Weeks 51 & 52 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

As the year 2008 comes to an end, it is a time for reflection. It has been a very eventful year indeed in every way. The most dramatic event was certainly the global economic crisis since 15th September, when financial giant Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy. A lot of my related thoughts on End-times events have been shared in my regular fortnightly sharings in these past few months.

I truly sense and believe that we are at the threshold of a breakthrough for the Gospel in the hardest grounds of the world including Europe, where the enemy is strongest. The keys of victory shared in my last sharing are therefore very significant!

I emphasised that the most important key is HOLINESS - personal holiness and holiness in the Church. God will purge the Church of evil and wickedness before He would use her as His instrument to advance God's Kingdom and His plan of salvation any where in the world.

We have started renovating our house of 10 years since about 3 weeks ago. It is amazing how filthy the house can get in 10 years. A lot of dirt and dust showed up when the desks, wardrobes etc. are moved to make room for new paints on the walls and new floorings (see pics). The house cleansing/renovation is kind of prophetic, comparing to God cleansing His House and making it beautiful before His return!

Holiness starts with the "fear of the Lord". When we are determined to have nothing to do with evil and wickedness, and cry out to God for help, He will hear our prayers and protect us. "O LORD, I call to you; come quickly to me. Hear my voice when I call to you ....... Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil, to take part in wicked deeds with men who are evildoers......Let a righteous man strike me-- it is a kindness; let him rebuke me-- it is oil on my head.......Yet my prayer is ever against the deeds of evildoers....... my eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign LORD; in you I take refuge-- do not give me over to death. Keep me from the snares they have laid for me, from the traps set by evildoers. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by in safety." [Ps. 141:1-10]

There will come a time when we have to decide which God to follow - the god of the world or the God of the Bible. Ruth has set us a very good example. ".......said Naomi, "your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her. But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." [Ruth 1:14-17 NIV] She was determined to follow the true God despite of possible loss of benefits.

Jesus did not mince words when it comes to sinful or wicked men who live in secrecy or darkness. Above all, have no fear of the devil who can only kill the body. "So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known......Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell......Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven." [Matt 10:26-34 NIV] Christians who would not acknowledge our Father in heaven before men watch out. Jesus will disown them before the Father!

Let us be wise and truthful in how we build God's Church. Because " by wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures......" [Prov 24:3-4 NIV] Let us warn our brothers who are sinning and rescue them before God's judgement. God will not forgive us if we pretend to be innocent. "Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, "But we knew nothing about this," does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?" [Prov 24:3-4,11-12 NIV]

Amen!

WISHING YOU AND FAMILY A WONDERFUL AND FRUITFUL NEW YEAR IN THE LORD!

Weeks 49 & 50 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

I recently met up with the leaders in Hope UK in a Retreat to plan for 2009 and beyond. Based on a number of prophsies I gave in the last 3 years, I felt the Lord is preparing us for a time of fighting in the coming 7 years, a bit like the time when God commanded Joshua and the Israelites to enter and take posession of the promised land. I prayerfully received 7 keys which I believe are essential for victory. They are represented by the 7 letters of the word PRAYERS:

1) Prayers and intercessions without strife
2) Repentance (consciousness of sin)
3) Alertness in spiritual warfare
4) Yielding to God (humility)
5) Empowered in service (work hard & smart under God's anointing)
6) Reconciliation in the Body (unity in God's family)
7) Sanctification (personal holiness)

The last key is probably the most important of all, because our God is holy. God cannot bless people who do not walk in holiness. It is not going to be easy, but we must strive for it under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Without God's blessings, everything we do will be in vain. "Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night in the house of the LORD. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the LORD. May the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth, bless you from Zion." [Ps 134:1-3 NIV] May the Maker of heaven and earth bless us indeed.

When Samson was walking in holiness, God blessed him with great success against his enemy. "As he approached Lehi, the Philistines came toward him shouting. The Spirit of the LORD came upon him in power. The ropes on his arms became like charred flax, and the bindings dropped from his hands. Finding a fresh jawbone of a donkey, he grabbed it and struck down a thousand men........Because he was very thirsty, he cried out to the LORD, "You have given your servant this great victory. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?" Then God opened up the hollow place in Lehi, and water came out of it. When Samson drank, his strength returned and he revived....." [Judg 15:14-20 NIV] God even supernaturally provided him with water when he was thirsty!

God will also supernaturally protect us when we are in His plan, in the same way He protected child Jesus. "........an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod..........When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi." [Matt 2:13-18 NIV] God will deliver us one step ahead of the enemy's attack. He will do the same to the Church in the days to come!

We are living in the most exciting time of the entire history of mankind. For those who are commited to God's ultimate plan of building His Church, God will grant them success in everything they do. "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. The LORD works out everything for his own ends........When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him." [Prov 16:1,3-7,9,11,20,33 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 47 & 48 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

When I witness the dawn of a new era in the political and economic world, I also sense the dawn of a new era in God's Kingdom. The natural is reflecting the spiritual. Whilst the changing world prepares the way for final chapter of the kingdom of darkness on earth, something is being planned in the Heavenly Court that will match the final outcome. There is a quickening in my spirit that God is positioning the Church for the final battle.

We had a very good Hope Europe Leaders Conference last week in Berlin. There was a spirit of excitement in the air. There was a sense of great expectation that God is beginning to do a great work in this continent. I am watching eagerly God's next move.:o)

One story in the Bible came to my mind. It was Passion Week - the final week that Jesus fulfilled His mission on earth. The first thing that Jesus did after the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem was to cleanse the temple. I believe that will also be God's first act in the final chapter of the Church age. God will prepare His Church holy and blameless, ready for Christ's return.

The closer we move towards the End, the more we can expect the devil working extra hard to destroy our faith. We need to be extra vigilant. One way is to appreciate our gift of salvation more."When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them." The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." [Ps 126:1-6 NIV] Indeed our Lord has done great things for us. Let us treasure them and allow the nations to witness how great our God is through us!

