God Who Fought & Is Fighting For You

The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." - Exodus 14 : 14

Lately, this is the verse that I have frequently saw and heard. Only then I know what God trying to tell me.

I have been too busy with all my work, with all the planning ahead. All of us do, and when we do, we just forget on how to be still. And how it has worked wonders & miracles in our lives.

(Source: www.blackloveforum.com)

Our minds, often played a trick on us on setting our priority right.

The most important thing in life is not our career or our study, neither it is our wealth.

First being foremost is our relationship with God, and secondly our family and friends. Then there are places for ourselves, our career and everything else.

When we have our priority right, we build our relationship based on the priorities list.

Believe me that when God is on top of that list, the rest of them is easier than they look.

Only then, you can learn how to be still, believing that God will fight for you. Because if God can do it before, He will keep doing it for you. Rule: Only if we believe.

Rough Day Ahead

(Source: www.scientificamerican.com)

Ever felt that you are about to face a rough day? Just because you had a bad start? Or are you having a whole bad day, and worry that tomorrow would be the same?

This kind of feelings do come with fear and worries. But the good news is that we should never worry about what is going to happen tomorrow or the future. For God has given us assurance that He would provide for us.

*Read Matthew 6 : 25 - 34

Wait! That doesn't give us an excuse for not working, or doing nothing and just sit there. No no no! We still need to give our best for today, and God will do the rest.

When God Doesn't Answer Your Prayer ...

(Source: www.joiecatipon.deviantart.com)

Christianity is not a religion, but more to a relationship with God. And the way to build this relationship, is through praise, worship, quiet time and prayer. The hardest of these would be prayer.

I believe everyone of us had a moment of disappointment with God; when He doesn't answer our prayer. We got angry, frustrated and discouraged.

But hold on, why are we like that? Think about it. It is the relationship with God. Are we only looking at Him as a "genie in the lamp"? The one who will always grant our wishes with a finger-snap. Or are we looking at Him as a maid or slave? Whom we could order around, doing what we wishes. Then we are building the wrong kind of relationship.

We should always look to Him as a Father. Don't come to Him when there is a problem to solve, wishes to fulfill, work to be done. Come to Him with the motive of building a relationship with Him. And it is not an once time act. It must be done continuously.

Sometimes, a prayer can be go unanswered for years. But know this one thing, God know what's the best for us and only prepared the best for us.

... for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. - Matthew 6 : 8

What I Fear

(Source: www.norcalblogs.com)

What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. - Job 3 : 25

Fear is something that everyone has faced, ever since we were small. It doesn't matter how old we get, there will be small portion of fear in our lives.

But the fact is this; the more you feared, then more likely it will happen. Why is that so?

For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. ... - Proverbs 23 : 7

Surely we know this verse, or heard it somewhere. Our mind is probably the strongest weapon we have, it could either make us or break us. Therefore, we must control what is in our mind. How to do it? Feed our mind with the right information!

Do not worry. Learn to pray about everything. Give thanks to God as you ask Him for what you need. - Philippians 4 : 6

Three keys as we learn from the verse above: Do not worry, pray & give thanks to God.

Believe me in one thing; surely God is big enough and more than enough for everything that we need to go through in life.

Misinterpretation of The Bible?

(Source: www.fairviewbiblechurch.org)

In today world, even in the past, Christians are being divided into different denominations. Each claiming to be teaching the right one.

But when we look at all of them, aren't they teaching based on the Bible? Still, why is there still dispute between denominations?

In fact, I could say all of them are correct in their teachings, as long as it is based on Bible.

Interpretation of the Bible could vary between individual, churches and even leaders. There is no such thing as misinterpretation. Just pray for understanding and wisdom when you are reading Bible. That's the only way to make sure you fully understand the Bible.

Reminder of Life

(Source: www.harringtonmuseum.org.uk)

Every now and then we will receive news that someone passed away, be it people close to us, someone we know or even someone we barely know.

Still every piece of news bring about a certain level of shock. It is a good reminder that anytime, our lives may be gone, just like the wind.

Knowing that fact, we might as well strive for the things we want in life. The pursuit of dream.

But despite all that, there is a life that will never died when we grab hold of. That is the life in Christ. The condition is simple, that is to obey the commandment, love what He loves and hate what He hates.

See, I set before you today, life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to Him, and to keep His commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. - Deuteronomy 30 : 14 - 16

When you have hold on to your life in Christ, God will also bless you in whatever you are doing, bless you in the pursuit of your dreams. Just believe and hold on!

Superhero in The House

(Source: www.genderstudieswithsophie.blogspot.com)

The image of father has always been portrayed as a hero in his kids' eyes. As the kids grow, will they still be looking to their father as their hero? Or will it be someone else? A singer? An artist?

How to stay a hero in the family? A man fearing God and loving his family more than himself. That's the kind of father that every kids will look up to even when they have grown up.

