Thoughts on Bible Reading: Romans5 & Esther9/10 [shared by Andrew]

Good morning all!  Today's reading of Romans 5 is such a "cheem" yet rich passage. So many reassuring verses:

 V1 talks of having Peace with God through Jesus 'cos we've been justified by faith.

V3 - "suffering" produces perseverance, character and hope

V5 God's love has been poured out to our hearts by the Holy Spirit

V8 Christ died for us - demonstrating God's love for us

What stood out for me in Esther 9 was how God turned things around

 so completely for the Jews - HE IS GOD! (How can I better trust and rely on Him?)

Also inspiring for me in Esther 10 was the description of Modecai as someone who worked for the good of the people and who spoke up for their welfare. (How can I learn from Modecai's example in how I do the things I do?)

Wishing all a blessed week and may others you meet this week be blessed by you!

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Romans1 & Esther6 [shared by Andrew]

Blessed morning! Esther 6 sees the evil Haman really has things turn against him, one after another - arranged by our awesome God.

Thot: How can we better trust God to handle our enemies?  Conversely, are there things we need to change in how we treat others so that we don't end up being the "enemy" that God has to deal with?

The second half of Romans 1 (v18 onwards) talks also about a lot of the types of sin that I need to steer clear of.

Thot: How can I better utilize the Spirit's gift and the encouragement of others to better live and love as Christ. 

(Can be challenging when the coming CNY may bring up relatives with whom relations may not be the best).

Today is the day...To Cultivate Character [shared by Kyra]

Today is the day ...

to cultivate character. 

Character counts. 

Who you are speak louder than words. 

When you choose to cultivate godly character in quiet trust, you are choosing to build your life on a solid foundation. 

As you learn to value strength of  character in yourself, you will also begin to appreciate the qualities of courage, honesty, kindness, and moral strength in others.  

God rewards character, even when others do not see or appreciate.

Matthew 5:6 NIV

[6] Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

Psalm 15:1-2 NIV

[1] Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [2] The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart;

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Acts28 & Esther5 [shared by Andrew]

In Acts 28 Paul continues to be an unusual prisoner - immune to snake bite, bringing healing, being honored, technically under guard but renting his own place and preaching salvation thru Jesus "boldly and without hinderance".

Thot: How can I better follow Paul's example in bringing Christ to those around me today? (Both in action and words)

Esther 5 sees Esther being granted an audience with the king who is pleased with her. It's an exciting prequel (I ended up reading ahead) as Esther invites her arch enemy to a banquet with the King in preparation for the big reveal - a very bold and daring tactic.

Thot: How can I be more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's guidance and exercise wisdom and good judgement in the decisions I will be making today?

What would you tell The Lord in the morning [shared by Kyra]

Save this one sooo good!!!

A question to you all...what do you tell yourself every morning of each day as you start the day?

Moses would say Lord if you don't go with us or before us we ain't going nowhere.

Abraham will say the Lord will provide.

Jacob  would say I won't let go of you unless you bless me.

Samuel would say speak Lord for thy servant is listening.

David would say the Lord is my shepherd I shall not want and this is the day that the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it.

Solomon would say trust in the Lord oh my soul and lean not on your own understanding.

Isaiah would say arise and shine for your glory has come.

Jeremiah would say the Lord has plans to prosper me and not to harm or fail me.

Jabez would say oh that you may bless me and extend my horizon.

Shadrach, Misheck and Abednego would say we will not bow down but will serve the Lord.

Ezekiel would say dry bones live again.

Peter would say cast your cares upon the Lord for He cares.

Paul would say the Lord will supply all my needs and I can do all things through Christ.

**Food for thought and so adopt your morning statement of faith and speak it and meditate on in daily.

Spiritual Vitamins- Daily Prayer [shared by Angeline]

Here is Spiritual vitamin supplements that you can say it out loud on a daily basis...and slowly witness the transformation in you! [Angeline]

The Bible...God has Spoken [shared by Cheryl]

I found this useful chart to help me better understand the word of God. Hope it helps you too:) [Cheryl]

Today is the day...To Take Risk [shared by Kyra{

Today is the day ...

to take risks. 

