Heart Knowledge

Mark 10:13-16

The Little Children and Jesus
13People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." 16And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Sometimes we are like the disciples, ignore, overlook or even look down on those who are not as knowledgeable or ‘equipped’ as we are. We are proud of possessing years of head knowledge and experience in knowing God and His Word.

But in today passage, Jesus rebuked and warned the disciples that complete intellectual understanding is not as important as going to God with a simple and childlike heart; trusting Him as a loving parent. God’s unconditional love and forgiveness provide a way for everyone, regardless of how ‘knowledgeable’ or ‘experienced’ the person is, to be accepted by God.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me to come to You with a childlike faith, trusting You in everything in my lives. Lord, guide me to witness to the lost and spread the good news about You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Yes, dear Lord, blessed are those who trust in you" (Ps 84:12); who trust with child-like faith. Thank You for reminding me that I need to be like a child when it comes to trusting You. Let me not doubt Your providence, Your timing or Your love for me. I put my hope in You Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

A Daily Beauty

Acts 6:9-15

9Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, 10but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.

11Then they secretly persuaded some men to say, "We have heard Stephen speak words of blasphemy against Moses and against God."

12So they stirred up the people and the elders and the teachers of the law. They seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrin. 13They produced false witnesses, who testified, "This fellow never stops speaking against this holy place and against the law. 14For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and change the customs Moses handed down to us."

15All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.

Bee's Thoughts:

We can't control what happens to us, but we can control how we react to what happens to us? True, yet not so true.

The fallen human race has lost control over sins and our reactions from our sinful nature, although many would have tried hard to live rightly. But when we search deep in our hearts we would find that in certain things we just couldn't overcome what's our human nature.

But thank be to God that through Jesus Christ we are able to let His Holy Spirit help us live a victorious life. We no longer need to obey the law of sin but to submit to the law of the Spirit.

For born-again Christians, the glory of God will shine through even when we go through hardship like anybody else (provided we submit to God), like in the case of Stephen in the above passage. That marks the difference between believers and non-believers.

Dear Lord,
When in distress and heartaches, thank You for your strength and love to help me go through those period. I want to praise You that Your countenance shines on me as I let You lead. Thank You in Jesus' name. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

I know very well that internal characteristics and attitudes of a person are more important and lasting than physical appearance. But, I still find it difficult to get past those superficial, surface issues of looks and performance in front of others. We’re too easily impressed or affected by image but God wants us to value qualities that last.

“The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." - 1 Samuel 16:7.

“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” – Proverbs 31:30

When we get right down to it, we’ll realized it’s not the outside that ultimately important but the heart, personality and character. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we’ll be able to build our inner characteristics that are lasting, magnetic, that appeal not to just to the opposite sex but to people in general.

Dear Heavenly Father, all beauty and perfection originates in You and You are the most attractive of all. Thank You for showing me the importance of characteristics and attitudes than merely focusing on physical appearance and image. Teach me to trust You by faith to produce all the beautiful characteristics of Lord Jesus in me, reflecting His character to the world. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

A Welcoming Love

Luke 15:11-32

The Parable of the Lost Son
11Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. 12The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.

13"Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

17"When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' 20So he got up and went to his father.
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

21"The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.[a]'

22"But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.

25"Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27'Your brother has come,' he replied, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.'

28"The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 29But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'

31" 'My son,' the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' "

Tommy's Thoughts:

Despite His omnipotence, God will never force us to go to Him. He gives us human being a will of our own, to be able to make our own choices. Through free will, God allow us to choose between good and evil. He searches our heart and constantly gives us opportunities to respond to Him and His ways.

But many misuse this free will by living life on our own way instead of His, selfishly pushing aside any responsibility or commitment getting in our ways. Like the younger son, we disobeyed and ‘ran’ away from God, wanted to be free to live as we pleased. Eventually, consequences of our irresponsible action and attitude bring us to our senses to acknowledge that we need God’s help and guidance.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your amazing love that is always constant, patient and welcoming. Thank You for the many times that You told me to stop and look, saving myself from grief, sorrow and disappointment. Teach me not to take Your patience for granted and to go my own way, not heeding Your commands.

Dear Lord, again thank You for the blessing You brings into my life each day; that teaches and changes me into a better person. I pray that You will keep me close to You and Your ways, not to be lead astray by the many distractions in my mind. I ask all these in Jesus’ name, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Very often we too forget our position in Christ, just like the elder son in the above passage. We forget that our rich heavenly Father is more than willing to bless us with all His riches if only we ask from Him. We live like a 'beggar' even though we are rich in Christ.

This passage coincides with the message at my church retreat today on "receiving the blessing of God". The speaker said that if we truly love God, He will bless us and we just need to ask from Him. If we love God we will ask for the right thing... things that will honour God and not ourselves. God wants to bless us so that we can also bless others.


