The Journey to Eternity

How to share Jesus

2011-11-22T03:35:00.001+13:00

Re-reading this

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Overdraft

2011-11-14T02:32:00.001+13:00

Lord, you are all I need.

With the excessive cortisol destroying my body,
Your healing and comfort is all I need.

With the guilt of sins weighing down me,
Your forgiveness is all I need.

With the seemingly impossible challenges facing ahead,
Your wisdom is all I need.

With the insecurities of uncertain future,
Your sovereignty is all I need.

With the needs and desires in heart,
Your providence is all I need.

With the temptations facing day-to-day,
Your grace is all I need.

With the discouragements and frustrations face each day,
Your joy is all I need.

Lord, your love, evidenced by the cross, is all I need.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Seoul - Day 1

2011-05-17T20:24:00.005+12:00

Couldn't believe that I was on my way to Seoul, Korea. Had been waiting for that moment for at least 8 months and wanted to get away from the stagnant life in Malaysia, it was a little miracle for me to be there. The flight was impressive, even it was a budget airline, at least it met all my expectations, there was nothing to complain about, other than a weird Indonesian guy sitting next to me... Anyway, the flight landed in Seoul after almost 7 hours, and I was so excited and impressed by the wonderfully built Incheon airport. Everything was smooth from leaving the aircraft to getting through immigration, I got a my luggage and my Seoul adventure begins.

First mission of the day: to buy a T-money card and hop on the right train to Seoul downtown. There were many other solo travelers like me and were confused on buying the train ticket, but in my heart I was glad that fortunately I did some homework beforehand, I went to the convenience store and bought a T-money card. Usage of Korean language failed, but English was not a problem. It was my first real(?) contact with Korean, with the cashier.

After checking with the information counter on how to get to the airport rail (AREX), I walked towards the train station according to a mix of her information and my instinct. First excitement: the AREX train station is exactly the place where Runningman (my favourite Korean game show) was filmed! I was standing at the place (where the escalator and lift were) where the Runningmen were chasing each other. XD Because I was carrying my baggage and some many things, I couldn't be bother to take out my camera and capture the site, but I was a bit worried on whether I will catch the right train on time and reach my destination.

The train arrived and there were not many people in the carriage. I sat down with my suitcase lying in front of me. After making sure that I was in the right train, and counting on how many stops before I need to leave and transit to another train, I secretly observed the Koreans around me. I was just sitting there, and pretending that I was part of them. Most of them were businessmen wearing suits or family. That's the joy of taking subways and trains, it made me feel included like I was one of them...

I got down at the Hongdae station because I need to change to subway line 2 to Chungjeongno. The moment I stepped out from the train I felt the cold. In the train was much warmer than I thought and because I wore so many layers I felt stuffy but outside I could feel the cold immediately. The unexpected cold made me stopped and put on more layers, before I followed the crowd to walk towards the platform for subway line 2. The demography for subway was very different than the airport train. I felt awkward with my suitcase because most of the people in the subway were youngsters and students with their trendiest outlooks. Subway line 2 passes through Hongik University, Sinchon and Ewha University where most youngsters and students are populated. The train was much more crowded than the airport train, and the lesser usage of English made me realised that I was at a completely strange place.

I got out from the train, got confused with the exit (as I came out from the wrong exit due to the elevator), almost got lost but finally reached Bangrang Hostel. There were no one at the hostel, but only a note from the hostel manager. My phone was unable to roam, as I was panicking if I should call the manager at 11:30pm, I decided to use hostel phone to ring him up... The manager finally turned up and settled my payment and my room, everything was good. I liked the hostel, the interior set up and the numbered security lock. I met Kayo, a Japanese girl, my first roommate, first friend I met in Seoul. We chatted for a long time and we got really excited to know each other. We decided to meet up for dinner the day after.

First impression of Seoul was great, all the people that I encountered seem nice and friendly, I was looking forward to journey in Seoul...

Seoul - My Full Itinerary

2011-04-16T19:45:00.003+12:00

I did a lot of 'homework' before embarking on this 5 days trip. Managed to meet some Taiwanese friends from the travel forum, I tried not to travel on my own throughout the trip, but make new friends~ But I did all the shopping on my own, to save time. :)

Planned itinerary:

Day 1

Incheon airport - Bangrang hostel

Day 2

Namdaemun - Myeongdong - Namsamgol Hanok Village - N Seoul Tower

Day 3

Deoksugong - Hongdae - Sinchon - Idae - Dongdaemun - Jimjilbang

Day 4

Sinsadong - Express Bus Terminal Station (underground shopping) - Yeouido (Cherry blossoms) - Hangang river cruise - Yongsan Emart

Day 5

Samgyetang - Gyeongbokgong - Samcheongdong - Bukchon - Insadong - Incheon airport

Actual itinerary

Day 2 ~ (mostly resting and very relaxing)

Namdaemun - Myeongdong - Sinchon - Jonggak (dinner) - Jonggak underground shopping

Day 3

Namsagol Hanok Village - N Seoul Tower - Hongdae - Idae - Dongdaemun

Day 4

Gwanghuamun - Toksochon samgyetang - Gyeongbokgung - Samcheongdong - Insadong - Banpo bridge - Express bus terminal - Dragon Hill Spa

Day 5

Jonggak - Myeongdong - Sinsadong - Insadong - Myeongdong - Incheon airport

What a change...

Seoul - 1

2011-04-16T16:07:00.008+12:00

Okay finally I'm ready to start my blogs on Seoul...

Seoul, a dream place for many girls, was beyond my expectation. I guess it is not just about the place itself, or the tourist sites, or the shopping... but, the people, the culture that impress me much.

Thoughts on Seoul #1 - Infrastructure & Technology

Seoul is a metropolitan city, with well-integrated transport network, and sophisticated technologies. WiFi was covered in most places, with free access but speed connection, otherwise if you are subscribed to a local network, wireless internet is covered in almost all subway trains. Not only that, Seoul is very tourist friendly too, at some subway stations I can see the giant iPhone-like touch screen that allows you to find direction, places information... Oh and when I make a credit card payment at the store, I did not have to sign on a paper/receipt, instead I signed on the credit card machine (hmm... it's something unavailable in Malaysia, yet).

Incheon airport - Departure Gate

Thoughts on Seoul #2 - Character

Seoul is a city full of character. Unlike what I heard about the negative comments about Seoul before - boring, characterless etc. It was completely opposite from what I expected. I cannot pinpoint on the most prominent character of Seoul, but when I think of Seoul, things that came in my mind including: Cafes with unique characters, contemporary and traditional arts, modern and traditional buildings, delicious street and also restaurant foods, popstar culture, and variety of goods made in Korea! There are places filled with scent of youth and life such as Hongdae, Idae and Sinchon. Whereas Myeongdong is an area that impresses you with the latest cosmetic and fashion trends. Insadong and Bukchon Hanoks offers you a taste of traditional Korean lifestyle and culture, but Samcheongdong and Sinsadong are places that surprises you in every corner.

Somewhere between Samcheongdong and Bukchon Hanoks

Thoughts on Seoul #3 - Language & Culture

Hangul is an interesting language. From the language, we can tell about the culture. Unlike English, the use of Korean language largely contextual and situational. The way a person speaks to another person reveals their relationship, age difference and social ranking. People do pay a lot of respect to the country or company leaders, elderly or those with great achievements. However, the way people are addressed also come with individual responsibilities. For instance, if you are a 형(hyung, older brother for a guy), 오빠(oppa, older brother for a girl), 언니(eonni, older sister for a girl) or 누나(nuna, older sister for a guy) you should look after / protect the younger ones. I would say, Koreans are relationship oriented and it is a good thing, because in this way, everyone knows their position in a family, circle of friends, group and society quite well, therefore they know how to get along (相處) with each other well. I won't say it's discrimination or inequality, it's just that basically everyone is different therefore we need different ways to interact with different people. The way guys treat girls should be different than how guys treat guys. The way young people interact with young people should be different than how they treat older people. This is completely opposite to New Zealand, where everyone calls everyone (including parents and professors by their first name).

Bosingak - Jonggak

Thoughts on Seoul #4 - People

My most favourite part about Korea. My initial impression of Korea was not the best one... (sorry Korean friends I misunderstood you...) I thought people there have fake looks (plastic surgery and cosmetics), rigid and competitive, maybe it's true to a certain extend, but... as compared to Singaporeans, I find them more genuine and authentic when it comes to making friends with others. They are shy perhaps due to language barrier, but I found them actually very enthusiastic and interested about people from another culture. :) I like it when the Ajushi's and Ajuma's kept talking to you even they knew you can't understand on anything they were saying about. The hostel staff, restaurant owners, sellers, taxi drivers, policeman, airport staff... were so helpful and made sure that our problems are resolved before leaving us alone... They are so genuine, sincere and helpful... I really appreciate their help, that made our lives much easier... It's the people that matters...

David, Athena, Kitty, 핼이, 핼지, Wendy, Me

Thoughts on Seoul #5 - Foods & Drinks

Love it! Tteokbokki (I don't know how to spell), Samgyetang (Ginseng Chicken Soup - so nourishing!), Kimchi (ahh~ can't live without it!), BBQ, green tea cinnamon pastry.... oooohhhh... mashita (delicious!)! Indescribable... (next time must try seolnongtang / beef bone soup)

Drinks: raspberry tea, black soy milk, aloe vera juice, ginseng wine, Cass beer, banana milk... yum yum (didn't get to try makgeolli T_T)

I don't know what is this called...

Recent life

2011-04-14T00:40:00.005+12:00

I have not been blogging for a while, I doubt if I can still write a good article with proper English. The reason I'm here of course is that I have something to share. Life has been journeying as per norm, yet there are times that we can spice it up a little bit, like travel.

I'm pleased for being able to tick off the list of things I wanted to do since last year. Last year in October, I went to Taiwan, and visited my uncle, who passed away, as well as my grandparents. I had a better sense of closeness to my roots in Taiwan than ever before, and I am planning to go back again by the end of this year.

The second destination that I decided to travel on, was Seoul, South Korea. Managed to grab a flight ticket with an extraordinary price in August last year, I traveled there at the end of March. With a little disappointment, I was not able to see the cherry blossoms, because I booked the tickets a week earlier... However, the good thing is, it was still sort of considered as the end low season, before the crowd of tourists and visitors flood into Seoul, and that's why I get to experience a bit of Seoul people's real life.

Just like New Zealand, I'd never dreamed about the possibility of being able to reach there. It is a miracle, a gift of grace from God above. South Korea is a beautiful country, with their very own unique culture and way of life. 5 days in Seoul made me felt like a local, I took the subway just like the locals, with the locals, I ate like a local, I went to shop at the places where locals only go. Although it was too short to get to know them deeper, it was an eye-opening experience for me to appreciate the beauty of Korea.

My song of choice this new year

2011-01-01T20:49:00.001+13:00

Prayer

2011-01-01T20:01:00.003+13:00

It is new year. Description my feelings now? Heavy. Received a call from my parents in Taiwan last night, found out my grandfather was diagnosed with prostate cancer and tumour in the neck, and if the tumour is cancerous, it means that he is already at the end stage. Grandma told my mum that she felt a lump at the breast, and it's painful, but haven't been to check up yet, so we don't know what that is. Cloud of gloom surrounds the whole family, as mum just lost her brother recently, not yet recovering from the pain of loss, there are more challenging issues surfaced.

What should be our attitude like, when we face such almost unbearable suffering? Shouldn't we start thinking why there is suffering, what is the purpose of our lives, and what will happen when we die? The Gospel is really fundamental to Christian attitude and thinking, as it explains everything, gives meaning and gives hope to life. The gospel should DEFINE our lives. 'When we are still sinners, Christ died for us.' That's a short but astonishing statement, revealing the abundance of God's love and grace on hopeless humankind. It is comforting to know that though we are hopeless in sin, whether big or small, Christ has overcome with his infinite power on the Cross. He is the figure that we should look up to, and longing deeply for. We wait patiently for his return, for his fulfillment in future promises.

The dilemma is, what about those who never heard about the gospel? Were they given a choice? I can only say that God is sovereign of all, he has chosen the ones that he chose to love and accept, according to his mercy. Will our prayers and effort make a difference? It might not. But our attitude and action will show where our heart and treasure is. Therefore I pray, pray that the Lord shall have mercy on my grandparents and the family, firstly for salvation, because without salvation everything is meaningless and left them only with pain and hopelessness.

With my limited knowledge and imagination, I couldn't think of how the gospel can reach their ears and hearts and make them understand, but I believe God is the God of miracles, He'll have his own way in doing things, if He wills. Secondly, I pray that God will heal them, physically and emotionally. Not because of greed in having them and enjoyment in life, but because I love them. No one likes to see someone they love in pain. Thirdly, I pray that things will fall into the right place, whoever we are, we must know, learn and worship God, and follow God each day in our lives. We suppose to do what we suppose to do, which God intended us to do, because God is good, all the time. And we know that in all things God works for the good to those who love him, who have been called to his purpose. In Christ Holy name, Amen.

My Christmas

2010-12-26T04:01:00.003+13:00

Haven't been blogging for sometime, I'm afraid that my English writing is worse than ever before... It's Christmas season... well... nothing really big for me, except a very confused, complicated feeling.

What has been happening in my life recently? I went to my favourite singer's - Jam Hsiao's concert last Saturday. A good friend of mine invited me for her wedding reception, but I refused because of the concert. Then mum told me I should wait at home, for uncle was in a very critical stage. Anyhow in the end I went. I really enjoyed the concert so much, for his voice has a comforting effect... I wasn't 100% in it... was thinking about uncle and other things as well.... but I treasured and savoured every minute when I was there, to get my every cent worthwhile.

My uncle passed away on Monday, before dawn. I had a mixed feeling. Somehow I feel relieved, for uncle himself, for my mum, and everyone in the family. I have peace, for I choose to believe that Jesus received him to heaven, as I whispered to him several times, telling him to believe and look for Jesus, when he was in coma.

After my uncle passed away, my granddad found out even everyone was hiding the truth from him. His old injury in his back hurts him badly and he got admitted into the hospital. Mum and her family are very busy settling and travelling and attending to different people and places.

I wanted to enjoy the Christmas, but I feel guilty, so I decided to stay home and do nothing, except on the Christmas eve, I went to church. Christmas carols always warm up my heart, I thank God earnestly for this ultimate gift of hope, that death has lost it's foothold, that one day in Jesus, we will be resurrected in glory, reunite with God eternally. The precious eternal hope, came in the form of the child in the manger... how I wished that everyone can just believe and accept it, because it's the only way that "works" and "make sense" for a bright future, overcoming sins and death.

Lonely. Deep down in my young heart wishes that myself can be at somewhere else, together with someone else, whether the place or people that I know or don't know yet. I want to explore, experience and enjoy the world, but under submission to Lord Jesus.

