Get right with God

Psalm 58:6-7
6 Break the teeth in their mouths, O God;
tear out, O LORD, the fangs of the lions!

7 Let them vanish like
water that flows away;
when they draw the bow, let their arrows be blunted.

Psalm 59:11-13
11 But do not kill them, O Lord our shield,
or my people will forget. In your might make them wander about,
and bring them down.

12 For the sins of their mouths,
for the words of their lips,
let them be caught in their pride.
For the curses and lies they utter,

13 consume them in wrath,
consume them till they are no more.
Then it will be known to the ends of the earth
that God rules over Jacob.

As I read the Psalm for these two days, a question lingered in my mind:

How did David have the audacity to ask God for such things?!?!

It seems rather shocking that David is asking God to drop missles and atomic bombs on all his enemies and destroy them totally (if we put it in modern context). Whatever happened to the lovey dovey aspect of God? Isn't God suppose to show grace?

Well, reading through scripture again, we are very familiar with the fact that God is the God of love. But bear in mind that the Bible also shares that "God is a consuming fire" (Hebrews 12:29, Deuteronomy 4:24)

Where did David have such audacity to open his mouth to ask in this manner?

1. He knows the heart of God (Acts 13:22)
David is the only man is history known to be the man after God's very own heart.

2. He has seen and remembered the greatness of God
God has led David through many triumphs (the ever familiar David vs. Goliath) and through all of them, he recognises that it was God whom gave him the victory.

3. He always trust that God will deliver him
Reading through psalms also gives us a good understanding that though David seemingly "laments" in his psalms, he never fails to praise God at the end of each psalm. That displays a strong attitude of trust in the Lord.

Many times we also cry out like David, we wish really hard that God would destroy our enemies (those irritating people around us, people whom backstab us...etc).

However, before we even do that, can we check our own hearts first?

If we do not have a close relationship with God.. If we do not even have faith or trust in God... On what basis do we even dare to cry out to God like that?

In this year of Sabbath, let's get our walk right with God.

HUAT AH!!! MY results have been a blessing

HUAT AH!!!

I have just received my results for my last semester. I got gpa of 3.5, a gpa that i thought i could only deam of.. I have to give thanks and praise the blesser man...let's also remember to bless blesser man than ur blessings..



CP2024
HYBRIDOMA TECHNOLOGY - A grade
CP201Z
PROJECT - A grade
CP2025
IMMUNOLOGY - B grade
CP2040
GOOD LAB & MANUFACTURING PRACTICE - B grade
LC0214
COMMUNICATION SKILLS FOR WORK - B+ grade
CP2051
MOLECULAR MODELLING - B+ grade
CP2054
AGROTECHNOLOGY - B+ grade

Yup, the above shows all of my results for the last semester...HUAT AH!!! I think i did not want to cheat in my last semester exams, perhaps God would work so miraculously in me; giving me the grades which i could only dream of aiming and would in fact fall back to a lower gpa..Even if i have gotten my results, i should have a stronger reason of even fasting.. i also urge you all to carry on fasting strong for the 40 days of fasting..

Oh, my physical training is doing me good...RUNNING IS ADDICTIVE!!! i getting more fit fit...hehe, hope my 6 durians will come out soon...Jasper, let's run together la...dun lazy...

Leo (lion)

Fighting harder in the YOS

"Sabbath is NOT the absence of sin, challenges and worries of life. Sabbath is about finding that rest in the midst of all these things." - Apostle Lawrence Khong (paraphrased)

As we enter into the YOS, there are many mindsets that we need to change and paradigms that we need to shift in regards to understanding about the Sabbath. And what Pastor Khong shared with us really caught my attention.

I find that personally for myself this year, the battle against sin, temptations and worldly values seem to become fiercer. Till a point I came to question myself, "Have I become more sinful? Why is it then that I am battling seemingly harder than last year?"

During my QT these days, the Lord just reminded me that actually it is not that the battle has become harder, but rather in this YOS as I intentionally slow down to rest in the Lord, I become more conscious about the struggles around.

For example, when life is in a rush, we tend not to bother too much if there is a small stain on our clothe. We probably think that no one would notice. But when pace of life slow down and we have more time, we tend to take more notice of the stain and want to make every effort to eradicate it.

Similarly, the sins and strugles were always there. But in this YOS, as we journey closer to the Lord, these things will come to light and be surfaced.... not to shame us, but so rather we can deal with it head on with the Lord.

As we battle daily against these struggles, we can think of all the best strategies and tactics ever available. But there are two key important truths that we must understand:

1. There must be a personal decision to want to change - DO NOT be doubleminded!

2. There must be complete reliance and dependance on God and His word - Without Him, we can do nothing!

Having the end in mind, why do we fight so hard for?

Go think about it...

Alvin's Post

This is the year of Sabbath! indeed some of anuually Church's big events is not going to be carried out.. The reason behind is SP really wants us to come close to God and learn to rely on the real source of power and strength that can last us through storms in life so then we can really go into serving Him strong.. so what have we been occupying our lives with when we are free? are we having extended times with God more than ever before?

I really appreaciate Pastor's saying of "RESTing in the Lord is just like BREATHing" and Wow! for me, i have been breathing for 25 years! without anyone teaching me how to breath somemore! However the question now is, "am i breathing my life correctly?" do we take in slow deep breathe when we are running at very fast pace? do we pant when we are sleeping?

