Winds Of Love

1 John 4:1-8

Test the Spirits
1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.

4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.

God's Love and Ours
7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Tommy's Thoughts:

My friend’s brother is getting married in the coming month. They went to see a pastor to arrange their ceremony at the church and etc. They were shocked and puzzled over the request of the pastor to ask them live separately before the marriage. Their parents, who are Christians themselves, think the church is too strict and even worried their teaching is cultish!

There are ideas and values today that becoming more and more acceptable and popular in our society. They are normally things people like and want to hear, but are hidden with traps and many unseen consequences. Even some Christians were not aware of how much harm and damage these norms are to themselves and their close ones.

Fortunately, we have the Word of God to shed light and verify the many wrong teachings in the world today. We can find so much wisdom, head and heart knowledge in the Bible to guide our every action. If we come to God daily, humbly seeking His words, we will see with our eyes many things are wrong in the world today.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me not to conform with the wrongs in the world today. Guide me always to follow the examples of Jesus when dealing with issues in my life; revealing the love of God through my own actions wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Bee's Thoughts:

We are to love one another with the love that comes from God, not with the counterfeit of love which is frequently practiced in the world today. The amount of our love does determine how much we really know God (v8). So when we claim that we are "born of God" (i.e. Christians) and know God, then love should follows.

God's love is different from that of the world. God's love can wait, it doesn't rush; it grows slowly, not overnight; it grows stronger, not give up half way; it thinks of "you", not think of "I"; it never fails...

Dear Lord,
Thank You for tonight's devotion and the article I read. They explained and reinforced my concept of love. Yes, love is patient in waiting, not rushing. You have never rushed me into loving You. You drew me with Your unfailing love and I ran after You. Thank You for Your love. Let me love with Your love too.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

When Brokenhearted

Psalm 34:11-22

11 Come, my children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

12 Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,

13 keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from speaking lies.

14 Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous
and his ears are attentive to their cry;

16 the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
to cut off the memory of them from the earth.

17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.

18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

19 A righteous man may have many troubles,
but the LORD delivers him from them all;

20 he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.

21 Evil will slay the wicked;
the foes of the righteous will be condemned.

22 The LORD redeems his servants;
no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.

Tommy's Thoughts:

It is easy to give up listening to God when troubles never stop coming our ways. We may be tempted to think that God is not there with us. We may even get frustrated thinking that He’s either doesn’t care about our dilemma or not powerful enough to solve our problems. We ended up making decision hastily, doing things on our own, to ease or escape from our problems. Often, this leads to even more disappointment and complication.

Whether we are Christian or not, life on earth will be filled with all kinds of uncertainties, pain, hardship, failure, grief and sorrow. It is why we need God’s strength, peace, hope, courage and wisdom to help us through all our problems. He has promised to be with us, standing beside us, protecting us all the time, gently holding our hands while we go through life’s rough journey.

Dear Lord, thank You for being there with me everyday; helping me through the many frustration and stress in my life. I can now lift up my head to go through life with Your strength and confidence without being constantly wear down by them. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

It's so comforting to know that God's eyes are always on those who seek to live Godly life and He will listen to their cry (v15).

Many have testified that God seems nearest to them when they are depressed or brokenhearted. That's exactly what God promised in the above psalm (v18). I have experienced that many times in my life too. Those were the times I really listened to what God had to say to me. As I opened myself to Him and He healed me.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that You always watch over me and hear my cry. Thank You for being so close to me whenever I need You most. Thank You for delivering me from all my toubles.
Praise You in Jesus' name. Amen.

Serve with Gladness

Ephesians 6:5-9

Slaves and Masters
5 Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. 6 Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but like slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. 7 Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, 8 because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free.

9 And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.

Tommy's Thoughts:

We spend big portion of our time at work. So, it’s a great blessing from God when our boss trusted in us to do our best, having confidence in the things we do and decision we make. As Christian, we should repay this trust by working hard and with enthusiasm in our works even when the boss is not around. We should see Jesus as our supervisor and do our work with diligence, responsibility and integrity.

Dear Lord, thank You for the blessings You have shown to me. Thank You for answering my prayers when I needed Your wisdom, strength and peace. Teach me to know Who I ultimately should want to please in everything I do. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Christians are supposed to be the best workers, if they follow the teaching of the Bible to serve their earthly masters/employers like they serve the Lord. Likewise, Christians bosses are supposed to be the best bosses if they follow biblical teaching. However, if they are unwilling to serve the Lord, then it doesn't make sense for them to serve their employers well or treat their employees well too. So it begins with their relationship with the Lord and how they serve Him in the first place.

Dear Lord,
Let me serve You with gladness that I may always serve my earthly employers with gladness too. When there are issues at my workplace, let me always get Your wisdom to resolve them. I commit my work to You, Lord. Let me find favor in the eyes of people I work with, for I work hard as unto You.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Divine Strength

John 18:1-11

Jesus Arrested
1 When he had finished praying, Jesus left with his disciples and crossed the Kidron Valley. On the other side there was an olive grove, and he and his disciples went into it.

2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas came to the grove, guiding a detachment of soldiers and some officials from the chief priests and Pharisees. They were carrying torches, lanterns and weapons.

4 Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, "Who is it you want?"

5 "Jesus of Nazareth," they replied.

"I am he," Jesus said. (And Judas the traitor was standing there with them.) 6When Jesus said, "I am he," they drew back and fell to the ground.

7 Again he asked them, "Who is it you want?"
And they said, "Jesus of Nazareth."

8 "I told you that I am he," Jesus answered. "If you are looking for me, then let these men go." 9 This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: "I have not lost one of those you gave me."

