LPYM Carbo Lovers

LPYM Youth Camp 2010! @TheGloriousSon

2010-10-08T01:58:00.001+08:00

There is Nothing like the Church

2010-06-19T10:25:00.002+08:00

Here's the forfeit one of the groups did for ice breakers! Hokey Pokey led by Shermy who couldn't tell her left leg from her right muahaha...

youth camp 2008

2008-12-21T22:00:00.005+08:00

Youth Cafe!

2008-08-16T20:51:00.009+08:00

2nd August 2008

Kelvin, one of the organizers (:

A very glam shot of SK :P

Getting ready for games!

Proudly presenting Ian Lim (:

Pastor Lai interrupting the game to remind us of our safety!

Posing for the camera

The youths having some difficulty getting the hoop down...

Menu for today! (Check out somebody's reflection..) :P

Food!

Our very helpful waiter.. Never failing to sell off the food! (:

All enjoying the good food! (:

Trying to find a way to get up as a team..

Many thanks to all those who have helped out and for those who participated! (:

Church Camp 2008! (15-18June)

2008-06-21T18:37:00.011+08:00

On the way to Malacca..

Krystal, Yiye and Swee Kiat

Chang Zhong, Ian, Shao Yu, Zhi Wei and Gabriel

Joshua, Vivian, Shermaine, Jeanette, Annabelle and Josiah

All after a satisfying meal!

Walking along Jonker Street..

Wan ton mee! There was also Chendol from this stall, but we were too hungry to bother taking a picture.

Chicken rice balls

More food

And MORE foood.

Fun in the pool!

More of us..

Finally, it's the younger ones against SK in a pillow fight..

1Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 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]

Camp Theme Song.
Verse 1:
Did you ever feel that life is like a race?
A race that we are called to run in faith
To strive to reach the end of the line
Pressing toward the prize of life
To take the crown of righteousness from Christ

Verse 2:
But sometimes we falter and fail to stay the course
Our feet grow weak we want to run no more
Just remember the clouds of witnesses
Praying and urging from above
Surrounding us and cheering us to carry on

Chorus:
Fixing our eyes upon Jesus
He's the author of our faith
Let us lay aside our sinful ways
Cause he gave his life on the cross and bore our shame
And grant to us His living grace

Verse 3:
Let us run and not grow weary and lose heart
Let nothing persuade nor hinder us to stop
Let the Word of God abide in us
Be our daily strength and be our guide
Cause Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life
(Chorus)

The words are pretty meaningful...

Learnt a lot from camp! Here're the learning points..
Message 1: A Heart Made Hard. (1 Samuel 15:10-26)

Value obedience to God, more than service for Him.
Value relationship with God, more than honour before people.
Deal ruthlessly with pride before it hardens the heart.

We often get very bothered by what others say, and we fear not being able to meet Man's expectations, so this was a reminder that we live to please God, not Man.

Pride is thinking too highly of yourself.

False modesty is thinking too lowly of yourself.

Humility is not thinking of yourself at all.

Six steps of obedience:
1. I hear
2. I understand
3. I remember
4. I decide
5. I do
6. I persist in doing
God gives us many chances to repent.

Message 2: A Life Made Soft. (1 Kings 3:1-15)

Declare before the Lord that we are nothing.
Beware of the danger of acquiring too many things.
Know the main thing and stick to that one thing.

God does not expect us to be perfect in order to serve Him.
We are helpless beings who need to depend on God.

Message 3: Standing Strong (1 Samuel 8:1-22)

Resist the temptation to judge and blame others.
Refuse to take rejection personally, but accept it with grace.
Listen to the Lord.

Disappointment + betrayal + rejection = Resilience.

A tall tree without a strong trunk will fall at the slightest storm.

Message 4: Descending the Mountain (Acts 20:22-38)

Principle...
#1 - To finish well, I begin now.
#2 - To finish well, I finish this chapter well.
#3 - To finish well, I find out God's life mission for me.
#4 - To finish well, I keep the main thing the main thing.
#5 - To finish well, I keep a clean conscience daily.
#6 - To finish well, I invest in keeping a significant relationship
#7 - To finish well, I learn to let go and move on.

Of course, we had lots of fun too!(and FOOD!) I guess the pictures say it all. Took a walk along Jonker street on the first evening when we arrived in Malacca, where we indulged ourselves in really GOOOOOD FOOD! We also tried their famous chicken rice balls =)

Well, during our free and easy time, some of us went to Mahkota to shop, some others went for a swim, some went to the gym to work out and lose the calories from all the sinful food intake..

Church camp was really good. It was a time of reflection on our Christian faith, and also a time of relaxation, away from our busy lives back home. Sure look forward to the next church camp! :)

God Bless!

The Twenty and The One

2008-05-10T22:59:00.001+08:00

A well-worn one dollar bill and a similarly distressed twenty dollar bill arrived at a Federal Reserve Bank to be retired. As they moved along the conveyor belt to be burned, they struck up a conversation.

The twenty dollar bill reminisced about its travels all over the county. "I've had a pretty good life," the twenty proclaimed. "Why I've been to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, the finest restaurants in New York, performances on Broadway, and even a cruise to the Caribbean.""Wow!" said the one dollar bill. "You've really had an exciting life!"

"So tell me," says the twenty, "where have you been throughout your lifetime?"

The one dollar bill replies, "Oh, I've been to the Methodist Church, the Baptist Church, the Lutheran Church ..."

Got this in an e-mail. And after I read this joke, it occurred to me…
How often do we actually give our all to God? In our offerings, do we give Him the minimal? In our lives, do we only pay lip service to Him? As a student, my parents gave us enough to scrape through, to teach us the importance of being thrifty. Part of our allowance, they give us another sum of money for church offering for the Sunday of the week. Though the money came from our parents, it was our duty and our discipline to set aside that money for God on Sunday.

To this date, I pray that I will be faithful in the giving of my tithes, for God’s kingdom…and when I give, I want to give willingly, with all my heart =)

Exams! Stressed!

2008-05-03T00:33:00.001+08:00

Exam is coming for most of us, calling brothers and sisters to stay back after youth service or after school in youth centre (MPH2) to study and encourage one another to walk in His steps.

Seniors are needed to advise the juniors to press on for their studies and juniors are challenged to be humble to learn from those who had been through the tough times...

This is a time of fellowship for all carbolovers!

Interested parties, please approach Pastor Lai as the venue needs to be booked.

breadwalk - in His steps!

2008-03-03T23:45:00.003+08:00

we are back! haha... here's our new theme and also new logo! :D

1 Peter 2:21
21To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

Synod Youth Camp 2007

2007-10-13T21:58:00.000+08:00

have you heard of the latest happening in singapore?

no? no one told you about it?!?!?!? hmm... -.-

keep scrolling down...

well.... let me tell you.

click on this!

