Today's Verse:
"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead" Philippians 3:13
Heavenly Father,
Today is the new year's eve.
In this last day of 2010, let us think about what we had been through this year and let us forget all that's behind us, cherish the good, forget about the bad. Father, Thank you, for all that's unhappy are now behind us at last, especially the things which we once counted gain (Php 3:7).
Father, we praise You for Your greatness.
Thank You for giving us a future.
Grant us this opportunity -
- to fret less and to laugh more,
- to love more and
- to treasure the people You place around us more.
At every coming sunrise, let us spend some time to hear a love song with You.
At every coming sunset, let us rejoice in You, saying "I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." (Psalm 9:2)
Forgive us for falling short this past year.
For the year ahead, Father, wish us a Relaxed Mind, a Peaceful Soul, a Joyful Spirit, a Healthy Body & a Heart full of Love...All these we wish and hope for the years ahead.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
2010-12-30
Today's Verse:
"Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." James 1:19
Heavenly Father,
Don't we all blame You for putting us under trials? Trials in any degree would be big enough to distract us away from You, Father.
Father, teach us to open our eyes, ears and hearts to learn what Jesus Christ teaches us through himself and his disciples. We must be alert at all times. We must govern our tongue, so that it may not speak evil. We must govern our body, so that it may not sin. Father, we know for sure that if we don't, there will definitely be some degree of anger grows inside us and our lives will be surely turned around!!!!!!.
Father, help us to be willing to hear of our faults, taking it not only patiently, but thankfully. Father, You are taking this opportunity to teach us, to mold us and to transform us.
Father, help us to be quick to listen! "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11 NIV).
Father, help us to be slow to speak! i.e. Think before we action.
Father, help us to be slow to become angry! How can we maintain relationship if we're being offended easily?!
Father, James encourages us to live consistent with what we’ve learned, let's do just that!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." James 1:19
Heavenly Father,
Don't we all blame You for putting us under trials? Trials in any degree would be big enough to distract us away from You, Father.
Father, teach us to open our eyes, ears and hearts to learn what Jesus Christ teaches us through himself and his disciples. We must be alert at all times. We must govern our tongue, so that it may not speak evil. We must govern our body, so that it may not sin. Father, we know for sure that if we don't, there will definitely be some degree of anger grows inside us and our lives will be surely turned around!!!!!!.
Father, help us to be willing to hear of our faults, taking it not only patiently, but thankfully. Father, You are taking this opportunity to teach us, to mold us and to transform us.
Father, help us to be quick to listen! "A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control" (Proverbs 29:11 NIV).
Father, help us to be slow to speak! i.e. Think before we action.
Father, help us to be slow to become angry! How can we maintain relationship if we're being offended easily?!
Father, James encourages us to live consistent with what we’ve learned, let's do just that!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
2010-12-29
Today's Verse:
"For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. " 1 Peter 1:23
Heavenly Father,
In the boarding school uk, they have a tradition to ask the students to check their shoes every week, clean them and polish them if necessary. The metaphor of clean shoes symbolised "clean/reborn" and it gives a feeling of hope and renew. Don't you think life is the same? It is impossible for us to live life for one day without making one single mistake, let alone the whole lifetime. The important point is that we can wipe it clean and start over again. By what? By always checking on our status, repent to our Heavenly Father, as needed, so that we may be clean and anew, to face the challenges ahead of us.
This is exactly what Jesus wanted Nicodemus to understand when he said, "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit." (John 3:5).
Don't throw away tomorrow, as we are still alive, although, we or our love ones may not be healthy and sound, spiritually or physically. Everyday is a new day, offering us a new and fresh opportunity to start over in a clean state. Who knows? The opportunity, the career advancement, the driving test, the gifts, the prince or princess we have longed for... may just come today!
Father, as we begin this new day, let us say Thank You to You for giving us a clean state and a breathe of freedom, which is full of hope and optimism! Let us start breathing in Your grace and blessings now!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. " 1 Peter 1:23
Heavenly Father,
In the boarding school uk, they have a tradition to ask the students to check their shoes every week, clean them and polish them if necessary. The metaphor of clean shoes symbolised "clean/reborn" and it gives a feeling of hope and renew. Don't you think life is the same? It is impossible for us to live life for one day without making one single mistake, let alone the whole lifetime. The important point is that we can wipe it clean and start over again. By what? By always checking on our status, repent to our Heavenly Father, as needed, so that we may be clean and anew, to face the challenges ahead of us.
This is exactly what Jesus wanted Nicodemus to understand when he said, "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit." (John 3:5).
Don't throw away tomorrow, as we are still alive, although, we or our love ones may not be healthy and sound, spiritually or physically. Everyday is a new day, offering us a new and fresh opportunity to start over in a clean state. Who knows? The opportunity, the career advancement, the driving test, the gifts, the prince or princess we have longed for... may just come today!
Father, as we begin this new day, let us say Thank You to You for giving us a clean state and a breathe of freedom, which is full of hope and optimism! Let us start breathing in Your grace and blessings now!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Monday, December 27, 2010
2010-12-27
Today's Verse:
"Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart." – Psalm 97:11
Heavenly Father,
What makes people leaders? We have so many "leaders" surrounding us... At work, at church, at stores, at restaurants, at banks, at government...... Father, just what make them qualify to lead us? By "the fruit of the Spirit which is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." (Gal 5:22-23)
What makes people want to follow a leader? Why would some people be so passionate, so passionate that they would give up their job, their homes and would follow a leader to the other end of the world? Why would they be so crazy? The answer lies in the character qualities of the individual person.
Father, it takes courage for leaders to dream big and to act on their dreams, in order to make changes to the world. It takes a lot of boldness to step up to be a leader and to pratice and practice and practice in order to attract their followers. Practice what? Pratice to say the words of God, practice to preach like Jesus, practice to act upright, practice....
Father, assist us so that we may walk in the path You have arranged for us and let us achieve our real potential by trusting Your leading, in every step of our way.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart." – Psalm 97:11
Heavenly Father,
What makes people leaders? We have so many "leaders" surrounding us... At work, at church, at stores, at restaurants, at banks, at government...... Father, just what make them qualify to lead us? By "the fruit of the Spirit which is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." (Gal 5:22-23)
What makes people want to follow a leader? Why would some people be so passionate, so passionate that they would give up their job, their homes and would follow a leader to the other end of the world? Why would they be so crazy? The answer lies in the character qualities of the individual person.
Father, it takes courage for leaders to dream big and to act on their dreams, in order to make changes to the world. It takes a lot of boldness to step up to be a leader and to pratice and practice and practice in order to attract their followers. Practice what? Pratice to say the words of God, practice to preach like Jesus, practice to act upright, practice....
Father, assist us so that we may walk in the path You have arranged for us and let us achieve our real potential by trusting Your leading, in every step of our way.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
2010-12-26
Today's Verse:
"In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. " - 2 Corinthians 8:2
Heavenly Father,
You are our root and foundation of all that are good in us.
It is great grace and favour from You, Father, if we can spread the love of Christ, if we can love one another like brothers and sisters, if we can share the gospel with others, if we can..., if we can only be more in the image of Christ and be more useful to others to get close to You, and forward to any of Your good works...
"But as for me, I am poor and needy;
come quickly to me, O God.
You are my help and my deliverer;
LORD, do not delay. " Psalm 70:5
But Father, sometimes, we feel that we are under a very severe trial, too huge to bare. We cannot even find the strength to get up, let alone spreading the gospel. Father, in times of deep sorrow and unhappiness, help us, build us up, so that we can put our flesh aside and assist the ones that are more dependant, more in need.
Today's verse is about the Macedonian church which was being "tested by great troubles" and what did the church people do? "They gave much more than they could afford". Father, You promises to meet our needs, to love us, to enrich us, to save us and to treasure us. Let us be good samaritans, for it is written "Give generously... your gifts will return to you later".
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. " - 2 Corinthians 8:2
Heavenly Father,
You are our root and foundation of all that are good in us.
It is great grace and favour from You, Father, if we can spread the love of Christ, if we can love one another like brothers and sisters, if we can share the gospel with others, if we can..., if we can only be more in the image of Christ and be more useful to others to get close to You, and forward to any of Your good works...
"But as for me, I am poor and needy;
come quickly to me, O God.
You are my help and my deliverer;
LORD, do not delay. " Psalm 70:5
But Father, sometimes, we feel that we are under a very severe trial, too huge to bare. We cannot even find the strength to get up, let alone spreading the gospel. Father, in times of deep sorrow and unhappiness, help us, build us up, so that we can put our flesh aside and assist the ones that are more dependant, more in need.
Today's verse is about the Macedonian church which was being "tested by great troubles" and what did the church people do? "They gave much more than they could afford". Father, You promises to meet our needs, to love us, to enrich us, to save us and to treasure us. Let us be good samaritans, for it is written "Give generously... your gifts will return to you later".
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
2010-12-16
Today's Verse:
"When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again." - Acts 20:36-38
Heavenly Father,
Good day.
Thank you for surrounding us with good people and colleagues, we are so very much thankful to have them around and for opportunities to share our lives with them.
Thank you Father, for today, You are showering us with Your never-ending blessings in a way that we never comprehended before.
We lift up to you, Father, our work, our relationships, our joy and our worries, may You continue to lead us, guide us and mold us, each and everyday.
Lord help us to calm down and relax in Your love. Help us to do our share of work according to Your will.
Paul is a fervent servant of Yours, help us to understand his preaching, help us to learn from him some tactics in journey of becoming a faithful servant.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again." - Acts 20:36-38
Heavenly Father,
Good day.
Thank you for surrounding us with good people and colleagues, we are so very much thankful to have them around and for opportunities to share our lives with them.
Thank you Father, for today, You are showering us with Your never-ending blessings in a way that we never comprehended before.
We lift up to you, Father, our work, our relationships, our joy and our worries, may You continue to lead us, guide us and mold us, each and everyday.
Lord help us to calm down and relax in Your love. Help us to do our share of work according to Your will.
Paul is a fervent servant of Yours, help us to understand his preaching, help us to learn from him some tactics in journey of becoming a faithful servant.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
2010-12-12
Today's Verse:
"So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" - 2 Corinthians 5:16-17
Heavenly Father,
Who are we? The identity is one of the fundamental issue we have, in life or in religious point of view. In psychology point of view - "We are only what we think"!
Thank you Father, for giving us the bible, which have all the answers to our questions. Since the bible defined what a WHOLE person is like, then we can derived our identity from it!
Father, we are getting old by the second.
So Father, help us to remember that our lives are gifts from You and our health condition is a blessing from You. Help us to remember to be kind and patient to other people, just like You, who loves us. Grant us strength, wisdom, love, patience, compassionate and understanding.
Thank You, Father, for we know whom we are in Christ and we will never ever loose our identity.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" - 2 Corinthians 5:16-17
Heavenly Father,
Who are we? The identity is one of the fundamental issue we have, in life or in religious point of view. In psychology point of view - "We are only what we think"!
Thank you Father, for giving us the bible, which have all the answers to our questions. Since the bible defined what a WHOLE person is like, then we can derived our identity from it!
- Wholeness:
"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." - 1 Thessalonians 5:23 - SPIRIT:
"The LORD, who stretches out the heavens, who lays the foundation of the earth, and who forms the human spirit within a person" - Zechariah 12:1 - SOUL:
Genesis 2:7 - Then the LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. - BODY:
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. " - 2 Corinthians 4:7
Father, we are getting old by the second.
So Father, help us to remember that our lives are gifts from You and our health condition is a blessing from You. Help us to remember to be kind and patient to other people, just like You, who loves us. Grant us strength, wisdom, love, patience, compassionate and understanding.
Thank You, Father, for we know whom we are in Christ and we will never ever loose our identity.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
2010-12-11
Today's Verse:
"There will be no more death or mourning." - Revelation 21:4 NIV
Heavenly Father,
People joke about death.
Paul said "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. " (Philippians 1:20-24).
Paul chose to spread the good news of Jesus, so he chose to live! Do a google search and you would know what type of condition he was in when he wrote Philippians. If he could have survived in such circumstances, why couldn't we?
We all have treasured memories. We all have accomplishments and we all have precious relationships and loved ones. So, Father, do not let us loose heart, until You really call for us.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"There will be no more death or mourning." - Revelation 21:4 NIV
Heavenly Father,
- "I am ready to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter." - Sir Winston Churchill
- "I'm not afraid to die. I just don't want to be there when it happens." - Woody Allen
- “Have the courage to live. Anyone can die.” - Robert Cody
People joke about death.
Paul said "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. " (Philippians 1:20-24).
Paul chose to spread the good news of Jesus, so he chose to live! Do a google search and you would know what type of condition he was in when he wrote Philippians. If he could have survived in such circumstances, why couldn't we?
We all have treasured memories. We all have accomplishments and we all have precious relationships and loved ones. So, Father, do not let us loose heart, until You really call for us.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, December 10, 2010
2010-12-10
Today's Verse:
“But if you turn away and forsake the decrees and commands I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them" - 2 Chronicles 7:19
Heavenly Father,
Guide me, guard me, protect me.
Sometimes we seemed to be turning away from you and forsaking your commands etc. and we went to serve another god called "work". Due to work satification, due to money or due to pride, we would sacrifice our time, our energy and our efforts, then perhaps, in return, we will get "a title" or "an identity"...
Father, guard our hearts, keep us safe in You and help us to be able to do the work that You have laid out before us to do. Help us to balance our lives. Help us to walk through this work experience so that we can be your greater warriors in the world. Help us to be stronger persons, better persons and confident individuals.
Father, we surrender all to You. Let us align with You this day, on all that we do, think and desire. Help us Lord to focus in You and You alone.
Keep us strong in You this day Father God.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
“But if you turn away and forsake the decrees and commands I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them" - 2 Chronicles 7:19
Heavenly Father,
Guide me, guard me, protect me.
Sometimes we seemed to be turning away from you and forsaking your commands etc. and we went to serve another god called "work". Due to work satification, due to money or due to pride, we would sacrifice our time, our energy and our efforts, then perhaps, in return, we will get "a title" or "an identity"...
Father, guard our hearts, keep us safe in You and help us to be able to do the work that You have laid out before us to do. Help us to balance our lives. Help us to walk through this work experience so that we can be your greater warriors in the world. Help us to be stronger persons, better persons and confident individuals.
Father, we surrender all to You. Let us align with You this day, on all that we do, think and desire. Help us Lord to focus in You and You alone.
Keep us strong in You this day Father God.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
2010-12-09
Today's Verse:
"God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. " - Hebrews 6:18
Heavenly Father,
Are You revealing Your answers to our prayers, from the atmosphere all around us?
Jim Coleman, the pastoral worker, was expressing his feeling of helplessness and heart aches for the souls he saw, going into the vistor's centre of Orange County Jail, because they were mostly young women, nicely dressed, carrying babies, or pushing young children in strollers. What would you do, if you were in his shoes, needing to pass by this sidewalk everyday?
He prayed.
Indeed, Father, many scientific studies had been done, and testified that prayer does help in the process of physical and emotional healing! Dr. Carl A. Hammerschlag, M.D. wrote on his blog - prayer is : "Connecting to something other than self, something that inspires you, something that fills you with awe and love; they all embolden the healing spirit."
