18 Aug 2013 by Adeline Lum CM-

While moral decisions are easier to make, amoral decisions inspired by the Holy Spirit are difficult. “Did you say that Lord? But it doesn’t make sense…It will be quite embarrassing,” your mind battles within. We often wrestle with the Lord when we hear a prompting of the heart to do something, especially when it is out of line with our original plans, desires, or wants.

But not for our Vietnamese brother Tony Le, who heard and obeyed the Lord in doing many things that we would often say no to based on our supposedly logic and reasoning. And through the most simple and meaningless act, the Lord opened door after door for Tony. Behind the door, Tony realized the Lord has already paved the way. Imagine if he had not opened it, how many opportunities would have been missed! And these opportunities are a sober reminder of how many blessings we have missed for ignoring that tiny and still voice that rang in us.

Tony Le

 1 Kings 19:11-13

And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and break in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle, and went out, and stood in the entering in of the cave. And, behold, there came a voice unto him, and said, What doest thou here, Elijah?

This is a story of how a man of faith obeyed the Lord and how God has shown Himself faithful through his trust and obedience.

Follow Thy Tiny Voice

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Since 1985, Tony was a researcher in a water chemical laboratory for four years before he was drafted into the military; his organization could no longer hold him because he was a pastor’s son. Passing through the office corridor, he saw a notice for employment in Iraq. Ten thousand Vietnamese were employed at that time to build a dam near Mosul, the capital city of Nineveh in northern Iraq where the book of Jonah was based on. Oblivious to the threats of extremely harsh working conditions in a foreign land, Tony applied without hesitation because he saw that it was the land of the Bible…

“At that time, I didn’t think about anything but going to where the bible stories started. People would look at me and asked, ‘What are you going to do in Iraq?’” said Tony.

As a gutsy 24-year-old, he was contented with working as a tree planter in the harsh condition of the desert. He got the job and flew from his hometown in Saigon to the headquarters of the Water Resources Ministry in Hanoi.

Tony Le (left) and his good friend, David Yap

On the way to the ministry’s guest house, Tony bought some cheap local-grown grapes that were pitiful-looking, tiny, and very sour though the insects appeared to love them. Tony scavenged for the last good fruits to eat and left the bad bunch on the table over night. The next morning, while brushing his teeth in the restroom, he bumped into a recognizable man of stature and power; it was the vice minister of the ministry.

Tony pursed his lips, lest any faulty words would rouse the disfavor of this man of position. While keep his composure, Tony heard an unlikely voice of the Holy Spirit prompting him to give the left over grapes to the minister!

“How can I do that? Even when we treat a normal friend, we wouldn’t want to give those sour, forbidden grapes to them,” debated Tony with the Spirit.

But he finally relented because the Spirit’s voice was too strong and he dared not resist. Approaching that VIP room, he cleared his throat and knocked the closed door. A crisp voice beckoned him to come in and Tony stood before the minister who asked matter-of-factly, “Who are you?”

Holding his grapes up with one hand, Tony presented his grapes before the minister with the most casual composure, “I don’t know if you like these grapes?” Pausing awhile at the grapes, the minister ended the awkward ordeal by inviting Tony into his room. They had a brief question-and-answer discussion of Tony’s background and future plans. With a strange look on his face, the minister tore a piece of paper from the edge of his notebook, scribbled something on it, folded the paper and asked Tony to present it to the Personnel Department of the ministry.

Exiting the brief and unexpected encounter, Tony heaved a sign of relief as he opened the folded paper and read the scribbled words by the vice minister. It said, “This comrade has excellent expertise in chemistry and he is fluent in English and French. Please assign him appropriate jobs.” But Tony knew not a word of English at that time! When he passed the paper to the office, the Personnel Department Director scrutinized him from top to bottom. Who is this man that he could warrant such a recommendation from the vice minister? Well… he is the man who pleased God.

Proverbs 21:1

In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.

Equipped for Thy Kingdom

Hence, from gardener to researcher, Tony was one of the four chemists out of the ten thousand Vietnamese workers in Nineveh to work in the laboratory. Under the Lord’s hands, he escaped the hot blazing sun of the arid desert and the toxic gas from the dam foundation pit that killed 11 people the first week Tony was there. Although Tony fulfilled the vice minister’s recommendation of being a researcher, he was still illiterate in English. But the Lord honored the vice minister’s recommendation.

Ephesians 4:11-13

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

The Sunday before flying to Iraq, Tony went to Hanoi Evangelical Church and he noticed a very old English Bible lying inconspicuously at a dark corner. Tony enquired if he could get the Bible and he was immediately granted his request, since no one there knew English to use it. This Bible became his only English-learning material in Iraq. Every night after 14 hours of work, Tony would lie on his tiny bed with his English bible and Vietnamese bible side-by-side; that was how he learned English! Within one month, he could speak English fluently. Not only that, the Bible also became his geographic and archaeological book, using the ten colored maps as his faithful compass. After two months there, he could even interpret and write Arabic words.

Young Tony in 1989 as a chemist in Mosul, Nineveh in Iraq

Because of his fluency in English and Vietnamese, many Vietnamese workers often turned to him as an interpreter to talk to the Iraqi management who only knew English. Their jealousy for Tony's favorable position turned to love as he would plead their cause of requesting medical leaves and compensations in their place. After work, Tony would also sing hymns while playing his keyboard in his room to the wearied workers of the desert who found solace in the melodies he played. After twenty months, the Iraqi Management requested Tony to continue serving in an international hospital there, but the threat of war became too serious and he was listed to depart in a perfect timing, two weeks before the bombing of Iraq started on 17 January 1991.

The seeds he sown in Iraq grew in Vietnam! Most of the desperate people who were close to him in Iraq now became brothers and sisters-in-Christ. One that unexpectedly grew was a Vietnamese violinist who was rather quaint albeit his musical talents with an interest in improving his English. When Tony left Vietnam, this chap inherited Tony’s good old faithful King James Version Bible. But after one month, the violinist also returned to Vietnam, not to his hometown in Hanoi, but surprisingly to Tony’s hometown in Saigon. Tony introduced him to his father’s church and he became a disciple who is currently serving as a Gideon International representative for northern Vietnam. Who would have known? A seed sown fell onto a good soil and produced manifolds.

Serve Before Kings

When Tony returned to Vietnam, his good reputation as an interpreter-cum-researcher in Iraq fell on the ears of the director of the Institute of Water Resources who searched and hired Tony.

Proverbs 22:29

Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings; he will not serve before obscure men.

While he could converse fluently in English, working with engineers would require another level of English understanding. By faith, Tony borrowed a dictionary from the library and within one week, he taught himself 100 technical words each day. “It is not I who speak but the Lord helped me.” Within one year, he traveled and translated for experts from Sweden and Canada who came to help Vietnam for the water resources. He also did spontaneous translation in meetings and workshops in the television.

After working for the institute for a while, Tony saw an advertisement that international tour guides training courses were opened for the first time in Vietnam. Tony registered his name for the entrance exam and acing it, he was introduced to work with a hotel within three months. Normally, an applicant would need a minimum of one-year training to apply for that job.

And within two years, he was selected to be the international tour guide of Vietnam’s top travel corporation in 1992, Saigon Tourist. In the following year, he joined the pre-opening team of the biggest hotel of Indochina then, New World Hotel. And when he returned from Hong Kong in 1995 after his managerial training, Tony was headhunted to open the first five-start resort in Vietnam, whereby he had the opportunity to travel worldwide to promote Vietnam as a tourist destination.

Tony (right) enjoying a boat ride with his friend

The Lord brought him to greater heights in 2005. After a decade, Tony founded the first international hotel management company of Vietnam with a German partner. However, although it was a career milestone for Tony, the company faced many financial difficulties. It was also around this time he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Before that, he served the Lord like a servant and he was satisfied with church ministries. But upon that baptism, the Holy Spirit changed his life; Tony was not longer satisfied with church ministry but he was charged with a new vision for the Kingdom of God. Jesus no longer called him servant but a friend, a friend of God like how God called Abraham.

Romans 8:28-30

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.

He felt a heavy burden for the salvation of people in Vietnam and started to pray by faith of wanting to worship for the Lord in public places like the stadium. A conductor of the traditional choir in his church at that time, Tony hoped that his choir would proclaim the gospel upon thousands and also pray together for the nations. So, the Lord answered his prayers. After two months in spiritual baptism, God sent him a prophet from Sri Lanka to minister in the marketplace. Although the prophet did not know Tony, he specifically wanted to pray for him. Laying his hands on Tony’s lips, the missionary proclaimed that these lips would lead not thousands, but tens of thousands to worship the Lord.