Dear Lord,
Forgive me for the times when I have forgotten my position in Christ and that You want to bless me richly.
Thank You that whenever I have learnt my lesson and obey You, You bless me. Thank You for the new work I will be starting next week. I believe You have a great plan in placing me in that position which I did not ask for. You want to use me to bless others just as You have blessed me. I pray for wisdom and strength to lead others to do what is right that Your name may be glorified.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

It’s What God Says

1 Kings 13:7-22

7 The king said to the man of God, "Come home with me and have something to eat, and I will give you a gift."

8 But the man of God answered the king, "Even if you were to give me half your possessions, I would not go with you, nor would I eat bread or drink water here. 9 For I was commanded by the word of the LORD : 'You must not eat bread or drink water or return by the way you came.' " 10 So he took another road and did not return by the way he had come to Bethel.

11 Now there was a certain old prophet living in Bethel, whose sons came and told him all that the man of God had done there that day. They also told their father what he had said to the king. 12 Their father asked them, "Which way did he go?" And his sons showed him which road the man of God from Judah had taken. 13 So he said to his sons, "Saddle the donkey for me." And when they had saddled the donkey for him, he mounted it 14 and rode after the man of God. He found him sitting under an oak tree and asked, "Are you the man of God who came from Judah?"
"I am," he replied.

15 So the prophet said to him, "Come home with me and eat."

16 The man of God said, "I cannot turn back and go with you, nor can I eat bread or drink water with you in this place. 17 I have been told by the word of the LORD : 'You must not eat bread or drink water there or return by the way you came.' "

18 The old prophet answered, "I too am a prophet, as you are. And an angel said to me by the word of the LORD : 'Bring him back with you to your house so that he may eat bread and drink water.' " (But he was lying to him.) 19 So the man of God returned with him and ate and drank in his house.

20 While they were sitting at the table, the word of the LORD came to the old prophet who had brought him back. 21 He cried out to the man of God who had come from Judah, "This is what the LORD says: 'You have defied the word of the LORD and have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you. 22 You came back and ate bread and drank water in the place where he told you not to eat or drink. Therefore your body will not be buried in the tomb of your fathers.' "

Tommy's Thoughts:

The prophet in today’s passage disobeyed God’s command not because he intentionally does not want to listen to God but was not vigilant enough to stay firm despite confusion. He was not wary of the importance of separating God’s truth from what was seemingly the truth, which in the end cost his life.

Today, we also faced similar confusion when someone claims certain truths that contradict with God’s Word. They never come as plain, distinguishable lies but as crafty, believable half-truths that easily deceive those who are not on guard. Satan our Enemy, is the Father of Lies, an angel of light" (2Corinthians 11:14) and nearly everything he says is a half-truth.

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me how easy it is to fall into Satan’s deception when I’m not watchful. Guide me to spend more time reading the Bible, to know Your truth and disregard whatever contradict with Your words. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.



Bee's Thoughts:

Many times we are just like "the man of God" in the above passage, who obeyed God's word half way for whatever reasons. It may be due to ignorance, doubts, or even change of heart. Sometimes the consequences of such disobedience can be serious.

Dear Lord,
At times I may be like "the man of God" in tonight's devotion. Forgive me for those times that I have disobeyed You. I pray that You will show me the areas in my life that You want to deal with. Please grant me strength to fully obey Your leading. Even if it is painful or if I don't undertsand, help me to do as You lead, for You know what's best for me. I want to trust in You, Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

An Expensive Gospel

Philippians 1:19-30

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, 19for 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.[a] 20I 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. 21For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

27Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. 29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.

Bee's Thoughts:

I often felt the way the Apostle Paul felt above (v21-26). I felt that dying is gain for me... for then I don't have to suffer on earth anymore, but to live in eternity with Jesus Christ. Yet to live for the sake of others is necessary. I guess the purpose of my existence on earth hasn't fully accomplished yet, otherwise God would have taken me away.

Today, our Pastor spoke about discipleship during the church service. We are to make disciples, not just believers. So have I influenced anyone that he/she wants to seek Christ and follow Him? I don't know, maybe yes, maybe no. But that is my hope and prayer that my life is not a waste on earth. I don't want to just occupy space on earth.

Yes, in a few hours more I will be with the rest of my fellow church members for our combined churches retreat. I really pray that this is a meaning retreat for me and the rest of the members. I want God to speak to me concerning my life, my walk, my work, my relationship, etc. I want to hear His voice.

Dear Lord,
Often I wish I am no longer on earth. Often I wish I can be with You where You are. But I know that my time is not up yet. I pray that You will show me what You want me to do during this churches retreat. Speak to me, Lord.
While I live, let me live my life for Your glory and honour. Let what I say brings encouragement to others. Let me make a difference in the life of those who come in contact with me.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Paul is the best example of how living with an eternal perspective in mind gives us the freedom to serve and devote our lives to what really matters, without the fear of death. Although we may not have to die for representing Christ like Paul, we may still need to endure certain sufferings and worldly troubles for our conviction and faith.

