Better Yet!

Read Philippians 1:19-26

"Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance. I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." - Philippians 1:19-21

Reflection of Tommy:

Recently, I posted a question online asking friends what they would do if they know they'll be dead in 2 hours. It was interesting to see how each person responded differently to that question.

There are many of us going through our lives daily with plans and pursuits that we never really think or ponder over question like this. We may either believe it will never happen to us (or not that soon), or we dread thinking of the finality that death has over us.

But as we read today's passage, we see how Apostle Paul has a very different perspective on death. He said that to live is Christ and to die is gain (v21). He sees dying as something that is even better than living because he can finally see Jesus face to face, be truly free from pain and suffering and have the ultimate fellowship with God and be united with other believers for eternity.

But this does not means that we should concentrate solely on leaving this world and neglect all the things God has entrusted us to do here. Paul said to live is Christ, meaning we should fulfill God's will for our lives here by making good of every opportunities we have to serve Jesus- sharing the Good News, serving and reaching out to others with love; be a good steward to everything God has blessed us with and be the salt of the earth and light of the world.

Dear Father, thank You because of Christ, I will have no fear of death but the hope of something better when I leave this world. Let me hold unswervingly to this hope I profess, as You are faithful (Hebrews 10:23).

Father, guide me while I am still here through the Holy Spirit to never cease seeking You and Your righteousness. Teach me how I can serve Jesus better and asking Him to be true Lord of everything in my life.

Lord, remind me always my duty and responsibilities to be a good steward for all the things You have entrusted me with in this world. Teach me also to have a genuine servanthood heart to reach out and serve those in needs, reflecting Christlike love and compassion. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

He Answers

Read Psalm 86:1-7

"In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me." - Psalm 86:7

Reflection of Tommy:

Sometimes, we wonder whether God will answers us when we do earnestly pray to Him. I've seen Him answering my prayers in simple things like fixing the audiovisual glitches for my church presentation today or getting help from a stranger when my car broke down at nowhere yesterday to other things like providing me wisdom and discernment in decision making or protection from physical or spiritual harm daily.

Like our earthly father, God always wants to give the best in everything, and at times we do need to ask Him to give us the patience for unanswered prayers or strength when He allows us to go through seemingly unfair or difficult situation in our lives.

If we truly and closely abide in Him, obeying His commands, we need not to worry for any storm that may hits our lives. God who is loving, faithful, good and merciful will always forgive, guard and brings true joy into our lives when we sincerely devoted to Him (v2).

Father, thank You for teaching me to draw close to You daily, to be renewed by Your life-changing Word. Help me to learn how to focus and surrender my life to Jesus.

Lord, give me strength and good rest everyday that I may not grow weary or distracted by the things of the world. Instead, give me a willing and joyful heart to seek You first and Your righteousness, knowing clearly You will provides all that I need. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

Anywhere With Jesus

Read Exodus 33:12-17

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" - Hebrews 13:5-6

Reflection of Tommy:

It's hard at times to know and experience God's presence with us when we face dreadful and frightening circumstances in our lives. But as we read the countless verses in the bible, we can take comfort knowing our faithful and loving Father will indeed be presence with us at all the time and in every imaginable circumstances. Not only that, He has also promised to help and provide us refuge and strength to go through them (Psalm 46:1).

Dear Father, thank You and I praise You for being there with me always, protecting and caring for someone so unworthy of Your love. Thank You for Your forgiveness and mercy despite my constant lack of obedience and zeal to commit my life fully and truly to You.

Lord, teach me to submit my all to You, earnestly seek You and Your righteousness first above all things. Guide me to be willing to be changed and refined each day by You; working out Your plan and will in me. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

The Planting

Read 1 Corinthians 15:42-53

"We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed." —1 Corinthians 15:51

Reflection of Tommy:

Recent statistic shows that most healthy men will lives up to 71 years old while women 76 years old. Our body and its functions will deteriorates as we grow older each year. And there is absolutely nothing that we can do to stop this natural process. We may slow it down but eventually our current earthly body will fails.

Apostle Paul in his letter to the Corinthian church described vividly how and what will happen when we as believer dies. Instead of being fearful of aging, it gives us the hope and confidence that we will be raised just like Christ when we die and be given a new 'incorruptible' and glorified body (v52).

