Desires

Psalm 145:14-21

14 The LORD upholds all those who fall
and lifts up all who are bowed down.

15 The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food at the proper time.

16 You open your hand
and satisfy the desires of every living thing.

17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways
and loving toward all he has made.

18 The LORD is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.

19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cry and saves them.

20 The LORD watches over all who love him,
but all the wicked he will destroy.

21 My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD.
Let every creature praise his holy name
for ever and ever.

Bee's Thoughts:

A sudden sadness flooded my soul tonight... I felt emotionally trapped... I wanted to cry yet I refused to. But when I read the above Psalms, I just released my tears. It's like God telling me "My child, go ahead and cry, don't hold your emotion, let it go..." I could see v14 comes alive, seeing God's hand upholding me when I fell down.

Last Sunday, I made a prayer during the church service. I surrendered my desires to God, surrendered what I shouldn't have to Him and ask Him purify my heart. He heard my prayers and fulfilled my desires (v18, 19)... He really removed them yesterday. It's painful yet I felt relieved too, no more blockage between me and God now.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for answering my prayers. Thank You for upholding me in time of heartaches, in time of making difficult decision, in time of having to give up what I desire that is not in Your will. Thank You for giving me my desires that conform to Your will. Thank You for wiping away my tears.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.



Tommy's Thoughts:

You are there to lift me up whenever I’m about to fall,
You are there to bear my yoke while I’m bending under my burden,
You are there to meet my daily needs when I turn to You,
You are there to provide and guide at the right time everytime,
You are there to satisfy and fulfill my deepest longing in life,
You are there righteous, full of glory and splendor in all Your ways,
You are there gracious, compassionate, patient and loving,
You are there so near and close to my heart when I call on You,
You are there to hear my cries and save me with Your love, peace and hope,
You are there watching and safeguarding me wherever I may be,
You are there with Your wonderful and awesome works to change my life,

I am here but a sinner saved by Your grace and through Your mercy,
I am here praising Your holy name for ever and ever.

Dear Lord, Thank You for being there with me eternally. Amen




.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Everlasting Arms

Deuteronomy 33:26-29

26 "There is no one like the God of Jeshurun,
who rides on the heavens to help you
and on the clouds in his majesty.

27 The eternal God is your refuge,
and underneath are the everlasting arms.
He will drive out your enemy before you,
saying, 'Destroy him!'

28 So Israel will live in safety alone;
Jacob's spring is secure
in a land of grain and new wine,
where the heavens drop dew.

29 Blessed are you, O Israel!
Who is like you,
a people saved by the LORD ?
He is your shield and helper
and your glorious sword.
Your enemies will cower before you,
and you will trample down their high places.

Bee's Thoughts:

Recently I was pondering on a BGR Question as a result of what somebody said. Doesn't what we experience physically now on earth has some signifcance on what is to come in the spirtiual realm as well?

Example, the church is a representation of the Bride of Christ; the love between a husband and wife is the representation of the love relationship between Christians and Christ too. Christians are constantly told to love God and others. If we can find fulfillment in the love on earth with our loved ones, how much more fulfilment we will have when we meet our beloved Jesus one day?

The speaker said yesterday, during our church service, that "the only thing we can bring with us when we die is relationship". How profound! I never thought of that before. That's the reason God created humans... to have a relationship. So God wants us to have proper and healthy relationship while we are on earth to have a foretaste of what is to come, that is far better.

Whenever I feel weak and in need of support I always hope I could have an arm to lean on, to hold me so I won't fall. Just like what I wrote in my poem "I Will Run With You", I see the arms of support when I needed it most. My ability to feel such support helps me understand and feel God's "everlasting arms" (v27) .


Dear Jesus,
I thank You for people whom You have brought to my life to support me when I am down. Though such earthly relationship may not last, it gives me a gleam of the everlasting relationship of love I can have with You. You are my constant and "everlasting arms". Let me extend my arms to those whom You have placed in my life too. Amen.


Tommy's Thoughts:

During a church workshop last week, the pastor explained that if we can see how God really works in our lives, we’ll see Him busily push and shove away tons of ‘harmful’ things coming our way that we don’t even realize; like a spaceship maneuvered through an asteroids belt by a hero in those sci-fi movies. But, sometimes God does allow certain ‘asteroids’ to hit into our lives if it can be used to build our character, make us strong, mature and complete (James 1:2-4).

Through those trials, we can become more than we can become without them. Our heavenly loving Father can be trusted because He is all good and powerful, He can use any bad things or situations for good; and all things work together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Today passage talks about how God as our eternal refuge and our only true security, will protect and safeguard us beneath His arms in every situation. He will catch us whenever we fall or blow away by storms in our lives. We can then be truly bold; with Him there’ll be no shaky ground.

Dear Lord, thank You for protecting me for so long, most of the times I don’t even realize them. Thank You for being my refuge, shield and helper when I needed You most. I would have long ‘vanish’ or ‘destroyed’ if it’s not because of You and Your saving arms. Help me Lord, to continue to trust and obey You in all things. Amen.


.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Bee's 4th Month of Devotion

Time flies, really flies...
Just like blinking of my eyes,
Four months have past without me realize.
This devotion time is like my exercise
To keep me healthy, to change my life.

Thank God for helping me keep my commitment to spend time with Him daily. :)


.......the thoughts of Bee

Shine On!

Daniel 1:1-20

Daniel's Training in Babylon
1 In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 And the Lord delivered Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, along with some of the articles from the temple of God. These he carried off to the temple of his god in Babylonia and put in the treasure house of his god.

3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring in some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility- 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. 5 The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service.

6 Among these were some from Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. 7 The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego.

8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. 9 Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel, 10 but the official told Daniel, "I am afraid of my lord the king, who has assigned your food and drink. Why should he see you looking worse than the other young men your age? The king would then have my head because of you."

11 Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, 12 "Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see." 14 So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days.

15 At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. 16 So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.

17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.

18 At the end of the time set by the king to bring them in, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. 19 The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service. 20 In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom.

Bee's Thoughts:

Hmmn... it looks like a Manhunt contest ya. :)

Daniel stood out as he stood up for what is right. He "resolved (determined) not to defile himself" like the rest of the people.

From the above passage we could learn some truth about Christians who choose to honour God (v8):
1. God can cause others to show more "favour and sympathy" for them (v9).
2. They are healthier as they eat sensibly instead of indulging themselves in unhealthy lifestyle of gluttony (v15, 16).
3. God is the one who grants them "knowledge and understanding" (v17, 20).
4. They perform better than their peers.

Yes, Christians are the salt and light of the earth (Matthew 5:13-16). They are in the world but not of the world. However, if they choose to compromise then they have lose their "flavour" and "brightness"... so no difference from non-Christians.

Do we dare to stand up for God and be different just like Daniel did?

