Three Things

Luke 9:10-27

"He calls you to aim at three things which together comprise love for others and love for Jesus.

1. No sin

Sin is the opposite of love. In the middle of the word sin is the letter ‘i’. Jesus says, ‘Those who would come after me must deny themselves’ (v.23). God may ask you to make different sacrifices in your life, but the only thing we are all required to give up as followers of Jesus is sin.

Jesus says, ‘Those who would come after me must ... take up their cross daily and follow me, for those who want to save their lives will lose them, but those who lose their lives for me will save them’ (vv.23–24).

Jesus says, ‘All who are ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels’ (v.26).

Every day the challenge of love requires little acts of self-denial.

2. No self

Effectively Jesus invites his followers to ‘come ... and die’. The cross today is a symbol of hope. However, then it was a symbol of pain, shame, disgrace and ultimately death.

Jesus said that if we live lives of selfish ambition – even if we are the most successful person of all time and ‘gain the whole world’ (v.25) – it will do us no good at all. The way to find life in all its fullness is to abandon our lives to the love of Jesus and of others. Jesus says we must take up our cross daily and follow him (v.23).

Being willing to give up your life is the ultimate act of love. This is the example which Jesus set first. He calls us to follow his example: ‘cleave steadfastly to me, conform wholly to my example in living and, if need be, in dying’ (v.23, AMP).

3. No secrecy

Jesus says, ‘All who are ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels’ (v.26).

If you love Jesus you must not be ashamed of him. Sometimes even taking his name on our lips is a challenge. Nor must we be ashamed of his teaching. If you want Jesus to be proud of you, you must be proud of him. If you love people you will want everyone to know about Jesus."

Amen!

1. Thank You for hard-earned reward! =)

2. Praise God for ears that listen.

3. Alleluia for preparing my heart for this new adventure!

Learning To Appreciate

A middle-aged couple appeared before a divorce court seeking a final separation. "Are you sure you want to go through with this?" the judge asked the woman. "Yes," she firmly replied, "We have been married fifteen years and all that time I have kept house, cooked meals, and..." She paused tearfully and the judge asked, "And did he find fault with you?" "No," she said, "It's not that, but in all that time he has never once said 'Thank you.'" 

Often we forget the thoughtfulness of a "Thank you." And at times we even take God for granted. Therefore, the psalmist reminds us that it is a healthy thing for us to praise God. Praise is a habit we need to learn for the pure development of our souls (Psalm 147). 

Learning to praise God is beneficial to other areas of our lives as well. Expressing appreciation to God daily spills over into our personal relationships; we begin appreciating people. Today, let us seek ways to thank God for all He has done for us. And let us carry this appreciation over into our jobs, our school, and our families. In doing so, we will quickly learn that praising God can make us happier and healthier people. Today, "Praise ye the Lord!"

1. I cannot ask for more for all the blessings God is giving me in different packages. Praise God.

2. Thank You for Your mercy. May I have mercy to others, too.

3. Praise God for patience. Under the heat.

Power and authority are words we rightly associate with Jesus’ ministry. However, they are not unique to Jesus. Jesus called his disciples together and ‘gave them power and authority … to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick’ (9:1–2). This is the ministry to which every one of Jesus’ disciples is called (Matthew 28:18–20). His power and authority are available to you today.

Lord, help me to follow your instructions – to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. Help me to follow your example closely and to learn to minister with power and authority.

Breaking the Walls Down

Ephesians 2:14-16 NLT

For Christ himself has brought peace to us. He united Jews and Gentiles into one people when, in his own body on the cross, he broke down the wall of hostility that separated us. He did this by ending the system of law with its commandments and regulations. He made peace between Jews and Gentiles by creating in himself one new people from the two groups. Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of his death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death.

1. Tests may have begun, Lord, but I know You are there to lift me up. Thank You.

2. Thank You for a dollar off during notarization! :D

3. Done with 1.5 steps out of 3. One step at a time.

Hardening of Hearts

"When God hardens the heart, all He does is step away and stop striving with us. For example, the first time I commit a particular sin, my conscience bothers me. In His grace, God is convicting me of that evil. God is intruding into my life, trying to persuade me to stop this wickedness. If He wants to harden me, all He has to do is to stop rebuking me, stop nudging me, and just give me enough rope to hang myself.

We see in Scripture that when God hardens hearts, He does not force people to sin; rather, He gives them their freedom to exercise the evil of their own desires (James 1:13–15)."

1. Documents are on stand-by. Thank You, Lord.

2. One task down! Yey, hallelujah for the blessing of a helping hand.

3. Thank You for always being there for guidance and for Your wisdom.

You Are ALIVE!

'Legend tells of a weary traveler who was making his way on a lonely road when he noticed a dry, shriveled leaf in the path. Picking it up, he was amazed at the perfume it exuded. "Oh, you poor withered leaf," he exclaimed. "Where did you get this exquisite perfume?" The leaf replied, "I have lain in the company of a rose." 

Leading the congregation in this Old Testament prayer, the Levites express a similar thought (Nehemiah 9:5-38). If there is any beauty in Israel's history, it is because that nation had been in the presence of God. In this long and beautiful prayer, the religious leaders recall how God had been with them throughout the years in their good and bad hours. Their response to this companionship was a sacred pact of devotion to the Lord forever. 

