Isn't it strange... many a times we are caught valuing the things more than people;
For example :
our mobile phone, our laptop, our all the i-
our house, our land, our building
our car, our credit card, our bank account...
and etc...
When we truly know that investing in the lives of people is more important.
Not only important but more rewarding;
But why is it that we don't have much patience?
i guess it is the return or the result many a times are almost not immediate at all or cannot be predicted.
For instances :
if you are reaching out a friend, how soon will he or she respond to you?
if you are discipling a member, how soon will he or she actually reach your goal?
if you are ...
it is so unlike ...
if you are an architect, you know for very sure by such a time your blueprint is ready.
if you are a builder or a contractor, you know for sure by such a time the building is completed.
if you are a farmer, you know for sure by such a season it bears fruit.
Well, the Lord teaches patience and longsuffering!
2 Tim 4:2
Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
Heb 6:12
We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.
Jam 5:7
Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains.
Application :
Are you able to exercise a little bit more patience?
A little bit more time?
A little bit more care?
You will never know, probably the next second is the Miracle Point!
Monday, August 16, 2010
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Good Idea or God Idea
It's pretty interesting when you have "light bulb" suddenly lighted up with some interesting ideas.
When you look back it is actually a normal idea but never caught your attention until that moment.
And you will somehow tell yourself or the world that that is a good idea... or probably best in the world.
But how do you define good is good?
Psalms 14:3
3 All have turned aside,
they have together become corrupt;
there is no one who does good,
not even one.
The only reference I know is to make reference to the Word of God!
Romans 3:10
10 As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one;
Matthew 19:17
So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”
Therefore, our good idea has to be God idea... then it will surely make a difference.
When you look back it is actually a normal idea but never caught your attention until that moment.
And you will somehow tell yourself or the world that that is a good idea... or probably best in the world.
But how do you define good is good?
Psalms 14:3
3 All have turned aside,
they have together become corrupt;
there is no one who does good,
not even one.
The only reference I know is to make reference to the Word of God!
Romans 3:10
10 As it is written: "There is no one righteous, not even one;
Matthew 19:17
So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”
Therefore, our good idea has to be God idea... then it will surely make a difference.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Calling or Burden
When was you first time step into ministry?
Serving in a ministry not that "full time" category. How was your feeling?
I believe it was truly exciting especially when you are called by your leader or pastor.
As time goes, after few weeks, after few months, after few years, maybe; somehow the feeling of excitement is not as compared to the beginning.
it somehow has become some kind of a burden; every body is away for holiday but you got to stay to serve because you make that commitment to do so.
Believe me i had the same feeling many years ago.
First of all, if we grasp our Calling genuinely it will make a lot of difference!
Our motivation has to come from the Calling not the burden of feeling being victimized.
Let's walk in the Calling of God not a burden but the burden to surrender to Him.
Ephesians 4:1
1 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called,
1 Peter 5:6-7
6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Serving in a ministry not that "full time" category. How was your feeling?
I believe it was truly exciting especially when you are called by your leader or pastor.
As time goes, after few weeks, after few months, after few years, maybe; somehow the feeling of excitement is not as compared to the beginning.
it somehow has become some kind of a burden; every body is away for holiday but you got to stay to serve because you make that commitment to do so.
Believe me i had the same feeling many years ago.
First of all, if we grasp our Calling genuinely it will make a lot of difference!
Our motivation has to come from the Calling not the burden of feeling being victimized.
Let's walk in the Calling of God not a burden but the burden to surrender to Him.
Ephesians 4:1
1 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called,
1 Peter 5:6-7
6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Miracle or Wine
My wife and I attended a wedding recently in KL.
The wedding venue was pretty interesting. The best men, bridesmaids, the daddy and the bride walked down from the stairs to the altar area.
Our guest speaker whom we knew spoke of the account of Jesus at a wedding at Cana. John 2.
Jesus turned the water to wine.
First miracle happened.
That reminds me that there are many people who are looking and desiring to taste the wine rather than knowing the one who performed the miracle.
Most of us can fall into this categories as well.
We may often look for the blessings rather than the Blesser.
We may often eager to have the prize rather that the Giver.
We may often seek for winning rather than the One who guides and mentor us.
Most people are like that. We all can be guilty of that.
BUT if we learn to appreciate what is right, we will learn to HONOR God!
Next time, if you achieve something Honor the One who gave who make it possible for you.
That also reminds me of a story I read many years ago.
A young poor boy was deeply sad when he saw his friend received a new bicycle from his father.
Someone noticed that and asked him why was he sad.
He said when he grows up he wants to be like the father who gave.
He knew what means to be a giver, a blesser...
Application:
Do we just want the product of a miracle or do we want to know and encounter the One who perform the miracle?
The wedding venue was pretty interesting. The best men, bridesmaids, the daddy and the bride walked down from the stairs to the altar area.
Our guest speaker whom we knew spoke of the account of Jesus at a wedding at Cana. John 2.
Jesus turned the water to wine.
First miracle happened.
That reminds me that there are many people who are looking and desiring to taste the wine rather than knowing the one who performed the miracle.
Most of us can fall into this categories as well.
We may often look for the blessings rather than the Blesser.
We may often eager to have the prize rather that the Giver.
We may often seek for winning rather than the One who guides and mentor us.
Most people are like that. We all can be guilty of that.
BUT if we learn to appreciate what is right, we will learn to HONOR God!
Next time, if you achieve something Honor the One who gave who make it possible for you.
That also reminds me of a story I read many years ago.
A young poor boy was deeply sad when he saw his friend received a new bicycle from his father.
