Have mercy

Luke 10:33-35

"But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' "


路 加 福 音 10:33-35

"惟 有 一 個 撒 瑪 利 亞 人 、 行 路 來 到 那 裡 ． 看 見 他 就 動 了 慈 心 、 上 前 用 油 和 酒 倒 在 他 的 傷 處 、 包 裹 好 了 、 扶 他 騎 上 自 己 的 牲 口 、 帶 到 店 裡 去 照 應 他 。第 二 天 拿 出 二 錢 銀 子 來 、 交 給 店 主 說 、 你 且 照 應 他 ． 此 外 所 費 用 的 、 我 回 來 必 還 你 。 "


This relates to quite an impacting event in mainland China earlier in the year. A child was accidentally knocked down by a truck. After this, there were over 10 passerbys ignoring and failing to do anything to help the child. The child eventually died in the hospital.

As a Christian, what should we do when we see one requires help from others? Have mercy on those who desperately needs help and do our part to spread God's love.

Birth of Jesus

Matthew 1:21

"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."


馬 太 福 音 1:21

"他 將 要 生 一 個 兒 子 ． 你 要 給 他 起 名 叫 耶 穌 ． 因 他 要 將 自 己 的 百 姓 從 罪 惡 裡 救 出 來 。"


The birth of Jesus marks the significance of God's salvation plan. He is to save us from our sins. If we are capable of saving ourselves from our sins, God doesn't need to send Jesus to this world to die for our sins.

The worldly view of Christmas doesn't mark the real meaning of why we celebrate Christmas. It's not because we get Christmas presents in Boxing Day. We celebrate Christmas because our saviour king Jesus was born more than 2000 years ago. It is not merely a public holiday for us to enjoy.

Perhaps, it is a good time to think once again for now and the future.

• What can we do to love God more?
  
• What can we do to love brothers and sisters more?
  
• What can we do to move our relationship with God towards an upper gear?
• What can we do to reach out more for the people who are still looking for Jesus?

I treasure 2011 as it had been full of blessing. Even little things like getting home safely from work everyday is a huge blessing! Yet we don't really think about it, especially if we had a bad day. Getting to church and have fellowship with brothers and sisters is another huge blessing that we often don't think about.

I do not recall clearly the reason why I started this blog in the first place. It was primarily for quiet time purposes but now I know it is much more than that. God's love is always around and I am not here to hide it from others. Spread the love! Jesus loves us all!

Take only ways that are firm

Proverbs 4:26-27

"Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."


箴 言 4:26-27

"要 修 平 你 腳 下 的 路 、 堅 定 你 一 切 的 道 。 不 可 偏 向 左 右 ． 要 使 你 的 腳 離 開 邪 惡 。"



The path is real, but the key is whether you believe this is the path God is taking you, whether you trust Him that He is taking you somewhere for your benefit, even if you may not like it.

2011 is coming close to an end. I thank God for so many things, like I shared during my prayer meeting yesterday. The things to be thankful for is not for boasting, but to give appreciation of how great is our God.

• I have a personal mentor coming into my life this year, and he has been always been a great source of support ever since he became my mentor. It is not easy to find a good mentor that can keep you in the loop in terms of guiding me the right path. Even though there are ups and downs, I thank God for having him in my life.

• I have started sponsoring a child in Compassion Australia. It is a great privilege to be given a job and have a source of income for this to happen. Taking this step had not been easy, but I am glad God guided me this step so I know there are so many children out there that needs help.

• Newtown mission inspires me to the full. I went a couple of times this year and I want to go back to it soon. Worthwhile experience and when you see people who are not as fortunate as you, you will start to thank God for His provisions.
  

• Thank God that I started this blog this year. I think I can keep this blog as a reflective tool but would also hope this is for the benefit of brothers and sisters so that they can constantly be mindful of God's word!
  

• And thank God for giving us a wintry morning even though it's the start of summer!
  

Lamp of the body

Luke 11:34

"Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are good, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are bad, your body also is full of darkness."


路 加 福 音 11:34

"你 眼 睛 就 是 身 上 的 燈 、 你 的 眼 睛 若 瞭 亮 、 全 身 就 光 明 ． 眼 睛 若 昏 花 、 全 身 就 黑 暗 。"


Sorry I haven't updated this for a while. This verse was describing how we normally put a lamp after we light it. If it is put where it will be hidden, then we lose the purpose of that light. So we put in on the stand in order for us to see it.

It is a bit like after we become Christians. Do we show people we are Christians, or we would rather hide our identity?

Make disciples of all nations

Matthew 28:19-20

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."


馬 太 福 音 28:19-20

"所 以 你 們 要 去 、 使 萬 民 作 我 的 門 徒 、 奉 父 、子 、聖 靈 的 名 給 他 們 施 洗 ．凡 我 所 吩 咐 你 們 的 、 都 教 訓 他 們 遵 守 、我 就 常 與 你 們 同 在 、 直 到 世 界 的 末 了 。"


This is a popular verse coming from Jesus. We may know or even remember this verse, but do we do what Jesus told us to do, that is, to make disciples of all nations?

Let us focus on not just the inside of the church, but also reaching out to people outside of church because essentially the people outside are the ones who need to hear God's Word.

Do not be burdened by a yoke of slavery

Galatians 5:1

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."


加 拉 太 書 5:1

"基 督 釋 放 了 我 們 、 叫 我 們 得 以 自 由 、 所 以 要 站 立 得 穩 、 不 要 再 被 奴 僕 的 軛 挾 制 。"


Jesus wants us to have the new freedom like we never had before, that is how we know Christ. This new life marks the significance of ourselves of a changed perception of life and how we are living for God rather than for ourselves.

Peace with us all

John 14:27

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."


約 翰 福 音 14:27

"我 留 下 平 安 給 你 們 、 我 將 我 的 平 安 賜 給 你 們 ． 我 所 賜 的 、 不 像 世 人 所 賜 的 ． 你 們 心 裡 不 要 憂 愁 、 也 不 要 膽 怯 。"

Remember the Lord

Jonah 2:7

"When my life was ebbing away, I remembered you, Lord, and my prayer rose to you, to your holy temple."


約 拿 書 2:7

"我 心 在 我 裡 面 發 昏 的 時 候 、 我 就 想 念 耶 和 華 。 我 的 禱 告 進 入 你 的 聖 殿 、 達 到 你 的 面 前 。"


Do you remember the Lord when your life ebbs away?

During this year, I had been challenged by the Lord in different ways. I faced some difficult decisions and there were lots of frustrations and pain in the process. I felt I had been like Jonah, sometimes wanting to run away from the Lord, or complaining why certain things turn out that way. The book of Jonah is a great reminder for us that our God is sovereign and He is a God that wants to have a relationship with us.

The greatest in the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 18:3-4

"And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

馬 太 福 音 18:3-4

"說 、 我 實 在 告 訴 你 們 、 你 們 若 不 回 轉 、 變 成 小 孩 子 的 樣 式 、 斷 不 得 進 天 國 。 所 以 凡 自 己 謙 卑 像 這 小 孩 子 的 、 他 在 天 國 裡 就 是 最 大 的 。"


Can you remember when you were like a child? I remember that when I was really young, I was following my parents. However, when I got to know Jesus, I know there is a greater parent around me. He expects us to be like little children. Innocent. Humble. So that we can be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God

John 20:30-31

"Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."


約 翰 福 音 20:30-31

"耶 穌 在 門 徒 面 前 、 另 外 行 了 許 多 神 蹟 、 沒 有 記 在 這 書 上 。 但 記 這 些 事 、 要 叫 你 們 信 耶 穌 是 基 督 、 是 神 的 兒 子 ． 並 且 叫 你 們 信 了 他 、 就 可 以 因 他 的 名 得 生 命 。"

Blessed

Psalm 119:1-2

"Blessed are they whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord.
Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart."


