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.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Monday, July 16, 2007
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.
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.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
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!
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!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
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
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
Friday, July 13, 2007
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!
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!
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
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.
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.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
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.
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.
Monday, July 09, 2007
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.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
2 Kings 15 and 2 Chronicles 26 (8th July) - Crystal
2 Kings 15
In this chapter, there are multiples of kings who reign over Israel and Judah. However, there were only two righteous kings who did right in God's eyes. As for the other kings (mainly those who reign over Israel) sinned against God and it lead to further destruction of the people in Israel. v9
As we obey and follow the leaders' commands. Do keep them in prayers too. Once the fall of the leadership, the people fall too. Right now, as you are reading, take some time to ask God for protection over the leadership over the church, pastor Lawrence, pastor Fei Fei and your own cell leader.
As you read on, the kings of Israel who reigned have a harden heart. Each of them overthrown the current king with conspiracy and eventually lead to murdering. This had a great impact to the next generation. A generation cursed. Therefore, we should always identify a curse (if there is) and break them in the name of Jesus. We will be a generation that will stand in the gap between God and man. Keep on praying till you see a revival in your family, your marketplace. The victory is yours to claim!
2 Chronicles 26
This chapter elaborates on Uzziah King of Judah. In the verse 5 He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success. This shows that as the fear of the Lord is in us and when we sought the Lord, God will bring us success. Do not be over dependent on human efforts.
However, when Uzziah became powerful and famous, pride got the better of him. verse 16 But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. Not only did he had a downfall, he rage in God's temple. The act of stubbornness had led to leprosy till his death, Do not wait until every fibre of pride has been broken, when every human plan backfired then turn to God. (sounds familar?) As the chinese saying goes 驕 兵必敗. As you move on progressively with your studies or in the marketplace. remember the one who gave you success and walked with you.
PS: have you been reading the stones cry out! booklet? Don't just read but apply them into your life! =)
In this chapter, there are multiples of kings who reign over Israel and Judah. However, there were only two righteous kings who did right in God's eyes. As for the other kings (mainly those who reign over Israel) sinned against God and it lead to further destruction of the people in Israel. v9
As we obey and follow the leaders' commands. Do keep them in prayers too. Once the fall of the leadership, the people fall too. Right now, as you are reading, take some time to ask God for protection over the leadership over the church, pastor Lawrence, pastor Fei Fei and your own cell leader.
As you read on, the kings of Israel who reigned have a harden heart. Each of them overthrown the current king with conspiracy and eventually lead to murdering. This had a great impact to the next generation. A generation cursed. Therefore, we should always identify a curse (if there is) and break them in the name of Jesus. We will be a generation that will stand in the gap between God and man. Keep on praying till you see a revival in your family, your marketplace. The victory is yours to claim!
2 Chronicles 26
This chapter elaborates on Uzziah King of Judah. In the verse 5 He sought God during the days of Zechariah, who instructed him in the fear of God. As long as he sought the LORD, God gave him success. This shows that as the fear of the Lord is in us and when we sought the Lord, God will bring us success. Do not be over dependent on human efforts.
However, when Uzziah became powerful and famous, pride got the better of him. verse 16 But after Uzziah became powerful, his pride led to his downfall. He was unfaithful to the LORD his God, and entered the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense. Not only did he had a downfall, he rage in God's temple. The act of stubbornness had led to leprosy till his death, Do not wait until every fibre of pride has been broken, when every human plan backfired then turn to God. (sounds familar?) As the chinese saying goes 驕 兵必敗. As you move on progressively with your studies or in the marketplace. remember the one who gave you success and walked with you.
PS: have you been reading the stones cry out! booklet? Don't just read but apply them into your life! =)
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Jonah 1 - 4 (7th July) - Alvin & Stephanie
In Chapter 1, we see the disobedience of Jonah when God commissioned him to preach against Nineveh, but he took a boat heading towards Tarshish in the opposite direction of Nineveh instead. Jonah tried to run away from God but little did he realized that nobody could ever run away from the Almighty God.
Jonah set sail on a ship where the sailors were Gentiles. A storm arose and there was nothing the sailors could do to calm the storm. Then they heard that Jonah served the Almighty God, and prayed to Him before they threw Jonah overboard. They offered a sacrifice to the Lord, made vows to Him and the Lord saved the pagan sailors from being shipwrecked.
So, Jonah has failed to hide from God and the Lord rescued disobedient Jonah from drowning after he was thrown overboard by the sailors by the timely arrival of a huge fish. The great fish swallowed Jonah and Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights (Jonah 1:17).
Interestingly, how God always have His own ways of bringing us to our senses. Just as Jonah thought that by leaving the country he was able to get away from God. But our God is inescapable (Jer 23:23-24).
In today’s context, some people may try to do a similar act as Jonah did - for e.g. by staying away from church, and avoiding the company of Christians, without full realization that there is no way we are able to hide from God.
In Chapter 2, Jonah called out to the Lord and prayed, acknowledging God’s grace upon His life. Then like the sailors, Jonah offered a sacrifice to the Lord with a song of thanks and promised to fulfill his vow. So the fish vomited Jonah onto the dry land and Jonah made his way to Nineveh.
This is very much like our Christian lives. We disobey God and go our own ways, but God’s grace is always there. He allows us to make huge detours, but He will eventually lead us back to the perfect path and plan that He has prepared for us. If you notice, the beginning of Chapter 1 and 3 is the same, so if Jonah had been obedient from the onset, there will not be a need for a chapter two actually!!
Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord this time round and went to Nineveh to deliver the message of the Lord. The people in Nineveh heard God’s word through Jonah, believed him and responded to God’s message. The king of Nineveh also heard the message and repented. “Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish” (Jonah 3:8b-9).
God saw what Nineveh did and He had compassion on them. He told Jonah He wouldn’t destroy Nineveh. The Lord saved the repentant Nineveh.
Jonah was angry that God did not bring upon Nineveh the destruction he had threatened. Jonah felt that he made the trip for nothing and he spoke his mind to God about this. We see here that Jonah has no doubt been obedient to God but in his obedience, he has no compassion for people within his heart. The Lord in return asked Jonah, “Have you any right to be angry?” (Have we obeyed God many times but carry a cold spirit within us, without having that compassion in us to serve that we ought to have or rather that God also desires for us to have while He Himself is a compassionate God? The attitude we carry with our actions is just as important as the action itself).
Jonah found a place to sit overlooking Nineveh, and watched to see what would happen. The place where he sat was uncomfortable. In a lot of discomfort, Jonah really appreciated a vine that grew and shaded over his head. But the next morning, the vine was gone and the sun was hot. Jonah became angry again and wanted to die. God pointed out to him that he cared more for the fate of the vine than for the people of Nineveh.
This 4th Chapter records Jonah’s disappointment, but more importantly God’s disappointment with Jonah. Jonah was willing to do what God wanted him to do but Jonah wanted to deny God’s right to forgive Nineveh. Jonah said he would rather die than see the Ninevites live (Jonah 4:3). He could grieve over the withering of the gourd, just because it had given him shelter but he was not at all grieved at the possible destruction of the Ninevites.
Jonah set sail on a ship where the sailors were Gentiles. A storm arose and there was nothing the sailors could do to calm the storm. Then they heard that Jonah served the Almighty God, and prayed to Him before they threw Jonah overboard. They offered a sacrifice to the Lord, made vows to Him and the Lord saved the pagan sailors from being shipwrecked.
So, Jonah has failed to hide from God and the Lord rescued disobedient Jonah from drowning after he was thrown overboard by the sailors by the timely arrival of a huge fish. The great fish swallowed Jonah and Jonah was inside the fish for three days and three nights (Jonah 1:17).
Interestingly, how God always have His own ways of bringing us to our senses. Just as Jonah thought that by leaving the country he was able to get away from God. But our God is inescapable (Jer 23:23-24).
In today’s context, some people may try to do a similar act as Jonah did - for e.g. by staying away from church, and avoiding the company of Christians, without full realization that there is no way we are able to hide from God.
In Chapter 2, Jonah called out to the Lord and prayed, acknowledging God’s grace upon His life. Then like the sailors, Jonah offered a sacrifice to the Lord with a song of thanks and promised to fulfill his vow. So the fish vomited Jonah onto the dry land and Jonah made his way to Nineveh.
This is very much like our Christian lives. We disobey God and go our own ways, but God’s grace is always there. He allows us to make huge detours, but He will eventually lead us back to the perfect path and plan that He has prepared for us. If you notice, the beginning of Chapter 1 and 3 is the same, so if Jonah had been obedient from the onset, there will not be a need for a chapter two actually!!
Jonah obeyed the word of the Lord this time round and went to Nineveh to deliver the message of the Lord. The people in Nineveh heard God’s word through Jonah, believed him and responded to God’s message. The king of Nineveh also heard the message and repented. “Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish” (Jonah 3:8b-9).
God saw what Nineveh did and He had compassion on them. He told Jonah He wouldn’t destroy Nineveh. The Lord saved the repentant Nineveh.
Jonah was angry that God did not bring upon Nineveh the destruction he had threatened. Jonah felt that he made the trip for nothing and he spoke his mind to God about this. We see here that Jonah has no doubt been obedient to God but in his obedience, he has no compassion for people within his heart. The Lord in return asked Jonah, “Have you any right to be angry?” (Have we obeyed God many times but carry a cold spirit within us, without having that compassion in us to serve that we ought to have or rather that God also desires for us to have while He Himself is a compassionate God? The attitude we carry with our actions is just as important as the action itself).
Jonah found a place to sit overlooking Nineveh, and watched to see what would happen. The place where he sat was uncomfortable. In a lot of discomfort, Jonah really appreciated a vine that grew and shaded over his head. But the next morning, the vine was gone and the sun was hot. Jonah became angry again and wanted to die. God pointed out to him that he cared more for the fate of the vine than for the people of Nineveh.
This 4th Chapter records Jonah’s disappointment, but more importantly God’s disappointment with Jonah. Jonah was willing to do what God wanted him to do but Jonah wanted to deny God’s right to forgive Nineveh. Jonah said he would rather die than see the Ninevites live (Jonah 4:3). He could grieve over the withering of the gourd, just because it had given him shelter but he was not at all grieved at the possible destruction of the Ninevites.
Friday, July 06, 2007
2 Kings 14, 2 Chronicles 25 (6th July) - Weiling
Most of today’s writings happen around Amaziah, son of Joash King of Judah. We see in the beginning that he “did right in the sight of the Lord” but “yet not like David” (the man after God’s heart who has now been used as the official measurement!) or in other words, “yet not with a whole heart”. We see that in 1 Kings 14: 4 that the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.
Remove the High places. Seek complete and total obedience.
What is it about the “high places” that we keep reading about in association with whether the kings worship them or not? “High places” are places of worship. We see in 1 King 3: 2 that people still sacrifice at high places because a temple had not yet been built for the Name of the Lord. However, Solomon had built that temple for God already and people were supposed to worship there instead. Thus, “high places” here have a significance of not following all the way or with a whole heart. We still worship, but at where we choose, sometimes out of convenience.
