Psalms 141.8
But God, dear Lord, I only have eyes for you. Since I’ve run for dear life to you, take good care of me. (Message version)
Taken from the message version, my heart was drawn to the ending of this verse. The other versions state the hope to be defended or kept safely from evildoers. Yet, I'm not in the same condition as David who was seeking for God as his enemies persecuted him.
All I ask for is for God to take good care of me. To be able to live life without much care, to be healthy, sufficient, happy and most importantly, to never worry about the steps I've to take every waking day of my life.
The year is coming to an end and the mood in the office is reflective and increasingly quiet as people go on leave. It's been a tough work year, what is making things sour is how the unhappiness of work is now burdened with disappointing news in ministry. In the past month, I've yet to come to terms with a young leader deciding to drop out of the ministry for reason I'm not privy to. To have 4 young leaders reduced to 3 is something that has burdened my heart because it's always difficult for me to lose hold of an individual.
I'll always put a prayer of covering over anyone who is leaving, but somehow, it's just me to be concerned if they will be taken care of. Maybe it is because I've also witnessed many who have left the church for other options, only to find out years later that they no longer attend church. I do not profess that I'm able to be that one to strengthen the faith of individuals under me, but I do always try to aid in any way I can for individuals to receive support. In the meanwhile, all I ask of God is to always take care of those whom I've lost.
My body is still relatively young and my heart is currently emotionally strong albeit with many more wounds and scares. Somehow, I always wonder what will happen someday when I'm much older and when I'm unable to keep this momentum of service and got to suffer a setback or two when lives are lost. For that, I can only ask of God to take good care of me.
God, I may not be the faithful person you expect of, but I do pray you continually take good care of us all.
M.
17 December 2013
28 November 2013
Overworked but working for meaningful work
Ezra 6:7
Do not interfere with the work on this temple of God. Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its site.
I've been seriously overworked in the past year, and more so in the last few months. The workload is continue to pile up and it is not just about office work, there's also a fair bit of ministry work. With frequent travels, business issues to resolve, even my admin time is tossed aside as I struggle to balance thinking strategic and being operational. At times, I realise that I don't even rest well and my personal (selfish) time has disappeared.
Doesn't help that there's going to be another work restructuring and I'm very upset over how I'm sidelined. My emotions are settling from the frustrations I felt 2 weeks ago, but it's rather challenging to continue on this pace to solve work issues and also see ministry go on at a listless pace. Such is the annoyance that I feel everytime I see people not pulling their weight, or not even moving at a pace that I feel they should.
One thing that propels me on and on all the time is the need to continue working. Not just work, but actually more on the things of God. I would burn myself up just to take on more responsibilities if I feel no one is going to do it. In the past weeks, I've actually wondered if I'm reaching burn out pace, but somehow, I'm grateful on how God's provision is for me to have a day or sometimes hours where I can stone (like now) and resolve admin matters that keep my sanity.
Tonight would mark something special because I'm invited to share in the discovery ranger's camp services. For 3 sessions I would be required to share a message and conduct personal ministry. Gosh, I'm excited as well as super nervous about it because I'm no licensed minister nor am I an experienced speaker. Sure, I can teach and conduct lessons, but....
Well, how this will turn out will be anyone's guess and I'm going there to do what I believe I'm asked to do. I took up this invite simply because I knew it was right for me to, and I also believe that the hours that we have in life should be dedicated in continuous building of the house of God - that it would bring Him glory.
May the hours you live be spent on meaningful works on God.
M.
Do not interfere with the work on this temple of God. Let the governor of the Jews and the Jewish elders rebuild this house of God on its site.
I've been seriously overworked in the past year, and more so in the last few months. The workload is continue to pile up and it is not just about office work, there's also a fair bit of ministry work. With frequent travels, business issues to resolve, even my admin time is tossed aside as I struggle to balance thinking strategic and being operational. At times, I realise that I don't even rest well and my personal (selfish) time has disappeared.
Doesn't help that there's going to be another work restructuring and I'm very upset over how I'm sidelined. My emotions are settling from the frustrations I felt 2 weeks ago, but it's rather challenging to continue on this pace to solve work issues and also see ministry go on at a listless pace. Such is the annoyance that I feel everytime I see people not pulling their weight, or not even moving at a pace that I feel they should.
One thing that propels me on and on all the time is the need to continue working. Not just work, but actually more on the things of God. I would burn myself up just to take on more responsibilities if I feel no one is going to do it. In the past weeks, I've actually wondered if I'm reaching burn out pace, but somehow, I'm grateful on how God's provision is for me to have a day or sometimes hours where I can stone (like now) and resolve admin matters that keep my sanity.
Tonight would mark something special because I'm invited to share in the discovery ranger's camp services. For 3 sessions I would be required to share a message and conduct personal ministry. Gosh, I'm excited as well as super nervous about it because I'm no licensed minister nor am I an experienced speaker. Sure, I can teach and conduct lessons, but....
Well, how this will turn out will be anyone's guess and I'm going there to do what I believe I'm asked to do. I took up this invite simply because I knew it was right for me to, and I also believe that the hours that we have in life should be dedicated in continuous building of the house of God - that it would bring Him glory.
May the hours you live be spent on meaningful works on God.
M.
21 October 2013
God, not man
Hosea 11: 9
I will not execute my fierce anger, I will not again destroy Ephraim; for I am God and not man, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come to destroy.
These past weeks is budget planning week and when I'm faced with what I deem to be sheer stupidity, I get really upset. It didn't help that on one day, one colleague of another colleague had blatently said something untrue of me to management and I was outraged.
When I'm upset and angry at work, it is as if a volcano has exploded because I make it very obvious. I'm not one who forgets and forgives easily and if I could have my way, I would steamroll over people who offend me.
I'm also one who believes in logic and consequences, and that is where today's verse hit me because I often wonder why God does or does not do things accordingly.
