…I am sure those words were in the mind of many runners, at least I am one of them where every kilometers do count as I am drawing closer to the finishing line. As we started the marathon, you will find different people running together with us: Young men and women, middle age men and women, foreigners, people from different race and language. During the run, there will be some running faster while some running slower while some stopped to rest due to their legs being injured but all have one goal in their mind, to finish the marathon successfully. Our walk with Christ is like a marathon in our lives. There were times where we are thinking of giving up on this race as it is getting too difficult and we are too tired to continue ‘running’. If we were to check on our lives, everyday we are in many races: A race in school [on who gets the better grades], a race in work [on who will get promotion or better increment], a race at home [on who will gain parents’ favour].
But just as we learned through Philippians: As we forget what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, we press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13-14). Whether we like it or not, we are all in the race. But one thing that is different, we are not racing among ourselves to prove who is a better runner, but instead, we are running to finish the goals God have given to us. When the purpose God has for us is finished, there our marathon will end. But it matters not when we finish the race; we need to run in such a way as to get the prize which is in Christ Jesus alone. We do not run like a man running aimlessly. Therefore, let us learn to throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2). Amidst on what race we may be in, may we learn to fix our eyes on Jesus and run in such a way that we will not be disqualified for the prize (1 Corinthians 9:27)
hp
November 22, 2011 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment
We may have heard this verse quoted before: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). As we ponder further on this verse, may we ask ourselves what does “be still” really mean to us? Is it merely just to be quiet and stop talking?
At times, the noisiest place is within our mind. Without realizing it, our mind work very hard and independently. When faced with a situation, our mind will start working on how to resolve it. When faced with a challenge or a decision, our mind will start to think what the best path for us to take. Besides, we will find it hard to “be still” when our mind is clustered with anger, bitterness, and anxieties.
But, through this psalm, God wants us to learn to quieten our minds and know that He is still Lord over everything. Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails (Proverbs 19:21). Yes, we may have a lot of desires and plans in which we want to achieve. While it is good for us to plan ahead but we must not forget that it is God who determines our steps. At times, after all that had been done and prayed for or when we are lost of words, maybe one thing that is required for us to do is to come in quietness to our Father, acknowledging that He is still sovereign over our life; our future. When we learn to surrender everything to our Father, allowing Him to take control over our lives, that we can truly experience the meaning of be still and know that He is God. Let us remember that He is still the good shepherd who cares for His sheeps and not a hired man who does not own the sheep.
hp
November 15, 2011 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment
We are created to have relationships. Fellowship is very important for us not only as Christians, but as human beings. I don’t know about you all, but if I’m left completely alone by myself for more than 24 hours, I’ll either get really depressed or go crazy. By nature, we humans are meant to interact and share and have relationships. ‘It is not good that the man should be alone’ (Gen. 2:18). God made us to have fellowship with him and with one another.
In fact, fellowship with God is a necessity. Jesus says “Abide in me, and I in you… I am the vine; you are the branches.” (John 15:4,5). Spending time with God and being rooted in him is essential for us as Christians. The ultimate purpose of us as branches is to bear fruit for the vine – that is, to display the characteristics of God and the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.
Abide in God. Take the time to get to know him better. Grow roots and learn to abide in God. Then when hard times come, or when the pressures and pleasures of the world around you get too much to handle, you won’t wither and die away. Tough times force us to grow deeper roots. Instead, you’ll learn to rely on God as the source of all strength and hope. You’ll grow deeper and bear more fruit for his glory.
‘By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.’ John 15:8
JW
November 8, 2011 | Categories: Uncategorized | Leave a comment
Joshua House 