A Living Hope

1 Peter 1:3-9

Praise to God for a Living Hope
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 5 who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

Bee's Thoughts:

I like all the above verses very much as they are very comforting and they have been proven true in my life...

1. I have a "living hope" after my "new birth" as a Christian (v3)... not a dead hope, 'cos Jesus is ressurected", unlike all other prophets.

2. I have an "inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade" (v4)... unlike the earthly wealth which will fade away.

3. I suffered "grief in all kinds of trials" (v6) so that my faith may "be proved genuine" (v7).

4. Though I have not seen Jesus, I love him; and even though I do not see him now, I believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy (v9)... that's incredible!!


I have heard many, especially guys, said they can't love a gal if they have not seen her in person. How is it possible to love someone without seeing? Is a person crazy or weird if he/she can love another without meeting in person?

Yes, in the natural sense perhaps it's difficult to love without seeing a person physically 'cos most people can't believe in what is unseen. To most, seeing is believing. So to most, it's hard to believe in Jesus Christ 'cos they have not seen him too. Yet to those who believe and love Him by faith, not only they can have the hope of glory but also experience His love right now.

Call me crazy or weird, I am one such person. :) I have expressed my thoughts in my poem 2 years ago, Love Someone Whom We Seen Not.


Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank You for Your gift of faith to believe and love You even though I have not seen You before.
Thank You that with this gift I can also love people whom I have not met in person too.
Thank You that through my sufferings, my faith in You can be tested and be strengthened.
Thank You for the hope I can have in You. Amen.


Tommy's Thoughts:

I used to wallow up in self-pity and condemnation when things gone wrong or when I lost hope and giving up my struggles. I spend times thinking bleakly and negatively about my future; focusing entirely on things that are impermanent and will not lasts. Depression sunk in and I lost interest in whatever things I do. My attitudes seriously affected those people around me.

Today, thanks to God’s grace, mercy and peace, that I’ve found a clear finish line; a goal and purpose; keeping me renewed in this life journey now. A life that sometimes filled with all kinds of trial and grief that I have no answer and solution to; things I long for so much but not within reach, things I hope can turn out better but doesn’t seems to change any soon, things that I have to plan for but uncertain where to start; and things that I hope will soon ends but still looming at large…

As I read today comforting passage, God is telling me that these trials are temporary and have come so that my faith will be tested and refined by His fire; to prepare for a future He has planned for me. This hope fires me up to live my life now to the fullest with true joy and gratefulness to God, praising Him everyday for things He has given me.

Dear Lord, thank You for keeping me on track every time I was about to careen away with my unhappiness and uncertainties. Thank You for being with me always comforting me with Your care, love, peace and hope. Lord, I would like to pray for my sister who is feeling really stressful now over a problem that might affects her work and health; give her Your peace and comfort her heart Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


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

Not Just A Listener

Romans 2:12-16

12 All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law. 13 For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. 14 (Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law, they are a law for themselves, even though they do not have the law, 15 since they show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts now accusing, now even defending them.) 16 This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.

Bee's Thoughts:

Have you ever encountered people who promised you that they'll do something for you yet never execute it, or procrastinate about it for a very long time? And when you remind them of their promise, they would think you are a nag? I have. Sometimes I feel very frustrated with such people and have to give 'discount' for what they promise. :(

The above passage reminds us that it is not what we hear but what we do that's important. That means knowledge is nothing till we apply it.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding me not only I should listen to what You say but to obey and do according to Your words. I pray that I will apply the knowledge I have and not procrastinate to do what I should.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

When I was on my trip, I met with so many friendly and beautiful Cambodians, especially the children. I just love their smiles; it’s warm and full of life. It saddened me when I get to know more about the gruesome history of their country; where about 2 million Cambodians, have been brutally tortured and killed during the Khmer Rouge "revolution" in the 70s.

Our Almighty God has planted inside the heart of every person, even those who have never seen a Bible or heard about the Good News, his moral law; the conscience to know what is right and wrong. And, people are condemned not for what they didn’t know but for what they do with what they know. So, it’s shocking to know how these people (under the rule of Pol Pot) can violate even the most basic moral law of not to murder; even their very own people. They know what is right but insist on doing what’s wrong because of pride, selfish and evil ambition.

Dear Lord, thank You for your gift in understanding Your laws and the abundant knowledge of Your words. Lord, forgive me of sometimes doing the very opposite to what I know is right. Forgive me of frequently fail to live up to even my own standards (much more to Yours!). Guide me Lord to not just know what is right but to do them, to live it. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


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

Comforting

2 Corinthians 1:3-11

The God of All Comfort
3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5 For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6 If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7 And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.