Today, let us review what God has done for us personally. We, too, are like the dry, withered leaf. If there is any beauty in our lives, it is because we have been in the company of the Rose of Sharon. In response, we pledge ourselves to His Kingdom, determined to stretch ourselves to reach the world for the Lord we love. With the songwriter we pray, "Let the beauty of Jesus be seen in me."'

1. This is just purely amazing message. Thank You.

2. Hallelujah for surrounding me with great people and great memories!

3. Thank You for life, for hope, and for eternal life. Thank You because You are ALIVE!

The Boy And His Skates

"A little boy was given a pair of skates he had long wanted. He tried his best to balance himself on them but kept falling to the hard concrete. 

A passerby noticed the lad's persistent efforts and constant falling. He said, "Son, if I were you, I would give up. Otherwise, you might get hurt." With tears in his eyes, the boy looked up from the ground and said, "Mister, I didn't get these skates to give up on; I got them to learn on." 

Nehemiah already knew God's will. He had prayed about the wall, and so the people began to build it. However, they had hardly started when the enemies came and threatened them. Wisely, Nehemiah paused to pray, and one sees in this prayer the steel will of Nehemiah and his people (Nehemiah 4:1-6). He seems to have said, "God, You do the watching, we'll do the work." 

Determination and prayer paid off. Anything worthwhile we do for the Kingdom is going to be bitterly opposed by the enemy. However, if we have received clear direction from God, then we should have the same determination as the boy on the skates. 

We didn't come this far to give up. We will finish the work God has set before us. God will watch as we pray, and our personal contributions to Christ's Kingdom will be made."

1. Thank You for watching over us.

2. Praise You for every blessing You give, the opportunities to share, and the time You have given for bonding.

3. Thank You for a wonderful movie! =)

This Is Not The End

1. Hallelujah for a wonderful dance! Finally, done done done!

2. Super enjoyed Furious 7!

3. Thank You for providing great contacts!

Jesus died on a Good Friday, but this is not the end.

"Traps, Tests, and Temptations"

1. " David cried out to God. He knew that God was able to forgive him, rescue him, and heal him. Whatever your failings or whatever difficulties you may face, you too can bring them to God in prayer." Thank You, Lord for all of these!

2. "Lord, help me today, with every person I encounter, to have the right words, to bring good news, to have a heart of compassion and to seek to minister to others, as Jesus did. Help me not to be put off by criticism but to keep following the example of Jesus." I really, really, greatly need this, O, Lord. My heart is stubborn, Lord, help me.

3. "‘No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it’ (1 Corinthians 10:13, MSG)." Hallelujah!

Generosity Defined

"There is an emptiness about the way of life which involves becoming ‘rich’, being ‘well fed’, with lots of superficial laughter and gaining a good reputation (Luke 6:24–26). It leaves people feeling ultimately dissatisfied and ‘hungry’ (Luke 6:25).

The way of blessing is totally different. It is the way of generosity. It may involve poverty, hunger, weeping, being hated, excluded, insulted and rejected (Luke 6:20–22) – but it is a way of satisfaction (‘You will be satisfied’, Luke 6:21) and joy (‘You will laugh’, Luke 6:21).

Jesus calls us to be generous towards our enemies. ‘Love your enemies ... If someone grabs your shirt, gift-wrap your best coat and make a present of it ... No more tit–for–tat stuff. Live generously’ (Luke 6:27–29, MSG).

Be generous to everyone; ‘Give to everyone’ (Luke 6:30). This is an attitude of generosity; ‘without expecting to get anything back’ (Luke 6:35)."

1. This is just the message I needed. God is always in perfect timing because He simply knows my heart. Praise God!

2. Thank You for trials, Lord. They are my sandpapers.

3. Hallelujah for surprises! :)

More Than Rubies

1. I cannot thank enough to be able to have very supportive people around me. Thank You, God!

2. "Lord Jesus, thank you that true wisdom is found in a relationship with you. You are more precious than rubies and nothing I desire can compare with knowing you. Help me today to act wisely and to speak words of wisdom that bring blessing to others."

3. Praise God for hearing people's prayers. You are amazing! :)

One Step at a Time

1. Complete Stage 1. Now, stage next. Thank You.

2. Thank You for wonderful catch-ups and good walk.

3. Hallelujah for open doors, I pray for nurturing the planted seed.

Capturing Possibilities

"Problems have a way of capturing our full attention. We become totally absorbed in them and cannot see anybody or anything. This is what happened to Elisha's servant. Surrounded by the enemy, his faith faltered and he cried, Alas, my master! What shall we do? Elisha merely prayed that God would help him see the angels encamped around them rather than the enemy (2 Kings 6:15-18). The prayer was answered, and the servant relaxed.

Often, we concentrate on the problems rather than the possibilities. In prayer, God desires that we exercise faith, rather than fretting in His presence. Today, may we become less preoccupied with our problems and more captured by the possibilities as we relax in Him."