詩 篇 119:1-2

"行 為 完 全 、 遵 行 耶 和 華 律 法 的 、 這 人 便 為 有 福 。 遵 守 他 的 法 度 、 一 心 尋 求 他 的 、 這 人 便 為 有 福 。"

Victory over temptation

1 Corinthians 10:13

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."


哥 林 多 前 書 10:13

"你 們 所 遇 見 的 試 探 、 無 非 是 人 所 能 受 的 、 神 是 信 實 的 、 必 不 叫 你 們 受 試 探 過 於 所 能 受 的 ． 在 受 試 探 的 時 候 、 總 要 給 你 們 開 一 條 出 路 、 叫 你 們 能 忍 受 得 住 。"

Solid food is for the mature

Hebrews 5:13-14

"Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil."


希 伯 來 書 5:13-14

"凡 只 能 吃 奶 的 、 都 不 熟 練 仁 義 的 道 理 ． 因 為 他 是 嬰 孩 。 惟 獨 長 大 成 人 的 、 纔 能 吃 乾 糧 、 他 們 的 心 竅 、 習 練 得 通 達 、 就 能 分 辨 好 歹 了 。"


An interesting point coming from the combined church service on Sunday. The point made was whether long and mature Christians tend to be more or less passionate about God's kingdom. Things may become routine and it almost seems one is heading in the right direction.

I think no matter in what stage of our lives, we are challenged in some way. God wants us to be passionate about Him and it never ceases to amaze me that at this stage of my life, God is challenging me to trust in Him when I am so powerless and things can get so out of my control. God wants us to have solid food and stay away from milk so we are equipped.

Quick to listen, slow to speak

James 1:19-20

"My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."


雅 各 書 1:19-20

"我 親 愛 的 弟 兄 們 、 這 是 你 們 所 知 道 的 ． 但 你 們 各 人 要 快 快 的 聽 、 慢 慢 地 說 、 慢 慢 地 動 怒 ． 因 為 人 的 怒 氣 、 並 不 成 就 神 的 義 。"

Humble yourselves

1 Peter 5:6

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time."


彼 得 前 書 5:6

"所 以 你 們 要 自 卑 、 服 在 神 大 能 的 手 下 、 到 了 時 候 他 必 叫 你 們 升 高 。"


Humility is not simply a natural trait you learn from other humans. This is talking about God's humility. Jesus humbled himself by washing His disciple's feet. Why would a teacher need to wash students' feet? Imagine, this is like a CEO in a company doing cleaning on behalf of a cleaner!

You don't even know what will happen tomorrow

James 4:13-15

"Now listen, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money. Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, if it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that."


雅 各 書 4:13-15

"嗐 、你 們 有 話 說 、 今 天 明 天 我 們 要 往 某 城 裡 去 、 在 那 裡 住 一 年 、 做 買 賣 得 利 ． 其 實 明 天 如 何 、 你 們 還 不 知 道 。 你 們 的 生 命 是 甚 麼 呢 ． 你 們 原 來 是 一 片 雲 霧 、 出 現 少 時 就 不 見 了 。 你 們 只 當 說 、 主 若 願 意 、 我 們 就 可 以 活 著 、 也 可 以 做 這 事 、 或 做 那 事 。"

Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."


加 拉 太 書 5:22-23

"聖 靈 所 結 的 果 子 、 就 是 仁 愛 、 喜 樂 、 和 平 、 忍 耐 、 恩 慈 、 良 善 、 信 實 、 溫 柔 、 節 制 ． 這 樣 的 事 、 沒 有 律 法 禁 止 。"

Present your requests to God

Philippians 4:6-7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."


腓 立 比 書 4:6-7

"應 當 一 無 掛 慮 、 只 要 凡 事 藉 著 禱 告 、 祈 求 和 感 謝 、 將 你 們 所 要 的 告 訴 神 。 神 所 賜 出 人 意 外 的 平 安 、 必 在 基 督 耶 穌 裡 、 保 守 你 們 的 心 懷 意 念 。"


In last night's fellowship, we had to write down a list of things on a paper that makes us anxious and then we were asked to tear off the paper, meaning that we leave those anxious thoughts or issues to God. After all, He is the one who understands us and knows what is best for us. Faith is required in the process in order to have a peace of mind that God is in control of everything.

Make the most of every opportunity

Ephesians 5:15-17

"Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is."


以 弗 所 書 5:15-17

"你 們 要 謹 慎 行 事 、 不 要 像 愚 昧 人 、 當 像 智 慧 人 ． 要 愛 惜 光 陰 、 因 為 現 今 的 世 代 邪 惡 。 不 要 作 糊 塗 人 、 要 明 白 主 的 旨 意 如 何 。"

Lord's compassion never fails

Lamentations 3:22-23

"Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."


耶 利 米 哀 歌 3:22-23

"我 們 不 至 消 滅 、 是 出 於 耶 和 華 諸 般 的 慈 愛 、 是 因 他 的 憐 憫 不 至 斷 絕 。 每 早 晨 這 都 是 新 的 ． 你 的 誠 實 、 極 其 廣 大 !"


If the Lord chooses, He may cast off all the men, but He chooses to have compassion on us instead. So every morning, when you are awake, be thankful of God's compassion and loving grace.

Mustard seed

Matthew 13:31-32

"He told them another parable: The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches."


馬 太 福 音 13:31-32

"他 又 設 個 比 喻 對 他 們 說 、 天 國 好 像 一 粒 芥 菜 種 、有 人 拿 去 種 在 田 裡 。這 原 是 百 種 裡 最 小 的 ． 等 到 長 起 來 、 卻 比 各 樣 的 菜 都 大 、 且 成 了 樹 、 天 上 的 飛 鳥 來 宿 在 他 的 枝 上 。"

Love with actions and in truth

1 John 3:18-19

"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence."


約 翰 一 書 3:18-19

"小 子 們 哪 、 我 們 相 愛 、 不 要 只 在 言 語 和 舌 頭 上 ． 總 要 在 行 為 和 誠 實 上 。從 此 、 就 知 道 我 們 是 屬 真 理 的 、 並 且 我 們 的 心 在 神 面 前 可 以 安 穩 。"


Actions speak a thousand words. We all know that our words don't really matter unless they are put into actions for others to see the truth of the Gospel.

Jesus comes as a light

John 12:46

"I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness."


約 翰 福 音 12:46

"我 到 世 上 來 、 乃 是 光 、 叫 凡 信 我 的 不 住 在 黑 暗 裡 。"


Jesus is the light of the world and he knows that darkness will not stay in those who believes in Him. He gave us assurance that He is with us all because of His unconditional love.

Jesus is the resurrection and the life

John 12:25-26

"Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"


約 翰 福 音 12:25-26

"耶 穌 對 他 說 、 復 活 在 我 、 生 命 也 在 我 ． 信 我 的 人 、 雖 然 死 了 、 也 必 復 活 ． 凡 活 著 信 我 的 人 、 必 永 遠 不 死 。 你 信 這 話 麼 。"


Wow. This is Jesus' promise to us. His assurance of salvation. When we think about it, we are all going to die one day, but Jesus assures us we will never die if we believe in Him. He is the one who can wash away our sins and solve all our problems.

Receive the kingdom of God like a little child

Luke 18:17

"I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."


路 加 福 音 18:17

"我 實 在 告 訴 你 們 、 凡 要 承 受 神 國 的 、 若 不 像 小 孩 子 、斷 不 能 進 去 。"


God wants us to be like children. After all, we are children of God. They want us to enter with a pure heart and innocence that pleases Him.