The truth is, when I read the verse "I am God and not man", it made me really assured that God is God and not of the behaviour nor logic of man. If not for this fact, we could be dealing with a punishment in most situation or an unceasing rage.
I'm grateful when I consider how God's sovereignty and plans for us is always covered with a inexplicable love that translates to grace for us. For the times we disobey, or do nothing that pleases Him, He still loves us and never can bring Himself to destroy us - even if we deserve it.
This is God, one of grace and agape love and bigger than my imagination.
M.
I will not execute my fierce anger, I will not again destroy Ephraim; for I am God and not man, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come to destroy.
These past weeks is budget planning week and when I'm faced with what I deem to be sheer stupidity, I get really upset. It didn't help that on one day, one colleague of another colleague had blatently said something untrue of me to management and I was outraged.
When I'm upset and angry at work, it is as if a volcano has exploded because I make it very obvious. I'm not one who forgets and forgives easily and if I could have my way, I would steamroll over people who offend me.
I'm also one who believes in logic and consequences, and that is where today's verse hit me because I often wonder why God does or does not do things accordingly.
The truth is, when I read the verse "I am God and not man", it made me really assured that God is God and not of the behaviour nor logic of man. If not for this fact, we could be dealing with a punishment in most situation or an unceasing rage.
I'm grateful when I consider how God's sovereignty and plans for us is always covered with a inexplicable love that translates to grace for us. For the times we disobey, or do nothing that pleases Him, He still loves us and never can bring Himself to destroy us - even if we deserve it.
This is God, one of grace and agape love and bigger than my imagination.
M.
14 October 2013
Listening to advice
Proverbs 12:15
The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
I meet up youths and young adults and I'm blessed to have a few who are always open to listen to me, even if it seems that I've always something to lecture them about.
It's difficult enough to have to go through issues, but to have someone tell you what to do, why you need to stop doing or draw out points to correct - that is a pain. So, I often wonder why the few that I oversee would always stick around to be corrected. Afterall, they are young, and the young will always make mistakes.
For every one of those whom I have who listen to me, I'm blessed because I see in them the willingness to change for the better. I don't proclaim to have all the answers that they would need, but at least they know I tell them what I know to guide in the best I can. For such like these, the bible records them to be wise.
Those, however, who would not want to be corrected live because they feel that there's noone who is allowed to speak into their lives. They are called fools because life comprises more than our own ideals and plans.
Listen to advice from those who love us and who we view as godly, because it profits us much to heed their instructions which are meant to keep us from harm and pitfalls.
M.
The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.
I meet up youths and young adults and I'm blessed to have a few who are always open to listen to me, even if it seems that I've always something to lecture them about.
It's difficult enough to have to go through issues, but to have someone tell you what to do, why you need to stop doing or draw out points to correct - that is a pain. So, I often wonder why the few that I oversee would always stick around to be corrected. Afterall, they are young, and the young will always make mistakes.
For every one of those whom I have who listen to me, I'm blessed because I see in them the willingness to change for the better. I don't proclaim to have all the answers that they would need, but at least they know I tell them what I know to guide in the best I can. For such like these, the bible records them to be wise.
Those, however, who would not want to be corrected live because they feel that there's noone who is allowed to speak into their lives. They are called fools because life comprises more than our own ideals and plans.
Listen to advice from those who love us and who we view as godly, because it profits us much to heed their instructions which are meant to keep us from harm and pitfalls.
M.
09 October 2013
To know the heart and mind of God
1 Samuel 2:35
I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind. I will firmly establish his priestly house, and they will minister before my anointed one always.
This verse jumped at me some 2 weeks ago and I've been sharing it on occasions. It is important to me because I claim this truth that God will raise for Himself faithful people who will do according to what is in His heart and mind.
The heart and mind are always different. To know the heart is to understand the emotions, to know the mind is to understand the logic. Often we have a situation where the feelings of our heart is tangent to the logic flow of the mind. Yet, this person/people that God will raise up will be one who knows the heart and mind of God and will do accordingly. What a powerful life such an individual will live.
The fact that God will raise up such people is a promise to claim, work at so we can receive.
M.
I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind. I will firmly establish his priestly house, and they will minister before my anointed one always.
This verse jumped at me some 2 weeks ago and I've been sharing it on occasions. It is important to me because I claim this truth that God will raise for Himself faithful people who will do according to what is in His heart and mind.
The heart and mind are always different. To know the heart is to understand the emotions, to know the mind is to understand the logic. Often we have a situation where the feelings of our heart is tangent to the logic flow of the mind. Yet, this person/people that God will raise up will be one who knows the heart and mind of God and will do accordingly. What a powerful life such an individual will live.
The fact that God will raise up such people is a promise to claim, work at so we can receive.
M.
23 September 2013
Still confident in God?
Psalms 27:13
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
As this verse stares at me in the desktop calendar of my office, the word "still confident" pops out at me. Something about it speaks to me because it reaches into the past weeks of my inner recesses of my being.
Everything I view gets clouded and more challenging when I review how things are in the natural. Problems are always compounded, issues never seem to be resolved and nothing ever seems hopeful when we look at the details that always point to a losing battle and a sucky life.
But today, I'm reminded that my perspectives in the past weeks have been rather clouded by what I feel. The confidence I should have must always be there because God is always in control. I cannot just say confidence is always with me, but I need to re-instruct myself again and again to see God above my perspectives. Only then can I be still confident to see the goodness of the Lord.
M.
I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
As this verse stares at me in the desktop calendar of my office, the word "still confident" pops out at me. Something about it speaks to me because it reaches into the past weeks of my inner recesses of my being.
Everything I view gets clouded and more challenging when I review how things are in the natural. Problems are always compounded, issues never seem to be resolved and nothing ever seems hopeful when we look at the details that always point to a losing battle and a sucky life.