My 2010, I'm happy with it. I didn't expect too much since the past 2 years for me was quite rough. I thank God for His leading and guidance in my life through work, friends, colleagues, family and church. I must set a higher target for myself next year... may the Lord continue to lead.

Hope this phase will be over soon. 2011 is coming, hopefully it will be a more fruitful year for me. I just hope that everyone in the family will be ok, so that I can proceed to live out my life the max, for youth is going to be over soon... want to be as crazy as I can, to live out every possibilities... with the permission of the Lord above...

Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes. But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment. Ecclesiastes 11:9

Helplessness

2010-11-07T03:53:00.002+13:00

my uncle is dying... he's losing his body temperature, blood pressure and heart beat. I need to go back to Malaysia tmrw afternoon and will never see him again. am extremely sad and helpless right now.

Shadow of Death

2010-11-05T03:37:00.002+13:00

I don't know how to describe my feelings now... seeing loved one dying day by day is more heart-piercing than anything. he could pass away anytime, sometimes he seems ok, sometimes got to be well prepared, our mood is like roller-coaster... basically, there's no hope that he will recover or wake up anyway... it's just how soon he will be leaving us... please pray for my mum's family. need God desperately. Thank you.

Church day

2010-10-17T19:14:00.003+13:00

found a church in kl through facebook. never know there's a beautiful church building right beside the merdeka square, in the centre of the city. there are many services going on at the same time such as traditional service and iban service before the contemporary service. i love the beautiful architecture, as well as i can see the whole sultan abdul samad building right opposite. the people I've met, the sermon they preach, and the books they lend totally meet my needs. best thing is they offer great books for lending like C.S. Lewis, DA Carson, John Piper, John Bunyan, Jerry Bridges, J.I. Packer, John Stott... you know you're at the right place when you see these books... oh forgot to mention the books that i've read like Shining like stars, out of the salt shaker, Desiring God... I feel at home, for real. many people attend different services but the contemporary service that i attend is quite small, for around 20-30 people, which is a great size because you can't escape without being known to others.

St. Mary Anglican Church

A great song they sang this morning:

Never Alone

1. We’re not alone, for Christ is here
Immanuel our God come near
We’re not alone, for to our world
Jesus has come, eternal Word.
And as he speaks, our souls laid bare
Naked, ashamed, sin is made clear
And yet he clothes us in his love
Never alone, Christ is with us, is with us.

2. The longest walk, earth’s darkest day
The pressing crowd, his mounting pain.
A heavy load of grief and shame
Breathless that we should breathe again.
“Father forgive them,” comes his cry
Silence from God blackens the sky.
A creeping dread in every heart
Lost in the world now God departs, God departs.

3. The dawn will come, the sun will rise
Out of the grave we’ll see hope’s light.
Tomb opened wide, stone rolled away
Morning has come, a brand new day.
“He isn’t here,” the angel said.
“He is alive no longer dead.”
Our hearts are lifted, souls raised high
Christ is with us, Christ is our life, he’s our life.

4. Never alone, is now our cry
In joy, in grief, in lonely sin.
Never alone, for Christ is ours
He lives in us, we live in him.
And ’til we reach that final day
When fears are gone, cast far away
We'll live secure, trust in his love,
Never alone, Christ is with us, he’s with us.

Lyrics: © 2006 Simone Richardson
Music: © 2006 Philip Percival

What a Friend We Have in Jesus | Joseph M. Scriven

2010-10-11T03:17:00.000+13:00

What a friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge—
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.
Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised
Thou wilt all our burdens bear;
May we ever, Lord, be bringing
All to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright, unclouded,
There will be no need for prayer—
Rapture, praise, and endless worship
Will be our sweet portion there.

Prayer Request

2010-10-11T03:07:00.002+13:00

Dad just informed me that doctor declared my uncle brain dead... unless miracle happens perhaps he will never wake up again... my grandparents, uncle, aunt and my parents are struggling with this fact... I don't know what to say but I can feel their pain as if my own pain. Yet I know I must be strong, because my parents need me, to support them physically, mentally, spiritually and financially. Can't do anything for ones that you love, is actually that painful... God have mercy on us, we deserve all suffering because we have turned away from you, but please, I beg You for your grace and mercy that is found in Jesus, forgive us and heal our pain. Please bring my family into eternal salvation, we cannot live without You. You are the God who works miracles...

God controls

2010-10-06T03:15:00.002+13:00

believing in God, at the same time knowing that you're having many many friends and loved ones do not believe in God is scary. especially the chances of losing them is higher...

please pray, for my uncle who is lying in the hospital after a major stroke. pray for my mum and her family who are worrying and stressing themselves. pray for my dad who is looking after them, after recovered from dengue fever only a few days ago.

pain of helplessness is overwhelming. the sense of guilt is heavy. only the slight hope in the grace of God in Christ sheds a little light that sustains me on.

if you can, believe in God, and tell people about God. it's the only purpose in our lives.

Father, comfort me and take away my fears, knowing that you're in full control, the God full of grace and mercy. Forgive my family, who lose heart on you, forgive my grandparents, who worship idols. You are the God who works miracles. I believe in you.

Helplessness

2010-09-28T05:35:00.000+13:00

First time realising how useless worry is. Dad was admitted to the hospital yesterday for dengue fever. Was more relax earlier thinking that it will soon be over, but now looking at his tired face and weak body, I'm starting to feel the seriousness about it. Thoughts came across like how if daddy is not here anymore? It's a scary thought... Such fear arises and haunting my weak spirit. I love my dad very much, and I hope that he will live on and give me another chance to love him more.

I have been eating my words, that even I got my car I never been to church and serve God. I don't know how related it is to the suffering my family has been going through, but certainly the weight of guilt is pounding on me.

'what a friend we have in jesus...' this song was playing in my radio. Such surpassing comfort came through and a huge thought flashed in my mind - never take God's grace lightly, it was repaid with His own blood. There is no reason that God should heal my dad and help us, only by His grace and mercy. All I can do is to have faith in Christ and beg for His mercy.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Struggles

2010-08-22T03:51:00.000+12:00

Dearly Lord Father, may Your name be revered and praised at all times. Should I go to church tomorrow? Which church should I go to? Should I bring my parents along? Which domination? English or Chinese congregation?

Week by week I have been struggling with these questions. I feel immobilised.

Lord I love you, and I wish my family and friends find perfect joy in loving You too. I just don't know where and how to start. May You never give up on me. Even when I'm forgetful of Your goodness...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Moments of confession

2010-08-14T03:16:00.003+12:00

I'm desperate for a holiday. Not because I want to see something new, but rather to keep myself busy and avoid certain things in life. Maybe it's a sin to pretend to be busy, it is. How far can I runaway from my feelings and intentions? Am I hiding here or really up to something? I don't know. What is real and what is temporal? I'm confused. Somehow, part of me chose to stay in the past and refused to move on. Yet part of me eagerly marching forward to rewrite new stories in life. Perhaps there will be a point of time that I will be torn up by this tension. Or I will be so stretchable and find a balance in between (the past and the future).

Just like Cobb in the movie 'Inception' where part of him stuck in his dream and couldn't get over it. Perhaps part of me stuck in my memory. Perhaps I should go inside my memory, or dream, and say bye to the important person there, if I can ever make it happen. Because he is not real, he is just part of my memory.

I'm going to Seoul

2010-08-06T05:05:00.000+12:00

A step closer to my dream again. Thank God for creating little miracles in my life, displaying his gracefulness, generosity, and wonderful love for me. I love Him and I need Him.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Cats in the East Coast

2010-07-30T01:21:00.000+12:00

(Seal) Kiss From A Rose - Sungha Jung

2010-07-20T02:56:00.000+12:00

Cuti-cuti Malaysia

2010-07-17T02:00:00.008+12:00

Haven't been writing for a long time, hence please forgive my funny English and grammar... well, I have been busy recently, mainly work but at the same time find time to have fun in between. I traveled to Cameron highlands and the East Coast recently.

Cameron trip was a fun one, just chilled out with my workmates for the weekend. Having holiday in Malaysia is different than travelling to other countries, cos I can completely relax and enjoy and not afraid being missed out on anything, because I can go back anytime. The funness of Cameron trip is the people, having fun with a whole bunch of nice people and do silly things together.

Boh Tea Plantation, Cameron Highlands

Kelantan trip was inspiring and refreshing. There were things which were familiar and not so familiar to me...

Foods of Kelantan

Budu - smelly fish sauce of Kelantan, goes with ulam (fresh raw veges)

Nasi Ulam - gotta use your fingers to get the best taste of it!

Keng Som - Thai spicy fish

Mongolian fried chicken

Mango Kerabu

Chili and cucumber dipping sauce for chicken legs

Yummy Kampung chicken legs

Ikan bakar

Nasi dagang (Trade rice) and Nasi Minyak (Oily rice) of Kota Bharu

Etok!!!

Sup Perut (Soup with beef organs!)

Foods of Perhentian

BBQ squid with percik sauce

Fried fish (self caught)

Ulam

Ikan Bakar

More updates when I have more time... time for bed now *yawns*...

Perhentian

2010-07-14T04:25:00.001+12:00

How do you describe heaven? If wedding is the mirror of the union of Christ and His people, then perhentians is the place where mirrored the beauty of heaven. Colourful fishes and corals, wonderful people, crystal clear unpolluted sea water, powder soft sandy beach, imagine how wonderful heaven is like. Maybe in heaven I know how to swim naturally like fishes and never get tired and eaten by sharks. Perhaps in heaven everyone will enjoy their work to the fullest with complete equality. Maybe everyone respects each other, and more than that, pure love. Maybe everyone has the capacity to appreciate hence fully comprehend God's grace. When people has a glorified body, perhaps they can worship God by knowing His perfect wonder, and receive the highest level of joy. That's the place where people never get tired serving and loving each other. That's a place where everyone shares the same belief. That's a place where there's no mosquitoes! (I just killed 2 when I was typing this).

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Sun

2010-07-13T02:40:00.002+12:00

Something's missing by John Mayer

2010-06-18T03:11:00.001+12:00

I'm not alone, I wish I was.
Cause then I'd know, I was down because
I couldn't find, a friend around
To love me like, they do right now.
They do right now.

I'm dizzy from the shopping malls
I searched for joy, but I bought it all
It doesn't help the hunger pains
and a thirst I'd have to drown first to ever satiate

Something's missing
And I don't know how to fix it
something's missing
And I don't know what it is
At all

When autumn comes, it doesnt ask.
It just walks in, where it left you last.
And you never know, when it starts
Until there's fog inside the glass around your summer heart:

Something's missing
And I don't know how to fix it
something's missing
And I don't know what it is
At all

I can't be sure that this state of mind, is not of my own design
I wish there was an over the counter test, for loneliness.
For loneliness like this.

Something's missing
And I don't know how to fix it
Something's missing
And I don't know what it is
No I don't know what it is
Something's different
And i don't know what it is
No I don't know what it is

Friends -check- Money -check-
A well slept -check- Opposite sex -check- Guitar -check- Microphone -check- Messages waiting for me, when i come home
-check-

How come everything I think I need, always comes with batteries
What do you think it means

How come everything I think I need, always comes with batteries
What do you think it means

GPS

2010-06-05T17:51:00.003+12:00

Okay it has been a long while since I last updated my blog here... well... how should I describe my life at the moment? I got a car, which makes me happy and much more convenient in getting around the city. But... it's like there is a place /destination where I wanted to reach, therefore I start doing everything, I get a job, I bought a car, but then half way through, I'd forgotten why am I doing all this things? Where am I going to? Then I keep driving and driving, then a road sign caught my attention, then I just follow where the sign leads to... then I see another road sign, then I follow that way... then I keep driving and driving... sometimes I might receive some enjoyment along the way, but I'd totally forgotten why am I driving at the first place, and why am I here... Then I need a GPS, to key in my destination and follow it so that I will reach the right place.

I know having a relationship with God is the key of joyfulness, but why is it so hard to make myself to listen from Him? K I just need to pray and read the Word, and fellowship with other believers, yet it looks like a huge mountain to climb - seems overwhelmingly hard. Afraid of commitment? Scared of disappointment? Perhaps. But my life and relationships will never get in the right place until I've settled my relationship with God.

The more (materials) I get in life, the emptier the soul it seems. I can never be rich enough, pretty enough, smart enough, savvy enough compared with others. There are always someone better out there. Self-contented? Nah don't lie to yourself. What makes you self-contented? What is your dream? What do you want to achieve in life? What is your life purpose? Who created you and why? Where will you be in afterlife? Start think about it again and it might get you back into the right track.

Maslow's and God's hierarchy

2010-05-20T01:29:00.006+12:00

All things are possible. it's about timing, and if God's willing. So there's fulfillment for bottom three levels of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Not necessary biblical, but this seems workable for me, and I'm searching for the top 2 now, esteem and self-actualisation. Yet I believe God has different priorities for the five needs and they come in different order. Perhaps in God, the triangle is upside down, from widest top to narrow bottom:

1. A relationship with God, knowing who He is and why are you here for.

2. Confidence in Christ, by knowing the purpose of soul redemption and recognising one's identity.

3. Fellowship with believers/Christ followers, by loving, serving and enjoying one another.

4. Fulfillment in serving God, taking part in His work of making disciples.

5. Experiencing God's grace and miracles in life.

Why man can't find fulfillment once he secures his life and having everything he needs? I know without God, I can never be fulfill the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy - self-actualisation, because there's no meaning to it without God. Am definitely not a good Christian but I got to admit life has no meaning without God. It will be another word for "self-actualisation" in God's hierarchy. It would be "joy-in-union"? or "submission in complete joyfulness"?

Thoughts for the moment

2010-04-10T16:28:00.003+12:00

Indeed only in times of desperation and despair will draw me closer to God. Trying not to find all sorts of excuses but to say sorry to Him, and to make time and space to give thanks and worship Him. Life has been good so far and really thankful for things He has given. I shall not forget Him in times of 'abundance' and remember those times in 'poverty', He has been faithful. Am eyeing on a contemporary church seems not so strange to me, it's near my house and I'll try it out once I have my own car. Lord, I think it is the good and right time for me to come back, since I have been through certain things outside and walked with your faithful servants, I'll be more able to hold my character and remain conscious in the midst of worldly temptations. I won't say tomorrow will be the same or better, or I expect tomorrow will be better, for I understood this life is temporal, yet I give thanks to the Lord for his graciousness towards me in life until now. The promise is certain, the hope is reality, yet the road to there is unknown. Yet I need not be afraid, because I know that He will be always by my side until everlasting.