How sins are washed away

Isaiah 1:18

" "Come now, let us reason together, " says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." "


以 賽 亞 書 1:18

"耶 和 華 說 、 你 們 來 、 我 們 彼 此 辯 論 ． 你 們 的 罪 雖 像 硃 紅 、 必 變 成 雪 白 ． 雖 紅 如 丹 顏 、 必 白 如 羊 毛 。"


The old testament already hinted how sins can be washed away by our loving God. To prove His power, He sent Jesus to die for our sins.

Christ lives in me

Galatians 2:20

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."


加 拉 太 書 2:20

"我 已 經 與 基 督 同 釘 十 字 架 ． 現 在 活 著 的 、 不 再 是 我 、 乃 是 基 督 在 我 裡 面 活 著 ． 並 且 我 如 今 在 肉 身 活 著 、 是 因 信 　 神 的 兒 子 而 活 、 他 是 愛 我 、 為 我 捨 己 。"


Christ lives in us. He loved us all and gave himself for all of us. No words can describe His sacrificial love and His desire to have an eternal relationship with us.

Christ is the Lord of both dead and living

Romans 14:9

"For this very reason, Christ died and returned to life so that he might be the Lord of both the dead and the living."


羅 馬 書 14:9

"因 此 基 督 死 了 、 又 活 了 、 為 要 作 死 人 並 活 人 的 主 。"


We know for the fact that Christ lives in us because He is the Lord of creation, the Lord of heaven and earth, and also the Lord of the living and the dead.

Wisdom that comes from heaven

James 3:17

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."


雅 各 書 3:17

"惟 獨 從 上 頭 來 的 智 慧 、 先 是 清 潔 、 後 是 和 平 、 溫 良 柔 順 、 滿 有 憐 憫 、 多 結 善 果 、 沒 有 偏 見 、 沒 有 假 冒 。"

God is not served by human hands

Acts 17:24-25

"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else."


使 徒 行 傳 17:24-25

"創 造 宇 宙 和 其 中 萬 物 的 神 、 既 是 天 地 的 主 、 就 不 住 人 手 所 造 的 殿 ． 也 不 用 人 手 服 事 、 好 像 缺 少 甚 麼 、 自 己 倒 將 生 命 、 氣 息 、 萬 物 、 賜 給 萬 人 。"

Word of God is living and active

Hebrews 4:12

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."


希 伯 來 書 4:12

"神 的 道 是 活 潑 的 、 是 有 功 效 的 、 比 一 切 兩 刃 的 劍 更 快 、 甚 至 魂 與 靈 、 骨 節 與 骨 髓 、 都 能 刺 入 剖 開 、 連 心 中 的 思 念 和 主 意 、 都 能 辨 明 。"

Forgive, and you will be forgiven

Luke 6:37

"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven."


路 加 福 音 6:37

"你 們 不 要 論 斷 人 、 就 不 被 論 斷 ． 你 們 不 要 定 人 的 罪 、 就 不 被 定 罪 ． 你 們 要 饒 恕 人 、 就 必 蒙 饒 恕 ．"


Whatever you do, God will do to you in return. Forgiveness is a lifetime's homework, but let's not forget God forgives us no matter how much we have done wrong in the past and in the coming future as long as we repent and ask for forgiveness.

Faith comes with action

James 2:17

"In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."


雅 各 書 2:17

"這 樣 、 信 心 若 沒 有 行 為 就 是 死 的 。"


Faith is a lifetime's homework. It does not take just overnight to grow. Your faith is only meaningful if it is accompanied by action. Yet, it is not your action that you are saved, but by faith.

Live as servants of God

1 Peter 2:16

"Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God."


彼 得 前 書 2:16

"你 們 雖 是 自 由 的 、 卻 不 可 藉 著 自 由 遮 蓋 惡 毒 、總 要 作 神 的 僕 人 。"


This is especially a challenge for us living in the Western world. We have freedom, but it is so easy to do evil things that seem normal to society. Also, society tells us to stand up for ourselves and put yourself in a high position as you may be looked down upon otherwise.

It is God's will that we live as servants of God. We should serve humbly. We should stand up for God, not for ourselves.

Prayer of a righteous man

James 5:16

"... The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."


雅 各 書 5:16

"... 義 人 祈 禱 所 發 的 力 量 、 是 大 有 功 效 的 。"


I really like this verse. The power and effectiveness of the prayer comes from a righteous man. It mentioned that it requires healing after we confess our sins.

Last night's bible study is about confessions. It is a controversial topic because not everything is necessarily appropriate for public confession, as in the past. However, no matter what the confession is, confessions should be done in front of God because He is the one who has the capacity to forgive and guide us with the Holy Spirit.

You are always with Jesus

Luke 15:31-32

" 'My son, ' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' "


路 加 福 音 15:31-32

"父 親 對 他 說 、 兒 阿 、 你 常 和 我 同 在 、 我 一 切 所 有 的 都 是 你 的 。 只 是 你 這 個 兄 弟 是 死 而 復 活 、 失 而 又 得 的 、 所 以 我 們 理 當 歡 喜 快 樂 。"

Rejoice with Jesus

Luke 15:7

"I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent."


路 加 福 音 15:7

"我 告 訴 你 們 、 一 個 罪 人 悔 改 、 在 天 上 也 要 這 樣 為 他 歡 喜 、 較 比 為 九 十 九 個 不 用 悔 改 的 義 人 、 歡 喜 更 大 。"


Jesus used a few parables in the chapter, which also includes the parable of the lost coin and also the parable of the lost son. The point from this verse is that there is more rejoice in heaven over someone who was lost and then found.

Remember "Amazing Grace" lyrics:

"...I once was lost, but now am found"

This is God's amazing grace.

Man's wickedness

Genesis 6:5

"The Lord saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time."


創 世 紀 6:5

"耶 和 華 見 人 在 地 上 罪 惡 很 大 、 終 日 所 思 想 的 盡 都 是 惡 ．"


Man's wickedness had been there for a long long time. All of us are wicked before we know God. However, the Holy Spirit guides us into righteousness and can help us to turn away from all evil things.

Accept trouble from God

Job 2:9-10

2:9 "His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"
2:10 He replied, "You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?"


約 伯 記 2:9-10

2:9 他 的 妻 子 對 他 說 、 你 仍 然 持 守 你 的 純 正 麼 ． 你 棄 掉 神 、 死 了 吧 !
2:10 約 伯 卻 對 他 說 、 你 說 話 像 愚 頑 的 婦 人 一 樣 。 噯 、 難 道 我 們 從 神 手 裡 得 福 、 不 也 受 禍 嗎 ?

Do we only accept only what is good from the Lord, and everything goes smoothly in our lives? Is that what we expect as a Christian? Obviously not.

Life is meant to be difficult as a Christian. There will be trouble and it is not an easy road. In this passage, Job accepted the challenge and he did not sin in what he said.

Nothing separates us from love of God

Romans 8:38-39

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."


羅 馬 書 8:38-39

"因 為 我 深 信 無 論 是 死 、 是 生 、 是 天 使 、 是 掌 權 的 、 是 有 能 的 、 是 現 在 的 事 、 是 將 來 的 事 、是 高 處 的 、 是 低 處 的 、 是 別 的 受 造 之 物 、 都 不 能 叫 我 們 與 神 的 愛 隔 絕 ． 這 愛 是 在 我 們 的 主 基 督 耶 穌 裡 的 。"


Rejection is a painful thing for most of us. We get rejected time to time. The only thing we know is that Jesus never rejects us, because nothing separates us from love of God.

Future glory

Romans 8:18

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."