Check: Many of us do things that are right. We go for service, we may even be serving. But is it going all the way, doing your best for the Lord? Is it with zeal and joy? Are we doing the “right thing” His way or our way? Pause and let the Holy Spirit speak to you. Does He have your “whole heart”? If not, let Him tell you why.
100 talents of silver – Obedience with a price
In 2 Chron 25, we see that God told Amaziah not to go to war with the 100,000 troops he hired from Israel with 100 talents of silver because “God is not with Israel”. The challenge: Is Amaziah’s trust in the 100,000 valiant warriors or in God? Will he be willing to forsake the 100 talents of silver [a lot of money!!] and see it go to waste to obey God? Sometimes God’s instruction seems to ask us to defy reasoning and we see things seemingly “go to waste”, but do you trust that His thoughts and ways are higher than us? Do you trust your heavenly Father?
Check: Today seek complete obedience, even at a cost of apparent waste, inconvenience… ask God what is that “100 talents of silver” (or it may not cost you that much) in your life? “The Lord has much more to give you than this”. God has the power to help and bring down.
Further to Amaziah’s story, I see God’s compassion for the sufferings of His people in Jeroboam’s story. (2 Kings 14: 24-29) We have read enough to see that God would often send His prophets that He would punish them if they do not repent of their sins. Now, Jeroboam, King of Israel, is a man who did evil in the sight of God. I would have expected him to be punished, but he was an unlikely candidate that God used to save the people of Israel. All because God “had seen how bitterly everyone in Israel, whether slave or free, was suffering; there was no one to help them”. God “saved them by the hand of Jeroboam”.
Are you suffering, going through a tough time? Don’t feel alone and forgotten. Just as God had seen how the suffering of Israel, He sees your pain. God will deliver you.
Remove the High places. Seek complete and total obedience.
What is it about the “high places” that we keep reading about in association with whether the kings worship them or not? “High places” are places of worship. We see in 1 King 3: 2 that people still sacrifice at high places because a temple had not yet been built for the Name of the Lord. However, Solomon had built that temple for God already and people were supposed to worship there instead. Thus, “high places” here have a significance of not following all the way or with a whole heart. We still worship, but at where we choose, sometimes out of convenience.
Check: Many of us do things that are right. We go for service, we may even be serving. But is it going all the way, doing your best for the Lord? Is it with zeal and joy? Are we doing the “right thing” His way or our way? Pause and let the Holy Spirit speak to you. Does He have your “whole heart”? If not, let Him tell you why.
100 talents of silver – Obedience with a price
In 2 Chron 25, we see that God told Amaziah not to go to war with the 100,000 troops he hired from Israel with 100 talents of silver because “God is not with Israel”. The challenge: Is Amaziah’s trust in the 100,000 valiant warriors or in God? Will he be willing to forsake the 100 talents of silver [a lot of money!!] and see it go to waste to obey God? Sometimes God’s instruction seems to ask us to defy reasoning and we see things seemingly “go to waste”, but do you trust that His thoughts and ways are higher than us? Do you trust your heavenly Father?
Check: Today seek complete obedience, even at a cost of apparent waste, inconvenience… ask God what is that “100 talents of silver” (or it may not cost you that much) in your life? “The Lord has much more to give you than this”. God has the power to help and bring down.
Further to Amaziah’s story, I see God’s compassion for the sufferings of His people in Jeroboam’s story. (2 Kings 14: 24-29) We have read enough to see that God would often send His prophets that He would punish them if they do not repent of their sins. Now, Jeroboam, King of Israel, is a man who did evil in the sight of God. I would have expected him to be punished, but he was an unlikely candidate that God used to save the people of Israel. All because God “had seen how bitterly everyone in Israel, whether slave or free, was suffering; there was no one to help them”. God “saved them by the hand of Jeroboam”.
Are you suffering, going through a tough time? Don’t feel alone and forgotten. Just as God had seen how the suffering of Israel, He sees your pain. God will deliver you.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
2 Kings 12 - 13, 2 Chronicles 24 (5th July)
2 Kings 12
Joash was king and he reign over 40 years. He did what was right in the eyes of God (v1,2). Joash ordered the priest to take all the collected money to repair the temple. It was not done so until Joash questioned the priest again on the 23rd year of his reigned. All the money was paid to the workmen and materials for the repair of the temple of the Lord.
2 Kings 13
On the 23rd year of King Joash reigned in Judah, Jehoahaz became king of Israel. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord (v1,2). He later sought God’s favor and God delivered them, but still sin (v4-6). After 17 years of Jehoahaz reigns, Jehoash succeeded him as king over Israel. He also did what is evil in the eyes of God (v11).
When Elisha was old and suffering from illness, King Jehoash visited him. Elisha asked Jehoash to shoot the arrow out of the window and Elisha proclaimed “The Lord’s Arrow of Victory, the arrow of victory over Aram!” Then Elisha asked Jehoash to strike the arrows on the ground and Jehoash only struck 3 times and Elisha was angry with him because he should strike more times to see Aram completely be destroyed. So Jehoash only defeated Aram 3 times but not completely destroyed.
One great miracle happened in verse 21, when they threw a dead body into Elisha’s tomb and when the body touched Elisha’s bone, the man came to life. The power and anointing of God on Elisha was so powerful even up to his death.
God was gracious to the Israelites and had compassion and show concern for them because of the covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (v23).
