Surrender is never easy. Surrender doesn't make us happy. Surrender isn't something we wish for (except to others). But surrender is what God wants from us. Not for His sake, but for our sake. That He may do wonders in our life, so that we may prosper, and succeed, and know Him all the more.
Surrender isn't necessarily a bad thing. It's just a very difficult thing. As humans, we want control over our own lives. We want to be in the know, the have the path before us laid out wide, tarred and smooth. But God doesn't work that way. He makes corners. Some parts, it's so narrow, we need Him to help us through. More often than not, it's a dirt lane, where we get muddy and dirty and having to scramble through.
And at some point, we'll get to a dead end. We can't turn left, we can't turn right. There's no way forward and going back is not an option. The only way to look, is up. To find God, surrender our will to Him. Let Him take the problems, the burden and let Him work it out. To surrender our lives to Him.
While lots of times I hear about surrendering our lives to God, I didn't actually grasp the full meaning till recently. Surrendering our lives mean giving up our rights to live life as we want to. It means having decisions made for us that we disagree, object or even fight against. To acknowledge that God is king and ruler and to do everything He tells us to, no matter how illogical, how idiotic or how much we don't like it.
He may even ask us to do what we said we will never do! Of course, I don't mean smoking or doing drugs but in other ways... We may say we'll never climb a tree. One day, you may be sitting up in one. We may never want to speak in front of a crowd. He may use us to speak to billions, live.
The hardest part about the whole surrender is that when we do, He'll often take us to places where we're in over our heads. Where we feel like we're sinking without a trace, drowning in the pool of life. At times like this, we hold on, to the one who promises never to let go. To hang on to Him because our lives depends on it. To trust Him to work it out, to bring us through because we know, we can't.
The amazing part is: He does! He not only helps us through the problem, He makes us soar above it! We do head and shoulders better than we ever expected, we exceedingly succeed where we thought we'd fail. He'll bring us to dizzying heights, the like of which we never imagine. The success that we never even dare to dream. The greatness that only God can provide. And rightly so, all glory to Him.
I haven't seen what greats He has in store for me (if I did, I wouldn't be here anymore). But that's surrender. To know that He has that better plan and to trust Him to bring me through it. It's time I stop living by myself and letting God live through me. It's time, to surrender all.
Tuesday, 14 October 2008
Sunday, 21 September 2008
Choices
Choices. Priorities. Both are connected though not similar. The choices that we make, the decisions that we pursue also show us our priorities. As I mention in an earlier post, how we spend our time shows our priorities. And now, here's another way our priorities show: our choices. Quality vs quantity. Easy vs hard. Time vs excellence. Money vs anything.
If you ask anyone to make a choice, some may take the 3rd option: I'd like both. Well, of course you'd like both! Who wouldn't? We'd all like to finish a work on time and be of the best quality. We want more quality things in our lives. The best deal would be for a cheap but excellent product. In a perfect world, we wouldn't have to lie, cheat or steal!
But what defines us, what matters is which choice we take when we can't have both. We live in a fallen world. Often, it's a choice of either 1 or the other. And I believe, that shows what we really value. You can say you'd like to buy a better server but it's too expensive; I say you just value money more than quality. Who doesn't want a better server if it's cheaper? It's a question of whether you're willing to spend for the quality or not? Of course, sometimes we just don't need the quality but if we do and there's no money, well... that just says it all, doesn't it?
If the world was perfect, all suits will be comfortable to wear. Things that make us look better won't be so uncomfortable. Heels make girls look nicer but they're horrible for comfort and walking. Ties and a suit enhances a man's image but it does nothing for his well being. Evening wear will never become everyday wear simply because no one would want to wear it everyday! So when someone dresses up or not, it says a lot. It shows whether you prefer form or function. Whether beauty is more important or being comfortable. Does outward appearance more important than inner peace?
There will always be sacrifices to be made. We can't have it both ways because God never made it that way. That's why following Christ isn't easy. It requires us to make a choice: His way or our way. Yes, He made us to have dreams, to have desires. And those dreams and desires are good! But what we have to choose is whether we want those dreams and desires fulfilled our way or His way. Whether pleasing God is more important or pleasing ourselves.
I've been guilty of choosing my way over His way. I catch myself looking out for myself first before what He wants. But I know, His way is better than my way. His will will lead to something far greater than I can ever imagine. It's a process, but one that is very rewarding in the end. To choose life by chooing Christ.
If you ask anyone to make a choice, some may take the 3rd option: I'd like both. Well, of course you'd like both! Who wouldn't? We'd all like to finish a work on time and be of the best quality. We want more quality things in our lives. The best deal would be for a cheap but excellent product. In a perfect world, we wouldn't have to lie, cheat or steal!
But what defines us, what matters is which choice we take when we can't have both. We live in a fallen world. Often, it's a choice of either 1 or the other. And I believe, that shows what we really value. You can say you'd like to buy a better server but it's too expensive; I say you just value money more than quality. Who doesn't want a better server if it's cheaper? It's a question of whether you're willing to spend for the quality or not? Of course, sometimes we just don't need the quality but if we do and there's no money, well... that just says it all, doesn't it?
If the world was perfect, all suits will be comfortable to wear. Things that make us look better won't be so uncomfortable. Heels make girls look nicer but they're horrible for comfort and walking. Ties and a suit enhances a man's image but it does nothing for his well being. Evening wear will never become everyday wear simply because no one would want to wear it everyday! So when someone dresses up or not, it says a lot. It shows whether you prefer form or function. Whether beauty is more important or being comfortable. Does outward appearance more important than inner peace?
There will always be sacrifices to be made. We can't have it both ways because God never made it that way. That's why following Christ isn't easy. It requires us to make a choice: His way or our way. Yes, He made us to have dreams, to have desires. And those dreams and desires are good! But what we have to choose is whether we want those dreams and desires fulfilled our way or His way. Whether pleasing God is more important or pleasing ourselves.
I've been guilty of choosing my way over His way. I catch myself looking out for myself first before what He wants. But I know, His way is better than my way. His will will lead to something far greater than I can ever imagine. It's a process, but one that is very rewarding in the end. To choose life by chooing Christ.
Saturday, 20 September 2008
Heart vs Action
In the Western world, there's a de-emphasis on the idea of dressing smart. In fact, one can say that the art of looking great in a suit is a dying art. Many corporations (Google, Pixar & Intel for example) allow employees to wear as they like to work. Some go further by allowing employees to work as they like too! The incurred 'professionalism' is lost with these ideas. A certain level of 'class' is lost with this too. Gone is the smart suit people who take pride in looking professional everywhere they go.
