After all had been learnt and done(rightly or wrongly)..
1) Bless
2) Fellowship (may not take lots of time)
3) Pray (and lift it up to God)
4) Proclaim
Pray and believe for miracles!
Re-think:
Luke 10:2-3. The few workers need to go into the harvest field/darkness - in order to see changes.
(Romans 8:19)..
--------------------------
Transforming the Nation.. is more than just winning souls..
~fr Rev Ed Silvoso
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Praying the Prayer of Jabez.. (again)
on Sunday (26 Oct 08), or rather the week before, i remembered I was led to pray the prayer of Jabez again.
I was reminded again of this long forgotten prayer by my new colleauge at work whom I found reading the "Prayer of Jabez" book which i once read it myself a few years back, i cannot even remember when.
Then at Care Group time, my new care leader shared how his prayer or 2008 resolution to extend areas of influence in his life has been fulfilled (at work, ministry, studies) except for family which he is working on.
It inspired me to re-think how my life's influence has been rather 'stagnant' or not growing much outwards. And I desire to live a life that...
I was reminded again of this long forgotten prayer by my new colleauge at work whom I found reading the "Prayer of Jabez" book which i once read it myself a few years back, i cannot even remember when.
Then at Care Group time, my new care leader shared how his prayer or 2008 resolution to extend areas of influence in his life has been fulfilled (at work, ministry, studies) except for family which he is working on.
It inspired me to re-think how my life's influence has been rather 'stagnant' or not growing much outwards. And I desire to live a life that...
Monday, October 20, 2008
Being Generous to God
Today at service, i decided to just be generous to God in giving to Him through the service offering, as i realized i had been shrinking back for some weeks (as budget was tighter with other givings to give -more tithe to deduct, expenses to bear, and in view of economic downturn). Nevertheless, as prompted/reminded by the Holy Spirit to be generous to God, and thinking that it boils down to my trust in Him as my provider, I decided to just give the only small change of $5 note i had in my wallet/purse.
Initially I just thought that I couldn't give as i didn't have a smaller change.. and that amount was out of my budget to give. I would naturally intend to use it for lunch, and giving the excuse I would need or pretty well need money to bless other ppl instead! And rather than putting it into the offerring bag with the 'crowd' and not knowing exactly where it will go.. (partly thinking that it is a less visible/significant giving).
After the decision to give and giving, and after lunch while walking to the water baptism, something made me turn back and reminded me that i needed to get a gift for my friend/collegue whom will be flying back home overseas (Germany).
And I just turned back and proceeded to a stall which I've passed 5 metres away, and started searching for a suitable shawl which I had in mind to get her somewhat.
I didn't exactly haggle or intend to ask for a lower price, as i just casually slip off my mouth during the payment to ask the aunty whether she can charge cheaper. In my mind, the most she would give me is $1 cheaper as to my prior experiences, or even none, due to my poor persuasive or haggling skills. But instead she gave me a price $4 lower. i was shocked and just agreed. While she offered to pack the shawl in a nice clear bag, i happen to tell her that the shawl i am having over my shoulder is actually bought from her stall previously. And before I pay her, she lowered my price by another $1, and after that i realized that, i had a discount of $5 from the original price!
Amazing, as I just realized that God showed me that He didn't short-change me, when I give or have a heart of generously towards Him. An experience and another lesson learnt.
Initially I just thought that I couldn't give as i didn't have a smaller change.. and that amount was out of my budget to give. I would naturally intend to use it for lunch, and giving the excuse I would need or pretty well need money to bless other ppl instead! And rather than putting it into the offerring bag with the 'crowd' and not knowing exactly where it will go.. (partly thinking that it is a less visible/significant giving).
After the decision to give and giving, and after lunch while walking to the water baptism, something made me turn back and reminded me that i needed to get a gift for my friend/collegue whom will be flying back home overseas (Germany).
And I just turned back and proceeded to a stall which I've passed 5 metres away, and started searching for a suitable shawl which I had in mind to get her somewhat.
I didn't exactly haggle or intend to ask for a lower price, as i just casually slip off my mouth during the payment to ask the aunty whether she can charge cheaper. In my mind, the most she would give me is $1 cheaper as to my prior experiences, or even none, due to my poor persuasive or haggling skills. But instead she gave me a price $4 lower. i was shocked and just agreed. While she offered to pack the shawl in a nice clear bag, i happen to tell her that the shawl i am having over my shoulder is actually bought from her stall previously. And before I pay her, she lowered my price by another $1, and after that i realized that, i had a discount of $5 from the original price!
Amazing, as I just realized that God showed me that He didn't short-change me, when I give or have a heart of generously towards Him. An experience and another lesson learnt.
Saying "God mould me" the 'dangerous' prayer
1 week ago at CG (NG5A3), prayed the dangerous prayer again,
not deliberately, coz it was the one and only worship song of the day!! (evening).
Hence, since i've sung it from my heart, little did I know, the moulding and test of God for the refinement of my heart and character come so swiftly that make me somewhat 'regret' having said that prayer..
But becoz i've went through the furnace before, it was not at all nice, comfy or at all enticing, (i call it a necessary purging of deeply embedded sin) but the blessing and final result of it is so beautiful and important, that i didn't hesitate to pray that again, after forgetting the 'pain' that has been encountered.
This time round.. it was more of testing and strecthing or pruning of anymore weeds of evil and sin that may still be rooted in my heart - the root of selfishness which destroys.
the very next week I was faced with situation where I had to give-up myself, TRUST God and to LOVE people..despite 'difficult' circumstances or conflict of interest. This happens in office, as well as among believers. Previously, i would have difficulty handling such a situation with grace and love due to protecting of self-interest. But now i resolve to go the way of love and truth through Christ Jesus, enabled by His Spirit. PTL! Through him I am able.