Father, let us form a habit to pray for at least a person in need each day.
"Dear Lord,
[He/She] needs you now because [his/her] life is full of weary and [he/she] is carrying heavy burdens in [his/her] heart, mind and soul. Father, in forming the habit of reading your Words everyday, may [he/she] find comfort, healing power, joy, peace, pleasure, delight and happiness. Father, may you take away a burden from [he/she] each day, so that [he/she] may find rest in You. Amen "
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. " - Hebrews 6:18
Heavenly Father,
Are You revealing Your answers to our prayers, from the atmosphere all around us?
Jim Coleman, the pastoral worker, was expressing his feeling of helplessness and heart aches for the souls he saw, going into the vistor's centre of Orange County Jail, because they were mostly young women, nicely dressed, carrying babies, or pushing young children in strollers. What would you do, if you were in his shoes, needing to pass by this sidewalk everyday?
He prayed.
Indeed, Father, many scientific studies had been done, and testified that prayer does help in the process of physical and emotional healing! Dr. Carl A. Hammerschlag, M.D. wrote on his blog - prayer is : "Connecting to something other than self, something that inspires you, something that fills you with awe and love; they all embolden the healing spirit."
Father, let us form a habit to pray for at least a person in need each day.
"Dear Lord,
[He/She] needs you now because [his/her] life is full of weary and [he/she] is carrying heavy burdens in [his/her] heart, mind and soul. Father, in forming the habit of reading your Words everyday, may [he/she] find comfort, healing power, joy, peace, pleasure, delight and happiness. Father, may you take away a burden from [he/she] each day, so that [he/she] may find rest in You. Amen "
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
2010-12-08
Today’s Verse:
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We are Your servants and we should serve You with a faithful heart.
Father, there is absolutely no value to plan for our lives, because You may choose to lengthen or shorten them as You please. Indeed this is true, if we think negatively. A tutor, aged 29 died "suddenly" after the cold symptoms developed into heart muscle infection. A young talented insurance agency, Roy Tao, aged 26, went to a volunteer trip and was killed in an car accident...
Father, our lives are in Your hands, but we trust that we are in good hands! Of course we may surely plan for our lives without knowing what the future holds. We don't know whether we will find our prince or princess and KEEP them for our entire life span! We don't know whether we will be able to find our dream jobs, we don't know whether we will get what we want, do what we want etc. Nor do we know about what will be coming...
Father, You told us that we should not worry about tomorrow. So Father, we will leave our lives to You to make them bitter or sweet. We will also leave our "food storage" cabinets to You to fill them with food and raiment abundantly or not.
Father, let us not be anxious about the future, how we shall live in the next coming year, coming month, coming day, coming hour, coming minute or coming second!
Father, improve our trust in You more and more each day, so that we may serve as a living testimony and an encouragement to others.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We are Your servants and we should serve You with a faithful heart.
Father, there is absolutely no value to plan for our lives, because You may choose to lengthen or shorten them as You please. Indeed this is true, if we think negatively. A tutor, aged 29 died "suddenly" after the cold symptoms developed into heart muscle infection. A young talented insurance agency, Roy Tao, aged 26, went to a volunteer trip and was killed in an car accident...
Father, our lives are in Your hands, but we trust that we are in good hands! Of course we may surely plan for our lives without knowing what the future holds. We don't know whether we will find our prince or princess and KEEP them for our entire life span! We don't know whether we will be able to find our dream jobs, we don't know whether we will get what we want, do what we want etc. Nor do we know about what will be coming...
Father, You told us that we should not worry about tomorrow. So Father, we will leave our lives to You to make them bitter or sweet. We will also leave our "food storage" cabinets to You to fill them with food and raiment abundantly or not.
Father, let us not be anxious about the future, how we shall live in the next coming year, coming month, coming day, coming hour, coming minute or coming second!
Father, improve our trust in You more and more each day, so that we may serve as a living testimony and an encouragement to others.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
2010-12-07
Today’s Verse:
"Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore stand in awe of God." - Ecclesiastes 5:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Richard Burley's poem says "I see no point just now, in dreams." Well, there is a great deal of folly, in dreams, which most part of them are wither vain or insignificant, most importantly, there are many snares and temptations as well. We will be exposed in great danger if we believe any of them without seeking God's interpretation.
Father, "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." (Psalm 4:8) Father, protect us from dreaming the impossible, exposing us to lies, traps or satan's bait.
Father, we pray for courage as we begin a new day, for we understand that everyday is a fresh opportunity for us to work hard and play hard. Although, there is work to be done, burdens to be carried, feelings to be shared but there are also joy and happiness to be celebrated. Father, grant us the courage to be silent to angry words that may get us into trouble, grant us the boldness to persevere in turbulence.
Father, may we have the courage to follow Your guidance, may we have the strength to continue the path You have planned for us.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
=====
Peace Prayer
by Richard Burley
I see no point just now, in dreams.
Or vow the sun may shine tomorrow.
Who’s to thank for why it beams?
Who now fills the moon with sorrow?
I cannot see beyond that day’s
sacrifice, our dreams dismay.
Lives we thought we’d never lose,
forever lost...in sky so blue.
The river of terror now overflows.
Jobes’ levy nearly breached.
God’s cold wind of change now blows.
What ancient lesson will He re-teach?
So ask me not of dreams and plans.
They matter not, somehow.
Along with peace, in other lands,
pray for an end, to all wars now.
"Much dreaming and many words are meaningless. Therefore stand in awe of God." - Ecclesiastes 5:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Richard Burley's poem says "I see no point just now, in dreams." Well, there is a great deal of folly, in dreams, which most part of them are wither vain or insignificant, most importantly, there are many snares and temptations as well. We will be exposed in great danger if we believe any of them without seeking God's interpretation.
Father, "I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." (Psalm 4:8) Father, protect us from dreaming the impossible, exposing us to lies, traps or satan's bait.
Father, we pray for courage as we begin a new day, for we understand that everyday is a fresh opportunity for us to work hard and play hard. Although, there is work to be done, burdens to be carried, feelings to be shared but there are also joy and happiness to be celebrated. Father, grant us the courage to be silent to angry words that may get us into trouble, grant us the boldness to persevere in turbulence.
Father, may we have the courage to follow Your guidance, may we have the strength to continue the path You have planned for us.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
=====
Peace Prayer
by Richard Burley
I see no point just now, in dreams.
Or vow the sun may shine tomorrow.
Who’s to thank for why it beams?
Who now fills the moon with sorrow?
I cannot see beyond that day’s
sacrifice, our dreams dismay.
Lives we thought we’d never lose,
forever lost...in sky so blue.
The river of terror now overflows.
Jobes’ levy nearly breached.
God’s cold wind of change now blows.
What ancient lesson will He re-teach?
So ask me not of dreams and plans.
They matter not, somehow.
Along with peace, in other lands,
pray for an end, to all wars now.
Monday, December 6, 2010
2010-12-06
Today’s Verse:
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." – Matthew 5:9
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We hurt You when we breach with people. You called us to be peacemakers and yet, due to our mindless flesh, we created problems within the community. As E.M. Forster says "I would rather be a coward than brave because people hurt you when you are brave." How true? The truth is: whether we want to be bold Christians or nerds who are afraid of being hurt.
Jesus is the ultimate peacemaker. He laid down His life to build this bridge between God and us. But we should look deeper into the matter, there are two relationships involved really, one is the relationship with God, the other is the relationship with our neighbours. See the cross of Jesus? There are two planks - the vertical plank and the horizontal plank.
In times of conflict, we should think of the Cross, the high cost that Jesus paid, out of love. If we try our best to serve as the cause of peace on the bridge of the cross, our efforts will not be in vain. Well, if we cannot do that, at least allow us to control our body and mind and soul NOT to cause conflict!
Thank you Father, for Jesus gives us peace of mind and heart (John 14:27) May we have the pleasure to experience the joy of being a peacemaker one day.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." – Matthew 5:9
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We hurt You when we breach with people. You called us to be peacemakers and yet, due to our mindless flesh, we created problems within the community. As E.M. Forster says "I would rather be a coward than brave because people hurt you when you are brave." How true? The truth is: whether we want to be bold Christians or nerds who are afraid of being hurt.
Jesus is the ultimate peacemaker. He laid down His life to build this bridge between God and us. But we should look deeper into the matter, there are two relationships involved really, one is the relationship with God, the other is the relationship with our neighbours. See the cross of Jesus? There are two planks - the vertical plank and the horizontal plank.
In times of conflict, we should think of the Cross, the high cost that Jesus paid, out of love. If we try our best to serve as the cause of peace on the bridge of the cross, our efforts will not be in vain. Well, if we cannot do that, at least allow us to control our body and mind and soul NOT to cause conflict!
Thank you Father, for Jesus gives us peace of mind and heart (John 14:27) May we have the pleasure to experience the joy of being a peacemaker one day.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
2010-12-05
Today’s Verse:
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." – Matthew 5:4
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"Why do bad things happen to good people?"
Father, this is indeed one of the most difficult questions in Christianity. God, You are eternal, infinite, omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent. God, Your ways are higher than our ways and Your thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Therefore, why should we expect ourselves to be clever enough to be able to understand the mastermind? Father, as long as we trust You'll have our best interest at heart, it's okay. Other people may say the term the "spirit of Ah Q" or "Ah Q mentality" (阿Q精神) to our attitude of "blind faith", but Father, grant us wisdom to look at You, rather than these obnoxious comments.
Father, we should look at the story of Job, because You had allowed satan to do everything he wanted to Job except to take his life! What did Job do?
- “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” (Job 1:21)
- “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him” (Job 13:15).
Father, we think if we live a good life, we will be happy, and unhappy otherwise.
What is the definition of happiness? What is the reason to listen to God's words? Is this diverted from the first intention to study the bible?
A even more difficult to tackle question could be, "Why does God allow good things to happen to bad people?" Jesus answered, "For they will be comforted."
Father, we can choose to turn our mourns into praises and worship. Likewise, we can nurse our hurt, rehearse it or reverse it, but nothing will be changed unless we choose to get healing from You, O Lord!
Grant us wisdom.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." – Matthew 5:4
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"Why do bad things happen to good people?"
Father, this is indeed one of the most difficult questions in Christianity. God, You are eternal, infinite, omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent. God, Your ways are higher than our ways and Your thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Therefore, why should we expect ourselves to be clever enough to be able to understand the mastermind? Father, as long as we trust You'll have our best interest at heart, it's okay. Other people may say the term the "spirit of Ah Q" or "Ah Q mentality" (阿Q精神) to our attitude of "blind faith", but Father, grant us wisdom to look at You, rather than these obnoxious comments.
Father, we should look at the story of Job, because You had allowed satan to do everything he wanted to Job except to take his life! What did Job do?
- “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” (Job 1:21)
- “Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him” (Job 13:15).
Father, we think if we live a good life, we will be happy, and unhappy otherwise.
What is the definition of happiness? What is the reason to listen to God's words? Is this diverted from the first intention to study the bible?
A even more difficult to tackle question could be, "Why does God allow good things to happen to bad people?" Jesus answered, "For they will be comforted."
Father, we can choose to turn our mourns into praises and worship. Likewise, we can nurse our hurt, rehearse it or reverse it, but nothing will be changed unless we choose to get healing from You, O Lord!
Grant us wisdom.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
2010-12-04
Today’s Verse:
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. " - Ephesians 2:10
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Wicked men are slaves to satan. If we remain wicked, why us sinners, has to seek earnestly for that grace of God? Because grace in the soul is a new life in the soul. All is the free gift of God!
God created us to enjoy life and to influence others by our overwhelming joy and happiness, dwelling in the life of Him.
O Lord our God, You created us in Your own image and likeness, by Your grace and mercy, grant us salvation. We need abundance of your grace to overcome our human, sinful nature. We are created to be good and upright christians.
O Lord our God, for in our inner being, we are delighted in Your law (Rom 7:22) What a bunch of wretched humans we are?! Father, who will rescue us from our deteriorating souls and bodies? Other than You, who delivers us through Jesus Christ our Lord! (Rom 7:24-25)
Father, how absolutely necessary Your grace is for us? Apart from You we can do nothing. (John 15:5). Can You hear us? Do You care about us? Will You help us? Father, in pain we doubt, in trouble we doubt, in suffering, in affliction, in agony, in distress, in sorrow, in woe or in trial - we doubt. Father, help us to take one step back, help us to see beyond all these "feelings of our flesh".
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. " - Ephesians 2:10
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Wicked men are slaves to satan. If we remain wicked, why us sinners, has to seek earnestly for that grace of God? Because grace in the soul is a new life in the soul. All is the free gift of God!
God created us to enjoy life and to influence others by our overwhelming joy and happiness, dwelling in the life of Him.
O Lord our God, You created us in Your own image and likeness, by Your grace and mercy, grant us salvation. We need abundance of your grace to overcome our human, sinful nature. We are created to be good and upright christians.
O Lord our God, for in our inner being, we are delighted in Your law (Rom 7:22) What a bunch of wretched humans we are?! Father, who will rescue us from our deteriorating souls and bodies? Other than You, who delivers us through Jesus Christ our Lord! (Rom 7:24-25)
Father, how absolutely necessary Your grace is for us? Apart from You we can do nothing. (John 15:5). Can You hear us? Do You care about us? Will You help us? Father, in pain we doubt, in trouble we doubt, in suffering, in affliction, in agony, in distress, in sorrow, in woe or in trial - we doubt. Father, help us to take one step back, help us to see beyond all these "feelings of our flesh".
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, December 3, 2010
2010-12-03
Today’s Verse:
"Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress." - 1 Timothy 4:15
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Don't we like monitoring ourselves as well as others? We should really be diligent in prayer, in reading, in fasting and in religious devotion, so that through faith, we may experience hope, love, joy, trust, desire, confidence, assurance and promise all melted down together, by God's fire of faithfulness.
We should setup our study schedule for God's words, so that people around us may see that we are faithful servants. Not only that, but people can also measure our progress in the knowledge of God.
So, let's make a habit to pray a little prayer to God first thing after we wake up every morning?
- Father, please give me grace Lord to make a difference on earth today.
- Father, please help me Lord to serve You faithfully today.
- Father, please help me dear Lord, to be fervent in prayer all the days of my life.
- Father, please help me, Oh Lord to do the right thing at the right time.
- Lord, please help me to see You today and to see what You want me to do.
- Lord, open my eyes to the opportunities for greatness that abound all around me.
- I believe Lord that You have not given me the spirit of fear but of power and a sound mind.
“Do not have your concert and then tune your instruments afterwards. Begin the day with God.” J.H. Hudson
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress." - 1 Timothy 4:15
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Don't we like monitoring ourselves as well as others? We should really be diligent in prayer, in reading, in fasting and in religious devotion, so that through faith, we may experience hope, love, joy, trust, desire, confidence, assurance and promise all melted down together, by God's fire of faithfulness.
We should setup our study schedule for God's words, so that people around us may see that we are faithful servants. Not only that, but people can also measure our progress in the knowledge of God.
So, let's make a habit to pray a little prayer to God first thing after we wake up every morning?
- Father, please give me grace Lord to make a difference on earth today.
- Father, please help me Lord to serve You faithfully today.
- Father, please help me dear Lord, to be fervent in prayer all the days of my life.
