Jeremiah 10 - 13 (10th August) - Sylvia

Jeremiah 10

God and Idols

"Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by signs in the sky, though the nations are terrified by them. For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut a tree out of the forest, and a craftsman shapes it with his chisel
They adorn it with silver and gold: they fasten it with hammer and nails so it will not totter. Like a scarecrow in a melon patch, their idols cannot speak; they must be carried because they cannot walk.
Do not fear them; they can do no harm nor can they do any good." v2-7

God's word is so clear - not to look to false idols and worship them, even being superstitious to the point of seeing things in the sky and taking them to be signs?

How many of us often read those astronomy and horoscopes, that will predict how our day/week/month will be like?

God says not to believe in these kind of false idols. They are after all MAN-made, they can neither speak nor move. Let's not wait until we bear the brunt of God's wrath before regretting and repenting.

Jeremiah's Prayer

We have heard of Jabez prayer where its about blessings for ourselves.
"Oh Lord, .... bless me, enlarge my territory, ... Your hand be over me.. keep me from harm"

Jeremiah's Prayer is a tad different. Its more like a prayer of repentance, also pleading with God to punish the people and nations who have turned away from Him.

"I know, O Lord, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps. Correct me, Lord, but only with justice - not in your anger, lest you reduce me to nothing. Pour out your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge you, on the peoples who do not call on your name. For they have devoured Jacob; they have devoured him completely and destroyed his homeland." v23-25

Jeremiah 11

The Covenant is Broken
Any covenant that we make with God is very serious. Its a promise we make in God's holy presence. We should never break any promises that we make with Him.

See what the Lord says to the people who break their covenant with Him,

"Cursed is the man who does not obey the terms of the covenant - the terms I commanded your forefathers, to give them a land flowing with milk and honey - the land that you possess today."

To be cursed by His Highest Himself is such a disaster, so scary. I wouldn't want that to happen to me or my loved ones.

Jeremiah 12

Jeremiah's Complaint / God's Answer
Jeremiah complains to God about to why the wicked prosper and seem to live comfortably, even as they do not have God in thier hearts.
God then replies if jeremiah competes with people of same or lowers standard then he is, if he remains in a comfortable position, how will he be able to handle and manage the deceitful and tough challenges that will come his way.

The hardships that we go through are God's way of moulding us, for more challenges that will come our way, so that we will be tough and ready for battle!

Jeremiah 13

A Linen Belt

Our God is so amazing. He can use a simple item like a linen belt to show His plans.
A new linen belt is clean and untouched by impurities. However, when it gets exposed to the dirty elements in a filthy environment, it becomes ruined and useless.

Same how it applies to us, we become worthless and completely useless when we do not walk in God's ways and instead turn to worship other gods.

Jeremiah 7 - 9 (9th August) - Li Juan

False Religion Worthless
Worshipping false gods does not only mean “religion other Christianity”. One can claim to believe in Christ, yet still go after things of the world; such as believing in self, doing things by our own judgment and basing on intuition rather than being sensitive to the spirit, materialism, fame, power etc. “Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you.” ( Jer 7:23)

The Valley of Slaughter / Sin and Punishment
There will come a day whereby all who sin will be punished accordingly. Those who refused to return from their wayward paths, those who do not repent of their wickedness, those who followed their own stubborn hearts. God will punish and destroy them. At times when you sin you might think “no one knows”, but God sees all that you are doing (both good and bad) and knows your every thought and desire of your heart. If there is anything you are guilty of, repent and ask God for forgiveness now, before its too late.

Jeremiah 4 - 6 (8th August) - Sylvia

Jeremiah 4

God is calling the people of Judah and Jerusalem to come back to Him, for those who have strayed, for those who worshipped false gods. He warns of the punishments that will befall the people, how their towns will be destroyed and the people will cry out but He won't hear their cries.

Jeremiah 5

Not a single person in Jerusalem is right in the eyes of the Lord. Even as God provided for all thier needs, they took advantage of His love and sinned, visiting prostitues, lusting after each other's wives. They even have the nerve to speak against God.

God warns that even as He destroys, He wont't destroy it completely, instead allowing His people to have to serve foreigners in another land. Its like a kind of torture. Imagine, someone just keeps torturing you, slowly causing pain at a time, but not going all the way to kill you.

Jeremiah 6

This is the time when Jerusalem starts to be under attack. God warns of an army coming from the north, where they are cruel and show no mercy for anyone. They will attack the people of Jerusalem till they cry out for mercy, but God will not hear their voices.

v30 "They are called rejected silver, because the Lord has rejected them"

It breaks God's heart when we do evil, when we sin. Imagine, why would God want to destroy the own things that He has painstakingly and thoughtfully created. The earth, the heavens and the skies, and us. Simply because when we sin, all that he has created goes to nought.
When we refuse to come back, when we are stubborn and want to continue in our ways.

Isn't it scary to read how God who sent Jesus to die for us who also allow us to suffer and be tortured, rejecting us because we pushed the limits and backslided time after time, refusing to heed His words?

Lesson for all to learn:
Don't push God's limits, don't test Him no matter how merciful our God is.

Jeremiah 1-3 (7th August) – Crystal

Jeremiah 1

God choose Jeremiah to be the pivot to transform God’s people in Jerusalem. He called to Jeremiah and affirms him of His choice. Verse 5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Claim this verse for yourself. God has chosen you to be where you are now. He knew you before you were called to the earth and he set us apart for His kingdom. If you have ever doubted your existence, turn to God now and ask him for his affirmation and signs. Persevere and He will answer your prayers.

Jeremiah too doubted his ability that he was the chosen one to bring a breakthrough in the lives of others because he was young; God gave him an injection of faith and courage. Verse 7 But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. 8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. God is telling you now that He is with you and do not be afraid of the giants in your life. God has already torn them down, take the step of faith and walk in obedience.

Jeremiah 2

The word of the Lord came upon Jeremiah. He commanded Jeremiah to proclaim His words to Jerusalem. It was a long “letter’ to His people. In His words, God mention that He remembers the devotion of Israel when she gave herself to love God and God only. After which, He point out the different areas that Israel had sinned against God esp in the area of worshipping idols. God was really disappointed and angry. Our God is a jealous God. He will not allow us to compromise in His commands. Sometimes we tend to bargain or play with God’s rules and feels that it’s okay. But remember, our God is a Holy and perfect God. He will not allow anything that fall short of His standards. Is there anything that you have compromise or have allowed open doors for sins to come in?

God remembers our good, He too remembers the sins we have done. However, He gave Israel a second chance, so will He give it to you if you turn 180 degrees around and look 45 degree to Him. Jesus has already taken all upon Himself. What have you got to lose giving your life to Him? What more when He is the one who created you. Not part of your life/heart, but He wants the whole of it.

Jeremiah 3

God used the illustration of the relationship of a husband and wife to describe Israel and Him. God as the husband gave Himself to love Israel, yet Israel became unfaithful and sinned against God. With an unfailing love for His wife, God gave them many chances to repent and He longed to see Israel return to Him. As I read this chapter I thank God for His love for me just like Israel. I was a backslider, but I can always feel His love and presence during this period of unfaithfulness. God loves you and the backsliders around you too. Take courage and be that light that God can use to guide them back to God. I experienced this myself, my good friend was a fervent Christian and God used her to bring me back. You can be that light.

As God mention the sins of Israel, God brought in Judah too. God was even angrier with Judah because Judah saw God’s work with Israel and yet did not repent but follow her footsteps. When you choose to sin, not only it will affect your own life but will also stumble people around you especially your own brothers and sisters. Do a self check, is there anything that you have done that is against your good conscience? Things that might stumble your spiritual family members and caused them to sin? Be a good testimony today.

Zephaniah 1 - 3 (6th August) - Weiling

Theme and Message
The intent of the author was to announce to Judah God’s approaching judgment. His main theme was the coming of the day of the Lord, when God would severely punish the nations. He portrays the stark horror of that ordeal, but also makes it clear that God will yet be merciful towards His people.

God’s judgment would come upon those who worship idols; those who turned back from following the Lord; those who did not seek Him (1: 5, 6); those who commit acts of violence and deceit (1: 9); and those who are “stagnant in spirit” (1: 12).

We need to check if we are growing in our walk with God. If we are not growing and progressing, then we may have become lukewarm or complacent; thinking that we are still okay when we are not. We may feel that God is faraway or indifferent and will not act (“…who say in their hearts, ‘The Lord will not go good or evil!’”). We may begin to lose the fear of God.