Tony leading the congregation in singing, God Bless Nicaragua

Hence, for every year from 2007 to 2009, the prophecy came true. With his traditional choir, he led worship of tens of thousands during Christmas and Easter every year in the football stadium in Ho Chi Minh City. Through his time of serving, Tony was still battling financial difficulty for his company. In 2007, he met the prophet again, in which Tony stepped forward for prayer for his company’s financial blessing. The prophet said, “The Lord has worked for you. Your finances will be much blessed.”

Look out for Part 2 which will be published tomorrow!

References for pictures:

http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/gyuszko/gyuszko1210/gyuszko121000005/15534444-hand-holding-fresh-red-bunch-of-grapes-in-the-vineyard.jpg

19 Aug 2013 by Adeline Lum CM-

This is part 2 of Tony Le's story. For part 1, please click here.

Tony Le

Gifts from Above

During his time of financial difficulty since the starting of his company, Tony never gave up his role to serve and never slowed down. One area he continued giving to the Lord is tithing. In the beginning, even giving ten percent of his income was a struggle but Tony was faithful. He took another step of faith and decided to give 20 percent of his income but he struggled. And finally, he gave 30 percent of his income. After he faithfully tithed that, Tony got a financial miracle, fulfilling the prophecy by the prophet.

James 1:16-18

Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

For eight years, he owned an ugly piece of land located in the inner bound of a God-forsaken place. The seller of the land was grateful when Tony purchased it. One day after eight years, one buyer called in to buy the land above the market price but the Lord prompted him to not sell the land.

After that, buyer after buyer called him; one that was a famous investment company who offered him three times the market rate and a very nice villa. Although Tony thought the deal was great, God said no. The investment negotiators looked at him in bewilderment; how he could pass such a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity? Tony did not understand either. He would have sold the land in a blink of an eye, but the Lord clearly told him not to sell the land.

Tony (left) and his friend, Levu Tran in KL

When one month has passed, a real estate company called Tony. Respectfully, they told Tony, “Tony, we know that you are a very hard person. We would go around and check the market for the most expensive price of land and we would pay you that price.” “The land cost at a ridiculous high price, surely the Lord will allow me to sell the land now,” thought Tony but the Lord still said no! Tony declined to his jaw-dropping sellers. They had no choice but to give up on the deal and sell the land they bought.

Shortly after, a new buyer from Canada called Tony. Hearing about his firm decision, the Canadian buyer was upfront and straightforward, “With due respect, Mr Tony, we heard that you are a hard man and we do not want to waste your time. Just say one number as one lump sum and we will see if we can do with that.” Tony prayed to the Lord for a number, which was absurdly high-priced. The buyer agreed with a smile; the land was sold ten times the original price!

“Two years before, I really wanted to serve the Lord but my parents who are pastors are retiring soon. If He really wanted me to share the gospel, I prayed that the Lord would grant me freedom from financial barriers and use this time to study more of God’s Kingdom and His Truth,” said Tony.

Had Tony followed his own reasoning, he would have missed the financial blessings by the Lord. But because he obeyed God despite struggling to trust his decision, Tony got the perfect price already determined by the Lord.

Behold thy Mansion

After selling the land, Tony used the money to invest in seven different properties, drawing a passive income from rental. One of them was a beautiful villa, which the Lord in His sovereignty gave Tony. The situation was as awkward as offering grapes to the minister.

Behold thy Mansion

Tony had already eyed and decided to purchase a villa at a posh place, priced reasonably within his budget. But while he was one turn away from completing the official transaction of owning the villa, the Lord distinctly spoke to Tony, “Do not turn.” Bewildered, Tony asked God where he should go and The Lord only directed him to go straight to another villa that the Lord had prepared for him. And true enough, on a tiny hill; he saw a villa, even more magnificent. In fact, it looked more like a mansion.But wait, there was no visible sale sign and he didn't know anyone there. Visiting without invitation to a tight security gated compound resided by foreigners, is impolite at best and trespassing at worse!

The gate into the Villa God has prepared for him

Struggling with the Spirit, Tony approached the housekeeper at the door with the brightest smile. She asked why he was there, to which he blurted out that he wanted to see the owner. Surprisingly, the homemaker let him in. Fumbling into the gates, a twelve-year-old girl greeted him and then skipped her way while leading Tony, a stranger, into her mansion. Tony held his breath when he entered the house; what were in the house were even more magnificent to behold. Each furniture, tapestry, and décor was a masterpiece by itself, painstakingly arranged to complement each other in an inviting and restful manner. Fixing his eyes on a renaissance painting, a Caucasian man walked into the living room, “Who are you looking for and what are you looking at?”

The reception hall of the Villa

Two voices screamed in Tony’s head; one that said, “Funny man! Ridiculous!” and another said, “Son, this is your house!” With the most polite smile he could pull, Tony asked if the man wanted to sell the house because it was so beautiful. “What a rude question to ask,” thought Tony to himself. The man paused and said he had no intentions to sell the housebut he would be happy to give Tony a home tour. After the tour, Tony intended to leave but a voice said, “Don’t leave, talk to them about their children and pray for them.” So, Tony did just that, trying not to sound like a nosy parker, “Sir, how is your children?”

The banquet hall of the villa

The man was surprisingly opened to discuss about his children. His wife also joined in the conversation, leaving her work in the kitchen. She gathered her children to be prayed and lay hands upon by Tony. After that, for more than two hours, Tony would talk only about Jesus Christ with the children before leaving.

The next morning, the man called to see Tony again. Turned out, this man was a very wealthy man; he owned four companies and one university while his wife owned two companies. The man told Tony, “We have everything, we don’t have any problems with money but last night, when you left, something was burning in my wife’s and my heart.” They thought it was black magic. But yesterday night, while they fell asleep in bed, his wife saw Jesus Christ standing by the bed saying, “I have sent my messenger to you, why haven’t you keep him well?”

The back pool of the villa

The couple was prompted to sell their beloved house with the money Tony could offer. He found out that the villa was worth a few millions in the market after buying the house, far above what he bought the villa for. Indeed, the Lord has nothing but the best for his children. The only request that the couple wanted Tony to return was his friendship as a brother-in-Christ, and till today, they were good friends.

John 14:2

In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.

Not only the Lord gave Tony a house, He also provided him a car. Although Tony had a garage in his house, he did not have a car and was never interested to drive until one day; The Lord prompted him to pray for a car. Tony obeyed and made a brief prayer. Shortly after, the Lord asked Tony to have a car. On that afternoon, a Christian man whom he only met once called to ask if he would like a sparkly six-seat luxurious BMW, sold by a sister-in-Christ. Helped by the Lord to drive as if he was a veteran driver since he laid hands on the wheel, Tony has an international driving license in 120 countries today.

Tony with his villa and car

My Best has Yet to Come

1 Cor 2:9

However, as it is written: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived" — the things God has prepared for those who love him–

What a journey with the Lord! How many of us would heed that small voice to do things that could embarrass us? Would you offer sour grapes to a minister? Would you enter a house with no ‘sale sign’ and asked to pray for the owner’s children. While the Lord may ask us to do many seemingly nonsensical things, they were the most fruitful ones, akin to plain-looking, formidable or even ugly-looking doors before a brightly lit and beautiful path that the Lord has prepared for us. If only we take that step of faith, turn the door, ask that one question, say that one word, move that one step forward, what a big difference it would make! All it takes is one step; one step of obedience, one trust and you will see the one way that goes beyond our wildest imagination, highest hope, and largest dream. Do you dare?

The best has yet to come

19 Aug 2013 by Natasha Kim CM-

Come and discover that God can speak to you through a movie! CLM has been hosting a  3-week film series and its final film screening will be 20th August on the film "Best Exotic Marigold Hotel". It is facilitated by Rev. Geoffrey Williams, aka Monty, a highly sought after Spiritual Director and author of several award winning books.

The series began with the film The First Grader, followed by Salmon Fishing In The Yemen. 

The focus of 'The First Grader' was on how our past impacts our present. Sometimes when things are happening, we don't know if it's a good or bad thing. What seemed very bad at the time, can turn out to be a gift in the end and what seemed good can turn out to be quite unfortunate. This movie invited us to look back at our past history (the story of our life) and ask ourselves how we carry the past into the present life. 

As for 'Salmon Fishing In The Yemen', this movie invited us to consider our future. Someone asked, "How can an unknown future impact our present?" "Think of yourself as a parent", Monty said… "As a parent you have certain desires for your child, desires such a college education, think how that desired future impacts the life you live now".  In Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, we see how a certain desired future impacts the various characters in the film and we are invited to reflect on our own belief about who God is for us and how that impacts how we live in the present. 

