Fellowship

1 John 1:1-4

The Word of Life
1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We write this to make our joy complete.

Bee's Thoughts:

Fellowship with God and fellow Christians are important aspects of a Christian life. Fellowship is the sharing of that "which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched"... it's a sharing of experiences, the testimonies of our faith in Christ. It's in such fellowship that our joy may be complete.

Dear Lord,
Let me have fellowship with You first of all, and help me to have fellowship with fellow believers. May our joy be complete in such fellowship.
In Jesus' name I pray.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Whenever I met with another Christian, there’s this certain kind of joy and happiness in my heart. It’s not the way I view them as a person, but more of a sense of connection, closeness, unity and hope we both share. I tend to feel more comfortable and open myself up more easily.

But, a true Christian fellowship is more than just a good and warm feeling. It has to be grounded in the testimony of God’s Word. It is also mutual, depending on the unity of believers. And, it is continually renewed daily through the Holy Spirit. True fellowship is both a social and spiritual interaction, made possible only through our living relationship with Christ.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me the importance of having fellowship with other believers. Guide me also to grow in my relationship with Christ and other believers through understanding the underlying principles behind true Christian fellowship. I pray all these in Jesus’ name, Amen.

What there's to learn?

Job 2:7-10

7 So Satan went out from the presence of the LORD and afflicted Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the top of his head. 8 Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes.

9 His wife said to him, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!" 10 He replied, "You are talking like a foolish [a] woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" In all this, Job did not sin in what he said.

Tommy's Thoughts:

How long will we hold on to God when tragedy strikes? How much will we endure before throwing in the towel? Many think believing in God guarantees a life without trouble and hardship. When calamity comes, they question God’s goodness and fairness. They feel betrayed and let down by God, thinking they do not deserve any suffering because of all the good they have done.

But, our faith is tested through suffering. Without any test, there would be no room for our faith to grow. We need to change our perspective when dealing with suffering, from feeling victimized and doubting God, to trusting His faithfulness for not letting us to be tempted beyond what we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13) and willing to seek any lesson we might be able to learn from the situation.

Dear Lord, it’s hard sometimes when problems and frustrations never seem to go away or turn any better. But Lord, I trust and know there are good reasons You allow them to persistently hang about in my life, despite all the effort I’ve done to resolve them. It might be something important that I’ve yet to understand or something vital to change my attitude and to build my character.

Guide me Lord to seek and listen to You everyday, asking the Holy Spirit to give me a deeper understanding on my problems. For all these, I thank You and praise Your Name O Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

I always remember this sentence, "In all this, Job did not sin in what he said." (v10). Another verse is, "Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him" (Job 13: 15). These verses keep me from complaining or murmuring against God even when I feel very depressed and disappointed.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the example of Job, who trusted in You in all circumstances. Let me never lose faith in You in anyway too. Amen.

Heed The Warning

1 Cor. 10:1,5-11

1 For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers, that our forefathers were all under the cloud and that they all passed through the sea. 2 They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. 3 They all ate the same spiritual food 4 and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ. 5 Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered over the desert.

6 Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. 7 Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: "The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in pagan revelry." 8 We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. 9 We should not test the Lord, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes. 10 And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.

11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Nothing is more frustrating about ourselves than making the same mistake we vowed not to repeat again. It might be pressure or stress that causes us to forget or ignore the lessons we’ve learnt in the past.

We might also be ‘gambling’ our way out of a problem by thinking we are capable of handling the situation or assuming things will be different this time round. This is often not the case. We will probably complicate matters further and get ourselves deeper into our problem or crisis.

