Mirabel's Cell

2009-08-05T08:40:00.003+08:00

Hey girls! (:

Know you girls haven heard from me for quite some time. Here's some update about me.

Thanks for the prayers you girls have been keeping me in. As some of you girls may know, I've been falling ill and been weak these months. I really miss you girls, church and God. I promise, i'll be back as soon as i've recovered! (:

I'm doing fine and well in poly now. Adapted and settled down. (: Thank God for his faithfulness and strength to help me pull through this period of time. It was tough, but hah, i got through it! (: There's a lot i wanna share to you girls! (: Will share when i see you girls! :D hahaha.

I'll be attached to SGH soon for attachment. (: Keep me in prayers yeah! :D Hahaha. :D

Love you girls! (:

God made me.... and you

2009-05-19T23:18:00.002+08:00

God did not make me a coward,
He did not make me someone who would shirk when responsibility knocks on the door,
He did not call me to listen to the devil's voice,
He did not make me afraid of the future,
He did not make me so that I could wile & merry away my life in the world's temptation,
He did not make me to give in to sin, to temptation, to lies, to evil, to fear, to hate, to sorrow, to pain.
God did not make me so that I could lose faith in Him along the way.
He did not make me regret anything.
He did not make me so that I could seek revenge towards people that treated me badly.
He did not make me any less beautiful than anyone else.
He did not make me fall short of anything.
He did not make me so that I could give up on Him and stop trying.
He did not make so that I could fail my exams and be okay with it.
He did not make me give up on myself.
However, He did made me to be something,

He made me Perfect,
He gave me the strength to do everything through Him,
He gave me his Son,
He gave me His Holy Spirit,
He gave me a life to live,
He gave me the faith to do anything,
He told me 'nothing is impossible' through Him
He told me that I was perfect, amazing and absolutely able to conquer any exam, any problem, and any bad patch that I got into,
He told me He forgives me,
He told me He loves me always,

and He told you just the same thing too :)

Don't give up!

Words from the History Maker

2009-05-14T11:14:00.004+08:00

I would like you to listen carefully, not to the lyrics of this song, but what Martin Smith said in between singing. These are words of truth that tell us what truly matters in our walk with Jesus.

2009-05-08T08:30:00.002+08:00

Hey girls! (:
Sherminh here.
Hahaha, just a little sharing of what's going on & a little devotion. (:

I really miss the times with you girls before school started. (: Ever since school started.. i don't have much time for church and cell which makes me kinda sad whenever i think about it. Stress in school is building up and things seems to be going downhill.

But fret not, i'm not giving up. God was there for me! (: Just a little sharing to encourage those having stress during the exams and is getting a little discourage and tired.

Similarly for me, although i don't have exams.. But i have a lot of project work to do & it's getting a little suffocating for me. ): I even thought of having to drop out of nursing. (: But God gave me this word.

"You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:36

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James 1:12

It is faith that we have in Him that will help us persevere. (: He is always there for us even in times like this. He is there to carry us through. Although, my road ahead seems bleak, i will persevere through and walk through, cause i believe he will prosper me. (:

Midyear Exam Dates

2009-05-03T22:58:00.003+08:00

Lets keep those who are having midyear exams in our prayers =] the dates are listed below. Take the time to bless our fellow cell sisters, to give the morale support or even to post up messages (through sms/cell blog) encouraging and helping them in the problems that they have.

It is not US who is in CHRIST
but CHRIST who is in US

Michelle (24th April - 13th May)
Chiew Li (27th April - 18th May)
Nicolette (18 May - 30th May)
Dina (18 May - Onwards)
Jamie (17th July - 23rd July)

!!!

God Bless YOU

Believe in Yourself 8D

2009-04-17T23:34:00.001+08:00

hello! <:

Mmm you know how sometimes we can't find the will to have faith, to have the ability to believe in ourselves? this woman showed that courage. She might not believe in God (for all we might not know either), yet she believed in herself :)

I don't think she even though that she could make it through (she was walking away after she sang) but she still believed in herself, and gave it a try. :D

If there was ever a moment in life when you couldn't find the strength to believe in God, believe in yourself. believe in the Holy Spirit.

Cos you know what, when you go out there and believe in yourself and show the world what you can do. You change the world, you make people smile, and you make a difference :)

God's proud of you for that.

Believe in Him.

Believe in YOURSELF

Rich in Christ

2009-04-15T23:29:00.004+08:00

Hey girls! :D
it's my first time posting here! :D Ahhahaha. Anyways, i wanna share something with you girls today which i think which would post as a reminder to all of us. :D it's a late devotion sharing but well, it's never too late to share God's word! :D

Hees. It's something that God reminded me during my QT yesterday. (: I was kinda "blaming" Him for like not blessing me financially despite taking a step forward to give more during tithes, so that slowly i can really surrender 10% of my income to Him and trusting Him financially. I just kept asking and asking why and then it knocked onto me that, whether am i trusting Him financially, and not asking anything in return, or am i giving more because i want more from Him. It dawned onto me that, i should not be asking Him for money, but more than that i should just believe in Him that He will provide just enough or even more than i expected in other ways instead of money.

Following then, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and actually asked me this, have you counted your blessings recently? I've come to realised that i've been so focused on whether he blessed me with money and neglected the part where he blessed me so abundantly in other areas! I counted and counted and it dawned upon me that indeed when i'm poor yet i'm rich. Although, i'm poor financially but i'm rich in the blessings that God has given to me.

So girls, Have you counted your blessings recently?! :D Before you even complain, count your blessings! :D, you'll realised that how abundantly you have been blessed by God! (Even the air you breathe is a blessing! :D) Praise the Lord! :D

This is Meeting Real Needs

2009-04-15T11:30:00.001+08:00

"She (Ellie) has infinite compassion for the people around her...."

Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns (in movie Facing the Giants)

2009-04-12T20:20:00.002+08:00

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves

To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown where Jesus is
And He's holding out His hand

But the waves are calling out my name
And they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy, you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

Chorus:
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!"
The voice of truth says, "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes to stand before a giant
With just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand

But the giant's calling out my name
And he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
From on top of them lookin' down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me

I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

* * *

Have faith!

~ Mirabel

Happy Birthday dear Nico!

2009-04-10T23:01:00.011+08:00

We can never thank God enough for you, a blessing to the cell. :)

Happy Birthday to Nicolette!

2009-04-06T15:43:00.001+08:00

Hello girls! Aww ok HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME :) Haha since there is no one to blog for me, i'll blog for myself! Hahaha it's still counted right!

Anyway, I wanted to thank you girls (LOVE) so so much! You have no idea how absolutely happy I was yest :D Even though I might not have shown it outwardly, inside of me I was like a mexican jumping bean!! YAY. Haha, despite all the problems we had reaching the place, and even finding out that Miss Clarity Cafe was closed pfft! I still enjoyed the time we spent at Hans.

Despite all the setbacks or misunderstandings we have, I really enjoy time with you girls :). There's no doubt that I could find no other group of sisters as amazing as each of you are. You all brighten up my life and make me smile even when I can't find anything to smile about. You each love and know Christ so much better than I do, and you all inspire me every single moment to be stronger in Christ. We're one family, one body, and I'm absolutely glad I'm part of this family, because your in here with me :D. We can grow together, as one family, thank you for always being there.

We're a special bunch of Sisters in Christ!

Letting Go to Trust

2009-04-04T11:28:00.005+08:00

This is a picture of me (i'm the one who looks a little like spiderman, being pulled up the wall. Haha) during an activity in my recent YN144 Leaders ReEncounter. The challenge was to get everyone in the group (about 20 of us) up to the top of wall and to take a group picture there.

There is no way any of us can ascend the wall alone - the gaps in wood planks are too small to grip, and our group's Ps William also warned us that if we hook our fingers through the slits and then fall backwards and down, our fingers can most likely be dislodged from our palms.

i climbed unto the shoulders of two poor brothers (haha), stretched my arms to reach Ps William and other brothers already on top, and then i simply.... waited.

There was nothing more for me to do, or that i could do. I have neither the length of body to reach the top edge, nor the strength to lift and flip myself over the edge.

I smiled to my brothers up there and said, "You can pull me up now", which after a while, they did. I was the first lady in the group to reach the top! Hooray. Haha.

No fear, because i know those above me will grip me; and those below will catch me if i fall.

* * *

The secret to success? Letting go and trust.

Do you trust your cell sisters and church family enough that you can be sure that when you let go, they will hold or catch you?

Sometimes we have to let go of striving ALONE, to understand that. Some of us are too used to striving alone.

Ps Nina spoke about the strength of the inner Spirit last Sunday. We cannot receive or experience that, if we choose to work on our own strength.

* * *

And what happens if everyone in a family lets go and trust one another altogether?

We make it to the top together! What a beautiful picture! :)

27th April Cell

2009-03-31T23:54:00.002+08:00

Photo evidence for Friday's Cell, ahaha we had bounds of joy <: It was a joy to have cell even though Bop went for Youthnet 144 retreat ^^ so here's a few photo shots!

Chiew Li's thanksgivings 20090324

2009-03-24T23:58:00.002+08:00

"Last week during cell i told God that i want to change to be more active in sports and to take away my laziness and He did!

I was supposed to do my PE holiday assignment during the one-week holiday but did not because i did not know how to do but actually I was lazy. So today, God took away my laziness and gave me strength to do the assignment and i am half way through doing it! :)"

God Bless J!

2009-03-23T00:17:00.003+08:00

I don't know if we said this out loud,
or whether or not in our hearts, or thru our actions but
Thank you Jamie :)
Ever since you got the aid of a vehicle, you've been ever so lovely
offering us car rides to cell, to our homes, or to nearby MRT stations

Even though you knew you could say "no"
You STILL chose to say "yes"
Even how tired or stressed you were from exams, or tests
or from the problems you found at home or in school
Thank you for welcoming us into a part of your life :D

You've been an absolutely amazing person to be around.
Whenever you step into a room,
you bring God's joy with you,

We dont know if you know this but...

People who couldn't find a reason to smile, smiled.
People who couldn't find a reason to be happy, found happiness.
People who were sad to be around others, found peace with you.

Because of you,
Whenever we want to see joy shining through,
We look into your eyes,
And there it is. :D

We really sincerly bless you
with the encouragement of the Lord! :D
May He be your strength thru your studying,
And your knowledge thru your exam,

YOU CAN SERIOUSLY DO IT. GO KICK THE PAPER J!
Dont worry, dont fret. Give it your BEST shot.
We'll always be here to back u up!

JIA JIA LIANG TEH YOU TIAAAAAO!

God Bless :)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.” Ephesians 6:10-11

A Spirit-filled Cell Meeting 20 Mar 2009

2009-03-21T21:58:00.012+08:00

Hear what some of us said:

Dina
Cell was awesome tonight. I received a lot from the G12 teachings. To reflect upon our inhibitions and change myself so that everything around me will change too. To be quick to listen from the Holy Spirit. To apply the blood of Jesus so as to die to ourselves. Most importantly, I am reminded that Jesus came down not to be served but to serve. And the act that you washed our feet reminds me of us really humbling ourselves. This is a turning point for me.

I am so looking forward to the next cell meeting. :)

Meiqi
Yes I felt the Holy Spirit was with us. I think Minh led well in the worship too. Thank God for Chiew Li receiving the gift of tongues!

Jamie
It was very great, definitely Spirit-filled.

Actually I did not study what I needed to study (for exam), and my mum was making noise. She said, "Go (for cell) for what, not that they will do your exam for you". Lots of temptation to not go, but I knew I needed the Holy Spirit. So I struggled my way through. Today was different, many came, the spirit was very different when i walked into the room, we were united.

Chiew Li - received the gift of tongues during cell on that day!
Cell for me tonight was great - knowing what God wants me to change, learn to serve others just as how you (Mirabel) served us and never ask for anything back :)

Sher Minh - served in worship/guitar for the first time at cell!
Cell's much livelier :) Felt the Holy Spirit working in us. During worship when I was leading, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, and I had a few revelations about our cell. :)

Yi Ting
It was my first time going and it is awesome. I feel more bonded and learn to support one another through Christ.

Michelle
Everyone was more passionate... united. It was kind of mysterious that we had to wait till you (voiceless Mirabel) finished writing every word on the board in order to understand what was being said...

Huiming
... I know that the Lord is waiting to receive me...

THANK YOU HOLY SPIRIT! :)

Chiew Li's thanksgivings

2009-03-16T22:51:00.003+08:00

Hey people! Just to share with you guys. Last week has been a happy and fun week for me. Received 3 great news.

1st) i was selected by my teacher to go to Shanghai free-of-charge, organised by South East CDC. In fact i was selected to go overseas every year but I didnt go for the interview which i dont know why. I promised my teacher that i will go for the interview this year. So yea :)

2nd) Recently on Sunday, i was promoted to a higher rank in my CCA which i work very hard for.

3rd) And lastly was my results. It was a shock to everyone and even to me. Praise God!

And thank you all for making a great day on Sat. I truly enjoyed myself. :)

Chiew Li

The Mom Song

2009-03-10T23:51:00.001+08:00

Hey girls! <: Hoho i guess most of us can relate to this. Hope you enjoy it! Rahhh miss you girls loads!

With love,
Nicolette

Cass & Minh in the Pool!

2009-03-07T16:10:00.004+08:00

Cassandra's Baptism Testimony

2009-02-28T21:51:00.004+08:00

Before I trusted Christ, even though I was born in a Christian family, I did not know anything about Christ. When I was little, my parents did mention to me about the story of Jesus. Being small then, I was not very interested about it. I kept wondering 'Why do I need Jesus in my life?'; I thought that as long as I maintained a good attitude in life and did well in my studies, that was all I needed. But I was wrong.

My friend Yan zhi invited me to his church (FCBC) in 2008. At first i hesitated because I remembered going to my first church and feeling not too belonging there. After much consideration, I attended FCBC's service and followed the pastor in saying the sinner's prayer for the first time in my life. Continuing to attend service with my cell, I even went for the Encounter Weekend with a few sisters. Never had I known so much about Jesus and God's truth and allowed Him to work so powerfully in my life. I began to better understand that sin had separated me from God and the victorious life He has for me.

God continued to shine light into the areas of my life that He wanted to work in - many of which I never thought were important to change. But they have been very important to Jesus all these while! I thank God that He never lets go of me all these years. After knowing Jesus in a deeper way and belonging to a family of God, I have learnt how to forgive people, like how Jesus had forgiven me of my sins. I also became more confident of myself and do not feel overly worried about my problems anymore. My relationships with my family and friends have improved a lot too. With Jesus with me, my life has had so much more meaning.

