Never Thirst

"John 4:1-26

Break down divisions of every kind

Every church should be an inclusive church because God’s love is radically inclusive. Jesus came to break down every barrier in our society.

Jesus’ fame was increasing. ‘The Pharisees were keeping count of the baptisms that he and John performed ... They had posted the score that Jesus was ahead, turning him and John into rivals’ (vv.1–2, MSG).

Jesus was not interested in fame, rivalry or competition. ‘When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee’ (v.3). He was very interested in helping one individual Samaritan. He takes time to minister to her. Mother Teresa said, ‘Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you.’

In this encounter Jesus demonstrated that one of the ways in which society will be transformed is by the breaking down of divisions.   

End the war between the sexes

Jesus had a prolonged conversation with a woman in public. This flew in the face of the conventions of the time. The strict rabbis forbade a rabbi even to greet a woman in public, let alone have a long conversation. When the disciples returned, they were ‘surprised to find him talking with a woman’ (v.27).

As John Stott writes, ‘Without any fuss or publicity Jesus terminated the curse of the Fall, reinvested woman with her partially lost nobility and reclaimed for his new kingdom community the original creation blessing of sexual equality.’

The sexes should not be at war. As Pope Benedict XVI put it, ‘In Christ the rivalry, enmity and violence which disfigured the relationship between men and women can be overcome and have been overcome.’

End racism, discrimination and apartheid

The division between Jews and Samaritans went back a long way. John explains that ‘Jews in those days wouldn’t be caught dead talking to Samaritans’ (v.9, MSG).

Jesus does not compromise on the truth: ‘Salvation is from the Jews’ (v.22). Nevertheless, he reaches out to this Samaritan woman. In doing so he breaks the curse of racial discrimination and apartheid. The transformation of society requires the breaking down of divisions of race and ethnicity.

End class war and social division

God loves you regardless of your previous life or present lifestyle. Thank God, he loves imperfect people.

This woman would have been a social outcast. Not only did Jesus speak to a woman who was a Samaritan, he spoke with a ‘sinner’. This woman had led an immoral life. ‘You have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband’ (v.18). She has been divorced several times and is now living with a man to whom she is not married. Jesus does not compromise on the truth, but he does not reject the Samaritan woman because of her lifestyle or social position (cf. Mark 2:17; John 8:10–11).

The religious did not mix with ‘sinners’. By his interaction with this sexually promiscuous woman, Jesus breaks down yet another barrier. His love reaches to all sections of society – across the barriers of class, lifestyle and social position.

Ultimately it is only the Holy Spirit who can bring about the transformation of society. It is the Holy Spirit who brings unity, breaking down the divisions of gender, race and social position. Those indwelt by the Holy Spirit should be at the forefront of the fight for sexual, racial and social equality.

Jesus’ conversation with this woman was all about the Holy Spirit. He says to her, ‘All who drink this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life’ (v.13–14).

The transformation of society starts with the Holy Spirit transforming our lives. It starts with drinking the water of life, which Jesus gives to everyone who believes in him. When the Holy Spirit comes to live within us he becomes a permanent spring of overflowing water throughout our lives and into eternity.

We are transformed by the Holy Spirit and by our personal relationship with God. The word used for ‘worship’ here means ‘to go down on our knees, to draw close in an intimate relationship of love’ – we ‘must worship in spirit and in truth’ (v.24).

Lord, today I come to you and drink. Please fill me with this spring of water welling up into eternal life. May this water flow out of my heart and transform all my relationships – in my family, with my neighbours and in my community."

1. "When the Holy Spirit comes to live within us he becomes a permanent spring of overflowing water throughout our lives and into eternity." Wow, very refreshing. Hallelujah! Please fill me...

2. Trials have made me change perspective and focus. Thank You for them.

3. Thank You for the energy to have walked almost 8 kilometers that included grocery-shopping.

The Influence

"Proverbs 11:9-18

Be a blessing to your nation

Your life can have an influence, not only on your own family and local community, but also on your city, and even on the whole nation.

The writer of Proverbs makes the point that how we live as individuals affects not only ourselves, but also the whole society around us – for good or for evil.

On the one hand, ‘when the righteous prosper, the city rejoices’ (v.10). And ‘by the blessing of the influence of the upright and God’s favour [because of them] the city is exalted’ (v.11a, AMP). On the other hand, ‘the mouth of the wicked’ can destroy a city (v.11b). And, ‘for lack of guidance a nation falls’ (v.14).

How then should we live? We are not to slander our neighbours, but rather we are to exercise restraint and hold our tongues (v.12). We are not to gossip but to be trustworthy in keeping secrets (v.13).

We all need wise, godly people around us to provide good advice: ‘Where no wise guidance is, the people fall, but in the multitude of counselors there is safety’ (v.14, AMP). If you have wise counselors consult them often. If you don’t have them, ask God to provide you with such advisers.

We are to be kind-hearted (v.16) and sow righteousness (v.18). If we live like this, the whole city and nation will be affected.

Lord, help me to be a good influence in my city and in my nation. May I be trustworthy, kind-hearted and righteous. May I see my city and nation transformed."

1. "Hold our tongues." Thank You, Lord, for this. May it become a habit within me to remember You before I say anything. Amen.

2. Room-hunting has started. Thank You for providing candidates and for making me safe as I walked around the neighborhood.

3. Thank You for likewise providing help from local friends. I praise You!

Transformation of Society

"Martin Luther King Jr. (1929–1968) lived and died to see society transformed. In 1964 he became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his work to end social segregation and discrimination.

In one of the greatest and most quoted speeches of all time he spoke of his dream of one day living in a nation where his children would ‘not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character.’

He spoke of his ‘dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.’ He dreamt of a time when everyone would be able to join hands and say, ‘Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!’ 

Martin Luther King Jr. was a follower of Jesus. His agenda was the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God is not just about the conversion of individuals – important though that is – but about the transformation of society."