8 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9 Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10 He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11 as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.

Bee's Thoughts:

The above passage brings back memories of the distress I'd been through in my life since childhood days. I grew up with much tears and sadness, which explains the big eye bags I have since young. :( As I grew older, I experienced different types of sorrows, especially when people I loved and cherished departed from my life. But with much tears and sorrows also gave me more chances to experience God's comfort for me.

I also felt the "sentence of death" (v9) at times and wondered if I could pull through. During my low periods in life, the only answer to my question on "Why me?" was, "God will use my experiences to help others in similar situations." (v4). True enough, God has used some of my experiences to help and encourage people who crossed my path.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your comfort during my times of tears and sorrows. Thank You for those who have comforted me too when I need a 'shoulder' to cry. Thank You that through my experiences I could also empathize with and comfort others in distress. Thank You for seeing me through in my darkest moment in life. Let me be a comforter to those in distress too.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

I was sad when my close friend cried today. Her colleagues gave some really harsh remarks that hurt her so much. I’m angry over how these so-called friends can judge others easily without ever looking at how bad they themselves fares. It’s shocking how insensitive they were, disguising their harsh words as advices. Words can really break a person.

I tried my best to listen and comfort her; telling her about how untrue those things they said. I told her about how narrow and closed their thoughts are. I taught her to always turn to Jesus whenever we are treated badly by others, tempted to wallow in self-pity and starting to doubt God’s providence. I can see she was greatly comforted by God’s words.

Dear Lord, thank You for being with me during my trip, protecting and guarding me from all kinds of harm and danger. Thank You also for giving me a memorable, amazing, fun and exciting trip. Lord, as I have been constantly comforted by Your words and presence, teach me to be aware of those who desperately need a listening ears and encouraging, comforting words. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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

On Eagles' Wings

Isaiah 40:27-31

27 Why do you say, O Jacob,
and complain, O Israel,
"My way is hidden from the LORD;
my cause is disregarded by my God"?

28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.

29 He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.

30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;

31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Bee's Thoughts:

Eagle always remind me of my friend, whom I nicknamed "Eagle", and asked him not to be like the "chicken", which sounds very much like his real name. ;) I wrote the poem, Your're An Eagle to encourage him. Indeed he has finally 'spreaded' his 'wings' like the eagle, and I wish him all the best in his future endevours, as in my poem Eagle, Goodbye.

Eagle also depicts strength, perseverence, vision, and courage. I did some studies about the Eagle previously. I learnt some interesting facts about American Bald Eagle:

Fidelity - Once paired, bald eagles remain together until one dies, the survivor will not hesitate to accept a new mate. (sounds biblical... hehe)

Voice - Shrill, high pitched, and twittering are common descriptions used for bald eagle vocalizations. Eagles do not have vocal cords. Sound is produced in the syrinx, a bony chamber located where the trachea divides to go to the lungs. Bald eagle calls may be a way of reinforcing the bond between the male and female, and to warn other eagles and predators that an area is defended. (so loving, :D)

I also learnt 6 LESSONS FROM EAGLES:

Lesson 1: All Baby Eagles Must Learn To Fly
Lesson 2: Eagles Are Made For The High Places
Lesson 3: Eagles Do Not Fly, They Soar
Lesson 4: Eagles Go Through Specific Periods Of Renewal
Lesson 5: Eagles Get Sick, Just Like Humans
Lesson 6: Every Eagle Has To Die

With all these facts and lessons about the eagle, it becomes clear why the bible uses it to compare to Christians who seek and wait upon Him. He promises them strength, perseverence, vision, and courage. He also wants them to stay faithful and loving, just like the eagle.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for the lessons I can learn from the eagle. Thank You that whenever I felt weary You had renewed my strength as I waited upon You. Teach me to soar like the eagle and to see the big plan You have for me. Let me rest in You Lord.

In Jesus' name I ask these. Amen.


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

Tranquility

Psalm 23

A psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.

Bee's Thoughts:

Recently, I have just experienced the lying on God's "green pastures" and walking beside "quiet water" (v2). God gave me his peace and tranquility though I went through some seemingly 'stormy' experiences the last 2 weeks. His presence just calmed my 'stormy' spirit so quickly. Yes, He restored my soul (v3).

Not only that, God guided me to behave/respond to the situations rightly so that His name will be glorified (v3). He also guided me today to share a very smiple message to touch lives during my Charity Mission Trip. I could see the joy of those people as they listened to the message. God was the one who touched their hearts... even the pastor's wife was moved with tears by God's words.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for being my Shepherd. Thank You for giving me peace in times of storm; giving me direction when I feel lost; giving me courage when I fear to speak. Thank You that Your "goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life" (v6).