Have these ever happened in your life? :)

Cassandra Lee

Sher Minh's Baptism Testimony

2009-02-19T13:41:00.002+08:00

I can remember clearly how I was before I came to Christ. At that point of time, I can never describe what being happy was. Everything that filled my mind were negative thoughts like “I’m useless, I’m not worth anything” etc. Suicidal thoughts would follow and I can really say that my emotions were like a rollercoaster ride. Self consciousness were flooding me and I was really mindful of what people think of me. I started to become very distant from people, yet craving for attention from them. My relationships with my friends were broken due to jealousy, and the unforgiveness out of my broken family. I got into complicated boy-girl relationships to find love and attention that I had never gotten from my family.

On July 6th 2008, one of my best brothers, Shingkai, introduced me to FCBC. The sermon that I first attended was on self consciousness. I felt like God was just beside me, giving me comfort and most importantly, a wake-up call to stop dwelling in the situations I was in. I could remember myself crying and crying, and when my cell leader, Mirabel, prayed healing for me, I could sense that God was there for me. At that point, I was so touched and amazed by His love for me, that I decided to receive Him as my Saviour, my Lord and my Father.

Throughout my walk with God so far, He has truly moulded me into a better person. I am now a happier person with positive thoughts; I want to live my life to the fullest. In my encounter camp last December, I had truly forgiven my mother and father who had a divorce when I was two. My dad had inflicted verbal and physical abuse onto my mother. He was also a drug addict and had tried to feed me with drugs when I was two. Jealousy no longer resided in my friendships and most importantly, I had gained a very caring, supportive and wonderful spiritual family. No matter what happened, I have never been negative and never regretted receiving the Lord as my Saviour and King.

Sher Minh
Ps Yueh Ping’s tribe

Our Praises as Worship unto the Lord

2009-02-08T20:50:00.002+08:00

Today Pastor Khong reminded us,
GOD's throne is built upon the praises of His people,
and every praise is a defence against the devil's arrows.

Hear what some of us gave thanks for today!

:: Chiew Li ::
I thank God for
1. Giving me the strength to keep awake
2. The ang pow money
3. The time i have spent with you all despite the tiredness
4. The food that Hui Ming's grandmother had cooked for us
5. Letting me understand my parents more
6. Healing my heart (not completely but still healing)
7. Walking through my difficult times with me (and of course He is still walking through with me)
8. Giving me all the blessings
9. A wonderful day today!
10. Telling me i can do it and not to give up!

:: Yi Ting ::
I wanna thank God for giving me these few days to rest and think about the plans for the year and put down the unnecessary burdens :)

:: Cassandra ::
He gave me the strength and encouragement not to give up for studies.

:: Mirabel ::
I thank God for never giving up on me when i have still a long way to go to become more like Christ. I thank Him for reminding me of the importance to reflect and lay down my burdens at the Cross, because He cares for me. :)

When you don't pack...

2009-02-06T00:36:00.000+08:00

I often find things that I have put into my bag to bring home and leave there, still in my bag, day after day.

Such 'unpleasant discoveries' make me go ahhhhhhhh, because it means i have carried around unnecessary weight.

God dawned this in my mind last evening, when yet again, i found unpleasant discoveries as i opened my bag.

"If you don't pack, you will drag along unnecessary burdens".

Indeed if i do not leave time to reflect upon the happenings in my life, and pack my feelings and thoughts, i will non-consciously shoulder much unneccesary burdens as the days go on.

I hope you also leave time in your life to lay the past at the Cross, so that you can move ahead with greater and greater freedom. :)

Embarassing Cell Videos/CNY Videos 2009

2009-01-25T23:05:00.005+08:00

These are for entertainment videos :0) Think some of you might remember them? Hoho <: Hope they give you plenty of laughter and more blessings and Joy in the Lord as your days with Him grow stronger and you gain Wisdom and Wiseness in all actions that you might do.

CNY Dinner 2009 Photos @Flickr
Click the above link to view the CNY dinner photos :)

Cell Retreat 2008 Video
[The theme was Occupation for Countdown Party 2008, We dressed up in school uniforms and recorded our profile. Although it might be a tad soft <: TURN UP YOUR SPEAKERS TO THE LOUDEST and guess whose lying and whose not!]

24th January 2009 CNY Dinner
[Here's a hello note and a social peek into what we did :)]

24th January 2009 CNY Dinner
[We tested out how hot and toxic the "tomyam" soup really was after the lady refilled it with potent dollops of tomyam paste, check to see our review!]

Enjoy!

XOXO

Yi Ting's thanksgiving for her Rededication today

2009-01-18T22:49:00.003+08:00

today, tomorrow and the future

i don't know if this is a testimonial, but i'd like to type this down so that i can look back and have a laugh at myself :]

today's the second time i've been to FCBC. i approach the hall with mixed feelings; excitment to meet my cell group, doubtful as they are still rather new to me. i walked along mirabel wondering how i would fit in. while we had breakfast, i shared a experience i had with church when i was young.

my mum was at hong kong with my grandmother[when she's still alive] and aunt, i stayed with my 2nd aunt. on weekend she brought me to church, i still remembered vividly that i was brought to this classroom with other kids and a teacher. the teacher introduced me as a non-believer and told the other kids to play with me like one of them. we were each given a picture of Jesus Christ and colour pencils. our task was to colour Him, then cut out the picture and make it into a bookmark. the other kids shunned me and i was left alone at a table, i remembered i was colouring Christ's cloak a light blue. i never had to chance to finish it though. but the kids' refusal to include me made a stronger and bad impression of Church.

singing with my cell group today was really great. even though i didn't know how to sing the songs except for Amazing Grace. it's particularly easy to sing along today. :] what touched me most is Amazing Grace of course. it was my grandmother's funeral song, i never forgot it since then. its rly touching that brought tears to my eyes. i'm still like a newbie to church and this faith, so i didn't know what to do except to try open my heart to the faith. it worked!

after pastor Melvin's sermon he did this prayer for everyone. he encouraged us to raise our hands to accept Christ. i did, i don't know what made me do it, my hand just went up automatically at 3. i opened my eyes, looked around, shocked to realise i'm the only one with my hands raised. a wave of awkwardness overwhelmed me and i pulled my hand back, embarrassed. haha, then i was brought up for altar call[felt even more awkward], where everyone prayed for me, i felt tears prickling my eyes again. the feeling of being overwhelmed with love and joy is really great. every bit of unhappiness and fustration gone. :]

i would like to thank God for his love, Stacia's efforts to persuade me to church though i disappointed her time and time again, mirabel's love and support, jamie and hui ming's prayers and kai's constant nagging and preaching[aka love, concern, support]

now i have a loooong list of ppl to pray for.

A beautiful 1st Service of 2009

2009-01-05T22:04:00.001+08:00

So proud of you that all of you made it! :)

Cell Retreat + Countdown Photos

2009-01-02T23:27:00.002+08:00

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=797588134#/album.php?aid=56280&id=736223714

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=797588134#/album.php?aid=56288&id=736223714

Thanks to *Nicolette! :)

BeforeChrist/After Christ 09

2009-01-02T18:18:00.002+08:00

Hey darlings! Happy New Year, Here's wishing you a cheerful and bright year ahead, trust in e Lord in all times and His wisdom/wiseness guide you through all things!

Here's two fun photos that i edited during cell retreat
(If you weren't in the photo, please "imaginatively" add yourself in!)

Before Christ
We all had imperfections, and pains, and we all wore masks and face paint to hide the real us inside, we were of the world and in the world, and we understood things the way the world viewed it:

After Christ
We were SAVED by the Light, and we saw His perfect will & glory for us all. We were washed away from all sins, cleansed throughly and now in Christ, we SHINE for HIM and NOT for the World!

Hold on to the everlasting promise of Christ for this year and the years to come: That as long as we believe in Him, we will NEVER perish but will have ETERNAL life (John 3:16)! :)

After last YNet service

2008-12-29T00:23:00.002+08:00

Yiting, why did you disappear at this second?? :p

Sher Minh, Michelle, Meiqi and Amanda, you were missed!

Song: Only Hope

2008-12-23T11:38:00.004+08:00

I remember when i was only a one or two-year old Christian, this is one of the songs that God used to draw me near Him. I remember myself spending beautiful moments with Jesus singing this song to Him.

The female character who suffers from terminal leukemia in the movie 'A Walk to Remember' sang this song to God, proclaiming Him as her only hope - shown in the video below.

Only Hope - Mandy Moorp>

There's a song that's inside of my soul.
It's the one that I've tried to write over and over again
I'm awake in the infinite cold.
But you sing to me over and over and over again.

So, I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only yours, I pray, to be only yours
I know now you're my only hope.

Sing to me the song of the stars.
Of your galaxy dancing and laughing and laughing again.
When it feels like my dreams are so far
Sing to me of the plans that you have for me over again.

So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only yours, I pray, to be only yours
I know now, you're my only hope.

I give you my destiny.
I'm giving you all of me.
I want your symphony, singing in all that I am
At the top of my lungs, I'm giving it back.

So I lay my head back down.
And I lift my hands and pray
To be only yours, I pray, to be only yours
I pray, to be only yours
I know now you're my only hope.

Beautiful Christmas Service

2008-12-22T00:13:00.004+08:00

WELCOME CHIEW LI!!!

SO GOOD TO HAVE YOU, AMANDA!!!

SHER MINH AND MICHELLE, YOU WERE MISSED! :)

Dear girls,

I found this year really beautiful to have journeyed with each of you in different ways. I must say, many of you have grown in the Lord significantly. Praise God!

In the new year, we will still find ourselves at different faith levels and journeys. And i think the description of the body of Christ as the human body is most apt in depicting how we should move forward.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27
12The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. 13For we were all baptized by[c] one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.

14Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. 15If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. 16And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. 17If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

21The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!" And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

27Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

It is extremely important and strategic for us to build one another (not leaving anyone aside) up in the new year themed for FCBC 'Love Our Neighbours' (L.O.N). God will be using us to love and serve many. The My Hope parties were a good beginning; and each of you have done well. :)

love,
Mirabel

Youth My Hope Party photos at http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=77370&l=1fc49&id=706254551 :)

2008-12-18T00:22:00.001+08:00

Dear Ying Shuen!

2008-12-15T00:50:00.001+08:00

We had a guest with us before the My Hope meeting last Thursday. Especially for me, it was great to catch up with dear Ying Shuen again. :)

December 14th Group Photos

2008-12-14T23:07:00.003+08:00

Hi lovelies! :0)

Here are the group photos taken for this Sunday's after service dinner. Ha ha, we had SUCH a blast, should we not do this more often? These are all the "resized" group photos, those personal shots that we took like 1-1 or those random ones, please get them to me through MSN ok?

Please click on each image to get the full-scaled version.

We're too amazing. Hope you enjoy the GG-inspired pictures above (the girls know what we mean right?) Hahaha, OH YES. DID ANYONE NOTICE THAT MICHELLE IS WEARING A DRESS? MIRABEL! MIRABEL!

Lotsa Love
God Bless

You know you love us.

Happy Xmas in Advance!

Sher Minh, Hui Ming, Cassandra & Michelle at Dec's Encounter!

2008-12-08T20:08:00.005+08:00

This is our GOD

2008-11-17T02:10:00.001+08:00

Hey girls!

Here's a short message right before i go to take a short nap & after that get ready to fly off to bangkok. I really had such a wonderful day, and you girls were SO awesome, you know those that there there. You all looked SO AMAZING, Ha ha and everyone was so lovely and warm towards us.

I remember there was a really sweet moment when i met jamie (cos I had a committee meeting earlier) and we met this uncle in hall 9, this really sweet and lovely old uncle who'd ALWAYS greet us so friendly and warm, and he wanted some money to eat. It felt so great at that moment, because it was like when he asked me and Jamie, i felt like the person asking wasn't Him, but it was like Jesus Christ. And i remember in the Bible, it said once "Whenever you give, Give in the name of Christ" it was so great, and i really felt the presence of God the WHOLE WHOLE day.

Anyway, long story short. I was really exhausted and i could not WAIT to get home and sleep during chingay rehearsal, and i was looking on youtube for "This is Our God" by Hillsong, because we sang it today in service :0) and I found this video.

The lead singer was sharing what happened right before she sang this song, and how she had just a week ago before she had to do the album, she gave birth to a baby but it was only 23+ weeks old (so it was premature and really young) and how, she and her husband spent the day praying and accompanying the child, in the end, the child didn't last & it went back to Christ.

What really pulled me in was the motivation, the STRENGTH, the COURAGE, and the Faith that She had to trust in God so mightily and readily, with such insane excellence. She mentioned in the video that it didn't change anything, God was still the most awesome God, He was still the glorified One, and that she'd still always serve Him and love Him just the same.

It encouraged me, i know today Pastor Khong was preaching about having the spirit of excellence and after service, how all of us had shared how much we wanted to change, and really have that spirit of excellence in us. And yet, i wanna tell ya that, after today when you go back to the weekdays, to the workplace, or to any area where God wants you to serve

When you face a obstacle, and you feel discouraged and feel declined to give your best and your most excellent, God is still gonna be there, He's still gonna be the SAME, and that no matter what, He's never gonna change.

If today, we feel inclined by this sermon to do our best, our most excellent just cos the Pastor said so, just cos a cell leader said so, than change that thought. Because no matter WHAT you go through, all the problems, all the worries, and all the changes, Nothing has ever changed.

Dont be discouraged just by one small little thing,
But be encouraged by EVERY LITTLE ACTION.

It doesn't change anything in your life when something goes wrong,
But it changes EVERYTHING in you :0)

Ha ha hope it's not toooo long winded, have a wonderful week!

XOXO
Nicolette

2008-11-12T22:03:00.002+08:00

Why is it so hard for me to get to sleep?

I'm practically turning in at 4am (earliest) everyday.

Damnnnnnnnnnnnnn.

I better take care of myself.

Can't afford to miss dance practice anymore.

Burnnnnnnn fatsssssssssss.

Bye.

Sher Minh's 16th Birthday

2008-11-10T16:37:00.002+08:00

Happy 16th Birthday!

Yeah, in the month of November we're in the full-fledge mode of Celebrating Birthdays! And this time, it's Sher Minh's SWEET Sixteen Birthday :D Dear girl, your finally out of 15, reaching 17 soon but now your super sweet candy lovin' 16.

All the uploaded photos for Minh's Birthday can be found here, they're just nice to save' or to print out in 4R photos, if you need bigger piccys, you know who to contact.

(Click the picture above to get to the pictures)

XOXO
Nic.