Thus, when we are certain of our eternal destiny, we will be bold to speak out for Christ, remain in Him with confidence and obedience, and to grow and become more like Him each day.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me that when I continue to faithfully represents Christ despite my sufferings; my message and example affect others and even my own self for good. Let me see that when I endure, I’ll be able to take my eyes off of earthly comfort, to build my character and strengthen my faith to serve as an example for others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Grace & Faith - Gift of God

Ephesians 2:1-10

Made Alive in Christ
1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Bee's Thoughts:

Without the grace of God I wouldn't have a second chance in life or to be in heaven with Jesus one day.

Sometimes I wonder why others can't have the same level of faith as I have. On the other hand many people wonder why I have so much faith even though I am a very careful, analytical and skeptical person in terms of my work or issues. People find me 'weird' in a way to trust God or my online friends so much.

I have come to realize that the faith I have is a gift of God, not my own. Why is it so? I know it because I have exceptional faith in what I can't see -- be it in God or people. In my own natural self I don't trust anyone at all due to my bad early childhood experience. Yet I had such simple faith and trust in God when I came to know Him at the age of 12. My faith grows tremendously as I seek God. This faith also 'spilled' over into my faith in people whom I have not seen or met before.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your grace and Your gift of faith in my life. There's nothing I can boast but to boast in You. I pray that this faith will continue to grow as I explore the world around me and the people I come into contact with. Is one day You were to ask me to give up all and live by faith, let me be willing to do it and obey Your calling.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

In today’s passage, Paul said we do not need to live anymore under sin’s power once we became Christian. We used to be dead in sin and slaves to our sinful nature but not anymore when the penalty of our sin and its power to enslave us were miraculously destroyed by Christ on the cross.

Although, we will still subject and tempted to sin while in this fallen world, we don’t need to believe in the lie that we should give up when we fall as though we are hopelessly condemned. By focusing on Christ, we will receive His grace to keep us back on track when we are about to drift further away.

Dear Lord, thank You Lord that through faith in Christ that I stand acquitted before You. Let me remember always that I have been united in Christ’s powerful victory that I no longer live under the control of sin or dead in sin but alive with Christ. Teach me to respond to Your gifts of salvation and even my faith with gratitude, praise and joy. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Honouring Others

Romans 12:6-13

6We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. 7If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; 8if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.
Love
9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bee's Thoughts:

"Honor one another above yourselves." (v11)

I guess I have failed to do that tonight.... I felt so bad when what I said to someone close made him say to me, "sound like only you know and 100% others don know what i am sayin".

What he said caused me to realize that I have not honored him above myself. I might have come across to him as someone 'proud' or 'self-righteous'. I didn't realize that's how he or others might see me, don'tI didn't mean it that way. I felt angry with myself actaully... for not becareful with my words.

Tonight's devotion is a good reminder that I must constantly be aware of how I speak and stay humble all the time, honoring others above myself.


Dear Lord,

Please cleanse my lips and put Your words in my mouth. Help me be aware of my speech so that I may not unknowingly hurt others or give the wrong impression to others with what I say. May my words bring blessings and life to others at all time. Teach me Your way Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts

We often see packaging of food claiming to be 100% pure and natural. These marketing taglines work well as people become more health conscious nowadays; we wanted pure, healthy and nutritious food without the extra artificial flavoring and coloring.

The same can be said about our so-called love towards each others; which often filled with pretense, duplicity and hypocrisy. Most of us are good at pretending that we care and love others. Common reasons for us to act in such a way are to avoid hurting others’ feelings; to make ourselves looks good and polite; or even to hide and mask our manipulative, selfish motives.

To start and be able to sincerely love each others, we first need to see and understand the true love of God for us. God loves us not because of our achievements, possessions or titles but because of who we are. When we are secure in God’s love, we will be eager to share that true love with others.

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me to be honest and sincere to others, myself and to You when I claim to love others. Though I know sometimes it is easier to say than done but I trust Your grace will change my heart while I make the first step and effort to love others truthfully. Thank You Lord. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

For Who He Is

Numbers 15:37-41

37 The LORD said to Moses, 38 "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. 39 You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the LORD, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. 40 Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. 41 I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the LORD your God.' "

Tommy's Thoughts:

Ever since my childhood till before I’m a Christian, I’ve been following through all kinds of rules and rituals of a religion, hoping to receive all the good luck, prosperity, good health, long life and success. Festivals were celebrated on certain dates in a year where I flocked together with others in a big crowd at places of worship, hoping not to miss out on any special blessings or good luck.

After I’ve accepted Christ, I can see how self-centered this practice and belief really is. It focuses entirely on what a person can get from serving those idols. Treating those gods like magical genies and expecting them to serve and grant our wishes, we pay them a visit and pray to them on special occasion or when we’re stuck in deep trouble!