2 Chronicles 24
It is the same in 2 Kings 12 and 13, except in this chapter, verse 17 onwards, it shared about the wickedness of Judah and they forsaken the Lord.
Joash was king and he reign over 40 years. He did what was right in the eyes of God (v1,2). Joash ordered the priest to take all the collected money to repair the temple. It was not done so until Joash questioned the priest again on the 23rd year of his reigned. All the money was paid to the workmen and materials for the repair of the temple of the Lord.
2 Kings 13
On the 23rd year of King Joash reigned in Judah, Jehoahaz became king of Israel. He did evil in the eyes of the Lord (v1,2). He later sought God’s favor and God delivered them, but still sin (v4-6). After 17 years of Jehoahaz reigns, Jehoash succeeded him as king over Israel. He also did what is evil in the eyes of God (v11).
When Elisha was old and suffering from illness, King Jehoash visited him. Elisha asked Jehoash to shoot the arrow out of the window and Elisha proclaimed “The Lord’s Arrow of Victory, the arrow of victory over Aram!” Then Elisha asked Jehoash to strike the arrows on the ground and Jehoash only struck 3 times and Elisha was angry with him because he should strike more times to see Aram completely be destroyed. So Jehoash only defeated Aram 3 times but not completely destroyed.
One great miracle happened in verse 21, when they threw a dead body into Elisha’s tomb and when the body touched Elisha’s bone, the man came to life. The power and anointing of God on Elisha was so powerful even up to his death.
God was gracious to the Israelites and had compassion and show concern for them because of the covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (v23).
2 Chronicles 24
It is the same in 2 Kings 12 and 13, except in this chapter, verse 17 onwards, it shared about the wickedness of Judah and they forsaken the Lord.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
2 Kings 9 - 11 (4th July)
2 Kings 9
Elisha summoned a prophet to anoint Jehu as king over Israel and it was so. As he became king, he was to destroy the house of Ahad and Jezebel. v14-29, Jehu killed Joram and Ahaziah. Joram was shot by an arrow that pierced through his heart. v30-37, Jezebel was killed by being pushed down from the window.
2 Kings 10
Jehu went around to kill the families and relatives that related to Ahad. Jehu also gathered all the people who worship Baal including the ministers and priests that worship Baal to gather at Baal’s temple. Jehu deceived them in order to destroy everyone that worshipped Baal and he managed to destroy them all and the temple of Baal. Jehu reigned over Israel for 28 years.
2 Kings 11
Joash was stolen to hide away from Athaliah. So Joash was saved from being killed like the rest of the princes. Later part, Jehoiada, the priest, sent command to protect the king even on Sabbath day. When Athalih was killed, there was rejoicing and peace in the city v20. Joash became king when he was 7 years old.
Elisha summoned a prophet to anoint Jehu as king over Israel and it was so. As he became king, he was to destroy the house of Ahad and Jezebel. v14-29, Jehu killed Joram and Ahaziah. Joram was shot by an arrow that pierced through his heart. v30-37, Jezebel was killed by being pushed down from the window.
2 Kings 10
Jehu went around to kill the families and relatives that related to Ahad. Jehu also gathered all the people who worship Baal including the ministers and priests that worship Baal to gather at Baal’s temple. Jehu deceived them in order to destroy everyone that worshipped Baal and he managed to destroy them all and the temple of Baal. Jehu reigned over Israel for 28 years.
2 Kings 11
Joash was stolen to hide away from Athaliah. So Joash was saved from being killed like the rest of the princes. Later part, Jehoiada, the priest, sent command to protect the king even on Sabbath day. When Athalih was killed, there was rejoicing and peace in the city v20. Joash became king when he was 7 years old.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
2 Kings 5 - 8 (3rd July) - Sylvia
2 Kings 5
Naaman wants to be cured of his leprosy and looks for Elisha. Initially, he expected some kind of big hoo-ha, waving of hands etc and he would be cured instantly thus he was angry when Elisha told him to wash himself seven times in the Jordan river. His arrogance almost cost him. Thank God for His grace and mercy, that his servant pleaded with him to at least give it a try.
Lesson learnt: 100% Man, 100% God. It takes effort on our part and our belief that we will be healed. We can't expect God to do everything when we do nothing.
Gehazi, Elisha's servant gets greedy and tries to cheat Naaman of the reward that he has tried to give Elisha. Thus, he gets cursed with Naaman's leprosy.
Let's not be greedy. We bless others and serve not for rewards but to show others what God's love, grace and mercy is all about. Earthly riches pale in comparison to the treasure God has stored for us in heaven.
2 Kings 6
Arameans tries to attack Israel. Again, God's hand is always upon Israel. When Arameansa tries to capture Elisha to stop him from warning the King of Israel about his attacks, his plans backfires. God struck the enemy blind and they get captured by the king of Israel. v8-20
Elisha shows mercy for those who had been instructed to kill him, sparing thier lives and even giving orders for food and drink to be served to them. This amplifies the love of God and even the enemy is overcomed- they stopped attacking Israel.
Ben-Hadad laid a seige on Samaria again which caused severe famine and inflation. It got so bad to the point when people started eating other people's children. The king was certain that the seige was a disaster brought upon by God that he refused to trust in Him any longer and wanted to kill Elisha
2 Kings 7
Elisha prophecises that the famine will be over and inflation reversed. True enough, when four lepers went to the camp of Arameans, they found it abandoned. (God has caused them to heard the sound of chariors and horses and a great army, so they fled thinking that the Hittite and Egyptian kings had been hired to attack them.) The king did not believe it initially and sent servants to check it out. But because the officer whom the king had put i charge of the gate laughed at Elisha's prophecy, he did not live to eat and enjoy the plunder.