As Christian, we have a great Reference to equip and prepare us for difficult situations ahead. Studying the Bible regularly reminds us of the many important and invaluable lessons from God. By going to His Word daily, our hearts and minds will be renewed. By heeding warnings revealed in the Bible, we can securely keep our feet on solid ground and flee away from temptations and dangers before they gain any foothold in our heart and mind.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for guiding me to dedicated my time daily to study the Bible. Thank You for the Holy Spirit for continually helping me to understand the meaning and importance of Your Word revealed in the Bible. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Children like to test their boundaries and limits with adults. In so doing, many times they would hurt themselves. Sometimes we too behave like spiritual babes, testing our boundaries and limits with God even though we already have warning not to do certain things.

Yet God is gracious and full of compassion, and though we are such He still has mercy on us. But we cannot stretch our limit too much or we will be like the Israelites who died in the wilderness (v 5, 9, 10).

Dear Lord,
Help me to be obedient to Your word, help me not to complain or grumble. Help me trust that You work all things together for my good. Help me do things that will please You too.

The Larger Purpose

Ruth 4:13-22

The Genealogy of David

13 So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Then he went to her, and the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 14 The women said to Naomi: "Praise be to the LORD, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! 15 He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth."

16 Then Naomi took the child, laid him in her lap and cared for him. 17 The women living there said, "Naomi has a son." And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.

18 This, then, is the family line of Perez:
Perez was the father of Hezron,

19 Hezron the father of Ram,
Ram the father of Amminadab,

20 Amminadab the father of Nahshon,
Nahshon the father of Salmon, [a]

21 Salmon the father of Boaz,
Boaz the father of Obed,

22 Obed the father of Jesse,
and Jesse the father of David.

Tommy's Thoughts:

When things were fine and smooth, we might easily give out our warm thanks and praises to God, but when tragedy strikes, we often turn our back on Him, feeling bitter or betrayed and stop trusting in His faithfulness and providence.

We tend to question God with all the ‘whys’ when bad things happened in our lives. It was either we felt God is against us, thwarting our every step and plan to punish our wrongs, or we thought He’s not that all-powerful after all in solving our problems.

We should know sometimes God does allow certain pains, struggles and hardships in our lives for His purposes and greater good, which we might not be able to grasp or understand at that very moment. Just like Ruth, who was unaware of the larger purpose in her life, where God was preparing for the birth of David and of Jesus, the promised Messiah through her.

Though, we might at times do not know the full picture or the importance for our plight, we can still live our lives with God’s eternal values in mind; trusting and obeying Him in all circumstances. As He has promised faithfully to be with us all the time, good or bad, we can have the assurance that He’ll bring great blessings even in our sorrow and trial.

Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me that sometimes I didn’t live my life in light of eternity; taking moral shortcuts and pursuing short-range pleasures and fulfillments. Teach me to be like Ruth, to have faithful obedience and trust in You, knowing the significance of my life may extend beyond my lifetime, and the rewards will outweigh all the sacrifice I may have made. Thank You Lord. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

When Naomi asked Ruth, her daughter-in-law, to leave her when her son (Ruth's husband) passed away, Ruth refused (Ruth 1 :16-18). Ruth rather die with Naomi, if need be. She didn't leave her mother-in-law alone, though she could according to the custom. Her faithfulness towards Naomi paid off. She finally became the mother of the royal blood.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding me tonight to stay faithful and steadfast even when difficulty strikes. I should not look at my circumstances but to have faith that You have a purpose for all things that happened to me. Keep me strong and help me persevere through, Lord.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

What's at stake?

Romans 6:15-23

Slaves to Righteousness
15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! 16 Don't you know that when you offer yourselves to someone to obey him as slaves, you are slaves to the one whom you obey—whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness? 17 But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. 18 You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.

19 I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness. 20 When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. 21 What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! 22 But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Bee's Thoughts:

Everything has a price tag. Sin too has a price tag... and the price of sin is death. That's serious, and it's at a very high price. We all have sinned and are suppose to die. Yet Jesus has paid the price for us. It's a "gift" that set us free from our debt. Therefore, we are now free to live a life that is pleasing to God.

