by Pastor Calvin Lee
To the one with faith, no explanation is necessary. To the one without faith, no explanation is possible.
- Thomas Aquinas -
1. RELY on God daily
2. REMEMBER that God is always there
- don't feel or see God doesn't mean He isn't there. Use your eyes of faith to see and ears of faith of hear God
3. RELATE with fellow believers
4. RESOLVE to serve at all times
5. REBUKE your doubts and fears
6. REST in His promises
- the Word of God is infallible
# Remain faithful & steadfast to God at all (good & bad) times
# Remain fruitful. Be a diligent worker, give your best to God. Work with an attitude of serving God, not men. You will find favour with God & men. Remove bitterness, anger, unforgiveness
Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Monday, October 28, 2019
Blessed Hope...
by Pastor Calvin Lee
Daniel 11 & 12
1. God is in control of History
2. God is the author of all prophecies in the bible
- fulfilled prophecies is the proof of the truth of the bible
- one example is Ezekiel 37 which talked about people coming back together in Israel
3. God has a timetable for mankind
Big idea :
Discern the signs of endtime and live with a sense of urgency
Below are the prophecies yet to be fulfilled according to Daniel 11:36-12:3 A. Rise of the Antichrist (man of lawlessness)
Daniel 11:36
“The king will do as he pleases. He will exalt and magnify himself above every god and will say unheard-of things against the God of gods. He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed, for what has been determined must take place.
# Antichrist Rise :
2 Thessalonians 2:2-4
not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by the teaching allegedly from us—whether by a prophecy or by word of mouth or by letter—asserting that the day of the Lord has already come. Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness[a] is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God.
# Antichrist Rule :
Revelation 13:5-7
The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise its authority for forty-two months. It opened its mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven. It was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation.
# Antichrist Ruin :
Daniel 11:45
Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.
2 Thessalonians 2:8
And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.
B. The Great Tribulation (time of distress)
Daniel 12:1
At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.
Matthew 24:21
For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again.
C. Battle of Armageddon (final ware will take place in northern Israel, valley of Megiddo)
Daniel 11:40-41
“At the time of the end the king of the South will engage him in battle, and the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots and cavalry and a great fleet of ships. He will invade many countries and sweep through them like a flood. He will also invade the Beautiful Land. Many countries will fall, but Edom, Moab and the leaders of Ammon will be delivered from his hand.
Revelation 16:16
Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.
D. Resurrection of the dead
Daniel 12:2-3
Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise[a] will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
7 important application to note and apply to our lives :
1. Dedicate my life to missional living
2. Dig deeper into the Word
3. Discern the times
- the world will not get better, it will only get worse and worse until the endtime come
4. Depend on the sovereignty of God over my life and trust n His promises
5. Delight in the eternal hope we have in Christ
- eg death, diseases, loss over loved ones ....
6. Dwell on what really matters
- don't let small things of life to distract or affect us
7. Develop an eternal perspective
Daniel 11 & 12
1. God is in control of History
2. God is the author of all prophecies in the bible
- fulfilled prophecies is the proof of the truth of the bible
- one example is Ezekiel 37 which talked about people coming back together in Israel
3. God has a timetable for mankind
Big idea :
Discern the signs of endtime and live with a sense of urgency
Below are the prophecies yet to be fulfilled according to Daniel 11:36-12:3 A. Rise of the Antichrist (man of lawlessness)
Daniel 11:36
“The king will do as he pleases. He will exalt and magnify himself above every god and will say unheard-of things against the God of gods. He will be successful until the time of wrath is completed, for what has been determined must take place.
# Antichrist Rise :
2 Thessalonians 2:2-4
not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by the teaching allegedly from us—whether by a prophecy or by word of mouth or by letter—asserting that the day of the Lord has already come. Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness[a] is revealed, the man doomed to destruction. He will oppose and will exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshiped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God.
# Antichrist Rule :
Revelation 13:5-7
The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies and to exercise its authority for forty-two months. It opened its mouth to blaspheme God, and to slander his name and his dwelling place and those who live in heaven. It was given power to wage war against God’s holy people and to conquer them. And it was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation.
# Antichrist Ruin :
Daniel 11:45
Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.
2 Thessalonians 2:8
And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will overthrow with the breath of his mouth and destroy by the splendor of his coming.
B. The Great Tribulation (time of distress)
Daniel 12:1
At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered.
Matthew 24:21
For then there will be great distress, unequaled from the beginning of the world until now—and never to be equaled again.
C. Battle of Armageddon (final ware will take place in northern Israel, valley of Megiddo)
Daniel 11:40-41
“At the time of the end the king of the South will engage him in battle, and the king of the North will storm out against him with chariots and cavalry and a great fleet of ships. He will invade many countries and sweep through them like a flood. He will also invade the Beautiful Land. Many countries will fall, but Edom, Moab and the leaders of Ammon will be delivered from his hand.
Revelation 16:16
Then they gathered the kings together to the place that in Hebrew is called Armageddon.
D. Resurrection of the dead
Daniel 12:2-3
Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise[a] will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
7 important application to note and apply to our lives :
1. Dedicate my life to missional living
2. Dig deeper into the Word
3. Discern the times
- the world will not get better, it will only get worse and worse until the endtime come
4. Depend on the sovereignty of God over my life and trust n His promises
5. Delight in the eternal hope we have in Christ
- eg death, diseases, loss over loved ones ....
6. Dwell on what really matters
- don't let small things of life to distract or affect us
7. Develop an eternal perspective
Friday, October 11, 2019
Superpowers
by Pastor Lee Meng Chiam
Daniel 7 & 8
Daniel 7:27
Big Idea :
Discern who is the true superpowers among the superpowers
God himself directs human history, "TRUST HIM!"
God determines powers that be
- Serve Him
- God will hold every leader accountable
God decides every destiny "Book of Life"
- Fear Him
Daniel 7:9-10
How to get our names on the "Book of Life"?
Colossians 2:13-15
"Book of Remembrance" is a book about rewards
2 Corinthians 5:7-10
We are to be faithful in our time here before we meet the lord
Faithfulness is what God is looking for in every believer
As believers, we are to engage but not assismilate into the culture because some cultures are anti Christian.
Daniel 7 & 8
Daniel 7:27
Big Idea :
Discern who is the true superpowers among the superpowers
God himself directs human history, "TRUST HIM!"
God determines powers that be
- Serve Him
- God will hold every leader accountable
God decides every destiny "Book of Life"
- Fear Him
Daniel 7:9-10
How to get our names on the "Book of Life"?
Colossians 2:13-15
"Book of Remembrance" is a book about rewards
2 Corinthians 5:7-10
We are to be faithful in our time here before we meet the lord
Faithfulness is what God is looking for in every believer
As believers, we are to engage but not assismilate into the culture because some cultures are anti Christian.
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Open Window
by Pastor Wilson Yeo
Set Apart (Daniel 1)
Step Out (Daniel 2)
Bow Down (Daniel 3)
Two Kings (Daniel 4-5)
Daniel 6:1-10
Daniel 6:11-17
Daniel 6:23-28
Big Idea :
Discern what is worth fighting for and be bold even in the face of trials such as opposition or persecution
God's favor and presence over Daniel did not remove them from going through persecution opposition and trials and difficulties. Instead, His presence allow them to thrive through trials and persecutions
2 Timothy 3:12
In fact everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
We can never be 100% prepared for the schemes of our enemy. We must rest secure in Jesus Christ knowing that no trials will come our way unless God allows it for a very good reason. And the reason is in James 1:2-4
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, that whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish it's work so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
Trials have a way of bringing the best or worst out of us. Daniel prepare to lose his life but never his relationship with God.
What are the values and convictions that we will die for?
Mark 8:38
If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will be ashamed of them when he comes in His father's glory with his holy angels.
# No man can change God's perfect will for you #
# Trials will reveal the true God or (god) in our lives #
Smith Wigglesworth
Great Faith is the product of Great Fights
Great Testimonies are the outcome of Great Tests
Great Triumphs can only come out of Great Trials
Set Apart (Daniel 1)
Step Out (Daniel 2)
Bow Down (Daniel 3)
Two Kings (Daniel 4-5)
Daniel 6:1-10
Daniel 6:11-17
Daniel 6:23-28
Big Idea :
Discern what is worth fighting for and be bold even in the face of trials such as opposition or persecution
God's favor and presence over Daniel did not remove them from going through persecution opposition and trials and difficulties. Instead, His presence allow them to thrive through trials and persecutions
2 Timothy 3:12
In fact everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evildoers and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.
We can never be 100% prepared for the schemes of our enemy. We must rest secure in Jesus Christ knowing that no trials will come our way unless God allows it for a very good reason. And the reason is in James 1:2-4
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, that whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish it's work so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
Trials have a way of bringing the best or worst out of us. Daniel prepare to lose his life but never his relationship with God.
What are the values and convictions that we will die for?
Mark 8:38
If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of man will be ashamed of them when he comes in His father's glory with his holy angels.
# No man can change God's perfect will for you #
# Trials will reveal the true God or (god) in our lives #
Smith Wigglesworth
Great Faith is the product of Great Fights
Great Testimonies are the outcome of Great Tests
Great Triumphs can only come out of Great Trials
Two Kings
by Pastor Alvin Lim
Daniel 4 and 5
What is the root of all sin?
PRIDE
CS Lewis says
to deteck pride :
1. Acknowledge that you struggle with pride
2. If you hate proud people, it means you are also a proud person
Big Idea :
We want to discern the pride in our hearts and ascribe all glory to God and not self
a. Pride is a feeling or a deep satisfaction derived from one's own achievement
b. The belief that you are better and more important than others or (God). Pride is self idolatry
Proverbs 6:16
1 Peter 5:5
1. What are the symptoms of pride?
- no need for God (Daniel 4:4)
- when we are living in sin (Daniel 4:27a)
- neglecting the powerless (Daniel 4:27b) who are vulnerable & oppressed
Quatec : Poor, Orphan, Widows, Foreigners
- abuse of powers (Daniel 5:19)
- boasting about self (Daniel 4:30)
- presumptuous before God (Daniel 5:2)
- forgetting God's power (Daniel 5:22)
2. The consequence of pride?
Hard work
|
Success
|
Pride (forget God)
|
Divine disruptions happened so that we can be turned from self to God
|
Judgement (like layers of onion), eg. Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Paul
|
Repentance
|
Restoration
3. The cure for pride?
The Gospel (Daniel 4:34-37)
Jonathan Edwards
Christian who are but fellow-worm ought at least to treat one another with as much gentleness
CS Lewis
True humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less
Our Response :
1. How is the gospel humbling our hearts?
2. Are we living in sin?
3. Is there someone you need to treat with truth and grace?
Daniel 4 and 5
What is the root of all sin?