SYNOD YOUTH CAMP 2007 is coming to town!!!

it's a gathering of many like-minded, fun, energetic youths like you and me for a 4 days 3 nights camp!

so what are you waiting for?

join us today! :D

Synod Youth Camp 2007

2007-09-19T16:01:00.000+08:00

Youth Cafe - Army Daze

2007-09-02T17:44:00.000+08:00

Photos

Date: 25 August 2007, Saturday
Time: 1830hrs
Location: LPPC, Fellowship Hall

Food in the preparation

Food for Sale
Home-made Porridge @ $0.80
Instant Cup Noodles @ $0.50

Joel: "Would you like to buy some instant cup noodle?"

Yiye & Matthew smiling for the camera

Joel: "Come buy my food!!"

Guest Speakers with Matthew - Uncle Richard, Frederick and Wilson Tay

Sharing by Pastor Lai

A Story to Remember

2007-08-26T20:24:00.000+08:00

Aunty Priscilla wasn't able to join us at Bible Study this morning, and so we (Sec 1 girls) decided to write a story to help us remember the 27 books of the New Testament. The aim was to inject some fun, as well as to help us remember the order of the books. This way, Bible Study and Quiet Time in future will be easier when we need to flip the Bible lots!
So, here goes our story...

__________________________________________________

One day, 4 brothers – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John [4 Gospels] – were reading the book of Acts [Acts] when a Roman [Romans] soldier walked by.

The soldier wanted the brothers to cook [1, 2 Corinthians] Grilled EggPlant with Chilli [Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians]. The brothers did so, and included 2 Tiramisus [1, 2 Thessalonians] and 2 cups of Tea [1, 2 Timothy], which the soldier shared with his friend, Titus [Titus].

While they were eating, a Fila-Monster [Philemon] Hopped [Hebrews] out of the Jungle [James], and attempted to steal their food. So, the soldiers threw 2 Papayas [1, 2 Peter] and 3 Jellies [1, 2, 3 John] at the monster. It Jumped [Jude] and Retreated [Revelation] back into the jungle.

~ The End ~

Youth Cafe

2007-08-19T22:26:00.000+08:00

Youth Cafe - 28 July 2007

To buy? Or not to buy?

Look! I'm just about to win...just 2 more cards

Kings and Queens...

The King of Food

Erm...

______________________________________

well, don't we all seem to have had some fun last month at Youth Cafe?
See what you've missed out?
Wait no longer! Youth Cafe is opening its doors again this coming Saturday, 25 August 2007, 6.30pm onwards!

August Babies

2007-08-14T22:03:00.000+08:00

This month, we've celebrated Pastor Lai, Alynna and Gabriel Koh's birthday.
Gabriel wasn't with us during the celebration, though.
HAPPIE BIRTHDAY!

Cake - Mixed Fruit Cake from Polar Cakes

"Happy birthday to you...happy birthday to you..."

Make a wish, and cut the cake!

youth cafe (august)

2007-08-11T23:40:00.001+08:00

Bowling Mania

2007-07-30T14:42:00.000+08:00

It's back!
What are you waiting for?
Sign up now!

true love

2007-07-29T22:32:00.000+08:00

miss the true love concert? a snippet of what we have done... still remember them?

who's the king of games?

2007-07-21T13:27:00.001+08:00

July Babies

2007-07-08T21:21:00.000+08:00

July is a special month.
We had not only celebrated the July Babies' birthday, we've also celebrated LPYM's 2nd anniversary! Thanksgiving and Dedication Nite was on 7th July 2007.

Birthday Cake of the Month - Valrhona Divine

Happy Birthday Kester!

Happy Birthday Samuel!

Cut the cake!

A Banker vs. A Fisherman

2007-06-24T21:44:00.000+08:00

An investment banker was at the pier of a small coastal village when a small boat with just one fisherman docked.

Inside the small boat were several large yellow fin tuna. The banker complimented the fisherman on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them.

The fisherman replied, "Only a little while."

The banker then asked, "Why didn't you stay out longer and catch more fish?"

The fisherman said, "With this I have more than enough to support my family's needs."

The banker then asked, "But what do you do with the rest of your time?"

The fisherman said, "I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, go for walks with my wife, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine and play guitar with my friends. As you can see, I have a full and busy life."

The banker scoffed, "I am a Harvard MBA and could help you. You should spend more time fishing; and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat! With the proceeds from the bigger boat you could buy several boats. Eventually you would have a fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to a middleman you would sell directly to the processor, eventually opening your own cannery. You would control the product, processing and distribution. You would need to leave this small coastal fishing village and move to the capital city. After that, who knows, maybe you could take on the world!"

The fisherman asked, "But, how long will this all take?"

To which the banker replied, "I'd say about 15 to 20 years."

"But what then?" asked the fisherman.

The Banker laughed and said, "That's the best part! When the time is right, you would announce an IPO and sell your company stock to the public and become very rich, you ould make millions."

"Millions? Then what?" the fisherman continued prodding.

The banker said, "Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, go for romantic walks with your wife, and in the evenings you could sip wine, play guitar and sing songs with your friends!"

To which the fisherman mused, "Now isn't that strange? Isn't that what I'm doing now?"

June Babies

2007-06-12T00:14:00.000+08:00

I'm sorry I left out the May Babies...but here are the June Babies' celebration
We've got Tabby, Sheralyn, James and Bryan that day. We've also got Grace and Kenneth, who weren't around on Sunday.

Cake of the month

Sing...sing a song...

Cut the cake!!

true love thanksgiving!

2007-04-23T09:38:00.001+08:00

Davis says...

2007-04-05T00:41:00.000+08:00

True Love
It's this Saturday!

Just for Fun =)

2007-03-23T18:06:00.000+08:00

True Love

2007-03-19T15:52:00.000+08:00

From Jesus, with Love

2007-03-11T19:00:00.000+08:00

I know all about you--your gifts, your talents, your strengths. I also know your weaknesses, our idiosyncrasies, and all the funny things about you that make you an individual. I know about the nagging problems that you can't seem to overcome and all the things about yourself that bother you. I know your heart's desires and secret longings. There is nothing hidden from Me.

I care about each of your disappointments and heartbreaks. I care about how you feel. I care about what you think. I care about the difficulties and hardships that you face. I care about your health. I care about your material needs. I care about your spiritual struggles. There is not one detail of your life that does not concern Me, and I am here to help.

Every time you look up to Me, I am there. I hear your prayers and My heart is moved with compassion. I never get tired of listening to you.

I am never distant. I am never too tired or too busy for you. I never turn away. I never sleep. I never hang a "Do Not Disturb" sign on My door. I always hear and answer your prayers. Sometimes I don't answer in the way you ask Me to or think I should, and sometimes you don't see the answer immediately, but I always hear and I always answer.

Love,
Jesus

March Babies

2007-03-04T22:03:00.000+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR MARCH BABIES!

There are 6 March babies in our midst. 3 are present, the other 3 are missing in action.
Do let us know if there are more March Babies, ya?

Don't forget to wish them a Happy Birthday when you see them!