Thank You Lord, for setting me free from sins and for paying my debt. Thank You for Your gift of life. Let me make my life worthy of You. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

The last few weeks have been rather taxing in preparation for my exam. Because of the time I had to cover all my papers, I’ve used every minute left to grasp as much as I can. It’s all because I seriously wanted to pass this exam as it’s important for my profession, and also to save me both in time and money from sitting in it again. It was knowing what at stake that motivated me to be this determined and consistent.

We will all live forever; the only difference is whether it’s with God or being separated from Him eternally. We may sometimes forget that this is what most at stake in our lives. We are too busy focusing on worldly pursues, we lost track of the thing that matters most, important choice we need to make and commitment we need to have.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me to work out my own salvation (Phil 2:12), not through work to earn Your favor but going into Your Word daily to renew my hearts and minds, to come into Your presence with reverence, trusting and depend on You always. Thank You again for guiding and helping me through my preparation and also during my exam to do my best. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Bee's 6th Month of Devotion

Little did I realize that I have already done 6 months of devotion here with Tommy. It's interesting to note that though we both read the same passages, yet God speaks to us differently concerning our personal life many times. But there are times that we do hear the same message from God though. :)

Due to my busyness at work last week, I did my devotion very late at night, at a time when my brain almost shut off. Thank God that this devotional habit has been formed for some time, so even though I was tired, I could still spend some time to let God speak to me or at least pray.

The Apostle Paul said we need to do godly exercise (1 Timothy 4:7-8). Devotional time is one of them. Thank God for His enabling power to keep this time with Him.

Thanks, Tommy, for doing this spiritual exercise with me. Let's keep going. Cheers!



... the thoughts of Bee

Surrendered Crowns

Revelation 4:6-11

6 Also before the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal.

In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. 7 The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. 8 Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." 9 Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
11 "You are worthy, our Lord and God,
to receive glory and honor and power,
for you created all things,
and by your will they were created
and have their being."

Bee's Thoughts:

What is my earthly 'crown'?

As I ponder over this question, I realized I do have many 'crowns' which I treasured. They are my achievements in life that signify my worth.

Having grown up with very strong inferiority complex has caused me to search hard for my identity and my self-worth. So I worked very hard at work and also study very hard all my life. Yes I have made it... I have done well in my work, have got many promotions and obtained my Master degree about 3 years ago. They do raise my confidence level, my self-worth and self acceptance a little. Yet one thing I know for sure is that without God I am back to square one. I have them because of the grace of God.

There is nothing for me to boast about. Indeed, nothing. Take God away from my life, and I will still feel as worthless as ever. For there were times that I felt inferior again until I go to God in prayers. In Him I feel my worth as the child of the King who deserves the crown.

Dear Father in heaven,
I want to surrender my ‘crowns’ before You. They are worthless without You. Only in You can I really find my worth and confidence.
You are worthy to receive all glory. and honor and power. All that I have come from You. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

It was not an accident, God made me did a last minute change to the final hymn for the church service yesterday. Aside from matching to the sermon's message closely, it touched and drawn the congregation nearer to God, to worship, praise and glorify Him.

We should always acknowledge the sovereignty and power of God, the Creator of all things. No matter how precise, accurate and perfect our own plans, timings and 'formulas' may be, they will ultimately fail when we exclude God in the equation. No matter how capable or skillful we think we are, we will too fail in the end if we are unable to acknowledge all gifts came from God.

No matter what earthly achievements, accomplishments or recognitions we may receive or gain, they will be worthless, equal to nothing at the end if we have never surrender the rulership of our lives to our Sovereign God.

Dear Lord, thank You for teaching me to have the right perspective and motivation in everything I do, surrendering the rulership of my life to You and bringing all praise, glory and honor unto You, for You alone is worthy! In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Lifted From The Depths

Psalm 40:1-5

For the director of music. Of David. A psalm.
1 I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.

2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.

4 Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.

5 Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.