2 Kings 8
Ben-Hadad sends Hazael to consult Elisha about the king's illness. Elisha prophesises that the king will not survive, and Hazael will become the new king and slaughter the Israelites. Hazael is shocked, and questions how he could become king (despite Elijah already having anointed him as the next king of Aram, some while ago), but when he returns, he lies to Ben-hadad and says that Elisha had prophesied a recovery. The next day, Hazael smothers the king to death with a water soaked cloth, and becomes king in his place.
Naaman wants to be cured of his leprosy and looks for Elisha. Initially, he expected some kind of big hoo-ha, waving of hands etc and he would be cured instantly thus he was angry when Elisha told him to wash himself seven times in the Jordan river. His arrogance almost cost him. Thank God for His grace and mercy, that his servant pleaded with him to at least give it a try.
Lesson learnt: 100% Man, 100% God. It takes effort on our part and our belief that we will be healed. We can't expect God to do everything when we do nothing.
Gehazi, Elisha's servant gets greedy and tries to cheat Naaman of the reward that he has tried to give Elisha. Thus, he gets cursed with Naaman's leprosy.
Let's not be greedy. We bless others and serve not for rewards but to show others what God's love, grace and mercy is all about. Earthly riches pale in comparison to the treasure God has stored for us in heaven.
2 Kings 6
Arameans tries to attack Israel. Again, God's hand is always upon Israel. When Arameansa tries to capture Elisha to stop him from warning the King of Israel about his attacks, his plans backfires. God struck the enemy blind and they get captured by the king of Israel. v8-20
Elisha shows mercy for those who had been instructed to kill him, sparing thier lives and even giving orders for food and drink to be served to them. This amplifies the love of God and even the enemy is overcomed- they stopped attacking Israel.
Ben-Hadad laid a seige on Samaria again which caused severe famine and inflation. It got so bad to the point when people started eating other people's children. The king was certain that the seige was a disaster brought upon by God that he refused to trust in Him any longer and wanted to kill Elisha
2 Kings 7
Elisha prophecises that the famine will be over and inflation reversed. True enough, when four lepers went to the camp of Arameans, they found it abandoned. (God has caused them to heard the sound of chariors and horses and a great army, so they fled thinking that the Hittite and Egyptian kings had been hired to attack them.) The king did not believe it initially and sent servants to check it out. But because the officer whom the king had put i charge of the gate laughed at Elisha's prophecy, he did not live to eat and enjoy the plunder.
2 Kings 8
Ben-Hadad sends Hazael to consult Elisha about the king's illness. Elisha prophesises that the king will not survive, and Hazael will become the new king and slaughter the Israelites. Hazael is shocked, and questions how he could become king (despite Elijah already having anointed him as the next king of Aram, some while ago), but when he returns, he lies to Ben-hadad and says that Elisha had prophesied a recovery. The next day, Hazael smothers the king to death with a water soaked cloth, and becomes king in his place.
Monday, July 02, 2007
2 Kings 1 - 4 (2nd July) - Sylvia
2 Kings 1
Ahaziah injures himself after a fall and seeks advice from an idol- Baal-Zebub. This displeases the Lord thus He sent an angel to tell Elijah to warn Ahaziah about his death. Ahaziah sends captains to fetch Eljah. The first two, were not respectful towards God's anointed and thus were struck down and consumed by fire. (v9-12) The third one however, recgonised a man of God and pleaded for his life, thus he was spared.
As God had spoken, Ahaziah died and was succeeded by Joram.
2 Kings 2
Elijah was raptured and taken up to heaven in front of Elisha. Elisha inherits a double portion of Elijah's spirit because he asked by faith and it was given. v9-12
Elisha performs miracles in the name of the Lord (healing the water) v19-22
Those who make fun and disrespect God's people will be cursed. God's hand is upon His anointed.
2 Kings 3
Even though Joram had gotten rid of the idols of Baal, he still continued sinning. Nevertheless, God continued to be with the Israelites - providing for their needs and giving them victory over Moab.
2 Kings 4
By faith and through the Holy spirit, Elisha continued to show many signs and wonders of God, from overflowing the little bit of oil to mulitiplying scarce food to bringing the dead back to life.
Ask and you shall be given =) Lets ask God for Agape love and compassion and allow us to be a blessing to others.
Ahaziah injures himself after a fall and seeks advice from an idol- Baal-Zebub. This displeases the Lord thus He sent an angel to tell Elijah to warn Ahaziah about his death. Ahaziah sends captains to fetch Eljah. The first two, were not respectful towards God's anointed and thus were struck down and consumed by fire. (v9-12) The third one however, recgonised a man of God and pleaded for his life, thus he was spared.
As God had spoken, Ahaziah died and was succeeded by Joram.
2 Kings 2
Elijah was raptured and taken up to heaven in front of Elisha. Elisha inherits a double portion of Elijah's spirit because he asked by faith and it was given. v9-12
Elisha performs miracles in the name of the Lord (healing the water) v19-22
Those who make fun and disrespect God's people will be cursed. God's hand is upon His anointed.
2 Kings 3
Even though Joram had gotten rid of the idols of Baal, he still continued sinning. Nevertheless, God continued to be with the Israelites - providing for their needs and giving them victory over Moab.
2 Kings 4
By faith and through the Holy spirit, Elisha continued to show many signs and wonders of God, from overflowing the little bit of oil to mulitiplying scarce food to bringing the dead back to life.