6 March - Gerard Su
8 March - Changzhong
9 March - Timothy Low
13 March - Ming Kwang
15 March - Odelia
28 March - Samuel Shen

Recipe to Staying Radiant

2007-02-25T23:09:00.000+08:00

Reference:
Exodus 34:28-29
"Moses was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant - the Ten Commandments.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD."

Background Information:
We were discussing the topic of QUIET TIME, mainly why we should be doing quiet time.
We discovered that it was a way for God to reveal Himself to us; a mode of empowerment and encouragement; a way of learning to be more Christ-like, ie. to think and see things through His eyes. Lastly, we also discovered that spending time with God brings about this glow, refreshment, and joy that can be reflected in our lives! Reference was made to Exodus 34:28-29, where Moses spent 40 days and nights with God.

Hence, comes about this recipe which my girls came up with...

Ingredients:
Bible
Wisdom from the Holy Spirit
Time
Commitment

Method:
Read the Bible
Reflect on the Word
Mediated upon the Word
Pray!

A Silver Purifier

2007-02-24T01:37:00.000+08:00

Malachi 3:3 says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver."

This verse puzzled some women in a Bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.

That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver.

As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.

The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: "He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver." She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined.

The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.

The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it"

------------------------

There are many lessons to be learnt here...

Being in the heat of the fire – God places us in the heat of fire, to mould us and transform us. This can always be seen in the form of trials and temptations in our lives. For many times when we’re tempted or tried, God makes sure we’re able to withstand and stand up under all the difficulties.
Throughout the whole process, the silversmith is by the fire watching, and making sure the silver doesn’t burn. Similarly, no matter what happens, God is always beside us, watching us. He won’t let us die then and there. He’s here to protect us, and to ensure we are purified!
Seeing his image in us. That’s where we have to be molded to become more Christ-like!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2007-02-14T09:53:00.000+08:00

This is what love and Valentine is all about...this is who started it all...not Cupid, but God
The ultimate show of love...

Additional Sermon Notes

2006-10-11T21:59:00.000+08:00

Date: 8 October 2006
Text: Matthew 5:38-48
Title: Where is your left cheek?
Speaker: Pastor Lai

____________________________________________

I. Our right (vv 38~42)

(1) Ibn Saud was the king of Saudi Arabia from 1932 to 1953. One day, a woman went to him and demanded the death of a man who killed her husband. The man had been picking fruit from a tree when he accidentally fell; he hit the woman’s husband and fatally injured him. Although the king tried to persuade the woman not to pursue her right because it was an accident, she still insisted. With no other option, the king said, “It’s your right to ask for this man’s life, but it is my right to decree how he shall die. I sentence you to take him to underneath a tree and then you climb up to the tree and throw yourself down upon him from that height. In that way you will take his life as he took your husband’s.” The woman quickly changed her mind.

(2) This passage seems illogical. Non-Christians often used this passage to tease our stupidity. And unfortunately, many Christians were found speechless because many don’t know what this passage is about. We have to admit that some passages in the Bible is difficult to understand, and seems impossible to implement. Many Christians looked at these verses and shook their heads and said, “This is not for me.” So they just kind of ignore them, skip over them or have nothing to do with them.

(3) In each of the illustrations in this passage, whether we were insulted, taken advantage of, unappreciated, or cheated, it would better to give up our right to retaliate. When you focus on retaliation, you become a miserable person in the process. Even if you caused the person who gave you pain misery, it wouldn’t make you a happier person. What usually ends up is having two miserable persons hating each other.

II. Our Father (vv 43~47)

(1) Ramon Narvaez was the prime minister of Spain in the 19^th century. A priest went to visit him when he’s dying and asked, “Does your excellency forgive all your enemies?” He replied, “I do not have to forgive my enemies. I had them all shot.” We often shoot down our enemies. It’s better to get to them before they get to us.

(2) One way to love our enemies is to pray for their better good. In doing that, we find that it is difficult that after going into the presence of God and praying in His will, we come out bearing anger and hostility towards that person. If we wait until we develop a warm, caring feeling before we pray for our enemy, we would probably die first! If we act with our mind to pray for our enemies regardless of how we feel, we may eventually come out with a different feeling toward our enemy.

(3) Saint Augustine said, “To love those who love you is human; to hate those who love you is demonic; but to love those who hate you is divine.” As children of God, we ought to learn from our Father. As we know what divine love (agape) is-an act of the will, independent of feeling, then we learn from our Father in heaven how He loves. His love is indiscriminatory.

III. Our Goal (v 48)

(1) God does not expect us to reach sinless perfection. The context here is that we should reflect the kind of perfect love our Father has toward all mankind. We are never more like God than when we act in love toward another person, even our enemy. We love our enemies because it reflects the image of God. If this were our motivation to love, we would not be affected by how people react to our love towards them.

(2) So lofty, yet so difficult! If you think you could just walk out of here today and determine from here on how to love your enemies, you will certainly fail. This verse should drive us back to the first verse of the Beatitude, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” When you feel poor in spirit, you would want to keep going back to God. It is then and only then, you feel loved, and it is then and only then, you can reflect God’s love. “We love because He first loves us.” (1 John 4:19)

(3) You have two paper notes with different value. One is a 2-dollar note and the other is a 10-dollar note. What makes the value different? It is not that the 10-dollar note is made out of more expensive paper. The paper and its ink have the same value. The size is not much of a different. What makes one paper note higher in value is what is being printed on the note, its image (not our former president). The material used for any paper note is the same; the value is higher because its image is different. So should we, as a child of God. Let us strive to reach the top to reflect God’s true nature and image.

Additional Sermon Notes for 24 September 2006

2006-09-24T23:36:00.000+08:00

Date: 24 September 2006
Text: Matthew 5:31-37
Title: I Would Be True
Speaker: Pastor Lai
__________________________________________

I. True to others (vv 31~32)

(1) Verse 31 is quoting from Deuteronomy 24:1, but Jesus is emphasizing the need to do things in the right perspective. Rabbi Shammai and Rabbi Hillel during Jesus’ time argued over the interpretation of Deuteronomy 24:1~4, especially about verse 1 which says ‘finds something indecent about her’. Rabbi Shammai being a person who treats everything seriously, propose that pertaining to indecent things, it should be a serious offence in marriage. On the contrary, Rabbi Hillel holds a macro view; if a wife cannot cook, or even when the husband does not like her look anymore or fell in love with another beautiful woman is considered indecent on the part of the wife.

(2) That is why men are attracted to divorce their wives to their advantage. Even the serious follower of the law like the Pharisees are tempted to do likewise and pose Jesus with the question in Matthew 19:3. They wanted to test whether Jesus is the serious type or holds the macro view. Instead of answering their queries, Jesus brings them back to Genesis, to where God began His creation. Jesus respects the establishment of marriage, and his only exception is Matthew 5:32 and 19:9.