We have entered the 9th week of the year! it always good to learn to pause and take in SLow Steady Breathe to check our lives whether are we doing the right things or maybe should some say doing things right. understanding this quarter of the year is a season of intimacy.. so how's our relationship with God been? one of the dangerous threat in life is that we can go on serving and doing for God but has forgotten about coming close to God and listen what God really wants with us..

One of the greatest principal in my life for God is to learn to see God's blessings in my life, even in e bad times and the smallest thing in life like God providing the public bus for me.. (thanks for brother EJ's teachings) hehe =) So in practical, i really discipline myself to give my 1st thought and 1st conversation to God everyday when i wake by praising Him. Eventually, i actually cultivate myself to take Quick Short Breathe during the hard fast pace in life by running quickly back to God's word in all circumstances, seeking His wisdom, guidance and relying onto Him alone.

So how have you been in your walk with God? come, let's sit down and talk the walk as we walk the talk yeah! let the kingdom mentality starts as we all begin ourselves to walk close with God and bear fruits that last.. Amen..

Exercise ah!

Woo. Spent the first day of my (7 day) holidays out!
In fact, I never expected to be exercising! Wahaha.Met Leonard (Koh) at Redhill MRT station in the morning, then headed for breakfast.
After breakfast, we headed to Andre's place for a jog. Jogged to Botanic Gardens!
It was quite tiring (at least for me), and after that we took a stroll around the Botanic Gardens.
We sat by the pond and were watching it.
Wah, we caught a rare sight, there was a dead (white) fish and we were like, "What is that?"Soon after, a whole horde of terrapins (mainly red earred ones) were swimming towards it for food. Quite a rare sight in the Botanic Gardens. Then some birds also came by and were like "camping" to take some flesh from the fish.After that we jogged back to Andre's home. And now, geared up for tennis!
Headed to play tennis. Of course, all of us enjoyed it, especially Andre, who (under my "coaching") finally learnt how to serve the ball properly and he kept on practising
.Saw another funny, yet nice, sight. There were many leaves moving around the tennis court in a spiral motion.
Finally, we sat at a corner of the tennis court and started sharing and chatting.That's all folks!
With Love,

Prayer request!(Brian)

I just receive a shocking news regard my cousin, Marcus(Kenneth's elder bro). He went to school today and was engaged in a fight. Well Marcus hit one of the guy who involve in the fight, was sent to hospital. That guy was injured and his hair line fractured. Now that guy's parents want to report to the police and if they do, Marcus may be expell from the school. Hmm brothers, could you all help me pray for my cousin. I'm now quite worry, and yet to be inform about the latest news. I'm still waiting... Meanwhile I'm still praying!

Brokeness - The Delight of God

Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. - Psalm 55:22

Dear sons, as much as we receive and hear from Pastor Khong regarding "Brokenness" yesterday during service, what would be the key application through this week as we ponder on the message?

Like I shared, God is not a killjoy. Many times we think of brokenness as shattered lives, some major disasters happening...etc WRONG! It's is not just that all! This mentality makes it sound like God is bad. In fact God wants to give us the good things in life and enable us to enjoy life to the fullest! (Ecclesiastes 2:24)

Brokenness simply means coming back to FULL DEPENDENCE & RELIANCE on God and God alone!

Brokenness means acknowledging the Lord in EVERY CIRCUMSTANCES & ANYTIME!

Practical Tips:
1. When all things around you doesn't seem to work out, be mindful to pray first before you begin lamenting.
2. What is coming out from your mouth? Is it words of Faith and edification? Or just gibberish nonsense that brings no value to you and people around?
3. Can we make persistent effort to spend that one-hour of prayer with the Lord? I am sure without TV and Computer Games now, we can do that right? No excuses.

Vase's tough times

Well well... I'm going thru tough times now... Since the start of the year, i've been taking part actively in all informal times of fellowship while studying smart in college. As a result of studying smart, did not do my tutorials as i learn the concept and tecnique of doing it instead. With new measures being taken in college this year, I'm expected to hand in all tutorials or face disciplinary action. Rushing thru everything man... Rushing thru...

The Lord is our Helper

In the course of this one week, I have spoken to a cumulative total of 170 parents and teachers through the parents' cyber wellness workshop conducted in schools.

Honestly, I never imagined myself having the courage and boldness to stand in front of parents and teachers to speak to them. Somehow I feel inadequate both in terms of parenting and teaching experience. And I was also afraid that I might stutter or stammer. However, no problem for me speaking to youths in school, somehow I just have better confidence engaging them.

As I stepped up to take on these parents' workshop, it was totally the end of me and total reliance and dependence on the Holy Spirit. All I told the Lord was, "God, here I am! Use me as you will!"

As I read Psalm 54 today, the scripture that struck me was really this verse:

"Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me." - Psalm 54:4

I got really wonderful verbal feedback from the parents and teachers whom sat through the workshops, and it was really an affirmation for me. I do feel good about it, considering the butterfly-in-the-stomach before each workshops and the cold sweats that I have.

At the end of the day, I take a step back... only to recognize that it is not me who is able to speak with such confidence. It was GOD!!

As you go through challenging times, have you paused to give thanks to God? Or have you been so caught up in the blessing and forgot about God?

Update in running

I woke up early today just to go running with daryl...haha, i know daryl is a very busy man and time is precious to him...So that was why i booked him this morning to train me for running..

Ah...today's timing was 15.24, worse than the previous timing of 15.03...we were running at the Hougang Stadium. However, by god's grace, I DIN PUKE!!! woa, 1st sign of becoming fit fit...Haiz, i still have the mindset of stopping the moment i feel my legs are being jelly... LAst 2 laps, i felt a hand pushing me...ah, u might wondering what it was...haha, it was just daryl's hand pushing me...duh, who else?