God had sent many people to Judah calling for repentance, but the words fell on deaf words. Judah was ripe for judgment. Zeph 1 – 3: 8 depict the Day of the Lord, His judgment, coming on Judah and the nations. Zephaniah’s advice (2: 3) was for the people to humble themselves and seek God.

Indeed, God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble. In Zeph 3: 11-12, God says that He will “… remove… proud, exulting ones, and you will never again be haughty” but that He will leave a remnant that is humble and they will find refuge in the name of the Lord. God will be like a victorious warrior, exulting over His people with joy, rejoicing over them with shouts of joy.

2 Kings 22 - 23, 2 Chronicles 34 - 35 (5th August) - Benjamin

From these few chapters, we see Josiah’s faithfulness with the Lord. This is especially so when the Book of the Law is found as we see in 2 Ki 22-8 and 2 Chr 34-14. He was quick to response and take remedial actions. The Lord honored his faithfulness as can be seen in 2 Ki 22-19-20 and 2 Chr 24:27-28.

A learning point for us here is that, when man or woman of God conveys God’s message to you, what’s your response? Do you recognize it and take immediate steps to redeem yourself? Or do you say yes but leave the matter to grow mouldy? Worse still, you just choose to ignore the message and try to argue your way out of it with your so-called reasons. I guess at the end of the day, it depends on how you want God to honor you in your actions and words.

Josiah took all the necessary actions to remove all forms of idolatry in the land he rules and things that are not holy and righteous in the eyes of the Lord. He even restored the celebration of the Passover which has not been practiced for a long time since.

Are there areas of your life that you need some detergent to wipe clean? Don’t delay the necessary actions that you have to take to get right with God. Also, in your walk with God, are there any areas that need restoration? Perhaps your daily quiet time that you have been neglecting, or your monthly tithing, or maybe your fellowship with your family in Christ? Take time to reflect upon all these and come before the Lord to ask for forgiveness.

Nahum 1 - 3 (4th August) - Junming

The city of Nineveh shouldn't be unfamiliar to most of us. It was the city that Jonah went to via a very unusual route. Boat, stomach of a big fish, the big fish's vomit, and finally by foot. He could have skipped the first 3 modes of transport if he had opted to obey God, when he first called. But God gave him a second chance, and he made good and brought Nineveh to repent and reconcile to God, and God's wrath against the powerful city subsided.

About a 100 years on, Nineveh(which is the capital of Assyria by the way) had gone back to their sinful ways. They have become(or maybe they always were) a powerful city, and their soldiers are extremely brutal(Nah 3:1-4). The NIV version of the book actually ends with the 3 words, ''your endless cruelty''. Thus, we can imagine that the surrounding nations must be absolutely terrified of Assyria.

Imagine bringing the gospel to Iraq now. Many of us would buy a plane ticket to USA. I imagine God would then have to send a big bird when you're thrown out of the plane. Not Nahum. At least the bible didn't record that he ran away. This man of huge faith wrote about the destruction of the great city of Nineveh. Although nothing is written about him bringing the letter into that city, he obviously addressed the bulk of the letter to the Assyrians. What are the risks involved? Would we do the same if God called us to?

Nahum 1
The first half of the chapter talks about God's kindness while the second half talks about his sterness. Perhaps verse 3 would be a good summary verse for this chapter and even the book.

''The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished.''

Thanks be to Daddy for his patience with us! But if he leaves us unpunished, will we ever learn? If he leaves us unpunished, will we become good testimonies and shining lights for the lost? He loves us, and he punishes because of his love and his anger against sin.

Another verse that stuck out was verse 7,

''The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.''

Do we feel that our circumstances are beyond us? Trust in God. He is the one who permitted the devil to put these circumstances into our lives! Those who are in difficulties now, may it be strained relationships, stressful workload, financial problems, health problems etc.. God cares. Trust in Him.

God gave me another perspective to this verse too. ''A refuge in times of trouble.'' In times of victory and joy? Do we still remember that the LORD is good? God once gave me a revelation when i took a bus. How many of us actually talk to the bus drivers who send us to and from school and work each day? Perhaps only when encounter difficulties. Our ez-link card runs out of money, the machine is spoilt, etc..

''Uncle, how much?''
''Uncle, machine spoil.''

Do we ever say things like,
''Uncle, good morning!''
''Uncle, have a great day today!''

Seek God always. In times of trouble and tears, pray. In times of jubilee and celebration, remember God and give thanks.

Nahum 2
This chapter talks about how God would proceed to bring about the downfall of the great capital city of Assyria. Swap the word Nineveh with your own name. Imagine the terror. Let's repent and walk right with God, today.

Nahum 3
Verses 1-4 talks about the sins of Nineveh, while the remaining verses talks about Nineveh's end, never to be rebuilt again.

Nah 1:3
''The LORD is slow to anger and great in power; the LORD will not leave the guilty unpunished.''

Let's not take God's grace for granted=)

2 Chronicles 32 - 33 (3rd August) - Xiao Woon

2 Chronicles 32

King Sennacherib of Assyria invaded Judah. King Hezekiah encouraged the people when he realized that King Sennacherib intended to attack Jerusalem too. King Sennacherib threatened Jerusalem and said that their God will not rescue them. Then King Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah son of Amoz cried out in prayer to God in heaven and the Lord sent an angel and destroyed the Assyrian army and King Sennacherib was also killed.
There was peace throughout the land and King Hezekiah became highly respected.
King Hezekiah became deathly ill and when God healed him, he did not respond to the kindness shown him and became proud. However when he repented, God’s anger did not fall on him and the people.

King Sennacherib is like satan. Just when we are encouraged, he comes in to destroy our positive thoughts by saying stuff to destroy our faith and trust in the Lord. Let us be careful not to fall into the devil’s trap and to constantly encourage and renew ourselves with the Holy Spirit=)

Also, see that whenever we repent, God never fails to forgive. However, God knows our heart and knows whether we are sincere in repenting of our ways.

2 Chronicles 33

Hezekiah’s son Manasseh became king when Hezekiah died and he did evil in the Lord’s sight. Manasseh ignored God’s warnings so God made him prisoner.

12 But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the Lord his God and sincerely humbled himself before the God of his ancestors. 13 And when he prayed, the Lord listened to him and was moved by his request. So the Lord brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh finally realized that the Lord alone is God!

It is never too late to seek God and to repent of our ways. When Manasseh prayed, God listened to him and was moved by his request. God loves us very much and will listen to us. No matter how much wrong we have done, He is ALWAYS ready to forgive and His love for us never changes. God listens carefully to each and every one of our prayer requests and is moved and things happen in the spiritual realm. So pray and believe=)

2 Kings 20 - 21 (2nd August) - Sky

2 Kings 20

In this chapter we experience a miracle, Hezekiah a godly king is about to face death. He wept bitterly and prayed. Was he afraid of death? No, Israelites considered a long life to be a sign of God’s favor. Death in mid-life was therefore thought to show God’s judgment. Hezekiah seemed to hint at this view when he prayed, reminding God of how he had faithfully served HIM all his life. It wasn’t the idea of death that Hezekiah struggled with, but with the thought of being judged after a life of devotion to God’s service.

Hezekiah would not have been healed unless first he had prayed. Prayers moved God’s hand to intervene, in this case was Hezekiah’s illness

After being healed, Hezekiah showed the Babylons everything that he had. Both politics and pride may have motivated this display to impress his potential ally.

2 Kings 21

In this chapter u see the backsliding of the Kings and nation once again.

Manasseh succeeded his father Hezekiah as king, doing evil in the eyes of the Lord. He worshipped and brought idols to the Lord’s temple which brought disaster to Jerusalem.

Amon succeeded his father Manasseh as king, doing evil in the eyes of the Lord. He worshipped idols and brought upon his own death.

As u see the cycles of sin repeated in the ages, but that cycle still exists in our lives in and every one of us. Its how we choose to break out from it that separates us and the kings of past.

Isaiah 64 - 66 (1st August) - Kelvin

Isaiah 64 -66

The chapters cover God's response to the people.

During this time, the Word of God, as proclaimed by Isaiah, had been ignored and now God spoke through him these pitiful words:

"I have spread out My hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts" (Isaiah 65:2).

Although God had reached out to them, they had not responded to Him. They had gone their own ways.

The Lord continued: "I also will choose their delusions, and will bring their fears (dread, terrors) upon them; because when I called, none did answer; when I spoke, they did not hear: but they did evil before Mine eyes, and chose that in which I delighted not" (66:4).

God also mention something to the small minority who remained faithful then, as well as to the minority of faithful today that He will bless and ensure that peace will flow to you like a river.(Isaiah 66:5-12)

Thus, people, God is a God who has always been present throughout the centuries and we may not be born to see the past but in our modern world today, God is still present! Remain in Him and He will remain in you.