1. It was a difficult day today, Lord, but I am being polished. Being really tested, especially on forgiveness, Lord. Thank You for the gift of grace.

2. Thank You for enabling me to initiate. Lord, may things at work be in Your favor.

3. Praise God for the lovely auntie just outside my room. :)

Joshua 24:15 We Will Serve The Lord

"John 3:22-36

Choose to serve the Lord

Worshipping and serving God is the way to a fulfilling life. Don’t waste your life chasing after false ‘gods’. As Saint Cyprian wrote, ‘Whatever man prefers to God, that he makes a god to himself.’ There are numerous other gods around today – perhaps the most common could be summed up as ‘money, sex and power’.

Israel had enjoyed a long period of rest after all the battles (23:1). Joshua, ‘a venerable old man’ (v.1, MSG) at the end of his life, called all the people together and spoke to them. He told them that they had to choose how to spend the rest of their lives.

He reminds them of everything that God has done for them and all the ways in which he has blessed them (23:14; 24:10). Now, Joshua urges them to worship the Lord, their God ‘in total commitment’ (v.10b, MSG).

In response to all that the Lord has done for us we are also called ‘to love the Lord’ (23:11), to worship and to serve him. Joshua says, ‘choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve’ (24:15). He lays before the people of God three options that are open to them (vv.14–15).

The gods of their ancestors

The gods of the conquered people

The God of Israel who is the one true God.

The gods of the conquered people claimed to be modern and ‘scientific’ – with true control over agriculture, fertility and sex. The people of Canaan felt themselves intellectually and culturally miles ahead of the Israelites. But Joshua stresses the shortcomings of the ‘other gods’ as against the goodness and the power of God (vv.3–13).

You have to make a choice. You cannot just drift. Many people just drift through life, never making a conscious decision.

Joshua shows a great example of leadership. He makes a deliberate, personal choice to worship and serve the Lord. He says, ‘But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord’ (v.15).

The people answered, ‘We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God’ (vv.18,21,24). Joshua said, ‘You have chosen to serve the Lord’ (v.22). As a result, ‘Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua’ (v.31). Whilst Joshua and the elders – trained presumably by him – were leading Israel, Israel served the Lord. Leadership is key.

Joshua called the people to repentance and faith. This is always what God requires. 

First, repentance: ‘throw away the foreign gods’ (v.23a). Get rid of the bad stuff. 

Second, faith: ‘yield your hearts to the Lord’ (v.23b) – put your whole life into the hands of the Lord.

Lord, help me to make good choices in my life. Help me to say, ‘As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord’ (v.15). I choose to yield my heart to you."

1. Thank You, Lord for Your calmness, Your peace in my heart. I will serve You.

2. Thank You for the opportunity to meet a friend's friend. Amazing how networks work. :)

3. Hallelujah, Lord, for challenges. Help me face them. I pray for courage. Amen.

You Must Become Greater

"John 3:22-36

Choose Jesus

John the Baptist had become a celebrity. He had a remarkable ministry. People ‘were constantly coming [to him] to be baptised’ (v.23). John’s followers were very competitive. They became envious of Jesus’ success. They came to John and said about Jesus, ‘He’s now competing with us ... everyone’s going to him instead of us’ (v.26, MSG).

John had to choose how he responded. He began by pointing out to his disciples that ‘It’s not possible for a person to succeed – I’m talking about eternal success – without heaven’s help’ (v.27, MSG). He chose to point people to Jesus rather than to himself: ‘You yourselves can testify that I said, “I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.” ’ (v.28).

John likens his own position to ‘the friend who attends the bridegroom’ (whom we might call the ‘best man’). Far from being threatened by the arrival of the groom, it is the very thing he has been waiting for, and he is delighted by it. Likewise, John explains that he has been waiting for Jesus, and is ‘full of joy’ at Jesus’ ministry. Jesus was John the Baptist’s successor. John says of Jesus: ‘He must become greater; I must become less’ (v.30).

Many people in the world today are driven to become greater, more important, more highly promoted or better qualified. These are not all bad aims in themselves, but our daily choices will be swayed by these ambitions. You have to choose how you live your life. Are you focused on your promotion or on exalting Jesus? Is your ambition more for yourself, or for Jesus?

Sometimes, we even see different Christian ministries competing with each other. This should never happen.

Those of us who follow Jesus must echo this in our hearts, ‘He must become greater; I must become less’ (v.30). Ultimately, the focus is not on ourselves – it is always on Jesus. Our ambition must always be to point people to Jesus.

John highlights the real issue: ‘Whoever accepts and trusts the Son gets in on everything, life complete and forever! And that is also why the person who avoids and distrusts the Son is in the dark and doesn’t see life. All he experiences of God is darkness, and an angry darkness at that’ (v.36, MSG).

That is the most vital choice of all – do I choose Jesus or reject him?

Lord, help me to say in my heart, ‘He must become greater; I must become less’ (v.30). May I become more and more like Jesus, speaking the words of God, full of the Holy Spirit, loved by the Father, enabling others to believe in the Son."

1. Lord, this is straight to the heart, may I point people to You rather than to myself. Thank You for Your reminder. You must become greater; I must become less.

2. Praise God for today's workshop, it gave clarity for my project. Thank You, Lord.

3. Hallelujah for being able to spend time with You. I want that thirst that you quench.

Cast Your Cares...

"Psalm 55:12-23

Choose trust over worry

‘Worry,’ as Corrie ten Boom wrote, ‘does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength.’ No one goes through life without facing problems, battles and causes for worry.

David faced many difficulties in his life. Here David speaks of one of the most painful battles of his life (v.18b). His ‘best friend’ (v.13b, MSG) has turned against him and joined the many who oppose him (v.18c). David, of course, found this more difficult than if ‘an enemy were insulting [him]’ (v.12a), as we all would.