- Father, please help me, Oh Lord to do the right thing at the right time.
- Lord, please help me to see You today and to see what You want me to do.
- Lord, open my eyes to the opportunities for greatness that abound all around me.
- I believe Lord that You have not given me the spirit of fear but of power and a sound mind.
“Do not have your concert and then tune your instruments afterwards. Begin the day with God.” J.H. Hudson
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
2010-12-02
Today’s Verse:
"This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name" Matthew 6:9
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
A faithful servant of yours, Nicky Gumbel, in his Alpha course, he is trying to teach us how to pray with ACTS.
A for Adoration
—just worshipping God, expressing our love, our praise to God.
C is for Confession
—asking forgiveness for the things that maybe we’ve done wrong and things that we need cleansing for.
T is for Thanksgiving
—thanking God for all his blessings, all the good things that he’s given us; maybe looking back through the day before and thanking him for answered prayer.
And then S is for Supplication
—which is asking for things for ourselves and for others.
Similar to the time when Jesus wanted to teach his disciples how to pray. The petitions are divided into six lines, with the first three relate more expressly honouring God and the last three more descriptive on our own concerns.
Father, using the Lord's prayer as our sample, teach us:
- To honour You each day,
- To ask for the daily bread and be dependent upon Divine Providence,
- To forgive others and be forgiven so that we can have our bodies and souls renewed, and
- To request for protection from evil.
"these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Isaiah 56:7
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name" Matthew 6:9
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
A faithful servant of yours, Nicky Gumbel, in his Alpha course, he is trying to teach us how to pray with ACTS.
A for Adoration
—just worshipping God, expressing our love, our praise to God.
C is for Confession
—asking forgiveness for the things that maybe we’ve done wrong and things that we need cleansing for.
T is for Thanksgiving
—thanking God for all his blessings, all the good things that he’s given us; maybe looking back through the day before and thanking him for answered prayer.
And then S is for Supplication
—which is asking for things for ourselves and for others.
Similar to the time when Jesus wanted to teach his disciples how to pray. The petitions are divided into six lines, with the first three relate more expressly honouring God and the last three more descriptive on our own concerns.
Father, using the Lord's prayer as our sample, teach us:
- To honour You each day,
- To ask for the daily bread and be dependent upon Divine Providence,
- To forgive others and be forgiven so that we can have our bodies and souls renewed, and
- To request for protection from evil.
"these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” Isaiah 56:7
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
2010-12-01
Today’s Verse:
"Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? " 2 Corinthians 13:5
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Examine yourselves is Ἑαυτους πειραζετε.
Prove your own selves - Ἑαυτους δοκιμαζετε.
Awefully similar, isn't it?!
As Christians, we'll constantly need to put ourselves into the test, like the song "Search me, know me, Try me and see. Every worthless affection hidden in me. All I'm asking for is that You'd cleanse me, Lord". We should aim to be a righteous and loving Christian, at all times. If we cannot, we should ask God to cleanse us.
Father, You are the vine and we are the branches, if we remain obstinate and impenitent, we will eventually fall off and be separated from Christ. In Phil. 4:4-7 we’re promised that if we rejoice in all our circumstances and present our requests through prayer and petition to our Heavenly Father, He’ll provide a peace that transcends all understanding. So Father, if we cannot do that "rejoicing", please help us, encourage us, assist us, support us and rescue us from the troubles and unhappiness. Father, remind us to repent and renounce on our sins.
As it is repeatedly written in Lamentations 3:40 also "Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.", it showed the importance.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? " 2 Corinthians 13:5
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Examine yourselves is Ἑαυτους πειραζετε.
Prove your own selves - Ἑαυτους δοκιμαζετε.
Awefully similar, isn't it?!
As Christians, we'll constantly need to put ourselves into the test, like the song "Search me, know me, Try me and see. Every worthless affection hidden in me. All I'm asking for is that You'd cleanse me, Lord". We should aim to be a righteous and loving Christian, at all times. If we cannot, we should ask God to cleanse us.
Father, You are the vine and we are the branches, if we remain obstinate and impenitent, we will eventually fall off and be separated from Christ. In Phil. 4:4-7 we’re promised that if we rejoice in all our circumstances and present our requests through prayer and petition to our Heavenly Father, He’ll provide a peace that transcends all understanding. So Father, if we cannot do that "rejoicing", please help us, encourage us, assist us, support us and rescue us from the troubles and unhappiness. Father, remind us to repent and renounce on our sins.
As it is repeatedly written in Lamentations 3:40 also "Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the LORD.", it showed the importance.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
2010-11-30
Today’s Verse:
Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” 1 Samuel 7:12
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
The verse is about King David who used a stone to erected a memorial of victory, to the glory of God, and to encourage Israel future generations. Praise God!
Father, for how many times we were like the Israelians who saw Your miracles one second, amazed by them one second and then forgot all about them right away? Father, turn our eyes to the heavens, so that we may get wisdom and gain deeper insights on matters.
Father, let us praise You, more and more each day. Help us to be more confident about who we are in You. Father, help us to look beyond our own individual circumstances, help us to have the courage to get out of our tunnel vision. Father, help us to gain faith in You, help us to remain faithful to You, multiple the ounces of faith we have now and let it remain growing in our hearts.
Father, we do not live by bread alone, everyday is a new opportunity for us to focus our minds and hearts on You and Your purposes for us. "Nothing is impossible with You", Lord, we Thank You for all the miracles in the past adn the miracles that are to come.
Let us make our "Ebenezer" today too.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” 1 Samuel 7:12
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
The verse is about King David who used a stone to erected a memorial of victory, to the glory of God, and to encourage Israel future generations. Praise God!
Father, for how many times we were like the Israelians who saw Your miracles one second, amazed by them one second and then forgot all about them right away? Father, turn our eyes to the heavens, so that we may get wisdom and gain deeper insights on matters.
Father, let us praise You, more and more each day. Help us to be more confident about who we are in You. Father, help us to look beyond our own individual circumstances, help us to have the courage to get out of our tunnel vision. Father, help us to gain faith in You, help us to remain faithful to You, multiple the ounces of faith we have now and let it remain growing in our hearts.
Father, we do not live by bread alone, everyday is a new opportunity for us to focus our minds and hearts on You and Your purposes for us. "Nothing is impossible with You", Lord, we Thank You for all the miracles in the past adn the miracles that are to come.
Let us make our "Ebenezer" today too.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Monday, November 29, 2010
2010-11-29
Today’s Verse:
"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. " 2 Corinthians 4:17
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
It is suggested that we pray the verse for today when we are looking for peace in times of trials.
Trial is a term used in the legal proceedings. Trial is usually with a group of juries, in which they either make a decision or make findings of fact which are then applied by a judge. Trial can also mean "The act or process of testing, trying, or putting to the proof".
Father, whenever the word "trouble" comes up in our lives, we become the weak and the needy. At this fragile moment, we are prone to sin and choose the easy way. We tend to lay down or stick our heads in the sand, instead of believing You or walking boldly with You through this road of suffering. Father, when You put us under the chastening, give us endurance, for we may not survive without it!
Father, You are our Father of compassion and our God of comfort. Please comfort us in this time of trouble and suffering. Grant us peace, perseverance, hope, grace and mercy, which we desperately need. Father, we only see one set of footprints in the sand right now, because You are carrying us along this rough time. Father, we need more of Your strength, more of Your power, more of Your support and more of Your presence. Wrap Your arms around us and hug us deeply, hold us so tight that we may not breath!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. " 2 Corinthians 4:17
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
It is suggested that we pray the verse for today when we are looking for peace in times of trials.
Trial is a term used in the legal proceedings. Trial is usually with a group of juries, in which they either make a decision or make findings of fact which are then applied by a judge. Trial can also mean "The act or process of testing, trying, or putting to the proof".
Father, whenever the word "trouble" comes up in our lives, we become the weak and the needy. At this fragile moment, we are prone to sin and choose the easy way. We tend to lay down or stick our heads in the sand, instead of believing You or walking boldly with You through this road of suffering. Father, when You put us under the chastening, give us endurance, for we may not survive without it!
Father, You are our Father of compassion and our God of comfort. Please comfort us in this time of trouble and suffering. Grant us peace, perseverance, hope, grace and mercy, which we desperately need. Father, we only see one set of footprints in the sand right now, because You are carrying us along this rough time. Father, we need more of Your strength, more of Your power, more of Your support and more of Your presence. Wrap Your arms around us and hug us deeply, hold us so tight that we may not breath!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
2010-11-28
Today’s Verse:
"I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer." – Psalm 17:6
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Sometimes we pray and we want Your immediately response. We want to see that You care about us and You love us.
Russell Kelfer wrote a "wait poem" Father, which explained our frustration, disappointment and feeling of defeat when You didn't give us immediate responses.
Father, sometimes we ask for something outside our capabilities without knowing. Maybe we ask for career advancement, maybe we ask for a child, maybe we ask for a relationship to prosper etc. Yet for how many times out of these things did we consider our own ability? Take career advancement for instance, can we do the job? Can we handle the pressure, the workload, the relationship issues etc. which will come with the advancement? There are times when what we ask for doesn't come and we don't understand why God isn't giving us... Then we stumble and fall! Little do we know that in His wisdom, He knows that we need to grow and that we're not yet prepared to receive what we're asking for.
Father, it is important to remember that we give You the control of our lives, so, no matter whether the answer is Yes, No or wait, we should have a submissive heart and we should not loose that quality.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Note:
Wait Poem
========
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;
Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate...
and the Master so gently said,"Wait."
"Wait? you say wait?" my indignant reply.
"Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!"
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?
By faith I have asked, and I'm claiming your Word.
My future and all to which I relate
hangs in the balance and you tell me to Wait?"
I'm needing a 'yes', a go-ahead sign.
Or even a 'no,' to which I'll resign.
You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe,
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.
Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry:
I'm weary of asking! I need a reply.
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
as my Master replied again, "Wait."
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut,
and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"
He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine...
and He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
I could give all you seek and pleased you would be.
You'd have what you want, but you wouldn't know Me.
You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint.
You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through clouds of despair;
you'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.
You'd not know the joy of resting in Me
when darkness and silence are all you can see.
You'd never experience the fullness of love
when the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.
You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,
But you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
The glow of My comfort late into the night,
the faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that's beyond getting just what you ask
From an infinite God who makes what you have last.
You'd never know should your pain quickly flee,
what it means that My grace is sufficient for thee.
Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true,
but oh, the loss if I lost what I'm doing in you.
So, be silent, my child, and in time you will see
that the greatest of gifts is to truly know me.
And though oft My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still "WAIT".
by Russell Kelfer
"I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer." – Psalm 17:6
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Sometimes we pray and we want Your immediately response. We want to see that You care about us and You love us.
Russell Kelfer wrote a "wait poem" Father, which explained our frustration, disappointment and feeling of defeat when You didn't give us immediate responses.
Father, sometimes we ask for something outside our capabilities without knowing. Maybe we ask for career advancement, maybe we ask for a child, maybe we ask for a relationship to prosper etc. Yet for how many times out of these things did we consider our own ability? Take career advancement for instance, can we do the job? Can we handle the pressure, the workload, the relationship issues etc. which will come with the advancement? There are times when what we ask for doesn't come and we don't understand why God isn't giving us... Then we stumble and fall! Little do we know that in His wisdom, He knows that we need to grow and that we're not yet prepared to receive what we're asking for.
Father, it is important to remember that we give You the control of our lives, so, no matter whether the answer is Yes, No or wait, we should have a submissive heart and we should not loose that quality.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Note:
Wait Poem
========
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;
Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate...
and the Master so gently said,"Wait."
"Wait? you say wait?" my indignant reply.
"Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!"
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?
By faith I have asked, and I'm claiming your Word.
My future and all to which I relate
hangs in the balance and you tell me to Wait?"
I'm needing a 'yes', a go-ahead sign.
Or even a 'no,' to which I'll resign.
You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe,
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.
Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry:
I'm weary of asking! I need a reply.
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate
as my Master replied again, "Wait."
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut,
and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"
He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine...
and He tenderly said, "I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
I could give all you seek and pleased you would be.
You'd have what you want, but you wouldn't know Me.
You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint.
You'd not know the power that I give to the faint.
You'd not learn to see through clouds of despair;
you'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there.
You'd not know the joy of resting in Me
when darkness and silence are all you can see.
You'd never experience the fullness of love
when the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.
You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,
But you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
The glow of My comfort late into the night,
the faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that's beyond getting just what you ask
From an infinite God who makes what you have last.
You'd never know should your pain quickly flee,
what it means that My grace is sufficient for thee.
Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true,
but oh, the loss if I lost what I'm doing in you.
So, be silent, my child, and in time you will see
that the greatest of gifts is to truly know me.
And though oft My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still "WAIT".
by Russell Kelfer
Saturday, November 27, 2010
2010-11-27
Today’s Verse:
Prayer for Today :
"When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”" – 1 Corinthians 15:54
Heavenly Father,
It is written in John that Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. Later, in the early morning of the next day, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. She thought Jesus' body had been stolen, she sat weeping. Then Jesus said to her, “Mary.”
When we saw the words “It is finished”, we thought we have reached the end of the story. When we read that Jesus' body had been stolen, we may have thought that it was only a small episode that was added to end the story in tragedy. Who would have expected that Jesus' came back and begin a next chapter?
Father, there are times in life, which we may feel that we have reached our limits or that You, Father, has brought us to an end. We may be feeling discouraged, disappointed and heart broken. But we should never loose our faith. We should not allow satan to steal, kill and destroy our lives. For God, nothing is impossible. Father, don't let us sit alone and weep about our status, don't let us worried about our future. Father, remind us that You will never leave us or forsake us, remind us that Jesus could come around any minute and everything would spring back to life.
Father, grant us wisdom and broaden our horizons.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Prayer for Today :
"When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”" – 1 Corinthians 15:54
Heavenly Father,
It is written in John that Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. Later, in the early morning of the next day, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. She thought Jesus' body had been stolen, she sat weeping. Then Jesus said to her, “Mary.”
When we saw the words “It is finished”, we thought we have reached the end of the story. When we read that Jesus' body had been stolen, we may have thought that it was only a small episode that was added to end the story in tragedy. Who would have expected that Jesus' came back and begin a next chapter?
Father, there are times in life, which we may feel that we have reached our limits or that You, Father, has brought us to an end. We may be feeling discouraged, disappointed and heart broken. But we should never loose our faith. We should not allow satan to steal, kill and destroy our lives. For God, nothing is impossible. Father, don't let us sit alone and weep about our status, don't let us worried about our future. Father, remind us that You will never leave us or forsake us, remind us that Jesus could come around any minute and everything would spring back to life.
Father, grant us wisdom and broaden our horizons.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, November 26, 2010
2010-11-26
Today’s Verse:
“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go." - Joshua 1:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Teach us how to be strong and courageous.
You know us more than we know ourselves, so help us Lord, to be submissive in whatever You have assigned us to do.
There were moments in life, which we felt we were standing at the crossroads. Some might chose to sit quietly at a little park or a corner somewhere, just watching the people or the traffic to pass by, others might chose to go to the top of a building or hill, to scream or yell. We need the time to stop and allow us to think about our destination and where we are heading towards...