Isaiah 59 - 63 (31st July) - Weiling

Isaiah 59
On Unanswered Prayers

It was like darkness all around even as you sought to look for light. You try to find a way out but there is none in sight. You are so frustrated and irritated you growl like a bear and snap at people around you. You feel so low and depressed that you moan and weep. You wonder where salvation and justice is.

Perhaps you remember a time when you felt that or perhaps you are going through a time like this now. When you pray to God and it feels as if He does not hear or maybe the circumstances seem so impossible that you feel that there can’t be a miracle; that God can’t help. While God sometimes wants to teach us to wait and persevere and sometimes trust Him for a better answer than what we are seeking; it is good to also reflect on our lives and to ask God if there is iniquity/ unconfessed sin in our lives.

For we see in v2 that our iniquities will create a wedge between us and God and hide His face from us so that He does not hear. In 1 Peter 3:12 it says, “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.” And also in Ps 66:18, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear”.

All acts of rebellion and disobedience to God are considered sin. Sins of “commission,” are those overt acts which are done in disobedience. However, sins of “omission,” are those things we don’t do in obedience, but know we should (James 4:17). The remedy for all sin is to confess it to God, forsake it, and ask Him to forgive you (1 John 1:9).

But ultimately God’s character is one of a champion of justice who sees it as “displeasing” when there is no justice. He will come as a Redeemer to Zion “and to those who turn from transgression in Jacob...”

Isaiah 60
Of Hope and Light – A Rebuilt Nation

Chapter 59 spoke of the groaning of Judah when they looked for light but all is darkness and they groped around like the blind, not seeing. But what hope there is now! Chapter 60 begins with the Lord calling to His people “Arise, shine, for your light has come!” “…the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you”. Such hope, such a picture of God’s glory this chapter paints. And God does this so that “nations will come to your light and kings to the brightness of your dawn” and that His name will be glorified. The nations around Judah know that people of Judah are the people of the God of Jacob. And God’s name is glorified when the city is glorified.

However, God often had to discipline Judah because they were unfaithful to Him. But a day is coming when it will not be the sun and moon that brings light “…for the Lord will be your everlasting light and your God will be your glory… and your days of sorrow will end”.

Isaiah 61
Of the Lord’s Favour – Rebuilt People

It is heartening to know that God’s heart is tender towards the poor, the brokenhearted and the people in bondage that He wants to comfort them and turn their mourning into praising. It is also awesome to know that God wants to use us as part of His rescue plan to proclaim that this is the year of the Lord’s favour! to them, so that they can trade their ashes and brokenness into a crown of beauty.

Isaiah 62
Of a New Name – Renewed Fellowship

What is in a name? When our parents named us, the name carried with it our parents’ hopes and aspirations for us. We may also have earned nick-names along the way because of our characteristics. For example, your family may affectionately call you “pig” because you were chubby growing up. Our names may also be representative of our past.

Jabez was named thus because of the past pain his mother suffered while bearing him. All in all, names are special because they are associated with us and are representative of us. And while none of us would name ourselves “Lonely”, “Forsaken”, “Failure” or “Stupid”, some of these words are what we have began to associate ourselves with because we feel this way so often.

We brand ourselves with these “names” and sometimes it feels like we’ll always be this way. “How can things change?” “How can I change?” But today the Lord is telling you that you are not forsaken that He is seeking you out and he will change your name; to give you a hope and a future, to let you know His hopes and aspirations for you, to let you know that you are beautiful and so very precious. After all, we usually only name things that are precious to us.

When God gave me my baptism name Amanda (meaning worthy of love or beloved), it was to tell me that He will always love me. Even when I’m hungry or thirsty, my name remains. Even when I’m smelly or dirty, my name remains. And so God’s love for us will remain, always unchanging.

I Will Change Your Name

I will change your name
You shall no longer be called
Wounded, outcast, lonely or afraid
I will change your name
Your new name shall be
Confidence, joyfulness
Overcoming one
Faithfulness friend of God
One who seeks My face
Confidence, joyfulness
Overcoming one
Faithfulness friend of God
One who seeks My face

Isaiah 63
Of God’s Day of Vengeance AND Redemption

The theme and message of Isaiah is the full dimension of God’s judgment and salvation. The awful judgment to be unleashed on Israel and all who defy God is called “the day of the Lord”. The Lord’s kingdom on earth, with its righteous Ruler and his righteous subjects, is the goal toward which the book of Isaiah steadily moves. The restored earth and the restored people will then conform to the divine ideal, and all will result in the praise and glory of the Holy One of Israel.

Just as we know God is compassionate, let us not forget that God is also a holy and just God. He will mete our vengeance and redemption, judgment and salvation. In Chapter 63 from verse 7 onwards, we see the people of Judah recounting God’s mercies, a God who too was distressed when they were distressed, who lifted them up and carried them all the days of old (v.9). We see the people of Judah crying out to God to remember how He used to lead them and to return once again, after they “rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit”. Let us not grieve the Holy Spirit, a God who would let Himself feel what we feel.

Isaiah 54 - 58 (30th July) - Sylvia

The Future Glory of Zion

7 "For a brief moment I abandoned you,
but with deep compassion I will bring you back.

8 In a surge of anger
I hid my face from you for a moment,
but with everlasting kindness
I will have compassion on you,"
says the LORD your Redeemer.

9 "To me this is like the days of Noah,
when I swore that the waters of Noah would never again cover the earth.
So now I have sworn not to be angry with you,
never to rebuke you again.

10 Though the mountains be shaken
and the hills be removed,
yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken
nor my covenant of peace be removed,"
says the LORD, who has compassion on you.

God wants to bless those of us who have not been fruitful in our ministry, in the places where we serve, even in our personal lives. As He had promised, He will bless us with more then we ever had, with more then what we have expected.

17 no weapon forged against you will prevail,
and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.
This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD,
and this is their vindication from me,"
declares the LORD.

I like this verse. Its like there is a shield of protection over us. We shall overcome! =)

Invitation to the Thirsty

1 "Come, all you who are thirsty,
come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without cost.

Wah FOC!! i am sure this appeals to us typical Singaporeans. we like free things. Furthermore, the King of all kings has invited us to eat and drink from Him!

This is an invitation, not a command nor a order. Be Honoured that Almighty God actually extends us an invitation to seek Him and rest in Him!

6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;
call on him while he is near.

7 Let the wicked forsake his way
and the evil man his thoughts.
Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him,
and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

As long as we are willing, we can turn our hearts back to God and He is always willing to take us back into His loving arms.

Salvation for Others
1 This is what the LORD says:
"Maintain justice
and do what is right,
for my salvation is close at hand
and my righteousness will soon be revealed.

2 Blessed is the man who does this,
the man who holds it fast,
who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it,
and keeps his hand from doing any evil."

If we want our loved ones to receive Salvation and believe in Christ, we ourselves need to be an example. If not how will others whom we are closest to believe? As we obeys the Lord's commands, we will be blessed richly!

God's Accusation Against the Wicked

10 Israel's watchmen are blind,
they all lack knowledge;
they are all mute dogs,
they cannot bark;
they lie around and dream,
they love to sleep.

11 They are dogs with mighty appetites;
they never have enough.
They are shepherds who lack understanding;
they all turn to their own way,
each seeks his own gain.

Let's pray that God will always bless the watchmen of our city with wisdom and that they will do what's right.

For our pastors, they will lead us into victory and guide us with wisdom, living a holy life.

For our government, they will not make rash decisions and think for themselves, rather in all they do, it will be for our country's good.

Comfort for the Contrite

18 I have seen his ways, but I will heal him;
I will guide him and restore comfort to him,

19 creating praise on the lips of the mourners in Israel.
Peace, peace, to those far and near,"
says the LORD. "And I will heal them."

Repent and we will be healed once again, no stress, peace reigns, God is in us!

20 But the wicked are like the tossing sea,
which cannot rest,
whose waves cast up mire and mud.

21 "There is no peace," says my God, "for the wicked."

Woe to the wicked. They will always worry about everything.

True Fasting

Fasting is supposed to be a time where we don't think of anything else but seek God for decisions or His purposes for us.

How to fast if we are bothered by our wordly issues and unable to concentrate on God?

Our fast is also considered broken if we quarrels, have spite in our hearts and continue sinning.

13 "If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath
and from doing as you please on my holy day,
if you call the Sabbath a delight
and the LORD's holy day honorable,
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.

Need I say more?