Time and time again I see how God allowed the enemy to punish His people who did evil in His eyes. "Once again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD, and because they did this evil the LORD gave Eglon king of Moab power over Israel. Getting the Ammonites and Amalekites to join him, Eglon came and attacked Israel, and they took possession of the City of Palms. The Israelites were subject to Eglon king of Moab for eighteen years." [Judg 3:12-15,28-30 NIV] It is a time for God's people to win the battles against the enemy. Let us make sure that God is on our side by not doing evil in the eyes of God!

[Rev. 15] pictures a people who have overcome the enemy in the final battle. "......I saw what looked like a sea of glass mixed with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious over the beast and his image and over the number of his name. They held harps given them by God and sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb: "Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the ages. Who will not fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed." [Rev 15:1-8 NIV] They fear God alone and bring Him glory, because God is holy.

One powerful weapon the devil will use to destroy Christians and their marriages is sexual immorality. The Word of God is clear. "Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned?.....So is he who sleeps with another man's wife.....a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself. Blows and disgrace are his lot, and his shame will never be wiped away...." [Prov 6:27-35 NIV] Let us be very careful and be very afraid at the same time.

Amen!

Weeks 45 & 46 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

For the first time in the history of mankind, the world's richest nations sat down with emerging yet economically important nations around the same table to find a way forward to solve the world financial problem. The G20 nations met on the 14th & 15th November in the Summit on Financial Markets and The World Economy to work out what British Prime Minister Gordon Brown termed a "Route Map" to economic recovery. The G20 group of countries consists of 19 leading industrialised and developing countries, as well as the European Union. This will be the final act of world leadership of President George Bush [see pic. 1] before the transfer of power to Senator Barack Obama on the 20th Jan. 2009.

Key issues agreed by world leaders at this summit included, among others:
1) reform of international financial institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund
2) an agreement by the end of 2008, leading to a successful global free-trade deal
3) asking finance ministers to draw-up a list of financial institutions whose collapse would endanger the global economic system
4) strengthening countries' financial regulatory regimes

This is the first of a series of global co-operation and regulatory events that will unfold in the End-Time.

On the same day (14th Nov.), Prince Charles turned 60 [see pic. 2]. . He was also born in the same year as the rebirth of the Nation of Israel and yours truly. The difference is that he was born a prince and I was born a pauper (but I am now a prince of the Heavenly King :o)). I believe he will play a very significant role in the End-Time drama!

I have been preaching from the Book of [1 Peter], preparing our people to be strong and ready to face the End-Time challenges. In this depressing time, it is important to hold our heads high, looking to God instead of hanging our heads low. Indeed, "I lift up my eyes to the hills.....My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip-- he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you-- the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm-- he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." [Ps 121:1-8 NIV]

As Joshua was coming to the end of his life, he encouraged the Israelites to hold fast to God. "I am old and well advanced in years. You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you.......The LORD your God himself will drive them out.......before you, and you will take possession of their land, as the LORD your God promised you. 'Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. Do not associate.......do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now." [Josh 23:1-8 NIV] I would encourage you to do the same, although I am by no means coming to the end of my earthly life yet :o).

We are living in exciting times. God is trying to get our attention. "...... a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down. They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death. Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short." [Rev 12:10-12 NIV] We may not hear a loud voice in heaven, you can be sure that the devil is very angry and is playing out its last days on earth.

"My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding........then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones." [Prov 2:1-15 NIV]

Amen & amen!

Weeks 43 & 44 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

The Americans have chosen their new President. A new era has dawned in the USA and in the world. It signals a change that will bring the End that much closer.

The election of an African-American Senator Barack Obama as the 44th President of the USA will bring a change to an America that has become very unpopular in the world community in recent years. It sets the scene for greater international co-operation in foreign, economic and, may I add, religious policies. America will continue to lead the western world, but it will be in partnership and not in isolation. It prepares the world for working closer together against radicalism and pave the way for a period of world peace, which will ultimately lead to a One-World Government and a One-World Religion in the years ahead.

I know in my heart that the true mover & shaker of the world is the Lord Himself. "He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases" [Prov 21:1]. I sense in my spirit that the Lord is creating a window of opportunities for the nations to be more open to Christianity and for the Church to reach out to all - Muslims, Hindus, Atheists, Gays, Greens..............& finally the Jews, and dispel the myths and lies about our God's true nature in Christ Jesus, which is righteousness and justice. God loves sinners, but not their sins, which include pride and unbelief.

The biggest challenge for the Church in the years ahead is balancing grace and truth, extending our hands to all people, yet standing firm on the Christian faith that salvation is found in Jesus ALONE [Acts 4:12]. There will be pressure for the Church to conform to an all-faith Religion, but only those who stand firm till the end will be saved [Matt. 10:12].

This passage in Ps. 119 reflects my heart and aspiration towards God. "I have done what is righteous and just; do not leave me to my oppressors. Ensure your servant's well-being; let not the arrogant oppress me. My eyes fail, looking for your salvation, looking for your righteous promise.......I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes. It is time for you to act, O LORD; your law is being broken. Because I love your commands more than gold, more than pure gold, and because I consider all your precepts right, I hate every wrong path." [Ps 119:121-128 NIV]

I like to think of myself as the 21st century Caleb because his life inspires me. "....Caleb...said...."You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh Barnea about you and me. I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh Barnea to explore the land. And I brought him back a report according to my convictions,.....I....followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly......Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out; I'm just as vigorous to go out to battle now as I was then......" [Josh 14:6-12 NIV] I wish I could still be fighting fit (in spirit) and strong in the Lord at 85. :o)

I firmly believe that the End-time Church will be an overcoming church, overcoming the world pressure to conform. The Church must be sensitive to God's voice and open to His rebuke and discipline at a time such as this. "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches." [Rev 3:19-22 NIV]

Let us heed the Lord's exhortation that "A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed-- without remedy......A man's pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor." [Prov 29:1,23 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 41 & 42 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

I have always enjoyed following the major news around the world, in order to discern where the world is heading. But these days it is mostly the same boring stuff - the world's financial crisis and global share markets going up and down like a yo-yo, despite Governments of the world's major economies doing everything possible to stem it. I guess this will continue until some kind of world system is set up to regulate financial & banking practices that every nation will have to subscribe to.