10 Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.)

11 Jesus commanded Peter, "Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?"

Tommy's Thoughts:

In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was greatly troubled and deeply distressed over not only the physical pain He will endure, but also the burden of sins and separation from the Father. But, after a fervent and persistent prayer, Jesus left the garden strengthened in His resolve. Boldly He said “I am He” to the soldiers and officials from the chief priests and Pharisees that came looking for Him.

There are times we feel unable to obey or follow what we know is right. We face difficult situations and trying circumstances that move us to choose the easy way out, the shortcuts. These are the times where we need to pray fervently to God to give us the strength to go where He wanted us to go, doing what He knows is best for us. We need to pray by submitting to the will of God; enabling us to face the cup of life given to us.

Dear Lord, thank You for giving me the resolve in keeping and applying Your teachings to all those hard situations I have to face in my life. Thank You also for Your strength and peace that keep me going, holding firmly to the glorious hope in You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

There's no coincidence that I have just watched the documentary show, the "Gospel of Judas", screened over the Discovery Channel on the TV tonight. In this 'gospel' Judas was portrayed as the one helping Jesus to fulfill His mission, instead of being a betrayer. What a world of difference from the four gospels, Matthew, Mark Luke John. This is also available at the National Geographic site.

What touches me is not so much the difference in the accounts in this 'gospel', as I don't think it can hold any 'water', but rather the scenes on Jesus dying on the cross and the Christians who were tortured for their faith in Christ. Undoubtingly it shows God's divine power in them. Likewise, we Christians today are able to receive strength from God if we have to suffer for His name's sake.

Interestingly, I have just read a 15-year-old student's blog, asking the following questions:

1. If a gun was pointed at you and you were asked if you were a Christian and if you said yes you will be shot, what would you say?

2. If a gun was pointed at your mother, a non believer, and if you said you were a christian, she would be shot, what would you say?

Hmmn... food for thoughts... what will be your answers?


Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding me today that I can receive strength from You if I have to suffer. Thank You that You are the true and living God. I pray that I will hold fast my faith when testing comes upon me. I pray that I will not deny Your name.
In Jesus' name I ask. Amen.

The Great Overcomer

Hebrews 12:1-16

God Disciplines His Sons
1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons:
"My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
6 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son."

7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? 8 If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! 10 Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 "Make level paths for your feet," so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.

Tommy's Thoughts:

I was startled by an illustration of Christ’s Crucifixion when I was young. During that time, I was yet to know the meaning and of Christ’s divinity. The only thing I saw and felt was the excruciating pain this person must has gone through on the cross. But, what puzzled me most and what I don’t see in other religions was the image of how a ‘holy person’ was shown sacrificed and tortured, instead of being a mighty and all-powerful.

Little did I know, this seemingly ‘defeat’ was in fact the greatest victory and act of genuine love in history of mankind! Without this key event, everything in life will be futile, impossible and hopeless because of our sins. And we will never know how much God really loves each one of us that He laid down His own precious Son to give us salvation.

Nothing is more perfect or wonderful than God’s plan and love for us.

Dear Lord, how great, wonderful and amazing Your love! Forgive me that at times I’m slow to see and obey Your ways and teachings, focusing only on feeling and selfish gain. Forgive me also for not shining brightly as Your children of light to those around me by being self-centered, not seeing the needs of others.

Thank You Jesus for making the impossible possible through what You have done for me on the Cross. Thank You also for being there with me all the time, in good and trying times, and never leave or forsake me (Deuteronomy 31:6, Joshua 1:5, Hebrews 13:5).

Lord, I pray that You’ll help me to remember not to take for granted the love and salvation I have received freely from You and teach me to be obedient, continue growing each day to be more like Christ in every aspects of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Very often, we are distracted by many things during our walk with God. Things such as our career, our relationships, our studies, our ambitions, our envious or inferior-complex self can make us lose focus on what is eternal.

Here Paul asked us, Christians, to "throw off everything that hinder" us and the "sins that entangle" (v1), and to fix our eyes on Jesus (v2). Whenever we feel weary in doing what is right, we are to turn to Jesus as our role model for our perseverence.

Dear Lord,
Search my heart and show me tonight the things that hinder me in running this spirtual race with You. I want to remove them as You commanded. Give me strength to do so. For things that help and encourage me to walk with You more, let me not be tired in doing them.

I pray that You will protect my best friend as he travels for his working trip tomorrow. May You grant him journey mercy and give him a fruitful trip. Let Your wisdom be in his mouth as he deals with people at work. Let him find peace and rest in You. May You bring him home safely again.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Christian Walk

2 Timothy 2:1-13

1 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. 5 Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. 7 Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

8 Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, 9 for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained. 10 Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory.

11 Here is a trustworthy saying:
If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
12 if we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
13 if we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.

Bee's Thoughts:

Paul asked us to reflect on the following people to learn from them:

"reliable men" - only then are they qualified to teach others
"soldier" - stay focus and not get distracted by the cares of this life, so he can please the one he serves
"athlete" - follow the rules and stay disciplined, so he can receive the crown
"farmer" - be hardworking, so he can reap the harvest

One thing that touches me is "if we are faithless, he will remain faithful" (v13). God has shown Himself faithful to me over and over again despite my faithlessness. Thank God for that.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the reminder tonight that I should have the characteristics of a reliable person, a soldier, an athlete, and a hardworking farmer. Help me in my spiritual walk with You. Give me strength to go on no matter what.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Healing of Conscience

Hebrews 9:11-28

The Blood of Christ
11 When Christ came as high priest of the good things that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made, that is to say, not a part of this creation. 12 He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption. 13 The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. 14 How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!