Isaiah 49 - 53 (29th July) - Vivien

Isaiah 49
From verse 1 to 7, Isaiah declared himself as the servant of God, and looking at every word that he used, he was very sure of his status and worth in God’s eyes. When we know our position and how much we are worth, we can stand in confidence in whatever we do and there is power. Be sure of who you are in God’s eyes. Every word and action of affirmation, treat it with value and do be overly humbled to the extent where you reject your worth. Well of course, beware of crossing the line to idolizing yourself!

“And now the LORD says—
he who formed me in the womb to be his servant
to bring Jacob back to him
and gather Israel to himself,
for I am honoured in the eyes of the LORD
and my God has been my strength…” Isa 49:5

From verse 8 to 26, it tells us how much God values Israel (His children, which includes us). Even though we may be naughty sometimes or running away from God, God never gives us up, never forgets us. He will still be there for us, as long as we take the step of repentance and go back to Him.

“‘Can a mother forget the baby at her breast
and have no compassion on the child she has borne?
Though she may forget,
I will not forget you!
See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands;
your walls are ever before me.
Your sons hasten back,
and those who laid you waste depart from you.
Lift up your eyes and look around;
all your sons gather and come to you.
As surely as I live,’ declares the LORD,” Isa 49:15 –18a

Be restored! You are precious to God!

Isaiah 50
Reading the Message version, the heading says it all - Who Out There Fears God?
This is a problem that we face, as we become long-time Christians. Been through many things, our persevering faith die down, and decided to go our own way. Beware! Life is not easy; need not say for Christian living. But fearing God remains an important attitude that we must have. For if we feel lost, this is still hope, because we can rely on God and trust Him. However if we are out to be rebellious, then God will make sure we get what we deserve.

Isaiah 51 – 52: 12
Be righteous, and God will bless. There is no need to fear man.

“Hear me, you who know what is right,
you people who have my law in your hearts:
Do not fear the reproach of men
or be terrified by their insults.” Isa 51:7

To those who were afflicted with the wrath of God, He removed the cup of wrath from them. Like a father, He disciplines because He loves. And He protects. Hmm… can apply this to TYA =). When a kid does something wrong, they need to be disciplined. However when other kids attempt to make fun of this kid, we need to protect that kid’s dignity. And those kids ought to be taught a lesson.

“This is what your Sovereign LORD says,
your God, who defends his people:
"See, I have taken out of your hand
the cup that made you stagger;
from that cup, the goblet of my wrath,
you will never drink again.” Isa 51:22

Which kid are you?

Going through a learning lesson? Persevere and practice self-control. They may be people who just have enjoyed rubbing it in, but if you can overcome, you will bring yourself to a new level.

“Awake, awake, O Zion,
clothe yourself with strength.
Put on your garments of splendor,
O Jerusalem, the holy city.
The uncircumcised and defiled
will not enter you again.
Shake off your dust;
rise up, sit enthroned, O Jerusalem.
Free yourself from the chains on your neck,
O captive Daughter of Zion.” Isa 52:1-2

Are you rubbing into others’ moment of punishment? Stop it! If not you are next in line to be disciplined. Remember that our God is fair and just.

Isaiah 52:13 – 53
The most touching prophecy about Jesus. The most incredible act of a man’s love. As you read this passage, take a moment now to just pause and thank Him for the sacrifices that He has made for us, so that we might be saved…

“Surely he took up our infirmities
and carried our sorrows,
yet we considered him stricken by God,
smitten by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.” Isa 53:4-5

Yesterday, I had a discussion with a 9-year-old. As I described to him that nails were driven into the hands and feet of Jesus, he could imagine the pain already. I haven’t even gone into any details about it. Even as we have celebrated so many Good Fridays, let our hearts not be numbed towards what Jesus had done for us – the love that we so often take for granted. But always be in the attitude of thanksgiving!

2 Kings 18:9 - 19:37, Psalms 46, 80, 135 (28th July) - Sylvia

2 Kings 18:9 - 19:37

Samaria got captured by the Assyrians. Israel got deported to Assyria. All these happened because the people did not obey God's commands and even broke thier covenant with Him. It is deadly to break a binding promise that we make with the Lord!

Sennacherib (The king of Assyria) blasphemes. He is like "Satan's voice". He falsifies the Lord's name declaring that "The Lord himself told me to marh against this country and destroy it" He even discouraged the people telling them not to listen to Hezekiah (King of Judah) when he said that "The Lord will deliver us".

Thank God the people didn't waste their time and effort talking back and did as thier king commanded - to remain silent.

How often have we listened to the devil's voice and allowed it to turn us away from God?
Let's learn to Tune in to God's voice!

The Lord was soon to punish Sennacherib as He predicted his death - cut down by a sword in his own country, and God also told of Jerusalem's deliverance through Hezekiah's faithfulness and prayers.

Because Sennacherib spoke against God and insulted Him, he would be punished as per v21-28 in 2 kings 19. eventually, he got killed by his two sons as God had decreed.

As fr Hezekiah, God blessed his leadership and blessed him that he would bear fruit and promised him that He would defend and protect Jerusalem.

Psalms 46

The psalmist wrote of this psalm praising God for His goodness, for providing refuge and strength to those who are in need. It is a reassurance that we need not fear the darkest of dark, the strong winds and raging seas nor the shaky mountains because Emmanuel is always with us.

Psalms 80

This psalm is a cry for help, a cry of repentance for restoration from God.

I believe that we can find restoration and healing from God as long as we are willing to repent, to turn our hearts back to Him.

Psalms 135

The psalmist has chosen to fill this whole psalm with praises and exaltations to God.
it sings about 'the Lord's goodness and greatness, His wonder and mighty works. The idols/false gods cant compare at all to God.

Praise the Lord!

Isaiah 44 - 48 (27th July) - Crystal

Isaiah 44

The major portion of this chapter speaks clearly about the idols that human create from our hands, our mind and bodies. We have misuse God given creativity to create idols. Isaiah describe the people as blind without understanding, deceived by themselves and choose to trust and bow down to the creation of their hands. How foolish it is.

In Singapore and most parts of Asia, it is not uncommon to see people worshiping idols in temples or on the streets. It has turn into a business and becoming a heritage for most countries. These "advertisings" has promote the worship of false gods and evolution of being unique and special. Let's us pray that God presence will come upon this city and countries that are of such. Pray earnestly that God will break the strongholds and His light to shine. As we walk on the streets or when we see people worshiping idols, proclaim God's glory and rebuke the works of the evil.

Isaiah 45

God repeatedly told Israel that He is God and there is no other. Only God bring prosperity, God bring disasters. Here's something that speaks of God's love " 5 I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God.I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me" God will not leave, He will continue to love and give you strength to continue even in times when you do not feel God or acknowledge Him. Apart from Him non can be saved. Pray for people around you, the people you see who are turning to gods who are just humans creation. Be the one that stand for your generation.

Isaiah 46 and 47

God once again mention about Him being the one and only God that we should turn to, even until the time when we grow old. 46:4 Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you.I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." Isn't our God a great God? First he created us, Psa 139:14 then He promised us that He will be there even when we have grey hairs. No other can give us this assurance except him. Hey, have you been fulfilling as a Christian? In life, He gave you His best. Will you give Him your best and your time too?

Are you depending on God's wisdom and God-given knowledge today in everything you do? Our God is one who understands and the best consultant for all things. What can be better than to ask Him for guidance. In chapter 47 it mention about stargazers and astrologers. Have you once trusted the horoscope so much that it became a habit to read your daily horoscope. Our life is not destine by these but God's plan and purpose. Whenever I watched Taiwan variety shows, they always talks about horoscope and how it affects one's life. Pray for deliverance and the people who are trusting the wrong things to be set free.

Isaiah 48

Israel has always been God's precious. He knew Israel inside out. Therefore he gave them warnings about the idols that will stumble them. However Israel choose to be deaf towards God. Are you that Israel? Have you avoid His warnings about harm and sins? Pray for an open heart and ears to hear His voice.

If your family are still worshiping idols. Pray for a revival today. Ask God for wisdom to break the strongholds at home. For the battle is not against flesh and blood. God can do a miracle for you today.

Isaiah 40 - 43 (26th July) - Li Juan

Isaiah 40 – Comfort for God’s people
No man’s glory can be compared to the glory of God. All things will fade and pass away, yet the word of our God stands forever. So what shall we do? Read the Bible conscientiously, memorize scripture verses, pray these words and meditate on them! Our God is an everlasting God!