Don't miss the upcoming screening of the last movie on 20 August. You will not watch movies the same again! Sign-up and be blessed.

UPCOMING film to be screened: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (20 August)

In this last film "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel"  a group of retired British pensioners move to a retirement hotel in India and there are forced to come to terms with their lives, their pasts, their present, and their futures. In other words they have to confront the stories they have told themselves all their life, are telling themselves in the present and the stories they tell themselves about the future. 

In this final film, we are asked to consider our lives…how have we lived, how are we living now and what are our expectations for the future.  To what extent are our stories touched by God's love and been redeemed? Or are we holding on to that which is already dead and does not give us life anymore?

Venue:  Royal Commonwealth Society, No. 4, Jalan Birah, Damansara Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur

Schedule:
7:30 – 8:00pm   Introduction to the film
8:00 – 9:30pm   Film Screening
9:30 – 10:00pm   Break & Group Discussion
10:00 – 10:30pm Q & A

Cost:
Price: RM50.00

For more info or to register, call Katherine at Tel: 03-7710 3360 or email katherine@clm.org.my. Register early to save a seat. See you there!

References for pictures:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/d/d4/The-best-exotic-marigold-hotel.jpg

http://www.impawards.com/intl/uk/2011/posters/first_grader_ver3.jpg

http://zavodudarnik.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/salmon-fishing-in-the-yemen.jpg

http://images.cinemas-online.co.uk/0/4/82/011-EMH_10746%20(Medium)-619065946.jpg

19 August 2013 by Simon Yap -

马太福音 9：1-8

耶稣上了船，过到自己的城来。有人把一个躺在床上的瘫子带到他那里。耶稣看见他们的信心，就对瘫子说：“孩子，放心！你的罪赦了。”有几位经学家彼此说：“这个人在说僭妄的话。”耶稣看出他们所想的，就说：“你们心里为什么存着恶念呢？说‘你的罪赦了’，或说‘起来行走’哪一样容易呢？然而为了要使你们知道人子在地上有赦罪的权柄，（他就对瘫子说：）起来，拿起你的床，回家去吧。”他就起来回家去了。群众看见，就起了敬畏的心，颂赞那把这样的权柄赐给人的神。

当经学者以“惟有上帝才能赦罪”来挑战耶稣赦罪的能力时，他们其实是在暗喻自己有这样的专利。这是因为赦罪只为圣殿里的犹大人而设的。既然他们是经史学者，他们也更清楚知道律法牛羊献祭的整个过程。

因此，对于经史学者而言，罪只有在圣殿里行才得赦。这就是犹大人所谓的“天”。圣殿也就是神在地上的居所。
当耶稣说，“人子在地上有赦罪的权柄”时，他的意思就是上帝如今不再居住在那圣殿里，而是居住在耶稣里。耶稣说，“这殿要被拆毁，三天后我要重建。”

当耶稣说，“他在地上有赦罪的权柄”时，就意表着他有赦免以色列罪恶的权柄。这也是他所谓的“在地”。当圣殿在公元70被拆毁时，以色列人再也不是一个民族了。就如此，“天地都过去了”。

当这事发生了以后，律法的公义也就被耶稣基督的公义取代了。

马太福音 5：18

我实在告诉你们，就算天地过去，律法的一点一画也不会废去，全部都要成就。

随后，耶稣继续说：

马太福音 24:34-35

我实在告诉你们，这一切都必要发生，然后这世代[X世代]才会过去。天地都要过去，但我的话决不会废去。

而祂说到有关这世代将会发生的事情就是这些：

马太福音24:15-22

“当你们看见但以理先知所说的‘那造成荒凉的可憎者’，站在圣地的时候（读者必须领悟），那时，住在犹太的应当逃到山上；在房顶的不要下来拿家里的东西；在田里的也不要回去取衣服。当那些日子，怀孕的和乳养孩子的有祸了！你们应当祈求，叫你们逃难的时候，不是在冬天或安息日，因为那时必有大灾难，这是从世界的开始到现在未曾有过的，以后也必不会再有。如果那些日子不减少，没有一个人可以存活；但是为了选民，那些日子必会减少。”

因此，

以弗所书 2:14-15

基督就是我们的和平；他使双方合而为一，拆毁了隔在中间的墙，就是以自己的身体除掉双方的仇恨，并且废掉了律法的规条，使两者在他里面成为一个新人，这样就缔造了和平。

亲爱的朋友，耶稣就是这样完全了律法，如今我们活在一个新的天和地。天就是我们，神的新圣殿；而正当我们在等待祂荣耀降临并转化引领我们回天家之时，地也就是神的国度。

Source :

http://hischarisisenough.wordpress.com/

http://hischarisisenough.wordpress.com/2013/08/01/heaven-and-earth-has-passed-away/

Disclaimer : The views or opinions expressed by the columnists are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Christianity Malaysia.com

Note: This article was translated by Joycelyn Loh in Christianity Malaysia (CM).Amen.

References for pictures:

http://purechristians.org/images/JesusHealingMan.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4zQWrOZxOaI/UX53v4QpXLI/AAAAAAAAVhg/fOpkqb-_ydE/s1600/jesus+christ+on+the+cross.jpg

http://beginningandend.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Revelation-6-Sixth-Seal-Eathquake-Destruction-e1354506354767.png

http://kevingriggs.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/jesus_return3.jpg

20 August 2013 by Donna Uning CM - 

At 7:30 pm, hosts Ng Wah Lok and Lucy Loo stepped onstage to kick off Kuching’s first Malaysian Gospel Music (MGM) concert at Blessed Church Friday night. Ps Dr Nicholas Wu, President of MGM educated the church with a bit of history about the MGM. He explained MGM’s mission to raise the standard of Malaysia’s gospel music.

President of MGM Ps Dr Nicholas Wu.

“We want to tell the world that God is not a respecter of persons,” he said, telling Malaysian gospel music is just as good as the world’s standard. “God is doing something in our nation; our gospel music is equally anointed.”

After taking MGM’s efforts to Johore, Penang, and Ipoh the team finally extended to Kuching with this year being the country’s Jubilee year. “It’s an important year,” he told, impressing the use of Bahasa Melayu in the songs in their latest CD because “We sing in our country.” The MGM concert here was also a launching of their latest CD, Kasih.

Blessed Church’s Ps GT Lim and his dancers.

Worship team, Sand, set the worship atmosphere with three songs from the CD. Songwriter, artiste, and producer Patrick Leong continued with Juara and Ku Terkagum. He is also the founder of Oops Asia, a Malaysian gospel label.

Elena Koshy came in with two songs, Arise and Terima Kasih. Her song, Arise, sent the message about the desire to serve God in ministry and served as an encouragement. “I want to put that song in your heart, and the desire to express yourself musically,” she said.

Online artist Rhemedy Anthony from Kuching.

Host Ng Wah Lok commended Ps GT Lim on having the most albums produced. Blessed Church’s own Ps Lim performed two songs, one in Mandarin and also in Hokkien. Ps Lim also mentioned how he was always put behind singer Patrick Leong onstage and joked how he maintained his dancers to look good. “My church has no choice but hear me sing in my church,” he said as a compliment to Leong’s singing talent and looking at his team’s reactions. “There are different people we can reach out to,” he told, saying “I need my dancers Patrick Leong!”

Ps Lim introduced Blessed Church’s youth pastor, Geoff David Koh, who sang one song. In his second song, Ps Lim told how his Hokkien songs were more popular than his Mandarin songs. Four out of his 17 albums are in Hokkien. “It has taken me all over with this song,” he said of his second song, Qian wo de shou.

A powerful performance by Patrick Leong and Debra Roberts.

The next two gospel performers were discovered through the internet. “Everyone is doing their own thing,” said host Ng Wah Lok, explaining that many gospel songs come in various languages and how the internet helps give a chance to be heard. Jerry Wan from Miri sang, Yesus yang termanis, and Rhemedy Anthony from Kuching performedBerserah padaMu. Anthony explained how God helped him with his experiences through his song.

“What a joy to have a gathering of the East and West (Malaysia),” said Pastor and songwriter Cheng Lip Kiong from Emmanuel Baptist Church, Kuching. He gave a prophetic declaration that “worship will arise all over Malaysia.” Ps Cheng also sang Holy Spirit sound your Calling. This was followed by local group LIfeshifters from Kuching who performed two originals, Engkaulah and Begitu Indah.