But today, I'm reminded that my perspectives in the past weeks have been rather clouded by what I feel. The confidence I should have must always be there because God is always in control. I cannot just say confidence is always with me, but I need to re-instruct myself again and again to see God above my perspectives. Only then can I be still confident to see the goodness of the Lord.
M.
13 September 2013
Leaving. Why not me?
Genesis 12:1
The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.
Just a week ago, as I was overseas with Kevin, envy struck me because I had desired to move overseas like him but I never got my chance to and what hit harder was during my stay in the luxury of an apartment of an acquaintance who obtained an expat package for a new job offer. They never aimed for such an opportunity, but with how things turned out, they moved when the offer came to explore new grounds.
It's pretty ironic to me that 2 of my ex-rangers who do not have a penchant to travel overseas in the past, have instead been posted overseas because of their job. Meanwhile, I who always wanted to leave the country and work overseas, have not seen that dream come to pass.
Still, what happens to each of us is amazing. It's about moving out of your comfort zone because God directs you. In my case, it is about staying in a discomfort zone because God says so.
When God had spoken to Abram, it was a challenge for him to leave in faith and he did. I stayed in faith because I heard God. It's never about yourselves or the world would have consumed us. I know if I insisted on leaving on my terms, I would likely never turn back and also, I may have well turned my back on God eventually.
For whatever reasons that He brings people out, or keeps them. He will show his purpose and they will always be the best plans He has for us. So, don't run away from God, or elect to take His directions for your life lightly.
M.
The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.
Just a week ago, as I was overseas with Kevin, envy struck me because I had desired to move overseas like him but I never got my chance to and what hit harder was during my stay in the luxury of an apartment of an acquaintance who obtained an expat package for a new job offer. They never aimed for such an opportunity, but with how things turned out, they moved when the offer came to explore new grounds.
It's pretty ironic to me that 2 of my ex-rangers who do not have a penchant to travel overseas in the past, have instead been posted overseas because of their job. Meanwhile, I who always wanted to leave the country and work overseas, have not seen that dream come to pass.
Still, what happens to each of us is amazing. It's about moving out of your comfort zone because God directs you. In my case, it is about staying in a discomfort zone because God says so.
When God had spoken to Abram, it was a challenge for him to leave in faith and he did. I stayed in faith because I heard God. It's never about yourselves or the world would have consumed us. I know if I insisted on leaving on my terms, I would likely never turn back and also, I may have well turned my back on God eventually.
For whatever reasons that He brings people out, or keeps them. He will show his purpose and they will always be the best plans He has for us. So, don't run away from God, or elect to take His directions for your life lightly.
M.
26 August 2013
A man equivalent to 100
Judges 7:3 & 7
Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained....The Lord said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.”
In a few of my meeting with the national staff, we have talked about this passage and how it often applies when we review how many who have been raised often do not materialise to be a mighty army. The painful fact is that many are available but only a portion are willing to stay, yet within this only a fraction would be ready for God's use.
It does pain my heart to acknowledge the fact that a small percent of the initial conscript will eventually be ready for that day of victorious battle. More so because I've been witnessing a fair bit of high-potential individual drop off the as the days, months and years pass. Will no one remain eventually?
Yet, the battle Gideon had was won with 300 men. A o.oo9% of the original conscript size. In the eyes of man, it must be insane to go to war with such a small team, no matter of elite they could be. However, God would not share His glory and have Israel boasts of its own might. So as we all know of it, the God used the 300 men to route the Midianites.
What does it take to prepare a man who will be one of the 300 ready warriors whom God will call to battle? I take this seriously because I know that a godly-ready man is worth his equivalent to one hundred available ones that God would not deem ready for use.
Honestly, I always wonder how many whom I have the opportunity to teach would still remain on to serve God in steadfastness and be liken to the 300 that God will select to bring Him glory. This is not for me to select, nor for me to take glory that I've raised a person equivalent to a hundred man. But I do think it is important to have high standards in whatever we do for God. If this means we've to ready the people under us and invest what we can so they can be of use when the call is sound, then let us do it.
M.
Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained....The Lord said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.”
In a few of my meeting with the national staff, we have talked about this passage and how it often applies when we review how many who have been raised often do not materialise to be a mighty army. The painful fact is that many are available but only a portion are willing to stay, yet within this only a fraction would be ready for God's use.
It does pain my heart to acknowledge the fact that a small percent of the initial conscript will eventually be ready for that day of victorious battle. More so because I've been witnessing a fair bit of high-potential individual drop off the as the days, months and years pass. Will no one remain eventually?
Yet, the battle Gideon had was won with 300 men. A o.oo9% of the original conscript size. In the eyes of man, it must be insane to go to war with such a small team, no matter of elite they could be. However, God would not share His glory and have Israel boasts of its own might. So as we all know of it, the God used the 300 men to route the Midianites.
What does it take to prepare a man who will be one of the 300 ready warriors whom God will call to battle? I take this seriously because I know that a godly-ready man is worth his equivalent to one hundred available ones that God would not deem ready for use.
Honestly, I always wonder how many whom I have the opportunity to teach would still remain on to serve God in steadfastness and be liken to the 300 that God will select to bring Him glory. This is not for me to select, nor for me to take glory that I've raised a person equivalent to a hundred man. But I do think it is important to have high standards in whatever we do for God. If this means we've to ready the people under us and invest what we can so they can be of use when the call is sound, then let us do it.
M.
13 August 2013
The spoken words
Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
I'm known to be frank and often very loose tongued. I may not curse vulgarities, but to spew insults or sharp statements is something I do easily.
Spending the last week in the NTC as staff, and now that I'm back home in reflection mode, I'm thankful for the internal struggles I have in the last week when I held back my sarcastic comments that I would have spewed to the trainees in my younger days.
What we say verbally is amazing because it can melt a heart or break it. A good reminder as I slowly age and attempt to be wiser.