Jamie, Nicolette & Dina at July's Encounter Camp

2008-11-08T00:19:00.006+08:00

With Qingxiu and Joey from Lindee's cell

Nicolette's Reflections

2008-11-07T23:59:00.002+08:00

Hi guys, here's some reflections i had this week, wanted to share with you guys in more detail and what God has shown me through this week, i hope that He worked in areas of your life this week & that His blessing and providence will always be upon you & your family :0)
God Bless
Nicolette

I had a very blessed and "emotional" encounter this week as I was heading to cell. My friday was really peaceful and blessed indeed as God had shown me alot of areas which I had been neglecting and taking for granted, I repented and I felt that "warm" sense of His presence that hugged me so greatly - Indeed, He IS:

Holy and Faithful
Saviour, and Friend
All I ever need

You are every question answered
You are every reason why
You are moving, you are still.
You Are.
(Part of the song "You Are" by Mike Roach)

Along the way to cell, I met a old lady in about her late 70's perhaps, She had went to collect cardboard boxes and all those miscellaneous items like most people I'd see in my area doing, but for some reason I felt a jerk as I stopped to look at her.

God popped a question in my head "How would Jesus react if He saw this old lady? Would He say "Oh no, I can't help her now. I have Cell" or "She'll be fine, God is with her"? Would He even take a step to PAUSE and think of what to do? Indeed no, He would just walk over to her and offer to help her, because He is Jesus, the Jesus we know." I knew I would be slightly late if I did walk over to help her, but it isn't about time, what you have to do, or what was important i realized. When someone was in need, a person in your life stepped in and helped you, He even died for you. That person was Jesus.

As i helped her carry the bags, train of thoughts started running in my head. She was limping, and couldn't walk very well, in slow and steady steps, she used a old shaky umbrella as her "walker" to keep her steady, each and every step she took sent a sharp pain in my heart. I felt like crying right there and than, it was aching pain in my heart, I couldn't bear to see her walk those steps.

She lived at the 7th story, she had to climb up a short flight of stairs, before steadily getting into the lift to get to the 5th floor, after than she still had to walk a route preceding to another staircase and walk up two flights of stairs, as I followed her, I felt intense pain and worry for her "Why was she staying so far up? with such inconvenience! What kind of horrible building is this?! It's so inconvenient for old people!" "Where was her family, her sons, her daughters, didn't they care about this lady here?" So much unjustified thoughts infiltrated my head.

When we finally reached her house, she thanked me, and she slowly stepped into her house. At that moment, I really wanted to forget everything i had, every appointment, every worry, i felt at that moment, the most important person i wanted to spend time with.

When I was walking to stairs, I was fighting back the tears that was held in my eyes. There was so many things that I had taken for granted, i had a house that was easily reached, i had hands and legs to guide me, i could change my clothes or throw away anything that was "old" or "broken". I was richly fortunate. I can't explain exactly how I feel inside, but i feel as if i don't deserve all of this. God showed me, and He said that He came down not for the fortunate or the wealthy, or people who were already well. He came for the sick, for the needy, for the poor, for the misfortunate.

For every person at the mrt, in the street, in orchard road, for every old man and woman, and begging child and needy person you saw overseas, Jesus came down for those people.

Sometimes, I felt "weird" whenever I was more compassionate than nessecary, or more giving in the way i do things. I wouldn't mind giving someone $10 to a random stranger who asked me for it, even if that meant i didn't have anything to eat. God showed me, that if it was Jesus, He might have even invited this complete stranger into His home to eat, to fellowship, and to start a friendship with the stranger. What more if it's just a small token of whatever I could afford? God works in amazing ways and today He worked and untied more knots in my heart than I could have ever undone myself.

:0)

Also! This verse spoked out greatly to me while I was doing my QT.

"Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control" Proverbs 25:28.

Many times i'm not able to have such strong self control of my feelings, but what God spoke to me (or made me realise, and open my eyes) was that He was my wall, Jesus Christ, God, Him, He was my wall. My pillar of support, that LEANING grace that I could hold on to through all things.

Through all wars, difficulties, problems, and fears, His wall will stand firm and protect me. He is like the wall that surrounds me, protecting me from all evil, knowing that He is there, I have nothing or no one to fear of, and that wall cannot be broken, it cannot be shattered, or pulled down. No matter what happens, He always live in me for "Christ Jesus has crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires" (Galations 5:22-24, part of it).

I have been written clean! :0) And so have you.

Yup, thats my reflections. Ha ha sry it's a bit long!

XOXO
Nicolette

Fruit of the Spirit: Patience

2008-11-01T13:52:00.008+08:00

Patience

Jesus' Patience - Isaiah 53:27 'He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open his mouth'

- An attitude of forbearance under provocation, entertaining no thoughts of actions when wrongfully treated

- An attitude of courageous endurance under difficult circumstances, without murmuring, complaining, or quitting BUT waiting in hope

History of the word
Greek word for patience is macrothumia - macro: long, thumos: temper
- idea of anger taking very long to build before it is expressed
- if and when expressed, it is under control.

Divine order: Love, joy, peace, patience... Has first 3, we will have patience.
(Mirabel emphasised the importance of knowing the Fruit of the Spirit in the order Paul wrote in the Bible cos' it implies a divine order)

God is patient with us.
Read Nehemiah 9:6-9, 11-13, 15-17, 19, 21, 25, 28, 30-31.

v.30-31 For many years You were patient with them. By Your Spirit You admonished them through Your prophets. Yet they paid no attention, so you handed them over to the neighbouring peoples. But in Your great mercy You did not put an end to them or abandon them, for You are a gracious and merciful God.

Do you have God's kind of patience? Rate 1-5.

What block patience? (2 main things)

i. Impatience often comes because of faulty or inappropriate goals
> perfectionist?

ii. Holding on to rights
- Do you dare to leave things totally in God's hands?
- Do you dare to be out-of-control, and to admit you are?

Lack of patience WILL cause us to disobey God.
- Read Numbers 20:10-12 - Moses was angry with the Israelites for their disobedience and was unwilling to surrender his anger to God even while carrying out God's work.

-Result: Moses could not enter the promised land.

How is patience developed?***

i. See (others) through Jesus' eyes

In the scenarios below, Jesus' thoughts are marked in italic:

We may wonder:
Why are they acting the way they are? It could be because of tremendous pain or loss in their lives.
Why do they seem so arrogant, distant or unwilling to develop a friendship? It could be that they are protecting themselves from rejection.
Why does their heart seem so hard towards the things of God? It could be that they have had an incredible loss and they are blaming God. (very easy for anyone to do so)

Our patience and understanding can be used by the Holy Spirit to help others.

ii. Imitate Christ who is our example;
stay close in your relationship with God and His character

- 1 Peter 2:20b-23
But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His steps.
"He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth."

When they hurled their insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted himself to Him (God) who judges justly.

- Remember the character of our patient God in Nehemiah 9:30-31.

My beautiful friend on my China trip

2008-10-04T00:21:00.002+08:00

Gotta post a nice photo to 'counter' the funny photos in the previous post. Ha.

This is the 70+ year old lady whom i told some of you about. She has a childlike spirit that i am really drawn to. I also prayed for her to encounter Jesus again in her life! :)

Are We Crazy?

2008-10-01T16:38:00.003+08:00

Please See note: Please note, that we don't mean any harm when we post up such cute funny pictures of our brothers and sisters, ha ha! But we really want to extend our gratitude to the funny and adorable people who unknowingly/knowingly posed for such "photographs" :0) Because it really is worth showing as to how "crazy and mad" we can get, especially when We Live for God!

Let me know if you feel sensitive/uncomfortable with the photos below, and I'll take it down asap.

Hey Guys! :0)

Just for perks, here are some cute and funny photos I found when going through my photography folders. Ha ha, some perky snapshots of some of us and even our brothers having the weirdest/funniest pose in a picture, and also at that time not realising that one day it could be posted up on the World Wide Web for all to see.

Mwahahaha, Ulterior Blackma-- Okay. It's just a small collection I gathered up from the recent events, Ha ha there's lots more! But that's going to be kept for Christmas ya know?

Hugs
XOXO
Nicolette

Subject: "Snap! Your on Candid Camera!"
What were they thinking, and how did that picture appear?

Taken on MRT - Michelle's Birthday
Person(s): Jamie and Michelle (They're a little wonky, but we still love them just so you know)

Taken on MRT - Michelle's Birthday
Person(s): Kai, Michelle, Sherminh

Taken on MRT - Michelle's Birthday
We deny knowing them and classified them as crazy people.
(Okay fine, the one with the hat is called Chris, and the other one Kai....)

On the MRT - Michelle's Birthday

Okay, Ha ha! So just so you know, this is for fun and not saying that we're really crazy or insane in anyway. It's just a set of funny pictures at random events, and some of them we staged because we love making funny faces and acting like crazy people! (and sometimes admitting it)

But on the otherhand, Incase you think we really are sane.... We thank you. Yes, but I wanted to show to you one photo which was captured au naturel meaning, no staged whatsoever! So, you can think for yourself inside of your great brain: Is She Crazy? Are we Really telling the Truth? Are we Lying? Oh no..... Are we crazy?!?!?

Have a nice day!
God Bless and Much much Love
Thanks for viewing this :0)

Thanks for letting us toy with your brains ha ha.

21st September 2008

2008-09-25T23:06:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday to Our Special Gir! :)

I Plead Guilty! Ha ha I confess, I'm sorry I'm late in posting up the pictures! I've been spending my days at Trybe playing monopoly, eating lunch and copy writing things for my literature lol :0) Anyway, b-t-w I got the photos on Sunday night from J's camera but only managed to successfully resized and chose the awesome & brilliant pictures to capture a very eventful and memorable day.

*

*

(DRUM ROLL) ......

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*

*

Huiming's 18th Birthday!
Gosh, your such a bashful fun to be around gir!
:)

Yeah, it's finally her big happy day! So it's like super dooper awesome isn't it? Anyway, we secretly had a present for her with her favorite color in mind (shh) we tried to hide it in church and hopefully we did manage to keep it away from ya, right Ming? Ha ha! And it was DIY ok!

After service & processing, We went to 18 Chefs which is absolutely a beautiful and fantastic food to dine at, their baked rice is to die for, and there's just option after option, so yeah we actually spent 10 minutes trying to figure out our sauces/main ingredient/topping/drink/etc. On top of that, the chef Benny has a great history to where the restaurant has come to today.

If your interested click here (a food review done by ieatishootipost but it also tells about the history of Benny, the chef too!) to explore :0) Lets just say, that He was trained by Jamie Oliver.... Yeah, so no, Not our Jamie Lim!!! er Jamie can cook good instant noodles though! Hahaha

Without further due, here are the wonderful photos!

P/S: We also had some wonderful sweet brothers who came along to celebrate Huiming's Birthday at 18 Chef's :) They're: Chris, Chee Aik, Cerwin, Shawn, Kai and a new brother that came to church last sunday mostly-known as: Max! Welcome to Max Pavillion, Expo Hall 9 FCBC Max! Hahah!

The boys were seriously anticipating their food arrival/or consuming them as you can see, Oh well (rolls eyes) typical.. pi- Patient, brothers we have. :0)

Cerwin's food was the first to come, Look at that cheese man! It looks like creme brulee here, but it was really cheese! Isn't that amazing?! Thank you God for cheese! Ha ha, and Cerwin, decided to show you guys how much he LOVES the cheese!

Readers, I present to you, Cerwin's Photo of Affection to: Cheese.

Oh yeah, Jamie was there too! She & her brilliant spunky shade of emerald green dress (which she bought) that brought out her sunny cheeky tan, and her shiny teeth!

We were saying grace by the way :0)

Two more cheese photos, above and below!.... Melt away at that cheese Jamie Lim (if your reading) Hahahahaha! And whoever else!

Do you notice a certain shade of bright yellow glaring into your eyes?
Yeah, that's Sherminh the Lemon Lover! Later on, you'll see how the title incoporates into our new clique gang, just scroll on down!

Okay, Can we do this? Yeah We can....

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to Huiming!
Happy Birthday to YOU!

Your finally beautiful, wonderful, amazing 18. Embrace the moment, girl! :0) You are a special talented, gorgeous and aspirational daughter of God that never settles for less than what is worthy of you!

Although it can't really be seen right, there's one doodle on the bottom left hand corner which was drawn by Sherminh! :0) And it's super fantastic, it shows a future drawing of one of Huiming's dream career: Hairdresser! Ha ha, it shows Huiming washing/cutting Jamie's hair, Gosh so glam!

....Introducing....

The Powerpuff Girls v2
FCBC "M" Parade Version
Coming soon to Theatres

Here are our hot, spicy and warm girls!
with a newest addition to the group...

Introducing!

Lemon lover, most commonly known as Sherminh!
She's got character, she's got spunk, she's sometimes tangy and sends a shiver up your bone, at other times she's sweet as can be and makes your life go yellow like the sun ;)

Welcome to the group!

Our group shot!
Due to certain restrictions and limited supply on-hand, we were made to substitute certain spices/ingredients to sub as one of our girls, please note that we made it according to the character of which the power puff girl was sporting that night.

Go figure out yourself how we were that night by reading that! :) No guarantee that you'll get it right though, Ha ha ha!

Contrary to popular belief...
We are actually very nice, and kind, and sweet to all! We have lovely smiles, and we are not crazy, nonsensical or sometimes absurd at any times....

But usually conditions change, depending on whether or not we take our medicines or not ya know?

Yeah... er. But we still love Huiming and wanna wish her Happy Birthday! :D

That was the end of this day.

It was such a memorable filled, inducing with laughter, happiness, sweet sorrow, and hugs and blowing kisses everywhere! We absolutely enjoyed, embraced and loved every single moment, and especially for one girl in our cell.

This is what we want to say to her!
(You know who you are... huiming!)

You are the sunlight to our days,
You are the random happiness that fills into our lives,
We just want to tell you,
How much you make us smile
And no matter what anyone else says bout' you
We want to say that, We your family k!
So we're always here for you!

You inspire us, time and time again
Encouraging, Motivating, Telling us
In your own way,
How much we can fight and dare to dream
For the unknown!

When you tell us all about your aspirations,
In our hearts, we want to have that kind of courage like you do!
To step up, take faith and be Bold for Christ.

We never once doubted the great future He has planned out for you,
So no matter what happens
No matter how deep, down, or bad you feel
Be motivated! Be strong! Remember,
Christ lives in Us all. His Love overcomes all fears.

You are beautiful both outside and inside,
Your side swept bangs, your cheerful big laughter,
And your friendly demure sweeps us off our feet! (literally!)

Think of it this way Ming :0)
When someone says something bad about you,
Christ tells you 100 things He loves about you!
When someone says you are Awesome
Christ tells you 1000 things more to top that off
When someone says he/she loves you
Christ says to you that He is Love, and He shows to you
His scars, When He died on the cross for you, and that He lives through you.