1. Amen! Thank You, Lord.

2. Concert time! Praise God for all the fun!

3. Hallelujah for friends!

Endurance

Romans 5:3-5 NLT

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

1. I love this verse. Thank You for Your love.

2. Hallelujah for my relatives' thoughtfulness and for the wonderful sharing. Thank You for such blessings!

3. Make every minute count. Praise You, Lord, for simple things.

Love Without Measure

1. I just cannot help but share this from Our Daily Bread:

John 19:17-24

It was a bit unusual, but three times in one day I heard the same song. In the early afternoon, I visited a home for the elderly. As part of her prayer at the end of our time together, Willie, one of the residents, said, “Sing with me, ‘Jesus Loves Me.’ ” In the evening, I attended a gathering with young people who sang it while pounding out the beat with their hands and feet.

Later that evening, I received a text message on my phone with an audio recording of my 2 1/2-year-old grandniece with a sweet little voice, singing, “I am weak, but He is strong.” People in their nineties, teenagers, and a toddler all sang that song that day. After hearing that simple song three times, I began to think the Lord might be telling me something.

Actually, He gave us all this message long ago: “I love you.” We read in John 19 that He allowed people to put a crown of thorns on His head, mock Him, strike Him, strip Him, and crucify Him (vv.1-6). He had the power to stop them, but He said very little (v.11). He did it all for love’s sake to pay for our sins and to rescue us from punishment. How much does God love us?

Jesus spread out His arms and was nailed to the cross. He died for us, then rose again. That’s a precious fact for young and old.

—Anne Cetas

The truest measure of God’s love is that He loves without measure! —Bernard of Clairvaux

2. You know when to soften one's heart. You always give surprises that can stir a heart. Thank You, Lord.

3. Had a very lovely evening with good food and great friends. Thank You for the fellowship.

All I Can

"John Wesley once wrote, ‘Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.’"

1. What a complete thought! Thank You, Lord, for these words that give encouragement and inspiration. You never ran out of them.

2. "As CS Lewis put it, ‘True humility is not thinking less of yourself. It is thinking of yourself less.’" Here is another wonderful line. May I be more like this. Thank You. I don't mind being bombarded with Your Word. 

3. Praise God for I have completed one stage! I hope to use it as a start wherever I go.

Grass Is Greener Where?

"The grass is not greener on the other side of the fence – it is greener where we water it."

1. This is a strong statement to me. Thank You for giving light and directing our hearts to be contented.

2. Thank You for bringing more people into this amazing cloud. May You send Your angels as I face the new chapter authored by You.

3. Praise God for connections!

Be Faithful To Me

"God saves a person, fills him with the Holy Spirit, and then says, in effect, “Now you work it out in your life, and be faithful to Me, even though the nature of everything around you is to cause you to be unfaithful.” And Jesus says to us, “. . . I have called you friends. . . .” Remain faithful to your Friend, and remember that His honor is at stake in your bodily life."

1. God did not indeed promise a problem-free life but He offers peace in spite of these all. Thank You, Lord.

2. Hallelujah for moments with old friends. And to have met people with the same vision. This is really amazing.

3. You have the purpose why You have made people. May Your will be done. Thank You for the life. May I use it wisely.

Sorrow to Beauty

'Henry Ward Beecher, who had known much sorrow in his own life, remarked, "There are many fruits that never turn sweet until the frost has lain upon them; there are many nuts that never fall from the bough of the tree of life till the frost has opened and reopened them; and there are many elements of life that never grow sweet and beautiful till sorrow touches them."'

1. "...and there are many elements of life that never grow sweet and beautiful till sorrow touches them." I just love how it was said. Thank You, Lord.

2. I can feel different types of doors opening, You are so good! I cannot thank You enough.

3. Hallelujah for bringing like-minded people together! When You work, it is always in an amazing way I cannot describe. 

Weekend of Outpouring!

"When we pray God hears more than we say, answers more than we ask, gives more than we imagine – in his own time and in his own way."

1. When it rains, it pours. Today, I went for my 5-km blind run. The idea of this is to run the 5-km with the persons with special needs. The other idea is that 2 people can register as partners and they will take turns in running a distance of 500 m blind-folded to know how it feels to be blind and then complete the rest of the non-competitive race.

I was rushing to the event when I saw a mom and her daughter wearing the race shirts and trying to look for the correct exit to the event. I ushered them to the area and then I realized that the girl is visually-impaired. Since I registered alone, I decided to join them in the run.

Adelyn, 14, is not used to running unlike her mom but she managed to complete the 5-km run with flying colors in spite of her condition! I was so blessed. Sometimes, those who lack something are even the ones who give hope and strength. I was so energized once more and she is now an inspiration to her friends. She said she can start encouraging her friends to do what she did. I was so touched. She melted my heart. God is just so good! Hallelujah!

2. Trekking, bonding, and laughing together. Rains fell down, we were wet but it was part of the fun! Thank God for protection.

3. Thank You for being able to do a record-breaking number of steps in a day!

This was such a memorable weekend for me for it was a weekend of outpouring! Amen!

Series of Heart-Warming Events

Today gave me a series of heart-warming moments only God can give.

Today, I met Moses, that man born with cerebral palsy who learnt different sign languages on his own just so he can interact with his deaf friends in spite of his physical condition. Wow, Lord, thank You for bringing Moses to me. =)

I rushed to the association for the deaf around 3 PM to catch my last class only to realize at the end that I was in the wrong class! I crashed into the (Singapore Sign Language) SGSL Workshop and even had group activities with those who were there. I did not have the slightest idea that it was not the class where I am supposed to be in. I just enjoyed sitting there and learning. When they started handing out the feedback form, my eyes widened when I saw the title in the form. Whooops.

