CHRISTIAN THOUGHTS

BY LORD PENZANZE

2011-10-28T01:40:00.000-07:00

By Lord Penzanze in Hyde v Hyde [1886] LR 1 P&D 130

"I perceive that marriage, as understood in Christendom, may for this purpose be defined as a voluntary union for life of one man and one woman, to the exclusion of all others"

If Lord Penzanze would be able to rise from the dead today - he would probably suffer a heart attack. English law has changed a lot through the seasons of time.

Today, English Law allows a valid marriage to be terminated by several means as follows:

a. the death of one of the parties
b. by a decree of dissolution
c. via pronunciation of divorce by a Court of competent jurisdiction.

Governing Statute in Malaysia.

In Malaysia, the law at present governing divorce for non- Muslims is the Law reform ( Marriage & Divorce) Act 1976 ( Act 164) . S 8 of the LRA provides that marriages may be dissolved by

a. death by one of the parties
b. an order of a Court of competent jurisdiction
c. a decree made by a Court of competent jurisdiction that the marriage is null and void.

( There was some ruckus raised by the opposition in Parliament as to whether we have copied English Law.The Ruling Party solemnly declared that we have enough brains to draft our own laws and promptly shouted down the opposition)

BLUE EARTH

2011-09-03T23:03:00.000-07:00

NASA handout image of Hurricane Irene moving over the Caribbean taken by astronaut Ron Garan from the International Space Station. The United States put its eastern seaboard on alert for Hurricane Irene on Tuesday as the powerful storm barreled up from the Caribbean on a path that could hit the US coast on the weekend.

KING ZEDEKIAH

2011-08-10T23:34:00.000-07:00

King Zedekiah refused to accept the counsel of Jeremiah the prophet, who gave him messages of the Lord. He rebelled against King Nebuchadnezzar, even though he had taken an oath of loyalty. (2 Chronicles 36:12-13).

¹¹ Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. ¹² He did evil in the eyes of the LORD his God and did not humble himself before Jeremiah the prophet, who spoke the word of the LORD. ¹³ He also rebelled against King Nebuchadnezzar, who had made him take an oath in God’s name. He became stiff-necked and hardened his heart and would not turn to the LORD, the God of Israel. ¹⁴ Furthermore, all the leaders of the priests and the people became more and more unfaithful, following all the detestable practices of the nations and defiling the temple of the LORD, which he had consecrated in Jerusalem.
......................................................................................................................................................
⁹ Jehoiachin was eighteen^[e] years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem three months and ten days. He did evil in the eyes of the LORD. ¹⁰ In the spring, King Nebuchadnezzar sent for him and brought him to Babylon, together with articles of value from the temple of the LORD, and he made Jehoiachin’s uncle,^[f] Zedekiah, king over Judah and Jerusalem.

WITNESSING.

2011-08-09T22:04:00.001-07:00

MAY IT HAPPEN.

2011-08-09T19:33:00.004-07:00

KING JEHOIACHIN -CHART YOUR OWN COURSE.

2011-02-21T20:13:00.000-08:00

Following the example of his father, Jehoiachin sinned against the Lord. 2 Kings 24:9

Every family has got its own dark history.Few exceptions here.Jehoiachin was unfortunate in the sense that his father was a bad leader who was known for abusing his people. He could have rejected his dad's ways ' and charted his own course.Instead he became "a chip of the old block" and incurred Gods wrath.

The Judgment
This is what the LORD says: ".... His life will amount to nothing." - Jeremiah 22:30

Whatever your family background or your choice of friends, you have to make your own commitment to God.You don't have to be an alcoholic because your father happens to be an alcoholic, or a gambler because your mum was a hopeless gambler and the other family members or friends are incurable gossipers.God is light and He has invited you to live in the light.Therefore choose right.Don't follow in Jehoiachin's footsteps.The old has gone, the new has come. You are a new creation in Christ.( 2 Cor 5:17)

As someone once said "We cannot avoid the crow from flying above our heads, but we can prevent it from building a nest on our heads"In this regard Pauls advice to the Christians at Corinth becomes all the more important."Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty". Live well, my friend and be guided by God's Spirit. GBY!

KING JEHOIAKIM

2010-11-14T19:00:00.000-08:00

The King with a changed name. -its meaning- whom God will raise up.

Neco made Joahaz brother Eliakim king of Judah and changed his name to Jehoiakim . Joahaz was taken to Egypt by Neco. 2 Chronicles 36:4

Jehoiakim's 11-year reign was disastrous. Although he had opportunity to follow his father Josiah's righteous example, Jehoiakim turned to evil. Jeremiah described him as a presumptuous ruler who abused his own people and persecuted and murdered God's servants (Jeremiah 26:20-23).

Its not just enough to have a name changed during a baptism service or a born again experience and thereby to be known by a biblical name which carries fantastic spiritual meanings. The Christian life is deeper than that and - must be based on the fear of God.An inward spiritual change is what matters to God. Eliakim had a new name- Jehoiakim- but his manner of life did not reflect the meaning of that name. Although his new name meant that God will raise up- in reality, he sunk. The name change did not affect him one little bit. He was captured and carried off to Babylon in chains.2 Chronicles 36:6

It is regretabble that even some notable preachers bore biblical names- but plunged other Christians into misery.David Koresh is just one example among so many. Don't join their ranks.Instead heed the admonition of the Scriptures- " Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind"

When a Christian appears before the judgment seat of Christ- he would not be asked by what name he was known here on earth. All that would matter on that day is whether he did the Fathers will.Remember Jehoiakim's life.

MY HEARTS PRAYER

2010-10-15T01:26:00.000-07:00

God of my life, I welcome this new day
Its your gift to me- the first day of the rest of my life
I thank you for the gift of being alive this morning
I thank you for the sleep which has refreshed me
I thank you for the chance to begin life all over again

Lord, this day is full of promise and opportunity
Help me not to waste it away
This day is full of mystery and of the unknown
Help me face it without anxiety
During this day,may I become a mote thoughtful person
A more prayerful person, a more generous and kindly person
Lord, bless this day for me and for all of us. Amen.

KING JEHOAHAZ=2 CHRONICLES 36: -Draft

2010-08-24T05:56:00.001-07:00

“.........And Necho took Jehoahaz his brother and carried him off to Egypt.”

Someone has once said that in life we have to play the card that we are dealt with.Jehoahaz had the misfortune of being born as Eliakims's brother. After King Necho killed their father, he changed Eliakim’s name to Jehoiakim and imposed on the land an enormous tax.And to ensure that Jehoiakim paid the money he carried his brother Jehoahaz off to Egypt. Jehoahaz seems to have got a bad deal in life.

Not much of this man's life is recorded for us except that he died in Egypt.[2 Kings 23:34]. I assume Jehoahaz must have cried a lot when the time came for him to be deported.Maybe you are also caught up in a situation which is beyond your control. Far from home and among strangers. This can be especially true for students who are enrolled in Universities and brethren in the city because of their new jobs.

Whether its peace of mind , courage or provision of our needs, we place ourselves in His hands and on His schedule. Faith embraces the reality of the Scriptures which states- “ I will never leave you or forsake you,so we say with confidence- The Lord is my helper, I will be not be afraid-what can man do unto me ?”

When life seems to take everything away from us, as it did for Jehoahaz- refrain from despair.We need to endure the incoming roar of the moment until God “changes the times and the season”. It is God at work. God will never abandon you. And when His work is done, He will usher you to the next stage for your spiritual well being and growth. “You are the potter, I am the clay” Journey well, my friend.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit and the love of the Father be with you forever more. Amen.

KING JOSIAH - THE LEGAL APPROACH

2010-07-31T05:01:00.001-07:00

THE EVIDENTIAL ISSUES.

2 Chronicles Ch .35 v 25 "Jeremiah also uttered a lament for Josiah....

Jeremiah preached inward repentance.The priest was concerned about the nations idolatry.While cleansing the temple, Hikiah the priest accidentally "stumbles" upon a Book. He passes it on to Shaphan the secretary who in turn passes the Book to Josiah.To corroborate its authenticy, they are sent to Huldah- an unknown woman- who pronounces judgment on the land- but King Josiah would die in peace.

One wonders why they enquired from this lady from the servants quarters when Jeremiah was still around prophesying. Of course, it was a set up job. The prophecy turned out to be completely false.First judgment was to come from the Chaldeans as prophesied by Jeremiah. But Josiah, incited by the Priest Hilkiah went on a rampage against the idolaters of the land- to the point of burning the bones of the priests upon the altars.The irony is that after Josiah died, the Hebrews went back to pagan worship.The great "revival' ended with Josiah's death.

The evidence is clear. Hilkiah wanted to centralize worship and get rid of the idolaters.But he was frustrated by Jeremiahs prophecies. Hilkiah had no political clout. But the Book of Moses had great authority.And Hilkiah used the Bible.A whole nation was fooled. It was the ultimate deception. From David Koresh,Jim Jones to Hilkiah - deception from religious authorities is the ultimate weapon of Satan.Eventually the nation was wiped out by the Chaldeans.Exactly as prophesied by Jeremiah.

Disciples: What will be the Sign of your coming?

Jesus Christ: Take heed that you do not be deceived.

KING JOSIAH - THE EXEGETICAL APPROACH

2010-07-30T21:08:00.001-07:00

THE BIBLE READERS DILEMMA

"....and you shall be gathered to your grave in peace....'" (2 Kings 22:18-20) "And his servants carried him dead in a chariot from Megiddo..." (2 Kings 23:29-30)

King Josiah's life is an enigma. First the prophecy about him that he would die in peace. The reality was that his life ended tragically at the hands of an Egyptian King. What is the the Bible reader to make out of all this?

Let us examine the situation. God gave the promise of a peaceful ending to King Josiah.In the Old Testament, God is a Covenant keeping God. The New Testament teachings are conditional too.God has provided the atonement for the world. The command? Repent and believe in this message. We can have fellowship with God .The conditions? If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, then we have fellowship with one another.."

To grab at promises while ignoring the conditons attached is dangerous. In the 80's many Christians were caught up in the "Confess and Possess" doctrine, only to be severely disappointed.( although the Bible promises many things) Our faith must be rooted in the whole counsel of God. A believer is advised not to select Scriptures here and there and expect God to work.Josiah had Gods promise- but he strayed ouitside God's will.And the promise did not work. His life was recorded for a reason. VJ- the Midnight Owl

KING JOSIAH - THE DEVOTIONAL APPROACH

2010-07-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

In Josiah's 31st year as king,he faced a national security crisis. Egypt sent an army to attack a site on the Euphrates River.To get there,they had to cross through Judah's territory.Josiah refused to allow this foreign army on his soil.King Necho of Egypt warned him to stay out of his way.Josiah decided to face him in battle. He faced Necho and lost his life in a war that God had not santioned.

Josiah was a great King who had introduced many spiritual reforms in the nation and was much loved by the people.But he lacked one thing.Unlike other Kings,he did not have any military victories on his personal record. In terms of battlefield victories, he certainly could not be classed together with King David, Saul or any of the other Kings. He needed this war only for one thing-his social validation.And that proved to be his undoing.

Understand this.Much of what we want in life must be perceived in this way- what will it cost us? It is a fact of life that people who achieve millionaire status, move on to desiring titles. Someone or something to validate their social status- even the desire to being admired. It is this hidden desire that causes chaos in the dynamics of interaction.Ignore people and they are certain to feel their worth questioned.

Reflect.Your deepest validation already took place at the Cross by God Himself. Know this truth and it will set you free from this bondage.

Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

KING AMON

2010-07-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

2ND CHRONICLES 33:21-26

ITS MY LIFE, ITS MY CHOICE

"Amons officials plotted against him and assasinated him in the palace" v24

We are where we are in life because of the sum total of our own choices. With the exception of birth all almost all other areas are within our choice.And Amon chose the "tresspassing life". Maybe,like his father, he wanted to sow his wild oats before choosing to follow God. But what King Amon did not realize was this- no two life patterns repeat itself in exactly the same way. The only thing that repeats in life is its utter unpredictability.

"Amon trespassed more and more..." Enjoy while you can. But his fun was cut short. And when he was not anticipating it, the downfall came from his own quarters and his life ended. (Such is the price one has to pay for being ignorant of the people who mingle around us.)Life choices are a simmering battleground for Christains. In an inherently morally decayed society, where almost everything is available for our indulgence, we are forced to restrain our feet on a daily basis.A certain choice can be pleasurable for a season but can turn catastrophic as it was for King Amon.

If we chose the evil and hope to turn to God in some future day like King Amon there is always a possibility that we may suddenly be confronted with some unforeseeable pain and tragedy.Since there is no one on earth to tell us our appointed time, it is prudent to stay away from all appearance of evil and respond to God early in life.

Understand this.Life ends abruptly for many people cutting their dreams short.We read about them in the daily news.Tragic accidents, brutal murders and victims of horrific abuse. Since life is so fragile, include in your prayers "And deliver us from all evil." Don't walk in Amons footsteps.

The face of the LORD is against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from the earth" (Psalm 34:16).

KING MANASSEH

2010-07-03T02:24:00.000-07:00

2ND CHRONICLES 21: 17-25

A GRANDFATHERS LEGACY

“Therefore the Lord brought upon them the captains of the army of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh with hooks, bound him with bronze fetters and carried him off to Babylon.”

Shakesphere once said “The evil that men do, lives after them.” Manasseh followed his grandfather's footsteps-Ahaz. His personal resume contains the following data-"Rebuilding the high places which his father Hezekiah had broken down, burning his sons in the fire,soothsaying,witchcraft,sorcery and consulting mediums and spiritists.' Unequalled by other kings.

But disaster soon came.An Assyrian king conquered him and carried him off to Babylon in hooks. He went through a terrifying experience.But he humbled himself before God. And by some miracle, he was released and returned to Jerusalem.