Bee's Thoughts:

This week is really a very tough week for me due to too many urgent assignments. As a result I slept very little and worked too hard. I had no time to think or feel too much, but just concentrate in my work. But tonight, what someone said made me feel sad again. It's good in a way, otherwise I would just feel like a robot or zombie the whole week.

I have worked very, very, hard in my work and done my best. Next, I have to trust God to see it through.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for seeing me through this week. Thank You that I can see some fruits in the assignments I am handling. I commit them into Your hands.
Thank You also for helping my best friend in his exam today too.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Tommy's Thoughts:

The slimy pit here was a metaphor to express what it is like to be trapped and bogged down by our sin or worry. We may be feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and helpless because of our sins, knowing we'll never be able to set ourselves free no matter how hard we try. We see ourselves declining spiritually, staying further away from God, disconnected and feeling hopelessly condemned.

No matter what or how great our sin may be, God's forgiveness is enough to cleanse us from our guilt and set us free to begin anew. When we trust in God with our whole heart, humbly acknowledge how much we need Him to lift us up from our pit, we will receive His grace that transforms us from within and changes our desire to do His will. He will sets our feet on solid rock and gives us a firm place to stand when facing challenges in our lives (v2).

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for turning to me each time, hearing my cry to You (v1). Thank You for the things You have planned for me (v5) in the past, present and future. Teach me to obey Your every word and command that they will guard and protect me from all the 'dangers' that surround me. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

Aliens and Strangers

Hebrews 11:13-16

13 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. 14 People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. 15If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.

Tommy's Thoughts:

Life in this world is imperfect, there are things we desperately long and hope for that never seem to come true and ever so far away. We thought God somehow will immediately grant what we want when we believe in Him. When things are not fulfilled, we easily turn frustrated and discouraged. Because of our impatience, we sometimes decided to quit.

But, we should take courage and learn from these heroes of faith in today’s passage who were still living by faith when they died, though did not receive the things promised. It’s because they saw their home is not here but at an eternal place. Yet, they lived responsibly, knowing their every action carries eternal significances.

Dear Lord, forgive me that at times I live everyday shortsightedly focusing and attached to this world’s desires and possessions that are not eternal. Teach me Lord to know that I’m a visitor here on a journey to the heavenly home You have prepared for us. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Bee's Thoughts:

This world is not my home
I'm just a passing through.
My treasures are laid up
somewhere beyond the blue.
The angels backon me
from heaven's open door,
And I can't feel at home
in this world anymore.

The above is a very old song. It helps us, Christians, to remember where our real home is and what our eternal hope is. Many times, even Christians can forget that they have an eternal home when they become too stress. For me, when I remember that this world is not my home, my tolerance for stress go up 'cos my stress becomes temporal.... and I don't feel so stressful.

Dear Lord,
Thank You that our sufferings on earth is only temporal. A little while more, we shall be with You for eternity if we continue to have faith in You. Help us not lose heart.

Now I pray for my best friend, as he is taking his test tomorrow. Grant him a good and peaceful sleep, and rise up with a clear mind. Help him answer all the questions wisely. May Your Spirit grants him wisdom and understanding. Let him trust in You and not be anxious during his test.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Perpetual Prayer

Luke 11:1-13

Jesus' Teaching on Prayer

1 One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."

2 He said to them, "When you pray, say:
" 'Father,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come.
3 Give us each day our daily bread.
4 Forgive us our sins,
for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.
And lead us not into temptation.' "

5 Then he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend, and he goes to him at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, 6 because a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him.'

7 "Then the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children are with me in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.' 8 I tell you, though he will not get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet because of the man's boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs.

9 "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

11 "Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 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 the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

Tommy's Thoughts:

We might have been disappointed with our past unanswered prayers, questioning whether if God does care or listen to our dire needs. We soon find ourselves staying away from anymore prayers fearing another let down.