...
...
As I prayed to God for my circumstances, I was glad some assurance was spoken or given to my heart.
As yet I do not see visible results, everytime i struggled or doubted, i kept going back to God the Father to be reminded of His sovereignity, love and faithfulness for all. Indeed, He is a good God and will do what is just and right.
I am continiung to pray and trust in Him.
What I know is that I needed to learn to be patient or learn to do so, and
"Trust in the Lord with All your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight - Prov 3:5-6"
not deliberately, coz it was the one and only worship song of the day!! (evening).
Hence, since i've sung it from my heart, little did I know, the moulding and test of God for the refinement of my heart and character come so swiftly that make me somewhat 'regret' having said that prayer..
But becoz i've went through the furnace before, it was not at all nice, comfy or at all enticing, (i call it a necessary purging of deeply embedded sin) but the blessing and final result of it is so beautiful and important, that i didn't hesitate to pray that again, after forgetting the 'pain' that has been encountered.
This time round.. it was more of testing and strecthing or pruning of anymore weeds of evil and sin that may still be rooted in my heart - the root of selfishness which destroys.
the very next week I was faced with situation where I had to give-up myself, TRUST God and to LOVE people..despite 'difficult' circumstances or conflict of interest. This happens in office, as well as among believers. Previously, i would have difficulty handling such a situation with grace and love due to protecting of self-interest. But now i resolve to go the way of love and truth through Christ Jesus, enabled by His Spirit. PTL! Through him I am able.
...
...
As I prayed to God for my circumstances, I was glad some assurance was spoken or given to my heart.
As yet I do not see visible results, everytime i struggled or doubted, i kept going back to God the Father to be reminded of His sovereignity, love and faithfulness for all. Indeed, He is a good God and will do what is just and right.
I am continiung to pray and trust in Him.
What I know is that I needed to learn to be patient or learn to do so, and
"Trust in the Lord with All your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight - Prov 3:5-6"
------------------------------------
As days go by (even as of 28 Oct 08), siuation seems to get tougher and tougher..
but by His grace, may i not be affected and continue to submit to God and focus on doing His will and doing well and victoriously in my responsibilities.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Keyboard found!!, 'Feleton' a test of faith & trust', God's faithfulness
2 days after pledging 10X more what I was able to give (budgeting or planning wise)upon being prompted by the Holy Spirit/God or the sharing by Andres (Mr Teoh TK)my prayer for my 'much needed' temp keyboard for practise was answered! (was tempted to think that I could have asked for something way better/expensier!! haha)
I pledged the amount that flash in my eyes in a split second during the sharing and I was moved that it was indeed a cause i believed in.. and believed God wanted to raise the funds through me as well..(It was for the 'Feleton' - Faith Campaign in Spanish for Hope Lima, Peru). Although by right i have a negative 200 or plus budget for this month as I was invited to go for a wedding up North in Ipoh Malaysia, I obeyed by faith to the prompting..and trust in God's working. Even if i don't see anything, it would be for a good cause.
I thought God has given me a budget to buy the keyboard instead from an unexpected monetary reward from workplace (as the avenue i thought could borrow the keyboard from initially became unavailable). However the budget was still insufficient to purchase a reasonable keyboard..
I continued to wait/lament to God on my need - in order to get started on for a ministry!
-----------------------
2 days after 'Feleton':
On Saturday 9 Aug 08 (National Day) at St. James Power House@Dover, i invited a colleague over to join for the Unit gathering -- and Voila!
i unexpectedly found that my colleague had the type of keyboard i needed unused sitting at home available to lend it to me! PTL!(it was the exact type or quality i was looking for). Though it was just a lower-end to middle range of $400 keyboard. It is a Yamaha, with good Touch Sensitive keypads and sound..
I really Thank God for His goodness..and in awe or amazed by Him simply..and almost tempted (like what Ps Jeff mentioned in his sermon)to just kneel down and worship the Lord! while I was viewing and collecting the keyboard the day after!
I realized i had been asking God for this keyboard since 2 months back..as I needed it to practise for my audition and as i am intending to take up keyboard lessons to learn and improve my keyboard skills!!
I really hope that it isn't too late (coz i've not responded/replied to Geoffrey for a long time), or always took a long time to respond.
I prayed to God 2 months back whether i should go ahead and take my AWDII keyboard course with my good friends/closer keyboard mate and instructor.. but didn't have the peace or assurance form God. The reason i prayed or asked God is that I didn't or wouldn't know what the 'future' would be, and that He knows what lies ahead..
Indeed, the 2 months ahead turned out to be a tough and turbulent time with great emotional turmoil for me to handle on top of my work challenges (which God faithfully helped and see me through). And the break from any extra lessons was a good thing.
Now that God healed my heart or am well better, i believed that God's timing is perfect.. and I would need to apologize and explain to Mr. Geoffrey of my MIA in response..as I was fearful and lack of confidence due to lack of practise (without a proper keyboard, plus handling the down time).
I don't know what God's plan is.. but more work to be done and I'll see how things turn out!
Plans from Aug-Sep:
1) change of CG?
2) Keyboard
3) AWDII
4) Hope Sem OT Survey 2
On top of handling my work well- stabilizing and learning well to be a good and seasoned CRA by end of the year.
------------------------------------------------
Testimonies of God's encouragement:
1)Got a very good feedback or 'passed' my first SIV (Site Initiation Meeting conduct) from Australian evaluater despite it anticipated to be a very tough and challenging one.
2)Got a bravo award for the other project being part of the team, and will be monetarily rewarded (a small USD250 amount though).