As in any battle, we have a ‘choice’ about how we respond. David chose to turn to the Lord and cry out to him ‘evening, morning and noon’ (vv.16–17). Especially when we are involved in a confrontation with a close friend or family member, it is vital that we turn to God for comfort and strength. David did so and as a result he experienced God’s peace. He wrote, ‘he has redeemed my life in peace from the battle that was against me’ (v.18, AMP).

From David’s own experience he is able to give this advice: ‘Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you’ (v.22a). As I look at my Bible in One Year, I see that each year I have written in the margins the ‘cares’ that I have ‘cast upon the Lord’ in response to this verse. Most of them (though not quite all) have been more than resolved.  

Once we have cast our burdens on the Lord, we can follow David’s example. He says, ‘as for me, I trust in you’ (v.23d).

This is the choice you have to make as you face the worries, battles and disappointments of life. Do you allow them to overwhelm you, or do you, like David, turn to the Lord, cast your burdens on him and then trust in him?

Lord, today I want to bring to you my cares ... I cast all these things on you and trust in you."

1. Truly, O Lord, You bring peace. David really was a good example in all these, thank You so much.

2. Watched an interesting, intense movie in one of HCM's majestic financial towers, with the cheapest price. Praise God!

3. Thank You for a relaxing night by the fountains and lights.

Life Is Really About Choices

"An American lawyer and evangelist, Charles Finney, was speaking in New York in the 1830s. At the end of each evening, he gave people the opportunity to come to the front of the room and commit their life to Jesus. A great many lawyers came to hear him. One night, the Chief Justice of New York was sitting way up in the gallery. As he listened to Finney proclaiming the gospel he became convinced it was true.

Then this question came into his mind: ‘Will you go forward like the other ordinary people?’ Something within him made him think that it would be inappropriate to do so, because of his prestigious social position (at the top of the legal hierarchy of New York State). He sat there pondering the choice he had to make. Then he thought, ‘Why not? I am convinced of the truth ... I know my duty; why should I not do it like any other person?’

He got up from his seat in the gallery, went down the staircase, and came up the stairs at the back to where Finney was preaching. Finney, in the middle of his sermon, felt someone tugging at his jacket. He turned around and saw the Chief Justice. He asked, ‘What is it?’ The Chief Justice replied, ‘Mr Finney, if you will call people forward I will come.’ Finney stopped his talk and said, ‘The Chief Justice says that if I call people forward he will come. I ask you to come forward now.’

The Chief Justice went forward. Almost every lawyer in Rochester, New York, followed him! It is said that 100,000 people were converted in the next twelve months in that area. One person’s choice affected the lives of numerous others.

Life is full of choices. We can make bad choices or we can make good choices. Our choices matter."

1. Amen to this! Whatever position I find myself, I can always make a choice. Thank You, Lord. May I never hesitate if it is about You.

2. Submit to Authority. This is the message today. They were ordained and instituted by God, thereby, I should obey. I have struggled with this but thank You, Lord for Your Word.

3. It was a great dinner with church mates. Good laughing time and really great food in an awesomely-designed Japanese place.

Prayers Make A Difference

"Luke 22:1-38

God was about to act in a miraculous way on behalf of his people. But the people themselves had a part to play. Joshua tells the people to prepare themselves: ‘Sanctify yourselves. Tomorrow God will work miracle-wonders among you’ (3:5, MSG).The Lord did ‘amazing things’ (3:5). One of these amazing things was the crossing of the Jordan (Joshua 3).

Predestination and free will

Are you sometimes tempted to compare yourself with other people?

It is encouraging to see that Jesus’ disciples struggled with many of the same things that we do. There is bickering among the disciples over which of them would end up the greatest (v.24). It is always a temptation to compare ourselves or our ministry with others. This either leads to pride (if we think we are doing better) or jealousy, envy and insecurity (if we think we are not doing as well).

Jesus points out that the values of the Kingdom are the polar opposite to the world. ‘Kings like to throw their weight around and people in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It’s not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant ... I’ve taken my place among you as the one who serves’ (vv.25–27, MSG).

As we look at the parts played by each of the people in this drama, we see, once again, that the Bible teaches both predestination (that God has planned everything in advance), and free will. This is a mystery that the Scriptures hold in tension, and we are rightly suspicious when any human system attempts to explain it away one way or the other. In this passage we see three examples of how this tension operates in practice.

Judas

Jesus says that all this was foreknown and indeed predestined: ‘The Son of Man will go as has been decreed’ (v.22a). But the fact that it is foreknown and predestined does not absolve Judas of responsibility: ‘But woe to that man who betrays him’ (v.22b).

The paradox is that although ‘it has been decreed’, Judas is a free agent. We see in the account how Judas’ ‘will’ was involved. When he was offered money to betray Jesus, Judas ‘consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over’ (v.6).

Simon Peter

Peter was very confident that he would not let Jesus down, ‘Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death’ (v.33). Jesus knew that Peter would fail, ‘I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows today, you will deny three times that you know me’ (v.34).

But ultimately his faith did not fail. Jesus said, ‘But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail’ (v.32). This shows that in the midst of this extraordinary paradox of predestination and free will, prayer really does make a difference. Why and how it works we may never understand. However, the example of Jesus shows that it really does count. Your prayers do make a difference.

Jesus

We see the balance between God’s part and our part. We are reminded of it every time we take communion. Jesus said, ‘This is my body given for you ... This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you’ (vv.19,20). That was the hard part – the sacrifice of his life voluntarily given for us. Our part is relatively simple: ‘do this is in remembrance of me’ (v.19).

Lord, thank you that you have done all this for me. Thank you that you pray for me that my faith will not fail. Thank you that you gave your body and shed your blood for me."