It is actually just as simple as that. When a man put away his ego, he has humbled himself as low as he can be. That's the kind of man that would make a good father.

90% : 10%

(Source: www.pravmir.com)

Talking about the 10%, which is Tithe, do brings certain degree of uncomfortable in a lot of Christians. Anything that has got to do with money at some point, will, always be a sensitive issue. New Christians will almost be certain to shown a Bible passage on Tithe & Offering, which is Malachi 3 : 8 - 10. In which somehow, they are required to do so. But the truth is, without a proper heart, there is no meaning to your Tithe and Offering.

Knowing the reason behind a 10% offering (tithe) from whatever we earned is important as well. It all begin by Abraham, and it continued on from his generation, until what we are doing today. Until Jesus taught about freewill offering, but do not confused this with tithing. They are separated. Tithing is an act of acknowledging God's mercy in your life, for everything that you've earned is because of His grace. On the other hand, offering is an act of love towards God and His churches.

At least, we should be thankful when tithing, and not grumble, even when somebody else ask of you.
WHY? Because you still have the 90% left to do what you want.


At the end, don't we all want to see the promise God made in our lives:

... "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.

Malachi 3 : 9b

From Ordinary To Extraordinary

God had always choose ordinary people to do His extraordinary plan. In the Bible, there lies so many examples for us to learn.

Noah: A drunkard. Abraham: Too old. Isaac: A daydreamer. Jacob: A liar. Leah: ugly. Joseph: Abused by his brothers. Moses: Had stuttering problem. Gideon: Was afraid. Samson: A womanizer. Rahab: A prostitute. Jeremiah: Too young. David: An adulterer and a murderer. Elijah: Was suicidal. Isaiah: Preached naked. Jonah: Ran from God. Naomi: A widow. Job: Went bankrupt. John the Baptist: Ate bug. Peter: Denied Christ. The 12 Disciples: fell asleep while praying. Martha: worried about everything. Zaccheus: Was too small. Paul: Was too religious. Timothy: Had an ulcer. Lazarus: Was dead.

These people in the Bible was as ordinary and some as much as a sinner like anyone of us. But what man says about them are about to change, when God's plan in them start to take shape.


Noah: Build the ark. Abraham: Father of faith and many nations. Isaac: Obedience despite being sacrificed. Jacob: Wrestle with God and won. Leah: Mother to Judah. Joseph: Used by God to save his family from famine. Moses: Led Israelites out of Egypt.. Gideon: Free Israel from Midianites and Amalekites' oppression. Samson: Killed many Philistines and destroyed the temple of Dagon. Rahab: Acknowledge God of Israelites and saved her family. Jeremiah: Called to be prophet at young age. David: A man after God's own heart. Elijah: A prophet. Isaiah: An evangelist and a prophet. Jonah: Preached and saved the city of Nineveh. Naomi: Been given hope to carry on. Job: Kept his faith. John the Baptist: Baptized Jesus. Peter: Leader of the apostles. The 12 Disciples: Fervently preaching out the Good News. Martha: Loved by Jesus. Zaccheus: Hosted Jesus in his home. Paul: Sacrificed for Christ and His church. Timothy: An apostle, saint and martyr. Lazarus: Raised from the dead.

If all those people could experience something extraordinary, so could you and me. Nothing is ever impossible. In fact, God loves to use everyone of us, to do His extraordinary work, to bring honor to His name. This way, people will know, that it wasn't by their might, but by Christ who gives us strength (Philippians 4 : 13).

Are you feeling "you are nothing" today? Fear not! God will and probably is using you now. Always keep your heart open.

Life That Make Great Impact

Couple of days ago, I learned about Edwards Syndrome. I prayed to God more than I usually did. I saw more people touched by a story, a true story. I saw how people could show genuine concern, give encouragement for one another. This is what happen.

A couple, leaders in my church just gave birth to a baby with Edwards Syndrome, Destiny Zoe Oh. Despite doctor initial suggestion for an abortion, the parents didn't give up. So is the baby, having go through the full pregnancy period, she was born.

Been alive for 3 days, and she has touched many lives. Well, let's say she fulfilled her "destiny". Check out their eulogy.

You have lived well, Destiny Zoe Oh.

P.S. Read up and share her story. You could check out twitter trend as well #DestinyOh

To The Greatest Person We Called "Mother"

How great is a mother's love for her children? There got to be no limit to the greatness of her love. And it's definitely not exaggerated. I must say there is a verse that just fits perfectly for the role of a mother.

(Source: www.coconino.az.gov)

1 Corinthians 13 : 4 - 7

Love is patient and kind. Remember how she always patiently answer all our stupid questions and never did she get angry, despite our annoyance?