Well, there were alot of ppl training.. I saw a small kid of about 7 year old being trained by his father. From the way he was sprinting, i suppose he can run much faster than an old man like me (haha, but u still cant tell my actual age by my looks).. Today's training was considered quite alrite as i was running all the while, din stop throughout 2.4km (PRAISE GOD!!!) and i DIN PUKE!!!

I shall have to run daily if i wanna shave off the 2 months of ARMY...

Leonard (lion) OUT

Prospering & Flourishing in the Y.O.S

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD,and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water,which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. - Psalm 1:1-3

But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever. I will praise you forever for what you have done; in your name I will hope, for your name is good. I will praise you in the presence of your saints. - Psalm 52:8-9

Dear sons, I want to urge and spur us to always remember and be mindful that in this Year of Sabbath (Y.O.S), God's heart for us is that we will still prosper and flourish!

Seemingly doing less, but yet hearts full of faith trusting in God for providence.

Seemingly more and more things may cramp into our schedule, but yet we are not overwhelmed because we rest in the Lord.

Seemingly more and more things need our immediate attention, but yet we do not become anxious and jump into everything.

Let's guard out heart in this year, that we do not fall into pride or taking God's word for granted.

Resting in God is different from resting and doing nothing! It's about doing the right things and doing things right.

Tribe blog updates

Greetings Gentlemen,
Your friendly blog architect Jasper here with some new updates plans for our tribe blog.

Our EJAO tribe's motto and culture have always been to be on the Cutting Edge!! To Expore and Breakthrough into new Boundaries!! To set New thrends and traditions!! To Inspire and Lead the way!!! In a nutshell, to be a sore thumb that is sticking out!!

That is why, we cannot just be happy with the conditions of our tribe blog!! we need to upgrade!! Like garment (government), they always upgrade the HDB!!! so same here lo!! we must always upgrade the Tribe blog..

Currently...

1. Our tribe blog quite good la, not even 2 months, we hit almost 40+ post liao.. this means on average, we manage to blog 20/30 days a week... not bad right.. very very active liao..
2. The blog song, very RA RA.. very On!! Very on the ball!! Got the Kick and the URH!!
3. The Tag board!! damn hot ar.. you tag, den 1 day later, you must click the next page to see your tag.. If we cosolidate (wah, so G12 term) all the tags, can become dunno how many post liao..

So, in these areas, keep it up!! continue to update and to blog and tag more!!

Near future...

Here are some ideas on how to revamp our blog.

1. more pictures.. a picture speaks a 1000 words..
2. I plan to make mini blogs for each of us.. why? it'll give us a tribe identity!! this tribe blog is OURS!!! and the main purpose is also to 'intro' ourselves to people who don't know us.. So the mini blog will include, name la, nick name la, what you like to eat la, blah blah blah.. i'll get the template out soon.. :D Your job is to maintain that mini blog too.. will explain more when the time comes.. too wordly liao, i must draw the plan out for you all.. Why? refer to point 1.

hmmm.. no ideas liao.. so any feedbacks and ideas please let me know..

Steady la.. HUAT AR!!!

Paul Potts - An Ordinary Man, An Extraordinary Gift

Britain's Got Talent winner Paul Potts has spent most of his life feeling 'insignificant'. Bullied at school for being 'different', he realised growing up that he had one true friend and that was his voice. Singing was his escape. He was able to lose himself in his own little world - the vicious words of his tormentors replaced by hauntingly beautiful lyrics and melodies that lifted his heart and spirit. It was a love, a passion, a lifeline that would follow Paul into adulthood and help him through many more periods of adversity. But it was also a gift that was destined to go largely undiscovered, due to a crushing lack of self-confidence that has dogged this hard working and humble man throughout his 36 years.

..... Although Paul has performed at amateur level, most notably with Bath Opera, his chronic lack of self esteem and fear of rejection always prevented him from trying to make it professionally. "As I saw it, if I never asked - never put myself out there - then I'd never get told "No",'says Paul. "It was safer that way."

So instead, he carried on with his day jobs - which have included stacking shelves in a supermarket and, most recently and famously, selling mobile phones, where he was told by one of his superiors that he was a 'natural salesman'. "But I knew I wasn't," says Paul. "When I was selling, I always felt like I was putting on an act. When I sang, that's when I felt I was myself - the real me."

In 2000, Paul used savings and a bit of money he'd won on a quiz show to attend a three-month summer school in Italy, where he learned the language and got to indulge his passion further. He even got to sing in a masterclass for his idol, Pavarotti. But he was about to be dealt a cruel blow.
In 2003, he suffered a burst appendix. While undergoing treatment for this, doctors discovered a benign tumour on his adrenal gland. It was successfully removed but while he was recovering, he was knocked off his bike and broke his collarbone. "Of all the health problems I'd been through, breaking my collar bone was the most painful and it took months to recover," says Paul. " I got very, very low and for once, singing was the last thing on my mind."

..... Though it's fair to say that when Paul strolled awkwardly - almost apologetically - onto the Cardiff stage for his first Britain’s Got Talent audition a week before that final, in his now infamous £35 Tesco suit, and announced to Simon and fellow judges Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan that he was going to sing opera, they never thought for one minute they were looking at their winner. Until he opened his mouth and started to sing.

