Looking inside, you awaken. Eyes provide sight.
Heart provides insight.

Me: Sometimes not succeeding fast seems to hurt more than moving in the right direction. What should I do?
God: Success is a measure as decided by others.. Satisfaction is a measure as decided by you. Knowing the road ahead is more satisfying than knowing you
rode ahead. You work with the compass. Let others work with the clock.

Me: In tough times, how do you stay motivated?
God: Always look at how far you have come rather than how far you have to go. Always count your blessing, not what you are missing.

Me: What surprises you about people?
God: when they suffer they ask, "Why me?" When they prosper, they never ask "Why me?" Everyone wishes to have truth on their side, but few want to be on
the side of the truth.

Me: How can I get the best out of life?
God: Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear.

Me: One last question. Sometimes I feel my prayers are not answered.
God: There are no unanswered prayers.. At times the answer is NO.

Me: Thank you for this wonderful chat. I am so happy to start this day with a new sense of inspiration.
God: Well. Keep the faith and confidence and drop the fear. Don't believe your doubts and doubt your beliefs. Life is a mystery to solve, not a problem
to resolve. Trust me. Life is wonderful if you know how to live.

Funny videos. Enjoy!

2008-06-22T16:38:00.000+08:00

Cut Scene from Shaolin Soccer

King of Fighter / Shaolin Soccer

Japan Dance Show

Comics

2008-06-22T15:38:00.003+08:00

'The Stronghold'

(Comics inspired and based on 15/06/08 sermon by Rev. Hoon)

'Throw your mountains into e Sea'
(Comics based on 22/06/08 sermon by Rev. Hoon)

Click to enlarge picture. =D

Vacation @ Hkg

2008-06-21T14:04:00.003+08:00

SP wushu IVP competition '07

2008-06-16T20:11:00.002+08:00

The Champions

2008-06-15T21:48:00.002+08:00

Happy Fathers' Day

2008-06-14T10:27:00.003+08:00

X-ed

Thank God. Truly.

Your Glory - 100%
my effort - 0%

agape

Its all about HIM

2008-05-26T10:00:00.002+08:00

Because of Love (Day 4)

Would you do what Jesus did? He swapped a spotless castle for a grimy stable. He exchanged the worship of angels for the company of killers. He could hold the universe in his palm but gave it up to float in the womb of a maiden.
He humbled himself. He went from commanding angels to sleeping in the straw. From holding stars to clutching Mary’s finger. The palm that held the universe took the nail of a soldier.
Why? Because that’s what Love does. It puts the beloved before self.
When he saw the size of the womb, he could have stopped.
When he saw how tiny his hand would be, how soft his voice would be, how hungry his tummy would be, he could have stopped.
But he didn’t.
He didn’t, because he is Love.

He saw the list (Day 30)

Between his hand and the wood, there was a list. A long list. A list of our mistakes: our lusts and lies and greedy moments and prodigal years. A list of our sins.
The bad decisions from last year. The bad attitudes from last week. There, in broad daylight for all of heaven to see, was a list of your mistakes.
He saw the list! He knew the price of those sins was death. He knew the source of those sins was you, and since he couldn’t bear the thought of eternity without you, he chose the nails.

It is Finished (Day 35)

Ask us how a God should redeem his world, and we will show you! White horses, flashing swords. Evil flat on his back. God on his throne.
But God on a cross? A split-lipped, puffy-eyed, blood-masked God on a cross? Sponge thrust in his face? Spear plunged in his side? Dice tossed at his feet?
No, we wouldn’t have written the drama of redemption this way. But, then again, we weren’t asked to. These players and props were heaven picked and God ordained. We were not asked to design the hour.
But we have been asked to respond to it.

Adapted from 3:16 THE NUMBERS OF HOPE by MAX LUCADO

Interviewed

2008-05-24T23:24:00.002+08:00

Having been to the interview for crossing over selection board was all because of God’s grace and glory. It’s like a dream coming true and yet it’s hard to believe.

“Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in Me.” (John 14:1) The grace I was receiving from God was so immense that passive thoughts from the devil came in and tried to discourage me.

For the devil knows that having faith in Him will open a wider path for God’s grace and glory to flow through and immediately, the devil planted lots of negative thoughts in my mind telling me that everything I am going through were just sheer coincidence – an incident. “Perhaps I am not suppose to be here for the interview. Why not give up hope just as many said that it is impossible?” whispered the devil.

"Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man." I used the exact same meaning from Mark 8:33 and denounced. The devil cannot control you for my life has been planned flawlessly by God.

I prayed for wisdom and knowledge in answering the questions they were going to ask. I prayed for the holy spirit to speak on my behalf. I prayed for not leaning on my own understanding but at all times, acknowledge Him and believed that He will make my path straight (Proverb3:5-6). It was a battle of the faith and I believe whatever I have spoke in the Leadership room was all word-for-word planned.