In the group activity in the class, I met a 17-year old girl named Yenlin who started asking me how I've got myself inclined to sign language and I told her about how I was inspired by my church in the Philippines through song-signing during worship.

When we were parting, the skies turned suddenly dark and droplets of water began to make the tik-a-tak sound on the ground. Yenlin immediately brought out her umbrella and handed it to me quickly saying that I'd take it because her parents are anyway waiting for her on the other side of the road. I was surprised that she was graciously giving her umbrella to me. She said I made her happy today because of the encouragement she has received to learn sign language. To God be the glory! Then she disappeared into the footbridge while I stood there staring at the dark skies.

I barely made 10 steps when I saw Moses in front of me trying to get a cab for himself. Then I understood that God gave me the umbrella to provide shelter to Moses who was struggling to hail a cab while he uses all his energy left to balance himself using his 4-foot walker. I believe that God did not provide the cab so we could talk more. We ended up walking towards the MRT half an hour later as he shared his story. His condition makes him very tired easily but in spite of all these, he takes care of his mom who recently had a stroke. And spends most of his free time learning the language of the deaf.

Tears began to form at the corner of my eyes as I repeatedly thanked God how much blessed I am to have met people who will constantly remind me that the best gifts from God have already been provided to me. I just have to keep recognizing them and keep having a contented heart. 

Moses is disabled but it did not stop him from making a difference in this world, in fact, his goal is to reach out more especially to the deaf. God is just so amazing! I stand in awe! He uses the most imperfect people to become an excellent example in this cruel world. All glory, honor, and praise to You, Lord. Amen!

Wisdom Is Yours

1. Running kit in, which means I am ready for an early Sunday morning run with the impaired. Interesting!

2. I have breathed it out, please light my path, O, Lord. Thank You for Your Word.

3. Hallelujah for the wisdom that You provide, O, God. Please pour more over to Your servant.

Devotion:

James Russell Lowell wisely observed, "There is no good arguing with the inevitable; the only argument available with an east wind is to put on your overcoat." Although there are times we must learn to intercede, there are other times God simply says "No." We should learn to leave it at that.

Moses wanted desperately to go into the Promised Land. He prayed about this often until one day God reminded Moses that he had been forbidden to enter. God said: Enough of that! Speak no more to Me of this matter. The case was simply closed, and Moses learned to live with that decision (Deuteronomy 3:21-29).

There may be times when we do not like the answers to our prayers. But God is not a genie in a bottle we can conjure up to do our bidding. 

We serve Him; He does not serve us.

Therefore, we cannot expect all our prayers to be answered with a "Yes." The wise believer sincerely believes God knows best. Like Christ, we must learn to pray, "Nevertheless, not what I want, but Your will be done."

Adrenaline Rush

1. One day rehearsal, no time to be nervous before stage performance, but it was just so good! Thank You, Lord.

2. Thank You for Your healing, I felt way better just before the show.

3. Praise God for connections who can give sound advise and provide great assistance. Hallelujah!

With Love & Forgiveness

1. I believe in Your healing power, thank You.

2. Thank You for this one opportunity to dance. With just one day rehearsal.

3. Thank You for a great and interesting talk.

"Jesus is subject to insults and false accusation. When you are slandered or bad-mouthed be thankful that God allows you, in a tiny way, to enter into the sufferings of Jesus and pray that God will help you to respond as he did – with love and forgiveness."

Against The Wind

"It is in the tough times that the object in which you trust is really put to the test. But, as Henry Ford wrote, ‘When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.’ Trust that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28)."

1. This is such a great encouragement! Thank You, Lord!

2. Three down. One more to go. Thank You so much.

3. There is a time for everything. Thank You for the short moment with friends. Praise God for family.

Errands Done

1. Last day of errands, spent time on more important things than dwelling on making a complaint.

2. Wart removed from Dad after returning to clinic twice. Freedom!

3. Great catching up with relatives once more. Awesome stories never end!

Where The Light Shines

1. A day of testimony. May God indeed light my path as I take my steps. Help me, Lord, follow You.

2. Great day to see everyone. I miss the church.

3. The Ketchup Community was finally visited after many attempts. Food was good.

Just Control

1. I took the time to rest, thank God. Sleep is important.

2. One day delay, patience is required. This is considered normal.

3. Thank You for control and understanding. I need all these to stay calm.

Fresh Air

1. The To-Do list was quite long for the time given. Thank You for allowing me to tick each item.

2. Patience is indeed one of the most important ingredient in keeping one controlled and calm. But prayer is the strongest weapon one can have.

3. Thank You for a breath of fresh air with pine scent.

Home Sweet Home

1. The day of full rest for me, literally. Thank You.

2. It is so great to be home. Time for home-cooked meals.

3. And a little time for TV. :D

Reality

1. Praise God for energy even when we were sleepless. Patience has been tested a lot. This is reality. Thank You likewise for meeting new people.

2. Today, we have met a brave mom who boldly shared the good news to those who were in the queue while waiting for the mall to open in the next 2 hours. Hallelujah! May this be a great example to me.

3. Thank You for Your provision, You never fail to keep us calm no matter what.

Extra Hands

1. Thank You for an awesome last class. I would have wished Beginners' Class 2 but may Your will be done.

2. Thank You for extra hands in helping me carry my luggage. And for the last train bound to airport plus the last bus for the extra hands to reach home.