Someone noticed that and asked him why was he sad.
He said when he grows up he wants to be like the father who gave.
He knew what means to be a giver, a blesser...
Application:
Do we just want the product of a miracle or do we want to know and encounter the One who perform the miracle?
Friday, July 23, 2010
Faithful or Faithless
How faithful are we?
Is it something for us to say or for someone to credit us?
What is faithfulness? Loyal, Constant, Steadfast, Realiable, Belief
Faithfulness is religious conviction!
Faithfulness is God's Attribute. Taking away that is like God no longer there!
Faithfulness is not how good we are;
Faithfulness is not how much we have accomplished;
Jesus says in Matthew 25:21
"His master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"
Faithfulness is being described as faithful with a few things.
If you are faithful with your few things... not many... you can be found faithful with people's things.
And it is very true, if you are faithful with just a few things, you will be put in charge of many things.
For the younger ones, have you ever wonder why you were given only small amount of money to handle?
When your parents or those above you have found you to be faithful, trustworthy, you would be surprise that you will be entrusted with more.
What if you are faithless?
Well do something about as you have known that you are faithless.
But the good news is in 2 Tim 2:13
If we are faithless, He remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself.
What a wonderful God and Saviour we serve!
When you are faithless, go to His word!
Hebrews 4:12
For His word is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Psalms 119:103
How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Psalms 119:105
Your word is the lamp of my feet and a light for my path.
Jeremiah 15:16
Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts.
Romans 10:17
So then Faith comes by hearing and hearing the message of God!
Application:
How can you be faithless if you hear and hear the Word of God?
How can you be faithless if you eat the Word of God?
How can you be faithless if you are faithful with a few things?
Surely not!
Is it something for us to say or for someone to credit us?
What is faithfulness? Loyal, Constant, Steadfast, Realiable, Belief
Faithfulness is religious conviction!
Faithfulness is God's Attribute. Taking away that is like God no longer there!
Faithfulness is not how good we are;
Faithfulness is not how much we have accomplished;
Jesus says in Matthew 25:21
"His master replied, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!"
Faithfulness is being described as faithful with a few things.
If you are faithful with your few things... not many... you can be found faithful with people's things.
And it is very true, if you are faithful with just a few things, you will be put in charge of many things.
For the younger ones, have you ever wonder why you were given only small amount of money to handle?
When your parents or those above you have found you to be faithful, trustworthy, you would be surprise that you will be entrusted with more.
What if you are faithless?
Well do something about as you have known that you are faithless.
But the good news is in 2 Tim 2:13
If we are faithless, He remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself.
What a wonderful God and Saviour we serve!
When you are faithless, go to His word!
Hebrews 4:12
For His word is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Psalms 119:103
How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
Psalms 119:105
Your word is the lamp of my feet and a light for my path.
Jeremiah 15:16
Your words were found, and I ate them, And Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; For I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts.
Romans 10:17
So then Faith comes by hearing and hearing the message of God!
Application:
How can you be faithless if you hear and hear the Word of God?
How can you be faithless if you eat the Word of God?
How can you be faithless if you are faithful with a few things?
Surely not!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Understand or Understanding
Perceive the intended meaning of words, language or a speaker
Be sympathetically or knowledgeably aware of the character or the nature of
Both Understand and Understanding is important in relationship.
Otherwise it's called Mis-understand or Mis-understood.
Imagine how and what damage it would be when one is misunderstood; especially done with a good intention but the action was wrongly interpreted.
"They don't understand me."
"You won't believe what they have done to me."
"He/she makes me so angry."
"I want to resign."
Those are familiar words of people who are frustrated. We do not know exactly what they have gone through but one portion is they would done something with good intention but not appreciated or really of need at all.
Reacting to what others say and do will render you helpless.
Many find themselves a victim instead of a victor.
I find one way to overcome is to be at a good attitude and be a proactive person.
Be a person who lead people.
Be a person who solve problems before they arise.
Proactive is an adjective : creating or controlling a situation by causing something to happen rather than responding to it after it has happened.
Proactive sees the invisible instead of focusing the visible.
Our cars are make to look forward of what's coming ahead so that we can avoid mishap.
Application :
Are you proactive or reactive?
Do you normally understand or need to be told?
Be sympathetically or knowledgeably aware of the character or the nature of
Both Understand and Understanding is important in relationship.
Otherwise it's called Mis-understand or Mis-understood.
Imagine how and what damage it would be when one is misunderstood; especially done with a good intention but the action was wrongly interpreted.
"They don't understand me."
"You won't believe what they have done to me."
"He/she makes me so angry."
"I want to resign."
Those are familiar words of people who are frustrated. We do not know exactly what they have gone through but one portion is they would done something with good intention but not appreciated or really of need at all.
Reacting to what others say and do will render you helpless.
Many find themselves a victim instead of a victor.
I find one way to overcome is to be at a good attitude and be a proactive person.
Be a person who lead people.
Be a person who solve problems before they arise.
Proactive is an adjective : creating or controlling a situation by causing something to happen rather than responding to it after it has happened.
Proactive sees the invisible instead of focusing the visible.
Our cars are make to look forward of what's coming ahead so that we can avoid mishap.
Application :
Are you proactive or reactive?
Do you normally understand or need to be told?
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Dream or Dreaming
DREAM
it can be...
= a series of thoughts, images and sensations occuring in a person's mind during sleep
= a cherished aspiration, ambition or ideal
= an unrealistic or self-deluding fantasy
= a person on thing perceived as wonderful or perfect
= a state of mind in which someone is or seems to unaware of their immediate surroundings
Dream or Dreaming is amazing!