One of my favourite verses: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Isaiah 41 – The Helper of Israel
God has chosen each and everyone of us and we are all special in His eyes.
An encouragement to all who have any fear in their lives: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

God will answer all who cry out to him. Do not go after the worthless idols, God is the only one who can quench your thirst.

Isaiah 42 – The Servant of the Lord / Song of Praise to the Lord / Israel Blind and Deaf
“I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand, I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from dungeons those who sit in darkness.”

Let us be the one who God uses. God is looking for people through whom He can do the impossible, what a pity that we plan only the things we can do by ourselves. Trust Him for the impossible! And all will praise our God when they see the many miracles! Open up your eyes to see the many wonders, open up your ears to hear the goodness of God. Do not be blinded and deaf anymore.

Isaiah 43 – Israel’s Only Savior / God’s mercy and Israel’s unfaithfulness
There is no other way to eternal life other than through Jesus Christ. God sees us more precious than any gems, even His son, He was willing to sacrifice to redeem us. No god was formed before our God, and none after too. He gives us a new beginning. Be thankful for the hope we can have.

Isaiah 37 - 39, Psalm 76 (25th July) - Ivy

Isaiah 37

Verse12-13 “Did the gods of the nations that were destroyed by my forefathers deliver them—the gods of Gozan, Haran, Rezeph and the people of Eden who were in Tel Assar? Where is the king of Hamath, the king of Arpad, the king of the city of Sepharvaim, or of Hena or Ivvah?"

What a statement of faith! It’s a statement spoken with such boldness and confidence!

After Hezekiah prayed to the Lord, Isaiah brought God’s message against Sennacherib king of Assyria go Hezekiah. The Lord ended His message with ‘I will defend this city (Israel) and save it, for my sake and for the sake of David my servant!’

Don’t you think we have such a faithful God? Aren’t our God a promise-keeper?

Verse 36-37 ‘Then the angel of the LORD went out and put to death a hundred and eighty-five thousand men in the Assyrian camp. When the people got up the next morning—there were all the dead bodies! So Sennacherib king of Assyria broke camp and withdrew. He returned to Nineveh and stayed there.’

Can you imagine how king of Assyria felt when he woke and his man just died? Just verse just affirmed the fact that our God fight for His faithful ones. Note that Jonah went to Ninevah later.

Isaiah 38

From this chapter, we can see that Hezekiah had a close relationship with God. Hezekiah is also a man of faith. He refuse to accept Isaiah’s prophesy over him that he will not recover. Instead, he went faced the wall (mian bi si guo?) and pray to God. What a man of faith! God probably saw his faith and granted him another 15 years! What a beautiful song of praise Hezekiah sang to God!

Isaiah 39

After Hezekiah’s recovery, Merodach-Baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon went to see Hezekiah with gifts and well wishes. Why did Hezekiah showed EVERYTHING to him?? Why did Hezekiah showed him the all the treasures including what his fore fathers left for him? I felt that probably pride got into the way!

After Isaiah reaveled God’s word to him, Hezekiah said "The word of the LORD you have spoken is good," Hezekiah replied. For he thought, "There will be peace and security in my lifetime." Hezekiah may have gotten conceited and thinks that God is always on his side. Yes, God is always with us and always faithful. However if we sin against Him, there are consequences to face. The consequence of showing the treasures of his fore fathers to the foreigners is destruction to Hezekiah’s kingdom.


Psalm 76
Can anyone enlighten me why suddenly jump to Psalms?

The only thing I can relate is this verse 5

‘Valiant men lie plundered, they sleep their last sleep; not one of the warriors can lift his hands.’

Just like what happened in Isaiah37: 36-37 ‘Then the angel of the LORD went out and put to death a hundred and eighty-five thousand men in the Assyrian camp. When the people got up the next morning—there were all the dead bodies!’

The Psalmist is so right!

Conclusion:
The rulers of the earth ought to fear the Lord. If all the rulers of the earth feared God, then we probably won’t need weapons. Why? If all we need to do is pray and God will afflict our enemies, that meant we don’t even need to fight physically?

Let’s not return evil with evil. Would you trust the Lord to fight for you today?

Isaiah 35 - 36 (24th July) - Sky

Isaiah 35 Joy of the Redeemed

The desert will be glad and blossom, the land once devastated would again become vibrant and beautiful, much as a desert bursts into life with plants and flowers. Not only the land would change but the people as well stated in V5-V8.

In chapters 1-34, Isaiah delivered a message of judgment on all nations, including Israel and Judah, for rejecting and disobeying God. Although there were glimpses of relief and restoration for the remnant of faithful believers, the climate of wrath, fury, judgment, and destruction prevailed. Now Isaiah breaks through with a vision of beauty and encouragement. God is just as complete in his mercy as he is severe in his judgment. God's complete moral perfection is revealed by his hatred of all sin, and this leads to judgment. This same moral perfection is revealed in his love for all he has created. This leads to mercy for those who have been less than perfect but who have sincerely loved and obeyed him.

Aren’t we all were like deserts in the past? Dried, not perfect and flaws. As we give our life to Christ. Our desert blossoms, joy and gladness overtook our lives.

Isaiah 36 Sennacherib Threatens Jerusalem

From poems, Isaiah switches writing style and wrote this chapter in a manner of a prose (straight narration of history).

Propaganda was involved in this battle as it talks about how Sennacherib King of Assyria captured Judah and invading Jerusalem. The field commander encouraging rebellion within the city mention things like how the Lord told him to march against this country to destroy it and like not let King Hezekiah persuade you to trust the Lord.

Such claims would have struck terror into the hearts of the people of Judah to think that this enemy was following the Lord’s command. Although it’s true the Lord did use Assyria to punish the people of Israel and Judah but the commander didn’t realize Assyria itself was about to feel the heat and power of God’s judgment.

Even with so much blasphemy thrown to King Hezekiah his heart remains faithful to the Lord which the next chapter says he sought the Lord and prayed.

When a struggle or trouble comes, how will you be faithful to Christ? ^^

Isaiah 31 - 34 (23rd July) - Xiao Woon

Isaiah 31

1 What sorrow awaits those who look to Egypt for help, trusting their horses, chariots, and charioteers and depending on the strength of human armies instead of looking to the Lord, the Holy One of Israel.

Do you trust in the things of this world and not in God? Very often, we always trust in the things we physically see and hear when in fact we should be putting our trust on what we see and hear in the spiritual realm. Let us be sensitive to see and hear the things of the Lord, instead of the things of the world.

Isaiah 32

9 Listen, you women who lie around in ease. Listen to me, you who are so smug.

Are you living in your own comfort zones? If you are, it’s time you move out of your comfort zones to serve and do God’s work if not you will be complacent and be cursed. Repent before the Lord of any complacency today and God’s Spirit will be poured out from Heaven.

17 And this righteousness will bring peace. Yes, it will bring quietness and confidence forever.

Thank God that He sent Jesus to die on the cross for us, and credit to us, righteousness. Let’s thank God for the peace and confidence that we can have in Him=)

Isaiah 33

1 What sorrow awaits you Assyrians, who have destroyed others but have never been destroyed yourselves. You betray others, but you have never been betrayed. When you are done destroying, you will be destroyed. When you are done betraying, you will be betrayed.

Do onto others what you want others to do onto you, for what bad that you do onto others, it shall come to you as well.

Isaiah 34

Let us not take God’s grace and mercy for granted for one day there shall come the day when there will be no more grace and mercy onto us.

Isaiah 28 - 30 (22nd July) - Li Juan

Isaiah 28 -30 is about the prophetic warnings concerning Ephraim and Judah. From the 3 chapters I’ve read, these 3 points are what I learnt:

1) Being sensitive to Him - Listen.
God spoke to the people about the resting place, yet they would not listen. Hence, God’s word to the Lord become “Do and do, do and do, rule on rule, rule on rule, a little here, a little there.”, which meant to me that we could be doing and doing things by our own might, yet eventually ended up with nothing.

Similarly, like the farmer who plows and plants, he listens and learns the right way, which will give him a mighty harvest in time to come.

2) Being satisfied in Him - Trust.
Let our hearts be in line with our lips; when we come near to God and honor Him in speech, let our hearts draw near too. His wonders are so much greater than our wisdom and intelligence. He sees all things and there is nothing we can hide from Him. Therefore, take faith and trust that He will reward you accordingly to all that you’ve done. Just as He sees all evil, He sees all good deeds and words too.

3) Being secured in Him - Obey.
Do not be like the rebellious people who do not receive the Lord’s visions, but just want whatever which pleases themselves. No matter what decision you have to make, always follow the path that God has instructed. Whenever you turn to the left or right, be sure that God says walk in it. The Lord will punish those who disobey, yet He shows mercy to those who turn back from their wayward paths and decide to walk right again.