On his return he immediately removed all the foreign gods.Manasseh's testimony would make headlines in todays churches. Other Kings caught in such a situation had committed suicide.Saul did exactly that. But Manasseh survived-somehow. There was an invisible hand involved here.

In the New Testament there is a most wonderful verse “If any man is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come.” 2nd Corinthians 5:17. In Ezekiel it says “I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked but that the wicked turn from his way and live.” 33:11

God heard Manasseh.And God has not changed. All that a person need to do is to confess his sins and not to persisit in foolishness. Turn back.Before it leads to a nightmare. The Midnight Owl.

KING HEZEKIAH

2010-06-30T01:52:00.000-07:00

2 Chronicles 32:31
Howbeit in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon.....God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.

WHAT HAVE THEY SEEN IN YOUR HOUSE? [draft]

Hezekiah was a great king.He reopend the temple which his father had sealed and reestablished the Passover- the biggest event in Jewish religious history. But when some ambassadors from Babylon came to visit him, he took them on a tour of the palace and showed them everything......and the gold.He did not realize that they were spies.

Isaiah: What have they seen in your house? 1 Kings 20: 15
Hezekiah : They have seen all that is in my house.

Isaiah : “...all that is in your house and what your fathers have accumulated until this day, shall be carried to Babylon- nothing shall be left.”

Within a few years Jerusalem was ransacked by the Babylonian army. Nothing was left. Even his children were taken to serve as eunuchs in Babylon.

Most people are open books.Our basic instinct is to trust human appearances.If someone dresses like a businessman, talks like a businessman,then he must be a businessman.This is our mental vulnerability.And Hezekiah fell for one of the oldest tricks in military manual.Subterfuge.

In real life people are often deceived to the point of unspeakable losses by deception.Thats how our first ancestors lost their paradise. The game is the same. Hezekiah did not have a discerning eye and foolishly opened up. Society, in which we must live and die, is made up of appearances.Think about this and the Lord will give you understanding in all things.

One may smile, and smile, and be a villain" [William Shakespeare-Hamlet]

KING AHAZ

2010-06-29T20:09:00.000-07:00

2nd Chronicles 28: 1-27

“He burned incense.....burned his children in the fire.....v3 encouraged moral decline.....v19...increasing unfaithful....v22 sacrificed to the gods of Damascus......v23....cut in pieces the articles of the house of God shut up the doors and made for himself altars in every corner of Jerusalem.v24

A FRUSTRATED KING

It is a mystery as why Ted Bundy,given his family background turned out to be one of the worst serial killers in history. Ahaz fits this category. He had none of the qualities his father had.

In the ancient world, it was a ritual to sacrifice one's own children, to get the attention of the gods. Ahaz got involved.When the Syrians defeated him in battle, he converted to their religion thinking their gods could help.Still nothing changed for him.Finally he cut up all the things that were used in Jehovah's worship and sealed its doors.All services were cancelled indefinitely. He was one frustrated man. Something was boiling below the surface.And He blamed God for whatever was troubling him.

The Bible does not promise that God will give everything in this life once we turn to Him.Take for example the verse in John 14:14. Jesus said “ If you ask anything in my Name I will do it.” Now this verse seems to promise strawberry ice-cream for all of us. But it was spoken in a particular context to the disciples before being sent out as missionaries.

The trying times. Saint Augustine described this season as “The dark night of the soul." You are not alone.Read about Job's agony and Jonah's utter frustration. They all had their moments of intense private grief. But they did not resort to self destructive ways.Get a hold on yourself. The storm will pass somehow. The truth is-everyone is plagued by some inner struggle. Ahaz's let his frustration ruin him.Don't be undone by yours. The Midnight Owl
Peope rarely believe that their problems arise from their own misdeeds and stupidity. Robert Greene

KING JOTHAM

2010-06-28T05:46:00.000-07:00

2nd Chronicles 27:1-9
ITS NONE OF MY BUSINESS

And he did what was right in the sight of the Lord, according to all that his father Uzziah had done (although he did not enter the temple of the Lord). But still the people acted corruptly.

There are only nine verses recorded for King Jotham. He was 25 years old when he became King. His fathers humiliation affected him profoundly but Jotham was able to move on in life. He focused his energies on building programmes, “...he built extensively on the wall of Ophel” and fought a few wars most notably with the Ammonites.

But one thing stands out- he stayed away from the temple.His fathers humiliation was enough.His influence over the people was minimal to say the least.True, the people acted corruptly- but he decided it was none of his business.

The past has a way of conditioning us to behave in a certain way in our present circumstances.If people are closed up and restricted, if they get edgy on hearing a thing,you can be sure something is simmering underneath. And oftentimes its related to a painful experience.Beware of assuming that church people are different from the rest of the world.Its far safer to face the reality,than to be deceived by peaceful exteriors.

Live your life as your own. Don't let the world foster its own ideas as to how you should live.But in your isolation,be sensible.Isolation has its own pricey tags.It can drive anyone to alcohol,depression,anger,thoughts of suicide and for Jotham it was work- "building extensively".Its impossible to be unaffected by the past. But its all history now.The solution? Say it out loud. "I will not let anyone, friends, foe or family ruin my life" One's rationality is the last line of defence before breaking free.
" And when I passed you by and saw you polluted in your own blood,I said to you -"live, yes I said to you- live" Chapter 16 Ezekiel

KING UZZIAH

2010-06-28T05:13:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES 26

And they withstood King Uzziah and said to him, “It is not for you Uzziah to burn incense to the Lord, but for the priests......... Get out of the sanctuary for you have tresspassed!
King Uzziah had a phenomenal rise to the top of the royal ladder. “ His fame spread as far as the entrance of Egypt...v 8

Sun Tze in " The Art of Chinese warfare" states that the greatest danger is at the point of victory. It can inflate the human ego. Uzziah lost all sense of proportion when he entered the temple to burn incense- only reserved for the priests. Before the priests could throw him out,leprosy broke out on his forehead so that he himself rushed to get out. Until he died he lived in an isolated house and died a leper.In a single evening, everything was undone.

Life is full of unpredictable misfortunes. So dont create our own. Political scenes are just so full of this situation where new politicians cross the line only to meet monsters greater than themselves. By then its just too late. They get trampled and rush to get out.

Keeping our progress and reputation in perspective can save us from horrific blunders. Half of our personal success comes from knowing when to stop and not overstep our boundaries.Because you don't know whose foot you are stepping on.There are situations, which if you enter unthinkingly, you cannot get out that easily. It may be true that God forgives. But people won't when their personal interests are affected.There are no exceptions to this rule.

Know the harsh reality of life. What has taken decades for you to built can be ruined by just one bad decision- as Uzziah found out. Being presumptious has a very big price tag.When the feeling of self importance rises up within you, take a deep breath and keep Uzziah in mind.And his blunder won't become yours. The Midnight Owl

KING AMAZIAH

2010-06-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES 25

Choose your battles carefully.Never offend the wrong person.

“Have we made you the King's counsellor? Cease!! Why should you be killed?”

Ancient kings would always bring back hostages and gold from the countries that they had conquered.But Amaziah's souvenirs were unique- he brought back their gods. After defeating the Edomites,he subjected them to unbelievable cruelty. He took ten thousand captives and brought them to a high cliff and threw them all down, “so that they were all dashed to pieces” When a prophet cautioned him about his new religion, Amaziah threatened him with death too.

Amaziah then began provoking the King of Israel to war with his belligerence. But King Joash told the king to tone down, stay at home and celebrate his victory.But Amaziah was determined to meet Joash in war. In the ensuing battle, Joash decimated his army and ransacked all his treasures.

Having ruined the army, Amaziah returned home only to find that there was a political conspiracy against him. The problem with political conspiracies is that you just can't differentiate friends and foes anymore.Silent enemies are everywhere.And they smile sweetly while hiding a dagger and bidding their time.Amaziah fled,but someone found him hiding in Lachish.And that was that. The last thing we are told about him is that they carried his corpse on horses and brought it back to Judah.

In a world which is increasingly filled with stressful and sensitive people, it is the height of stupidity to be ruffling anyones feathers or to be pushing someones buttons. Avoid all battles and do not offend the wrong person because forgiveness is not found in their vocabulary.There is no reversal of this law. Don't bother looking for one.As Amaziah found out.

It is my opinion the most fitting epithaph on Amaziah's tombstone would be “ I SHOULD HAVE STAYED AT HOME.”

"Provocation comes before swords." (Arabic proverb)

KING JOASH

2010-06-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES 23 & 24
“Then Joash the King did not remember the kindness which Jehoiada had done to him, but killed his son 2 Chronicles 24: v 22
Joash was born into a treacherous situation. After Ahaziah's death, his mother Athaliah immediately destroyed all the royal heirs of Judah. Joash was saved by Jehoshabeath who hid him for six years.Later her husband the priest Jehoiada secretly won the alliances of all the military commanders of Judah and when Joash was seven years old, they anointed him King, the youngest ever to sit on the throne. Then Athaliah was executed.

But when the Jehoiada died, Joash formed the wrong alliances who poured poison into his ears. Jehoiada's son- Zekariah confronted him. Surely King Joash would listen to him.Zekeriah staked his life on the sense of gratitude he thought Joash would feel for him. Josiah was a person who rose in life by the sheer patronage of other people's leadership,and soon forgot the assistance he had received. At Zekeriah's moment of realization, he could still have saved his own life but friendship and love can blind every man's eyes to the real situation. Nobody believes that someone we have helped so much can turn against us, and Zekeriah kept on believing that until King Joash ordered him to be stoned to death.

But that was a very dangerous thing to do, for the people knew how Jehoiada has protected Joash.It stirred up all kinds resentment in the crowd. Remember this. For revenge, people can silently wait for a thousand years.And you won't know from which direction it comes. And when Josiah returned severely wounded to recover, from the only battle he fought, his own servants, whom he least suspected came into his bedroom and slaughtered him.

Such is the fate of all those who miscalculate the power of retribution. The Midnight Owl

KING AHAZIAH

2010-06-26T23:54:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES 22 “His going to Joram was God's occasion for Ahaziah's downfall.....” v 7: 1-9

A FATEFUL VISIT

A tragic story. His father died from a dreadful disease.His mother was a curse in his life. “for his mother advised him to do wickedly.” (v 3) He went to war with Jehoram, the son of Ahab and Jehoram was sorely wounded in the battle.His personal tragedy began when he decided to visit Jehoram as he was very sick.This visit orchestrated his death.

Does God engineer circumstances? After Jehoram recovered he went to war against Jehu. But there was a prophecy on Jehu.That God would use him to wipe out Ahab's descendants. And now Ahaziah was a friend to Jehoram, Ahabs descendant. He simply chose the wrong friendship and went against the wrong man Jehu, a sadistic sort of guy.First Jehu slaughtered all the sons of Ahaziah's brothers. Ahaziah fled and was discovered hiding in Samaria. Jehu showed him no mercy.

His choice of friendship was fatal. Understand this.We did not choose our family or our relatives. But we did choose our friends.And Ahaziah chose Jehorams friendship-which caused his ruin.Choosing friends is within our power so choose carefully.Learn this truth.You can be everybodys friend to share your faith- but dont take everyone to be your friend.Jesus never did and neither should you try.

"Friend, betrayeth thou the Son of Man with a kiss?" Jesus final words to Judas in Gethsemane.

KING JEHORAM

2010-06-26T23:35:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES 21 :1-20

A DREADFUL LETTER FROM ELIJAH.

"And when Jehoram was established over the kingdom of his father, he strengthened himself and killed all his brothers with the sword, and also others of the princes of Israel.” v4

The Chinese have a saying " Blood is thicker than water:" For Jehoram, it was just exactly that- just a saying.
As soon as he was enthroned, he slaughtered all his brothers. If there is one thing he could not allow- it was any competition to the throne. Strange as it may seem, he did not inherit any of his fathers God fearing qualities.“...and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit harlotry, and led Judah astray.” ( v11)

Lord Acton once said “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power tends to corrupt absolutely” One day, Jehoram received a little letter from Elijah.(v12-15) which read “... and you will become very sick with a disease of your intestines, until your intestines come out by reason of the sickness, day by day.” Within two years of receiving Elijah's letter, Jehoram was lying on his bed in afflicted with a strange disease- until his intestines burst out.

Further the Philistines, Arabians and the Ethophians raided his territory and carried away all the treasures of his house including his wives and children, except for one son Jehoahaz. What started as a great campaign to secure his position ended by Jeroboam losing everything and incurring Gods wrath.

The final words about him are found in verse 20. “ …....and to no one's sorrow departed.”. Like it was a great relief that finally he was dead. Regretfully, he contributed nothing in his lifetime. We all have only one life to live. And time passes by very, very fast. Dont end it in misery and regrets.

KING JEHOSHAPHAT

2010-06-26T00:28:00.000-07:00

1 CHRONICLES 17-20

THE AFTER LUNCH REQUEST

“ And Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him, and said to King Jehoshapat “,Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? 9 v 2
The old adage says that there is no such thing as a free lunch, and King Jehoshaphat found that out the hard way.It all happened when he went to visit King Ahab in Samaria. And Ahab held a feast for him. After the feast, came the request “ Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?”

Problem was, it was Syrian territory. Jehoshaphat, caught in a diplomatic situation requests that they hear a prophet. Ahab was ready.He assembled 400 prophets who prophesied that this war would be a phenomenal success. Jehoshaphat had doubts. Finally Micah, a loner, was brought in who warned that this battle would be a disaster.He was arrested on the spot and quickly hushed away.(v 26).

Then Ahab had another request.You dress in your kingly armour while I disguise myself.After all, Ahab was an old friend.But Ahab did not tell him that the King of Syria had ordered his troops to attack only the king.(v 30) When the battle began, the Syrian army rushed straight for Jehoshaphat but he cried cried out in panic.It was a miracle he survived. But King Ahab was not so fortunate. A random arrow ended his life.