No one can actually tell how true can it be when on is Dreaming or having a Dream!
The most recent movie INCEPTION really amazed me.
Not because of the effects... but the one who thought of this in his mind or dream!
Bible has many examples of those who dream:
=Joseph in the book of Genesis
=the Butler's future was revealed in a dream
=the Baker's furture too was revealed in a dream
=the Pharoah's dream of the famine
=Abimelech was warned in a dream
=Jacob's dream
=Daniel has all understanding of dreams and visions
=Joel's prophesy that old men shall dream dreams
= etc
What is your dream?
What if you don't dream?
if you dream, why dream small? Dream Big?
It costs nothing to Dream Big!
Many times our Dream is just too small!
Tell me a dream that goes far beyond one could think of... it is still the smallest if we refer it to God, Himself.
it can be...
= a series of thoughts, images and sensations occuring in a person's mind during sleep
= a cherished aspiration, ambition or ideal
= an unrealistic or self-deluding fantasy
= a person on thing perceived as wonderful or perfect
= a state of mind in which someone is or seems to unaware of their immediate surroundings
Dream or Dreaming is amazing!
No one can actually tell how true can it be when on is Dreaming or having a Dream!
The most recent movie INCEPTION really amazed me.
Not because of the effects... but the one who thought of this in his mind or dream!
Bible has many examples of those who dream:
=Joseph in the book of Genesis
=the Butler's future was revealed in a dream
=the Baker's furture too was revealed in a dream
=the Pharoah's dream of the famine
=Abimelech was warned in a dream
=Jacob's dream
=Daniel has all understanding of dreams and visions
=Joel's prophesy that old men shall dream dreams
= etc
What is your dream?
What if you don't dream?
if you dream, why dream small? Dream Big?
It costs nothing to Dream Big!
Many times our Dream is just too small!
Tell me a dream that goes far beyond one could think of... it is still the smallest if we refer it to God, Himself.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Hurts and Needs
Hurts and needs seem to be everywhere, seem to be around for a long time.
What do we do when there's hurts and needs?
Can a minister be tired of hurts and needs where the ministry is to find hurts an heals them and to find needs and meets them?
Hurts continue to be overwhelm and needs continue to pile up.
More hospitals; more jobs for doctors, psychiatric, nurses, counsellors....
I believe the church of Jesus Christ must prevail and rise to this calling... it is a hard saying though.
It requires burden, care, heart, passion...
God's Promises to the sick, hurts and needy.
Matt 4:23
And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.
Matt 9:35
Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
Matt 14:14
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Luke 4:18
“ The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed MeTo preach the gospel to the poor;He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captivesAnd recovery of sight to the blind,To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
Luke 4:40
When the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them.
Luke 5:23
Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.
Luke 9:2
He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.
Acts 10:38
how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
James 5:16
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
I Peter 2:24
who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.
3 John 1:2
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
Application :
When meeting Real needs and healing Real hurts, it brings people to encounter with the REAL Savior.
Will find one need to meet and one hurt to heal?
What do we do when there's hurts and needs?
Can a minister be tired of hurts and needs where the ministry is to find hurts an heals them and to find needs and meets them?
Hurts continue to be overwhelm and needs continue to pile up.
More hospitals; more jobs for doctors, psychiatric, nurses, counsellors....
I believe the church of Jesus Christ must prevail and rise to this calling... it is a hard saying though.
It requires burden, care, heart, passion...
God's Promises to the sick, hurts and needy.
Matt 4:23
And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.
Matt 9:35
Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
Matt 14:14
And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.
Luke 4:18
“ The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed MeTo preach the gospel to the poor;He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captivesAnd recovery of sight to the blind,To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
Luke 4:40
When the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to Him; and He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them.
Luke 5:23
Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.
Luke 9:2
He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.
Acts 10:38
how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him.
James 5:16
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
I Peter 2:24
who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.
3 John 1:2
Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.
Application :
When meeting Real needs and healing Real hurts, it brings people to encounter with the REAL Savior.
Will find one need to meet and one hurt to heal?
Friday, July 16, 2010
Goodness or goodness
Goodness is one of the nine precious facet of the fruit of the Holy Spirit
Gal 5:22-23
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
The root word for Goodness is GOOD!
What is Good?
Good is a state of being Good!
A state of being approved of!
What is the Qualities of Goodness? To understand that we may also ask who do you consider a Good friend.
Kind
Understanding
Caring
Carries my burden
Just
Not manipulative
Loves
No ulterior motives
Generous
Helps me to clean up when everybody leaves after a "makan" gathering
and the list continues...
It is not the "Oh, goodness!" that we normally hear whenever someone is not happy or angry or when something has gone wrong!
Eph 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
3 John 11
Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
Application:
What is one Good act you would like to do today or this week?
Gal 5:22-23
22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
The root word for Goodness is GOOD!
What is Good?
Good is a state of being Good!
A state of being approved of!
What is the Qualities of Goodness? To understand that we may also ask who do you consider a Good friend.
Kind
Understanding
Caring
Carries my burden
Just
Not manipulative
Loves
No ulterior motives
Generous
Helps me to clean up when everybody leaves after a "makan" gathering
and the list continues...
It is not the "Oh, goodness!" that we normally hear whenever someone is not happy or angry or when something has gone wrong!
Eph 2:10
For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
3 John 11
Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God.
Application:
What is one Good act you would like to do today or this week?
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Integrity or Dishonesty
What is integrity?