PRIDE
CS Lewis says
to deteck pride :
1. Acknowledge that you struggle with pride
2. If you hate proud people, it means you are also a proud person
Big Idea :
We want to discern the pride in our hearts and ascribe all glory to God and not self
a. Pride is a feeling or a deep satisfaction derived from one's own achievement
b. The belief that you are better and more important than others or (God). Pride is self idolatry
Proverbs 6:16
1 Peter 5:5
1. What are the symptoms of pride?
- no need for God (Daniel 4:4)
- when we are living in sin (Daniel 4:27a)
- neglecting the powerless (Daniel 4:27b) who are vulnerable & oppressed
Quatec : Poor, Orphan, Widows, Foreigners
- abuse of powers (Daniel 5:19)
- boasting about self (Daniel 4:30)
- presumptuous before God (Daniel 5:2)
- forgetting God's power (Daniel 5:22)
2. The consequence of pride?
Hard work
|
Success
|
Pride (forget God)
|
Divine disruptions happened so that we can be turned from self to God
|
Judgement (like layers of onion), eg. Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Paul
|
Repentance
|
Restoration
3. The cure for pride?
The Gospel (Daniel 4:34-37)
Jonathan Edwards
Christian who are but fellow-worm ought at least to treat one another with as much gentleness
CS Lewis
True humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less
Our Response :
1. How is the gospel humbling our hearts?
2. Are we living in sin?
3. Is there someone you need to treat with truth and grace?
Sunday, September 1, 2019
Step Out
by Pastor Calvin Lee
Daniel 2:2-49
What does it mean by stepping out in faith?
1. Making oneself vulnerable
2. Stepping out of our comfort zone
3. Submit to the leading and prompting of the Holy Spirit
4. Take a risk for God
examples :
share gospel with someone, embarking on a new business, embark on first mission trip, answering the call of God, resign from job for family, moving on to another place or job etc.
Is it easy to take steps of faith?
Most of us struggle with our courage and gut to step out in faith
What is the one big culprit that oftentimes stop us or hold us or hinder us from stepping out in faith?
- The answer is FEAR
Daniel stepped out in faith. As a result he experienced God's power
Big Idea :
Discern God's will to avail yourself to make a significant impact or difference
1. Daniel has an open heart (vs16-19)
2. Daniel walked with God, he seeks after God. He took time to spend in God's presence. He walks in tandem with the leading of the Holy Spirit in his life.
- Before we step out, first step into the presence of God. Oftentimes we are so quick to give an answer and we fail to seek the face of God. We need His wisdom and revelation especially in big decision in life.
3. Daniel walks by faith
- his life was at risk, he and his friends. That's where faith comes in.
Stepping out will always require a measure of faith
4. Daniel walks with people. He was not alone, he called his friends to pray with him.
Praying alone is good but there's added power in collective prayer
5. Daniel has an open hands (vs24)
God expect us to use what we have receive from Him and allow Him to use our gifts for his kingdom's cause and glory and to bless others.
What is in your hand means whatever is in your care and control
6. Daniel experienced an open heaven in his life (vs46-49)Mbr< - like David
- like Samson
- like the young boy with 5 loaves and 2 fishes
When you step out in faith to honor God. He will step in and do His work in our lives.
Daniel 2:2-49
What does it mean by stepping out in faith?
1. Making oneself vulnerable
2. Stepping out of our comfort zone
3. Submit to the leading and prompting of the Holy Spirit
4. Take a risk for God
examples :
share gospel with someone, embarking on a new business, embark on first mission trip, answering the call of God, resign from job for family, moving on to another place or job etc.
Is it easy to take steps of faith?
Most of us struggle with our courage and gut to step out in faith
What is the one big culprit that oftentimes stop us or hold us or hinder us from stepping out in faith?
- The answer is FEAR
Daniel stepped out in faith. As a result he experienced God's power
Big Idea :
Discern God's will to avail yourself to make a significant impact or difference
1. Daniel has an open heart (vs16-19)
2. Daniel walked with God, he seeks after God. He took time to spend in God's presence. He walks in tandem with the leading of the Holy Spirit in his life.
- Before we step out, first step into the presence of God. Oftentimes we are so quick to give an answer and we fail to seek the face of God. We need His wisdom and revelation especially in big decision in life.
3. Daniel walks by faith
- his life was at risk, he and his friends. That's where faith comes in.
Stepping out will always require a measure of faith
4. Daniel walks with people. He was not alone, he called his friends to pray with him.
Praying alone is good but there's added power in collective prayer
5. Daniel has an open hands (vs24)
God expect us to use what we have receive from Him and allow Him to use our gifts for his kingdom's cause and glory and to bless others.
What is in your hand means whatever is in your care and control
6. Daniel experienced an open heaven in his life (vs46-49)Mbr< - like David
- like Samson
- like the young boy with 5 loaves and 2 fishes
When you step out in faith to honor God. He will step in and do His work in our lives.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Divine Intersection
by Pastor Bruce Hills
Acts 8:26-40
Never judge anyone on the outside because you don't know what's happening to their inside.
How can we be the right person at the right place at the right time?
1. Philip knew the voice of the Spirit of God (v29)
- we have been empowered by the Holy Spirit supernaturally in this natural world
2. Philip did what the Spirit told him (v30)
- even though the instruction wasn't full, Philip obeyed just the word
- we have finite minds with limited senses. Obey Him even if it doesn't make sense at all
3. Philip initiated contact
- engage in conversation (v30)
4. Philip focused the conversation in Jesus (v35)
Acts 8:26-40
Never judge anyone on the outside because you don't know what's happening to their inside.
How can we be the right person at the right place at the right time?
1. Philip knew the voice of the Spirit of God (v29)
- we have been empowered by the Holy Spirit supernaturally in this natural world
2. Philip did what the Spirit told him (v30)
- even though the instruction wasn't full, Philip obeyed just the word
- we have finite minds with limited senses. Obey Him even if it doesn't make sense at all
3. Philip initiated contact
- engage in conversation (v30)
4. Philip focused the conversation in Jesus (v35)
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Discerning the Times - Set Apart
Pastor Wilson Teo
Book of Daniel 1:1-21
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. 3 Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family[a] and of the nobility, 4 youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. 5 The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. 6 Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. 7 And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. 9 And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, 10 and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” 11 Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” 14 So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days. 15 At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. 16 So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.
v2 "the lord" refers to "Adonay" which means ruler, owner or sovereign
How do you see God in your situation right now?
Is God our adonay only in good times or is He also your Adonay in your difficult times?
Big Idea :
Discern unbiblical practices by knowing biblical values and take our stand as christians even when it is disadvantageous.
v8 "the royal food and wine" were first offered to babylonian gods. Means Kosher meal prepared according to Jewish dietary laws.
1. God's Favor was with Daniel through the officials
2. God gave Daniel Wisdom to choose an alternative to the food they were to take.
Why do we choose the minority over the majority?
Because we are choosing the value of honouring God. Jesus Christ is the source of my life. We have to be prepared because the babylonian system in the world will challenge our belief of honouring God.
Many times, we misplace the source of God, because we are unable to let go of something we value over God.
Who is the source of your life today?
Our Lord Jesus Christ must be our source
James 1:5
If any of you need wisdom, ask God for it. He will give it to you. God gives freely to everyone. He doesn't find fault.
When we are connected to God's life source, we will find life and God's blessings
A. Discern with God's eyes. See and discern from God's perspective.
B. Live with God's values and conviction that God has instructed you. They will attract attention but they will also bring life.
C. Trust in God's provisions. Because our Lord Jesus is the only source that we need.
Book of Daniel 1:1-21
In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it. 2 And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with some of the vessels of the house of God. And he brought them to the land of Shinar, to the house of his god, and placed the vessels in the treasury of his god. 3 Then the king commanded Ashpenaz, his chief eunuch, to bring some of the people of Israel, both of the royal family[a] and of the nobility, 4 youths without blemish, of good appearance and skillful in all wisdom, endowed with knowledge, understanding learning, and competent to stand in the king's palace, and to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans. 5 The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate, and of the wine that he drank. They were to be educated for three years, and at the end of that time they were to stand before the king. 6 Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. 7 And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. 9 And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs, 10 and the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who assigned your food and your drink; for why should he see that you were in worse condition than the youths who are of your own age? So you would endanger my head with the king.” 11 Then Daniel said to the steward whom the chief of the eunuchs had assigned over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13 Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king's food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” 14 So he listened to them in this matter, and tested them for ten days. 15 At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king's food. 16 So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.
v2 "the lord" refers to "Adonay" which means ruler, owner or sovereign
How do you see God in your situation right now?
Is God our adonay only in good times or is He also your Adonay in your difficult times?
Big Idea :
Discern unbiblical practices by knowing biblical values and take our stand as christians even when it is disadvantageous.
v8 "the royal food and wine" were first offered to babylonian gods. Means Kosher meal prepared according to Jewish dietary laws.
1. God's Favor was with Daniel through the officials
2. God gave Daniel Wisdom to choose an alternative to the food they were to take.
Why do we choose the minority over the majority?
Because we are choosing the value of honouring God. Jesus Christ is the source of my life. We have to be prepared because the babylonian system in the world will challenge our belief of honouring God.
Many times, we misplace the source of God, because we are unable to let go of something we value over God.
Who is the source of your life today?
Our Lord Jesus Christ must be our source
James 1:5
If any of you need wisdom, ask God for it. He will give it to you. God gives freely to everyone. He doesn't find fault.
When we are connected to God's life source, we will find life and God's blessings
A. Discern with God's eyes. See and discern from God's perspective.
B. Live with God's values and conviction that God has instructed you. They will attract attention but they will also bring life.
C. Trust in God's provisions. Because our Lord Jesus is the only source that we need.
Tuesday, July 9, 2019
Spiritual warfare on earth
Pastor Derek Prince
Spiritual Warfare on earth
4 things we are called to do apart from preaching the gospel which is the total ministry of Jesus :
- Heal the sick
- Cleanse the lepers
- Raise the dead
- Cast out demons
demons desperately crave to occupy a body. They are not satisfied until they get into a body, preferably of a man or a woman but rather than being disembodied, they would rather go into the body of a pig. Only through a body can demons exercise their ungodly lust. We are surrounded by an invincible host of persons without bodies desperately craving to occupy bodies.
spirit of self-pity
spirit of death
spirit of hate
spirit of nicotin
spirit of fear
spirit of arthritis (torment, torture, incapacitated, they bind, they are evil things, some people have bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness)
spirit of occult
spirit of anger
spirit of rejection
spirit of criticism
spirit of allergy
spirit of masturbation (you must hate it)
How do demons come in?