I did come across a piece of news that I found amusing. The news was about an English double-glazing salesman remarrying his first wife whom he divorced 20 years ago. They had since 4 other marriages between them, the men 3 and the woman 1. The man said it took him all these while to figure out that she was the one!

We do become undecisive sometimes with our choices, changing our mind on stuffs like which tie or shirt or jacket to wear. But taking 3 other marriages to find out that the first choice was right is......hmmm.....!!! However, I am kind of happy for the man because God's Word does encourage us to "rejoice in the wife of our youth" , implying the first wife. :o)

Indeed there is so much wisdom in God's Word. As a pastor, I know it is every pastor's dream to have a church which like their pastor. Oops, the secret is out! But it is true. And God's Word gives me insight in realising this dream. It says "May those who fear you rejoice when they see me, for I have put my hope in your word.......May those who fear you turn to me, those who understand your statutes." [Ps 119:73-80 NIV] The answer is simple - a church which respect God will also respect their pastor who obeys God's Word. Elementary. :o)

God's Word not only teaches us God's wisdom, it also reminds us of God's power. One of the greatest miracles recorded in the Bible besides Jesus' resurrection is God stopping the sun and the moon from going down on a day when Joshua and his men were fighting the Amorites. "So Joshua marched up from Gilgal with his entire army, including all the best fighting men. The LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you." .........On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel: "O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon." So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies........There has never been a day like it before or since, a day when the LORD listened to a man......" [Josh 10:7-14 NIV] It is interesting to note Joshua's confidence in God's promises and faith in his prayer. Powerful stuff!

God's Word is absolutely key to our survival as a Christ follower. Because "Many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch out that you do not lose what you have worked for.......Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son." [II Jn 1:7-11 NIV]

God's Word also builds our trust in God. "Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honor and life.....The eyes of the LORD keep watch over knowledge, but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful........Pay attention and listen to the sayings of the wise......for it is pleasing when you keep them in your heart and have all of them ready on your lips. So that your trust may be in the LORD..........." [Prov 22:2,4,12,17-19 NIV]

AMEN!

Weeks 39 & 40 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

As the "financial earthquake" referred to in my last e-mail continues to shake the world, I am seeing a glimpse of [Rev 18:10-15 NIV] "......they will stand far off and cry:'Woe! Woe, O great city, O Babylon, city of power! In one hour your doom has come!' The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes any more........The merchants who sold these things and gained their wealth from her will stand far off, terrified at her torment........". I do so with reverence in my heart!

The financial crisis that started in America has now become global [Pic shows US National Debt at over $9 trillions]. It has led to governments of large economies having to work closer together in finding ways to stem the crisis. A day after seven central banks around the world cut interest rates in a co-ordinated effort to calm financial markets, the International Monetary Fund chief Dominique Strauss-Khan urged countries to act "quickly, forcefully, and co-operatively" to solve the global economic problems. The IMF chief said further co-ordinated action was necessary. "All kinds of policy co-operation are to be commended," he said. He also issued a stark warning against countries acting unilaterally to fight the crisis, referring to recent isolated moves by certain European Union member countries!

Today, finance ministers from the Group of Seven most industrialised nations - the US, Japan, Britain, Germany, France, Italy and Canada - are gathering in Washington to address the global crisis. In addition to that meeting, US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson is going to meet the G20 nations, which include major economies like Russia, China and India. Talks will also be held at the International Monetary Fund in the US capital over the weekend.

As I reflect on the Book of Revelation, I was pondering about the timing of a one-world government [Rev 17]. I can see signs of an embryonic one-world government, at least in financial policies, coming into being. Eventually, we will also see the establisment of a one-world religion [Rev 13]. The two will work in tandem, paving the way for the Anti-Christ.

It is crucial time to discern our God's leading and ask Him to "Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared." [Ps 119:33-40 NIV]

The "ark of the covenant" that symbolised God's presence was key in leading the Israelites. "This is how you will know that the living God is among you.......See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you........And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the LORD-- the Lord of all the earth-- set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.......So the people crossed over opposite Jericho." [Josh 3:9-16 NIV] As the Israelite needed God to help them crossing the Jordan in the dry and entering the promised land, the Church will need the guidance of the Holy Spirit to chart our way ahead, giving us wisdom in building His Church at this time. We will need God's help in dealing with the one-world religious system that is to come. Only God can preserve the Church of Jesus Christ!

Jesus warned about the end of the age by asking His followers to "..... keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour." Apostle Peter said about the last days that "........ scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised?........But they deliberately forget that long ago by God's word the heavens existed and the earth was formed out of water and by water. By these waters also the world of that time was deluged and destroyed. By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness." [2 Pet 3:3-7,10-13 NIV]

"A discerning man keeps wisdom in view, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth. A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered." [Prov 17:24,27 NIV] Yes Lord, grant us your wisdom, your knowledge and your understanding that we may discern the time we are in and walk according to your will.

AMEN!

Weeks 37 & 38 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

During the evening of Friday the 5th Sept. at the Leaders Conference in Hong Kong, I was moved by the Holy Spirit to prophesy that "the next 7 years is a window of opportunity when God will build an army to inflict maximum damage to the kingdom of darkness."

The UK have experienced a decade of exceptional "prosperity". House prices grew between 200 - 300 % during this time. People, Christians included, generally felt richer and spent more. They felt happy and good during this time of abundance in credit and income. But all these slowly came to end in the past months, starting with the collapse of the sub-blime property market in the US.