On the other hand, casualness invites a certain level of calmness with it. Without the contraints of tie and shirt, some people actually perform better. In a relaxed environment, some actually thrive. My ex-housemate even once confessed that he can do more work at home than at work! And on another level, being casual invites people to approach you. The suit, while showing a higher class, can also dispel people away. It's rigit, unconforming, static. The t-shirt is casual, friendly, easy to wear. Personally, I hate approaching people in suits because it's all business. A person in jeans/shorts looks more welcoming and I'd rather spend my time with them.
In looking at the difference between the 2 styles, it also symbolically shows the difference between doing something from the heart and doing something because it has to be done. Anyone can feed the homeless but it takes a really caring and loving heart to care for them. Anyone can donate money to a cause but it takes the sacrifice of those who truly champion the cause to run it. You can serve in church all your life, in all the ways and still, have no heart to see God's plan for yourself. When the heart is right, it doesn't matter what is wore on the outside. The job will still get done, and it will be done excellently.
But what if you find yourself having a bad day? Especially a bad day when you have to face customers/strangers? Would you hide behind a false facade? Or will you let your face reflect your soul? Sadly, many in the Asian world still put a higher emphasis on the facade. We can't lose 'face'. Whatever happens within, don't let it be shown to the outsiders. Maintain that 'professionalism'. And sometimes, it's a dilemma for Christians. If we were in a situation where we can't smile, shall we put on a fake smile? We are meant to be salt and light to the world but how is being sad or down in the dumps being salt and light?
This especially becomes important in serving the Lord. We want to bless those around us. But can we when we feel like our hearts are bleeding internally? When you have to usher people in with a smile but you can't find a reason to smile anymore. When you can't see the wood for the trees, can you still disciple others? Do we pull away, not be part of the service? Or do we just power through; putting on a front that's insincere?
We will all face issues where we become human. Where our lives are not sweetness and hunky dory. Where we get angry, confused, hurt, misunderstood. And sometimes yes, we just got to lay our problems aside because we want to serve others. But we also must go back to the problem and work it out. Don't lay aside a personal problem because it's in the way. God has put that problem there because there's something He wants to teach us through it. So we have to work it out. With His grace, we will!
And when we want to serve, God will provide the will to smile and approach people. We just have to trust in His timing and His will be done. He alone provides the power and the love for us to serve well. On our own, we cannot do it. Our iniquities will not allow us to always be pouring out onto others. On our own, we will crash and burn. The good news is, we don't have to do it alone. God is our helper! He will see things through. He is the great deliverer! Nothing He starts will ever stop or finish badly. He is really just that awesome.
God said everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. That means we are still permitted to show grief, to be sad, to get angry. But we must see whether this benefits us. If it does, then let's learn the lesson quick! If it just brings us down, it's time to get rid of it.
So in God, we can both serve well as well as still be in pain. It is His grace and His power that allows us to do both with a sincere heart.But we must continue to be careful: let's serve the Lord with all our heart, all our mind and all our soul. Let's serve Him through a sincere love for Him and a willingness to see His will be done. Let His glory shine down and Him alone be glorified.
God looks at our hearts; so what we wear really isn't a biig deal. I still don't believe in wearing suits and ties and I think I never will be comfortable with that. But there's a reason and as long as God says so, that's what I do. Amen.
On the other hand, casualness invites a certain level of calmness with it. Without the contraints of tie and shirt, some people actually perform better. In a relaxed environment, some actually thrive. My ex-housemate even once confessed that he can do more work at home than at work! And on another level, being casual invites people to approach you. The suit, while showing a higher class, can also dispel people away. It's rigit, unconforming, static. The t-shirt is casual, friendly, easy to wear. Personally, I hate approaching people in suits because it's all business. A person in jeans/shorts looks more welcoming and I'd rather spend my time with them.
In looking at the difference between the 2 styles, it also symbolically shows the difference between doing something from the heart and doing something because it has to be done. Anyone can feed the homeless but it takes a really caring and loving heart to care for them. Anyone can donate money to a cause but it takes the sacrifice of those who truly champion the cause to run it. You can serve in church all your life, in all the ways and still, have no heart to see God's plan for yourself. When the heart is right, it doesn't matter what is wore on the outside. The job will still get done, and it will be done excellently.
But what if you find yourself having a bad day? Especially a bad day when you have to face customers/strangers? Would you hide behind a false facade? Or will you let your face reflect your soul? Sadly, many in the Asian world still put a higher emphasis on the facade. We can't lose 'face'. Whatever happens within, don't let it be shown to the outsiders. Maintain that 'professionalism'. And sometimes, it's a dilemma for Christians. If we were in a situation where we can't smile, shall we put on a fake smile? We are meant to be salt and light to the world but how is being sad or down in the dumps being salt and light?
This especially becomes important in serving the Lord. We want to bless those around us. But can we when we feel like our hearts are bleeding internally? When you have to usher people in with a smile but you can't find a reason to smile anymore. When you can't see the wood for the trees, can you still disciple others? Do we pull away, not be part of the service? Or do we just power through; putting on a front that's insincere?
We will all face issues where we become human. Where our lives are not sweetness and hunky dory. Where we get angry, confused, hurt, misunderstood. And sometimes yes, we just got to lay our problems aside because we want to serve others. But we also must go back to the problem and work it out. Don't lay aside a personal problem because it's in the way. God has put that problem there because there's something He wants to teach us through it. So we have to work it out. With His grace, we will!
And when we want to serve, God will provide the will to smile and approach people. We just have to trust in His timing and His will be done. He alone provides the power and the love for us to serve well. On our own, we cannot do it. Our iniquities will not allow us to always be pouring out onto others. On our own, we will crash and burn. The good news is, we don't have to do it alone. God is our helper! He will see things through. He is the great deliverer! Nothing He starts will ever stop or finish badly. He is really just that awesome.
God said everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial. That means we are still permitted to show grief, to be sad, to get angry. But we must see whether this benefits us. If it does, then let's learn the lesson quick! If it just brings us down, it's time to get rid of it.
So in God, we can both serve well as well as still be in pain. It is His grace and His power that allows us to do both with a sincere heart.But we must continue to be careful: let's serve the Lord with all our heart, all our mind and all our soul. Let's serve Him through a sincere love for Him and a willingness to see His will be done. Let His glory shine down and Him alone be glorified.
God looks at our hearts; so what we wear really isn't a biig deal. I still don't believe in wearing suits and ties and I think I never will be comfortable with that. But there's a reason and as long as God says so, that's what I do. Amen.
Wednesday, 10 September 2008
Paranoid or Apathetic?
Television shows are showing the wrong kind of image. That's true. Television influences the perception of people. Yes, it's true. But boys will be boys. They'll pick up guns and play at war. They get muddy. They take on heights that scare mothers half to death. But they may also like to play cooking. After all, how else are good chefs made?
So at the end of the day, boys tend to be a bit rough. And people have watched shows that seem bad but turn out alright. When JK Rowling's books came out, there were a lot of protest but really, how much of it is relevant? While everything has an effect on others, people still will reject what is lousy. So when we protest, are we really doing the right thing? Have we become too paranoid over what the enemy will use? Or have we become so apathetic, we don't realize when the enemy is at the door?