羅 馬 書 8:18

"我 想 、現 在 的 苦 楚 若 比 起 將 來 要 顯 於 我 們 的 榮 耀 、 就 不 足 介 意 了 。"


Another good reminder for us that we should be investing our future with God, which is an eternal investment. One thing that Daily Hope did not mention in this entry is that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with what Jesus has suffered. Not only he has suffered, he also paid the price for our sins.

We are all children of God, and we are all created with a purpose, not just some short-term goals that would be forgotten after a few years.

Jesus prays in a solitary place

Mark 1:35

"Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed."


馬 可 福 音 1:35

"次 日 早 晨 、 天 未 亮 的 時 候 、 耶 穌 起 來 、 到 曠 野 地 方 去 、 在 那 裡 禱 告 。"


Jesus is our model when it comes our personal relationship with God. He goes to a place where he is not disturbed and solitary, and he prayed to God. It requires great discipline and it is certainly worth learning from Him.

sons of God

Romans 8:14

"because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God."


羅 馬 書 8:14

"因 為 凡 被 神 的 靈 引 導 的 、 都 是 神 的 兒 子 。"


Daily Hope today talks about fear. It refers to how fear can drive you away from what God intends you to be.

I remember the fear every time I go onto the stage of leading singspiration on Sunday service. I was nervous every time. Despite having spiritual gifts in this area, I am afraid something would go wrong or that I read something wrong etc. Early April this year I volunteered to be a chairperson of the Sunday service, and I am still anticipating my first experience of this. What I know is God has been very good to me and His plans are perfect, even though it means being uncomfortable sometimes. He is definitely guiding me by the Holy Spirit. Amen!

Do it all for the glory of God

1 Corinthians 10:31

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."


哥 林 多 前 書 10:31

"所 以 你 們 或 喫 或 喝 、 無 論 作 甚 麼 、 都 要 為 榮 耀 神 而 行 。"


Do you think that you can glorify God in every activity you do in your day?

Our personal relationship with God is the most important when it comes to glorifying His name. It requires dedication in reading His Word as well as prayer. It also involves fellowship with Him as well as living in a way that is Christ-like.

Live in accordance with the Spirit

Romans 8:5

"Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires."


羅 馬 書 8:5

"因 為 隨 從 肉 體 的 人 、 體 貼 肉 體 的 事 ． 隨 從 聖 靈 的 人 、 體 貼 聖 靈 的 事 。"


Daily Hope gives a very good message. There is always a battle between your old sinful nature and the new nature that comes from Christ.

Our minds can sometimes blow us out of proportion, and Satan makes his attack. Yet, do not forget that because we believe in Christ, Holy Spirit becomes our source of support. Pray that the Holy Spirit will guide us in building a new nature that comes from Christ.

Give thanks in all circumstances

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."


帖 撒 羅 尼 迦 前 書 5:16-18

"要 常 常 喜 樂 ． 不 住 地 禱 告 ． 凡 事 謝 恩 ． 因 為 這 是 神 在 基 督 耶 穌 裡 向 你 們 所 定 的 旨 意 。"


I know living in this world, it is almost impossible to be always joyful 24 hours every day. We have up and down moments. Yet, this is God's will that we need to be thankful for all things and circumstances, which you will then find joy in Him.

Keep the unity of the spirit

Ephesians 4:2-3

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."


以 弗 所 書 4:2-3

"凡 事 謙 虛 、 溫 柔 、 忍 耐 、 用 愛 心 互 相 寬 容 、 用 和 平 彼 此 聯 絡 、 竭 力 保 守 聖 靈 所 賜 合 而 為 一 的 心 。"


During the camp this weekend, we sang "Be One" (合 而 為 一) which is our camp song. The lyrics contain the words in the above verses. A very good reminder for us to keep peace with others through guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The old has gone, the new has come!

2 Corinthians 5:17

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"


哥 林 多 後 書 5:17

"若 有 人 在 基 督 裡 、 他 就 是 新 造 的 人 ． 舊 事 已 過 、 都 變 成 新 的 了 。"

Church camp is fantastic! Though I missed 2 days of blogging I found it refreshing and exciting to have Christ in my life :) New creation is God's work and we know that we are a new creation when we are in Christ.

The Narrow and Wide Gates

Matthew 7:13-14

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."


馬 太 福 音 7:13-14

"你 們 要 進 窄 門 ． 因 為 引 到 滅 亡 、 那 門 是 寬 的 、 路 是 大 的 、 進 去 的 人 也 多 。 引 到 永 生 、 那 門 是 窄 的 、 路 是 小 的 、 找 著 的 人 也 少 。"


The gate that we need to enter is a narrow one. In contrast, the gate that leads to destruction is wide and many enter through it.

Perhaps we need to ask, how can we enter through the narrow gate? What does life mean to you, and do we think there is a lot of time left?

God will make your path straight

Proverbs 3:5-6

"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."


箴 言 3:5-6

"你 要 專 心 仰 賴 耶 和 華 、 不 可 倚 靠 自 己 的 聰 明 ． 在 你 一 切 所 行 的 事 上 、 都 要 認 定 他 、 他 必 指 引 你 的 路 。"


Road to heaven is not an easy path, but the right path. Just as Jesus said to enter through the narrow gate, very few of us will find it. More on that tomorrow.

God, have mercy on me, a sinner!

Luke 18:13

"But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.' "


路 加 福 音 18:13

"那 稅 吏 遠 遠 的 站 著 、 連 舉 目 望 天 也 不 敢 、 只 捶 著 胸 說 : ' 神 阿 、 開 恩 可 憐 我 這 個 罪 人!' "


The passage is comparing a Pharisee and a tax collector. The Pharisee exalts himself about all the righteous things he did unlike robbers, evildoers and adulterers. In contrast, the tax collector humbled himself and not even dared looking at heaven. He asked God for mercy because he is a sinner.

What is there to exalt about ourselves? Christ has already humbled himself and we know that he was exalted to the right hand of God. Ask God for mercy as we are all sinners.

This is the testimony

1 John 5:11-12

"And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life."


約 翰 一 書 5:11-12

"這 見 證 、 就 是 神 賜 給 我 們 永 生 、 這 永 生 也 是 在 他 兒 子 裡 面 。 人 有 了 神 的 兒 子 就 有 生 命 ． 沒 有 神 的 兒 子 就 沒 有 生 命 。"


The best testimony comes from Jesus. Don't we agree?

Keep our eyes fixed on Jesus!

Hebrews 12:2

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."


希 伯 來 書 12:2

"仰 望 為 我 們 信 心 創 始 成 終 的 耶 穌 ． 他 因 那 擺 在 前 面 的 喜 樂 、 就 輕 看 羞 辱 、 忍 受 了 十 字 架 的 苦 難 、 便 坐 在 神 寶 座 的 右 邊 。"


Daily Hope also used this passage to reflect on our life, which is meant to be a marathon, not a 50-yard dash. You need to make it to the finish line, as we see Jesus made it to the finish line by doing the hard yards and endured the cross.

Seek God's kingdom and righteousness

Matthew 6:33

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."


馬 太 福 音 6:33

"你 們 要 先 求 他 的 國 和 他 的 義 、這 些 東 西 都 要 加 給 你 們 了 。"


The amount of things that God has given me is beyond count, which includes his grace and salvation. I thank God for being thankful to Him because it is not always easy to be thankful when you have so much.

Hide God's word in your heart

Psalm 119:11

"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."


詩 篇 119:11

"我 將 你 的 話 藏 在 心 裡 、 免 得 我 得 罪 你 。"


Such a meaningful verse. I certainly want to hide this verse in my heart so that I may not sin against Him. The way how the Holy Spirit works within us is beyond amazing! Praise to the Lord!

All Scripture is God-breathed

2 Timothy 3:16-17

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."