3. Hallelujah for a safe flight. Thank You for traveling mercies.

Moved By Hurts

1. Thank You, Lord, that I am still moved by hurts.

2. Praise God no handover is required. Done for today.

3. No time wasted, just keep organizing. Thank You for giving the time.

Right Time Is Today

"Indeed, the right time is now. The consequences of your life depends on what you do today."

1. Thank you for our eyes to appreciate the wonderful colors of today.

2. Two down today. Thank you, Lord, for being with us today.

3. Hallelujah for bonding time. All glory to You.

Believe To Receive

Mark 11:24-25 NLT

"I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours.  But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too.”

1. Yes, I believe, Lord. Thank You.

2. One at a time. One down today. Thank God for almost 2-hour high-impact energy and for the opportunity to shadow!!!

3. Thank You for reminding about fruits, Lord. I don't want to end only with a label.

"Forgiveness sometimes takes great courage but it restores relationships and brings great joy. It is said that, ‘The first to apologise is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. The first to forget is the happiest.’"

Be A Giant

1. "The amazing truth is that our Father is merciful and gives us love and protection, even when we don’t deserve it." Amen, Lord. You are gracious. Thank You.

2. Ahh, International Women's Day. 

"Be a change you can be, be a giant."

"Believe in yourself. Step up."

3. Praise God for the monthly reunion with the gang. :)

Be Gentle

1. Another pizza party, thank You for blessings like these.

2. Last day of Chinese New Year, Lo Hei!!!

3. Be gentle. God said be gentle.

Not a Tool

1. Thank You for giving the chance to lead. It was great.

2. You Word just brings light. Hallelujah.

3. 'God cannot fit into our plans, we must fit into his’, writes Eugene Peterson. ‘We can’t use God – God is not a tool or appliance or credit card.' This message is strong. Help me to fit into Yours.

Called To Love

"You are called to love. You are to live for God and for other people. And as you give yourself away, God will take care of your life."

1. Wow, amazing one. Thank You.

2. Please give me the courage to follow where You lead. Thank You for always directing.

3. Thank You for a successful exam. =)

Purpose of Life

1. Thank You for always revealing the path that clearly reflects what You want from Your people. "God's goal in creating the world is to bring glory and honor to Himself."

2. Thank You for taking "the shadiest of characters and most difficult of circumstances and made these people in the Bible powerful in Your plan."

3. Most of all, thank You for emphasizing that "the purpose of our lives is to point to You no matter where we are, what we are doing, or whom we are with. This is in perfect alignment with Your purpose."

The Cost

A very wonderful story that serves as a great reminder from Our Daily Bread:

We gave our 2-year-old son a pair of new boots recently. He was so happy that he didn't take them off until it was bedtime. But the next day he forgot all about the boots and put on his old sneakers. My husband said, “I wish he knew how much things cost.”

The boots were expensive, but a young child doesn't know about working hours, salaries, and taxes. A child receives the gifts with open arms, but we know that he can’t be expected to fully appreciate the sacrifices his parents make to give him new things.

Sometimes I behave like a child. With open arms I receive God’s gifts through His many mercies, but am I thankful? Do I consider the price that was paid so I can live a full life?

The cost was expensive—more than “corruptible things, like silver or gold.” As we read in 1 Peter, it required “the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1:18-19). Jesus gave His life, a high price to pay, to make us part of His family. And God raised Him from the dead (v.21).

When we understand the cost of our salvation, we learn to be truly thankful. —Keila Ochoa

Lord, help me to understand, to take in what it meant for You, the Holy One, to bear my sin. Remind me to give You thanks for salvation and for all the ways You show me Your love throughout my day today.

Salvation is infinitely costly, but absolutely free.

1. Thank You.

2. It was probably one of the longest and most meaningful one to date. Praise God for such moments.

3. Shadowing is the first step. I hope to be able to continue.

Home-made Sticky Rice

1. Rehearsal after a good 2-week long break. Thank You for sort-of working memory cells.

2. I love history talks and culture discussion, thank You for the session.

3. Another wonderful CNY celebration, and for me to feel the warmth of a home, it is such a blessing. We played with a beautiful, talented, and super cute 3-year-old girl and I realized that I miss playing with kids.

Heart at Rest

1. You definitely answer prayers, Lord. Thank You so much. My heart is at rest.

2. Great lunch on an awesome Friday, praise God.

3. Finally complete the many, tiny tasks. Whew!

Prophylaxis

1. Prophylaxis and power toothbrush. Wow, cannot imagine the worth of the latter but thank You, nonetheless. :)

2. One step at a time. Breathe in. Breathe out. Thank You for breathing life into me.

3. Thank You, Lord, for vacuum cleaners! =)

Harvest is Ready

1. One by one... Harvest is indeed ready, help me, Lord. Thank You.

2. Thank You for company networks, had fun during the CNY party!

3. Hallelujah, no one can really doubt Your existence. Thank You.

Red Packet

1. One more class and then exam time. But it is so much fun! Thank You.

2. Thank You also for ang pao! Better late than never. 

3. Praise God for letting me meet people with similar understanding. :)

Cherish

1. Laughter is really the best medicine. Thank You for the laughs. :)

2. Thank You for having the tasks done for the day.

3. Praise God for these experiences, may I cherish them forever.

On The Roads

1. Although sleepless, thank You for the safety. Thank You for Your protection.

2. Thank You for giving rest.

3. Thank You always for Your Word. Amen.

Escape Room

1. This Escape Room idea is just plain challenging, as in very good brain-squeezer. It was indeed a fun experience, even for my Dad.