Sabahan Debra Roberts came onstage with Bapaku and Yang Mulia, which she performed with Patrick Leong. Family band, A Force Beat also graced the stage singingKasih and Pembebasan itu Pasti. Sand came back with two originals; Renew them in our Days and Safe Harbour (in Chinese).

The finale.

Scripture songwriter Esther Mui sang two of her songs from Psalm 27:1-4 and I will bless you while I live from Psalm 63:1-5.  Next, guitarist Kelvyn Yeang played Reach for the Stars.

For the finale performance, all contributing artistes went onstage to sing, Satu Suara. The concert ended after 10 pm. MGM Concert 2013 was held at Blessed Church Kuching on August 16, 2013.

20 Aug 2013 by Adeline Lum CM-

The Full Gospel Christian Church (FGCC) had one of the liveliest and most genuine worshippers. Even their ‘Amen’ was enthusiastically proclaimed!

The folks of FGCC really love to worship God

A medium-sized congregation of about 150 people, Pr Vic Lumanglas was an engineer when he received a vision to start FGCC in Brickfield at Kuala Lumpur 16 years ago. As a pioneering church, many churches were established in the Philippines and other nations. In the past, the church had many believers from the Philippines.

“But since the beginning of this year, the Lord has given this church a fresh vision of having people from all nations to come,” said Sr Pr David Koay of FGCC.

Sr Pr David Koay of FGCC

Pr Rev Jai Kumar, advisor to FGCC, preached the word recently on Sunday, Aug 18.

“God is very specific. How do you know that God speaks differently to different people?” asked Jai.

When Paul was traveling with his men to Damascus, all of them saw a very bright light but only Paul heard the voice of God (Acts 9). Have you notice why only Paul heard the voice of God?

“In this morning, you may feel the tangible presence of God in your midst because God will speak to you individually, specifically, relevantly, and according to your circumstances,” said Jai.

Pr Rev Jai Kumar

Continuing to the parable of talents (Matt 25:14-30), Rev Jai talked about the process of transformation in our lives. Everything has to go through transformation before a growth can happen; a seed is transformed into a plant, a caterpillar to a butterfly, a child into an adult, and a sinner to a saint.

The life we have is a gift from God. If we do not transform to what God has given to us into something better, we are held accountable to the Lord. Like the parable of the talents, the servant who did not transform or multiply his talents was called a ‘wicked’ and ‘lazy’ servant (Matt 25:26). His end was to be taken to into the gates of hell, or the place of ‘weeping and gnashing of teeth’ (Matt 25:30).

This transformation, according to Jai, is visible through our character (2 Cor 5:17).

2 Cor 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

“But the problem is when we limit the potential that God has deposited into our lives because of our mentality and small-mindedness. Many times, we underestimate ourselves,” said Jai.

Worship band of FGCC

We are stewards of God’s gifts and we need to give account to how we handle these gifts. The one-talent servant refused to take risk or take a step forward. His fear paralyzed him, kept him deceived, and ultimately destroyed him. He had the ‘I can’t make it’ mentality, the ‘making excuses’ mentality, and the ‘ I refuse to face challenges’ mentality.

“We kept waiting and asking God, ‘Give us gold! Give us gold.’ But God said, ‘They are just under your feet.’ If you want to grow, you need to be able to stretch yourself in faith.”

“If there’s no pain, there’s no gain. Before you’re entrusted with power, you have to go through pain. Remember there’s a cost in discipleship,” said Jai.

The more we surrender ourselves, the higher the blessing. If we never surrender anything that is good or comfortable in our hands, we will not receive what God has for us. And God only has the best for us.

“Unless you let it go and let God take over you life, you will remain stagnant. We are born into this world to discover the journey that God has chosen for us. You may delay your destiny but you cannot change it,” said Jai.

Congregation standing in worship

We can delay our destiny by being stubborn, clever in our own ways, and rebelling against God. God has purposed each one of us to start our journey with him at one point, and end our journey with God at another point.

“Sadly, there’re many people who started at one point and die at the same point. That is the real tragedy of a Christian life. They lack discernment and ended up messing God’s destiny for them,” said Jai.

The journey of transformation is also called as a process, which is necessary for us to live beyond our limit. Any significant ministry that God has called us to would require us to go through a preparation process. Like how a raw material needs to undergo a process before becoming a finished product that is valuable and useful, we need to go through a process to be useful and valuable to God.

The FGCC folks greeting each other at the beginning of the service

“We cannot neglect the process before we reach our destiny. In other words, we cannot reach the mountain-top before we go through the valleys. But many times, all of us want the mountain-top but not the valleys.”

“We want the prize but we don’t want the work. Many people hate the process because it involves pain, hurts, sacrifices, and a very uncomfortable experience. You are changed in the process through the pressure, stretching, breaking, crushing, and molding, before you grow from immaturity to maturity,” said Jai.

How many of us know that Moses went through a process of transformation before God gave him a mandate? Out of his zealousness over his people, Moses killed one of the royal guards. Moses could have brought out the people from Egypt during then but God thought that Moses was not ready. Hence, Moses was placed in the wilderness; stripped from his royalty, he worked as a shepherd for 40 years! And in those years, Moses never heard from God.

“Every day, Moses went through the same scenario of shepherding and going through the same smell. He got married to Jethro’s daughter and he became contented. What happened to his education? What happened to his zealousness for God?” said Jai.

Rev Jai Kumar preaching the word

Suddenly, God called out to Moses for the first time out of the burning bush. For 40 years, Moses thought that God has forgotten His mandate but God did not. Moses lost his self-esteem and thought that he could not lead the people out from Egypt. But after talking to God, he comprehended and realigned himself back to God’s mandate.

“A process can be negative. When you’re in a process, the enemy will attack your mind, showing you your past failures and your impurities. And making you feel comfortable and contented with your spiritual life.”

“Moses was contented with his life, this is what we get when we get comfortable. When you and I miss the preparation of God, it can be a negative and destructive force. You need to understand the process and plan of God,” said Jai.

Another person apart from Moses who had a dream or mandate from God was Joseph. He dreamt that he would become someone great. But before he became the second person in command to Pharoah, he was unfairly treated- being sold into slavery and thrown into the prison. Nevertheless, Joseph never gave up his dream.

Rev Jai Kumar accentuating a point

“Joseph understood the process. Do not run away or avoid the process because it is unwise, no matter how difficult it becomes. When you run away, you would need to go through this again.”

“Have you noticed… we want the blessings that are resting on other people but we forget the things they went through in their lives before reaching their goal or arriving at their destiny?” Jai said.

Sometimes, we see the anointing or blessings on other people but we fail to understand that these anointing or blessings are a result of a process in undergoing the fire.

Also, there is no shortcut to any blessings and anointing. We cannot neglect the process that God has already destined in our lives. When the process becomes painful, many of us are tempted to quit due to its demands.

“If you’re running away from a problem because you’re not happy, you will go nowhere. A teabag will not release its flavor until it goes through hot water,” said Jai.

A disciplined life of doing the same thing repeatedly brings out our capability. No matter who we are, God has given us as believers an anointing, a given empowerment inside each of us. Every good tree produces good fruit, and God will bring out our potentials in you, into becoming capabilities.

People who are coming forward for prayer at the end of the service

“God is committed to your development. I see and meet people who are supposed to be in the body of Christ but because something happened during the process, they retreated and they never allowed God to take them through,” said Jai.

Many years ago, Jai was also in the transformation process. He was in multiple ministries, meetings, and seminars, from morning until evening. The enemy started attacking and he wanted to run away. He backslid and retreated because he was unable to go through the valley.

“But God said, ‘Come back. Come sit at my feet and I tell you, I tell you the process.’”

“Have I gone through a different process, I won’t be standing before you but because I know that God has a better plan for me, I allow him to take me through the process,” said Rev Jai.

Would you let God take you through the process of transformation?

Rev Jai Kumar with some folks of FGCC

Note: Are you interested to join FGCC? They are having their morning service in Hotel Sentral in Brickfields (30 Jalan Thambypillai  50470 Kuala Lumpur) every Sunday at 10 AM.