Yes, Never give up!
Cos your 1 Year Wiser,
1 Year Older,
1 Year Much better than the last
If you ever think, that you're not ready to grow up
Know that, Christ had it all planned up.
His time, His way, and Your life in His hands :0)
So don't worry about a thing ya?
Cos "Trust the Lord in All things..."
"Cast thy Burdens upon Thee Lord"

Much much love
We love love you so much!
Hugs XOXO

The "M" Parade
Mirabel, Nicolette, Jamie, Sherminh, Dina, Eunice
Cassandra, Dina, Meiqi, Michelle, Amanda

More Pictures :)

2008-09-13T01:02:00.001+08:00

Mooncake Gathering - Birthday Surprise for Huiming

2008-09-13T00:45:00.005+08:00

God on msn

2008-09-12T00:26:00.000+08:00

As my MSN logged on tonight, i thought God spoke to me these.

Many are fond of or even hooked on using MSN because they can choose when or even whether to reply to messages that came on.

God says,"I have given every man and woman a choice too. Most of them have had heard My call of love in their hearts, but they are choosing when or whether to respond to Me".

* * *

How many of us remember moments or opportunities that were lost because of our delayed responses... Don't miss out on God's call anymore; you may be missing out the greatest opportunity in your life.

2008-09-11T22:18:00.002+08:00

Hello!

Must be very surprised I actually post right?

Have been missing church for quite sometime,

And I'm sure there are people I've quite lost contact with.

But no worries,

Because I'll soon be done with my school work,

And will be returning to church services plus!

CELLGROUP!

*applause!*

There's one more stage to go,

My parents.

Pray for me okay!

Hopefuly my mother will trust me in my time management and allows me.

Oh by the way,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHELLE!

May the Lord bless you in every aspects,

your life, your studies, work, family, health.

Remember God take cares of you and will never forsake you!

He will always love you and take away your loneliness,

Shows you the way to heaven,

and He will always protect you.

Birthday is a very special day,

Ever since you were born,

He have been watching over you.

I am sure He's happy that you're happy now.

Rejoice with the Lord my dear! (although you don't know me well)

Happy birthday.

LOVE YOU! :D:D:D:D:D

About my life:

Have been facing many ups and downs recently.

But I've been praying hard,

And I know you all will be there when I need you guys.

Even though I may not be with you guys all the time,

But I want to tell you that I LOVE YOU ALL SO SO SO MUCH.

Be it before bed time,

Before school stars,

Everything I do,

I'll wish the best for all of you too.

So looking forward for a renion.(:

Sharon will be strong,

No matter what she(me) faces.

Happy Birthday Michelle!

2008-09-05T23:28:00.001+08:00

Dear Michelle, i always thank God for having you with us. You carry with you a gentle love for the people around you, no matter how cool you look (Ha!), and your smile is really beautiful.

May the Lord's work continue in your life, as i know He has your best interests at heart and also your best purposes laid out. 'Before you were formed in the womb, He knew you' (Jeremiah 1:5a).

Love n hugs,
Mirabel

Photos from the Pool

2008-09-05T23:15:00.001+08:00

Illustrations for Christ

2008-08-27T15:45:00.000+08:00

Hey girls!

I'm working in TRYBE as a intern for a month, so some days (or most days) I get some free time to relax a little, and other times its rushing and full of typing and excitement! But this is my lunchbreak, and before that I was doodling (designing) some presentation templates for "M" (stands for Mirabel) and once done, I decided to bust out the creativity department in my head socket and fill them with some illustrations.

Its standard, (sort of) cute ones! Ha ha but this is what you get from Microsoft Powerpoint :0)

Hope these illustrations will brighten your day, to make you smile, and know that God our sovereign awesome King is never going to let us down because He wants you to smile, to follow the way that He leads, and to Trust in Him at all time!

P/S: Lindee, one of our fellow sister in Christ in FC (whose a cell leader) just gave birth today, Ugh we're so excited! Me, Jamie & Mirabel are going down after our work, pray that She'll recover well without complications and that the baby's health will be well and the family itself will be at ease, and be safe & secure.

Keep Paster Yueh Ping and her baby (in the stomach) in prayer too!

Sisters in Christ 4EVA,
Nicolette (with love, Jamie & Mirabel)

Heaven Rejoices over Nicolette and Jamie's Baptism!

2008-08-25T00:58:00.006+08:00

Jamie's Baptism Testimony

I come from a good family background, where my parents are also Christians and have no marriage problems, and from young I saw my dad doing quiet time every morning. I really felt that I was carefully brought up in God’s hands, and He taught me what is right and wrong. When I was young I was scared of going to church and scared of the Bible because there’s this “devil” thing that I saw in a short skit in a church during the adult service, in which i did not understand their sermons at all. I did not go to the children's service because I tended to stick to my mum and cry if she left me to other people. (Laughs).

Recently when I started learning piano from a Christian teacher, I somehow got close to God again. She started praying for God to stir my heart, and He really did. I became more conscious about the loneliness in my heart - I had a lot of friends but only little close ones to go to, and often felt very down without a particular guy friend's sms for no good reason. As time passed, I felt very down and could hardly joke around or be happy wholeheartedly.

I did not know who to turn to, then God came to my mind. Looking at the calendar, which showed that 25th November 2007 (which was also my birthday) was a Sunday, I then decided to approach one of my friends in FCBC to tell him that I wanted to go church on that Sunday. Upon making that decision, I felt this Hand pushing me behind telling me “Just go, take that first step, and just go, don’t have to think too much anymore”. ha-ha I guess it was really God calling, and the good thing is I obeyed. :)

After coming back to God, of course things changed - there is now more security in me, and I started not caring much about what I wear to school everyday. I had cleared my doubts in God and can easily trust God and account to Him in times of trouble. I began spending time reading the Bible and soaking in God’s presence. All I can say is it is amazing. There is more happiness and joy in my life which help me to care for others more and also to bring happiness into their lives, beginning from the people around me (family, friends, and new cell sisters).

My cell leader’s care is real; each and every little step I take, she cares. She is always asking me “How are you feeling?” or “Are you ok?”. I can easily account to her my “progress” with God. I also ask her questions to clear my doubts, and became more stable in Christ, now being able to recognise that things that happen are all part of God’s plans, never coincidental. If I have not gone to church for spiritual nourishment, I would be spiritually dead. He gives power to the weak and to them who have no might, He increases strength. He said to me, "My Grace is sufficient for you, for My Strength is made perfect in weakness". God is R-E-A-L to me!

Jamie

Happy Birthday Eunice!

2008-08-21T21:20:00.003+08:00

With much love *HUGS* :)

Our dear Sharon, wonderfully and fearfully created!

2008-08-02T23:23:00.007+08:00

Some of us caught Sharon at her dance performance today. She was great! :)

Our dearie Sharon with flowers as bright as her! :)

Dear Sharon, you danced with such freedom and exuberance, beyond the mistakes that you mentioned and the stress on being on stage. Yes, the latter are not the most important, but your dancing your best which delighted God's heart and ours! :)

The might and focus you portrayed in your moves speak of the resilience and inner strength already in your heart through which God will sustain and propel you towards His good purposes in your life and family. So glad to see in even greater measure the beauty of the Lord in you as you dance! :) *HUGS* - Mirabel

17th July Magicbox Event Photos

2008-07-19T01:31:00.000+08:00

Hello World Wide Web people (Remember the days when the internet just started and the "World Wide Web" term was used frequently to say, internet, or online, and chat messengers like MSN or AOL maximum typing capacity was one sentence)

I report from 17th June 2008 Magicbox @ Esplanade event, it was mindblowing totally out of bonkers amazing, and the meaning, the spirit, the values that it held inside was touching and beyong explanantion. Secretly, I didn't like magic shows, they were like tacky gimmicks that I saw on TV and was like "Woooow" with this astounding expression, than I ran off five seconds later and played Barbie Dolls or went cycling with my best friends at that time. However this show was so inspirational and needed, it was like a "pick-up" call from God, it was beautiful and touching.

The full set of photos are with me, so if you need a digital copy let me know, I could send it to you via MSN or by a CD in Church :0)

Jamie and Nicolette

We had alot of fun times taking photos in the toilet. We like to think we have cosmic telepathy because we wore similar pattern outfits, but secretly, the faces when we met and saw each other outfits was amusing like "Hi... Is... Eh.. (looks down to examine outfit) Oh."

Dina's Cousin's Brother helped took the photo, all candid and perfectly pretty in God's and each other eyes.

Mirabel and Nicolette.

Mirabel and Jamie, two super dooper smilie queens.

Nicolette and a tall Brian, who was working at the Magicbox event, We support Pastor Khong! About the book that we were holding, its a limited edition book for $10 and you get to get Pastor Khong & Priscilla's signature after that, Ha ha but it belongs to a fellow Church brother of ours, we used it to pose to show our appreciation and support!

"The Regulars" Only featuring Nicolette & Jamie. (We should create a club name in church "The Regulars" club)

Lastly, our very pretty group photo! :0) Outside Hall 4 of the Esplanade Theatre, the lights there were really beautiful and the lighting was amazing. Everyone looked stunning and bright in there, (and outside too).

It was a great show! c:

P/S: We also got "interviewed" by some friendly, over enthusiastic loving tv people ("M" says that it'll probably be edited into a small clip to be shown in FC, perhaps) that was lots of fun, we were so "confident" and "strong" and when the TV camera came, all our "confidence" got sucked in, like the camera was the Dementor (from Harry Potter) but it was so exciting, and great.

Hoped you enjoy the photos, Many Happy returns and Happy Birthday Pastor Khong! :0) You look younger and younger, wiser and wiser, and more handsome year after year.

Much love
xoxo
Nicolette

From 'the disciple whom Jesus loved'

2008-07-08T01:19:00.001+08:00

What i shared at combined cell two weeks ago.

How shallow is my love... I recognise this in my heart whenever i measure my love to Jesus'.

The thing is, i think Jesus knows this better than me. Yet He does not want me to hang my head down because of this.

The journey through the book of John led me to one main conclusion - think of Jesus' love for me more than mine for Him. And it was the disciple John himself who set the best example for me.

In 5 instances in this book, John described himself as 'the disciple whom Jesus loved'. Sounds prideful? Well i would think more humble was he who 'masked his identity' behind a name that simply proclaims all about God's love, forgetting his own name and absorbing himself in the sea of the truest love - that of Jesus.

Peter, on the other hand, was the one who said to Jesus "I will lay down my life for You, Lord!' (John 13:37) and who struck the high priest's servant right ear before Jesus' capture. By word and by deed, he showed his deep love for Jesus but probably proclaiming louder this - 'I AM the one who loves the Lord!'.

Let me share with you 5 benefits that i observed John got in his gospel:

1. Proximity to Jesus

John 13:23 One of them, the disciple whom Jesus loved, was reclining next to Him.

We really learn to lean on Jesus for intimacy, answers... all that we need.

2. Becoming Fit for Service

John 19:25-27 (Hanging on the Cross), Jesus saw His mother there, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, "Dear woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

John, the only disciple at the Cross with Jesus, became a vessel for the Lord's use.

3. Propelled forward by Love

John 20:1-4 ... she (Mary Magdalene) came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!" Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.

All scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16a); the Bible does not record anything unimportant. I believe John outran Peter because he was propelled by Jesus' love for him, no longer on his own strength.

4. Quick and sharp Spiritual Perception

John 21:7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"

After all these while as Jesus was standing before his disciples to give them verbal instructions which led to the miraculous catch, 'the disciple whom Jesus loved' was the first to recognise the Lord and discern His divine hand here.

5. A Heart that keeps Following

John 21: 19b-20 He (Jesus) said to him (Peter), "Follow me!"
Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them.

Jesus did not see the need to call John to follow Him, as He called Peter. John was already following all these while.

Instead of singing 'i love Jesus', let's first be convicted deeply in our hearts 'Jesus loves me'. John reiterated this idea in 1 John 4:19 'We love because He first loved us'.

His is the true everlasting and trustworthy love that is sure even when we fail Him. Abide in His love, from the One who has truly laid down His life for us.

Mirabel

References:

Charles Spurgeon's sermon

Hamilton Smith's writing

Our Love Languages

2008-06-28T21:18:00.006+08:00

Hi dears,

Something that we can keep in mind when showing love to one another - our love languages!

MIRABEL

1. Touch

2. Acts of Service

3. Quality Time

4. Words of Affirmation

5. Gifts

JAMIE & MICHELLE

1. Quality Time

2. Words of Affirmation

3. Gifts

4. Acts of Service

5. Touch

NICOLETTE

1. Quality Time

2. Gifts

3. Acts of Service

4. Touch

5. Words of Affirmation

MEIQI

1. Gifts

2. Touch

3. Acts of Service

4. Quality Time

5. Words of Affirmation

DINA

1. Acts of Service

2. Quality Time

3. Gifts

4. Words of Affirmation

5. Touch

HUIMING

1. Quality Time

2. Gifts

3. Acts of Service

4. Words of Affirmation

5. Touch

BEILING

1. Touch

2. Quality Time

3. Gifts

4. Acts of Service

5. Words of Affirmation

EUNICE

1. Touch

2. Gifts

3. Quality Time

4. Acts of Service

5. Words of Affirmation

We cannot determine how others give to us

but we CAN determine how we want to give to others!

Cell @T3

2008-06-15T20:40:00.003+08:00

Wah so serious ah...

To be updated...

Celebrating Sharon! =) (New photo added)

2008-06-10T00:10:00.015+08:00

24th May 2008 Mirabop Birthday

2008-05-24T23:57:00.004+08:00

disFCBC Powerpuff Girls

Hello girls! :0) Guess who's birthday it was? (not today though, it was a while back but she was in 144 re-encounter camp, Hint!) None other than our very sweet, lovable & florally bright sparkling cell leader Mirabel!

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Hmm, She doesn't look so satisfied does she? Wonder why, tee hee!

We had a very fun filled day at Minds Cafe playing board games and celebrating, lets move on to the happy exciting filled pictures of the day along with a short series of "Powerpuff Girls" Curious to know what it is? Roll roll down your mouse!

P.S: Lots of photos, so let it load first than slowly scroll down!

"Happy Birthday to.... ME!" by Mirabel, Ha ha! :0)

Aww, look at Ming's expression and Mirabel's little puffy cheeks! Ha ha, Happy Birthday Mirabel! We love you so much!

The Present.

(giggles) "PLEASE DO NOT TRY THIS AT HOME.... Please do not try taking a group photo of church girls at home? Tee hee :0)" Notice the signboard above us if you don't get it, Ha ha

That's the summarization of the celebration at Minds Cafe, but there's a few other shots you need to see, Mmm keep scrolling down, Yes you do that now.