Christianity goes entirely opposite of all the religions of the world. Worshipping God is selfless; instead of expecting to be served, we serve God and expecting nothing in return. It is about giving, not receiving. It is also not on what we should be feeling, experiencing or expecting. Because worship is not about 'ME'. True worship is about giving God what He deserves and for who He is, not for what we can get from Him.

If we happened to get joy, wisdom or some blessing from our worship, then fine and great, but we shouldn’t do it by expecting these in return in the first place. If we were to expect something, then often our feelings and emotions will color whatever ‘result’ we’re expecting. But, if we were to worship expecting nothing in return, then our worship becomes a wonderful gift we are giving to God.

We can worship and talk to Him wherever we are, anytime of the day and in every situation or circumstances in our lives; not only on special occasion or places. Through this, we can grow in a close, meaningful and personal relationship with God. Instead of fearing God will punish or not blessing us if we miss out on following certain rituals, we know Him as a caring, faithful and loving Father who will take good care of everything in our lives. All we need to do is to be willing to go to Him with a humble heart and to love Him with all our heart. He will takes care of the rest!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for coming into my life, showing me the joy, peace and wonder in following You. Thank You also for Your daily reminders and assurance of Your love and care, through situations, signs, events or people around me. Lord, keep me close to You always and lead me in the paths of Your righteousness and glory. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Dear Lord,
You are the One who have brought me out of my 'pit' and led me thus far. Thank You for Your salvation. I pray that my life will tell others of Your love and mercy, Your compassion and grace. I commit my work, the people I talk to and meet everyday to You. I pray that those who do not know you will come to know you soon.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

True Companion

Psalm 23

8 There was a man all alone;
he had neither son nor brother.
There was no end to his toil,
yet his eyes were not content with his wealth.
"For whom am I toiling," he asked,
"and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?"
This too is meaningless—
a miserable business!

9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:

10 If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!

11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?

12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Tommy's Thoughts:

In Genesis 2:19, God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." This verse signified that life is designed by God for companionship, not isolation. Life is about seeking and developing deep, meaningful relationship and companionship with others.

A companion or helper is someone that we can rely on and trust; someone who understand us deeply; someone who we can shares with all our problems, worries, tear and laughter; someone who are there to listen, to encourage, to support and advice; to lift us up when we are down and out.

By helping and supporting each others as team member, both can do and attain so much more than going it all alone. But still we sometimes try to go it alone because of mistrust of others, our pride and self-centeredness that focus merely on serving ourselves than God and others.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me again to serve and be more aware of the needs of those around me. Thank You for teaching me the importance of seeking and investing more time and attention on my relationship with others. Guide me to continue to be a trustworthy, simple, fun, straightforward, forgiving, dependable, responsible and helpful person as I grow in a deeper and more meaningful relationship with my friends and family. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.



Bee's Thoughts:

Unity is strength. Yes, God never intends us to live alone. In the bible, the emphasis is always on the unity of believers.

"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." (Matthew 18:19-20)

Even when only two believers pray and agree in their prayers, God will hear them. The only person who wants to see division is the devil. We therefore must be alert to not allow the devil to cause division between us.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the reminder that You want believers to be united. I pray that we will always be aware of the devil's tricks to cause division. Help us to keep the unity of faith and love in Christ.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Beyond Amazing

Psalm 19:1-6

1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.

3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard. [a]

4 Their voice [b] goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,

5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.

6 It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Today passage accurately reflects nature and humanity: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (v1) God intended for the intricacy, orderliness and design of the universe to point to Him, wiring human with the intuitive recognition of His existence.

That’s why many scientific discoveries point to the existence of a Creator rather than away from that idea. In fact, they said it actually takes more faith to believe in a universe produced by random chance than in one created by God.

Dear Heavenly Father, Your magnificent and fantastic displays of craftsmanship never stop to amaze me and make me in awe of Your power, love and care. Teach me Lord not to just stop there but to further take Your message of salvation found in Your Word, the Bible, to the world.

Thank You Lord for all Your wonderful works; Your amazing love, Your gracious forgiveness and salvation; and the new life I received from You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Dear Lord,
When I look to the heaven, it always makes me feel so small.
For Your glory overshadows me completely.
Who am I before Your creations?
Who am I but a small being?
You see me and know me, my sorrow and joy, my lost and gain, my thoughts and feelings.
Whenever I feel abandoned You will come and put Your invisible arms around me.
You are more real than the real people I see. For I could feel and see Your actions of love... You don't just say, You do.

Your Child, Bee

Treasure Rightly

Matthew 26:6-13

Jesus Anointed at Bethany
6While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, 7a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.

8When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. 9"This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor."

10Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 11The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. 12When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. 13I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."