(thank God for letting some light shine - for His glory, not my own)
I pledged the amount that flash in my eyes in a split second during the sharing and I was moved that it was indeed a cause i believed in.. and believed God wanted to raise the funds through me as well..(It was for the 'Feleton' - Faith Campaign in Spanish for Hope Lima, Peru). Although by right i have a negative 200 or plus budget for this month as I was invited to go for a wedding up North in Ipoh Malaysia, I obeyed by faith to the prompting..and trust in God's working. Even if i don't see anything, it would be for a good cause.
I thought God has given me a budget to buy the keyboard instead from an unexpected monetary reward from workplace (as the avenue i thought could borrow the keyboard from initially became unavailable). However the budget was still insufficient to purchase a reasonable keyboard..
I continued to wait/lament to God on my need - in order to get started on for a ministry!
-----------------------
2 days after 'Feleton':
On Saturday 9 Aug 08 (National Day) at St. James Power House@Dover, i invited a colleague over to join for the Unit gathering -- and Voila!
i unexpectedly found that my colleague had the type of keyboard i needed unused sitting at home available to lend it to me! PTL!(it was the exact type or quality i was looking for). Though it was just a lower-end to middle range of $400 keyboard. It is a Yamaha, with good Touch Sensitive keypads and sound..
I really Thank God for His goodness..and in awe or amazed by Him simply..and almost tempted (like what Ps Jeff mentioned in his sermon)to just kneel down and worship the Lord! while I was viewing and collecting the keyboard the day after!
I realized i had been asking God for this keyboard since 2 months back..as I needed it to practise for my audition and as i am intending to take up keyboard lessons to learn and improve my keyboard skills!!
I really hope that it isn't too late (coz i've not responded/replied to Geoffrey for a long time), or always took a long time to respond.
I prayed to God 2 months back whether i should go ahead and take my AWDII keyboard course with my good friends/closer keyboard mate and instructor.. but didn't have the peace or assurance form God. The reason i prayed or asked God is that I didn't or wouldn't know what the 'future' would be, and that He knows what lies ahead..
Indeed, the 2 months ahead turned out to be a tough and turbulent time with great emotional turmoil for me to handle on top of my work challenges (which God faithfully helped and see me through). And the break from any extra lessons was a good thing.
Now that God healed my heart or am well better, i believed that God's timing is perfect.. and I would need to apologize and explain to Mr. Geoffrey of my MIA in response..as I was fearful and lack of confidence due to lack of practise (without a proper keyboard, plus handling the down time).
I don't know what God's plan is.. but more work to be done and I'll see how things turn out!
Plans from Aug-Sep:
1) change of CG?
2) Keyboard
3) AWDII
4) Hope Sem OT Survey 2
On top of handling my work well- stabilizing and learning well to be a good and seasoned CRA by end of the year.
------------------------------------------------
Testimonies of God's encouragement:
1)Got a very good feedback or 'passed' my first SIV (Site Initiation Meeting conduct) from Australian evaluater despite it anticipated to be a very tough and challenging one.
2)Got a bravo award for the other project being part of the team, and will be monetarily rewarded (a small USD250 amount though).
(thank God for letting some light shine - for His glory, not my own)
Monday, August 04, 2008
A Healing Encounter with JESUS @ FOP (3 Aug 08)
Went to FOP (Festival of Praise) for the 2nd day on Sunday. Went on Friday with Miss Liwen. :)
During worship led by fellow Hillsongers band (with Rueben Morgan), I sensed the Spirit/God speaking to me:
"Look to me, not your friend"...(the sole reason i was there is because i had the opportunity to invite a fren there so that she could encounter Jesus/God's love too..)
me: hmmh? Is it God talking to me??
"I WILL HEAL YOU."
me: Hmm, ok.. (am i just thinking/making things up in my head?? but doesn't seem like it.)
(before the Festival started, i was running about trying to meet the needs of the various friends whom somehow got connected together and I was their connection link to get everyone taken care off, including a sister in a wheel chair!)
after the session, I was concerned for how God can touch my fren Michelle with the song lyrics/Holy Spirit whatever..
But God told me to look to Him instead.. coz He wanted to minister to me..
Hence i obeyed the prompting of the Holy Spirit/voice of God.
Amazingly/to my surpise, after i closed my eyes, quiten down and focused on God, the next song that was sung was briefly became
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus.."! wow.
The timing was so perfect..
during the song, I had a vision of Jesus coming to me (He was large, but it was dark as my eyes were closed in the darkened concert hall). I saw him streched his hand towards my head. At that point i was thinking whether I was making/imagining things on my own head. And I also thinking what would Jesus/God want to heal me of??
my Physical health or emotional health/heart??,or of everything/wholly? (that would be great!)
But i resovled to not question so much and just let God what He wanted/heal me, not knowing what would be healed.
After that the vision just disappeared. And moments after that,the burden, heaviness/uneasiness in my heart was gone. Lifted. I didn't have that gnawing or draggy feeling that weighted my heart down due to some triggers being around anymore!
With that I just thanked God and praised & worshipped Him with great JOY..!! i could even smile at my trigger.
Despite that, i still had doubts whether my heart was really healed? Or was it just a temporary feeling or release.
Time would tell.
And indeed till the very next day, the thing that was causing me to be distracted the entire week unable to focus on my work was gone. My heart was no longer down/disturbed. My emotional turmoil was gone..
Praise God!!
I was indeed very touched by His love for me that He came down to look for me and meet me face to face. (I was desperate for a cure and I needed/wanted to function well to finish or do my work at work!) And God came to rescue me and brought me up out of the slimy pit.
Many weeks ago during church service when i started to be down due to hurts, Michael spoke words of prophecy to encouraged those who are in emotional turmoil to find quiet time to be with Jesus for Him to minister.
However, guess the busy/easily distracted me didn't get to sit down quiet or long enough or at all to seek God/Jesus's face. Admist the brief prayers and reading of His words, merely.