I hate the paranoia that sometimes surrounds us. Many are prone to make a mountain out of a molehill. Some shows have negative protrayals, I agree. But the viewers of that show should be able to take what is right and what isn't. Stopping kids from watching things blow up on cartoons won't exactly make them a better person. Likewise allowing them all the freedom they want isn't beneficial. There must be a certain amount of letting go and pulling back. The ultimate example is Man's free will. God gave us free will so that we can make our own decisions; whether the things we watch are good to learn from or bad that we should avoid. For example, some people can drink because they control their alcohol intake. Whereas some should avoid it entirely because it's going to lead them to destruction. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is constructive. -1 Corinthians 10:23
Speaking of perceptions, I really hate first impressions. I hate the fact that you are judged by simply what is on the outward appearance. Yes, what's inside you will show on the outside. But what's on the outside may be incorrectly judged with the inside. If the outside truly reflected what exactly was on the inside, why does it say that God judges people by what's on the inside?
That's because outward appearances can be wrong! In fact, I'd go on and say it could be very wrong. Just because someone is wearing casual all the time doesn't mean he isn't a model professional. The girl who like to wear black doesn't necessarily have a bleak outlook on life. Wearing a suit and going to church every week doesn't mean you're holy and a good person. In fact, you could be the leader of a church and still be completely rotten!
I know that half the time, the outside judgement may be right. But I'm not willing to take that risk. Nor do I like it. A person is still a person with a soul. Whatever their outlook, whatever their personality, whatever their thinking, there's always something else there. If we only take the time to see past the insignificant outsides, we may find the gold inside. I pity not the person being judged, but the person judging. He/she misses out on a great opportunity; maybe even the opportunity of a lifetime. And those who try to put on an appearance; you also have my pity. No matter what the reason, no matter what the situation; I never believe in looking like 1 thing on the outside and being something different on the inside.
So at the end of the day, boys tend to be a bit rough. And people have watched shows that seem bad but turn out alright. When JK Rowling's books came out, there were a lot of protest but really, how much of it is relevant? While everything has an effect on others, people still will reject what is lousy. So when we protest, are we really doing the right thing? Have we become too paranoid over what the enemy will use? Or have we become so apathetic, we don't realize when the enemy is at the door?
I hate the paranoia that sometimes surrounds us. Many are prone to make a mountain out of a molehill. Some shows have negative protrayals, I agree. But the viewers of that show should be able to take what is right and what isn't. Stopping kids from watching things blow up on cartoons won't exactly make them a better person. Likewise allowing them all the freedom they want isn't beneficial. There must be a certain amount of letting go and pulling back. The ultimate example is Man's free will. God gave us free will so that we can make our own decisions; whether the things we watch are good to learn from or bad that we should avoid. For example, some people can drink because they control their alcohol intake. Whereas some should avoid it entirely because it's going to lead them to destruction. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is constructive. -1 Corinthians 10:23
Speaking of perceptions, I really hate first impressions. I hate the fact that you are judged by simply what is on the outward appearance. Yes, what's inside you will show on the outside. But what's on the outside may be incorrectly judged with the inside. If the outside truly reflected what exactly was on the inside, why does it say that God judges people by what's on the inside?
That's because outward appearances can be wrong! In fact, I'd go on and say it could be very wrong. Just because someone is wearing casual all the time doesn't mean he isn't a model professional. The girl who like to wear black doesn't necessarily have a bleak outlook on life. Wearing a suit and going to church every week doesn't mean you're holy and a good person. In fact, you could be the leader of a church and still be completely rotten!
I know that half the time, the outside judgement may be right. But I'm not willing to take that risk. Nor do I like it. A person is still a person with a soul. Whatever their outlook, whatever their personality, whatever their thinking, there's always something else there. If we only take the time to see past the insignificant outsides, we may find the gold inside. I pity not the person being judged, but the person judging. He/she misses out on a great opportunity; maybe even the opportunity of a lifetime. And those who try to put on an appearance; you also have my pity. No matter what the reason, no matter what the situation; I never believe in looking like 1 thing on the outside and being something different on the inside.
Wednesday, 16 July 2008
Focusing on Eternity
"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." - John 10:10 (NKJV) emphasis added
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." - John 10:10 (NIV) emphasis added
I have always believe in this verse. It's a great motivation to bring people to know Christ. And it's completely true! There's more to life than 9 to 5. There's a greater purpose in all of our lives than the mundane. As Switchfoot puts it, "We were meant to live for so much more." We were created for a purpose higher than ourselves. We have a greater calling; the only decision is whether we want it and are willing to live for it or not.
For quite a few years now, I have struggled to properly explain this verse. What does it mean by life to the full? What is abundant life actually about? For too long, I've always believe it was about doing what we like and that a life well lived was one where we get all our rewards here on Earth. And it's always been a struggle to properly answer this one when you know that living out your dream can kill you. Or worse, you may not know what you are passionate about!
I mean, it's easy when you have a specific dream or passion. You have a pretty good idea of what you want to do. But how about those whose reason in life is not so well defined? Those that God puts a heart to do something vague. Those who God has not revealed their passion yet? Or those whose dream will lead to their death?
I now realize that an abundant life does not mean a good life by the world's standard. It's not about winning, it's about succeeding. And there's a difference. You can be a success but a loser. You can live life to the full even though you die a pauper. The abundant life God promises is not living towards easy living or earthly rewards; it's living towards God's will and heavenly rewards.
The problem I had was I was too focused on the earthly blessings that God will pour out. Yes, He will still pour out blessings to us when we do His will here! In the Bible, He shows us this very clearly through the life of King David, Job and Joseph. All 3 followed God and the Bible notes how they were all bless with position, fame, fortune, etc. God will bless His people here on Earth too!
But then, we must also remember that living for God will not always reflect in earthly blessings. Moses brought the law to Israel but he spent 40 years in the wilderness. The prophets were not the richest people, nor the most powerful. Many of the early saints were crucified or stoned or killed. Jesus himself is the best example of an abundant life where the rewards are only seen in Heaven! One of the reasons He came was to die on the cross for us. I mean, imagine that: living to die.
What we must remember is that abundant life isn't about us, it's about God. It's about doing His will and executing His plan. Now that's life to the full! Why is it so? Because abundant life means living a successful life. It means satisfying that inner urge that says, "There's more to life than the ordinary." It means obedience to all that God says to do, even if it is dangerous, embarrassing, or completely insane.
It means giving up our dreams, our passion, our whims for His great plan for our lives. It means living for His name and willing to die for it. Because at the end of the day, it isn't about us. Life was never about us anyways. It was all about God. We are just the beneficiaries of His blessings for the Earth. We doing His plan will result in us storing Heavenly treasures.