It was, as Simon has said since, simply magical. "Incredible", agreed Piers. And Amanda, who was moved to tears, said his voice had left her covered in goosebumps. "We were not expecting that," admitted Simon.

"I was so nervous I was shaking like a jelly, but when I watch that audition back, i can see in my eyes that when I start to sing I go to a totally different place and the nerves just vanish," says Paul. "When I stopped singing, there were a few seconds when my heart was racing because I had absolutely no idea what the judges were going to say."

... "All of this is like a fairy tale and I'm terrified I'm going to wake up soon and find I've dreamt it all," says Paul. "The support I've had has been incredible and I feel so touched and humbled by it. It has done so much for my confidence and I really can't thank people enough for giving me the chance to realise my dream. To be given an opportunity like this is more than I ever could have hoped for. Finally, I am going to be doing what I've always felt I was put here to do - something I love and that gives me so much joy"

Reflection:
Just like Paul Potts, many of us get crushed in life because of the hurtful words others say to us, our own self condemnation or even because of external circumstances that are not within our control. But it takes true courage and authentic faith to shake and wake ourselves up from these defeats of life and rise up to the calling and giftings that the Lord has given to us.

I'm not certain if Paul Potts is a Christian. But my challenge is if a normal, ordinary everyday guy can respond in such a way, how about us who knows the Lord Jesus Christ?

Is there anything too hard for the Lord?

Acknowledgement:
- Video taken from www.youtube.com
- Biography of Paul Potts from www.paulpottsuk.com

Delight in Discipline

Just before Chinese New Year, I began on a simple regiment in my daily lifestyle:

1. I stopped drinking sweet drinks (because every can has estimated 7 teaspoon of sugar!)
2. I refrain from eating too much carbo-loaded food i.e. rice and noodle, because I find myself really sleepy during the day especially after lunch.
3. I will not drink more than a cup of tea a day

Trust me. It was never easy to stick and abide to these espacially during the CNY period when we go house visitings and when my house is stacked with so many goodies! It really took alot of discipline and self control. But three weeks into this regiment, I am beginning to see the positive outcome:

1. I feel so much more refreshed daily now after cutting away on the sweet drinks and cutting down on carbo. I don't feel sleepy during working hours now and able to be more efficient in my work!
2. I had this strange conclusion (together with my mum's advice) that my stiff shoulders and neck strain was because of too much tea a day. By cutting down on that, I don't feel that much strain nowadays, except on days when I carry very heavy loads!

Why am I sharing all these with you?

Always remember that in our walk with the Lord, we must learn to delight ourselves in the discipline. It is never easy during the "discipline" phase, but trust me, you will enjoy the blessings that comes out of it.

In this season as we enter the 40 days prayer and fasting, it takes a lot of discipline to fast from TV and computer games. But trust me, I am certain that all of you if you dilligently stick to it, you will come out of the 40 days really different - a radiant glow with the Lord.

Learn to find delight in this season of discipline. Your walk with God will never be the same after these 40 days! :)

Vasilli's halfway thru the week

Hey there... here again

1st thing, Jaren, its ok to blog NOT in short, sweet point form. To each his own style.

next, my week is drastically changed by the 40 day fast. No computer games? No TV? Even my dad laughed at me siaz, says that he think i will not last for even 20 days. So nw I'm counting down.

Next, house visiting to my place this weekend is officially cancelled. Jus received my exam timetable. my exams start is on the 7th, 17th, 18th and 19th March, jus b4 santification and tabernacle. Gd thing this 40 days fast is in place, otherwise i really dunno wat happen...

I try my best to stay alive to study, but its really tough when there's cca and test that lasts till evening 7.20pm. So its like, monday, tuesday and wednesday i'm shack out already physically. The only times when i can study will be on thursday, friday, and the weekends. So its really precious to me. May need to be OFFICIALLY EXCUSED from TPE from this sat onwards to prepare for Econs paper on the 7th. In case u dunno, Econ's is my worst subject after GP.

Maths test on tuesday was a great delight.... Quite ok, estimated losses: 20% , still can score A.
My week began with God's love. I really find joy and hope to go college everyday because I fixed my mind on God. I made up my mind that I go to college for Him, I study for Him, and I do my PE lessons for Him. There's a new perspective and energy in me for college.

Shocks in this week will come from Runescape. Dun bother asking me what "it" is. "It" asked me a few wierd and silly questions which i will only share with brothers with class 6 security clearance and above.

Well well, for accountability's sake and loyalty's sake, I tell u sth new... I have a new crush on another girl, dun bother asking me who she is. That requires a security clearance of class 10 and above. Well, its normal to have crush(es)..... But i'm convicted to stay dormant for the rest of my life in this area of BGR. So far, the only few people with security clearance of class 10 and above will only be AH PA, AH GONG and above... So dun bother trying to hack into my brains to find out more.

With that, i end here.... Over and Out....

Alvin's Post!

Yoz! i am back for some "SHORT" updates! (short version will be in color words)

Realising in the year of Sabbath, i become even busier!

monday- Ntu open cell
wednesday- G12
friday- EJA cell
saturday- study group + TPE group + project group
sunday- Church

worse still, i need to constantly handle the boys' problem like problems in schools, not doing QT, not replying my sms!! not forgetting i also have my own problems.. so i really treasure the time i spend either at home with family or meeting up with Great men with Great faith!

I grumble at times, "Where's my REST God!!? aren't we supposed to have REST???"