Conclusion: I am in love with Jesus now. As i've MET Him personally. And His Love healed my heart apart from the spiritual/divine healing.
Praise God for His goodness and kindness to me! :)
During worship led by fellow Hillsongers band (with Rueben Morgan), I sensed the Spirit/God speaking to me:
"Look to me, not your friend"...(the sole reason i was there is because i had the opportunity to invite a fren there so that she could encounter Jesus/God's love too..)
me: hmmh? Is it God talking to me??
"I WILL HEAL YOU."
me: Hmm, ok.. (am i just thinking/making things up in my head?? but doesn't seem like it.)
(before the Festival started, i was running about trying to meet the needs of the various friends whom somehow got connected together and I was their connection link to get everyone taken care off, including a sister in a wheel chair!)
after the session, I was concerned for how God can touch my fren Michelle with the song lyrics/Holy Spirit whatever..
But God told me to look to Him instead.. coz He wanted to minister to me..
Hence i obeyed the prompting of the Holy Spirit/voice of God.
Amazingly/to my surpise, after i closed my eyes, quiten down and focused on God, the next song that was sung was briefly became
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus.."! wow.
The timing was so perfect..
during the song, I had a vision of Jesus coming to me (He was large, but it was dark as my eyes were closed in the darkened concert hall). I saw him streched his hand towards my head. At that point i was thinking whether I was making/imagining things on my own head. And I also thinking what would Jesus/God want to heal me of??
my Physical health or emotional health/heart??,or of everything/wholly? (that would be great!)
But i resovled to not question so much and just let God what He wanted/heal me, not knowing what would be healed.
After that the vision just disappeared. And moments after that,the burden, heaviness/uneasiness in my heart was gone. Lifted. I didn't have that gnawing or draggy feeling that weighted my heart down due to some triggers being around anymore!
With that I just thanked God and praised & worshipped Him with great JOY..!! i could even smile at my trigger.
Despite that, i still had doubts whether my heart was really healed? Or was it just a temporary feeling or release.
Time would tell.
And indeed till the very next day, the thing that was causing me to be distracted the entire week unable to focus on my work was gone. My heart was no longer down/disturbed. My emotional turmoil was gone..
Praise God!!
I was indeed very touched by His love for me that He came down to look for me and meet me face to face. (I was desperate for a cure and I needed/wanted to function well to finish or do my work at work!) And God came to rescue me and brought me up out of the slimy pit.
Many weeks ago during church service when i started to be down due to hurts, Michael spoke words of prophecy to encouraged those who are in emotional turmoil to find quiet time to be with Jesus for Him to minister.
However, guess the busy/easily distracted me didn't get to sit down quiet or long enough or at all to seek God/Jesus's face. Admist the brief prayers and reading of His words, merely.
Conclusion: I am in love with Jesus now. As i've MET Him personally. And His Love healed my heart apart from the spiritual/divine healing.
Praise God for His goodness and kindness to me! :)
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
God's Perks & Encouragement for me
Progenics BRAVOS award ($250) USD??
>> buy keyboard?
Enjoyed a good Secret Recipe Grilled chicken lunch
Haggen Daz- Cappucino Caramel Truffle ice-cream at home
>> buy keyboard?
Enjoyed a good Secret Recipe Grilled chicken lunch
Haggen Daz- Cappucino Caramel Truffle ice-cream at home
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Re-fining a Shepherd's Heart, & Rememberance of a Vision
This was something significant that came out of the Hope's annual (now adults camp for me)this time at Shah Alam, Concorde hotel.
(There is just so much to share due to so much experienced. If i don't pen it down, it would be lost like smoke into the sky. Provided i recall them and have time to think through every one of them.)
Before this camp, God has spoken through people and His Words about loving His people, loving one another, loving God - feeding His lambs, taking care of His sheep, feeding His sheep.
Wah.. just as i was writing this Blog (post camp), a sister (MJ) already gave me a Rhema word via Facebook (and I hv just added her), and not that I know her very well too.
~~~~~~~~~~
It says " hi gal! :) got a Rhema word for you... "God is love.. whoever lives in love lives in God, and whoever does not love does not know God".... May you be filled and God's love OVERFLOWS so abundantly in your life that you do not have room for it, girl :)
~~~~~~~~~~~
continuation:(28Jul08)
Through the camp, God touched me with His love for the people, how He spoke personally to the situations of the bros and sis in my CG or people i know.
I believe and thank God for touching me and growing me (hopefully more and more) in this area, which has already been and will be tested time and again!
This is exactly the area God knows that I need to grow in (in my endeavour to want to 'do' more things for Him and church planting and taking care/leading his people.
Love is not easy, coz true love is a scarificial love. (besides unconditional), which can only be perfected with God's love.
Through another prophecy through a sis i prayed with in the workshop, told me to remember God's Vision for me..
(which has to do with first a sheep and His flock)
(There is just so much to share due to so much experienced. If i don't pen it down, it would be lost like smoke into the sky. Provided i recall them and have time to think through every one of them.)
Before this camp, God has spoken through people and His Words about loving His people, loving one another, loving God - feeding His lambs, taking care of His sheep, feeding His sheep.
Wah.. just as i was writing this Blog (post camp), a sister (MJ) already gave me a Rhema word via Facebook (and I hv just added her), and not that I know her very well too.
~~~~~~~~~~
It says " hi gal! :) got a Rhema word for you... "God is love.. whoever lives in love lives in God, and whoever does not love does not know God".... May you be filled and God's love OVERFLOWS so abundantly in your life that you do not have room for it, girl :)
~~~~~~~~~~~
continuation:(28Jul08)
Through the camp, God touched me with His love for the people, how He spoke personally to the situations of the bros and sis in my CG or people i know.