The problem with King Jehu was that he was always drawn into the wrong partnerships and friendships.Learn the lesson- Keep friendship for friendship sake. A big part of your personal happiness in life is inextricably linked to what you do not allow yourself to get dragged into.Observe this rule and you will benefit more than reading all the latest books on happiness.- Vijay

KING ASA

2010-06-25T23:46:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES CHAPTERS 14-16
“ Then Asa was angry with the seer , and put him in prison for he was enraged at him because of this...” v10
Asa inherited the Kingdom from King Abijah. Like King Saul, this man started off well but failed to stride in balance. He led a spiritual revival and strengthened the military. When the Ethiopians came against him with a million troops, he defeated them with a smaller army because he relied on God for the success. Right after the battle, a prophet called Azariah has a word with him. The message? “ Don't be presumptuous when you go to war, you have to trust Me for your victories.”

But Bible stories rarely have a happy ending. The blunder came just before another war with the King of Israel Baasha. Its a different Asa now. He had faced the Ethiopian army but now he immediately asked for assistance from King Ben- Hadad the King of Syria and offered to buy him over!!“ Then Asa bought silver and gold from the treasuries .....Let there be a treaty between you and me......v 2,3”

After the war,a prophet called Hanani confronts King Asa and pronounces “...from now on you shall have wars.”v 9 By this time, Asa's ego had swelled. He ordered the prophet to be arrested. Anyway he had won the war, what else was there to fear from an old prophet? Who was he to talk to a King like that?

But the divine chastisement soon came without any further warnings. King Asa subsequently became diseased in his feet. (v12). He died in his sickness. With the leadership comes the responsibility. Any man who thinks that God would not require an accounting, need to look at this King. What a turn of events!! Learn from Asa's dishonourable exit and you will avoid your own.
Therefore be ye steadfast, immovable, always labouring in the labour of Lord, knowing that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:

KING ABIJAH 2 CHRONICLES 13:1-22

2010-06-24T21:01:00.000-07:00

v 13 But Jeroboam caused an ambush to go around behind them.
After Rehoboam's death, Jeroboam resurfaced to settle the old score with his son Abijah. Although Abijah feared God there was one terrific handicap that he had- and that he was a longwinded bigmouth. Instead of engaging the enemy, he decided to give another one of his speeches. V4 Then Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim which is in the mountains of Ephraim and said “ Hear me Jeroboam and all Israel....

In his prewar speech, he reminded Jeroboam of all the evil he had done in Israel and all his personal rebellious history, his unfaithfullness towards God,introducing false religions and on and on.But while Abijah was delivering his magnificent speech, Jeroboam wasted no time. He set an ambush. In alarm the priests sounded the war trumpet.

Just what did King Abijah hope to accomplish by bringing up Jeroboams past behaviour? That he would go down on his knees and say “I apologise?” Instead of engaging his mind on the immediate situation, he brought up the Jeroboam's past. If there is one thing that people don't want to hear,it is their own own sordid history being mentioned,more so, publicized. The wounds are just made worse. It pushed Jeroboam over the edge.

There is only one solution in the given circumstances. When in the presence of Jeroboams-don't dig into their past. It only heightens their resolve to resist. Bringing up anybody's past is never a good idea to solve problems.And never make the mistake of extending the olive branch to Jeroboams. Their long line of broken relationships and endless quarells should just tell you something. Pray and flee from the situation.
The Midnight Owl

A PERSONAL THOUGHT

2010-06-21T23:48:00.000-07:00

LINA JOY V MAJLIS AGAMA ISLAM WILAYAH & ANOR [2004] 2 MLJ 119 . PAGE 143
The High Court stated at p. 143 "... therefore a person as long as he or she is a Malay and by definition under Article 160(2) is a Malay the said person cannot renounce his or her religion at all." { TO BE CONTINUED}

KING REHOBOAM

2010-06-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

2 CHRONICLES 10:8-11
“ ....... my father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with bullwhips!”
Rehoboam suceeded King Solomon.. But Solomon left a legacy of slavery and expensive building programmes. After Solomon died, there was an uprising among the people. Jeroboam, an old rival of King Solomon returned from Egypt and took advantage of the conflict, demanded that he get rid of the old policy. Rehoboam was in a political fix. If he gave in, it may also be seen as a sign of political weakness.He refused to budge.The situation worsened. And they stoned the tax collector Hadoram to death C10 v 18. His ego dented, he immediately assembled his troops for war but Shemaiah a prophet refrains him.

Jeroboam was discerning enough to know that it was the people's faith and rituals that united them as a nation. Riding on their disillusionment, he started his own religion. The rituals were all the same, burning incense, the priests-everything was faimilar- except that he erected 2 calf idols which he had seen in Egypt. He succeeded in planting the tares among the wheat.

In life we are faced with an infinitely variety of changing circumstances. Nothing lasts forever.Its foolish to assume that everything will stay the same way forever for anyone.Yesterdays friendship sours and new situations emerge.Just when we settle in, somebody rocks the boat.Remember this. If we rub people the wrong way- even the eloquence of Socrates cannot save the day.

Once your words are out, there is no way of recalling them even if you deeply regret it afterwards.There are times when it may not be in your best interests to speak your mind. Learn the lesson from Rehoboam, or pay the price. Vijay

-- Psalm 30

2010-05-29T02:07:00.000-07:00

I praise you, LORD because you have saved me
and kept my enemies from rejoicing over me.

I cried to you for help,O LORD my God,
and you healed me;you kept me from the grave...

You have changed my sadness into a joyful dance;
You have taken away my sorrow
and surrounded me with joy.

King David.

COBWEBS

2010-04-28T04:54:00.000-07:00

"...that the people were astonished at His teaching.."
When Jesus preached, the bored crowd suddenly sat uptight!. The way he explained the Scriptures.Whatever His adversaries said about Him, they couldnt say that" He was boring !!" His messages gave hope to those who were lying in the dust ....blind Bartimaeus, the lame man at the pool of Bethesda, the demonic at Geresene to name a few.

Christians must take care not to be caught in a ritual that has no real spiritual meaning.Its a real trap in many churches today. May the Lord Bless you with new life as you reflect on the areas in your life that has already collected cobwebs.

BEST REST

2010-04-24T01:12:00.000-07:00

Listen brethren, there are days when the best thing is do nothing at all but to get a Bible or devotional material, slip away into some quiet corner and get some rest for our spirits.Do nothing, say nothing- withdraw into the quietness of your mind and read those life giving words. This is one way a Christian can be renewed. God bless your soul ever day. VJ

1 Peter 3:7-12:

2010-04-24T01:07:00.000-07:00

7 Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

One of the things that begins to erode a marriage away is when one spouse begins to speak critically to and of the other one. The things we say to and about the other one can either be uplifting and encouraging, or they can bring disharmony and hurt. Little critical words will lead to a dissatisfaction with one's mate and can escalate to bring about a divorce. No person should threaten to divorce the other just to get their way, or manipulate the other to do something they really don't want to do. When any one threatens divorce, this is like speaking words of murder to your marriage. The Bible tells us to speak good words if we want to see good days and have a love for life.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

2010-04-24T01:06:00.000-07:00

Prayer for the Day

Dear Heavenly Father,I thank You for the godly men and women that you put me under in my life to teach me Your ways and learn a submissive spirit. Lord, I desire to always walk in submission, and not yield to the temptation of wanting my way. Lord, I know at times, that I may be right about something, but Lord, help me to maintain a submissive spirit while discussing those kinds of issues. Deliver me from pride and anger. May the issues be resolved without any outburst of anger. May You always be glorified in my workplace, home and everywhere that I find myself. I ask in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

THE WAY HOME TO GOD

2010-04-23T20:09:00.001-07:00

God created a very big world. Those of you who have flown across the Pacific Ocean will know what I am talking about.Or trekking across some mountain somewhere.Today I am thinking about Long Island and its many beautiful parks- tremendously beautiful. I used to cycle there alone. On weekdays its almost deserted.I could walk forever. Those of you who are stressed out and the week has ruffled you again....go for your walk . You do not walk alone. Its only in the solitude, our invisible and Eternal friend comes alongside. He has always been around forever.The Eternal now. Sometimes he described Himself as the " I Am". Its only there, that somehow life becomes tolerable... that somehow we can cope with the painful blunders of yesterday.May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you now and forver more. VJ

And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: Gospel of John

ADVICE FROM PROVERBS- PROVERBS 29:1

2010-04-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

If you get more stubborn every time you are corrected, one day you will be crushed and never recover.
Of course, nobody likes to be told what to do, much less being corrected. Its not good to turn away from advice, because the person who corrects us may have seen a larger picture of life. Why learn through your own mistakes when you can learn it from others? Don't be adamant. Let wisdom and understanding enter your heart, mind and soul . This is the only way we will not be grieving later.Rememer God's people when Jeremiah was preaching to them. They all turned their ears away.And they spent their final years in Babylon sitting by its rivers and weeping.

A THOUGHT

2010-03-19T23:12:00.000-07:00

“Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer” (1 Corinthians 10:10).

The pronunciation itself is unpleasant enough.Dissatisfaction with the way things were going. What they failed to see was that the leadership itself was going through the same journey and had the same difficulty. Instead of complaining lets join hands and help with the burdens of responsibility.

THE CROSS

2010-02-10T21:31:00.000-08:00

So what was the meaning of the Cross, really? They are many aspects of the cross but here I will highlight just three. In relation to the world, the Cross is a reconciliation. The New Teatament puts it this way- God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself. There is a very deep spiritual truth in this aspect of the cross.However in this regard, all the enmity and hatred were on mans side so God had to descend Himself to remove the hostility. In relation to sinners, the cross is an atonement. The soul that sins- it shall die so atonement must be made. And in relation to God the Cross is a sacrifice.Redemption took place in Calvary so a life had to be sacrificed to pacify God's judgment. On Judgment Day the Penalty would be serious for those who reject God and His mercy. Its tantamount to trampling underfoot the the agonizing death of the Ultimate Sacrifice. There is no way out except by way of the Cross.This is no laughing matter.

" Woe unto you who laugh now, you will weep later"

HAVING AN OPEN EAR

2010-02-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

They found Him in the Temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. Luke 2:46

As a young boy Jesus did not attend Sunday School . When Jesus was 12 He went with His parents to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. Only on the way back did they realize that Jesus was missing so they had to turned back and found him sitting in the temple.He was both listening and asking them questions.

Jesus had the heart that was open to God- the Greatest Teacher in the universe. Centuries earlier Isaiah the prophet wrote about Him-as Jehovah's Servant: The Lord God... awakens Me morning by morning. He awakens my ear to hear the learned.The Lord God has opened my ear. In the humanity of Jesus, He was open to learn from the Father.

That is an attitude that all believers should possess- whether in church or when out there wherever we are.

THE UNNOTICED

2010-01-31T22:29:00.000-08:00

Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven Matthew 5:3

When we were young our parents influenced us .But who are the Christians who have influenced us most? Most of them srved God behind the scenes with no spotlight of them. Do not feel little at the sight of great speakers.Thay have their calling and accountability and so have you. If you are a Christian , you are in the ministry. You may not be called to do it from behind a pulpit but you are called to service wherever you are. That old song got it right with its lyrics- This little light of mine, I am going to let it shine, let it shine.You are as much a minister of Christ as anybody else. There are no "insignificants" in the Kingdom of God. Your reward is with God- and you can be sure about that.

THE KINGDOM

2010-01-31T22:20:00.000-08:00

My kingdom is not of this world John 18:36

Busyness and hurriedness seems to be the norm of the day for almost everyone. Yet our Lord was never in a hurry.One of the greatest deceptions of our day is that we have to be engaged in endless church activities for God's approval. This attitude has no basis in the New Testament but has been brought in from the systems of the world. There are times you need to get away from the exhausting activity that swirls around you. It is the private life with God that must take the precedence and it is a hidden obscure thing. It appears that many Christians workers just do their duties to be seen by others. Endless activity to keep people engaged or service for God who called you into His service? That is the one question that every born again believer must face.

THE PREPARATION

2010-01-29T22:10:00.000-08:00

"... first be reconciled to your brother,and then come and offer your gift..." Matthew 5:23-24

There are wounds in every heart, whether believers or unbelievers. Many believers too carry secret wounds which festers over the long years.If the fault is not with you, its no point despairing. Whisper the despair in your most private prayers. Let God search you out.Dont just admit it- confess it. Even among Christians there are many abusive animals out there.Whisper out the name of the unrefined brute who abused your trust and caused much pain. We can only do the possible- only God does the impossible.God sees the attitude in which you approach Him- and thats what counts."...the tax collector would not even lift up his eyes to heaven but smote his breast,..."

As far is possible with you, live at peace with everyone .... Hebrews
If it is not possible with you, let God do the impossible...

BEING BORN AGAIN

2010-01-29T22:00:00.000-08:00

And now the Lord says, who formed Me from the womb to be His servant....." Isaiah 49:5

Who wants to be addressed as a servant these days? We would rather have servants to our beck and call. And in the present business and commercial world, it is relatively easy to forget that we are called to serve Him- as servants.A Christian is called for the purpose of being God's servant, one in whom God is glorified.Beware lest you forget God's purpose for your life.Let you heart always be open to Him to be used in whichever way He desires. God bless you as you serve.

" I am among you as one who serves."