For all the while, we sometimes mistaken in our ways or forgotten to rely on God.. we need to be honest with ourselves and truthful to God that we indeed are really wrong in our attitudes and thinkings.. Thus I really repented for this lousy attitude for REST = Private Time (Doing things i like).. instead, Rest only comes when we come close to God.. God sustains us even through storms in life! For those who trust only in themselves will perish.. just like sheeps destine to death.. But those who Trust in Him will be redeemed! Amen!

For all these, i realised that God is working through me.. For, i will see all these daily work as "duty" or "chore" when i am looking in my own personal view.. BUT i will see an exciting challenge and CONQUEST of life transformation if i see it in God's view..

it's really a good revelation in the mind and for my life.. indeed i am already resting upon the Lord by holding His words in my life! Yes, i do feel tired physically but all i need is sleep.. But in order to rest your life spiritually, we need God!!! so do intentionally meet Him by spending time with Him and listen to Him.. indeed, i am excited to in this year of Sabbath bcoz it's only the 8th week and things are so happening already! cannot really imagine what will the things be coming for the following months.. Eejay forms his G12? hehe.. (YES, it's YOU not me!) my boys become fathers of spiritual sons? (WAH PIANGz! Up la!) we all packing up the whole magic box! (More lives to be saved)

so i shall leave with Isaiah 58:13-14, mediate upon it brothers! indeed this is going to be the verse that we will learn to go in God's way and rest in Him through storms of life this year!

"13 It you keep Your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbth a delight and the LORD's holy day honourable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, 14 then you will find your joy in the LORD, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob."

the mouth of the LORD has spoken ONCE AGAIN!

Pray that our lives can be an inspiration for more lives to come! God's Kingdom Mentality!!
Jiayou Jiayou Bro Bros!!!

Finally some time to update!

Interesting period Im going thru,seeing things that I doubt I'll see again. Worked in CGH A&E dept for 3 days,and was attached to a SCDF emergency ambulance. There I saw people involved in vehicle accidents brought in,treated,some made it,some didnt. Had opportunities to give CPR to a few patients,but unfortunately all died. Maybe the reason the doctors in the A&E allowed me to give CPR in the first place was that the patients were gonna die anyway,so try CPR no harm. Anyways,it wasnt that bad when the doctor told me to stop CPR cos the patient already passed away,what really got to me was when the patient's family come to the hospital only to find their father/husband/son has moved on to another world. Some cried,some just very emotionless,but all the same underlying tension and feeling. Its very intense. So i really dunno how the nurses and doctors at the A&E live with it everyday,the way they carry on so professionally... Zai sia.

Oh yes,one more interesting thing I learnt was that if ur family member or u ever have high fever at night,or some pain anywhere,but still can walk/take taxi,dont call 995! Though its a free service,but its not a taxi service. When got this kind of call come in(there were like 7 or 8 during my night shift),theres nothing the paramedics can do but transport the patient to the hospital. Whatever treatment that can be done is in the hospital,so basically in such caSes,calling 995 is as good as calling 65521111. Whats more,there are limited ambulances in the whole of Singapore,as opposed to the many cab companies around...... Not very nice to be working in the night shift when ur body's crying out for rest and u dont get it cos funny people who can walk to the ambulance themselves call 995 for transportation services.

Yup...definitely an eye opener to me. Too bad its ending already. Back to camp tmr for my normal training. No more staying at home on weekdays,boohoo. Strangely enough,i stay at home on weekdays also dont really see my dad around,and my brothers too. So its just me,my grandma,my maid,my 2 dog,my 2 cats and some fishes around. What a crowd.............. Anyway,anybody interested in owning a dog? My dad's friend is giving one away,still available. That dog quite poor thing,shifted house and changed owners a few times le,but quite adaptable creature.

Alright,enough of the updates for now,how much has the blog idea changed from JJ's strong suggestions of point form,short and sweet posts.......Sry bro. And oh yeah,I really honestly miss going for cell group meeting regularly. Feel like Im missing out quite a lot. Cant wait for ORD man! 1 yr and counting down!!

-Jaren

1st day of the 40 days' fasting

Well, today was supposedly the 1st day of fasting... Woke up quite late at 10 plus, so had late breakfast.... After that, i was busy making the documents for my uni application and making calls to those people whom i could get testimonials and appraisal forms from for my uni application.

Till lunchtime, i nv ate anything.... As i was quite bored, i decided to turn on the TV!!! ALAS, I FORGOT I was fasting, so switched off the TV after a few sec...lol... Skipping a meal was painful but i was being motivated to obey God so that He can bless me through breakthroughs...

Went running at about 5.30pm, i only managed to run like less 1km and walked throughout the distance for next 5 km...Well, abit disappointed that i couldnt run much but was quite glad to see 2 faint durians on my upper abdomen...haha

Dinnertime then came, i was starving like mad....haha, but it's worth it (anyways, will wanna see 4 more durians appearing as well)...

I guess tml's meeting Andre will spur me to run even more...Now i guess need to do prayer liao...Pls Pray for me so that i can be fitter and stronger to run longer distance..

Leo (lion)

Exercise with DARRYL

I had a great workout with Darryl the other day on friday b4 cell..Well, we were supposed run at Delta complex, but it was quite cui that there wasnt any running track.

We ended up at some ulu queenstown stadium where we did our running...A few things to comment; the place looked like a ghost town, the lockers weren't working (ate my 20 cents) and it was like burning hell as it was 2pm.