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the example of Daniel, who stood up for You, who determined in his heart not to sin against You. Thank You that You will bless those who honour You. Let me shine on too, that people may see my good deeds and praise Your name.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Nebuchadnezzar changed Daniel and his friends’ name because he wanted to make them Babylonian. He attempted to turn their religious loyalty from God to Babylonia’s gods. But, Daniel resolved not to ‘defile’ himself amidst the pressures to compromise his faith. He was totally firm, devoted and committed to a lifelong determination to be loyal to God.

Today passage comforted me greatly after a hurtful remark from someone close to me who has mistaken my motive. Being a Christian, we will sometime be labeled, misunderstood, rejected, hurt and sneered. But, it’s OK because I know who I should trust and be faithful to; that’s what matters.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your words. Thank You also for teaching me to forgive and still love those who offended me. Guide me Lord to show more gentleness and tact in my words in future. Lord, no matter what others may say or pressures I may get, I determined and resolved to obey and be faithful to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Do Not Harden Your Hearts

Hebrews 3

Jesus Greater Than Moses
1 Therefore, holy brothers, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, the apostle and high priest whom we confess. 2 He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God's house. 3 Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself. 4 For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. 5 Moses was faithful as a servant in all God's house, testifying to what would be said in the future. 6 But Christ is faithful as a son over God's house. And we are his house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.

Warning Against Unbelief
7 So, as the Holy Spirit says:
"Today, if you hear his voice,
8 do not harden your hearts
as you did in the rebellion,
during the time of testing in the desert,
9 where your fathers tested and tried me
and for forty years saw what I did.
10 That is why I was angry with that generation,
and I said, 'Their hearts are always going astray,
and they have not known my ways.'
11 So I declared on oath in my anger,
'They shall never enter my rest.' "

12 See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. 13 But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. 14 We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first. 15 As has just been said:
"Today, if you hear his voice,
do not harden your hearts
as you did in the rebellion."

16 Who were they who heard and rebelled? Were they not all those Moses led out of Egypt? 17 And with whom was he angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the desert? 18 And to whom did God swear that they would never enter his rest if not to those who disobeyed? 19 So we see that they were not able to enter, because of their unbelief.

Bee's Thoughts:

During the revival meeting tonight at my church, the speaker said that if after we have read or listened to God's word but did not mix it with faith, then it would not have effect on us... we won't mature spiritually. It is just like the seed that falls onto the hard ground that will not grow. Therefore, if we harden our hearts towards God's word, we "would never enter his rest".

The speaker futher challenged us to open our hearts to Jesus, surrendering our thoughts, desires, anxieties, and idols to Him. Yes, we need to fix our thoughts on Jesus (v1).

It's comforting to know that "God is the builder of everything" (v4) and I should let Him do the building instead of trying to build anything by myself. He is the builder of my career, my relationship, my ministry and my life.... "we are His house" (v6).

Dear Lord,
Tonight I want to surrender my career, my relationship, my ministry and my life to You. You are the best Architect and will build me into a beautiful "house" to show Your glory. I will put my trust in You and believe that Your timing is perfect. Tonight I want to fix my eyes on Jesus again and not be distracted by anything else. Thank You for the above passage and for what the speaker said tonight.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Our hearts hardened in a way we sometime don’t realize them until it’s too late. We need to be cautious of the deceitfulness of sin; in how it slowly slips into our lives and destroying us slowly. One of the sure ways for a devoted Christian to turn cold towards God is through busyness in our lives. Whenever we are so preoccupied with our works, we tend to move God to the bottom of our daily to do list.

Things slowly worsen from skipping bible reading to totally forget about God in everything we do. Eventually, our heart will be hardened to a point where we’ll turn from lukewarm to unbelief. If we persist in that state, God have no other choice but to leave us alone in our sin.

In Ezekiel 36:22-27, God promised to give us new hearts, new desires and new spirits if we would turn to Him. He’ll give us the endurance to run the “race”. To prevent having an unbelieving heart and to grow in our faith, we need constant nourishments in the form of Bible reading, prayers, worship, fellowship with other believers; to encourage and build each other up with love and concern.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me not to put other things in my life above You. But to always put You first in my priorities. To come to You with prayers and thanksgiving daily. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

When To Judge

Matthew 7:1-12

Judging Others
1 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

3 "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

6 "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces.

Ask, Seek, Knock
7 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

9 "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! 12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Bee's Thoughts:

"Ask, seek, knock" - that was what I wrote at my blog 2 days ago. Now I am reading it again... a reinforcement? The principle behind them is asking wisely for things that are good for us (not in our viewpoint, but in the Father's viewpoint). Perhaps God wants us to ask wisdom from God in the matter of judgement?

I encountered a mysteriously 'big' problem today and I prayed that God would help me find the 'culprits' of that problem. He did just that! When I got home at night after church, the mystery was solved... I knew who the culprits are -- the bank and me. :( I still feel a little sore about the whole incidence but I have to acknowledge my part of the mistake too.

The moral of the story: judge not others till I judge myself first. I did that by checking at my end to see if I have made any mistake too. I found my mistake, though not entirely mine. Yes, we all make mistakes, so we need to be gracious towards others' shortcomings and be more forgiving.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for helping me solve the mystery so fast. Thank You for answering my prayer. I pray that when I go to the bank tomorrow things will be settled smoothly. Let me always judge myself first before I judge others. Let me be gracious just like You.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

One of the ways to know about someone is to watch how they criticize others. Most of the time, when a person becomes overly critical and judgmental over certain traits in others is in fact the untamed habits and behavior patterns they dislike in themselves.

Jesus teaches us to always be aware of our motives first before judging others. It’s always easy and quick for us to criticize, but do take a step first next time to examine whether we deserve the same criticism.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching to rightly representing Christ to others. To be aware of my words and conduct, not to judge others, but myself first. Teach me Lord to be discerning rather than voicing out negative remarks; to refrain from being hypocritical to bring others down in order to build myself up and to patiently and lovingly forgive others. Lord, I trust You to be final and only Judge (1 Corinthians 4:3-5). Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Spiritual Building

Ephesians 4:7-16

7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says:
"When he ascended on high,
he led captives in his train
and gave gifts to men." 9 (What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? 10 He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) 11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Bee's Thoughts:

In the church, God gives different gifts so that she will be built up and become matured, members living in unity together in the bond of love.

What is my gift then? I guess "teaching" is what God has given to me and I seem to have the ability to patiently and clearly explain concepts to others, both young and old. But have I fully used my gift? Not yet, I think...

When I went for the charity mission trips, I felt so helpless though I would like very much to help teach those children. I can't because I don't know how to speak their language. All I could do was to provide assistance here or there.