THE LORDS TEMPTATION

2010-01-29T21:52:00.000-08:00

For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are , yet without sin Hebrews 4:15

The temptations of Jesus were not of those of a mere man.But they were the temptations of God when He appeared as a man. They were in completely different realms.Whenever God takes you into the deeper realms of His mysteries, to be prepared for His purposes- expect the tempter to appear. If he apppeared before the Master, he will surely approach you when God is preparing to use you in some special way. And without the quickening of the Holy Spirit within, our defences are sure to crumble.The Son of Man is acquainted with all our weaknesses.So take heart- He is symphathetic.He did not bring you this far to see you drown.Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

TEMPTATIONS

2010-01-29T21:41:00.000-08:00

No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man 1 Corinthians 10:13

It is impossible to completely escape from temptations in this life.But beware of thinking that you are the only person being tempted to do evil. What you are going through is something common to all believers everywhere.What is it that the tempter tempts? The answer is that he is tempting something within each one of us-our fallen nature.At the sight of the forbidden, something awakens within us-"...it looks pleasant in our eyes...". Remember all actions have consequences. Much better to avoid it, than trying bitterly to conceal the evidence later.

HE SEES IN SECRET

2010-01-28T23:31:00.000-08:00

"But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place." Matthew 6:6

Even the meanest looking person we encounter have their tender areas. Keep your eyes on God, not on people.Let me say something strange here. Churches preach that Christians must be known as praying people.The fact is , here in Malaysia- everybody seems to be praying-some are really loud prayers.On the contrary, your motivation should not be the desire to be known as a praying person. Find an inner room in which to pray where no one even knows you are there- and shut out the world and everything that is in it.It is impossible to carry on the life of a Christian, without definite times of secret prayer.

"When you pray, do not pray in the street corners to be seen by them....." Jesus

RENUNCIATION

2010-01-28T23:21:00.000-08:00

But we have renounced the hidden things of shame 2 Corinthinas 4:2

These are not Satans strongholds. It is within the Christians power to renounce them. It is very much an individuals choice.Have you renounced the hidden things of you life- things that your sense of honour and pride will not allow to come into the light? David faced 2 great temptaions in his life. The first one with a woman, Satan had nothing to do with it. The second act of numbering the army- Satan moved him do do it. The tempter's whisper' So how great are your now?" spoke to Davids ego and he slipped. Are there areas in your life today that you can consciously renounce today? To it today.

Love suffers long and is kind. 1 John 3:2

SURRENDER WHAAAATTT?????

2010-01-28T23:10:00.000-08:00

'I have finished the work which You have given Me to do" John 17:4

The Christian life is all about the inward life- in other words, inward sanctification. And that is where real battle is done with God and with Satan.True surrender is not simply staying away from alcohol, tobacco and idle talk- It is the surrender of our will.And that is precisely where the battle and the resistance begins.The greatest crisis we wil ever face is the surrender of the will.And the fear of surrender is understandable.Especially when we have been abused by others at a human level.God does not demand us that we hurl ourselves at the foot of the cross in a suicidal attitude.He patiently waits until the person willingly yield to Him. Begin in the small areas in your inward life where there are patches of darkness. As He gives you victory,start yielding to Him in the bigger areas.

"Begin to engage him in battle.Every step that you take will I give it to you for a possession." Joshua

SPIRITUAL CONFUSION

2010-01-28T22:56:00.000-08:00

"You do not know what you ask" Matthew 20:22

Yes, even Christians can be confused at times not knowing what to ask from God.Our natural inclinations indicates one thing- but our souls uneasiness is witness that that course is not the will of God. Instead of asking God for some other thing every day- ask what is the spritual vocation He has called you to do.No sooner asked , you will find a tiny door in your circumstance inviting you to come in. Begin right there and the light will continue to lead.

".... so you may know what is the hope of His calling..."

WHY NOT NOW??

2010-01-27T23:01:00.000-08:00

PETER SAID TO HIM, " LORD, WHY CANT I FOLLOW YOU NOW?" JOHN 13:37

There are seasons when you cant understand why you cannot do what you want to do. When God brings a time of waiting and appears to be unresponsive, do not fill with it business and what nots.Just wait. VJ

LOVE OF CHRIST

2010-01-21T00:16:00.000-08:00

WHO SHALL SEPERATE US FROM THE LOVE OF CHRIST? ROMANS 8:35

During my early Christian days- I was rather naive. I thought the love of God wil shield me from every distress and sorrow. Of course, it did not take long for those delusions to be shattered. God does not and will not keep His children immune from troubles. Sometimes the troubles come from our own wrong doing and at other time unruly monkeys who surround us under the guise of friendship and even "Christian" fellowship. In fact, our Master was played out by one of His own. Never allow tribulations and ' cares of this world' seperate you from remembering that God is fashioning your feet of clay into something better. You are to be used for His own purposes.Praise God when you are played out. Now God and you can get closer to each other. Vijay

LIVING SIMPLY MATTHEW 6:26,28

2010-01-20T23:54:00.000-08:00

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow- they neither toil nor spin- they simply appear and disappear by Gods will! Many generations have come and gone before our time and one day it will be our turn to disppear into the dust. We inevitable will. In the meantime- we can be content and just rest our souls in the hands of God. Most os us desire luxuries. But big properties and big enterprises have overhead costs- which nags at the soul and rob you of your peace. Learn a a lesson from the Gods nature.The rains come down in due time and all is refreshed. God will do the same for you. Vijay

JOABS TREACHERY 1 KINGS 2:28

2010-01-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

FOR JOAB HAD DEFECTED TO ADONIJAH,THOUGH HE HAD NOT DEFECTED TO ABSALOM.

A Chinese Philosopher who lived before the time of Jesus once said
" Nothing lasts forever- everything changes" How true it is- especialy in
the area of friendships and relationships. Our Lord Jesus welcomed sinners and religious people alike, at times the crowds mobbed Him.But He was inwardly detached from everyone. At the crucial moment when everyone deserted Him- He was still calm and serene. He expected it.So He was not devastated when the disciples ran for their lives.Silently firm- He faced a new situation.No more supper times and supper stories. Suddenly the lonely road to the cross loomed before Him.That sense of betrayal- it must have been awful.He faced it calmly and firmly. So must you. May God give you grace to handle those who abuse your friendship and trust . Vijay

THE UNFAILING LIGHT 2 Cor 3 :18

2010-01-20T20:54:00.000-08:00

We all with unveiled face, beholding... the glory of the Lord....

In every stage of the Christian life, there are bound to be heartbreaks, disappointments and sorrows. It can be particularly difficult when the troubles spring from people with whom we have fellowshipped before- people who used to be lights in our life.We must build our faith not on fading lights but on the one Light that never fades away.

2009- YESTERDAY

2010-01-03T21:04:00.000-08:00

"THE GOD OF ISRAEL SHALL BE YOUR REREWARD."

The year 2009 with all its turbulences has finally slipped away.This year we turn to all that God has for us in the future and yet anxiety is apt to rise in our hearts from all that happened yesterday.Sometimes just thinking of yesterdays blunders and sins is enough to weigh us down. But the God of yesterdays is also the God of our todays and of tomorrows.All that happened had to happen. God had to allow it to manifest that our ways always brings in a sour crop.With that in mind, lets step into the new year determined not to be self willed- or we will reap the same crop again.

1ST SAMUEL 3:15

2009-11-30T22:11:00.000-08:00

"And Samuel feared to show Eli the vision."

Shall I tell my "Eli" what God has been unfolding within me? That is where the dilemma of obedience comes in. Most of the time I feel like shielding Eli,because he is the best person I know and respect.To complicate matters, Eli was a lone spiritual authority.God did not command Samuel to tell Eli -Samuel had to decide that for himself.And therein lies the great difficulty.

Never ask advice of another what you have to decide before God in the private chambers of your heart.If you start asking advice- you will almost always side with Satan. When Jesus revealed Himself to the Apostle Paul,Pauls response was reflected in his most solemn words- "Immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood."

"...NO MORE PAIN." REV. 21:4

2009-11-29T04:29:00.000-08:00

"....shall be no more pain for the former things things have passed away."

ABANDONED?

2009-10-12T21:43:00.000-07:00

But the people of Jerusalem said,:"The Lord has abandoned us!He has forgotten us."So the Lord answers," Can a woman forget her own baby and not love the child she bore? Even if a mother should forget her child,I will never forget you.Jerusalem,I can never forget you! I have written your name on the palm of my hands." Isaiah 49:-14-16

One of the saddest features today in Malaysian society is the discovery of abandoned new born babies- sometimes in the garbage dumps,shallow graves and even in toilets.Sometimes the child is still alive but oftentimes it is not.One can hardly imagine how the surviving child will feel when he/she discovers their personal history when they grow up.Doubt there will me much pain and anguish.Memories like that are hard to erase.

But God has no reason to abandon His children for the simple reason that we are not born out of wedlock. God is married to His people.Though many marriages break down these days,but Gods marriage wont.Of course there will be tough times in the union-but He wont leave because He is a faithful God.

Hebrews put it this way" I will never leave you or forsake you,so we say with confidence, The Lord is my Helper, I will not be afraid.What can anyone do to me?" So whatever circumstance you find yourself in- face the day with faith.He will never abandon you!!

SHARING & CARING [HEBREWS 13:1-6]

2009-09-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

In the year 2004, a person called casy Fenton co-founded a non-profit service that helps travellers find a "friendlier alternative" to unfriendly hotels.They find homeowners who are willing to offer their spare beds and couches to others. This particular groups boast almost a quarter of a million friendships that have been forged from their services.

This reminded me a lot about the Biblical passages relating to hospitality found in the Book Of Hebrews.The writer exhorted the believers to practice their faith in Jesus Christ through hospitality.

In the first century, hospitality often included housing a guest. That was a hard thing to do, especially during a time of persecution.But by entertaining strangers, the writer said, they would indeed be inviting a blessing into their homes.

As Gods people, we are called to be hospitable to others as part of our gratitude for the salvation we have received from God.

ON SERVANTHOOD

2009-07-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

Recently there was research conducted by a leading compensation technology firm. They found as a fact that among employees planning to leave their companies,the majority felt that they were underpaid.Fewer than 20% of them,however,were receiving less than the industry standard for their duties.

Bill Coleman, of Salary.com believes that many unhappy workers are OVERTITLED RATHER THAN UNDERPAID.Some Companies give their employees lofty titles even thoug their job responsibilities have not increased.In time,employees feel they deserve more monies than their actual duties merit."When it comes to salary," Coleman says "ITS WHAT YOU DO, NOT WHAT YOU ARE CALLED,THAT COUNTS."
Its interesting to note how Jesus dealt with the issue of Titles and Responsibilities.During the Last Supper, He performed the task of a lowly servant by washing His disciples feet,setting the stage for His astonishing statement about humility." You call me Teacher and Lord, and you say well for so I am.If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet,you also ought to wash one anothers feet." John 13:13-14)

Christ the Lord set the example for all who would follow Him, confirming that its not what we are called,but what we do that counts.In substance,He humbly showed us how to serve and how to conquer pride. God Bless You

JEREMIAH 16:12

2009-06-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

But you have done worse than your ancestors.All of you are stubborn and evil,and you do not obey me.

In the field of science and technology, there are always new innovations.Past devices are improved and people are attracted to the latest and the newest.Unfortunately,this trait is not limited to scientific inventions alone- the same mentality is portrayed in the area of sin.Jeremiah laments that the present generation have gone from bad to worse in their attitude towards the things of God.And the root cause is given in just 2 words- "stubborn & evil". Beware that you do not harden yourself in respect of spiritual things.When you develop a hardened attitude, it is difficult to unwrap oneself. Consider this sober words-" They say they are wise,but they are fools, instead of worshipping the immortal God, they worship images made to look like mortal man or birds or animals or reptiles.And so God has given those people over to do the filthy things their hearts desire...."

It is bad when you abandon God- its even worse when God lets you have your choice and abandons you to your own hearts desire.."

Psalm 107:33-38

2009-05-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

The Lord made rivers dry up completey,and stopped springs from flowing.
He made rich soil become a salty wasteland,
because of the wickedness of the people who dwelt there.
He changed deserts into pools of water,and dry land into flowing springs.
He let hungry people settle there,and they built a city to live in.
They sowed the fields and planted grapevines and reaped an abundant harvest.
He blessed the people and they had many children.
he kept their herds of cattle from decreasing.

Life is generally unfathomable and even less predictable.Some live's just flourish, but this cannot be said for everyone else.We have heard the Rags to Riches story, but the Riches to Rags story is seldom talked about.I believe we can learn from both situations.I have seen rich men go down too.In fact we can read about these people everyday under the "NOTICE PEBANKRAPAN" section.
In prosperity,one tends to become haughty.Suddenly,they are not comfortable with their own church,and tend to find fault with church affairs.In poverty,one tends to become bitter.In whatever situation,put your trust in God.In the above situation, they had enough springs of water.They did not express gratitude. Instead it brought them much leisure,which in turn turned them to the exotic religions of the neighbouring nations.But eventually the springs dried up.God above may have given you much, or given you just enough to cope. May you have the heart to express gratitude in your personal situation. Vijay

IN THE DARKNESS

2009-05-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

YOU,MY DISCIPLES ARE TO GUARD AND PRESERVE THE MESSAGES THAT GOD HAS GIVEN ME.THE LORD HAS HIDDEN HIMSELF FROM HIS PEOPLE,BUT I TRUST AND PLACE MY HOPE IN HIM. ISAIAH 8-16&17

ISAIAH 43:11

2009-05-13T19:06:00.000-07:00

I ALONE AM THE LORD,THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN SAVE YOU.
I PREDICTED WHAT WOULD HAPPEN,AND THEN I CAME TO YOUR AID.
NO FOREIGN GOD HAS EVER DONE THIS;YOU ARE MY WITNESSES.
I AM GOD AND ALWAYS WILL BE.
NO ONE CAN ESCAPE FROM MY POWER;
NO ONE CAN CHANGE WHAT I DO.