(3) To be true towards others should not depend on who the person is or what that person has done to agitate us. It should be totally dependent on whether we take God’s word seriously to treat everyone around us with the best possible righteous manner. I totally agreed with Stanley that it is the ‘I’ syndrome that matters.

II. True to speech (vv 33~37)

(1) Verse 33 is not just quoting from one item in the law of Moses, but a summary of several old testament law; it’s purpose is for the people to honour the oaths that is being made (Exodus 20:7; Leviticus 19:12; Numbers 30:2; Deuteronomy 23:21). Pharisees took this difficult commands and twist the attention of the people towards the process of the oath instead of towards the contents of the oath.

(2) Jesus was speaking not against oaths themselves but against the abuses of oaths and the corresponding abuse of the truth that went with them. For it is evident that there are plenty of instances in the old and new testaments that oath is mentioned by Moses (Deuteronomy 10:20), Jeremiah (Jeremiah 12:16~17) and even taken by Paul the apostle (Romans 1:9; 2 Corinthians 1:23; Philippians 1:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:5, 10).

(3) Even God Himself takes oath to assure men of the truth of his statements (Genesis 9:9~11; Luke 1:68, 73; Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:27~31; Isaiah 49:15~18). Why does God had to behave like men to take oaths? Hebrews 6:17~19 tells us why.

III. True to God (Matthew 23:16~22)

(1) The people during Jesus’ time try to show that they are true and sincere by swearing as and when they like and that eventually became meaningless even if they are swearing by their life! Taking oath in this manner is neither necessary nor proper. It is just superficial and redundant.

(2) There are also people who were afraid to swear by the name of the Lord because they were not telling the full truth. And so they began to swear by things, and because mere things were not thought to be significant as the name of the Lord. Therefore this second class of oaths was not considered to be binding.

(3) In other words, life cannot be divided into neat little compartments some of which are exempt from God’s presence and some of which are not. God is everywhere. He is in every compartment of life. Hence, the truth is as important in one situation and at one time as another.

The Bible and the Chocolate

2006-09-17T22:08:00.000+08:00

Question:
If the Bible were a brand of chocolates, what would it be?

There are many answers to this...
1. Cadbury
Because it's a family name. The Bible is meant for everyone, especially the poor.

2. Merci
Because the Bible tells of God's mercy to everyone, who have sinned against Him
Merci also means "Thank you" in French

3. Lindt Dark Chocolate
Because the Bible tells of a Bitter Sweet story...Bitter because God was disappointed with man who sinned and disobeyed Him. Sweet because He still loves us, and sends Christ to die for us, to save us.

4. Smarties
Because of their tagline goes like this "Only Smarties has the answer"
Similarly, only the Bible has the answers to all aspects of our lives

Think it through. Reflect upon it...
What brand of chocolate is the Bible to you?

Additional Sermon Notes for 10 September 2006

2006-09-10T20:57:00.000+08:00

Date: 10 September 2006
Text: Matthew 5: 21-30
Title: Pure as Gold?
Speaker: Pastor Lai
___________________________________________

I. Stop the internal bleeding (vv 21~26)

(1) What Jesus is teaching is taken from the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:13), based on the sixth commandment, the commandment that said, “You shall not murder.” Understanding the commandment, we know that there is a difference between murder and kill; if murder is equivalent to killing, then God who commands Moses to kill all the evil idol worshippers when the Israelites enter Canaan is going back on His own word, moreover, there is still this Law from God who sentence death penalty to those who committed serious offence against man and God.

(2) Jesus is fulfilling the Law not only by its verbal meaning, but He is pushing it further to show that even being angry with someone is also murdering him or her! The apostle John fully agrees with Jesus (see 1 John 3:15).

Since we are not righteous, the way that we are allowed to anger is to be very slow in getting angry and do not let it last over night. (James 1:19; Ephesians 4:26~27)

Scolding someone with names is certainly a lousy practice; Raca is a term meaning empty, but the insult of it is more in the sound than the meaning. If it means anything, it means “a nothing” or “a nobody.”

(3) Getting ourselves angry with someone is like inflicting injuries upon ourselves, just that this kind of injury is causing us to bleed internally. That is why Jesus is encouraging us to end this internal bleeding as soon as possible. He is to bring forth healing in a special way, the medicine or antiseptic is love from the cross on Calvary. It is this love that can transform us from inside out.

II. Stop thinking about sex (vv 27~30)

(1) When Jesus talked about the seventh commandment (Exodus 20:14, you shall not commit adultery), He is again not just trying to stop someone from having a lustful behaviour but also to stop one from even having a lustful mind!

(2) The Bible is not stopping married couples to make love towards each other; this can be clearly seen from the Song of Solomon where it depicts true marital love between a loving couples. But the Bible is against any form of lustful thought or behaviour that is extra-marital.

(3) At first glance, it might seem ridiculous for Jesus to command us to gouge out one eye or to cut off one hand or one leg. But there are some whose passion overriding their wisdom truly did so! These are people who took the word of God by the letter instead of by the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:6). Taking away the eye, hand or leg that can stumble us is the descriptive way Jesus used in His exhortation. It does not encourage us to cause infliction upon ourselves, but rather it is a moral determination to control our personal desire. It is a way to bear the cross in following our Lord, the conviction to get rid of our sins (Mark 8:34; Romans 8:13; Galatians 5:24; Colossians 3:5).

III. Start talking about love (1 John 1:9)

(1) Finding the right antidote towards this ruthless and lustful world is what our Lord Jesus motivates us to do. When the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law (Rabbi) try to find the easy way out in obeying the Law, Jesus taught otherwise. Getting to the root of the problem is what we ought to do today.

(2) John as Jesus’ disciples understand how precious it is to come under the grace of Jesus, knowing that He is always there ready to pardon and forgive us is a comfort. This is not an insurance that we can continue to sin but an assurance that He is always there for us as well as guiding us.

(3) Embracing the love from God meant we could share this love with those who hungers for true love in this world. True love that is only present in God, who is the maker and giver of all things. Let us learn how to commit our emotions and sexual desires to him, as He truly understands it all.

Additional Notes for today's sermon

2006-08-20T21:39:00.000+08:00

Date: 20 August 2006
Text: Matthew 5:17-20
Title: The Gospel of Law
Speaker: Pastor Lai
_____________________________________________________

I. CHRIST OBEYING ORDERS

1. Has he not released us from these?

In the letter, certainly. This is clearly the doctrine of Paul (see Ephesians 2:14, 15; Colossians 2:14; Hebrews 9:10).
There is an end, then, to the obligation to offer animal sacrifices, to perform Levitical lustrations, to observe the ceremonial sabbaths, to submit to circumcision.
Jesus did not formally abolish these, but left them to dissolve of themselves. The synagogue became gradually converted into the Christian church. The sabbath of the seventh day became merged in that of the first.