M.
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
I'm known to be frank and often very loose tongued. I may not curse vulgarities, but to spew insults or sharp statements is something I do easily.
Spending the last week in the NTC as staff, and now that I'm back home in reflection mode, I'm thankful for the internal struggles I have in the last week when I held back my sarcastic comments that I would have spewed to the trainees in my younger days.
What we say verbally is amazing because it can melt a heart or break it. A good reminder as I slowly age and attempt to be wiser.
M.
21 June 2013
Divine power given to us
2 Peter 1:2-3
Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
One of the most amazing sights that I observed in my holidays in Switzerland is to witness trees growing in the tall peaks of the mountains. Many of which are resting on the sharp edges of the sides of the cliff and even on the crevices which seem to defy gravity.
It's really mind blowing to stare at the shoots amidst the rugged mountainous terrain and wonder how the trees will survive. Yet, many do because there is so many trees that seem to stand the test of time.
Like these little shoots that grow into trees even in the worst of physical terrain, we need to recognise that God's divine power has the ability to give us everything we need for a godly life in the difficulties that we face in the world.
M.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
One of the most amazing sights that I observed in my holidays in Switzerland is to witness trees growing in the tall peaks of the mountains. Many of which are resting on the sharp edges of the sides of the cliff and even on the crevices which seem to defy gravity.
It's really mind blowing to stare at the shoots amidst the rugged mountainous terrain and wonder how the trees will survive. Yet, many do because there is so many trees that seem to stand the test of time.
Like these little shoots that grow into trees even in the worst of physical terrain, we need to recognise that God's divine power has the ability to give us everything we need for a godly life in the difficulties that we face in the world.
M.
24 May 2013
In loving memory of Evelyn Leong Wai Lin
Exodus 15:13
In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling.
It is with great sadness that I hear of the news of a fellow commander who departed us after a 1 1/2 year battle with Lymphoma on 4:30pm of 24 May 2013. The feeling is heavy because of the courage and fighting spirit that she possessed throughout the arduous journey and more so when she recovered briefly to come back into the ministry to help out in this year's youth leadership camp, in-spite of the fact that there was a risk of infection and she still wasn't in her full strength.
How many would have stopped doing what she did in her condition, but her heart was always to serve. How grateful I am to be able to have the chance for her to be there in this last camporama and youth leadership camp.
Evelyn was one feisty character with a similar nature to mine. When we first met, I recall the sharp tongue of hers and insistence of getting things met her way. How very like me! But instead of repelling off each other like most situations where people of similar feisty nature, we ended up as kindred spirits when it came to matters of getting things done in a administrative efficiencies.
It is very heartbreaking to constantly lose friends in life who live with so much zest and contribute so much more than the others who amble on aimlessly or walk with downtrodden paths. I sometimes wonder why God takes them back instead of the many who waste their lives away or those who don't even seem to contribute much. Surely, the precious time given to the productive would reap more than that given to those who do not live to redeem their time. But, that is where God is above all and in my saddened condition, I have also recognised that this time we possess is but temporary and to be lead to heaven is indeed a better option.
Time will go on, memories will slowly fade from a sharp remembrance to a mellow forgetfulness. Evelyn, you are missed greatly and will be every time we meet to organised camp, there will be a gap that you have left behind. Yet, I must also remember that every one that goes before me in heaven is only a forerunner whom I must someday meet.
For everyone that departs before me is a reminder to live my time on earth well and responsibly. I owe it to them and God to live righteously and be accountable for the added time placed in my hands.
With tears and my love, thanks for every sharp witty comment and laughter that you brought my dear commander Evelyn. You are deeply missed.
M.
In your unfailing love you will lead the people you have redeemed. In your strength you will guide them to your holy dwelling.
It is with great sadness that I hear of the news of a fellow commander who departed us after a 1 1/2 year battle with Lymphoma on 4:30pm of 24 May 2013. The feeling is heavy because of the courage and fighting spirit that she possessed throughout the arduous journey and more so when she recovered briefly to come back into the ministry to help out in this year's youth leadership camp, in-spite of the fact that there was a risk of infection and she still wasn't in her full strength.
How many would have stopped doing what she did in her condition, but her heart was always to serve. How grateful I am to be able to have the chance for her to be there in this last camporama and youth leadership camp.
Evelyn was one feisty character with a similar nature to mine. When we first met, I recall the sharp tongue of hers and insistence of getting things met her way. How very like me! But instead of repelling off each other like most situations where people of similar feisty nature, we ended up as kindred spirits when it came to matters of getting things done in a administrative efficiencies.
It is very heartbreaking to constantly lose friends in life who live with so much zest and contribute so much more than the others who amble on aimlessly or walk with downtrodden paths. I sometimes wonder why God takes them back instead of the many who waste their lives away or those who don't even seem to contribute much. Surely, the precious time given to the productive would reap more than that given to those who do not live to redeem their time. But, that is where God is above all and in my saddened condition, I have also recognised that this time we possess is but temporary and to be lead to heaven is indeed a better option.
Time will go on, memories will slowly fade from a sharp remembrance to a mellow forgetfulness. Evelyn, you are missed greatly and will be every time we meet to organised camp, there will be a gap that you have left behind. Yet, I must also remember that every one that goes before me in heaven is only a forerunner whom I must someday meet.
For everyone that departs before me is a reminder to live my time on earth well and responsibly. I owe it to them and God to live righteously and be accountable for the added time placed in my hands.
With tears and my love, thanks for every sharp witty comment and laughter that you brought my dear commander Evelyn. You are deeply missed.
M.