Doing the right thing even when nobody's looking.
Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code.
The state of being unimpaired; soundness.
The quality or condition of being whole or undivided; completeness.
Integrity is a big subject because it speaks of our daily dealings of our lives.
Someone asked me some time ago... what is best to illustrate the word integrity?
Being a math graduate, I said, "For me, the word integrity is the Number INTEGER."
What is an integer? A definite whole number!
A definite whole number is definite, whole!
Not half;
Not with decimal of something....
but a whole number!
Can our lives be an Integer in relating to Integrity?
Meaning no lies, no cheating, no bending, no compromise, no half-hearted, no half tank (as the chinese puts it) ?
Someone says, "Integrity is what you do when you are out of town and nobody's watching."
That's very true!
Integrity...
- speaks honestly
- true to self
- returns the right change
- returns the extra change
- admitting wrong when you are wrong
- do what is right when no one is watching
- keeping the word
- not lying to others
- and not lying to self
- in your thoughts
- in your words
- in your actions
= action + beliefs + values
Prov 10:9
He who walks with integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will become known.
Prov 11:3
The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.
Prov 19:1
Better is the poor who walks in his integrityThan one who is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.
Prov 20:7
The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.
Doing the right thing even when nobody's looking.
Steadfast adherence to a strict moral or ethical code.
The state of being unimpaired; soundness.
The quality or condition of being whole or undivided; completeness.
Integrity is a big subject because it speaks of our daily dealings of our lives.
Someone asked me some time ago... what is best to illustrate the word integrity?
Being a math graduate, I said, "For me, the word integrity is the Number INTEGER."
What is an integer? A definite whole number!
A definite whole number is definite, whole!
Not half;
Not with decimal of something....
but a whole number!
Can our lives be an Integer in relating to Integrity?
Meaning no lies, no cheating, no bending, no compromise, no half-hearted, no half tank (as the chinese puts it) ?
Someone says, "Integrity is what you do when you are out of town and nobody's watching."
That's very true!
Integrity...
- speaks honestly
- true to self
- returns the right change
- returns the extra change
- admitting wrong when you are wrong
- do what is right when no one is watching
- keeping the word
- not lying to others
- and not lying to self
- in your thoughts
- in your words
- in your actions
= action + beliefs + values
Prov 10:9
He who walks with integrity walks securely, But he who perverts his ways will become known.
Prov 11:3
The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.
Prov 19:1
Better is the poor who walks in his integrityThan one who is perverse in his lips, and is a fool.
Prov 20:7
The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.
First Love or Second Love
"Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first." Rev 2:4-5a
How many love do you have?
Nowadays people can easily fall in love and fall out of love!
What about our love towards God?
Ever remember the first day you set your heart for the Lord Jesus Christ?
How you were broken and needed Him so much?
Today when we have everything we need and want... things, finance, business, entertainment, and even ministry and other material things have become our first love.
Those stuff which meant to blessed us have now robbed you of your time, of your emotions, of your fervor for your family and God.
Where was once your first love now become the second love?
Where have your first love gone to?
For some years ago, ministry has become God to me. Thank God that i have come to recognize that my only source in life and ministry is God Himself and no other!
What happen in ministry is irrelevant!
Our passion, our desire, our longing must stay focus on the Lord Jesus Christ.
When that happens one will never go wrong.
That speaks of our daily diet too.
Our daily bread : the Word of God
Our drinking water : the Sprit of God
Our daily empowerment : the Prayers
Our faith that overcomes
Our air that we breath : His Presence
He is the SOURCE to the every and the very thing in our lives.
Thank you Lord!
How many love do you have?
Nowadays people can easily fall in love and fall out of love!
What about our love towards God?
Ever remember the first day you set your heart for the Lord Jesus Christ?
How you were broken and needed Him so much?
Today when we have everything we need and want... things, finance, business, entertainment, and even ministry and other material things have become our first love.
Those stuff which meant to blessed us have now robbed you of your time, of your emotions, of your fervor for your family and God.
Where was once your first love now become the second love?
Where have your first love gone to?
For some years ago, ministry has become God to me. Thank God that i have come to recognize that my only source in life and ministry is God Himself and no other!
What happen in ministry is irrelevant!
Our passion, our desire, our longing must stay focus on the Lord Jesus Christ.
When that happens one will never go wrong.
That speaks of our daily diet too.
Our daily bread : the Word of God
Our drinking water : the Sprit of God
Our daily empowerment : the Prayers
Our faith that overcomes
Our air that we breath : His Presence
He is the SOURCE to the every and the very thing in our lives.
Thank you Lord!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Pride vs Humility
Prov 16:18-19 NLT
18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.
19 Better to live humbly with the poor, than to share plunder with the proud.
How many of us like to show-off?
Some how when we are young, most of us like to show-off whenever you have gotten a new thing.
Especially if it is totally different for the rest and probably the most expensive stuff you ever have.
During my secondary school days, i have friends who show-off their branded goods which was hardly obtainable where we used to live in a small town in Perak.
I'm not against those stuff... in fact, i would like to have one too. You know, you feel somehow proud and having a greater dignity while wearing them.
My first most expensive stuff I wore during my school days was my watch my father bought for me... it was a digital CASIO watch.
Oh man! digital man!
You must know it was during the 80s!
The only problem is when those stuff actually owns you!
We can become so materialistic and become proud of them!
And worse is looking down on others who do not have them or able to afford them!
What should be a good Pride? or Is there such a thing called a good Pride?
For me it will be...