15 For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.

16 In the case of a will, it is necessary to prove the death of the one who made it, 17 because a will is in force only when somebody has died; it never takes effect while the one who made it is living. 18 This is why even the first covenant was not put into effect without blood. 19 When Moses had proclaimed every commandment of the law to all the people, he took the blood of calves, together with water, scarlet wool and branches of hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll and all the people. 20 He said, "This is the blood of the covenant, which God has commanded you to keep." 21 In the same way, he sprinkled with the blood both the tabernacle and everything used in its ceremonies. 22 In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.

23 It was necessary, then, for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24 For Christ did not enter a man-made sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God's presence. 25 Nor did he enter heaven to offer himself again and again, the way the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not his own. 26 Then Christ would have had to suffer many times since the creation of the world. But now he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, 28 so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Jesus has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself (v26). Christ’s death once and for all effectively frees us from dying spiritually, eternally separated from God because of our sin. When we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we no longer need to worry or frustrated about our old self or past sins, feeling not being good enough for God or trying hard to earn His favor.

Dear Lord, thank You for Christ who has shed His blood for me, cleansed my consciences and freed me from the power of sin and death. Teach me to remember not to continue carrying the load of guilt on my shoulder but to be renewed in Christ, presenting my needs and service to You as an offering. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Conscience is a God-given beacon to guide us in how we should live, with or without the law of the land. Our conscience will prick us when we try to do something that is morally not right. However, if we keep rejecting the pricking of our conscience it will become hardened, and then darkened or dead... we will lose the ability to distinguish right and wrong.

It's sad that sin has caused our conscience to go to 'sleep'. It can only be awakened when we allow the blood of Christ to cleanse it (v14). That's why when a person become a born-again Christian, he will suddenly become very sensitive to what is right and wrong. His life will begin to change as the Spirit of God works in him.

"Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned." (1 Timothy 1:5).

"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water." (Hebrews 10:22).

Often, the devil will accuse us when our conscience is not clear. We then dare not go to God in prayer. We forget that we can come before God through the blood of Christ, that cleanses us from our evil conscience.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for that the blood of Christ that has cleansed my heart and my conscience. I need Your daily cleansing that I may come to You in full assurance of faith. Help me to have a pure heart and a good conscience that I may please You.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

When The Pressure Is On

Romans 5:1-5

Peace and Joy
1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Rejoicing in our sufferings? How can we feel joy when we are in pain and distress? Not only it seems impossible to feel joy, it’s even hard to feel anything when we are deeply hurt, discouraged or disappointed. We find ways and outlets to release the pressure or lessen the pain, but only for awhile and things might even turn worst like developing all kinds of addictions.

As Christian, we can rejoice despite our sufferings not because we like pain or ignoring its significance, but because we know we are complete in Christ, having the peace from being made right with God. Rejoice because we know God is using our lives’ difficulties and Satan’s attacks to help us grow and build our character. Through sufferings, we can identify ourselves with Christ, not being discouraged with problems but learning to depend on the power from Christ, who lives in us by the Holy Spirit.

Dear Lord, these few weeks have been especially tough for me. The stress and problems don’t seem to go away or end anytime soon. But, I know and can see for the first time, thanks to the Holy Spirit, what You are trying to equip me with through all these ‘obstacles’. And, I’m happy that I can still give You thanks and praise everyday knowing that You have poured out Your love into my hearts (v5), changing and renewing me to be more like Christ each day. Thank You Lord! In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Since childhood days, there were times I hoped I could just disappear from this earth when my sufferings became too unbearable. During those times I wished I had never been born, just like what I wrote in my poem. I envied those who come from good homes.

This passage has always been one that kept me persevering on in spite of the sufferings I'd gone through in life. I knew that God wanted to mould my character through them. Yes, I have become someone who has more persevering power, more patient, more empathy, never give up easily on things or people. And yes, my faith in Christ grew stronger too.

I know there are more things for me to learn. I need to learn not only to accept sufferings but to "rejoice" in them too.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for moulding my character through those sufferings. Let me learn to rejoice and give thanks to You each time sufferings come along instead of passively accepting it or complaining about it. It's not an easy lesson but Your Spirit will help me learn it.
I also want to pray for my friends who are having some struggles in life that You will be their strength at this moment. May You teach them Your ways and their paths. I pray that Your peace be with them right now.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Pride goes before Destruction

2 Kings 20:12-21

Envoys From Babylon
12 At that time Merodach-Baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent Hezekiah letters and a gift, because he had heard of Hezekiah's illness. 13 Hezekiah received the messengers and showed them all that was in his storehouses—the silver, the gold, the spices and the fine oil—his armory and everything found among his treasures. There was nothing in his palace or in all his kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them.

14 Then Isaiah the prophet went to King Hezekiah and asked, "What did those men say, and where did they come from?"
"From a distant land," Hezekiah replied. "They came from Babylon."

15 The prophet asked, "What did they see in your palace?"
"They saw everything in my palace," Hezekiah said. "There is nothing among my treasures that I did not show them."

16 Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, "Hear the word of the LORD : 17 The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your fathers have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the LORD. 18 And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood, that will be born to you, will be taken away, and they will become eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon."

19 "The word of the LORD you have spoken is good," Hezekiah replied. For he thought, "Will there not be peace and security in my lifetime?"