Dear Lord,
Sometimes I feel I am so useless... I have not fully utilised my gift for You. Please show me how I may fully use it to serve You better in the church or places You place me.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

I was talking to my best friend recently about how she had to do more than her position requires. Her office was short of staffs. She added, she would have done so much more, in area she’s good at, if there was less paperwork she need to do herself. I, on the other hand is the type who prefer to do everything all by myself; to have things under my full control. I might have done far greater works if I allow myself to cooperate more with others.

Many of us tend to overestimate what we can do by ourselves and underestimate what we can do together with others; as a group. Most of the time, we can accomplish so much more in less time if we were to work together than doing it all by ourselves.

As Christian, we are all belonging to one body, united under one head, Christ Himself. Being member of His body, each believer has been given a special gift for ministry by the Holy Spirit. Some can do one task whilst other can do another. Some abilities may seem small or large, but it’s ours to strengthen the whole body in God’s service. Among these abilities are in preaching, teaching, leading, healing, encouraging, nurturing, giving, administering and building. Through this way of working together, we can obey God more fully than by us alone.

Dear Lord, thank You for giving us all these special gifts to build Your church. Lord, guide me to exercise my gifts to serve others. If there’re other special areas of service I may be able to use my gifts, show to me Lord. Help me to clearly recognize them and to use them to strengthen and encourage the church. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

No Snatching

John 10:25-39

25 Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me, 26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and the Father are one."

Bee's Thoughts:

Jesus is likened to the 'shepherd' and Christians are likened to 'sheep'. He said very clearly that those who are his 'sheep' will hear His voice and follow Him, whereas, those who don't are not His sheep. It's just that simple.

Are you a Christian? Do you listen to Jesus? Do you follow Jesus?

Jesus promised eternal life to His 'sheep' and assured that "no one can snatch them" from His hand... i.e. even Satan can't do that unless they willingly want to follow Satan. That's a comforting promise.


Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for being the good Shepherd. Thank You for your salvation and protection. Let me hear Your voice always. Speak to my heart everyday and let me obey You. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

The bird flu finally reached our shore with the latest report of 10 people suspected to have contracted the virus. We can’t deny that things that are fine today might turn unexpectedly awry tomorrow. In this world, no one can ever know what will happen next and there are many reasons to be afraid of. As Christians, we can also expect to suffer on earth for the time being as it’s the devil’s domain (1 Peter 5:8).

But with Christ standing beside us, being our shepherd protecting us like His sheep, we’ll have the assurance, courage and confidence that our souls will not be harmed. We might be hurt physically but our eternal life with God will never be snatched away from His hand (v.28).

Dear Lord, thank You for Your promise to protect me from eternal harm. I pray to You Lord to be with me, safeguarding me on my trip to Cambodia next week. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Discipline

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27 No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Bee's Thoughts:

Hmmn... the verses above are talking about discipline... both physical and spiritual.

They come in just on time as I have tendered my resignation today. I will be having some free time again before I embark into any new job soon. I probably will laze around for a few days to recuperate my lost energy and catch up with my hobbies a little. In so doing I need to be careful not to become 'lazy'. I still need to discipline myself in sleeping early and waking early, and preparing myself for future tasks.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for helping me to move on smoothly without much difficulty. I know You have a plan for me even in my work. I trust that You will open the right door for me to enter as I give my time to You. Lead me on to the next task, Lord. Help me continue to discipline myself both physically and spiritually to achieve Your plan for me.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

A Christian’s life is not a walk, or a jog or merely talks. It is a race with a clear finish line and an eternal, imperishable reward. To run this race with vigor and stamina, we need to discipline ourselves, train diligently and establishing a consistent pattern of godly behavior and habits, like our daily prayers, Bible study and quiet time with God. Other areas of discipline we can practice are, for example, in how we deal with others in relationships; how we put primary concern on integrity, truthfulness and kindness, pleasing God in everything we do.

It is always easy to tell and teach others how to live and yet we ourselves don’t follow our own advice. Talk is cheap if we don’t practice what we preach. Like what Paul warned in verse 27, as Christian, we could be discrediting the Gospel and losing our privilege to tell others about Christ if we ourselves are a bad example to others, proclaiming one thing and does another; our deeds doesn’t seems to match our words.

Dear Lord, thank You for making me aware of how easy I can turn idle; merely observing from the grandstand in this great race. Thank You also for teaching me to walk my talk; keeping in mind everything I said and do, big or small, to reflect true Christlikeness and magnifying Your glory. Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

My Strength

Psalm 73:23-28

23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.

24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.

25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.

27 Those who are far from you will perish;
you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.

28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge;
I will tell of all your deeds.

Bee's Thoughts:

I am very tired tonight as I have to work till very late without dinner because of the endless paper works which I really dislike/hate. I feel like resigning from my job regardless of whether I have another job standby. I think I am at the point of burnt-out perhaps.

This Psalm has been refreshing to my spirit somehow. It's a Psalm I like very much all the time. Sometimes I may feel like the Psalmist, getting discouraged by the unfairness in life (Psalm 73: 12-16). Sometimes I don't understand why these things happen "till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny." (Psalm 17-20).

My favorite verses are:

25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.

26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.

Whenever I feel disappointed and in despair I would remember that I must desire God rather than anything on earth. For no matter how weak my flesh is God will strengthen me in His grace.


Dear Lord,
Whom have I in heaven but You?
May I desire nothing else but You.
Let my strength be renewed.
Amen

Tommy's Thoughts:

In life, there is nothing worth more for us to cling on to than God. There is nothing that can give us the purpose and meaning, confidence and assurance like God’s love and will for us. His constant and unchanging love, care and guidance steer us away from unnecessary conflicts, complications and uncertainties in our lives. With Him, we have the hope of our resurrection one day; to be raised to life to serve Him forever.

Dear Lord,

You wisely and tenderly lead me,
You are my strength and my shield;
My heart trusted in You,
You're all I want in heaven!
And You're all I want on earth!
There is none upon earth that I desire more than You.
Lord, my heart greatly rejoice,
And I will praise You for the rest of my life. Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

He Never Changes

Psalm 103:11-22

11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

13 As a father has compassion on his children,
so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;

14 for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.

15 As for man, his days are like grass,
he flourishes like a flower of the field;

16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.

17 But from everlasting to everlasting
the LORD's love is with those who fear him,
and his righteousness with their children's children-

18 with those who keep his covenant
and remember to obey his precepts.

19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom rules over all.

20 Praise the LORD, you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his bidding,
who obey his word.

21 Praise the LORD, all his heavenly hosts,
you his servants who do his will.

22 Praise the LORD, all his works
everywhere in his dominion.
Praise the LORD, O my soul.

Bee's Thoughts:

When I read the above Psalms my emotion overwhelmed me... I feel like crying...

God's love is compared to the height between the heavens and earth, which is topless;
God's forgiveness is compared to the breadth between east and west, which is beyond measure;
God's compassion is compared to a father's love, which is undying.