The failure occurs only if you give up. 

The nature of risk is that failure - or seeming failure - is one of the options. 

But success is also one of the options. 

Whatever the outcome of taking a risk, you will learn something new and valuable. 

Second-guessing, trying to control outcomes, or playing it safe can be deadening to the spirit. 

Take risks, and trust God.

Go ahead and do something you want to do but are afraid to try. 

See this as a grand new adventure with God as your friend and companion along the way. 

Psalm 37:23-24 NIV

[23] The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; [24] though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

Isaiah 26:4 NIV

[4] Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.

God bless!

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Acts27 & Esther4 [shared by Andrew]

Esther 4 tells more of the terrible predicament of the Jews with a sword over their heads.

Esther seems scared but Modecai tells her that "who knows but that you may have come into your royal position for a time such as this".  Esther decides to take the personal risk and says "If I perish, I perish".

Thot: Today how can I be more sensitive to how God wants to use me (even in small things) and to better venture out in faith so that God is glorified?

Acts 27 tells of how, over a journey, Paul transforms from a prisoner of the Roman soldiers to become their leader - even getting the soldiers to cut away their lifeboat.  Only possible because of God's power.

Thot: What "lifeboat" do I need to cut away so that I can better experience the power and provision of God?

(Also notice the fasting and prayer in  both the Acts and Esther passages)

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Acts26 & Esther3 [shared by Andrew]

Today's reading of Acts 26 ends with Agrippa saying that Paul could have been set free if he had not appealed to Caesar.  

Esther 3 describes Modecai's decision not to kneel leading to the potential extermination of his entire people. 

I  wonder whether Paul and Modecai knew what they were doing. I don't think the scripture is clear about whether it was God's specific direction to make them do what they did OR it was just their own judgement / pride that led them to do things that led to more trouble and the roller coaster ride of emotions for the people.

Yet what we do know is that God is all powerful and sovereign.  Whatever the circumstances, God was and is able to make it work for Good.

Thot: How can I better submit in obedience to God's guidance today?  Responding not out of my own pride or willfulness but only at the Spirit's prompting or what i think Jesus would have done in a similar situation.

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Acts25 & Esther2 [shared by Andrew]

A trial of the innocents. Today's reading on Acts 25 describes Paul's continuing trial where accusers cannot prove their fabricated case against Him.

Made me reflect on the similarity with Jesus' own trial and that of Christians thru the ages such as Thomas Moore who was killed even though he "did none harm, said none harm and thought none harm"  

Was thinking that we each have a msg of hope, of good news and new life. Yet there will always be some who resist the light of Christ. 

Thot: How can I better live out my Christian faith today, trusting God even in the face of opposition?

What struck me about Esther 2 was also how Modecai and Esther helped each other to strengthen their positions.

Thot: how can I better support my brothers in advancing God's kingdom today?

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah12 & Acts22 [shared by Andrew]

Today Nehemiah 12 speaks of praising God and giving God his due in terms of song and tithing. 

Thot: How can I better Praise God for all that He is today?

Acts 22 sees Paul describing his life changing testimony of what happened on his way to persecute Christians - a 180 degree turn around for the zealous mission that he thought he was meant to pursue - to now preaching for Christ (from "tekan-ing" to "testifying").  

Thot: How can I better accept and live out any new message or calling from God? 

(Am reminded of the old song about Joseph for whom God opens a window even as a door is closed. 

http:/youtu.be0ARoYQ8f6K0

See everyone tonight!  If you can't make it, don't forget to pray for us for we will be praying for u too.

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah11 & Acts21 [shared by Andrew]

Good morning.  Acts 21 speaks to me of Paul's courage and conviction by the Holy Spirit. He is specifically warned of the danger in Jerusalem yet goes ahead letting "God's will be done".  

Thot: How can I better pray for the courage and conviction to testify to God's goodness to those I meet today?