Tommy's Thoughts:
*"Imagine we are attending a funeral service in a church. As the service begins, friends of the deceased take their turns trying to say something nice, to honor and to express feelings of love and appreciation for the deceased; there’s a family member, someone from the office, and a best friend.

Suddenly, we realize it’s our own funeral.

What would we like each of these speakers to say about us, our character and our lives? What kind of son, daughter, brother or sister would we like their words to reflect? What kind of working associate? What kind of friend?"

*Credit: thought suggested by Stephen Covey

By living our everyday lives with the end in mind, we will change our priorities to seek things that are more important, purposeful and eternal. We begin emphasizes on things like bearing fruits in our lives, to serve and touches the lives of others, to be more aware of those in needs around us, to pay more attention to relationship than material gains.

Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me that at times I’ve overlooked and ignored the needs of others, while selfishly focused on my personal gain. Teach me to change this by being aware and treating daily circumstances, either big or small, as opportunities to be the salt and light of the world. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

The disciples of Christ didn't see how valuable He is while He was still with them. They felt it a waste to pour the perfume on Him. Yet Jesus commented that "She has done a beautiful thing to me" (v10). She saw His value and worth. She gave what was important to her to Him.

Similarly, very often we don't treasure someone when he/she is with us till he/she is gone. We can't see the value of the person and take him/her for granted. Sometimes there's no return once that person is gone.


Dear Lord,
Thank You that You are worthy of me in every way. Even if I have to be a fool to the world because of You, it is still worth it. Similarly, I pray that I will learn to treasure those who are clsoe to me and not take them for granted, even those they may drift away from me. I pray that You will be with them and bless them always.
In Jesus' mane I pray. Amen.

Beware of the Devil

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:

Last but not least is prayer, when we battle in the spiritual warfare. The devil is constantly on the look out for Christians, epecially those who want to seek and serve God. I have seen many breakups in marriages and couples when both or one of them wish to seek or serve God more. The devil is not happy when we love God more and therefore will cause division between couples, or close friends, or co-workers.

Yes, many times the devil tries to bring me down too. He would cause me to feel moody, disappointed, distressful, etc. But thank God that He quickly lifts me up again. In fact I have just learnt something new recently. I am feeling stronger now.

The bible warns us to put on the whole armour of God and pray. That's the only way to fight the devil.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for the reminder that the devil is always around to cause Christians to fall and we have to be on guard. I pray that you will help me and my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to be alert. Help us to remind one another not to fall into the trap of the devil but to fight this spiritual warfare together with the help of Your Holy Spirit. Keep us strong Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Know our enemy and know our armor.

Satan’s ultimate weapon is lies, most of the times, lies that sound and disguise as truth. Aside from wanting us to doubt God, Satan also constantly tries to make us doubt his very existence. He uses many ways to make us believe he is merely a fantasy or myth that doesn’t make any sense in this day and age.

He whispers lies to our ears by saying its absurd, ridiculous and even fanatic to be on guard of devils and to prepare for battle with the unseen world. Not only that, he makes us believe telling others about the Good News is a worthless, unnecessary and convoluted task to do.

By successfully planted this belief in us, he begin his attacks inside us- our heart, eventually making us to turn away from God and back to sin. He attacks our emotions, self-worth and trust through insults, setbacks and temptations. He makes us think Christ’s death is not enough and victory is never ours.

We need to start knowing that our enemy is real. We need to be alert that spiritual battles take place in front of our mind daily. By denying this truth is to risk ourselves with serious and irreversible consequences. We can’t win this battle alone; we need to put on God’s armor and to use every piece of it to resist Satan’s attacks and to stand true to God.

1. God’s Truth (Belt) – God’s truth to defeat all Satan’s lies


2. God’s Righteousness (Breastplate) – to protect our hearts and ensures God’s approval of us


3. Readiness to spread the Good News (Footgear)


4. Faith (Shield) – let us know we are protected and ultimate victory is ours


5. Salvation (helmet) – protects us from doubting God’s saving work for us


6. The Spirit and Word of God (Sword) – our only weapon of offense to fight this fierce battle

Dear Lord, thank You for making me aware again when I was clouded by complacency that things are fine and I’m in control. Guide me Lord to be alert always to fend off any attacks coming my way. Teach me always to wear Your armor; not laze around unprotected, unknowingly leaving myself open to the devil’s continuous attacks. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Consider

Job 37:14-19

14 "Listen to this, Job;
stop and consider God's wonders.

15 Do you know how God controls the clouds
and makes his lightning flash?

16 Do you know how the clouds hang poised,
those wonders of him who is perfect in knowledge?

17 You who swelter in your clothes
when the land lies hushed under the south wind,

18 can you join him in spreading out the skies,
hard as a mirror of cast bronze?

19 "Tell us what we should say to him;
we cannot draw up our case because of our darkness.