Well, we ran for a distance for 2.4km (6 laps of 400M), with Darryl as my guide and timer. 1st lap was song song, but when i tried to run for the next few laps, i was alrdy dying and wanted to stop alrdy, legs were burning with lactic acid, forehead was burning as well.. But Darryl's shouting kepting me going.. It was until lap 5 that i wanted to stop when Darryl's hand pushed me all the way to the finishing line...Haha, must have known how physically weak i m..

Well, i m very thankful for Darryl on that day to take the effort and willingness to train even though his final theory test was cui... Hmm, i must also be motivated to run on my own.. Let's all pray that Darryl can also pass his final theory test the next time round...

PS: haha...u must probably be wondering why i m using words like cui and sian...

Leo (lion)

A simple update..

Hey yo Dad and Bros,

LAST paper on the 19th of Feb, which is tomorrow. Preparation is still about 50% so far, just going to read through abit more and study smart.

About the 40 days prayer and fasting, I'm going to fast a meal, mainly lunch. TV, including of drama's from internet sources. And computer games. So no more dota..
Apart from that, I'm also fasting from Red meat (Beef, chicken, Pork, mutton) till the end of Oswin's encounter camp. So that leaves me with Veg, fish and carbo.

Here's a picture of my pastamania lunch! (i'm fasting dinner)

Aglio Olio, Pasta with garlic and chilli toss in olive oil.

Comments: Not bad, very simple and blend, considered cheap as it's only $4.90. Need clorex treatment after the meal as the garlic is very strong. Try it!! :D

Do YOU Understand?

A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish. - Psalm 49:20

Wealth of this world (not neccesary just monetary) cannot buy us health, security or happiness. So don't take delight or put your significance in them for they do not last forever.

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

Have you been too caught up with the pursuits of work, studies, relationships, material possessions....etc, and find that you are losing focus on God?

It is important to work hard and excel in our work and studies. But if all these pursuits are done without a deeper understanding of why we are doing it, it all amounts to nothing. And dangerously we may find ourselves sucked in and get lost in these pursuits.

Remember... what we termed as "Backsliding" does not happen overnight. It takes place slowly, day by day you inch away from the Lord without even noticing.

In this Year of Sabbath, and also this season of Fasting and Prayer, take time daily to check our hearts and keep ourselves aligned with God.

Woohoo!

Left 3 papers. Current status: Alive
Nyahaha. Got to continue mugging. This 40 day fast and prayer came in so timely.
This way, I can concentrate more on my lessons on Jurong Island which will satrt on the 3rd of march!
And, instead of playing computer games, I rather play the keyboard. Heh.
Just a very brief update guys! Cya all more after the exams! :)
Here's a song for you guys to listen to if you're bored!
http://www.haoting.com/htmusic/171944ht.htm
(Yes yes, I'm learning this song and it is very difficult, but I'm loving it :P)

Your beloved 宅男 :D

Faith Goal Update =)

hi ah pa and bros =) I ve been attending believers guitar course as part of my faith goal and I thought I just share with you my progress wahahahahh I tried uploading "How Great is Our God" but cannot leh =x I think too big so I hope this file is able to be uploaded =) Lord I lift Your Name on High =) hope you enjoy hahah but theres always a stop button wahahaha err hahah I dunno if you guys would regard this as watching telly but haha er but I thought this video would just act as a form of accountability =) ok my hair is super toot but ya hahaha

JJ lunch outing with Cynthia and Co.

Dear Leader and Comrades,

I had lunch with comrade Jasper and Leader EJ with Cynthia and Company. Was an eye opener for me to get to know the female counterparts. I totally agree with Jasper that we have to be thick skin a bit to approach them. Take the initiative as real men. Her girls are generally very chatty, willing to share and are very jovial as well.

Will strongly encourage all comrades to approach Leader Ee Jay for the chance to join them for lunch. Let them taste the unfathomable insanity of our combined EJAO forces!! MUAHAHAHAHA.

JJ here. Sorry never keep ya all updated

VaZe is back. Erm, so sorry that never keep myself synchronized with blog posting. Hopefully with the 40 day fast in place, i'll make extra effort to blog more.

Ok, for next week, this is wats going on:

1. Mathematics Test on Tuesday
2. A lot of HW to be completed

I need you ppl to help me pray that i'll keep to the 40 day fast, and not turn it to the left or to the right

Also keep Leonard Koh's grandma in prayer!!!

AMEN!

Feel free to date me out for dinner (Guys only)
Feel free to spot check on me anytime of the day for 40day fast. SMS me.

Are you making effort to REST today?

Hebrews 4:9 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; 10 for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.

"Sabbath is the antidote for compulsive drivenness" - Pastor Edmund Chan, Covenant Evangelical Free Church (Pastor Prayer Summit 2008)

Indeed, man is wired up to keep working, or in another sense, always needing to keep ourselves ocuppied, else we will have a self perception that we are useless, or not contributing. Thus, there is this grave danger that in this year of Sabbath, as the church seemingly cuts down on activities, we may fall into the danger of quickly packing that empty slot with more of work, our own activites, personal pleasures...etc!

Sons, Ahpa is concerned for everyone of our spiritual walk that in this year of Sabbath, we will not backslide or become "weaker" in our walk with the Lord! God had ordained the Sabbath so that we could come back to the source of our strength in Christ to renew ourselves so as to propel ourselves to His greater works ahead. However, instead of doing that, many of us taking delight and with atrocious liberty that Sabbath means we have more free time to do whatever we want!