1. Forgive me, Lord, when I get to the point of comparing myself to others. Remove pride and jealousy from my heart, O, God. "Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant ... I’ve taken my place among you as the one who serves’ (vv.25–27, MSG)." Amen! Thank You for this!

2. Thank You that prayers do make a difference. May this encourage mo more to lead a prayerful life. Hallelujah!

3. It was an interesting weekend of great hotpot lunch, awesome KTV experience, and sightseeing with new friends. 

Driving Out Resistance

"John 1:29-51

The gift of your inheritance

Is there some area of your life where you are still not enjoying your inheritance in Christ? 
The land was the inheritance of the people of God (17:4,7; 18:7,20,27). ‘Joshua addressed the People of Israel: “How long are you going to sit around on your hands, putting off taking possession of the land that God, the God of your ancestors, has given you?” ’ (18:3, MSG).

Here, once again, we see the great difference between ownership and possession and enjoyment of the land. Israel was given the ownership of the land before they took possession and enjoyment.

In the Christian life, the moment you come to Christ you receive forgiveness, justification, the righteousness of God and the Holy Spirit. You are given the right to become children of God. You have power over sin and access to God. You have victory over demonic powers. You have peace with God. You have authority over evil in your life and the lives of others. All the promises of God belong to you. This is your inheritance in Christ.

But you may not always, necessarily, take possession and fully enjoy the blessing of all these things in your life. Here God says, in effect, to his people: ‘Don’t you realise I have given all of this to you? What are you waiting for?’

You may have given your life to Jesus, but have you allowed him to possess every aspect of how you live – your finances, work, prayer life, friends and family. In my experience this is a lifetime task.

St Paul writes that you need to take every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). In some areas the victory may be immediate. In others it may be more gradual. You have to drive out even the little pockets of resistance.

As Israel received the land as a gift from the Lord (Joshua 18:3), so you and I have received, in Jesus, every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3). The question for us is, ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession’ of these gifts? (Joshua 18:3).

Lord, thank you that you have blessed me in Christ with every spiritual blessing. Thank you that you have given me the gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. Thank you that you have removed my sins and given me the Holy Spirit. Thank you that I have everything that I need to take possession of the land."

1. I remember myself having all these blessings but not doing anything about then, not even bringing people to the Lord. Thank You, Lord, for events in my life that changed all of these. I have become bolder now than before through my testimony. Praise God.

2. Thank You, for a wonderful dinner at a place called Secret Garden. Secret indeed because it is located in a some alley that does not look like a business area and we had to climb 4 floors to see it. Very nice place, good food, too!

3. Praise God for the exchange of experiences. I have learnt a lot from our discussions on history, government, and lifestyle in Slovakia.
    

Point Others to Him

"John 1:29-51

The gift of the Holy Spirit

Are you enjoying everything Jesus has made possible for you? Or are you still feeling guilty and powerless? Jesus came to bring forgiveness, new life and the power of the Holy Spirit to you. Make sure you take possession of these gifts today.

In this passage we see a remarkable sequence of the titles given to Jesus. Jesus is the ‘Son of God’ (vv.34,49), ‘Rabbi’ (v.38), ‘Messiah (that is, the Christ)’ (v.41), ‘the one whom Moses ... and about whom the prophets also wrote’ (v.45), ‘King of Israel’ (v.49) and ‘Son of Man’ (v.51).

I want to focus particularly on two titles in this passage that describe the ministry of Jesus.

Lamb of God

John says of Jesus, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’ (v.29). As you come to Jesus, he takes away your sins. Claim, trust, believe in the forgiveness bought for you. Actively reject feelings of guilt or unworthiness. It is a proactive, practical, daily choice to take possession of the forgiveness that Jesus has made possible for you.

Spirit baptiser

John the Baptist describes Jesus as ‘the one who will baptise with the Holy Spirit’ (v.33). Jesus fills you with his Holy Spirit. This is what Jesus has made possible for you. However, you have to take possession of the gift that God has made available for you.

Jesus also gives you the opportunity to do what John the Baptist did – to point others to him. Of course, God does not need a human agent. Jesus could continue his ministry without our help. However, we see in this passage how God uses people. Here it is not Jesus who calls others directly, but his disciples.

They bring the people to Jesus: John the Baptist introduces Andrew (vv.35–36); Andrew introduces Peter (v.41) and Philip introduces Nathanael (v.45). Nathanael was suspicious at first, but then he came and immediately found that Jesus really was the Son of God (v.49).

The former Archbishop of Canterbury, William Temple, wrote a commentary on John’s gospel. When he came to the words ‘and he [Andrew] brought him [Simon Peter] to Jesus’ (v.42a), Temple wrote a short but momentous sentence: ‘The greatest service that one man can render another’.

Simon Peter went on to be one of the greatest influences in the history of Christianity. We cannot all be Simon Peters, but we can all do what his brother Andrew did – we can bring someone to Jesus.

Or, just like Philip, you can say ‘come and see’ (v.46) to your friends, family and work colleagues. You can be a part of God’s plan for people to hear about and respond to Jesus as you invite them to ‘come and see’.

I have found that there is nothing more exciting in life than being involved in the ministry of Jesus. It is so gracious of God to involve us, imperfect human beings, in his perfect plan.

Lord, help me today to enjoy this gift of forgiveness and the fullness of life in the Holy Spirit. Help me also to introduce others to you – to invite people to ‘come and see’ (v.46)."

1. You have given change in my life, Lord. Thank You for the gift of grace. May I bring people to You, no matter how imperfect I am.

2. Hallelujah for giving gifts and talents! Congratulations to El Gamma Penumbra!

3. Thank You for the Skype session with friends. :D

Living It Out

"Proverbs 10:31-11:8

The gift of righteousness

Do you realise that God has given to you the gift of righteousness? Have you taken possession of this gift?