Dear Father, thank You for the victory we have over death through Christ. Thank You for the promised renewed, changed and glorified body like Jesus when He returns. Keep my heart and mind always on the things that are eternal and to walk ever closely to You daily. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

His Comforting Presence

Read Psalm 139:1-12

Reflection of Tommy:

We sometimes try to ‘hide’ from people; avoiding them from knowing us completely. We fear they may not like about certain things they discover about us. But with our loving God, who knows everything about us, we need not to be afraid because He will still accept and love us completely and faithfully. Not only that, God will be with us always – protecting, loving, guiding, comforting.

And as God’s lovingly and wonderfully made each one of us (v14), we should have as much respect for ourselves as He has for us. Instead of feeling worthless and hating ourselves, we should remember that His Spirit is ready and willing to work within us.

Dear Father, thank You for Your constant and comforting presence with me wherever I am or whatever I do (v7), that I can never be far from You or lost to Your Spirit. Guide me to walk ever closely to You, following all Your precepts and shining brightly the Light of Christ to the world around me. May my words and action bring all glory and honor unto You always. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Whitewater Experiences

Read 1 Chronicles 28:9-20

Reflection of Tommy:

"Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you." —1 Chronicles 28:20

I was with some friends this weekend thrashing through forest and crossing streams with ridiculously strong rapid and experience the amazing sight of a huge waterfall. As we were settling down for a swim, I climbed up to this big log that fell across the stream and planning to do a plunge from there into the sandy riverbed below.

It took me awhile before making the jump. A nearby guide advised me to just close my eyes and make the jump. I did and it was so easy, I did another jump instantly after that.

Similarly in today’s passage, David advised Solomon not to be frightened about the size of his task as both king and builder of the temple. Our fear of our tasks at hand, its risks or pressure can easily immobilize us and causing us to do nothing. The remedy to this fear is not to focus on the fear but to fully trust in God and to get to work! Our loving God has promised to always be with us (v20); never fail or forsake us (v21).

Dear Father, thank You that I can be honest and direct with You at all times for You know and understand everything in my heart. Search me, try me and reveal to me any part of my heart that are not right with You, that I may ask for Your forgiveness and to be changed and refined by the power of the Holy Spirit. May my heart be always open to Your molding that I will become a better witness and more obedient follower of Christ. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

No Bragging Rights

Read Ephesians 1:3-12

Reflection of Tommy:

Many Christians today still struggle to understand the meaning of being blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ (v3). Why do we still have to undergo so much fear, pain and suffering; what exactly are those spiritual blessings Paul was talking about?

When we believe and trust in Christ, we’ll have an intimate relationship with Him and receive all the benefits from knowing Him. We will be assured of being chosen for salvation (John 5:24) and adopted as His children (John 1:12; Rom.8:15)

Also, all our sins are forgiven: past, present and future (Col. 2:13-14), we’ll be delivered from Satan’s domain and transferred into the kingdom of Christ (Col. 1:13), Christ comes and dwell within us (Col. 1:27; Rev.3:20); we’ll become a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17), we’ll be declared righteous (2 Cor. 5:21) and being accepted by God (Col. 1:19-22). All these spiritual blessings are eternal and this gives us the confidence, hope, strength and peace to go through all the difficult challenges in this life.

Dear Father, thank You for all these wonderful truths, Your grace and love in sustaining me. Lord, whenever I’m lost and in fear and worry, remind me of these blessings I have in Christ. Guide me and supply me the wisdom and discernment to do what is right in Your sight. Give me strength for follow when I’m weary, burdened and in doubt. Build my faith stronger and trusting in You more as I journey with You. Lead me I pray in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Bread For The Coming Day

Read Matthew 6:9-13

Reflection of Tommy:

Many today are still being deceived by Satan’s lie that we can find greater significance and fulfillment apart from God. As we continually trapped in this meaningless search, we rob ourselves from what we truly need and what God intended us to be.

Only God can supply and fulfill these needs of ours. Only Him can fill the void in our heart. Seek Him and his kingdom today, and He will show to us the fruitful and abundant life He has promised for each one of us.