Usually through a momment or a place of weakness. The devil searches for the weak moment or the weak place to come in.
What are the moments or places of weakness?
## Pre-natal (occult, rejection, fortune telling, divination, horoscope, tarot cards, sacrifice kids in fire, sorcery, interpret omens, witchcraft, cast spells, medium, spiritist, consults the dead, unhappy strived-torn home etc)
Deuteronomy 18:9-13
When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord; because of these same detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the Lord your God.
- When you get involve in occult, you are making friends with God's enemy. And you have to repent and you have to cancel any involvement if you want help from God. You cannot fool around with the occult in any form or shape.
## Emotional shock or continued (sustained) emotional pressure
1 Peter 3:6
as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.
## Sinful acts or habits
## Idle words
Matthew 12:36
I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak
Characteristic activities of demons :
1. demons enticed (they entice us to do evil, to sin)
2. demons harassed (anger etc)
3. demons defiled (they are dirty, they are unclean, they fill your mind with unclean, dirty thoughts)
4. demons tortured (Matthew 18 : Jesus said the one who never forgives your brothers or sisters, deliver them to the torturers which is the demons who torture emotionally, torture with fear, with guilt, torture with some kind of uneasy feelings that you haven't done the right thing, torture you physically)
5. demons compel (they make you do things you don't really want to do)
6. demons enslaved (cannot do without something although you know it's harmful, alcohol, television)
Compulsion + Enslave = Addiction
1 Corinthians 6:12-13
I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
KJV
All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
Rebellion
Witchcraft
Self indulgence
2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
The Holy Spirit will not discipline you unless you discipline yourself. He won't take over and do the job for you but if you make your mind up, He'll help you.
7. demons make weak or sick (arthritis, migraine etc)
Steps for receiving deliverance :
1. Personally affirmed your faith in Christ
2. Humble yourself (God resist the proud and give grace to the humble, humility is a decision between dignity & deliverance, Mark 16:9 Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils, don't be ashamed of receiving deliverance, you should be ashamed if you let pride keep you from receiving deliverance)
3. Confess any known sin (confess any unconfess sins, you are bringing something in the dark into the light, Jesus blood does not cleanse in the dark)
4. Repent (forsake) of all sins (throw it away, whatever it is, it may be expensive)
5. Forgive all other people (if you forgive, God will forgive you, forgiveness is a decision)
6. Break with the occult and all false religion (get rid of any occult objects in your house, freemasonry)
7. Prepare to be released from every curse of your life (Jesus was made the curse on the cross so that we might be redeemed, we can be redeemed from curses!!)
8. Take your stand with God (come out on God's side, say God, "I'm your child, I'm your servant, I want to serve you, I hate anything that comes between you and me, I don't want it, I'm for you)
9. Expel (expel is not a religious word, you've got something inside you that you don't want, you breathe it out, blow it out, cough it out, scream it, you don't want to keep it)
Lord Jesus Christ, I believe you are the son of God and the only way to God, that you died on the cross for my sins and rose again, that I might be forgiven and receive eternal life. I renounce all pride and religious self righteousness and any dignity that does not come from you. I have no claim on your mercy, except you died in my place. I confess all my sins before you, and hold nothing back, especially I confess __________. I repent of all my sins, I turn away from them and I turn to you Lord for mercy and forgiveness. By decision of my will, I freely forgive all who ever harmed me or wronged me. I lay down all bitterness, all resentness and all hatred, specifically I forgive ____________. I sever all contact that I ever had with the occult or with all false religion, particularly _____________. I commit myself to get rid of all objects associated with the occult or false religion. Lord Jesus I thank you, that on the cross you bear the curse, that I might be redeemed from every curse, and inherit God's blessings. On that basis, I ask you to release me and set me free to receive the deliverance I need. I take my stand with you Lord, against all satan's demons. I submit to you lord and I resist the devil. Amen!
I speak to any demons that have control over me ___________ I command you to go from me now! In the name of Jesus, I expel you! come out in the name of Jesus!
Spiritual Warfare on earth
4 things we are called to do apart from preaching the gospel which is the total ministry of Jesus :
- Heal the sick
- Cleanse the lepers
- Raise the dead
- Cast out demons
demons desperately crave to occupy a body. They are not satisfied until they get into a body, preferably of a man or a woman but rather than being disembodied, they would rather go into the body of a pig. Only through a body can demons exercise their ungodly lust. We are surrounded by an invincible host of persons without bodies desperately craving to occupy bodies.
spirit of self-pity
spirit of death
spirit of hate
spirit of nicotin
spirit of fear
spirit of arthritis (torment, torture, incapacitated, they bind, they are evil things, some people have bitterness, resentment, unforgiveness)
spirit of occult
spirit of anger
spirit of rejection
spirit of criticism
spirit of allergy
spirit of masturbation (you must hate it)
How do demons come in?
Usually through a momment or a place of weakness. The devil searches for the weak moment or the weak place to come in.
What are the moments or places of weakness?
## Pre-natal (occult, rejection, fortune telling, divination, horoscope, tarot cards, sacrifice kids in fire, sorcery, interpret omens, witchcraft, cast spells, medium, spiritist, consults the dead, unhappy strived-torn home etc)
Deuteronomy 18:9-13
When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord; because of these same detestable practices the Lord your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the Lord your God.
- When you get involve in occult, you are making friends with God's enemy. And you have to repent and you have to cancel any involvement if you want help from God. You cannot fool around with the occult in any form or shape.
## Emotional shock or continued (sustained) emotional pressure
1 Peter 3:6
as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.
## Sinful acts or habits
## Idle words
Matthew 12:36
I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak
Characteristic activities of demons :
1. demons enticed (they entice us to do evil, to sin)
2. demons harassed (anger etc)
3. demons defiled (they are dirty, they are unclean, they fill your mind with unclean, dirty thoughts)
4. demons tortured (Matthew 18 : Jesus said the one who never forgives your brothers or sisters, deliver them to the torturers which is the demons who torture emotionally, torture with fear, with guilt, torture with some kind of uneasy feelings that you haven't done the right thing, torture you physically)
5. demons compel (they make you do things you don't really want to do)
6. demons enslaved (cannot do without something although you know it's harmful, alcohol, television)
Compulsion + Enslave = Addiction
1 Corinthians 6:12-13
I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
KJV
All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
Rebellion
Witchcraft
Self indulgence
2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
The Holy Spirit will not discipline you unless you discipline yourself. He won't take over and do the job for you but if you make your mind up, He'll help you.
7. demons make weak or sick (arthritis, migraine etc)
Steps for receiving deliverance :
1. Personally affirmed your faith in Christ
2. Humble yourself (God resist the proud and give grace to the humble, humility is a decision between dignity & deliverance, Mark 16:9 Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils, don't be ashamed of receiving deliverance, you should be ashamed if you let pride keep you from receiving deliverance)
3. Confess any known sin (confess any unconfess sins, you are bringing something in the dark into the light, Jesus blood does not cleanse in the dark)
4. Repent (forsake) of all sins (throw it away, whatever it is, it may be expensive)
5. Forgive all other people (if you forgive, God will forgive you, forgiveness is a decision)
6. Break with the occult and all false religion (get rid of any occult objects in your house, freemasonry)
7. Prepare to be released from every curse of your life (Jesus was made the curse on the cross so that we might be redeemed, we can be redeemed from curses!!)
8. Take your stand with God (come out on God's side, say God, "I'm your child, I'm your servant, I want to serve you, I hate anything that comes between you and me, I don't want it, I'm for you)
9. Expel (expel is not a religious word, you've got something inside you that you don't want, you breathe it out, blow it out, cough it out, scream it, you don't want to keep it)
Lord Jesus Christ, I believe you are the son of God and the only way to God, that you died on the cross for my sins and rose again, that I might be forgiven and receive eternal life. I renounce all pride and religious self righteousness and any dignity that does not come from you. I have no claim on your mercy, except you died in my place. I confess all my sins before you, and hold nothing back, especially I confess __________. I repent of all my sins, I turn away from them and I turn to you Lord for mercy and forgiveness. By decision of my will, I freely forgive all who ever harmed me or wronged me. I lay down all bitterness, all resentness and all hatred, specifically I forgive ____________. I sever all contact that I ever had with the occult or with all false religion, particularly _____________. I commit myself to get rid of all objects associated with the occult or false religion. Lord Jesus I thank you, that on the cross you bear the curse, that I might be redeemed from every curse, and inherit God's blessings. On that basis, I ask you to release me and set me free to receive the deliverance I need. I take my stand with you Lord, against all satan's demons. I submit to you lord and I resist the devil. Amen!
I speak to any demons that have control over me ___________ I command you to go from me now! In the name of Jesus, I expel you! come out in the name of Jesus!
The Spirit-Filled life
Pastor Edmund Chan
The Spirit-Filled life
Being filled by the Holy Spirit is :
1. Biblical command
Ephesians 5:18-20
Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Misunderstood command
a. the filling of the spirit is misunderstood as a one-time event. You must be filled with the spirit continually.
b. flawed filling imagery eg. empty petrol tank. It is not how much you have of the holy spirit but how much the holy spirit has of you.
3. Spiritually vital command
4. Doable command
Spiritual giftedness is not an indicative of spiritual maturity.
It is easy to say the right thing but very hard to do the right thing
The Spirit-Filled life
Being filled by the Holy Spirit is :
1. Biblical command
Ephesians 5:18-20
Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Misunderstood command
a. the filling of the spirit is misunderstood as a one-time event. You must be filled with the spirit continually.
b. flawed filling imagery eg. empty petrol tank. It is not how much you have of the holy spirit but how much the holy spirit has of you.
3. Spiritually vital command
4. Doable command
Spiritual giftedness is not an indicative of spiritual maturity.
It is easy to say the right thing but very hard to do the right thing
Turning trials to Triumphs
By Pastor Edmund Chan
5 keys to turning Trials into Triumph :
1. That which we must face (smack one palm to side of face)
** We must face that difficulties will come. **
That's a reality of life. That which we must face, we must face with the truth that reality will come. We must face that in this fallen and broken world, suffering and difficulties will come.
2. That which we must know (point finger to brain)
** We must know that in the midst of us suffering, there is comfort with God. **
3. That which we must want (point finger to heart)
** We must want the Will of God. **
And there are times when we walk in the centre of God's will, there is affliction. In the centre of God's will does not mean we don't have difficulty but what it means is that we have victory and triumph at the heart of those difficulties. Not what you want, but what God calls you towards. And when you are used to walking in the centre of God's will, you know He's leading because you know I'm in the centre of the Will of God.