Hosea 8 - 14 (21st July) - Sky

As we start today’s blog summary. A lot of people shared that in the book of Hosea is a sad story of unfaithfulness and sorrow. But I disagree, in this book I learnt “Love that will not quit”

Look for ways that Hosea loved his undeserving wife and consider how God does the same for us.

Hosea 8 - Israel to Reap Whirlwind

This chapter starts with judgment, like an eagle over the house of the Lord. This image signified God’s coming judgment as Assyria would invade and destroy Israel.

Putting this chapter into context with Hosea life. If your wife/husband is unfaithful, sleeping around and doing whatever that’s sinful. How would u feel? That’s how God feels. It is written countless of times. God has feelings. He can be grieved, angered, frustrated or delighted with our behavior

Israel is to reap a whirlwind as this image portrays the sad fate of Israel in its apostasy, idolatry and infidelity. Rather than sowing productive seed, Israel sowed wind, that is, mere air or a trifling nothing. The tragic harvest of such sowing is a devastating storm of judgment against the nation’s sin.

Have you been sowing wind? And feeling you are reaping a whirlwind? Or
Have you been sowing seeds and reaping fruits?

Hosea 9 – Punishment of Israel

Countless prophecies of judgment, punishment are listed here. Treasures taken, thorn overrunning their tents to yielding no fruit and losing off springs.

Israel glory merely a memory, a shame to the past.
As the prophet Hosea shared in verse 10
“When I found Israel; it was like finding grapes in the desert; when I saw your fathers it was like seeing the early fruit on the fig tree.”

Early figs are considered especially delicious. Hosea used this poignant imagery to picture God’s delight in his chosen people in Israel’s earliest days as a nation. Glory fly away, like a detestable fruit spitted out of the Lord’s mouth Israel has become.

Hosea 10

Israel has quite a few contrast of poetic images are personified in this chapter.
Spreading vine – Growing and becoming a nation bearing fruit

Poisonous weeds in a plowed field – Becoming an infection to the world
From a fruitful spreading vine, Israel became poisonous weeds.

Hosea in verse 12 gives Israel a wake-up call hoping that Israel would turn from wickedness to righteous. Reaping fruit of unfailing love rather than reaping evil and eating fruit of deception.

Hosea 11 – God’s Love for Israel

Hosea switched the love analogy from husband-wife to father and son. Just as a father cares for and nurtures his son, God had taken care of the people Israel, bringing them out of Egypt and establishing them in a land of promise.

As the Lord bless, nurture and love them more. The further Israel was to our Lord, they sacrificed to Baals, refusing to repent and determined to turn from Him. Countless of times they displease the Lord. But always always The Lord forgave, can’t bear to give them up in V8. Like father and a son.

Would u say to yourself “I know a love that does not quit.”

Hosea 12 – Israel Sin

Jacob known for his deceit was the father of Israel’s 12 tribes. Like their ancestor, the people of Hosea’s day also were deceitful. But Hosea wanted them to follow Jacob’s further example. Jacob searched for God and allowed God to transform him, he had cleansed himself and his household of idol worship, and he had received God’s blessings.

Hosea shared the story of Jacob to Israel hoping they would follow his example.

Hosea 13 - The Lord’s Anger against Israel

As your see the chapter transits, from judgment to love etc. Chapter 13 shows the Lord’s anger to even to an extent it may sound brutal.

Israel sin more and more, building idols, kissing them, sacrificing their own children, anger of the Lord grew and grew. In V14 God said he will have no compassion.

Does that shock you? It did for me. But read the above blessing. The promise of the blessing in the first part of this verse appeared within the larger context of judgment. Death and the grave in fact, spoke of the nation’s ultimate demise. But in spite of all that, Hosea offered a glimmer of God’s love in God’s promise to ransom and redeems the people. The nation, after being judged and destroyed would be restored. But for the moment, God would show no compassion.

Sometimes I feel God love us too much until we sometimes take it for granted. And yet Our Lord still out of everything loves us. That’s why HIS Love does not quit.

Hosea 14 – Repentance to Bring Blessing

As Hosea ends the chapter, asking Israel to once again return to the Lord. Hosea denounced the empty religious rituals of the people in the earlier chapters. In V2 He elaborated further by describing a genuine sacrifice –lips that sincerely offered one’s whole being to God. The fruit of lips is a phrase used to describe human praise and thanksgiving in worship.

Israel has always thought rituals solve everything, but God is always searching your heart, not your doings. If it’s still by our works we are holy, what for we need Christ th ultimate fulfillment of Love shown and died for us?

Remember “His LOVE never Quits”

Hosea 1 - 7 (20th July) - Andrew

Hosea 1

God told Hosea to marry a prostitute to illustrate the way His people have been untrue to Him, openly committing adultery against the Lord by worshipping other gods (Hosea 1:2).

What would you do if for guys, God asked you to marry a prostitute, and for girls, God asked you to marry a gigolo? Hosea can ignore God’s command to marry the prostitute but he obeyed Him. Can we be like Hosea if God asked us to do something out of the extraordinary? God often want us to obey Him even when He asks us to do the extraordinary for Him. If God really want us to do the extraordinary, would we have faith in Him and most importantly, can we accept the consequences, that comes from our obedience to God, that does not benefit us personally but rather pleases God?

Hosea 2

“But I will fence her in with thornbushes. I will block the road to make her lose her way. When she runs after her lovers, she won’t be able to catch up with them. She will search for them but not find them. Then she will think, ‘I might as well return to my husband because I was better off with him than I am now.’ – verse 6 – 7

God is indeed faithful to us and He really really want us to return back to Him when we have run away. Just like when the prostitute turned her back on her husband and went to look for her lovers but to no avail, she decided to return back to her husband, God will do anything like placing obstacles in front of us (“But I will fence her in with thornbushes. I will block the road to make her lose her way.” – verse 6), just to make us return to Him.

Verses 9 – 13 talks about how God is going to vent His anger on the prostitute but then, no matter how much anger He’s going to vent His anger on the prostitute, He still will show His love for the unfaithful prostitute (verse 14 – 23). And this illustrates the fact that our God is a merciful and faithful loving God. Amen!

Hosea 3

I felt that this particular chapter is very powerful. It shows how the Lord still love Israel (the prostitute) even though the people of Israel committed idolatry (verse 1).

“Then I said to her, “You must live in my house for many days and stop your prostitution. During this time, you will not have sexual intercourse with anyone, not even with me.” – verse 3

This shows that Israel will not have any kings to rule them and they will stop committing their sins but afterward the people will return to the Lord their God and they will tremble in awe to the Lord (verse 4 – 5).

Hosea 4

This chapter illustrates God’s anger on Israel. Particularly, He vent His anger at the priests of Israel (verse 4 – 7). Since the priests had sinned against the Lord, the Lord Himself will make them suffered (verse 10). When we are facing difficulties in our life, we should ask ourselves,’ Have we done anything sinful or irresponsible that caused us our suffering?’

Hosea 5

“I know what you are like, O Israel!” – verse 3

This verse illustrates the fact that God really knows us from inside out. Our actions, words or even our inner thoughts, God knows them all.

“The people of Israel will be crushed and broken by my judgement because they are DETERMINED TO WORSHIP IDOLS.” – verse 11

Determined to worship idols… this phase shows that the people of Israel knows that they are doing, knows that they are sinning against the Lord and yet they did not want to repent. God did not like it at all. Are there any issues in your life that you know you are upsetting God? Repent.

“Then I will return to my place UNTIL THEY ADMIT THEIR GUILT AND LOOK TO ME FOR HELP. For as soon as trouble comes, they will search for me.” – verse 15

Hosea 6

“I want you to be merciful; I don’t want your sacrifices. I WANT YOU TO KNOW GOD; that’s more important than your burnt offerings.” – verse 6

Yes. God wants us to know Him more and more. But how? By reading His words daily and meditating on them when we are doing our daily works. It is difficult sometimes especially when we are all so tied down with school works, projects exams, careers etc.

“Oh, that we might know the Lord! LET US PRESS ON TO KNOW HIM!” – verse 3

Yes. Let us press on, encourage to other, to read His words daily and know Him more and more and let us grow in His words as one tribe.

Hosea 7

“I wanted to heal Israel, but its sins were far too great.” – verse 1
“I wanted to redeem them, but they have only spoken lies about me.” – verse 13

These two verses show how upset God is.