Yes, I am in need of God's love, God's forgiveness, God's compassion... and here He reminds me that I have them all. Praise the Lord!

God knows I am just like "dust"or "grass". I am weak, I can be short-lived, I can fail and sin. Yet He does not allow the devil to condemn me. He wants me to know that His love remains, He never changes.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your assurance tonight.
Thank You that You are the same, yesterday, today, and forever.
Thank You for Your forgiveness and love,
Thank You that You are my Abba Father.
Thank You very much.

Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

My family was very poor when I was young. I remember one day my mom told me she had only $1.20 left in her purse to buy meal for the whole family. When things worsen, my dad had to fly alone to US to work illegally to get us better lives and education. He worked there until we all graduated from universities. During my graduation year, he passed away there because of a stroke. I remember my dad always said there is nothing more important or more precious to him than all of us. I think most parent have that kind of amazing, sacrificial love for their children. Everything they do, they do it for their children.

If we can see how great our parents’ love is for us; we can then understand how much greater our heavenly Father’s love for us really is. The problem with our society today; where God seems irrelevant is because we have a distorted view of who God really is to us. We see God as the Judge and the Lawgiver, instead of a loving Father that know and love us very much. He also forgives and forgets all our wrongs, making way for us to reconcile back with Him. He understands us and our needs far better than anyone. His love and compassion for us is unchanging and eternal, giving us hope and meaning in everything.

Dear Lord, thank You for answering my prayer today; giving me the courage to lead Your people to worship You. Thank You also for guiding me in prayers to members of our church today. Lord, I would like to praise You for all the things You have done for us, all the steps and doors You’ve shown to us. All the care and blessings You’ve showered upon us. Thank You! In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Inside Out

Ephesians 4:25-32

25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.

29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Bee's Thoughts:

Sometimes I wonder if blogging what's in my heart is "unwholesome talk". I have been pretty candid about how I feel and blog about my feelings without pretence. To me, my blog is my personal diary to express and release my trapped thoughts and feelings. I don't share those things with my offline friends at all. So to know me well, my blog is the best place to begin with.

So do what I write at my blog help build others up?

I have learnt that certain people who read my blog do get encouraged most times because they know that they are not alone in their situations. For not only do I blog about my joy and sorrows, I blog about my solutions too. I hope that by sharing what I have gone through would help my readers who are in similar situations.

Dear Lord,
I pray that whatever I say will be edifying to my listeners. In my transparency let me be a beacan of light to those who need some enlightenment. Let me not be a stumbling block to anyone as I share my thoughts.

In Jesus'name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Be truthful
Today passage talks about how we sometime put on different faces, acting and talking differently to different people. The problem with this kind of falseness is that we will sometime forget or accidentally speak in the wrong way to the wrong person. Another thing is it’s hard and tiring to cope with continually putting on faces and covering all kinds of pretense, manipulation and lies we made. As Christians, we're all connected to each other. So, when we lie to others, we actually are lying to ourselves.

Don't go to bed angry
The passage also teaches us not to hold grudges, hating others as it’s the easiest way to give the Devil foothold in our life. The Bible does not forbid us from being angry; after all it’s normal to feel angry towards things like injustice. But God want us to be careful with it so it does not fuel us for revenge, taking things into our own hand.

Do not steal
Sometime we can still ‘steal’ without being a shoplifter or robber. For example, we can steal from our boss by doing our personal work or wasting time in the office when he’s not around. We can steal from our family or loved one by spending all our time for selfish pursuits and indulgence. We can steal from ourselves by being lazy, dishonest, irresponsible, reckless, jeopardizing our life and future. We can steal from God by being a bad Christian, disappointing others and deterring them from seeing Jesus through us.

Each word a gift
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can hurt my entire life! The bitter pain of a word spoken against others can hurt them for a lifetime. What others say to us and what we say to others can last a long time, for good or for evil. The casual sarcastic or critical remark can inflict a lasting injury on others. We need to think before we speak and speak only what helps, encourages, and builds others up; inspiring them for the rest of their life. Treat each word a gift.

Don't break His heart
As Christian, we need to realize the most intimate part of our lives: the Holy Spirit, God Himself, lives, moves and breathes in us. We need to stop living a life as if He is not there; taking God’s gift for granted. We need to begin a life that refrains from all kinds of unwholesome talks, behavior and habits; being genuinely gentle, sensitive and loving to others, forgiving one another like the way God in Christ has forgave us.

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding all these again to me: Be truthful; do not ‘steal’; careful of anger and words; and acknowledging the presence of the Spirit in me. Lord, I pray that I may live in ways that others may see the love of Christ reveal in me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

God the Seeker

John 20:11-18

11 but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.

13 They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"

"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.

15 "Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?"
Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."

16 Jesus said to her, "Mary."
She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).

17 Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "

18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Whenever we lost something, we often sit down and think through the places we went to, figuring out the time we lost it, we ask around and begin tracking and searching high and low for it. A lot of time, we failed, frustrated and give up searching. The next thing we know, it appears out of nowhere in front of us.

The same can describe some of us who begin our search for God with great intentions and eagerness. We say things like "I am going to start to church”; "I'm going to read the Bible"; "I'm going to stop this and that habits". All these go well for a while until we find ourselves don't have the strength to keep up our so-called reformation: to be what we think we can be, on our own.

C.S. Lewis once said, "I never had the experience of looking for God. It was the other way around. He was the hunter, I was the deer. He stalked me, took unerring aim, and fired." The Good News is that what we cannot do, God does. We don't seek Him, He seeks us. We don't change ourselves, He does. God longs for us. No matter how constant, urgent, and devoted our search for Him may be, He seeks and pursues us more relentlessly, more ardently, and more faithfully than we can imagine. All we need to do is to open the door for Him into our heart (Revelation 3:20)

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your care for me as Your treasured child. Thank You for seeking me, giving me a shelter when I’m lost and helpless on my own. Thank You for changing me to be more like Christ each day. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen


Bee's Thoughts:

I used to wonder why when Jesus addressed Mary as "Woman" she could not recognise Jesus. Perhaps addressing Mary as "Woman" is unfamiliar to her, and it made her thought Jesus was a 'stranger'. But when Jesus addressed her as "Mary", she instantly recognised the voice of Jesus.

I could understand Mary's feeling better now as I too have experienced how when a person I loved could be like a stranger to me by changing the way he addressed me. I could not recognise the one I loved anymore... he's like a stranger to me though we do communicate, just like in Mary's case.

One word could make a difference.
One word could bring back familarity.
One word could make one recognises the speaker.

Dear Lord,
You gave and You took away... I don't undertand why, yet I know You have Your purpose. Just like Mary, I will not find what I have lost till You choose to reveal it to me. Let me hear You speaking. Amen.


.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Be Still And Know

Psalm 46:1-11

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,

3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.
Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.