To do this, we need a major focus shift. Today's world has always told us that it's about now and it's about you. Well, they're lying. It's about eternity and it's about God. It's not about doing something for today or tomorrow or to last the next few decades. It's about doing something that will have an everlasting change. A change that cannot be swept under the carpet. A change that is constantly permanent and not temporary.
And it will be very hard! It's going to be extremely difficult because we as humans, we won't see all the fruits of our labour! We may not ever hear a good job, well done, thank you, or other words like that from others! But if we're living for God, we will hear it from Him. And we will be able to enjoy this all from our place in Heaven.
That's the promise, that's the reality. We can't see it now, we may feel it's all for nothing but undrestand this: God sees. Focusing on eternity will cost us our lives. It will be tough. It won't be very rewarding nor will we enjoy all the blessings related to it here on Earth. It will be a thankless job as far as the world is concern. In fact, the world may even think that we've lost! But we would have gotten an acknowledgement from God and more importantly, we've made a step in winning the war for God. That... is the only thing that matters anyways.
Monday, 30 June 2008
Christianity
What is Christianity all about? What is this 'religion' actually? Is it different from other religions? How so? Why does it seem like every teaching regarding it clashes with one another? Well, before I go into what is Christianity, let me go into what Christianity isn't.
Christianity isn't a set of good moral values. Many have the perception that Christianity teaches you to be good and to know what is right or wrong. For a time, I also believed that. In fact, I believed the more I knew of this religion, the more those 'gray areas' of morality will be defined! Oh, how wrong I was! Christianity doesn't draw a hard and fast line anywhere! It doesn't have anything on driving etiquette and rules. You won't find the Bible saying what or who is right in any issue. In fact, Paul said that, "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is constructive." (1 Corinthians 10:23) Kinda gray, isn't it? Wine is constructive once in a while. But getting drunk on it is destructive. Which side of the line would you take?
Similarly, Christianity isn't a way of life. Well, it is and it isn't. What I mean is, Christianity's focus isn't about how Christians should behave or what they should be doing etc. Yes, God did leave us some commands to fulfill but if you study the Bible closely, they're quite generic and not very specific. Unlike self-help books that tell you exactly how the world works and ways to live well in it, the Bible offers no such teaching except as a consequence of living solely for Jesus.
Speaking about self-help books, the Bible definitely does not qualify as one! Lots of books have been written about how you can live a better life and how to be a better person but the difference is the focus. Self-help books asks you to focus on yourself. The Bible asks you to focus on Jesus. What's the difference? How can we focus on ourselves, when we don't even know what we're capable of? It's like asking a robot what is it's purpose in life! As a person, we may know better than anyone else about ourselves but we will never know what exactly are we capable of. How could we? We didn't create ourselves, we didn't choose our good and bad qualities. Only God, the Father who has created us will know. After all, when you want to know what any machine is build for and what is all it is capable of doing, you don't ask the machine; you ask the person who made it! Similarly, how can we be asking ourselves when our Creator is the one who knows best?
Oh, and Christianity is definitely not about doing good deeds. God has said, we cannot save ourselves. A thief who has committed crime all his life can still go to Heaven if he repents on his death bed. You can be the most holy person or contribute the most to charities and still end up in Hell. Sounds unfair doesn't it? That's because God isn't looking just for deeds. He's looking for a people who will honor Him. And while most of the time it comes through good deeds, all of the time is when people simply trust Him to come through and work through their lives. As Christians, we're compelled to do good deeds to honor Him but that's not what will save us.
So after all that, what is Christianity all about? It's not self-help, it's not doing good, it's not even living life in a certain way! In fact, it isn't exactly religion either because you don't actually has a set of practices that all Christians have to do. Definitely, there's a set of practices that would be good if we do practise it but on a whole, it isn't set in stone. The practices will help you find God but it won't help you gain favour in His eyes. In fact, there's no way for us as humans to live up to His standard! When having lustful and anger thoughts are enough to signify adultery and murder respectively, how much we will sin on a daily basis! Furthermore, if we ourselves can bring ourselves closer to God, why then would we have need Jesus Christ to die on the cross for us?
We needed and still need Jesus because we need a Saviour. The punishment of sin is death. Jesus had to come and die for our sins so that we may now know God and to have life. A good analogy would be someone offering to die for a condemned man. Except that Jesus didn't just die for 1 man, he died for all humanity. And the crux of Christianity is this very fact: that Jesus died for our sins. The main purpose of Jesus coming down wasn't to vindicate the Jewish lifestyle, it wasn't really about the teachings, it definitely wasn't about setting a new world order. It was simply this: to give humanity life through knowing the Father and have the abundant life He promised us. He died for our sins so that we are no longer cut off from the Father and may now know Him personally.
And that's what Christianity is all about. It's having a relationship with God. It's about knowing He is God and that He did die for our sins. It's acknowledging Him as master over our lives and to live it honouring him in all that we do. For at the end of the day, it isn't about the good deeds, it isn't about the lifestyle we live... when we get to heaven, the only thing God will be looking for is how much we have love Him and obey His word.
God is a loving god. His word is definitely towards us loving those around us. When we love God, we will be compelled to do His will. We will definitely be compelled to love those around us and to want to do what's best for them. But as much as all that, we also must trust and obey Him. Because we don't always know what's best for others. Only He does. His way is the best way. Any other way will fall short. As Christians, we do good deeds not for the glory, not for the fame, not even for the brownie points (which don't really exist anyways). We do good deeds because that's what God has ask us to do and because we want to please and honour Him, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords. Nothing else will do, only Him.
In fact, the good deeds we do aren't just out of love. They also are to honour Him and to show others about Jesus. After all, God send us the Holy Spirit to help us and guide us in life. So it's still God leading us in doing those good deeds! It isn't our own strength that brings the success, it's all God. Yes, we have our part to play. Yes, we have to move to help. But more importantly, we must give all glory to Him and in everything that we do, let God have His way with us. Christianity doesn't make sense, all the good works Christians do will never make sense unless it is done to lift His name up high and to give Him all the glory and honour and praise He deserves. Amen.
Christianity isn't a set of good moral values. Many have the perception that Christianity teaches you to be good and to know what is right or wrong. For a time, I also believed that. In fact, I believed the more I knew of this religion, the more those 'gray areas' of morality will be defined! Oh, how wrong I was! Christianity doesn't draw a hard and fast line anywhere! It doesn't have anything on driving etiquette and rules. You won't find the Bible saying what or who is right in any issue. In fact, Paul said that, "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible"—but not everything is constructive." (1 Corinthians 10:23) Kinda gray, isn't it? Wine is constructive once in a while. But getting drunk on it is destructive. Which side of the line would you take?