21 May 2013
Focus on fighting for something positive and redemptive
Romans 15:5-6
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A post from Dr Tim Elmore raised this point that we are prone to fall at the very thing we try to do to help others avoid
"What is it that makes us so prone to fail at the very thing we try to help others avoid or overcome? Have you noticed this? Leaders, including myself, can be vulnerable to submit to temptation, moral failure and even crimes…and not just any crimes or failures…but ones that revolve around an area we’ve studied, experienced, focused on and become preoccupied with. So strange. "
He raised the key point of the need to be conscious and alert if our job focuses on fighting against something negative and doesn’t include fighting for something positive and redemptive. Medically, it can be linked to our Reticular Activating System, in the back of our brains. Our R.A.S. has one primary function: to cause us to move in the direction of the dominant thought of the moment.
This is how it is described in a document which explains how the RAS works in psycho-cybernetics:
"There are some interesting points about your RAS that make it an essential tool for achieving goals.
First, you can deliberately program the reticular activating system by choosing the exact messages you send from your consicous mind. For example, you can set goals, or say affirmations, or visualize your goals. Napoleon Hill said that we can achieve any realistic goal if we keep on thinking of that goal, and stop thinking any negative thoughts about it. Of course, if we keep thinking that we can't achieve a goal, our subconscious will help us NOT achieve it.
Second, your reticular activating system cannot distinguish between 'real events' and 'synthetic' reality. In other words it tends to believe whatever message you give it. Imagine that you're going to be giving a speech. You can practice giving that speech by visualizing it in your mind. This 'pretend' practice should improve your ability to give the speech.
What we need to do is to create a very specific picture of our goal in our conscious mind. The RAS will then pass this on to our subconscious - which will then help us achieve the goal. It does this by bringing to our attention all the relevant information which otherwise might have remained as 'background noise'."
The key bit I believe is really how Dr Elmore and this last paragraph above states, that we have to ensure that we create a positive specific target that we focus our life and mission on, but it should most importantly be a positive God centric thought- not just that of a crime-ridding crusader. If our dominant thought in life is just fighting against the bad stuff, what we focus on will sure get our attention and eventually move us to action and we may well fall into the same sin of what we fight against because we become so entrenched in everything about it.
To prevent us from also falling into the same trap of sin and corruption that we fight against, we need to recognise a need to shift our focus on the positive redemptive work of Christ and be preoccupied with something good to replace the wrong. So, if our goal is to glorify the Father, our RAS will make us function to amend all that is wrong to achieve that goal. (May sound complex and confusing but I'm simplifying it to focus on God's redemption, than to be a sin changer)
What is your dominant thought of the moment?
M.
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A post from Dr Tim Elmore raised this point that we are prone to fall at the very thing we try to do to help others avoid
"What is it that makes us so prone to fail at the very thing we try to help others avoid or overcome? Have you noticed this? Leaders, including myself, can be vulnerable to submit to temptation, moral failure and even crimes…and not just any crimes or failures…but ones that revolve around an area we’ve studied, experienced, focused on and become preoccupied with. So strange. "
He raised the key point of the need to be conscious and alert if our job focuses on fighting against something negative and doesn’t include fighting for something positive and redemptive. Medically, it can be linked to our Reticular Activating System, in the back of our brains. Our R.A.S. has one primary function: to cause us to move in the direction of the dominant thought of the moment.
This is how it is described in a document which explains how the RAS works in psycho-cybernetics:
"There are some interesting points about your RAS that make it an essential tool for achieving goals.
First, you can deliberately program the reticular activating system by choosing the exact messages you send from your consicous mind. For example, you can set goals, or say affirmations, or visualize your goals. Napoleon Hill said that we can achieve any realistic goal if we keep on thinking of that goal, and stop thinking any negative thoughts about it. Of course, if we keep thinking that we can't achieve a goal, our subconscious will help us NOT achieve it.
Second, your reticular activating system cannot distinguish between 'real events' and 'synthetic' reality. In other words it tends to believe whatever message you give it. Imagine that you're going to be giving a speech. You can practice giving that speech by visualizing it in your mind. This 'pretend' practice should improve your ability to give the speech.
What we need to do is to create a very specific picture of our goal in our conscious mind. The RAS will then pass this on to our subconscious - which will then help us achieve the goal. It does this by bringing to our attention all the relevant information which otherwise might have remained as 'background noise'."
The key bit I believe is really how Dr Elmore and this last paragraph above states, that we have to ensure that we create a positive specific target that we focus our life and mission on, but it should most importantly be a positive God centric thought- not just that of a crime-ridding crusader. If our dominant thought in life is just fighting against the bad stuff, what we focus on will sure get our attention and eventually move us to action and we may well fall into the same sin of what we fight against because we become so entrenched in everything about it.
To prevent us from also falling into the same trap of sin and corruption that we fight against, we need to recognise a need to shift our focus on the positive redemptive work of Christ and be preoccupied with something good to replace the wrong. So, if our goal is to glorify the Father, our RAS will make us function to amend all that is wrong to achieve that goal. (May sound complex and confusing but I'm simplifying it to focus on God's redemption, than to be a sin changer)
What is your dominant thought of the moment?
M.
06 May 2013
I have no life
Job 22:2
Can a man be of benefit to God? Can even a wise person benefit him?
Over the weekend, I wanted to head out to Isetan to review the luggage that was available for sale. However I wasn't to because by the time I got out of my morning lazing moment, when the clock struck noon it was another typical weekend which was packed with meetings and serving in the ministeries. It was already a feat to have been able to squeeze in the chance to trade-in my old digital camera for a new model.
On sunday, before I headed off to church, I realised that I didn't have time to shop for the luggage as it would be a packed back-to-back program. True enough, by the time my last meeting ended, it was 9:15pm and time to eat a late dinner.
Truth be told, I sometimes tell myself that I seem to have no life on the weekend. While the average joe is busy doing weekend stuff to relax from the work days, I'm actually busy working or sometimes I tell myself working to be busy.
I'm not sure if I would have bought the luggage if I had the chance, because I would have like to upgrade the old luggage of 18 years. I would sometime just want to have tons of time time to aimlessly do stuff, but I know myself, and too much personal time would have made me do nothing. I am a task oriented character who sometimes feel that I do stuff to exist and be important.