The writer of Proverbs contrasts ‘the wicked’ with ‘the righteous’. His argument is that wickedness will lead to destruction – ‘the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity … the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness’ (11:3b,5b). Most significantly of all, wickedness is undone by death: ‘When  the wicked die, their hope perishes; all they expected from their power comes to nothing’ (v.7).

On the other hand, he writes, ‘righteousness delivers from death’ (v.4b). This is one of the arguments the apostle Peter uses about Jesus on the day of Pentecost – righteousness cannot rot: ‘It was impossible for death to keep its hold on him ... “you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay” ’ (Acts 2:24,27).

As we saw yesterday, no one is totally righteous except Jesus. He is the ‘righteous one’ (‘your Holy One’). But now we receive this ‘righteousness from God ... through faith in Jesus Christ’ (Romans 3:22). Righteousness means right relationships, both with God and with other people. We receive this as a gift but we have to take possession of it. We have to live it out.

Wisdom

‘A good person’s mouth is a clear fountain of wisdom; a foul mouth is a stagnant swamp. The speech of a good person clears the air; the words of the wicked pollute it’ (Proverbs 10:31a,32a, MSG).

Humility

‘The stuck-up fall flat on their faces, but down-to-earth people stand firm’ (11:2, MSG).

Integrity

‘The integrity of the honest keeps them on track ... a principled life can stand up to the worst’ (v.3a,4b, MSG).

Character

‘Moral character makes for smooth travelling ... Good character is the best insurance’ (v.5a,6a, MSG).

Lord, thank you for the gift of righteousness, which is mine in Jesus Christ. Help me to take possession of this gift. Help me today to speak words of wisdom and to know what is fitting for every situation and every conversation. Help me to live a life of humility, integrity and faithfulness."

1. "Help me today to speak words of wisdom and to know what is fitting for every situation and every conversation. Help me to live a life of humility, integrity and faithfulness." Amen! Yes, Lord, may You rule over me.

2. Thank You, Lord, for being able to produce something that is working.

3. Praise God for company bus!

Ownership and Possession

"My maternal grandparents lived in a small fishing village in Pittenweem near Edinburgh in Scotland. They owned a house there. In 1939, at the start of World War II, they let their home to tenants. When the war ended, they wanted to return to their home but they were unable to. The law at the time allowed the tenants to remain in the house for as long as they lived, at approximately the same rent (with no adjustment for inflation!).

For fifty years my grandparents were unable to get possession of the house they owned. My uncle inherited the house from my grandparents. By the time he got possession, the condition of the house had deteriorated greatly. He sold it for a very small sum.

Although my family owned this house in Pittenweem, they never took possession of it. There is a big difference between ownership and possession.

The people of Israel had been given ownership of Canaan, the Promised Land. Now Joshua says to the Israelites, ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land …?’ (Joshua 18:3). As we have seen, the New Testament presents the ‘land’ as a picture of the Christian life (Hebrews 4). We need to understand what we have been given in Christ and then take possession of it."

1. What a way of distinguishing between ownership and possession. It is so true. Thank You, Lord, for the push. Give me strength, O, God.

2. Thank You that I am gaining direction at work. Slowly but I will get there.

3. Hallelujah for the so-called Welcome Package! :)

Prayers And Your Will

"Proverbs 10:21-30

The book of Proverbs contrasts the life of the ‘fool’ with the life of the ‘wise’. It also contrasts the life of the ‘righteous’ with the life of the ‘wicked’. In this passage we see some of the blessings that are promised to ‘the righteous’.

Difference to others

‘The lips of the [uncompromisingly] righteous feed and guide many’ (v.21a, AMP). We cannot be righteous in isolation. Righteousness is about our relationships – it is about bringing blessing to others.

Delight in wisdom

‘Those who have insight delight in wisdom’(v.23b). One of the things that come from a relationship with God is a hunger for knowledge and wisdom.

Desires fulfilled

‘What the righteous desire will be granted’ (v.24b). This does not mean that God will answer every selfish prayer. However, God begins to change our wills to align them with his (Philippians 2:13) and, as they become aligned with his will, God promises to give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4).

Destiny of joy

‘The prospect of the righteous is joy’ (Proverbs 10:28a). ‘The righteous stand firm forever’ (v.25b); ‘The fear of the Lord adds length to life’ (v.27a) and ‘The righteous will never be uprooted’ (v.30a). Although he was probably not thinking in terms of eternity, the fulfilment of these promises is found in Jesus’ promise of eternal joy.

Lord, I pray for wisdom today and that you would put a guard over my lips so that my words may be used to feed and guide others."

1. "‘What the righteous desire will be granted’ (v.24b). This does not mean that God will answer every selfish prayer. However, God begins to change our wills to align them with his (Philippians 2:13) and, as they become aligned with his will, God promises to give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4)." This is what struck me. Thank You Lord for telling me to remember to align my prayers with Your will.

2. Thank You, Lord, that I could talk to You and ask You to always put a guard over my heart and over my lips.

3. Today is my second week, thank You for Your provision.

God Is Not Unfair

"A casual reading of isolated passages in Scripture may cause some to feel God is unfair. For example, it seems unjust that the sins of the fathers are visited on the children. However, everyday we see this biblical truth in our world. A baby will be born blind because his mother has a terrible social disease. Statistics show that the children of divorced parents often go through a divorce themselves. God's Word is true in saying: Our fathers sinned and are no more, But we bear their iniquities (Lamentations 5:7).

Yet there is another side. God's Word does say: For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me... (Exodus 20:5), but we cannot stop reading there. God goes on to say: but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments (Exodus 20:6). It takes three or four generations to wash out the evil influence of an ungodly parent. But the influence of godly fathers and mothers is even more extensive, and therein lies the power of healthy and holy families. We can make a difference in our children's lives. The beacon of our life will beam far into the future. It is up to us to make our legacy one of good, bringing blessings on our offspring, rather than one of evil, bringing heartbreak and destruction.