“They do not cry out to me WITH SINCERE HEARTS.” – verse 14

Sometimes when we pray for the desires of our heart, there’s no reply from God. It is because we do not pray for a sincere heart and indeed God looks at our hearts when we pray. He does not only want to see us wailing and crying loudly when we pray but He only interested in our sincerity or our hearts.

2 Kings 18:1-8, 2 Chronicles 29-31, Psalm 48 (19th July) – Andrew Khong

2 Kings 18: 1-8

Hallelujah! 2 Kings 18:1-8 talks about Hezekiah, son of Ahaz, succeeding his father as the king of Judah. Unlike his father, Ahaz, King Hezekiah “did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight” (verse 3).

Verses 6-7

Dear Livingstoners, these two verses told us about why King Hezekiah was successful in everything he did.

“So the Lord was with him, and Hezekiah was successful in everything he did.” – verse 7

Why was the Lord with him? The reason is that King Hezekiah, unlike his father King Ahaz, was faithful to the Lord and carefully obeyed all the commands the Lord had given to Moses.

“He remained faithful to the Lord I everything, and he carefully obeyed all the commands the Lord had given Moses.” – verse 6

Therefore, if we want to succeed in everything we do, be it our studies, careers or relationships, we should always remain faithful to God and carefully obey all His commands and He will always be with you and then you will definitely be successful.

2 Chronicles 29-31

2 Chronicles 29 talks about King Hezekiah succeeding his father as the king of Judah. One amazing thing that he did was to reopen the Temple of the Lord that his father, King Ahaz, closed during his time of reign in Judah.

He gathered all the Levites and Priests and allocated them back to their duties in the Temple.

“They were careful to follow all the Lord’s instructions in their work.” – verse 15

There’s one word from this verse that caught my attention and that is the word “careful”. Why would the Levites and the Priests be careful in following all the Lord’s instructions in their work? It would mean that they are committed to serving God.

Well, some of us serve in church as the log team, some as ministry team and others as celebration team. On the smaller scale, some serve in Livingstones tribe meeting as Levites or during tribe camp or Young Arrows, we should wholeheartedly committed to serving God as He had put us into the different ministry field.

2 Chronicles 30 talks about King Hezekiah gathering his people to celebrate the Passover of the Lord. He sent messages throughout Israel and Judah to encourage the sinful people to re-dedicate themselves back to the Lord and to celebrate the Passover of the Lord.

“But most of the people just laughed at the messengers and made fun of them.” – verse 10

This verse suddenly reminded me about the 100K campaign that is currently going on. I’m sure most of us who went to bless other people would most often be turned down by them. However, good news await.

“However, some from Asher, Manasseh, and Zebulun humbled themselves and went to Jerusalem.” – verse 11

Even when most peoples we want to bless turn down our offer, at least there’s still some who are willing to accept our offer. And just wanna encourage you all not to get disheartened and continue to pray for open hearts among the people so that more people will be blessed.

2 Chronicles 31 talks about how King Hezekiah re-dedicated the Temple of the Lord and sacrificed the different types of offerings to God.

“In all that he did in the service of the Temple of God and in his efforts to follow the law and the commands, Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful.” – verse 21

We should be like King Hezekiah – seeking God wholeheartedly and obeying His commands and laws (fearing God). And then, we will be successful. This year is the year of victory. Some of us may not feel that way. Why? Maybe we never seek God wholeheartedly or never make efforts to follow His commands and laws. Let us as a tribe be on fire for God together and then by the end of this year we will see the victory in us.

Psalm 48

This is the psalm that praised the Lord. Let us remember this psalm and by the end of this year, the year of victory, we will be able to sing this psalm unto the Lord. Amen!

Isaiah 23 - 27 (18th July) - Ivy

Isaiah, known as the latter prophets is also often thought of as one of the greatest writing prophets. Isaiah wrote during the stormy period marking the expansion of the Assyrian empire and the decline of Israel.

We do see from the book of Isaiah that unveils the full dimension of God’s judgment and salvation.

Isaiah 23 - A Prophecy About Tyre

Isaiah prophesize over Tyre and warns of the destruction and how God will deal with Tyre and redeem her too.

Isaiah 24 - The LORD's Devastation of the Earth

God spoke of his destruction of earth in Isaiah 24. Scary isn’t it?

Isaiah 25&26 Praise

After God spoke of the devastation, immediately the next chapter Isaiah exalts God and speaks of God’s faithfulness towards his people.

From these 2 chapters, it’s a reminder to stay faithful to the Lord so that His righteousness can enter. As God’s people we’ll have to trust Him who is our Rock eternal. God will establish His peace upon our land. He will enlarge our nation for His glory. As if experiencing birth pains, God will bring deliverance and salvation eventually. How we want to see deliverance and salvation in our land!

Isaiah 27 - Deliverance of Israel

After warfare and the Lord promised deliverance to those who trusted him and they will worship God on the holy mountain.

Verse 12 In that day the LORD will thresh from the flowing Euphrates [m] to the Wadi of Egypt, and you, O Israelites, will be gathered up one by one. 13 And in that day a great trumpet will sound. Those who were perishing in Assyria and those who were exiled in Egypt will come and worship the LORD on the holy mountain in Jerusalem.

Isaiah 18 - 22 (17th July) - Crystal

Isaiah 18 to 22 continue to speak prophecies for the following nations. Nations that turn away from God, nations which commit sins. Cush, Egypt, Babylon, Edom, Arabia and Jerusalem. In the mist of "destroying" the nations. God made a way out for the people to redeem themselves. Our God is a God of mercy and grace. Ask yourself how many times have you taken His grace and mercy for granted?

18:5 For, before the harvest, when the blossom is gone and the flower becomes a ripening grape, he will cut off the shoots with pruning knives, and cut down and take away the spreading branches. It shows us that before the harvest, God will take away the unnecessary "things" that will hinder the growth of the harvest. Are you willing to surrender the shoots with pruning knives or the spreading branches in your life? If they continue to grow, it will lead to open doors for the Satan to come in and destroy all the works of God.

19:20 When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue them. Remember that in times of need or when you cry out, God ALWAYS hear. Wait upon His best timing to act and give you your best. In this time of waiting, do not compromise yourself with Satan's good to God's best. Even as we patiently seek Him, take time to quiet down your heart towards the cross. It's never too long to wait for God's plan.

22:20 "In that day I will summon my servant, Eliakim son of Hilkiah. Have you ever wondered why God called His servant to Jerusalem? Servant of God is one who God delights in. Is that your desire to be the servant for His kingdom? or would you rather be the master? Pastor mention about good conscience. Is your conscience clear? Have you ever consider God's feelings when you choose to disobey Him?

The nations mention above suffered greatly because of the fall of the leadership and disobedience. Hey, youth of today, take time to pray over the leadership over your marketplace, the church and the nation. Ask God to guide them with His wisdom and a clear direction of His plans.

Isaiah 13 - 17 (16th July) - Benjamin

Today, we see the prophecies that Isaiah has made against the nations.

Punishment is upon the world for its evil and the wicked for their sins. Every little thing that is not right in the Lord’s eyes is set right in Babylon. It is almost to the extent that nothing is left and every inch on the earth can feel His anger.

We ‘witness’ the various ways that the nations have been put to an end. Over the next few days, we will read how the Lord punishes the nations that have strayed from His word.

I recall one of the sermons some time back when Pastor preached about the importance of our individual life and the significance of each individual in the church. If any of us sin, it will cause the entire church to be affected. Judgment will be upon the church, not just the individual.

Thus we must not do anything against His ways, for our own good and for the good of our family in Christ. Every morning, begin your day with a word of prayer to ask that the Holy Spirit will guard you against any sins. Do a self check at the end of everyday and ask for forgiveness if you have sinned against Him. Find a brother/sister to be accountable to so that when you are going to fall into temptation, you can turn to him/her immediately. That way, the church will not face punishments like the nations.

2 Kings 16 - 17; 2 Chronicles 28 (15th July) - Vivien

2 Kings 16 ; 2 Chron 28
King Jotham had been a good king, like his father King Uzziah. Unfortunately, this trait was not passed down to the next king in line – Ahaz.

Idolatry became worse. He even sacrificed his son in the fire (most detestable thing to do!) He actually subjected himself to the king of Assyria!!!

It might be due to his age and inexperience in being a king. He was only 20 when he was appointed king. Sometimes don’t you feel that you are old enough to make certain decisions or do certain things, but parents, elder siblings, pastors or even your leader stops you? It is important to be obedient. There is only so much that we have experienced and seen, we can be shortsighted towards certain things. Even for myself, being a spiritual mother for more than 2 years, I still need guidance too! Therefore ACCOUNTABILITY is one very important word!