Transitions

2010-04-09T00:59:00.001+12:00

Am feeling weird as my emotional state is going through some sort of "hormone-like" changes after start working. It's a time to adjust myself and fit into the environment. Just because I care, I try to handle relationships with colleagues and superiors carefully. As a semi-newbie in the corporate world, it is not so easy, at least not as easy as I thought when first stepping into my first job. I learnt to be humble, learnt to bow my head, learnt to submit, but my heart looks to God, as if I work for Christ alone. I'm still feeling like a weirdo, try to be cool but not so cool, try to be myself but not so myself. It takes time to stabilise. Like a boat going through a windy, narrow river, try not to hit the shore, that is how I feel. Try not to make mistake, try not to offend anyone, try to blend. It's ok, it takes time, I'll get used to it. So far, I like this job, and enjoy it. I am very grateful to God's answer to my prayers. I hope I be a light and salt for Christ in my workplace.

Next things to come up: buying a car, finding a church. May the Lord guides.

Malaysians are getting there...

2010-03-26T02:03:00.002+13:00

This is the day that I can keep my head up high and telling the world that I'm proud of being a Malaysian! On my way back home from work this evening, something amazed me at the LRT platform... everyone was queuing orderly waiting for the train! Well, perhaps in other developed countries that was something so common that not worthy of mentioning at all. Yet in Malaysia, where we need public advocacy to make us more considerate, courteous and 'civilised' in many ways, that was something encouraging to see. Compared to our neighbouring country, which their citizens were trained or 'forced' to adhere to their advanced crowd control systems, I like to see our people being considerate and orderly out of their own good will. What if our streets are as clean as our neighbouring country even without enforcing strict laws on littering? What if we maintain our Malaysian friendliness and hospitality even when are quickly advancing ourselves into a more developed and competitive nation? What if we become more considerate while driving and learn to give way to each other? I'm sure we have a great potential to surpass many countries in terms of quality of living and social harmony (and of course I love the weather... and many other things!). Keep it up Malaysia, I believe you can make it!

Brushing Up My Writing

2010-03-22T05:43:00.002+13:00

I know I'm on my way to my dream, but how long, how hard, and what I need to overcome on this path, I do not know yet. I was being assigned some writing jobs at work during my first week. Writing, something came through my mind before, but never dared to dream about. I remembered my English tutor at the Learning Centre took much effort trying to correct my grammatical mistakes (whoops I hope my boss is not reading this), and I did try hard to improve and write more stuffs after that. Okay, perhaps my grammar is not perfect, but I think it's good enough, understandable. Next, creative writing - being creative, being catchy. Well that's a huge challenge. I have to think of some catchy phrase to catch the reader's attention and make something boring like science interesting to read on. I enjoy the thrill of the excitement of being 'entrusted', challenged and 'seeing' my writings on the publications and other media channels. Yet I'm aware of the difficulties might come along and at times when things just doesn't seem right - for example, being stuck and no inspiration to write.

Am I thinking too much? Perhaps. It's good to have some self realisation. (?) By now I just have to read more, write more and get inspired more. I can see the person I want to be, my dream, as a nutrition writer, an educator, someone who can make a difference. I know where I am now, and it can't be done without God's interventions (not that He needs to perform a huge miracle), but I can only say that if the Lord wills, the dream can be achieved, and all the glory goes to Him. Ultimately, I hope my life will mean something, for being part of His work on earth, and what I do, what I dreamt of, will never ever be done in vain.

I am serving the Lord Christ

2010-03-09T17:08:00.003+13:00

Received a call this morning for an interview tomorrow! First job interview for the year *sweats*. Read about Abraham's servant in searching for Rebekkah this morning and learnt this verse from Colossians 3:22~24:

Slaves, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Oh it hits me straight away. I like the last phrase: I am serving the Lord Christ! Amen!

Ecclesiastes 12:1

2010-03-09T04:22:00.001+13:00

Remember your Creator
in the days of your youth,
before the days of trouble come
and the years approach when you will say,
"I find no pleasure in them"

Lil thought

2010-03-09T04:16:00.002+13:00

Not to do what I perceived as what I can do, but to do what God tells me to do, according to the potential which He has placed in me.

Missing New Zealand

2010-03-05T03:42:00.002+13:00

Have some friends going to New Zealand recently and it stirs up my heart and makes me want to go back again. I left the country and refused to go back due to some personal reasons and not so good memories near the end of my stay. Yet now I am able to put it down and start remembering all the good things that happened before and people who has been kind to me. I do not know when I will be back again to that land under long white cloud where seems so far away, but I always feel that part of me has never left...

sheep, cows, lambs, ewes, mountains, lakes, kiwis, cherries, berries, queenstown, bungee, gondola, arrowtown, te anau, mirror lakes, milford sound, doubtful sound, nakedbus, tramping, walking tracks, riverton, invercargill, christmas, helicopter, cafe, restaurant, massey, ocf, bikes, fresh air, winter, ski, cold, grace city church, baptism, lectures, assignments, graduation, latte art, library, gorge, windfarm, foxton, marae, easter camp, tscf conference, slc, road trips, wine, dolphins, seals, albatross, whales, fantails, kowhai, cabbage tree, maori, kia ora, pounamu, hangi, hongi, kapiti ice cream, ambrosia, pavlova, potluck, ball, themed parties, movie nights, phnom penh, plaza, sakura festival, cherry blossoms, victoria esplanade, te papa, christchurch, casino, dunedin, octagon, southern lakes, queen charlotte sound, lake manapouri, manapouri water station, humpridge track, kepler track, tourists, new year eves, christmas carols, orientation, kiwi culture night, international food night, ski trip, barbeque, sausages, steak, speights, tui, brooke fraser, op shop, evermore, all blacks, black caps, all whites, tall blacks, rugby, cricket, pohutukawa, kahawai, herings, whitebait, snapper, fishing, easter, jaffas, cadbury, chocolates, hot water bottles, saturday markets, countdown, whitcoulls, pak n save, new world, woolworths, bnz, national bank, new zealand post, lotto, oyster bay merlot, sauvingnon blanc, gewurtztramminer, cocktails, spring, roses, bible studies, prayer meetings, driving, chinese shop, cafe cuba, chillatos, cha, shapeshifter, powderfinger, cinderella, swan lake...

not that they all happened to me but I just remembered those stuff, of course all the people related to them as well...

Lessons today

2010-03-02T20:22:00.005+13:00

Human often find it hard to believe that God protects and saves us according to His grace. We tend to try to protect ourselves with our own ways.

When I thought, "my foot slips," your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. Ps 94:18

Watch and pray that you may not enter temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Mk 14:38

Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 1 Cor. 10:12

If we are faithless, he remains faithful. 2 Tim. 2:13

With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. Mt 19:26

Jesus model for prayer teaches us first to get in harmony with the divine purpose. Once you understand that, you won't treat God as if He were some utilitarian genie who is stuck granting your wishes because He promised you riches in Christ - and you won't view prayer quite as selfishly. - 'Lord, teach me to pray', John MacArthur

a little confession

2010-03-01T19:24:00.003+13:00

Met a friend yesterday while shopping with family at a mall. Haven't seen her for a while, but she is someone who is special to me, like competitor, like enemy, like friend. I just want to say that, it hurts me when I get the impression of her trying to judge or value me while I said I have been rested since half a year ago after quitting my job. After she told me about herself pursuing Masters in UK and another friend working in States (achieving her dreams), I said to her in an envious tone, 'you girls met great opportunities'. Perhaps she had misunderstood me as if I thought that they can do what they are doing now because of plain luck. She said to me, 'we both worked very hard and suffered in order to survive our dreams". Suddenly I felt an invisible arrow stabbing my chest, ouch! So I lived a good life and deserve what I get right now? Argh... perhaps we were talking in different channels, it seems that we kept misunderstanding each other since the first day we met.

It is harder to accept the fact that perhaps she's right. I never worked hard enough to reach my goals, perhaps I do not have a goal at all. Even myself looking at myself as 'lazy, not contributing to the society, sucking from my family, useless etc etc.'. No one understands that I tried everything. Of course I want to get into a proper job as soon as possible, as soon as before I quit my previous job. Somehow I feel that I was not ready for another work commitment both physically and mentally. What is my value, what can I contribute to the society? I asked the question to God 'what can I do for God' many many times before, but I failed to retrieve the answer. My faith is at the edge, is fading, I agree with Jesus and the gospel, but I can't seem relate it to my life anymore. Since I couldn't find a balance between being a Christian and being in the world, I find myself weary and disappointed. People around taught me many things in order to survive in the harsh business world, Jesus taught me other things, but I do not have enough wisdom to live in integrity and adapt in secular environment at the same time not looking stupid. It's not that I don't want to look stupid, or being Christian is stupid, but I make a Christian looking stupid by doing what I did before.

The only motivation for me to find a job now is to pay debts, even though no one asks me for it. I can only say that I hate the world, I hate being in the world. What is being me while there is nothing good about me? I find that being 'utilitarian' is more effective than standing for own principles. Being a freshman has no right to insist on her principles, only obedience and submission to authorities. There is no right or wrong in the business world, only what is rewarding and what is not. It's a taboo to appear weak and not confident in self, I tried but it's just too tired to pretend that I'm strong.

Perhaps I am too far from what I want to be, it seems unachievable. What is success? What is success according to God? What is success from the point of the world's view? Is my life aim to be success, or to be obedient to the Lord's will? Some says to be success is obedient to God, to give glory to God. Some say to suffer for God is to obedient to God. Some say God has planted the dreams in our hearts so that we will pursue them. Some say we must do everything in order allowing God to work in our lives. If God is real, how will he talk to me? Is my sins too great for me to approach Him? Am I not sincere enough when I confess my sins to Jesus and ask for His forgiveness? Am I suppose to wait until his timing that he will answer one day? Or should I proceed to pursue what I perceive as success by following my heart? Not everyone can afford integrity.

Greatness of God

2010-02-25T17:20:00.002+13:00

How I grieved when I heard my mum said "Buddhism is good, the way the Buddhist see things are beautiful, their arts, photography has wonderfully expressed the beauty of something we never realized for, unlike Christians trying to use music create a fake atmosphere and fake glory". I said to mum, "Mum, God is the one who created everything, His glory is something way beautiful that we can never imagine, everything beautiful comes from the Lord". Yet I feel so ashamed of myself, that I have failed to reflect His beauty in my life, I live indifferently just as good as others who don't know the Lord. How we as Christians reflect the glory of God? Instead of using the technology to create the "high and spiritual (drunken)" atmosphere during worship service, is there any other way we can perceive and reflect the glory of God? How when we don't idolize things and materialize God while we can help people to see God as He is? It is good but disturbing to understand that there is no other way but read the Bible and learn the Word of God and let the Word itself through the Spirit touch each individual's heart.

If law is the heart of Islam, morale and discipline is the heart of modern Buddhism, then love is the heart of Christianity. Out of love we obey the laws, out of love we discipline ourselves, out of love we do good and expect nothing in return, because Christ has gave out His everything on the Cross. God loves us, therefore he created us, and appointed his only Son to die and rose again. We cannot explain the difference of Christianity than other religions unless we focus on the Cross. We all have turned away from God and deserved to be punished for our rebellion (declares ourselves god) and be separated from God forever. Yet the Lord choose to save us by punishing His own son, who came as God embodied in flesh, lived a life full with temptations but remained sinless, and willingly to accept the inhuman treatment, stricken, afflicted and took the pain and bleed by nailed on the cross, in order to take up the wrath of God on our behalf, so that in believing Him we can escape the eternal condemnation. This is called grace, not cheap grace that costs nothing and can give to anyone, but grace that is given by his precious blood to those who believe in Christ.

Islam requires their believers to adhere to the laws in order to enter the paradise with 7 virgins, Buddhism requires people to do good in order to rid their 'sins' so that they can incarnate to a higher being in the next life, but Christianity requires us to repent, to turn back from our sins and believe that Jesus is the Son of God, so that we can be accepted by God eternally. Which is greater? Discipline that is being demanded in order to exchange for something, or obedience that is prompted by the sacrificial love and glory of God?

We bless others by overflowing our blessings from God, but at first have we receive His blessings and recognizing them? Blessings of knowing who He is, the joy of knowing that God is with us and in us, and the privilege of serving Him along with other believers.

Father, I have failed to reflect your light and glory when people can't see joy and goodness in my life. I can't retrieve my understanding of You when I don't open the Bible and hear from you. I can't love others while I am blinded from your love for me. I can't tell others about you when I am ashamed of my failures as a Christian. Lord, discipline me because I want to keep myself close to you, and keep my eyes and ears opened to your light and voice. I surrender my guilt, shamefulness and fears so that I can receive your grace. Let me keep my faith and keep myself holy so that people can see the difference of me being a Christian. Hide me behind the cross and humble me under your knees so that I will never swell up to pride. Set me free as your Child, therefore not being controlled by tricks of the devil again. In Christ's holy name, Amen.

My Soul Thirsts for You

2010-02-22T18:42:00.002+13:00

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;

my soul thirsts for you;

my flesh faints for you,

as in a dry and weary land when there is no water.

So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,

beholding your power and glory.

Because your steadfast love is better than life,

my lips will praise you.

So I will bless you as long as I live;

in your name I will lift up my hands.

My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food,

and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips,

when I remember you upon my bed,

and meditate on you in the watches of the night;

for you have been my help,

and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.

My soul clings to you;

your right hand upholds me.

But those who seek to destroy my life

shall go down into the depths of the earth;

they shall be given over to the power of the sword;

they shall be a portion for jackals.

But the king shall rejoice in God;

all who swear by him shall exult,

for the mouths of liars will be stopped.

Psalm 63, ESV

It's my birthday

2010-02-21T05:44:00.001+13:00

It's my birthday. Somehow I feel emotional and down instead of happy and excited. Where am I now in life? Where am I going? I'm telling myself not to hope for people or thing that will not come. I should turn to the Lord and place my hope in Him. I don't want to be the same state on my birthday again. Thank God at least I'm at home and will spend the day with friends and family. I pray that I will get up and move on. I pray that I will know, enjoy and love God more. I pray that I will be a blessing for people who come across in life. I pray that I will be healthier, stronger and confident. Want to be a good witness.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Mountains

2010-02-16T06:57:00.004+13:00

What is reality and what is not? Am I trying to confront it or runaway from it? What is God's will? What is my will? What does God want and what do I really want to do in life? I have been searching for these answers for many many months. No one can understand my struggles, I know He can, but when is He going to end my frustration? Like Jake in Avatar, I feel crippled in my real life, I believe there is a perfect world to live in like Pandora, but my crippled self doesn't allow me to enter and enjoy it. On one hand I'm frustrated with reality of life, therefore I indulged in entertainment medias, games and house chores to kill time. On the other hand I know there is an ideal life that I can enjoy, but I have nothing to deserve to enter it, I feel useless.

The Truth tells me that I am to suffer in this world, and if I believe in Christ, no servant is higher than his master, and if Christ is persecuted, why do I expect myself to be exempted? Yet it looks like a huge mountain in front of me blocking my way, I feel very weak, helpless, and do not have the courage to climb. My experience tells me that no one is going to look into my true heart and feelings in the real world, it is just a trade between my time and ability and financial reward. I'm craving for happiness, true sharing between people, integrity and respect, and somehow I believed that it cannot be found in secular workplace, not to mention the extremely few days of leave. I don't want that kind of life, I don't want to do things that I can never enjoy and shake my conscience. I don't want to fake myself to please the people I don't like. I don't want to be a bad witness at work for Christ... my body can't handle long hours shift, I can't focus, I can't manage, I am stressed easily... all these 'mountains' I need to overcome...