Love is not jealous. Never did she complain when we spend less time with her, and spending more time with our brand new video game. What she really worries about is that we never do our homework and didn't prepare for the test tomorrow.

Love is not boastful or proud. Have she ever tell you about how she work so hard to bring you up? Well, think again, that's not boasting. Parenting isn't as easy as it seems. Perhaps, we all should wait until we've become parent before we make that statement.

Love is not rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable. Constantly being nagged at doing things that you don't like? It happens to everyone of us. We all should try to just accommodate. There got to be a good reason for all those "It's for your own good" nagging. Don't ever feel resentful! Just do it, and you might just find what you are looking for. If not, at least you tried and you have honored her (most importantly).

Love keeps no record of being wronged. How many times have we blamed her for all the thing that went wrong in our lives? Shame on us! Because she never keeps all those wronging. She feels sad of course, but she will never bring up the matters ever.

Love does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Fairness is her middle name. Since small, she taught us about rewards & punishments. For whatever we do, there will be consequences. We've been taught about equality among our brothers & sisters. So that we could be a person with integrity, who could easily decide what's right or wrong.

Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful. She loses faith in her children? Never. No matter how people tell us, we are hopeless; she will never loses her faith in us. For us, she had never give up. She was always hopeful, believing that we could do so much more. And that empowered us to do more.

Love endures through every circumstances. No matter what situation we are in, how hard it is; she will be the one that taught us how to endure. Our endurance are being molded daily, until one day we are ready.

What more can I say; the greatest love, the greatest person, a mother.

Secret To Contentment

(Source: www.martindriscoll.com)

There was one a poor stone cutter who lived alone in a bamboo hut. One day as he worked on a huge stone with his hammer and chisel, he heard a crowd gathering to see the king as he passed by. Joining them, the stone cutter watched in awe as the king was greeted by his subjects. As he wished he had the power of the king, the stone cutter was suddenly transformed into a king. He found himself riding on a great horse, waving at the crowd.
As the summer progressed, the new king watched the effects of the heat on his people. Men and animals grew weary and plants withered under its ray. As he gazed at the sky, the king realized that the sun was more powerful than anything on earth. He wished he were the sun. Immediately, the wish was granted. As he sent his bright rays to earth, he watched people hide under trees; he even had power over the crops in the field.
Then one day a tiny cloud moved over the land, shielding the earth from the sun's bright rays. Seeing it had power even over the sun, he wished he were a cloud. Again his wish was granted. Now he blocked sun's ray and felt important.
He became a gigantic cloud, and began to pour down rain. Rivers formed, and water flooded the streets and farmland. Only the massive rocks were unswayed. There is nothing, he thought, as powerful as a rock. He wished he were a huge stone. His wish was granted. As a stone he remained motionless, unmoved by sun, wind or rain. Then one day a man approached who pulled out a chisel and a hammer and began to chip away at the rock. Realizing that the man with the tools was more powerful than any rock, he cried out, "Oh, I want to be a stone cutter!" Once again he lived in a bamboo hut and made his living with hammer and chisel. And he was content.

Story as taken from: My Quiet Time

How often do we get caught up in the circle of discontent? Don't worry, it happens almost all the time to all of us. We could still have the cure. Let's see what Paul said in Philippians 4 : 11 - 13:

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

The secret to contentment is none other than relying your life on Christ. Be thankful with what you have, that's the key.

Devils Aren't Afraid of Christians

Shocked? The fact that we go to church every Sunday, singing praise and worship, even pray will not scared the devil for one bit. Good news is; if all those are done not wholeheartedly, the devils won't back-off and they will just keep coming back. Now we know there is hope for us. Just as the Bible told us in Luke 10 : 27 and several other verses, we need to:

...'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'...

It may sounds simple, but it requires the most of our attention.
Would you be able to worship Him with all your heart and soul in the midst of all your problems?
Would you remember to pray, even when everything go smoothly?
Are you still going to church out of your Christian-duty? Or because there is a desire to seek His face?

Answer all those questions, and you might just find the answer you need. The answer to why your life is stuck, and nothing seems to grow despite you going to church every week and praying every day.

Source: (www.wallpaper4god.com)

Just one word of advice:

Wholeheartedly

When Is It God?

(Source: www.dothegreenthing.com)

A lot of us have been through tough time, going through tough time or about to go through tough time. It's a normal and repetitive process, also a stressful time. Because each time, things are just tougher than the one we been through before.

But we just can't expect life to always go according to what we want or how we want. We can only embrace it, went for it and persist through it.

Recently, I've been in one. I was so stressed, until one day i just broke down and ask God for His help. But His answer doesn't come right away. I just keep praying day after day. Until He answer me one day. Then I felt a sudden relief, knowing that my God hasn't leave me yet, and He won't of course.