Results will be out in a weeks time.
Selected?
Not selected?
“Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." (Luke 22:42)

Standing at the highest floor of the building that day was for a reason.
Going into the Leadership room was not at all a coincidence.
Sitting in front of all the colonels and majors was a scene that I have never dare dreamed of.
When a dream is becoming a reality, it is not luck or random chances; I can feel that Someone behind the scene is working at it.
And the ‘Someone’ is someone you can’t do without.

Hell's Supreme Surprise

2008-05-16T18:27:00.002+08:00

Hell, like Heaven, is a location, not a state of mind, not a metaphysical dimension of floating spirits, but an actual place populated by physical beings.

Jesus describes the length of heaven and hell with the same adjective: eternal. “They will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life” (Matt. 25:46 RSV)

Hell is reserved, not for those souls who seek God yet struggle, but for those who defy God and rebel.

How could a loving God send sinners to hell? He doesn’t. They volunteer.

Here’s the story of the rich man and Lazarus: Remember the rich man in torment? He could see heaven but didn’t request a transfer. He wanted Lazarus to descend to him. Why not ask if he could join Lazarus? The rich man complained of thirst, not of injustice. He wanted water for the body, not water for the soul.

The supreme surprise of hell is this: Christ went there so you won’t have to. Yet hell could not contain him. He arose, not just from the dead, but from the depths. (See Hebrews 2:14)

“Whoever believes in him shall not perish …” God makes the offer. We make the choice.

Extracted from: 3:16 THE NUMBERS OF HOPE (Chapter 10) by MAX LUCADO

Exercise Bear

2008-05-16T16:29:00.004+08:00

A re-creation

2008-05-10T18:35:00.001+08:00

A house implies a builder
A painting suggests a painter
Dont stars suggest a star-maker?
Doesn't Creaton imply a Creator?

Think about it.

agape
eugene

Prayer

2008-05-03T23:52:00.001+08:00

In order to have a Prayerful life, pray before you pray.

1st
Always ask for wisdom to pray for the things God reveal to you. For wisdom allow us to discern the priority of our prayer.

2nd
Pray for God’s kingdom. When we pray for His kingdom (e.g. Church, cellgroup, missionaries etc.) all other things we require will be added to us accordingly and automatically. Perhaps we should focus less on ourselves and more on God.

Since He has no need, you cannot tire Him.
Since He is without age, you cannot lose Him.
Since he has no sin, you cannot corrupt Him.
from MAX LUCADO – 3:16 The Numbers of Hope

Life Lessons

2008-04-30T23:29:00.004+08:00

NO.1 – To put yourself in others’ shoes
This is the best way to feel how the other party you care about feels. If you would humble yourselves and bring yourself to the level of the person, you would feel how one feel. You can literally feel hurt, sad, happy, angry and such when you are in someone’s shoes.

NO. 2 – Have Faith for things that are unseen
It is said from the Bible that for all things that are unseen is eternal. And if it is eternal, it is perfect. And if it’s perfect, who doesn’t want? All the prayers we are asking for might be a want for most of the time and note that God wants to give it to you because He loves you. And because He love you so much, giving it to you just after a prayer is made might not be feasible as God might deem so. In the meantime, instead of complaining, why not have Faith that you are always one day closer to your prayer requests?

NO. 3 – Wait
God’s specialty, humans’ weakness. We are impatient most of the time. What we want, we want it now – which might not be the case that God would compromise with you for He can see the future. If He can see the future and we can’t, He will definitely give us the best of the best at the Right time where everything will fall in place nicely according to His wonderful plan.

NO. 4 – To reap a Harvest you want/need, sow the seed of it
If you want others to help you, help others. When you help others, a seed is sowed and God will see it. When a seed is sow healthily, it will grow and we will harvest the fruit of it. And in the future, when you needed help, God will send someone there to be waiting to help you.

NO. 5 – For every Trial, it hides a blessing
Never complain for the trials you are going through for you are going to be super-thankful to God when the blessings from the trials come. The blessing will be so great that is beyond your imagination to perceive!

NO. 6 – Always be thankful for ALL circumstances and situations
It’s never enough to thank God for everything He created, did and does for you. Even IF that is nothing to be thankful about, God still deserves our praise and thanks-giving. For He is the most high.

NO. 7 – Choose to be happy
If you are sad for a reason, don’t dwell in it. Ask the Holy Spirit to bring you out of the ‘sad zone’, lift you spirit and be happy. Being happy is not a mere emotion, it is a choice that you and I can make. Trust me, it’s a hard lesson and I am still trying hard to change my way of thinking in order to make a wise decision to be happy. Although it might seems awkward to be happy at a unhappy moment, just remember that God wants you to be happy always for Phil 4:4 says Rejoice in the Lord always!