The problem is probably not we are skeptical of God’s ability to answer us, but more about our attitude in prayer and how we view our relationship with God: Who is He to us? Do we see Him as a loving heavenly Father who wants the best for His children (v11-13)? Do we trust and believe in His faithfulness and goodness on us? Do we praise God like Jesus before our prayers? Are we persistence and perpetual in our prayers? Or, do we pray only when we are in troubles?

“Give us each day our daily bread” (v3)

God’s provision for us is daily. We can never store up everything at once and cut off communication from God. Our attitude should be to go to God daily with our prayers, keeping us closer and connected to Him, to grow our relationship with Him and ultimately to understand Him and His wills for us better.

Dear Lord, thank You for being the Source of my strength and peace. Guide me to listen to You daily: Your teachings,lessons,instructions with a humble heart and also to share with You all my needs and desire. Teach me also always to seek You and Your kingdom first before everything else. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Bee's Prayers:

Dear Father,

Your name is worthy to be praised. Let my life shows forth Your glory.
May your will be done in my life, be it in my work, my study or my relationship with others.
Give me all that I need each day that I may have the strength to go on.
Forgive my sins. if I have disobeyed You or hurt anyone unknowingly.
I too forgive those who might have uttered wrong things against me or hurt me.
Let me not be tempted to sin against You.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Be True To Your Word

Matthew 5:33-37

Oaths

33"Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.' 34But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; 35or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. 36And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. 37Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one

Tommy's Thoughts:

Today, we live in a society that full of lies and distrust. Truthfulness seems so rare that we often backed up the things we said with words like “I swear” and “I promise”. Many also break their promises casually and remedying them easily with a simple apology or “sorry”. But, no matter how earnest or sincere our apology may be, we will somehow lose the trust and confidence from others in the future.

In today’s passage, Jesus emphasized clearly the importance of telling the truth. Jesus told His followers not to use oath or vows and let their ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and ‘no’ be ‘no: the word alone is enough. When we tell the truth all the time, we will never need to back up our words with promises. And, promise requires our full commitment to keep them, so if we are unsure we can keep them, don’t make one at the first place.

Dear Lord, thank You for the lessons I’ve learnt in the past on keeping promises and also telling the truth. Thank You for making me aware how important they are in building trust and committed relationships with others.

Lord, I would like to pray for my best friend who has to rush her assignment these few days without break. May You help her to do her best and be able to get enough good rest. I would also like to pray for all my friends and myself too who will be sitting for the coming exam, that You will guide us in the study, managing our times and to do well in it. Thank You and I pray all these in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Bee's Thoughts:

Above all, my brothers, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no, or you will be condemned.
(James 5:12)

The world system teaches us that we should not be so truthful all the time. During a casual conversation with a colleague yesterday, I was shocked that she openly acknowldged that she lied most of the time in her job to get things done. In fact, she said that after doing that for a while she has no more quilty feeling when doing so.

The bible teaches us to be true to our words, i.e. to keep our words, and to say what we mean, and mean what we say. I feel quite frustrated whenever someone prefers to speak in 'riddles' to me or tend to say the opposite of what he/she really means. I am very poor in such guessing game, for I tend to say what I mean and mean what I say. I find it hard to beat around the bush.

Sometimes people tell me that I shouldn't be so honest, that telling white lies is ok. But the bible says that anything beyond the "yes" or "no" comes from the devil and we will be condemned for it.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your remminder that we are to be true to our words as Christians. Help me never to fall into the temptation of following the world system. Keep me true.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Don't Be Afraid

Psalm 56

1 Be merciful to me, O God, for men hotly pursue me;
all day long they press their attack.

2 My slanderers pursue me all day long;
many are attacking me in their pride.

3 When I am afraid,
I will trust in you.

4 In God, whose word I praise,
in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?

5 All day long they twist my words;
they are always plotting to harm me.

6 They conspire, they lurk,
they watch my steps,
eager to take my life.

7 On no account let them escape;
in your anger, O God, bring down the nations.

8 Record my lament;
list my tears on your scroll [b]—
are they not in your record?

9 Then my enemies will turn back
when I call for help.
By this I will know that God is for me.

10 In God, whose word I praise,
in the LORD, whose word I praise-

11 in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?