Sometimes, we just let out a big grunt: "When is it God?" (like what I did). As if it was supposed to be His job to get us out of trouble every single time. While we ourselves didn't put in effort. What I learn from what happen to me this past few days is that "tough time" is supposed to be a TEST. A test to our faith, a test of our character.

Will we be able to stand strong and face whatever comes our way, or just grumbling our way through without doing anything? So, no more asking, "When is it God?" instead asks "What can I do right now?"

3 things, we should keep in tough time: Keep on believing. Keep on persevering. Keep the character.

Easter Holy Week: Good Friday

(Source: www.thegatewaypundit.com)

Good Friday, which is also known for the Crucifixion. But before the Crucifixion, how much did Jesus go through? First, He was sent to Annas, who found nothing. And then sent Him to Caiaphas the high priest, who believed Jesus blaspheme.

While at that, Peter was in the courtyard waiting and denied Jesus three times. Of course he felt remorse and sad. But remember, none of the other disciples was there. On that very day, Peter repented and becomes the stronghold for Christianity. How can a man, full of mistakes and failure become the rock? By repentance. As long as we have hope, God is able to use us.

Now, back to the story. So Jesus was then sent to Pontius Pilate who also found no fault with Him. Again, they sent Him to King Herod. As we know, no answer again. Finally arrived back at Pontius Pilate'. Imagine the distance Jesus has traveled while in chain. More than what I will probably take in a day.

When he offered to released a prisoner named Barabbas (known for the murders) or Jesus, they chose Barabbas. And they shouted at Jesus, "Crucify Him!". The very same crowd that give honor to Him when He entered Jerusalem. Unbelievable!

He was whipped, humiliated and finally crucified. But when He died, He brings forgiveness. Will you accept Him now?

Easter Holy Week: Holy Thursday

(Source: www.moonasaul.blogspot.com)

Widely known for the Last Supper, it was the night before Jesus was crucified and right before He was arrested. During the Last Supper, Jesus even washed the disciples feet. Again He showed us humility.

After the Last Supper, Jesus and His disciples went into Gethsemane to pray. Remember how Jesus struggles with God, knowing that He will be crucified (Mark 14 : 35 - 36).

If we knew we were going to go through some pain, imagine the struggle we will have. I can't imagine how He felt back then. Crucifixion is already bad, plus the pain He has to go through, and humiliation. This is all just too big for any man. But Jesus, He took them all.

Have you humbled yourself? Knowing there was (and is) a Man who have (and still) humbled Himself just to save you?

Meaning of Easter: Hope and Forgiveness

(Source: www.do-it-yourself-gifts.com)

Easter is just around the corner as we know it. For years, children are dazzled by the Easter egg and Easter bunny. All the activities they are doing on this very day involved 'eggs', from painting them to finding them. But what is the real meaning to it?

Originally, it was known as Passover (before crucifixion and resurrection of Christ). It was a celebration to commemorate the Exodus from Egypt. And ever since then, it has been a common practice among the Israelite.

To Christians nowadays, it's to remember the crucifixion and be thankful for the resurrection of Christ. When we look at what is the purpose of Christ coming to earth, we will find the meaning of Easter. That is to give us hope and forgiveness. Egg itself also means a new life, a new beginning.

Knowing the meaning is not everything! Have we spread the hope and forgiveness around? Have we really forgive the people that have done wrong to us? Are we able to let go of the hurts we keep inside?

Fear not! For that very reason, Jesus is sent to us, to help us. Let us open up our heart in this Easter and learn to forgive as how Christ taught us.

Easter Holy Week: Palm Sunday

(Source: www.jenniferjoycampbell.blogspot.com)

Without any doubt, Easter is just around the corner, and we have come into Holy Week. It first starts off with Palm Sunday. This is the day where Jesus triumphantly enters Jerusalem, and the people of the town puts up their clothes (and palms) on the road for Him and the donkey.

The fun truth about this event, got to be the donkey. Why Jesus choose donkey instead of horse? Wouldn't people laugh at Him? Well, donkey is well known for its stupidity. But it was all because of its loyalty to its master, always do what it was told to do.

Besides that, Jesus was showing that He is humble. And also, donkey symbolizes peace, which in this event, Jesus came into Jerusalem with Peace. Remember, He is the Prince of Peace.

Not only on that day, but NOW! He wants to come into our heart with peace; and believe me, this 'peace' is still available to us. But have you prepare your heart to receive Him? To receive peace?

Man & Woman: Admiration & Family Commitment

This series is for married couple, and if you are going to get married at some point in your life.

In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you life together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. - 1 Peter 3 : 7

We have come to the end of our series. And last, but not least ...

* Man needs admiration from the woman. Woman wants family commitment from the man. *

(Source: www.wishbonix.com)

So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. - Ephesians 5 : 33

A lot of people said that behind every successful man, there is a woman. But better yet; behind every man, there should be an admiring wife. Man basically loves praises. No man likes to hear his own shortcomings. We somehow realizes it without even being told, just that we don't want to hear about it.