4. That which we must do (open both palms facing up)
** We must not rely on ourselves but upon Him. **
I've learnt that although I can solve the problem myself, but if I keep on solving problems my way with my resources, I will never see the grace and the power and the glory of God because I'm trusting upon myself. And then I would recognise that there are some problems in life that money cannot solve, and if I'm so used to solving things upon my own resources, then when I come to problems when the resources cannot solve, the faith collapse. Want the will of God, don't rely on yourself but upon God, then I learn how to follow the way of the Master. I want the Will of God, I come in dependance upon God, I'm there in the centre of your Will.
4 kinds of faith :
3 are pseudo faith (false faith) which is God can (He can but He may not will it), God will (God in His wisdom sometimes do not heal, this is presumptious faith), God must (to say God must is a very dangerous thing like we are spoiled brats)
True faith is saying "GOD IS"
5. That which we must hold fast to (with palms facing up, clench fist)
** We must hold fast to the deliverance of God, that God will deliver. **
Do you know why it is so important to walk in obedience?
Do you know why it is so important to walk in manner pleasing to God?
Do you know why it is so important to want the will of God?
It's because when we walk to please God, when we want the will of God, when we walk in obedience, we develop a track record with God. Not our track record, our goodness or merit. We see God's track record of faithfulness in our lives.
5 keys to turning Trials into Triumph :
1. That which we must face (smack one palm to side of face)
** We must face that difficulties will come. **
That's a reality of life. That which we must face, we must face with the truth that reality will come. We must face that in this fallen and broken world, suffering and difficulties will come.
2. That which we must know (point finger to brain)
** We must know that in the midst of us suffering, there is comfort with God. **
3. That which we must want (point finger to heart)
** We must want the Will of God. **
And there are times when we walk in the centre of God's will, there is affliction. In the centre of God's will does not mean we don't have difficulty but what it means is that we have victory and triumph at the heart of those difficulties. Not what you want, but what God calls you towards. And when you are used to walking in the centre of God's will, you know He's leading because you know I'm in the centre of the Will of God.
4. That which we must do (open both palms facing up)
** We must not rely on ourselves but upon Him. **
I've learnt that although I can solve the problem myself, but if I keep on solving problems my way with my resources, I will never see the grace and the power and the glory of God because I'm trusting upon myself. And then I would recognise that there are some problems in life that money cannot solve, and if I'm so used to solving things upon my own resources, then when I come to problems when the resources cannot solve, the faith collapse. Want the will of God, don't rely on yourself but upon God, then I learn how to follow the way of the Master. I want the Will of God, I come in dependance upon God, I'm there in the centre of your Will.
4 kinds of faith :
3 are pseudo faith (false faith) which is God can (He can but He may not will it), God will (God in His wisdom sometimes do not heal, this is presumptious faith), God must (to say God must is a very dangerous thing like we are spoiled brats)
True faith is saying "GOD IS"
5. That which we must hold fast to (with palms facing up, clench fist)
** We must hold fast to the deliverance of God, that God will deliver. **
Do you know why it is so important to walk in obedience?
Do you know why it is so important to walk in manner pleasing to God?
Do you know why it is so important to want the will of God?
It's because when we walk to please God, when we want the will of God, when we walk in obedience, we develop a track record with God. Not our track record, our goodness or merit. We see God's track record of faithfulness in our lives.
Wisdom from James
By Pastor Benny Ho
We can have the knowledge to achieve all the goals we want to set, but at the end of the day we really need wisdom to really understand the true nature of things. We don't just need knowledge but we need God's wisdom to know how to put knowledge to good use. True wisdom is rooted in a life of humility, it's rooted in a way we live. By good deeds done in the life of humility. A person can see things but yet not understand the true nature of things. We can look at a situation and knows what's going on there, but we may not have the wisdom to see the true nature of what's going on. Men of wisdom have the insight, to see beyond, to see the true nature of things. God's wisdom is always pure but when God's wisdom is pass through a tainted heart, that wisdom will be corrupted. The problem is human heart. Even a prophetic word from God can be pure and good and right, but if it passes through a heart that is wounded, it comes out the other end with a wrong spirit. Soulish wisdom comes with Bitter envy, Selfish ambitions, Deceit and Boasting. All these attitudes are the ones that caused relationships to mess up, caused confusion (disorder or chaos at every evil practice) and trouble according to James 3:16. God's wisdom is always Pure, Peaceloving, Considerate, Submissive, Full of Mercy and good fruit, Impartial, Sincere according to James 3:17. People get along when we exercise true wisdom, helps people to get along. The root is always rooted in God, and the heart that is pure, and therefore out come the life of humility.
Earthly (human, carnal or mankind idea) -> Unspiritual (soulish because human defends the idea) -> Demonic (of the devil, infiltrated with evil, heresy)
Different aspects of Wisdom :
Sophia wisdom (wisdom that is learnt, derived, foundational, academic, skillful, spiritual understanding)
Acts 7:22 (learnt)
1 Corinthian 3:10 (skills)
Colossians 1:28 (spiritual understanding)
Sunesis wisdom (strategic wisdom, ability to see big picture, put 2 and 2 together, ability to corelate things, process people)
Revelation 13:18
Phronesis (practical wisdom, prudence, ability to make things work)
Luke 16:8
Matthew 10:16
We can have the knowledge to achieve all the goals we want to set, but at the end of the day we really need wisdom to really understand the true nature of things. We don't just need knowledge but we need God's wisdom to know how to put knowledge to good use. True wisdom is rooted in a life of humility, it's rooted in a way we live. By good deeds done in the life of humility. A person can see things but yet not understand the true nature of things. We can look at a situation and knows what's going on there, but we may not have the wisdom to see the true nature of what's going on. Men of wisdom have the insight, to see beyond, to see the true nature of things. God's wisdom is always pure but when God's wisdom is pass through a tainted heart, that wisdom will be corrupted. The problem is human heart. Even a prophetic word from God can be pure and good and right, but if it passes through a heart that is wounded, it comes out the other end with a wrong spirit. Soulish wisdom comes with Bitter envy, Selfish ambitions, Deceit and Boasting. All these attitudes are the ones that caused relationships to mess up, caused confusion (disorder or chaos at every evil practice) and trouble according to James 3:16. God's wisdom is always Pure, Peaceloving, Considerate, Submissive, Full of Mercy and good fruit, Impartial, Sincere according to James 3:17. People get along when we exercise true wisdom, helps people to get along. The root is always rooted in God, and the heart that is pure, and therefore out come the life of humility.
Earthly (human, carnal or mankind idea) -> Unspiritual (soulish because human defends the idea) -> Demonic (of the devil, infiltrated with evil, heresy)
Different aspects of Wisdom :
Sophia wisdom (wisdom that is learnt, derived, foundational, academic, skillful, spiritual understanding)
Acts 7:22 (learnt)
1 Corinthian 3:10 (skills)
Colossians 1:28 (spiritual understanding)
Sunesis wisdom (strategic wisdom, ability to see big picture, put 2 and 2 together, ability to corelate things, process people)
Revelation 13:18
Phronesis (practical wisdom, prudence, ability to make things work)
Luke 16:8
Matthew 10:16
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Joyful Contentment
by Pastor Alvin Lim
Contentment is being satisfied (rested in God) despite life circumstances. Joy is how to be happy despite life circumstances. If you're never contented, you'll never live in joyfulness.
Discontentment is a faith (trust) issue. Affect both believers and non believers.
1. Contentment can be learnt by counting your blessings
Philippians 4:10-13
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to [b]be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
- contentment is acquired
- contentment is a lifelong journey
- Jesus himself said we have to be on guard against greed in
Luke 12:15
And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
- life is not consist in abundance of possession, it is a life abundance in God
- we can never be contented in what we don't have, but in what we have
- are we counting God's blessings or money?
2. Contentment in all circumstances is possible through God's strength
3. Contentment i found in pursuing what is eternal
Philippians 4:14-18
Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I [a]have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.
Where is true joy found?
1 Timothy 6:6-17
Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing, which He will manifest in His own time, He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.
4. Contentment is knowing our God the Provider
Philippians 4:19-20
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Response :
- What are you counting? Money or blessings
- What are you giving to? Temporal or Eternal
- What are you pursuing? Happiness or God
- What is your need? God is your strength & provider
What is your need? God is your strength and provider
Contentment is being satisfied (rested in God) despite life circumstances. Joy is how to be happy despite life circumstances. If you're never contented, you'll never live in joyfulness.
Discontentment is a faith (trust) issue. Affect both believers and non believers.
1. Contentment can be learnt by counting your blessings
Philippians 4:10-13
But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to [b]be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
- contentment is acquired
- contentment is a lifelong journey
- Jesus himself said we have to be on guard against greed in
Luke 12:15
And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
- life is not consist in abundance of possession, it is a life abundance in God
- we can never be contented in what we don't have, but in what we have
- are we counting God's blessings or money?
2. Contentment in all circumstances is possible through God's strength
3. Contentment i found in pursuing what is eternal
Philippians 4:14-18
Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I [a]have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.
Where is true joy found?
1 Timothy 6:6-17
Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing, which He will manifest in His own time, He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no man has seen or can see, to whom be honor and everlasting power. Amen.
4. Contentment is knowing our God the Provider
Philippians 4:19-20
And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Response :
- What are you counting? Money or blessings
- What are you giving to? Temporal or Eternal
- What are you pursuing? Happiness or God
- What is your need? God is your strength & provider
What is your need? God is your strength and provider
Thursday, June 6, 2019
Peace Within
by Pastor Calvin Lee
Philippians 4:1-9
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Final Exhortations
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Three important areas to be focused at all times in our lives :
1. Piety in life (Godliness)
- agree together and be humble
- let your gentleness be evident to all, let your lives still shine for Jesus
- if you do what is wrong, instead of peace it will be guilt in your heart, and fear can grip your hearts
A. Do what is right
B. Dedicate your life to righteous living
Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.
2. Presence of God
- worry about nothing, pray about everything
- take time to enter into God's presence
- cherish God's presence
Psalm 16:11
You make known to me the path of life : you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 73:17
Till I entered the sanctuary of God then I understood their final destiny
Four important words to fully understand God's presence :
A. Acknowledgement
B. Activation (make a conscious decision)
C. Awareness (you begin to be aware)
Luke 24:32
They asked each other, "were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and open the scripture to us?"