20 August 2013 by Rev Dr Jai – 

万事都有定期，天下万务都有定时  （传道书 3:1）

改变，是一样非常有能力的事情，也是每个人在生命中各个阶段都必须经历的事。改变，可能会带来更新转变，抑或是接受一些调整。举例来说，若一个人从思维、思考方式、成熟度转变至另一个领域的话，那就是一种改变！当我们决定用一样事物来替代另一样事物时，那也是一种改变！

然而，没有人非常喜欢改变，因为改变有时候或许会带来不舒服。因此，我们就会想办法拒绝改变。面对改变，我们可能会生气，或许这对我们而言也是好的。您知道吗？我们很多时候一直秉持着我们过去的成就而不想改变！正因如此，我们没有看见那在未来等待着我们的事情！！

您的预备决定了您改变的进度与效果！如今就是让您从一个领域进到另一个领域、从现在的层次去到另一个更高层次的时候！

神要您从“刚好”的领域去到“增加、丰盛”的领域。改变，并不是您的敌人，却是您更新转变的踏脚石。改变，将帮助您拥有最好的生命来献给神。你是否曾经有过这样的感受呢？就是有的时候，您需要改变自己的生活，才能进到神的祝福里呢？改变，是一种您生活中需要面对的挑战。这并不是用任何理由就能避免得了的挑战。

可是您知道吗？有许多人向神呼求，想要看见他们的处境能有所改变。但是神要告诉您的是，“在我改变你的处境之前，我会先改变你。”除非您的心意更新而改变过来，否则您生命将不会有任何改变（罗马书12:2）。您处理改变的能力将会决定您能从过去走出来，进入到神所为您预备另一个新的领域的果效。

千万不要让您身处的环境决定了您的未来。神在我们每个人的生命中都植了一颗种子，如果您选择将托付于您的才干深埋在地底，然后不作任何的改变、没有任何的更新，在神的施恩座前或许就称不上是忠心又良善的好管家了。旧有的应该被取代，过时的也应该被更新。没有果效的，应该变成有果效的。神要在新的季节，做新事！

Disclaimer: The views or opinions expressed by the columnists are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Christianity Malaysia.com 

Note: This article was translated by Joycelyn Loh in Christianity Malaysia (CM).Amen.

References for pictures:

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt99/nakaryah/Ecclesiastes31.jpg

http://emergencesuccess.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/Are-You-Ready-Emergence-Success-Solutions.jpg

http://www.retailprophet.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Change.jpg

http://blogs.attask.com/files/2013/01/time-for-change.jpg

20 August 2013 Joycelyn Loh CM –

《因为·爱》摄影竞赛已经进入了最后的报名阶段，您已将将您的作品呈上了吗？如果还没有，您还在等什么呢？赶快报名吧！

“爱是恒久忍耐，又有恩慈；爱是不嫉妒；爱是不自夸，不张狂，不做害羞的事，不求自己的益处，不轻易发怒，不计算人的恶，不喜欢不义，只喜欢真理；凡是包容，凡事相信，凡事盼望，凡事忍耐。爱是永不止息。”（哥林多前书13：4-8）

爱不仅环绕在男女之间的浪漫之爱；爱，也可以是手足之情等。因为爱，凡事都有可能；因为爱，也让人懂得如何爱惜生命中的每一个事物。

爱对您而言，又是什么呢？《因为·爱》摄影竞赛正是一个机会让您赋予爱更多的意义。

若您参与此项摄影竞赛，就必须遵守以下所有的条规。 

特定条规：

-  Each photo must be submitted together with ONE bible verse (in bilingual) AND a short paragraph to explain the relatedness of the photo taken with the theme Because of Love per entry.

每一张参赛作品必须附上一段圣经经文以及一小段文字以说明照片与主题「因为·爱」的关联。

-   All entries must include personal details as followed: Full Name, Contact No., Gender, Email Address, and Postal Address. Any incomplete details will be disqualified automatically.

所有参赛作品必须附上以下的个人资料：姓名、联络号码、性别、电邮地址以及联络地址。恕不受理资料不完整的参赛作品。

-  All photos and the complete details mentioned above, please kindly email to joycelyn@christianitymalaysia.com for registration.

请将所有参赛作品及以上所述之完整资料电邮至 joycelyn@christianitymalaysia.com以完成线上报名及投稿。

-  Registration starts from 2^nd August 2013 till 25^th August 2013.

线上报名及作品呈交从2013年8月2日开始，截止日为2013年8月25日。

更多有关《因为·爱》摄影竞赛的规则，请查阅 http://christianitymalaysia.com/wp/%E3%80%8A%E5%9B%A0%E4%B8%BA%C2%B7%E7%88%B1%E3%80%8B-%E6%91%84%E5%BD%B1%E7%AB%9E%E8%B5%9B/

摄影竞赛奖品如下：

-          于Christianity Malaysia (Chinese) 面子书（Facebook）上获得最高票数的12张作品将成为The Branches 2014年年历的主题封面。

-          前6名最高票数得奖者将获价值RM200的奖品。

-          第7名至第12名最高票数的得奖者将获价值RM150的奖品。

-          此外，所有12名最高票数的得奖者也将获得一件Christart T-恤。

-          所有奖项定於2013年9月16日颁发，随之12张最高票数得奖作品也将以摄影展形式于The Branches公开展览。

更多的详情，欢迎向Christianity Malaysia 或是 The Branches 询问。

References for pictures:

http://jenstersmusings.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/photography-love.jpg

https://www.ai-kan.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/223_1600x1200_websbook.jpg#sthash.yagFPyQP.dpuf

21 Aug 2013 by Donna Uning CM-

As part of the Malaysian Gospel Music (MGM) concert in Kuching, the organizers held a series of workshops over the weekend here. One of the popular workshops held was the album production and vocals by participating gospel artiste Patrick Leong.

From the outside, the sound of voices singing echoed in the room where Patrick Leong was teaching. Combining both practical and technical knowledge, the participants get to do vocal conditions and warm-ups at the beginning of the workshop.

Patrick Leong

“Focus on your pitch; to further improve you need to slow it down,” said Patrick, demonstrating to the crowd not to strain their voices and control their notes. He talked about volume consistency and breathing. “Discipline yourself; there are various degrees of dynamics or projection.”

“The best way to improve your vocals is to physically and audibly sing,” he said. Good singers understand and precision. “As a singer, you have to listen to rhythm; precision is timing.”

He taught about feeling the drum and rhythm session; where precision is an internal structure. “Sometimes worship leaders don’t know when to come in,” he said, telling to come in usually after four bars. “How many don’t know when to come in?” he asked.

When it comes to interpreting a song, you need to digest the song asking yourself, “What it means to me?” “When you’re singing, it comes out very different,” he explained the difference between singing for the sake of singing and singing with more emotion or “Expressing what I’m feeling inside.”

This applies in album recording; with the same sentiments and emotions, he added. “When you seek the Lord, it turned to worship.” He recalled the time he was singing as a secular artist in his early days and singing was just singing.

“Now I sing not to impress or sound good but I sing for the glory of God,” he told. “My delivery and expression took on a completely different level.”

At the mental pitching discipline topic, Patrick used a few songs to demonstrate the exercise. After a few practices, he asked everyone to “Sing with your emotions, subject to the message. You will get into a different level where people can feel and hear who you are singing about.”

The workshop in session at Blessed Church, Kuching

“This is what makes us Christian singers different. We are not just a servant of the Lord, we are a child of God,” he said. “You know how it makes you feel; it’s worship to God.”

In the two-hour workshop, he also taught about vocal range and harmony. Participants also get into a question and answer session. Overall, the participants had caught on a few good tips and had fun at the same time. About 100 people, mostly youths attended the workshop held at Blessed Church, Kuching.

21 Aug 2013 by Adeline Lum CM-

On 17^th of August, Kingdom Christian Fellowship (KCF) celebrated their 5^th anniversary as they held a grand banquet in the Grand Dorsett Hotel in Subang Jaya. Around 850 guests came to the event. Amongst them were pastors from different churches, businessmen and also professionals who came from various nations such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Nigeria, Africa, and of course Malaysia.

The hall outside the ballroom bustled about with guests dressed in gowns and suits, waiting to enter the ballroom.  Non-profit organization and small-business booths also lined the sides of the hall, selling books, art pieces, and beverages.

The guests in the ballroom

At 7:30 PM, the guests were ushered into the ballroom. Beginning with singing the national anthem, Rev Dr Jai Kumar led an opening prayer, followed by a lively praise and worship led by Pr Dianithi Durairaju.

All the guests stood to sing praises to the Lord, while about 30 worship dancers of young and old danced in colorful dresses and suits in the middle of the ballroom. Some swung their colorful flags while others simply twirled around; a few children were also seen holding hands and skipping in a circle.

Worship dancers praising the Lord

Children holding hands while worshiping the Lord

KCF President Pr Yap Kok Sun gave the welcoming speech, followed by a speech of gratitude by Rev Dr Raymond Yeo, co-founder and adviser of KCF.