ONCE UPON A TIME

2009-05-11T00:07:00.000-07:00

PSALM 86:17

2009-05-10T21:40:00.001-07:00

Psalm 86:17:

“Show me a token for good; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, Lord, hast helped me,and comforted me.”

THE AMALEKITE [2 SAMEUL 1:5]

2009-05-09T18:22:00.000-07:00

SO DAVID SAID TO THE YOUNG MAN WHO TOLD HIM," HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT SAUL AND HIS SON JONATHAN ARE DEAD?"....THEN THE YOUNG MAN WHO TOLD HIM SAID," AS I HAPPENED BY CHANCE TO BE ON MOUNT GILBOA,THERE WAS SAUL....HE SAID TO ME AGAIN,'PLEASE STAND OVER ME AND KILL ME,FOR ANGUISH HAS COME UPON ME,BUT MY LIFE STILL REMAINS IN ME,SO I STOOD OVER HIM AND KILLED HIM, BECAUSE I WAS SURE THAT HE COULD NOT LIVE AFTER HE HAD FALLEN.AND I TOOK THE CROWN THAT WAS ON HIS HEAD AND THE BRACELET THAT WAS ON HIS ARM,AND HAVE BROUGHT THEM HERE TO MY LORD..

The truth is,Saul committed suicide.But this guy,an Amalekite was weaving a story for King David. His reasoning was,since David and Saul were not on good terms-David would prabably be happy with the news of Sauls death and would surely give him a reward.David fell for the story.But David's response and reaction to this news was not what the Amalekite expected.The man paid with his life for the lie he brought to David.

It seems that the human species is brilliant at storytelling.Still others can narrate seeming events with intense feelings and emotion.But there is a downside to story telling- you never know when it may backfire.Amusing that many Christians are so vulnerable to negative stories about other people.Some advice to story tellers-

"Let all things be done for edifying"[1st Corinthians].And to those who have itching ears, that just attracts liars and gossipers -learn to say " I dont need to hear this." Many friendships and relationships have been ruined because of storytellers.Dont join them.Jesus once warned- Beware of the leaven of Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Today it needs to be added-" Beware of the leaven of the storytellers which is also hypocrisy" Vijay

Romana 12:16

2009-05-08T06:21:00.000-07:00

Be of the same mind toward one another.Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

Its rather difficult to be humble when you are more qualified than the next guy,and have a better job,better car and better health.For some,arrogance quietly sets in quickly.How many people,who after they had been promoted to a senior post,quicky transform overnight.In the process,we lose our long time friends and get new ones. One hopes the new ones are friends.They can turn out to be otherwise.

Of course,we can rationalize that our new status in life demands that we upgrade our lifestyle and be seen with the right people.But we have to admit,such thinking is only our own opinion.And the Bible warns us not to be wise in our own conceits.

The Christian attitude is to be maintain a humble attitude towards everyone.Especially with those who are not well off.Always remember where God brought you from. Vijay

I AM COMPLETELY CRUSHED!!

2009-05-03T20:41:00.000-07:00

The Lord saved me from death,he stopped my tears and kept me from defeat,And so I walk in the presence of the Lord, in the world of the living,I kept on believing even when I said,"I am completely crushed"even when I was afraid and said-"No one can be trusted!" PSALM 116:8-11

WHATS THE SOURCE?

2009-05-01T20:31:00.001-07:00

Yesterday someone needed to see me on an urgent basis.He told me his story angrily.That he just got sacked from his job.Produced a stack of documents which the Company had sent to him and the letters he had sent to the Company.A series of documents,all of them grievances, threats of dismissal and finally the forced resignation.At least that was what he said."They forced me to resign"

I paused here,sat back and told him- Behind all these letters is a strained relationship somewhere.Speak the Truth.Whom did you offend? He was silent for a while and said."It was my Supervisor".

Behind all the hurtful attitudes of people,there is a burning sensation in someones heart.Someone has been hurt,wounded,provoked, disrespected,lied to,or hurt by their own people.Regrettably,this happens in the church,too.It happens all the time.Not much has changed since the time Paul wrote to the Church at Corinth.

When relationships go bad,there is so much pain,so much anger.The desire for revenge,to even the score takes hold.That....@#$%^&***..In any conflicts,find out the source.Your responses too may not have reflected any maturity on your part.Think and re-examine your personal issues.Should I have uttererd those words? Maybe I should not have written that letter.Face the truth now!There's no more place for pretence.You have do this- before any solution is in sight.

Grace and Peace to You from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

P.S.I will be taking up the above brothers case in the Industrial Court.

EXPECTATIONS

2008-11-22T21:02:00.000-08:00

Everyone on planet Earth has their own expectations.We expect that people will be nice to us,that we will all be in good health, there will be no negative change in our circumstances,that nobody will rock our fragile boats, that we will have faithful friends and successful marriages.But what do we do whan life does not live up to our expectations? In fact, rarely does life tune in to our own whims and fancies.Things will go wrong and they will.Maybe for you-people have not lived up to your expectations and you are terribly disappointed.The Bible is full full of people who got into horrible disappointments.Joseph,John the Baptist and Paul were all in prison.When we get stuck in a difficult position its difficult to be positive.But Paul said that his suffering was actually furthering the gospel.(Phil1:12)

Maybe its an uncertain future that you are facing. Difficult situations at home and at office or a troubling relationship that saps your energy and leaves you exhausted.Do not suffer alone-talk to someone who will pray together with you.Or if you dont want that-Take time alone to be with yourself and sit in some corner with a Bible.The truth is,everyone is going through something.So you have to deal with your journey. "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil, for thou art with me. Psalm 23

Paul's only expectation- for Christ to be honoured no matter what.( Phil 1:21)

TEMPERS

2008-11-21T20:30:00.000-08:00

Learn to keep your temper under control.Each time you are in disagreement or others did not do things your way,or see your point of view-do not immediately bare your fangs and growl fiercely.It just proves that you are ruled by negative emotions which inevitable cloud everyones reasoning faculties.The next time you find yourself in such a situation,take a deep breath and resist that rising spirit within you.Do this and you will not lose your personal peace.Ignore this advice,and others start pushing your buttons and literally rob you of your peace and move on.

ANTICIPATION

2008-11-19T21:47:00.000-08:00

One of the thrills of life is the feeling of anticipation.A whole lot of emotions surround this feeling.When I was a young boy,the most earnestly anticipated event was Deepavali.First the buying of new clothes,then the making of "murukku" and other Indian delicacies,and the sending out of Deepavali Cards.Then finally the day arrives,and the whole family all dressed up in our new clothes,and then the arrival of the guests and the endless feasting.The anticipation and the reality.On Deepavali's eve,one can sense the celebrative mood in the very atmosphere.

I think about the thrill of anticipation and what it can do to the human heart.In Psalm 30:5 the Psalmist is sharing with us that while we may be going through a tough time here and now- this weeping,enduring and trying to make sense out of it can be a difficult time for everyone.Is your heart overwhelmed by some sorrow that seems to persist,to endure? The truth is that the weeping cannot endure forever.The darkness may be intense but it must giveway to the first rays of the morning sunrise. So it is with our sorrows.

For those who weep can dwell on hope instead of hopelessness and anticipation instead of sorrow. It may be nightime in our hearts, but just ahead lies the dawn of eternity and with it God's promises-" Behold I make all things new and He will wipe away all tears from their eyes." Now thats a real promise which cannot fail.

LUKE 12:16-19 YOU HAVE LESS THAN 24 HOURS LEFT

2008-11-16T03:23:00.000-08:00

Then he spoke a parable to them saying , " The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully.And he thought within himself saying,"What shall I do,since I have no room to store my crops? So he said," I will do this: I will pull down my barnes and will build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods.And I will say to my soul,'Soul you have many goods laid up for many years, take your ease, eat,drink and be merry." But God said to him ' Fool! This night your soul will be required of you.Then whose shall those things be which you have provided?"
So is he who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich towards God.

If you became a millionaire overnight, would you change your lifestyle? What would you change immediately? New home,new car and fancy clothes? And not forgetting that expensive pen,Rolex watch and of course- the dream vacation.We all have our inclinations.It is said that our real colours only appear when our wallets are bulging with new found prosperity.

I feel somewhat sorry for the man in this story.He was right in many ways but was deadly wrong on one final point.He got his prosperity. Finally he was seeing some real money. Firstly, he renovates his own property, this tearing down and building greater.Lots of people renovate their property. But no Christian should feel bad for doing so.All Christians need comfortable homes to live in and should not feel bad about having a nice home and enjoying the good things in life.

Secondly he is finally planning on retirement.And that too is a wonderful decision. Why do people keep on working long after they have made enough money? But this man is saying "I have enough,I am going to relax."

Thirdly he has decided to stop working and enjoy life.Wonderful.Indeed on some days I dont work but just go out for a wonderful meal then come back read a book and relax.That's a very blessed time.But the sad and tragic part of the story is this-he thought he had many years left to live,lots of time to unwind.And in doing so,he miscalculated his personal life situation.

Moving into new homes,renovation,retiring and taking it easy are all within our control.We can decide on these matters but there is a terrible limitation-We can't decide the day of our departure from this planet.This man miscalculated his remaining time- He thought he had many years left,but God said -You Fool!You have less than 24 hours left.You see,my brothers and sisters- nobody has got even a remote clue as to how much we have left.In spite of all the technological gadgetry available to us, nobody can tell us what is going to happen in the next 24 hours.Because the sum and substance of life is unpredictable.

God help us not to miscalculate life.In whichever situation you find yourself in,its much safer to say "Thank you God for all that you have blessed me with and please bless my remaining days.Grant me strength and faith to continue this journey of life without making fatal errors." Vijay

CURTAINS DOWN ON THE OLD LIFE.

2008-10-20T23:53:00.001-07:00

Now the Lord said to Abraham “Go from your country and your kindred and your fathers house to the land I will show you…and Lot went with him… Abraham was seventy five years old when he departed from Haran.” Genesis 12: 1-4

It must have been a very nostalgic moment for Abraham when he started packing his bags to begin his journey into the unknown wilderness. Looking around his living room for one last time, the kitchen where he had shared many wonderful meals, going upstairs to see his bedroom, the table at his window with the morning sunlight streaming in. One last look through his window to see the familiar neighbourhood and the vast wilderness in the distance. Everything seemed so silent that day and there was a sinking feeling in his heart.

To leave the place where he had grown up and never to return. That must have been a very tough decision. Until today I have not seen a single individual who have forgotten their hometown. The last funeral I attended was in New York City, my hosts father an elderly Chinese gentleman who had succumbed to old age. His last instruction was to take his ashes back to his little hometown back in China.

We have all had the experiences of packing our bags to go on journeys here and there. But we always found our way back home. But Abraham would have to go on a journey and not return. He would be seeing his hometown and his kindred for the very last time. Painful though it must have been, the divine voice had to be heeded. The curtain had to be brought down on the past life. God had called him from a life of routines, monotony and certainty to a life of faith in Him!!

It seems whenever God appears on the scene in the Bible –its curtains down on the old life. Exodus is a classic example. And they left their nets and followed him was said of the early apostles.

If Abraham had said, “God, I am not going anywhere!! Why can’t you bless me here in my own hometown?” If Abraham had said we would never have heard about Abraham.

Perhaps life has taken a twist for you too. Suddenly the signboards pointed to a new and different direction and the roads do not look familiar at all. Nevertheless, the road must be travelled and the journey must be accepted. Somebody has once said, the will of God will never take you where the grace of God cannot keep you. And that’s a profound truth in that statement. Simon Peter the apostle stated, “For you were going astray like sheep, but now have returned to the Shepherd and guardian of your souls.” Now that’s a promise to every believer. No matter where the journey leads, God is the Shepherd and Guardian of every believer’s soul.

So take heart, it may be the end of the old life of routines, the merry go round and the familiar And God brings you into a new life where nothing seems to be certain or a merry go around where we get off at the very place we got on! No- the life of faith leads you further and further in your trust in Him- as you move from one trial to the next and to the next level of God dealing with you. And the life of faith matures you as a believer. It is when the storms hit that the roots strike deep. And when the storm has passed, we hear the divine voice again, “Behold I make all things new!”

Are you feeling nostalgic and yearning for the old relationships and comforts with its predictable routine? When we felt secure in the knowledge that everything was under our control? To bring you forward God has to change the times and the seasons. Now is not the time for regrets. It’s the dawn of a new season for you. Take courage and move on. You will be glad you heeded the divine voice. Because it’s the only voice that does not deceive. Although He hides in the shadows and does not show His face, yet He is your Eternal lover. Discard your uncertainty and do not grieve at the memories of yesterday! It’s the beginning of a new season.
Posted by vijay at 12:18 AM

ANOTHER MONKEY ON MY BACK.

2008-10-20T23:51:00.001-07:00

Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me….. for we are kindred. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if you take the right hand I will go to the left. Genesis 13:10

When Abram left his hometown, he made one little mistake- he took Lot with him, presumably for some male fellowship along the journey. Everything was fine, that is, until they journeyed on into the wilderness. And then the first embers of a little fire broke out that began to strain the friendship. The controversy is very revealing “and there was strife between the herders of Abrams livestock and the herders of Abrams livestock…” v6. What started out as a promising relationship soon took a turn for the worst. Strife can be a terrible thing-each doing or saying something to even the score and the relationship worsens. Until finally Abram could not bear it no longer, so he called Lot his nephew aside and spoke the unthinkable, painful though it was-Separate yourself from me for we are brothers.

How many people go through unnecessary pain and start holding grudges because they did not have the foresight to separate at the right moment? To carry on meaningless relationships which does not edify, built up or encourage is foolishness. Perhaps the one thing that you need to do is to consider cutting off those relationships and friendships that do you more harm than good. It is human nature to retaliate, not to give in. For many they suffer quietly at the abuses and insults of others because they do not have the strength to stand up to their abusers. The better approach is to separate quietly, gracefully without nourishing the idea of having the last word. Anyway what is the point of winning another quarrel with a brother? It just proves that behind the so called winning is a very insecure brother who needs to be proven right all the time.