D. Awakened (experience divine encounter and divine exchange)
3. Posture of the mind
Mind --> Believe --> Act
being mindful of Christ and the word of God. Demolish unhealthy thoughts
2 Corinthians 10:5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ
Philippians 4:1-9
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Final Exhortations
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Three important areas to be focused at all times in our lives :
1. Piety in life (Godliness)
- agree together and be humble
- let your gentleness be evident to all, let your lives still shine for Jesus
- if you do what is wrong, instead of peace it will be guilt in your heart, and fear can grip your hearts
A. Do what is right
B. Dedicate your life to righteous living
Psalm 1:1
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers.
2. Presence of God
- worry about nothing, pray about everything
- take time to enter into God's presence
- cherish God's presence
Psalm 16:11
You make known to me the path of life : you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 73:17
Till I entered the sanctuary of God then I understood their final destiny
Four important words to fully understand God's presence :
A. Acknowledgement
B. Activation (make a conscious decision)
C. Awareness (you begin to be aware)
Luke 24:32
They asked each other, "were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and open the scripture to us?"
D. Awakened (experience divine encounter and divine exchange)
3. Posture of the mind
Mind --> Believe --> Act
being mindful of Christ and the word of God. Demolish unhealthy thoughts
2 Corinthians 10:5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
Eye on the Prize
Pastor Meng Chiam
Philippians 3:12-21
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Following Paul’s Example. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Big Idea :
When Christ is our hope and reward, we can progress in any and every situation.
1. Press on, don't switch off (v. 12-14)
Why do we press on?
- it's not our grip on Christ that's our security. It's Christ' grip on us that's our security, that helps us to press on
2. Keep on, don't slack off (v. 15-16)
The longer you are as a christian doesn't diminish the potential to sin.
3. Hold on, don't stray off (v. 17-21)
Philippians 2:5-8
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
- Paul is telling us to model after Jesus, to empty Himself. He did not consider Himself as equality with God but lower Himself in human form.
Second example is model after Paul who have a list of credentials. Pure Jew, circumcised on 8th day, true blood Pharisee, Lineage of Benjamin.
1 Corinthians 6:13-14
You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also.
Follow the example models of those who are NOT the enemies of the cross.
Philippians 3:12-21
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Following Paul’s Example. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained. Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Big Idea :
When Christ is our hope and reward, we can progress in any and every situation.
1. Press on, don't switch off (v. 12-14)
Why do we press on?
- it's not our grip on Christ that's our security. It's Christ' grip on us that's our security, that helps us to press on
2. Keep on, don't slack off (v. 15-16)
The longer you are as a christian doesn't diminish the potential to sin.
3. Hold on, don't stray off (v. 17-21)
Philippians 2:5-8
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!
- Paul is telling us to model after Jesus, to empty Himself. He did not consider Himself as equality with God but lower Himself in human form.
Second example is model after Paul who have a list of credentials. Pure Jew, circumcised on 8th day, true blood Pharisee, Lineage of Benjamin.
1 Corinthians 6:13-14
You say, “Food for the stomach and the stomach for food, and God will destroy them both.” The body, however, is not meant for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. By his power God raised the Lord from the dead, and he will raise us also.
Follow the example models of those who are NOT the enemies of the cross.
Remembering Moses Conference - April 2018 (Journey)
by Sadhu Sundar Selvaraj
Every step along the way, Prophet Moses SOUGHT God. This is the great characteristic you can find in the life of Moses. Moses sought God every step of the way, he sought the will of God. He sought the mind of God, except for one mistake he made in his life. Throughout his 40 years ministry you'll never find his another failure. What is the secret to his success? Every step of the way, Moses sought God. It is very important to be led by God.
Exodus 13:21
And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:
The Israelites made 2 types of journey in the wilderness :
- day journey
- night journey
There were times where God led the Israelites Day and Night. What does it mean? Peace time and difficult times, God is our sure guide in peace time and difficult times, leading us. The lord was the closest with the Israelites during challenging circumstances. The Lord has never left his people, He's with you all the time. Especially during your challenging times.
Daniel 3:25
He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
Numbers 14:14
And they will tell it to the inhabitants of this land: for they have heard that thou Lord art among this people, that thou Lord art seen face to face, and that thy cloud standeth over them, and that thou goest before them, by day time in a pillar of a cloud, and in a pillar of fire by night.
Psalm 80:1
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth.
Isaiah 40:11
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.
We must do the same, because you will have nobody else to guide you. All bibles will be banned, all christian internet websites pulled down. A blanket ban on all christian media. What is going to be your source of spiritual development? A day is coming when Youtube will close down. Youtube will not close down but christian media will close down. Which tube would you go? It is "I" Tube (between you and God). Learn to hear directly from God.
During this peace time, you must learn now to develop your spirit. Develop your soul, develop your spiritual senses. Most importantly, know this bible like the back of your hand, so that when this is ban, don't say "Oh so what? I have the bible in my phone." That's a good safeguard, when you run like fugitive, where to find the charging port? Its call cactus.
Bible is ban, cell mobile smartphone don't work. How are you going to read your bible? You must store it in your heart.
Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Prophecy of Amos
There is famine coming, the famine of the word of God. That famine is of 2 kinds. One : famine of the availability of the word of God. Second : famine of bible teachers.
It is very important to always keep our eyes on God to be led by Him. Please keep this in your mind, it is very important to keep our eyes on God. Wait for Him to lead you and guide you. Don't step out on your own prematurely. Do you know what an eagle does? Before it flaps its wings and fly, it always wait for the wind to come. Among many birds, only the eagles do that. Eagles never use it's strength to fly, its always the wind.
Numbers 9:15-23
And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning. So it was alway: the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night. And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents. At the commandment of the Lord the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the Lord they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents. And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the Lord, and journeyed not. And so it was, when the cloud was a few days upon the tabernacle; according to the commandment of the Lord they abode in their tents, and according to the commandment of the Lord they journeyed. And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed. Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed. At the commandment of the Lord they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the Lord they journeyed: they kept the charge of the Lord, at the commandment of the Lord by the hand of Moses.
Sometimes you may have seen such seasons in your life. Nothing seems to be moving in your life, you seems to have stay put in one place. No promotion, nothing happens. Why? The clouds is standing above you. The cloud hasn't moved yet. Then when the time comes for the clouds to move, suddenly you find doors are open. Everything starts moving again. Because the cloud had started moving.
May 2018 will be a new season for the whole world of Christians.
Don't do things when God is not leading you. When you do things unsanctioned by God, your works will be failure. Your money will be wasted. All the efforts you put in will be wasted. God did not forsake them although the Israelites wandered in the desert 40 years. Psalm 78:25
Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full.
Nehemiah 9:21
Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, so that they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.
Matthew 6:25-33
Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: 29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Psalm 105:41
He opened the rock, and the waters gushed out; they ran in the dry places like a river.
- To trust God for food
- Instead of be satisfied with food from heaven, they lusted for food on the earth
- They were disciplined when they disobeyed God
- God is fair and impartial in His justice
- God manifested His power to deliver the Israelites
Psalm 78:25-31
Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full. He caused an east wind to blow in the heaven: and by his power he brought in the south wind. He rained flesh also upon them as dust, and feathered fowls like as the sand of the sea: And he let it fall in the midst of their camp, round about their habitations. So they did eat, and were well filled: for he gave them their own desire; They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths, The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel.
Matthew 10:9-10
Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.
Numbers 21:5-6
And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. And the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.
If God can disciplined Moses, Miriam and Aaron, it shows the impartiality of God. Exodus 14:13-14
And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
Exodus 14:24-25
The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward: But lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea. And I, behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them: and I will get me honour upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gotten me honour upon Pharaoh, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen. And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them: And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night. And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the Lord looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians, And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against the Egyptians.
2 cardinal principles we can learn from the journey that the Israelites took :
1. Trust and Obedience
2. Seeking God's ways
The journey that the Israelites took in the wilderness is going to be the same journey that we are going to take place in these last days. Read the book of Numbers very well, it records the entire journey Israelites took during the wilderness. When you read, God will open your eyes to see. You will find survival principles when you read Numbers. The Holy Spirit will reveal to you according to your specific calling. No 2 person will have the same revelation or calling. Same principles but shown in 2 different ways to different people, methods of application is different because have to suit your personal situation.
Exodus 5:1
And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness.
We will have to contend with the spirit of Pharaoh in these last days. Who is this spirit of Pharaoh? They will be anti-christ, world government leaders. They will suddenly rise up everywhere. They will be installed in all governments of the world because the bible says the kings of the world will give their allegience to the anti-christ. So such leaders will rise up. And we will have to contend with them. That is the spirit of the Pharaoh.
The spirit of Pharaoh will stir up government leaders. Stir up authorities to turn against christians. Laws will be enacted in the land specifically targetting christians. 2 examples : Daniel 3 and Daniel 6
Whenever you face circumstances like that, remembers spirit of Pharaoh is working. So instead of appealing to government officers, you go into prayer war-room and bind the spirit of Pharaoh.
Exodus 25:8
And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.
Exodus 25:22
And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony, of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel.
Exodus 23:14-17
Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year. Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:) And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field. Three times in the year all thy males shall appear before the Lord God.
Firstly, from beginning God wants to talk to all people personally Himself. He didn't put any intermediary between His people. But the people didn't want to so they asked Moses to talk to God on behalf.
Exodus 19:9
And the Lord said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee for ever. And Moses told the words of the people unto the Lord.
Exodus 20:18-19
And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.
Deuteronomy 31:15
And the Lord appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle.
Exodus 25:40
And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.
Matthew 11:27
All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him
Luke 10:22
All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.
John 16:25
These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.
That in whomsoever the Lord Jesus Christ delights and wills, He will take that people and introduce to the Father God.
Secondly, Revelation 4:1 said He will show you the wonders in heaven.
Thirdly, Zechariah 3:7 He will allow you to talk to the saints and angels in heaven.
This is a blessing and privilege for everybody. So how can you get them? 2 simple ways :
1. Obey God commandments
2. Seek His ways
3. Walk in His ways
4. Open your heart and talk to Him
God desire Himself to manifest Himself to you is greater than your desire to see Him. Don't run here and there, take time to wait on God. This is a very important principle we must learn in our lives.
1 Corinthians 10:11
Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
Joshua 3:3-4
And they commanded the people, saying, When ye see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the priests the Levites bearing it, then ye shall remove from your place, and go after it. Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore.
Revelation 12:17
And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
2 important phases :
- Keeping the commandments of God
- Having the testimony of Jesus Christ which is Revelation 19:10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.
Why do you need spirit of prophecy? Because there will be false prophets, false teachers, and anti-christ will be increased in last days. And false Christs. Of these 4, only the false prophets will be difficult to recognised. Because they were once upon a time a good prophets and good teachers. How would you know their spirits are wrong? That's why you need to have the spirit of prophecy which will teach you all things, it will lead you to all good. It will guide you and give you discernment. That is why it is very important for you to know the ways of God. How to know the ways of God?