Bee's Thoughts:

Sometimes we are too caught up with ourselves that we forget to "stop and consider God's wonders". In our finite mind and thoughts we only see what's before our eyes and not beyond that. So very often God will have to use situations, people or things to help us pause and think.

Yes, my God is the Creator of the universe, yet He is also the creator of the smallest creatures, like the ants. He has a purpose for all His creation, including us the humans.

Dear Lord,
As I consider the heavens and the earth You have created, suddenly I feel that my problems are just so insignificant, as You have a purpose in everything You do. When I put my all into Your hands, You will see to it that all things will work together for good.
Now I commit my life, my work, my friends, and my future into Your hands. May You help me find my balance in these areas and be within Your plan.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen,

Tommy's Thoughts:

Like Elihu’s answer to Job’s suffering, faith in God is far more important than our desire for an explanation to our suffering. Although, we will never fully comprehend all that God allows and permits to happen, but we still can trust in Him and His sovereignty.

His sovereignty is over all of nature, from a tiny microbe to something as big as the galaxies. It reminds us that He is in control of every aspect of our lives, however big or trivial it may be to us. Everything is significant. Though we may not always see or realize His forces at work, we can trust Him that He is actively and divinely governing and keeping things in order and working them out for our good (Romans 8:28)

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me again that I can trust You in spite of the pain, confusion and weariness. Thank You for the Holy Spirit that prompted me to refocus my attention to serve others and to trust You more, instead of worrying, complaining and concentrating solely on my self and problems. Teach me to trust You for who You are and use me to minister, encourage and comfort those in needs. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Bee's 7th Month of Devotion

Seven months have passed and I am still doing my devotion here. It's amazing!

I guess blogging my time with God is a great help. Blogging it with another Christian brother-in-Christ is another added advantage too, though we might have different thoughts from the same passage. It's like a gathering in God's name.

"For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." (Matthew 18:20)

The following song just came to my mind...

As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after you
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship you

Chorus :
You alone are my strength, my shield
To you alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship you

You're my friend, and you are my brother
Even though you are a king
I love you more than any other
So much more than anything

(by Martin J. Nystrom)

... the thoughts of Bee

Daily Devotion

Psalm 96

1 Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all the earth.

2 Sing to the LORD, praise his name;
proclaim his salvation day after day.

3 Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.

4 For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
he is to be feared above all gods.

5 For all the gods of the nations are idols,
but the LORD made the heavens.

6 Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and glory are in his sanctuary.

7 Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations,
ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.

8 Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name;
bring an offering and come into his courts.

9 Worship the LORD in the splendor of his [a] holiness;
tremble before him, all the earth.

10 Say among the nations, "The LORD reigns."
The world is firmly established, it cannot be moved;
he will judge the peoples with equity.

11 Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad;
let the sea resound, and all that is in it;

12 let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them.
Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy;

13 they will sing before the LORD, for he comes,
he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness
and the peoples in his truth.

Tommy's Thoughts:

How do we praise God?

We first need to know and acknowledge good things He has done for us. This maybe hard for those who think everything they own or achieved was through their very own effort and hard works. But, they didn’t know that God owns everything (Psalm 24:1) and it’s only because of His grace we received all the gifts and blessings, including our salvation.

Take time and sit down to list down what God has done for us. It’s amazing how long the list can be if we were to open our eyes, to look around us with a humble heart; a heart that is full of appreciation for everything God has ever done for us. We then can praise and thank Him through many ways; through songs, telling others about His’ greatness worship and give glory to Him, obeying His commands, listening to His leading, daily devotion and quiet time, offerings and helps for others, living a holy life.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You and I praise You for all the good and wonderful things You bring into my life. Good things for me that I sometimes slow to see, know or understand. Teach me to trust You more and to rest all my worry in You.

Lord, thank You also for guiding the each and every step in my daily walk with You. Without You beside me, I would have not known the sweetness of following You and obeying Your words. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

For a long time I have not sing praises to my God in my private time other than during church services. Too busy and then too sleepy... But yes, tonight, I am reminded again that my God deserves all praises no matter what I have gone through. He is still the Lord of Lords and King of Kings.

Dear Lord,

Help me to praise You whether I am in solitude or whether I am with people...

Lord, make me an instrument,
an instument of worship,
I lift up my hands to Your name.
Lord, make me a new song,
a new song of worship,
I open my mouth to sing Your song.

Amen

Words That Defile

Matthew 15:17-20

17"Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' 19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 20These are what make a man 'unclean'; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him 'unclean.' "

Tommy's Thoughts:

The words that come out of our mouth come from our heart and those words show whether we are clean or unclean. And what is in our heart; our motive, desire, thoughts, is more important than our outward appearance. God looks into those things deep inside our heart; things that matter more than anything else. If we were to ask God, He will continually to change us from the inside, to give us a clean and pure heart.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for stepping into my life and changes my heart over the years. Without You, I would have not known how much I need to be renewed and changed. Lord Jesus, let all the words that come from my mouth and the thoughts in my heart be clean, pure and pleasing to you. Amen.