Dear Father, thank You for Your providence and blessings, that I have no need to worry about my needs if I were to follow You obediently. Guide me to seek the truth in Your Word and apply them in my daily life. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Great hope and comfort

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

Reflection of Tommy:

I was chatting with some friends that day on what will happen to believer who has passed away. We came out with all kinds of theories on how things will be for the dead after they die and exactly when they will be raised. Although we predicted many things but one thing is sure is that all of us will be reunited again in meeting the Lord in the air and will be with the Him forever (v17-18).

Paul’s message in today’s passage is not so much of how or when exactly we’ll be raised but instead it is to challenge us as believer to comfort and encourage one another when our loved ones die. Not only that, God will turn all our tragedies to triumphs, our poverty to riches, our suffering to glory and our defeat to victory!

Dear Father, thank You for such a comforting promise and hope I have in You. Teach me to make use of every opportunity to tell others about Your great gift of love for them. Guide me to comfort and reassure each other with this great hope we have in Christ. In His mighty Name I pray, Amen.

Prayers of Jesus

Read Psalm 23

Reflection of Tommy:

We see how even Jesus himself spend times praying for all the concerns around Him, in fact, the entire chapter 17 of the gospel of John is on His prayer to the Father. This is because we are living in a tremendous battleground, where the forces under Satan’s power and those under God’s authority are at war.

We are not wrestling against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, powers, rulers of the darkness and the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:10-17). But, we can take comfort knowing that as Jesus has prayed for His disciples, He still intercede for us all who follow Him today. He assured us to always keep us safe from Satan’s power or being snatched out from His hand (John 10:27-29); preparing us to be pure, holy and united through His truth.

Dear Father, thank You for the assurance and protection I have in Jesus, my Good Shepherd. Thank You for teaching me not to feel discouraged when trials and obstacles assails, but to rest all my cares and worries in Your mighty hand and trusting You to lead my ways. Lord, guide me also to first build a right relationship with You in joy, faithfulness and genuine commitment. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Full Pockets

Ephesians 1:3-12

Spiritual Blessings in Christ
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5he[a] predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. 7In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace 8that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. 9And he[b] made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, 10to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment—to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ.

11In him we were also chosen,[c] having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, 12in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory.

Reflection of Bee:

Tonight's passage has reminded me of my position in Christ and His blessings. God has planned for me that I may glorify Him. What is this plan?

When God closes a door He will open another, or even a few, as in my case. I pray that I will know God's will for my life and obey Him as He shows me.

Dear Lord,
“Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps. 119:105). Speak to me as I read Your word each day. May Your peace rests in my heart when I take the path You want me to go. I pray for Your discernment and wisdom as I speak to others.
I pray too that You will restore back my health soon that I may go to Your house to worship You this Sunday.
I pray too for few of my brothers and sisters in Christ who need Your guidance in their career. May You make Your will clear to them too.
In Your name I pray. Amen.


Reflection of Tommy:
A church member recently shared about how many Christians do not seize and claim all the spiritual blessings God has freely given to us when we accepted Christ in our lives. Many continue living in fear, anguish and bondage; feeling helpless and trapped.

But in today’s passage, we see how Paul clearly said as God adopted children; we have all the spiritual blessings now: peace, hope, wisdom, forgiveness, confidence, relationship with God. We need to start changing our perspective and seeing this as a reality in everything we do daily.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Son, Jesus Christ, that we have access to all these eternal blessings. Thank You that You has predestined me to know this great truth and leading me to fully claim them. Continue to be with me, protecting my mind from all distractions that lead me to believe the opposites. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

No Longer Young

Psalm 37:23-31

23 If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm;
24 though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
25 I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread.
26 They are always generous and lend freely; their children will be blessed.
27 Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever.
28 For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever, but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off;
29 the righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever.
30 The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks what is just.
31 The law of his God is in his heart; his feet do not slip.

Reflection of Bee:

As I learn to live as a Christian from the day I gave my heart to Jesus at the age of 12, I stumbled many times. The stumbling blocks could be others or myself. Yet through all those years I did not fall away from God. God kept my feet firm and my faith strong and upheld me with His hands (v23, 24).