20 As for the other events of Hezekiah's reign, all his achievements and how he made the pool and the tunnel by which he brought water into the city, are they not written in the book of the annals of the kings of Judah? 21 Hezekiah rested with his fathers. And Manasseh his son succeeded him as king.

Bee's Thoughts:

King Hezekiah's showing off of his wealth in his pride had brought about his downfall. In fact, he didn't believe when Isaiah prophesied about his wealth being taken away (v19).

There is a human tendency to show off one's achievements, especially if they were obtained through much hardship. I remember my ex-boss (unbelievably also a 'pastor') kept bragging about his wealth, his son's and wife's intelligence, etc, to me and other staff. He would repeat the same thing each time he had a chance. He even went to the extend of buying a 'PhD' cert for his wife finally when she couldn't even produce a basic degree cert. All these came about because he went though much pains and difficulties in his youth. I just feel sorry for him. He would haev been a very good and successful man if not for his pride.

Pride not only comes through bragging, but many times it's in our attitude too. When we try to do things by our own strength instead of relying on God, that's pride. The bible warns that pride comes before a fall, so we have to be very careful not to fall into it. Jesus shows the way of true humility by becoming a man and die on the cross for us.

Dear Lord,
Please forgive me for my own pride too when at times I tend to rely on my own natural talents and abilities instead of on You. Forgive me too for saying things that appeared as pride to others unknowingly. I want to humble myself before You now and ask that You will guide and lead me in my speech and my walk. I want to commit my work and my relationship with people to You now. May You get the glory in all I do and say.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Pride.

C. S. Lewis in his book explains: "Pride gets no pleasure out of having something, only out of having more of it than the next man. It is the comparison that makes you proud: the pleasure of being above the rest. Once the element of competition has gone, pride has gone."

It’s said in the Bible, the proud love "the praise of men more than the praise of God." (John 12:42-43). They compete in all kind of ways solely to win men's praise and approval, to be a cut above the rest. Instead of being thankful by giving credits to God, they try to impress others with the blessings they received. But, pride often goes before destruction (Prov. 16:18).

Dear Lord, thank You for the many gifts and blessings I received from You. Teach me Lord not to be proud with the sense of self-congratulations or aggrandizement, striving only in earning the favor and admiration of others. Rather, guide me to always humbly acknowledge all I’ve received came from You, and to give You praise and thanksgiving for everything. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

He'll Never Forsake Us

Psalm 71:9-18

9 Do not cast me away when I am old;
do not forsake me when my strength is gone.

10 For my enemies speak against me;
those who wait to kill me conspire together.

11 They say, "God has forsaken him;
pursue him and seize him,
for no one will rescue him."

12 Be not far from me, O God;
come quickly, O my God, to help me.

13 May my accusers perish in shame;
may those who want to harm me
be covered with scorn and disgrace.

14 But as for me, I will always have hope;
I will praise you more and more.

15 My mouth will tell of your righteousness,
of your salvation all day long,
though I know not its measure.

16 I will come and proclaim your mighty acts, O Sovereign LORD;
I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone.

17 Since my youth, O God, you have taught me,
and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.

18 Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, O God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your might to all who are to come.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Last week, I heard a testimony from a church speaker who had been disappointed, frustrated and discouraged for over 7 years because the action and decision of others. Although he was tempted to be dishonest and take the easy way out from his dilemma, he decided to listen to God’s voices and follow His leading.

He held on to his integrity with hope in God through all those years. Despite the situation, He still saw God faithfully standing beside him, helping and blessing him in other meaningful ways.

At times, things do turn out not the way we wanted or expected. It’s easy to wrongly think God has abandoned us or worst working against us. We need to be like the psalmists, who have resolute confidence and hope in God’s constant help and refuge in all circumstances. With a grateful heart, they praise and thank God, proclaiming His righteousness and declaring His sovereignty.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your constant help and guidance to me. Forgive me that sometimes I overlook or is unaware of Your good works in my life, blinded by situations in front of me. I will sing praises to You all the days of my life, making it a testimony of what You has done for me. In the wonderful name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.

"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." - Joshua 1:9

Bee's Thoughts:

The above psalm shows King David as human as we are. In his old age, frail and weak, he wondered if God would forsake him. Therefore his plea, "Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone." (v9) and "Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God" (v18). This seems like a reverse-phsychological statement, 'cos I believe he knew very well that God will never forsake him. When we read all the pslams written by King David, we could see his full confidence in God, and his desire to do God's will. He is known as "a man after God's own heart".

Sometimes I also felt the way King David did. When I was a young Christian, I like to use the prayers of David as mine to God. Each time I prayed like David did, I felt the assurance from God.

Recently, I miss some of my close friends a lot as they are all so busy with works these days, so am I. Yes, friends may forsake us no matter how close we are to each other before, or how good we have been towards them, but not the almighty God. It's time like this that we have to always come back to God's word to be reassured of His faithfulness and love towards us.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that You will never leave me nor forsake me, even when I am old. My close ones may leave me, but You won't, Your presence is ever before me. Help me not to feel sad or hurt when loved ones do not love me as before anymore. Help me to stay strong in Your love and continue to care for them with Your unfailing love. Help me in my weakness and my weariness.
I pray all these in Jesus' name. Amen.

Love and Obedience

Mark 2:1-12

Jesus Heals a Paralytic
1 A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. 2 So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. 3 Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."

6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 "Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, "Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Get up, take your mat and walk'? 10 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins . . . ." He said to the paralytic, 11 "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." 12 He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, "We have never seen anything like this!"