The beauty of introspective days, and to chance up the scripture like the above, is to set in place the importance of ourselves. We are of no benefit to God and woe to us if we dare think that we are the ones who are of absolute importance to be the ones to do the deeds of God.
I may think I have little life on a weekend, but I must remember that God is above all of my sense of importance and the time of my being.
M.
Can a man be of benefit to God? Can even a wise person benefit him?
Over the weekend, I wanted to head out to Isetan to review the luggage that was available for sale. However I wasn't to because by the time I got out of my morning lazing moment, when the clock struck noon it was another typical weekend which was packed with meetings and serving in the ministeries. It was already a feat to have been able to squeeze in the chance to trade-in my old digital camera for a new model.
On sunday, before I headed off to church, I realised that I didn't have time to shop for the luggage as it would be a packed back-to-back program. True enough, by the time my last meeting ended, it was 9:15pm and time to eat a late dinner.
Truth be told, I sometimes tell myself that I seem to have no life on the weekend. While the average joe is busy doing weekend stuff to relax from the work days, I'm actually busy working or sometimes I tell myself working to be busy.
I'm not sure if I would have bought the luggage if I had the chance, because I would have like to upgrade the old luggage of 18 years. I would sometime just want to have tons of time time to aimlessly do stuff, but I know myself, and too much personal time would have made me do nothing. I am a task oriented character who sometimes feel that I do stuff to exist and be important.
The beauty of introspective days, and to chance up the scripture like the above, is to set in place the importance of ourselves. We are of no benefit to God and woe to us if we dare think that we are the ones who are of absolute importance to be the ones to do the deeds of God.
I may think I have little life on a weekend, but I must remember that God is above all of my sense of importance and the time of my being.
M.
29 April 2013
God of the valleys
1 Kings 20:23
Then the servants of the king of Syria said to him, “Their gods are gods of the hills. Therefore they were stronger than we; but if we fight against them in the plain, surely we will be stronger than they.
I read this in a e-devotion and was so encouraged to be reminded that even in our valley seasons, God is there for us to have victory.
Sometimes we just need to be refreshed by the living truth found in God's word. However awful the season, however low and doubtful we can be, we need to be reassured that God isn't away from us in the lows of life.
Why are we in the lows, I cannot explain. What I can take faith is He's the lord of the rain as much as He's the lord of the sunshine and that itself is why we need to tell ourselves in simple faith, even if we beat ourselves for our negative doubts, that God never leaves us. We may be unfaithful, but He will never be. That's why He's full of grace beyond our understanding.
Take heart, strength for the lows of your journey is always provided by the God of the hills and valleys.
blessings,
M.
Then the servants of the king of Syria said to him, “Their gods are gods of the hills. Therefore they were stronger than we; but if we fight against them in the plain, surely we will be stronger than they.
I read this in a e-devotion and was so encouraged to be reminded that even in our valley seasons, God is there for us to have victory.
Sometimes we just need to be refreshed by the living truth found in God's word. However awful the season, however low and doubtful we can be, we need to be reassured that God isn't away from us in the lows of life.
Why are we in the lows, I cannot explain. What I can take faith is He's the lord of the rain as much as He's the lord of the sunshine and that itself is why we need to tell ourselves in simple faith, even if we beat ourselves for our negative doubts, that God never leaves us. We may be unfaithful, but He will never be. That's why He's full of grace beyond our understanding.
Take heart, strength for the lows of your journey is always provided by the God of the hills and valleys.
blessings,
M.
15 April 2013
We're valued
Matthew 6:26
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Life is a constant worry.
I cannot state how I'm always worried and concerned for others. I may not show it, but as age catches up, I do spend more time thinking about others now that I'm stable in my career and work. For others I know, they are worrying about medical health, changing jobs or even work issues.
As I walked to work today, I walked pass a small mynah who didn't fly away even though I was just stepping beside. That got me thinking because my mind was just thinking of a couple of individuals whom I've not heard from and my mind was racing with worries.
For such a time like this, I'm grateful that God values those I think about more than the birds that he feeds. It may sound silly, but I sometimes feel that I need to move the hand of God and imagine His passively not doing anything for those who are so distanced from God. Yet, this could not be further from the truth of who God is and how He is more concerned and involved than I am.
So into God's hand, I hand my worries over and claim a promise of restoration over those I think about much.
M.
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Life is a constant worry.
I cannot state how I'm always worried and concerned for others. I may not show it, but as age catches up, I do spend more time thinking about others now that I'm stable in my career and work. For others I know, they are worrying about medical health, changing jobs or even work issues.
As I walked to work today, I walked pass a small mynah who didn't fly away even though I was just stepping beside. That got me thinking because my mind was just thinking of a couple of individuals whom I've not heard from and my mind was racing with worries.
For such a time like this, I'm grateful that God values those I think about more than the birds that he feeds. It may sound silly, but I sometimes feel that I need to move the hand of God and imagine His passively not doing anything for those who are so distanced from God. Yet, this could not be further from the truth of who God is and how He is more concerned and involved than I am.
So into God's hand, I hand my worries over and claim a promise of restoration over those I think about much.
M.
09 April 2013
Do you see Him as Lord
Mark 10:17
As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
The rich young man was to many, one who failed to give all he had to God. What I found interesting was how he only saw Jesus as a good teacher.
Scholars have recognised that the rich young man recognizes that Jesus speaks with authority when preaching. This young person did not come upon Jesus; rather he ran to Jesus giving homage by falling to his knees, and addressing Jesus as teacher.
The fact of the matter is, even though the young man fell on his knees and recognised Jesus authority in preaching, he doesn't see Him as Lord of his life. Thus, he found it hard to give up his life's entitlement when Jesus challenged him to sell everything he had to follow Christ.