“Shalom, what a joy in our God! First of all, I want to thank you all for coming to support and celebrate with us,” said Rev Raymond. “I would also like to thank the organizing committee led by Brother Ronny Kung for their hard work in preparing for this night.”

KCF President Pr Yap Kok Sun

Rev Dr Raymond Yeo, co-founder and adviser of KCF

A marketplace leadership ministry, KCF is affiliated with 20 nations in training, equipping and empowering marketplace leaders to do community work. One of their community efforts is starting the Subang Jaya Food Bankin May 2011 to provide food for 47 impoverished families.

Apart from providing food, KCF also contribute donations to homes, orphanages and ministries as well. During the dinner, checks were presented on-stage to the representatives of House of Joy, Living Hope, Hosanna Community Centre in Malacca, Trinity Community Centre, and Precious Children’s Home. Donations were also made to ministries abroad, namely River of Life in the Philippines, Good Life Friendship in Russia, and WON ministry in India.

Representatives of homes, orphanages and ministries receiving donations on stage

A ministry that extends beyond the shores of Malaysia, KCF also makes yearly trips abroad, whereby two major recent trips were made to the Philippines. In 2011, KCF worked with the local ministry partners in India to reach the rural villagers.

And while the guests filled their bellies with good food, they were also filled with the spiritual food given by many pastors and businessmen; Rev Dr Paul Ang from Global Vision shared about the gospel of salvation while Dr Lawrence Hirsch from Celebrate Messiah Australia shared the significance of God’s people forming a nation. Lastly, brother Timothy Tang shared how he found Christ when he lost his son to cancer.

Dr Lawrence Hirsch

Rev Dr Paul Ang

In between of the sharing, two talented musical bands, the Holy Land Rhythmicals and New Life Entertainment entertained the guests with their soulful voices.

And approaching the end of the night, Pr Jayarajan D. led the guests in praising the Lord, “Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!” The dinner ended around 11 PM. With a satisfied belly and joyful heart, the guests left after a night of delightful fellowship with one another. 

Note: The pictures of this article are contributed by Piong Mei Jun.

21 Aug 2013 by Lim Poh Ann-

让我们一起来探讨一些神圣呼召的特质吧！

当神呼召时，很多时候祂比较倾向于先对一个普通人说话，过于一位领袖 （尼希米记 2:12）。

当神呼召时，祂不一定用“雷和闪电”般的声音与我们对话（使徒行传 9:3；列王记上 19:12）。牧羊人经常用‘轻声’对他的羊说话，以致于羊要有敏锐的听觉来认出牧羊人的声音 （约翰福音10:27）。

当神呼召时，祂通常会将一种感动放在我们的心里，直到我们在生命中活出祂的旨意才会渐渐地觉得没有那么沉重 （尼希米记 2:2；耶利米书 20:8-9）。

当神呼召时，祂会为我们开启所有机遇及供应的门，好使我们能够完成所托付的使命 （尼希米记 2:7-8）。

当神呼召时，祂会让我们看见那些有需要的（尼希米记 1:3-4），还有我们应对的方法、如何与其他人同心合意等异象（尼希米记 4:6， 21-23）。

无论如何，一个需要并不一定完全就是一种呼召；我们的恩赐与才干也是其中的关键要素。

约瑟身穿彩衣

当神呼召时，祂经常会使用我们内在的潜质还有我们的教育背景及所受过的专业训练 （腓立比书 3:4-6）。

当神呼召时，他经常会赐给我们祂的话语——rhema， 就是随后会有启示所印证的 （阿摩司书 3:7）。

“如果主耶和华不先把计划向他的仆人众先知显示，他就不会作任何事。”（阿摩司书 3:7）

当神呼召时，祂帮助我们完成那单凭自己的能力和聪明智慧无法办到的事 （以弗所书 3:20）。

当神呼召时，祂并没有向我们要求完美 （腓立比书 3:12）。反之，祂要我们与祂同工 （腓立比书 2:12-13）、将我们的眼目定睛在我们信心的创始和成终者——耶稣 （希伯来书 12:2），还有尽我们所能向卓越迈进 （腓立比书 3:13-14）。

相关文章

THE POWER OF VISION

By embracing a God-inspired vision, we can live purposefully—by design and not by default.

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/2012/05/thepower-of-vision-by-embracing-god.html

THE MARKS OF A LEADER

Leadership lessons gleaned from Nehemiah’s life—the six S’s

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/2012/05/themarks-of-leader-leadershiplessons.html

RUNNING AFTER PROPHECY

When prophets are treated like psychics and soothsayers, offering instant solutions on guidance, then something is seriously wrong with our faith.

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/2013/01/running-after-prophecy.html

IDENTITY CRISIS

Unless we are clear in our minds about our identity in God’s eyes and are committed to living it out, we will not be fulfilled in life.

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/2012/08/identity-crisis.html

PLANS AND PURPOSES

Is it possible to know God’s calling for our lives?

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/2012/07/plans-and-purposes.html

Source :

Porridge For The Soul By Dr Lim Poh Ann

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/

http://limpohann.blogspot.com/2012/12/why-well-never-know.html

Disclaimer: The views or opinions expressed by the columnists are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Christianity Malaysia.com 

Note: This article was translated by Joycelyn Loh in Christianity Malaysia (CM).Amen.

21 Aug 2013 by Stewart Chew-

神啊！你的意念对我多么珍贵，

数目何等众多。

如果我数点，它们比海沙更多；

我睡醒的时候，仍然与你同在。

诗篇 139:17-18

创造主、全能的神，我们爱祢！您在过去所成就的，现在所作的，以及未来将成就的，全都是祢满有慈爱只需用意念就可成就的一切。要理解祢的创造，无疑绝对是超越人类的智慧所能理解的。我们向祢向上感恩，因为祢已经将这意念，就是我们被造的可贵、特别且神圣的信念，深植在我们的心低。我们真的要为着我们神奇的身体构造来献上感恩！现今的医学仍然还在研究人体那复杂且精密的构造，如其细胞组织、器官及人体系统。我们是否有可能以自己有限的知识，来假设一套创造论吗？我们是否又何曾能凭着自己有限的脑袋，完全理解这些雄伟的创造吗？能在夜空中向上举目观看那满空星星，並从中感受到神的浩瀚，我们是何等的有福。就如兴奋勃勃的小孩一般举目观看那在天堂之中数亿数兆的繁星！

卑微的我们又何曾能将那从指间流逝而过的沙滩中的细白沙粒与祢那无限的创意思维相比呢？

“人体的构造是非常神奇的！我们就是非常雄伟的创造。现今的科学及医学，证明了人类身体精密的构造，而且每个器官都有其独特之处，却各按其职，让整个身体可以完好的操作，让一个人可健康的生活。我们也无法使用显微镜来探究人类身体的构造。人类身体基本组织构造的研究，正是现今医学的其中一门学问，名为组织学。”

(Ref:http://christianitymalaysia.com/wp/homosexuality-science-christianity-agree/)

尽管天上有数以上万的星星或是世上海滩数不尽的沙粒，人在这世界上的生命对神而言是更是独有的！祂以爱照着自己的形象造了人（创世记 1：27）！祂使我们能成为今天的自己。我们如今活在这七亿人口之中，但我们却可以认定每个人依然是如此独特完美的受造者（诗篇139:13）。我们拥有独有自己所能控制的思想，还有辨别对错的能力和自由意志。祂创造了我们，也给了我们各种自由的情感，好使我们能够彼此在爱中一同哭泣、一同欢笑！我们的神是何等的奇妙啊！我们惟有在神的施恩座前全然的放下自己并一同谦卑地举起双手齐膝跪拜，才能表达我们从祂所领受所有恩典的感恩！

我们能以信来面对明天是因为我们知道祂一直都看顾，且永远与我们同在。因此，我们可以理所当然（与诗人一起）说：-

我睡醒的时候，仍然与你同在。

Note: Stewart Chew is a retired senior lecturer in School of Medical Sciences, Curtin University in Perth, Australia 

Disclaimer: The views or opinions expressed by the columnists are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Christianity Malaysia.com 

Note: This article was translated by Joycelyn Loh in Christianity Malaysia (CM).Amen.

References for pictures:

www.oknation.net

http://koogimama.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/hand-sand.jpg

http://www.laurelavenue.durham.sch.uk/MainFolder/Images/CartoonKids.gif

22 Aug 2013 by Lim Poh Ann-

“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4: 1-6).

• In the case of contention over major doctrines, we should pause and consider whether this is an occasion which calls for truth to be upheld over unity. The bone of contention has to be a major tenet of the faith before this principle applies. No point quibbling over a “mole hill”. If it is a minor issue, then we should learn to compromise.
• How can light and darkness be joined together?
• How can heresy coexist with truth?
• How can two walk together except they be agreed (Amos 3:3)?