Father, what's the meaning of life? There are so many people in this world who are constantly going to DO something, to BE someone, to GO somewhere. Is this really what life is all about?
WHAT IS IT THAT YOU WANT? AND WHY DO YOU WANT IT?
Father, so many times through life, You give us free will to do whatever we want, but sometimes, we didn't even know what exactly it is that we want. At crossroads, we paniced, we didn't know what choices we should make. Father, help us to MOVE ON, help us to realise that crossroads actually connects to all other roadways, streets, avenues, parkways, freeways, highways, toll roads, straight roads, crooked roads and gravel roads. Father, we trust that You have our best interest at heart, so please continue to lead us, guide us and teach us Lord.
You CAN go anywhere from where you are today. Develop a plan and start moving.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go." - Joshua 1:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Teach us how to be strong and courageous.
You know us more than we know ourselves, so help us Lord, to be submissive in whatever You have assigned us to do.
There were moments in life, which we felt we were standing at the crossroads. Some might chose to sit quietly at a little park or a corner somewhere, just watching the people or the traffic to pass by, others might chose to go to the top of a building or hill, to scream or yell. We need the time to stop and allow us to think about our destination and where we are heading towards...
Father, what's the meaning of life? There are so many people in this world who are constantly going to DO something, to BE someone, to GO somewhere. Is this really what life is all about?
WHAT IS IT THAT YOU WANT? AND WHY DO YOU WANT IT?
Father, so many times through life, You give us free will to do whatever we want, but sometimes, we didn't even know what exactly it is that we want. At crossroads, we paniced, we didn't know what choices we should make. Father, help us to MOVE ON, help us to realise that crossroads actually connects to all other roadways, streets, avenues, parkways, freeways, highways, toll roads, straight roads, crooked roads and gravel roads. Father, we trust that You have our best interest at heart, so please continue to lead us, guide us and teach us Lord.
You CAN go anywhere from where you are today. Develop a plan and start moving.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
2010-11-25
Today’s Verse:
And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:6-8
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
The parable is called "Parable of the Importunate Widow". It concerns judge who is both irreligious and lacking compassion. Nevertheless, he eventually agrees to do justice to a poor widow because she is so persistent in her demands. The framing material of the parable explains that it demonstrates the need to always pray and never give up.
Everyone should be persistence. If we want something and something very dearly, we should ask God for it with faith and trust. This story that Jesus tells us is so true. Don't we feel we are just like this defenseless widow whose lost her rights and had been taken advantaged of? But, through sheer persistence, she wore down an
unscrupulous judge to help her and grant her justice. Aren't we in a better position than she? God is just and when we ask for "things" from Him, I am sure that He will be much quicker to bring us His justice, blessing, and anything else when we need them.
Lord, give us faith to believe Your promises and give us perseverance and hope to withstand trials and adversities. Help us to put our trust in You. Surely, through Your unfailing love, You will grant us what we have prayed for, which are in-line with what You have planned for us, in Your Almighty timing.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
And the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:6-8
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
The parable is called "Parable of the Importunate Widow". It concerns judge who is both irreligious and lacking compassion. Nevertheless, he eventually agrees to do justice to a poor widow because she is so persistent in her demands. The framing material of the parable explains that it demonstrates the need to always pray and never give up.
Everyone should be persistence. If we want something and something very dearly, we should ask God for it with faith and trust. This story that Jesus tells us is so true. Don't we feel we are just like this defenseless widow whose lost her rights and had been taken advantaged of? But, through sheer persistence, she wore down an
unscrupulous judge to help her and grant her justice. Aren't we in a better position than she? God is just and when we ask for "things" from Him, I am sure that He will be much quicker to bring us His justice, blessing, and anything else when we need them.
Lord, give us faith to believe Your promises and give us perseverance and hope to withstand trials and adversities. Help us to put our trust in You. Surely, through Your unfailing love, You will grant us what we have prayed for, which are in-line with what You have planned for us, in Your Almighty timing.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
2010-11-24
Today’s Verse:
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
What is faith? The definition from the dictionary is:
1. Confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing.
2. Belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence.
3. Loyalty to a person or thing
4. The theological virtue defined as secure belief in God and a trusting acceptance of God's will.
Talking about faith, we cannot escape from Hebrews 11. Verse 17-21 says:
By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff.
Father, after reading all these, frankly speaking, we are still quite lost. So, faith is just taking courage to go ahead, to do Your will without any logical sense? Faith is trusting You and try to walk on the water? Faith is like Jesus who said “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Father, faith has nothing to do with the definition or what people have had done in the past to SHOW their faith. Father, faith really means to trust You with all our hearts and minds and souls, so that, through prayers, we put our future into Your hands and we unload our burdens onto You. Father, as all Christians do, the more they walk with You along their everyday life, the more they experience Your goodness, the more they trust You and believe You ... Father, let us continue to build our faith in You this way, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live our lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as we were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
What is faith? The definition from the dictionary is:
1. Confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing.
2. Belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence.
3. Loyalty to a person or thing
4. The theological virtue defined as secure belief in God and a trusting acceptance of God's will.
Talking about faith, we cannot escape from Hebrews 11. Verse 17-21 says:
By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff.
Father, after reading all these, frankly speaking, we are still quite lost. So, faith is just taking courage to go ahead, to do Your will without any logical sense? Faith is trusting You and try to walk on the water? Faith is like Jesus who said “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”
Father, faith has nothing to do with the definition or what people have had done in the past to SHOW their faith. Father, faith really means to trust You with all our hearts and minds and souls, so that, through prayers, we put our future into Your hands and we unload our burdens onto You. Father, as all Christians do, the more they walk with You along their everyday life, the more they experience Your goodness, the more they trust You and believe You ... Father, let us continue to build our faith in You this way, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live our lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as we were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
2010-11-23
Today’s Verse:
"Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. " – 1 Corinthians 1:3
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Amy Lee of Evanescence wrote " i am not broken, don't try to fix me." So, what makes a person broken? Broken hearted, shattered soul, lay bare the deep hurts, has unrelenting pain, lost - physical or psychological ....
It's hard to try to be a comforter, to stand by the side of a "broken" person. Father, by Your grace and abundant blessings, help us to be good Christians, help us to be strong and courageous enough, to share each other's burdens. But bear in mind that it is only God who may have the power to comfort us, to pick us up, to dry our tears, to sooth our fears and to lift our thoughts beyond the hurts.
Father, let us repent for our brothers and sisters and plead for Your forgiveness.
Father, allow our brothers and sisters to start each day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude.
Father, make the minds of our brothers and sisters clear, so that they may hear Your voice.
Father, continue to bless our brothers and sisters, keep them strong in faith.
Father, grant us wisdom, so that we may have fantastic words of encouragement for others each day.
We believe that God changes people and God changes things.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. " – 1 Corinthians 1:3
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Amy Lee of Evanescence wrote " i am not broken, don't try to fix me." So, what makes a person broken? Broken hearted, shattered soul, lay bare the deep hurts, has unrelenting pain, lost - physical or psychological ....
It's hard to try to be a comforter, to stand by the side of a "broken" person. Father, by Your grace and abundant blessings, help us to be good Christians, help us to be strong and courageous enough, to share each other's burdens. But bear in mind that it is only God who may have the power to comfort us, to pick us up, to dry our tears, to sooth our fears and to lift our thoughts beyond the hurts.
Father, let us repent for our brothers and sisters and plead for Your forgiveness.
Father, allow our brothers and sisters to start each day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude.
Father, make the minds of our brothers and sisters clear, so that they may hear Your voice.
Father, continue to bless our brothers and sisters, keep them strong in faith.
Father, grant us wisdom, so that we may have fantastic words of encouragement for others each day.
We believe that God changes people and God changes things.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Monday, November 22, 2010
2010-11-22
Today’s Verse:
"Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. " Genesis 21:19
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Do we not agree that "The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion." (Psalm 116:5)?
The story of today's verse is about Hagar's trip with a boy through the Desert of Beersheba. After the water in the skin was gone, she put the boy under one of the bushes, but he was dying. God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.”
Don't we all feel that we are trapped inside a desert at some points in our lives? We just simply didn't get what we want and we grumble and rumble on unrelevant matters. Mind you, everything that we have now, is actually given by Him. So, why are we complaining when "He freely takes" as "He freely gives"? Why can't we be like Job? Who praises God after he lost everything.
Father, life is not free. Jesus died for us to be here.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. " Genesis 21:19
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Do we not agree that "The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion." (Psalm 116:5)?
The story of today's verse is about Hagar's trip with a boy through the Desert of Beersheba. After the water in the skin was gone, she put the boy under one of the bushes, but he was dying. God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.”
Don't we all feel that we are trapped inside a desert at some points in our lives? We just simply didn't get what we want and we grumble and rumble on unrelevant matters. Mind you, everything that we have now, is actually given by Him. So, why are we complaining when "He freely takes" as "He freely gives"? Why can't we be like Job? Who praises God after he lost everything.
Father, life is not free. Jesus died for us to be here.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
2010-11-21
Today’s Verse:
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes." Psalm 37:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"If Your bank account is empty, phone Psalm 37" Don't we all love humour?
Phil Hines tells a humourous imaginary story about Jesus walking along the road one day and seeing a man crying. When He asked what was wrong, the man replied, "I'm blind," so Jesus healed him. Further along He met another man in tears and asked him the same question. He replied, "I'm lame," so Jesus healed him. Then He encountered a third man weeping. In response to Jesus' question he replied, "I'm a pastor." So Jesus sat down and wept right along with him! Pastoring can be a thankless job; that's why the Bible says, "Hold them in highest regard."
Is the road of being a pastor and anything related so "deadly"?
The candidate should have at least one recognized theological training. The candidate should speak and communicate fluently in at least one language. The candidate should be able to build good relationships with members of the congregation. The candidate should be approachable, and manifesting the gentleness and humility of Christ. The candidate should have good preaching / communication skills and be able to give relevant teaching/sermon according to the Bible, the Word of God. The candidate should have past experience in giving pastoral and counselling support to those in need (24*7). The candidate should be willing to go on outreach. The candidate should be willing to work without a salary (with a salary but 100% tithing) ...
Father, You give us free choices in life, You let us choose to do what we want to do. But for people who work for You, there is only one requirement: "Do your best to please God. Be a worker who doesn't need to be ashamed. "
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes." Psalm 37:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"If Your bank account is empty, phone Psalm 37" Don't we all love humour?
Phil Hines tells a humourous imaginary story about Jesus walking along the road one day and seeing a man crying. When He asked what was wrong, the man replied, "I'm blind," so Jesus healed him. Further along He met another man in tears and asked him the same question. He replied, "I'm lame," so Jesus healed him. Then He encountered a third man weeping. In response to Jesus' question he replied, "I'm a pastor." So Jesus sat down and wept right along with him! Pastoring can be a thankless job; that's why the Bible says, "Hold them in highest regard."
Is the road of being a pastor and anything related so "deadly"?
The candidate should have at least one recognized theological training. The candidate should speak and communicate fluently in at least one language. The candidate should be able to build good relationships with members of the congregation. The candidate should be approachable, and manifesting the gentleness and humility of Christ. The candidate should have good preaching / communication skills and be able to give relevant teaching/sermon according to the Bible, the Word of God. The candidate should have past experience in giving pastoral and counselling support to those in need (24*7). The candidate should be willing to go on outreach. The candidate should be willing to work without a salary (with a salary but 100% tithing) ...
Father, You give us free choices in life, You let us choose to do what we want to do. But for people who work for You, there is only one requirement: "Do your best to please God. Be a worker who doesn't need to be ashamed. "
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
2010-11-20
Today’s Verse:
Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Genesis 1:26
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Man was made last of all the creatures, so that man can rule over them. Man was created differently also, from all that had been made before. Man was made in Your image to glorify the Father.
But Father, everyday, we open the news, we see the wrong kind of abundance - the abundance of evil, death, loss and hopelessness. “Where are You in all of this, Father?" "Don’t You care about us anymore, Father?”
This is simply too much to absorb! When You created mankind, You gave us a position and a responsibility! You gave us the authority and rulership over the whole earth! Yet, the world has became so lousy... Sometimes, we felt that we were in this world of evil, waiting to be tortured to death!
Father, we should never look at You as ungrateful because You are always our merciful Father. Although, we don't understand why certain things happen, we will always choose to trust You. Let us spend a few moments to read through Mother Teresa's poem and feel her compassion towards the needy. Let us learn from her.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
===
Mother Teresa’s Poem –The Final Analysis
“People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone may destroy overnight;
Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is all between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.”
Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Genesis 1:26
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Man was made last of all the creatures, so that man can rule over them. Man was created differently also, from all that had been made before. Man was made in Your image to glorify the Father.
But Father, everyday, we open the news, we see the wrong kind of abundance - the abundance of evil, death, loss and hopelessness. “Where are You in all of this, Father?" "Don’t You care about us anymore, Father?”
This is simply too much to absorb! When You created mankind, You gave us a position and a responsibility! You gave us the authority and rulership over the whole earth! Yet, the world has became so lousy... Sometimes, we felt that we were in this world of evil, waiting to be tortured to death!
Father, we should never look at You as ungrateful because You are always our merciful Father. Although, we don't understand why certain things happen, we will always choose to trust You. Let us spend a few moments to read through Mother Teresa's poem and feel her compassion towards the needy. Let us learn from her.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
===
Mother Teresa’s Poem –The Final Analysis
“People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone may destroy overnight;
Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, it is all between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.”
Friday, November 19, 2010
2010-11-19
Today’s Verse:
"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord" – Acts 3:19
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We are all sinners. It is a blessing indeed that we can walk up to You and express our true feelings, O Lord, otherwise, we'll probably explode in one time or another?!
The world is full of distractions and temptations, so whenever we want to be righteous and stay righteous, we cannot. Father, You may think that this is an excuse but it's the truth! Everyday, when we get home, we have the tv, the internet, ... and all these gadgets. We may have wanted to reach home and have some quiet time with You, but it's just practically impossible!
Just take another look at our mailboxes! They are always full, full of junk mails! Everyday, we receive bills, invitations, letters, Thank-you notes, final notices and stuff of all sorts. Even if someone had put a huge paycheck in our mail, it would probably take us over a year to find that out!
Father, spending time with You is our daily bread and butter. We cannot afford to live without this. Lord, we need Your love, Your blessings, Your grace, Your words and most importantly Your presence in our lives. How could we ever live without opening the bible, without the nurture of Your words each day?
Father, help us to get our focus right.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord" – Acts 3:19
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We are all sinners. It is a blessing indeed that we can walk up to You and express our true feelings, O Lord, otherwise, we'll probably explode in one time or another?!
The world is full of distractions and temptations, so whenever we want to be righteous and stay righteous, we cannot. Father, You may think that this is an excuse but it's the truth! Everyday, when we get home, we have the tv, the internet, ... and all these gadgets. We may have wanted to reach home and have some quiet time with You, but it's just practically impossible!
Just take another look at our mailboxes! They are always full, full of junk mails! Everyday, we receive bills, invitations, letters, Thank-you notes, final notices and stuff of all sorts. Even if someone had put a huge paycheck in our mail, it would probably take us over a year to find that out!