I turned to the Lord many times, I said, 'Lord, please help me, I want to be constantly joyful because I know that you are in control, and I surrender myself to you, including all my cares and burdens. I want to take up my cross and follow you.' But there is still no answer... Why is strength from family and friends support my faith instead the other way round? Why at the same time I don't want anything from this world but I want everything? Should I dream of everything I want or dream nothing except the Kingdom of heaven?

Other than the Holy Spirit I pray for someone in my life who is able to coach, guide, lead, and support me in my spiritual and work life at the same time. My dream is global ministry, to meet people of every tribe and tongue in the world, and to serve God with a strong and humbled heart. May the Lord opens the door and lead me to the path which brings meaning of everlasting.

Kitty doesn't love me

2010-02-08T04:42:00.000+13:00

I'm little upset that the kitty I look after all this while still choose his master over myself...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Geek in the Pink

2010-01-28T23:49:00.007+13:00

C.N.Blue Debut Performance

2010-01-15T03:06:00.000+13:00

Green rocks!

2010-01-14T20:49:00.001+13:00

I like green. Green is my colour of the year. =p

God's Promise and Abram's Faith

2010-01-06T17:27:00.004+13:00

To be frank I have been slacking in doing quiet time lately. However, today I knew as I study Genesis 15 it will have something great for me to learn and meditate upon. It is about God's covenant with Abram. Background of the story is that Abram and Sarai were old and remain childless after childbearing age, they had no heir except a member of the household. Because of that Abram was in great fear, for no heir from himself, and disputes maybe waged among his household in order to inherit his possessions (my own thought). Then God came and said to Abram, "Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great." But Abram said, "O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?" And Abram said, "Behold, you have given me no offspring, and a member of my household will be my heir." And the word of the Lord came to him: "This man shall not be your heir; your very own son shall be your heir." And he brought him outside and said, “Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them. (I pictured God look like a loving Father gently showing Abram what he will be given)" And Abram believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness. Then the Lord instruct Abram what he suppose to do and what will happen after.

"Abram believed the Lord", what a powerful statement. That's all Abram need to do. In Romans 4:4-5 says that, 'to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but trusts him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.' (I tried to use that as my excuse for not working but it doesn't really work that way)

v13 'For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be the heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. For if it is the adherents of the law who are to be the heirs, faith is null and the promise is void. For the law bring wrath, but where there is no law there is no transgression.'

'In hope Abraham believed against hope, he did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body, which was as good as dead (this is funny as quoted directly from the Bible), or when he considered the barrenness of Sarah's womb. No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. That is why his faith was "counted to him as righteousness". But the words "it was counted to him" were not written for his sake alone, but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, who was delivered up for trespasses and raised for our justification.

What amazes me is later at night God made a physical covenant with Abram to assert his promise. What a loving act! Our faith is never strong enough to fully believe what God has promised us, but he made it fair and understandable that He made the covenant with Abraham, in sync with the rainbow covenant He made with Noah after the flood. Who are we but tiny creatures made by God? Yet He swore by Himself (for no one greater by whom to swear). In Hebrews 6:13-18 it says that for people swear by something greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he guaranteed it with an oath, so that by two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie (his character), we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.

I don't know how clear my message transcript from the Bible is, but three things I learnt today:

1. God is loving and gracious in giving hope and promises.

2. God wants nothing from us but Faith alone (glory to God alone).

3. God is unchangeable and loving enough to make a covenant to convince us that His promise will never change.

For us, the promise is eternal life where there is no pain, no hurt, no tears, no sin and perfect unity in God's Kingdom. The covenant has been done through the death and resurrection of Jesus. My struggle is that thinking God will punish me for not pleasing him and try to make things perfect, especially in the eyes of the world I am considered as failure. But the Lord says to me, "It's okay child, I will have mercy on whom I have mercy. It is utterly up to me whether to bless you or not, not depending on your works and adherence to laws, but according to my own grace and mercy. When I promised you the eternal life when you gave your life to Jesus, it is a covenant between us, it will never change. I will give you what I will give you, I will take away what I will take away from you, apart from me you can do nothing. All you need to do is to love me with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength."

Thank you Lord for you are such Mighty Awesome God. There is none like you, I can't find such love besides you. You are the Way, Truth and Life. May I walk with You in Faith for the rest of my life. In Your name, Amen.

Note: Bible passage taken from The Holy Bible English Standard Version and cross references provided by Search the Scriptures, edited by Stibbs, IVP.

A.N.JELL

2010-01-06T06:23:00.001+13:00

Never have this heart pounding feeling for a long time. I'm too involved with the Korean drama till I don't know how to live my life anymore. The storyline, the colours, the music, the actors and actresses were too goodlooking and shiny, and young! Well somehow I hope to go back to high school or college, at least not envious about the colourful lives among the youth. In compare, my life at the moment is so dry and boring.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Lost

2010-01-04T05:15:00.001+13:00

Just silently said goodbye to 2009, starting 2010. I haven't really got any new year resolution, nor any proper plan in life yet. After coming back from Vietnam, after watching a whole series of fun Korean drama, I feel very empty. Deep in my heart is aching, for not able to take any step forward to the life I intend to live. What do I really want? It's about time to move out from my parents' house, and move on. To where?I don't know. It is so scary, next year I will be 25, and I will become 30 soon. What have I achieved in life? What did I enjoyed as a young person? Suddenly I want to go to Korea, japan, or Taiwan. To experience the young heart pop culture there. I want to learn a new language, I want to be a translator. I want to be free to enjoy what I do. Never want to be tied up by enslaved in conventional job. But everything seems far and impossible to reach. Suddenly I can't remember what a normal life suppose to look like, what friends are, what is romantic relationship, it's just... Nothing, blank. Who do i live for? Who keeps me going? Someone pull me out from this dark pit please, don't want to be sunken forever.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPod

Impression Vietnam: Highlights

2009-12-29T17:47:00.010+13:00

13 days in Vietnam is just nice, though it would be better if we have another day in Dalat. ;p Did a lot of online research beforehand, yet I did not know what to expect in Vietnam. Overall it was an awesome and memorable trip, first is the people whom I travel with, my parents, the people whom we met all the way, the rich culture, wonderful sceneries, and yummy delicacies. For me it is the first time I really travel a 'real' South East Asian country outside Malaysia (no Singapore is not SEA at all, haha). Due to it's unique historical and political background, Vietnam is almost different than anywhere I have been too. Firstly, I have never seen a McDonalds, Starbucks, 7 Eleven, or Watsons throughout Vietnam (Yes, believe me it's true. There's KFC tho). Secondly, hardly anyone speaks English here other than tour guides and hotel staff, even people in the airport has zero english. Thirdly, no traffic rules here (yeah!).

I was expecting Halong Bay a lot but maybe because of the weather it didn't impress me as much.

Most locals and myself prefer Tam Coc Bich Dong in Ninh Binh (Also known as Halong Bay on land).

Every place is unique in itself, has its own culture, food and sceneries.

Lao Chai Village - Sapa

Bac Ha Market

My Son Sanctuary

Tortoise Pagoda, Hoan Kiem Lake - Hanoi

Chua Ong, Hoi An

Nha Trang Beach

Notre Dam Cathedral - Saigon

One thing that makes Vietnam memorable is the friendship. The common language shared between human of all kinds is a simple smile and simple act of kindness. Love Vietnam, will miss you always.

Some updates

2009-11-28T04:08:00.011+13:00

After sitting at home for 'n' days today I managed to meet up with couple of high school mates. Good times watching movie, eating together and sharing each other's stories and recalling high school life. Small surprises such as exchanging souvenirs bought from foreign countries, reading high school class magazine... like going back to the time where we were still young and innocent, even can't bear to read the message I wrote to my friend during high school! However, the sad news was that one of my classmate died of leukemia a few years ago. He wasn't my best friend, but we were in the same class for a few years, and we sat next to each other, always quarrel but sometimes we talked in peace like friends. It's just hard to accept the fact that he is gone, reminding me of how fragile life is.

I wish I can socialise more in Kuala Lumpur. One of the biggest reason I want to stay here is that there are people whom I treasure never heard about Gospel. I want them to know, I want them to enjoy the privilege of knowing God and enjoying Him forever... I don't know the easy way, and it seems that I keep failing it, but I'm sure one day He will use me.

I'm having some emotional moments now, missing my friends all over the world, mainly New Zealand, Singapore, and some in Indonesia, the Netherlands, China, USA, Australia, London, Norway, Japan... I shared about New Zealand with my friends today, realising how much I miss the life in New Zealand, especially Palmy and Te Anau. Still feeling the leftover pain of leaving NZ, even after almost 2 years now, yet I can't bear to leave here again. I'm love Asia, I feel I'm belong here.

Am looking forward to the trip to Vietnam next month, experiencing more Asia. Yes, there are inequalities, frauds, scams and corruptions everywhere in South East Asia, but there are also sincere friendships, irreplacable cultural heritage, nourishing delicacies, and... life dynamics. Things are just interesting, seeing how different people striving to survive in their own places in their own ways...

I learnt that I'm not too much different from everyone else here, there are many people same age as me likes to travel, hiking, learning to use DSLR, working holiday and having trouble looking for their ideal job. Maybe this is the generation Y, where we need fun constantly, get bored easily, impatient, independent and insecure.

At this moment I wished I'm in Singapore, hang out with my friends, eating nice soto down the street, or watching a nice jazz performance, accompanied by a good wine and some cheese... hehe

No reply from job application to Vietnam yet, so am constantly checking local job sites. Two options: 1. Freelancer, taking projects/contract work like conduct food and nutrition training and consultancy, maybe do some network marketing as part time, and actively serve the new church ministry. 2. Find a job and go back to work in Singapore. Which one is better? I don't know. Unrealistic options such as serving full time in ministry, or working for NGO, or professional nutrition company in KL are ideal, if anything will happen.

May the Lord take charge of my life and stops me from wasting my life further. May I carry the cross and live up the purpose given by Him daily. May His love sustains me and strengthens me during weak times. May He bless my friends and family especially those who yet believe in Him. Amen.

KL-Bandung-Singapore

2009-11-13T04:32:00.004+13:00

It has been a while since I last blog, therefore I hope my writing isn't too bad here. Last Thursday 5/11 I went to Bandung, Indonesia to attend a wedding. I was annoyed at first on Thursday morning, because Air Asia has re-scheduled my pre-booked flight from 9am to 8:30pm, therefore I lost a day in Bandung. Since I have known this bunch of Indonesian friends, mainly from Bandung in Singapore, I always wanted to visit their hometown. They are so proud of their food, weather, culture, factory outlets etc. It was a pleasant visit, had a lot of surprises and amazement, only not having enough time to visit more places in Bandung. Bandung airport was small, reminds me of Palmerston North International Airport, first thing I realised was the cooling yet not too cold breeze when stepped out from the aircraft, I knew I'll love the weather, and everything else. They dragged my luggage, and custom officer requested to open and search my suitcase, so I did, thank God everything went well. The crowd cramps the arrival exit, then I saw a familiar face among them, my friend and her brother came to pick me up. Another impression of Bandung is that there is lack of lighting at night, it's darker compared to KL and Singapore, yet I liked the lower light condition in which reduces light pollution/noise. Didn't have dinner before I board the plane, so we went to hypersquare food court to grab some local delicacies: Sate, Otak-otak, lumpia, pempek...

and a fresh squeeze of fruit punch. Had some trouble looking for the place I stay initially, but was overwhelmingly pleased by the beautiful spacious house which I was staying in, don't forget to mention two friendly and super helpful embak.

Second day morning, I met the grandma in the house. She was a bit shy at first but since I can speak in Mandarin we started talking in Mandarin about our lives and our countries. The older generation of Chinese Indonesian still can speak some Chinese, mainly Hokkien and Mandarin, yet due to government's effort of ridding Chinese culture in Indonesia, they were forced to changed their names to Indonesian names, speaking Indonesian, and not allowed to celebrate Chinese festivals. Therefore, to the friends at my age, I usually speak English and slowly learn to understand and speak Indo.

After my friend's dad came to pick me up, we went to the salon (as I requested cos I never cut my hair since June/July!). It was a flash salon recommended by my friend's mum. I didn't really used to the luxury but since I was there I told myself just to enjoy as much as I can! Normally I only spend minimum on haircut, usually just cut, no wash, treatment or blow dry. Yet this time they did all to me! I liked the boss's and her staff's way of doing things "seriously" or "perfectly" even took longer time, unlike the hairdressers I experienced in Malaysia had mediocre attitude. I was feeling bad letting everyone waiting for me though, I thought just a quick haircut... Even things didn't turned out as I expected, the haircut was great, I had problem communicate with the staff since I don't speak Indo, so I just totally "put my head into their hands", let them do whatever they think is nice.

Shopping was great in Bandung, I couldn't see why it can't be famous of factory outlet shopping. Almost everywhere in Bandung you can see factory outlets selling clothings, bags and accessories. I thought it's just "normal" brand like Giordano or Hang Ten sort of level, but I was surprise to see Armani, Burberry, Gucci, Guess, CK, Zara, MNG, Roxy... all sorts of fancy brands you just name it! Price of clothings ranges from about 50 000 to 200 000 rupiah (SGD5-30 roughly!) , compared to SGD50-200 in Singapore shops those were considered very cheap. Loved the patterns too, can't really get those in KL. So I spent about 1 million within couple of hours in Jalan Riau!

Another feature in Bandung is Chihampelas Walk, with plenty brand/trademark infringements along the street, it's just interesting, like Movie World! You can see Superman, Batman, Spiderman, Ironman, Rambo, Tarzan, Aladdin... on the shops, nice! Too bad we didn't have enough time to really walk the street. We had Sundanese food for "lunner" just opposite Novotel. It was challenging to cross the four lanes road with constant moving cars and motorbikes, one thing we need to do is to raise our arms and stop the car from hitting ourselves. It was the first time I had tried Sundanese food, they ordered some rice with various small dishes like chicken, beef lungs, mushroom, lele (catfish) and lots of fresh leafy greens! I reckon it was the best meal I had in Bandung, eating with fingers just make everything tastes better.

Evening we had dinner at Sierra Cafe with a nice view of whole Bandung from hilltop. Nice ambience with live singers, great food mainly Western like steak but also include local food like Balinese rice set. Cool breeze, candlelight, nice music, great view, awesome crowd. :)

Saturday was the wedding day, therefore pretty much no time for sightseeing or shopping. In the morning we had choir practice for the holy matrimony ceremony and Sunday service. We had authentic Indonesian lunch at Micasa, tried Balinese chicken, tahu opor, gado gado, coconut, chendol, alpukat (avocado) dessert...