(I was compelled to read ahead because the next few chapters in Acts are quite a gripping and exciting account)

Nehemiah 11 tells of a housing policy (reminds me a bit of hdb) which says who can stay where.  

Thot: In Singapore, we are blessed to live side by side neighbors not just of different races but also religions. How well do I know my neighbors' needs and what can I do that will help others better see Christ in me?

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah10 & Acts20 [shared by Andrew]

A funny 😉 thought came to mind while reading Acts 20 about the chap who fell asleep, fell 3 stories, and "died" as Paul talked "on and on".

I was thinking about how often I tend to close my eyes to "think" during a long sermon only to end up sleeping.  Happens more often when I've had a late night before.

Nehemiah 10 talks of the people turning in repentance and obedience to God in many ways.

Thot: how can I better obey and give God my best today 

(even in a small thing of making sure I get enough rest before I spend time with Him.)

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah9 & Acts19 [shared by Andrew]

Acts 19 speaks to me of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit on people's lives and also how easily people can get stirred up emotionally and even take action without understanding why or the consequences of their decisions e.g. Rejecting or neglecting God. 

Nehemiah 9 recounts the history and journey of the people's relationship with God. I like v33 which describes how in all the ups and down God has been faithful and righteous while we tend to act wickedly.

Thot: how can I better remember all of God's blessings and faithfulness as I face the issues confronting me today?

Creative way to remember the Books of the Bible [shared by Shereen]

I went to Genesis hotel through Exodus road.   On the way, I saw Leviticus recording the Numbers of people at Deuteronomy,  while Joshua was waiting at the Beautiful gate for Judges to see Ruth calling loudly "Samuel, Samuel". 

At a stage, the first and second Kings of Chronicles were coming to visit Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther for the misfortune of Job their brother. 

They started singing Psalms and teaching children Proverbs concerning Ecclesiates and Songs of Solomon. This coincided with the period that Isaiah was engaged in Jeremiah's Lamentations together with Ezekiel and Daniel their friends. 

By that time, Amos and Obadiah were not around. Three days later, Hosea, Joel and Jonah travelled in the same ship with Micah and Nahum to Jerusalem. Habakkuk then visited Zephaniah who introduced him to Haggai a friend of Zechariah whose cousin is Malachi. 

Immediately after the tradition, Mathew, Mark, Luke and John got involved in Acts of the Romans who were behaving like the 1st Corinthians group because the 2nd Corinthians group were always at loggerheads with the Galatians. 

At that time too they realized that the Ephesians and Philippians were close to the Colossians, suggested the first Thessalonians visit and that on their second Thessalonians visit they should first of all see the first and second of Timothy brothers who had gone to the house of Titus to teach Philemon his younger brother how to read and write in Hebrew. 

On hearing this James asked Peter twice to explain to him how the three Johns have disclosed to Jude the Revelations of this journey.

Today is the day...to Rest in Grace [shared by Kyra]

Today is the day ...

to rest in grace. 

You will find reminders of grace everywhere if you are attentive. 

You can see God's gift of grace in the beauties of creation and in the marvelous variety of people and how they express their unique gifts. 

You will encounter grace in the choice of forgiveness, the provision for today's needs, and the still, small voice of the Spirit speaking to your heart.

Grace is a gift; a gift freely given by a loving God. 

Cultivate an awareness of the everyday signs of grace, knowing the gift of God's love for you. 

Ephesians 4:7 NIV

[7] But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.

2 Corinthians 9:8 NIV

[8] And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

God bless! Kyra

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah6 & Acts16 [shared by Andrew]

Today's Wesley reading is Nehemiah 6 which tells of more of the external and internal opposition that was faced in rebuilding the temple.  

What struck me was when I am trying to do something and facing obstacles, how can I better rely on God for the courage, wisdom and discernment to decide and act on what is really from God?

In Acts 16 there are many themes such as the call to Macedonia that each of us must respond to at some stage.  

However what struck me was the reaction of the owners of the future telling slave girl - the loss of their income made them quite upset. I wondered how I would react in that situation.  