And many more…

agape
eugene

Army Comics 5

2008-04-30T23:25:00.003+08:00

Please click to enlarge picture =)

agape

Being Green

2008-04-20T09:25:00.003+08:00

Perhaps the colour green has become part of my life unknowingly. It’s not my favourite colour but somehow it managed to blend in, gradually. Training recruits, doing duties, going for exercises and trainings programmes are all that is revolving around me. They keep me so busy that losing my tantrums seems so easy. My, my, I guess I really need the time to rejuvenate my spiritual, mental and physical senses asap.

________________________________________________________________ >> The 24 Hours

I felt that I have been missing a lot of things lately. And there’s an urge for me to want to catch up with the rest of the people that I used to spend time with. There’s still a lot of things I need to do. Rick warren, the author of the book ‘Purpose Driven Life’ once said something like this: The 24 hours God gave us daily is definitely enough for us to accomplish everything + all the time you need for God. If the day is not enough for you to spend, something is very wrong.
________________________________________________________________ >>WAIT!

When you ask God for anything, there will always be 3 types of answers God will give. That is – Yes, No and Wait. Apparently, my answers to all my prayers is always wait.
My blessings for all the trials I am going through is storing up gradually. God is stock-piling my blessings for my future, I can feel it. Just cant wait to experience it!

Agape

Rejoice is the Lord ALWAYS

Batman + Superman = ...

2008-03-29T17:25:00.003+08:00

Click to enlarge picture.

Army Comics 4

2008-03-29T17:12:00.003+08:00

Click on the picture to enlarge.

My Dreams

2008-03-16T23:04:00.003+08:00

God isn’t limited to natural, human ways of doing things.

God will promote you at the right time, in your due season.

He will bring your dreams to pass.

You may be ready for what God has for you, but somebody else who is going to be involved is not ready yet.

One day, there’ll be a Sudden change.

God is putting all the pieces together, lined up and @ the appointed time, I will see the culmination of everything that God has been doing.

Adapted from YOUR BEST LIFE NOW by JOEL OSTEEN

2008-03-08T20:59:00.002+08:00

Thank God!

Mission accomplished finally – as a trainee – so far.

My conversion will be one of your greatest testimonies in my life.

Looking forward to:

9 months of training

Epaulettes to be worn, not ranks to be sown again.

God’s favor is in me.

Everything will come to a pass. Soon.

Your favors open doors of Opportunities.

Let me declare Your favor. Always.

Thank you LORD!

With great Faith comes great Favors!

Pending favors...

Choose to be Happy

2008-03-01T23:13:00.001+08:00

Being cheerful is a choice. We choose how we feel. We are depressed when certain things happen. Our morale dropped, appetite dropped, smiles faded and such.

No matter how things might turn out, remember that God loves you. Because He love you, He allowed all these ‘Bad’ things to happen. And because He is Perfect, He will perform the Right thing in your life, His way. Even if to us it seems all wrong.

I have an unfulfilling life. Sometimes I even pitied myself when I compared with others. I believe others might have the same mindset. But we must remind ourselves that everyone is created uniquely by God. Because of that, we shouldn’t compare with one another. God’s blessing at every individual life is different but all abundance. Everything happens for Good in God’s eye. Although it might seems bad in our eye.

We are not perfect, and that is why we don’t appreciate God’s way of doing things. Therefore, brothers and sisters in Christ, learn to be appreciative. Appreciate the trials in our lives. Accept the defeat in our lives. Thank God for it. Because of it, we learn what’s important in life and grow spiritually in terms or maturity.

Choose to be happy. Because God is preparing you for His Great work which is going to last for eternity. The work that only YOU can fulfill. Only you.

What you want ... is not always what you need.
Be sure that He will always give you what you need at the appropriate time.
Today’s caterpillar is Tomorrow’s butterfly.
Today’s Thorn is Tomorrow’s Flower.

Agape~

Quality VS / and Quantity?

2008-02-24T23:03:00.005+08:00

Speaking of Quality and Quantity, we tend to ask one question : Which will you choose? To be frank, most will choose Quality. It is always an obvious answer.

But at times, having something with quality doesn’t mean that you have it all. There is still a lack. Note the question: Quality and Quantity, which will you choose? Note that this question asked is subjected to your choice. You can either choose one of the answer or you can choose both.

Sad to say, many people always chooses one out of the two choices they are given. That includes me. Choosing one from the two choices given shows how limited we are. We seldom think of abundance. In this case, the abundance is in the 2 choices. Quality needs Quantity and Quantity needs Quality.