John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
If He is the way, to know the ways of God, you need to know Jesus, not just about Jesus Christ. But to have intimate relationship with Lord Jesus. With the intimate bonding with Jesus, then you can know the ways of the Lord Jesus. He will then show you 4 kinds of the ways of God. He will show you the way to the heart of God. Secondly, He will show you the way to the kingdom of God. Thirdly, He will show you the ways of God. Fourthly, He will show you the will of God.
John 1:36-39
And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.
Psalm 18:11
He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.
Psalm 27:5
For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
Psalm 31:20
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 91:1
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
The inner secret place is becoming one with the Lord.
John 17:21 calls it the union with God
To know the Lord Jesus is to love Him with all your heart, and to seek Him with all your heart.
Every step along the way, Prophet Moses SOUGHT God. This is the great characteristic you can find in the life of Moses. Moses sought God every step of the way, he sought the will of God. He sought the mind of God, except for one mistake he made in his life. Throughout his 40 years ministry you'll never find his another failure. What is the secret to his success? Every step of the way, Moses sought God. It is very important to be led by God.
Exodus 13:21
And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:
The Israelites made 2 types of journey in the wilderness :
- day journey
- night journey
There were times where God led the Israelites Day and Night. What does it mean? Peace time and difficult times, God is our sure guide in peace time and difficult times, leading us. The lord was the closest with the Israelites during challenging circumstances. The Lord has never left his people, He's with you all the time. Especially during your challenging times.
Daniel 3:25
He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.
Numbers 14:14
And they will tell it to the inhabitants of this land: for they have heard that thou Lord art among this people, that thou Lord art seen face to face, and that thy cloud standeth over them, and that thou goest before them, by day time in a pillar of a cloud, and in a pillar of fire by night.
Psalm 80:1
Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth.
Isaiah 40:11
He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.
We must do the same, because you will have nobody else to guide you. All bibles will be banned, all christian internet websites pulled down. A blanket ban on all christian media. What is going to be your source of spiritual development? A day is coming when Youtube will close down. Youtube will not close down but christian media will close down. Which tube would you go? It is "I" Tube (between you and God). Learn to hear directly from God.
During this peace time, you must learn now to develop your spirit. Develop your soul, develop your spiritual senses. Most importantly, know this bible like the back of your hand, so that when this is ban, don't say "Oh so what? I have the bible in my phone." That's a good safeguard, when you run like fugitive, where to find the charging port? Its call cactus.
Bible is ban, cell mobile smartphone don't work. How are you going to read your bible? You must store it in your heart.
Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Prophecy of Amos
There is famine coming, the famine of the word of God. That famine is of 2 kinds. One : famine of the availability of the word of God. Second : famine of bible teachers.
It is very important to always keep our eyes on God to be led by Him. Please keep this in your mind, it is very important to keep our eyes on God. Wait for Him to lead you and guide you. Don't step out on your own prematurely. Do you know what an eagle does? Before it flaps its wings and fly, it always wait for the wind to come. Among many birds, only the eagles do that. Eagles never use it's strength to fly, its always the wind.
Numbers 9:15-23
And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, namely, the tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the appearance of fire, until the morning. So it was alway: the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night. And when the cloud was taken up from the tabernacle, then after that the children of Israel journeyed: and in the place where the cloud abode, there the children of Israel pitched their tents. At the commandment of the Lord the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment of the Lord they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents. And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the Lord, and journeyed not. And so it was, when the cloud was a few days upon the tabernacle; according to the commandment of the Lord they abode in their tents, and according to the commandment of the Lord they journeyed. And so it was, when the cloud abode from even unto the morning, and that the cloud was taken up in the morning, then they journeyed: whether it was by day or by night that the cloud was taken up, they journeyed. Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed. At the commandment of the Lord they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the Lord they journeyed: they kept the charge of the Lord, at the commandment of the Lord by the hand of Moses.
Sometimes you may have seen such seasons in your life. Nothing seems to be moving in your life, you seems to have stay put in one place. No promotion, nothing happens. Why? The clouds is standing above you. The cloud hasn't moved yet. Then when the time comes for the clouds to move, suddenly you find doors are open. Everything starts moving again. Because the cloud had started moving.
May 2018 will be a new season for the whole world of Christians.
Don't do things when God is not leading you. When you do things unsanctioned by God, your works will be failure. Your money will be wasted. All the efforts you put in will be wasted. God did not forsake them although the Israelites wandered in the desert 40 years. Psalm 78:25
Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full.
Nehemiah 9:21
Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, so that they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.
Matthew 6:25-33
Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? 28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: 29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? 31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Psalm 105:41
He opened the rock, and the waters gushed out; they ran in the dry places like a river.
- To trust God for food
- Instead of be satisfied with food from heaven, they lusted for food on the earth
- They were disciplined when they disobeyed God
- God is fair and impartial in His justice
- God manifested His power to deliver the Israelites
Psalm 78:25-31
Man did eat angels' food: he sent them meat to the full. He caused an east wind to blow in the heaven: and by his power he brought in the south wind. He rained flesh also upon them as dust, and feathered fowls like as the sand of the sea: And he let it fall in the midst of their camp, round about their habitations. So they did eat, and were well filled: for he gave them their own desire; They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths, The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel.
Matthew 10:9-10
Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.
Numbers 21:5-6
And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. And the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.
If God can disciplined Moses, Miriam and Aaron, it shows the impartiality of God. Exodus 14:13-14
And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
Exodus 14:24-25
The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace. And the Lord said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward: But lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea. And I, behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them: and I will get me honour upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gotten me honour upon Pharaoh, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen. And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them: And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night. And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the Lord looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians, And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the Lord fighteth for them against the Egyptians.
2 cardinal principles we can learn from the journey that the Israelites took :
1. Trust and Obedience
2. Seeking God's ways
The journey that the Israelites took in the wilderness is going to be the same journey that we are going to take place in these last days. Read the book of Numbers very well, it records the entire journey Israelites took during the wilderness. When you read, God will open your eyes to see. You will find survival principles when you read Numbers. The Holy Spirit will reveal to you according to your specific calling. No 2 person will have the same revelation or calling. Same principles but shown in 2 different ways to different people, methods of application is different because have to suit your personal situation.
Exodus 5:1
And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness.
We will have to contend with the spirit of Pharaoh in these last days. Who is this spirit of Pharaoh? They will be anti-christ, world government leaders. They will suddenly rise up everywhere. They will be installed in all governments of the world because the bible says the kings of the world will give their allegience to the anti-christ. So such leaders will rise up. And we will have to contend with them. That is the spirit of the Pharaoh.
The spirit of Pharaoh will stir up government leaders. Stir up authorities to turn against christians. Laws will be enacted in the land specifically targetting christians. 2 examples : Daniel 3 and Daniel 6
Whenever you face circumstances like that, remembers spirit of Pharaoh is working. So instead of appealing to government officers, you go into prayer war-room and bind the spirit of Pharaoh.
Exodus 25:8
And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.
Exodus 25:22
And there I will meet with thee, and I will commune with thee from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubims which are upon the ark of the testimony, of all things which I will give thee in commandment unto the children of Israel.
Exodus 23:14-17
Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year. Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:) And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field. Three times in the year all thy males shall appear before the Lord God.
Firstly, from beginning God wants to talk to all people personally Himself. He didn't put any intermediary between His people. But the people didn't want to so they asked Moses to talk to God on behalf.
Exodus 19:9
And the Lord said unto Moses, Lo, I come unto thee in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with thee, and believe thee for ever. And Moses told the words of the people unto the Lord.
Exodus 20:18-19
And all the people saw the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the noise of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking: and when the people saw it, they removed, and stood afar off. And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.
Deuteronomy 31:15
And the Lord appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle.
Exodus 25:40
And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.
Matthew 11:27
All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him
Luke 10:22
All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.
John 16:25
These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.
That in whomsoever the Lord Jesus Christ delights and wills, He will take that people and introduce to the Father God.
Secondly, Revelation 4:1 said He will show you the wonders in heaven.
Thirdly, Zechariah 3:7 He will allow you to talk to the saints and angels in heaven.
This is a blessing and privilege for everybody. So how can you get them? 2 simple ways :
1. Obey God commandments
2. Seek His ways
3. Walk in His ways
4. Open your heart and talk to Him
God desire Himself to manifest Himself to you is greater than your desire to see Him. Don't run here and there, take time to wait on God. This is a very important principle we must learn in our lives.
1 Corinthians 10:11
Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
Joshua 3:3-4
And they commanded the people, saying, When ye see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the priests the Levites bearing it, then ye shall remove from your place, and go after it. Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore.
Revelation 12:17
And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
2 important phases :
- Keeping the commandments of God
- Having the testimony of Jesus Christ which is Revelation 19:10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.
Why do you need spirit of prophecy? Because there will be false prophets, false teachers, and anti-christ will be increased in last days. And false Christs. Of these 4, only the false prophets will be difficult to recognised. Because they were once upon a time a good prophets and good teachers. How would you know their spirits are wrong? That's why you need to have the spirit of prophecy which will teach you all things, it will lead you to all good. It will guide you and give you discernment. That is why it is very important for you to know the ways of God. How to know the ways of God?
John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
If He is the way, to know the ways of God, you need to know Jesus, not just about Jesus Christ. But to have intimate relationship with Lord Jesus. With the intimate bonding with Jesus, then you can know the ways of the Lord Jesus. He will then show you 4 kinds of the ways of God. He will show you the way to the heart of God. Secondly, He will show you the way to the kingdom of God. Thirdly, He will show you the ways of God. Fourthly, He will show you the will of God.
John 1:36-39
And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou? He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.
Psalm 18:11
He made darkness his secret place; his pavilion round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the skies.
Psalm 27:5
For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
Psalm 31:20
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.
Psalm 91:1
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
The inner secret place is becoming one with the Lord.
John 17:21 calls it the union with God
To know the Lord Jesus is to love Him with all your heart, and to seek Him with all your heart.
Sunday, May 19, 2019
The God beyond the hills
Pastor Benny Ho
Psalm 121:1-8
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Psalm 110 to 134 are sung in sequence by the Israelites as they ascend Mount Zion towards the Temple of the Lord.
They are called "A Song of Ascents (Shirah Hammaloth)"
Psalm 134:1
The Israelites praise God in the night as they are reaching nearer to the glory of God
Psalm 121 is considered as a "travellers psalm" as they speak about the protection and the provision of the lord in their travels. It is a psalm that is sing at the start of their journey.