I believe and thank God for touching me and growing me (hopefully more and more) in this area, which has already been and will be tested time and again!
This is exactly the area God knows that I need to grow in (in my endeavour to want to 'do' more things for Him and church planting and taking care/leading his people.
Love is not easy, coz true love is a scarificial love. (besides unconditional), which can only be perfected with God's love.
Through another prophecy through a sis i prayed with in the workshop, told me to remember God's Vision for me..
(which has to do with first a sheep and His flock)
Monday, June 09, 2008
How God HEALS...
I attended the 'Moving in the Spirit' Workshop at Hope annual Church camp, and didn't regret my choice at all!!
First of all, i was greatly encouraged that i or we/most of the people could seek & hear/got a vision from God and prophecied over one another during a practise session at the beginning of the session. Albeit fears and uncertainties whether what's seen/impressed is accurate or really from God. But by faith and sincerely seeking God, we shared/prayed for the other person we randomly partnered with (someone you don't really know).
After that, we quickly feedbacked whether what was shared was applicable to each other!! haha. lack of experience/faith. And thank God, amazingly, what we prophesied and encouraged one another was pretty accurate! Phew.. Was greatly encouraged by this! As usually had difficulty doing so due to not seeking God enough/recognizing His voice. Oh, initially I thought i heard from God to pray for healing for a girl in red, but couldn't find any in sight.
This aside, we were given a 'Knowing Your Power Gift Mix' survey form with 9 'Power' spiritual gift and to rate it from 1-10 on how much we think we have this gift.
Most of my rating were low, 5 and below. Rank myself 5 for Prophecy, 4 for Healing & Faith. (not sure how accurate myself, coz had some experience with them but not much or not so consistent in it).
At the end of the session, Michael one of the workshop instructors asked who ranked highest for Gift of healing. Then who ranked 2nd highest. And i raised up my hand while telling my fren beside me (er..but my score is very low leh..)
And he asked who is sick and needed healing. I soon to realized after my blurness that there were only 3 people standing in the end, 1 of which is a girl/sister who needed healing, and there's left me and another bro standing. Uh oh.. i thought. Also thinking how come so few people. And they asked the whole class to stand up and unite in prayer, with us both praying for her. I was arrowed to lead the prayer. Mild gasp, or rather a loud in my heart. So I mustered up my courage to pray for this sister in faith. Or rather how i would usually pray for other people. I first asked her name, and then to ask her to clarify what kind of pain exactly she had. (trying to get more info & buy time). And i prayed a prayer for God to heal her pain in Jesus's name, and it was rather short. Right after that Michael asked if she was healed. She said no.. and a while later twisting her hand/trying to feel it more, she said she felt bit better. And Michael asked us all to pray again!
I didn't know we could do this! thought once prayer is done it's done. (So something new learnt)! to persevere in prayer till it happens!! Basically he said another sister with bad back pain was healed after they prayed for her a few times.
This time, i was scared/or rather lacked the faith to pray any more, and quickly passed the arrow to invite/give a chance to the other bro to pray.
And this time i held her hand (finding where exactly the pain was), placing my hand over hers, as i believe in touch-healing as well.
Cause i held my head and prayed before and i was immediately relieved of my headache. So did happened to my Shepherd.
Hence we prayed again, the brother lead a much longer prayer than me (which in my mind i thought lots of the words wasn't really necessary).
After praying, Michael asked her again how was it.
I heard her say 'it's sealed'.
probably referring to God's promises mentioned by the bro in the prayer.
But people's reaction seemed to differ, and I asked my neighbour again what she actually said. And she says that the girl said ' it's HEALED!'
oh my goodness.. i was in an unbelief state. Wow, I was amazed. But later ciding my own lack of faith/hard to belief that she was instantly healed.
It was amazing and I thank God for letting me witness and experiencing this healing session. It was an eye-opener, and an encouragement to use this gift more..I am/wasn't really sure whether she was partially healed throgh my gift of healing? or through the touch as while praying as well. Or the brother with higher ranking of this gift or greater faith/better prayer?? And more likely the unity of prayer by the rest of the believers as well.
So what's the factor that determines? - If you know the answer pls let me know. :)
Need to reflect and learn more about this gift. Just as how the 'Heroes' people started discovering their abilities and how to best use it.
For the amazing thing about God is, Healing can occur when people Praise & worship God too!
Other lessons learnt:
God can heal when
1) Believers unite in prayer
2) We persevere in prayer
3) Gift of healing is utilized (and there could be specific gift for specific diseases, and it could be expanded as we faithfully use it more. For myself, still discovering. Had prayed for stomach ache, flu (fever & sorethroat)that God healed instantly or over half to 1 day.
and UTMOST,
4) We need to have Compassion for the people that
we pray for (just as Jesus had/have).
(thinking to find biblical verses to match the above..)
Why i had trouble/lack of faith to believe that the sickness will be healed immediately? I usually put a disclaimer to ask God to heal someone in His timing more nowadays. This as i reflected is due to the healings that did not occur immediately after after i prayed for people or myself,or yet. Especially during the beginning of the workshop where i prayed for the sister who had flu/sorethroat but didn't see any immediate healing.
And for my own illnesses, have been praying/asking God to heal me. Think i'll pray more/persevere. :)
First of all, i was greatly encouraged that i or we/most of the people could seek & hear/got a vision from God and prophecied over one another during a practise session at the beginning of the session. Albeit fears and uncertainties whether what's seen/impressed is accurate or really from God. But by faith and sincerely seeking God, we shared/prayed for the other person we randomly partnered with (someone you don't really know).