Broaden your vision. See what God is seeing. And if you can see, God is seeing you having in abundance that He is going to give you if you would stop seeing yourself as limited, poor and every negative thoughts you can think of.

So why both Quality and Quantity is needed? Read the following:

>>We all want Quality time. How many Quality time you want? Just once? I am not sure about you but for me, I definitely more than once! Quality just like spending time with God in your quiet times and the time when you spent with your love ones. That implies Quality & Quantity!

>>When you are fishing, would you prefer getting a few big fishes or a lot of small fishes? Or, would you prefer getting a lot of big fishes? That implies both Quality & Quantity as well.

Don’t limit yourself to either Quality or Quantity. See yourself having both. It might seem as a blessing if you have experienced or perhaps it is if you would be ready to receive what our dearest Father has prepared for us. Its more than what we ever dare to ask and imagine.

Don’t see it as a coincidence. Things don’t happen by chances. Because God leaves nothing to chance. God don’t play dice. At all times, thank God.

Tell God that you want both Quality and Quantity in all the things that He is going to bless you with. Ask with the right attitude. You will receive.

Definately.

Agape~

2Ti 1:3
I thank God whom I serve, as did my ancestors, with a clear conscience, as I remember
you constantly in my prayers night and day.

Phm 1:4
I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers...

Specialized Phase Countdown: Final week

2008-02-15T22:27:00.002+08:00

Thank God. This week just flew by in an instant when I looked back how we suffered under the scotching sun. It was fun in the way that all the trainees managed to suffer together while training and we played and joked around till we got punished. Managed to get a valentine’s day nights out from our OC. (Ha Mun, u see! It was God who made this Valentine’s Day nights out possible!) Have lots of fun with my section mates together shooting cockroaches and zombies in the arcade@AMK hub. You knew it! Never had so much fun for quite some time with my section mates.

The final week. It’s going to be tougher than any other weeks we have sailed through as a platoon, and as a section. But I can boldly say that God will bring me and all the trainees through the last mission exercise smoothly. Please keep us in prayer to whom that reads this entry.

A 3 day 2 night stay in the vegetation should be fun especially with the company of one another. I pray that we may endure through the nights together with the ability to work as efficient throughout.

The last exercise. The last lap. Persevere!

Agape

2008-02-09T22:02:00.000+08:00

I want a vision for my future.
It is coming to a past.
I am going to receive the overflowing joy.
So much.
So soon.
Let me receive it with tears of thankfulness.

In Jesus' name I pray,
Amen

My family, His Family!

2008-02-07T20:26:00.000+08:00

They are the ones I love and the ones who bares Your testimony!

Puji Tuhan! (Praise the Lord)

Specialized Phase Countdown: Week 5

2008-02-06T22:46:00.000+08:00

Perhaps this is the slackest week among all the weeks throughout the course. A 3 and a half day week is all that a trainee could ask for. A time to rest, relax and enjoy during this festive season.

Although it’s only 3.5 days, lectures have been intensive all the way because of the preparation for the following week’s training. Anyway who says army is just training muscles and stamina? Its all in the ‘mind’ I would say. That bring back my days in poly where jotting down notes while lecturers giving lectures seems quite boring yet fun. However, for that particular following week, both muscles and minds are going to be strained.

Prayer request: Please pray that I can do well in terms of physical and mental in all the challenges next week through spiritual means. That is, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

PS:
Thank God for giving us such a great fatherly-like figure as our officer commanding (OC). How generous for our OC to give all the trainees, instructors and stuffs red packets. Thank God not because of the money but of the attitude and sincerity he wrapped inside every single red packets – his sincerity as our OC and the care he has given us so far.
I want to be like him in terms of generosity and sincerity – giving not money but what’s more important than that which bares eternal values!

Dual Focus

2008-02-03T20:24:00.000+08:00

Focus *
– A central point, as of attraction, attention or activity
– A condition in which something can be clearly apprehend or perceived
– To direct one’s attention to something
– Etc
* Adapted from dictionary.com

Focus is what all of us do when we are doing something. We can even consider to be focusing when we are thinking. We need to be focus in order to get things done. Without focus, we cannot complete a task. Just like oxygen, we cannot do without.

Take for example; solving a mathematics problem sum, we need to think of the steps in solving the problems or equations in order to find the answer. Step 1, 2, 3 and so on. In order to solve the equation, we need to focus on the steps before and ahead of it. in this way, we are not just focusing on one thing but multiples. I termed this as a Dual focus.

Playing chess shares the same concept. Thinking on several steps ahead in order to make a single move requires dual focus. You cannot just move your pieces in just one step without considering what the consequences you might face later.

Placing God in all the things you do is a dual focus. Christians should do things while focusing on God in such a way that we thank God, talk to God, praise God in the mist of doing something. In this way, when we successfully completed a task, we can bring all the glory that is in it to God for we do all things through Christ who gives us strength.