Bee's Thoughts:

The 4 men who carried the paralytic to Jesus were undeterred by the crowd and the hassle of digging through the roof in order to lower him down to Jesus. I see persistency in action... and that also translates into love for someone and also faith in Jesus' healing power.

Love perseveres and never give up easily. Faith in Jesus brings forgiveness and healing too. Our constant prayers for someone also translate into love for that person. Sometimes, earnest and constant prayers can be even more valuable than what we can do for someone we love.

Dear Lord,
Thank you for those who care enough to pray for me everyday. I pray the same for them that you will keep and guide them daily too. May our prayers be a pleasing offering to You. Praise You Lord. Amen

Tommy's Thoughts:

Jesus as Son of Man was fully human. Being a man, Jesus has faced the same kind of temptations, sufferings and longings like every human being. He understands and can easily relates with everything we have to go through in life; our needs, our pains, our struggles.

Jesus is also the Son of God, having the power and authorities of God. He has the authority over temptation, authority over the lives of men, authority over nature, authority to establish truth, authority over demons, authority over sickness and ultimately the authority to forgive our sin.

So, we have a God that truly understand our every predicament and also has the power and authority to help us overcome them, setting us free and healing us. In order for this to happen, all we need is to have the total faith and obedience in Christ. But often, the problem is not we do not want to obey, it’s because we think we are unable to obey or to see how we can do it.

In today’s passage, Jesus asked the paralytic to do exactly what he could not do in himself, to rise up and walk. But he obeyed because Jesus asked him to. And He was healed the very moment he obeyed the command. So, even when we cannot see how we can do what He says, we must respond to Him in obedience in order to receive that power. And it will be there when we do respond!

God’s grace comes in at the point of our obedience.

Dear Lord, thank You for forgiving my sins and making me the kind of person you want me to be. Take control of my life and teach me to always listen to Your voice, knowing what You’re saying to me everyday. May my faith and obedience in You produces fruits, fruits that changes myself and touches the lives of others. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Amazing Love

Genesis 45:1-13

Joseph Makes Himself Known
1 Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, "Have everyone leave my presence!" So there was no one with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers. 2 And he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh's household heard about it.

3 Joseph said to his brothers, "I am Joseph! Is my father still living?" But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence.

4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, "Come close to me." When they had done so, he said, "I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! 5 And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. 6 For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will not be plowing and reaping. 7 But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.

8 "So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt. 9 Now hurry back to my father and say to him, 'This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; don't delay. 10 You shall live in the region of Goshen and be near me—you, your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds, and all you have. 11 I will provide for you there, because five years of famine are still to come. Otherwise you and your household and all who belong to you will become destitute.'

12 "You can see for yourselves, and so can my brother Benjamin, that it is really I who am speaking to you. 13 Tell my father about all the honor accorded me in Egypt and about everything you have seen. And bring my father down here quickly."

Bee's Thoughts:

I like the attitude of Joseph. He did not resent the fact that his brothers had sold him into slavary. He saw it as God's doing, that "all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28). He knew that God had a purpose for allowing the seemingly bad thing to happen in his life. He loved his brothers still, he forgave them and consoled them, asking them not to feel bad about the wrong they did to him.

God was teaching me something through today's Sunday Service sermon, "Finding the Strength to Go On". Today's devotion has reinforced that message that when things happen to me it may be a blessing in disguise, like in Joseph's case. Therefore, during my time of crisis I should find strength to go on in God.

Yes, when I looked back at my past, from childhood till now, I could see God's hands in my life. He allowed things to happen to me in order to mould my life to what I am today... my life transformation, my education, my career, my relationship, etc. For all these, I give God the glory.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that You have never left me alone in my despair or crisis. You have been there with me all the time and see me through every trials. Praise You, Lord. Amen.

Tommy's Thought:

“Jesus answered them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." - Luke 5:31-32

We have a wonderful God that knows, seeks and helps out those in the greatest need, those who feel helpless and condemned. By His amazing love and grace, God redeem us from being doomed to sin and eternal punishment. God makes this possible through the death of His own Son, Jesus Christ on the cross; wiping away our sins and making us renewed and whole again.

But, we often forget this, of what Christ has done for us, by continually hating, blaming and condemning our self for the wrongs we have committed. Satan commonly uses our doubt on the sufficiency of the Cross, to pull us off track, trapping us indefinitely from drawing close to God and others.

So, when we say we believe and trusted in what Christ has done for us:

1. We should know all of our sins have been forgiven: past, present and future (Col. 2:13-14)


2. We have been delivered from Satan's power and domain (Col. 1:13)


3. We have been declared righteous by God (2 Cor. 5:21)


4. We have been accepted by God (Col. 1:19-22)


5. We have now Christ dwelling within us (Col. 1:27)


6. We have become new creations of God (2 Cor. 5:17)


7. We have received eternal life (John 5:24)

Do always remember and meditate upon, especially this coming Good Friday and Easter, the fact that the forgiveness of our sins, the new life within us and our entry into God's presence is based completely and solely on the work of Christ at Calvary.

Dear Lord, how great and amazing Your love! I’ll praise and glorify Your name forever. Thank You for Your faithfulness and all that You have done for me, yesterday, today and tomorrow. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray, Amen.

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

Priorities

Philippians 3:1-11

No Confidence in the Flesh

1 Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you.

2 Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. 3 For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— 4 though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.

7 But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10 I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Our relationship with Christ is more important than everything in life. To know Him and His resurrection power, we may have to give up certain things or make sacrifices. It might be our time, comfort, plans, pleasures, or fulfillments. When we trust in Him, we are united with Him, exchanging our shortcomings for His complete righteousness. His resurrection power will help us to live morally renewed and regenerated lives.