At 1pm was the lovely wedding service in a medium size church. It was a simple yet grand, God honoring yet heart warming wedding. Nice to see the bride whom I never saw since she left Singapore few months ago, then first time meeting the groom. I agreed with my friend saying that without a church wedding, without honoring God in marriage, it's like an incomplete wedding, missing out something most important...

Then we went for the reception at night, and church service on Sunday morning, my first choir performance. On Sunday I flew back with most of the friends who need to go back to work on Monday in Singapore. Went for a wonderful concert by Vienna Boys Choir in Esplanade on Sunday evening. A weekend full with musicals and parties, I will always remember those joyful moments, because they give me strength to carry on and move on in life.

Quarterlife crisis

2009-10-23T03:40:00.002+13:00

人生苦短 Early mid life crisis

2009-10-22T18:30:00.004+13:00

我的人生，难道在23岁就结束了吗？明年就24了，人生还是一无所成。当年迷信自己的实力，相信自己一定会有个成功的人生。今年还没，也许时机未到，等明年吧，这样年复一年，才发现自己又回到当初的原点，裹足不前。打拼好吗？自己的努力一定会得到回馈吗？付出好吗？一定会有收获吗？成功好吗？成功不会有失败的一天吗？只有为神而活，才不会白费宝贵的人生。然而，神的旨意为何呢？倘若神让我有选择，我选择什么呢？我宁愿自己没有选择，但实在不想再受到欺负，可世态炎凉，人心险恶，我能相信谁呢？谁会珍惜我的真心呢？不想和人斗，也无力与人斗，所以自己仍然躲在家里，远离伤害。我也许不能成功，但我能把风险降到最低。可这又有什么意义呢？

Will my life end in year 23? I'll be 24 next year, yet I achieved nothing. I believed in my capabilities, I believed that I can be a successful person and have a great life in earlier time. If not this year, perhaps next year I'll do something incredible. Year after year, life is still the same. Nothing has been done, I returned to the beginning, point of zero. Will my hardwork definitely be rewarded? Will my givings be returned? Will failure never come after success? I knew that to not waste life is to live for God. But what does God wants me to do? If God has given me freedom of choices, what should I choose? Sometimes I rather have no choice, yet I'm tired of competitions, cause the world is a jungle, the arena to fight for survival. Therefore I'm still sitting at home, away from harm. Perhaps I will never succeed, but I can minimise the risk, but is there any meaning to any of these?

I love my hummus

2009-10-19T15:20:00.003+13:00

I always wanted to make my own hummus, because it is not easy to get here and the imported ones are quite expensive. After gathering my basic ingredients, yesterday I finally put my thoughts into action. It is so yummy having it with prata or any bread. The following are my ingredients:

Dried chickpeas (Soaked overnight and boiled in water with a pinch of salt for over 1 hour)

Few cloves of garlic

Fresh lime juice (can't find lemon)

Salt and Pepper

Olive oil

Another variation was added

Black Sesame Powder (got it from Daiso, cheaper than tahini)

Dried parsley

Blend the ingredients together with some water (I use the one from boiling chickpeas to optimise the nutrition). :)

The 'real' hummus includes lemon juice, tahini, and some cumin or paprika.

Can try it at home, it's a healthier substitute for fat or sugar based spreads. Try it with baked pita or baked tortilla chips (I'm yet to try). Enjoy. :)

God is good

2009-10-07T20:31:00.003+13:00

Recently I have been trying to calm my emotions and thoughts and review my life and relationship with God and others. It's good that I have been away from home and start thinking on my own. Firstly, I have to be honest that I have not been spending enough quality time with the Lord. Although I struggle every morning whether to do quiet time or not, mostly I either gave into other activities or I simply unable to focus on the Word. I came to Singapore purposely for KKR revival meeting. Deep inside me know strongly that I have to come here because I am no longer discipline enough to go near the Lord. Therefore, I sacrificed the celebration of mid-autumn festival with my parents for this event because I knew the Lord wants me to be here. It's good to see my friends and people from the church again. I feel like a 'prodigal son', that I have not done anything nor offer any kind of physical help towards the success of KKR event, yet they still welcomed me as if I had done something great. I feel much humbled by everyone here, by their devotion and commitment to the Lord's work.

Secondly, I decided to move on. I knew I should not stop at this point for too long because time doesn't wait, I will become old, and I will pass away some day, or the world will fade away. How much time I have on earth to serve the Lord? How much time I have to serve the people I love? How much time I have to contribute to the society and to show the goodness of the Lord? It came to my mind that I should accept the F&B project offered recently and plans and ideas began floating in my mind because this is something I have to contribute to help people and spend time meaningfully.

Thirdly, I need to quiet my heart and identify my sins. I had no courage to face my own problems and fears therefore I looked for something to do and ignored them. Yet it was always there and it bothered me since then. I am very cautious about my travelling dreams as they can be idolised easily and distract me from carrying out God's plans. My excuse was God didn't tell me what to do so I should follow my own ambitions!

Read the book of Phillippians last night, it's always the lesson for me:

to have confidence in God that he who began the good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (1:5),

to live is Christ, to die is gain (1:21),

conduct myself in the manner worthy of the gospel of Christ (1:27),

do nothing out of selfish ambition but in humility consider others better than myself (2:3),

to be humble and obedient like Jesus (2:8), do everything without complaining or arguing (2:14),

Rejoice in the Lord always (4:4)

Think positive: whatever is true, noble, right, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (4:8)

Be content in all circumstances, because it is possible through the Lord who gives me strength (4:12-13)

Remember, the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.

Then my spiritual door suddenly widened, and I can feel the peace of God channeled into my heart. And the connection with God rebuilt in the quietness of prayer. Joy cannot be found, it can only be enjoyed in knowing God.

Lord, may you rid the pride, self-pity, selfish ambitions, fears and judgments in my heart. You did not gave me a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, love and self discipline. I must strengthen my weak knees, and lift up my drooping hands, and continue to walk with you, and fight with you. You are always near, never sleep nor slumber, you are all powerful, all knowing and all present. I long to see you with my own eyes, but I do not want to be filled with regrets. Fill me, guide me, lead me, use me, walk beside me, you are the potter, I am the clay. May I take part in your redemption work and enjoy you forever. In Christ's holy name, Amen.

2009-09-30T05:38:00.002+13:00

Profile

Gender: Female
Age: 23
Looking for: Travelling companion / volunteering opportunity / mission work / working holiday / short course / interesting job opportunity / a life!
Hobbies: Internet surfing, watch tv, facebook, reading, travelling, daydreaming, arts and crafts, photography, cooking
Status: Unemployed, not under education or training, basically means do nothing.
Wanting: To stop wasting life / make self useful.

Anything welcomed as long as affordable. :)

Knot

2009-09-25T02:03:00.002+12:00

How do I explain/demonstrate the reality of God without being sound contradictory to myself? In fact I am always contradicting my belief. I know that God is real, He has been doing wonderful things in my life, and He will do more later. But how do I defend myself when people ask me why I am doing what I am doing now? How do I tell people that greatest joy can only be found in God while I'm not appearing happy to others? How do I recommend a good product for others if I don't enjoy using it myself? My heart is pounding everytime I see or hear people chasing after worldly things in vain, I want to tell them that God loves them and it is the best thing to know God, but what's in my life to prove that God is good? I have faith that God is the best, but I have no faith in myself that I will not ruin the conversation/ the image of God which I portray to others in speech and way of life. I have deep compassion for the people around me who do not know God, I am eager to tell them, but I'm afraid that I will say the wrong thing and make things worse. It hurts me back when I feel helpless in doing nothing in sharing with them about the good news.

God, I love you, but I can't prove it/bring it to action, am I a failure? Lord, my life is a failure to most, which brings no glory to your name. How I can make myself successful (means happy and enjoying You and knowing my purpose) and show others that Christianity works?

I don't know how to live my life, I just feel that I cannot go on. Some things need to be resolved in me, but how? and who can help me to identify and overcome them?

Home

2009-09-10T04:41:00.002+12:00

Finally I'm back in Kuala Lumpur, my home. Nothing is better than home, so comfortable, so hassle-free, pretty much. Still, I am having my European dream. During the day everything is ok, but when I try to close my eyes and sleep, things floating in my mind. What about God's will? What about my family and friends? What about my degree? What about my phone and internet accounts in Singapore? What about... too many what ifs and what abouts... worries. Is my faith too small to trust that God cares and doing something in my life? Yet I can't figure out what is the next step, and I don't have the energy to do so. Rest... and rest... until I find out the answer.

Tour Route

2009-08-27T04:42:00.002+12:00

Possible route plan：

Frankfurt - Cologne - Utrecht - Amsterdam - Hannover - Bremen - Hamburg -Berlin - Leipzig - Dresden - Prague - Vienna - Salzburg - Garmisch - Lindau - Freiburg - Heidelburg - Rudesheim - Frankfurt

in 21 days (Eurail)!

Possible?

"Intoxicated" by Europe

2009-08-27T04:32:00.002+12:00

My heart is confused again, burning with flames going to Europe. This is a dream I have since I learnt about fairytales and the world map. Flight to Frankfurt less than SGD1000, September best time to travel, no job, has some savings just enough for a month, friends there, less than 25 years old. If not now, when is the best time to travel? I feel so complex, how about my cafe business? How about my family? How about God? Will they bless me? What about my back, will my backache suddenly vanish and supports 20kg for 30 days? How about my sleep? Will I able to sleep well whenever I go? How? How? How? Why am I always putting myself in this position? Is this godly? How to be godly in this situation? How to listen? How do I know where God is leading me? Ah... too hard lah...

Justify Full

2009-08-22T02:01:00.003+12:00

Feeling complex right now. Tomorrow is my last day of work. I don't know how to conclude. I even doubt whether I have made the right decision. When I look at myself in a third person position, I am shocked that how can a person so contradicting to herself?

There are two worlds, two kinds of people in my life. They are the same in nature, they are humans, normal people, but they have different personalities. I grouped them into two because I can relate well to one group, but cannot relate to the other group at all. I do not know whether I tried to pretend or tried to be someone else to please everyone, until I do not know who I am anymore. I feel like a solar energy activated device, like a calculator, only works under light, but useless in darkness. Or a laptop without battery, completely rely on the power input from the wire cable. I feel 'normal' when I am being with Godly, Christian friends, yet when I am within the world, I lost my light and saltiness, I feel dead. Why is it? I tried to remember the bible and God's goodness but my memory is just so bad. I can only remember things which are related to things happening at the moment or things completely unrelated at all, but cannot remember the things which really matters.

How do I conclude my current job? On one hand I feel that I had done my best, and I solved a lot of problems and made things straight, I helped whenever I can, tried to be a good worker in God's and people's sight, and I had contributed some useful ideas and input to the department. Yet on the other hand, I feel completely useless. After talking to my colleagues, I feel that my presence had brought a lot of trouble to the department, and everyone had tried to help me yet I still could not ''get myself up'' to do the things I suppose to do. The worst thing is my mouth. Even how hard I tried to guard my mouth still I said a lot of things I'm not supposed to said to people I'm not supposed telling to. I don't know when is the right time to speak, when is the right time to remain silent. In fact, I always do the opposite, that's maybe why I got myself into a dilemma. One side of me feels strongly to stay and make a difference in the workplace, prove myself right. The other side of me strongly feel that I am wasting my life, this is not the path I destined to walk, there are something else out there for me to discover and accomplish. I think, other than personality clashes and cultural differences at work, I am torn inside my inmost being as well.

I can repent and sing God's song for a moment. Yet another time complaining about other people and everything. I hate myself for so divided. I can be simple, one heart, purely worshiping God for a moment, and the next moment I feel self pity and ashamed for myself, but thinking others are not much better. How evil I am! Or I can laugh and celebrating my freedom from all these commitments and bondages, but at the same time sad and disappointed with myself for being irresponsible and unable to endure and commit to make a difference? Between myself, people, a dream, and God, whom/which do I really really live for? Sometimes I live for myself, sometimes I live for my family, sometimes I live for someone whom I admire, sometimes I live for my dream, sometimes I live for God. I 'vowed' to God at some points of life that I will believe in Him and love Him with all my heart, all my soul, all my strength. I do, when I remember. But when I forget, I don't know who I lived for. Does it meant that I do not love God enough? Maybe I don't, because I am not capable to, I am an emotionally handicapped person, I have problem loving others. Even I do, I'm unable to love with all my being all the time, but only fragments of time.

My heart can tell me to serve God and love Him and do His Will, but my heart will tell me to follow my dreams, for youth is God-given and short-lived, and I should enjoy the most while I can. My rationale is telling me that I should deny myself, do something meaningful even it will cost my youth and dreams. Will God give me a dream and through this dream I can serve His Kingdom? Or will God give me something seems impossible to do, to test my obedience and devotion to Him, then later on only reveal the fruits? How open should I open myself to God? It will be better for Him to limit down the options so that I can choose carefully and correctly, the road which leads to something which has everlasting value.

How can I love God and try not to talk about Him at the same time? How can I love God and pretend I don't pray before I eat? Why do I pretend as if there is no God in my life? How can I do that? Why do I know I need to submit to authorities but still crossing red lights? At the very moment I was doing it I was thinking over it as well, my will is strong but not strong enough to change my actions. As if my brain, my four limbs, my mouth, my ears, my eyes, all working on their own, like government hospital. I have less and less sense of 'control' in at own body, work, and life itself.

I just want to be simple. Even I pride but hate about myself at the same time. Do I love myself? Which type of love? Narcissism? Or love myself as a temple of Christ?

Lord, I had failed you many many times, too many until I am too ashamed to ask for you acceptance again. Look at the horrible me and the unquenchable longings I have, there is no other place for answer except one thing: "Unconditional Love" which only can be found in Jesus Christ. The Law fails, I hate the laws, everyone is trying to be judges and placing judgement on every single person they met. Even a world can run 'smoothly' under man made laws, it is meaningless. For what? If it is not to protect weak and poor, and bring justice for the victims, to protect people from getting hurt, what is the law for? Law is law. Law is dead. There is nothing wrong to cover our own 'backsides', therefore directly or indirectly is blame is pushed to others, but someone has to bear the blame, and be punished. Love is different. Something Singaporeans has a lot to learn for. Love is patient, love is kind, love is when someone go volunteer himself and take up the blame and punished for other's 'sins'. But the problem is, after the person is free from punishment, he goes on and goes on doing that same thing and making others to absorb his blame. Is it fair? Can love surpasses the law, at the same time justice is being made? Too complicated. If I have to choose one, I choose to hate my rotten, dying flesh, and trust the bible says that one day Jesus will come again, and our bodies will be transformed into glory. Hate myeself - Love God - Wait in Hope like a sweet, quiet, child.