Just like the meaning of Focus stated above, we need to give God our attention or direct our attention to Him while performing a task. He deserves to be in our life at all times and so we ought to give our attention to Him in all things we do. We can use the verses to remind ourselves at all times that we need to be faithful, forgiving, loving, honest, etc and God’s promises to us. Therefore, we can do all things with joy.

Here are some of the verse we can think or remind ourselves when we are dual focusing:
(1.) The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (Hebrews 13:6)
(2.) If you love me, you will obey what I command (John 14:15)
(3.) Seek first the kingdom and His righteousness, and all the things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33)
(4.) God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)
(5.) I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)
(6.) … all things are possible for one who believes (Mark 9:23)

and many more…

agape

--pop-up entry--

Specialized Phase Countdown: Week 4

2008-02-02T12:31:00.000+08:00

Finally, some time to rest after going through weeks of intensive trainings. Thank God that having been able to stay on the tough trainings till the fourth week of my specialized course was not an easy thing to do. But I made it through so far. All because of the faith that I put in You, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Yes, all things.

I thank You for:
- All the theory tests I passed so far.
- The timing I got for my SOC test.
- The performance when I am holding appointments in leading the section / platoon.
- Being able to thank You all the time.
- Giving me great verses to encourage me in times of need.

It has never been so tough before. We all agreed, but if we work together, we can accomplish this mission. The last mission we have all been waiting for – The combination of all the missons we have gone through so far. The finishing line is getting nearer, press on!

1 more week to Chinese new year
2 more weeks to the last mission exercise

God will bring us through.
Have faith like that of a mustard seed.
Our path will be made straight.

With faith i believe.

Army Comics 3

2008-02-01T18:38:00.001+08:00

Pls click to enlarge.

Adapted from PIONEER magazine (Nov'07 issue)

Army Comics 2

2008-02-01T18:35:00.000+08:00

Pls click to enlarge

Adapted from PIONEER magazine (Oct'07 issue)

Army Comics 1

2008-01-25T22:56:00.001+08:00

>> Please Click to enlarge.

ps: This comics is not done by me although the concept of this comics is also from the one who shares the same name as me. lol.

2008-01-13T19:53:00.000+08:00

Too often, we may choose something good instead of waiting for God to reveal His Best.

Don't limit God with our own understanding for He is a God of the impossible.

在人不能，在神凡是都能。
信心指得是我不能。

但，祢能。

Spiritual Landmine Warfare

2008-01-06T00:11:00.000+08:00

In a minefield, mines are planted. You do not know the exact location of each mine. The possibility of stepping on one is exceptionally high when a person just walks through it normally. Moreover, minefields are designed specifically to kill or at least injure.

However, there are ways to prevent from stepping one by using various methods to detect mines practically.

In today’s context, many Christians are walking on a minefield filled with spiritual mines designed to injure our faith, love for God and people and to cause us to fall. The spiritual mines are also designed in such a way that if it explodes, it might cause a Christian to backslide and if serious enough, the person might lose his relationship with Christ.

I have been stepping on many mines planted from the devil. They all caused my faith on God to drop tremendously and I would like to use this chance to warn all Christians to beware on the route you are taking, choosing or walking. For there might be spiritual mines that you might have missed a few inches from stepping on.

Just like how we can avoid real mines practically, we can also avoid spiritual mines spiritually. And that’s through the Word of God. The Words will lead us through the minefield safely for it is one of the greatest protections that we can have.

Despite God’s word can save us, we need obedience to execute the commands. It is as though God is saying, “I will take you across on one condition: whenever I tell you to do something, do it without question. It will mean life and death if you don’t.”

Many times we like to question: “why?” Especially when things don’t go the way you wanted them to. I have a lot of whys I always wanted to know. But all those whys are subjected to God’s timing. When you know and understands that everything happen is for your own good, questioning God would be reduced.

I have been stepping on a lot of spiritual mines lately, and they exploded without mercy. And I pray that I can be like the paralytic man who was lowered down on ropes through the roof where Jesus was, and instead of healing the sick man, Jesus forgave his sins. (Matthew 2:1-12).

Jesus offered more than what was being asked for. He offered forgiveness when they just asked for healing.

Immeasurable!

>> Concept from "The man God uses" by Henry and Tom Blackaby

Specialisation Phase

2008-01-04T16:52:00.000+08:00

Fast. The basic phase of my current training in army has ended after 5 weeks of lectures and practicals. Specialization phase will be starting next week. Hope that the schedules will not be as hectic as the basic phase for the next 7 to 8 weeks.