2. He has released us by fuelling them

He is the End of the Law. He stands forth as the all-comprehensive Sacrifice of the Law. As the one great High Priest. His baptism of the Spirit is the one great purification.
The ordinances of the Law, though now no longer followed, are read in their fuller meaning. The face of Moses shines again in the glory of the gospel.
The ordinances now fulfill the very end for which they were given. The Law was never intended to be against the promise. The perversity of men made it so. It was instituted to be a “schoolmaster to bring us to Christ.” It serves that end better now than formerly.

II. CHRIST FULFILLING THE MORAL STANDARDS

1. By personal obedience to its requirements.

In assuming our nature he was made under the Law (Galatians 4:4).
He fulfilled all righteousness (see Matthew 3:15).
He became obedient unto death.

2. By vindicating it in his teaching

The word rmn “to fulfill,” among the rabbins, also signifies to teach.
In his teaching Jesus vindicated the Law from the glosses of the elders. To the “jot and tittle” he maintained the integrity of the inspired Word against the traditions which would make it void. He required perfect obedience to the least commandment in order to admission into the expected “kingdom.”
He asserted the Law even to the motives of the heart. This was against the elders who held that the thoughts of the heart were not sinful.
He declared that the evil of sin does not terminate in the act. It is entailed by transmission. It spreads by example. Who breaks the Law “teaches” others to break it. The sinner also advocates sin. He attempts to extenuate its enormity.
Jesus magnified the Law by showing its universality. The interest of the Gentiles in it was nothing new (see Genesis 12:3). It was, however, for ages overlooked. Gentile believers and Jewish saints are declared to be fellow-heirs.

3. By enabling his servants to fulfill it.

They are justified in his blood. Freed from the curse of the Law through his vicarious suffering.
They are regenerated by his Spirit. Brought into sympathy with its holy precepts.
He puts his Holy Spirit within them. By this blessed Helper they “walk in his statutes and keep his judgments, and do them’ (see Ezekiel 36:25-27).

III. JESUS AND THE PROPHETS

1. The prophets were expositions of the Law.

They brought out its spirit.
Their predictions were but amplifications of the Law-types. So the Law is said to prophesy with the prophets (see Matthew 11:13).
Jesus is the greatest of the prophets. He not only verified by fulfillment in himself many of their predictions, but enlarged upon the rest. His promises, threatenings, miracles, and parables were all prophecies. He, more than all his predecessors, opened the spirituality of the Law.

2. Jesus vindicated the prophets from the scribes.

The traditional theory of Messiah’s kingdom was that it should be ostensible and secular. The Jews, therefore, hoped not only to be delivered from the Romans, but to rule the Gentile world with a rod of iron.
This theory was a libel upon the prophets. It would encourage in the Jews the bad passions of pride, resentment, and cruelty. It would bring the Gentiles under oppression inconsistent with the prophetic anticipation of universal happiness.
Jesus made the kingdom spiritual and invisible; and its glory righteousness and mercy.

3. Jesus vindicated the prophets from the Pharisees.

He refused their righteousness. “Pharisee” — çrp, separate, “not as others.” Pride. They “cleansed the outside.” The righteousness of the kingdom is “truth in the inward parts.”
He refused their beneficence. They were scrupulous in paying the tithes. They loved the praise of men. The beneficence of the kingdom seeks praise of God.
He refused their piety. They went up to pray, but there was no prayer in it. “I thank thee,” etc. They fasted on Mondays and Thursdays with disfigured faces. The piety of the kingdom is rational and manly.
Sincerity is no substitute for truth. Many Pharisees are hypocrites. All were not so. Saul of Tarsus was sincere as a Pharisee (see Acts 23:1; Philippians 3:5, 6; 1 Timothy 1:13). Error as well as willful sin stands in need of mercy.

Combined Service with ARPC

2006-08-03T10:43:00.000+08:00

Hi all!
we're having a combined service with ARPC this Sunday, 6 August 2006.
Service starts at 11am, so don't come at 9.30am, k?
we'll be at the KCPSS school hall.

After that, there'll be friendly games - captain's ball and badminton.
Bring your gear, especially your rackets if you're intending to play badminton, and your sunblock if you're playing captain's ball.
Last, bring ur bottle with loads of water!

cya on Sunday!!

World's Most Frequently Stolen Book

2006-07-13T21:43:00.000+08:00

Thought I share an interesting article which a fellow brother in Christ shared earlier in the week.

Did you know that the world's most frequently stolen book is the Bible?
Here's the link...go check it out
http://religionnewsblog.com/13206

GOAL!

2006-06-01T13:05:00.000+08:00

In conjunction with World Cup 2006,

Living Praise Youth Ministry proudly presents...

GOAL!

Date: 18 - 19 June 2006

Official Time: 2pm to 10pm, participants are welcomed to stay back at night to watch delayed telecasts of the soccer matches

Highlights:
1. 5-on-5 soccer matches
2. Soccer Clinic for all who wanna learn more about the sport
3. Human Foosball

Cost: $5 per person

Includes: Dinner and Beverages

Contact Person: Wilson Tay - wilson_tay@livingpraise.org.sg

*what are you waiting for? Bring along your non-Christian friends!!*

Da Vinci Code

2006-05-30T09:53:00.000+08:00

With all the big news and major conversation topics being on the Da Vinci Code, I thought I share this link which my colleague shared with me
it's an interesting production by our partner in Christ, SYFC

So, are you believing in the right thing?
http://www.syfc.org.sg/events/dvc/cinema.html

Sundays in April

2006-04-02T12:32:00.000+08:00

A gentle reminder to all who missed out on the announcement last week

Here's the schedule for April:
2 April (today): Family Service @ 9.30am
9 April: GB Enrolment Service at the main sanctuary @ 9.30am
16 April: Easter Sunday Service @ 9.30am
23 April: 125th Synod Anniversary @ 10am, Indoor Stadium

As such, there will not be any youth meetings / Bible Study for the month of April *sulkz*
But, we can still continue to meet at our own time!

Have a good week!

Reflection: Pull out the weeds!!

2006-03-19T22:42:00.000+08:00

Uncle Jeffrey mentioned that all the thorns (and perhaps weeds too) are all the worldly desires that will eventually choke us and kill us, and separate us from God.

What he said had caused me to really think about my life. Much as I will like to say I'm the good soil, but I'm sad to say that I'm not. In many ways, I've been caught up in all the worldly ways, conforming to the nasty ways of this world - work, relationships, school, behaviour even!
I reckon I was much more involved in school alone, and was definitely really rash and disobedient to God's commands, and was also acting more ungodly.

Even now, I know I'm bad...but I'm changing...or at least, I do see myself changing...

God is slowly, but surely, pulling out all these weeds and thorns that are killing me and sucking the life out of me. I want to bear fruits!!
Also, with the help of the Holy Spirit that God has given to me, I'm seeing things in God's ways, and also having more self-control over my actions.

The weeds are still there...they will continue to sprout out. And I will continuously lean on God's strength and help to remove them.