Father, spending time with You is our daily bread and butter. We cannot afford to live without this. Lord, we need Your love, Your blessings, Your grace, Your words and most importantly Your presence in our lives. How could we ever live without opening the bible, without the nurture of Your words each day?
Father, help us to get our focus right.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
2010-11-18
Today’s Verse:
"We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing. " - 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
In Thessalonians, Paul repeatedly talked about something important, such as children should like their parents. Both 1 & 2 of Thessalonians emphasised that Christian living is faith, hope and love.
Father, faith is like the light that we hold on dearly, in the times of our darkness. When we were all alone in the darkness, we may feel scared, alarmed and startled, not knowing what would happen next... We would be full of doubts. But it is written, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. " (Psalm 119:105) With faith, we do not need to know what is ahead of us. With faith, we know that You, Father, have our best interest at heart, so there is no need to panic. With faith, we only need to take one step at a time, relying on our "foot lamp".
Father, we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Father, in this sinful world, we could find absolutely no sercurity in anything. We tend to worry about our job, our health, our friends, our relatives, our relationships...everything. Father, hope gives us the means for emancipation. Through hope we are able to live our lives without the worries of the future. For it is written "So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:31-34)
Love will bring all things into harmony. If we have faith and hope that our Heavenly Father will take care of us, then, what else do we have except offering our love to one another? When we are in the loving arms of our parents or our children, we feel complete, we feel that all our worries fly away instantly. We feel peaceful "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Father, we have all these worries and troubles and sadness and disappointments and day-to-day issues etc. We can only put all of them into You hands, Father, through prayer and meditation of Your words. Father, we will let You know all our concerns and worries and frustration. Father, there is a time for everything, and will wait and persevere through faith, hope and love, until our problems get resolved by You!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing. " - 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
In Thessalonians, Paul repeatedly talked about something important, such as children should like their parents. Both 1 & 2 of Thessalonians emphasised that Christian living is faith, hope and love.
Father, faith is like the light that we hold on dearly, in the times of our darkness. When we were all alone in the darkness, we may feel scared, alarmed and startled, not knowing what would happen next... We would be full of doubts. But it is written, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. " (Psalm 119:105) With faith, we do not need to know what is ahead of us. With faith, we know that You, Father, have our best interest at heart, so there is no need to panic. With faith, we only need to take one step at a time, relying on our "foot lamp".
Father, we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Father, in this sinful world, we could find absolutely no sercurity in anything. We tend to worry about our job, our health, our friends, our relatives, our relationships...everything. Father, hope gives us the means for emancipation. Through hope we are able to live our lives without the worries of the future. For it is written "So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:31-34)
Love will bring all things into harmony. If we have faith and hope that our Heavenly Father will take care of us, then, what else do we have except offering our love to one another? When we are in the loving arms of our parents or our children, we feel complete, we feel that all our worries fly away instantly. We feel peaceful "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Father, we have all these worries and troubles and sadness and disappointments and day-to-day issues etc. We can only put all of them into You hands, Father, through prayer and meditation of Your words. Father, we will let You know all our concerns and worries and frustration. Father, there is a time for everything, and will wait and persevere through faith, hope and love, until our problems get resolved by You!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
2010-11-17
Today’s Verse:
"Then Jacob continued on his journey and came to the land of the eastern peoples." Genesis 29:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Aren't You also amazed by the internet search engines? This morning I came across a term《生命讚禮》(in Chinese), then I tried to look for the English translation and I was led to a term "Cirque du Soleil". Furthermore, I was led to a movie, an album, a Canadian entertainment company, self-described as a "dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment." and a International Circus center!
"What Goes Around Comes Around!"
Today's verse is about Jacob, who got married with 2 sisters (Genesis 29).
- "There he saw a well in the open country, with three flocks of sheep lying near it because the flocks were watered from that well." (Verse 2)
- "While he was still talking with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherd." (Verse 9)
- "But when evening came, he took his daughter Leah and brought her to Jacob" (Verse 22)
Jacob tricked his father and receieved his blessings. Then he was forced to flee for his life. Then he came around and met Rachel. He worked for her dad for seven years and got Leah as his wife instead...
Father, sometimes, life seemed to have turned out NOT the way we would have liked it to be. We have lots of "wants" and "needs", but there're always some wants and needs unfulfilled. Father, help us to "let go" to the desire of our flesh and concentrate on You and You alone. Father, before we ask You "Why?" and started "our screaming and yelling" session with You, help us to be still in You for a moment. In this moment, Father, help us to count our blessings, help us to appreciate the people You put around us, help us to feel Your "wants and needs", for us to change for the "better".
Father, sometimes, it really takes some illnesses or tread on the toes, for us to realise that You love us and You do care about us. Father, sometimes, it really takes some blunt or demerit words for us to "wake up" and started paying attentions to our behaviours or habits...
Father, help us to appreciate life and love ourselves.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Then Jacob continued on his journey and came to the land of the eastern peoples." Genesis 29:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Aren't You also amazed by the internet search engines? This morning I came across a term《生命讚禮》(in Chinese), then I tried to look for the English translation and I was led to a term "Cirque du Soleil". Furthermore, I was led to a movie, an album, a Canadian entertainment company, self-described as a "dramatic mix of circus arts and street entertainment." and a International Circus center!
"What Goes Around Comes Around!"
Today's verse is about Jacob, who got married with 2 sisters (Genesis 29).
- "There he saw a well in the open country, with three flocks of sheep lying near it because the flocks were watered from that well." (Verse 2)
- "While he was still talking with them, Rachel came with her father’s sheep, for she was a shepherd." (Verse 9)
- "But when evening came, he took his daughter Leah and brought her to Jacob" (Verse 22)
Jacob tricked his father and receieved his blessings. Then he was forced to flee for his life. Then he came around and met Rachel. He worked for her dad for seven years and got Leah as his wife instead...
Father, sometimes, life seemed to have turned out NOT the way we would have liked it to be. We have lots of "wants" and "needs", but there're always some wants and needs unfulfilled. Father, help us to "let go" to the desire of our flesh and concentrate on You and You alone. Father, before we ask You "Why?" and started "our screaming and yelling" session with You, help us to be still in You for a moment. In this moment, Father, help us to count our blessings, help us to appreciate the people You put around us, help us to feel Your "wants and needs", for us to change for the "better".
Father, sometimes, it really takes some illnesses or tread on the toes, for us to realise that You love us and You do care about us. Father, sometimes, it really takes some blunt or demerit words for us to "wake up" and started paying attentions to our behaviours or habits...
Father, help us to appreciate life and love ourselves.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
2010-11-16
Today’s Verse:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. " - Galatians 5:22-23
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You promised us the fruit of the spirit in our lives. So that in return, we may SHOW people our qualities to live in the spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These are our precious inheritance from Your son Jesus Christ. Father, bless us abundantly, so that the world may distinguish us as Christians, as the pure stream of water out from muddy rivers.
Before Jesus left us, He said in John 15:8,16 "This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. " & "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you."
Father, as it is written, You are the essence which we need to grow, all other matters: soil, water, atomosphere etc. are just merely nothing as compared to Your gracious love and blessings. Father, we are experiencing You everyday, every moment of our lives! Although it may seem that You have failed us in lieu of success, You brought us sadness on behalf of the joy; or even long-lasting stability in a different kind of meaning, but Father, we must remember to be patience in the suffering. (James 5:7)
Father, we will never know the power of prayer, until we pray fervently. Father, we do not know whether it is worthy to pray any longer if we planned to stop when "nothing seem to be happening"... But if we are willing to trust Him, our seeds of faith will definitely grow.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. " - Galatians 5:22-23
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You promised us the fruit of the spirit in our lives. So that in return, we may SHOW people our qualities to live in the spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These are our precious inheritance from Your son Jesus Christ. Father, bless us abundantly, so that the world may distinguish us as Christians, as the pure stream of water out from muddy rivers.
Before Jesus left us, He said in John 15:8,16 "This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. " & "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you."
Father, as it is written, You are the essence which we need to grow, all other matters: soil, water, atomosphere etc. are just merely nothing as compared to Your gracious love and blessings. Father, we are experiencing You everyday, every moment of our lives! Although it may seem that You have failed us in lieu of success, You brought us sadness on behalf of the joy; or even long-lasting stability in a different kind of meaning, but Father, we must remember to be patience in the suffering. (James 5:7)
Father, we will never know the power of prayer, until we pray fervently. Father, we do not know whether it is worthy to pray any longer if we planned to stop when "nothing seem to be happening"... But if we are willing to trust Him, our seeds of faith will definitely grow.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Monday, November 15, 2010
2010-11-15
Today’s Verse:
"He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your people within you. " - Psalm 147:13
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Each hurt has a different life span. Something like divorce or separation has a long long long life span, especially bad if children are involved. Likewise, death has a long life span, too!
Dr. Joyce Brothers, whom husband Milt passed away in 1989. She grieved for over a year after his death. Three years later, in 1992, she published a book called "Widowed," inspired by the loss of her husband. The book offered practical advice for widows and widowers, helping them to cope with their grief and create a new life for themselves.
She quoted “Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you. When you dare to reveal yourself fully. When you dare to be vulnerable.”
Yes, life hurts sometimes, but the main point is to "let go".
Father, whatever pain we're feeling today, help us to heal, through time. Father, we trust that You will help us to remove the scar that's still in our hearts.
Father, as it is written, You strengthen the bars of our gates and blesses our people within you.
Father, assist us to move on.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your people within you. " - Psalm 147:13
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Each hurt has a different life span. Something like divorce or separation has a long long long life span, especially bad if children are involved. Likewise, death has a long life span, too!
Dr. Joyce Brothers, whom husband Milt passed away in 1989. She grieved for over a year after his death. Three years later, in 1992, she published a book called "Widowed," inspired by the loss of her husband. The book offered practical advice for widows and widowers, helping them to cope with their grief and create a new life for themselves.
She quoted “Love comes when manipulation stops; when you think more about the other person than about his or her reactions to you. When you dare to reveal yourself fully. When you dare to be vulnerable.”
Yes, life hurts sometimes, but the main point is to "let go".
Father, whatever pain we're feeling today, help us to heal, through time. Father, we trust that You will help us to remove the scar that's still in our hearts.
Father, as it is written, You strengthen the bars of our gates and blesses our people within you.
Father, assist us to move on.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
2010-11-14
Today’s Verse:
"He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds." - Psalm 147:3
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
It's our responsibility as christians to pray for the sick around us. Still, there are studies around that try to proof to us that prayers don't work! (*Note)
Father, it is written "Pray always." (1 Thes. 5:17) and "Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36) What else does these sentences mean except You, calling us to pray often, if not all the time?
Father, the words trouble, illness, sickness and disease, are all associated, and it is possible to strike us into terror! Father, it can also be debilitating, a very real threat to life as You know it! But Father, we know that only faith and beliefs can heal us and will heal us. We believe that You are here for us and You'll heal us and heal us indeed!
Prayer for the sick:
"Father, You know that we are broken in one way or another, physically
or spiritually, so Father, please heal us here and bring wellness, remove
trouble, sicknesss and disease. Strengthen our immune systems, mind
and heart, so that we may stand firm from these satan's attacks! Amen."
Father, Paul said "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21) Help us to appreciate that death is not the "end", but the beginning.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Note: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2002901053_pray31.html
"He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds." - Psalm 147:3
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
It's our responsibility as christians to pray for the sick around us. Still, there are studies around that try to proof to us that prayers don't work! (*Note)
Father, it is written "Pray always." (1 Thes. 5:17) and "Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36) What else does these sentences mean except You, calling us to pray often, if not all the time?
Father, the words trouble, illness, sickness and disease, are all associated, and it is possible to strike us into terror! Father, it can also be debilitating, a very real threat to life as You know it! But Father, we know that only faith and beliefs can heal us and will heal us. We believe that You are here for us and You'll heal us and heal us indeed!
Prayer for the sick:
"Father, You know that we are broken in one way or another, physically
or spiritually, so Father, please heal us here and bring wellness, remove
trouble, sicknesss and disease. Strengthen our immune systems, mind
and heart, so that we may stand firm from these satan's attacks! Amen."
Father, Paul said "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21) Help us to appreciate that death is not the "end", but the beginning.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Note: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/health/2002901053_pray31.html
Saturday, November 13, 2010
2010-11-13
Today’s Verse:
“I am too ashamed and disgraced, my God, to lift up my face to you, because our sins are higher than our heads and our guilt has reached to the heavens." - Ezra 9:6
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
If we ever feel that we are holding unconfessed sins in our hearts, we will probably feel ashamed and disgraced, and it is possible that we cannot lift up our face to You, never! But Father, we trust that You are a mercyful God.
Thankyou. We never contempt for the riches of Your kindness, forbearance and patience. We know that Your kindness is intended to lead us to repentance, to new life. (Romans 2:4) It is always easy to repay an eye for an eye or to love the people who love us. However, Lord, it is the willingness to forgive, the willingness to accept, even our enemies, that You are teaching us so dearly.
Father, help us to learn to extend Your love, Your patience and Your kindness. There is a saying "When you harbour bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere", so we pray that Father, You will remind us to do a self-examination everyday, to bring to our minds those people that we have not forgiven in order that we may do so. This is what we have learnt from the parable of the unmerciful servant. (Matt 17:21-35)
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
“I am too ashamed and disgraced, my God, to lift up my face to you, because our sins are higher than our heads and our guilt has reached to the heavens." - Ezra 9:6
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
If we ever feel that we are holding unconfessed sins in our hearts, we will probably feel ashamed and disgraced, and it is possible that we cannot lift up our face to You, never! But Father, we trust that You are a mercyful God.
Thankyou. We never contempt for the riches of Your kindness, forbearance and patience. We know that Your kindness is intended to lead us to repentance, to new life. (Romans 2:4) It is always easy to repay an eye for an eye or to love the people who love us. However, Lord, it is the willingness to forgive, the willingness to accept, even our enemies, that You are teaching us so dearly.
Father, help us to learn to extend Your love, Your patience and Your kindness. There is a saying "When you harbour bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere", so we pray that Father, You will remind us to do a self-examination everyday, to bring to our minds those people that we have not forgiven in order that we may do so. This is what we have learnt from the parable of the unmerciful servant. (Matt 17:21-35)
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, November 12, 2010
2010-11-12
Today’s Verse:
"not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. " - Hebrews 10:25
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Why do we stay in a community? Why do we come to church? Maybe by doing that, we will feel that we are still alive?! Father, in a world full of temptation, we may be easily discouraged, but we shall never keep ourselves away from our spiritual family!
We need the love and support in the church area, in which we feel safe and comfortable. Obviously, we may still be let down by brothers and sisters. We may hear them say, "We made it! By God's grace you can too!" and feel being suppressed. We may still feel that we have been left out, spiritually and emotionally isolated. Moreover, satan will probably whisper at your ears saying, "Maybe you should stay home from church today, you don't need to go there."
Father, at church, we'll surely get our prayers answered, we'll surely experience supernatural joy, and we'll surely receive encouragement. If we stay home, that means we allow satan to rob our share of God's blessing! We can opt to stay home, read Bible, turn on Christian radio and television, but Father, church is like our family, and where can we be surrounded by our spiritual family anywhere else?