Like His resurrection that gives us a new life, His crucifixion brings death to our old sinful nature. To know His resurrection and to have our lives transformed, we must also apply Christ’s crucifixion on all our sins. We must make the conscious effort to know Christ has already put to death all our sin, giving us a new and victorious start as sin no longer have control over us.

Dear Lord, forgive me that at times I place other things above seeking a relationship with You, to know You personally and to make sacrifices. Help me to realize and know to die to sin and be renewed through the victory of Christ’s resurrection. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Paul has given up all his learning and status to become a follower of Christ. His goal in life was "to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death" (v10). Shouldn't that be my goal too?

Dear Lord,
May I truly know Christ... not just on the surface.
May I truly experience the power of His ressurection... raising me from my dying spirit.
May I truly share in His sufferings... knowing His pains.
May I become like Him... a shinning light.
In Jesus' name I humbly pray. Amen.




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

The Rest

Matthew 11:20-30

Woe on Unrepentant Cities
20Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his miracles had been performed, because they did not repent. 21"Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. 22But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. 23And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths.[a] If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. 24But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you."

Rest for the Weary
25At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.

27"All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.

28"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Tommy's Thoughts:

Heavy burdens.

They come in many forms. We may be carrying a burden of a sin from our past, a bondage that seems unbreakable, an unhealed hurt deep inside our heart, excessive demands by others at work and home, oppressions, unfulfilled longings this side of heaven or weariness in searching for God. We may go through life carrying these extra loads with despair and hopelessness.

But, Jesus has promised to give us rest if we were to come to Him when we are weary and burdened. This rest is love, healing and peace with God when we share His yoke. When we work right beside Him, we will see our attitude and perception over things changes: meaningless, stressful, tiring chores turn into spiritual productivity, opportunity and purpose.

Dear Lord, thank You for your forgiveness and gift of salvation. Thank You for being there with me when I was worn down from carrying my burdens. Thank You for giving me a purpose in life, to honor and glorify You in everything I do (Isaiah 43:7, 1 Corinthians 6:20). Lord, teach me to seek your truth in childlike faith, knowing only You holds all the answers. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

I always like verse 28,"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Very often I refuse to rest even though I am weary and worn. I struggled to keep going till I drop literally. It can become very unproductive to just push myself further instead of taking a break and rest to recharge my engery.

Spiritually is the same, Jesus invited us to go to Him to find rest. Sometimes I like to run away to a quiet place to just spend time with God. That is a spiritual and emotional rest in Him. Only by doing so can I find the recharged energy to go on to love and to care for others.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that You are my rest. I need You even now. I am very tired. Amen.

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

Wounded For Me

Isaiah 53

1 Who has believed our message
and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?

2 He grew up before him like a tender shoot,
and like a root out of dry ground.
He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him,
nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.

3 He was despised and rejected by men,
a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering.
Like one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

4 Surely he took up our infirmities
and carried our sorrows,
yet we considered him stricken by God,
smitten by him, and afflicted.

5 But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.

6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray,
each of us has turned to his own way;
and the LORD has laid on him
the iniquity of us all.

7 He was oppressed and afflicted,
yet he did not open his mouth;
he was led like a lamb to the slaughter,
and as a sheep before her shearers is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.

8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away.
And who can speak of his descendants?
For he was cut off from the land of the living;
for the transgression of my people he was stricken.

9 He was assigned a grave with the wicked,
and with the rich in his death,
though he had done no violence,
nor was any deceit in his mouth.

10 Yet it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer,
and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering,
he will see his offspring and prolong his days,
and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

11 After the suffering of his soul,
he will see the light of life and be satisfied;
by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many,
and he will bear their iniquities.

12 Therefore I will give him a portion among the great,
and he will divide the spoils with the strong,
because he poured out his life unto death,
and was numbered with the transgressors.
For he bore the sin of many,
and made intercession for the transgressors.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Today passages from the Old Testament revealed an astounding prophecy of the Messiah, Jesus Christ coming to save humanity by dying for our sin. He was despised and rejected by those around him at that time and still is by many today. Some reject Him by ridiculing and against everything about Him. Others hide their faces and feel ashamed to be associated with Him. There are also those who despise even His great gift of forgiveness and continue living a life of sins.

Why do we still reject Jesus and become a wandering sheep after knowing all that He has done for us? Isn’t our sin of rejecting Him will be much greater than the ancient Israelites who could not see what we have seen? Life is also futile if we were to reject the gift given freely to us by Jesus’ great work on the cross. We will never be justified and stripped away from all our past sins and iniquities by trying to be good on our own.

Dear Lord, thank You for Your great gift of forgiveness through Christ, delivering us from all our sins and clothing us with Your goodness; making us acceptable to You. Teach me not to forget or take for granted my salvation as it has cost Christ His life on the cross. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Yesterday, a friend asked me how could God destroy the people in the old testament. He said that since God is so loving how could that even happened?

Many people, like my friend, could not understand the fact that my God is a loving, yet righteous and just God, Who cannot tolerate sins. It's because of this that He has to become a man to die on the cross on our behalf. Sins has to be punished, yet love takes over the punishment. Isn't that a fulfillment of His nature of both being loving and yet just?


Dear Lord,
Thank You for your great love, for dying on my behalf. Because of this I owe my life to You. Let me live a life that will honour Your name and bring glory to You. I love You Lord, let me not stray from this love.
In Your loving name I pray. Amen.



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

Always Awake

Psalm 121

1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?

2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.