God will watch over His children and will not allow them to become beggars. In fact, God told us not to worry about our future, for He knows our needs. We are more valuable than the lilies or the birds. He will watch over us as we keep our faith in him and obey His words. (Matthew 6:25-34)

Yes, as I grow older and reflect on how God have kept me and supplied my needs, my faith grows stronger each day.

Dear Lord,

Without You I can do nothing.
Without You life is just a dream.

Without You I will stumble and fall.

Without You I may lose my all.

Thank You for keeping me safe.

Thank You for guiding my way.

Thank You for supplying all my needs.

Thank You for the place in eternity.

In Jesus most wonderful name I thank You. Amen.

Reflection of Tommy:
When bad or difficult situation arise, it is easy to lost sight of how God has been faithfully helping us to go through our past trials and tribulations. We sometimes also tend to forget how He has been shaping us through the years.

Instead of feeling discouraged or doubting the care, love and presence of God, we need to remember the countless times He has lifted us up when we stumbled and gave us a new start. Be thankful always for He has promised to protect and bless (v26-28) those who keep His commands and trusting His providence.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me to always keep Your law in my heart. Guide me to take time to know Your Word and apply them in everything I do. Keep my feet from slipping and always turning from evil and do good. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

The Way To Success

Joshua 1:1-9

The LORD Commands Joshua
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' aide: 2 "Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Great Sea [a] on the west. 5 No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.

6 "Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Reflection of Bee:

Why did God have to tell Joshua to be strong and courageous" twice (v7, 9)? Because there will be many things which may discourage him and the Israelites as they tried to enter the promised land. The giants of the land are sure discouragements to them. Yet God showed Joshua how to be successful and prosperous.... by being obedient without compromising (v7, 8).

Similarly, we may encounter some discouragements in our Christian walk. Tonight God is also telling us to be courageous and be obedient to His word. This is the way to be successful and prosperous. He promised not to leave us nor forsake us.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for being with me through my discouraging moments. I pray You will grant me grace to be obedient to You always. I pray You will heal my sickness tonight and grant me a good night sleep.
I pray for safe journey home for my 'bf'. Grant him the power of Your Holy Spirit to live a life that is victorious and successful too.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.




Reflection of Tommy:
In today’s passage, we see how God repeatedly asking Joshua to be strong and courageous because of the tough challenges coming his way. Likewise, we will similarly face all kinds of difficult situation and trials in this life. But, as Christian we need not to be afraid or discouraged because God has promised never to abandon us or fail to help us.

All we need to do is to rest in His loving arm, trusting Him, obeying His Word day and night, and asking Him to direct and lead us in everything we do. In doing so, we’ll receive true lasting prosperity and success in God’s eyes.

Dear Father, thank You for the comforting assurance I have in You despite the difficulties at hand. Thank You for teaching me to be prepared always to face all obstacles ahead by being strong and courageous, obeying all Your laws and constantly reading, studying and applying Your Word in my life. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Our Living Hope

John 6:39-54

39And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all that he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. 40For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day."

41At this the Jews began to grumble about him because he said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." 42They said, "Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, 'I came down from heaven'?"

43"Stop grumbling among yourselves," Jesus answered. 44"No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him, and I will raise him up at the last day. 45It is written in the Prophets: 'They will all be taught by God.'[a] Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me. 46No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the Father. 47I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life. 48I am the bread of life. 49Your forefathers ate the manna in the desert, yet they died. 50But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which a man may eat and not die. 51I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world."

52Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?"

53Jesus said to them, "I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.

Reflection of Bee:

We may find life has many struggles and we may at times lose hope and wish that this life is over faster than it should be. For Christians, Jesus promised that He will give us "eternal life" and that He will raise us up at the last day. That's the hope Christians have when all else fail.

We can't bring our earthly possession with us. What is eternal is our relationship with the Lord and with those who love God, for we will meet again in heaven one day. Therefore we need to spend time to cultivate relationship that will last.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your promise of eternal life. I pray that I will cultivate a close relationship with You now and with my fellow believers. I pray that more will come to receive this life as I share Your love with them.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.