5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.

6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

7 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah

8 Come and see the works of the LORD,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.

9 He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear,
he burns the shields [b] with fire.

10 "Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth."

11 The LORD Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah

Tommy's Thoughts:

In his best-selling book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen R. Covey talked about how it’s better to manage ourselves rather than managing time. He suggested we should make it a habit daily to do what matters most, not what matters least. To sit down and think of what we can do best and to do them more, to sharpen the saw, equipping us to handle any urgent and important things in the future in a more manageable way, thus cutting down our stress and making us more effective.

I was talking to my good friend yesterday about how incredibly busy she was lately. This coming weekend, she even needs to attend courses from 8am to 6pm both Saturday and Sunday. I didn’t fare that well either. There are many incomplete works floating around; places I need to go to, appointments and preparations to be made. In the midst of all these busyness, we sometime forget to do what matters most in our lives: to take time for God.

This devotion, for example, has helped me to quiet my heart and be still daily, to make time for God, to listen to what He has to say to me and to know Him personally. There is nothing matters more than to know our loving God who lives within us; our refuge, strength, ever-present help (v1) and fortress (v11).

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me to focus my thoughts on You, to worship and exalt You daily. Thanks for Your grace that I am able to learn and understand Your truths and to apply them into my everyday life. Through this quiet time, You have mold me to be a more effective and equipped disciple of Christ, to bring glory and honor to You in everything I do. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

related post on taking time for God


Bee's Thoughts:

The title of tonight's devotion jumped at me, causing my heart to skip a beat. I know God wants me to "be still and know".

Actually, I just got home from a 2.5 hour long job interview wth a panel of preschool committee. It was my 2nd round with them. I wasn't very sure if I wish to take up the offer since what they could afford to pay me would be about the same as what I am already getting now. Why should I change preschool then? I could see the potential of growth in this preschool I am contemplating to join and the services I could render. The committee would contact me next week as to whether they could accede to my request.

Pay aside, I felt bad to leave my present preschool since this is the time it needs me the most. There is already a shortage of staff due to 2 staff resignations and one going on long medical leave. The worse thing is the preschool is about to have a licensing inspection soon. I am in a dilemma...

It's so comforting to hear God says:

"Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth." (v10)

I need to quieten my heart and listen to God, to allow Him to speak to my heart regarding what I should do. The decision I choose should glorify God.


Dear Lord,
Speak to my heart and let me know Your will for me. May I choose the path that You want me to take that Your name might be glorified. Speak to the committee too if You want me to be working with them. Let Your peace be in my heart if that's Your will.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.



.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Perfect In Christ

Colossians 1:24-29

Paul's Labor for the Church
24 Now I rejoice in what was suffered for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ's afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. 29 To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.

Bee's Thoughts:

It's a "mystery" that Christ can be in us, Christians. That's where our hope is. If Christ is in me, wouldn't I behave and think like Him? Perhaps that's why in Christ we can be "perfect".

Jesus says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5) We need to remain and be joined to Christ in order to have that special life to bear fruits.

Dear Lord,
I am very tired and weary from my work. Let me abide in You to draw strength. Even then, I pray that You will help me be compassionate towards those that need encouragement and help. Let be "perfect" in You and bear fruits... that's others may see Your glory.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Christians suffering is not about a pain fetish or a monastic seeking of pain in order to be "holy". It’s the only realistic way for one to be truly changed, grow and mature spiritually; to be perfect in Christ (v28). As Christian, we often forget that we not only need to believe in Christ but also to suffer for and like Him (Philippians 1:29). Taking up the Cross is a necessary part of every Christian's education, in God's revealed plan.

Some of the common sufferings are temptations, conflicts and misunderstanding with others, dealing and serving unappreciative and difficult people, persecution, discrimination, criticisms etc. To endure through them is to obey and follow God’s commands, to stand firm and grounded by His truth; doing what we know is right.

There are so much to be learned and fruitage to be gained through our temporarily struggles that it will be to the maximum possible benefit for everyone who has ever lived. God has a very good plan in place for us that will make all our sufferings more than worth it.

Dear Lord, thank You for the power of Your Spirit working in me; giving me Your energy (v29) to endure and strive to be made perfect in Christ. Lord, teach me to work wholeheartedly and joyfully, motivated by love and not by fear or pride, to be more mature and complete in Christ everyday. Amen.

“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him…”- Philippians 1:29

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

The Greatest Thing In The World

1 Corinthians 13

Love
1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 11When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Bee's Thoughts:

Sometimes I think I know what love is;
Sometimes I think I know nothing about it.
Sometimes I feel the warm that love could give;
Sometimes I feel I don't understand all about this.

Yet the bible says the greatest is love;
To experience it is the best thing on earth.
Yet I only found this love in Christ;
Human love seems to be a bunch of lies.

How I long that someone could love me as I am;
But I guess that could only happen in dreamland.
Once again I have to turn to the Author of love
To help me love others through Him as I serve.

- Bee


Dear Lord,
Teach me to love in the way You do. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Whenever we talk about love today, most people are still confused about its meaning. Love had become a mixed-up term confuses with lust, selfishness and manipulation. A lot of times we hear things like I ‘love’ and be with this person because he/she can give me this and that. Worst, they are also those who lie and hide their true feeling to get want they want from others.

True love, or God’s kind of love is directed outward towards others, it’s never inward toward us. It involves a sincere, genuine and unselfish service to others. It is always about being patient and kind, not envious or proud in front of others; it forgives others, not rude, easily angered or self-seeking; it rejoices with the truth; it always protects, always trusts, always hopes and always perseveres (v4-7)

To show true love gives evidence that we really care about others. It is about giving to others without expecting anything in return. We love because He first loves us. For us to practice His kind of love, we need Him to help us set aside our own desires and start becoming more like Jesus, to love others truthfully.

Dear Lord, thank You for giving us the greatest and most important qualities a man can ever have, that is, to love. With faith and hope in You, Lord, guide and teach me with the freedom to love others truthfully and completely. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Life by the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-26

Life by the Spirit

16 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Tommy's Thoughts:

The Bible is very clear and specific on certain actions, attitudes and desires that are wrong. Some are quite obvious like the sin of sexual immorality, witchcraft and murder. But there are also those that are less obvious; that sometime we are unaware of or simply ignore and pay little attention to them.

These are the things that rob us from living a transformed life God wants us to have. We will soon find our self having unnecessary conflict with others; feeling trap and helpless in bondages; puzzling over why and how things went wrong and questioning why we do not do what we want, but do the very thing we hate (Romans 7:15). If we continually use our freedom this way, we will not inherit God's kingdom (v21).

The good news is, we can clearly distinguish and reminded of all these wrongful desires whenever we turn to the fruits of the Spirit (v22). They are in stark contrast and contrary to each others (v16); giving us an invaluable guidance and comparison before we think, act and making choices.