提 摩 太 後 書 3:16-17

"聖 經 都 是 神 所 默 示 的 、於 教 訓 、 督 責 、 使 人 歸 正 、 教 導 人 學 義 、 都 是 有 益 的 ．叫 屬神 的 人 得 以 完 全 、 預 備 行 各 樣 的 善 事 。"


I have not captured the importance of Scripture until recently. It has these 4 ways: teaching, rebuking, correcting and training. God has planned for us to do good works for Him, even though that does not lead to salvation. Remember to read the Scripture everyday.

we live in God

1 John 4:13

"We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit."


約 翰 一 書 4:13

"凡 認 耶 穌 為 神 兒 子 的 、神 就 住 在 他 裡 面 、 他 也 住 在 神 裡 面 。"


When we put our faith in Jesus, we know that he lives in us and the Holy Spirit guides us in our lives. We no longer live for ourselves, but for Jesus.

Jesus is the way

John 14:6

"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.' "


約 翰 福 音 14:6

"耶 穌 說 、 我 就 是 道 路 、 真 理 、 生 命 ． 若 不 藉 著 我 、 沒 有 人 能 到 父 那 裡 去 。"

Be God's witness

Acts 1:8

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."


使 徒 行 傳 1:8

"但 聖 靈 降 臨 在 你 們 身 上 、 你 們 就 必 得 著 能 力 ． 並 要 在 耶 路 撒 冷 、 猶 太 全 地 、 和 撒 瑪 利 亞 、 直 到 地 極 、 作 我 的 見 證 。"


A good verse relating to missions. The love of the Holy Spirit guides us into spreading His word to this world. Amen.

Trust in Jesus

John 14:1

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me."


約 翰 福 音 14:1

"你 們 心 裡 不 要 憂 愁 ． 你 們 信 神 、 也 當 信 我 。"

if Christ has not been raised...

1 Corinthians 15:17

"And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins."


哥 林 多 前 書 15:17

"基 督 若 沒 有 復 活 、 你 們 的 信 便 是 徒 然 ． 你 們 仍 在 罪 裡 。"

God is love

1 Corinthians 13:4

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud."


哥 林 多 前 書 13:4

"愛 是 恆 久 忍 耐 、 又 有 恩 慈 ． 愛 是 不 嫉 妒 ． 愛 是 不 自 誇 ． 不 張 狂 ．"


God is love. I re-read my previous blog about putting my faith and commitment in Jesus Christ back in April 2006, more than 5 years! I thank God for putting Christ into my life! I was ultimately overjoyed when I read the blog entry again. Amen!

Get ready

Matthew 24:43-44

"But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."


馬 太 福 音 24:43-44

"家 主 若 知 道 幾 更 天 有 賊 來 、 就 必 儆 醒 、 不 容 人 挖 透 房 屋 ． 這 是 你 們 所 知 道 的 。 所 以 你 們 也 要 預 備 ． 因 為 你 們 想 不 到 的 時 候 、 人 子 就 來 了 。"

The Greatest Commandment

Mark 12:30-31

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' "


馬 可 福 音 12:30-31

"你 要 盡 心 、 盡 性 、 盡 意 、 盡 力 、 愛 主 你 的 神 。 其 次 、 就 是 說 、 要 愛 人 如 己 。"


They are the 2 greatest commandments that Jesus has commanded for us. No doubt, God has high standards for us. Do your best to love God and others.

Approach God with freedom and confidence

Ephesians 3:12

"In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence."


以 弗 所 書 3:12

"我 們 因 信 耶 穌 、 就 在 他 裡 面 放 膽 無 懼 、 篤 信 不 疑 的 來 到 神 面 前 。"

Giving thanks for everything!

Ephesians 5:19-20

"Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."


以 弗 所 書 5:19-20

"當 用 詩 章 、 頌 詞 、 靈 歌 、 彼 此 對 說 、 口 唱 心 和 的 讚 美 主 ．凡 事 要 奉 我 們 主 耶 穌 基 督 的 名 、 常 常 感 謝 父 神 。"


I don't often sing psalms in the morning, but there was one occasion a hymn song came into my mind. It was a routine exercise walk after lunch and my mind is filled with the song "Shout to the Lord". I wasn't shouting but I could feel the utmost joy on the inside. It was not a feeling that can be described by words.

I know these days look miserable when you look outside the window, but remember to give thanks to the Lord every single day!

Live as children of light

Ephesians 5:8-10

"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord."


以 弗 所 書 5:8-10

"從 前 你 們 是 暗 昧 的 、 但 如 今 在 主 裡 面 是 光 明 的 、 行 事 為 人 就 當 像 光 明 的 子 女 ． 光 明 所 結 的 果 子 、 就 是 一 切 良 善 、 公 義 、 誠 實 ． 總 要 察 驗 何 為 主 所 喜 悅 的 事 。"


Happy searching for what pleases the Lord!

Be imitators of God

Ephesians 5:1-2

"Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."


以 弗 所 書 5:1-2

"所 以 你 們 該 效 法 神 、 好 像 蒙 慈 愛 的 兒 女 一 樣 ． 也 要 憑 愛 心 行 事 、 正 如 基 督 愛 我 們 、 為 我 們 捨 了 自 己 、 當 作 馨 香 的 供 物 、 和 祭 物 、 獻 與 神 。"

No other name

Acts 4:12

"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."


使 徒 行 傳 4:12

"除 他 以 外 、 別 無 拯 救 ． 因 為 在 天 下 人 間 、 沒 有 賜 下 別 的 名 、 我 們 可 以 靠 著 得 救 。"


There is no other name because salvation is God's plan and there is no one else other than Jesus who has the authority of saving men on Earth.

Godliness has value for all things

1 Timothy 4:8

"For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."


提 摩 太 前 書 4:8

"操 練 身 體 、 益 處 還 少 ． 惟 獨 敬 虔 、 凡 事 都 有 益 處 ． 因 有 今 生 和 來 生 的 應 許 ．"


Let's not neglect physical exercise is important for everyone of us. We need a healthy body to serve God. However, spiritual training is of eternal value. It means everything to us!

God cannot disown himself

2 Timothy 2:13

"if we are faithless, he will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself."


提 摩 太 後 書 2:13

"我 們 縱 然 失 信 、 他 仍 是 可 信 的 ． 因 為 他 不 能 背 乎 自 己 。"


Count how many times we are faithless, then count how many times God remains faithful.

Fight the good fight

2 Timothy 4:7-8

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."


提 摩 太 後 書 4:7-8

"那 美 好 的 仗 我 已 經 打 過 了 ． 當 跑 的 路 我 已 經 跑 盡 了 ． 所 信 的 道 我 已 經 守 住 了 ．從 此 以 後 、 有 公 義 的 冠 冕 為 我 存 留 、 就 是 按 著 公 義 審 判 的 主 到 了 那 日 要 賜 給 我 的 ． 不 但 賜 給 我 、 也 賜 給 凡 愛 慕 他 顯 現 的 人 。"


Insightful verses coming from Paul. His great faith and obedience has got him to the finishing line.

Christ came to save sinners

1 Timothy 1:15

"Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst."


提 摩 太 前 書 1:15

"基 督 耶 穌 降 世 、 為 要 拯 救 罪 人 ． 這 話 是 可 信 的 、 是 十 分 可 佩 服 的 ． 在 罪 人 中 我 是 個 罪 魁 。"


Christ Jesus knows we are sinners. That is why he came into the world to save us, just because we cannot save ourselves. Paul admits he is the worst of the sinners, but Christ is patient and loving that Paul is forgiven of his sins.

You are the people of God

1 Peter 2:10

"Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy."