Similarly, Christianity isn't a way of life. Well, it is and it isn't. What I mean is, Christianity's focus isn't about how Christians should behave or what they should be doing etc. Yes, God did leave us some commands to fulfill but if you study the Bible closely, they're quite generic and not very specific. Unlike self-help books that tell you exactly how the world works and ways to live well in it, the Bible offers no such teaching except as a consequence of living solely for Jesus.
Speaking about self-help books, the Bible definitely does not qualify as one! Lots of books have been written about how you can live a better life and how to be a better person but the difference is the focus. Self-help books asks you to focus on yourself. The Bible asks you to focus on Jesus. What's the difference? How can we focus on ourselves, when we don't even know what we're capable of? It's like asking a robot what is it's purpose in life! As a person, we may know better than anyone else about ourselves but we will never know what exactly are we capable of. How could we? We didn't create ourselves, we didn't choose our good and bad qualities. Only God, the Father who has created us will know. After all, when you want to know what any machine is build for and what is all it is capable of doing, you don't ask the machine; you ask the person who made it! Similarly, how can we be asking ourselves when our Creator is the one who knows best?
Oh, and Christianity is definitely not about doing good deeds. God has said, we cannot save ourselves. A thief who has committed crime all his life can still go to Heaven if he repents on his death bed. You can be the most holy person or contribute the most to charities and still end up in Hell. Sounds unfair doesn't it? That's because God isn't looking just for deeds. He's looking for a people who will honor Him. And while most of the time it comes through good deeds, all of the time is when people simply trust Him to come through and work through their lives. As Christians, we're compelled to do good deeds to honor Him but that's not what will save us.
So after all that, what is Christianity all about? It's not self-help, it's not doing good, it's not even living life in a certain way! In fact, it isn't exactly religion either because you don't actually has a set of practices that all Christians have to do. Definitely, there's a set of practices that would be good if we do practise it but on a whole, it isn't set in stone. The practices will help you find God but it won't help you gain favour in His eyes. In fact, there's no way for us as humans to live up to His standard! When having lustful and anger thoughts are enough to signify adultery and murder respectively, how much we will sin on a daily basis! Furthermore, if we ourselves can bring ourselves closer to God, why then would we have need Jesus Christ to die on the cross for us?
We needed and still need Jesus because we need a Saviour. The punishment of sin is death. Jesus had to come and die for our sins so that we may now know God and to have life. A good analogy would be someone offering to die for a condemned man. Except that Jesus didn't just die for 1 man, he died for all humanity. And the crux of Christianity is this very fact: that Jesus died for our sins. The main purpose of Jesus coming down wasn't to vindicate the Jewish lifestyle, it wasn't really about the teachings, it definitely wasn't about setting a new world order. It was simply this: to give humanity life through knowing the Father and have the abundant life He promised us. He died for our sins so that we are no longer cut off from the Father and may now know Him personally.
And that's what Christianity is all about. It's having a relationship with God. It's about knowing He is God and that He did die for our sins. It's acknowledging Him as master over our lives and to live it honouring him in all that we do. For at the end of the day, it isn't about the good deeds, it isn't about the lifestyle we live... when we get to heaven, the only thing God will be looking for is how much we have love Him and obey His word.
God is a loving god. His word is definitely towards us loving those around us. When we love God, we will be compelled to do His will. We will definitely be compelled to love those around us and to want to do what's best for them. But as much as all that, we also must trust and obey Him. Because we don't always know what's best for others. Only He does. His way is the best way. Any other way will fall short. As Christians, we do good deeds not for the glory, not for the fame, not even for the brownie points (which don't really exist anyways). We do good deeds because that's what God has ask us to do and because we want to please and honour Him, the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords. Nothing else will do, only Him.
In fact, the good deeds we do aren't just out of love. They also are to honour Him and to show others about Jesus. After all, God send us the Holy Spirit to help us and guide us in life. So it's still God leading us in doing those good deeds! It isn't our own strength that brings the success, it's all God. Yes, we have our part to play. Yes, we have to move to help. But more importantly, we must give all glory to Him and in everything that we do, let God have His way with us. Christianity doesn't make sense, all the good works Christians do will never make sense unless it is done to lift His name up high and to give Him all the glory and honour and praise He deserves. Amen.
Friday, 16 May 2008
Perfection is overrated.
A lot of people wished they were perfect. If not that, they'd wish they had the perfect relationship, perfect car, perfect house, perfect job, perfect life, etc. Now, there's nothing wrong with wanting things to be perfect. Speaking from a perfectionist point of view, it's natural to want everything to be perfect. But what exactly is perfect? Is perfection in relationship having no fights? Or is it lasting through the fights? I love the poem by B.V.Cornwall. It's called the Vessel. Notice how the vessel that God chose isn't the most perfect vessel? And it's true all the time! God isn't looking for the 'perfect' vessels, He's actually looking for the broken vessels. Coz He knows that it's the broken vessels that will ultimately pour out to others and be a testimony. Perfect vessels can't do that, they're designed to hold things in!
Last Sunday, Pr. Alex spoke about being scarred for life. Many of us wished that our lives weren't so full of scars sometimes. As pastor put it, we try to cover up those scars, especially those physical ones through surgery, make up and any method that works. But having scars isn't a bad thing. In fact, it can be a good thing! Scars are the parts of our lives were we've shown that we've failed. It shows that we're human. Most importantly, it shows where God has come in and lift us up.
As pastor put it, scars are a natural part of the healing process. He made me realize that we only get scars once we've healed. Which is very true! We often think of scars as blemishes but in reality, it's just showing that we have healed and moved on. After all, don't warriors used to show off their battlescars to impress people? The scars showed that the warrior has fought in a battle and come out stronger!
Pastor's 2nd point is this: Scar tissues are not the same as before. Definitely. Once a scar is in place, that part of the skin isn't the same. That's how we know it's a scar. It's a difference on our skin. Just like scars in our lives. When we get it, it's because something out of the ordinary has happened. We have changed, hopefully for the better. After all, the only constant in life is change. But also remember, what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. Scars show the battle we have gone through. The trouble and the dirt we had to face. In the end, it shows how we have become a better person. It shows how God has worked in our lives, to make us the man or woman that God wants us to be.
2 points that Pastor Alex made was very true to me. First of all, every scar tells a story. Secondly, God turns every scar into a star. How true is that! I've read and heard many, many life stories on how God has just turned that person's life around. One thing I've notice: the most powerful testimonies always come from those with the biggest issues in life. From those who have had the biggest scars. Funny isn't it? It's not the most 'holy' or 'perfect' people in church that's showing God's power, mercy, forgiveness and grace; it's those who have had broken lives, those who have had so wretched a life that God is the only answer to their problems. Personally, my constant reminder of the greatness and wonderfulness of God stems from these stories, not from the teachings.