12 I am under vows to you, O God;
I will present my thank offerings to you.

13 For you have delivered me [c] from death
and my feet from stumbling,
that I may walk before God
in the light of life. [d]

Tommy's Thoughts:

Although we might not have someone plotting to take our lives, we do face intimidation, pressure, insult, bad-mouthing and hurt from others. They seem to watch our every step, waiting for every opportunity to put us down. We become anxious and guarded every time we are around them. We fear our carelessness or mistake will allow them to unfairly harm, hurt and affect us in ways. We feel helpless to stop them.

But we should not be afraid of men as God is always in control and He knows our every problem and ‘threat’. Despite the hurt and harm others can inflict on us; they will never be able to rob us of our souls and our promised future. Instead, we should fear God and trust Him to bring judgment to those who harm us.

Dear Lord, thank You for hearing my prayer, giving me the courage when I was in fear. Thank You for being there with me when I was discouraged and wronged. Lord, I will trust in You always and praise Your wonderful Name. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Bee's Thoughts:


Dear Lord,
I have been extremely tired and stressed by work these 2 days, working almost non-stop. Thank You for Your comforting words.
Sometimes there are politics in the office, people might backbite or say anything untrue about another in order to excel themselves. Help me, Lord, to stay true and strong and do my best. I pray that Your name will be glorified in my work.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Timing is everything

Ecclesiastes 3:1-13

A Time for Everything
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:

2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,

3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,

5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,

7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

9 What does the worker gain from his toil? 10 I have seen the burden God has laid on men. 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. 12 I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. 13 That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil—this is the gift of God

Tommy's Thoughts:

The uncertainties and harshness in life can sometimes drain and wear us down greatly when we don’t seem to find any lasting solutions to our problems. Habitually, to ease our struggles, we desperately went ahead with things, knowing consciously we are ignoring God’s advice, guidance and perfect timing for our lives. This often led to even more despair, complication and regret.

As Christian, we should see difficult times as opportunities to discover why we need God and His guidance and timing. To understand, accept, appreciate the dynamic and perfection of God’s timing is to find true peace and love in God. Instead of seeing them merely as disturbance or obstacle in our journey, roadblocks in life often help to equip and build us for greater and more meaningful things in the future.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me the sense of purpose and dedication in everything I do: in my work, relationships, responsibilities, duties and commitments; to see them as a way to serve and glorify You. Teach me to be happy, patient and enjoying whatever I have now as gifts from You. Lead me to always trust and depend on You while going through the seasons of my life, to seek and gain a proper view of Your plans and timings for my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

Yes, even God has His timing in all He does. He doesn't rush, yet He isn't late for anything. What seems bad to us may be a blessing in disguise before God reveals the truth to us in His time. Everything He made is beautiful and good.

We are to be happy, do good, and enjoy the fruits of our labour (v12-13). So we should question ourselves whether we are happy and satisfied. If not, we should do something about it instead of just complain.

Dear Lord,
Your timing is always perfect for me. Let me be obedient to Your plan for my life. I commit myself to You again. Amen.

Genuine Caring

Galatians 4:13-20

13 As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. 14 Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself. 15 What has happened to all your joy? I can testify that, if you could have done so, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. 16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?

17 Those people are zealous to win you over, but for no good. What they want is to alienate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them. 18 It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always and not just when I am with you. 19 My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you, 20 how I wish I could be with you now and change my tone, because I am perplexed about you!