Here are some of the interesting phrases that the instructors or the sergeants like to use and say to us:

1. “Hey you knock it down!” (Individual)
2. “Whole lot knock it down!” (Platoon level » 35+ ppl)
3. “Whole course knock it down!” (Course level » 200++ ppl)
4.“Good luck to you ahh” (In a sarcastic manner)
5. “You guys better behave yourself, or else arr, good luck to you..”
6. “Oi! Shut up!”
7. “Can keep quiet aaannnoooot?”
8. “Ok nvm! Finger on your lips!”
9. “Heyyyy.. How long you need?”
10. “Can faster anot? Waiting for the cow to come home izzit?”
11. “You think? You think then who confirm??”
12. “You thought? I thought you knock it down!”
13. “You are commanders to be.. can act like it anot?..”
14. “You want me to treat you like kids anot?”
15. “Ready to fire?” (we echo: Ready to fire!)
16. Instructor: “Ok everyone, Sunday night book in 8pm” Trainees: “huhhh..” instructor: “who huhhh? Knock it down! Faster.. don’t waste my time.”
17. “If you are sad about your posting, you can talk to the tree there”
18. “You see that tree? Ok, go touch all the trees except that one.”
19. “Those caught sleeping, the people from your left, right, front and back will stand up.”
20. “You! Why you sleep during my lecture? You want to sleep during the weekends?”
21. “Hey you! Ya you! You wearing beret or you wearing turban?”

Those are some of the ‘laughing matters’ in my course of training in the basic phase. However, sometimes it hard to control from laughing out loud. Because laughing at what the instructors were saying when they are serious can mean that spending your weekends in camp and such.

Seven more weeks of endurance. Seven more weeks of mental perseverance. Seven more weeks to become a sergeant. Seven. The Lord will bring me through.

Yes. He will.

Relationship

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

F + C = R

Where:

F = Frequency

>> Frequency refers to hobby, a common place (Church, school, workplace etc) and family background etc that one share similarly and therefore develop an initial common interest to start with.

C = Chemistry

>> Chemistry refers to the ability of accommodating one another’s weaknesses through sharing and fellowship.

However, in terms of a boy and girl relationship, chemistry can also refers to the type of bond and attractions they have for each other.

R = Relationship

>> When Frequency is added with Chemistry, a reaction occurs and they give birth to a Relationship. In this Relationship, there are bonds and ties. It causes a person to grow – in terms of spiritually or/and mentally depending on the types of Frequency and Chemistry that are fused together.

However, sub-factors also contribute to this equation. The amount of effort, loyalty, discipline, love, trust, attitude and many more and most importantly – Time that one puts it does influence the results greatly. It’s a simple equation with many contributing factors behind it.

It will be a strong relationship if sufficient and correct ingredients are used to create it. BUT, this relationship can never be created by the 2 persons alone. The Third person must be there throughout the whole process. And that’s God. Everything will be with respect to Him always. Before, during, after, ending and finished.

It’ll be a sweet relationship.

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)

3:16 – The Numbers of Hope

2007-12-31T23:10:00.000+08:00

A twenty-six word parade of hope: beginning with God, ending with life, and urging us to do the same. Brief enough to write on a napkin or memorize in a moment, yet solid enough to weather 2000 years of storms and questions.

If you know nothing of the Bible, start here. If you know everything in the Bible, return here. We all need the reminder. The heart of the human problem is the heart of the human. And God’s treatment is prescribed in John 3:16.

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Adapted from 3:16 The Numbers of Hope by MAX LUCADO

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
John 14:15 - If you love me, you will obey what I command.
John 15:14 - You are my friends if you do what I command.

John 14:15 = John 15:14
'Obey' what He command = 'Do' what He command = Loving Him and being friends with Him and of course, much more into this etermal relationship that have yet to be explored.

Immanuel.

My heart calls

2007-12-30T00:15:00.000+08:00

I want Your way
But why am I establishing my own
I want Your will
But why am I not following it
My spirit is thirsty
My testimony for You is dry
Oh water my spirit with Your words
Quench my testimony with You love
For I say not my will
But may Your will be done

Give me the courage to overcome
Perseverance to withstand
Understanding to know
Faith to believe
And wisdom to choose
For all I want is Your plan
This is what I want
This is what I need
This is what is can’t live without

Hold me close
And hug me tight
For the warmth that no one can give
Bless me abundant
Anoint me richly
For these are my basic necessities

Line my heart up with Yours
Let me follow closely behind You
For You are the way, truth and life

Thank You Father
You are the one and only
You deserve all and all through eternity

Your child
Eugene

Some points to reflect on..

