/* Loading Javascript... If you can't access the horizontal menu, check whether your browser supports Javascript. */ <body><script type="text/javascript"> function setAttributeOnload(object, attribute, val) { if(window.addEventListener) { window.addEventListener('load', function(){ object[attribute] = val; }, false); } else { window.attachEvent('onload', function(){ object[attribute] = val; }); } } </script> <div id="navbar-iframe-container"></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://apis.google.com/js/platform.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> gapi.load("gapi.iframes:gapi.iframes.style.bubble", function() { if (gapi.iframes && gapi.iframes.getContext) { gapi.iframes.getContext().openChild({ url: 'https://www.blogger.com/navbar/9469317?origin\x3dhttp://theemeraldteam.blogspot.com', where: document.getElementById("navbar-iframe-container"), id: "navbar-iframe" }); } }); </script>
 

TheEmeraldTeam

   

Monday, May 30, 2005

Choosing Between Two Trees



Earlier this evening I was with a friend for dinner. She had a quarrel with her boyfriend(whom I've met before) and was complaining to me about it. She told me she needs space and does not want to speak to him for the time being. She even deliberately left her handphone at home so that she does not have to answer it.

Sure enough, the boyfriend called me. He was anxious and paranoid and asked if she was with me. My immediate response was no. He began to explain why he was trying to contact her. After I repeatedly promised him that I will pass the message, I managed to end the call. I then saw the relief on my friend's face.

I know I had lied. It's not a godly thing to do. Some might think it's small matter but I know a lie is a lie. It makes me realise how much God loves me and why people needs God.
Thank God for Jesus who has took my sins away therefore there is no condemnation on me.

Remember how strong Pastor's attitude was towards the topic of lying? He said he would not tolerate any staff who can lie. It made me think. Is he only pointing out those who constantly lie or everyone one of us? Cos from time to time we, as humans will be tempted to lie. I mean if we can be perfect, why would God send his Son to die for us?

During last church camp I remember there was a teenage boy who asked Pastor during a Q&A session what one should do if it's a life and death situation. Pastor's immediate response was to be honest. The boy continued to give examples of situations then Pastor kinda cut him off with his stand at the topic. He told the boy God would not put us in those situations. I wanted to agree with him yet has struggles over it. His words made me think of Rahab - the woman who lied to save 2 spies. I know God would have a way to save the spies should Rahab tell the truth. Yet God cause the writer to list down this deed in the bible.

I understand the situation I was in was different from Rahab. I still love our Pastor. I just wanted to bring the topic out. We all know because of the Spirit in us what is the right thing to do. However if you were in the same situation as I today, what would you choose at that nick of time? Would you prefer to tell the boyfriend that his girlfriend was with you but does not want to speak to him?

Sunday, May 22, 2005

The Power of Sitting at His Feet!


© 1994-2002 Robert Bradt (regarding the above picture), "I reserve the right to change any material within this website(http://www.infothink.com/rb) without notice. All material on this site, except where otherwise noted, is owned by Robert Bradt and can not be reproduced on paper, digitally, or any other form without the express written consent of Robert Bradt. For permission to reproduce any of the material on this site please e-mail me".

I had this sore in my throat for the past few days that would hurt whenever I swallow. I had prayed over it, believing for healing is already mine and I was waiting for it to manifest.

The pain was bearable but annoying. So I tried to numb it by taking Strepsils' lozenges. There was progress but it was kinda slow.

Last night, towards midnight, I was in a cloudy mood. You know, no energy and all...I was preparing to go to bed when God prompted me to listen to last year's church camp's sermons. I picked one of the session and behold! the sermon was abt power of praying in tongues.

Now, the moment I know what the topic was, I start praying. However I could not continue to pray more than a few seconds. So I just shut my mouth and listen to the sermon. After i finished listening, I feel refreshed but as I was tired physically, I went to bed,

This morning, when I wake up, the sore is gone! Immediately I raise my thumb towards God. "WOW!" I said and thank God for this manifestation.

I guess Jesus really mean it when he say this one thing is needful. So brothers and sisters... dun play a fool ah...this is serious matter... : )

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

The Message from Buddy Bell (Updated)



The above how Rev Godbey describes the preciousness of us servers. It was quoted by Rev Buddy Bell when he was here in May.

Bigger versions(1024x768)
1) PowerPoint Version
2) Picture Version

Monday, May 09, 2005

Sowing



During the women's meeting, I've learnt about sowing.

The speakers, Pauline(Deacon Chin's wife) and Karen shared about how God blessed them as they sow - How they gave and received a double portion.

What is sowing? From what I've I understand so far, it's about giving(to other people) in the areas of your need. If you need a car, you sow into someone else's car. If you need finanicial help in your wedding, sow into someone else's wedding etc.

Pauline and Karen also shared that sometimes these things don't happen immediately but they definitely will cos it's one of God's ways of blessing you.


Their testimonies have encouraged me to sow. It felt strange at first. Cos I've heard Pastor Prince touched on sowing tons of times yet the words didn't drop into my heart. I remember the frequently used verse that says when you sow bountifullly, you will reap bountifully. Frankly that verse didn't impact on me much.

So today, I decided to dig deeper. Now here's one that really tickles my heart:

2Cor 9:1 (NLT) "Yes, you will be enriched so that you can give even more generously. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will break out in thanksgiving to God."

My thoughts went to the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. I thank God I don't have to find a magic bean and climb all the way to heaven to receive his blessings.

Through Jesus's poverty at the cross, we have already been made rich. I believe the seeds of the riches are already inside of me, given by Him. All I need now is someone whom I can sow each of the seeds to. After that just let God take care of its growth.

If you are still confused, just remember the 12 basketfuls leftovers of bread and fishes. Do you think the leftovers miracle was created when Jesus thank God for the food or when the disciples distribute them to the people?

***Update***
I got pay increment today. Not much but still a blessing! More are coming! Amen!