Tommy's Thoughts:

A friend was questioning what God has ever blessed her with over the years. She was very sad over a situation in her life that she doubted and even blamed God. She soon found herself having a hard time to be a ‘good’ Christian; she felt guilty rather than loved; she constantly keep in mind how far short she has fell that she didn’t care anymore.

I used to defend God by giving all kind of examples of blessings, care and protection she had received through the years. But, I’ve missed out to mention one of the greatest gift God has given her, the gift of salvation.

Like the Galatians who had lost their joy of salvation because of legalism, we need to continually remind ourselves to live by faith in Christ instead of trying to live up to the demands and expectations of others.

Dear Lord, thank You for reminding me to check my own focus when at times I feel guilty or inadequate despite knowing what Christ has done for me on the Cross. Teach me also to have the tact and gentleness of Christ when serving and caring for those who is in needs or facing difficulty. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

The way Paul prayed and laboured for the Christians he cared for was as if he was experiencing child-labour. His hope and joy was to see Christ forms in them (becoming Christ-like) (19). That is also the desire of God.

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."
- 1 Peter 1:15-16

Dear Lord,

It's Your desire for all Christians to be Christ-like. Let me live a life that is pleasing to You. Help me to have the heart of Paul too, that constantly praying for my fellow Christians to be like You, encouraging them when they are weak.

For one particular brother-in-Christ, who is facing lots of stress and problems and is on the verge of a breakdown, I pray that You will have mercy on him. Let him know that Your grace is sufficient for him. Let him lift up his eyes to You instead of his problems. Keep him in Your arms, Lord. May your peace fills his heart.

For my best friend, who is feeling the stress of his coming important exam, I pray for peace and a clear mind. May You guide his eyes to the important areas he needs to know. Let him trust that You know what is best for him whatever the exam result is, as long as he has done his best.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Right Waiting

Psalm 40:1-8

1 I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.

2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.

3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.

4 Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.

5 Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.

6 Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced,;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.

7 Then I said, "Here I am, I have come—
it is written about me in the scroll.

8 I desire to do your will, O my God;
your law is within my heart."

Tommy's Thoughts:

Waiting is never easy. Whenever we get ourselves into trouble or dilemma, we'll often try all kind of hasty ways on our own to get rid, get out or get away from them. Most of the times, this shortsightedness rob and delay us from experiencing the blessings from God. If we trust and obey God, to be patient and willing to persevere to go through the trial of waiting, we will understand the necessity and significance of the wait as we look back at the end of the day. We will agree with God that it was the best possible way!

In today’s Psalm, we see how David received 4 benefits for patiently waiting for God’s deliverance:
1. God lifted him out of his despair.
2. God set his feet on rock.
3. God gave him a firm place to stand.
4. God put a new song of praise in his mouth.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your good plans given to me everyday; plans that at times I was slow to see, realize or understand. But, I trust in You for everything I have or going to go through, knowing them all will work for good for those who loves You. Thank You for Your testing and molding to equipped me to be more like Christ each day.

Give me strength and wisdom to patiently wait in trying times and also learn to love You, serve others and tell others about You while waiting. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Bee's Thoughts:

The prayer to the Lord by King David has become my prayer too.
It's a prayer of confidence in God:
in His compassion to listen to our cry;
in His power to lift us up when we are down;
in His plan for our life though at times it looks bleak;
in His desire for us to be His rather than our sacrifice.


Dear Lord,
Just like King David, I have experienced all Your goodness towards me in my life. At times I may forget about them, but this psalm again reminds me of who You are and what You want to do for me. I want to trust in You, Lord. You want my life rather than my offerings. Guide me as I walk in faith.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

A Meaningful Life

Ecclesiastes 2:1-16

Pleasures Are Meaningless
1 I thought in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good." But that also proved to be meaningless. 2 "Laughter," I said, "is foolish. And what does pleasure accomplish?" 3 I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly—my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives.