We quarrel because we are immature, have differences of opinion and many among us believe whatever poison is poured into our ears because of others quarrels. Are there relationships in your life that ruffle your feathers, push your buttons and leave you strained? Do not hesitate any longer. It is enough! Have the boldness to say that you will not carry on like this. If you try to be everybody’s friend you will soon realize that really is a very tough burden to carry. In the end you will end up trying to please everyone taking all kinds of insults and abuses and suffer quietly in the process.

Take the peaceful road and be mature in your dealings with everyone whether you are in the secular world or with your brethren.

Even in the context of marriage the Apostle Paul wrote “But if the unbeliever separates, let it be so; in such a case the brother or sister is not bound. It is to peace that God has called you.” 1 Cor 7:15

I WILL NOT TAKE MY REVENGE

2008-10-20T23:50:00.001-07:00

So the enemy took all the goods of Sodom and Gomorroh and all their provisions, and went their way, they also took Lot…. When Abram heard that his nephew had been taken captive, he led forth his trained men, born in his house, three hundred and eighteen of them and went in pursuit as far as Dan… then he brought back all the goods, and also brought back his nephew Lot… Genesis 14- 11-16.

This is the first war that Abram was involved in and it was done to rescue his nephew Lot. Abram did not dwell on his old peeves and grudges against Lot and exclaim “Well he deserved it!! Serve him right for causing me all those troubles.” Rather he was prepared to forget the former troubles with Lot and immediately goes out in the middle of the night to rescue Lot.

Most of us would not let go of old grudges but not Abram. The past attitudes of his nephew were not to be brought up again and again throughout his lifetime. All that matters most was that his nephew was in trouble and needed his help. Imagine Lots surprise when Abram delivered him from the possibility of being sold into slavery or being killed with the sword. But one must also bear in mind that Abram after rescuing Lot did not invite him on his journey again. He had learnt his lesson and he was not about to put himself in a position where the old story repeats itself. This is a principle that every man must learn.

The Christian is not called to be so cold hearted so as to desert a brother in his hour of need. Have you ever observed the attitude of some Christians when they hear the moral failure of some brother or sister? Or worse still, they keep on whispering about it at every opportunity they get? Such an attitude does not come from the Spirit of Christ. It is a self righteous attitude. Of the many sins that Jesus spoke against, He reserved his most scathing remarks for the self righteous.

Is there someone who needs your help today? Maybe someone needs to hear from you. Perchance they have quit the Christian fellowship because some private sin has been exposed and they have quietly retired into their personal night. If you know of such a person, then go out into their night and seek them out. Make that phone call or write that letter - actions like this gladden the heart of God and brings hope back to the wounded souls.

We all know that life is incredibly short. I don’t have to convince you of that. So live to heal and bless. Don’t be a hateful and vengeful person. It is alarming that some believers can be destructive to other believers of the family of faith. If you see such a person who may seem superior to others in status belittling others, don’t participate or contribute. Do the right thing, withdraw from that brother- its time to leave for the sake of your own peace. Instead seek the person out with encouragement- it merits the approval of God in Jesus. Do it today!

A SLEEPLESS NIGHT

2008-10-20T23:48:00.000-07:00

After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Do not be afraid Abram. I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” Genesis 15:1

Everything seemed to be going against Abram that night. Firstly after rescuing Lot, he knew that those kings would search for him to execute their revenge. That was a fearful thought. Secondly when he had returned with their loot, the Kings of Sodom and Gomorroh had offered the loot to Abram. But Abram had refused it because he did not want anybody to say that he became rich through homosexuals. But even assuming that he did accept the money- he could not pass it on to anybody, because Abram was childless. As Abram thought about his future that night, he saw battles in it, he saw more quarrels with his wife Sarah and he was probably going to die without descendants. All those thoughts must have certainly overwhelmed him. The future was certainly bleak and not very promising.

When everything seemed to be going against him, God intervened and every word that God spoke met one of those needs. That his future was not what he was imagining with loads of miseries. In fact although Abram’s future was going to be tough, yet great events were yet to unfold in his life- events he could hardly imagine. But there was one thing that he needed to do- believe God had said about his future. And Abram believed on the Lord and it was credited to Him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6)

What do you see in the future for you? Are your circumstances overwhelming? Do you see more struggles and troubles the unbearable monotony along the way? I assure you, troubles will never go away. These days we read about young people jumping off buildings rather than face their future- because in their minds there was nothing worth looking forward to. No Christian should contemplate suicide. There are some stories in the Bible that ended on a tragic note. They started well with God but the eventual decline came ending in suicide. The most notable are King Saul, Ahitophel and Judas. They all took their own lives. If something is really distressing don’t decide to end it all. But anyway, who is so sure and certain of his future? On a personal note- everybody’s future seems uncertain too. Even those who appear to be secure about their future are riddled with insecurities.

But there is one thing needed along every step of the Christian journey, and that is the same thing that Abram had- faith. To believe that in spite of all that had happened, God allowed it to happen for some mysterious purpose. Even our own blunders and horrible bungling through life, God may not have done it, its our foolishness and naiveness that caused those events that still cause pain, still God allowed it that we may learn the lessons. And we certainly learn one thing- life’s lessons are tough. Sometimes they leave their mark on us for the rest of our lives.

Remember if you are still recovering from some painful event, and your honor is in the dust and you see a bleak tomorrow, may I see say that God may still bring some good out of those evils. Once someone said to me “When you lose, don’t lose the lesson!”

Let God have its way in the days ahead. He is able to build you up again. Certainly you will meet new people and new events will take place in your life. Maybe God will open the door for you to visit distant lands and meet the foreign brethren.

Your life was not meant to end in shame. Maybe you have become like a tree in the wilderness with nobody to water your roots. Be still and accept the present season. The dark clouds will disappear, the sun will shine, the streams will hit your roots again- the hour of God’s visitation may be sooner than you think.

O GOD WHEN WILL I EVER LISTEN TO YOU?

2008-10-20T23:46:00.000-07:00

Now Sarai, Abram’s wife bore him no children. She had an Egyptian slave girl whose name was Hagar, and Sarai said to Abram, “You see that the Lord has prevented me from bearing children; go in to my slave girl; it maybe that I shall obtain children by her’ And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai … he went in to Hagar and she conceived … and Hagar looked with contempt on Sarah…then Sarah dealt harshly with her and she fled from her presence” Genesis 16:1-6

One of my saddest experiences in life was with an encounter with one of my students. I am a part time law lecturer and over the years I have had the privilege of meetings thousands of students. Her story- My mother was a pub woman- had an affair with a rich man and got pregnant with me- his wife found out, she came over with her relatives, shaved my mums head bald, together they beat her and warned her she would kill my mother if she ever tried to contact her husband again. One day my mother pointed out my father at the local Supermarket. He quickly turned his face the other way. That *&^%$#@ bastard!!!

I saw the anger in her eyes and the sadness in her face. Just one mans act of foolishness and there comes along a history of pain, sorrow and acts of revenge. Most of the friendships and acquaintances we enter into seem pleasant at the time. The initial courtesies, the smiling faces and the warm handshakes. If the conversation takes on a religious angle, with many religious phrases exchanged in the process, one becomes more vulnerable and ends up getting into friendships and relationships that were not meant to be.

And the victim in this story is Hagar. But it also cost Abram something- a future of endless conflicts and battles between the Ishmaelites and the Jewish race. It is a blood soaked history with border wars and suicide bombings.

May I suggest this to everyone out there- strange thought it may seem. You can be everybody’s friend- because as Christians we are called to love and to serve. But don’t make the mistake thinking that you can take everyone to be your friend. Ignore this advice and you will pay a painful price sooner or later. Be a brother and a sister, that’s good enough!!

And the greatest mistake of Abram in this story is this- And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. If only Abram had prayed about the matter and listened to what God had to say in that situation!! God, are you in this? And the tragedy is that he did not consult God about such an important decision in his life. May I suggest that you pray who you should fellowship with, because in many ways our thoughts and our attitudes are conditioned by those with whom we fellowship. And we usually heed the voice of those around us. Pray about the matter before opening your ears to anybody and before the poison flows in.

Today although we are a developed nation, there are more and more unwanted children roaming our streets. Who are their parents? And there seem to be more and more angry and fuming people out there. What has happened? Further our divorce Courts are very busy these days- Christians included. It makes a mockery of the religious rites….for better or for worse, in sickness and in health…..till death do us part…that is, if another suitable candidate doesn’t show up before death…

A GRIEVIOUS FAMILY HISTORY

2008-10-20T23:41:00.001-07:00

“ … you shall call his name Ishmael, for the Lord has given heed to your affliction. He will be a wild ass of a man, with his hand against everyone and everyone’s hand against him and he shall live at odds with all his brethren.” (Genesis 16: 11-12.)

So she said to Abraham. “Cast out this slave woman wither son; for the son of this slave woman shall not inherit along with my son Isaac” Genesis 21 :10

I have a confession to make. I have oftentimes sympathized with the outcastes in the Bible than with heroes. And on this point my sympathies are with Hagar the slave girl, and her son Ishmael. How do you live with the knowledge that your mum had been abused and the fact that she had no rights in the house. And later when Isaac was born, his mother was literally driven out. Imagine Ishmael’s hatred for Sarah and Isaac. I am not in the least surprised when God saw the future life of Ishmael - He shall be a wild donkey of a man. It certainly was a very painful rejection for Ishmael and it was going to govern his hostile attitude towards the Jewish people later on.

“God was with the boy, and he grew up, he lived in the wilderness and he became and expert with the bow.” (Genesis 21: 20)

Have you ever imagined what target Ishmael had in his mind and heart as he shot his arrows in the wilderness. What was he thinking? The stage had been set for future conflicts.

Today we have such a phrase as “He comes from a dysfunctional family.” There are cases on record of children shooting their own fathers and sometimes both their parents. The years of verbal abuse, rejection and the feelings of being unwanted and unloved finally led to the hidden volcanoes erupting.

My own theory is that every family has its own history, or rather their own baggage. Rejections can be a very terrible thing, more so when it comes from within ones own family. Perhaps your life story is somewhat similar to Ishmael and you too have the temperament of an Ishmael because of past offenses and abuses and rejections. And when you are provoked, your fire burns again.

May I give you a word of caution? Don’t play the victim. One of the best books I have read is titled “Victimology”, how some people play the victim throughout their lives. Our Holy Scriptures reveals that even the Lord Jesus Christ was rejected by his own countrymen. Indeed one of the saddest features of Ishmael’s life is that he never turned to God and ask what was life’s purpose for him. If he had just looked upward and asked for direction, God would have shown him something. But he never asked what God his father Abraham worshipped. That was a real tragedy. And so the old hatred and revenge remained with him throughout his life.

One thing is certain in life- we cannot undo the past. There is not a man on this planet who can rewrite our personal history or family history. One of the worst things that can happen to a person is to live a life of regrets. Move on in the light and may God built you a sure future - better than the past relationships. May God give you the grace to laugh again and may you live to see the day and say- Thank God for the past- God used it to make me what I am today!” You need to read the story of Joseph again, how his brothers sold him off as a slave. There is only one thing worth keeping in our hearts- in the midst of treachery, betrayal, rejection, lies and imprisonment- but God was with Joseph.” And the God of Joseph is your Lord and Saviour and He can do the same with you

ARE YOU FEELING THE RIGHT THING ABOUT THIS?

2008-10-20T23:39:00.001-07:00

So the men turned from there, and went towards Sodom, while Abraham remained standing before the Lord. Then Abraham came near and said, Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Genesis 18:18:22-23

Some time ago in the city of Kuala Lumpur a Pastor wanted to start a gay church. There was some publicity given in the newspapers and many Christians’ feelings were ruffled about this. Others just hurled condemnations and insults in righteous anger (sic). Immorality is nothing new in the church. It manifests in various forms. It happened in the early church at Corinth, and worse Paul wrote to state that it was a kind of immorality that is not even found among pagans- “for a man is living with his fathers wife” (1Corinthians 5) If the church had been simply a human organization we would have packed our bags a long time ago because of all the scandals that has rocked the Christian fellowship for the past 2000 years. But the big question Paul had to ask that church is this “Should you not rather have mourned?”

Most of the time when some Christians’ shortcoming comes to light, all that we hear is suspension, expulsion, discipline and excommunication. And worse than that it seems to become the main discussion among believers at the tea stalls and telephone conversations. But very few seem to have the right attitude towards such a brother or sister. Paul told the church that you are not even mourning that such a deed has been done among us. But how many among us grieve for others when they fall into some miserable pit?

When God revealed to Abraham about the imminent destruction of Sodom and Gomorroh, those two sexually immoral cities, Abraham interceded for those people to the last bit. Unknown to Abraham, he was revealing the very nature of Jesus to God, for one of the ministries of the ascended Lord is to make intercession before the Holy Father. And only Abraham is described in the Scriptures as the “Friend of God”.

It is always easier to condemn and distance ourselves from those who have chosen a questionable lifestyle. But if you look at the Scriptures carefully those who are sexually immoral are placed alongside the greedy, idolater, reviler, drunkard and the robber!! 1Corinthians 5: 9-12. Have you ever been greedy in your life grabbing everything that came along your way? Fill your homes with useless and unwanted things? Have you passed a cynical remark against another believer and belittling them while maintaining you moral superiority? Then you are placed alongside the sexually immoral too!!