Bee's Thoughts:

Dear Lord,

Let me be silent
unless my words
can encourage, comfort, or heal.

Let me be silent
unless my listener
can understand, and knows my fear.

Let me be silent
unless it is You
I bare my soul, heart and tear.

Amen

Can We Rejoice?

Habakkuk 3:17-19

17 Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,

18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.

19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights.
For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.

Bee's Thoughts:

"Can We Rejoice?", asked the author of tonight's Daily Bread.

My immediate response to that in my heart is a "No!" I am crying within, not rejoicing. I feel so tired in every ways.

Then I read the passage above... every word in verse 17 seems to speak about me. That's exactly how I feel now...

"the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls"

God seems to be testing my faith now. Can I Rejoice? Can I really do?

I pondered... I hasitated... then I read verse 18...

"yet I will rejoice in the LORD,
I will be joyful in God my Savior."

I need to rejoice... I have to rejoice.... I want to rejoice. That's what my heart said to me, or perhaps God said to me.

Why? Not because I am strong, but because...

"The Sovereign LORD is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to go on the heights."

Dear Lord,
By myself, I can't rejoice in what I am experiencing now. On my own, I will fall... for I am really very tired and exhausted in many ways. I am burning out...
Yet, like what the Psalmist said, I will rejoice in You. You give me strength to go on the next lap, You sustain me, cheer me on... A while more I shall reach my destination... I shall reach the 'shore'.
Thank You for always lifting me up whenever I am about to fall.
Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

God knows our every trial, hardship and every tear we shed. And, He promised to be with us, to lift us up when we fall, to heal and renew us when we are broken or sick, to give us strength and peace to move on. There are many passages in the Bible that teaches us to trust God and rejoice during these trying situations.

Most of the times, it’s hard and almost impossible to rejoice, but it can be God trying to tell us something significant and important through those situations. It might be a habit He wanted us to break, an attitude in us He wanted to change, a test to prepare us for something in the future, or a way for Him to let us see what matters more in life.

During our grief or struggle, we can learn trusting His care and promises by first seeking and focusing on Him, rather solely on our problem. God, who is faithful, will never fail to speak to us, giving us a clearer understanding and insight to our problem. We will find and experience true reason to rejoice in Him.

Dear Lord, I acknowledge that You knows what’s best for me. Thank You for guiding me through difficult and trying situations; to change, renew and build my character; to be a better person. Lord, teach me to seek and trust You always for strength, patience and peace, faithfully and joyfully follow and obey Your commands and leading in life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Welcome Criticism

Proverbs 9:1-10

Invitations of Wisdom and of Folly

1 Wisdom has built her house;
she has hewn out its seven pillars.

2 She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine;
she has also set her table.

3 She has sent out her maids, and she calls
from the highest point of the city.

4 "Let all who are simple come in here!"
she says to those who lack judgment.

5 "Come, eat my food
and drink the wine I have mixed.

6 Leave your simple ways and you will live;
walk in the way of understanding.

7 "Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult;
whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse.

8 Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man and he will love you.

9 Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.

10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,
and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

Tommy's Thoughts:

A mocker normally responds by quickly tossing back put-down and clever retort when rebuked or criticised. Because of their over-inflated ego and pride, they rob themselves from gaining new understanding and wisdom through constructive criticisms by others.

A wise person is slow to talk but good at listening to what is being said. They learn from their critics, knowing it will lead to the path of greater understanding and wisdom.

True wisdom begins with knowing God (v10). There are no better ways to be a wise person than first seeking and getting to know God, for He created life and gives insight into living. To know God personally, we need to humble ourselves by seeking Him always, to stand in awe of Him and to have a deep, meaningful relationship with Him.

Dear Father, thank You for teaching me to learn listening to others before everything else and to always focus on issues at hand rather than on the person. Guide me Lord to be willing to give heed to other’s words of reproof, to accept, admit and change if I’m wrong or at fault. Teach me also to never stop seeking and knowing You better, my true Source and path to wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

I have been thinking for a long time about verse 10 and wonder what is the difference between wisdom and understanding? Aren't they the same thing? According to TheFreeDictionary:

"understanding - the capacity for rational thought or inference or discrimination"

"wisdom - ability to apply knowledge or experience or understanding or common sense and insight"

So verse 10 is saying that when we know God, we will receive the "capacity for rational" thinking and judgement. And when we have reverent "fear" for God , we will have the "ability to apply" what we know.

To know a person well we need to spend much time with the person regularly. When we don't, gradually we will lose touch with that person and our knowledge of him/her might not be that accurate or current. It's the same for knowing God. We need to read the bible and spend time with God everyday in order to know Him.

Applying what we know means taking actions, or obey. When we obey what we know from the bible (the word of God) that's wisdom.