God is not unfair. In fact, He is far more than fair. He clearly tells us of the universal laws and warns us lest we break ourselves on them. May we read and heed.

Exodus 20:6 NLT

But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands."

1. Thank You for the hope. Even if it takes four generations, Lord, You promise to wash out the evil influence for as long as the current generations take heed. Amen! Thank You, likewise, for allowing me to know this even before I have a family.

2. Praise God for fellow Christians who inspire me in doing my purpose here.

3. Thank You for a good night out with new friends, although the drink was worth 5-star. :D

What Love Triangle Means

"Marriage is not a slot machine. Some people seem to see it as such and invest only a little of their lives, hoping to hit the jackpot of happiness. Such people are often disappointed; and, as a result, they divorce--leaving a trail of tears and tragedy.

Like life, marriage is a long-term investment. Each partner must constantly invest effort and energy to work through problems and develop a meaningful relationship. The first few years of marriage usually have more pain than pleasure. But if the couple is willing to consistently invest understanding, forgiveness, and patience, each member will find the union most rewarding and will reap an excellent harvest of human happiness.

Marriage is indeed a triangle. Husband and wife are the two lower corners, and God the apex. As He draws man and woman to Himself, they naturally are brought closer to each other. One of the great aids in this is daily devotions, both together and alone. Through our times with God, we can resolve our frustrations and discover our potential as a couple."

1. Thank You Lord for preparing me. I am blessed to know beforehand. Amen!

2. Praise God for a smooth health check. Some small issues were there but fixable. Thank You, Lord.

3. Had a good full day with the roads, sight of Jollibee, bonding time with Avengers, and some grocery-shopping. Productive!

Two Ways to Live

"Albert Einstein said, ‘There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.’

Jesus himself said that – ultimately – there are only two ways to live: there are two paths; there are two gates; there are two destinations and there are two groups of people (see Matthew 7:13–14).

Psalm 50:16-23

Two attitudes to God: hate (forget) or honour

When it comes down to it, there are only two possible attitudes to God. We can honour him or we can hate him. For God says, ‘Those who sacrifice thank-offerings honour me’ (v.23). He contrasts those who ‘hate my instruction’ (v.17a). 

Those who ‘hate’ God ignore him and ‘forget God’ (v.22). The twentieth century saw the terrible consequences of the actions of those who forgot him and hated his instruction (Nazism and Communism are two of the worst cases). The description in verses 17–22 aptly fits both those regimes.

The great Russian novelist, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, spent fifty years studying the history of Russia in the twentieth century. As he considered the great disasters ‘that swallowed up some sixty million of our people’, the best explanation that he could come up with was that ‘Men have forgotten God; that’s why all this has happened.’

Solzhenitsyn saw this as having universal significance, not just for Russia, but for the rest of the world as well. He saw the principle trait of the twentieth century was that ‘people have forgotten God’.

This does not just apply to other people; it applies to us all. Do you find that sometimes, possibly because everything seems to be going well in your life, you forget to pray, read the Bible or give thanks to God for all his blessings? It is almost as if you have forgotten about God? There are times in all our lives when we forget God and mess things up.

The contrast to forgetting God is a life honouring him – one full of thankfulness and praise. ‘It’s the praising life that honours me. As soon as you set your foot on the Way, I'll show you my salvation’ (v.23, MSG)."

1. "Lord, today I want to honour you by offering a sacrifice of thanks. Thank you so much for all your goodness, mercy and grace. Thank you for all the blessings that you have given to me personally …"

2. It was indeed a good, busy week for information gathering and learning. Thank You for helpful people.

3. Hallelujah to cell or life groups!

He Chose to Die

"Luke 22:1-38

We see here a terrifying description of how evil works. No one is immune from temptation. Judas is one of Jesus’ chosen twelve, yet Satan enters him (v.3).

The same ‘Satan’ who entered Judas (v.3) wanted to ‘sift’ Peter ‘as wheat’ (v.31).

Supremely, in the life and death of Jesus we see this paradox of predestination and free will. Jesus says, ‘The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed’ (v.22a). He says, ‘It is written: “And he was numbered with the transgressors”; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfilment’ (v.37). There could not be a stronger statement that Jesus’ death was preordained, pre-planned and predestined. Yet Jesus went willingly to his death; he chose to die. He gave his body for us (v.19)."

1. Thank You for giving Your body. Cannot say thank You enough but still, thank You.

2. Hectic day but it was a good kind of hectic. Praise God.

3. Thank You for a nearer minimart. :)

God Owns It All

"The whole of the Christian life is prayer. We welcome God’s will in our lives, and we participate in what he is doing in the world. God involves us in his plans. Of course, he could do it all on his own, but he chooses to involve us. He gives us freedom, yet he remains in control. What is God’s part and what is ours?  

Psalm 50:1-15

1. Praise and prayer

Are you facing trouble in your life? A situation at work? A relationship? A health issue? A financial challenge?

God is in utter control of his universe: ‘God, the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets’ (v.1).

He owns everything. We may fight and struggle for our little corner and our possessions but, in the end, God owns it all: ‘Every animal of the forest is mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills’ (v.10).

He is not dependent on human beings, ‘If I were hungry I would not tell you, for the world is mine, and all that is in it’ (v.12).

Nevertheless, he gives us a part to play.

Thank God

‘Sacrifice thank-offerings to God’ (v.14a).

Call on God
‘Call upon me in the day of trouble’ (v.15a).

Honour God
‘I will deliver you, and you will honour me’ (v.15b)."