The financial market turned on its head when financial giant Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy on Monday 15th Sept., following the emergency meeting of Friday 12th Sept. convened by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, who declined to back them. What followed was a "financial earthquake" that shocked the global finance and torn it apart. Governments around the globe have no choice but to pump billions of £s & $s to shore up financial institutions that affect the livelihood of ordinary citizens who have mortgages and savings with them.

For God's people, it is a time for financial prudence - debts cutting and sensible spending. God will take care of those who are wise in their walk with God. God will also create a window of opportunity for His people to reach out to a generation of people who cannot find security in the world system any more. Let us be ready for harvest!

At a time such as this, people who worship mammon will suffer further if they do not turn to God, because "their idols are silver and gold, made by the hands of men. They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see; they have ears, but cannot hear, noses, but they cannot smell; they have hands, but cannot feel, feet, but they cannot walk; nor can they utter a sound with their throats. Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them." [Ps 115:1-8 NIV]

It is a time for God's people to be strong and courageous. God will lead us who are not faint-hearted into the promised land. Just like what God said to Joshua, "Be strong and courageous, because you will.....inherit the land.....Be strong and very courageous.......Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go......Get....ready......you will......go in and take possession of the land the LORD your God is giving you for your own.'" [Josh 1:6-11 NIV]

This is a worthy saying. "The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever." [1 Pet 4:1-11 NIV]

Also, it is important to know that "He who works his land will have abundant food, but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment. From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him. Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in slave labor. The lazy man does not roast his game, but the diligent man prizes his possessions." [Prov 12:11,14,24,27 NIV]

AMEN!

Weeks 35 & 36 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

During my 3 weeks in Hong Kong, I also attended the service of a local church. The preacher reassured the congregation about Jesus' promise of an abundant life in [John 10:10]. He used the word "eternal happiness". He pointed out that some Christians did not receive the promise fully because of negative experiences stored up in the "sub-conscience". Unless it is dealt with fully, any trigger will bring back the unpleasant memories and unhappiness!

I was woken up at around 5:00 this morning. I went back to bed after making a visit to the bathroom. As I laid there I sensed the presense of God. The Holy Spirit impressed upon my heart that my "self-righteousness" is a problem that has robbed me of His promise of "eternal happines" at times. My unbalanced sense of "right and wrong" had lead me to focus on the mistakes of others disproportionately. This led to inappropiate anger, bitterness and unforgiveness in my heart!

I can remember a number of instances in my life how that have happened, going back tens of years before I was a Christian. I can recall how I reacted strongly to mistakes made by others. I continued to do so after I became a Christian, even up to now. The Holy Spirit asked me to let God be the only Judge, not myself [James 4:12].

I was reminded of Apostle Paul's "Struggling With Sin" in Romans 7. As I sat down in the living room to read Romans 7 & 8 again, God spoke to me again in [Rom 7:21-25] "So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God's law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members." Yes, I can testify to the power of evil that works in my mind at times. But praise God in [Rom 8:2] "because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death." As I was reading the Bible, I noticed an advertisment in a magazine next to me [see pic]. It was God's confirmation for me to set myself free from the sin of self-righteousness. Righteousness is from God that originates from humility, but self-righteousness is from the devil that comes from pride!

I knelt down and repented. But I know in my heart that the proof of true repentance will be in how I rid myself of self-righteous behaviour in future. Please pray for me to overcome!

I will need God's help and power to overcome my weaknesses. Indeed "......Great are the works of the LORD; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.......He has shown his people the power of his works.......The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy........" [Ps 111:1-10 NIV] Yes, His precepts are trustworthy. His promises are true!

I often find the Word of God in [Deu. 28-30] both encouraging & frightening - blessings in obedience and curses in disobedience. And God does not mince His words when He said "I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. But if.....you are not obedient......you will certainly be destroyed.......This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses." [Deut 30:15-20 NIV] May God help us to make the right choice!

Whilst Jesus came to give us an abundant life, the devil came with an agenda of destruction and death. The only way to fight the devil is to "Submit yourselves.....to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you.......Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." [James 4:7-10 NIV]

"There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers." [Prov 6:16-19 NIV] Knowing what God hates, I hereby ask God to forgive me in the sins I have ever committed in any of these 7 areas and watch over me from committing them again, in Jesus name!

May the Lord help us to walk in obedience . May the Lord bless us with the abundant life that He has promised.

AMEN!

Weeks 33 & 34 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

Finally, I am entitled to a free bus pass and a winter heating allowance. Also, Kim gave me a "60 - Older & Wider" badge (see pic.), which reminds me that the dream of a "6-pack" will now remain a dream, not that it was ever my life goal to have one. Someone says that age is only a number. It is how one feels in the heart that counts. I could not agree more. :o)

Kim & I have been enjoying our time in Hong Kong, sampling the best Hong Kong has to offer (all kinds of cuisines), making myself “wider” in the process. Good job we are staying with our son Nic; the 90 steps climb to his 5th floor flat provides the badly needed exercise each day. In the 32 degree C heat, it really helps to burn up a lot of surplus calories.

We met up with an old relative Uncle Chiu & his wife. Uncle Chiu came from my Dad’s village in China and he worked as a hair dresser with my Dad for many years before he retired some 20 years ago. Today, he is 87 years old and his wife is a young 85. They both keep fit by swimming 30 min. every day. They are a picture of excellent health (see pic.) that put many people 50 years their junior to shame.

The Word of God says in [Ps 90:10] that “The length of our days is seventy years — or eighty, if we have the strength…….” Living to 85 or 87 is a great achievement, yet, because we live in a fallen world, everyone has to face death one day!

The Word of God also says in [1 Tim 4:8] that “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” Swimming 30 min. a day is a great discipline that deserves high praise and encouragement, but God’s promise of eternal life has greater value.