Father, You have promised never to leave us or forsake us, so please never allow us to stay away from Your church.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. " - Hebrews 10:25
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Why do we stay in a community? Why do we come to church? Maybe by doing that, we will feel that we are still alive?! Father, in a world full of temptation, we may be easily discouraged, but we shall never keep ourselves away from our spiritual family!
We need the love and support in the church area, in which we feel safe and comfortable. Obviously, we may still be let down by brothers and sisters. We may hear them say, "We made it! By God's grace you can too!" and feel being suppressed. We may still feel that we have been left out, spiritually and emotionally isolated. Moreover, satan will probably whisper at your ears saying, "Maybe you should stay home from church today, you don't need to go there."
Father, at church, we'll surely get our prayers answered, we'll surely experience supernatural joy, and we'll surely receive encouragement. If we stay home, that means we allow satan to rob our share of God's blessing! We can opt to stay home, read Bible, turn on Christian radio and television, but Father, church is like our family, and where can we be surrounded by our spiritual family anywhere else?
Father, You have promised never to leave us or forsake us, so please never allow us to stay away from Your church.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
2010-11-11
Today’s Verse:
"He must become greater; I must become less." - John 3:30
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You must increase, You must increase Your authority and influence among people, so that Your words may continue to spread until it extends to all the world.
Some people do not understand what "I must decrease" mean. It is simple, Jesus didn't come to form a private party, He didn't come to set up a SECRET religion and He didn't come for His teaching to cease after the teaching has reached everyone. So, when we try to minister people or to spread God's words, we must remember to set boundaries with them, we must remind them that everything comes from God, and we must be caution in controlling our seld esteem, understanding that we are doing works in the honour of God, but not of our own.
What is success? So are we looking for a pat on the head from God and says "Good job" when someone turn to Christ? He will be surely glad if someone hears us and follow Jesus, but not to follow us! He will be surely glad if someone see some qualities in us which cause them to fall in love with God, but not us!
Father, make us good stewards, allow us to say to You one day that "Father, I've done what You called me to do."
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"He must become greater; I must become less." - John 3:30
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You must increase, You must increase Your authority and influence among people, so that Your words may continue to spread until it extends to all the world.
Some people do not understand what "I must decrease" mean. It is simple, Jesus didn't come to form a private party, He didn't come to set up a SECRET religion and He didn't come for His teaching to cease after the teaching has reached everyone. So, when we try to minister people or to spread God's words, we must remember to set boundaries with them, we must remind them that everything comes from God, and we must be caution in controlling our seld esteem, understanding that we are doing works in the honour of God, but not of our own.
What is success? So are we looking for a pat on the head from God and says "Good job" when someone turn to Christ? He will be surely glad if someone hears us and follow Jesus, but not to follow us! He will be surely glad if someone see some qualities in us which cause them to fall in love with God, but not us!
Father, make us good stewards, allow us to say to You one day that "Father, I've done what You called me to do."
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
2010-11-10
Today’s Verse:
"Even to your old age and gray hairs. I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. " – Isaiah 46:4
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You promised that You will never leave us or forsake us, it is of course easy for us to trust You with our future! Although we may not see any worthiness in the time yet to come, we may even be experiencing stark, naked, cruel, brutal or catastrophic situations, worsen, we may continuously find numbness in our hearts, mind and souls. Then what can we do Father? Can we expect You to come to us and show Your mercy?!
Father, there's a faithful servant of Yours, named Pete Greig. He is one of the founding champions of the 24-7 Prayer movement, and the Director of Prayer for Holy Trinity, Brompton in London, and a facilitator for the Campus America initiative. His 24-7 Prayer movement of prayer started in 1999. He shared in His book "God on mute", about the incident of his wife Samie s fight for her life after being diagnosed of a debilitating brain tumor. He also shared his views on asking some timeless TRUE questions on suffering and how he approached to pray through this time of suffering while You, God, remained on mute.
Father, we could never ever imagine how Greig went through this time of suffering while being faithful to You as well, in organising this 24x7 prayer movement. We only know that You uses people as Your messengers of mercy. "Tough times never last, but tough people do!" We are sure we could use some words of encouragement in times of trouble.
Father, knowing that You have our best interest at heart, help us to stop and relax in You.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Even to your old age and gray hairs. I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. " – Isaiah 46:4
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You promised that You will never leave us or forsake us, it is of course easy for us to trust You with our future! Although we may not see any worthiness in the time yet to come, we may even be experiencing stark, naked, cruel, brutal or catastrophic situations, worsen, we may continuously find numbness in our hearts, mind and souls. Then what can we do Father? Can we expect You to come to us and show Your mercy?!
Father, there's a faithful servant of Yours, named Pete Greig. He is one of the founding champions of the 24-7 Prayer movement, and the Director of Prayer for Holy Trinity, Brompton in London, and a facilitator for the Campus America initiative. His 24-7 Prayer movement of prayer started in 1999. He shared in His book "God on mute", about the incident of his wife Samie s fight for her life after being diagnosed of a debilitating brain tumor. He also shared his views on asking some timeless TRUE questions on suffering and how he approached to pray through this time of suffering while You, God, remained on mute.
Father, we could never ever imagine how Greig went through this time of suffering while being faithful to You as well, in organising this 24x7 prayer movement. We only know that You uses people as Your messengers of mercy. "Tough times never last, but tough people do!" We are sure we could use some words of encouragement in times of trouble.
Father, knowing that You have our best interest at heart, help us to stop and relax in You.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
2010-11-09
Today’s Verse:
"Jesus replied, 'Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt…you can say to this mountain, "Go, throw yourself into the sea," and it will be done.'" – Matthew 21:21
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
George Herbert Leigh Mallory (18 June 1886 – 8/9 June 1924) was an English mountaineer who took part in the first three British expeditions to Mount Everest in the early 1920s.
During British Mount Everest Expedition 1924, the third British attempt on the world's highest mountain, Mallory and his climbing partner Andrew Irvine both disappeared somewhere high on the North-East ridge during their attempt to make the first ascent or descent of the world's highest mountain.
When the few who did survive returned to England, they held a glorious banquet saluting the great people of Mallory's final expedition. The leader screamed "I speak to you, Mount Everest, in the name of all brave men living and those yet unborn," he began. "Mount Everest, you defeated us once; you defeated us twice; you defeated us three times. But Mount Everest, we shall someday defeat you, because you can't get any bigger and we can!"
Never doubt God's work in us. He gives us tasks, but never greater than our ability can manage. Wherever you are, never give up possibility thinking, never give up hope. Believe that Your faith could bring you anything, which is possible with God's help.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Jesus replied, 'Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt…you can say to this mountain, "Go, throw yourself into the sea," and it will be done.'" – Matthew 21:21
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
George Herbert Leigh Mallory (18 June 1886 – 8/9 June 1924) was an English mountaineer who took part in the first three British expeditions to Mount Everest in the early 1920s.
During British Mount Everest Expedition 1924, the third British attempt on the world's highest mountain, Mallory and his climbing partner Andrew Irvine both disappeared somewhere high on the North-East ridge during their attempt to make the first ascent or descent of the world's highest mountain.
When the few who did survive returned to England, they held a glorious banquet saluting the great people of Mallory's final expedition. The leader screamed "I speak to you, Mount Everest, in the name of all brave men living and those yet unborn," he began. "Mount Everest, you defeated us once; you defeated us twice; you defeated us three times. But Mount Everest, we shall someday defeat you, because you can't get any bigger and we can!"
Never doubt God's work in us. He gives us tasks, but never greater than our ability can manage. Wherever you are, never give up possibility thinking, never give up hope. Believe that Your faith could bring you anything, which is possible with God's help.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Monday, November 8, 2010
2010-11-08
Today’s Verse:
"Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth." - Proverbs 10:4
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Don't we love kids? While waiting for the new member to join the family, everyone will have one and only one most important thing in their minds - the naming of the little one(s). Someone will name their kids after their parents, respectable relatives, pop stars, singers, religious leaders or even Jesus!
Father, how will people know who a person is named after? Father, how will anyone know about the story behind our names? Father, as Christians, people will listen and observe our attitude and behavior but most importantly, people will really hoped to see our unreligious acts! Father, we are Christians, we bare Your name, Your reputation, Your all and everything, may we be as upright, as loving and as caring as possible.
Father, sometimes, we are not lazy at all, we may work very hard and lost our money in the stock market. We may use our diligent hands to serve others, instead of making wealth.
Father, as Francis of Assisi says "Grant me the treasure of sublime poverty: permit the distinctive sign of our order to be that it does not possess anything of its own beneath the sun, for the glory of your name, and that it have no other patrimony than begging."
Father, search us and know our serving hearts.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth." - Proverbs 10:4
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Don't we love kids? While waiting for the new member to join the family, everyone will have one and only one most important thing in their minds - the naming of the little one(s). Someone will name their kids after their parents, respectable relatives, pop stars, singers, religious leaders or even Jesus!
Father, how will people know who a person is named after? Father, how will anyone know about the story behind our names? Father, as Christians, people will listen and observe our attitude and behavior but most importantly, people will really hoped to see our unreligious acts! Father, we are Christians, we bare Your name, Your reputation, Your all and everything, may we be as upright, as loving and as caring as possible.
Father, sometimes, we are not lazy at all, we may work very hard and lost our money in the stock market. We may use our diligent hands to serve others, instead of making wealth.
Father, as Francis of Assisi says "Grant me the treasure of sublime poverty: permit the distinctive sign of our order to be that it does not possess anything of its own beneath the sun, for the glory of your name, and that it have no other patrimony than begging."
Father, search us and know our serving hearts.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
2010-11-07
Today’s Verse:
"We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the sphere of service God himself has assigned to us, a sphere that also includes you." - 2 Corinthians 10:13
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
There are many famous people in this world, for instance, Da Vinci who painted Mona Lisa, Beethoven who composed Fifth Symphony and Ronaldo Luiz Nazário de Lima who played good football and is still one of the world's best strikers.
Father, for some of us, You only concentrate on making us brillant at one and only one aspect. Father, we would really like these custom-designed one-of-a-kind assignment if only we discover our tallents.
Father, teach us how to discover our talents today, grant us the courage to serve and to required skill set to serve, in the areas You assigned us. Father, open wide our eyes to see what we like: Maths, computers, design, nature, dancing, reading, research etc. Father, let us serve You in the areas we like and love to do. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." (1 Peter 4:10)
Father, bless us to work in "the sphere of service God himself has assigned to us." Father, let us do it with our heart and soul. Father, let us do it well and let us be proud in the area, to glorify Your name this way.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the sphere of service God himself has assigned to us, a sphere that also includes you." - 2 Corinthians 10:13
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
There are many famous people in this world, for instance, Da Vinci who painted Mona Lisa, Beethoven who composed Fifth Symphony and Ronaldo Luiz Nazário de Lima who played good football and is still one of the world's best strikers.
Father, for some of us, You only concentrate on making us brillant at one and only one aspect. Father, we would really like these custom-designed one-of-a-kind assignment if only we discover our tallents.
Father, teach us how to discover our talents today, grant us the courage to serve and to required skill set to serve, in the areas You assigned us. Father, open wide our eyes to see what we like: Maths, computers, design, nature, dancing, reading, research etc. Father, let us serve You in the areas we like and love to do. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." (1 Peter 4:10)
Father, bless us to work in "the sphere of service God himself has assigned to us." Father, let us do it with our heart and soul. Father, let us do it well and let us be proud in the area, to glorify Your name this way.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
2010-11-06
Today’s Verse:
"May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you." - Psalm 20:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You will surely hear our prayers, especially in the days of our troubles. In times of distress, sorrow, lost, motionless, troubled, affliction, agony, anxiety, calamity, discomfort, dismay, grief, pain or worried, what is better than to pray earnestly at church?
We all know that Father, You will listen to our prayers, 24x7. Whether we have the strength to listen to Your answers, that's another question. Father, help us to trust You enough not to concentrate on the storm and rain around us; help us not to listen to them, which roar like thunder, but keep our eyes on You and You alone, so that we may listen to Your voice, Your instructions which will lead us to safety.
Father, Jacob had his day of troubles, he wrestled, was heard and was defended. Surely, we shouldn't be doubting Your Almighty love for us at all! For You can save Jacob, You can surely save us too.
Father, let us pray for more of Your love, in times of distress:
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:16-19)
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you." - Psalm 20:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
You will surely hear our prayers, especially in the days of our troubles. In times of distress, sorrow, lost, motionless, troubled, affliction, agony, anxiety, calamity, discomfort, dismay, grief, pain or worried, what is better than to pray earnestly at church?
We all know that Father, You will listen to our prayers, 24x7. Whether we have the strength to listen to Your answers, that's another question. Father, help us to trust You enough not to concentrate on the storm and rain around us; help us not to listen to them, which roar like thunder, but keep our eyes on You and You alone, so that we may listen to Your voice, Your instructions which will lead us to safety.
Father, Jacob had his day of troubles, he wrestled, was heard and was defended. Surely, we shouldn't be doubting Your Almighty love for us at all! For You can save Jacob, You can surely save us too.
Father, let us pray for more of Your love, in times of distress:
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:16-19)
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, November 5, 2010
2010-11-05
Today’s Verse:
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." - 1 Corinthians 9:24
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Running is like carrying on to do work with endurance, and never quit until we see the finish line. Father, for how many times we manage to preservere through circumstances? For us, Christians, quitting is not an option, but we do think about quiting, due to the delays and disappointments along the way. Father, give us hope, grant us peace and let us win victory over situations through long fight, through Your love and blessings.
Victor Frankl says, "Everyone's most basic need is an answer to this question: the question of meaning. The men who had some answer, any answer, usually survived, and those who didn't didn't. The physically strongest were not the ones who always survived. Many doctors see that the Will to survive is the great unpredictable factor in recovery. That is the mind over matter. But there is another step: the will to live requires a reason to live. If you have a reason to
live, you also have a reason to suffer, to endure suffering. If life has a meaning, suffering has a meaning too. Nietzsche: a man can endure any how, if only he has a why. You can endure even in Auschwitz, if only you have an ultimate reason for it. For some, it was revenge, some, work, some, family, some, God."
"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." - 1 Corinthians 9:24
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Running is like carrying on to do work with endurance, and never quit until we see the finish line. Father, for how many times we manage to preservere through circumstances? For us, Christians, quitting is not an option, but we do think about quiting, due to the delays and disappointments along the way. Father, give us hope, grant us peace and let us win victory over situations through long fight, through Your love and blessings.
Victor Frankl says, "Everyone's most basic need is an answer to this question: the question of meaning. The men who had some answer, any answer, usually survived, and those who didn't didn't. The physically strongest were not the ones who always survived. Many doctors see that the Will to survive is the great unpredictable factor in recovery. That is the mind over matter. But there is another step: the will to live requires a reason to live. If you have a reason to
live, you also have a reason to suffer, to endure suffering. If life has a meaning, suffering has a meaning too. Nietzsche: a man can endure any how, if only he has a why. You can endure even in Auschwitz, if only you have an ultimate reason for it. For some, it was revenge, some, work, some, family, some, God."
"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:58
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
2010-11-04
Today’s Verse:
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. " Matthew 5:6
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Does the feeling of satisfaction, happiness or fulfillment comes from fame, success, power, sex, or money alone?
Father, it is written, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." Father are there really someone out there that are seeking for Your righteousness, to satisfy their heart's deepest hunger and longing? .