Visions

2009-08-17T00:33:00.005+12:00

Again, relieved after rejected being offered second chance to stay and work at my current job. I don't really have anything to let go except the money. haha. My dreams are burning again, it was hard to suppress my passion while I doing something I do not enjoy, and it turned out to be a nightmare. Yesterday I had a good day of rest at home, and re-look at my cafe business plan which I wrote 1 year ago before I start work in Singapore. I drew out the possible image of what my cafe will be look like, and revised my business plan in further detail.

I have 3 passions in life: 1. God and redemption of His people 2. Hospitality 3. Fine arts.

Passion for God has been planted in my heart since I was around 5 years old when I first started going to Sunday school, and passion for the redemption of His people was awakened when I learned more about Him while studying in New Zealand. I was disappointed with the churches I went in Kuala Lumpur, and had hard time looking for the 'right' church to fellowship with. That led me to make the decision of working and staying in another country, Singapore.

Passion for Hospitality sprouted when I was working in New Zealand. I hate hospitality to a certain degree, for some reasons. Yet I see many problems can be fixed and it can be a pleasant career and place for people to enjoy and relate. I love making espresso coffees and various drinks while I worked in a small cafe in Palmerston North. It was my ideal, I loved working there, except they have too little hours for me. It was a small cafe with less than 10 tables, small counter with a 2 ground Espresso machine accompanied by the coffee grinder, with some cakes, slices, muffins, and pastries. The regulars were the sales promoter from the CD shop nearby, a call operater from Telecom, hairdressers, chocolate shop owners, guitar shop owner, some lawyers, and retired old folks. I enjoyed talking with them, serving them while each of them have different preferences, I remembered their names and their favourite coffees. I loved decorating fluffy for kids and see their delighting faces. I simply love to serve and bring joy to people.

Passion for fine arts started naturally, I discovered it when I started to learn how to hold a pencil and drawing shapes and putting colours. Mum knew it and searched for a few arts teacher for me to learn from and I ended up attending art class with a famous local artist in Kuching for a few years. As I can remember I had 3 arts teacher in Kuching. My paintings were exhibited at Waterfront, a famous landmark in Kuching, was proud when my parents saw it there, unforgetable. Then I joined Arts Society for 5 years in high school, done a lot of things there, memorable experiences.

I'm an idealist, I tend to get everything at once and don't want to compromise one or another. After quitting my job, this thought came into my head: start a IEC church in KL, open my cafe, and hang/sell my paintings in the cafe, and the church is partially funded by the cafe. Hahaha.... seems too idealistic isn't it, I am greedy. Advantages of IEC: Well grounded in the Truth and Grace of God, Indonesian speaking = similar to Malay (opportunity to approach malays without being too obvious), Chinese speaking = my mother tongue, and most of my friends speak mandarin, unity and understanding between Indonesians and Malaysians, and a support for Indonesian and other overseas students in KL.

In conclusion, I can fulfill my 3 passions at the same time: have a church family in KL (can bring my family there), opportunity to reach out to unbelieving friends, a 'tentmaking' source which I can enjoy (cafe), and place to express my passion for arts, don't mention I can reach out to my regular customers too, and give Malaysians a chance to taste real Espresso coffee!

Wa... am drooling already, daydreaming huh... well it seems workable. I will keep it low key cos some people might think that i'm daydreaming again. But this is my life passion, I wish it can happen, if it's God's will. Anyway, I have my first confirmation today that IEC is going to KL(at the right timing)! the rest, see how things go first... maybe before I start the business I will work somewhere else to save up more, and maybe I will come back to Singapore again for a while... who knows... lets commit all my dreams into His hands and let Him work through it. :)

Just want to be in You

2009-08-05T00:29:00.002+12:00

Lord, why the burden of life seems so heavy? I am exhausted, cannot breath. No more strength to face tomorrow, how am I going to finish my last month at work? Why my tears always could not wait to gush out from the corner of my eyes? Why can't I reason anymore? Why can't I even handle small things? I am so ashamed of myself, whom the one said no fear in life, yet have so much fear. I lost my sleep in vivid dreams, I am sleepy throughout the day, I have no appetite to eat. When the wheel of life seemingly going up again, it became worse than it's original state. Are you challenging me? Who are you? The Lord or Satan? Let me go, let go this fragile, helpless soul , leave me alone for a while so that I can regain my strength to fight again.For there is still this little voice of hope telling me that, 'I'm not defeated yet, let's wait and see!'

Father, I won't ask you to prove your love to me, for the cross has explained it all. I won't ask you to heal me, for you know what you are doing and there is a purpose behind it. I won't ask you to fulfill my desires, dreams and earthly longings, for I am certain that you have something far greater. But Lord, please don't hand me over to Satan, don't let be me too weak to sin. Just give me this last little strength to live a holy and blameless remaining life, and always be in You.

Decision Made

2009-08-04T03:06:00.002+12:00

Finally, I resigned. Feel relieved. Should have done this long time ago. Yet I feel sad, for the fact that I'm leaving Singapore, leaving IEC, leaving God's grace (in Singapore). Thank God for all my friends here, Hilda, Nigel, Cedric, Lilis, Ita, Daniel, Jane, Wenting, Shee How, Pa Yahya, Bu Jung Jung, Maria, Siu Sien, Lily, Evelyn, Cecel... many many more... Lord you are so gracious towards me, for putting these people in my life. Maybe I will stay here, maybe I will move on. Yet no matter what, you are sovereign over my life, you are looking after me. My faith and hope is in you, I trust in your sovereign love. Thank you for Jesus, thank you for the cross which set me free. No guilt in life, no fear in death, here for the power of Christ I stand. Amen.

Once Again

2009-08-04T03:01:00.001+12:00

Heroes of faith and The Great Hero

2009-07-27T01:20:00.005+12:00

I knew God was speaking to me at church today. Thanks Pa Yahya. I will again strengthen my weak knees and lift up my drooping hands, and continue to walk on according to His strength in this road of life filled with trials and tribulations.

My emotions still relatively unstable, but feeling a lot better than past few weeks. Just finished Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows last night. I reckon it was a great piece of literature. Reading it in light of the gospel, it moved me and lifted my hopes up in real life. Life itself is an adventure. As I admire the adventures, tears and joys in the story, I realised that it can happen and is happening in my own life too. Miracles are not a myth, the possibility of victory over death exists in the revelation of Christ's power on the Cross. Life is not meaningless, purposeless, there is something to it, something for us to fight for, to win for. Harry Potter did not know what he was suppose to do, he even doubted Dumbledore. Yet he chose to obey his instructions and kept his promise. It costed blood and lives, but it was rewarding in the end for a great cause. That's what's it's all about, to fulfil the God-given destiny, fight and stand in faith until the return of my dearest King. Harry is a fictional figure, but Jesus Christ is real, he chosed to lay down His own life, nobody force or kill him. He has the courage to walk towards death even He knows how much it will cost Him. He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed... I'm like a dumb sheep gone astray, did not trust him and a mockery to his name. Yet he is patient towards me, for he knows what I am. He cares, he knows my every thoughts, he knows my every sin, he knows my end, and He has saved me before I know it. He is my true saviour. He is my real hero.

This book reminded me a lot of things, especially the spiritual battle fought as a community of Christians, not as individuals. Our predecessors had fought the good fight, we are fighting now, and we ought to pass down the legacy to the next generation, until the victory is won. It reminds me of Hebrews 12, we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses (I always thought who these witnesses are, now I think it refers to the previous chapters, to great warriors of faith like Abraham, Moses, David, Samuel, Peter, Paul... and it goes on, to St. Augustine, Hudson Taylor, Mother Teresa, Wang Mingdao, Jim and Elisabeth Elliot, William Wilberforce, Jonathan Edwards, Martin Luther... many many more unknown names, and the battle goes on... ), and please, lay down every heavy weight and sin that clings so closely, let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, look up to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Never give up.

Amen.

Stuck

2009-07-09T02:49:00.003+12:00

I don't know what is it that bothering me, but the weight of the pain actually turned my face away from God. I'm tired for asking for His grace upon me, I'm too tired to ask. Life's greatest despair is to lose one's hope. One might think that it's only a job, why so upset about it? I don't think it's about work only, why am I bearing the debts of my family, because of that moment of pleasure to study overseas? All my hardwork in earning a degree just to be enslaved for more money? I want freedom, freedom to choose, freedom to go, not to tied up here like a prisoner. There will be no ending of earning money, the gaps will never be filled. How do I run, if my legs are being tied up to a big heavy rock? Above all, I'm disappointed with my family, all they want is to me to earn more and pay off their debts, don't care what I suffer at the moment, even I asked them a few times to go back. For God, if He is there watching me, why is He letting me to face all these alone and not doing anything? For the world, there is no mercy, only self profit and self edifying, and I will not ask for its mercy. Where should I turn to? I have no where to go.

Numb

2009-07-08T20:21:00.002+12:00

Numb lyrics
Songwriters: Bennington, Chester; Shinoda, Mike; Bourdon, Rob; Delson, Brad; Farrell, Darren; Hahn, Joseph;

I'm tired of being what you want me to be
Feeling so faithless, lost under the surface
I don't know what you're expecting of me
Put under the pressure of walking in your shoes

(Caught in the undertow just caught in the undertow)
Every step that I take is another mistake to you
(Caught in the undertow just caught in the undertow)

I've become so numb I can't feel you there
Become so tired so much more aware
I'm becoming this all I want to do
Is be more like me and be less like you

Can't you see that you're smothering me?
Holding too tightly, afraid to lose control
?Cause everything that you thought I would be
Has fallen apart right in front of you

(Caught in the undertow just caught in the undertow)
Every step that I take is another mistake to you
(Caught in the undertow just caught in the undertow)
And every second I waste is more than I can take

I've become so numb I can't feel you there
Become so tired so much more aware
I'm becoming this all I want to do
Is be more like me and be less like you

And I know I may end up failing too
But I know you were just like me
With someone disappointed in you

I've become so numb I can't feel you there
Become so tired so much more aware
I'm becoming this all I want to do
Is be more like me and be less like you

I've become so numb I can't feel you there
I'm tired of being what you want me to be
I've become so numb I can't feel you there
I'm tired of being what you want me to be

This is the best words for how I feel for my boss, and maybe God right now. It's more than numb now but it soon will be. Don't know since when I start crying everytime I talk to her. Now I just cry for no reason, even when I see or think of her, I become depressed and helpless. It's like the dog in the psychology experiment whereby the bell was rang everytime the dog was fed, and then the dog naturally produces saliva when the bell rang even when the food was not there. I am not a dog, the point is, because most of the time I get accused and blamed for making mistakes when she talks to me, I will automatically set up my defensive mechanisms. I don't know who is overreacting here, me or her, but I just feel overwhelmed by the weight of blame in the office.

I work very hard, so hard until I compromised my time for church, family, friends and even quiet time. I OT everyday for almost 3-4 hours a day. Not appreciated but was recognised as rubbish and idiotic executive who does not performs and think through things.

I have a feeling i'm getting a rating '4' for the next appraisal, if not in psychiatric ward. If only I have a choice... just because I am not a citizen of a developed a rich country with huge debts from home because so much spent on my degree in new zealand. I won't say what is fair or unfair, because basically the world is never fair, and basically we deserve it, because unfortunately our great-great-great-greatest grandpa and grandma Adam and Eve had betrayed God. So unfortunately we cannot but sin, and unfortunately we need to live with it and accept life as it is. I wished I am always stupid or always smart, not smart when I'm suppose to be stupid and stupid when I'm suppose to be smart.

I can't see the way out, truly. Neither in future work, nor in better life. It is God's will for me to be tortured, if it is for His glory.

My Help Comes from the LORD

2009-06-30T03:49:00.004+12:00

I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
My help comes from the LORD,
who made heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot be moved;
he who keeps you will not slumber.
Behold, he who keeps Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.

The LORD is your helper;
the LORD is your shade on your right hand.
The sun shall not strike you by day,
nor the moon by night.

The LORD will keep you from all evil;
he will keep your life.
The LORD will keep
your going out and your coming in
from this time forth and forevermore.

Morning at Botanic Gardens

2009-06-30T02:17:00.002+12:00

I took this picture at the eco lake in Botanic Gardens, Singapore. I enjoyed the serenity of the moment in which can hardly be found in other places in Singapore. This photo further evokes my desire to be a photographer. I don't know if I can make a living out of it, but certainly I will not give up that dream, to travel and take nature and landscape photographs, to display the beauty of creation. There's still long way to go, to switch from pratical to artistic, yet that is my little dream.

Psalm 119:25-48

2009-06-23T13:52:00.003+12:00

My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word!
When I told of my ways, you answered me;
teach me you statutes!
Make me understand the way of your precepts,
and I will meditate on your wondrous works.
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!
Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law!
I have chosen the way of faithfulness, I set your rules before me.
I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame!
I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart!

Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end.
Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.
Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.
Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
and give me life in your ways.
Confirm to your servant your promise that you may be feared.
Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good.
Behold, I long for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life!

Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD,
your salvation according to your promise;
then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me,
for I trust in your word.
And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth,
for my hope is in your rules.
I will keep your law continually, forever and ever,
and I shall walk in a wide place,
for I have sought your precepts.
I will also speak of your testimonies before kings
and shall not be put to shame,
for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love.
I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love,
and I will meditate on your statutes.

Monologue

2009-06-21T03:24:00.003+12:00

I don't know where I heard this before, but it is so true to describe my status right now: "when one tried so hard yet failed to achieve anything, the person will turn and go the opposite way." It starts in my work life, then it infected my personal life, then spiritual life, eating me up bit by bit. Dreams which seemed so close are now going further and further away from reality. I can't believe I had been through life in Kuching and New Zealand, there were like a dream, as if I've never been there before. Suddenly I could not recognise myself anymore, I am a stranger to myself.

I looked at the past I admired it, I look to my dreams I adored it, all the possibilities in life. Yet when I look at the present, the past and future vanished, it kills joy and hope. Nothing describe my current feeling better than sadness and emptiness. The perception of despair in life has driven a change in my character, I have to admit I am no longer who I was. I no longer have the passion in my heart, it became an insatiable, unreachable longing for the life I once dreamt of. I become cold hearted, hard, tough person at work, I become a person whom I used to hate and refuse to become. How scary that is, what politics and environment can change a person.

I look at myself, the Anne I used to know, I said to her, hey Anne, where are you now? Where are you, the one who loves God and passionate about life and people? Anne, you once enjoyed everything surrounding you so much, even the unnoticeable things you can appreciate, but now why you are so discontented? Anne, can't you remember that God was so gracious to you, that you experienced what most people would not experience in the world? You have been to New Zealand, you had tasted how good how wonderful God's creation can be. You tasted the goodness of the Lord, His love and faithfulness when you are weakest and loneliest, you experienced his love! Oh how forgetful and unappreciative you are! How can you complain when God withhold his goodness for this time even he promised an eternal life for you? Do you accept only the blessings but not the afflictions he sent? What gives you the right to choose? Who do you think you are? You better laugh when God accepted you as His child, don't be greedy and you got to be patient. Only those who are able to prepare themselves and wait upon Him will be blessed in the day of His return.