I was also struck by the reaction of Paul's jailor who wanted to kill himself when he earthquake opened the prison doors.  (Perhaps he had learnt what happened to Peter's jailors when Peter was led out of prison). This time the outcome is many times better because the Jailor and his family responded to the opportunity God had laid before them.  

Thot: How can I better respond to the opportunities for service that the Lord lays before me. 

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah5 & Acts5 [shared by Andrew]

Good and blessed morning all.  Nehemiah 5 talks of the inequality within society then and Nehemiah's resolve to live simply and change the way the economy works.  Challenges me to consider what can I do to live more simply and to better care for those in "slavery" and with less.

Acts 5 describes the challenges in deciding what rules to apply. It is not a straightforward criticism of too many rigid rules  because in the end they needed to decide on a basic set of rules (eg no eating blood, food offered to idols, meat from strangled animals(?) ) which I myself have not been strictly following.

Thot: how can I better rely on God's wisdom in the decisions I make today?  (Interesting how even the disagreement between religious leaders - Paul and Barnabus - was used to further God's kingdom).

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah4 & Acts14 [shared by Andrew]

From an MIC friend "Nehemiah 4 n Acts 14 clearly put across the point that we will hv troubles but God will make sense of these for us eventually. 

Troubles also brings out the best in us n it is the faith of the Jews in Neh 4 that God is w them that awed me for I cannot fathom wat else can drive men to work by day n guard by night w their weapons in hand all the time ready to defend the wall n city. 

do also c the parallel in the weapon to the one dat we r asked to carry day n nite in eph 6 ie the spirit of the sword, the Word to b equiped n ready for spiritual warfare."

Thot: How can we better rely on the Spirit's leading to keep us going through what may be tough times?

Thoughts on Bible Reading; Nehemiah3 & Acts13 [shared by Andrew]

Acts 13 has a moving account of the    early church expanding, going from city to city, encountering a false prophet, a sorcerer, jealous religious leaders as well as many thirsty for God's message  - for which an inspiring explanation of the gospel is given.

Yet v46 also tells of those full of pride rejecting God and considering themselves above eternal life.  

This theme of pride also appears in Nehemiah 3 where everyone seems to have a role to play except the "nobles" who did not want to work hard under supervision.

Thot for myself: To what extent is my pride keeping me from receiving the true joy of God's message for me or from doing what He has called me to?

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah2 & Acts12 [shared by Andrew]

For today's readings of Nehemiah 2 and Acts 12

i am encouraged by what Nehemiah did.  He was fearful but still spoke up. When asked a difficult question, Verse 4 records how Nehemiah did a quick pray before replying.

Thot: how can I better learn from Nehemiah's example when facing scary situations?

I also like how Nehemiah went incognito : undercover to discover the real situation and trusted God even 

in the face of mocking from "enemies".

What struck me from Acts2 was Peter's miraculous rescue from prison even as it resulted in the execution of the guards.

Thot: sometimes we are to obey and trust in God's plans even as the way may be challenging.

Also challenging was how 

Herod kenna killed because he did not acknowledge God's power.

Thot: how can I better surrender my pride so that only God's power is acknowledged?

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Nehemiah1 & Acts11 [shared by Andrew]

Today's Bible Daily Readings are from Nehemiah 1 and Acts 11.

Nehemiah's heart seems to be deeply moved by the news of the terrible situation in Jerusalem. 

He makes a very heartfelt prayer which includes Praising God - remembering God's attributes and promises, fasting and mourning, deep confession, praying both day and night, and asking God for help and protection in what Nehemiah seems to be led by God to do.

Thot: how can I better sincerely and earnestly like the way that Nehemiah does?

What struck me from Acts 11 was how the believers were scattered by the persecution (v.19) i.e. the killing of Stephen led to the spread of the Good news of Jesus.  It is also part of Paul's preparation from being a persecutor of Christians to being an apostle for Christ.

This echoes themes from Sunday's sermon on Esther 1 and from Nehemiah 1 on how, although we may not understand it the time, God uses even the tough times for good purposes.