3 Perspectives :
#1. The source of my help (v1, 2)
- The Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
- The problem with many believers is that we are God-conscious but man-centred. God wants us to be God-Centered
2 kings 6:15-17
True encouragement comes when our eyes are open to see God. Then our eyes will shift from gigantic problems to a gigantic God.
Joshua 11:6
Why hamstring the horses and burnt chariots instead of keeping them to build up Israel armory? So that the people will always remember that their battles belong to our God
#2. The substance of our help (v3-7)
- God is "shamar" means to protect, preserve, guard, watch over, keep, take care
- God is never caught by surprise
- The closer I walk with God, the closer I am with Him and His protection
Psalm 91:1-2
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.
When fear comes knocking at your door, let faith go answer it and you'll find nobody there.
#3. The scope of our help (v8)
- Now or Eternity, God totally covered you. We are insured beyond this life.
- We see beyond the hills
Isaiah 50:10-11
- is addressing to believers. It is not talking about darkness of sin, ignorance or demonic power. It refers to the "silence of God"
- don't take things into your own hands
- don't light torches unto yourself
- learn to trust in the name of the lord, by waiting, holding on to God patiently
3 kinds of darkness :
@1. The darkness of sin
@2. The darkness of ignorance
@3. The darkness of demonic power
Psalm 121:1-8
I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
Psalm 110 to 134 are sung in sequence by the Israelites as they ascend Mount Zion towards the Temple of the Lord.
They are called "A Song of Ascents (Shirah Hammaloth)"
Psalm 134:1
The Israelites praise God in the night as they are reaching nearer to the glory of God
Psalm 121 is considered as a "travellers psalm" as they speak about the protection and the provision of the lord in their travels. It is a psalm that is sing at the start of their journey.
3 Perspectives :
#1. The source of my help (v1, 2)
- The Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
- The problem with many believers is that we are God-conscious but man-centred. God wants us to be God-Centered
2 kings 6:15-17
True encouragement comes when our eyes are open to see God. Then our eyes will shift from gigantic problems to a gigantic God.
Joshua 11:6
Why hamstring the horses and burnt chariots instead of keeping them to build up Israel armory? So that the people will always remember that their battles belong to our God
#2. The substance of our help (v3-7)
- God is "shamar" means to protect, preserve, guard, watch over, keep, take care
- God is never caught by surprise
- The closer I walk with God, the closer I am with Him and His protection
Psalm 91:1-2
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.
When fear comes knocking at your door, let faith go answer it and you'll find nobody there.
#3. The scope of our help (v8)
- Now or Eternity, God totally covered you. We are insured beyond this life.
- We see beyond the hills
Isaiah 50:10-11
- is addressing to believers. It is not talking about darkness of sin, ignorance or demonic power. It refers to the "silence of God"
- don't take things into your own hands
- don't light torches unto yourself
- learn to trust in the name of the lord, by waiting, holding on to God patiently
3 kinds of darkness :
@1. The darkness of sin
@2. The darkness of ignorance
@3. The darkness of demonic power
Saturday, March 9, 2019
Spiritual Decluttering
by Pastor Ben
Big Idea :
God desires us to declutter every areas of our lives by learning to live in contentment so that we can fully focus in serving him in His kingdom
What are the causes of Cluttering?
# Over Consumption (due to overwhelming choices)
# Fleeting Pleasures
# Inextinguishable Discontent
satan puts in us the fear of "what ifs"
The more worry we are in keeping it, the more time we need to manage it
The more we need to make us happy, the more tempted to covet
The more tightly we hold onto it, the more complacent we are
The things you have in life, end up owning you
- Tyler Durden -
Cure for Cluttering :
Contentment
1 Timothy 6-8
- Godliness
- Riches in the Lord
Contentment is the state of being mentally or emotionally satisfied with things as they are
Philippians 4:11-13
I’m not saying this because I need anything. I have learned to be content no matter what happens to me. I know what it’s like not to have what I need. I also know what it’s like to have more than I need. I have learned the secret of being content no matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am content whether I have more than enough or not enough. I can do all this by the power of Christ. He gives me strength.
Learning to find sufficiency in the Lord Jesus Christ
Philippians 4:19
My God will meet all your needs. He will meet them in keeping with his wonderful riches. These riches come to you because you belong to Christ Jesus.
Isaiah 55:1-3
“Come, all you who are thirsty. Come and drink the water I offer to you. You who do not have any money, come. Buy and eat the grain I give you. Come and buy wine and milk. You will not have to pay anything for it. Why spend money on what is not food? Why work for what does not satisfy you? Listen carefully to me. Then you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the richest food there is. Listen and come to me. Pay attention to me. Then you will live. I will make a covenant with you that will last forever. I will give you my faithful love. I promised it to David.
The Cornerstone of contentment is the cross
* Our bondage to sin is broken
* Our salvation is secure
* Our friendship with God is possible
* Our future in heaven is guaranteed
Giving Thanks (acknowledges God is enough)
"Contentment is not possessing everything but giving thanks for everything you possess"
Contentment is also about surrendering our will
"Contentment is a matter of accepting from God's hand what he sends ... even pain and suffering ... to accept is to surrender our will to Him
Contentment is also about serving Him in his kingdom
Hebrews 12:1
A huge cloud of witnesses is all around us. So let us throw off everything that stands in our way. Let us throw off any sin that holds on to us so tightly. And let us keep on running the race marked out for us.
Philippians 3:13-14
Brothers and sisters, I don’t consider that I have taken hold of it yet. But here is the one thing I do. I forget what is behind me. I push hard toward what is ahead of me. I push myself forward toward the goal to win the prize. God has appointed me to win it. The heavenly prize is Christ Jesus himself.
Luke 12:15
Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against wanting to have more and more things. Life is not made up of how much a person has.”
Matthew 6:20-21
Instead, gather for yourselves riches in heaven. There, moths and rats do not destroy them. There, thieves do not break in and steal them. Your heart will be where your riches are.
"Give away... because it breaks covetousness, greed and giving releases blessings"
Big Idea :
God desires us to declutter every areas of our lives by learning to live in contentment so that we can fully focus in serving him in His kingdom
What are the causes of Cluttering?
# Over Consumption (due to overwhelming choices)
# Fleeting Pleasures
# Inextinguishable Discontent
satan puts in us the fear of "what ifs"
The more worry we are in keeping it, the more time we need to manage it
The more we need to make us happy, the more tempted to covet
The more tightly we hold onto it, the more complacent we are
The things you have in life, end up owning you
- Tyler Durden -
Cure for Cluttering :
Contentment
1 Timothy 6-8
- Godliness
- Riches in the Lord
Contentment is the state of being mentally or emotionally satisfied with things as they are
Philippians 4:11-13
I’m not saying this because I need anything. I have learned to be content no matter what happens to me. I know what it’s like not to have what I need. I also know what it’s like to have more than I need. I have learned the secret of being content no matter what happens. I am content whether I am well fed or hungry. I am content whether I have more than enough or not enough. I can do all this by the power of Christ. He gives me strength.
Learning to find sufficiency in the Lord Jesus Christ
Philippians 4:19
My God will meet all your needs. He will meet them in keeping with his wonderful riches. These riches come to you because you belong to Christ Jesus.
Isaiah 55:1-3
“Come, all you who are thirsty. Come and drink the water I offer to you. You who do not have any money, come. Buy and eat the grain I give you. Come and buy wine and milk. You will not have to pay anything for it. Why spend money on what is not food? Why work for what does not satisfy you? Listen carefully to me. Then you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the richest food there is. Listen and come to me. Pay attention to me. Then you will live. I will make a covenant with you that will last forever. I will give you my faithful love. I promised it to David.
The Cornerstone of contentment is the cross
* Our bondage to sin is broken
* Our salvation is secure
* Our friendship with God is possible
* Our future in heaven is guaranteed
Giving Thanks (acknowledges God is enough)
"Contentment is not possessing everything but giving thanks for everything you possess"
Contentment is also about surrendering our will
"Contentment is a matter of accepting from God's hand what he sends ... even pain and suffering ... to accept is to surrender our will to Him
Contentment is also about serving Him in his kingdom
Hebrews 12:1
A huge cloud of witnesses is all around us. So let us throw off everything that stands in our way. Let us throw off any sin that holds on to us so tightly. And let us keep on running the race marked out for us.
Philippians 3:13-14
Brothers and sisters, I don’t consider that I have taken hold of it yet. But here is the one thing I do. I forget what is behind me. I push hard toward what is ahead of me. I push myself forward toward the goal to win the prize. God has appointed me to win it. The heavenly prize is Christ Jesus himself.
Luke 12:15
Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against wanting to have more and more things. Life is not made up of how much a person has.”
Matthew 6:20-21
Instead, gather for yourselves riches in heaven. There, moths and rats do not destroy them. There, thieves do not break in and steal them. Your heart will be where your riches are.
"Give away... because it breaks covetousness, greed and giving releases blessings"
Saturday, March 2, 2019
The Reign of God through Warfare
by Pastor Wilson Teo
The reign of God brings victory over demonic forces and evil
Mark 5:1-20
We are the temple of the Holy Spirit and He lives with us. He will speak with me within me, Not get me out of the body (astral projection) which is purely satanic.
Spiritual issues and problems must be resolved/confronted by the spiritual authority of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:9-11
For this reason God raised him to the highest place above and gave him the name that is greater than any other name. And so, in honor of the name of Jesus all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will fall on their knees, and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Not every issue is caused by demons and evil spirits. Some problems are because of aging or genetic
Question : How do I know if the issue is spiritual related?
Answer : Ask Holy Spirit to help you to discern!
by
(1) Pray against it in the name of Jesus. If still persist then
(2) Gather a Christian community to pray with you. If still unresolved then
(3) that issue might not have a demonic roots to it.
Pray :
"I command this pattern to stop in the name of Jesus."
Note :
It is in the reign of God that you will find freedom in the spiritual warfare. Be missional in your own stories and testimonies.
The reign of God brings victory over demonic forces and evil
Mark 5:1-20
We are the temple of the Holy Spirit and He lives with us. He will speak with me within me, Not get me out of the body (astral projection) which is purely satanic.
Spiritual issues and problems must be resolved/confronted by the spiritual authority of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 2:9-11
For this reason God raised him to the highest place above and gave him the name that is greater than any other name. And so, in honor of the name of Jesus all beings in heaven, on earth, and in the world below will fall on their knees, and all will openly proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Not every issue is caused by demons and evil spirits. Some problems are because of aging or genetic
Question : How do I know if the issue is spiritual related?
Answer : Ask Holy Spirit to help you to discern!
by
(1) Pray against it in the name of Jesus. If still persist then
(2) Gather a Christian community to pray with you. If still unresolved then
(3) that issue might not have a demonic roots to it.