Dear Lord,
I want to obey Your word that I may receive Your wisdom to do what's right... what to say and how to react to people and situations. I acknowledge I am poor in that and often lack wisdom.
Right now I pray that You will still my heart, calm my soul, and quicken my spirit. As I lay down to sleep tonight, let me have a peaceful rest. May I feel Your warm love surrounds me.
Amen.

Whose Are You?

Psalm 24

Of David. A psalm.
1 The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it;

2 for he founded it upon the seas
and established it upon the waters.

3 Who may ascend the hill of the LORD ?
Who may stand in his holy place?

4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to an idol
or swear by what is false. [a]

5 He will receive blessing from the LORD
and vindication from God his Savior.

6 Such is the generation of those who seek him,
who seek your face, O God of Jacob.
Selah

7 Lift up your heads, O you gates;
be lifted up, you ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.

8 Who is this King of glory?
The LORD strong and mighty,
the LORD mighty in battle.

9 Lift up your heads, O you gates;
lift them up, you ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.

10 Who is he, this King of glory?
The LORD Almighty—
he is the King of glory.
Selah

Bee's Thoughts:

It suddenly dawned upon me that I belong to the Lord (v1). If I belong to Him, the King of glory and the Lord Almighty, then wouldn't He take care of all that I need? So what do I lack and what should I fear? The Lord will take cae of them... He is in charge of me.


Dear Lord Almighty,
Thank You for Your reminder tonight that I belong to You. Please forgive me for the times I thought I am my own boss and didn't give You the Lordship of my life. Yes, I want to surrender my life to You again tonight. Let me walk closely to You, Lord, and listen to Your small still voice guiding my life's journey. May the following song be mine:

Take my life and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee
Take my moments and my days
Let them flow in ceaseless praise

Take my will, and make it Thine
It shall be no longer mine
Take my heart, it is Thine own
It shall be Thy royal throne

Take my love; my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store
Take myself, and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee

Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Everything in the world created and belongs to God (v1), includes every one of us, both our bodies and souls. We ourselves are not our own. But, many today think they belong to no one but themselves, where freedom is all about having the right to do whatever they want with their own bodies. Sadly, they are in fact enslaved to their own desires. Most of the times, they immorally misuse and violate God’s gift through this so-called freedom.

As Christian, we are all bought at a price. Our freedom from the slavery of sin was bought through the death of Christ on the Cross. When we accept Christ, the Holy Spirit fills and dwells within us, that we no longer our own bodies but belongs to God. Thus, we need to live obeying and abiding to God’s standards of living for us (v3-4).

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me again that I belong to You, that You are my Master and Creator. Lord, teach me not to be proud of my own self for who I am and what I own, but to acknowledge everything comes from You, that whenever I give is to return back what You’ve given me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Unchained By The Cross

Matthew 27:33-50

33 They came to a place called Golgotha (which means The Place of the Skull). 34 There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. 35 When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. 36 And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. 37 Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 38 Two robbers were crucified with him, one on his right and one on his left. 39 Those who passed by hurled insults at him, shaking their heads 40 and saying, "You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!"

41 In the same way the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders mocked him. 42 "He saved others," they said, "but he can't save himself! He's the King of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, 'I am the Son of God.' " 44 In the same way the robbers who were crucified with him also heaped insults on him.

The Death of Jesus
45 From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. 46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

47 When some of those standing there heard this, they said, "He's calling Elijah."

48 Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. 49 The rest said, "Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him."

50 And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.

Bee's Thoughts:

"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (v46)

At one point of my life I cried out to God in that exact same question. It was the darkest moment of my life. I almost wanted to give up living. I felt lost and lonely, and I have no one to turn to for help.

Then I heard a small still voice that said, "My child, I did not forsake you. I am here always besides you. You just need to come to me and rest. I will carry you through."

Tears rolled down my cheek and I felt so assured and secured again in God's love.

Yes, when we honestly tell God what's in our heart without pretense, God is always there to listen and comfort, no matter how we may feel.


Dear Lord Jesus,
It's so terrible to feel forsaken. It's so painful and the hurt never go away. You had willingly went through it on my behalf that from now on I will never have to feel forsaken again.
Yes, men can forsake me but not You. You are always there, You are just a prayer away.
Thank You. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Like the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders, we may unknowingly share their same spirit of unbelief that Christ is our Saviour, that the Cross is enough and sufficient to save and cleanse us from our sin.

We doubt and linger with thoughts that there is something else missing and needed to further ensure our forgiveness and to start anew our relationship with God. There are still many today who are trapped in this lie, a dangerous lie that both discredit what Christ has done and stun our growth to be a mature Christian.

Dear Lord, thank You for showing to me what Christ has done is enough to forgive all my wrongs and failures, to heal all my brokenness, to enable me to let go and be unchained from my past and to give me a new life in You. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.