At 60, when the physical strength begins to decline sharply, I truly appreciate and understand the value of good health at an old age. But, being in Christ, it means so much more. I cannot help but "praise the LORD…..all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits — who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's…….” [Ps 103:1-6] Yes, when I am in Christ, my youth is renewed like the eagle’s. :o)

Although I came to accept Christ as my Lord & Saviour at a late age of 42, I believe it has helped me to appreciate God more, because I have been forgiven more. In Hope London, I encourage the people to have 3 special occasions a year that we can celebrate God’s goodness. Just like what God commanded Moses, "three times a year all your men must appear before the LORD your God at the place he will choose: at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Tabernacles. No man should appear before the LORD empty-handed: Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you.” [Deut 16:16-17] Each year, I encourage everyone to attend the Easter Camp, the Euro-convention and the Church Anniversary as our way of thanking the Lord for what He is doing among His people. They are also special times of jubilant celebration.

We celebrate the fact that we will not have to face death in eternity, because Jesus has substituted it with His own death on the cross. "Jesus…..now crowned with glory and honour because he suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone……and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death…….For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people……...” [Heb 2:9-18]


"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. A wise man has great power, and a man of knowledge increases strength; for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers. [Prov 24:3-6] May the Lord grant us His wisdom, understanding & knowledge that we may have the power & strength to live victorious lives while we are still living in this sinful world.

Amen!

Weeks 31 & 32 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing have no doubt caught the attention of the world in the past week, overshadowing the rather serious conflict between Russia & Georgia. But I am sure both occasions are important in the End-time economy!

The venue of the Opening Ceremony was at the main stadium in Beijing, affectionately referred to as the Bird's Nest - a marvelous piece of structural engineering (see picture). China raised the bar of the Opening by putting on a display that was both spectacular and powerful. Besides the fireworks outside the stadium, the mobilisation of a thoudand performers/dancers played to China's strength - drums, tai-chi, dances, the giant scroll, the moving-type printing etc. - a real feast for the eyes. Sadly, the beautiful and moving singing towards the end was mimed by a cute little girl named Lin Miaoke (on the right) . The real singer was Yang Peiyi; she was replaced because of her look (on the left)!

In men's perspective, the show was perfect. But in God's perspective, it was another "Tower of Babel" - men making a name for themselves. [Rom 1:23] says it well. Men have "exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images......." and "my people have exchanged their Glory for worthless idols [Jer 2:11]. God alone deserves all the Glory and worship. In God's opinion, Yang Peiyi did not need to be replaced. It was God who gave her the beautiful voice in the first place and, as far as God is concerned, Peiyi is "fearfully & wonderfully made". I hope she will find out one day!

I pray that one day Peiyi will "Sing to the LORD, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength......Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth." [Ps 96:1-9 NIV]


God reminded the Israelites to "destroy completely all the places on the high mountains and on the hills and under every spreading tree where the nations you are dispossessing worship their gods. Break down their altars, smash their sacred stones and burn their Asherah poles in the fire; cut down the idols of their gods and wipe out their names from those places. You must not worship the LORD your God in their way." [Deut 12:1-7 NIV] As God's people, we should do likewise.

Dear friends, I would like to borrow Apostle Paul's words in Philemon that "I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints. I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ........" [Philemon 1:4-7 NIV]


Let us be assured that "the king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases.....All a man's ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart.......to do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice........He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor. [Prov 21:1-3, 20-21 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 29 & 30 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

In celebrating its Centenary, The Institution of Structural Engineers (an international qualifying body for structural engineers) have commissioned the world's leading architectural artist Stephen Wiltshire MBE to produce a drawing featuring iconic structures around the world [see picture]. Stephen, who suffers from autism, produced the drawing from photographic memory of the structures he has seen.....a truly amazing gift!

The Bible says that "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights..." [James 1:1] and "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms." [1 Pet 4:10]. I am not sure whether Stephen is a Christian or not; if he is, he would thank our Heavenly Father for the gift of being a brilliant architectural artist. Indeed each of us should give thanks for our gifts and talents which are from above and we should use them to serve others faithfully.

I was sharing with my leaders recently that now we are believers in Christ, our lives take on a whole new perspective. We have a mission on this earth to use our gifts to serve others. I also shared that God allows us to accumulate lessons and experiences in our life journey, which equip us to serve more effectively. These include bad experiences!

Sometimes I am glad that God called me to serve Him when I was relatively advanced in age, by Hope standard that is. :o) I believe my life experience more than compensate for the loss in physical strength. I also believe that, with age, one has more wisdom, understanding and knowledge, which are so essential in building a church in the European context. At least I think so anyway, although my younger European co-workers may not agree. :o)

Because of this, "I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you established your faithfulness in heaven itself........The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it." [Ps 89:1-11 NIV]

Sometimes we can feel isolated in the big wide world as Christ followers; that true believers are in the minority. It is therefore amazing to know that "the LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and......that he......redeemed you from the land of slavery.......Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands........He will love you and bless you and increase your numbers. He will bless the fruit of your womb, the crops of your land-- your grain, new wine and oil-- the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks........You will be blessed more than any other people.........The LORD will keep you free from every disease........." [Deut 7:7-15 NIV]

Although we are a minority in the world that is hostile to Christ, esp. in Europe, we shall not be fearful. We shall hold our heads high and not be ashamed of the Gospel, "for God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord,........But join.....in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life-- not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time.....What you heard......keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you-- guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." [2 Tim 1:7-14 NIV] Yes, the Word of God and the Holy Spirit will sustain us till the end!

Add to that an attitude of revering our great God, for "he whose walk is upright fears the LORD. A wise man fears the LORD and shuns evil........He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death." [Prov 14:2,16,26,27 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 27 & 28 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

The UK have enjoyed a decade of prosperity, which has in some way disguised its brokeness. With the recent economic downturn, we seem to see this brokeness surfacing, due, may be, to more media attention. One of the issues is the stabbing of young people, with 21 youth killed in London alone in the first 6 month in 2008.

Another indirectly linked issue is the church split problem the Anglican Church is facing on the appointment of gay bishop (Gene Robinson of New Hampshire) and women bishops.