Righteousness is about avoiding temptation and not commiting any sin.
Father, help us to perform the transformation, to perform this change. Father, we are only some weak bunches of human beings who currently still find our satification through fame, success, power etc. Father, we know that the true satisfaction comes in knowing we are worthwhile, valuable persons who will make a difference to the world by searching for the righteousness of God!
Father, how are you going to help us do that? We don't know, but we trust that You are at work. For sure, You will get our lives turned around and moved to a better direction in Your perform timing.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. " Matthew 5:6
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Does the feeling of satisfaction, happiness or fulfillment comes from fame, success, power, sex, or money alone?
Father, it is written, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled." Father are there really someone out there that are seeking for Your righteousness, to satisfy their heart's deepest hunger and longing? .
Righteousness is about avoiding temptation and not commiting any sin.
Father, help us to perform the transformation, to perform this change. Father, we are only some weak bunches of human beings who currently still find our satification through fame, success, power etc. Father, we know that the true satisfaction comes in knowing we are worthwhile, valuable persons who will make a difference to the world by searching for the righteousness of God!
Father, how are you going to help us do that? We don't know, but we trust that You are at work. For sure, You will get our lives turned around and moved to a better direction in Your perform timing.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
2010-11-03
Today’s Verse:
"Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare." - Psalm 40:5
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We are overwhelmed by the questions You have raised to Job in chapter 38, like "Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?", "Who marked off its dimensions?" or "Who stretched a measuring line across it?"... Many, Lord my God, are the wonders You have done!
There is this hymn called "Look at the world" and there are several lines which touched all our hearts:
"Look at the earth bringing forth fruit and flower;
Look at the sky, the sunshine and the rain;
Look at the hills, look at the trees and mountains,
Valley and flowing river, field and plain;"
Father, when we look at the nature and things around us in depth, it is not hard to appreciate that there's a God, who cares about us, there's a God who govern this world. Father, You have the power to control all and everything in this world for You are the Lord of Lords and King of Kings! Father, only You have the power to cut a channel for the torrents of rain or a path for the thunderstorm. Father, nothing is impossible for You! So, please Father, guide our ways and teach us our paths, help us to follow You with faith and trust. Father, although we may not see our miracles right now, we still choose to believe in You, to believe in Your timing, to believe that You will make everything work together eventually for our benefits.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare." - Psalm 40:5
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
We are overwhelmed by the questions You have raised to Job in chapter 38, like "Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?", "Who marked off its dimensions?" or "Who stretched a measuring line across it?"... Many, Lord my God, are the wonders You have done!
There is this hymn called "Look at the world" and there are several lines which touched all our hearts:
"Look at the earth bringing forth fruit and flower;
Look at the sky, the sunshine and the rain;
Look at the hills, look at the trees and mountains,
Valley and flowing river, field and plain;"
Father, when we look at the nature and things around us in depth, it is not hard to appreciate that there's a God, who cares about us, there's a God who govern this world. Father, You have the power to control all and everything in this world for You are the Lord of Lords and King of Kings! Father, only You have the power to cut a channel for the torrents of rain or a path for the thunderstorm. Father, nothing is impossible for You! So, please Father, guide our ways and teach us our paths, help us to follow You with faith and trust. Father, although we may not see our miracles right now, we still choose to believe in You, to believe in Your timing, to believe that You will make everything work together eventually for our benefits.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
2010-11-02
Today’s Verse:
"The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing." - Zephaniah 3:17
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Father, it is written in Galatians 3:13 "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.”
Indeed, through the blood of Jesus, our sins and curses were removed and we have reconciled with You once and for all. What will follow? Glorious times with abundant peace, comfort and prosperity.
Father, let us keep our eyes on You, instead of the wind and storm around us, so that we may believe that we are saved, not by what we have done, but through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Father, help us to understand that everyone including the weakest believer has been saved and that we may enjoy our lives in abundance.
As George MacDonald says "This is a wise, sane Christian faith: that a man commit himself, his life, and his hopes to God; that God undertakes the special protection of that man; that therefore that man ought not to be afraid of anything."
Father, let us build our trust in You, let us build our faith in You and let us build our security in You. Father, let our hearts rejoice and honour Your name, now and forever.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing." - Zephaniah 3:17
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Father, it is written in Galatians 3:13 "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.”
Indeed, through the blood of Jesus, our sins and curses were removed and we have reconciled with You once and for all. What will follow? Glorious times with abundant peace, comfort and prosperity.
Father, let us keep our eyes on You, instead of the wind and storm around us, so that we may believe that we are saved, not by what we have done, but through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Father, help us to understand that everyone including the weakest believer has been saved and that we may enjoy our lives in abundance.
As George MacDonald says "This is a wise, sane Christian faith: that a man commit himself, his life, and his hopes to God; that God undertakes the special protection of that man; that therefore that man ought not to be afraid of anything."
Father, let us build our trust in You, let us build our faith in You and let us build our security in You. Father, let our hearts rejoice and honour Your name, now and forever.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
2010-11-01
Today’s Verse:
"What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways." – Job 22:28
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
This verse is about Eliphaz wrongly implied that Job didn't know You, Lord. It is a good and thorough false supposition of Job, being not only a stranger but an enemy to You, Lord!
Don't we get these "lecture" from our friends every now and then? Father, let us remember how Job was being treated; how Jesus was being reviled; and Father, help us to learn from them, help us to be patient at all times, help us to learn how not to return an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth (Matthew 5:38).
A person's attitude has a huge influence on his/her approach to life. Try to ask a coach or team players before a big game, try to ask a surgeon or a patient before the surgery, try to ask a student before the test... We don't need the best of everything to be happy, but we will definitely be happy if we try to make the best out of everything with a positive attitude.
One of the things we've learned is to expect the best to come out from life because what we get is sometimes what we believe. Father, help us to see the best out of everyone, everything and in return, help us to give our very best to others in every situation as well.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways." – Job 22:28
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
This verse is about Eliphaz wrongly implied that Job didn't know You, Lord. It is a good and thorough false supposition of Job, being not only a stranger but an enemy to You, Lord!
Don't we get these "lecture" from our friends every now and then? Father, let us remember how Job was being treated; how Jesus was being reviled; and Father, help us to learn from them, help us to be patient at all times, help us to learn how not to return an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth (Matthew 5:38).
A person's attitude has a huge influence on his/her approach to life. Try to ask a coach or team players before a big game, try to ask a surgeon or a patient before the surgery, try to ask a student before the test... We don't need the best of everything to be happy, but we will definitely be happy if we try to make the best out of everything with a positive attitude.
One of the things we've learned is to expect the best to come out from life because what we get is sometimes what we believe. Father, help us to see the best out of everyone, everything and in return, help us to give our very best to others in every situation as well.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
2010-10-31
Today’s Verse:
"Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west." Isaiah 43:5
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Just how many of us realised that You love us? The scripture said in Isaiah, Chapter 43:4 "You are precious and honoured in My sight... I love you."
Father, we are commanded to love one another as we love ourselves. Father, we believe that as we show love to one another, You will love us more and more. God, You are love, and the more we express our caring to each other like You, the more loving we'll become. Not only that, as we follow Your commands, You promised that in return, You will love us, bless us and being gracious to us, greater than we could ever have imagined; it's that simple.
Wow!
There were times we became unloving while trying to climb up the career ladder. There were times we became harsh to people who were not "very nice" to us. But if we only we could bare in mind the words of our Father, to "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:44-45), we will be blessed so much more in return.
Father, let me remind myself to say "I'm loved by God." every morning when we wake up and every night before we go to sleep.
Father, let us write down Your words on cards which we can carry them with us; so that we may discipline ourselves and control our tongue, soul, body and mind, everytime, when we're tempted to feel despair, to sin or to dishonour You by lashing out our anger and hurt someone.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west." Isaiah 43:5
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Just how many of us realised that You love us? The scripture said in Isaiah, Chapter 43:4 "You are precious and honoured in My sight... I love you."
Father, we are commanded to love one another as we love ourselves. Father, we believe that as we show love to one another, You will love us more and more. God, You are love, and the more we express our caring to each other like You, the more loving we'll become. Not only that, as we follow Your commands, You promised that in return, You will love us, bless us and being gracious to us, greater than we could ever have imagined; it's that simple.
Wow!
There were times we became unloving while trying to climb up the career ladder. There were times we became harsh to people who were not "very nice" to us. But if we only we could bare in mind the words of our Father, to "Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; that you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:44-45), we will be blessed so much more in return.
Father, let me remind myself to say "I'm loved by God." every morning when we wake up and every night before we go to sleep.
Father, let us write down Your words on cards which we can carry them with us; so that we may discipline ourselves and control our tongue, soul, body and mind, everytime, when we're tempted to feel despair, to sin or to dishonour You by lashing out our anger and hurt someone.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
2010-10-30
Today’s Verse:
"Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. " Psalm 51:1-2
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
This verse, like many other verses in Psalms, is about David, who has sinned again, poured out his soul to You Lord in prayer, seeking humbly for Your mighty mercy and grace.
Father, if we are truly sorry and make repentance on our sins, we will never be ashamed. But for David, he just enjoyed to dwell in this cycle of "sin, repent and cry out for mercy", and hence, seemed to be begging for Your pardon of sins and reconcilation ever so often. Still, everytime in his repentance, David feels encouraged, he feels hope that God would graciously accept him once again.
Father, don't we all dwell in some sort of sin cycles, just like David? Father, through the blood of Christ that sprinkled upon our conscience, it washed away all our iniquity and every stain has been cleansed. Father, help us to grow wisdom to resist commiting sins repeatedly, help us to cry out for God's Almighty blessings, help us to believe that our sins are forgiven through Jesus and if anyone is in Christ, he/she is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. " Psalm 51:1-2
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
This verse, like many other verses in Psalms, is about David, who has sinned again, poured out his soul to You Lord in prayer, seeking humbly for Your mighty mercy and grace.
Father, if we are truly sorry and make repentance on our sins, we will never be ashamed. But for David, he just enjoyed to dwell in this cycle of "sin, repent and cry out for mercy", and hence, seemed to be begging for Your pardon of sins and reconcilation ever so often. Still, everytime in his repentance, David feels encouraged, he feels hope that God would graciously accept him once again.
Father, don't we all dwell in some sort of sin cycles, just like David? Father, through the blood of Christ that sprinkled upon our conscience, it washed away all our iniquity and every stain has been cleansed. Father, help us to grow wisdom to resist commiting sins repeatedly, help us to cry out for God's Almighty blessings, help us to believe that our sins are forgiven through Jesus and if anyone is in Christ, he/she is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, October 29, 2010
2010-10-29
Today’s Verse:
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes." Psalm 37:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Today's verse is about how to hush the spirit, to be silent before the Lord, to wait in His holy patience during the time of turmoil, until all the clearing of the difficulties completed by our Heavenly Father's providence. Father, help us to walk through all the stages of our emotions, step by step, accomplish this through our gracious hearts?
Father, everyday, we are facing attacks of all sorts, but through preserverance, may we believe that You are well worth waiting for. Father, You are our loving Father, though You will never deliever Your blessings to us before Your precise timing, but we must realised that You are never late.
Father, we rejoice in Your love and caring, we also also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (Romans 5:3-5)
Father, we have learnt very valuable lessons over the years. Whenever we are about to sink in the pit of worry, we only need to look upward and begin praising You for all that You have already given us. Then, by claiming victory over our emotions including worry, confusion and anxiety, let our hearts be at peace with gratitude and thanks.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes." Psalm 37:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Today's verse is about how to hush the spirit, to be silent before the Lord, to wait in His holy patience during the time of turmoil, until all the clearing of the difficulties completed by our Heavenly Father's providence. Father, help us to walk through all the stages of our emotions, step by step, accomplish this through our gracious hearts?
Father, everyday, we are facing attacks of all sorts, but through preserverance, may we believe that You are well worth waiting for. Father, You are our loving Father, though You will never deliever Your blessings to us before Your precise timing, but we must realised that You are never late.
Father, we rejoice in Your love and caring, we also also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (Romans 5:3-5)
Father, we have learnt very valuable lessons over the years. Whenever we are about to sink in the pit of worry, we only need to look upward and begin praising You for all that You have already given us. Then, by claiming victory over our emotions including worry, confusion and anxiety, let our hearts be at peace with gratitude and thanks.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
2010-10-28
Today’s Verse:
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" Matthew 14:31
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Is life make up of hard walks? There was Abraham who walked with Issac up the mountain Moriah, Moses who walked with the Israelites out of Eygpt through the red sea and there was Peter, walked on the water towards Jesus. These are all meaningfuls stories. For the first 2 stories, by faith, they obeyed, walked and made progress in their lives.
Peter's story was quite depressing because by faith, he stepped out of the boat and by faith, he walked several steps on the water, but when he saw the wind, he was scared by it and he began to sink.
Father, great teaching from Jesus who taught us to focus on Him but not on the circumstances. Indeed Father, when we are faced with situations, we are just like Peter. To get out of them, we do need to take the courage to get out of our "comfort zone" (the boat) and we do need to take more than one step before we can get anything resolved. And so often, we feel there is absolutely nothing that we can do except to put our trust in You. Then, sooner than we know, we would probably question ourselves and we would probabaly start doubting, and we would start to sink...
Father, nobody walks without fluctuation, satan always attack us with the 'what-ifs'. "What if we get too far from the boat and we can't make it to shore?", "What if the money doesn't come through?", "Or the cancer comes back?"... Father, help us to trust You more each day, through our personal walk with You, and through our experience, may we build our faith in You gradually.
Father, one day, may we have enough faith to proudly declare that "We believe that we are walking in the provision of God". Father, You give strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. Father, we are those who hope in the LORD, may we renew our strength, may we soar on wings like eagles, may we run and not grow weary, may we walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31).
Thankyou Father, for giving us Jesus Christ our Lord, as our assurance, for if we feel like we are sinking today, we can always cry out for Him and He'll reach out His hand to catch us immediately!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" Matthew 14:31
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Is life make up of hard walks? There was Abraham who walked with Issac up the mountain Moriah, Moses who walked with the Israelites out of Eygpt through the red sea and there was Peter, walked on the water towards Jesus. These are all meaningfuls stories. For the first 2 stories, by faith, they obeyed, walked and made progress in their lives.
Peter's story was quite depressing because by faith, he stepped out of the boat and by faith, he walked several steps on the water, but when he saw the wind, he was scared by it and he began to sink.
Father, great teaching from Jesus who taught us to focus on Him but not on the circumstances. Indeed Father, when we are faced with situations, we are just like Peter. To get out of them, we do need to take the courage to get out of our "comfort zone" (the boat) and we do need to take more than one step before we can get anything resolved. And so often, we feel there is absolutely nothing that we can do except to put our trust in You. Then, sooner than we know, we would probably question ourselves and we would probabaly start doubting, and we would start to sink...
Father, nobody walks without fluctuation, satan always attack us with the 'what-ifs'. "What if we get too far from the boat and we can't make it to shore?", "What if the money doesn't come through?", "Or the cancer comes back?"... Father, help us to trust You more each day, through our personal walk with You, and through our experience, may we build our faith in You gradually.