Reflection: 3 little pigs

2006-03-09T00:00:00.000+08:00

During the sermon on Sunday, I was reminded that we have to have a strong foundation in our faith, so that when any trials and tribulations that come our way, we can stand firm

it's like the story of the 3 little pigs...
if we build our house out of straw, it will definitely topple when the wolf huffs and puffs
however, if we build our house out of bricks, no matter how the wolf huffs and puffs, this house stands firm!

upon reflection, I was also reminded that to have a strong foundation, we need to have Jesus as the cornerstone of our this house, and I have to continually read the Bible and know more about this great God and what His ways are, so that when Satan huffs and puffs, I won't get blown away

Is Your Heart Quiet?

2006-03-01T00:01:00.000+08:00

Read Isaiah 30- 1:15 (especially vs. 15).
Personally, I dont. I'm anxious, worried and sometimes irritatated. You will know if your heart is quiet or not. Are you pre-occupied, worried, anxious or agitated?

So what's keeping you from having a quiet heart?
Studies? Choosing your career path? Choosing the stream/subjects you would like to do in school? Relationship issues? Deadlines from work?

The passage in Isaiah chapter 30 started with how the people of Isreal wanted nice pictures of everything rather than to hear the hard truth. Verse 15, talks about how we can have a quiet heart. It detailed how we can do it.

I guess the first few questions to ask are:

1) Have we ever pursue plans that God did not approve of?
If so, how can our heart be quiet? I think all of us have been through that route and each time, we feel distanced from God. And like the people in verse 10, we rather hear the pleasant stuff than the hard stuff making it even harder for us to have a quiet and calm heart. Think of Jonah!

2) Did we ever make a decision without consulting God?
If yes, then our hearts will never be quiet. How can it be if we are trying to meet our needs without using God-focused ways? If it is not God-focused, it will backfire. I totally agree with this because whenever I make a decision without consulting God, i failed miserably. I also feel unsettled as if something is not complete.

Also, we tend to forget that God is in control, especially when we are not. He is the GOD ALMIGHTY. Should we be anxious or worried or preoccupied when He is in control? One of my favourite verses says:

"Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, 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." Philippians 4:6.

I guess I always like that verse because it constantly reminded me that God is in control and He will not put me through this without a reason. And if so, then I'm going to pray and let Him be in the driver's seat. I still struggle with letting Him having control sometimes, but I will continue to try.

So how do we achieve a quiet heart?
Isaiah 30:15
"This is what the SOVERIGH Lord, the Holy one of Isarel, says: "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it."

In Repentance- In turning to God
In Rest- Depending on God.
In Quietness- In resting in God, there is a peace that is free of strifle and agitation.
In Trust- Believing that GOd and His promises are the truth.
In Strength- It is the strength to stand up to whatever difficulty that comes our way.

The price of disbelief is HIGH- we forfeit peace and contentment.

Most of all read Psalm 91. I cried when I read it.

This week, I sincerly hope that all of us will have a quiet heart.

Daphne
Adapted from a sermon by Pastor Steve Schoof of Westminister Presbyterian Church, Perth, Western Australia.

What's on this week?

2006-02-24T08:24:00.000+08:00

Formal games!
we've got soccer, captain's ball, and badminton for the sporty ones
not interested in these sports? we've got boardgames too!
so...what are you waiting for? come join us!

Bowling Mania!

2006-02-22T21:25:00.000+08:00

Have you formed your team of 4?
No? What are u waiting for!?
Come join us!
No team? Nvm! We'll help u form 1!
Look for Swee Kiat to sign up...we've only got 4 more lanes left!!

Date: 5 March
Time: 2 - 4pm
Location: Planet Bowl @ Civil Service Club
Cost: Cheap cheap! Only $10!!

Tree or Driftwood?

2006-02-20T21:29:00.000+08:00

ever thought of it?
are we trees or driftwood?

I reckon, we all want to be trees...to be rooted at somewhere, and flourish and grow.
I know I wanna be a tree, taking in all the nourishment and water, the living water...
taking in all of God's words and instructions, putting them into action, growing in His love...and I want my life to grow and glow with Christ's love.

Reflecting, I am reminded of a song...
___________________________

Be Like a Tree

I'm gonna be like a tree
Planted by the water
Trusting in the Father to keep me strong

I'm gonna be like a tree
Planted by the water
Trusting in the name of the Lord

The deeper the roots go
The better the fruits grow
The blessings bloom out for all to see

The deeper the roots go
The more my life shows
That Jesus is the Lord of me
Lord of me!

I'm gonna be like a tree
Planted by the water
Trusting in the Father to make me grow

I'm gonna be like a tree
Planted by the water
Trusting in the name of the Lord

I know who I am, and where I'm going!

2006-02-16T21:24:00.000+08:00

Billy Graham is 86 years old with Parkinson's disease.
In January 2000, leaders in Charlotte, North Carolina, invited their favorite son, Billy Graham, to a luncheon in his honor.
Billy initially hesitated to accept the invitation because he struggles with Parkinson's disease. But the Charlotte leaders said, "We don't expect a major address. Just come and let us honor you." So he agreed.

After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham stepped to the rostrum, looked at the crowd, and said, "I'm reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who this month has been honored by Time magazine as the Man of the Century. Einstein was once traveling from Princeton on a train when the conductor came down the aisle, punching the tickets of every passenger.

When he came to Einstein, Einstein reached in his vest pocket.

He couldn't find his ticket, so he reached in his other pocket. It wasn't there, so he looked in his briefcase but couldn't find it.

Then he looked in the seat by him. He couldn't find it.

The conductor said, "Dr. Einstein, I know who you are. We all know who you are. I'm sure you bought a ticket. Don't worry about it."

Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued down the aisle punching tickets. As he was ready to move to the next car, he turned around and saw the great physicist down on his hands and knees looking under his seat for his ticket.

The conductor rushed back and said, "Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein, don't worry, I know who you are. No problem.

You don't need a ticket. I'm sure you bought one." Einstein looked at him and said, "Young man, I too, know who I am and that I bought a ticket.

What I don't know is where I'm going.'"

Having said that Billy Graham continued, "See the suit I'm wearing?

It's a brand new suit. My wife, my children, and my grandchildren are telling me I've gotten a little slovenly in my old age. I used to be a bit more fastidious. So I went out and bought a new suit for this luncheon and one more occasion.

You know what that occasion is? This is the suit in which I'll be buried. But when you hear I'm dead, I don't want you to immediately remember the suit I'm wearing. I want you to remember this:
I not only know who I am, I also know where I'm going.

Weblink

2006-02-14T23:50:00.000+08:00

For all who have joined us at Love Actually, Uncle Foo Wah mentioned about how going into a relationship may lead to depression, and we may do things that do not glorify God.