Before we can grow in the fruits of the Spirits and stop giving in to wrongful desires and habits, we must allow God to work in us, joining our lives to His (John 15:4-5). When we say we believe and accept Christ as our Savior and Redeemer, we need to make the choice to willingly nail all our sinful nature to the Cross. Through this we are clearly set free from sin’s power gripping over us and we no longer have to give in to it.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me to effectively replace my old bad habits with the habits of the Spirit. Thank You for the Spirit who nudges me everyday to commit any wrongful tendencies to Your control, crucifying them, and continually draw on the Spirit’s power to overcome them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Our "sinful nature" is constantly battling with the "fruit of the Spirit". instead of trying to remove the "sinful nature" we should focus on the "fruit of the Spirit"... constantly allowing this fruit to be seen in our life.

"Self-control" may be the most difficult characteristics to achieve. We are to control our own thoughts, actions and desires. We are not to indulge ourselves on anything contrary to biblical teaching. So "self-control" is the mark of spiritual maturity I guess.

Dear Lord,
Help me to allow Your Spirit to work in me so that I may bear the fruit of the Spirit. Let me set my mind on things that are pure and do what's right in Your sight. In Jesus name I ask. Amen




.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

One More Miracle

Exodus 15:1-21

The Song of Moses and Miriam

1 Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the LORD :
"I will sing to the LORD,
for he is highly exalted.
The horse and its rider
he has hurled into the sea.

2 The LORD is my strength and my song;
he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
my father's God, and I will exalt him.

3 The LORD is a warrior;
the LORD is his name.

4 Pharaoh's chariots and his army
he has hurled into the sea.
The best of Pharaoh's officers
are drowned in the Red Sea. [a]

5 The deep waters have covered them;
they sank to the depths like a stone.

6 "Your right hand, O LORD,
was majestic in power.
Your right hand, O LORD,
shattered the enemy.

7 In the greatness of your majesty
you threw down those who opposed you.
You unleashed your burning anger;
it consumed them like stubble.

8 By the blast of your nostrils
the waters piled up.
The surging waters stood firm like a wall;
the deep waters congealed in the heart of the sea.

9 "The enemy boasted,
'I will pursue, I will overtake them.
I will divide the spoils;
I will gorge myself on them.
I will draw my sword
and my hand will destroy them.'

10 But you blew with your breath,
and the sea covered them.
They sank like lead
in the mighty waters.

11 "Who among the gods is like you, O LORD ?
Who is like you—
majestic in holiness,
awesome in glory,
working wonders?

12 You stretched out your right hand
and the earth swallowed them.

13 "In your unfailing love you will lead
the people you have redeemed.
In your strength you will guide them
to your holy dwelling.

14 The nations will hear and tremble;
anguish will grip the people of Philistia.

15 The chiefs of Edom will be terrified,
the leaders of Moab will be seized with trembling,
the people [b] of Canaan will melt away;

16 terror and dread will fall upon them.
By the power of your arm
they will be as still as a stone—
until your people pass by, O LORD,
until the people you bought [c] pass by.

17 You will bring them in and plant them
on the mountain of your inheritance—
the place, O LORD, you made for your dwelling,
the sanctuary, O Lord, your hands established.

18 The LORD will reign
for ever and ever."

19 When Pharaoh's horses, chariots and horsemen [d] went into the sea, the LORD brought the waters of the sea back over them, but the Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground. 20 Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing. 21 Miriam sang to them:

"Sing to the LORD,
for he is highly exalted.
The horse and its rider
he has hurled into the sea."

Tommy's Thoughts:
I always admire my friends who are song leaders in the church. All of them are very dedicated, effective and earnest when comes to leading God’s people in worship. There is this lady who always prepare close to a month in advance for a service. She always tries new ways to lead the congregation in presenting songs to God. She is also incredibly meticulous and thorough in her preparation and timing.

But I can see she is a humble and modest person, not at all showy or pretentious in her leading. She always tells me that she’s doing all these to praise, thank and glorify God, who she is truly grateful for.

Dear Lord, teach me to be like this sisters in Christ; to be thankful for all that You have done and given to me. To be grateful for Your gift of salvation through Christ. Lord, help me always to come in praise and worship with a natural, fervent and sincere heart. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Songs of Worship always touch my heart whenever I sing them. Even when I feel down, the songs will somehow miraculously lifts up my spirit as I sing them. I could feel God's presence as I meditates on the lyrics of the songs and hymns.

The above songs of praise talks about how God led the Israelites out of danger in His "unfailing love" and guided them in His "strength". (v13). God is always compassionate towards His children. How can we not praise Him?

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your unfailing love and strength toward us. May we always sing praises to You all the time. Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Inner Beauty

John 1:9-14

9 The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.[a]

10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent,[b] nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,[c] who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Tommy's Thoughts:

When we welcome Jesus into our life, we are being born again spiritually. This new birth changes us from the inside out. Although we may physically look ordinary on the outside, God's Spirit will beautify us from within if we allow Him to. It will be a continual process that rearranges, clarifies, and refines our attitude, desires and motives. Unlike outward appearance with beauty that is fleeting, this beauty will last for all time.

Dear Lord, forgive me of sometime overly concerned over outward appearance rather than focusing on the inner beauty. Lord, as You does not look at outward appearance but at the heart of a person. (1 Samuel 16:7), teach me too to get past all the surface issues, to emphasize for things within that lasts and letting others see the true beauty of You radiating in me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.



Bee's Thoughts:

What is heaven like?
"It is better than anything any human being could ever imagine when he tries to picture the best thing that could ever happen to him. Beyond that, there is not much else we could say!" (Judgment Day)

How is God like? We will never know unless God reveals the mystery to us. God has choosen to reveal Himself to us through Jesus Christ... showing His character, nature, love, righteousness, holiness, justice, compassion, power, etc.

Inner beauty takes time to discover... the more we spend time with a person, the more we see the inner beauty of that person. The same goes to spending time with the Lord Jesus Christ... we get to see His beauty more and more each day.


Dear Lord,
Let me see Your beauty as I spend time with You. Let Your beauty be seen in me too. This is my simple prayer. Amen.


.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Dearly Children Of Light

Ephesians 5:1-13

1 Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them.

8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible,

Tommy's Thoughts:

I happened to chance upon this passage twice today. God is probably trying to tell me something about how to live and maintain a life as children of light. Maybe it’s because God knows I spend most of my time everyday with non-believers; at work and at home. How I might conform, condone and approve certain behaviors of those few who have unhealthy lifestyle. Like how I might treat obscenity and coarse joking lightly, as common things to do; taking them for granted and doing them to gain acceptance.

Empty conversation and improper language does nothing to reflect our faith or to build others or our self up. Worst, our behaviors will make others unable to see God’s gracious presence in us, even hindering them to be lead to Christ.