彼 得 前 書 2:10

"你 們 從 前 算 不 得 子 民 、 現 在 卻 作 了 神 的 子 民 ． 從 前 未 曾 蒙 憐 恤 、 現 在 卻 蒙 了 憐 恤 。"


Just remembered the first time I walked into my fellowship back in 2005, never in the world can I imagine that I am the people of God today. I did not expect anything to happen. I am blessed to have been chosen by Him as I received His mercy. Amen to that!

Precious blood of Christ

1 Peter 1:18-19

"For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect."


彼 得 前 書 1:18-19

"知 道 你 們 得 贖 、 脫 去 你 們 祖 宗 所 傳 流 虛 妄 的 行 為 、 不 是 憑 著 能 壞 的 金 銀 等 物 ． 乃 是 憑 著 基 督 的 寶 血 、 如 同 無 瑕 疵 無 玷 污 的 羔 羊 之 血 ．"

This verse is shared by one of sister's life sharing. She said we should live our lives like strangers here on this Earth. This was actually with Jesus did, living a life like He does not belong on Earth. The blood of Christ cleansed us all with our sins.

Present yourself to God

2 Timothy 2:15

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."


提 摩 太 後 書 2:15

"你 當 竭 力 在 神 面 前 得 蒙 喜 悅 、 作 無 愧 的 工 人 、 按 著 正 意 分 解 真 理 的 道 。"


Paul has done his best to present himself to God. He understands what is expected of him and he also correctly handles the word of truth.

We were alienated from God

Colossians 1:21-22

"Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ's physical body through death to represent you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation - "


歌 羅 西 書 1:21-22

"你 們 從 前 與 神 隔 絕 、 因 著 惡 行 、 心 裡 與 他 為 敵 ． 但 如 今 他 藉 著 基 督 的 肉 身 受 死 、 叫 你 們 與 自 己 和 好 、 都 成 了 聖 潔 、 沒 有 瑕 疵 、 無 可 責 備 、 把 你 們 引 到 自 己 面 前 。"


Thank God for this verse! Our relationship with God has been reconciled through the death of Jesus and His resurrection. Amen!

God's chosen people

Colossians 3:12-13

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."


歌 羅 西 書 3:12-13

"所 以 你 們 既 是 神 的 選 民 、 聖 潔 蒙 愛 的 人 、 就 要 存 憐 憫 、 恩 慈 、 謙 虛 、 溫 柔 、 忍 耐 的 心 。 倘 若 這 人 與 那 人 有 嫌 隙 、 總 要 彼 此 包 容 、 彼 此 饒 恕 ． 主 怎 樣 饒 恕 了 你 們 、 你 們 也 要 怎 樣 饒 恕 人 。"


Another golden verse from Elijah. A great verse to remember and it was great that God forgave all our sins so we could forgive others.

receive Christ Jesus as Lord

Colossians 2:6-7

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."


歌 羅 西 書 2:6-7

"你 們 既 然 接 受 了 主 基 督 耶 穌 、 就 當 遵 他 而 行 ． 在 他 裡 面 生 根 建 造 、 信 心 堅 固 、 正 如 你 們 所 領 的 教 訓 、 感 謝 的 心 也 更 增 長 了 。"


This is a good verse for us to remember. This is also a golden verse back in my early days of fellowship. This sets a good reminder that we do not stop after receiving Christ Jesus as Lord, but much more to it. God's grace is enough for all of us!

God is our shield

Genesis 15:1

"After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward."


創 世 紀 15:1

"這 事 以 後 、 耶 和 華 在 異 象 中 有 話 對 亞 伯 蘭 說 、 亞 伯 蘭 你 不 要 懼 怕 、 我 是 你 的 盾 牌 、 必 大 大 的 賞 賜 你 。"


Do we think all the time that God is our shield in times of trouble?

Watchfulness

Luke 12:40

"You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."


路 加 福 音 12:40

"你 們 也 要 預 備 ． 因 為 你 們 想 不 到 的 時 候 、 人 子 就 來 了 。"


Harold Camping predicted the dates for the end of the world and got it wrong twice already. This verse says very clearly by Jesus that no one can predict when the end of the world is going to be, even though in God's relative terms, it is near.

So we should prepare ourselves well before He comes again.

Do not worry

Luke 12:24-25

"Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?"


路 加 福 音 12:24-25

"你 想 烏 鴉 、 也 不 種 、 也 不 收 ． 又 沒 有 倉 、 又 沒 有 庫 、 　 神 尚 且 養 活 他 ． 你 們 比 飛 鳥 是 何 等 的 貴 重 呢 。 你 們 那 一 個 能 用 思 慮 、 使 壽 數 多 加 一 刻 呢 。"


Worrying does not make a difference. We do not often see how important we are until we realize that we are much more valuable than birds.

Deceitful tongues

Psalm 120:2

"Save me, O Lord, from lying lips and from deceitful tongues"


詩 篇 120:2

"耶 和 華 阿 、 求 你 救 我 脫 離 說 謊 的 嘴 唇 、 和 詭 詐 的 舌 頭 。"


In real life, lies are everywhere. We often do not know what is true or not.
Pray the Lord will help us speak honestly and words that reflect the Gospel, which is the truth from the Lord.

Love the Lord

Deuteronomy 6:5

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.”


申 命 記 6:5

"你 要 盡 心 、 盡 性 、 盡 力 、 愛 耶 和 華 你 的 神 。"


Easy to talk, but very difficult to do at all times. How much do we love God? Is it a steady flow or more like fluctuating depending on what is happening with our lives?

Pray the Lord will help us to understand more about Him so our love to God is not of pressure but of willingness, submission and obedience.

Listen to the Lord

Luke 10:16

"He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me."


路 加 福 音 10:16

" 又 對 門 徒 說 、 聽 從 你 們 的 、 就 是 聽 從 我 、 棄 絕 你 們 的 、 就 是 棄 絕 我 、 棄 絕 我 的 、 就 是 棄 絕 那 差 我 來 的 。"


This passage refers to Jesus sending 72 of the others following him to spread the Gospel. In this verse, Jesus is making a point that there will be people listening or not listening to them about God's word, just like nowadays.

Pray the Spirit will guide us in spreading God's Word whether people listen to them or not.

The ministry of reconciliation

2 Corinthians 5:18

"All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation"


哥 林 多 後 書 5:18

"一 切 都 是 出 於 神 、 他 藉 著 基 督 使 我 們 與 他 和 好 、 又 將 勸 人 與 他 和 好 的 職 分 賜 給 我 們 ．"


God has a plan for everyone of us. His plan is to reconcile us to Him through Jesus Christ so that we can have a personal relationship with Him. However, we also need to spread the message of reconciliation to others so they can also reconcile with God. The message of reconciliation is from the precious Word of the Bible.

Be strong and courageous

Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."


約 書 亞 記 1:9

"我 豈 沒 有 吩 咐 你 嗎? 你 當 剛 強 壯 膽 ! 不 要 懼 怕 、 也 不 要 驚 惶 、 因 為 你 無 論 往 那 裡 去 、 耶 和 華 你 的 神 必 與 你 同 在 。"


Sometimes we have doubts and feel discouraged when something bad strikes us. It feels almost God abandoned us and we are left to suffer.

God is with us wherever we are, wherever we go. Pray for strength and faith in Him for guiding us through challenges we face in life.

God loved us first

1 John 4:19

"We love because he first loved us."


約 翰 一 書 4:19

"我 們 愛 、 因 為 神 先 愛 我 們 。"

Remind ourselves that Jesus loved us first before we know what love is. God's love is perfect and He has forgiven us of our sins. To do that, he sent His Son to sacrifice on our behalf.

Light of the world

John 8:12

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."