Remind yourself of His goodness, Anne, remind yourself of who He is. Who are you but a mere created being? Who are you to question God's goodness? Humble yourself before Him and revere His holiness and beauty. Clothe yourself with the righteousness which comes from the Lamb of God. Go, run, kneel before Him and worship Him, confess your sins before Him, and you may receive the grace of healing. Go Anne, for He is slow to anger and abound in love, He will forgive you according to His steadfast love. Tell Him your troubles, your angers, your frustrations, your disappointments. He is there willing to listen and being patient to you. Pour out to Him, and honor His name, you will receive healing and strength.

Love Him, Anne, with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength. Remember to look upon the cross, where He spread out His arms and nailed for your sins. Remember he has risen and conquered the curse of sin and death. Remember he is alive, at this very moment, He is alive, and watching you typing every single word here. Remember. Don't forget the Promises, He is able to guard your inheritance, your faith till you return to your heavenly home.

Therefore, serve Him, with grace and truth, tend His sheep. Feed the hungry, quench the thirst. Be blessed by being His messenger, carrier of the gospel, to every corners where He intends to redeem. Just rest in His promises and faithfulness, rest in Him, surrender yourself to Him, let Him lead you, protect you, guide you. And you will never regret of this precious life given by Him!

Amen.

St. Francis Prayer

2009-06-16T03:00:00.001+12:00

Recharging mode

2009-06-16T00:37:00.002+12:00

Gosh I got two days MC. Was coughing badly, runny nose and extremely exhausted. Somehow still feeling guilty for taking sick leave. I guess it's time to re-think my life, the way I live, behave and do things. I have been side tracked recently, not knowing what I'm doing, just getting by day by day. A voice telling me that that's not right, I need to "re-calibrate" myself with God's will in my life.

As I am already stressed for things getting out of control at work, I stress myself further for being guilty not going to work and thinking I might be trying to escape subconsciously. And there is a voice telling me, go rest, sleep and eat, then get up and walk again, like Elijah. I don't make equal my boss with Jezebel chasing Elijah, but the situation is similar. Elijah was wearied and exhausted, so do I.

Thank God giving me this time off, so I can re-think about my attitude towards things. I confess that I am not putting all effort at work, and am focusing on the escape routes. I no longer have the courage to confront the problems and people, rather putting my head in the sand like the ostrich. Obviously this is not going to help at all. Lord, not matter what will happen in a few months time, I thank you for giving me this job. I repent for my sins of being slack and cold hearted. Revive me Lord, give me that passion to serve again, to serve my boss, the patients, my colleagues and subordinates. Forgive me for taking things lightly. Revive me, give me wisdom and strength again to be a good witness and testimony for You. I am ashamed for who I am and what I'm doing right now. Please give me a new chance and make it right. Show me the way out and solutions to the problems and issues. Lead me to do your will, and I shall give all glory to your name. Amen.

Weak again

2009-06-13T15:33:00.002+12:00

Sometimes I just wish that I'm a bit more consistent in my character. It just shatters too easily when things seem too difficult to overcome in life. I'm feeling frustrated recently, mainly because of work, I feel very discouraged and unmotivated since I have been criticized everyday that I don't know what I'm doing and I'm not performing at all etc.

I have been thinking lots. Especially on my vision in life and what are the options etc. Always come to the conclusion that I want to do so much, but there is so little that I can do. My European dream is farther and farther away since my mum told me there's a huge bank debt due to my study in NZ needs to be paid off. Changing job means that I will get a lesser pay job, and before that I need to get my PR before I can hop somewhere else. Argh, why is life so hard?

I'm just very tired again, physically, mentally, and spiritually weak. I know I need some rest, but no matter how long I slept I'm still drained, unable to recharge. Why oh why... Lord give me strength, vision and hope.

Our Loving Father Carrying Us Through Life

2009-05-29T15:10:00.006+12:00

This morning in my quiet time God revealed the idea of him carrying us through in our lives. In Deuteronomy 1:29, when God called Moses to bring the Israelites into the hill country of Amorites, the Israelites were afraid that God is going to destroy them. Then Moses said to them, "Do not be in dread or afraid of them. The LORD your God who goes before you will himself fight for you, just as he did for you in Egypt before your eyes, and in the wilderness, where you have seen how the LORD carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way that you went until you came to this place." Deut 1:29-31

The idea of God came to fight for the Israelites and carries them all the way through into the promise land is overwhelming. He's not just up there watching them struggling but he involves! Therefore when we look back in our lives, isn't God carrying us through until now in the midst of difficulties and uncertainties?

In another occasion in Isaiah 30, the Israelites went to seek refuge and protection from Pharaoh in Egypt instead of asking God for direction. Yet God says, "In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and trust shall be your strength." Isa 30:15

My understanding for this verse is to repent and rest in his promises, and be calm in our soul while waiting upon him in trust we are strengthened. And one day we shall weep no more (Isa 30:19), and he will be gracious to us that as soon as he hears our cry, he answers us, and though he gives us the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet he will hide himself no more but our eyes shall see him.

Jesus says Matthew 11:28 'Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.'

May our eyes be opened and find rest in His Truth. Amen

Sorry can't put words in a whole sentence

2009-05-22T02:39:00.002+12:00

Tired
Afraid
Prayed
Regained strength
Went to work
Okay
Sudden appraisal from boss
Upset but sober
Busy
Sad
Public Lecture
St Andrews
Alister McGrath
Awesome
Before the throne of God above
In Christ Alone
Be thou my vision
Cried
Repented for my sins
Seek for a specific vision from God
I am special and unique to God
He will always be with me Matt 28
Joshua 9
Romans 12:2
...
Pearl - kingdom - precious
I am unique which something only I can do
Vision:
1. Who God is
2. What is the gospel and its impact
2. Who we are

will be continue and refined...

Today

2009-05-21T02:23:00.002+12:00

Frustrated at work, desire for a change. Want to go Europe and go nomadic. Need to survive and support others, how? Am I thinking too much? Ah, who cares, it will all work out.

Want to be more 'humanised', loving, kind and feminine. Sick of being logical (nor I'm a Vulcan), rational, and firm. I want to be myself. I miss me.

Father I'm running into your arms again, being your little daughter, seeking your comfort and protection. I'm resting in your arms, listening to your gentle whisper, letting go of every worrisome tasks in the world...

Tomorrow will have tomorrow's worries. Let me finish off today with a good rest in peace.

God is My Strength and Portion Forever

2009-05-20T13:05:00.003+12:00

Was reading Ps 73 last night and this morning. As I am exhausted and wearisome from work, God has given these words to me:

When my soul was embittered,
when I was pricked in heart,
I was brutish and ignorant;
I was like a beast toward you.

Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me to glory.

Whom have I in heaven but you?
And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

May these words engraved in my heart always, indeed Your grace is sufficient for the day. To live is Christ, to die is gain. I will do my part well, and leave the worries and anxieties to you. I will lift up my burden from my shoulder and offer them to you. My life is not mine, I am a slave for Jesus alone, therefore I have been set free from the enslavement of others. May you use me as a channel for your light, grace, mercy and love. May others see no longer me but Christ in me. Ah may all glory be unto your name. Fill me with your Spirit of power and love, no more timidity. May I be a blessing for somebody today!

Amen

It is well with my soul

2009-05-20T13:02:00.000+12:00

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

Refrain

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

Refrain

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

Refrain

But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord!
Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul!

Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Refrain

Escape

2009-05-16T00:45:00.003+12:00

Glad that this week is over. It has been heavy, stressful and hectic. Need a rest. Offended people at work, showed my weakness and bad attitude towards others. I am an individualist, could not stand and accept certain things and I will not compromise.

Maybe this is not the job for me. I want to be an artist. I want to paint, to photograph, to write, to compose, to craft. Yet sadly that side of me is dying day after day. I'm losing my skills and ability to express each day. Everyday I struggle to accept the way life is, as what everyone has been telling me. I pretend to be content, I give thanks, yet something is there pleading for me to escape.

Yes, my word for the moment: Escape. Just want to escape, no matter where, as far as possible from this horrible place. Don't want to be controlled, don't want to be manipulated, don't want to be restricted, don't want to be limited. Yet I pose another question: what makes me deserve to escape? If this is for me, should I run away from the 'fate', the life that is being planned for me?

God, what is obedience? I try to obey you everyday, yet I failed. Is obedience accept the way life is and endure through it all? Is it rebellious to choose my road and walk the life I prefer to? What is right and what is wrong? What is your will?

Nothing seems ever changed. I thought I had, but everything comes back again. My attitude, my bad temper, my confusions, my doubts, my depression, my low self esteem, all coming back again. I though I had conquered it over the years, yet it all came back again, I feel like a double failure, even worse than before. Why can't I just change and be good? the peaceful way.

I feel less Christian now, I know what I'm talking about, you don't have to talk to me in a Christian way. I know I am not Christian at this moment. I know I need to repent and submit myself to God. But the anger is burning in my heart and it is growing. I'm tired, just tired.

Not justifying any of my thoughts or behaviour. I'm just telling how I feel right now. I need some rest, simply. Homesick. Lonely.

I meant to be a loner. This is who I am, rebellious, weird, difficult to live with, difficult to please, difficult to understand.

The Anchor

2009-05-06T03:12:00.002+12:00

The Lord is my Rock, when I am lost wandering in the seas of uncertainties, He alone is my Rock whom I need to anchor with faith on. The Rock is definitely strong enough to hold my little boat of life, but it depends on how big is my anchoring faith to hold it. Lord, give me a super duper huge anchor so that I can cling on You the Mighty Rock even in the midst of fiercest storm!

Being disciplined by Father

2009-05-06T02:21:00.005+12:00

I rather take risks for Christ than seek security and comfort for myself. For which is scarier: the challenges in front of my eyes, or separation from God eternally, or seeing people around separate from God eternally? I can never turn back to the life I was in, though sometimes I was tempted. Not that I am going to do something so great and fearful in life, but the more I know the Truth, the more I hunger for something greater than the life in the past. Sometimes I feel very lonely, like no one could understand or walk with me, especially when my family don't understand. It would be the best if my family could love God and worship God more and walk with me in this battle of life. Maybe this is not their calling.

I kept thinking of Christ crucified on the cross and the nails going through His hands and feet after came back from listening to khorale's performance at Esplanade. They were singing a hymn called "were you there?", I can only remember the words of the song were: "were you there, when Christ was crucified? Each time I think of it I would tremble..." Why is Christ crucified? What was the price he paid and what was he paying for? He either was mad, a liar, or He was speaking the truth. If Christ can crucify himself so lonely on the cross, what makes him willing to do so? Isn't it the joy of setting his children free and enjoy the relationship with God the Father forever?

I tremble. I do tremble. It's just work right? Why am I having so much fear to face tomorrow? Even the people are so mean, even problems are so many, even big decisions need to be made., even time is not enough, even my body is weak.. If God would give His son for us, who can be against us? Who can separate us from the love of God in Christ?

Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? "My son, do not regard lightly in the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives." ...

but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for you feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled... (Hebrews 12:3-15)

I love this passage of the bible... it speaks right through me at the moment, nothing seems more appropriate. What are my struggles? Have I shed my blood? My hands are droopy, knees are weak indeed, but I need to strengthen myself and walk straight again. I had failed to make peace with people at work, that's exactly what I need to work on, because if I have not being gracious to other people, how am I going to obtain grace from God? And if I am bitter because other being mean to me, I will start defend myself and making waves of troubles... and that would not make me a good witness for God...

Can I get through all this? If He is my helper, will I still fear? If I still fear, that means I do not know him nor believe in Him. If I have no fear because even He is helping me, what can mere human being do to me?

Can I be joyful and content? Yes I can. I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to be abound. In any and every circumstance , I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. Just simply because I can do all things through HIM who strengthens me (Philippians 4:11-13). May all praise and worship be to the Holy God alone. Amen.

Balinese Court Gamelan Semara Pagulingan

2009-05-05T16:48:00.001+12:00

A Tapestry of Sacred Music

2009-05-05T14:23:00.002+12:00

One thing I like about Singapore is the free arts and cultural performances and exhibitions. I went to a music festival in Esplanade called 'a Tapestry of Sacred Music' on last Sunday and watched chorale, Indian tabla and sitar performance, and Balinese Court Gamelan.

Tim Hawkins - Corporate Worship Tunes

2009-04-30T21:35:00.002+12:00

I need Jesus

2009-04-25T15:07:00.003+12:00

Today is my off day. No peace. Bored. Empty.
Need love, need friends, need family, need Jesus.
Frustrated, weary, tired, burdened, need Jesus.
Lost confidence, fear, anxiety, need Jesus.
Feel like good food, good drink, good movie, good shopping, good book, need Jesus.
Need a way out, a solution, energy, wisdom, perseverance, need Jesus.
Need fulfillment, happiness, comfort, need Jesus.
I need Jesus.

Longing for His Kingdom

2009-04-14T03:30:00.002+12:00

Coming back to Singapore is like from paradise to hell. Why is there such a huge contrast? I had a glimpse of heaven yet groaning deep inside my heart that we are living in an imperfect world, full of suffering, pain and hopelessness. We have sinned and separated from God and we need him to live out who we are.

It is like a wake up call for me, it was the right time I bought a book from second hand bookstore called ‘Revolution in World Missions’ by K P Yohannan. This book strikes me so much that it slapped me in the face and revealing how sinful my life is in living in an affluent society yet unthankful, and claimed to have faith but no actions for the Great Commission. My friends are suffering in one form or another, my relatives do not believe in Jesus, my colleagues probably never heard of the gospel. What should I do?

I cannot see so far ahead but I know what I need to do now: to get back to God, study his word, meditate upon it, and pray. The voice is stronger and stronger that He is going to make me do something great or huge for His Kingdom. But this is not the time yet; this is just the time to shape my character, to build up my experience and knowledge in order to carry out the ‘mission’ in the future. I am not an ambitious person; it does not matter for me if I am doing anything great in life or just an ordinary person. But one thing I know is, God has put into my heart so much passion or empathy for the world and it is going to accumulate and in the end push me to do something, which I do not know yet.

I would like to move to a nice little village with my family, completed with everything we need, away from all the hustles and bustles in the big cities, go fishing in the weekends, work with my own hands and get rewarded… not worrying too much about everything. But I knew I couldn’t do it, because it is selfish. I will not even able to account to myself that I know Christ has done everything on the cross and yet I keep the gospel to myself, taking the good and ignoring the needs, especially when Yohannan mentioned in his book that when every pulse you feel, there are people dying without hearing the gospel.