After that, we quickly feedbacked whether what was shared was applicable to each other!! haha. lack of experience/faith. And thank God, amazingly, what we prophesied and encouraged one another was pretty accurate! Phew.. Was greatly encouraged by this! As usually had difficulty doing so due to not seeking God enough/recognizing His voice. Oh, initially I thought i heard from God to pray for healing for a girl in red, but couldn't find any in sight.
This aside, we were given a 'Knowing Your Power Gift Mix' survey form with 9 'Power' spiritual gift and to rate it from 1-10 on how much we think we have this gift.
Most of my rating were low, 5 and below. Rank myself 5 for Prophecy, 4 for Healing & Faith. (not sure how accurate myself, coz had some experience with them but not much or not so consistent in it).
At the end of the session, Michael one of the workshop instructors asked who ranked highest for Gift of healing. Then who ranked 2nd highest. And i raised up my hand while telling my fren beside me (er..but my score is very low leh..)
And he asked who is sick and needed healing. I soon to realized after my blurness that there were only 3 people standing in the end, 1 of which is a girl/sister who needed healing, and there's left me and another bro standing. Uh oh.. i thought. Also thinking how come so few people. And they asked the whole class to stand up and unite in prayer, with us both praying for her. I was arrowed to lead the prayer. Mild gasp, or rather a loud in my heart. So I mustered up my courage to pray for this sister in faith. Or rather how i would usually pray for other people. I first asked her name, and then to ask her to clarify what kind of pain exactly she had. (trying to get more info & buy time). And i prayed a prayer for God to heal her pain in Jesus's name, and it was rather short. Right after that Michael asked if she was healed. She said no.. and a while later twisting her hand/trying to feel it more, she said she felt bit better. And Michael asked us all to pray again!
I didn't know we could do this! thought once prayer is done it's done. (So something new learnt)! to persevere in prayer till it happens!! Basically he said another sister with bad back pain was healed after they prayed for her a few times.
This time, i was scared/or rather lacked the faith to pray any more, and quickly passed the arrow to invite/give a chance to the other bro to pray.
And this time i held her hand (finding where exactly the pain was), placing my hand over hers, as i believe in touch-healing as well.
Cause i held my head and prayed before and i was immediately relieved of my headache. So did happened to my Shepherd.
Hence we prayed again, the brother lead a much longer prayer than me (which in my mind i thought lots of the words wasn't really necessary).
After praying, Michael asked her again how was it.
I heard her say 'it's sealed'.
probably referring to God's promises mentioned by the bro in the prayer.
But people's reaction seemed to differ, and I asked my neighbour again what she actually said. And she says that the girl said ' it's HEALED!'
oh my goodness.. i was in an unbelief state. Wow, I was amazed. But later ciding my own lack of faith/hard to belief that she was instantly healed.
It was amazing and I thank God for letting me witness and experiencing this healing session. It was an eye-opener, and an encouragement to use this gift more..I am/wasn't really sure whether she was partially healed throgh my gift of healing? or through the touch as while praying as well. Or the brother with higher ranking of this gift or greater faith/better prayer?? And more likely the unity of prayer by the rest of the believers as well.
So what's the factor that determines? - If you know the answer pls let me know. :)
Need to reflect and learn more about this gift. Just as how the 'Heroes' people started discovering their abilities and how to best use it.
For the amazing thing about God is, Healing can occur when people Praise & worship God too!
Other lessons learnt:
God can heal when
1) Believers unite in prayer
2) We persevere in prayer
3) Gift of healing is utilized (and there could be specific gift for specific diseases, and it could be expanded as we faithfully use it more. For myself, still discovering. Had prayed for stomach ache, flu (fever & sorethroat)that God healed instantly or over half to 1 day.
and UTMOST,
4) We need to have Compassion for the people that
we pray for (just as Jesus had/have).
(thinking to find biblical verses to match the above..)
Why i had trouble/lack of faith to believe that the sickness will be healed immediately? I usually put a disclaimer to ask God to heal someone in His timing more nowadays. This as i reflected is due to the healings that did not occur immediately after after i prayed for people or myself,or yet. Especially during the beginning of the workshop where i prayed for the sister who had flu/sorethroat but didn't see any immediate healing.
And for my own illnesses, have been praying/asking God to heal me. Think i'll pray more/persevere. :)
Thank God for the blessings of Trips, year of Travels..
(Retrospective re-count)
;P
This year went to:
1) Sydney (with a God-sent company & guide including to Hillsong -City
Church@Waterloo & beautiful Coogee beach), Melbourne (Apr 08)
Q2:
2)Switzerland - Zurich, Grinderwald, 'Top of Europe', some other smaller towns(fully
guided and planned trip with personal advisor, and winter clothing loaned ;P)
3)Hungary (IM)
4)Sweden - Uppsala (meeting Annette), Stockholm (Zhang Na), and airport pick-up and
Gamlastan tour by & with Man Hung!
Besides a Family trip to Penang in Q3.
The rest are countless trips back KL/home!!
Been the airport the most time in my life this year. (6x flying). The rest are sending ppl off, and going there to take a cab home after Asia Conference, Expo in Nov 08 after missing the last train home.. ;P
;P
This year went to:
1) Sydney (with a God-sent company & guide including to Hillsong -City
Church@Waterloo & beautiful Coogee beach), Melbourne (Apr 08)
Q2:
2)Switzerland - Zurich, Grinderwald, 'Top of Europe', some other smaller towns(fully
guided and planned trip with personal advisor, and winter clothing loaned ;P)
3)Hungary (IM)
4)Sweden - Uppsala (meeting Annette), Stockholm (Zhang Na), and airport pick-up and
Gamlastan tour by & with Man Hung!
Besides a Family trip to Penang in Q3.
The rest are countless trips back KL/home!!