The Powerpuff Girl Series :0)

The Powerpuff girls, Woo!

Ha ha, Hope it was "enlightening" for you! :0) We had a very fun filled day and to summarise it all, We never fail to amuse, shock and sometimes frighten the "bop" out of Mirabel, A great example would be this photo and today's experience, She sure has crazy and unique girls!

Once again...
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIRABEL!
God Bless You
We love you and we hope you have a great year in everything you do, May the Good Lord bless and guide you in everything that you do, May his grace, mercy & Presence be upon you at all times and May you grow to desire Him more and more as the day goes by!

Much love,
Nicolette & Girls

At YCYPAO Cluster Meeting

2008-05-01T16:24:00.004+08:00

Spot Dina.

What happens when..

2008-04-05T20:35:00.006+08:00

.. you have an overdose of succulent Thai food?
(Haha, HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICOLETTE!)

...when you hang out too much with the younger ones?

Can you spot me? I bet i merge in rather well. =p

Psalm 83 (23 Mar)

2008-03-24T01:51:00.004+08:00

Yes there was no nation called Israel for a loooong period in history because of destruction.

And also yes, just as God has said repeatedly in the Bible that He will gather His people back to His holy land, a new nation of Israel was formed in 1947. To date, God has drawn huge numbers of Jews from many nations back to Israel since then, to take root in the land.

Pastor Yeang Cherng's sharing on Psalm 83: Click on this page.

Studying Psalm 75 (15 Mar)

2008-03-16T01:52:00.000+08:00

Study of the verses

lifting up of horns- to assume a confident position, the figure being taken from fighting oxen

This psalm is a celebrative psalm; celebrating the anticipated victory of the Lord over the wicked; and the exaltation of the righteous.

V1- Thanksgiving to God for His wondrous work
V2-6- God warns the wicked not to be proud
V7-8 Psalmist warned the wicked that because God is the Judge, they would experience the fullness of His wrath
V9-10- psalmist declares to praise God forever as He will cut off the defiance of the wicked and exalt the righteous.

Leading Questions:
1)What word/phrase appears the most in this psalm?
Horns (4 x); lift up horns (4x)
2)What does this word signify?
to assume a confident position, the figure being taken from fighting oxen
3)What does the Lord oppose?
Self-reliance instead of God-reliance (v4-5; 7)

My Learning:

Who is God?

He opposes the proud but lifts up to those who lives by faith in Him

How then shall I live?

How to live a confident life?
Be thankful- He is on our side
Be rejoicing- the victory is sure

(Source: Sook San's notes)

Studying Psalm 74 (14 Mar)

2008-03-14T23:45:00.001+08:00

Study of the verses

This psalm is an appeal to God against the destruction of the land by the enemy.
(Historical event to this psalm is uncertain; the only occasion that matches was the invasion of the Babylonians in 586 BC) This Asaph may be a later member of Asaph of the Asaph musical guild.

V1-2 – An appeal to God to not to be angry with His people but to remember them; His sheep
V3- asking God to take a look at the destruction done by the enemy
V4-8- descriptions of the destructions done
V9-No prophet to give spiritual guidance/counsel for the people
V10-17- Psalmist sought God himself; and pleaded with God to show His right hand, as He had done before.
V18-23 Psalmist petitions to God for deliverance and not let His people to be fallen into the hands of the enemy.

Leading Questions to Psalms 74:

1)What did the enemy destroy?
-The sanctuary of God (vs. 3; 7; 8)

2)Why did the destruction happen?
-God is angry with His people (vs 1)

3)What troubled the psalmist in vs 9?

The lack of prophet/lack of spiritual counsel; guidance
4)What did he do to overcome the situation?
He took up the spiritual mantle and pleaded with God for the people (v10)

5)What did the psalmist plea for?
appease of God’s anger(v1); remembrance of His people(v2); His intervention against the destruction(22-23)
My Learning:

Who is God?
God is one who is able to deliver.

How then shall I live?

How to seek God in troubled times?
1)Be Humble; admit our dependency
2)Be Proactive; raise up in prayer
3)Be Thankful; remember His goodness

(Source: Sook San's notes)

Studying Psalm 73 (13 Mar)

2008-03-13T22:08:00.003+08:00

Psalm 73 (THE MESSAGE VERSION)
An Asaph Psalm

1-5 No doubt about it! God is good— good to good people, good to the good-hearted.
But I nearly missed it,
missed seeing his goodness.
I was looking the other way,
looking up to the people
At the top,
envying the wicked who have it made,
Who have nothing to worry about,
not a care in the whole wide world.

6-10 Pretentious with arrogance,
they wear the latest fashions in violence,
Pampered and overfed,
decked out in silk bows of silliness.
They jeer, using words to kill;
they bully their way with words.
They're full of hot air,
loudmouths disturbing the peace.
People actually listen to them—can you believe it?
Like thirsty puppies, they lap up their words.

11-14 What's going on here? Is God out to lunch?
Nobody's tending the store.
The wicked get by with everything;
they have it made, piling up riches.
I've been stupid to play by the rules;
what has it gotten me?
A long run of bad luck, that's what—
a slap in the face every time I walk out the door.

15-20 If I'd have given in and talked like this,
I would have betrayed your dear children.
Still, when I tried to figure it out,
all I got was a splitting headache . . .
Until I entered the sanctuary of God.
Then I saw the whole picture:
The slippery road you've put them on,
with a final crash in a ditch of delusions.
In the blink of an eye, disaster!
A blind curve in the dark, and—nightmare!
We wake up and rub our eyes....Nothing.
There's nothing to them. And there never was.

21-24 When I was beleaguered and bitter,
totally consumed by envy,
I was totally ignorant, a dumb ox
in your very presence.
I'm still in your presence,
but you've taken my hand.
You wisely and tenderly lead me,
and then you bless me.

25-28 You're all I want in heaven!
You're all I want on earth!
When my skin sags and my bones get brittle,
God is rock-firm and faithful.
Look! Those who left you are falling apart!
Deserters, they'll never be heard from again.
But I'm in the very presence of God—
oh, how refreshing it is!
I've made Lord God my home.
God, I'm telling the world what you do!

Study of the verses

V1- Psalmist acknowledgement of the goodness of God to Israel
V2-12- Psalmist’s doubts overwhelmed him to the point of almost losing faith as he saw the prosperity of the wicked
V13-16- psalmist’s perplexity over the value of his salvation
V17- the turn of events when he ENTERS into the sanctuary of GOD
V18-20- Psalmist saw the destiny of the wicked; beyond the present prosperity
V21-26- Psalmist’s confession of his perspective dulled by his ignorance; his -conviction of the Lord’s presence with him; being his strength and portion forever
V27-28- Psalmist conclusion of those who are far and unfaithful will be destroyed; but those who are near God will find joy and safety.

Leading Questions to study Psalms 73:

1)What was the spiritual condition of the psalmist?

He almost lost faith in God. (vs 2)

2)What was offensive to the mind of the psalmist?

- he was perplexed by the prosperity of the wicked that he saw against his understanding of the value of his salvation in God. (v3-12; 13-14)

3) When was the turning point for him?
(vs 17) – it was when he enters into the sanctuary of God

4)What did he learn about God?
The Lord’s goodness over His people is sure. The temporal prosperity does not outlast the eternal blessing of God. Those without God will surely perished; despite the seemingly blessings.

Who is God?
He is one who assured my destiny even in times that I cannot see the prosperity

Application: How than shall I live?
How do I find rest for my soul in times when the wicked are prosperous?
1)Envy Not; trust in His goodness
2)Doubt Not; lean on His wisdom
3)Run Not; enter into His presence

(Source: Sook San's notes)

Who is Asaph?

2008-03-13T21:40:00.000+08:00

Book III (of Psalms) – 11 out of 17 psalms in this portion are written by Asaph (Ps73-83)

Who was Asaph? (www.easyenglish.info/psalms/psalm073-taw.htm)

We can read about Asaph in two books of the *Old Testament, Chronicles and Nehemiah. From them we learn 4 things about Asaph:
· his father was Berechiah (1 Chronicles 6:39)
· he was a music leader (1 Chronicles 15:17 ... this verse also calls Heman and Ethan music leaders)
· he was a *seer (2 Chronicles 29:30) ... a *seer can "see what will happen", it is another word for "*prophet"
· he lived at the same time as King David (Nehemiah 12:46)

In 1 Chronicles 25:1 - 2 we read this:
v1 David and the leaders of the army made these people separate. They were the sons of Asaph, the sons of Heman and the sons of Jeduthun. Their job was to *prophesy. They had to make music with *harps, *lyres and *cymbals.
v2 Here is a list of the men that did this work. From the sons of Asaph (there are) Jaccur, Joseph, Nethaniah and Asarelah. Asaph told the sons of Asaph what to do. Asaph *prophesied with help from the king.

"To *prophesy" means "to tell people what God thinks and what he is going to do". They did this with music. Maybe this means that they sang what they *prophesied.

Asaph was the leader of "the sons of Asaph". They were his family. When he died the family continued to do this work. For many centuries they were "the sons of Asaph". It became the name of a music group. Ezra 3:10 tells us that they sang when they built the *temple in Jerusalem again. This was 500 years after Asaph died! Maybe the family wrote a book of psalms called "Psalms of the Sons of Asaph". We do not know. But, when the *Israelites made our Book of Psalms, they put into it some of the Psalms of Asaph. Bible students think that Asaph made a book of psalms, and some (or all?) of them are in our Book of Psalms. They are Psalm 50 (in Book 2 of "The Psalms of David") and Psalms 73-83 (here in Book 3).

The psalms from Asaph’s book do this:
· they describe the world round us in a clear way
· they tells us that God cares for people
· they make what has happened teach us things
· they tell us that God is very great
· they are good *poetry (poetry is using words in a beautiful way)

Studying Psalm 72 (12 Mar)

2008-03-13T21:38:00.001+08:00

Observation
Q1a. How many times did the word “righteous” appear?
Ans: 4xs (v1, v2, v3, v7)

Q1b.Who wrote the psalm?
Ans: David(v20)

Q1c. Why did David write the psalm?
Ans: As a prayer for his son, Solomon, the king after him.

Interpretation
Q2.What is the theme of this psalm?
Ans: Psalm 72 is a “Messianic psalm and prophetically points to the Millennium when, under the righteous reign of Christ, God’s kingdom on earth shall be perfect and universal.” (Marilyn Hickey)

Q3.What is the key verse?
Ans: v1 “Give the king Your judgements, O God, and Your righteousness to the king’s son.”

Q4. What is the context of the psalm?
Ans: Psalm 72 is the last of David’s prayers and psalms. (v20)
“Psalm 72 is a prayer for Solomon, son of David and Bathsheba, as he was about to take sole possession of the throne of Israel. David was an aged king who had instructed his heir of the awesome responsibilities of ruling a theocratic kingdom. David had shared his vision of the Temple with Solomon (1 Chronicles 28), and he was now praying for the righteous reign and character of his son.” (Marilyn Hickey)

Application
Q5. What is the subject of the psalm?
Ans: How to pray for our leadership/superior?

Q6. What are the complements?
Ans: a)By asking God to give him righteous judgement.(Psalm 72:1)

Citations: (Lay Ching's notes)
1.Marilyn Hickey, “Psalms: Classic Library Edition.” (page 185))

Studying Psalm 71 (11 Mar)

2008-03-11T01:22:00.000+08:00

Observation

Q1a. How many times did the word “righteousness” appear?
Ans: 5xs (v2, v15, v16, v19, v24)

Interpretation

Q2.What is the theme of this psalm?
Ans: Psalm 71 is rich with prayer and praise to a loving God Who has never forsaken one who has trusted in Him. The psalmist reveals God’s faithfulness in providing refuge, strength, protection, and security through life, from the womb, through infancy, childhood, early adulthood, middle age, and even old age. (Marilyn Hickey)

Q3.What is the key verse?
Ans: v19 “For your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens, You have done great things; O God who is like You?”

Q4. What is the context of the psalm?
Ans: Writer of Psalm 91 is anonymous. However, “the Septuagint superscription attributes Psalms 71 to the sons of Jonadab and those who were first carried captive. Jonadab was the son of Rechab, and he assisted Jehu, king of Israel, in the war against worshippers of Baal (II Kings 10-18-28). Jonadab founded a tribe known as the Rechabites, and they lived a strict, godly life as nomads (Jeremiah 35).

Application
Q5. What is the subject of the psalm?
Ans: How to trust God in times of challenges?

Q6. What are the complements?
Ans: a) Pray and call on the Lord. (v1-16)
b) Remember and proclaim past victories in God. (v17-21)
c) Praise and rejoice in the God of our salvation. (v22-24)

Citations: (Lay Ching's notes)
1.Marilyn Hickey, “Psalms: Classic Library Edition.” (page 182 and183)

Studying Psalm 70 (10 Mar)

2008-03-11T01:19:00.000+08:00

Observation
Q1a. How many times did the word “deliver” appear?
Ans: 2xs

Q1b.How many times did the word “help” appear?
Ans: 2xs

Q1c.How many times did the word “hasten” appear?
Ans: 3xs

Interpretation

Q2.What is the theme of this psalm?
Ans: Marilyn Hickey suggests that the this Psalm is about those who cry for help can put their trust in the faithfulness of God will be delivered because He cannot deny His own character and word.

Q3.What is the key verse?
Ans: v5 “You are my help and deliverer.”

Q4. What is the context of the psalm?
Ans: Marilyn Hickey suggests that Psalm 68 was written by David during a time of desperate need. It could be a time when he was facing the giant Goliath or one of the many times when King Saul tried to kill him.

Q5.Was David already delivered when he wrote the psalm?
Ans: No

Q6. Was he eventually delivered?
Ans: Yes

Q7.What helped him to persevere to the end?
Ans: Having faith and trust in God.

Application

Q8.What is the subject of the psalm?
Ans: How to face challenges in our lives?

Q6. What are the complements?
Ans:
a)Call on the Lord confidently. (v1-3)
b)Confess who God is. (v4)
c)Claim the promise of God. (v5)

Citations: (Lay Ching's note)
1.Marilyn Hickey, “Psalms: Classic Library Edition.” (page 180)

Studying Psalm 69 (9 Mar)

2008-03-11T01:18:00.000+08:00

Observation
Q1a. How many times did the psalmist ask of the Lord to rescue him from “sinking”?
Ans: 2xs (v2 and v14-15)

Interpretation
Q2.What is the theme of this psalm?
Ans: In the first section (v1-21), we see the frailty of the human Christ, crying out to His Father from the cross for deliverance from the totality of sin.
In the second section (v22-28), we see the avenging Christ speaking judgement upon the ungodly at Armageddon.
Finally (v29-36), we see the faithfulness of the reigning Christ during the Millennium, honouring His promises to those who receive Him. (Marilyn Hickey)

Q3.What is the key verse?
Ans: v35 “For God will save Zion and build the cities of Judah, that they may dwell there and possess it.”