Father, one day, may we have enough faith to proudly declare that "We believe that we are walking in the provision of God". Father, You give strength to the weary and increase the power of the weak. Father, we are those who hope in the LORD, may we renew our strength, may we soar on wings like eagles, may we run and not grow weary, may we walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31).
Thankyou Father, for giving us Jesus Christ our Lord, as our assurance, for if we feel like we are sinking today, we can always cry out for Him and He'll reach out His hand to catch us immediately!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
2010-10-27
Today’s Verse:
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
The greek word "ταπεινοφροσυνη" is used at several places in the bible (Ephesians 4:2; Acts 20:19; Philippians 2:3; Colossians 2:23; Colossians 3:12; 1 Peter 5:5). The word means "modesty, humility, lowliness of mind". In this letter, Paul urges us to live a life worthy which is "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."
Father, by lowliness, understand humility, which means that we should put down our pride and by meekness, which means that we should walk humbly before God and man, we should walk according to the will of God.
Father, "Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth, you will again bring me up. (Psalm 71:20) In return, we should help the brothers and sisters around us.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
The greek word "ταπεινοφροσυνη" is used at several places in the bible (Ephesians 4:2; Acts 20:19; Philippians 2:3; Colossians 2:23; Colossians 3:12; 1 Peter 5:5). The word means "modesty, humility, lowliness of mind". In this letter, Paul urges us to live a life worthy which is "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."
Father, by lowliness, understand humility, which means that we should put down our pride and by meekness, which means that we should walk humbly before God and man, we should walk according to the will of God.
Father, "Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth, you will again bring me up. (Psalm 71:20) In return, we should help the brothers and sisters around us.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
2010-10-26
Today’s Verse:
Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on. - Mark 12:43-44
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Thankyou for this teaching on the Widow's Offering. Jesus showed his compassion to the widow. He didn't condemn the widow for giving. Jesus also told us that God, our Father's concern was not on the face amount of tithing, but the motive, attitude, and financial condition of the givers.
There was once a fund raising execise in New York. It wasn't a success until a poor woman sold her bed for US$13.00 and contributed the money. Similarly, there was a movie called "A letter to God", describing how a young boy fought against cancer as well as having firm faith on God by writing Him letters daily.
God, You are great. You always show us these short stories which inspire us, encourage us to hold on to our everyday lives. Miracles don't need to be huge, as long as we understand the meaning underneath.
"How many are your works, O LORD!
In wisdom you made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
There is the sea, vast and spacious,
teeming with creatures beyond number—
living things both large and small.
These all look to you
to give them their food at the proper time.
May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
may the LORD rejoice in his works." (Psalm 104: 24, 25, 27, 31)
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on. - Mark 12:43-44
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Thankyou for this teaching on the Widow's Offering. Jesus showed his compassion to the widow. He didn't condemn the widow for giving. Jesus also told us that God, our Father's concern was not on the face amount of tithing, but the motive, attitude, and financial condition of the givers.
There was once a fund raising execise in New York. It wasn't a success until a poor woman sold her bed for US$13.00 and contributed the money. Similarly, there was a movie called "A letter to God", describing how a young boy fought against cancer as well as having firm faith on God by writing Him letters daily.
God, You are great. You always show us these short stories which inspire us, encourage us to hold on to our everyday lives. Miracles don't need to be huge, as long as we understand the meaning underneath.
"How many are your works, O LORD!
In wisdom you made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
There is the sea, vast and spacious,
teeming with creatures beyond number—
living things both large and small.
These all look to you
to give them their food at the proper time.
May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
may the LORD rejoice in his works." (Psalm 104: 24, 25, 27, 31)
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Monday, October 25, 2010
2010-10-25
Today’s Verse:
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?" Psalm 22:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Does this verse sound familar to You? Some of us have been shouting about this "forsaken" sentence to You for years! This is surely our sorrowful complaints to You, when we cannot feel Your presence in our lives.
The most honourable person amongst us who shouted this sentence to You is our beloved Jesus. Being truly man, Jesus felt a natural unwillingness to pass through such great sorrows, yet he had to go through all these, to fulfill the prophecy.
Father, we have too much on our plates that we can complain about - "Why am I sick?", "Why am I poor?", "Why am I suffering?"... These are just some savours of discontent and worldliness. Father, we know that You allowed the situations to bring out something in the lives, to change and to transform us into a better person.
Father, hear us as we cried out in confusion. Although we know that You are doing us good for presenting us with all these situations and consequences, we are only human. Help us to step forward with faith, as we hold on to Your love and grace. Father, tough times never last, but tough people do, train us to be deighted in Your eyes.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?" Psalm 22:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Does this verse sound familar to You? Some of us have been shouting about this "forsaken" sentence to You for years! This is surely our sorrowful complaints to You, when we cannot feel Your presence in our lives.
The most honourable person amongst us who shouted this sentence to You is our beloved Jesus. Being truly man, Jesus felt a natural unwillingness to pass through such great sorrows, yet he had to go through all these, to fulfill the prophecy.
Father, we have too much on our plates that we can complain about - "Why am I sick?", "Why am I poor?", "Why am I suffering?"... These are just some savours of discontent and worldliness. Father, we know that You allowed the situations to bring out something in the lives, to change and to transform us into a better person.
Father, hear us as we cried out in confusion. Although we know that You are doing us good for presenting us with all these situations and consequences, we are only human. Help us to step forward with faith, as we hold on to Your love and grace. Father, tough times never last, but tough people do, train us to be deighted in Your eyes.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
2010-10-24
Today’s Verse:
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." - Matthew 7:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"Judge not?" We always talk about this and that person around us, which has certain of level of judgement involved. Does that mean we should not TALK about anything at all?
Father, Jesus teaches us that we must judge ourselves, and judge our own acts. We should take Jesus as an example and we should not judge our brothers or sisters. Father, do You know that this is hard, very hard to say than do?!
There are some bible verses which we may study to understand more about Jesus:
- James 3:1-2 Taming the tongue, we are not teachers
- James 4:11 Do not slander
- Romans 14:10 Only God will sit on the judgement seat
Father, sometimes we complain, sometimes we criticise, sometimes we judge rashly, sometimes we talk about our brothers and sisters with no ground, or out of our own jealousy and ill nature. Father, we must not make the worst of people, nor say things to others that they cannot not bear.
Father, we must not judge the hearts of others, nor their intentions. Father, change us, mold us, help us to see Jesus as our righteous example. Father, teach us to meditate on your words everyday, as our devotion to You daily.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." - Matthew 7:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"Judge not?" We always talk about this and that person around us, which has certain of level of judgement involved. Does that mean we should not TALK about anything at all?
Father, Jesus teaches us that we must judge ourselves, and judge our own acts. We should take Jesus as an example and we should not judge our brothers or sisters. Father, do You know that this is hard, very hard to say than do?!
There are some bible verses which we may study to understand more about Jesus:
- James 3:1-2 Taming the tongue, we are not teachers
- James 4:11 Do not slander
- Romans 14:10 Only God will sit on the judgement seat
Father, sometimes we complain, sometimes we criticise, sometimes we judge rashly, sometimes we talk about our brothers and sisters with no ground, or out of our own jealousy and ill nature. Father, we must not make the worst of people, nor say things to others that they cannot not bear.
Father, we must not judge the hearts of others, nor their intentions. Father, change us, mold us, help us to see Jesus as our righteous example. Father, teach us to meditate on your words everyday, as our devotion to You daily.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
2010-10-24
Today’s Verse:
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." - Matthew 7:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"Judge not?" We always talk about this and that person around us, which has certain of level of judgement involved. Does that mean we should not TALK about anything at all?
Father, Jesus teaches us that we must judge ourselves, and judge our own acts. We should take Jesus as an example and we should not judge our brothers or sisters. Father, do You know that this is hard, very hard to say than do?!
There are some bible verses which we may study to understand more about Jesus:
- James 3:1-2 Taming the tongue, we are not teachers
- James 4:11 Do not slander
- Romans 14:10 Only God will sit on the judgement seat
Father, sometimes we complain, sometimes we criticise, sometimes we judge rashly, sometimes we talk about our brothers and sisters with no ground, or out of our own jealousy and ill nature. Father, we must not make the worst of people, nor say things to others that they cannot not bear.
Father, we must not judge the hearts of others, nor their intentions. Father, change us, mold us, help us to see Jesus as our righteous example. Father, teach us to meditate on your words everyday, as our devotion to You daily.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged." - Matthew 7:1
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
"Judge not?" We always talk about this and that person around us, which has certain of level of judgement involved. Does that mean we should not TALK about anything at all?
Father, Jesus teaches us that we must judge ourselves, and judge our own acts. We should take Jesus as an example and we should not judge our brothers or sisters. Father, do You know that this is hard, very hard to say than do?!
There are some bible verses which we may study to understand more about Jesus:
- James 3:1-2 Taming the tongue, we are not teachers
- James 4:11 Do not slander
- Romans 14:10 Only God will sit on the judgement seat
Father, sometimes we complain, sometimes we criticise, sometimes we judge rashly, sometimes we talk about our brothers and sisters with no ground, or out of our own jealousy and ill nature. Father, we must not make the worst of people, nor say things to others that they cannot not bear.
Father, we must not judge the hearts of others, nor their intentions. Father, change us, mold us, help us to see Jesus as our righteous example. Father, teach us to meditate on your words everyday, as our devotion to You daily.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
2010-10-23
Today’s Verse:
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us" - Ephesians 3:20
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
E. (Eli) Stanley Jones (1884–1973) was a 20th century Methodist Christian missionary and theologian. He is remembered chiefly for his interreligious lectures to the educated classes in India, thousands of which were held across the Indian subcontinent during the first decades of the 20th century. He is also the founder of the Christian Ashram movement. He is sometimes considered the "Billy Graham of India".
Father, He began "ashrams", spiritual growth and development program, by asking people to write "What is your need today? Be honest. No one will see what you've written."
Father, sometimes, we are scared, alarmed, disturbed, troubled or worried when people asked us what we need. We are afraid that people may reject us or make us feel embarrassed.
But Father, when we pray to you, help us to pray to You openly, since You know us so well, that we don't really need to hide anything from You, because You know them all! Father, help us not to fear hiding our lack, our need, or our poverty. Father, there is no shame for us to ask for assistance? Father, help us to put down our pride and submit to You and You alone, for You are our Almighty God. Allow us to rest in peace within Your love and embrace.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us" - Ephesians 3:20
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
E. (Eli) Stanley Jones (1884–1973) was a 20th century Methodist Christian missionary and theologian. He is remembered chiefly for his interreligious lectures to the educated classes in India, thousands of which were held across the Indian subcontinent during the first decades of the 20th century. He is also the founder of the Christian Ashram movement. He is sometimes considered the "Billy Graham of India".
Father, He began "ashrams", spiritual growth and development program, by asking people to write "What is your need today? Be honest. No one will see what you've written."
Father, sometimes, we are scared, alarmed, disturbed, troubled or worried when people asked us what we need. We are afraid that people may reject us or make us feel embarrassed.
But Father, when we pray to you, help us to pray to You openly, since You know us so well, that we don't really need to hide anything from You, because You know them all! Father, help us not to fear hiding our lack, our need, or our poverty. Father, there is no shame for us to ask for assistance? Father, help us to put down our pride and submit to You and You alone, for You are our Almighty God. Allow us to rest in peace within Your love and embrace.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Friday, October 22, 2010
2010-10-22
Today’s Verse:
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Paul J. Bucknell called the teachings in Philippians 4:1-9, the seven steps to find this peace “Stepping into God’s Peace”.
Philippians 4:1-2 Living in Harmony
Philippians 4:3 Helping Co-workers
Philippians 4:4 Rejoicing in the Lord always
Philippians 4:5 Living Graciously
Philippians 4:6 Entrusting our Worries to The Lord
Philippians 4:8 Focusing on the truth
Philippians 4:9 Practicing the Truth
He has also concluded that verse 1 to 6 can be added up to get "Peace of God shall guard your hearts". (Philippians 4:7)
Father, that is quite true, because if we live in harmony with each other, help out our co-workers/neighbours, rejoice in You always, live out Your grace by being righteous and unload all our burdens and worries onto Lord Jesus Christ because it is written, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Then, surely, it is not difficult for us to find comfort in our hearts.
Father, help us to live out joy and outweigh the sorrow; lead us to live over our hardships through preserverance; and teach us to cast out all the fear, distrust, unbelieve, misconception etc. from our minds. Father, let us keep Your Godly peace in our hearts.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
Paul J. Bucknell called the teachings in Philippians 4:1-9, the seven steps to find this peace “Stepping into God’s Peace”.
Philippians 4:1-2 Living in Harmony
Philippians 4:3 Helping Co-workers
Philippians 4:4 Rejoicing in the Lord always
Philippians 4:5 Living Graciously
Philippians 4:6 Entrusting our Worries to The Lord
Philippians 4:8 Focusing on the truth
Philippians 4:9 Practicing the Truth
He has also concluded that verse 1 to 6 can be added up to get "Peace of God shall guard your hearts". (Philippians 4:7)
Father, that is quite true, because if we live in harmony with each other, help out our co-workers/neighbours, rejoice in You always, live out Your grace by being righteous and unload all our burdens and worries onto Lord Jesus Christ because it is written, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Then, surely, it is not difficult for us to find comfort in our hearts.
Father, help us to live out joy and outweigh the sorrow; lead us to live over our hardships through preserverance; and teach us to cast out all the fear, distrust, unbelieve, misconception etc. from our minds. Father, let us keep Your Godly peace in our hearts.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
2010-10-21
Today’s Verse:
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you." - 1 Peter 4:12
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
There was this advertisment on the TV, telling people to buy travel insurance because "Nobody knows about the future in advance", especially something "out of expectation"! Sometimes, we would be asked to do something, for a friend, which is unimaginable, say, creative drawings on your face for photographic competition etc.
Father, on occasion, You are operating on us under the same principle! Every now and then, You throw all these trials at us, to test and to groom us! It is written, "Do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering." Father, You are the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings, we love You and we would love to grow in You, but "Are these tests really necessary?", "Do you have to throw us the trial now? It's not at the right timing" and "Do You have to test us in your weakest areas all the time?".
Father, we fully understand that the tests of life are designed to sharpen us mentally and strengthen us spiritually. Father, do not allow us to act like victims and make complain to You! Father, let us learn to persevere because perseverance develops character, character develops hope. (Romans 5:4)
Praise God for Your trials are great!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you." - 1 Peter 4:12
Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father,
There was this advertisment on the TV, telling people to buy travel insurance because "Nobody knows about the future in advance", especially something "out of expectation"! Sometimes, we would be asked to do something, for a friend, which is unimaginable, say, creative drawings on your face for photographic competition etc.
Father, on occasion, You are operating on us under the same principle! Every now and then, You throw all these trials at us, to test and to groom us! It is written, "Do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering." Father, You are the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings, we love You and we would love to grow in You, but "Are these tests really necessary?", "Do you have to throw us the trial now? It's not at the right timing" and "Do You have to test us in your weakest areas all the time?".
Father, we fully understand that the tests of life are designed to sharpen us mentally and strengthen us spiritually. Father, do not allow us to act like victims and make complain to You! Father, let us learn to persevere because perseverance develops character, character develops hope. (Romans 5:4)
Praise God for Your trials are great!
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
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