Been the airport the most time in my life this year. (6x flying). The rest are sending ppl off, and going there to take a cab home after Asia Conference, Expo in Nov 08 after missing the last train home.. ;P
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Pressed but not crushed, Struck down but not destroyed (R&W)
Actually blogged this way back in end Jan, but have yet to blog it until end Mar. Lots of up and downs, victories & seemingly defeat, and testimonies to share bout God, but definitly my writings will not be able to contain them all, that is unless I'm a daily blogger. :P
This blog also serves as my journal to record my journey in life. Atleast excerpts & some milestones, before i forget them.
--------------------------------------
Had a down start to the New Year 2008.
Right in early January, went through 2 downs in the 2 areas of my life (Relationship and Work) again.
Discontinued a relationship (1 week short of a 1 yr anniversary), and the day after, found my immediate boss shooting me down like a M16 on every single area of my new job performance during a evaluation debrief followed by the appraisal time. I thought those were training visits, but heck, i was evaluated even on my facial expression that i produced or back-fired by the question i asked my boss.?
(Duh..)
The technical stuffs alright i agree.
No doubt there are areas which i'm still learning on and to improve, and to speak, it was the first official feedback was given to me from the past 3 Co-visits at site, and it was during my appraisal. And they would argue they had feedbacked during the visits, but excuse me..No.
Had a meet-up with my bigger boss and he was more encouraging and supportive, though he speaks the same message - to buck up.
Many words were spoken for me to change - and supposed to be big words.
- Re-INVENT, SELF/SITUATIONAL AWARENESS besides INVESTing in yourself, THINK, in order to be effective and produce > RESULTS.
Time is the factor. Many things needs to be done at a short/limited time period.
Instead of minimising my time because i was handling few projects, i upped my time as generally we are encouraged to up your time billability to clients, which means revenue. But little did i realize I to do otherwise, overlooking the initial time budget - which sometimes practically doesn't match up to the real workload/task needed to be done.
However, i remembered God spoke to me 'FOCUS' when i was praying to him what/how to improve myself.
Well i was glad when another senior colleague told me the same thing, confirming it.
I definitly agree that my God knows me better than my boss, and myself.
haha. Praise be to God! A word from Heaven is worth more than a Million else where.
Lesson learnt: I realized that being encouraging (positive + negative) does more benefit to one than putting down (negative only).
Encountered with the 2 bosses (different style/way of communication)
and 2 CLs (feedback on my guitaring). It sure does make a hell lots of difference!
Recently, also found out that certain people cannot be 'trusted' with what they say to be the truth. And some people, which not uncommon, will twist and turn their words just to get what they want done. And i know it's not the real story. Some to make themself look good or knowleagable.
Just that i haven't encountered them for awhile already, and for the first time in 2 years plus. And that i didn't realize.
Anyway, not to blame them, the fallen world and human nature speaks for the many reason and motivation why certain people do or say what they do.
" I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes, and as innocent as doves" - Matthew 10:16
plus, last but not least,
"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed, perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not adandoned; struck down but not destroyed" - 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
*Disclaimer: the story above reflects how i felt PERSONALLY in my own perception at the moment in time, and does not aim to critize any parties on the web.
This blog also serves as my journal to record my journey in life. Atleast excerpts & some milestones, before i forget them.
--------------------------------------
Had a down start to the New Year 2008.
Right in early January, went through 2 downs in the 2 areas of my life (Relationship and Work) again.
Discontinued a relationship (1 week short of a 1 yr anniversary), and the day after, found my immediate boss shooting me down like a M16 on every single area of my new job performance during a evaluation debrief followed by the appraisal time. I thought those were training visits, but heck, i was evaluated even on my facial expression that i produced or back-fired by the question i asked my boss.?
(Duh..)
The technical stuffs alright i agree.
No doubt there are areas which i'm still learning on and to improve, and to speak, it was the first official feedback was given to me from the past 3 Co-visits at site, and it was during my appraisal. And they would argue they had feedbacked during the visits, but excuse me..No.
Had a meet-up with my bigger boss and he was more encouraging and supportive, though he speaks the same message - to buck up.
Many words were spoken for me to change - and supposed to be big words.
- Re-INVENT, SELF/SITUATIONAL AWARENESS besides INVESTing in yourself, THINK, in order to be effective and produce > RESULTS.
Time is the factor. Many things needs to be done at a short/limited time period.
Instead of minimising my time because i was handling few projects, i upped my time as generally we are encouraged to up your time billability to clients, which means revenue. But little did i realize I to do otherwise, overlooking the initial time budget - which sometimes practically doesn't match up to the real workload/task needed to be done.
However, i remembered God spoke to me 'FOCUS' when i was praying to him what/how to improve myself.
Well i was glad when another senior colleague told me the same thing, confirming it.
I definitly agree that my God knows me better than my boss, and myself.
haha. Praise be to God! A word from Heaven is worth more than a Million else where.
Lesson learnt: I realized that being encouraging (positive + negative) does more benefit to one than putting down (negative only).
Encountered with the 2 bosses (different style/way of communication)
and 2 CLs (feedback on my guitaring). It sure does make a hell lots of difference!
Recently, also found out that certain people cannot be 'trusted' with what they say to be the truth. And some people, which not uncommon, will twist and turn their words just to get what they want done. And i know it's not the real story. Some to make themself look good or knowleagable.
Just that i haven't encountered them for awhile already, and for the first time in 2 years plus. And that i didn't realize.
Anyway, not to blame them, the fallen world and human nature speaks for the many reason and motivation why certain people do or say what they do.
" I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes, and as innocent as doves" - Matthew 10:16
plus, last but not least,
"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed, perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not adandoned; struck down but not destroyed" - 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
*Disclaimer: the story above reflects how i felt PERSONALLY in my own perception at the moment in time, and does not aim to critize any parties on the web.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
God's Encouragement, Testimony of His Working, Spiritual warfare
Just to document some miracles that happened in December 2007 before it slips away due to busyness and procrastination if there’s time.