Q4. What is the context of the psalm?
Ans: Psalm 69 was written by King David at a time of great distress but the matter of distress is not known. It is suggested by Michael Wilcock that David’s enthusiasm for the temple his son was to build (zeal for your house, v9), including a big financial contribution as well as detailed plans, landed him in some deeply embarrassing affair. He was forced to restore what he did not steal (v4). Whatever lies behind the phrase, enemies contrived to make him seem guilty and most people believed them. (Michael Wilcock)

Application

Q5. What is the subject of the psalm?
Ans: How to face challenges in our lives?

Q6. What are the complements?
Ans: a) Call on the Lord. (v1-12)
b) Confess who the Lord is.(v13-19)
c) Claim the promises of God.(v22-36)

Citations: (Lay Ching's notes)
1.Marilyn Hickey, “Psalms: Classic Library Edition.” (page 176)
2.Michael Wilcock, “BST: The Message of Psalms, 1-72.” (page 240)

Studying Psalm 68 (8 Mar)

2008-03-08T22:25:00.000+08:00

Observation
Q1a. Who are the people speaking in the psalm?
Ans: The Psalmist and God.(v22)

Interpretation
Q2.What is the theme of this psalm?
Ans: David rejoices in the Millennium when Israel will be forgiven, cleansed, and exalted to the rightful position of God’s chosen people. (Marilyn Hickey)

Q3.What is the key verse?
Ans: v1 “Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered; let them also that hate Him flee before Him.”

Q4. What is the context of the psalm?
Ans: Psalm 68 was written by King David at the time when the ark was brought to Jerusalem. This event is described in 2 Samuel 6:12-19. (Michael Wilcock)

Application
Q5. What is the subject of the psalm?
Ans: What we can do in times of attacks and challenges from the enemies?

Q6. What are the complements?
Ans: a)By praising Him so that God will increase and “God will arise, let his enemies be scattered.” (v1)
-Let Him increase so much in our lives because He is even bigger than our enemies.

Citations: (Lay Ching's notes)
1.Marilyn Hickey, “Psalms: Classic Library Edition.” (page 172)
2.Michael Wilcock, “BST: The Message of Psalms, 1-72.” (page 235)

Studying Psalm 67 (7 Mar)

2008-03-08T22:15:00.000+08:00

Observation
Q1a. How many times did the word “bless” appear?
Ans: 3xs

Q1b.How many times did the phrase “Let the peoples praise You” appear?
Ans: 4xs

Interpretation

Q2.What is the theme of this psalm?
Ans: Praising God joyfully for blessing us that others will know that He is God and turn to worship Him.

Q3.What is the key verse?
Ans: v7 “God blesses us, that all the ends of the earth may fear Him.”

Q4. What is the context of the psalm?
Ans: Psalm 67 was supposedly anonymous but Marilyn Hickey suggests that it seems to fit into the period when Israel was supernaturally delivered from the fierce attack of the Assyrian army and this psalm was probably written by King Hezekiah.
Application

Q5. What is the subject of the psalm?
Ans: How can we glorify God and advance His kingdom?

Q6. What are the complements?
Ans: a)By praising Him because He is a God Who Blesses His people!

Q7.What is the result?
Ans: According to Michael Wilcock, “ it is when the people of God are alight with joy and praise and are themselves ruled and guided by Him that His ways and His salvation will be known among the peoples around. This is the best kind of Evangelism.

Citations: (Lay Ching's notes)
1.Marilyn Hickey, “Psalms: Classic Library Edition.” (page 170)
2.Michael Wilcock, “BST: The Message of Psalms, 1-72.” (page 233 and 234)

Studying Psalm 66 (6 Mar)

2008-03-08T22:14:00.000+08:00

1
Observation

What are some of the key idea or word that has been repeated throughout the Psalm?

Praise : v2, v4, v8, v17, v20

2
Interpretation

Background:
This was written by an anonymous writer after a great victory in battle. This is a psalm of thanksgiving to the Lord.

Theme:
Celebrate God with praise and thanksgiving.

3
Application

Subject : If God is worthy of all praise and thanksgiving, how then shall I live?
Complement :
Tell the nations of His awesome power (v1-7)
Pray for God’s deliverance in the most impossible situation (v8-12)
Confess all sins to remove the wall between us and God (v16-20)

Application :
If God is worthy of all praise and thanksgiving, today share your testimony with 3 person in your workplaces, schools or homes.

Source (Timothy's notes)
Life Application Bible
The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)

Studying Psalm 65 (5 Mar)

2008-03-04T23:55:00.000+08:00

1
Observation

What are some of the key ideas or words that have been repeated throughout the Psalm?

Key idea of God abundant blessing:
v9 …you enrich it abundantly
v11 …and your cart overflows with abundance
v12 …the grasslands of the desert overflows
v13 …and the valleys are mantled (covered) with grain

2
Interpretation

Background:
This may have been written by David to be sung annually when the first grain of the year’s barley harvest was brought to the Lord and waved by the priest as a dedication offering. It is a song of harvest blessing in celebration of God’s goodness to His people.

Theme:
God provides abundantly. Be thankful for His many blessings

3
Application

Subject : How does God provide abundantly?
Complement:
Atonement for our sins (v1-4)
-when we were overwhelmed by sins, you forgave our transgressions (v3)
Awesome deeds of God’s power (v5-8)
-He answers our prayer with awesome deeds of righteousness (v5)
Abundant provision of harvest (v9-13)

Application :
Do you feel as though God could never forgive you, that your sins are too many, or that some of them are too great?
The good news is that God can and will forgive them all

Source (Timothy's notes)
Life Application Bible
The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)

Studying Psalm 64

2008-03-04T23:44:00.004+08:00

1
Observation

What are some of the key ideas or words that have been repeated throughout the Psalm?

Key idea: God’s judgement on the enemies of the righteous

Key verse : v7-8
‘But God will shoot them with arrows;suddenly they will be struck down. He will turn their own tongues against them and bring them to ruin;…’

2
Interpretation

Background:
This was written by David.

Theme:
God will protect us from our conspirators

3
Application

Q: What was David’s response to the threat of the conspirators?
A: He looked towards God for divine intervention

Subject : How do we face evil men who plots against us?
Complement :
Pray for protection (v1-2)
Recognise the malicious nature of the scheme (v3-6)
Look to the divine judgement of God on the conspirators (v7 & v10)

Application:
Is there a situation you are facing that is similar to David’s situation? Trust in God divine intervention.

Source (Timothy's notes)
Life Application Bible
The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)

Studying Psalm 63

2008-03-04T23:43:00.002+08:00

1
Observation

What are some of the key ideas or words that have been repeated throughout the Psalm?

Key idea : Desire for a God who satisfies
v1 earnestly I seek you, …soul thirsts for you, …body longs for you…
v6 …I think of you through the watches of the night…
v8 My soul clings to you…

2
Interpretation

Background:
This was written by David when he was forced to escape during the days of Absalom’s rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18)

Theme:
God alone can satisfy our deepest longing

3
Application

Q: What did David do to satisfy the longings in his heart?
A: Praise and worship God

Subject : How to allow God to satisfy the longing in our heart?
Complement:
Seek Him earnestly (v1 - 2)
Praise Him incessantly (v3 - 8)
Rejoice in Him victoriously (v9 - 11)

Application :
Seek Him and praise Him no matter where we are

Source (Timothy's notes)
Life Application Bible
The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)

Studying Psalm 62

2008-03-04T23:42:00.000+08:00

1
Observation

What are some of the key ideas or words that have been repeated throughout the Psalm?
v1 salvation
v2 rock & …salvation, fortress
v3 rock & …rock & …salvation, fortress
v7 salvation, mighty rock

2
Interpretation

Background:
This was written by David possibly during the days of Absalom’s rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18)

Theme:
We can place our hope in God’s ultimate salvation

Key verse : v5-6
‘Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.’

3
Application

Q: When we face with unjust situations in our lives, who do we choose to look to? Man or God?
A: God

Q: Why?
A: The security of trusting God prevails over the insecurity of relying on human devices

Subject : What should we do when we face opposition?
Complement :
Rest in God when enemies assault (v2-4)
Trust in God at all times (v5-8)
God will reward each person(v9 & v12)

Application :
Is there an unjust situation in your life now? If there is, bring it before the Lord and find rest in the powerful God

Source (Timothy's notes)
Life Application Bible
The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)

Studying Psalm 61

2008-03-01T21:22:00.001+08:00

Step

1
Observation
What are some of the key ideas or words that have been repeated throughout the Psalm?

v2 Lead me to the rock
v3 Refuge, strong tower
v4 refuge
v7 protect

2
Interpretation
Background:
This was written by David when he was forced to escape during the days of Absalom’s rebellion (2 Samuel 15-18)

Theme:
God is our refuge and our Protector. Regardless of where they are, He will protect those who call on Him with His love and faithfulnes

3
Application
Q: Was David still in the midst of his circumstances?
A: Yes

Subject :
How should we face trials and tribulation?

Complement:
Choose to call upon the name of God wherever we are (v1-2)
Choose to look towards the protection (refuge) of God in times of trouble.(v3-5)
Choose to praise God even in midst of trouble (v5 & v8)

Application :
Are you going though any difficult situations in your life? Confess it to the Lord and call upon His name and praise Him as your Protector and Refuge.

Source (Timothy's notes)
Life Application Bible
The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)

Studying Psalm 60

2008-03-01T21:19:00.001+08:00

Step

1
Observation
What is your observation as you read Psalm 60?
God’s people rejected by God, divine abandonment
You have rejected us
You have been angry
You have shaken the land and torn it open
You have shown your people desperate time
You have given us wine that makes us stagger
Adversity has strained the covenant relationship between God and His people

What do you think could be the reason behind? Which verse tells you so?
God is angry (v3, cf Isa 51:17, 22 and Jer 25:15-29)

How then did the psalmist respond to God?
They prayed to God (v5) and were confident of victory (v4 & 12)

2
Interpretation
Background:

A national prayer for God’s help after suffering a severe blow by a foreign nation, presumably Edom (v9). The prayer leader may have been a king. God has promised to be with His people; but in his own wisdom, He seems to have abandoned them. God’s people live a meaningless existence without His presence. They take defeat seriously because divine abandonment is the most miserable condition. The experience of divine rejection brings out a renewed faith and confidence in the Lord.

What do you think is the key verse? Why?
Verse 12
Only WITH God can victory be gained. Rejection of God lands us nowhere.

What is the theme of this psalm?
In a spiritual war God’s name and honour is involved. So if the enemy should win a victory, it’s only temporary because God will intervene and vindicate His people.

How to smile through stormy situations in life?
Let prayer be the 1st strategy (v5)
Know that God is a just God and He is just in His rule. Victory is guaranteed! (v12)

3
Application

Have you ever been concentrating on obtaining victory in one area of your life only to experience defeat in another area where you thought you were safe? If so, don’t panic; you are just under a sneak attack by the enemy. God knows you are willing to do the job He’s assigned to you. Just be careful, in your zeal, you don’t let your guard down in other areas. But if you blow it, make sure you have Ps 60:12 hidden in your heart so you’ll quickly got to God in prayer. Be confident that He will act on your behalf because it’s only through Him that we win!

Source (Angela Teo's notes)
Psalms Classic Library Edition by Marilyn Hickey
The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 5
Frank E. Gaebelein – General Editor
Zondervan Publishing House
The NIV Study Bible

Studying Psalm 59

2008-02-28T16:39:00.000+08:00

Step
1 Observation

What are some of the key idea or word that has been repeated throughout the Psalm?
• Attacks from the enemies (v1-3)
• Injustice experienced (v4-5)
• How evil the wicked are (v6-7)

What does this tell you about the situation?
• It shows the urgent need for deliverance from the psalmist.

What is God’s response? Why does it tell us about God?
• Unmoved, laughed (v8)
• From God’s perspective, evil is self-destructive. God will see to it that the rule of oppression will end and that His own will be vindicated (v8, cf 2:4 & 37:13)

Is there any change of emotion in the psalm as you read on? If yes, which verse and what is the change?
• Yes, verse 9
• The psalmist sees that the Lord is stronger than His people, the Lord is the fortress. In the face of evil shown by the enemies, the Lord is the loving God by whose love His people thrive.

2 Interpretation

Background:

Psalm 59 was written by David and marks the night when King Saul sent soldiers to his house with orders to kill David when he came out in the morning. Fortunately, Michal, David’s wife and Saul’s daughter, was aware of the plot and helped David escape during the night. (Hickey, Psalms)

How are we to respond in the presence of the wicked when we are attacked?
• Cry to God and put your hope in Him. Don’t fall into dismay.
• Confident in God’s response. He is your fortress. Have you seen a fortress before?

What is the theme of the psalm?
• My God is my Champion! Wickedness will not succeed in attacking the people of God. God is able to deliver us from our enemies. He is our shield, providing protection for those who submit to His Lordship

3 Application

Are you under attack by some people around you? Physically or emotionally? Would you seek His assistance and believe that as you call on Him, He can intervene divinely? Do you have the faith to believe that He will make you champion too?

Source (Angela Tan's notes)
• Psalms Classic Library Edition by Marilyn Hickey
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 5
Frank E. Gaebelein – General Editor
Zondervan Publishing House

Studying Psalm 58

2008-02-28T16:38:00.000+08:00

Step
1 Observation

What would be the usual responses when you are treated unfairly?
• Angry, unforgiveness, revengeful

Do you see a concern for justice in verse 1 and 2? Justify your answer.
• Yes
• The psalmist confronts the rulers with their lack of sensitivity to justice. The heart of the wicked judges devised injustice and their hands mete out violence.

How did the psalmist respond to injustice?
• Exposed the wicked (v3-5)
• Submit the concerns to the Lord (v6-9)

Pause and reflect, will we respond like that of the psalmist?
• We may not as we may want to handle injustice in our own ‘fairest’ way, the way we think the wicked deserves.
• We may not as we may have seen it as a total defeat right from the start, intimidated by the wicked who are like venom of a snake.

What does Psalm 58 tell you about God?
• God is a God of justice and He will judge the earth and reward the righteous (v11)

2 Interpretation

Key idea: Surely the righteous still are rewarded

V1-2 – concern for justice
V3-5 – the lies of the wicked
V6-8 – prayer for justice
V9 – expectation of justice
V10 – the joy of the righteous
V11 – affirmation of justice

What do you think is the key verse?
• Verse 11

The Psalm could have been written when David took over the throne of Israel. He faced realization of corruption in the administration of justice and the arrogance of those judges in the judicial system established by Saul.