The truth is this. God wants us to come back to drawing close to Him in this year of Sabbath. And this must be done intentionally and deliberate, NOT out of convenience or when we are tired.

In this season as we enter a 40-days prayer and fast, let us MAKE EVERY EFFORT to enter God's ordained Sabbathical rest by intentionally setting that 1 hour aside daily to pray. And let us also MAKE EVERY EFFORT to stay connect with the spiritual family too, through cell meetings, church and informal catch up times together.

Having the end in mind. What do we hope to see at the end of the year of Sabbath?

The question for us would be... So what are we doing about it NOW?

Exams!

Hello hello brothers/Ee jay ahpa/Alvin shushu, quite a long time since i posted...

Yeah, as the post title says, THE EXAMS ARE HERE!
Woo.5 papers, they are on the 15th, 18th, 19th, 21st and 22nd of february.
Wahaha.Siong right. After that 1 week holidays :)
AND then 6 weeks on Jurong Island.
Pray for protection (Jurong Island is a highly explosive place), and of course, for me to shine for Jesus in Jurong Island and for my exams.
Have been continuing to reach out to Zheng Quan...Not so easy as he's in army, however, God is still faithful! Somehow managed to contact him though he has been so busy. :D
So of course, I've just started mugging today, which is quite late :/
However, I will definitely do my best and to shine for God. :D
God has definitely provided for me, and brothers, He will definitely provide for you all!
"Find rest my soul, in Christ alone
Know His power, in quietness and trust..." (adapted from "Still" Hillsong)

Your one and only beloved 宅男 bro! :D

Edited 12:40pm : Some slight typos :/

EDIT 2:10pm: Another prayer request, something's wrong with me. A certain part of my head was aching for 1 day and 1 night. Kinda like my right eye, yet like my brain. Guess something's wrong with the muscles/veins/whatever is connecting my right eye to my brain :(
But today it's fine, pray that it will not come back :)

Yet......

Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will YET praise him,
my Savior and my God. - Psalm 42:11

Just heard an exciting testimony from Junjie regarding how the Psalm today and the sermon yesterday has spoken to him (will leave JJ to fill everyone in one more details about the incident).

Have you ever wondered why the psalmists used the word "Yet"?

What I drew from this word is that despite the many disturbing and depressing things that have happened around us, YET we choose to praise God!

A DELIBERATE choice.....

A RESILIENT nature......

A HOPE that can ONLY be found in God alone.

Is there any depressing or disturbing matter that is affecting your today? Anything that is seemingly so big and alarming that you feel totally swamped by and lost?

Make a firm stand to Praise God! Display that Never-Say-Die attitude! Hold on to the ONE THING that never fail.... the Hope in God!

Jasper codename number 4's post

Greetings in Jesus name..

Lunch outing with Cynthia's girls. aka operation mid-day storm.

The operation was quite a success as i believe some connections to bridge the 2 cell groups together have been made today. Though age differents and some cliqueliness were present, i feel that more of such informal bonding time will do more wonders. Maybe not over meals, because i actually concentrate more on my Macau baked chicken chop rice, which is filled with vegetables.. :(

My encouragement to other fellow officers is that we should continue to be on the forefront and
be more proactive to get to know Cynthia's girls. Let's all avail ourselves 24/7 for Eejay Dad aka Big bossman to activate us for such missions in the future.


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ok, here are some of my prayer requests :D

1. Presentations: I'm having some FYP presentations soon. so pray for favour and any other things you think a successful presentation needs. :D
2. I'm having papers on the 15th (sad 1 day after valentine's day) and the 19th of feb.. final 2 papers already.. :D

That's all.. love you all much much!!! :D

How to 做人？- Use Your Brain

Found this interesting scripture from Ecclesiastes....

Remember: The duller the ax the harder the work; Use your head: The more brains, the less muscle. - Ecclesiastes 10:10 (MSG)

Wisdom does not mean just gaining all the knowledge in the world nor does it mean doing many many things. Rather, wisdom means using our brains to think and doing the right thing. And in this year of Sabbath, it is also about thinking on doing things right.

Alot of times, we do not learn to think and get ourselves in all sorts of mess and trouble.

How many times have we been rash and reacted according to the spur of the moment without thinking... only to regret our actions.

Often, we live life with many regrets and sigh to ourselves saying "If only I had...." The truth is "If only we had learn to think."

Sons, I hope you realise by now that we are not just in the business of building a huge tribe or squeezing large amount of theology knowledge into your brains. My number one concern is building Godly characters into everyone of you. Beyond great abilities and talents, Ahpa is most concerned and interested in imparting and building in everyone of you a great Godly attitude and resilient nature that NEVER bows down to the circumstances of life, but always hope in God

How to 做人？Learn to THINK.

What are YOU made of? (The Spiritual Version)

Given any normal tyre, how would you be able to test it out if it were a good tyre or one that is punctured?

Well the honest answer is: Only when you put it to the test. When the tyre hits the road, you will know what is the condition of the tyre. A fully inflated and well conditioned tyre will help the car in navigating rough terrains and even at times preventing it from accidents. However, a punctured tyre can't do that. It can last a few kilometers, but after that it will be malfunction.

Parallel this theology with our own lives. Imagine this:

You and me = Tyres

Road conditions = Circumstances of live
When the tyre hits the road, we will know what we are made of. Some of us handle crisis in life better. Some of us can't take it well and choose to escape away like an ostrich, burying our heads in the ground waiting for the hurricane to blow by.(read post below regarding unhealthy communication patterns) And there are also others whom takes problems negatively and swing into depressions, self-mutilation (cutting ownself), or even contemplates suicide.