約 翰 福 音 8:12

耶 穌 又 對 眾 人 說 : " 我 是 世 界 的 光 ． 跟 從 我 的 、 就 不 在 黑 暗 裡 走 、 必 要 得 著 生 命 的 光 。 "


Jesus is the light of life. He light up our lives so that we know the way to walk with Him and enjoy the goodness that He brings us.

Pure vs Impure

Titus 1:15

"To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure. In fact, both their minds and consciences are corrupted."


提 多 書 1:15

"在 潔 淨 的 人 、 凡 物 都 潔 淨 ． 在 污 穢 不 信 的 人 、 甚 麼 都 不 潔 淨 ． 連 心 地 和 天 良 、 也 都 污 穢 了 。"


This section of the letter refers to many people who were rebellious, mere talkers and deceivers and those that were in the circumcision group. This was a warning to Titus to rebuke those who reject the truth, which refers to the teaching of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pray that we receive the word of Jesus with a pure heart.

to the Gentiles, not just the Jews

Galatians 2:8

"For God, who was at work in the ministry of Peter as an apostle to the Jews, was also at work in my ministry as an apostle to the Gentiles."


加 拉 太 書 2:8

"那 感 動 彼 得 、 叫 他 為 受 割 禮 之 人 作 使 徒 的 、 也 感 動 我 、 叫 我 為 外 邦 人 作 使 徒."


God has a plan to save not just the Jews but also the Gentiles. In other words, God has a plan to save us all. God sent out Paul to do the work of spreading God's Word to the Gentiles.

Pray that we have the strength and wisdom to spread the gospel since it is God's plan for everyone to know that He is God.

Ask without doubt

James 1:6

"But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind."


雅 各 書 1:6

"只 要 憑 著 信 心 求 、 一 點 不 疑 惑 ． 因 為 那 疑 惑 的 人 、 就 像 海 中 的 波 浪 、被 風 吹 動 翻 騰 。 "


Sometimes we may doubt our prayers because God seems to respond very slowly, or not respond at all. This verse is about praying with faith. If there is no faith in prayer, then we have no faith in Jesus and hence "double-minded, ... unstable", as described in verse 8.

Men's sinful nature

Romans 7:18-19

18 I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.

19 For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do - this I keep on doing.



羅 馬 書 7:18-19

18 我 也 知 道 、 在 我 裡 頭 、 就 是 我 肉 體 之 中 、 沒 有 良 善 ． 因 為 立 志 為 善 由 得 我 、 只 是 行 出 來 由 不 得 我 。

19 故 此 、 我 所 願 意 的 善 、 我 反 不 作 ． 我 所 不 願 意 的 惡 、 我 倒 去 作 。



This is referring to men's struggle with sin. We all struggle with sin even as Christians. We want to do good to give a testimony to others, but at the same time, sin is always around us, and "living in us" (in Verse 17).


We know that Jesus Christ our Lord came here to save us because we are sinners. Pray that the Lord will guide us and our mind is confident enough that we can rely on Him for all things, including His help to deal with our own sin.

Sinners cannot inherit the kingdom of God

1 Corinthians 6:11

"And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."


哥 林 多 前 書 6:11

"你 們 中 間 也 有 人 從 前 是 這 樣 ． 但 如 今 你 們 奉 主 耶 穌 基 督 的 名 、 並 藉 著 我 們 神 的 靈 、 已 經 洗 淨 、 成 聖 稱 義 了 。"


This verse refers to how wicked people will not inherit the kingdom of God, and we were those wicked people. Yet, God loved us so much that we were washed, sanctified and "justified" in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Remind ourselves that it was God's grace that we are saved. May God continue to guide us with the Holy Spirit.

Do it all in the name of Jesus

Colossians 3:17

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."


歌 羅 西 書 3:17

"無 論 作 甚 麼 、 或 說 話 、 或 行 事 、 都 要 奉 主 耶 穌 的 名 、 藉 著 他 感 謝 父 神 。 "

Went to a different fellowship the other day. Was reading through Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 about timing. Sometimes when things don't go right, or timing is totally wrong, we may think that it is a bad thing and hence difficult to be thankful to our Lord.

God's request for us is to be thankful regardless of any situation. So consider how we can be thankful at times when it is difficult for us to be thankful. He may sometimes hint that there is a better outcome for us in the future, but we just don't see it immediately.

A time for everything

Ecclesiastes 3:14

"I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him."


傳 道 書 3:14

"我 知 道 神 一 切 所 作 的 、 都 必 永 存 、 無 所 增 添 、 無 所 減 少 ． 神 這 樣 行 、 是 要 人 在 他 面 前 存 敬 畏 的 心 。"

By Faith

Hebrews 11:6

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."


希 伯 來 書 11:6

"人 非 有 信 、 就 不 能 得 神 的 喜 悅 ． 因 為 到 神 面 前 來 的 人 、 必 須 信 有 神 ， 且 信 他 賞 賜 那 尋 求 他 的 人 。"


Faith is sometimes difficult to understand from a non-believers perspective. At least from the worldly standards, how can we expect to not do anything in order to get God's grace?

If we can do something to get God's grace, Jesus will not need to sacrifice Himself for our sins. No matter how good we think we are with God, we are worthless without Jesus. Yet, faith is actually built up by growing in His word and serving Him as well as brothers and sisters.

Let us have the faith first that God has conquered the world in order to give us the hope and possible eternal life.

The Parables of the Talents

Matthew 25:29

"For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him."


馬 太 福 音 25:29

"因 為 凡 有 的 、 還 要 加 給 他 、 叫 他 有 餘 ． 沒 有 的 、 連 他 所 有 的 、 也 要 奪 過 來 。"


I was listening to an speech spoken around 3 years ago. It was talking about how to be a humble servant in Christ. One got 5 talents of money, one got 2 talents and one got 1 talent. The one who got 5 talents and the one who got 2 talents got 5 more talents and 2 more talents respectively. However, the one who got 1 talent hid it in the ground and did nothing with it. The talent got taken away from him and he was thrown outside into the darkness.

Not all of us are given 5 talents, possibly a lot less. God's request is to earn the same amount from what we had. Time to consider: how much are we given? and are we confident that we can earn as much as we get in the first place?

The Shepherd and His Flock

I was studying the first part of John 10 this weekend. Jesus was talking about the shepherd and his flock. He said this in verse 11:


"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep."

"我 是 好 牧 人 、 好 牧 人 為 羊 捨 命 。"


The disciples must have been scratching their heads while Jesus said that. After studying this, whether you accept it or not, Jesus is the good shepherd. At the end He sacrificed His life for our sins.

Then in verse 16:

"I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, an there shall be one flock and one shepherd."

"我 另 外 有 羊 、 不 是 這 圈 裡 的 ． 我 必 須 領 他 們 來 、 他 們 也 要 聽 我 的 聲 音 ． 並 且 要 合 成 一 群 、 歸 一 個 牧 人 了 。 "

Even though Jesus is already up there, He is still bringing other sheep into this one flock. They are the new followers of Christ. It is the work of God to bring those non-believers into the flock, even though it is our responsibility to spread the Word on behalf of God.

Let's pray this flock will only expand as time goes, as we know the shepherd has been doing a great job.

God's secret wisdom

1 Corinthians 2:13

"This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words."


哥 林 多 前 書 2:13

"並 且 我 們 講 說 這 些 事 、 不 是 用 人 智 慧 所 指 教 的 言 語 、 乃 是 用 聖 靈 所 指 教 的 言 語 、 將 屬 靈 的 話 解 釋 屬 靈 的 事 。"


Words can be powerful, but can be damaging at the same time. We speak everyday with words. Some of us often think we are smart in talking by human standards.