Lord, but how? It is easy to say, but how do I serve You? I struggle everyday with completing my work task and stay healthy and vibrant. I am weary and tired, mind is full of fears, problems to solve, worries… how do I serve You? I hardly have time to fellowship with other believers, cannot go to church on Sundays, Lord You know my heart aches everytime when I missed a cellgroup, church service, or quiet time with You. You know my struggles, you know my weaknesses. I repent for all my sins of being materialistic and hedonistic at times, setting up idols to fulfil my hunger and emptiness. It is a constant battle mentally, physically and spiritually. I pray that no matter how, never let me forsake my faith in you (for it is the stupidiest thing to do), and use me for your glory, in loving, serving, praying for others, and take part in the work of the gospel. May your kingdom come, your will be done. May your name be glorified above all else. Amen.

Awesome Weekend in Sabah

2009-04-14T01:12:00.008+12:00

It has been long since I blog. Blogging is a good indicator of my ‘spiritual awakeness’ as I often was being caught up and ‘buried’ by everyday routines and find no inspiration to write at all.

I just came back from a short trip in Sabah with my family during the Easter weekend. It was so awesome and it makes me feeling that my soul has coming back again. I have been missing those days in New Zealand while life is full of input and colours from travelling, university life with friends and OCF etc. Work is so boring in reality and inescapable, full of challenges, routines, and stress.

Talk about the holiday first, I went to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of state of Sabah, in northern East Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. We had minimum planning beforehand so everything just happens as it goes. My first challenge was renting a car in the airport (terminal 2), and drive it to terminal 1 where my family was. I haven’t drive since last year and I was slightly unconfident but I made it safely there. In the first day we were just checking in to the hotel, sort out our plans, hanging around in the city and markets.

We watched the beautiful sunset at Tanjung Aru beach and had dinner at the seafood place in Kampung Air, where there were hundreds choices of live seafood and free Kadazan performance on stage. The clams, shellfish, bamboo chicken with rice wine, sea cucumber etc were so good you can never find them anywhere else in the peninsula or Singapore.

Second day we decided to go up to the mountains since we rented a car. Firstly we went to Monsopiad Cultural Village, where the original Kadazan village was located since hundreds years ago. The dance performance was good and I was challenged by the Kadazan-Dusun warrior to shoot the balloon on the stage with the blowpipe. He was quite scary at first but better as he starts talking. We were challenged for the bamboo dance as well which I badly failed due to my weak muscle-nerve coordination. We were showed the houses, lifestyle, history and culture of the Kadazan-Dusun there, and of course the house of skull, where the ‘trophies’ of the headhunters are. Also, they showed us the making of rice wine, sago worms, tried a few traditional games like slingshot, and welcomed with the delicious traditional rice wine.

After the visit to the cultural village, it was the beginning of an adventure of surprises ahead. Our aim was Kinabalu Park where we were hoping to see Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in South East Asia and Australia region, as well as the proboscis monkeys, an endangered monkey species which can only be found in Borneo. We roughly know how to go and how long it takes but did not know what to expect. The road trip turned out so amazing even the roads was not easy to drive on. The villages, paddy fields, stalls, ranges, vegetations, climate, rainforest… were so beautiful and my heart revives as I was praising God all the way through. The air was so cooling and refreshing, and people were so friendly. We went through a few towns, including Ranau and Kundasang, beautiful view, nice coffee too, and there located a war memorial for British soldiers during world war 2. If not mistaken on Anzac day 25 April there will be a mini service there for the remembrance of the sacrifices by Australian and New Zealand soldiers. The best part of the day was the sunset on the mountains, where the clouds intertwined between the ranges, it was one of the most beautiful sunsets I had ever seen in my life. We had Filipino dinner at Kampung Api-Api, was a unique experience, nice ambience and tasty, authentic Filipino food and people.

Third day was the ‘ocean day’. We visited the Sunday market, had our breakfast, and bought some souvenirs there, then headed to the islands after returning the rented car.

We decided to go to Manukan and Sapi Island out of a few islands in Tengku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. We hired snorkelling gears and snorkelled in Sapi and Manukan Island. To my slight disappointment I did neither seen live corals nor huge marine animals nor sea turtles. However the colourful tropical fishes and sea urchins were fun to see and swim with. Clear sea water and white sandy beaches were enough for us to enjoy and relax for a whole day.

As we unable to decide we went back to Kampung Air’s eating place again and had the free flow seafood hotpot there.
This morning went for a walk at Tanjung Aru Beach again to say bye bye. Restaurants there were so nice and I started to imagine having a mini wedding there.

Really if I can I wish to marry a Sabahan or Sarawakian, so that I have excuse to go there frequently or live there! I love East Malaysia and I feel a special connection with that land as there is where I was born and grew up. Sadly, I had to leave for Singapore and back to the real world again.

Twouble with Twitter

2009-03-26T23:49:00.000+13:00

Evermore

2009-03-23T02:41:00.000+13:00

Just love this band so much, even this song is quite old.

I feel dead

2009-03-19T03:18:00.002+13:00

I am aware that something inside me has 'died'. I don't feel 'alive' anymore, just dead and dull working life here. This can be me, but I don't want to remain in this way. Work is way beyond my control, working super duper hard yet still probably will be blamed. I can't deny that I have learnt a lot, overcame a lot of challenges and barriers, and build some good work relationships. However, everything is too overwhelming. If I have a choice and influence to make this place a better place to work, I will definitely stay. If only She will listen.

Somehow I feel lost again. I am desperate for something, something unknown, but huge. Something in which could not be contained in crampy Singapore. The worst thing can ever happen to me is lost of memory, or narrowing of worldview. Scared that one day I will take in everything surround me as the way world is, and forgetting how the rest of the world looks like.

Lost again, I'm again replanning my future route. Should I pick up the arts stuffs again, which I'd always been wanting to get back? Should I start making coffee and travelling around the world? Should I become a missionary in somewhere remote? I just know that, although I can do it, and enjoy it at times, management and administration are not something I have so much interest in.

Lord, I don't know where and how, but please deliver me to a place in which I can feel more 'alive' in. Which I have better work-life balance, more of you, more of the beauty of you and the people you created. I am hunger and thirsty for 'life', something so sweet, nourishing, and quenching, yet seems so far away from me right now. Please replace worries with peace, sorrows with joy, uncertainties with hope, doubt with trust, fear with faith, weakness with strength in you. I need you, Lord, more than anything. I miss you. I don't know and cannot feel where you are, but surely you will are always here, just that I'm not aware of it. Need you more than ever.

Massey University - Massey hosts event for Singapore alumni

2009-03-08T03:14:00.000+13:00

Massey University - Massey hosts event for Singapore alumni

Dreaming again... Anne needs some sleep

2009-03-01T03:40:00.000+13:00

Just came back from IEC fellowship, was so good. Love the sermon from Joseph Tong, love the worship, love the people, love the food, love the culture. Oh the songs they sang for Indonesia day, were so awesome! Man I just love the so many kinds and languages of Indonesian folk songs, and made me miss my home country and cultures back home. I have a sudden urge of 'melting' in the kampungs, eat, live, sing and dance with the villagers...don't mention the lush rainforests, sandy beaches, mighty mountains, tranquil lakes, rich flora and fauna... oh... ah... k... next targets: Sabah KK trip (Easter weekend), Sarawak rainforest music festival (July), Poland (IFES world conference, next year). Other possible plans: Gold Coast, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia, short trips. Hmm... yea... travelling addictive, not good. Lilis says: "Anne will not obsess..." haha. Well I'm just tired so it was a bit random. Nite nite.

Struggling... again...

2009-02-27T02:41:00.003+13:00

I'm getting so sick of myself, I hate being struggling all the time and stressing out about life but I am. Each time the thought of my dreams came, it stung my heart that I just want to get out of here as soon as possible. Always, things turn out the opposite of what I wished for. If not because I have no choice for my first proper job in my life ,I would not work here for another day. I want to be a 'normal' girl who looks after herself, acne free, ladylike and be nice to everybody. But life simply doesn't allow me to do that. I applied for an executive post ended up becoming a supervisor nannying people. What should I do with them? If only I have the power to employ new staff... Of course I need to re-evaluate myself: have I become a monster? Why the world just don't allow me to be a nice little office lady with weekends off and normal shift timings just as everyone else?

God I am so tired my heart is beating irregularly, my eyes are dry and I tried to read the bible but I just cannot. Is there any other way that I can approach you more easily? I do pray, but you seem so far away. The more I work, the more sinful feel about myself. I just want a simple, carefree life, or more meaningful life... I just want to live for you... I am not meant to be bound and enslaved by my heavy work, I don't live to work, I work to live, no, perhaps work to glorify your name, Lord, but just teach me how to do it. Amen

Huayi Chinese Festival of Arts

2009-02-06T04:15:00.003+13:00

After the inspiring shows at Huayi Festival of Chinese Arts at the Esplanade, I feel alive again and feel so blessed by being who I am. Firstly was the east west fusion jazz – with Chinese ‘San Xian’, Indian drums, keyboard, bongo and conga. The band played a few good pieces providing good starter for the night. Then I was dragged unwillingly before the show finish to watch the Taiwanese puppets. I had never seen these puppets live before, but I used to love it on TV as a toddler, and mum told me a lot about puppets as those are her important childhood element. The puppets were so lively and I feel sense of warmth and joy from the bottom from my heart. Lastly, I was dragged again to watch the drums show, originated from my high school, now a famous team performing in many countries. The drum team from my high school is the best in the country, and I loved to watch it as it stirs my heart with every drumbeat. I used to buy tickets to watch the drum performance with my friends and the show tonight brings back a lot of memories.

Please liberate me, Truth

2009-02-04T04:11:00.000+13:00

I feel exhausted. Work is extremely busy, non-stop, and challenging. I don't know when I will be resting completely again. I had a great time spent with family during Chinese New Year, first time celebrating it since I left KL and studied in NZ. I was rostered to work on the first and second day of cny, therefore my parents and brother came to Singapore to accompany me. It makes so much difference with family around even working during festive season, at least I feel their love and support, and don't feel so lonely as compared to last year when I worked in Te Anau. I had 4 days break after that and went back to Kuala Lumpur, home sweet home. Had lots of food all the way from Singapore to KL such as Yu Sheng, steamed fish, cereal prawns, hotpot, mee suah, fishball noodles at Yong Peng, barley dessert and otak-otak at Muar, new year cookies... It was great to be able to meet up with some friends from high school, and visited art teacher's house. Gathering of art society's ex-committee members was awesome and bring back a lot of memories.

Sometimes I just need to constantly reminding myself of who I am, or else I will easily being caught up at work and become a zombie, a slave. Sometimes I get very miserable of being stuck here to work for a living, because I love freedom, travelling and search meaning for life. I have so many questions and trying to find the reason to be happy each day. Life is real, it is fallen, it is cruel. You cannot deny that there are many people who are struggling each day just to survive, they might be battling their illnesses and pains, they might be trying to feed and educate their kids, they might be looking after their sick loved ones. The hospital is the best mirror of reality. It reminds me of our fragile, temporal life, it reminds me of inescapable suffering, illness and pain, it reminds me of an imperfect, fallen world.

What’s the point that you yourself are happily enjoying the luxuries, while others are suffering in pain and struggling to get food to survive? How can you say that this life is wonderful, that you have a perfect family and well-paid job but others are groaning in pain lying in the hospital? Unless you avoid it at all, but there is a disturbing voice in your heart reminding you that perhaps one day you or your loved ones will be like that as well. I tried to escape from the thought at all, pretend that it’s none of my business, because that’s the way life is, for others at least. Yet I feel guilty about it, guilty that I am so selfish, and foolish thinking in such way.

I learnt that there is only one reason I can feel justified to rejoice in, it is hope. Not just any vain hope in a better lifestyle, better next vacation, healthy body, being in love, being with family… because these ‘hopes’ can disappear, just because this world is cursed and imperfect. Only the hope which found in the ultimate Truth can quench my longing for happiness. The hope of promise brought by Jesus from dying on the cross, that I will no longer be enslaved by sin, sinful nature, sinful world, and fallen world as a consequence of sin. The hope that one day I will be free from sinning, suffering, pain, hurt, and disappointment. The hope that one day all my longings will be fulfilled, that the kingdom will come where justice and mercy equally important. The hope that God with full of love and wisdom will rule the world, my heart and soul and completely rest! What a luxury!

Yes I agree that I have no idea what God has in store for me, and at times I have no patience with Him and I asked for something else lesser. Of course I wished I do not have to work, or work at a better place with nicer people and lesser workload. But if this challenging job at the moment can be used by God to shape my character so that I could receive more of His blessing, why not? Ok, I feel content at the moment, I do. There is nothing more I need to ask for, just hope that I will always remember who He is and where my focus is.

Still

2009-02-02T01:50:00.000+13:00

Words and Music by Reuben Morgan

Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
within your mighty hand

When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust

Immanuel

2009-01-21T04:32:00.000+13:00

My Current Favourite Song

2009-01-21T02:15:00.000+13:00

Praise You in This Storm
words by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining
as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:
And I'll praise you in this storm
and I will lift my hands
for You are who You are
no matter where I am
and every tear I've cried
You hold in your hand
You never left my side
and though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry to You
and raised me up again
my strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You
and as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
and as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

The Journey to Eternity

How to share Jesus

Overdraft

Seoul - Day 1

Seoul - My Full Itinerary

Seoul - 1

Recent life

My song of choice this new year

Prayer

My Christmas

Helplessness

Shadow of Death

Church day

Never Alone

What a Friend We Have in Jesus | Joseph M. Scriven

Prayer Request

God controls

Helplessness

Struggles

Moments of confession

I'm going to Seoul

Cats in the East Coast

(Seal) Kiss From A Rose - Sungha Jung

Cuti-cuti Malaysia

Perhentian

Sun

Something's missing by John Mayer

GPS

Maslow's and God's hierarchy

Thoughts for the moment

Transitions

Malaysians are getting there...

Brushing Up My Writing

I am serving the Lord Christ

Ecclesiastes 12:1

Lil thought

Missing New Zealand

Lessons today

a little confession

Greatness of God

My Soul Thirsts for You

It's my birthday

Mountains

Kitty doesn't love me

Geek in the Pink

C.N.Blue Debut Performance

Green rocks!

God's Promise and Abram's Faith

A.N.JELL

Lost

Impression Vietnam: Highlights

Some updates

KL-Bandung-Singapore

Quarterlife crisis

人生苦短 Early mid life crisis

I love my hummus

God is good

Advertisement

Knot

Home

Tour Route

"Intoxicated" by Europe

Justify Full

Visions

Just want to be in You

Decision Made

Once Again

Heroes of faith and The Great Hero

Stuck

Numb

My Help Comes from the LORD

Morning at Botanic Gardens

Psalm 119:25-48

Monologue

St. Francis Prayer

Recharging mode

Weak again

Our Loving Father Carrying Us Through Life

Sorry can't put words in a whole sentence

Today