What about you? Is your relationship with God based on a learning perspective, convenience or great experiences only? Will you willingly give up the rights of your life just to follow Christ. It may sound extremist, but He's not asking you to be homeless, starving or fanatical. The plans of God when we surrender the rights to our life is for us to live for His glory.
What will you willingly do to inherit eternal life?
M.
As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
The rich young man was to many, one who failed to give all he had to God. What I found interesting was how he only saw Jesus as a good teacher.
Scholars have recognised that the rich young man recognizes that Jesus speaks with authority when preaching. This young person did not come upon Jesus; rather he ran to Jesus giving homage by falling to his knees, and addressing Jesus as teacher.
The fact of the matter is, even though the young man fell on his knees and recognised Jesus authority in preaching, he doesn't see Him as Lord of his life. Thus, he found it hard to give up his life's entitlement when Jesus challenged him to sell everything he had to follow Christ.
What about you? Is your relationship with God based on a learning perspective, convenience or great experiences only? Will you willingly give up the rights of your life just to follow Christ. It may sound extremist, but He's not asking you to be homeless, starving or fanatical. The plans of God when we surrender the rights to our life is for us to live for His glory.
What will you willingly do to inherit eternal life?
M.
01 April 2013
He is risen indeed
Luke 24:34
"Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon."
Historians tell us that the early Christians used to greet each other with the standard greeting of "He is risen, He is risen indeed". This was an encouragement of the glorious fact that Jesus rose from the dead and a living hope to them.
What is significant of this passage is the fact that Jesus had appeared to Simon Peter first, before he did to any of the other disciples - even before John the beloved. Simon Peter was one of the first disciple and was in the inner circle of Christ. However, he was also the one who denied Christ and was likely to be in great guilt for all he had done to turn away as Christ was persecuted. So imagine all his feelings when the resurrected Christ appears to him. I can imagine him wanting to run away, yet also being unable to do anything but to crumble before Christ because of the unfailing love that he would have felt.
Shame and guilt are terrible emotions which makes us shrink away from everyone, even those who we know care for us. But such is the loving nature of Christ, who loves us despite His nature to hate sins. He will never shirk away from us and would do His utmost to always reach out to us, even if it needs Him to appear before us to testify of His love.
I can never fully grasp the amazing grace and goodness of God because He always demonstrates the supernatural ability to step forward to us and tell us of His unfailing love for us, even when we think we should be beating ourselves down and hiding away. This, however, is the unmerited grace that God grants because of His agape love for us, His creation.
This easter weekend, may we encounter Christ's appearance in our lives as Simon Peter did, because He loves us too much.
M.
"Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon."
Historians tell us that the early Christians used to greet each other with the standard greeting of "He is risen, He is risen indeed". This was an encouragement of the glorious fact that Jesus rose from the dead and a living hope to them.
What is significant of this passage is the fact that Jesus had appeared to Simon Peter first, before he did to any of the other disciples - even before John the beloved. Simon Peter was one of the first disciple and was in the inner circle of Christ. However, he was also the one who denied Christ and was likely to be in great guilt for all he had done to turn away as Christ was persecuted. So imagine all his feelings when the resurrected Christ appears to him. I can imagine him wanting to run away, yet also being unable to do anything but to crumble before Christ because of the unfailing love that he would have felt.
Shame and guilt are terrible emotions which makes us shrink away from everyone, even those who we know care for us. But such is the loving nature of Christ, who loves us despite His nature to hate sins. He will never shirk away from us and would do His utmost to always reach out to us, even if it needs Him to appear before us to testify of His love.
I can never fully grasp the amazing grace and goodness of God because He always demonstrates the supernatural ability to step forward to us and tell us of His unfailing love for us, even when we think we should be beating ourselves down and hiding away. This, however, is the unmerited grace that God grants because of His agape love for us, His creation.
This easter weekend, may we encounter Christ's appearance in our lives as Simon Peter did, because He loves us too much.
M.
14 March 2013
Reopening the wells of your life
Genesis 26:18
Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the time of his father Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham died, and he gave them the same names his father had given them.
At every demise of someone younger, it always makes everyone who knows the departed sit up to reflect about life.
Attending one night of Hui Xuan's funeral was a very heartbreaking moment for many. As you witness the passing of a young, intelligent girl made many feel that she seemed robbed of her days, having gone so early when all others are given years more to live their life. Some may feel that she passed away without living through a full life of a ripe-old-age. Yet the undeniable truth is she passed away having left on a great legacy and a life well lived, even in the short 10+ years that she had.
The fact of the matter is we'll all die someday. Some live really short lives, others average and still others long lives. Being human, we fear death and just want to avoid having to live a short life. The importance, however,is how good was the quality lived and if it was of purpose.
Why are some of us blessed with more days than those who are called back at a young age? Compared to many young kids who passed away, what are you doing with the added days of your life.
Well in dry and arid land bring water to the thirsty and life to man and their animals. The enemies of past would often destroy these well by choking it with stones, dirt and pollutants such that the water could not be reached and be polluted andundrinkable. To reopen the well would often take much effort as one painstakingly clear the blockage, flush out the old waters and redig into deeper depth. Some may find it easier to dig another well rather than to restore an old blocked well. Most would find it too painful and tough to redig and would simply abandon it, leaving to find somewhere else to settle - sadly, abandoning the land of their inheritance.
Just like the verse above, God has a habit of giving many chances to us. Like Isaac who reopened the closed wells of his father, God is in the business of giving us opportunities to reopen our lives and make it alive again. Some of us may have allowed life to choke us of our God-given calling, others may have allowed the devil to block up that which is to make us live righteously. Gifts, calling, dreams, prophesies and promises could all be abandoned like blocked, forgotten wells.
Yet, God can and will reopen those wells. He'll also rename them as they were originally. A restoration of life that is meant to realign all that is good and purposeful in the days that you live for Him, and Him alone.