I shared in my last e-mail on recent statistics that UK weekly church attendance is about 6%, but declining at 2.3% a year. Church leaders are desperately looking for answers to reverse the trend. Reported revival in Florida has attracted many UK church leaders to visit. Many are now holding revival meetings after their return.

I attended one such meeting recently out of curiosity. Sadly, despite of the efforts put on, I would not call it revival yet. The worship was great and the speaker shared some very encouraging testimonies of signs & wonders, esp. in Africa, but the meeting itself was more of the same of "Slaying in the Spirit". Some call it carpet time. Some call it soaking time.

I believe in the miraculous power of God in healing & deliverance. I strongly encourage praying for those who are in sickness and in bondage. But I also believe that God will build His Church on the firm foundation of the Word of God. Jesus commanded us to make disciples who would obey His teachings, which are also confirmed with signs & wonders. We need both in building the church of Jesus Christ!

The Church needs to be patient in building it God's way and should not look for shortcuts. "He has set his foundation on the holy mountain; the LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are said of you, O City of God: Selah "I will record Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me - Philistia to, and Tyre, along with Cush - and will say, 'This one was born in Zion,'" Indeed, of Zion it will be said, "This one and that one were born in her, and the Most High himself will establish her." [Ps 87:1-7 NIV] God loves the Church of Zion and He will establish her in all the nations in His time.

God is Sprit and we worship Him in spirit and in truth."You saw no form of any kind the day the LORD spoke to you at Horeb out of the fire. Therefore watch yourselves very carefully, so that you do not become corrupt and make for yourselves an idol, an image of any shape, whether formed like a man or a woman, or like any animal on earth or any bird that flies in the air, or like any creature that moves along the ground or any fish in the waters below. And when you look up to the sky and see the sun, the moon and the stars-- all the heavenly array-- do not be enticed into bowing down to them and worshiping things the LORD your God has apportioned to all the nations under heaven. But as for you, the LORD took you and brought you out of the iron-smelting furnace, out of Egypt, to be the people of his inheritance, as you now are." [Deut 4:15-20 NIV] We need to be careful in how we present God to people. "Slaying in the Spirit" can be a step too far. God may even consider it as idol worshipping!

Holding revival meetings alone is a "tempting" way to draw the people. But Apostle Paul reminded Timothy (and us) that there are no shortcuts in building God's Church. It demands faithfulness and perseverence. "This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance (and for this we labor and strive), that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe. Command and teach these things. Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.......devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching ........ Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them ........Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers." [1 Tim 4:9-16 NIV]

Let the wisdom of God encourages us in how we should live our lives. "A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.......The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful........Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm......An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous man escapes trouble......No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble..... A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. [Prov 12:3,5,7,10,12,13,21,26 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 25 & 26 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

Wimbledon is with us once again & top men tennis players from around the world are congregating at London SW19 to try to lift the coveted Grand Slams Mens' Singles Trophy. Britain's No.1 Andy Murray [seeded 12] raised a ray of British hope when he beat No. 8 seed Richard Gasquet from 2 sets down to book a place in the Quarter Final. After the win, he showed off his bicep to a cheering crowd and put the win down to disciplined physical training. Sadly the British hope ended two days later when Andy lost his match in straight sets to No. 2 seed Rafael Nadal, who was fitter & stronger!

All top sports persons understand that to be the best at a Grand Slams level, they need to reach epic level physically & mentally. A whole year's of preparation and training will hopefully peak in the 2 weeks when it matters. The reality is often much tougher than what one hopes. Each round gets harder, as Andy Murray has found out!

If winning the championship is tough, I think church planting is tougher. After 10 years of church planting in Europe, I can see a lot of similarities. Both require strict training and unyielding discipline! Apostle Paul said it well in [1 Cor 9:25] "Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."

The reason why I say church planting is tougher is because the grind of ministry constantly challenges one's body, mind & spirit. Above all, it is not for a month, not for a year, not for 10 years, but for life, unless one gives up. And the temptations of giving up are many!

One motivation for us to keep going is our consciousness of God [1 Peter 2:19] - consciousness of His majesty, His love and His promises. '"Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again? Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?"....Then I thought, ".....I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy. What god is so great as our God? You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples. With your mighty arm you redeemed your people.......'" [Ps 77:7-15 NIV]

The consciousness of God is cultivated by a daily walk with Him. Just like the command God gave to the Israelites through Moses. 'The LORD said to Moses, "Give this command to the Israelites and say to them: '......'This is the offering made by fire that you are to present to the LORD: two lambs a year old without defect, as a regular burnt offering each day. Prepare one lamb in the morning and the other at twilight,....This is an offering made by fire, an aroma pleasing to the LORD."' [Num 28:1-8 NIV] This is what strict training and unyielding discipline are all about. Without God's input, we will not have the sustainable power to run & finish the race!

Recent statistics show that UK weekly church attendance is about 6%, but declining at 2.3% a year. The Church seems to get a bad press a lot of the time and the resistance is very subtle '...... but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition.......we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts......We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else.......And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe. For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? [1Thes 2:2-6,13,19 NIV] Indeed, seeing lives being transformed by God is another great motivation in building the Church!

One of the temptations of giving up is distraction, distraction from the vision & purpose of building the Church. The challenge is the ability to 'let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left.........' [Prov 4:20-27 NIV] Again, this requires unyielding discipline. :o)

Amen.

Weeks 23 & 24 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

Recently God opened another door for me in market place ministry. I joined the Committee of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers UK Chapter and I was given the task to organise this year's Dragon Boat team. The London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival is an annual event sponsored by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London. By the 8th June, The Dragon Boat Day, I managed to recruit a team of 21 paddlers and one drummer, mostly engineers plus three of our church members.

There were 44 teams entered this year, including 3 club teams, the "professionals". Each team had 3 heats, with the best 8 entering the Final. All our members were novices, with only a few who had done it before. With just one practice under our belt, a top ten finish would have been an amazing result.