2007-12-25T19:37:00.000+08:00

1. Knowing about God is different from knowing God.

2. Do you realize that God never told men to do something they could do on their own?

3. Don't reduce God to what you can do and then ask Him to bless you.

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
(Matthew 7:7)

Christmas

2007-12-24T23:36:00.000+08:00

December is always my favourite month of the year not only because its the last month of the year but also it summaries what I have done throughout the year. A great month for reflections and evaluation of what we have gone through for the past 11 months. Those happy and sad moments captured in your mind somehow stays as part of your memory for a particular period till it is being replaced by other thoughts be it happy or sad ones. Resolutions every year are vague for me as accomplishments made seems so little. Perhaps that 'little' would have made Him happy and it would be enough for me to be satisfied and therefore bringing all the glory to Him.

December is a month for thanks-giving and celebrations even for those who are not Christians. It is one of the few festive seasons which is recognized internationally and thus making it a very unique festival.

It is also a special month for Christians as it signifies the birth month of Christ. Especially the day itself on the 25th. I always have this visuals since young, and that is to sit by the Christmas tree with all my love ones, praying together and thanking God before unwrapping each presents under the Christmas tree, listening to Silent Night on the eve of Christmas while counting down to the actual Christmas day. What a wonderful sight!

Dim orange light surround the environment accompanied by the colourful lights flashing from the Christmas tree bring warmth like never before. A visual I longed to become a reality. Spending Christmas with your love ones seems like a dream that has yet come true for me.

As time goes by, the presents I always wanted each year has been changing gradually, from material to spiritual. Perhaps that's the wonderful part about Time. It changes people - drawing them closer to the Heavenly Father. Your love attracts me and I pray that my love for You would attract others to You as well.

Christmas is not about materialistic presents, fanciful decoration, santa clause nor the christmas tree. Its all about You coming to this world. A day to celebrate Jesus' arrival to the world two thousand years ago. Just like how we celebrate our birthday which are always with respect to the year Jesus' was born (1 A.D). Its amazing.

I say not my will but may Your will be done in my life... Amen

Some points to reflect on..

2007-12-23T00:38:00.000+08:00

1. God doesn't take you just the way you are. He takes you IN SPITE of the way you are.

2. Are you willing to be "like the clay in the hand of the potter.." ? (Jer.18:6)

"If you love Me, you will obey what I command" (John 14:15)

X'mas Celebration @ BPC

2007-12-23T00:00:00.000+08:00

The Christmas celebrations in Bethany Presbyterian Church (BPC) has been improving each year! In terms of decoration, performance, songs, atmosphere, food and people are getting better and better. And of course, glory be onto You!

I was really glad that my friends from SP wushu turn up today despite of the heavy rain. I was so happy to see them when I met all of them at Kovan station. Had some hearty chat while waiting for the rest. When all reached, I brought them to the same bus stop where I came from BPC and we took bus 80 and went to hougang.

Yup hougang. Not Upper paya lebar. I led all of them and took the bus at the wrong direction! Shame of me then.. Can u believe I have been going to BPC for more than a decade and still go the wrong way. Haha.. Kept apologising to all who followed me unknowingly till we reached Church nearly 1/2 hour late. If not they will be on time.

But nevertheless, I thank God for the whole event. It was a wonderful night where many people found their true Home. It was a touching scene when one raise up his/her hand to accept Christ. A simple action by raising up one's hand determines where they'll spend their Eternity.

Praise the Lord!

Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. (Psalm 126:5)

As The Deer

2007-12-21T22:13:00.000+08:00

As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after Thee
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship Thee

(Chorus)
You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my heart's desire
And I long to worship Thee

You're my friend and You are my brother
Even though You are a king
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything

Chorus

I want You more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye

Chorus

So far!

2007-12-15T19:40:00.000+08:00

Things have been going quite well in the course I am under training currently. Really thank God for that. 2 weeks just flew pass with another 2 more to go before I get posted to another unit and subsequently, another 7 weeks of training before I can at least be a junior specialist instructor.

Faith, Love, Wisdom, Knowledge, Understanding and Courage I prayed about have been increasing bit by bit as the days goes by and I really thank God for it and those who have prayed for me.

This is the third training course I have attended so far since my army enlistment in April. Having been in army for 8 months did improve my physical abilities but what about my spiritual life? I am wondering if I have grown closer to Him since then. The food I ate spiritually is definitely lesser than that of what I have consumed physically. Perhaps, I can say my spiritual conduct is still not as good as my physical.

Other side issues have also been getting on in my mind concurrently. Things that are not meant to be shared yet remains as a burden that I am carrying daily. The loads have been becoming heavy lately. Diverting the load to Him seems so common and that is why I am able to have a smiley face daily. Unlike the old me who used to have a fierce look and anti-social attitude – perhaps in some way, I am still like this. Lol.

Haha.. Putting in one’s shoe is one of the powerful lessons that the Lord taught me and that is why I can understand one’s feeling without expressing it externally. Perhaps that’s my weak point – the ability to express myself. Peeling myself slowly with Time is one of my resolutions in the coming year and I hope that the fruit inside the many layers will be as sweet as honey.