1. Thank You, Lord, for making our part clear.

2. Thank You for new friends from around the world.

3. Thank You also for a great language-learning application.

Getting Past Our Pasts

"To be a servant of the Lord is now a blessing that all Christians enjoy. But every blessing God gives you comes with a measure of responsibility. Take that responsibility seriously. Joshua is to pay particular attention to the words God has spoken (‘the law my servant Moses gave you’ (Joshua 1:7)). He is to obey them (v.7) speak them (v.8a), meditate on them day and night (v.8b) and put them into practice (v.8b). Fill your mind with God’s truth. This will affect your thinking – your thoughts will be thoughts of truth, freedom, love, victory and peace. God also underlines this by speaking to Joshua directly (v.1), encouraging and strengthening him.

In God’s words to Joshua we see two key promises:

First, there is the promise of God’s peace: ‘I will give you every place where you set your foot’ (v.3). ‘No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life’ (v.5a). ‘The Lord your God is giving you rest and has granted you this land’ (v.13). For us now, that rest comes through Jesus. Rest is not just putting your feet up and relaxing, but unburdening your troubles and having a deep sense of peace and security in your identity because of who Jesus is.

The writer of Hebrews states that, ‘If Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day’ (Hebrews 4:8) – and that ‘day’ is a day made possible through Jesus. As Jesus himself promised, ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest’ (Matthew 11:28).

Second, there is the promise of God's personal presence. ‘As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you’ (Joshua 1:5b). This brings strength and courage: ‘Do not be terrified’ (v.9b). God does not tell us not to feel fear. But he does tell us not to give into it. Do not allow fear to rob you of the blessings God wants to give you. He goes on, ‘Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go’ (v.9b).

Again, you now experience that promise through Jesus, by the work of the Spirit. Jesus’ last words before ascending to heaven were, ‘Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age’ (Matthew 28:20).

As Joshua comes under the authority of God’s words, his own words carry authority. The people replied, ‘Whatever you have commanded us we will do ... Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you’ (Joshua 1:16–18).

In case all this should lead to intensity, super spirituality or self-righteousness, today’s passage ends with the wonderful account of how God uses a prostitute called Rahab. It is so like God to choose a sinner, a prostitute, to be an ancestor of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) and a hero of faith (Hebrews 11:31). This is such an encouragement to us not to be weighed down by our past. As Joyce Meyer says, ‘We all have a past. No matter how bad your past is, you can get past your past. God can give you a new beginning; he can use you greatly and give you a future.’

Lord, help me each day to meditate on your words – especially in moments of wakefulness during the night. Help me to obey your words, to put them into practice and to pass them on to others."

1. Thank You for the benefits of the bus and subsidized lunch.

2. Hallelujah to auntie who cleans my room. She came even if it was late.

3. Thank You for having legs and sense of direction.

The Thing Called Control

Words are powerful. Your words are powerful. With kind and encouraging words, you can change a person’s day – or even their entire life.

Proverbs 10:11-20

1. Speak words of love

Your words have the power to bring great blessing: ‘The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life’ (v.11a). Or, as The Message translation puts it, ‘The mouth of the good person is a deep, life giving well’. But words can also do a great deal of harm: ‘The mouth of the wicked is a dark cave of abuse’ (v.11b, MSG).

Words have the power to destroy relationships: ‘Hatred starts fights’ (v.12a, MSG). On the other hand, they have the power to heal relationships: ‘But love covers over all wrongs’ (v.12b). Again, as The Message translation puts it, ‘But love pulls a quilt over the bickering’.

Control of the tongue is vital. ‘When words are many, sin is not absent, but the wise hold their tongues’ (v.19). Abraham Lincoln said, ‘It is better to be silent and thought a fool, than to speak and remove all doubt!’ 

Throughout this passage, the writer of Proverbs contrasts ‘the mouth of a fool’ (v.14b) with ‘the mouth of the righteous’ (v.11a). One speaks words of hatred(v.12a). The other speaks words of love (v.12b) and wisdom (v.13).  

Words of hatred (v.12a) lead to violence (v.11b), dissension (v.12a), ruin (v.14b) and spreading slander (v.18b).

Words of love (v.12b) are a fountain of life (v.11a); they cover over ‘all wrongs’ (v.12b) and are ‘choice silver’ (v.20a). If someone has offended you, don’t return the offence. It is said that holding a grudge is like letting someone live rent free in your head. Instead, return hatred with love. Speak well of the other person even behind their back and you may find that your love puts an end to the bickering and heals the relationship.

Lord, help me today to control my tongue – to speak only words of love and life. Help me always to respond to any wrong committed against me with words of love.

1. Thank You Lord for my first day. People were really accommodating.

2. Praise God for a smooth first day!

3. Thank You for unending provision.

I Will Give You Words

"Luke 21:5-38

The words of Jesus are eternal. He says, ‘Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles ... Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away’ (vv.24,33). Two thousand years later more and more people around the world are affected by the words of Jesus.

The teaching of Jesus is widely acknowledged to be the greatest teaching of all time. It is the foundation of our entire civilization in the West. Many of our laws were originally based on the teaching of Jesus. We have advanced so much in science and technology. 

Yet in the last two thousand years no one has ever improved on the moral teaching of Jesus. They are the greatest words ever spoken. They are the kind of words you would expect God to speak.

Jesus warns us about deceptive words. He says, ‘Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, “I am he,” and “The time is near.” Do not follow them’ (v.8).

Jesus has told us to love everyone – our neighbours and even our enemies. Now he warns us that although we are to love everyone, we will also be hated by all(v.17).

If we are persecuted, we are to see this as an opportunity to be a ‘witness’ (v.13). On these occasions Jesus says, ‘Make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict’ (vv.14–15). Not only are the words of Jesus powerful, but he also promises to put powerful words in your mouth, if and when you are under attack.

So much of the language Jesus uses is the language of love and relationship. It has to do with your heart and your prayer life. He says, ‘But be on your guard. Don’t let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by parties and drinking and shopping’ (v.34, MSG). ‘Be always on the watch, and pray’ (v.36).

Lord, please give me words and wisdom for every occasion. Help me not to be weighed down by the anxieties of life, but always to be on the watch and praying. Help me to develop the language of love and prayer."