In a nutshell, scars is perfectly fine. I myself sometimes wish I had more scars in life, simply so that I learn to trust God more and in doing so, learn more about Him. As a human, I'd still wish for a perfect world. I still go looking for the perfection in everything. But I also come to realize that perfection is wayyyyyyy overrated. The world is saying that "we must be perfect" because it knows that when people think they are perfect, that's when the power of God stops. That's when they lose sight of reality and humanity. That's when they lose sight of what God has for their lives. The bigger and better things they could be doing, if they just let go of the image of perfection and embrace the image of God.
Last Sunday, Pr. Alex spoke about being scarred for life. Many of us wished that our lives weren't so full of scars sometimes. As pastor put it, we try to cover up those scars, especially those physical ones through surgery, make up and any method that works. But having scars isn't a bad thing. In fact, it can be a good thing! Scars are the parts of our lives were we've shown that we've failed. It shows that we're human. Most importantly, it shows where God has come in and lift us up.
As pastor put it, scars are a natural part of the healing process. He made me realize that we only get scars once we've healed. Which is very true! We often think of scars as blemishes but in reality, it's just showing that we have healed and moved on. After all, don't warriors used to show off their battlescars to impress people? The scars showed that the warrior has fought in a battle and come out stronger!
Pastor's 2nd point is this: Scar tissues are not the same as before. Definitely. Once a scar is in place, that part of the skin isn't the same. That's how we know it's a scar. It's a difference on our skin. Just like scars in our lives. When we get it, it's because something out of the ordinary has happened. We have changed, hopefully for the better. After all, the only constant in life is change. But also remember, what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. Scars show the battle we have gone through. The trouble and the dirt we had to face. In the end, it shows how we have become a better person. It shows how God has worked in our lives, to make us the man or woman that God wants us to be.
2 points that Pastor Alex made was very true to me. First of all, every scar tells a story. Secondly, God turns every scar into a star. How true is that! I've read and heard many, many life stories on how God has just turned that person's life around. One thing I've notice: the most powerful testimonies always come from those with the biggest issues in life. From those who have had the biggest scars. Funny isn't it? It's not the most 'holy' or 'perfect' people in church that's showing God's power, mercy, forgiveness and grace; it's those who have had broken lives, those who have had so wretched a life that God is the only answer to their problems. Personally, my constant reminder of the greatness and wonderfulness of God stems from these stories, not from the teachings.
In a nutshell, scars is perfectly fine. I myself sometimes wish I had more scars in life, simply so that I learn to trust God more and in doing so, learn more about Him. As a human, I'd still wish for a perfect world. I still go looking for the perfection in everything. But I also come to realize that perfection is wayyyyyyy overrated. The world is saying that "we must be perfect" because it knows that when people think they are perfect, that's when the power of God stops. That's when they lose sight of reality and humanity. That's when they lose sight of what God has for their lives. The bigger and better things they could be doing, if they just let go of the image of perfection and embrace the image of God.
Sunday, 27 April 2008
Blog 3.0
For the (official) 3rd time, I've changed my blog layout, template and links. Check it out!!
Sunday, 20 April 2008
Cleaning CDs
AAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrggggggggghhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The cleaning solution I bought couldn't clean my CDs. Anyone know a good solution to salvage them?
The cleaning solution I bought couldn't clean my CDs. Anyone know a good solution to salvage them?
Thursday, 17 April 2008
Why I like football
There are plenty of reasons why I like football. Like most sports, it's exciting. It's entertaining. It has adventure, suspense, mystery. There are scandals, dramas, plot twists. But the no.1 reason why I like football; it's because of how it reflects life for me. It is the flexibility and the diversity in football.
It's interesting how diverse football actually is. The best example would be diversity in philosophy. There are 2 distinct philosophy in football. There's the "if we don't score, we don't win" philosophy. And then there's "if we don't concede, we won't lose" philosophy. Mirroring that to life would be the optimistic and the pessimistic philosophy. The former will play attacking football; the latter defensive. And both are successful! The most defensive football strategy ever devised is the Catenaccio which led several teams to glory, most recently Greece at Euro 2004. On the other hand, you have very attacking styles like Total Football which allowed Ajax to win the European Cup in 1971, 1972 and 1973. Fabio Capello is well known as a successful defensive minded manager while Arsene Wenger's Arsenal gain much successful for a very attacking lineup. I like the fact that unlike other sports, you have a choice of which philosophy to choose from and to play.
Regarding the philosophy, there is much diversity also regarding tactics. There's the long ball tactic that England is famous for using. Defensive minded teams may play possession football to keep the ball and countdown the clock. Attack minded teams may use the same strategy to work their way up the pitch. There is wing play where teams stretch the game from one side of the pitch to the other. There are also teams who play a narrow game by keeping the ball in the middle of the pitch. All these tactics have been used and are currently used to bring success at various levels.
Further along these lines, even formations are very diverse. In the history of football, we can see an evolution of formations from the early 2-3-5 and 4-2-4 to the 90's favourite 4-4-2. And today, the choice formation is often a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 with 2 wingers and a solitary striker. And even along the same formation choices, there is diversity. Man Utd plays 4-4-2 with 2 wingers and 2 wingbacks. Arsenal also play 4-4-2 but with 4 central midfielders who attack mostly through the middle. Werder Bremen won the Bundesliga using a 4-4-2 with a midfield diamond (or what some would call a 4-1-2-1-2). Mourinho uses 4-3-3 with 2 wingers and 1 striker while other clubs use 4-3-3 with 3 strikers.
The diversity doesn't stop there. Sometimes, it's hard to predict if a manager decides to go offensive or defensive by looking at their formation. 4-4-2 with 2 central DMs is more defensive but 4-4-2 with AMs are more offensive. I've even seen Man City play 4-5-1 (which is what most people call defensive) but spend majority of the match attacking the opponent! Added to that, you can pick just about any tactic and use it with any formation too! If you count all the different permutations possible, it's really a wide range of choice to play the game! This is not yet adding to the fact that the same formation can be played with different kinds of players. For example, some teams play a 4-4-2 with a central playmaker or they can forgo the playmaker altogether.
Speaking about players, there's such a diversity in the types of players; virtually anyone can play football successfully. Such different skills are needed for each position, it's really quite easy to find your niche in the sport. Strikers are usually very offensive and have an eye for goal. Defenders need to be very good with their marking and tackling. Most midfielders are good passers. Players on the wing usually practice their crossings and dribbling. Of course, goalkeepers are very unique in that the skills required are mostly skills unnecessary for outfield players.
Even within the same position, different sets of skills can bring you success. Rooney is a striker who prefers to play in front of the defense. His strength is well, his strength, dribbling and pace. Van Nistelrooy doesn't really dribble but he is very valuable because he has an uncanny knack for finding the goal. Ryan Giggs and Becks were both successful wingers in Man Utd's treble-winning squad but with very different styles. Giggs is well-known for his dribbling skills whereas Becks is famous for his long balls. Vidic and Terry are defenders who prefer to just punt the ball away ASAP. Rio on the other hand, holds the ball longer and tries to 'play the ball'. All 3 are famed defenders. Many clubs often have players who play the same position but have different styles which give the teams different options.