I am still consider bitter for now I think – haven’t ripe yet.. HAHA!!

Oh ya! I have finally passed my Basic Driving Theory! … after 3 tries. Duh! ~ You can laugh at me but I tell you that I passed because of faith and not because I have studied. I lacked of faith in passing for the previous tries and that’s why I failed without knowing the reasons then.

Really happy today not because I did it on my own but also of the knowledge and understanding I prayed about with the help of the Holy Spirit! Thank God. Although it’s nothing to be happy about but this is a testimonial for Christ showing that having faith in passing before the test is not just a thought but a future action that you put yourself in your future shoes.

I celebrate my results by applying for the subsequent driving practicals and final theory lessons which in turn cost me an atomic bomb! Man.. I am both sadden and excited for the costs and the first practical driving next week respectively. When I got my license in time to come, I am going to use it to glorify You!

The Enigma of Compassion

2007-12-15T16:01:00.000+08:00

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Matthew 9:36

There is a great mystery in the world: Why do Christians, the keepers of the message of compassion, seem to be a bit compassion-deficient? I think the answer is simpler than might be expected. We don’t follow Christ’s example. Oh, we certainly try to follow his lead, and that’s why we fail. We are only following him halfway.

Jesus was as radical as could be when it came to sin. Clearly, he despised it. Many Christians have that part down, and the disapproving glances we send sinners’ way are the proof. But the difference is that Jesus saw the peril people faced because of their sin, and was moved with compassion by it. Jesus saw the masses as sheep without a shepherd, and knowing their ignorance (the cause of their sinfulness) he said, “Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into His harvest.”

Since I brought up this enigma of the failure of compassion in many Christian’s lives, I suppose I should try to form an answer to the problem. We need to look at Christ as our example. Christians lack compassion because we see the sinfulness of the world and, like Jesus, we become angered. That’s the easy part. But we only go halfway in following Christ’s example. When He saw the world as sheep without a shepherd, his compassion stirred him to want to help.

The Son of God in tears
The wondering angels see;
Be thou astonished, O my soul!
He shed those tears for thee.

By: Matt C

Adapted from Shannon 's email (I preferred calling u peixuan ~ lol.)

Broken Cars & Broken dreams

2007-12-08T18:42:00.001+08:00

In the early years having four boys around the house meant toy cars . . . all sizes, shapes, makes, and models. My youngest, Wade, came into the kitchen one afternoon, tears on his cheeks and one on the tip of his nose -- a favorite Hot Wheels car in a viselike grip.

"I . . . broke . . . my car . . . Mom," -- uttered between gasping sobs.
I'm ready to do anything I can to erase his tears and put his small four-year-old-world back together.

"Let me see it, Honey." Sure enough. The axle was bent and the little car wouldn't roll. "Hey, I think I can help. I'm real good at fixing broken things . . . want me to try?"
"Yes . . . (gulp), ma'am."

I stepped into the garage and found two pairs of pliers. (You have to have one pair to hold the tip of the axle steady while you straighten it with the other pair; I had faced this serious mechanical problem before.) I went back into the kitchen where Wade was waiting -- crying because something he loved so dearly was broken beyond his ability to repair.
He had the car clutched tightly in his fist.

"You want me to work on it?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Well, then -- you're going to have to let me have it in my hands."
I got down on my knees so he could watch while I worked. I loved his head being so close to mine . . . and his leaning against my leg.

* * * * * *
Wade's precious little broken cars: Eugene's precious dreams -- broken beyond my ability to repair.

Sobbing, I show them to my Father and He gently says, "Do you want Me to work on them?"
"Yes, Lord."
"Well, then -- you're going to have to let Me have them in My hands."
"But, Lord, that means I'll have to give up control! I've got to keep trying...."
"The choice is yours, Eugene. You may keep them or give them to Me."
"But Lord, You -- You seem to move so slowly! I've given them to You before and nothing happens!"
"Eugene, dear -- I never had them in My hands."

Lord, I stand here holding my precious shattered dreams -- fully intending to give them to You -- but clutching them so tightly. They're badly broken, and I've been trying -- unsuccessfully -- to fix them for a long time now. I choose -- this day -- to open my fists and let them go. Please take them in Your hands and fix them. And Lord -- may I lean on You and watch?

Give your burdens to the Lord. He will carry them - Psalm 55:22 TLB

You have seen me tossing and turning through the night. You have collected all my tears and preserved them in Your bottle! You have recorded every one in Your book - Psalm 56:8 TLB

Adapted from Calledtobefree.org

Agape~

Rush

2007-12-08T18:36:00.001+08:00

Unrealistic gun fight