1. Praise God for new friends in church.

2. Thank You for a good walk in the city.

3. Thank You for challenges that push me to grow.

Same Boat

"Read: Matthew 8:23-27

No danger can come so near the Christian that God is not nearer.

When He got into a boat, His disciples followed Him. —Matthew 8:23

When the cruise ship pulled into port, the passengers got off as quickly as possible. They had spent the last few days enduring an outbreak of a virus, and hundreds of people had been sickened. One passenger, interviewed as he disembarked, said: “Well, I don’t mean to complain so much. I mean I know everybody was in the same boat.” His seemingly unintentional pun made the reporter smile.

In Matthew 8, we read about another trip on the water (vv.23-27). Jesus got into the boat and the disciples followed Him (v.23). Then a terrible storm arose, and Jesus’ disciples feared for their lives. They awakened a sleeping Jesus, who they assumed was unaware of the crisis.

While Jesus was literally in the same boat as His followers, He was unconcerned about the weather. As the all-powerful Creator, He had no fear of a storm. “He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm” (v.26).

But we are not all-powerful, and we are oh-so-prone to fear. So what are we to do when the storms of life rage around us? Whether they quickly blow over or last for a long time, we can be confident in this: We are in the same boat with the One whom even the winds and the sea obey. —Cindy Hess Kasper

Heavenly Father, this life is full of uncertainty. But You have promised us Your unfailing presence. May we see You today—especially when we are tempted to panic or to do things in our own strength."

1. Thank You for endless open doors no matter how small these doors may seem. Thank You.

2. Thank You for habits. They create discipline.

3. Thank You for having a friendly face who does the cleaning.

Life Without Fear

"There is a stark contrast between life without God, and life with God.

Psalm 49:1-20

Life without God

If we live without God, there is a tendency to end up trusting in two things: wealth (v.6a) and ourselves (v.13a). This trust in wealth and self is characterized by a search for status. The wealthy may ‘boast of their great riches’ (v.6b) and use money to impress others with their possessions (v.16). They may even name lands after themselves (v.11a).

By contrast, if you live a life with God there is no need to search for status. This is because your status is determined not by your success in accumulating wealth, but in knowing to whom you belong and how precious you are to him.

They enjoy the praise of others (v.18b) and they count ‘themselves blessed’ (v.18a). They may try to use their wealth to ‘buy off’ their own death (v.7). Yet no amount of money is ever enough (v.8). In the end, it is all futile as wealth gets left to others (v.10b). ‘So don’t be impressed with those who get rich and pile up fame and fortune. They can’t take it with them’ (vv.16–17a, MSG). What is this all worth if we ‘decay in the grave?’ (v.14).

Life with God

Your ransom has been paid (v.7b) and you have been redeemed – your future is secure: ‘But me? God snatches me from the clutch of death, he reaches down and grabs me’ (v.15, MSG).

A life with God means you will ‘live on forever and not see decay’ (v.9). The psalmist says, ‘Why should I fear?’ (v.5). Fear is a natural human emotion. But, with God you can face your fears with confidence because you are able to have complete trust in God for this life and the life to come.

In this passage, we also get one of the few hints in the Old Testament of life after death. The writer is confident that ‘God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself’ (v.15). The wonderful thing about life with God is that it does not end with death, but continues on into eternity. The psalmist was confident in this, even though he did not know how it was possible. The answer is revealed through Jesus’ resurrection.

Lord, thank you for your death and resurrection which makes it possible for me to live a life without fear. Thank you that you will snatch me from the clutch of death and take me to yourself."

1. Yes, Lord, it does not end with death. It continues on into eternity. Amen! Thank You for a wonderful promise. Thank You for Jesus.

2. Thank You for being able to accelerate the lessons. :D

3. Thank You for giving that adventure trait within me. :)

Thoughts to Words to Actions

"Deuteronomy 31:8New Living Translation (NLT)

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.

Do you ever find yourself bombarded with thoughts of doubt, fear, or even depression, dismay and ‘unnerved with alarm’?

These are common human emotions. Moses faced them and he knew that his successor, Joshua, and all the people would have to face not only physical battles but also battles of the mind.

As we come to the end of Moses’ life, he urges the people to follow God’s word (Deuteronomy 30:14, MSG). He urges them to love God and walk in his ways (v.16, MSG). He warns them against having a change of heart and refusing to obey God. He encourages them to ‘choose life’ (v.19, MSG). This choice starts with your thoughts. Your thoughts become your words. Your words become your actions. Choose each day life-giving thoughts.

Moses’ successor is Joshua. He is the new leader of the people of God. He is going to face many battles ahead. He is told, ‘Be strong, courageous, and firm; fear not nor be in terror before them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you; He will not fail you or forsake you ... It is the Lord who goes before you … fear not, neither become broken [in spirit – depressed, dismayed, and unnerved with alarm]’ (Deuteronomy 31:6–8, AMP).  

Moses would not have said this if there had been nothing to fear and no cause for discouragement. Rather he knew that there would be causes for fear and lots of discouragement. All leadership requires courage to cling tenaciously to a vision and toughness to endure the blame for every difficulty along the way. Both then and now, the people of God need strong leadership that is courageous and not frightened or discouraged by all the opposition and resistance that there is bound to be.

The answer to fear is this: God promises that he would go with him (‘The Lord your God goes with you’). God makes the same promise to you and me today. When you are assailed by doubts and fear remember that wherever you go, whatever your circumstances, you can ask God to go before you and prepare the way. Therefore, we can be confident and need not be afraid."

1. Hallelujah to such promise. I am not alone. Thank You.

2. Thank You for the reminders about Independence. Thank You for giving the freedom to choose. But, Lord, help me align Your will to mine.

3. Praise You for opportunities to share. It is all about You. Amen!