3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;

4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Tommy's Thoughts:

There are some who tend to get easily drowsy when driving in long distance. I had a friend who had a horrible accident because of this. He was driving alone. He should have stop and take some rest before continuing his journey. It does helps a lot also if we have someone sitting beside us to chat with, watching and keeping us awake.

God is like that person sitting next beside us, keeping us safe along the journey. Unlike human companion, that need rest and not always available, God watches over us every second of our lives without any stop or rest, keeping us away from unnecessary problems, conflicts, harms and dangers. His protection is ultimately for getting us safely to Heaven.

Dear Lord, thank You for your constant loving care and protection, keeping me safe in Your arms. I would like to pray for my friends’ safety while driving back to their hometown tonite. Safeguard them for the entire trip. Thank You Lord. I ask all these in Jesus’ name, Amen.



Bee's Thoughts:

I received an email from a friend today who wrote:

"I don't know if you have noticed, but you are a much different person from the one I encountered six months ago. Back then you were a sad, hurt and troubled person (maybe it was just a period in your life). Today, you seem much happier and at peace? it looks good on you!"

Yes, I was at my lowest point in life at that time, struggling to cope with my loss of people/things dear to me. My thoughts and experiences were summed up in my poem Goodbye 2005. But thank God for seeing me through as I did my daily devotion, and also sending me online friends to encourage me.

The above Psalms have said it all as to exactly how I coped during my down moments.... I "lift up my eyes to the hills" where my help comes from. Therefore, God did not let my foot slip, as He watches over me day and night, and nothing could harm me. Praise be to God!


Dear Lord,
Thank You for watching over me all these while. You are a God who does not sleep. You know my coming in and my going out, You know my heart and my thoughts. Thank You for giving me back my confidence in You. Your grace is truly sufficient for me in my weakness. Glory be to You for changing my life and keeping me.
Thank You for my online friends. May You bless them and keep them in You too.
In Your gracious name I pray. Amen.


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

Be alert!

Ephesians 6:10-18

The Armor of God
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Bee's Thoughts:

Again I am reminded of the spiritual warfare I am in daily. The devil will always cause me to sin subtlely.

I am still very human and is subjected to all kinds of temptations, mood swings, weariness, sensitivity, busyness, etc. All these things can easily be used by the devil to make me move away from God's will. When I am not alert, the devil strikes at me in my moment of weakness.

The only way to overcome the devil's darts is to pray constantly, not only for myself, but also for those close to me.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your reminder today that I need to stay alert and pray constantly. Forgive me of all my sins, for the times I gave in to the devil and do what's not right in Your sight. Cleanse me now and make me pure. May I live a life that is pleasing to You always.
I also want to pray for my close ones that you will help them be overcomers of sins and temptations too. Keep them in Your Spirit as they go about doing their works and activities.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Satan and his army of demons are powerful and real; not mere fantasies or things we watch in movies. Most of the times, they operate ‘quietly’ by seeping lies into our lives with ways we least expected. With his clever schemes and devices, Satan deceives and influences believers and unbelievers through our weaknesses, pride, selfishness, lust, greediness, fear.

Many continue to sin in their lives by believing in the lie that their actions is not anywhere as bad as those ‘big’ wrongs like murder or robbing the local bank. But, these ‘small’ sins can develop slowly to trap the person further to a point where things badly irreversible and irreparable. Like what Rick Warren said in his book “A little sin is like being a little pregnant. It will eventually show itself.”

Our battle with the forces of Satan becomes fiercest when we desire to be closer to God. It’s because he sees us as a real threat to him and his evil kingdom. It takes supernatural power to defeat Satan and his forces. Until Christ returns to end Satan’s reign, we need God’s strength and every piece of His armor to withstand his array of attacks. For every believer, God has also given us His Holy Spirit to dwell within us, helping and guiding us in this battle.

Dear Lord, thank You for making me aware everyday how and where Satan’s lies can leak into my life. Help me to focus unto You, to be alert and prepare always by putting on and using every piece of Your armor. Teach me also to pray in the Spirit constantly and on all occasions, making prayer my life and my life a prayer. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.



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

Death Cannot Divide Us

John 11:14-27

14 So then he told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead, 15 and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him."

16 Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with him."

Jesus Comforts the Sisters
17 On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. 18 Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, 19 and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.

21 "Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask."

23 Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again."

24 Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day."

25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; 26 and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

27 "Yes, Lord," she told him, "I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world."

Bee's Thoughts:

"whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" (v26)

Yes, I believe. That means death can't seperate me from my loved ones who also believe in the Lord, Jesus Christ. Isn't that comforting? In today's daily bread, it says:

"Death does not sever our love for them, for love belongs to the spirit and not to the body. And when those we love go on a long journey, their thoughts can span the distance as though it were a step, and their love enfolds us as though they stood beside us. So it is today with our dear departed ones."

The opposite is also true, i.e. if our loved ones do not believe in the Lord, they will be separated from us forever. :( That means, we need to do something about it now.

I also see another lesson from the above passage: Sometimes I feel that my heart has become emotionally 'dead' because of hurts in my life. Yet when I come before the Lord to pray, to confess my sins and forgive, God 'resurrects' my heart to feel, to love and care again... it can't remain dead. Reading this passage has inspired me to compose my poem My Heart Will Go On.


Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You that You are the ressurection and the life (v25). Thank You for 'resurrecting' my heart that 'stops beating' every now and then. My heart will go on because of You... Thank You.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Being a Christian and a Chinese, I often ask myself which elements within my culture I can retain, which I should reject and which I should try to transform. Take for example the Ching Ming celebration this month. We must reject any elements that are demonic and evil that promotes, encourages and lock us in fear. But, there are others we can retain like the underlying philosophy behind Ching Ming of honouring our parents and ancestors. It’s something we also find in the Bible.