22 Aug 2013-

What makes Jesus so different, that he can claim to be the only path to God?

Imagine you find yourself trapped in a maze.

You don't know anything about the maze except you are inside it and you want out. As you stumble about the maze you come across 'Man A' who tells you not to worry, as there are many ways out of the maze. I imagine you would feel reassured and would appreciate hearing this good news.  

As you continue through the maze you come across 'Man B'. He contradicts Man A, and tells you there is only one way out of the maze. You would now be worried and disturbed, and motivated to try and find the exit. But in good news, Man B reassures you, telling you he knows the way out and he is willing to walk with you. 

Can everyone be right?

What you do know is that both guys can’t be telling the truth. There is either one exit or there are many. 

Man A’s news is easier to hear, but dangerous if not true. Man B's news is more difficult to hear, and if true can lead either to despair or motivation.

Man A is like the common worldview that there are many ways to heaven. This worldview says that truth varies from person to person and what is true for you, isn’t necessarily true for me. This worldview basically says 'pick a truth that suits you'. 

But does this idea that 'everything can be true' make any sense?

I will give you a simple example of why this idea actually doesn't work in reality: 

1. Atheists claim that there is no God.
2. Christians (and many others) claim there is a God.

Statement 1 & 2 can't both be true! If one of them is true, then the other is false. So, truth does exist. But how do we know it's found in Jesus?

Read more

References for pictures:

http://www.carolkipling.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Ashcombe-Maze-in-australia-0res1.jpg

http://celestinerhythm.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/road-to-nowhere-high-dynamic-roads-sunrise-you-decide.jpg

23 Aug 2013 by Adeline Lum CM-

While we often compartmentalize God as an aspect in life, following God should perpetuate all areas of our life including taking care of our health.

If our body is the temple of Christ (1 Cor 6:19-20), and if the Lord gave such great attention in taking care and maintaining his temple, then shouldn’t we also take care of this body that we have?

"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?  You are not your own; you were bought at a price.  Therefore honor God with your body"

1 Cor 6:19-20

A proverb once said, “Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live.” Whether we like it or not, this body is our tent on earth.

But keeping our body healthy as working adults seems to be an arduous task. As urbanites, our daily routine involves sitting and driving in a car, more sitting in an office cubicle, and then sitting down again in our car after working. Basically, much of our daily awake hours can be sedentary. And a sedentary lifestyle gives rise to many diseases; one that is on the rise is obesity.

According to The Star, ‘Malaysia is the fattest country in South-East Asia,’ number six in the whole of Asia. Recent statistics from the National Health and Morbidity Surveys reported that 15 percent of Malaysians aged 18 and above are obese. Not only that, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and cancers are also increasing dramatically among Malaysians.

Looking at the current statistic, one cannot help but wonder how God intended the human body to work. What is God’s design for a human body?

Perhaps, we could find the answer in Genesis, whereby even before the fall of mankind, Adam and Eve were given the authority to take care of the ground, much like what we know as farming today. And to take care and grow the plants involve much physical activity, including tilling the soil, planting the seed, weeding, watering, and guarding from animals. In other words, the Lord has originally designed our bodies to move and work.

Hence, increasing physical activity in our life may just be the key to a healthy and strong body, be it taking the staircase, making time for the gym, taking morning brisk, and other creative ways to fit in more physical activity. Of course, this fact is well supported by research and promoted by many health organizations.

Apart from lack of physical activity, another reason why we are increasingly unhealthy is due to lack of sleep. Working adults today often find themselves at an incredibly steep slope in climbing the competitive corporate ladder. Many work 10 to 15 hours a day, only coming home to sleep before continuing this routine for five days in a row. Recent news reported a bright intern of investment bank Merrill Lynch has died after coming home at six in the morning three days in a row. While diligence is biblical, The Lord also made Sabbath day, showing the significance of resting for effective work.

Deuteronomy 5:12-13

 ¹³ Six days you shall labor and do all your work, ¹⁴ but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your ox, your donkey or any of your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns, so that your male and female servants may rest, as you do.

In fact, research has shown that sleep depravity reduce work effectiveness (1), causes weight gain (2), and is associated with hypertension (3).

The third reason we are unhealthy may be our inability to cope with stress. People who could not cope with stress suffer from insomnia, hypertension, depression, and breaking down of the body. And often than not, we get stressed when we try to control situations or things that are out of our control.; that makes us quite jittery but what do we do? The answer is to pray and ask the Lord for wisdom when making a decision (James 1:5).

James 1:5

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

If we are wondering whether God feels ‘bothered’ with our praying, the Lord actually wants us to pray in the Spirit in all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests (Eph 6:18). Hence, for any stressful situations that are out of our control, pray to God and he will give us rest in our soul (Matt 11:29). Do what you can but leave the unknown and uncontrollable areas for God to control. Remember He only ask us to take one day at a time and focus on the worries for today only (Matt 6:34).

Matt 6:34

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

To put it simply, for a healthier body, just move, rest, and pray!

References for health information:

(1)   http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=195255

(2)   http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/08/06/how-sleep-loss-adds-to-weight-gain/?_r=0

(3)   http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23173590

References for pictures:

http://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/heraldextra.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/6/c1/6c1e7190-232e-57af-b64f-bd1683a3c311/502b4361c2c75.preview-620.jpg

http://www.resourcefulus.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/How-to-Get-a-Good-Night-Sleep.jpg

http://truthbook.com/images/site_images/Johann_Ramboux_Adam_and_Eve_after_Expulsion_from_Eden_400.jpg

http://image.spreadshirt.net/image-server/v1/compositions/112426710/views/1,width=280,height=280,appearanceId=39.png/work-hard-play-hard-pray-harder_design.png

23 Aug by Donna Uning CM-

The National Day Prayer Service here in Kuching saw Christians from all denominations braving the rain to worship at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Center.

With the theme from Luke 4:19, “Proclaiming the year of the Lord’s favour,” the annual event by the Association of Churches (ACS) was hosted by the Romans Catholic Church.

Rev Fr Simon Poh (front left), Chancellor from the Roman Catholic Church.

This year marked the 50^th year of the formation of Malaysia, also described as the year of the Jubilee. Rev Fr Simon Poh in a statement said the theme, from Leviticus described the jubilee.

Leviticus 25:8-10 says, “Count off seven Sabbath years—seven times seven years—so that the seven Sabbath years amount to a period of forty-nine years. Then have the trumpet sounded everywhere on the tenth day of the seventh month; on the Day of Atonement sound the trumpet throughout your land.  Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you; each of you is to return to your family property and to your own clan.”

“The service will be filled with prayers and hymns in jubilation of God’s mighty and wondrous blessing to our state and country,” said ACS secretary general head elder Ambrose Linang earlier. Similar services would be organized by all ACS branches throughout the state.

The event was aimed to foster the spirit of unity among Christians and reflect how valuable a peaceful nation is for all Malaysians. Archbishop of Kuching the Most Rev Datuk John Ha from the Roman Catholic Church delivered the reflection.

The prayer focused on freedom and harmony, healing and reconciliation in our country, for our leaders and peace in the world.

The National Day Prayer Service booklet.

Participating churches include the Anglican Church, the Roman Catholic Church, the Methodist Church SCAC (Chinese Conference), Sidang Injil Church, Seventh Day Adventist Church, the Salvation Army, Sarawak Baptist Church and Christians from all denominations throughout Sarawak.  

The service which started at 7:30om was conducted mainly in English with hymns, readings and prayers in Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin, Iban and Bidayuh.