In verse 3, Paul spoke about as Christian; there must not be even a hint of immorality like lust, hate, envy, pride, impatience, or bitterness in our lives. To do this, we must allow God to mold and work in us, to give us strength when we are weak, to convict and remind us when we are wrong, to warn us when we are impatient and losing control, to provide us an exit when we are tempted, to give us hope and assurance when we are discouraged or sad, and to lead us to the right path when we are lost.

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me today as children of light, I need to start living as one. Thank You also for guiding me, teaching me in ways, to live above reproach morally; reflecting Your goodness to others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

To "live a life of love" (v1) is what God wants Christians to do. I thought I have already known the meaning of love... but now I feel I still don't really know it's deep meaning yet.

Must the "love" God wants us to have for others be unromantic? Then isn't the word "compassion" a more appropriate term to use instead? I have gradually lost that romantic feeling I once have... I have suppressed it for good so that I won't get hurt again. Is this what God wants of me? I am not sure now. Yes, I still care for others, provide assistance and a listening ear when needed. Is that love or compassion? I don't know which term to use now... I just know I do care. Is that healthy?

If love means laying down my life for someone like Jesus did, then I have not loved yet... maybe one day I will... till then, I have not truly loved I suppose.

"Let no one deceive you with empty words" (v6)... words are cheap, actions are precious. If we say we care for someone, what actions have we done to show that care? When we promise something to someone, do we carry it out or KIV it 'till thy kingdom come'? Words by themselves are "empty" till actions follow.

Dear Lord,
I felt weary today... I heard many words... many many words, with no action. I got confused by "empty words"... I have lost faith in what certain people say. Help me lift up my eyes upon You again... for Your words are always true, Your words are never empty.

I confess I don't fully understand the meaning of love... perhaps I have never loved, but only have compassion... perhaps I have not experienced love too, other than the love You gave. I lift up my hands to You in surrender now... take my life and let me be what You will.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.


.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Unexpected Help

Joshua 2:1-14

Rahab and the Spies
1 Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. "Go, look over the land," he said, "especially Jericho." So they went and entered the house of a prostitute [a] named Rahab and stayed there.

2 The king of Jericho was told, "Look! Some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land." 3 So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: "Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land."

4 But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from. 5 At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, the men left. I don't know which way they went. Go after them quickly. You may catch up with them." 6 (But she had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax she had laid out on the roof.) 7 So the men set out in pursuit of the spies on the road that leads to the fords of the Jordan, and as soon as the pursuers had gone out, the gate was shut.

8 Before the spies lay down for the night, she went up on the roof 9 and said to them, "I know that the LORD has given this land to you and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you. 10 We have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea [b] for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. [c] 11 When we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone's courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below. 12 Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign 13 that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and that you will save us from death."

14 "Our lives for your lives!" the men assured her. "If you don't tell what we are doing, we will treat you kindly and faithfully when the LORD gives us the land."

Tommy's Thoughts:

We can learn so much from Rahab’s faith in today’s passage. She was a pagan, a Canaanite and a prostitute, the least likely person we might assume to be interested in God. Yet, Rahab with her simple faith, was willing to risk everything for a God she barely knew. She didn’t allow her past or background to tie her down from seeking God.

Rahab also believes and acknowledged that God is all-powerful and sovereign. Her faith and fear in God guided her to do her best to save herself, her family and God’s people; ultimately accomplishing God’s great purposes in the process.

Dear Lord, I acknowledge that You are faithful and I can trust You to provide help when I come to You. You will show me ways when there seems to be no other way. Teach me Lord to have simple faith, to worship and believe in You, the same all-powerful and miracle-working God. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

This passage reminds me of a joke I heard some time ago. It's true that many times God let satan foot the bill for us. :) Help can just come our way at the right time... God is always on time. He can use non-believers to help believers to accomplish His purpose, just like in the case of Joshua above, and also in the story of Joseph (Old Testatment). In return, God also blesses the non-believers who have unknowingly provided helps to the believers. Isn't that good?

Dear Lord,
Thank You for always providing unexpected helps for us when we need them most. Thank You that You will take care of us and our needs at the right time. Thank You for Your faithfulness always. Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

Be Ready

Matthew 24:32-44

32 "Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 33 Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. 34 I tell you the truth, this generation heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

The Day and Hour Unknown
36 "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 37 As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; 39and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left.

42 "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. 43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

Bees's Thoughts:

Talking about readiness, I know of people who will work extra hard when they know their bosses are coming or is around. When the 'cat' goes away the 'mice' will come out to play. Hmmn... how many workers can really be ready for their bosses anytime?

As Christians we don't work just to please our bosses on earth, we work to please our heavenly 'Boss' who can see us anytime and anywhere. We are to be good steward in our time and work. We are be ready for His coming...

Dear Lord,
Let me be always ready for You when You come to bring me back home. Let me be a good steward of my time and energy to do the things that will please You. May I find favour in my bosses, being a good worker. I pray that You will continue to direct me in my search for a new job. May Your will be done. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

I was at the newsstand that day and saw few tabloids with a front cover listing all kinds of predictions for 2006 that they claimed were found hidden in the Bible. I’ve seen these kinds of sensational news since day one I chanced upon a tabloid. All these false claims and predictions only proof one thing to us; that is, we don’t have a single clue on what will happen tomorrow, let alone predicting 100 years into the future.

Not knowing the future sometime can be a good thing. If we knew the precise date when Christ will return; we might be tempted to be lazy in our work for Him. I heard about a guy from my friend that he decided to temporarily ‘quit’ from Christianity to pursue and indulge himself with self-seeking pleasure in the “world”. He thinks God will accept Him back with an open arm when he decided to return later, a false sense of security based entirely out of context on the story of the prodigal son.

It’s true our loving God will still accept us when we’ve truly repented and returning back to Him, but that doesn’t mean we can use it as an excuse for being disobedient; asking God to follow our timetable instead of His. Sometime, we forget that Heaven is not our only goal; we have to treat our life now as a test; to work diligently for God here and now before Christ’s return.

It is said that Christ will be back when we do not expect him most; it will be swift and sudden, no opportunity for last-minute repentance or bargaining. We already have sufficient knowledge and warning to prepare, be ready, keeping watch and make the choice to obey and walk with Him today. Let’s not foolishly gamble with our eternal destiny that God has given us.

Dear Lord, thank You for motivating and teaching me to be prepared always for Christ’s return; to live responsibly, serving others in need and working diligently for the extension of Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

As Stubborn As Mule

Psalm 32:8-11

8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you and watch over you.

9 Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.

10 Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the LORD's unfailing love
surrounds the man who trusts in him.

11 Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!