Ask and you shall be given =) Lets ask God for Agape love and compassion and allow us to be a blessing to others.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Obadiah 1, Psalms 82 - 83 (1st July) - Kelvin
Obadiah 1:
In this book, Obadiah (which means servant of the Lord) prophesized against Esau(Edom). Basically,Its theme is that Edom, proud over her own security, has gloated over Israel’s devastation by foreign powers. However, Edom’s participation in that disaster will bring on God’s wrath. She herself will be destroyed, but Mount Zion and Israel will be delivered, and God’s kingdom will triumph. I guess the lesson learnt for us here would be never to mock others when times are no good for them but rather we should be more than ready to sympathise them.
Psalm 82-83:
In these 2 chapters, they are the psalm of Asaph. I see it as a prayer to God to rescue His people from the evildoers who are plotting against them. The enemies were described as being very strong and powerful, but the prayer was for God to judge them and help them overcome the enemies of their time so that all will know that theirs is a God the Most High.
In this book, Obadiah (which means servant of the Lord) prophesized against Esau(Edom). Basically,Its theme is that Edom, proud over her own security, has gloated over Israel’s devastation by foreign powers. However, Edom’s participation in that disaster will bring on God’s wrath. She herself will be destroyed, but Mount Zion and Israel will be delivered, and God’s kingdom will triumph. I guess the lesson learnt for us here would be never to mock others when times are no good for them but rather we should be more than ready to sympathise them.
Psalm 82-83:
In these 2 chapters, they are the psalm of Asaph. I see it as a prayer to God to rescue His people from the evildoers who are plotting against them. The enemies were described as being very strong and powerful, but the prayer was for God to judge them and help them overcome the enemies of their time so that all will know that theirs is a God the Most High.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
2 Chronicles 19 - 23 (30th June) - Li Juan
2 Chronicles 19-23
Like the leaders and judges in Jerusalem and Judah, we need to learn to be just and partial as well. Jehoshaphat appointed judges in each city in Judah. He told them, “Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for man but for the Lord, who is with you whenever you give a verdict.
Now let the fear of the Lord be upon you. Judge carefully, for with the Lord our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.” Also, serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the Lord, not to sin against the Lord for that will incur his wrath. Many times we can be struggling as the world haunts us with its seemingly harmless beliefs. However, we need to stand firm with what our God says, act with courage and God will be with us!
Then, the Moabites and Ammonites came to attack Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah came to inquire of the Lord together as they have no power to face this vast army before them. God said to them, “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
Similarly, throughout this 100K campaign, Satan will send out his army of fear, discouragement, insecurity and doubt, we have to always keep in mind that the battle is not ours, but God’s, and the battle is already won! We just have to act out in faith and claim these answered prayers, and see miracles happening after miracles!
After Jehoshaphat passed away, Jehoram and Ahaziah ruled as kings of Judah one after another and both do evil in the eyes of the Lord. After Ahaziah died, his mother, Athaliah destroyed the whole royal family of the house of Judah, but Joash, Ahaziah’s son was saved by his auntie, Jehosheba. When Joash grew up, his uncle, Jehoiada ordered all the priests and Levites to protect him. Then, Jehoiada brought Joash out, crowned and anointed him. Athaliah who was supposedly reigning was seized and slain by the sword. The temple of the Baal was tore down, the altars and idols were smashed, the priest of Baal was killed.
Like the leaders and judges in Jerusalem and Judah, we need to learn to be just and partial as well. Jehoshaphat appointed judges in each city in Judah. He told them, “Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for man but for the Lord, who is with you whenever you give a verdict.
Now let the fear of the Lord be upon you. Judge carefully, for with the Lord our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.” Also, serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the Lord, not to sin against the Lord for that will incur his wrath. Many times we can be struggling as the world haunts us with its seemingly harmless beliefs. However, we need to stand firm with what our God says, act with courage and God will be with us!
Then, the Moabites and Ammonites came to attack Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah came to inquire of the Lord together as they have no power to face this vast army before them. God said to them, “Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
Similarly, throughout this 100K campaign, Satan will send out his army of fear, discouragement, insecurity and doubt, we have to always keep in mind that the battle is not ours, but God’s, and the battle is already won! We just have to act out in faith and claim these answered prayers, and see miracles happening after miracles!
After Jehoshaphat passed away, Jehoram and Ahaziah ruled as kings of Judah one after another and both do evil in the eyes of the Lord. After Ahaziah died, his mother, Athaliah destroyed the whole royal family of the house of Judah, but Joash, Ahaziah’s son was saved by his auntie, Jehosheba. When Joash grew up, his uncle, Jehoiada ordered all the priests and Levites to protect him. Then, Jehoiada brought Joash out, crowned and anointed him. Athaliah who was supposedly reigning was seized and slain by the sword. The temple of the Baal was tore down, the altars and idols were smashed, the priest of Baal was killed.
Friday, June 29, 2007
2 Chronicles 18, 1 Kings 22 (29th June) - Sylvia
Jehoshaphat was a man of God who walked in His ways, thus his life was blessed in many ways. Ahah, on the other hand was a king who disobeyed God and did evil deeds. God was very displeased and sent a lying spirit to place lies in false prophets, to lure him into going to war with Ramoth Gilead, giving him false hope that he would succeed.
Ahab listened to what was good to his ears, no matter how Jehoshapat tried to get him to seek a TRUE prophet of God.