2. Today was tiring, Lord, but thank You for the patience. Situations like these are tests to some of the values we believe we have. Thank You for the provision.

3. Hallelujah for showering us with Your traveling mercies, we have arrived in Singapore safe and sound.

Meet The Family

1. Praise God for having an accommodating driver-friend who was willing to charge just enough to travel around Kuala Lumpur and send us to a friend's village 2 hours away from the city.

2. Thank You, Lord, for inventing hospitality. I feel so blessed to have met and bonded with friend's awesome family. Hallelujah!

3. I really love quality time and sensible talks. Thank You for being able to have choices.

Grade 4 Drop!

1. It was yet again another amazing rafting experience! One big grade 4 drop, it was so much fun! Thank You, Lord, for having 4 "bodyguards."

2. Thank You for muscles and the ability to move, we were able to climb 273 steps at Batu Caves. 

3. Likewise, thank You for being able to meet experienced travelers, they pose inspiration to me in admiring Your creations.

Submitted!

1. Clicked! Filed! Submitted! Help me, Lord, not to wander away from Your plan.

2. Thank You for today's lunch session.

3. Aha, alas, another trip! Praise God!

Cast Your Care

As Joyce Meyer puts it, "When we have a problem, we can either do what the devil wants us to do and worry about it, get anxious and try to figure things out on our own, or we can do what God wants us to do and think about the promises in His Word.

The Bible teaches us to cast all of our care on God because He cares for us (see 1 Peter 5:7).

Worry sees the problem, but faith sees the God Who can handle the problem."

1. Amen! I pray to keep the faith and surrender all.

2. Thank You for Your Word that calms the heart.

3. Above. Behind. Ahead. Over. Across. Confusing signs but I am enjoying. Praise God!

Towards a Narrow Road

‘When you are up in life, your friends get to know who you are. When you are down in life, you get to know who your friends are!’

1. I trust in Your plan, O, Lord. I know You are with me in this journey. The road may be narrow but You will make things possible. Thank You so much.

2. What a grand view from 50th! Thank You for our eyes that we can appreciate things.

3. Moses was reluctant in Exodus and faced series of struggles but he trusted You with Your plan anyway. Thank You for giving him as one of the greatest examples to follow.

Stained-Glass Windows

"Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, a pioneer of the hospice care movement, said ‘People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.’

Lord, thank you that you promise to lead me along straight paths. Help me to avoid the way that leads to deep darkness and rather to follow the way of wisdom – which is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day."

1. Thank You for always making ways to lead us. Help me, Lord.

2. Hallelujah to holidays that are well spent. Recharged!

3. Born to Love. Yes, Lord, thank You for Your unconditional love.

Valentine's in the Highlands

1. A reminder is needed for the hard-hearted or stubborn. Thank You for constantly giving these.

2. It was a great and cool day for us! Praise God for the fun moments!

3. Thank You for the protection you have given us today.

"God is kind all the time. And, if we want to be like him, we too must be kind to others all the time.

Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness to me. Thank you that you have anointed me. Thank you that you show me unfailing kindness. Help me to be kind to everyone I meet today."

Tiger Encounter

1. We had a good rest, thank You Lord.

2. It was likewise fun feeding the tiger. Its anatomy is truly amazing.

3. Thank You for a safe day trip to Malacca.

The Bucket List

1. Praise God for a safe landing in KL!

2. Likewise thank You for a relaxed holiday.

3. "Have you found joy in your life? Has your life brought joy to others?" ~ The Bucket List. Thank You for the message. May You help me apply.

As Joyce Meyer writes, ‘Refuse to let your love grow cold. Stir up love in your life – towards your spouse and towards your family, friends, neighbours and co-workers. Reach out to others who are hurting and in need. Pray for people and bless them. Grow to the point that one of your first thoughts each morning in your heart is about how you can bless someone else that day.’

Amen!

Vintage Memories

1. And my weekend starts! Thank You for I was able to finish my work today and was able to get the result of my first step.

2. Looking at memories through vintage photos is just refreshing. We remember how time flies and we want to just sit back and remember. Thank You for all the memories.

3. Hallelujah for blessings through friends, how You have made them selfless and helpful! Praise You!

Finger-S-P-E-L-L

1. Finger-spelling. Need more memory and hand-finger exercise! But thank You Lord for giving this amazing language! Fun, fun, fun!

2. I pray for open ears always, Lord. I cling on to You. Hallelujah!

3. Thank You for constant reminders of how faithful You are. May we keep trusting You. 

Overflowing Blessings

1. A new page is ready to turn. Thank You Lord for Your blessing.

2. You have been giving guidance all the way. You are the only way. 

3. Praise God for a wonderful and awesome reunion dinner. I bet it has been getting bigger and bigger! Overflowing blessings, indeed!

Pedal and Glide!