You who have more days of life than those like Hui Xuan. What are you doing with the added days of life given to you? May you allow God to reopen that which no longer possess life, that your life would flourish with fresh springs of water and be a mighty blessing to all who come your way. Live well and end well.
Blessings,
M.
Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug in the time of his father Abraham, which the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham died, and he gave them the same names his father had given them.
At every demise of someone younger, it always makes everyone who knows the departed sit up to reflect about life.
Attending one night of Hui Xuan's funeral was a very heartbreaking moment for many. As you witness the passing of a young, intelligent girl made many feel that she seemed robbed of her days, having gone so early when all others are given years more to live their life. Some may feel that she passed away without living through a full life of a ripe-old-age. Yet the undeniable truth is she passed away having left on a great legacy and a life well lived, even in the short 10+ years that she had.
The fact of the matter is we'll all die someday. Some live really short lives, others average and still others long lives. Being human, we fear death and just want to avoid having to live a short life. The importance, however,is how good was the quality lived and if it was of purpose.
Why are some of us blessed with more days than those who are called back at a young age? Compared to many young kids who passed away, what are you doing with the added days of your life.
Well in dry and arid land bring water to the thirsty and life to man and their animals. The enemies of past would often destroy these well by choking it with stones, dirt and pollutants such that the water could not be reached and be polluted andundrinkable. To reopen the well would often take much effort as one painstakingly clear the blockage, flush out the old waters and redig into deeper depth. Some may find it easier to dig another well rather than to restore an old blocked well. Most would find it too painful and tough to redig and would simply abandon it, leaving to find somewhere else to settle - sadly, abandoning the land of their inheritance.
Just like the verse above, God has a habit of giving many chances to us. Like Isaac who reopened the closed wells of his father, God is in the business of giving us opportunities to reopen our lives and make it alive again. Some of us may have allowed life to choke us of our God-given calling, others may have allowed the devil to block up that which is to make us live righteously. Gifts, calling, dreams, prophesies and promises could all be abandoned like blocked, forgotten wells.
Yet, God can and will reopen those wells. He'll also rename them as they were originally. A restoration of life that is meant to realign all that is good and purposeful in the days that you live for Him, and Him alone.
You who have more days of life than those like Hui Xuan. What are you doing with the added days of life given to you? May you allow God to reopen that which no longer possess life, that your life would flourish with fresh springs of water and be a mighty blessing to all who come your way. Live well and end well.
Blessings,
M.
27 February 2013
In loving memory of Oh Hui Xuan
Genesis 2:1
Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.
As I woke up this morning in Shanghai, I received a message informing me of the passing of a 11 year old AR girl.
It breaks my heart to know that she is no longer with us. She had battled with brain cancer and throughout the illness, she had endured through it all and even occasionally attended Rangers and even came for a day in Camporama 2012.
As I sullenly contemplate the shocking news of her passing, I am mindful that she's now with Jesus and yet, how sad the family must be to have her go before them.
I'm grateful to have known and taught this chatty, intelligent girl who always had something to share and talk about. Even in her illness, she would be her usual self and able to put across her voice and opinions to all.
Goodbye Hui Xuan, I shall keep precious memories of you because it must also bear witness to me to live life well. Someday, we'll meet up in heaven and all the tears of today will be forgotten.
M.
Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.
As I woke up this morning in Shanghai, I received a message informing me of the passing of a 11 year old AR girl.
It breaks my heart to know that she is no longer with us. She had battled with brain cancer and throughout the illness, she had endured through it all and even occasionally attended Rangers and even came for a day in Camporama 2012.
As I sullenly contemplate the shocking news of her passing, I am mindful that she's now with Jesus and yet, how sad the family must be to have her go before them.
I'm grateful to have known and taught this chatty, intelligent girl who always had something to share and talk about. Even in her illness, she would be her usual self and able to put across her voice and opinions to all.
Goodbye Hui Xuan, I shall keep precious memories of you because it must also bear witness to me to live life well. Someday, we'll meet up in heaven and all the tears of today will be forgotten.
M.
02 January 2013
Looking ahead
Hebrew 11:10
For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.
Faith is forward looking.
Someone shared to me today that our memories must never be greater than our dreams. How timely it is to note as we start the new year.
It is only a calendar year change, but it allows us to also recognise a ticking forward of time that must motivate us to do more to achieve the dream and goals that we are called by God to accomplish.
I dislike new energies because of a new buzz word that people adopt with every new year, just to have no consistency in following through the rest of the year. However, it's often very tough to stay steadfast in the tough seasons and emotional moments of the days, weeks and months that will come.
Abraham is an inspiring character and called the father of faith because he examplified how to live the time on earth, hanging onto the leading and promises of God till his death. even though he never received the full promises come to fulfillment, the bible says he saw them and welcomed them from a distance.
In the new year, stop staring at the back mirror of memories-good or bad. Look ahead, see what God is planning to accomplish through you and take action this year to nurture the purposes of God in your life.
M.
For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.
Faith is forward looking.
Someone shared to me today that our memories must never be greater than our dreams. How timely it is to note as we start the new year.
It is only a calendar year change, but it allows us to also recognise a ticking forward of time that must motivate us to do more to achieve the dream and goals that we are called by God to accomplish.
I dislike new energies because of a new buzz word that people adopt with every new year, just to have no consistency in following through the rest of the year. However, it's often very tough to stay steadfast in the tough seasons and emotional moments of the days, weeks and months that will come.
Abraham is an inspiring character and called the father of faith because he examplified how to live the time on earth, hanging onto the leading and promises of God till his death. even though he never received the full promises come to fulfillment, the bible says he saw them and welcomed them from a distance.
In the new year, stop staring at the back mirror of memories-good or bad. Look ahead, see what God is planning to accomplish through you and take action this year to nurture the purposes of God in your life.
M.