As Micaiah spoke God's words and told Ahab what he saw, his words were rejected and Ahab even threw him into prision. As the Lord had declared, Ahab got killed during war and his blood licked by dogs, the same way which he had caused Naboth's death.
As for Jehoshapat who went to war with him, he was saved and his life spared because he had cried out to God.
Have we done evil in God's sight? Has God spoken and yet we decide to ignore His words and do what pleases us?
Lets humble ourselves and cry out to our Lord that He may shower His grace and mercy upon us, sparing our lives.
Ahab listened to what was good to his ears, no matter how Jehoshapat tried to get him to seek a TRUE prophet of God.
As Micaiah spoke God's words and told Ahab what he saw, his words were rejected and Ahab even threw him into prision. As the Lord had declared, Ahab got killed during war and his blood licked by dogs, the same way which he had caused Naboth's death.
As for Jehoshapat who went to war with him, he was saved and his life spared because he had cried out to God.
Have we done evil in God's sight? Has God spoken and yet we decide to ignore His words and do what pleases us?
Lets humble ourselves and cry out to our Lord that He may shower His grace and mercy upon us, sparing our lives.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
1 Kings 20 - 21 (28th June) - Xiao Woon
1 Kings 20
King Ben-hadad of Aram demanded for King Ahab’s silver and gold, wife and children. King Ahab agreed but after that Ben-hadad asked for more. He asked to take away everything Ahab consider valuable. He refused to accept Ben-hadad’s last demand and Ben-hadad wanted to attack the city.
Ahab was told by God that the enemy forces will be handed to him and that he will win them. He mustered the troops and attacked the Aramean army first as the Lord said and he won. However, that’s not the end. A prophet told him to get ready for another attack by Ben-hadad next spring.
Ben-hadad’s officers thought that God is a God of hills, not the plains. So, to prove them wrong, God gave them victory over the vast army though they look only like two little flocks of goats. Ben-hadad ran and hid in a secret room. Ben-hadad’s officers humbled themselves and wore sackcloths and surrendered to the king of Israel so that Ben-hadad may live. The king of Israel called for Ben-hadad and he made a treaty with Ben-hadad and set him free.
A prophet condemns Ahab
A prophet placed a bandage over his eyes to disguise himself and then waited beside the road for the king. When the king passed by, he told the king that he was told to guard a prisoner and if he gets away, then he’ll either die or pay a fine. The prisoner disappeared and when the king heard this, he said that the prophet deserved it. The prophet took off the bandage and the king recognized him. The prophet told him that because he spared the man that must be destroyed, he must die in his place. So the king of Israel went home to Samaria angry and sullen.
God really keeps to His promises. It just hit me that EACH and EVERY time the Lord says beforehand that He’ll deliver whatever country to whoever, He really will bring it to pass, unless He wants them to learn something else. God sees everything. He knows and tests our hearts. He used the prophet to test the king. Let us be aware of our hearts and let us not harden our hearts to the things or people around us, but to be watching so that we may always bless others.
1 Kings 21
Naboth owned a vineyard in Jezreel beside the palace of King Ahab of Samaria. Ahab wanted to buy it over to use as a vegetable garden but Naboth said the Lord forbid that he should give Ahab the inheritance that was passed down by his ancestors. Ahab went back angry and when the wife found out, she wrote letters, commanding the citizens to fast and pray and then get 2 scoundrels to curse Naboth and to stone him to death. After Naboth died, Ahab immediately went down to claim the vineyard. The Lord then sent Elijah to tell Ahab that because he did evil in the sight of the Lord, God will bring disaster to him and consume him. When Ahab heard that he tore his clothing, wore sackcloth, even slept in it and went into deep mourning. The Lord then said that because he has humbled himself before the Lord, God will not do what He promised but that it will happen to his sons, and his dynasty.
Sometimes our own deep desires will lead us to the wrong things. So we must be careful what our desires are and we must align them to God’s desires. That’s where God will bless. When we want something so much, we may end up doing things to get what we ourselves want and God will not stop us because He gave us the free will to make our own choices. It is only when after that we have to bear the consequences of not aligning our desires with the Lord’s. But see that as long as we humble ourselves before the Lord, He is always ready to forgive us. I remember Jackie Pullinger said that God is ALWAYS ready to forgive us even BEFORE we asked Him for forgivenesss. Thank God for His mercy=)
King Ben-hadad of Aram demanded for King Ahab’s silver and gold, wife and children. King Ahab agreed but after that Ben-hadad asked for more. He asked to take away everything Ahab consider valuable. He refused to accept Ben-hadad’s last demand and Ben-hadad wanted to attack the city.
Ahab was told by God that the enemy forces will be handed to him and that he will win them. He mustered the troops and attacked the Aramean army first as the Lord said and he won. However, that’s not the end. A prophet told him to get ready for another attack by Ben-hadad next spring.
Ben-hadad’s officers thought that God is a God of hills, not the plains. So, to prove them wrong, God gave them victory over the vast army though they look only like two little flocks of goats. Ben-hadad ran and hid in a secret room. Ben-hadad’s officers humbled themselves and wore sackcloths and surrendered to the king of Israel so that Ben-hadad may live. The king of Israel called for Ben-hadad and he made a treaty with Ben-hadad and set him free.
A prophet condemns Ahab
A prophet placed a bandage over his eyes to disguise himself and then waited beside the road for the king. When the king passed by, he told the king that he was told to guard a prisoner and if he gets away, then he’ll either die or pay a fine. The prisoner disappeared and when the king heard this, he said that the prophet deserved it. The prophet took off the bandage and the king recognized him. The prophet told him that because he spared the man that must be destroyed, he must die in his place. So the king of Israel went home to Samaria angry and sullen.