I am also struck by the forewarning of the Holy Spirit of a severe famine (v28) affecting the entire Roman world - which was practically the entire civilized world.  

Thot: As I and others around me may experience tough times, how can I better trust in God's provision and take the steps God has called me to so that His hope and good news can become real for others?

Have a blessed week! Andrew

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Ezra8 & Acts8 [shared by Andrew]

Ezra 8 tells of all the clans' reps gathering before the dangerous return journey to Jerusalem.

Ezra was ashamed to ask for the King's protection as he had told the King that God would protect and provide. 

What struck me was then how the people "fasted and petitioned" God. (God did indeed answer and protect them from bandits and enemies on their journey.)

Thot:  How can I better fast and ask God for answers and protection for what is important in the life journey He has called me to?

-

Acts 8 introduces Saul the church persecutor, Philip healing and sharing with the Egyptian, and Simon the sorcerer's desire to buy the Holy Spirit.

We read that "Godly men"  "deeply mourned" for Stephen's death. It struck me that while our walk with Christ is to be one of joy, there will be times to mourn as well as times of loss - especially when God has enabled the love and emotions we feel.  

Thot: No need to fake it as a Christian - how can I better surrender to the Holy Spirit's leading even in how I feel?

-

I love v22 where Peter and John are actively going around laying hands for believers to receive  the Holy Spirit.  Again, I sense the excitement of the early Church and in new believers today.

But I am also chastened by v21 where Simon is warned because his "heart is not right with God" and he needs to turn from a life "full of bitterness and captive to sin".

Thot: Are there areas of my heart I can better set right with God so that the Holy Spirit won't feel unwelcome?

-

Andrew

  (Ec- I still have yr sweater, want me to drop it off? Or better still, can u and violet join us tonight? The discussion begins at 8 pm if u can't make dinner.)

Wishing all a blessed Friday and weekend ahead.

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Ezra7 & Acts7 [shared by Andrew

Wa..ah, the Persian king Artaxexes does so much for the Jews - providing so much protection, provision and support - way beyond what one would expect. Ezra 7:27 records how God (not the King) is praised.

Compared to the rest of the world, we here in Singapore are so blessed with protection (no guns, low crime, freedom to worship that millions in our neighboring countries lack), provision (relatively low unemployment, sg50 goodies etc).  

Made me reflect on how can I better give thanks to God (not the PAP per se).

Ezra 7 also describes Ezra as being "well versed" in the word  (v6); devoted to study, keeping and teaching the word (v10).

 It's a factor as to why the "hand of God" was on him "granting him everything".  

Acts 7 similarly has Stephen demonstrating in his speech how familiar he was with the Word and he is able to see God's bigger picture in what was happening - even the trials.

Made me reflect on what steps can I take to better understand God's word in 2016.

By the way was also very blessed by the inaugural Wed prayer service last night. Quite different from traditional Wednesday prayer session where you pray for others.  Last night was more in prayer to minister to everyone who attended. [Andrew]

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Ezra6 & Acts6 [shared by Andrew]

What struck me about today's reading of Ezra 6 was v22 where it records that God filled the people with joy by changing the attitude of the Assyrian king. 

It's more evidence of God's sovereignty and power in working the miracle to have the Assyrian king Darius proactively protect the Jews.

 Thot for me: what step(s) can I take to better experience the joy of the Lord? 

For me I think it means to try to make it for the 7.30 pm Wesley prayer session tonight.

Acts 6 describes Stephen, despite speaking with wisdom, yet being killed by having others throw stones at him.  His face is described as "being like an angel" as he is killed.

 I think this means that Stephen too found joy even under the most trying of circumstances.  

Thot for me: how can I better have the courage to see things from God's eternal perspective and better experience His joy rather than being emotionally bogged down in the daily challenges that I may face today? 