1. Thank You for having proper breakfast with Dad.

2. Hallelujah to very good food and fresh wind and relaxing moment by the boardwalk.

3. Praise God for landscaped parks! Cycling and Skating were fun.

This is it!

1. And I have let it out. This should be it. Trust in Him and He will lead. Thank You, Lord.

2. Thank You for the dance. Back to working out at least for a while.

3. Praise God for the celebration of another year of blessing for a friend.

Trust!

C. S. Lewis wrote: “When we lose one blessing, another is often most unexpectedly given in its place.”

Lord, You love us with an extravagant love,

but so often we don’t trust You in the crisis.

Help us to learn and appreciate that You have

everything we need—and so much more.

True happiness is knowing that God is good.

1. Wow, a message that is filled with hope. Praise God!

2. From another 3 different sources, the message is consistent. Amazing!

Billy Graham:

God is keenly aware that we are dependent upon Him for life’s necessities. It was for that reason that He said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”

Daily Prayer: How magnificent, almighty Father, that I, dependently, can rely on You to take the burden of my heart!

Joyce Meyer:

God gives us His Spirit to enable us to make right and wise choices. He urges us, guides and leads us, but we still have to cast the deciding vote.

Verse of the Day: 

“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need. (Luke 12:29-31 NLT)

3. Hallelujah for a safe flight! 

First Step

1. You have control over everything. Thank You for bringing in the right people.

2. It was a good busy day, praise God.

3. Thank You for making me do the first step. :)

The Bright Side

1. New life, greatest blessing for a wife. Thank You for such awesome news.

2. Thank You for being able to breathe out.

3. Thank You for letting us look at the bright side.

More Than I Deserve

"Let my heart learn to sing when everything around me seems so dark. Give me Your grace to praise You, Lord Jesus."

"We don’t need to learn how to get more, but how to get along with what we’ve got, and get on with the business of living. Father, You have given me so much more than I deserve. May I always show a grateful and contented heart."

1. Hallelujah to Your messages, O, Lord.

2. Thank You for emotions and for giving me the ability to control them.

3. I had so much fun on day 2!

Just do it!

1. Thank You for a good lunch over good weather.

2. Praise God for the encouragement!

3. One at a time, yes, keep ticking the boxes even for tiny tasks. Thank you!

And I Mean Ninety One

1. Commitments. Responsibilities. Growth. Opportunities. Thank You for overflowing blessings.

2. My great grandmother just turned 91. Wow! I mean wow! Praise God for her life. More longevity bun!

3. Thank You for an awesome dinner with relatives! They like KTV too! :D

Sharing Gifts

1. It was a good rest today. Thank You, Lord.

2. No pain, no gain. Thank You for having someone who can share her gift.

3. Thank You for the meal and for the walk.

Protection

1. Thank You for the new day!

2. Praise God for Your protection, I claim it!

3. Hallelujah to a chill night.

The Z Network

1. Thank God I survived!!! What an intense training, every nook and corner of my body is screaming. But it was fun and awesome! And this is just the beginning, so help me, God.

2. Thank You for new-found friends who share a common goal.

3. Praise God for blessings, for opportunities, for all Your messages that helped me focus and decide.

Worrrkout!

1. This is it! The longest workout ever! Thank You, Lord!

2. May Your will be done! I lift up this new engagement, praise God.

3. Thank You for the arranged rendezvous. NamNam!

Hearing

1. Praise God for the ears! How amazingly You have created this part of our body.

2. Thank You for the opportunity to learn.

3. Things do change, may I remain patient in all these. Thank You.

No Matter What

1. You are the only source of strength to keep moving. Praise God!

2. Like You said in Your message, we should always give praise no matter what situation we are in. Thank You for such reminders.

3. Thank You for having good laughs with old friends.

God's Not Dead

​1. I am so blessed today, O Lord, for Your message about Tithes or the FIRST tenth of every increase. You have sacrificed Your firstborn just so I would be redeemed. May I make You first in everything. Amen!

2. Pay it forward and love one another as Christ loves me; Thank You, Lord, for instilling these in our hearts.

3. What an amazing, emotional birthday surprise for a friend!

GOD'S NOT DEAD. =)

Cool Breeze

1. Thank You for allowing us to just sing at the top of our lungs. It was fun, good de-stress-er.

2. Praise God for a wonderful dinner at home, too.

3. And oh, I am just so grateful for the cool breeze that You bring into my home.

The Breaking

1. "You be the needle and I will be the thread. You go first, and I will follow wherever You may lead." Thank You for the message.

2. Thank You for introducing that cheap and healthy yogurt!

3. Hallelujah for being able to complete 21 days! Praise God! :)

Constant Change

1. Change is constant and change is good. But thank You for not changing and so we can trust in You.

2. Praise God for the turn of events. I believe You will do unusual, great things in my life.

3. Thank You, Lord, for Your provision during the entire 21 days!

Proper Perspective

1. Thank You for helping me check things through Your perspective.

2. Praise God for good lunch with friends.

3. Thank You for bringing situations that cause me to be more grateful. Hallelujah.

Promises

1. Thank You for the full rest that my body needs. May You give me the good energy for the days to come.

2. Praise God for people who care.

3. Thank You for Your Word that is full of promises.

Unusual Things

1. Yes, Lord, we are called to do Your will. Great is Your Faithfulness. I believe You will do something unusual here.

2. Thank You for trials, they make me come to You.

3. Nothing is coincidental in Your world, Lord. Thank You for encouragement.

I Fear You

1. "Thank you that you tell me over and over again that if I fear you, I do not need to be afraid of anything or anyone else. Help me to ‘know fear’ and live a life of ‘no fear’." Amen!