Next time ladies, learn to always offer a trade-off when you negotiate with man.

A family commitment is kind of easy-hard thing. It may sounds easy, look easy, but it definitely requires a bit of work. As a husband, man must take a leadership role in the family. Learn to spend more time with the family. It meant a lot to a woman. What does spending more time really means?
1. Quality time in the family
2. Proper parenting skill
3. Wise discipline (Ephesians 6 : 4)
4. Explain the rules
5. Learn to handle anger

Know we have learned all those stuffs, let us learn to apply it (for those married couple) and build a better marriage life.

Finished.

Man & Woman: The Support They Need

This series is for married couple, and if you are going to get married at some point in your life.

In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you life together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. - 1 Peter 3 : 7

To build a long-lasting marriage, husband and wife must learn how to support their each other. By that means, they need to know what their spouse need. The kind of support that he / she need.

* Man needs domestic support. Woman needs financial support *

(Source: www.ehowcdn.com)

What does it means by domestic support?

Better a dry crust eaten in peace than a house filled with feasting - and conflict. - Proverbs 17 : 1

Man loves peace and quite at home. They hate trouble in the house.

What can a wife do? Learn from Titus 2 : 4 - 5. Love their husband and children, live wisely and be pure, work in their homes, do good, and last but not the least, be submissive to their husbands.

We are now living in a modern society, where woman also steps into workplace, and work at home all the time tends to be an old-fashioned way of thinking. Therefore, it's also important that there will be division of labor. Let every member in the family know what they need to do. What they can do for the family. That's how husband and wife can keep the family strong and supportive.

Financial support, I bet all the women would say Amen to this.

But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. - 1 Timothy 5 : 8

A man must provide for his family. Most wives, or should I say all wives expect their husband to earn enough for the family. Therefore it's necessary to have a budget placed at home.

Easiest way to do budget is to do it together, and knowing the right priorities. Budget can be divided in 3 levels:
1. Needs - The most important! Basically what you need to live; foods, clothing and house.
2. Want - These are the basic pleasure, once in a while.
3. Affordable - These are the type of luxury goods, which you don't even need it to live.

Learning how to manage home and finances require two people. Don't be afraid to let your spouse know your needs.

To be continued ...

Man & Woman: Attractiveness & Honesty

This series is for married couple, and if you are going to get married at some point in your life.

In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you life together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. - 1 Peter 3 : 7

As we continue to learn, I do hope we are getting a hang of it. About the importance of fulfilling each other needs in a marriage life or living with your spouse. Sit tight! This is going to get better.

* Man loves attractive spouse. Woman looks for a honest man and openness in a relationship *

(Source: www.theytoldmetofindrichhusband.com)

As we learn in 1 Samuel 16 : 7; People judge by outward appearance. And so thus men. The first thing that come to a man's mind when he looks at a woman, is the attractiveness.

Love at first sight, can't be because of inner beauty. For man to discover your inner beauty, it takes time, a lot of time together.

It's true that inner beauty is important, but men also appreciate outward appearance. Remember this, attractiveness is what you do with what you have. Just because you are married or you are attached, doesn't mean you have the excuses to gain weight and wear badly.

Man must learn to tell the truth. Honesty is the best marriage insurance policy. But before you get married, it is as important to tell the truth. People might tell you white lies are alright. But NO! They are destructive.

Man and woman are created to shoulder the same problem and the family together. Learn to be honest!

To be continued ...

Man & Woman: Companionship & Conversation

This series is for married couple, and if you are going to get married at some point in your life.

In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you life together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. - 1 Peter 3 : 7

Now we know that to keep a marriage strong, fulfilling needs is an integral part. Therefore, to continues with our series, we will look into the second need.

* Man needs recreation and companionship. While woman needs to have conversation. *

(Source: www.onceuponamisadventure.blogspot.com)

When God created Adam, He said that "It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him." (Genesis 2 : 18). Well, it is biblical, that man needed a woman, and not a dog or any other pet. Alright, most man wouldn't agree with this point. But read on! (Haha)

Deep inside a man, he needs to have a companion. A man just can't settle in the house without doing anything. They love to have fun, do something they love. And even better, with someone they love. So lady, spend more time with your spouse, doing things together. It might not be fun for you, but it's good to build your relationship.

A woman needs to have conversations. Based on a research, a woman needs to speak 20,000 words per day compared to man who only needs to speak about 7,000 words a day. So man, please don't get annoyed at your spouse keep on repeating the same thing over and over again. They just need someone to listen.

And a word of advice, woman doesn't need the man to give her solution. Just listen!

Conversation / communication is the key to a successful marriage. A real conversation required an undivided attention. You can become interested in each other's life by communicating. Merge the interest!

Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. - Philippians 2 : 4

As of today, be more interested in each other's life!

To be continued ...

Man & Woman: Sex & Affection

This series is for married couple, and if you are going to get married at some point in your life.

(Source: www.lovespeaks.net)

In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you life together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered. - 1 Peter 3 : 7

The verse above have taught us 3 important things as a husband and wife:
1. Share your life together, as a companion
2. Be understanding / thoughtful / considerate
3. Honor / appreciate

Meeting needs is nonetheless one of the most important aspect of all. (1 Corinthians 7 : 3)

This is most needed in keeping frustration, conflict and tension from rising in a marriage.

You might have thought that fulfilling your duty is enough; by making sure that there is foods on the table, by making sure that the house is clean. But NO! Meeting needs of your spouse is your duty as well.

Therefore, there is an urgency to know their needs, and generally, man and woman are different.

* Man placed Sexual Fulfillment above all else, while woman needed Affection the most. *

Read 1 Corinthians 7 : 3 - 5 (NKJV)

Basically men are visual-based and women are emotional-based. In other words, men like what they see and women like what they feel.

I shall not elaborate on the sex part, but affection; woman needs to be cared for. Because it symbolize security, protection, comfort and approval. There are many ways to show affection, which most men don't feel like doing after years of marriage or even at the latter stage of a courtship.

Some of those are hugging, hold hands, carry things for her, write cards, give flowers or even express affectionate words. Somehow, those acts disappear after we got too comfortable with each other.

Got no idea of writing love poem? Read Song of Solomon 4 : 1 - 9

Being affectionate is paying attention.

To be continued ...

Make Your Giving Count

(Source: www.orble.com)

Giving... Giving... Giving... A term many Christians might deliberately avoid. Pretend to not hear it in the sermon, pretend to not see a person in need. What if, one day God just take whatever you have and no one helped you when you are in need? That could be just the end of the world for you.

So, let's learn to give, and not just giving, but giving out of our heart. Yes, some might develop a habit to give, unwillingly. But let's change it. Learn to give willingly. There is no need to worry, about what would you have left after you give. Because God is definitely good to a giver.

For years, I've been living on one principle of giving: "Give me God, then I'll give to someone else."

But seems like God's principle is total opposite: "Give, and I will give to you."

"Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed. and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God." - 2 Corinthians 9 : 10 - 11

See the verse? There is no need to worry about supply-shortage. In fact, when we give; God will supply us, increase what we have and enlarge our territory. The best part is, we are giving thanks to God at the same time.

Let's make our giving count! Give with a willing heart, and take the worrying part away.

Over Argument & Hostility

Isaac's servants also dug in the Gerar Valley and discovered a well of fresh water. But then the shepherds from Gerar came and up and claimed the spring. "This is our water," they said, and they argued over it with Isaac's herdsmen. So Isaac named the well Esek (which means "argument"). Isaac's men the dug another well, but again there was a dispute over it. So Isaac named it Sitnah (which means "hostility"). - Gen 26 : 19 -21

The story happened as Isaac grew more and more powerful that the Philistines have to send to him away, despite their promises with his father, Abraham. So Isaac takes on a journey, settled in Gerar Valley, thus he asked his servant to dug a well. Twice he was confronted; people living there begin to argue with him over what he had found.

Abandoning that one, Isaac moved on and dug another well. This time there was no dispute over it, Isaac named the place Rehoboth (which means "open space"), for he said, "At last the LORD has created enough space for us to prosper in this land." - Gen 26 : 22

Sometimes, maybe most of the times in our lives, aren't we confronted with argument and hostility? What can we learn from Isaac? Walk away, keep on trying, and keep on believing God for a greater blessing.

As a result, he found true blessings. Next time, someone try to argue with you over something, don't you think it is better to just walk away?

The Great Faith

Jesus said, "I will come and heal him." But the officer said, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. - Mt 8 : 7 - 8

There is this Roman officer, whose servant is very sick and paralyzed. So he went to meet and asked Jesus to heal his servant. But, when Jesus wanted to go with him, he refused, he only asked Jesus to say the word from where Jesus is. And he believe that his servant will be healed.

Even Jesus is amazed by this man's faith, let alone us. So often in life, we are faced with problems and we asked God for help, but when God speak the Word, did we believe? We heard that whatever the Bible says, we could have it. But aren't we lacking something? The believing part!


A lot of us, we came to God saying, "God heal me", "God do this ... God do that ..." Stop that if you do not believe God can do that. Check our heart, and then we asked again.

No faith is too great for God; only faithless is a concern for Him.

The Test of Faith

The story of Abraham sacrificing Isaac (Gen 22) has to be the biggest test of faith the entire Bible has ever recorded. Sacrificing something that you always longed for, but once it's given to you, you are asked to return it. Did Abraham think that God would not do something like this, that this is a joke! NO!