1. counting the number of souls brought into the Kingdom of God;
2. Jesus increases, ministry decreases
3. God's glory shine, self-glory re-directed to God Himself
Application :
How humble can you be when your ministry is flourishing?
All that we have, we are and going to be have and be is all by the Grace of God.
Eph 2:8-9 NLT
8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.
9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.
19 Better to live humbly with the poor, than to share plunder with the proud.
How many of us like to show-off?
Some how when we are young, most of us like to show-off whenever you have gotten a new thing.
Especially if it is totally different for the rest and probably the most expensive stuff you ever have.
During my secondary school days, i have friends who show-off their branded goods which was hardly obtainable where we used to live in a small town in Perak.
I'm not against those stuff... in fact, i would like to have one too. You know, you feel somehow proud and having a greater dignity while wearing them.
My first most expensive stuff I wore during my school days was my watch my father bought for me... it was a digital CASIO watch.
Oh man! digital man!
You must know it was during the 80s!
The only problem is when those stuff actually owns you!
We can become so materialistic and become proud of them!
And worse is looking down on others who do not have them or able to afford them!
What should be a good Pride? or Is there such a thing called a good Pride?
For me it will be...
1. counting the number of souls brought into the Kingdom of God;
2. Jesus increases, ministry decreases
3. God's glory shine, self-glory re-directed to God Himself
Application :
How humble can you be when your ministry is flourishing?
All that we have, we are and going to be have and be is all by the Grace of God.
Eph 2:8-9 NLT
8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.
9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Broke or Brokenness
Psalms 51:17
The sacrifices of God are broken spirit, A broken and contrite heart - these, O God, You will not despise.
Doing ministry is never easy and never tough.
On the other hand, ministry could be easy and could be very tough too.
Which angle are you looking from?
Back in the Bible school, you will not be taught how tough ministry can be? Choosing a Bible school that prepares you for REAL life ministry is a vital decision!
No matter how much you pay to attend a Bible school or a seminary or a college, the REAL cost of ministry is paid after your graduation.
You learned the most in REAL life ministry... you learned the most when you make REAL mistake! Not so much of writing the wrong or right answers during your Bible school exam.
So many have been discouraged in ministry.
Ministry chews people up and then spits them out.
There are more stress than ever.
Problems in relationship including family.
Financial lack.
What about mean and stubborn church folks.
The result will be that you will be either really Broke (worn out) or you will reach a place of Brokenness!
A place of Brokenness is the place of God re-shaping us into His image!
Our pride
Our tears
Our strength
Our mind
Our heart
Our soul
Our spirit
God will heal us, He will pour His anointing oil upon us!
Psalms 126:5
Those who sow in tears, Shall reap in joy.
Application :
What stage are you now?
The sacrifices of God are broken spirit, A broken and contrite heart - these, O God, You will not despise.
Doing ministry is never easy and never tough.
On the other hand, ministry could be easy and could be very tough too.
Which angle are you looking from?
Back in the Bible school, you will not be taught how tough ministry can be? Choosing a Bible school that prepares you for REAL life ministry is a vital decision!
No matter how much you pay to attend a Bible school or a seminary or a college, the REAL cost of ministry is paid after your graduation.
You learned the most in REAL life ministry... you learned the most when you make REAL mistake! Not so much of writing the wrong or right answers during your Bible school exam.
So many have been discouraged in ministry.
Ministry chews people up and then spits them out.
There are more stress than ever.
Problems in relationship including family.
Financial lack.
What about mean and stubborn church folks.
The result will be that you will be either really Broke (worn out) or you will reach a place of Brokenness!
A place of Brokenness is the place of God re-shaping us into His image!
Our pride
Our tears
Our strength
Our mind
Our heart
Our soul
Our spirit
God will heal us, He will pour His anointing oil upon us!
Psalms 126:5
Those who sow in tears, Shall reap in joy.
Application :
What stage are you now?
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Is our Service a sign of Love or Power
The higher we grow in numbers the higher the dynamic of the church. True ?
Honestly speaking some kind of pride inside also increases.
Does size matter? Yes, definitely!
We are to populate heaven and storm the gates of hell!
On the other hand, as the process of growing the church over the years, we need to guard our heart as well.
Otherwise we can be too caught up with numbers and deviate from the purpose God has given.
In the other words, the true mark of a successful church may not be the size, power or success but everything that flows from a wellspring of love.
The one element that will last through eternity is love, besides faith and hope.
John 13:34
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another."
Love is the fruit of the Spirit of God.
Love is kind and is not rude.
Love is kind and is generous.
I once had an opportunity to had a conversation with a minister of a very fast growing congregation.
Asking him what is his current challenges compared to when his congregation is much smaller.
To my surprise his answer was that he used to know everyone in church; now there are many who know him but he doesn't know them. In one incident he recalled that when he was eating in a restaurant one day and somehow the food was not done properly, he made a complaint. Having not happy with the respond of the waitress, he asked for the restaurant manager. Before the manager was being called, the waitress said, "I'm sorry, pastor." He said he really learned something that day!
John 13:35
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Application :
Are we who professed the name of the Lord really show love?
and are we marked by the love of the Father or by worldly power and success and pride?
Honestly speaking some kind of pride inside also increases.
Does size matter? Yes, definitely!
We are to populate heaven and storm the gates of hell!
On the other hand, as the process of growing the church over the years, we need to guard our heart as well.
Otherwise we can be too caught up with numbers and deviate from the purpose God has given.
In the other words, the true mark of a successful church may not be the size, power or success but everything that flows from a wellspring of love.
The one element that will last through eternity is love, besides faith and hope.