Bee's Thoughts:

I have only worked in my present preschool for about a month and is still trying to get use to the tons of daily paper works that seem to be endless. Other than this dislike I am quite happy working with the children and my teachers. I felt the school should hire a clerk to do those admin works instead of making me a highly paid 'clerk' and have less time for more critical works that require my kind training and qualification. For this reason I was actually looking around for job that doesn't require me to do all these time consuming admin works... so I am in the midst of attending interviews this week.

However, my boss' boss came to my office at about 5 p.m. and talked with me for about 3 hours today. She asked me to consider taking over my boss' position, which will be vacant before end of this month. Erm... I felt flattered but wasn't that keen to take it up, yet I felt bad to reject. *sigh*

Thank God that in today's devotion He is saying to me: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (v8).

Actually I told my boss' boss that my weekly Friday evening Cell meetings are very important to me, which will clash with the weekly Friday management meeting should I take up that position. I will not compromise for the sake of a promotion.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for assuring me tonight that You will guide me in what I should do. I want to commit my work into Your hands. Lead me as I obey Your Spirit's prompting reagarding my career. I trust in Your providence Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.



Tommy's Thoughts:

A lot people disobey God not because they don’t want to be controlled or directed; it’s more about the lack of understanding why God ask us to obey Him. Another reason is the lack of trust in believing God’s way. When we come to the point of true understanding and deeply believe in His teachings, we will find our self less prone to disobey and sin.

The truth is everything God asks of us, He does so out of unfailing love to keep us from harm, unnecessary conflicts; giving the best and good for us. Most who do not believe in this truth will tend to go for the quick fix, which often lead to sin and troubles. Like a father who teaches his sons; sometime our stubbornness leaves God with only one option that is to use discipline. But, God prefer to guide us with love and wisdom rather than punishment if we allow our self to listen and obey His teachings.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your unfailing love and patience to teach and guide me to the right and only path. Thank You for Your love that surrounds me when I trust and obey in You. Help me not only to be obedient but to be joyful, glad and rejoices in Your teachings. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

What Is The Bible For?

2 Timothy 3:14-17

14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Bee's Thoughts:

There are many types of Christian denominations, therefore, also many types of Christians too. I often heard the comment: The Charismatic Christians have experiences but no depth in the Bible, while the non-Charismatic Christians have depth in the Bible but no experience or power to live a victorious life.

Why can't a Christian have both? I believe God wants Christians to have both the depth in the Bible as well as the experiences in the power of the Holy Spirit. Only in this way can one be strong to withstand all trials and temptations of life.

As a young Christian, I was taught that reading the Bible daily is very important for any serious Christian. For the Bible can make one "wise for salvation" (v15); it is "useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (v16). Without knowing the truth found in the Bible one would be led astray by all kinds of teaching and doctrines.

In my experience as Christian, the Holy Spirit always reminds me of the Bible verses I have read at the right time so that I may not fall away from God or sin against Him. His word is life actually... it is able to save me from many things in life. Thank God for the Bible!

Tommy's Thoughts:

Since small, I believe there is a God. But, being brought up from a non-Christian family, I do not know anything about the Bible or Jesus. My knowledge of who God was based solely on my observation and experience of His creations and my own conscience. It was also a one-way communication with the god I believe in at that time. I have totally no idea what He wanted or expected from us; aside from being generally good and performing rituals obediently to save myself from punishment and bad luck.

The first time I read the Bible was out of curiosity before I’m a Christian. I told myself it’s impossible for me to understand this “history” book and what those Christian believe in; it was utterly irrelevant and an unnecessary complication to life. Now, as I read 1 Corinthians 2:14, I understand why I felt that way, how I unable to grasp the spiritual treasures and truths of the Scripture back then:

“The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned” - 1 Corinthians 2:14

After I’ve accepted Christ, I began to see how precious and valuable the Bible is. Every passage suddenly jumped to life when I read them. I used to be puzzled over this, but as I read 1 Corinthians 2:9-10, I understand how when we are born again, we will receive the illumining ministry of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to understand the Bible effectively.

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him. But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.” - 1 Corinthians 2:9-10

Dear Lord, thank You for enabling me to understand Your words. Thank You that the Holy Spirit lives within me, illumining my mind, encouraging my heart, and strengthening my will and faith. Help me to use the knowledge I received to do good and Christ’s work in the world. Amen.

Also read our previous post on the Bible...

.......the devotion of Bee & Tommy

The Sensuous Christian

Exodus 37:1-9

The Ark
1 Bezalel made the ark of acacia wood—two and a half cubits long, a cubit and a half wide, and a cubit and a half high. 2 He overlaid it with pure gold, both inside and out, and made a gold molding around it. 3 He cast four gold rings for it and fastened them to its four feet, with two rings on one side and two rings on the other. 4 Then he made poles of acacia wood and overlaid them with gold. 5 And he inserted the poles into the rings on the sides of the ark to carry it.

6 He made the atonement cover of pure gold—two and a half cubits long and a cubit and a half wide. 7 Then he made two cherubim out of hammered gold at the ends of the cover. 8 He made one cherub on one end and the second cherub on the other; at the two ends he made them of one piece with the cover. 9 The cherubim had their wings spread upward, overshadowing the cover with them. The cherubim faced each other, looking toward the cover.

Tommy's Thoughts:

I heard from a friend before that the reason he’s an atheist is because of how religions disrespect our current world, focusing only on heaven. He said most treat the world they live in now as an illusion, giving excuses for them to be a lousy and irresponsible person. He also added religions wrongly taught people not to enjoy their lives here, being insensible and abstaining from all kind of pleasures or enjoyments.

As a Christian, we see the world now as a reality, not an illusion. Although it will be short stay compared to the time we will spend with God later, Christians regard everything created by God and our attitude towards them as significant and have eternal consequences. God pronounces everything He created as "good” and He rejoices in them. This includes our senses which He approves the proper experience of pleasure through them. Using these senses, God wants us to enjoy and delight in His creations, leading us to be grateful and to worship Him.

Dear Lord, thank You for everything You has given to us. Teach me to be a responsible steward of Your creations, as an act of worship. Lord, help me not to worship them, but to know they are Your wonderful and perfect gifts for us to enjoy; bringing us to know You better and to glorify Your name. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.



Bee's Thoughts:

The title of today's devotion seems unusual. The word "sensual" seems 'worldly'. Yet God has created humans as sensual beings. Being sensual towards the right thing or person and at the right time is nothing wrong. But how we use our senses are of great consequences. Eve was being sensual towards the forbidden fruit and was led to sin by Satan, making us all sinners by birth..

I enjoy looking at beautiful people, pictures, songs, arts, nature, etc. Each time I look at them I praise God for His creations. A beautiful relationship with another fellow being is also something we can thank God for. Such relationship requires both to use their senses to the full.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for making me a very sensual person. I enjoy the things You have provided for me through the senses You gave me. Thank You for making all things beautiful in Your time. Amen.


.......the devotion of Tommy and Bee