Those interested, here's the weblink to the article
http://www.news.cornell.edu/releases/May01/teenlove.ssl.html

Love Actually

2006-02-07T00:10:00.000+08:00

When? Saturday, 11 February
Where? Fellowship Hall
What time? 1830hrs
be there, or be square!

remember the photo competition!
come join in a time of looking through all the lovey dovey photos, and learn what Love is all about

Now Unto Him

2006-02-03T21:35:00.000+08:00

ever pondered and meditated on the lyrics of the benediction that we sing every Sunday?
quite frankly, I never did so until I went to university, when all my friends start leaving the country and I don't see them for a good part of the year

it's like a song of prayer to that friend...that God is able to keep my friend from falling away from God, so that this friend may continue to lead God-pleasing life to be able to stand before God at the end of days
the song also recognises that God is wise, and we're praising Him for His wisdom, power and everything

so the next time u sing the benediction, do ponder...
for me, I always think of my friends, both here and in Sydney (or those studying overseas)

_____________________________

Now Unto Him

Now unto Him, who is able to keep
Able to keep you from falling
And present you faultless
Before the presence of His glory
With exceeding joy

To the only wise God our Saviour
Be glory and majesty
Dominion and power
Both now and forever
Amen

2 Ways to Live

2006-02-01T23:20:00.000+08:00

I'm sure many have heard of the "Bridge to Life", on how man used to have a perfect relationship with God, but cos of sin, we were separated from God.
Christ came, and was the bridge between man and God, to reconcile us with God

here's another way to share the gospel...
2 Ways to Live talks about similar things...afterall, it's the same gospel that we're sharing...there shouldn't be any deviations, right?
some may have preferences between these 2 methods...but they're essentially the same
I'm just sharing the other possibility
I'm sure others have other ways to share the gospel...I've got a friend who uses a knitted glove, with different colour for each finger, to share the gospel
another friend once used the Singapore dollar note to share the gospel

see? so many ways!!!

Happy CNY!

2006-01-31T01:06:00.000+08:00

well well well...Happy CNY to all!
have a good one, ya?

Announcement

2006-01-22T23:14:00.000+08:00

This Sunday is the 5th Sunday of the month
we're gonna be having our youth Sunday service together at the main service in the sanctuary at 9.30am
So, be sure u come to the right place!

Only by Grace

2006-01-22T19:43:00.000+08:00

The lyrics to this song is ever so true and comforting...and a reminder of how unworthy we are to be saved and to be able to stand in the presence of the almighty God.
With God's grace, there's no way we can enter...we'll probably be struck dead when we take our first step in entering God's presence.
Of all the wrongs that we've done, if God were to be petty and count them one by one, I think we'll have a list that's longer than the great wall of China!!

___________________________________________

Only By Grace

Only by grace can we enter
Only by grace can we stand
Not by our human endeavor
But by the blood of the Lamb

Lord, if You marked our transgressions
Who would stand
Thanks to Your grace we are cleansed
By the blood of the Lamb

Into Your presence You call us
You call us to come
Into Your presence You draw us
And now by Your grace we come
Now by Your grace we come

Lord, if You marked our transgressions
Who would stand
Thanks to Your grace we are cleansed
By the blood of the Lamb

God's Presence is my security - a testimony

2006-01-22T19:35:00.000+08:00

was listening to Uncle Richard share the Word this morning, and how he explained that God's Omnipresence is our security, and our comfort...and how he further gave illustrations.

Looking back and reflecting, I realise that God has, in my ways, been my great big security blanket over the years, even in the smallest of things. Let me just list out a few...
1. Back in the days of having exams, I used to freak out and have cold feet, esp in my poly days. Every paper that I sat for, I would always pray for wisdom and a calm mind, and I juz felt that sense of calmness coming over me. There were times when I had mental block, and I really didn't know how to answer the questions. Somehow, this little voice inside me reminded me that God was there, and that He'll help me. He did!

2. Just recently, I finished my studies, and came back to find a job. Had my first interview...freaked out a lot...did all the prep that I could, but I was just so nervous as I went to my work place, and waited for my turn to be interviewed. Kept telling myself to be calm and to take it easy cos everything's in God's hands and in His control. The music was playing in the restaurant, and in all anxiety, I managed to calm down and listen to the music. It was the instrumental version of a Christian song! That's like God telling me "I'm with u!!"

So yah...God' presence is my security.
I guess we have to really believe first, and then really trust.

Reflection: We are the reason

2005-12-20T17:35:00.000+08:00

this song was sang as the closing song at our last youth service.
If we ponder on the lyrics, we would realise that Christ really came to this earth with the sole purpose of saving us. Why would He want to leave his comfy big throne up there? All because of love...cos He loves us so.

Personally, the song really describes me as a child...how I always yearned for Christmas cos I enjoyed receiving presents from my family. That's the only time we get gifts, other than birthdays.
Yet, as I grew older, I began to understand the real meaning of Christmas - that Christ was born, so that He can save us. Christ was the greatest gift that God gave to us.

I have included the lyrics to this song for us to reflect upon...
________________________________________________________

We are the Reason

As little children

We would dream of Christmas morn

Of all the gifts and toys

We knew we'd find

But we never realized

A baby born one blessed night

Gave us the greatest gift of our lives

Chorus:

We were the reason

That He gave His life

We were the reason

That He suffered and died

To a world that was lost

He gave all He could give

To show us the reason to live

As the years went by

We learned more about gifts

The giving of ourselves

And what that means

On a dark and cloudy day

A man hung crying in the rain

All because of love, all because of love

Bridge:

I've finally found the reason for living

It's in giving every part of my heart to Him

In all that I do every word that I say

I'll be giving my all just for Him, for Him

We are the reason
That He gave His life
We are the reason
That He suffered and died
To a world that was lost
He gave all He could give
To show us the reason to live

He is my reason to live

i-one-God

2005-12-14T09:42:00.000+08:00

Youth Camp 2005 has juz ended, after half year of planning by the youth leaders.
a total of 60 campers joined us, from both the school and our church. We had 25 helpers and facilitators coming on board to help us, which was great!
without the campers and facilitators, the camp wouldn't have been such a success.

Brother Ong Chee Hong, our camp speaker was fantastic, teaching us that we shouldn't be storing treasures on earth, but in heaven.
Uncle Kim Meng held a workshop, teaching us abt the various choices which we have to make in life; Pek Ya taught abt friendships.

I think the Great Pelican Race was probably the main highlight of the camp, with all the campers running around Singapore, ending off with a dinner outside with their respective groups.

A number of our youths have decided to rededicate their lives to God, making the commitment to want to live a God-pleasing life.

To those who came for the camp, bet u guys and gals had fun!
To those who missed it, too bad! :p

Reflection: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less

2005-11-13T11:08:00.000+08:00

My hope is built on nothing less, but on the knowledge that Christ has died for me, and that at the end of the day, I'll be up in heaven with God.

It is this hope that keeps me motivated, to want to know God more, and live a live worthy of His child. No matter how bad the world becomes, no matter what trials come my way, it's this hope that keeps me motivated.