Reflection of Tommy:

As Christian, we know that Jesus is our spiritual bread that satisfies completely and leads to eternal life for those who eat it. But how do we exactly eat this living Bread? We eat this living Bread when we:

1. Accept Jesus Christ into our lives and become united with Him by believing in His death and resurrection.
2. Devoting ourselves to living as He requires, relying on His teaching for guidance and trusting in the Holy spirit for power.

Dear Father, thank You for the gift of the living Bread that truly satisfies all my longings and gives me an eternal life with You. Teach me to devote my life to You in love and service, depending solely on Your leading and guidance. May I also serve with humility and fervor, always trusting in Your providence and strength. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Into The Desert

Exodus 15:22-27

The Waters of Marah and Elim
22 Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water. 23 When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah. [a] ) 24 So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What are we to drink?"

25 Then Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became sweet.
There the LORD made a decree and a law for them, and there he tested them. 26 He said, "If you listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you."

27 Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve springs and seventy palm trees, and they camped there near the water.

Reflection of Bee:

Reading the passage above and what Marvin Williams said below in Our Daily Bread made my heart cried. It is as if God is speaking to me directly:

"If you are being led into a wilderness of disappointment and bitterness right now, trust God, for He knows exactly where you are and what you need. As you obey His commands, He will lead you out of the desert and into a place of spiritual abundance, healing, and refreshment."
—Marvin Williams

Yes, thank God for always knowing my needs and always using the right passage to encourage me. He knows what's in my heart, my deepest thoughts and inner cry. He knows what I have gone through.


Dear Lord,
You never fail to lead me on even when I am in the desert place.
You are with me to see me through my sweet and bitter experiences.
Thank You for keeping me through all my journey.
It's not an easy road to travel when my travelling companion has left me alone.
Thank You that You never leave me nor forsake me.
May You continue to see me through till You bring me home.
Thank You in Jesus' name. Amen.


Reflection of Tommy:
God’s message to the Israelites in today’s passage teaches us how to deal with pain and suffering in life. Instead of complaining or feeling sad and helpless; God reminds us to listen carefully to His voice and do what the Spirit prompted us to do (v26). God who is faithful and love His children so much will surely, in His time and way, bring true healing to our suffering.

Dear Father, thank You for hearing my cries and showing me how Christ will heal all my ‘sicknesses’. Keep me strong with Your peace and grace, always ready to listen to You and to do what is right in Your eyes. Teach me to trust You for all the things You’ve promised me in Your Word.

Lord, I would also like to pray for those who are struggling in the ‘dessert’, that they may see Your love and care, to come to You for healing and finding true fulfillment with Christ, in this life and the next. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Forever Perfect

Hebrews 10:8-18

8First he said, "Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not desire, nor were you pleased with them" (although the law required them to be made). 9Then he said, "Here I am, I have come to do your will." He sets aside the first to establish the second. 10And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

11Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God. 13Since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool, 14because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.

15The Holy Spirit also testifies to us about this. First he says:
16"This is the covenant I will make with them
after that time, says the Lord.
I will put my laws in their hearts,
and I will write them on their minds." 17Then he adds:
"Their sins and lawless acts
I will remember no more." 18And where these have been forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice for sin.

Reflection of Bee:

By ourselves we are all sinful. We may try very hard not to sin but our old sinful nature tends to surface every now and then, making us feel rotten and guilty after that.

However, tonight God said He will remember our sins and lawless acts no more. How can that be? Because Jesus paid the price for us on the cross. What He did was a perfect sacrifice, unlike the sacrifices in the Old Testament. He therefore becomes our great High Priest to intercede for us. God sees the righteousness of Jesus Christ instead of our sins.

Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for what You have done for us that we can be perfect just as You are perfect, not by our works but by Your blood.
Forgive me for all my sins and give me strength to live a life that is pleasing to You.
In Your name I pray. Amen.

Reflection of Tommy:

We may feel surprised, ashamed or disappointed with our selves when we fail and fall. We are troubled by the fact that we have been made perfect, once for all, through the death and resurrection of Christ but yet we still falter.

The truth is God’s work in us is not finished yet. Although we have been made perfect in His sight, we are still, at the same time, “being made holy” (v14), progressively cleansed and made for His special use in our daily walk.