4 I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards. 5 I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of fruit trees in them. 6 I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. 7 I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me. 8 I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. I acquired men and women singers, and a harem [a] as well—the delights of the heart of man. 9 I became greater by far than anyone in Jerusalem before me. In all this my wisdom stayed with me.

10 I denied myself nothing my eyes desired;
I refused my heart no pleasure.
My heart took delight in all my work,
and this was the reward for all my labor.

11 Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done
and what I had toiled to achieve,
everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind;
nothing was gained under the sun.

Wisdom and Folly Are Meaningless
12 Then I turned my thoughts to consider wisdom,
and also madness and folly.
What more can the king's successor do
than what has already been done?

13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly,
just as light is better than darkness.

14 The wise man has eyes in his head,
while the fool walks in the darkness;
but I came to realize
that the same fate overtakes them both.

15 Then I thought in my heart,
"The fate of the fool will overtake me also.
What then do I gain by being wise?"
I said in my heart,
"This too is meaningless."

16 For the wise man, like the fool, will not be long remembered;
in days to come both will be forgotten.
Like the fool, the wise man too must die!

Tommy's Thoughts:

Some consider Ecclesiastes the most controversial book of the Bible; too negative, too bleak, too pessimistic. But, if we follow to the end of the book, we will realize it is one of the books that answered clearly the deepest question in our hearts: the meaning of life.

There are many who constantly discontented, bitter, frustrated and unhappy over their life, frequently comparing themselves with others, blaming others and even God for their situation. There are others who said they will change or will not act the way they are now if they have or own something. Many also think their life will be fulfilled with earthly achievements, possessions, recognitions or wealth. And, there are also those who settled with their short life on earth just to have selfish fun, to be enjoyed irresponsibly and recklessly, thinking nothing matters or significant in life.

The writer of Ecclesiastes, probably Solomon, had tasted ‘them’ all, but found life under the sun (life minus God) as utterly meaningless, a chasing after the wind (v11). Without God, even the best lived life is utterly empty; it’s like a continuous pointless circle or loop. No matter whom you are or what you own: status, fame, wealth, all will come to an end and equal to nothing when we die. So, why work? Why help? Why change? Why bother? It’s all for nothing anyway!

But, a life with God is totally different and meaningful. It is filled with hope, purpose and assurance. As Christian, we have a clear finish line to spend our lives with God eternally, we have a clear purpose to glorify and honor Him with our talents, time, wisdom, love and obedience, and we are assured of our salvation when we believe in Christ.

Dear Lord, thank You for giving me a life filled with purpose and meaning; to seek, believe, glorify and honor You. Thank You for showing me the eternal value and significance in everything I do and of who I am as a person. Father, there are those close to me who still live a life under the sun even despite being a Christian, I pray that You will keep them in Your name, that they may one day seek and be one with You. Thank You and I ask all these in Jesus’ name, Amen.


Bee's Thoughts:

The pursuit of wealth and knowledge is nothing new to mankind... it's been there since the days of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:6). They sinned when they gave in to the temptation.

King Solomon found that all human's pursuits without God are just "vanity" or "meaningless... "everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind" (v11).

Tonight's devotion is a reminder to me that I should pursue what is of eternal value instead of things that are meaningless. Our wealth can get destroyed or stolen, our knowledge can be erazed when disease strikes our brain too.

"19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)

So what/who do we treasure in life? Can the things/people we treasure stay with us in eternity? Where is our heart?

Dear Lord,
Let me set my heart on You and focus on building things that are eternal -- my relationship with You and others. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Winds Of Love

1 John 4:1-8

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

When Brokenhearted

Psalm 34:11-22

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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


Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

Serve with Gladness

Ephesians 6:5-9

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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


Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

Divine Strength

John 18:1-11

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

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

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

5 "Jesus of Nazareth," they replied.

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

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

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

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

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

Tommy's Thoughts:

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

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

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


Bee's Thoughts:

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

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

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

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

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

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


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