23 Aug 2013 by Mindy Oon CM-

很多时候，当我们听见“见证”这个词时，我们都会想自己并没有可以分享的，因为在我们生命中并没有经历过那些非常神奇的“生命见证”，例如神从死亡的边缘救回我们的生命等。虽然这些见证的确让人都知道上帝的信实和美好，然而一些简短的见证（如下）也能感动人心。神对我们生命中的各个层面都感兴趣，甚至一句从神儿来简单的话语或是感动，都足以改变一个人的一生。

接下来就是一些从不同的人所整理出来的见证集：

上帝医治了我的女儿

我八岁的女儿，Nitya，自出母胎以来就经常生病，没有办法很好地休息，也常常有哮喘病发的症状。因此，医院成为了她时常出入的地方，也经常缺课。有一天，我们决定在'Tadika Si Comel' 举办的'FGA Bercham Tamil Outreach'的祷告会为她祷告。第二天，我们看见Nitya脸面充满笑容地坐在她的床上。她告诉我说她不再觉得呼吸困难，也不再疼痛了。

 – Parames from FGA Bercham Tamil Outreach

神的时间真是美好

我是Kampar, UTAR学院的学生。有一天，当我正要去载一位朋友一起用午餐的时候，我突然间有感动要拨电话，去邀约另一位平时不会邀约的人。当我还在犹豫时，就发了一则短信给她。我还记得，那时是下午1时40分。过后，那个人就回我短信说，她非常地苦恼，其实她和她的朋友下午2点钟有一个呈现，但是车子抛锚了，她们（非基督徒）现在无法到课堂去。那真是上帝美好的时间，因为我最近在打captain ball时，重遇她的朋友，也透过分享让他们知道了祷告的权柄以及上帝的大能。神的时间，真是美好！

- Keeran from Gen 1 Church Kampar

Keeran

神是我的供应者

神是我的供应者。当我们开始自己的电脑生意时，我们就只有RM4000的资金，而我也在家工作。虽然那个时候经济萧条，但是神仍然大大地祝福我的生意。今天，我们的营业额已经达到了七位数。让我夸耀的是，在主耶稣里，凡事都可能。有一天早上，当我们完全没有接获任何订单时，我就凭信心向神祷告，宣告祂是我们的供应者。祂就是那么地信实，让我知道应该如何去推销computer ribbons。而当我与我的顾客这样地分享时，有许多的企业和办公楼，都回应了我，也向我购买。上帝将会赐给你获取财富的能力，祂也会指教你如何赚取的方法。

– Pamela Loh from FGA Ipoh
 

Pamela 与她的丈夫

祂的同在是如此真实

在2012年初，我参加了Youth Infuse所举办的Emerge Camp。当时，我们感受到神很强烈的同在。在每一场充满着神的平安和同在的敬拜里，我都流着眼泪。那个营会非常地好玩，但是无法与神的同在相比。在营会的最后一天，因着缺乏睡眠的关系，偏头痛就找上了我。我仍然继续参与所有的活动。但是到了第二天早上的敬拜时，我的偏头痛就这样不以为意地消失了！我的偏头痛到底去了哪里呢？我才发现，神及时地医治了我。荣耀归给神！

– Choong Ming Li from Infuse Youth     

Ming Li (左二）与青少年团契的青少年

一个开心的肚子，就是一个喜乐的婴孩！

这听起来，或许会觉得好笑，但是这也告诉我们，上帝对我们的生活到底有多感兴趣，甚至是极其微小的事。当我的儿子，Judah，还是婴孩的时候，他会有少少的便秘问题。身为新手妈妈的我，就时常都观察这个孩子已经有多少天没有上厕所了，同时也担心他是否会有任何的不适。为了要减少这便秘的问题，我们时常都会给他喝果汁，但是都不见效。最后，我决定将手按在他小小的肚子上，然后奉耶稣的名命令那些便便出来。结果，五分钟后，他的尿布就肮脏了。这不只是偶然地发生一次而已。而第二次发生时，我们就知道我们其实只需要为他来按手祷告，因为神必然会看顾这些小孩。

– Mindy Oon from FGA Ipoh

Judah婴孩

无论我们的需要是大或小，神都关心！而我们的见证无论是长或简短，也可能是任何一个有需要的人想听见的事情。阿门?

24 Aug 2013-

One of the Taber’s Truths readers sent in a question that goes like this. “I have 2 friends who married late in life, 1 was 39 and the other was 55, waiting for their perfect Christian man. Both lost out on motherhood. I don’t want to do that too my children. I praying that I am not too off.”

When dealing with dating and relationships, we must understand that there is God’s side and the individual’s side. The short answer to this question is that we should wait as long as it takes. However, the length of time that it takes many times rests upon us more than it rests upon God. The key to this question is the term “their perfect Christian man.” Many people believe that the concept of “soul mates” or their “one and only” is a Christian concept. It is not. It started with the greek philosophers and became popular with Plato.

The Bible talks about not being unequally yoked. It talks about the type of qualities that make a good husband or wife. It does not talk about there being a perfect match or your soul mate. Once you have dealt with this misnomer, you can get on to realistically waiting for God’s will for you concerning a mate.

The Role Of Men And Women In Finding A Mate

The first thing that people need to understand is that men and women have different roles to play in the process of finding a mate. The world teaches that men should go out and hunt down a mate. That they should wine and dine and romance a lady until they conquer her and get her to say yes to marriage. This is not a biblical concept. When God made the first match between a man and a woman, He put Adam to sleep while He prepared Eve. God then presented Eve to Adam. Although the Genesis account does not go into detail, it can be assumed that at some point God spoke to Eve about His plans and showed her the man before she was presented.

I am sure you will think of the scripture that states “He who finds a wife finds a good thing.” What about the act of going out and finding a wife? The Hebrew word for find does not mean go out on a search. It means that as you are going along in your journey, you stumble upon something and “find” it.

Now think back to the story of Ruth and Boaz. Women across the world love the story of Ruth and Boaz and how romantic it is. However they seem to miss the fact that Ruth laid at Boaz’s feet signifying her interest.

Read more

References for pictures:

https://www.valic.com/valic/internet/us/en/Gettingmarried_tcm3240-425397.jpg http://wheretogetmarriedinhawaii.mauiweddinggroup.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/getting-married-in-hawaii-footprints-in-the-sand.jpg

24 Aug 2013 by Donna Uning CM-

“We are gathered here as Christians, disciples of Christ our Lord to pray for our country and Sarawak,” said the Most Rev Dato John Ha during the reflection at the National Day Prayer Service here Thursday night. Most Rev Dato John Ha is the Archbishop of Kuching from the Roman Catholic Church and Deputy Chairman of the Association of Churches in Sarawak.

Most Rev Dato John Ha, Archbishop of Kuching from the Roman Catholic Church

The prayer celebration started with a procession led by the Boys Brigade bearing the flags of Malaysia and Sarawak. This was followed by the hoisting of the National and State flags, as well as the singing of both the national, Negaraku and state, Ibu Pertiwiku anthems.

“Regarded of race and creed, we Sarawakians want to be safeguarded and fostered,” he said reminding that good and well-being could not be considered without reverence to God. “We need to review our independence in the light of the Word of God.”

Most Rev Dato John Ha told how the messages from the readings were “clear enough as firm benchmarks for our review. Leviticus 25:8-12 speaks about jubilee of 50 years to be marked by the people of God. It’s a Holy year and celebration; Sabbath rest applies here in order to focus on the Lord who liberated them from Eqypt, he said.

The National Day Prayer Service 2013 choir

Isaiah 61: 1-11 reminded us, “You shall be called priests of the Lord, you shall be named ministers of our God.” Luke 4:16-21 spoke of Isaiah prophesy. “It’s a powerful sermon by Jesus who said to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and saying ‘Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’”

Jesus brought us the greatest liberty from sin and death, and from the devil’s captivity. “It is the Lord’s greatest gift for us,” he said. “By Christ, we are called to be His priests.”

1 Timothy 2:1-10 tells us to pray for our country; “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings should be  made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.” “That’s why we’re here,” he continued. There is only one God; He is the supreme power and authority.

The prayer service

“All of us are created in His image and likeness,” he said adding no one being an exception. It is our fundamental right to share the land’s resources, healthy, comfortable and free.

Our 50 years of independence must be reviewed by divine truths. These truths include true freedom of religion; equal access to the resources of the land; and mutual respect and peace. Also, the status of Sarawak in Malaysia as one of the four partners making this nation, and agents of true freedom living by God’s truth.

“May all of us live in unity and harmony, respect and love one another as Jesus Christ love us,” he ended.

The readings were read in Chinese by Rev Wong Lea Ching of Methodist Church SCAC, in Bahasa Malaysia by Rev Kelvin Jawa from the Anglican Church, in Iban by Ps Jacob Tupek from the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, and in English by Dr Yap Chin Hong from the Sarawak Baptist Church.

The prayers were led in in Bahasa Malaysia by Ps William Leo from the Sidang Injil Borneo Church, in English by Major Chelvee from the Salvation Army, in Bidayuh-Bau by Rev Fr Augistine Jepy from the Roman Catholic Church, and in Iban by Rev Jonathan Nora from the Methodist Church SIAC. Rev Fr Simon Poh, Chancellor from the Roman Catholic Church also led intercession with the masses.

The night filled with praise, prayer and worship was held at the Christian Ecumenical Worship Center, Kuching. The event was organized by the Association of Churches in Sarawak and hosted by the Roman Catholic Church.