John 13:34
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another."
Love is the fruit of the Spirit of God.
Love is kind and is not rude.
Love is kind and is generous.
I once had an opportunity to had a conversation with a minister of a very fast growing congregation.
Asking him what is his current challenges compared to when his congregation is much smaller.
To my surprise his answer was that he used to know everyone in church; now there are many who know him but he doesn't know them. In one incident he recalled that when he was eating in a restaurant one day and somehow the food was not done properly, he made a complaint. Having not happy with the respond of the waitress, he asked for the restaurant manager. Before the manager was being called, the waitress said, "I'm sorry, pastor." He said he really learned something that day!
John 13:35
"By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Application :
Are we who professed the name of the Lord really show love?
and are we marked by the love of the Father or by worldly power and success and pride?
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Is Ministry a Gift or a Possession
"What's your ministry?"
"How long have you been in this ministry?"
"You running all by yourself?"
"Don't you have raise people to run the ministry?"
Often hear the above questions?
I have been ministry for more than 10 years. I have seen ministers (that includes myself) trying to run everything.
For some their ministries are untouchable and really untouchable. No one can involved and no one can take over.
Many do not want to be moved into another or new area of ministry or responsibilities... it is the saying, "Don't rock my steady boat!"
You can hear the silent yet loud voices of protest.
What are the possible excuses?
I have always with the kids.
I have always with the youths.
I know nothing about business people.
Caring for the old folks is not my gifting.
I'm not a "D" or a "C" person.
God never called me to be in this ministry... but only this ministry.
Has our ministry or ministries has/have possessed us? or we have possessed it/them?
The truth is all ministry is a gift!
We are stewards of it/them.
A trust given to us for that period of time!
It is not your private possession.
Application:
What is your posture towards ministry?
"How long have you been in this ministry?"
"You running all by yourself?"
"Don't you have raise people to run the ministry?"
Often hear the above questions?
I have been ministry for more than 10 years. I have seen ministers (that includes myself) trying to run everything.
For some their ministries are untouchable and really untouchable. No one can involved and no one can take over.
Many do not want to be moved into another or new area of ministry or responsibilities... it is the saying, "Don't rock my steady boat!"
You can hear the silent yet loud voices of protest.
What are the possible excuses?
I have always with the kids.
I have always with the youths.
I know nothing about business people.
Caring for the old folks is not my gifting.
I'm not a "D" or a "C" person.
God never called me to be in this ministry... but only this ministry.
Has our ministry or ministries has/have possessed us? or we have possessed it/them?
The truth is all ministry is a gift!
We are stewards of it/them.
A trust given to us for that period of time!
It is not your private possession.
Application:
What is your posture towards ministry?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Who's Glory? Yours or God?
Whenever we do something for God, are we doing for our own glory or God's glory?
I can confess we cannot deny that we did receive some of God's glory when we do something successfully.
However, it is how we re-direct all the praises and the glory back to God the Father.
Honestly speaking, i do enjoy and I believe you too the presence of God's glory that we have taken Him for granted.
How can this be?
A famous quote says, "Familiarity breeds contempt."
I was guilty of assuming His Sprit, His presence instead of seeking Him.
Both OT and NT described how people dishonor the presence and glory of God and then ended up dead!
Story in 2 Sam 6:6-7 told of the account of Uzzah, when the oxen stumbled he took hold of the ark and he got struck dead.
In Acts 5:1-10, another account of Anaias and Sapphira, both struck death because lying in the Holy Spirit.
Two very serious account that took their lives.
Application:
Have you ever checked your motives?
Your intentions? or
Good intentions with wrong motives?
or
Doing the right thing in a wrong way?
We can talk a lot of God's glory than be changed by His glory.
Let's be aware of of own limitations and refuse to accept the glory that is due to God and God alone.
I can confess we cannot deny that we did receive some of God's glory when we do something successfully.
However, it is how we re-direct all the praises and the glory back to God the Father.
Honestly speaking, i do enjoy and I believe you too the presence of God's glory that we have taken Him for granted.
How can this be?
A famous quote says, "Familiarity breeds contempt."
I was guilty of assuming His Sprit, His presence instead of seeking Him.
Both OT and NT described how people dishonor the presence and glory of God and then ended up dead!
Story in 2 Sam 6:6-7 told of the account of Uzzah, when the oxen stumbled he took hold of the ark and he got struck dead.
In Acts 5:1-10, another account of Anaias and Sapphira, both struck death because lying in the Holy Spirit.
Two very serious account that took their lives.
Application:
Have you ever checked your motives?
Your intentions? or
Good intentions with wrong motives?
or
Doing the right thing in a wrong way?
We can talk a lot of God's glory than be changed by His glory.
Let's be aware of of own limitations and refuse to accept the glory that is due to God and God alone.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
What are you building?
God's Kingdom or man's kingdom
When we first moved into our new premises very near to the one of the largest and longest mall, we raised fund and had the premises be renovated and transformed into a very different outlook.
In any way, it is still a rented premises but our finances and pledges are poured into the cost of the renovation and furnishing.
For me, this is one of the best outlook of a church premise that may not look as one, as we have the objective of making it warm and welcome for friends and family.
Though buildings are important for us to come together to gather to worship Him together, we need to build lasting relationships.
In building God's kingdom we may ended up building man's or our own kingdom and bypass what's truly the call of God to reach the lost.
You know what's the difference. In building man's kingdom, we will always look Backward and talk and boast of our past achievement and success, whereas in building God's kingdom, we will will always look Forward, looking ahead to a new horizon for a new harvest field!