Pray :
"I command this pattern to stop in the name of Jesus."
Note :
It is in the reign of God that you will find freedom in the spiritual warfare. Be missional in your own stories and testimonies.
Tuesday, February 12, 2019
The disciples Prayer
by Pastor Calvin Lee
First Part :
1st petition / declaration
Our father be your name / God you are my father!
# Seek to know God more
(Matthew 6:31-32)
(psalm 20:7)
2nd petition / declaration
Your kingdom come / God you reign!
# Surrender to the lordship of Jesus Christ
3rd petition / declaration
Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven / Lord your will be done!
# submit to the ways of God
(the above is a form of Declaration)
2nd part :
1st petition / dependance
Give us this day our daily bread / I'm asking for daily bread : provision
(Philippians 6:19)
2nd petition / dependance
Forgive us our debts as we had forgiven our debtors / I am a sinner and in need of forgiveness : pardon
# You will never fully enter into the freedom of Christ unless you embark onto the path of forgiveness on others
3rd petition / dependance
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the hands of the evil one / I don't want to go on sinning : protection
@ Prayer is about relation not ritual. Prayer is not a formula
@ The focus of prayer must be on God not on self or others
@ Prayer lifts us to have a glimpse of the greater things, the glorious things, global things and most of all, the great God
@ What matters is the heart, not the art of praying
@ When we don't pray we allow our hearts to harden towards God and our thoughts and desires fall out of tune with God
@ When we are in connection with God, we are able to rest in Him, we become stroner spiritually, we are able to forgive one another, and we are able to resist temptation
First Part :
1st petition / declaration
Our father be your name / God you are my father!
# Seek to know God more
(Matthew 6:31-32)
(psalm 20:7)
2nd petition / declaration
Your kingdom come / God you reign!
# Surrender to the lordship of Jesus Christ
3rd petition / declaration
Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven / Lord your will be done!
# submit to the ways of God
(the above is a form of Declaration)
2nd part :
1st petition / dependance
Give us this day our daily bread / I'm asking for daily bread : provision
(Philippians 6:19)
2nd petition / dependance
Forgive us our debts as we had forgiven our debtors / I am a sinner and in need of forgiveness : pardon
# You will never fully enter into the freedom of Christ unless you embark onto the path of forgiveness on others
3rd petition / dependance
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the hands of the evil one / I don't want to go on sinning : protection
@ Prayer is about relation not ritual. Prayer is not a formula
@ The focus of prayer must be on God not on self or others
@ Prayer lifts us to have a glimpse of the greater things, the glorious things, global things and most of all, the great God
@ What matters is the heart, not the art of praying
@ When we don't pray we allow our hearts to harden towards God and our thoughts and desires fall out of tune with God
@ When we are in connection with God, we are able to rest in Him, we become stroner spiritually, we are able to forgive one another, and we are able to resist temptation
The Reign of God in our Worship - Honoring God as the centre of our lives
Pastor Meng Chiam
Love the Lord your God
- Living in extraordinary times
Mark 12:28-31
One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.[a] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’[b] The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[c] There is no commandment greater than these.”
Uncertain times, uncertain circumstances. Because we have a God who is sure and stable and impendable in all seasons.
The reign of God begins with our worship. Second is to "Love your neighbour as yourself"
Big idea :
Love him with everything you have. Love God with everything!
Mark 12:30
Love the lord with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength
1 John 5:3
In fact, this is love for God : to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome
Love the lord your God!
1. With all your heart
Proverbs 4:23
Mark 7:6-7
Luke 6:45
Proverbs 23:24
#"Give your heart only to ONE master"
2. With all your soul
- the soul has the everlasting part of your being even in death
- soul through the spirit is able to relate to God (Matthew 16:25)
- Until we give up all these soulish desires, we will not be able to have God as the ultimate satisfier of my soul (psalm 63:3)
# "let your soul be satisfied in God forever"
3. With all your mind
- this is the rational part of you
- use your mind to think biblically
- the grace of God is not just for intelligent people. It is for those who can discern between pleasing God and don't
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
- you should not let your mind take control, renew your mind!
Watch your thoughts,
For they become words.
Watch your words,
For they become action.
Watch your actions,
For they become habit.
Watch your habits,
For they become character.
Watch your character,
They become YOUR Destiny!
The fear of the lord is the beginning of wisdom
Romans 8:6
The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the spirit is life and peace!
"Align your thoughts to God's word and wisdom!"
4. With all your strength
- the expression of your being
1 Corinthians 9:26-27
We exercise, have a healthy diet, sleep well (that's living responsibly)
# "use your abilities and strengths to glorify God!"
Unless the Lord is the lord of all, He is not our lord at all
Whoever loves God is known by God
1 Corinthians 8:3
Love the Lord your God
- Living in extraordinary times
Mark 12:28-31
One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.[a] Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’[b] The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[c] There is no commandment greater than these.”
Uncertain times, uncertain circumstances. Because we have a God who is sure and stable and impendable in all seasons.
The reign of God begins with our worship. Second is to "Love your neighbour as yourself"
Big idea :
Love him with everything you have. Love God with everything!
Mark 12:30
Love the lord with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength
1 John 5:3
In fact, this is love for God : to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome
Love the lord your God!
1. With all your heart
Proverbs 4:23
Mark 7:6-7
Luke 6:45
Proverbs 23:24
#"Give your heart only to ONE master"
2. With all your soul
- the soul has the everlasting part of your being even in death
- soul through the spirit is able to relate to God (Matthew 16:25)
- Until we give up all these soulish desires, we will not be able to have God as the ultimate satisfier of my soul (psalm 63:3)
# "let your soul be satisfied in God forever"
3. With all your mind
- this is the rational part of you
- use your mind to think biblically
- the grace of God is not just for intelligent people. It is for those who can discern between pleasing God and don't
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
- you should not let your mind take control, renew your mind!
Watch your thoughts,
For they become words.
Watch your words,
For they become action.
Watch your actions,
For they become habit.
Watch your habits,
For they become character.
Watch your character,
They become YOUR Destiny!
The fear of the lord is the beginning of wisdom
Romans 8:6
The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the spirit is life and peace!
"Align your thoughts to God's word and wisdom!"
4. With all your strength
- the expression of your being
1 Corinthians 9:26-27
We exercise, have a healthy diet, sleep well (that's living responsibly)
# "use your abilities and strengths to glorify God!"
Unless the Lord is the lord of all, He is not our lord at all
Whoever loves God is known by God
1 Corinthians 8:3
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
The Reign of God in our walk
Pastor Alvin
The reign of God in our walk
- Obeying God in our everyday
Sermon on the mount is direct at Christians
Matthew 5:17-48
Big Idea :
Learning to walk everyday in God's reign is to exercise kingdom righteousness by allowing the gospel of Jesus to transform our hearts to be holy like God our Father.
Jesus fulfill the law and the prophets
How do I know whether I am walking in the reign of God?
6 Litmus Test :
(1) Anger Not Just Murder
- Anger is a God-given emotion
- how you treat the visible brother that you see everyday is a reflection of how you treat God who is the invisible
- Anger is a sin when it develops into bitterness and unforgiveness (Matthew 6:14)
(2) Lust Not Just Adultery
- it shows God does not satisfy me
(3) Adultery Not Just Divorce
- when you marry your spouse, he/she is your first ministry
- when we marry, we are witnessing to the world that Jesus is coming back to marry His bride (the church)
- when you divorce you are a terrrible witness, so take solemn consideration
(4) Trustworthy Not Just Swearing
- be a person of your world and live by it
(5) Generosity Not Just Your Rights
John 18:22
- just as Jesus denied the cross that He doesn't need to go, we also can exercise generosity by not demanding our rights
(6) Love Not Just Your Friends
- can you love your enemies because they are loved by me?
- can you love your enemies because you will experience your best discipleship with Jesus?
How do I transform my heart so that God can reign in my heart?
Jesus came to fulfill the law and prophets and now is for your heart to be transformed from the inside out. Allow Jesus to heal your heart and completely reign in every areas of your life
The reign of God in our walk
- Obeying God in our everyday
Sermon on the mount is direct at Christians
Matthew 5:17-48
Big Idea :
Learning to walk everyday in God's reign is to exercise kingdom righteousness by allowing the gospel of Jesus to transform our hearts to be holy like God our Father.
Jesus fulfill the law and the prophets
How do I know whether I am walking in the reign of God?
6 Litmus Test :
(1) Anger Not Just Murder
- Anger is a God-given emotion
- how you treat the visible brother that you see everyday is a reflection of how you treat God who is the invisible
- Anger is a sin when it develops into bitterness and unforgiveness (Matthew 6:14)
(2) Lust Not Just Adultery
- it shows God does not satisfy me
(3) Adultery Not Just Divorce
- when you marry your spouse, he/she is your first ministry
- when we marry, we are witnessing to the world that Jesus is coming back to marry His bride (the church)
- when you divorce you are a terrrible witness, so take solemn consideration
(4) Trustworthy Not Just Swearing
- be a person of your world and live by it
(5) Generosity Not Just Your Rights
John 18:22
- just as Jesus denied the cross that He doesn't need to go, we also can exercise generosity by not demanding our rights
(6) Love Not Just Your Friends
- can you love your enemies because they are loved by me?
- can you love your enemies because you will experience your best discipleship with Jesus?
How do I transform my heart so that God can reign in my heart?
Jesus came to fulfill the law and prophets and now is for your heart to be transformed from the inside out. Allow Jesus to heal your heart and completely reign in every areas of your life
Extraordinary Times
Pastor Calvin Lee
In these times of uncertainty and troubled news, The God that we serve is faithful
Deuteronomy 7:6-9
- even as you move forward, I will be faithful to be with you as I was in the past
3 important points :
1. Rest in God's faithfulness wholeheartedly
(vs 9)
- economy change but not God
- government change but not God
- body change but not God
- weather change but not God etc
2. Recalibrate your relationship with God prayerfully
(vs 11)
- take care of your faith life
- dig deep into the word of God
- seek the face of God
- Take care of your Family life
3. Resolve to serve God fervently
(vs 16)
- put Him first
- don't wait
In these times of uncertainty and troubled news, The God that we serve is faithful
Deuteronomy 7:6-9
- even as you move forward, I will be faithful to be with you as I was in the past
3 important points :
1. Rest in God's faithfulness wholeheartedly
(vs 9)
- economy change but not God
- government change but not God
- body change but not God
- weather change but not God etc
2. Recalibrate your relationship with God prayerfully
(vs 11)
- take care of your faith life
- dig deep into the word of God
- seek the face of God
- Take care of your Family life
3. Resolve to serve God fervently
(vs 16)
- put Him first
- don't wait
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