Instead of giving up when we fall, we should immediately ask God for forgiveness and God who is faithful and just will forgive us and cleanse us again from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). He will lift us up again and give us strength to go on. And, we can help and encourage this growth process by always taking time for God and deliberately applying His Word in all areas of our lives.

Dear Father, thank You for forgiving me completely and that You have made me perfect in Your sight. May I always know how immeasurable these gifts really are, and to respond by giving You my devotion and service, accepting Your guidance and discipline and giving You control of my desires and goals. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Echoes Of Paradise

Revelation 21:1-7

The New Jerusalem
1Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."

5He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true."

6He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To him who is thirsty I will give to drink without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7He who overcomes will inherit all this, and I will be his God and he will be my son.

Reflection of Bee:

"I am making everything new!" (v5)

The above verse just struck me when I read tonight's devotion. It's like God telling me, "I am going to make everything NEW for you". A sudden joy flooded my soul with the verse echoing in my heart...

Yes, I wish to be made NEW. If only I can start my life all over again... I will do things differently. I guess in this life it's not possible, but all things will be NEW in my next life with the Lord. "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." (v4). How wonderful!

God promises "living water" to those who are thirsty. Yes, I want to drink it.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your assurance that You will make all things NEW. Renew my heart, mind, and soul Lord. Let me have a brand new start of my life for 2007. Let me be the channel of Your love.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.


Reflection of Tommy:

Today’s passage gives tremendous hope, comfort and encouragement for believers who are going through trial and hardship. God has promised those who love Him true fulfillment and eternal joy; there will be no more death, pain, sorrow and crying (v4). God has also promised us to be made perfect like Him and be invited into His new creation.

Dear Father, thank You for these great and wonderful promises I have in You. Thank You that because of Your love and grace that I will be united to live forever with You and my loved ones in lasting peace, security and love. Lord, may my heart continue to be receptive to your guidance and mold me to be more like Christ each day. I ask this in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

You Will Be With Me

Luke 23:32-43

32Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. 33When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. 34Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.

35The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One."

36The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar 37and said, "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself."

38There was a written notice above him, which read:|sc THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

39One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"

40But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? 41We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."

42Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."

43Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."

Reflection of Bee:

Someone ever promised me. "I Will Run With You." Yet I am 'running' alone now. :( The promises of men are often not reliable... they change over time. But not so with God... His word never fail.

In Isaiah 43:2,5 God said: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;" and "Do not be afraid, for I am with you;"

In Matthew 28:20, Jesus said, "And surely I am with you always".

In John 14:16, Jesus promised, "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever".

How comforting that promise is! No matter what happen to me, God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit will be with me always.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that Your promises are always true. Even though I "pass through the waters" and almost got 'drowned', yet You were with me to be my 'life buoy' to keep me 'afloat'. Thank You for Your presence despite my shortcomings.


Reflection of Tommy:

The story of Jesus on the Cross with the two criminals clearly shows that salvation doesn’t depend on our deeds but our faith in Christ. This also shows God’s great love and compassion to forgive even for those who repent at the very last moment. It is never too late to turn back to Him. But, this doesn’t mean we can wait until the very last minute, as the earlier we submit to God, the more useful and fulfilling our lives will be.

Dear Father, thank You for the confidence and hope in have in Christ. Thank You for what Christ has done for me on the Cross. Teach me to be like the believing criminal, to have such a faith to see beyond the present setback to the coming glory. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Impaired Vision

1 Corinthians 13:8-13

8Love 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. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10but 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. 12Now 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.

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

Bee's Thoughts:

When we have impaired vision, we can't see things clearly. Similarly, when we have impaired emotion, we can't feel or give love properly.

What does it mean by "love never fails"? I always wondered.

Tonight, in comparing with the next three sentences in the above passage, I begin to understand better:

"prophecies... will cease" - love never cease, it will continue
"tongues... will be stilled" - love will not be stilled, it will keep expressing itself
"knowledge... will pass away" - love will always be here to stay, be present, not becoming history

Why is it so? Because "God is love" and God is always present.