Application:
What are you building?
When we first moved into our new premises very near to the one of the largest and longest mall, we raised fund and had the premises be renovated and transformed into a very different outlook.
In any way, it is still a rented premises but our finances and pledges are poured into the cost of the renovation and furnishing.
For me, this is one of the best outlook of a church premise that may not look as one, as we have the objective of making it warm and welcome for friends and family.
Though buildings are important for us to come together to gather to worship Him together, we need to build lasting relationships.
In building God's kingdom we may ended up building man's or our own kingdom and bypass what's truly the call of God to reach the lost.
You know what's the difference. In building man's kingdom, we will always look Backward and talk and boast of our past achievement and success, whereas in building God's kingdom, we will will always look Forward, looking ahead to a new horizon for a new harvest field!
Application:
What are you building?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
A Team Ministry or A One Man Hero
In ministry, we always look for the man! True?
We can some how find ourselves saying, "If we can find that one-man then we are fine."
But again before the one-man is found, it was everybody working together. And when the one-man was finally came aboard, the everybody effort was suddenly dissolved leaving everything for the one-man to do.
What is missing?
Is ministry lies on personalities?
Is ministry lies on sermons alone?
Is ministry lies on an event?
I believe we are all in this together. It is the TEAM effort. It is the TEAM coming together for a good cause!
The cause for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
The TEAM consists of US and with the Holy Spirit.
Praying together
Interceding together
Worshipping together
Witnessing together
Teaching together
Preaching together
Discipling together
Playing together
That's right!
The operative word of ministry is TOGETHER and not alone!
What happens when we choose to do it alone? Rambo?
We see ourselves
separated;
alone;
apart;
discouraged;
depressed;
deprived;
self-pity;
disorientated;
Eph 2:19-22
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
We can some how find ourselves saying, "If we can find that one-man then we are fine."
But again before the one-man is found, it was everybody working together. And when the one-man was finally came aboard, the everybody effort was suddenly dissolved leaving everything for the one-man to do.
What is missing?
Is ministry lies on personalities?
Is ministry lies on sermons alone?
Is ministry lies on an event?
I believe we are all in this together. It is the TEAM effort. It is the TEAM coming together for a good cause!
The cause for the sake of the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
The TEAM consists of US and with the Holy Spirit.
Praying together
Interceding together
Worshipping together
Witnessing together
Teaching together
Preaching together
Discipling together
Playing together
That's right!
The operative word of ministry is TOGETHER and not alone!
What happens when we choose to do it alone? Rambo?
We see ourselves
separated;
alone;
apart;
discouraged;
depressed;
deprived;
self-pity;
disorientated;
Eph 2:19-22
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Give or Acquire
How do you measure your growth in ministry or the things that you are doing?
It is always a tough decision whether to give away or to acquire.
Our normal mindset is once given away... that's it, it will return anymore.
The world mentality is to grab, grab and grab.
Can we say our measure of growth is by how much we gave last year and not how much we received?
Can this be ultimate measurement for growth?
Though we have financial controls and accountability.
Will God be please by a bigger building? or a fatter account?
My conviction is
if we are reaching the lost!
if we are giving to mission!
if we are drawing people to Christ!
if we are investing into the harvest field!
if we are focusing on what God called us to do... obeying the Great Commandment and fulfilling the Great Commission!
Acts 20:35
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'
for other readings :
Read Luke 12:13-21 Parable of the Rich Fool
It is always a tough decision whether to give away or to acquire.
Our normal mindset is once given away... that's it, it will return anymore.
The world mentality is to grab, grab and grab.
Can we say our measure of growth is by how much we gave last year and not how much we received?
Can this be ultimate measurement for growth?
Though we have financial controls and accountability.
Will God be please by a bigger building? or a fatter account?
My conviction is
if we are reaching the lost!
if we are giving to mission!
if we are drawing people to Christ!
if we are investing into the harvest field!
if we are focusing on what God called us to do... obeying the Great Commandment and fulfilling the Great Commission!
Acts 20:35
In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'
for other readings :
Read Luke 12:13-21 Parable of the Rich Fool
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Relationship or Just Want to be Right
I can fight and argue my way to state that i am totally right and loose the relationship.
Have you heard "I know I'm right and I don't care what other people say..."?
How often we respond and act like this?
Many do not realize until we face the real life.
Having to be right all the time can be an exit door for many good relationships.
What happen to people who always claim to be right?
Often they become self-righteous, judgmental and condemning.
Learning from Jesus is the best example.
Jesus was always right but rarely condemning.
On the hand, Jesus stands for the truth. He became angry with the religious self-righteous... He overturned the tables of the money changers because they are making the house of God into den of robbers.
Romans 15:7
"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."
We can learn to
accept one another just as Christ accepted us.
We can be right
without severing relationship.
We can learn to
accept one another even when you disagree with their opinions and beliefs.
But
there are times when the relationship causes you to sin and continue in sinful behavior
then
probably you have to part the relationship.
James 5:19-20
"My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins."
Question : What would you do when disagreement arise? What should i consider?
Ask "What price are you willing to pay to stand for the truth nothing but the truth"?
Ask "Which one is worth it, "sacrificing truth" or "sacrificing self" ?
John 8:32
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Have you heard "I know I'm right and I don't care what other people say..."?
How often we respond and act like this?
Many do not realize until we face the real life.
Having to be right all the time can be an exit door for many good relationships.
What happen to people who always claim to be right?
Often they become self-righteous, judgmental and condemning.
Learning from Jesus is the best example.