2. Thank You for a wonderful rest day with music, great conversations, and a good walk.

3. Eighteen days have passed and praise God for provision!

Mega-catch Up

1. Had a great time at MegaZip, thank You for keeping us safe.

2. It felt like time was not just enough but thank You for the great catch up.

3. First dance of the year, wow, thank You for the class!

Wisdom and Path

1. Another day of great discussion with friends. Thank You for wisdom.

2. Thank You for FAQs.

3. Praise God for leaders who are always there to help direct the path.

15 Floors Up

1. I love sunrises and sunsets, thank You for all the natural art!

2. Thank You for open doors, let them pour!

3. Finally, I found a footwear that does not give pain. Whew! Especially today because I climbed flight of stairs covering 15 floors.

Jet Setters!

1. Praise God for opportunities and for the time that we have to enjoy. Super thank you.

2. Never give up. Do not despair. Take heart for we know You are at work. This is Your message today. Hallelujah!

3. Thank You for clothing, too. I was able to find something that fits me.

Across The Miles

1. Memory is created by You. Thank You for an amazing gift.

2. Thank You for just being there on our eleventh day. May You continue to give strength.

3. And praise God for internet, some things can be sent electronically across the miles.

The Twelfth

1. Dad's vacation may have been short but it was spent very well and great. Thank You for Your provision.

2. Praise God likewise for a smooth, safe-and-sound flight. May You protect them on the roads.

3. Thank You for being able to join the people who sealed their twelfth year anniversary of their relationship.

Peri-Peri Has Been Tak3n

1. We had another taste of peri-peri chicken. Indeed, the best chicken in town!

2. Furthermore, we completed the Taken Trilogy. :D

3. All errands, shopping, and packing have been done. Thank God.

Tricking the Eye

1. Today is a fun day that comes with creative imagination! Thank You for a fun-filled day.

2. Praise God for music that brought good old memories. 

3. Likewise thank You for the fellowship after singing at the top of our lungs.

Eleven Kilometers

1. Today was a day of walking with a little more than 11 km in total. Thank God for the limbs and the energy to accomplish it.

2. Hallelujah to seven rounds of marching! Amen! Lord, hear our prayers.

3. Praise God for the priceless conversations. I enjoyed it! :)

A Birthday Treat

1. Thank You for being with us on the 6th day. May the walls crumble down!

2. You made the day relaxing, O, Lord. Praise God for another year in my Dad's life.

3. Praise God for having the slot for dinner. It was a good experience once in a while. 

Next Chapter

1. A day of celebrations, thank You for the blessings of food!

2. Thank You for the different milestones of people. Something to look forward to and yes, change is good.

3. Have finally registered for the course. Thank You for the provision.

Serendipity

1. "The love that God gives is not the ordinary love that we find in the world today. When we love our neighbors, it is not our loving with natural love, it is God loving through us." What an amazing message to remember!

2. "Serendipity - when He reveals Himself to us when we least expect Him and gives us blessings greater than we anticipate." This is such an exciting thought! Thank You for all the encouragement You bring.

3. A day of fellowship over satisfying meals. Praise God for these opportunities.

Little Things

1. Thank You for the message about idolatry and little things. Luke 16:10.

2. Third day and counting, Lord, hear our prayers. March, march, march!

3. Glad to have decided to check out Keppel Bay. We had a good walk with a great view. :)

Let the Legs Move!

1. Praise God for sustained energy. You alone are the source of strength.

2. Thank You for a good rest then some cardio exercise thereafter. We enjoyed it.

3. Your unique sunset has been witnessed by Your calm shores. Thank You for a relaxing sight.

Bar-Bee-Kyu

1. The march has started. You are with us in this! The walls will fall down!

2. Today marks my second day of 21, You have been faithful.

3. Hallelujah to a wonderful barbecue evening with great friends whom You have provided!

21 Days

1. Fasting starts today. Thank You for the strength. May You hear our prayers.

2. There is always a reason You give why we come across people in our lives. Thank You.

3. Thank You for reminders to remember who we represent in our lives.

Creativity

1. Thank You for the rest and tasty breakfast.

2. Groceries have been bought in preparation for Saturday's gathering. Thank You for blessings!

3. How amazingly creative You are when writers share Your gifts to the world.

Faith, Peace, Thirst, and Surrender

1. What an outpouring of blessings! Spent New Year entirely in Your Way! It was not an expected approach but it was indeed the best way to do countdown. Praise God!

2. Thank You, Lord, for messages of Faith, Peace, Thirst, and Surrender. May these not remain in our minds but be manifested in our lives. Amen!

3. Hotel-hopping was likewise not the intended itinerary but it was absolutely fun to be just spontaneous! :D

I would like to add the 5 things I have learnt while waiting on the Lord:

a. Give your first hour of the day
b. Give your first day of the week
c. Give your first tenth of your salary
d. Acknowledge God in all the decisions that you make
e. Place God as first in your heart

...may not be the exact terms but the message was clear. So, help me, God.