We all need to learn something from the life of Abraham - not criticizing and condemning others while quoting a dozen Bible verses. Psychologists have pointed out that the sins that we often shout loudest against, these are the very sins that we have the greatest difficulty with and these are the sins which we recognize in others easily. I have seen people caught in so many situations that very few things surprise me anymore. Begin this moment onwards to intercede for others whom you think are coming under the judgment of God. But you maintain your Christian attitude like Father Abraham - and he was prepared to go down on his knees and pray for a people who were not even his own race!!! That’s what commended him to God and that’s what made him a spiritual giant. And mind you, Father Abraham did not know of even one Bible verse and he was not in fellowship with any church.
Posted by vijay at 12:28 AM

A LYING PROPHET

2008-10-20T23:37:00.000-07:00

From there Abraham journeyed towards the region of the Negeb, and settled between Kadesh and Shur. While residing in Gerar as an alien Abraham said of his wife Sarah, “She is my sister” And King Abimelech of Gerar sent and took Sarah. Genesis 20: 1-2

Someone once said “I am sorry that Abraham lied, but I am glad that it was recorded down because it gives me hope!” The Bible never presents men of God as flawless characters above the many evils that plague the rest of humanity. Instead they are just presented as they are really were. We have all heard about it – politicians lying to the people with their election promises. And I have seen it in a Courtroom too- witnesses lying after taking the oath. It’s all part and parcel of humanity. And rest assured, you will never come across a person who had never lied before. And if you ever meet such a saint, ask him or her to autograph your Bible immediately.

And here Abraham was prepared to sacrifice his wife’s dignity and honour to save his own skin. But I am glad that God intervened on his behalf and saved Sarah from a dreadful situation.

Maybe you too have lied to people and others have told you horrible lies for whatever reason. I have learnt the hard way that it is better to be upfront with people then to make a vague commitment and later to give hundred reasons as to why we can’t keep our commitments. The last time I was lied to so professionally were two men I knew- because of their religious appearance I was really taken in. Turned out that they were skillful liars. But in life we only learn by hindsight, after making all the mistakes.

This was Abimelech’s first encounter with a worshipper of God and it was not very pleasant. In fact, Abimelech sent Abraham and Sarah packing off the very next day. We were always taught that it was Abraham’s grandson Jacob who was a skillful deceiver. The truth is, he probably inherited it from his grandfather Abraham. Later Isaac would be lying about his wife in just about the same way.

And today lying is not limited to save ones skin. Like the person who always has the tendency to exaggerate his business or academic achievements. Or the preacher whose life is just so full of one wonderful supernatural encounter after another.

Personally, the reason why people are prone to exaggerate is because if there is one thing we cannot stand, it is to be outclassed by other people. But for Abraham it was a very real lesson when Abimelech was told the truth about his latest addition to his harem. All Abraham’s worship and faith could not have convinced Abimelech of Abraham’s integrity. It would have been so much better if he had just told the truth upfront. It certainly would have avoided the humiliation when he was told off by a furious pagan king.
Posted by vijay at 12:29 AM

AN OLD ENEMY VISITING

2008-10-20T23:35:00.001-07:00

At that time Abimelech, with Philcol the commander of his army said to Abraham, God is with you in all that you do; now therefore swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or with my offspring or with my posterity, but as I have dealt loyally with you, you will deal with me and with the land where you have resided as an alien. And Abraham said “ I swear it”.

Then Abraham rebuked Abimelech because of a well of water which Abimelech’s servants had seized… Genesis 21:22-25

Have you ever nursed a grudge against someone and found it awfully difficult to forgive? That even though you tried but somehow those bitter memories remain hidden in some unreachable places of your spirit? It happens to us all and it happened to Abraham. And he was in that same position that day when Abimelech visited Abraham under the pretext of peace. There was one unsettled issue- a well which belonged to Abraham which Abimelech had seized. Abraham had been treated with disrespect by this man of authority .This man had ruffled his feelings and so it’s understandable why Abraham nursed a grudge against him.

It was a very old quarrel and it was related to a well. Abraham’s servants had dug a well but when the waters gushed forth, Abimelech confiscated it! The reason is obvious – Abraham did not own the land- he was just a stranger in the land and it was easy to bully him and shove him out of the land. Further Abimelech was a man of authority, a king and he had his army commander with him, Philcol. But Abraham was just a wandering gypsy with just home born slaves. And now Abraham had dug another well, and the king was at his doorstep again. At Abimelech’s bidding, Abraham swore the peace the king wanted and settle the old quarrel.

But even though the peace had been sealed, Abraham could not hold it in. The next verse tells us that Abraham rebuked the king for his conniving ways. But Abimelech very diplomatically and tactfully denied any knowledge of the well. Abimelech represents one of those people who are just filled with envy and jealousy at the prosperity of others. But at the same time they are able to portray very innocent faces when confronted. The truth is that Abimelech is a man with such a notorious sense of insecurity that he had to bring along the commander of his army to negotiate with a travelling gypsy!

But Abraham made the peace because he was thinking of going into retirement. He had cut ties with Lot his nephew. He had sent off Hagar and Ishmael. Now finally he had peace with neighbours. The journey had been tough but he had traveled the road. By letting the old grudge against Abimelech he could now concentrate on his own future.

How are you dealing with your own Abimelech? It is enough. Those incidents that happened a longtime ago should not occupy your mind forever. What happened cannot be erased. No doubt you can never forget Abimelech for what he did to you. But you certainly will be more prepared and matured in your dealings when you meet the next Abimelech. For the sake of your own peace, sign the peace treaty.

CHANGES IN THE FAMILY

2008-10-20T23:33:00.001-07:00

Saturday, September 6, 2008
CHANGES IN THE FAMILY LIFE
Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the time of which God had spoken to him (Genesis 21:2)

The birth of his son Isaac developed new situations on the domestic scene. His relationship with Hagar and Ishmael would soon end. His friendship with Lot also ended on an unhappy note. In his lonesome old age, God gave a son to Abraham and with that birth there were drastic changes about to take place at home.

How do you cope being a father at that age? One thing was sure, and Sarah had to make a lot of readjustments. Babies crying uncontrollably in the middle of the night is something all new fathers dread- at least the ones I know. It is doubtful if Abraham was able to play with his new born son.

Isaac is a kind of a withdrawn character. He is actually meditating in the field when Sarah arrives on a camel many years later. But there was one unhappy person at the birth of Isaac which the Scriptures are careful to record, and that was his elder half brother Ishmael. By Isaac’s birth, Ishmael was dispossessed because he was just the son of a maidwoman, with lesser legal rights than the lady of the house Sarah.

But then Sarah noticed something during the great feast for her son Isaac- Ishmaels was mocking at the whole thing. Trouble was brewing at home and with that trouble Abraham had to cut all ties with Hagar and Ishmael. He had to do it for the sake of his wife Sarah and for the sake of family peace.

I think everybody agrees that this world is not a happy place to live in. And a fair portion of our sorrows come from our own blunders. What is the biggest blunders you have made? That you married the wrong person? That you formed a friendship of which you are now regretting? Who can tell us whether next year at this time our family situation would be a happy one or a miserable one? For Abraham that day he was happy because of Isaac. But that happiness was not full because of the upcoming departure of Ishmael.

We cannot have everything in life. And so we are forced to choose in life. Are we prepared to life’s ever changing situations and accept the reality or do we blindly go forward without choosing the better hoping that somehow reality itself would change? Abraham had to readjust. It was necessary in the long run. How does a family stay together when it is quarelling all the time, when there are shoutings and commotions in the late night and the police are called in by irritated neighbours?

Are there situations in your life that you need to readjust? Then readjust you must- you must let Ishmael go. Abraham had grown fond of Ishmael. What are you so fond of that makes hesitate to forward? Ishmael represents the life in the flesh, and Isaac life in the Spirit. Ishmael is the joyful memory of yesterday, reckless decisions and an untamed nature. But now a better than Ishmael is here- Isaac- in whom all Gods promises are carried on. Although those memories with Ishmael were so glorious- still the curtains must come down. God’s purpose for you is not in the old life. Let it go and be prepared to be led into the narrow way of the Kingdom of God.
Posted by vijay at 12:30 AM

THE FINAL TEST

2008-10-20T23:31:00.000-07:00

After these things God tested Abraham. He said to him, ‘Abraham!’ And he said, ‘Here I am’. He said, “ Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains that I shall show you.” (Genesis 22: 1-2)

It had been a very long journey and finally Abraham was going into retirement. He got his well of water, he got the son he had always wanted and he had peace with his neighbours. And to symbolize his retirement, he planted a tamarisk tree. Just as the tamarisk tree takes deep roots in the earth, finally Abraham was going to take root and settle down and enjoy the fruits of his labour. Or so he thought.

But God came to Abraham at that point of his life and called him to the biggest test of his obedience. It seems as though everything was building up to this moment. This is the peak in Abraham’s life for after this event, the life of Abraham flows like a river into the vast wilderness and disappears into the horizon.

The test of Abraham is three fold, take now your son- the test of his faith, your only son Isaac, the test of his hope, whom you love- the test of his love. These are the three greatest qualities a Christian should have. And now there abideth faith, hope and love and the greatest of these is love.

Firstly the test of his faith. Just as Isaac had been born in a supernatural way, Abraham had to surrender Isaac back to God believing that somehow God was able to restore Isaac in that same supernatural way. But he just did not know the how or the when. But he had to believe it.

Secondly the test of his hope. Abrahams hope for the future was not tied to his bank balance but on his boy Isaac. He knew that he would never have another son- not through Sarah anyway. A peace or a wave offering, the worshipper will get something back. But a burnt offering every bit of it had to go - the offer or will get nothing back- as it will have to be burnt completely to ashes. How was Abraham going to get Isaac back? He did not know the how or the when but he responded in obedience.
Thirdly, the test of his love Abram was fond of Ishmael but Isaac he loved. It was the fulfillment of a promise that he had waited a very long time. But now even Isaac had to go. The test was this- Abram, is your faith and hope in God or is it on Isaac- that was the ultimate test?

May I ask you a personal question? What is your most precious possession on this earth? What is it that makes your life worth living? For some it may be a person and for others it may be a thing. But if God told you to surrender your most prized possession would you be able to surrender it believing that somehow God is able to restore it back to you in a supernatural way- something even better? Abraham, would you take your boy, your only boy, the boy whom you love and give him back to me in faith?

Look at the following verses “ And Abraham said to his young men- Stay here with the donkey while me and the lad go yonder to worship, and we will both come back to you”
Abraham was not fooling around with the young men. He said that they will both come back!!! Again he did not the how or the when but he just sensed that something supernatural was about to take.

It is a horrible moment now and this story increases in tension as the two go up to Mount Moriah. Imagine the scene- Isaac carrying the heavy wood for the sacrifice up the mountain, Abraham carrying a bucket of fire and a sharp knife. Again when Isaac asks his father Abraham – “My father look, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for the burnt sacrifice?” That Isaac who was about to be sacrificed was asking a broken hearted father about the lamb for the sacrifice. And the father replied saying that God would provide himself a sacrifice.

In my early Christian life -, when reading the Bible I got the impression that God was a cruel and bloodthirsty character up there and his favourite pastime was to sit on an exalted throne to test his people. But it was after spending much time with the Bible that I could see the divine pattern. I am told that Mount Moriah is just within walking distance to Calvary. That Isaac is carrying the wood that is to be the means of his own execution with the father surrendering him is all pointing to Calvary. The redemption story.

What is the biggest test you have been through in the Christian life? Of all the Bible characters I have read, I think Abraham went through the biggest test. Romans put it this way- “Who against hope believed in hope.” What is your biggest test that you are going through right now? Some testing’s are intense like the testing of Jesus in the wilderness but other testing’s are really circumstantial for the believer- relating to honesty in business matters or keeping a commitment or refraining from badmouthing others. Then others seem to go through a perpetual loneliness. I don’t think that is a test at all. These Christians just need to discard their “spiritual image” and just need to go out and meet more people. You are a Christian? So what? You still have to face all the trials just like everybody else!

When the days seem incredibly long and your perseverance seems to diminish, take time out and find a place of solitude in prayer. One learns many things in solitude rather than griping to others how severe the trails have become. Every dark season has to pass sometime. The story of Corrie Ten Boom , how she survived in a Nazi camp when she was asked “ Why does God allow this?” She replied- We do not know the answer but we know that we can face this with our faith

ABRAHAM REVEALS GODS IMAGE 12

Then he bound Isaac his son and placed him on the wood, upon the altar. Then Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But an angel called to him from heaven and said “ Abraham” And he said “ Here I am” And he said “Do not lay your hands on the child or do anything to him for now I know that you fear God since you have not withheld your son, your only son from me.

We have now reached the climax in Abraham’s testing. After both of them had built the altar together, Abraham suddenly turns against his only son whom he loves binds him and lays him upon the altar. Just imagine the picture, on some desolate side of Mount Moriah, the fire burning at Abraham’s side ready for the burnt offering. Isaac tied upon the altar and a sharp knife in Abraham’s hand. It was when Abraham looked at Isaac’s face for the last time that he stretched for his hand and took the knife to slay his only son. To make any sense, to this story we have to step into the supernatural dimension -otherwise it is just a horrible story and can’t even be preached to young people in the church or to older people who have own children. But is the meaning of the story?

We have now reached the climax in Abraham’s testing. After both of them had built the altar together, Abraham suddenly turns against his only son whom he loves binds him and lays him upon the altar. Just imagine the picture, on some desolate side of Mount Moriah, the fire burning at Abraham’s side ready for the burnt offering. Isaac tied upon the altar and a sharp knife in Abraham’s hand. It was when Abraham looked at Isaac’s face for the last time that he stretched for his hand and took the knife to slay his only son. To make any sense, to this story we have to step into the supernatural dimension -otherwise it is just a horrible story and can’t even be preached to young people in the church or to older people who have own children. But is the meaning of the story?