I understand the secret of dragon boat racing (involving 16 paddlers) is synergy, not power. 16 paddlers working in unison would generate more speed than 16 powerful paddlers who are not. Thats what I tried to work on and encourage in my briefing before each heat. The result was an excellent team spirit (see pic. attached).

The race was a 250m dash. Each heat was a 4 boat race. We won the first heat comfortably with 1 min. 18 sec.. Our 2nd heat improved by 4 sec., beaten only by a club team. We won the 3rd heat again with 1 min. 18 sec.. Amazingly, our best time of 1 min. 14 sec. got us into the Final. Although we did not do well in the Final, because by then we were all totally exhausted, it was incredible that we got into the Final nonetheless and I give all the glory to God!

Through this event, we have learnt a valuable lesson on the power of synergy. We have also made more than 20 new friends. We are working on activities to reach out to them. I pray and hope that all of them will be saved one day!

One other thing that surprised me was how God sustained me in the 4 races. I only felt the strain the next day. I echo what the psalmist says in Ps.71. 'In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame......Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone......Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.' [Ps 71:1-2,9-10,18 NIV] Yes, I will continue to declare God's power and might to all who are to come!

It is most reassuring to know that 'God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?...." No misfortune is seen in Jacob, no misery observed in Israel. The LORD their God is with them......God brought them out of Egypt; they have the strength of a wild ox.' [Num 23:18-26 NIV] God's people are blessed people. No one can curse whom God has blessed!

As we build God's church, let us continue to pray to God like Paul did 'that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ..... proclaim it clearly......Be wise in the way......act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let....conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that......may know how to answer everyone.' [Col 4:2-6 NIV]

'Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? [Prov 30:2-9 NIV] You are blessed because you know the answers and you believe. :o)

Amen!

Weeks 21 & 22 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

When I was in Kota Kinabalu for the Leaders Conference, I learnt about the Florida Outpouring. Through an unusual man by the name of Todd Bentley, God poured out His Spirit and His power and many good things appeared to have happened.

I have had a look at Todd Bentley's website. Whilst I am encouraged by the miraculous healings taking place, I am troubled by the other manifestations including a variety of animal sounds and movements. I do not deny that it could be a move of God, but I also know that every move of God would have a mixture of spirits which require discernment and regulation.

During the Empowerment Meeting of 27th April in Hope London, I gave a prophecy that Hope Europe shall experience an abundant harvest in the next 7 years (2009 - 2015). I included certain conditions for it to happen. I sense that the timing is right for the Lord to show Himself in tangible ways in this spiritually dry land. These would include signs and wonders. But I also believe that God does not want us to have it too easy. It will be more like [Mark 16:20] 'Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.' It will involve great efforts on our part. It will involve hardwork in building His Church. Yes, keep up the good work brother Peter Troung. :o)

I also shared with my leaders that more and more, we need to step up our faith by dreaming and thinking imaginatively of God's might and glory. We have seen nothing yet!

I also believe that whilst our God is loving and joyful, in His presence, we should not be like revellers getting high on alcohol. When God moves, His people will rejoice in His presence with reverence and thankfulness. Our spirit will be heightened. It will be more like that in the Psalm 'Those living far away fear your wonders; where morning dawns and evening fades you call forth songs of joy. You care for the land and water it; you enrich it abundantly. The streams of God are filled with water to provide the people with grain, for so you have ordained it. You drench its furrows and level its ridges; you soften it with showers and bless its crops. You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. The grasslands of the desert overflow; the hills are clothed with gladness. The meadows are covered with flocks and the valleys are mantled with grain; they shout for joy and sing.' [Ps 65:8-13 NIV] Other signs would include prosperity and physical blessings.

When God moves, our understanding of God will be transformed. Our eyes will be opened. We will learn that God can do anything beyond our knowledge, including using a donkey to speak to Balaam. 'Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?" Balaam answered the donkey, "You have made a fool of me! If I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now." The donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?" "No," he said. Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.' [Num 22:21-31 NIV]Come Holy Spirit!

Our desire for God to move should match that of a man in the desert longing for water. Our desire to know Christ and His power should mirror that of Apostle Paul's heart cry. '........ I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ......I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,' [Phil 3:1-21 NIV] When we are in God's presence, we share in His sufferings (in our service to Him) and His victory (resurrection power in advancing His Kingdom).

Whilst we wait upon God patiently for Him to move, we should also have the confidence that the future is in God hands. Events will unfold according to God's timing for '.....the LORD....directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases........The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.' [Prov 21:1-3,31 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 19 & 20 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

I read somewhere that the strength of the human body peaks at the age of 20, followed by a slow decline up to the age of 60. From 60 onward, the strength will decline sharply!

With 60 approaching fast, I can testify to the above statement. Whilst maintaining a disciplined life helps, it will not alter the trend.

Before I travelled to Asia 2 weeks ago, I was suffering from hay fever. The long flight to Hong Kong did not help. The change of weather in Hong Kong added to the battle. It took me almost a week to get to some kind of normality. But before I settle down to the warm climate in Hong Kong & Malaysia (where we had our Leaders Conference), I was on my way back to London!

Landing at Heathrow yesterday in the early hours, I was determined to re-adjust my body clock back to GMT. By sheer will power, I managed to stay awake till 10pm. Bedtime was extra sweet. This morning, I went for my 4.2k run. I was happy with the very modest time of 29 min., and I found the soak in a hot bath afterwards quite heavenly.:o)

I learn so much about my spiritual condition through my body. Whilst the condition of the body is controllable, I cannot say the same about the spirit. It is a battle of the mind, which is much harder!