Lastly, don't fret if you don't find yourself extremely good in 1 position. Another player that managers treasure is the utility player. He/She's the person that can play in a variety of position, thus allowing managers to move them around as and when needed. This is very helpful especially when managers have limited choices on the squad or more importantly, the substitute bench. Let's face it; we can fit all the different positions on a subs bench of 5 players. Phil Neville was very valuable at Man Utd because of this flexibility. Now, O'shea seems to filling that role.
Football is always evolving; allowing the diversity to increase further. Lately, the role of impact player has become popular (ala Ole Gunnar Solskjaer). Claude Makelele has a role named after him due to it's unique role as a play breaker. Towards the end of the 90's, the playmaker role was in fashion with players like Riquelme, Zidane and Ronadinho gaining popularity for playing in that position. Beckenbauer gained fame by inventing the sweeper/libero role. New formations have come to fame such as the 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-2-1. These days, football becomes even more fluid with players frequently switching positions during the course of a game. The best part is: this evolutions comes with very little or no influence from changes to the law of the game!
In short, football's fluidity of movement and continuous play creates a whole host of positions, formations and tactics. I believe that the number of players are just enough to fill the pitch while leaving space for play to continue. Unlike many other sports, football is not a '1 size fits all' sports and that allows experimenting as well as diversity. I really enjoy diversity as it reminds me of life and how God has made it so life doesn't become '1 size fits all'. Anyone can find success in life, no matter what talents we have, no matter what background we come from. That's the beauty of life and football. Anyone can play it and everyone can be successful in it. And that, is what life and football is all about. It truly is; The Beautiful Game.
It's interesting how diverse football actually is. The best example would be diversity in philosophy. There are 2 distinct philosophy in football. There's the "if we don't score, we don't win" philosophy. And then there's "if we don't concede, we won't lose" philosophy. Mirroring that to life would be the optimistic and the pessimistic philosophy. The former will play attacking football; the latter defensive. And both are successful! The most defensive football strategy ever devised is the Catenaccio which led several teams to glory, most recently Greece at Euro 2004. On the other hand, you have very attacking styles like Total Football which allowed Ajax to win the European Cup in 1971, 1972 and 1973. Fabio Capello is well known as a successful defensive minded manager while Arsene Wenger's Arsenal gain much successful for a very attacking lineup. I like the fact that unlike other sports, you have a choice of which philosophy to choose from and to play.
Regarding the philosophy, there is much diversity also regarding tactics. There's the long ball tactic that England is famous for using. Defensive minded teams may play possession football to keep the ball and countdown the clock. Attack minded teams may use the same strategy to work their way up the pitch. There is wing play where teams stretch the game from one side of the pitch to the other. There are also teams who play a narrow game by keeping the ball in the middle of the pitch. All these tactics have been used and are currently used to bring success at various levels.
Further along these lines, even formations are very diverse. In the history of football, we can see an evolution of formations from the early 2-3-5 and 4-2-4 to the 90's favourite 4-4-2. And today, the choice formation is often a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 with 2 wingers and a solitary striker. And even along the same formation choices, there is diversity. Man Utd plays 4-4-2 with 2 wingers and 2 wingbacks. Arsenal also play 4-4-2 but with 4 central midfielders who attack mostly through the middle. Werder Bremen won the Bundesliga using a 4-4-2 with a midfield diamond (or what some would call a 4-1-2-1-2). Mourinho uses 4-3-3 with 2 wingers and 1 striker while other clubs use 4-3-3 with 3 strikers.
The diversity doesn't stop there. Sometimes, it's hard to predict if a manager decides to go offensive or defensive by looking at their formation. 4-4-2 with 2 central DMs is more defensive but 4-4-2 with AMs are more offensive. I've even seen Man City play 4-5-1 (which is what most people call defensive) but spend majority of the match attacking the opponent! Added to that, you can pick just about any tactic and use it with any formation too! If you count all the different permutations possible, it's really a wide range of choice to play the game! This is not yet adding to the fact that the same formation can be played with different kinds of players. For example, some teams play a 4-4-2 with a central playmaker or they can forgo the playmaker altogether.
Speaking about players, there's such a diversity in the types of players; virtually anyone can play football successfully. Such different skills are needed for each position, it's really quite easy to find your niche in the sport. Strikers are usually very offensive and have an eye for goal. Defenders need to be very good with their marking and tackling. Most midfielders are good passers. Players on the wing usually practice their crossings and dribbling. Of course, goalkeepers are very unique in that the skills required are mostly skills unnecessary for outfield players.
Even within the same position, different sets of skills can bring you success. Rooney is a striker who prefers to play in front of the defense. His strength is well, his strength, dribbling and pace. Van Nistelrooy doesn't really dribble but he is very valuable because he has an uncanny knack for finding the goal. Ryan Giggs and Becks were both successful wingers in Man Utd's treble-winning squad but with very different styles. Giggs is well-known for his dribbling skills whereas Becks is famous for his long balls. Vidic and Terry are defenders who prefer to just punt the ball away ASAP. Rio on the other hand, holds the ball longer and tries to 'play the ball'. All 3 are famed defenders. Many clubs often have players who play the same position but have different styles which give the teams different options.
Lastly, don't fret if you don't find yourself extremely good in 1 position. Another player that managers treasure is the utility player. He/She's the person that can play in a variety of position, thus allowing managers to move them around as and when needed. This is very helpful especially when managers have limited choices on the squad or more importantly, the substitute bench. Let's face it; we can fit all the different positions on a subs bench of 5 players. Phil Neville was very valuable at Man Utd because of this flexibility. Now, O'shea seems to filling that role.
Football is always evolving; allowing the diversity to increase further. Lately, the role of impact player has become popular (ala Ole Gunnar Solskjaer). Claude Makelele has a role named after him due to it's unique role as a play breaker. Towards the end of the 90's, the playmaker role was in fashion with players like Riquelme, Zidane and Ronadinho gaining popularity for playing in that position. Beckenbauer gained fame by inventing the sweeper/libero role. New formations have come to fame such as the 4-2-3-1 and 4-3-2-1. These days, football becomes even more fluid with players frequently switching positions during the course of a game. The best part is: this evolutions comes with very little or no influence from changes to the law of the game!
In short, football's fluidity of movement and continuous play creates a whole host of positions, formations and tactics. I believe that the number of players are just enough to fill the pitch while leaving space for play to continue. Unlike many other sports, football is not a '1 size fits all' sports and that allows experimenting as well as diversity. I really enjoy diversity as it reminds me of life and how God has made it so life doesn't become '1 size fits all'. Anyone can find success in life, no matter what talents we have, no matter what background we come from. That's the beauty of life and football. Anyone can play it and everyone can be successful in it. And that, is what life and football is all about. It truly is; The Beautiful Game.