As I sought to understand more I came across a very good article "For women in ministry: Love requires sacrifice". Below are some excerpts from it:

True love is strong, unconditional – God's love – a love that we cannot understand or explain in human terms. The life of the Old Testament prophet, Hosea, powerfully illustrates this kind of love. Hosea was married to Gomer and had three children. Gomer was unfaithful to Hosea, betraying the covenant of marriage. Hosea had every right to walk away, but love that never fails calls us up to higher choices that are beyond human reasoning. Supernatural choices demand supernatural action.

First choice: Love that never fails chooses commitment. *
Second choice: Love that never fails chooses to forgive. **
Third choice: Love that never fails chooses to sacrifice ***

Mother Teresa said, "Love, to be real must cost! It must hurt! It must empty us of self!" The words of King David reveal the essence of love and forgiveness. "No, I must pay the full price. I won't give an offering that costs me nothing." (1 Chronicles 21:24 ICB)

Love that never fails goes beyond reason and refuses to settle for justice alone but insists on granting mercy.

Love that never fails is yours to receive and yours to give.

Notes:
* "true love does not collapse under the weight of testing. It will not disintegrate when the pressure is on nor will it fall apart in the hard times. True love is strong, unconditional – God's love – a love that we cannot understand or explain in human terms. The life of the Old Testament prophet, Hosea, powerfully illustrates this kind of love.
....Commitment never stops trying and never tries stopping. It is a pledge and bond, a covenant and contract. Commitment is a promise."

** "Love that chooses forgiveness is really the only choice that delivers us from the chains of anger, resentment, revenge, and bitterness. Right now, choose forgiveness and set yourself free."

*** 1. Hosea had to sacrifice his pride.
2. Hosea had to sacrifice his rights.
3. Hosea had to sacrifice materially.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for helping me see what it means to truly love. Let me love with Your Agape love that never fails.
Amen, Jesus.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Sometimes, we find it hard to understand or accept certain situation in our lives. We felt confused and lost over problems and unanswered questions. Paul in today’s passage gives us the hope that one day we’ll be able to see and know the whole big picture with God’s perspective. We will meet Jesus face to face and all things will be made clear to us. Until then, we need to trust and humbly allow God to work in our lives, so that He can lead us closer and closer to His truth and changes us in the process.

Dear Father, thank You for the hope and promise for me to be made complete one day. Thank You that through these Word of Yours, my faith is strengthened each day. Lord, lead me to follow You wholeheartedly, giving You my all in true and joyful obedience. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Eternal Protection

John 10:22-30

The Unbelief of the Jews
22Then came the Feast of Dedication[a] at Jerusalem. It was winter, 23and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon's Colonnade. 24The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ,[b] tell us plainly."

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

Bee's Thoughts:

When I was a young Christian, the above passage was one which my bible study leaders and also the pastors kept mentioning. The emphasis was on being the "sheep" that "listen" and "follow" Jesus Christ. That is, when we listen and obey Christ, we can have the assurance that "no one" (including Satan), except ourselves, can snatch us from Him.

Is this about "eternal security"? In a sense yes, but with conditions (i.e. to listen and follow). For those who professed to be Christians but not listening or following Christ, then this promise may not apply. As in Philippians 2:12-18, we are to "continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling" where our lives reflect Christ likeness.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your secured arms that hold me tight each time the evil one tries to snatch me away from You through all means. Sometimes the devil uses people to hurt me, sometimes he sows discord between friends, sometimes he makes me feel discouraged, etc. But thank You that his mission always fail, 'cos You are always there to bring me back to where I should be and not fall into his tricks.
Tonight, I want to pray that You will continue to keep me from falling. Help me to listen to Your small still voice and follow Your word.
I pray that we, Your children, may be one as You and the Father are one. I pray for unity amongst us and that Your love will flow in our hearts and in our actions.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.



Tommy's Thoughts:

Whenever I think of how God came into my life, no words can explain the joy, gratitude and sense of wonder of His great Gift for me. As believers, we are not only given a new life but an everlasting safety and protection from eternal harm when we choose to follow Jesus. Nothing can ever separate us from the hand of God (v29).

Dear Father, thank You again for coming into my life, saving me from ‘blindness’ and ‘recklessness’. Nothing can describe how amazing Your love and grace for me, though I do not deserve this Gift of yours. Lord, keep me standing firm in my faith and humbly submit to You in total obedience. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.