Pray that we can speak spiritual words that can benefit others. Help others to step up their spiritual maturity, and through His Word we can all grow in Him.

the Lord is good

Psalm 100:5

"For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."


詩 篇 100:5

"因 為 耶 和 華 本 為 善 ． 他 的 慈 愛 存 到 永 遠 、 他 的 信 實 直 到 萬 代 。 "

God, we need help!

Psalm 70:5

"Yet I am poor and needy; come quickly to me, O God. You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay."


詩 篇 70:5

"但 我 是 困 苦 窮 乏 的 ． 神 阿 、 求 你 速 速 到 我 這 裡 來 ． 你 是 幫 助 我 的 、 搭 救 我 的 ． 耶 和 華 阿 、 求 你 不 要 耽 延 。 "


Got this verse coming from Daily Hope. It is a good source of material for quiet time.
Time to reflect: how often do we ask God for help? Only when we are in need?

God is always there for us, and no matter how often we ask for help, He is not the one to complain.

Do not love the world

1 John 2:15

"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him."


約 翰 一 書 2:15

"不 要 愛 世 界 和 世 界 上 的 事 。 人 若 愛 世 界 、 愛 父 的 心 就 不 在 他 裡 面 了 。 "


This verse applies more to nowadays than in the past. We live in the 21st century, with many things we can get with ease. Technology, cars, anything. It is impossible to lock yourself at home and avoiding what is out there. God does not ask us to do that. However, God does not want us to love the world as though we belong here. We are only here temporarily. We all know where our eternal home is.

God works for the good of those who love him

Romans 8:28

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."


羅 馬 書 8:28

"我 們 曉 得 萬 事 都 互 相 效 力 、 叫 愛 神 的 人 得 益 處 、 就 是 按 他 旨 意 被 召 的 人 。 "


Who of us have been called according to God's purpose? How much do we love God personally?

John the Baptist prepares the way

John 3:11

"I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire."


馬 太 福 音 3:11

"我 是 用 水 給 你 們 施 洗 、 叫 你 們 悔 改 ． 但 那 在 我 以 後 來 的 、 能 力 比 我 更 大 、 我 就 是 給 他 提 鞋 也 不 配 ． 他 要 用 聖 靈 與 火 給 你 們 施 洗 。 "


John the baptist was referring to Jesus in this verse. He is much more powerful than John because He is the one to baptize us with the Holy Spirit.

Praise the Lord for His salvation and great plan for us in each of our lives.

The Armor of God

Ephesians 6:13

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.


以 弗 所 書 6:13

所 以 、要 拿 起 神 所 賜 的 全 副 軍 裝 、 好 在 磨 難 的 日 子 抵 擋 仇 敵 、 並 且 成 就 了 一 切 、 還 能 站 立 得 住 。


Wearing of the full armor of God is not a Sunday thing. We all know how powerful Satan is and if we are not careful sometimes, we fall. Pray hard so that we are armored through God's word and pray the Holy Spirit will keep us away from the devil's schemes.

The Lord is my shepherd

Psalm 23:1-3

1- The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2- He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3- he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.


詩 篇 23:1-3

1- 耶 和 華 是 我 的 牧 者 ． 我 必 不 至 缺 乏 。
2- 他 使 我 躺 臥 在 青 草 地 上 、 領 我 在 可 安 歇 的 水 邊 。
3- 他 使 我 的 靈 魂 甦 醒 、 為 自 己 的 名 引 導 我 走 義 路 。


I have read this chapter of Psalm quite a few times and have tried to reflect on the meaning of it, and David has really written this to indicate his great faith and confidence in the Lord. In today's world, especially if we are busy, we forget sometimes that the Lord is our shepherd, and we are the sheep. We often think the other way around.

Lord's path is righteous but definitely not an easy path. In last night's fellowship, one suggested that us Christians should not expect an easy life, instead, a much harder one. However, let's not forget that the Lord is good and loving and He has already done the best thing for us - that is, to save us from sin and guiding us to the right path of righteousness and eternal life.

The Wise and Foolish Builders

Matthew 7:24

"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."


馬 太 福 音 7:24

"所 以 凡 聽 見 我 這 話 就 去 行 的 、 好 比 一 個 聰 明 人 、 把 房 子 蓋 在 磐 石 上 。 "


There are many examples of Christians where they believe in Jesus, but have not really put the Christian life into practice.

We may hear words coming from sermons, talks and events, but do we adopt a "ear in, ear out" approach? Obviously most of us would like an easy life, thinking our life is busy and difficult enough and there is just no time for commitment/action, even if we may have a little desire.

Find a few minutes and pray in front of God. Our lives are always busy but if we are children of God, we know a Christian life needs to be put into practice, and this may sometimes mean we take a more difficult path or decision. After all, we are preparing for eternity.

Jesus predicts his death

Luke 18:31-33

31- Jesus took the Twelve aside and told them, "We are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. 32- He will be handed over to the Gentiles. They will mock him, insult him, spit on him, flog him and kill him. 33- On the third day he will rise again.

31 耶 穌 帶 著 十 二 個 門 徒 、 對 他 們 說 : "看 哪 、 我 們 上 耶 路 撒 冷 去 ． 先 知 所 寫 的 一 切 事 、 都 要 成 就 在 人 子 身 上 ．32 他 將 要 被 交 給 外 邦 人 、 他 們 要 戲 弄 他 、 凌 辱 他 、 吐 唾 沫 在 他 臉 上 ． 33 並 要 鞭 打 他 、 殺 害 他 ． 第 三 日 他 要 復 活。


The disciples did not understand what Jesus was saying, not until it happened.

Tomorrow is good Friday. It is a day off from work but more importantly, we commemorate Jesus' death. He was mocked, crucified and died on the cross. He rose on the 3rd day.

Let's not forget about Jesus. Remind ourselves everyday that He did this because He loves us and wants us to have a personal relationship with Him. He is forever a loving God.


(PS. Helpful comments are always welcome. Click on "# comments" link and there will be a comment box. Type your comment and your name at the end. Under the box, choose "Anonymous" for Comment As drop down box. Hit "Post Comment"!)

Keep watch!

Matthew 25:13

"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."


馬 太 福 音 25:13

"所 以 你 們 要 儆 醒 、 因 為 那 日 子 、 那 時 辰 、 你 們 不 知 道 。"


This passage is coming from the Parable of the Ten Virgins. There are 10 virgins who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom. 5 of them were foolish and 5 were wise.

Something to think about: Are we the wise or the foolish? Have we prepared for the Lord to come again?

It is the gift of God

Ephesians 2:8-9

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast.


以 弗 所 書 2:8-9

你 們 得 救 是 本 乎 恩 、 也 因 著 信 、 這 並 不 是 出 於 自 己 、 乃 是 神 所 賜 的 ．
也 不 是 出 於 行 為 、 免 得 有 人 自 誇 。


Something worth to think about: If we can work our way to earn the gift of God, then Jesus does not need to die for us. God's grace is amazing though.

The Vine and the Branches

John 15:5

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."


約 翰 福 音 15:5

"我 是 葡 萄 樹 、 你 們 是 枝 子 ． 常 在 我 裡 面 的 、 我 也 常 在 他 裡 面 、 這 人 就 多 結 果 子 ． 因 為 離 了 我 、 你 們 就 不 能 作 甚 麼 。 "

Daily bible verses!

I went to a talk last week titled "i-legend". "i" refers to Internet, which is now a great way for us to exchange, research and as well as sharing information.

Have been praying these days and thought, this is the moment. We should not lose faith in God especially we know we can spread the Word much easier through technology. I know there is indeed a challenge for us to be closer and personal to God because of the technology around us. We are busier than ever.

I shall start by posting bible verses, aiming to do it on a daily basis :)