 For me I think it means praying for the meetings, projects, emails, and people I will be meeting today and setting time to be quiet to listen to the Lord. [andrew]

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Ezra5 & Acts5 [shared by Andrew]

Today In Ezra 5 we see part of the exciting journey where while under attack, "the eye of God was watching over" (verse 5) the Jewish elders even as a letter was written appealing to the King (tomorrow has the interesting response to the appeal letter).

Made me think about how I can better rest in God who watches over me even in times when things may not seem like they are working out the way I humanly expect.

Acts 5 spoke of the apostles healing many and being persecuted. What stood out for me was the story of Ananias and his wife who sold their property to give to the church - but not really.

As I review my finances at the start of the year I was challenged to think about how all comes from God and for me the need me to have a better idea of what % of God's provision I surrender to Him - time, $, attention.

Wishing all a blessed day and rest of the week ahead. [Andrew]

Thoughts on Bible Reading: Ezra4 & Acts4 [shared by Andrew]

With the start of the Daily Bible reading plan, I thought that from time to time I will share my thoughts on the readings.  Today it was on Ezra 4 and Acts 4.

The Ezra 4 account of how enemies instigated the King to stop the temple rebuilding made me reflect on how I can better respond to the World's pressures and wiles. 

Acts 4 provided part of the answer as Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit which enabled his response to the opposition from the authorities.  There is a sense of excitement in the description of what was happening in the early church. It confounded those who did not understand the resurrection- Jesus had died yet the Church was more alive than ever.

Made me think about ways I can better surrender so that the presence and excitement of the Holy Spirit can live in me today.

Prayer for a Victorious Year [shared by Qingling]

Friend sent this prayer for a victorious year online!!(: Qingling 

Lord Jesus, I come to you in this brand new year with a desire to move forward, not backward. Last year is gone, and with it all the foolish mistakes I made. I’m eager to put the past behind and to press on toward the mark of knowing you, loving you, serving you, and making Your name known in this coming year.

I don’t ask for cheap grace, because I know it cost You, Your life. You gave everything for me, so I could have a new beginning—every day of every year. Thank You for Your underserved favor and unlimited mercy—and Your grace, that keeps on giving. Thank You for making me Your child. Forgive me for ignoring Your voice at times, for pursuing my own pleasures, and for letting my priorities slip. Your promise is like gold to me: Your offer of forgiveness, Your unfailing compassion, and Your new mercies daily.

I need You, Lord. Without You, I can’t meet the heavy demands of life or the unrelenting pressures that I’ll face this coming year. I am making a new commitment today—not a New Year’s resolution—but a new desire to place You where You always belong, first place in my life. Make the “I will’s” of Scripture become my affirmations: “I will trust You; I will praise You; I will follow You.” I will replace fear with faith, knowing You are always with me. And with You on my side, it will be a victorious New Year.

I lay down my broken armor, my rusty tools, my self-defenses, and every excuse I’ve used for not living victoriously. Purge my bad habits; free me from wrong expectations; and fill my heart, soul, and mind with praiseworthy thoughts and actions. I want to exchange my past disappointments for Your divine appointments this year. My life is Yours; my relationships belong to You; everything I have is Yours, Jesus. Set my feet on the right path this year, and grant wisdom so I can make right choices that will honor You. Let me see others like You see them, as precious ones You created. Renew the gifts and abilities You’ve so generously given me so I can bless others as You’ve blessed me.

I realize my desire for perfection is misplaced. My relationship with You doesn’t depend on my performance, but upon Your presence in my life. I will make mistakes. But I don’t have to be perfect! You’ve already made me acceptable in Your sight because of Your death and resurrection. You covered my past, present, and future. You have given me everything I could possibly need for the coming year. In You, I am complete, Lord. Help me to accept my faults and make Your mirror my own. I want to reflect You daily.

Because of Your love and the price You paid for my sin, I can not only enjoy a victorious new year, but a triumphant life. You put a new “want-to” in my life and in my heart. And as the calendar turns another page in this brand new year, I want more than ever, to live it for You. There is no battle in my life too great with You in my life. There is victory in You, Jesus!

Jesus: Light in the Darkness [2015 X'mas message]