When facing or experiencing injustice, what should our response be?
• Know that God is a God of justice. He judges the earth. (v11)
• Expect that justice will take place (v9)
• Live to receive the reward He has for the righteous (God’s people) (v11)
3 Application

Is someone treating you unfairly or accusing you of something you did not do? And try as you might, you cannot get them to see that you don’t deserve what they are dishing out? Don’t take revenge upon your antagonizers. Pray for them and await the reward from the God of justice who judges all the earth.

Source (Angela Tan's notes)
• Psalms Classic Library Edition by Marilyn Hickey
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 5
Frank E. Gaebelein – General Editor
Zondervan Publishing House

Studying Psalm 57

2008-02-26T18:50:00.000+08:00

Observation

What was the circumstance David was in when he wrote this psalm?
• He was fleeing from Saul into the cave

What did he do in such difficult time?
• He asked the Lord for mercy
• He took refuge in the shadow of His wings
• He cried out to God Most High

What was God’s response?
• God sent His love and faithfulness

What can we learn from this psalm about God?
• God’s love is great, reaching to the heavens and will save us in time of trouble and He is faithful, his faithfulness reaches to the skies, rebuking those who pursue us (v3 & 10).

Interpretation

Key idea: The exaltation of Yahweh in the mist of alienation

V1-5 – lament and refrain
V6-11 – thanksgiving

What is the theme of the psalm?
• The psalmist exalted the God of mercy and truth above the dangerous situation and completely trusted his Lord to deliver him.

How should we respond when we are cornered in a situation not to our favour, worse, it is one that will endanger our lives?
• S.E.T. your heart on Him
• Be Steadfast! Keep your focus on Him. Know that He is a God who will fulfill His purpose for you.
• Exalt Him for who He is for the Lord is true to His word. Praise Him and sing of Him!
• Trust in His love and faithfulness! The magnitude of His love and faithfulness is something we can never comprehend fully. Trust that He will deliver you from the difficult situation.

Application

Is there an area in your life right now which you find it very challenging to manage? No matter where you turn, the avenue of escape evades you. Can you believe that the faithful God who loves you can intervene and make a way for you?

Source (Angela Tan's notes)
• Psalms Classic Library Edition by Marilyn Hickey
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 5
Frank E. Gaebelein – General Editor
Zondervan Publishing House

Studying Psalm 56

2008-02-25T17:48:00.001+08:00

Step
1 Observation
What are some of the key ideas repeated throughout the Psalm?
• Men hotly pursue me
• They press their attack
• My slanderers pursue me all day long
• All day long they twist my words
• They conspire, they lurk, they watch my steps

What situation was David in when the psalm was written?
• He was seized by the Philistines in Gath.

Is there repetition of words you observe? Locate them.
• In God, whose word I praise,
In God I trust; I will not be afraid,
What can mortal man do to me?
• Verses 4, verses 10-11

Why do you think there is a repetition?
• Emphasis to show that trust in God when under seizure

2 Interpretation
Key idea: Walking in darkness with God’s light

V1-2 – lament
V3-4 – trust in God
V5-9b – affliction and imprecation
V9c-11 – trust in God
V12-13 – thanksgiving

David, in his captivity, acted like a madman to save himself. More than that, he put his trust in the Lord, knowing that God is for him (v9) and will deliver him (v13). This is reflected in his composure and tranquility in the face of fear.

In times of adversity and sufferings, how then do we live our lives? Depend on our own strength and wisdom or truly put our trust in the Lord who surely delivers us? Live your life like that of David:
• Remember God’s promises (v3-4)
o In God, you do not need to be afraid
• Receive God’s acts of vindication (v8-9)
o If God is for you, who can be against you?
• Rest in thanksgiving to God (v12)
o You can walk before God in the light of life

3 Application
Are you going through difficult times? Is there a rough path which you wish it will end soon? Can you trust in Him and apply these principles so that even in such times, you still give thanks, knowing that He will deliver you?

Source (Angela Tan's notes)
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary Volume 5
Frank E. Gaebelein – General Editor
Zondervan Publishing House

Studying Psalm 54

2008-02-23T19:30:00.002+08:00

>>Background

David is fleeing from Saul after the Ziphites, the inhibitants of Ziph, a town in the Judean hill country, informs Saul of David’s hiding place. Saul finally catches up with David on the same mountain, but just as Saul and his forces are closing in, a messenger informs Saul of the attack by the Philistines and Saul breaks off his pursuit of David to go meet the Philistines.

>>Observation
What are some common themes that you can pick out?

1. The psalmist is crying out in desperation, yet he seems very sure of God’s ability to help him. (vs1-2)
- Save me… by Your name
- Vindicate me… by Your power

2. Those that he considers his enemies, are those that have not set God before them.

3. There are 3 parts to the Psalm
a. The cry for help (vs1-3)
b. A celebration of trust (vs4-5)
c. The vow and thanksgiving (vs 6-7)

4. God will deliver us from ALL trouble. Not halfway, not partially, but TOTALLY.

>>Interpretation

The psalm begins with David’s plea to God. However, he is quick to celebrate the help that comes from God, instead of dwelling on the seriousness of his trouble. (vs4 – Behold God is my helper) It is a triumphant cry of God’s deliverance, maybe even before he is delivered. It is no wonder he is called a man after God’s heart. He does not doubt God, even in desperate situations. He knows God to be his helper, who will never fail to deliver him.

David ends the Psalm with a spirit of thanksgiving, pouring out from his grateful heart. He is able to give thanks willingly as he knows that God will surely deliver him completely.

>>Application

Subject:
How to experience God’s deliverance in times of trouble.

Complements:
1. Cry out to Him (vs1-3)
2. Proclaim his deliverance from all trouble (vs4-5)
3. Give thanks for his faithfulness (vs6-7)

Theme Verse:
Verse 7 “For He has delivered me from all trouble, And my eye has looked with satisfaction upon my enemies.

How many times have we seen the deliverance of God in our lives, yet we are stingy with giving unto Him? Determine today to have a heart that is willing to give unto God. Is there an area of your life that you find difficult to give up? Remember that God is more than deserving. We can give thanks to Him because He WILL deliver us from ALL trouble.

Resources (Joshua Teo's notes)
1. The New Century Bible Commentary (A. A. Anderson)
2. Treasury of David (Charles Spurgeon)
3. John Wesley’s Notes on the Bible

Studying Psalm 53

2008-02-22T14:27:00.002+08:00

>> Background

Pslam 53 is a parallel version of Psalm 14, but it is in NO WAYS, a duplicate copy. The fact that it is written again in a very similar way, shows the intention of the Psalmist to draw closer attention to the content of it. Each repetition is not in vain but a double emphasis for us to pay closer attention to. Scripture never repeats itself needlessly, there is good cause for the second writing of this Psalm. Let us read it with more profound attention than before.

This Psalm is a variation of Psalm 14. In each of these two Psalms the name of God occurs seven times. In Psalm 14, it is three times Elohim, and four times Jehovah; in the present Psalm it is seven times Elohim. Christopher Wordsworth, 1868.

The above quote from Christopher Wordsworth suggests that Psalm 14 and 53 were written for different audiences. Psalm 14 speaks about the enemies of God who are in great fear as God will deal to them the ultimate judgment. Psalm 53 however speaks more of God’s deliverance, rather than of His judgment. He is in the midst of His righteous people, scattering the bones of their enemies who plot against them.

>> Observation

What are some common themes that you can pick out?

Q.Who is the Psalmist referring to as the fool?
A. Those who say “There is no God”. These are people who have closed their mind to God and to all instruction. For them, there is no need to reckon with God in all any areas of their lives.

Q. What is the characteristics of such a man?
1. He is corrupt
2. His ways are vile
3. Not one of them does good.

Q. What is the condition of mankind in general as God looks down?

1. Everyone has turned away.
- The Amplified Bible translates this as gone back. In Psalm 14 the word used was turn aside which was bad enough. Here, it is described as gong in the opposite direction, which emphasizes that man is drawing even further away from God.

2. There is no one who does good

3. There is no one who seeks God.

Q. What is God’s judgment on these people?
1. God despises them
2. They will be overwhelmed with dread.

>> Interpretation

The Psalm can be divided into three parts.
Verses 1-3 are an account of universal godlessness.
Verses 4-6 asks a rethorical question expressing the ‘could not care less’ attitude of the wicked followed by God’s intervention
Verse 6 concludes with a prayerful wish, expressing hope for the restoration of the well-being of the people of God.

Hewbrew 2:1 calls us to “pay more careful attention to what he have heard, so that we do not drift away from it. A double emphasis on an entire Psalm about Godlessness in the world must surely be a warning from God to us, not to follow the ways of the world but to be seekers of God.

Practical atheism, the Lord assures, is not a position we should be comfortable to accept. It is the foolishness of man that leads them to think this way. And once they do so, they will be overwhelmed with dread instead of finding the answers they are searching for.

>> Application

Spend time building our relationship with God and let Him reveal His reality to us, lest we become fools and claim, “There is no God.” Will you be counted as one of those who did not understand God or one of those that seeks the Lord? Decide today to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

Resources (Joshua Teo's materials)
1. The New Century Bible Commentary (A. A. Anderson)
2. Treasury of David (Charles Spurgeon)
3. John Wesley’s Notes on the Bible

Studying Psalm 52

2008-02-22T01:10:00.003+08:00

Psalm 52 brought out a stark contrast for us to note:

For those who have deceitful tongues, believe in and speak falsehood rather than God's righteousness,
GOD 'breaks you down forever' (v5a) and 'uproot' (v5c) you.

But for the righteous who trusts in His lovingkindness forever and waits on His name,
GOD roots them like 'green olive trees in His house' (v8a) and grants them fruitfulness (green implies fruitfulness).

Would you rather be like the first or second picture below?

Studying Psalm 51

2008-02-21T01:59:00.000+08:00

Historical background: 2 Samuel 11 (after God sent prophet Nathan to confront David about his adultery with Bathsheba and murdering of her husband Uriah)

1. Psalm 51 is a CONFESSION and REPENTANCE psalm
of David after Nathan's confrontation.

Quoted from Ps Yueh Ping: 'It is one thing to write our confessions down. It is another (bigger) thing to write them for the nation (Jerusalem) to see. Psalm 51 then becomes a model for the people (and us) in confessing their sins to God.'

2. David knew that God cannot tolerate sin,
and sin destroys the relationship between man and God. Thus he reinforced his cries for God to forgive him through
“Blot out” (v1),
“wash me” (v2,7),
“cleanse me” (v2,7).

3. What is (and is not) Godly repentance?

God is not interested in our remorse or guilt-feelings. Guilt does not come from God. He desires repentance which draws us back to Him.

Remorse is mostly just about feeling bad. It is a temporary feeling of being sorry. They are like one-off burnt offerings that God takes no delight in. (v16).

God desires a broken spirit and a contrite heart (v17). This reflects a true heart of repentance – one that is not depended on our own strength or ability to walk right before God, but a life of total dependence before God, a constant dying to self and a commitment to draw near to our heavenly Father.

And the only way to be restored back to the Father and have a new clean heart and steadfast spirit? Ask God to create that pure heart in us.

4. What does this Psalm tell us about God when we repent before Him?
He keeps no records of our wrong. (v9)
He purifies us (v10)
He restores to us the joy of our salvation and gives us a willing spirit to sustain us. (v12)

5. Does this Psalm apply to you since you are not like David, who committed murder and adultery?
Yes. Verse 5 talks about the universality of sin. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. How then can be live a life free from sin?

A broken spirit – live a life of total dependence on God.
A contrite heart (vs 17) – Ask God for a Godly sorrow. Hide the fear of God in our hearts.

These two conditions bring us back to an attitude of total reliance and dependence on Christ.

Application
Are there sins in your life that you need to confess before God? Bring them before God today. No sin is too small or too insignificant. Just like poison, a little is enough to contaminate and corrupt your life before the Lord. Ask the Lord to come and search your heart in the inner most parts and cry out to God to give you a broken spirit and a contrite heart so that you will always be open to the tutoring of the Holy Spirit in your life.

Resources (Base materials from Joshua Teo)
1. The New Century Bible Commentary (A. A. Anderson)
2. Treasury of David (Charles Spurgeon)
3. John Wesley’s Notes on the Bible

17th February: Church Girls!

2008-02-21T01:44:00.002+08:00

These are some of the photos of which we took last Sunday (17th feb) so I'm sharing it here, We all look marvelous! (especially Dina & her super pretty hairband)

Aigoo, (its a slang in korean) You all should just smile & take photos with Johnny (my DSLR camera) and not run away from the camera, that way we can have much more brilliant memories and than we can put it into a photo album & when we grow old/up we can look back on these days and sigh with happiness in our hearts at our fufilled life.

In anycase, this Sat-urday is global prayer meeting + cell so we can pray for someone out there who needs more help than us, and share how our fasting have been (the ups & downs of fasting).

Jesus lives in our blood, we must live for him & only him and dedicate the next 36 days of fasting to him, to put down aside our TV shows, internet gaming, phototaking and everything that's material and seperates us from Jesus!

Aja aja fighting jia you!

What are you girls fasting for? (your purpose, as in what are you abstaining from to grow closer with Jesus) I'm abstaining from TV, Games, Cooking, Food (only bread - i'm still in the process of eating only bread/crackers) and non worship Music aka music that isn't worship songs.

As the days go on, I will add on here & there and perhaps truly even abstain from everything and focuse on His word alone will suffice my soul and thirst for him, at the moment I'm still trying not to do so much Youtube (ugh, there's alot of brilliant things to watch on YouTube) and the internet.

Much Much love,
Nicolette

Studying Psalm 50

2008-02-20T00:44:00.005+08:00

(Adapted from materials from a church brother. My personal add-ons in blue)

>>What is the Lord saying about our sacrifice to him? Is He impressed by them?
No, if the sacrifices that we make are merely empty demonstrations of religious practices, He is not impressed. What can we give to God that He does not already own?

Just a few verses (8-13) and i thought their revealed mighty truth about God has overturned many religions and so-called gods around us. Everything in the world belongs to Him; there is nothing we can ever 'give' back to Him!

A deception in the world's religions is like this:
I give you $5. You use my $5 to buy fruits for me.

BUT if the $5 did not come from you, you cannot call it a sacrifice on your part!

It's so funny when God says in verse 12a 'If I were hungry, I would not tell you'.

>>What then is the Lord requiring of us?
v.14a 'Sacrifice thank offerings (instead) to God'
Where does thanksgiving stem from? Our hearts!