Thank You for Your work at the villages today. I pray for those villagers that You will continue to help them experience Your love as we go there to offer our help and share Your blessings with them regularly.

I also pray that You will let my best friend fly back home safely tomorrow too.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.



.......the devotion of Bee

What Matters Most

John 9:24-34

The Pharisees Investigate the Healing

24 A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. "Give glory to God," they said. "We know this man is a sinner."

25 He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"

26 Then they asked him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?"

27 He answered, "I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?"

28 Then they hurled insults at him and said, "You are this fellow's disciple! We are disciples of Moses! 29 We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don't even know where he comes from."

30 The man answered, "Now that is remarkable! You don't know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. 31 We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does his will. 32 Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he could do nothing."

34 To this they replied, "You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!" And they threw him out.

Bee's Thoughts:

What good does it do if you know the background of a person but do not see any good deed coming from this person? However, If you can see all the good deeds and the love of this person but not know his/her background much, does it therefore negate his/her good deeds? Not to the man who was born blind from birth. What matters most is the deed, not the background or words. He didn't know Jesus at all, yet he could feel His love and compassion, His healing power... that is more important.

Sadly, very often most people care more for legality, the external issues, rather than the real expression of love and deeds. By the time they settle all the legality, know the backgound, etc, they would have lost the chance of experiencing what love is. Time waits for no man. Why can't people be as simple as the blind man?

Jesus said, "by their fruits we shall know them". The blind man said, "If this man were not from God, he could do nothing." (v33). This is a truth that a simple blind man knew, yet not the highly educated Pharisees.


Dear Lord,
Thank You for giving me simple faith in You even though I am such a complicated person with complicated thinking, very skeptical, very analytical, very meticulous. That surely must be a gift from You so I can experience all Your love and blessings which I couldn't get where else.

Thank You for my few good friends who always stand by me to cheer me on when I am down. What matters more to me is their deeds of love, not their looks, status, or backgrounds. I pray for them that You will bring them joy and peace, and bless them with people who care for them too.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.


.... the dvotion of Bee

Teach These Things

1 Timothy 4:6-16

6 If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.

9 This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance 10 (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.

11 Command and teach these things. 12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Bee's Thoughts:

Dear Lord,
I pray that I can "set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." There are so many things I need You to teach me...

Teach me to speak words that heal, not kill.
Teach me to live a life that makes a difference.
Teach me to love the way You love in truth, without hypocrisy.
Teach me to have faith in the right person.
Teach me to be pure in my thoughts and ways.

In Jesus' name I humbly pray. Amen.




.......the devotion of Bee

Security

Psalm 31:19-24

19 How great is your goodness,
which you have stored up for those who fear you,
which you bestow in the sight of men
on those who take refuge in you.

20 In the shelter of your presence you hide them
from the intrigues of men;
in your dwelling you keep them safe
from accusing tongues.

21 Praise be to the LORD,
for he showed his wonderful love to me
when I was in a besieged city.

22 In my alarm I said,
"I am cut off from your sight!"
Yet you heard my cry for mercy
when I called to you for help.

23 Love the LORD, all his saints!
The LORD preserves the faithful,
but the proud he pays back in full.

24 Be strong and take heart,
all you who hope in the LORD.

Bee's Thoughts:

We lived in a very unsecured world indeed. Even when we feel safe with someone whom we thought loves us, many times we are not actually. From past experiences, I realise how deceitful some men can be... "the intrigues of men" is always there (v20) to make us feel good with their empty words and clandestine agenda. But sooner or later we will know how untruthful these men are and wake up from our empty dreams.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that with You I am always safe... for You will deliver me from "the intrigues of men" whenever I come into Your "presence". Whenever I pray to You, You will show me the right from wrong and what I should do. Thank You for Your protection always. Amen.




.......the devotion of Bee

Desires

Psalm 145:14-21

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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


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

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.



Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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




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

Everlasting Arms

Deuteronomy 33:26-29

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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


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


Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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


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

Bee's 4th Month of Devotion

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

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


.......the thoughts of Bee

Shine On!

Daniel 1:1-20

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Do Not Harden Your Hearts

Hebrews 3

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

When To Judge

Matthew 7:1-12

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

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Spiritual Building

Ephesians 4:7-16

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

No Snatching

John 10:25-39

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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


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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Discipline

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

My Strength

Psalm 73:23-28

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

My favorite verses are:

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

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

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


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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

Dear Lord,

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

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

He Never Changes

Psalm 103:11-22

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Inside Out

Ephesians 4:25-32

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

In Jesus'name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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