How then can we take precautions for ourselves so that we are able to handle situations better and not let the problems overwhelm us completely? The key is P.R.E.P.A.R.A.T.I.O.N

Prepare yourself by:

1. Being Positive - No one goes into a battle wanting to lose. When situations are bad or trying, do not make it worse by speaking negatively!

Scriptures:
Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Ecclesiastes 10:2 (MSG) Wise thinking leads to right living; Stupid thinking leads to wrong living.

2. Training - Training for a marathon doesn't begin 2 weeks before the race, but at least a year before. Similarly, train your mind daily and remind yourself, "Regardless of what may come, I CHOOSE to stay positive!"

Scripture:
1 Conrinthians 26-27 (NIV) Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

3. Maintanence - F1 racing tyres are regular renewed and sent for testing as part of maintenance to keep the car in tip top condition for the race. Maintain yourselves by taking time off regularly to rest and reflect. You can take strolls, write in your journals, or catch a movie. Reflection is important as it helps to iron out your thoughts.

Scripture:
Hebrew 4:11 (NIV) Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.

4. Gear Up - You can be the best soccer player in the world, but if you are wearing slippers to play on the pitch against players wearing boots.. you will still lose! Gear yourself up by constantly sharing and surrounding yourself with like-minded and positive friends. Trust me, postivity can spark and spread like wild fire.

Scripture:
Mark 2:3-5 (NIV) Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. When Jesus saw THEIR faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."

Well, truth of the matter is we will never know how we would react until crunch time hits us. But at least we can prepare outselves for things to come! :)

2 Timothy 4:2-3 (NIV) Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.

4 Unhealthy Patterns of Communication

Greetings in Jesus name dear sons! Ahpa's very first post on this blog!

Am very encouraged by what you guys have started.. let's keep this up! Think this is also a good platform where ahpa can share some of my thoughts and what I learn through my journey.

2 weeks ago, me and Cynthia met up with Ahgong (Ps Adrian) for our very first accountability meetup, through which he shared with us "Courtship 101" module. As I heard Ahgong share, I thought it was really 精华 (quality stuff) which I wanted to share with you guys too.

4 Unhealthy Patterns of Communication


1. HAWK - Total dominance. Refusal to listen to other party's thoughts and feelings. Just blazing the trail and doing whatever he/she thinks is right by his/her own instinct.

Implications: Danger of becoming a MCP. Ignorance of how other people feel. Tendency of views being rather self centred.

2. DOVE - Peace loving nature and in general always would want to avoid conflict. Whenever potential conflict arises, will always give in. Common statement spoken are "Oh, it's ok.. nevermind", "Yupz.. I am ok (but actually is not)" Always close one eye to everything. Sweeping everything under the carpet kind.

Implications: Danger of suppressing how one really feels. No true honesty in relationship. Little things not processed and shared will amount to big things. soon one day, the carpet cannot contain all the junks and one will just explode internally.

3. OWL - Always using the wise man approach. Typical amongst most guys. Whenever conflict arises, he/she will do his/her utmost best to argue their way through. Seemingly refuse to admit 'defeat' and wants to out talk the other person.

Implications: Danger of pride - refusal to admit mistake or say sorry even when in the wrong. Chinese saying - 死爱面子.

4. OSTRICH - When problems and conflicts arise, he/she just buries their heads in the ground and attempts to escape from everything.

Implication: Escapism is the key word here. Fear of confronting conflicts and issues. Just want to run away. Honestly, running away doesn't solve the issues, it just worsen it.

Pause...................................................

This DOES NOT just apply to BGR, but most definitely in our everyday human relationships with one another too. As ahpa begin to reflect, I can identify which unhealthy pattern of communication which I need to be mindful of. And I can also identify some of yours too!

Like it or not, there is a tendency that our communication pattern is in either one of these catogaries.

The key here is to be mindful and don't let these unhealthy patterns inhibit us. :)

Stay tuned for 'Courtship 102' module next month - 5 Healthy Ways of Communication

PS: Post was editted @ 2:26pm after some valuable inputs from Cynthia.

Dnt have a lot of time to post again,am on guard duty at camp and theres a shared computer here but i cant use it long.(my friends here already interrupted me a few times) So short updates again:

-Passed my tests these week. More to come in the next few weeks.
-Booking out tmr morning at 8 am,so means wont be able to make it early for the valentine's day gathering on time. Hopefully i'll still have enough energy tmr.
-My attachment to the firestation and hospital has been confirmed to be from 14th to 19th. Firestation at sengkang(Where is sengkang firestation man,didnt know there was one there). Hospital attachment at Simei,woots! Nearby. Those days means i get to book out already from there. But also means some will be night shift(9pm to 10am next day)tired....

Thats pretty much from my army life here. Oh,and im starting to find out more and more that a lot of the supposed 'non-smokers' here are just smokers that didnt declare to the army that they smoke,dont know why. Maybe afraid to tell others that they're burning their own lungs.... Ummm...

Other that that,wait til i go home and find out how my family is. Cos i havent seen my dad for 2 weeks already since he went overseas and my brothers have been busy with work or staying at my cousin's hse. The hse must be pretty empty now,only my grandma and the maid and the 2 dogs and the 2 kittens......

Alright thats all for now. And congrats leonard! one more day closer to the days when u know what it feels like to 'book in-and-out' and reveille everyday at 0530hrs.

Cheers,
Jaren