Thursday, 17 January 2008
It's what's not seen that counts the most.
I remember an Enid Blyton book with a story about a great oak and a small, thin willow. The willow was small and thin because it was overshadowed by the great oak. However, the willow's roots go further into the earth than the oak's. Upon hearing that, the oak pooh-poohed the claim saying that roots don't show, so it doesn't matter. Then one day, a heavy storm came and blew the mighty oak over. The willow however, remained standing because its roots were deep enough to hold it.
In a way, that represents life. Most of us, we are like the oak. We see the supposed strength from the outside. We fail to see the strength on the inside. Even worse, we disregard it! I think, a lot of times we don't see the work done behind the scenes, the heart and the real reason things are done, and we only see what's the end result. We believe that the end justifies the means. Or that if it looks good on the outside, the inside doesn't matter.
Of course, when we've done our homework, when our intentions are good, when our motives are right, we will of course do good things. And people will pick up on that. Athletes who train hard enough are bound to win. When we do as God says, it's definitely going to be successful.
But the important thing is not the outside that counts, it's the inside. Without proper training, you can still win some races. But when you don't train well enough, you're not going to be the best and you're liable to get hurt more. And no matter what you do, at the end of the day, God sees the heart. Because you don't have to be good, to do good things. Anyone can donate to charity, but for many different reasons. Some do it because they really want to support the charity, some just want the world to think that they are charitable.
When our hearts are set on the right values and for the right goals, it doesn't matter what we do; it'll all be for good. And it matters! What our intentions are, what we do something for is important! Because the cause, the reason behind our actions dictate the support we get and the end result. I tell you now: you may get the right results with the wrong motives, but you'll not be satisfied.
It's true, the end result will follow the action taken. If you're fast enough, you will win the race. If you're smart enough, you'll do well in exams. And when you help an old lady across the street, she's definitely going to make it no matter why you did it in the first place.
But what's different is in the heart. Take it from me, you may be a success in academics but unless you actually work hard at it, there's no satisfaction. What we didn't work to get, we won't value. You may do all the good deeds the world says is good, but if your heart is not right, you won't feel the peace and satisfaction. After all, many people in life has succeeded without God. The difference is those who succeed with God, succeed outstandingly and amazingly. Plus, they do it with peace, serenity and enjoying the journey. Many people don't see this because the difference is within and not without.
The difference is also in eternity. Yes, anyone can be a success no matter what they do and no matter how they get there. But at the end of the day, what do you get? Does it bring you a step nearer to God and knowing Him? Or is it purely worldly gain that doesn't count for anything on your deathbed? Will all you do give glory unto God and help others know His mercy, grace and love? Or will others simply see you as another man, having done what anyone else would have done?
So you see, it's the inside that counts, so much more than the outside. A good heart brings about good results but good results does not mean a good heart. The difference is in the subtle things, things not seen. But ooooohhhhh.... how much more do those matter!!!!!
In a way, that represents life. Most of us, we are like the oak. We see the supposed strength from the outside. We fail to see the strength on the inside. Even worse, we disregard it! I think, a lot of times we don't see the work done behind the scenes, the heart and the real reason things are done, and we only see what's the end result. We believe that the end justifies the means. Or that if it looks good on the outside, the inside doesn't matter.
Of course, when we've done our homework, when our intentions are good, when our motives are right, we will of course do good things. And people will pick up on that. Athletes who train hard enough are bound to win. When we do as God says, it's definitely going to be successful.
But the important thing is not the outside that counts, it's the inside. Without proper training, you can still win some races. But when you don't train well enough, you're not going to be the best and you're liable to get hurt more. And no matter what you do, at the end of the day, God sees the heart. Because you don't have to be good, to do good things. Anyone can donate to charity, but for many different reasons. Some do it because they really want to support the charity, some just want the world to think that they are charitable.
When our hearts are set on the right values and for the right goals, it doesn't matter what we do; it'll all be for good. And it matters! What our intentions are, what we do something for is important! Because the cause, the reason behind our actions dictate the support we get and the end result. I tell you now: you may get the right results with the wrong motives, but you'll not be satisfied.
It's true, the end result will follow the action taken. If you're fast enough, you will win the race. If you're smart enough, you'll do well in exams. And when you help an old lady across the street, she's definitely going to make it no matter why you did it in the first place.
But what's different is in the heart. Take it from me, you may be a success in academics but unless you actually work hard at it, there's no satisfaction. What we didn't work to get, we won't value. You may do all the good deeds the world says is good, but if your heart is not right, you won't feel the peace and satisfaction. After all, many people in life has succeeded without God. The difference is those who succeed with God, succeed outstandingly and amazingly. Plus, they do it with peace, serenity and enjoying the journey. Many people don't see this because the difference is within and not without.
The difference is also in eternity. Yes, anyone can be a success no matter what they do and no matter how they get there. But at the end of the day, what do you get? Does it bring you a step nearer to God and knowing Him? Or is it purely worldly gain that doesn't count for anything on your deathbed? Will all you do give glory unto God and help others know His mercy, grace and love? Or will others simply see you as another man, having done what anyone else would have done?
So you see, it's the inside that counts, so much more than the outside. A good heart brings about good results but good results does not mean a good heart. The difference is in the subtle things, things not seen. But ooooohhhhh.... how much more do those matter!!!!!
Matthew 16:26 - "What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?"Truly, the best things in life are free because God has given it unto us. Our soul is one such as that and nothing can ever buy it. The soul can only be gained through glorifying God and doing His work on Earth. It does not come through world gains that only the world can see.
A new beginning
As 2007 has closed, 2008 dawns to a new beginning. But before I will go on and make my extraordinary new year resolutions, let's see how God's grace has been sufficient for me to complete my 2007 goals.
The 2007 goals were:
And now, the good part! Goals for 2008 that will be accomplished!!
The 2007 goals were:
- Blog about latest personal events and thoughts ASAP.
- Apply to MENSA and take their IQ test.
- Join MUSC in SS2.
- Keep up to date with friends, online presence and relatives (not in that order).
- Be fluent in Cantonese/Mandarin (this might not happen though).
- Get a regular QT and be active in church.
- Build a good personal timetable and stick to it as much as possible.
- Do what I say I'll do ASAP.
- Concentrate on the Important, not the Urgent.
And now, the good part! Goals for 2008 that will be accomplished!!
- Read the whole Bible.
- Sleep at 10 and wake up at 6 everyday.
- Get more involved with God's work.
- Keep a personal journal.
- Blog frequently as and when thoughts come in.
- Take the MENSA IQ test.
- Join MUSC.
- Be fluent in Cantonese or Mandarin.
- Finish building the Eunos Roadster.
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