He went up to the mountain with only one thing in mind, "If God can give me now, He can give me later." Doesn't it pain his heart? OF COURSE IT DOES!


He wasn't called for the father of faith for no reason. He has never withheld anything from God. Are you withholding anything from God? If one day God asked us for something we held precious, will we give it away?

Always keep this in mind, God will provide (Gen 22 : 14).

A Brand New Heart

I just met with a misfortune; my brand new phone which I used for a week is stolen. Of course I was sad, angry, cursing that whoever person that stole my phone. It was early in the morning, and then I went to work with a heavy heart. I just can't get it out of my head, even with my girlfriend trying to comfort me.

But then, as I was sitting in the office, turn on my computer; trying to listen to a song that could calm me. When I turn on my music player, I heard this song "A Brand New Heart" by True Worshipers. It is then that I know in my heart, this is a big test of faith, a warning letter from God. Maybe I've been spending more time with my new phone rather than with God.

I just prayed that God would give me a brand new heart. A heart that follows Him, a heart that forgives.

Some Precious Thoughts

The paradox of our time in history is that:

We have taller buildings but shorter tempers.
Wider freeways but narrower viewpoints.
We spend more, but we have less.
We buy more, but enjoy less.
We have bigger houses and smaller families.
More conveniences, but less time.
We have more degrees, but less sense.
More knowledge, but less judgment.
More experts, yet more problems.
More medicine, less wellness.

We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly.
Laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry.
Stay up late, get up too tired.
Read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values.
We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.
We've learned how to make a living, but not a life.
We've added years to life, not life to years.
We've been all the way to the moon and back,
But have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor.
We conquered outer space but not inner space.
We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul.
We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice.
We write more, but learn less.
We plan more, but accomplish less.
We've learned to rush, but not to wait.
We build computers to hold more information,
To produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion.
Big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships.

These are the days of two incomes, but more divorce.
Fancier houses, but broken homes.
There are the days of quick trips, disposable diapers,
Throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies,
And pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill.
It is a time when there is much in the showroom window.
And nothing in the stockroom.
A time when technology can bring this letter to you.

Remember to spend more time with your loved ones,
Because they are not going to be around forever.
Remember. say kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe,
Because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember to give a warm hug to the one next to you,
Because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart.
And it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones,
But most of all mean it.
A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment.
For someday that person might not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak!
And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

By: Bob Moorehead

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 30

Stop Being Ungrateful

No matter how good or bad you have it, wake up each day thankful for your life.

Someone somewhere else is desperately fighting for theirs.

Instead of thinking about what you're missing, try thinking about what you have that everyone else is missing.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 29

Stop Focusing On What You Don't Want To Happen

Focus on what you do want to happen.

Positive thinking is at the fore front of every great success story.

if you awake every morning with the thought that something wonderful will happen in your life today, and you pay close attention, you'll often find that you're right.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 28

Stop Worrying So Much

Worry will not strip tomorrow of its burdens, it will strip today of its joy.

One way to check if something is worth mulling over is to ask yourself this question:

"Will this matter in one year's time? Three years? Five years?"

If not, then it's not worrying about.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 27

Stop Trying To Be Everything To Everyone

Doing so is impossible, and trying will only burn you out.

But making one person smile CAN change the world.

Maybe not the whole world, but their world.

So narrow your focus.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 26

Stop Blaming Others For Your Troubles

The extent to which you can achieve your dreams depends on the extent to which you take responsibility for your life.

When you blame others for what you're going through, you deny responsibility - you give others power over that part of your life.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 25

Stop Acting Like Everything Is Fine If It Isn't

It's okay to fall apart for a while.

You don't always have to pretend to be strong, and there is no need to constantly prove that everything is going well.

You shouldn't be concerned with what other people are thinking either - cry if you need to - it's healthy to shed your tears.

The sooner you do, the sooner you will be able to smile again.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 24

Stop Following The Path Of Least Resistance

Life is not easy, especially when you plan on achieving something worthwhile.

Don't take the easy way out. Do something extraordinary.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 23

Stop Trying To Make Things Perfect

The real world doesn't reward perfectionist, it rewards people getting things done.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 22

Stop Overlooking The Beauty Of Small Moments

Enjoy the little things, because one day you may look back and discover they were big things.

The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 21

Stop Doing The Same Things Over And Over Without Taking A Break

The time to take a deep breath is when you don't have time for it.

If you keep doing what you're doing, you'll keep getting what you're getting.

Sometimes you need to distance yourself to see things clearly.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 20

Stop Wasting Time Explaining Yourself To Others

Your friends don't need it and your enemies won't believe it anyway.

Just do what you know in your heart is right.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 19

Stop Letting Others Bring You Down To Their Level

Refuse to lower your standards to accommodate those who refuse to raise theirs.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 18

Stop Holding Grudges

Don't live in your life with hate in your heart.