That we offer to him our sacrifices not as if they are gifts to Him, but a demonstration of our heart of gratitude to Him. He is looking for a heart of love towards Him that remembers His divine goodness.

>>What does God say to those who continue to know His word even teach it, but do not live it out?
v.19 & 20 specifically pinpointed evil, deceitful, complaint, slander word from our mouths, speaking against others. Check our hearts where come out from our mouths.
He leaves them to themselves as He is a patient God. However, they are not to take His silence as an approval of their actions. God will ultimately judge them.

>>Subject: How do we offer authentic worship to God, even in times of need?

Complements:
1.More than sacrifices, offer Him a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving. (vs 14)
2.More than knowing His word, live it out in obedience. (vs 16-17)

God’s promise to us?
He will save us and deliver us. (vs 15, 23)

CNY Steamboat Dinner & Celebrating MeiQi

2008-02-03T22:50:00.000+08:00

Other than the steamy fun time boiling food in the hot pot, there were the

First highlight - Celebrating Meiqi's birthday!

The cutest cake handmade by Nicolette!

(The birthday card was also created by Dina!)

Goodness knows how many layers Meiqi had to unwrap

Second highlight - the BLACKOUT!

Why WHY??!!

Scared.
(Click to zoom in on their ultimate expressions)

Pretend only...

In the dark, a fish appeared out of Eunice's head.

We don't understand how they could still pose so prettily in the dark.

Third highlight - The effects of eating too much of steamboat

Celebrating Amanda, Dina & Diana!

2008-02-03T21:29:00.000+08:00

Studying Psalm 33

2008-02-02T10:50:00.000+08:00

Interpretation

God is a SOVEREIGN GOD

v.6 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made,
their starry host by the breath of His mouth.

v.9 For He spoke, and it came to be;
He commanded, and it stood firm.

Such power in the words of God!
Such an Almighty God we serve.

Application

Q: Are you praying to God for certain answers for your life?

>> Press on, knowing that when 'we call on Him, He will answer' (Psalm 17:6). And when He speaks, there will be breakthroughs!

Q: Do you depend on yourself and feel self-confident? Or are you God-confident?

Look at v. 16-19.
No king is saved by the size of his army;
no warrior escapes by his great strength;
a horse is a vain hope for deliverance; despite all its great strength, it cannot save (anyone).

BUT the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him,
on those whose hope is in His unfailing love,
to deliver them from death, and keep them alive in famine.

>> They tell us that “God does not save the self-confident. Rather, the Lord saves and preserves those who trust and hope in Him”.

>> What is your position when coming before God? Do you choose to submit to His Lordship and come humbly before Him in recognizing that apart from Him, we can do nothing?

Read the Psalm again and allow praises to arise within you in knowing that the Lord knows our every thought and give him the praises due to Him for it is fitting for us to praise the dependable and righteous God, who is sovereign and considers all of our works.

Source (from SL Tribe, ZhaoHua's materials)
“NKJV Bible – The Open Bible” (OB)
“Psalms – Classic Library Edition” by Marilyn Hickey (MH)
“The Bible Knowledge Commentary – Old Testament” by John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck; Cook Communications Ministries (BC)

Second Chance . Hillsongs

2008-02-02T10:48:00.000+08:00

You called my name
Reached out Your hand
Restored my life
And I was redeemed
The moment You entered my life

Amazing grace
Christ gave that day
My life was changed
When from my shoulders
Fell the weight of my sin

So it’s with everything I am
I reach out for Your hand
The hope for change
The second chance I’ve gained

On You I throw my life
Casting all my fears aside
How could greater love than this
Ever possibly exist

Consume my thoughts
As I rest in You
I’m now in love
With a Saviour
Bearing the marks of His love

So I’ll wait upon You now
With my hands released to You
Where a little faith’s enough
To see mountains lift and move

And I’ll wait upon You now
Dedicated to Your will
To this love that will remain
A love that never fails

Studying Psalm 25

2008-01-27T02:02:00.000+08:00

Psalm 25 (and many other Psalms) expresses David confiding in the Lord, where he poured his heart out to Him.

Yet Psalm 25:14, rather unexpectedly, switched around to tell us that even 'the LORD confides in those who fear him; He makes His covenant known to them'.

What a two-way communication of intimacy and deep reliance David shares with the Lord.

Imagine having the Prime Minister of Singapore calling you up and saying, 'Can i tell you what is on my heart? Can we have a heart-to-heart talk?'

Yes, the King of Kings, the God of the Universe, the Supreme Lord wants to confide in us!

*

In the New Testament, there is also an example of this.

In John 20:10-18, Jesus, after He resurrected, appeared to Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb.

+ He called her by her name, Mary (verse 16)
+ Then He told Mary what was going to happen to Him soon, where He was going (back to the Father) after this. (verse 17)

Mary Magdalene was one of the few who did not abandon Jesus even when she might not have understood Jesus' predicament. She had a relationship and encounter with Jesus; she continued to love Him as Lord.

Little will we doubt why Jesus would choose to appear to Mary and tell her His plans.

*

Not only does Jesus want to confide in us, through an intimate relationship with Him, know that He will do it first by calling our names! What a personal God we have.

Two Sweeties

2008-01-27T01:08:00.000+08:00

Studying Psalm 23 - Why Sheep?

2008-01-23T00:15:00.000+08:00

(drawn by me!)

1. Sheep has virtually no defenses.

Most of God's animal creations have some kind of effective defense mechanism, whether claws or teeth, special colouring or speed, strength or sharp senses.

But sheep have none. They are weak, slow, and awkward. They cannot even growl. Their only protection comes from their shepherd. And the same is true with the Christian.

2. Sheep have difficulty finding food and water.
They must depend totally on their shepherd for sustenance. If they fail to get it, they will eat poisonous weeds and die. We are just as dependent on God who sustains us.

3. Sheep can be easily frightened.

And fright can lead them to do things that can threaten their lives. So the shepherd attempts to keep them calm, by singing and simply being with them.

We can have the same kind of reassuring relationship with our Shepherd.

4. Sheep have a poor sense of direction.
They get lost easily - even in their own territory. Believers can behave very similarly. We simply cannot be our own guide; we get in trouble every time we do. We must trust our Shepherd and listen to His voice implicitly.

5. Sheep cannot clean themselves very well.

It falls on the shepherd to keep them clean. We too are by nature, unclean. Only our Shepherd can cleanse us.

(Source: Your Daily Walk, Bruce Wilkinson)

My Shepherd King... You're watching over me...

Studying Psalm 18

2008-01-19T14:48:00.000+08:00

Psalm 18 is a Song of Praise from David unto God when he was delivered from his enemies and Saul (historical background in 2 Samuel 22). What a big and awesome victory that surely David would remember for the rest of his life!

As David dwelled on the memories of God's deliverances in his life, he had these action steps of obedience:
(From verses 21-23)
- I WILL keep the ways of the Lord
- I WILL NOT do evil by turning from God
- I WILL NOT turn away from His decrees
- I WILL keep myself from sin

Do we become complacent when we bask in our past victories and times of God's help?

Resolve to follow the action steps of obedience of David.

He knows he can and always has to rely on the God who 'reached down from on high to take hold of us' (v.16) and who 'stooped down to make us great' (v.35b).

The God of the universe, the almight God, worthy of the highest praise and authority, humbled Himself so low for us!

Could you imagine that???

Below is a writing by Max Lucado which echoes this mindblowing thought:

__________________________________________________

He Loves to Be with the Ones He Loves
by Max Lucado

Holiday travel. It isn't easy. Then why do we do it? Why cram the trunks and endure the airports? You know the answer. We love to be with the ones we love.

The four-year-old running up the sidewalk into the arms of Grandpa.

The cup of coffee with Mom before the rest of the house awakes.

That moment when, for a moment, everyone is quiet as we hold hands around the table and thank God for family and friends and pumpkin pie.

We love to be with the ones we love.

May I remind you? So does God. He loves to be with the ones he loves. How else do you explain what he did? Between him and us there was a distance--a great span. And he couldn't bear it. He couldn't stand it. So he did something about it.

Before coming to the earth, "Christ himself was like God in every-thing.... But he gave up his place with God and made himself nothing. He was born to be a man and became like a servant" (Phil. 2:6--7 NCV).

Why? Why did Jesus travel so far?

I was asking myself that question when I spotted the squirrels outside my window. A family of black-tailed squirrels has made its home amid the roots of the tree north of my office. We've been neighbors for three years now. They watch me peck the keyboard. I watch them store their nuts and climb the trunk. We're mutually amused. I could watch them all day. Sometimes I do.

But I've never considered becoming one of them. The squirrel world holds no appeal to me. Who wants to sleep next to a hairy rodent with beady eyes? (No comments from you wives who feel you already do.) Give up the Rocky Mountains, bass fishing, weddings, and laughter for a hole in the ground and a diet of dirty nuts? Count me out.

But count Jesus in. What a world he left. Our classiest mansion would be a tree trunk to him. Earth's finest cuisine would be walnuts on heaven's table. And the idea of becoming a squirrel with claws and tiny teeth and a furry tail? It's nothing compared to God becoming a one-celled embryo and entering the womb of Mary.

But he did. The God of the universe kicked against the wall of a womb, was born into the poverty of a peasant, and spent his first night in the feed trough of a cow. "The Word became flesh and lived among us" (John 1:14 NRSV). The God of the universe left the glory of heaven and moved into the neighborhood. Our neighborhood! Who could have imagined he would do such a thing.

Why? He loves to be with the ones he loves.

From Next Door Savior
Available in Hardback or Paperback
Copyright (W Publishing Group, 2003) Max Lucado
_______________________________________________________

Studying Psalms 7-11

2008-01-12T00:05:00.000+08:00

1. Observation
You could have noticed that David began Psalm 7-11 all with 'O Lord', whether it is:

- Asking God to cover him in danger/accusation (Ps 7, 11)
- Proclaiming the majesty of God (Ps 8)
- Praising God in times of adversary (Ps 9)
- Asking God to come near and reveal again (Ps 10)

2. Inference
This tells me:
- God was the first thing in David's mind (and heart) in every situation.
- He chose to 'O Lord' rather than 'Oh dear, oh no'.
- He focused on God and not the problems.
- He shares a very intimate relationship with God, in which God is truly His confidant whom he leaned on

3. Going Deeper
Zooming into Psalm 7 as focus:

Historical background of Ps 7 -> 2 Samuel 16:5-14
Many bible scholars believed that the Benjamite, Cush which David wrote about in Ps 7, is actually Shimei in 2 Samuel 16. The verses show that Shimei cursed David when he was on the runaway from his son Absalom, and also throwing stones at him.

Special Note -> Watch David's response to the cursings of Shimei in 2 Sam 16:11-12.
- He did not retaliate with cursing or violence.
- He rebuked his follower Abishai who wanted to cut Shimei's head.
- David focused back unto God in the midst of the situation (2 Sam 16:12 'It may be that the Lord will see my distress and repay me with good for the cursing I am receiving today')

In Psalm 7, we see that David:
- asked the Lord to check his heart if he did anything against Shimei
- Even in anguish, he asked God to deliver him because 'the Lord is his shield' (Ps 7:10)

4. Application
How do you know God's heart more?

David not only knew God's heart; his own heart was like Jesus.

In 2 Sam 19:18b-23 (which happened on the day that David was restored as King of Israel), Shimei came to David to repent and ask for forgiveness.

Once again, David's response was:
- He spared Shimei at once.
- He rebuked his follower Abishai again for wanting to put Shimei to death.
- And he even made an oath not to kill Shimei.

This brought me to remember the scene where Jesus was being arrested in the garden of Gethsemane in Luke 22:47-51.
Jesus' response was:
- He scolded his followers for wanting to strike with their swords, especially the one who cut off one of the enemy soldier's ears.
- Then he immediately healed the ear.

Notice how similarly David and Jesus responded?

*How to know God's heart closer and even have a heart that beats like His?
-> Cultivate an intimate relationship with God!

Studying Psalm 6

2008-01-08T19:38:00.000+08:00

Step ONE - Observation

What are some of the key idea or word that has been repeated throughout the Psalm?
(Phrases that describe David’s affliction and pain… What are they?)

With the above description, it is not difficult to guess that David must be terribly disturbed and afflicted.

Step TWO - Interpretation

Background:

David was suffering from some kind of illness that brought him great agony. Psalm 6 is one of the 7 penitential psalms which convey David’s sorrow over his sin.

This psalm consists of 4 parts
a. Prayer for relief from suffering (v. 1 – 3)
o David pleaded with the Lord to stop chastening him in anger for his sin. His question of “How long?” reflects of his intense anguish and frustration. He longed for God’s healing and restoration.

b. Prayer for deliverance (v. 4 & 5)
o David gave 2 reasons why God should answer his prayer
i. God will rescue him because of His unfailing live for him. He pleaded healing on the basis of God’s character as time and again God has shown that he is abundant in love.
ii. David reasoned that God would desire to have someone stand in His sanctuary to proclaim the salvation of the Lord. Thus there’ll be absence of praises for God if he were to die because of this illness.

c. His lament over his illness (v. 6 – 7)
o David confessed his anguish. The vivid description of his condition and state in these verses showed that he bared his heart before the Lord and did not hide his feelings and thoughts. He wrestled with God on the basis of his relationship with Him.

d. Assurance of restoration from God (v.8 – 10)
o David was confident that God accepts his prayer and would deliver him from his pain. His enemies would be disgraced and ashamed

Q: What is the theme of this psalm?
A: In the darkest of nights, God is ever present to hear the prayers of the afflicted. He is able to deliver and rescue those who cry out to Him in times of trouble.

Q: What is the key verse?
A: v. 9 & 10 The LORD has heard my cry for mercy, the LORD accepts my prayer. All my enemies will be ashamed and dismayed; they will turn back in sudden disgrace.

Step THREE - Application

Q: Was David still in pain by the time he ended this psalm?

Q: What has helped David to persevere in times of pain and despair?

Subject:
How do we overcome affliction and pain?

Complement:

1. Bare your heart before God and draw near to Him.
o Draw near to God and do not run away from Him in times of pain. You can be honest with Him and tell Him how you feel.

2. Believe in God and rest in the character of God.
o Receive His unfailing love that assures you that He will answer the cry of your heart.

Is there an area in your life that has caused pain and crippled you in life?
Pain is inevitable in life but misery is a choice!

Today, you can make a choice not to live in misery and suffering. Get up and rest in your relationship with God to know that His unfailing love for you will keep you safe from all harm.

Source
• Psalms Library Edition (Marilyn Hickey)
• The Bible Knowledge Commentary (Old Testament; Cook)
• The NIV Study Bible