Jesus was always right but rarely condemning.
On the hand, Jesus stands for the truth. He became angry with the religious self-righteous... He overturned the tables of the money changers because they are making the house of God into den of robbers.
Romans 15:7
"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."
We can learn to
accept one another just as Christ accepted us.
We can be right
without severing relationship.
We can learn to
accept one another even when you disagree with their opinions and beliefs.
But
there are times when the relationship causes you to sin and continue in sinful behavior
then
probably you have to part the relationship.
James 5:19-20
"My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins."
Question : What would you do when disagreement arise? What should i consider?
Ask "What price are you willing to pay to stand for the truth nothing but the truth"?
Ask "Which one is worth it, "sacrificing truth" or "sacrificing self" ?
John 8:32
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Thursday, June 3, 2010
People or Policy
I can say almost all churches or organization are governed by their own standard procedure or whichever you called it. And that means policy makers do exist. I worked for a manufacturing company for a long seven years many years ago. And my last four years i was involved in making quality and environmental policies and standard procedures for the company.
I discovered that many workers were so intimidated by the procedures that their own superiors have written.
The whole idea of the procedure was to "write what you do" and "do what you write." And they can change that procedure if it does not apply anymore and needed to change for better. But because of ignorance, it has become a bondage to many of them and majority were afraid to request for change.
Policies or standard procedures or by-laws or constitutions are written by people with the intention to protect the institution and it's people.
But sometimes the very thing that protect us can also separate and divide us.
Our commitment in ministry is to people, to tending and to caring for the sheep; all the more honoring God.
When policies do not protect and serve people, then they must be re-examined, revised or sometimes have to set aside.
Policies should serve the needs of the body; and not dictate the ministry of the body.
I told one production supervisor, "The procedure is meant to help, to assist, to maintain quality of manufacturing and not to cause fear, burden and unnecessary stress. If you see any flaws in it, please come forward and request for amendment. There is always enough room for improvement."
Never let policies pull you down from achieving what God has called you to do!
The Living Word is the most accurate authoritative Word of Life to guide and direct our steps. Following them is a good policy
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
I discovered that many workers were so intimidated by the procedures that their own superiors have written.
The whole idea of the procedure was to "write what you do" and "do what you write." And they can change that procedure if it does not apply anymore and needed to change for better. But because of ignorance, it has become a bondage to many of them and majority were afraid to request for change.
Policies or standard procedures or by-laws or constitutions are written by people with the intention to protect the institution and it's people.
But sometimes the very thing that protect us can also separate and divide us.
Our commitment in ministry is to people, to tending and to caring for the sheep; all the more honoring God.
When policies do not protect and serve people, then they must be re-examined, revised or sometimes have to set aside.
Policies should serve the needs of the body; and not dictate the ministry of the body.
I told one production supervisor, "The procedure is meant to help, to assist, to maintain quality of manufacturing and not to cause fear, burden and unnecessary stress. If you see any flaws in it, please come forward and request for amendment. There is always enough room for improvement."
Never let policies pull you down from achieving what God has called you to do!
The Living Word is the most accurate authoritative Word of Life to guide and direct our steps. Following them is a good policy
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Many things or One thing
Luke 10:41-41
41"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
Today we are so occupied with so many stuffs.
Astro has so many channels I not even know;
Unlimited numbers of websites that I have no idea at all;
Mobile phones, PDAs, Smartphones moreover with those who have Blackberrys, Iphone, Ipad and with Wifi areas and portable modems... we are connected 24 hours 7 days at all times.
Needless to say all the media and entertainment world attracting our daily attention.
I can say that majority of us or all of us are trapped into this busyness. Those mentioned have become part of human life.
Just imagine if the world without them.
There will be more families in the park, picnic by the beach, playing kites, children at the playground with their daddies and mummies.
On the other hand, what if all the Astro channels relate to the Bible; we treasure our mobile phones, smartphones whatever communication media is the Bible.
We carry them everywhere we go, we browse it all the time, we anticipate God speaking to us at every moment, now and then we will pick up and check thinking God would be calling us or texting us... our connection with God is 24 / 7/ 365 without fail.
Our world will be a different world.
May I ask you, "What is the ONE thing Jesus referring to?"
People or Programs
Often times we are just too busy doing programs, especially in church activities. As such that we probably would have live for programs rather than what is important that gives life.
I once told a famous quote, "Major the major and minor the minor."
Are we seeking to satisfy the appetites of hungry sheep without considering their nutritional well-being?
We are growing daily physically but not growing healthy from the inside out.
What is the spiritual balanced-diet?
Food :Matt 4:4 : the Word of God
Water :John 4:10-14: the Water of Life
Air :Gen 2:7 : the Breath of Life
Developing programs is best when the Spirit of God meets the Deep Real Needs of people drawing them to Christ alone.
My soul faints with longing for your salvation, but i have put my hope in your word.
Psalms 119:81
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Exist to serve or to be served
It is always a struggle for every church whether they have leaders that exist to serve or waiting to be served. It is the same senario whether we have more leaders or more followers. Do we need more people to serve us or to serve the Kingdom of God?
Eph 4:11-16
An effective leader equips believers to do the work of ministry.
What kind of leaders do we need?
We need leaders who focus on strength not weakness;
We need leaders who give power away not hoard them;
We need leaders who invest time in others;
We need leaders who choose to grow by multiplication;
We need leaders who impact people beyond their own reach;
Phil 2:5-7
Ministry is best learned through serving the least.
Are you looking around for someone to serve or are you equipping others to serve Christ?
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