It’s also a great time for family gathering and to share the good deeds done by our ancestors, passing on the stories to the younger ones. Visiting the gravesites together with our non-Christian relatives and family members would show that we as Christians are also filial. We can also use the time to reflect, giving thanks to God for our ancestors and God goodness shown to our family.

It is also a good time for us to share about the resurrection and the Easter message of hope. We can share how through believing in Christ, who is the Creator of life (John 14:6), we’ll have the wonderful assurance and certainty to gain a spiritual life that death can’t conquer or diminish in any way: “Because I live, you also will live” (v14:19).

Dear Lord, thank You for the comforting and assuring promise of reuniting back with our believing loved ones who might leave us one day. What can be more joyful than being able to be with our loved ones forever! Thank You Father, for Jesus, who has made all this possible for us who believe in Him. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


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

A Loan To The Lord

Matthew 25:34-46

34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'

37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'

41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'

44 "They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'

45 "He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'

46 "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

Tommy's Thoughts:

Our daily lives can make more sense, become more meaningful and exciting when we know God keeps track of every single thing we ever do or say, recording our every thoughts and actions, watches what we hold onto, how we give and serve others. With this in mind, our attitudes towards others will change dramatically; we begin to see the deep needs of those around us.

Today's parable describes acts of mercy and love we all can do and show to everyone daily. Most of these acts don’t require a lot from us, they can be simple acts we can give freely if we really concern and care for others. Our personal involvement and love in caring and serving for other’s needs glorify God, reflecting our love for Him.

Dear Lord, forgive me that at times I’m too busy working around my own needs and fulfillment that I forgot those around me that needs my help and care. Guide me to be aware of this always, that whatever I do for others, I’m in fact doing it for You. Thank You Lord, I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

The above passage comes in at the right time to remind me what life is all about.

Because of my busyness with work, I somehow feel very tired and don't want to interact much with people whom I used to interact often. I don't think so much, don't reflect often, and I simply engross myself with works day and night. I am my 'workaholic' self again. I know it's not good for me and the people I used to care in a long run.

Few days ago, I also felt that my care and concern for certain people seemed to be taken for granted. I just felt like not caring anymore... I felt like letting things be while I get on with my busyness, and mind my own business.

Yet today's devotion is a reminder that I shouldn't feel weary of doing good to people, whether they appreciate or not isn't important. For whatever I do for those who need my care and concern, I am actually doing it to the Lord. Therefore, I should not loose heart in doing good, to love and to care.


Dear Lord,
I need Your strength to continue to love and care. Even though at times I feel weary and discouraged, let me not give up but to continue to be a blessing to people around me. Let me be sensitive to the needs of others and continue to make a difference in their life. May my work brings glory to Your name.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.




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

Words of Life

Psalm 119:89-104

89 Your word, O LORD, is eternal;
it stands firm in the heavens.

90 Your faithfulness continues through all generations;
you established the earth, and it endures.

91 Your laws endure to this day,
for all things serve you.

92 If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.

93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have preserved my life.

94 Save me, for I am yours;
I have sought out your precepts.

95 The wicked are waiting to destroy me,
but I will ponder your statutes.

96 To all perfection I see a limit;
but your commands are boundless.

97 Oh, how I love your law!
I meditate on it all day long.

98 Your commands make me wiser than my enemies,
for they are ever with me.

99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
for I meditate on your statutes.

100 I have more understanding than the elders,
for I obey your precepts.

101 I have kept my feet from every evil path
so that I might obey your word.

102 I have not departed from your laws,
for you yourself have taught me.

103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!

104 I gain understanding from your precepts;
therefore I hate every wrong path.

Bee's Thoughts:

The Bible has so many examples of men/women of faith whom we could learn from; so many wisdom from the the Book of Proverbs; so many praises from the Book of Psalms; and so many teaching of Christ in the gospels.

There had been many times I wanted to run away from God when I was a young Christian, and also young in age. I questioned why God allowed me to go through so many trials. I felt wronged, misunderstood, accused, and condemned by certain people around me. Yet each time the word of God came to my mind to encourage me, upheld me and taught me what I should do. I struggled to obey, but each time I gave in to God and resurrendered myself to Him. God's words had literally rescued my life from destruction.


Dear Lord,
Thank You that I can have the freedom to read the bible in my country. Thank You that Your words have kept my life from destruction. Let Your word always stay in my heart that I may not sin against You. Teach me Your ways in my work and in my relationship with people, Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

As Christian, sometimes we might be wrongly accused or labeled as being a fanatic or ‘crazy’ for what we believe in. It hurts a lot more if the remark is from someone close to us. Someone that might be our ‘teachers” (v99) or “elders” (v100) that think they know much more and better than us do because of their age and experiences.

But we shouldn’t be discouraged because deep inside we know His words are eternal, it stands firm in the heavens (v89) and have endure to this day (v91). We also know this by how His words have ‘saved’ us from so many ways (v93) and wrong ‘path’ (v101), making us wiser with more understanding than those who reject them (v98-100).

Dear Lord, thank You for Your words and teachings, I love and will never forget them, meditating on them, keeping me away from every ‘evil’ path. Thank You for teaching me not to feel victimized or angry by those who has ‘labeled’ me but to show love and compassion for them as they have yet to see Your glory and powers. Guide me to find opportunity to share Your message tactfully with them. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


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