When he died, he wasn’t placed in the tombs of the kings of Israel.

2 Kings 17
Moving to Samaria, here is another bad example of a king…what’s more, he is the last king of Israel… In the Bible, he was called a traitor! A king, a traitor?! What can be expected of the country then? Israel had to face exile.

In verse 7, it is recorded that it all took place because of sin! During their exile, they continued to sin by worshipping other gods. Just read the sins they are committing! No wonder God is so angry! However, God is merciful. In verse 18 to 19, even though Judah did not keep the commands of the LORD, God did not leave Judah.

Samaria had become a land of foreign gods, after the king of Assyria brought people from different nations to settle down in Samaria. And one part of Israel is lost… So sad…

Let us continue to persevere in prayer and fasting for Singapore to see this nation turn back to God! Let us claim God’s territory back!

Micah 1 - 7 (14th July) - Stephanie

Micah 1-7

The main focus of this book is on judgment and hope, in particular on God’s hatred of sin, but also his promise to rescue those who would change their hearts and actions.

Just to give a brief background of the book of Micah and its author before we look at it in more details. This is the book where Micah forecasts about God’s impending judgment on Judah’s sins (chapters 1 to 3), and graphically describes both their sins and punishment. Micah goes on to prophesize a bright future after this judgment (chapters 4 to 5). The concluding two chapters are in the form of the Lord’s controversy with his people and the mercy He finally has on them.

We see in Micah 2 the reason for the judgment that is being threatened. It is the leaders who are so sinful. Micah knows that the leadership is corrupt in three particular areas:

• Commercial – the landowners strived to get hold of more fields and oppressed the poor
• Religious – the false prophets preached only of pleasant things and lulled the rich into careless lethargy by their false optismism
• Legal – the judges were equally self-seeking and greedy

Then in Chapters 4 to 7, from all the distressing corruption, Micah moved into a portrayal of truth on a wider scale and the faithful people in Judah are reminded of a better day. He looks to the distant horizons; he knows that the nation will go into captivity, but he rejoices in the prospect of an established and purified Kingdom in the future (Micah 4:10-11).

From the vision of the future, Micah returned to the agonies of the present, where sins are condemned. The prophet now appeals for their repentance. God has a controversy with them (Micah 6:2) and begs them to observe:

• His former goodness.
• His present demands – God is not at all interested in the multiplication of their sacrifices if their heart is not right before Him. God does not want this sort of sacrifice, He longs for justice, mercy and humility (Micah 6:8). What is the use of making elaborate sacrifices when these are presented by thieving hands (Micah 6:10-11)? What is the use of high-sounding prayers with deceitful lips (Micah 6:12-13)? The Lord demands sincerity.
• His future plans, where Judah’s doom is vividly portrayed as if it had actually happened.

Although God’s purpose is to purify and refine them through the painful experience of judgment, they retain their belief in Him as:

• The God who answers their prayers
• The God who illumines their darkness
• The God who directs their steps
• The God who pardons their sins

Isaiah 9 – 12, 2 Chronicles 27 (13th July) - Benjamin

Here we see who scary it is when the Lord’s anger is upon Israel. Although much punishment has been put on the people, the Lord’s anger is not turned away. When Israel turned away from the Lord, such is the result. We must always remind each other in the family of Christ to walk righteously before the Lord so that we do not bring down the entire family.

Are you prideful about your achievements in your life? Did you suppose that all that you have achieved is through your own strength? No!! It is because God wants to bless you with them. Thus, we have to be thankful everyday of our life, good or bad, for what He has made it to be. If there are people around you that are filled with pride, give them a nudge to remind them about who made them to be as such. Otherwise, it will be just at Isa 10-19 says, what you have achieved will be reduced to almost nothing.

In Isa 11, we see that every living thing on the earth is able to live together harmoniously. Even the wolf can live with the lamb, the leopard with the goat etc. How blessed is Jesse, who is able to lead a life that is of the way of the Lord. Another example will be Jotham, whom did what was right in the Lord’s eyes. We should really live our life just as depicted in v 3-5. That is really Christ-likeness.

Finally we see the people lifting praises to the Lord, giving thanks to all that He has done for them. We should also do the same. Praising the Lord, thanking Him for He is good and His love endures forever!

Amos 1 - 9 (11th & 12th July) - Li Juan

Amos 1-9

The theme of Amos is the judgment on Sin. Amos was a shepherd and was burdened over the sins of the northern kingdom. He was a minor prophet who declared God’s judgment on Judah and Israel and the surrounding nations.

Amos’s way of prophesying always begins with:
1) Criticizing Israel’s enemies
2) Winning a hostile crowd
3) Upon moving nearer, speaks the sin of Judah
4) Having gained sympathy of his hearers, points out the sin of Israel itself

The phrase “For three sins of --, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath” was mentioned repeatedly in Amos. This expression indicates a measure of full iniquity and inevitable judgment.

Amos rebuked those in Israel for not listening to God. He also reminded them that since God gave them more authority, they have to be more responsible over the power they possess. He also rebuked the leaders who were oblivious to the sufferings of the poor and the unfair treatment they went through. Judgment was also declared to those who were complacent and full of pride. He warned through many visions and prophecies.

Have we been complacent? Have we been deaf to God’s voice? Have we been blinded by the world? Have we been desensitized by the earthly possessions? Have we left God out of the picture, of our life? God’s judgment upon these nations, especially Israel, was all due to sins. If you have been escaping from God, come back today to repent of your sins. Do not wait till the Day of Judgment, turn away from the wayward paths before its too late. He has not left you out of the blessings. He too spoke of Israel’s restoration and future blessings (9:11-15). More than loving Him, fear Him.

Isaiah 5 - 8 (10th July) - Benjamin

In Isaiah 5, we are reminded of what we ought to do and ought not to do. Yet again, we see the results of doing things against God’s ways. God will punish His people accordingly. Reflect upon the things you do, ask for wisdom to distinguish between good and evil. Do not even attempt to deceive yourself at any point of time that it is ok to do this and that once in a while if you know His laws. Else all we can say is ‘God bless u’.

In Isaiah 6, it is the climax of the first major section of his prophecies. In v 1-4, he sees the Lord in all his glory; in v 5-7, he then sees himself in all his uncleanness; in v 8-13, the prophet, now cleansed and forgiven, sees the rebellious people to whom God is sending him to proclaim the divine message of judgment. We see that even a great man of God like Isaiah recognizes that the things he said are sinful, what more about people like you and I? Thus, we must be watchful of the words we speak since words are powerful. You never know how your ‘innocent’ words might impact the person receiving them.

In Isaiah 7 and 8, it simply tells us that ‘if the Lord is for us, who can be against us?’. It is a promise that God has made to us and all we have to do to claim this promise is to make Him the centre of our life. Isn’t that easy? Once again, the fear of God is mentioned. It is absolutely critical that we live with this holy fear within us. Are there areas in your life that you choose not to live with this fear but with the fear of the secular, perhaps fear of how others judge you; fear of failures? Cast onto the Lord all these fears and ask Him to teach you to live day-by-day with the Holy fear of Him and you will see your life transformed into something better than before.

Isaiah 1 - 4 (9th July) - Crystal

Isaiah 1 – 4

The book of Isaiah looks into the failures of the nations. In chapter 1, it speaks about the rebellion of the nation. The nation turned away from God and sinned against God . In verse 11 "The multitude of your sacrifices— what are they to me?" says the LORD. "I have more than enough of burnt offerings, of rams and the fat of fattened animals; I have no pleasure in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats.” When your heart is harden that turned against God’s word and his commands, no matter what offerings you give to God, God will turn away from you. Verse 15 When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide my eyes from you; even if you offer many prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood;” Even the most righteous nation will have a chance to fall away from God if the people did not keep His words. Be careful of the lies of the evil one and guard your heart against sin. Do not try even try going near things or places that will lead you to sin.

Isaiah had a vision from God; it shows that God is bringing peace and judgment over the nations. After which, the nations will walk in the light. Particularly in chapter 2:8 “Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made.” It does not only talk about physical idols that people worship but also different “things” that we worship. Some might worship a mentor, a love one, or even money. Take time to reflect on what has been the priority of your life today. Has God’s place been taken over?

The ending part of chapter 3 caught my attention. It says 16 The LORD says, "The women of Zion are haughty, walking along with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, tripping along with mincing steps, with ornaments jingling on their ankles.”Although I do not know what exactly has been describe, but definitely it is not something that pleases the Lord. Girls let’s guard speech and lifestyle. I am sure you would not want to be bald and stink but a woman that reflects God’s love.