You will end up hurting yourself more than the people you hate.

Forgiveness is not saying, "What you did to me is okay."

It is saying, "I'm not going to let what you did to me ruin my happiness forever."

Forgiveness is the answer... Let go, find peace, liberate yourself!

And remember, forgiveness is not just for other people, it's for you too.

If you must, forgive yourself, move on and try to do better next time.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 17

Stop Complaining And Feeling Sorry For Yourself

Life's curveballs are thrown for a reason - to shift your path in a direction that is meant for you.

You may not see or understand everything the moment it happens, and it may be tough.

But reflect back on those negative curveballs thrown at you in the past.

You'll often see that eventually they led you to a better place, person, state of mind, or situation.

So Smile! Let everyone know that today you are a lot stronger than you were yesterday, and you will be.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 16

Stop Being Jealous Of Others

Jealousy is the art of counting someone else's blessing instead of your own.

Ask yourself this: "What's something I have that everyone wants?"

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 15

Stop Trying To Compete Against Everyone Else

Don't worry about what others doing better than you.

Concentrate on beating your own records every day.

Success is a battle between YOU and YOURSELF only.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 14

Stop Rejecting New Relationships Just Because Old Ones Didn't Work

In life you'll realize that there is a purpose for everyone you meet.

Some will test you, some will use you and some will teach you.

But most importantly, some will bring out the best in you.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself: Day 13

Stop Getting Involved In Relationship For The Wrong Reasons

Relationships must be chosen wisely. It's better to be alone than to be in bad company. There's no need to rush.

If something is meant to be, it will happen - in the right time, with the right person, and for the best reason.

Fall in love when you're ready, not when you're lonely.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 12

Stop Thinking You're Not Ready

Nobody ever feels 100% ready when an opportunity arises.

Because most great opportunities in life, forces us to grow beyond our comfort zones, which means we won't feel totally comfortable at first.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 11

Stop Being Idle

Don't think too much or you'll create a problem that wasn't even there in the first place.

Evaluate situations and take decisive action.

You cannot change what you refuse to confront.

Making progress involves risk. Period!

You can't make it to second base with your foot on first.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 10

Stop Exclusively Looking To Others For Happiness

If you are not happy with who you are on the inside, you won't be happy in a long-term relationship with anyone else either.

You have to create stability in your own life first before you can share it with someone else.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 9

Stop Trying To Buy Happiness

Many of the things we desire are expensive.

But the truth is, the things that really satisfy us, are totally free

- Love, laughter and working on our passions.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 8

Stop Berating Yourself For Old Mistakes

We may love the wrong person and cry about the wrong things.

But no matter how things go wrong, one things is for sure, mistakes help us find the person and things that right for us.

We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things in our past.

But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here NOW, with the power to shape your day and your future.

Every single thing that has ever happened in your life is preparing you for a moment that is yet to come.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 7

Stop Being Scared To Make A Mistake

Doing something and getting it wrong is at least ten times more productive than doing nothing.

Every success has a trail of failures behind it, and every failure is leading towards success.

You end up regretting the things you did NOT do far more towards the things you did.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 6

Stop Trying To Hold Onto The Past

You can't start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading your last one.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 5

Stop Trying To Be Someone You're Not

One of the greatest challenges in life is being yourself in a world that's trying to make you like everyone else.

Someone will always be prettier, someone will be always be smarter, someone will always be younger.

But they will never be you.

Don't change so people will like you. Be yourself and the right people will love the real you.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 4

Stop Putting Your Own Needs On The Back Burner

The most painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too.

Yes, help others; but help yourself too.

If there was ever a moment to follow your passion and do something that matters to you, that moment is now.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 3

Stop Lying To Yourself

You can lie to anyone else in the world, but you can't lie to yourself.

Our lives improve only when we take chances.

The first and most difficult chance we can take is to be honest with ourselves.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 2

Stop Running From Your Problems

Face them head on. No, it won't be easy.

There is no person in the world capable of flawlessly handling every punch thrown at them.

We aren't supposed to be able to instantly solve problems. That's not how we are made.

In fact, we're made to get upset, sad, hurt, stumble and fall.

Because that's the whole purpose of living - to face problems, learn, adapt, and solve them over the course of time.

This is what ultimately molds us into the person we become.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com

30 Things To Stop Doing To Yourself - Day 1

Stop Spending Time With The Wrong People

Life is too short to spend time with people who suck happiness out of you.

If someone wants you in their life, they'll make room for you.

You shouldn't have to fight for a spot.

Never, ever insist yourself to someone who continuously overlooks your worth.

And remember, it's not people that stand by your side when you're at your best, but the ones who stand beside you when you're at your worst that are your true friends.

This series is taken from www.marcandangel.com