In times of trials, it's the hope and knowledge that God will make a way for me that makes me want to persevere.

The difference between us and the non-Christians is not the present, but the future when we die...cos we know that when we die, we'll be up in heaven, enjoying eternal life. So what if we suffer now? We have that eternal life to look forward to, to hope for

so...Onward Christian Soldiers! Persevere!!

Reflection: Meeting God

2005-11-08T00:33:00.000+08:00

Indeed, God never forsakes us. I am always reminded how God has been watching over me, taking care of my every needs.

At the same time, I thank God that no matter how bad I've been, no matter how insignificant I am, He still wants to be in my life.
And unlike the Old Testament days, where we cannot approach God directly cos we're sinners, and where we need a priest or Moses to intercede for us...today, we have Jesus. Through His blood, we are cleansed clean, and can meet God face-to-face.

How can we meet God in today's context?
the most obvious way is through the Bible...cos everything written in there is God inspired, God breathed. The next is through fellowship with other brothers and sisters in Christ. We can see how God had worked in them, and how God is reflected through them. Lastly, through our own daily lives. Everything we do, everything that happens, take a minute to step back n reflect...everything's happening in God's perfect plan. See how God is at work in our lives - He's involving Himself in our daily lives!

Happy Birthday Daniel & Ian

2005-11-06T21:01:00.000+08:00

A very happy birthday to 2 of our youth leaders, Daniel & Ian!
Daniel juz turned 20, and Ian is also going to celebrate his 20th birthday in a couple of days' time
so, don't forget to wish them a Happy Birthday when u see them next week!

I wanna be a dropout!

2005-10-30T19:12:00.000+08:00

Being Christ-like is to live a life according to what God wants us to be, with Christ as our role model. This means that we live differently from the rest of the world. We act differently from the rest of our friends. As a youth, our non-Christian friends see us as weird, and sometimes, a spoilsport when we choose to go to church or some church activity, instead of going out with them. It also meant giving up some of our favourite activity juz to attend church events.

I think we should continue to be transformed to be more Christ-like...and have the same steadfast love and loyalty for Christ.
It's difficult, but at the end of the day, we're pleasing God, the one n only living God.

We're going bowling!

2005-10-28T13:19:00.000+08:00

yes, u've heard it.
we're going bowling on Sunday!!

if u haven't signed up, don't consider anymore!
join us!
u're still welcome to join us
and ooohh...get all ya friends to join us!
it's $10 for transport there, 2 games, and shoe rental
we're gathering at 10.45am, after the service!

Share your cookies!

2005-10-24T09:06:00.000+08:00

We always ask God why some of these nicest people in the world have not come to know God. And we also ask God why so many of the evil people in the world are still alive and kicking. Why God did not do His job of punishing them?

Jonah was just like us, he was angry with God that He chose to save the 120,000 people of Nineveh instead of punishing this city of evil people. Like us, Jonah feels that they do not deserve God’s mercy and God should destroy them as He had threatened them earlier.

God’s mercy is beyond our understanding and when we find it so hard to forgive, God can and will because His mercy is not weighed against our sinful acts but swept away by the sacrifice on His son on the cross.

Brother Lawrence told us a story at service today that was demonstrated the extent of our unmerciful nature. He tells us a story of a woman who shared a table with another gentleman and got angry with him because he was taking her bag of cookies without even asking her. Only after she has shouted at him and stormed out did she realize she was the one who was ‘stealing’ his cookies without asking!

How often we accused of others of the wrongdoing when all the time we are the one. How often we saw the unfairness of God’s love to people who deem undeserving but we never think how undeserving we are too.

The word that rings for me today…

SHARE YOUR COOKIES!

--Contributed by Pek Ya--

so excited!!

2005-10-20T11:26:00.000+08:00

hey all!
our youth leaders will be going on a retreat this weekend to have some fun of ourselves!
amidst all these fun, we'll be doing some reflection on what God has done in our lives and in our ministry, and also have a time of renewal, learning more abt what God has in plans for us n our ministry
how exciting, eh!?

we hope that u can also pray for us in this time of reflection n renewal. Pray that God will bless this couple of days of fellowship, and that we can learn more abt one another.

lastly, due to this retreat, we shall not be having our youth service in the MPH1 this Sunday. Instead, we'll be joining the main service at 9.30am. U're all encouraged to come. We, youth leaders, will be there...
so, cya on Sunday!!

No Greater Love

2005-10-17T22:53:00.000+08:00

Desparate moments need desparate measures. For a 'strong man' like Rev Tan, nothing could change him. His pride and ego will not allow him to be 'weak'. He would rather die than to submit to love.

For him and many others like him, it is not fear or strength but love that will change and melt his harden shell.

"God loves u. Jesus loves u. And I love u too."
Imagine how his teacher had felt.
Imagine, also, how God must feel everytime someone rebels against Him. No matter what we do, God still loves us.
Such is the great love God has for us.

--Contributed by Pek Ya--

Youth Camp 2005

2005-10-13T00:23:00.000+08:00

When?
9 - 12 December 2005

Where?
KCPSS

Cost?
$36 - Early Bird Special

Sign up quick!!
Approach any youth leaders for consent forms!

Hear Ye! Hear Ye!

2005-10-10T18:52:00.000+08:00

Announcement #1
Post-exam outing on 30th October 2005
We'll be going bowling at Marina Square.
The total cost for transport, shoes rental, and games will be $10.
Please give ur names to Uncle Richard, or the youth leaders, as soon as possible. Please also prepare the money as we will be collecting the money soon.
Last note, remember to bring ur socks as they're an essential. u won't be able to rent the shoes (and hence, play the game) without socks.

Announcement #2
There will be no youth service on 16th October and 23rd October 2005.
Youths are encouraged to join in the main service at 9.30am

I can do all things thru Him who strengthens me

2005-10-09T21:17:00.000+08:00

indeed, we can do all things through Christ...
with Christ, nothing is impossible

however, this can only be possible if we maintain a good relationship with Him, and thus trusting Him to help us.
That's how it all works...our God is almighty and powerful, and trust is all that we need to know that He'll make things work for us.

Like Pek Ya mentioned this morning, when in need, scream for help! (ok, I'm exaggerating, but hey! it's true, yah?)
as Paul said in the same letter "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
however, my dear brothers and sisters, please do not see God as our genie in the bottle...and all u have to do is to rub the bottle, make ur wish and God appears. Ultimately, God knows what's best for us, and what's not...He's still sovereign...even if it seems that He isn't helping u, know that He is, in the long run...

and of cos, there are fellow brothers and sisters in Christ around us. That's what they're there for too! not only for friendship, but also to encourage and to grow together. So, seek others to help. Quoting from Pek Ya once again, "It is okay to ask for help as all their ability to help does not come by themselves, but from God".

Conclusion?
"I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
-- Philippians 4:13

Welcome!

2005-10-07T18:20:00.000+08:00

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Continue to pop by to visit us for more updates, devotionals, and announcements!