But when the knife was raised, God intervened and stopped it all because even the sacrifice of Isaac was not good enough. The sacrifice for the atonement must be perfect and even reading the life of Isaac casually one straightaway discerns that even Isaac too had the compulsion to lie when caught in a difficult situation.

But God did not intervene when another sacrifice was presented at Calvary many years later. The price had to be paid. It was a dreadful day when the Father sacrificed the Son for the atonement. Four thousand years earlier David had wrote “My God, My God why have you forsaken me? The exact words Jesus had cried out from the cross during his last moments. There was no other way- “Without the shedding blood there is no sacrifice for sins” (Hebrews).

If you are a Christian, rejoice in the fact that your past records of sins have been wiped clean. Jesus made the atonement for you by his death - and that is the only sacrifice that God accepts.
Posted by vijay at 12:33 AM

THE SECRET OF SARAH'S BEAUTY

2008-10-20T23:30:00.001-07:00

Sarah lived one hundred and twenty seven years. This was the length of Sarah’s life. And Sarah died at Kiriath –arba (that is Hebron) in the land of Canaan; And Abraham went into mourn for Sarah and weep for her. (Genesis 23 :1)

The last chapter in the life of a beautiful woman, Sarah. It is surprising to find that Sarah was beautiful even in her old age that a king wanted to court her. And the Bible reveals the secret of her beauty- she had a meek and quiet spirit, was submitted to her own husband and feared the Lord. To say this thing today would be taking the risk of being labelled as a male chauvinistic pig!

Alas today people today mistake glamour for beauty. And what we see on television today are not beauty queen contests but glamour queen contests. Beauty you can keep but glamour you cannot. Simon Peter gives some hints about how ladies can keep their beauty- not in elaborate hairdo and excessive jeweler but here is the secret straight from his pen “Do not adorn yourselves outwardly by braiding your hair, and by wearing gold ornaments or fine clothing, rather let your adornment be the inner self with the lasting beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in God’s sight.” Ignore this advice and you will fill the category of “An old mutton dressed up as lamb!”

I once came across a lady in her fifties with such a heavy make up- that it reminded me of a birthday cake. All that was missing was a candle on her forehead and we could have sung “Happy Birthday To You”. Don’t dress your carcass excessively! It’s the inner beauty that is precious in His sight. And I am glad that I am not saying this in a ladies fellowship, otherwise I will share the fate of John the Baptist with my head on the chopping block and eventually landing up on a silver platter

A TIME TO MOURN

2008-10-20T23:29:00.001-07:00

Now the other side of the story is this, that when Sarah died Abraham mourned for her. Although Abraham is presented to us as a spiritual giant, still his earthly nature remained with him. Sarah had accompanied him on all his journeys, shared in all his trials and was faithful to Abraham until her last breath. No doubt she had enough valid reasons to desert him, especially when she was despised by Hagar-but she stayed. And now she was gone for good and Abraham wept.

I have attended many funerals but one was particular funeral that I attended left me distressed. Christians from a particular group had arrived and proceeded to sing “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say Rejoice!!” accompanied by the music of tambourines’ and guitar. They were rejoicing because according to them, the Bible says- “We must give thanks in all things!!” It really left a bad impression with the non- Christian group. If you ask me- these believers needed to be spanked with a frying pan and sent back out of the funeral house. It is demeaning when the brethren behave like this. More so when the host of the house are from other religions.

The Christian is not called to be an imbecile with an incapacity to mourn. There is a time to mourn. When Jesus heard about the death of Lazarus, he did not dance and celebrate with a guitar and tambourine, crying out “This is the day the Lord hath made!!” He wept when he heard about the death of Lazarus. And that is the human side of Jesus. He was very human. Maybe more human than many of us.

All people regardless of their faith should share in the sorrow of those who have gone before us. And all Christians from whatever denominations should pay their last respects reverently. At every funeral I am reminded that one day I will be there too and so will you. And I certainly don’t want to hear people singing carols at my funeral.

When Paul wrote “We do not grieve like others who have no hope” he was not exhorting us not to grieve. The non-believer grieves because they believe the separation of death is forever and they will not see their loved ones anymore. Christians do not grieve because the Bible assures us that one day we will be reunited with our loved ones in the vast yonder out there some where- called heaven.

At this point please allow me to say a benediction for you, May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you, May you live long enough to see your children and your grand children, May your life be blessed upon the earth, May you live a full and wholesome life on the face of the earth, and when the time comes for your departure, may you depart in the presence of your loved ones, who will miss your presence and cherish your memories. And above all may your soul depart boldly, in the full assurance that that you are entering a better world where there is no night.

And may those of you who, because of your earthly connections are few somehow land up in the old folks home, don’t despair. Although there is no record of Jesus visiting any old folk’s home, I believe that God is present there too. May you find some friendly faces there to comfort you in your last days. And if somehow by chance you find out that I am your neighbour, we will drink tea and share many of our experiences , enjoy many quiet days, enjoy the great peace and solitude of old age- and get our hearts ready for the final destination

MAKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR ISAAC

2008-10-20T23:27:00.000-07:00

“ Put your hand under my thigh, and I will make you swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and earth, that you will not get a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I live but will go to my country and my kindred and get a wife for my son Isaac.” (Genesis 24:2-4)

Undoubtedly Isaac was a mummy’s boy who cared and loved him. But now Sarah was gone and who would fill the void in Isaac’s life? Isaac is a kind of colourless character and everything had to be done for him. He is not a Jacob or an Esau. And now Abraham looks into the affairs of his only son Isaac. If Abraham had not looked into the affairs of Isaac, it is doubtful if Isaac had any of the social skills to woo even the Canaanite women. Something had to be done on his behalf. And after the death of Sarah, when the loneliness had set in, and Isaac spends more and more time out in the field meditating by himself, Abraham gives the instructions to his servant Eleazer in the matter of Isaac’s marriage.

Some people are the life and soul of the party and they need no help in breaking the ice or venturing into new territory. For others it’s an uphill battle and they become the wallpaper in the background- and they need help. It is these people who get joked about and get the least attention. These are the plain Jane’s and the introvert John’s- usually from the lower income group- children of the taxi drivers and the food hawkers with very modest means. As a lecturer, I have many students and the temperaments are very varied. In one particular class, there were a few models, and they oftentimes come sensually dressed. And a strange silence descends on the class and I can sense that some of the young men are yearning to break the ice. It is the handsome Romeo with his dyed golden hair, fake Rolex watch and his borrowed car who seems to be the hero and the loudest in the class.

I think the most saddest case history was in the USA when a Korean student was laughed at mercilessly by his classmates because of his poor English. He left the class and in a few moments returned with a gun, shot many students to death and finally shot himself. Some people can take severe provocations, for others, the tolerance level is limited. And it is prudent to be aware of your own sheep. The tragedy-nobody befriended him and spoke out on his behalf to save him from those humiliations.

If you look around in the church or at the working place, you will always find some unassuming characters. These are usually people who lack the social skills but yearn for company. May you have the spirit of father Abraham in looking out for others- especially the unassuming. I am not asking that you put your hand under my thigh and take some kind of mysterious nomadic oath and find a wife for these people. Get to know them – don’t wait to be introduced- go and introduce yourself. God can use you to be a witness for these people. Why do you think God put you there? Per chance you can speak a word on his behalf.

May I say this word for all believers- do not demean anybody by commenting on their looks or their appearance. After all you do not have the looks of Tom Cruise or Julia Roberts either. And if you ever find these characters being disrespected in your presence- speak up on their behalf. I have time again been in the company of people who don’t seem to have a heart or a conscience. It just dosen’t bother them that they have ruined somebody’s day. These are the real devils in our midst straight from the pit.

I have noticed that there are many young people in church . The next generation of believers is rising ups fast. Watch out for these people. Without doubt you have much to offer to these young people in terms of example, advice and guidance. May you be blessed of the Lord and use you greatly.

ABRAHAM- A POLYGAMIST?

2008-10-20T23:24:00.000-07:00

Abraham took a wife and her name was Keturah. She bore him Zimram, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbah and Shuah. Genesis 25)

And Abraham gave everything he had to Isaac but to the sons of the concubines he gave gifts.”

Here we see have one of the greatest difficulties in the life of a great spiritual giant, Father Abraham- that he was actually a polygamist. And because of this Abraham has been severely criticized by many Bible commentators. My personal opinion is this- the Bible does not critisize or commend this aspect of Abraham’s private life. And if God does not make a comment, its would be unwise on our part to be making any kind of comments.

The Bible is a very honest book. It just paints the people as they really are – not as we would like to see them. This is one evidence that the Bible is the Word of God because of its utter honesty in revealing human nature. Every other religious book rarely mention the weaknesses of its holy people. The Bible is the only book that reveals both the strengths and the weakness of its characters. Noah was righteous and preached for many years but the last thing we are told about Noah is that he got so drunk that his pyjamas came off- “… and Noah lay uncovered in his tent”

Have you ever wondered if God were to be writing your life story, what kind of details would be included? Would you like those details to be included? The things that you did that no else found out? Humanly speaking we only want the best things to be said about us and our names shining in gold. But not so with the Holy Spirit, also known as the Spirit of Truth, the facts are recorded as they really took place.

Another example is the funeral service where the deceased is commended for all his noble qualities and Christlike qualities. I remember a funeral I attended where there was a large gathering- and speaker after speaker commended the dead persons achievements and noble and illustrious character. I just hope that the things that were said corresponds to the details in God’s book- because I think there are going to be many surprises on the other side. Its more prudent to keep the commendations plain and simple.

f you feel tempted to criticize others for their moral shortcomings, I am afraid that pretty soon you too would be brought into a situation where your own limitations are exposed. I have seen this happen again and again- among Christians and preachers. I am particularly reminded of a brother who always extolled the virtues and fulfillment of his married life- until one day he went through the divorce himself. He is more circumspect these days when commenting on the shortcoming’s of other believers.

In the Scriptures we are told to fix our eyes on Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. Fixing our gaze at anything or anyone else will give us enough reason to stop fellow shipping at any church!!!

Paul in writing to the Corinthian church which was known for its criticism of even Paul had this to say,

“But we pray to God that you will not do anything wrong- not that we may appear to have passed the test, but that you may do what is right, though we may seem to have failed.” 2 Corinthians 13: 7-8.

That’s it- some sound advice for the believer who is critical of other believers. They have failed the test the moral and spiritual test in your eyes? Another scandal has broken out hat is much whispered about? So what? They did not die for your sins. So pray for them and continue on with the journey God has ordained for you. That the Christian attitude.

THE CLOSING CHAPTER

2008-09-06T00:44:00.000-07:00

These were the years of the life of Abarham, 175 years. Abraham breathed his last and died in a good old age, an old man and full of years, and was gathered to his people.(Genesis 25:7-8)

With this verse, the life Abraham comes to an end. He left UR of the Chaldees when he was 75 years old and he died at the age of 175. That means he done God’s bidding and obeyed God for 100 years in obedience to God’s call. He had been through all the troubles from the days when Lot quarreled with him then later the issue of Hagar and Ishmael and finally his peace treaty with Abemelech. Abraham had completed the journey by faith but he did not journey in complete peace. Some Christian seem to believe that as soon as they accept Jesus as their Savior every problem just evaporates. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Abrahams life was filled with battles, domestic quarrels with Sarah, business quarrels with Lot and turf wars with Abimelech. And above all the supreme test when God told Abraham to sacrifice his son and he passed with flying colours.

So accept what the journey brings along the way. And if it is possible- avoid the pitfalls rather than go through it- and if you cannot than may the God of Abraham be with you until his purpose is fulfilled in you.

The Christian journey too for every believer, is fraught with seemingly numerous trials and tribulations in this journey of life-nobody can escape the trials and tribulations that come alongside with it. Everybody has their story to tell. Some troubles come from outside I suspect that most of the troubles for Christians today from their own fellowship. For many, the bruises, scars and wound had their origin from other believers. Indeed one of the first questions every believer has to ask when going through a difficult time is this “ What can I learn from this trouble or misunderstanding?”

Abraham overcame all his trials with his faith in God and with the wisdom that God gave him. Wherever he went, he pitched his tent and build an altar so when Abraham left that place he only left behind an altar as a reminder that somebody had worshipped God there. There were already many other altars in the wilderness in Abraham’s day. Why did he not use those altars? Because those altars were used for Baal worship which were decorated with foul objects. Only Abraham’s altar bore witness to the worship of the one true God but he only pitched his tent signifying that he was only a plilgrim in this earth.

All Christians need to be reminded of Abrahmam’s testimony because we are also pilgrims just as he was and the one thing Christians should leave behind are reminders of God’s faithfulness. If we start building our faith on materials things we will be building on shallow sand. It all right to renovate your property or move into a bigger home. May you be blessed in everything. But remember in the long run, we are just mere pilgrims.

May I ask you a personal question? If you lost all your money and possessions today, how much will you still be worth? Or if you knew that you only had 24 hours left to live how would you feel about he life you have lived! Life is incredibily short, the grey hairs appears even before we know it. Jesus once remarked lay out your treasures in heaven where moth and rust does not corrupt and thieves do not break in to steal for where your treasure is there will be your heart also and in another place he said “Take heed and beware of coveteousness for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things that he possesses.”

Abraham died full of years which means a life well spent. How many remorseful people have you seen in their old days who feel that life have cheated them. It started out with so many promises, so many expectations and yet none of those dreams came true. Only this morning I had a short Bible study in the Sungai Buluh prison. About 50 or so had gathered there – both the young and the old. But they had made mistakes.

In all aspects, it is better to heed the divine voice and let God be our Shepherd. In this way, wherever the journey of life leads us, we can be assured of God’s guidance and protection and our eventual departure. May it be said of us one day- “ It was a life well spent “!!!!

“ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Corinthians 13:13)

CURTAINS DOWN ON THE OLD LIFE

2008-09-06T00:18:00.000-07:00