In Dec, when me and my CG has started the prayer and fasting chain, I found out through a conversation, or rather a question, that a colleague of mine have a father who’s a Christian (New Zealander) and a mum who’s Buddhist (Burmese).
And for herself, she is actually studying from both scriptures on the religion to find out which she wants, as she doesn’t want Just a religion.
As she was sick, I offered to pray for her as she was sick (down with flu, sore throat/fever).
Amazingly, God worked, and healed her of her fever and sore throat, as she excitedly told me. She asked me to pray for her again, for her blocked nose for 3 weeks already, but not healed despite much medication.
As usual, I didn’t ask her, but she told me that amazingly her blocked nose was healed and she could breathe again properly! Before this, she had to keep eating meals with soup, and she even lost 3kg due to that.
She asked me to pray for her work as well, as she faces some challenges/problems, and said she experienced peace after I prayed for her.
Another amazing thing was, she shared that few months ago she had a dream with Jesus in it, and how Jesus calmed a chaotic war like situation to peace, touched her forehead, told her He is Jesus, and went back to the bathtub which He was laying. I told her it is amazing and that Jesus appeared to her, as not everyone encounters this. I recalled I video I watched where a Muslim man who was sincerely seeking the true God where Jesus appeared to him in his dream at Mekah. Jesus also touched his forehead.
Well, as Pastor Jeff preached, there are many ways through which people come to know God. And for her was seeing Jesus in her dream, and experiencing God. Although is going for bible courses already. There must be a purpose.
I shared with her the bridge diagram and she said she already knows about the things I shared, but still has some unanswered questions/doubts.
She also wants to experience God more before she commits.
I invited her to out Christmas service. There she answered yes to want to know God personally. I was amazed. But I thank God accompanied her to the front to respond to God and pray the sinner’s prayer.
Again, I was very touched by the moment, with many people receiving Jesus in to their life.
I had no chance to speak to her more before she left to meet her sister.
Also in the auditorium, sitting on my left was a Philipino girl who walked in half way. She was separated from her other frens or family members coz there were not many seats left, or at all.
I couldn’t speak to her much as I was talking with my colleague and friend. But when I walked back after the response session, I greeted her again and asked whether she is new to Hope. Indeed she is, about 1 month new in Singapore, and her sister brought her here. I asked her carefully a few time whether she wants to know Jesus, she nodded her head/ say yes. I was so excited, I tried to get some help to talk with her to understand. But couldn’t find any. So I asked her to tell her sister instead.
……….
……..
….
..
.
The story after this, is a story of spiritual warfare..
Where the devils tries by all means to stop a new believer/ new born spiritual baby from going back to God. And it happens.
There were many hindrances, just as how my uncle couldn’t start his car just when that particular time he wanted to go to church to worship, fellowship and learn about God.
We need to continue to pray for their protection and that they will continue to grow in their faith..
In Dec, when me and my CG has started the prayer and fasting chain, I found out through a conversation, or rather a question, that a colleague of mine have a father who’s a Christian (New Zealander) and a mum who’s Buddhist (Burmese).
And for herself, she is actually studying from both scriptures on the religion to find out which she wants, as she doesn’t want Just a religion.
As she was sick, I offered to pray for her as she was sick (down with flu, sore throat/fever).
Amazingly, God worked, and healed her of her fever and sore throat, as she excitedly told me. She asked me to pray for her again, for her blocked nose for 3 weeks already, but not healed despite much medication.
As usual, I didn’t ask her, but she told me that amazingly her blocked nose was healed and she could breathe again properly! Before this, she had to keep eating meals with soup, and she even lost 3kg due to that.
She asked me to pray for her work as well, as she faces some challenges/problems, and said she experienced peace after I prayed for her.
Another amazing thing was, she shared that few months ago she had a dream with Jesus in it, and how Jesus calmed a chaotic war like situation to peace, touched her forehead, told her He is Jesus, and went back to the bathtub which He was laying. I told her it is amazing and that Jesus appeared to her, as not everyone encounters this. I recalled I video I watched where a Muslim man who was sincerely seeking the true God where Jesus appeared to him in his dream at Mekah. Jesus also touched his forehead.
Well, as Pastor Jeff preached, there are many ways through which people come to know God. And for her was seeing Jesus in her dream, and experiencing God. Although is going for bible courses already. There must be a purpose.
I shared with her the bridge diagram and she said she already knows about the things I shared, but still has some unanswered questions/doubts.
She also wants to experience God more before she commits.
I invited her to out Christmas service. There she answered yes to want to know God personally. I was amazed. But I thank God accompanied her to the front to respond to God and pray the sinner’s prayer.
Again, I was very touched by the moment, with many people receiving Jesus in to their life.
I had no chance to speak to her more before she left to meet her sister.
Also in the auditorium, sitting on my left was a Philipino girl who walked in half way. She was separated from her other frens or family members coz there were not many seats left, or at all.
I couldn’t speak to her much as I was talking with my colleague and friend. But when I walked back after the response session, I greeted her again and asked whether she is new to Hope. Indeed she is, about 1 month new in Singapore, and her sister brought her here. I asked her carefully a few time whether she wants to know Jesus, she nodded her head/ say yes. I was so excited, I tried to get some help to talk with her to understand. But couldn’t find any. So I asked her to tell her sister instead.
……….
……..
….
..
.
The story after this, is a story of spiritual warfare..
Where the devils tries by all means to stop a new believer/ new born spiritual baby from going back to God. And it happens.
There were many hindrances, just as how my uncle couldn’t start his car just when that particular time he wanted to go to church to worship, fellowship and learn about God.
We need to continue to pray for their protection and that they will continue to grow in their faith..
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