I often ponder about what is pleasing to God as a witnessing Christian. The answer is in [Rom 12:2 NIV] "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-- his good, pleasing and perfect will." However, I find "the renewing of the mind" bit easier said than done. I guess it will remain "work in progress" until the Day of the Lord. But I am willing to give it a go and press on. With God's help, I will get there one day. :o)

Spiritual warfare or "battle of the mind" will continue to be a big part of the life of every Christian who seriously live for God. We will need to continually cry out to God for help in this fight. 'O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you......Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me. They who seek my life will be destroyed......all who swear by God's name will praise him.....'. [Ps 63:1-11 NIV]

For us to be victorious, we need to be constantly mindful of God's goodness in our lives, just like God's reminder to the Israelites. 'The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the LORD, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the LORD your God."' [Num 15:37-41 NIV] God's blessing is a circle. When we rememember God's goodness, it will in turn remind us to obey His commands. When we do obey God's commands, we end up with more of God's blessings. Its an amazing circle of truth! But are we buying into it?

Apostle Paul understood the battle of the mind very well. He adminished the Ephesians with these strong words from God. 'So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more. You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.......do not give the devil a foothold.....'. [Eph 4:17-28 NIV] But how many of us are heeding the Word of God?

Do not be a fool.'A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions. A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating. A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul.' [Prov 18:2,6-7 NIV] Let us pay attention to God's opinions and heed them instead.

Amen!

Weeks 17 & 18 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

3 pieces of news grabbed the headlines in the UK in the past 2 weeks - the tragic cyclone disaster in Burma, an Austrian man fathered his own daughter's 7 children and the "clown" of the Conservative Party Boris Johnson became Mayor of London. I firmly believe that what happens in the natural reflects the spiritual. Whilst the first 2 pieces of news are merely confirming Matthew 24 (Signs of the End of the Age) respectively in v.7b and v.12, I find the 3rd one particularly revealing.

The choice made by the people of London of a man who very few people take seriously as the Mayor somewhat perplexed me. I pondered on it and I asked God what this means for this city at this time. The impression I got was found in [Prov. 29:18] "Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint...". It reminded me of the rebellious spirit the Israelites that we see in [1 Sam 8:1-22] "When Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as judges for Israel......But his sons did not walk in his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and accepted bribes and perverted justice. So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. They said to him, "You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have." But when they said, "Give us a king to lead us," this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD. And the LORD told him: "Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king.......When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD. The LORD answered, "Listen to them and give them a king." ......"

We know from history that God gave the elders of Israel Saul as their king. So let us understand that THE PERMISSION OF GOD IS NOT ALWAYS THE WILL OF GOD!

Man is the crown jewel of God's workmanship. But if we reject Him, He will reject us. Even King David, one who was after God's own heart knew it well when he said "You have rejected us, O God......you have been angry-- now restore us! You have shaken the land and torn it open; mend its fractures, for it is quaking. You have shown your people desperate times.......But for those who fear you, you have raised a banner to be unfurled against the bow....Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered. Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies." [Ps 60:1-5,11-12 NIV] So, why should we be surprise when disaster strikes some people. Why should we not understand when some people experience desparate time and failure. But let those who fear God be assured that victory is on their side!

We are living in a time that demands our faith to be strong and courageous because the natural is challenging the spiritual."They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole Israelite community.....they reported to them.....and showed them the fruit of the land......it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit. But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large......Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." [Num 13:26-33 NIV] We can choose to have the faith of the timid spies who were scared of the enemy that APPEARED to be powerful, or we can be like Caleb who believed in the promises of a mighty God.

Also, we will eventually be standing before God and each will have to give his or her accounts to God. "Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load. Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." [Gal 6:1-10 NIV]

Indeed let us work hard to please the Spirit. Let us ask God to grant us the strength and hardwork of an ox trusting that ".........from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest........The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good man rewarded for his....... All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." [Prov 14:4,14,23 NIV]

Amen!

Weeks 15 & 16 (08) - Blessings of Divine Guidance

I was in Utrecht last weekend ministering in Hope Utrecht. I was met at the airport by Albert Junior (Samuel) who gave me a very nice welcome (see pic.). I was surprised to see Tor & Wanda joining us in the Saturday pm session (see pic). They were in Holland for Wanda's Mum's 70th birthday. What a beautiful divine appointment. It was great to have this opportunity of fellowshipping with them!

God truly blessed us with a wonderful weekend. I praise the Lord for many new people which God has brought to the church. I met 11 of them and, amazingly, 6 of them came to the church through the Hope Utrecht website! I give thanks to God for His faithfulness to a faithful servant Albert and his dear wife Claire. God also bless them with 2 lovely children, Samuel and Salome. It gave me great joy to spend the weekend with them and the church people!

Albert joined Hope after attending a Hope conference in Asia. Hope Utrecht was one man in the beginning. Despite of the challenges of church planting in Europe, we can see the fruits in the life of Albert - a good job, a loving wife, 2 adorable children and a beautiful church family. Only God can make it possible!Despite of what most people think or say about our Lord Jesus in Europe, the psalmist reminded me that He is the Lord over this continent. "How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! He subdued nations under us, peoples under our feet........Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth; sing to him a psalm of praise. God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne." [Ps 47:1-9 NIV] Indeed, let us hold onto the promises that He is the King of all the earth and He reigns over the nations. We should continue to sing praises to Him until we see Jesus returning in triumph to fulfil these promises!In the natural, we may not seeing this happening in Europe yet. But in the spiritual, the victory is won.

God is looking for a people who will trust and obey. "'Do not make idols or set up an image......in your land to bow down before it. I am the LORD your God......'If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands, I will send you rain in its season, and the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit......You will pursue your enemies, and they will fall by the sword before you. Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand.......'I will look on you with favour and make you fruitful and increase your numbers, and I will keep my covenant with you.......I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people. I am the LORD your God,......I broke the bars of your yoke and enabled you to walk with heads held high.'" [Lev 26:1-13 NIV]

When we trust and obey, we will see our enemies defeated and experience God's favours in our lives. We can walk with heads held high!This is what faith is all about. "Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands........For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we....wish....to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight."[2 Cor 5:1-10 NIV]

Our confidence comes from trusing and obeying a God who is good, righteous and just. "For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones." [Prov 2:6-12, 20-22 NIV]

Amen and amen!