God really keeps to His promises. It just hit me that EACH and EVERY time the Lord says beforehand that He’ll deliver whatever country to whoever, He really will bring it to pass, unless He wants them to learn something else. God sees everything. He knows and tests our hearts. He used the prophet to test the king. Let us be aware of our hearts and let us not harden our hearts to the things or people around us, but to be watching so that we may always bless others.
1 Kings 21
Naboth owned a vineyard in Jezreel beside the palace of King Ahab of Samaria. Ahab wanted to buy it over to use as a vegetable garden but Naboth said the Lord forbid that he should give Ahab the inheritance that was passed down by his ancestors. Ahab went back angry and when the wife found out, she wrote letters, commanding the citizens to fast and pray and then get 2 scoundrels to curse Naboth and to stone him to death. After Naboth died, Ahab immediately went down to claim the vineyard. The Lord then sent Elijah to tell Ahab that because he did evil in the sight of the Lord, God will bring disaster to him and consume him. When Ahab heard that he tore his clothing, wore sackcloth, even slept in it and went into deep mourning. The Lord then said that because he has humbled himself before the Lord, God will not do what He promised but that it will happen to his sons, and his dynasty.
Sometimes our own deep desires will lead us to the wrong things. So we must be careful what our desires are and we must align them to God’s desires. That’s where God will bless. When we want something so much, we may end up doing things to get what we ourselves want and God will not stop us because He gave us the free will to make our own choices. It is only when after that we have to bear the consequences of not aligning our desires with the Lord’s. But see that as long as we humble ourselves before the Lord, He is always ready to forgive us. I remember Jackie Pullinger said that God is ALWAYS ready to forgive us even BEFORE we asked Him for forgivenesss. Thank God for His mercy=)
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
1 Kings 17 - 19 (27th June) - Karen
The story of Elijah 1 Kings 17 – 19
In Chapter 17 we gain insights on how God works.
1. God provides in ways we least expect (Vs. 10)
- He fed Elijah by the ravens and through the widow.
2. Every miracle begins with an act of obedience (Vs. 13-16)
- The widow thought it was her last meal she was preparing before she died.
- She trusted Elijah and gave all she had to eat to him
- Faith is the first step she took
3. Depend on God, Not His works
- The famine was terrible, but the worst was yet to come for the Widow, her son died some time later
- Sometimes even when God has done a miracle in our lives, our troubles may not be over.
- God’s providence is never given in order for us to rest upon it
- We need to depend on Him as new trial faces us.
As Elijah’s journey continues we see in Chapter 18 how Elijah challenged the people to take a stand. Why did so many people waver between the two choices – to follow the Lord or Baal?
1. Making a stand for God
- If we drift along with whatever is pleasant and easy, we will someday discover that we have been worshiping a false god.
2. In today’s context, false god represents things that we depend on other than God.
- It could be Power, Status, Appearance or Material Possessions.
- We can devote our lives to them, but when we reach times of crisis, they cannot offer true answers, guidance or wisdom. (Vs. 29)
In Chapter 19 we read about Elijah fleeing to Mount Horeb from Queen Jezebel. Having experienced two great spiritual victories, Elijah now had to flee for his life. Feeling all alone and discouraged, he fell into depression and discouragement. God led him out of his depression by first letting him Rest and Eat. God then spoke to Elijah in a gentle whisper about returning to his mission – to speak God’s words in Israel.
1. God has work for us to do even when we feel fear and failure
2. God always has more resources and people than we know about
3. Although we might wish to do miracles for God, we should instead focus on developing a relationship with Him. The real miracle of Elijah’s life was his very personal relationship with God…And that miracle is available to us.
In Chapter 17 we gain insights on how God works.
1. God provides in ways we least expect (Vs. 10)
- He fed Elijah by the ravens and through the widow.
2. Every miracle begins with an act of obedience (Vs. 13-16)
- The widow thought it was her last meal she was preparing before she died.
- She trusted Elijah and gave all she had to eat to him
- Faith is the first step she took
3. Depend on God, Not His works
- The famine was terrible, but the worst was yet to come for the Widow, her son died some time later
- Sometimes even when God has done a miracle in our lives, our troubles may not be over.
- God’s providence is never given in order for us to rest upon it
- We need to depend on Him as new trial faces us.
As Elijah’s journey continues we see in Chapter 18 how Elijah challenged the people to take a stand. Why did so many people waver between the two choices – to follow the Lord or Baal?
1. Making a stand for God
- If we drift along with whatever is pleasant and easy, we will someday discover that we have been worshiping a false god.
2. In today’s context, false god represents things that we depend on other than God.
- It could be Power, Status, Appearance or Material Possessions.
- We can devote our lives to them, but when we reach times of crisis, they cannot offer true answers, guidance or wisdom. (Vs. 29)
In Chapter 19 we read about Elijah fleeing to Mount Horeb from Queen Jezebel. Having experienced two great spiritual victories, Elijah now had to flee for his life. Feeling all alone and discouraged, he fell into depression and discouragement. God led him out of his depression by first letting him Rest and Eat. God then spoke to Elijah in a gentle whisper about returning to his mission – to speak God’s words in Israel.
1. God has work for us to do even when we feel fear and failure
2. God always has more resources and people than we know about
3. Although we might wish to do miracles for God, we should instead focus on developing a relationship with Him. The real miracle of Elijah’s life was his very personal relationship with God…And that miracle is available to us.
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