Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverb 3:5-6) ESV.

Father, my heart is filled with deep gratitude and serenity because of your great faithfulness and ample provision in guiding and strengthening me throughout 2013.  As the last day of the year, you gently remind me to simply put my childlike faith in you for the brand new year of 2014 because you shall make my path straight. Father I am truly humbled by the awesomeness of your Almighty love and power. In Jesus' name I give thanks.

Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him (Proverb 30:5) ESV.

Father, I know that strength, protection and health come by hearing and obeying your Word. Thank you for always speaking to me. Help me to be sensitive to your gentle voice today.  In Jesus' mighty name I pray.

The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe (Proverb 29:25) ESV..

Father, let my ttust in you be steadfast and unwavering knowing that security and safety is only found in you. Help me not to let man's words or actions cast fear in my spirit, but rather replace them with edifying words that build up my trust in you. In Jesus' name I give thanks.

Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation (Psalm 91:14:16).

Father, this is abundant life - there is salvation, healing, deliverance, answered prayers, guidance, long life with you, and many many more because of Christ's finished work at the cross. May I reflect on your goodness and love today. In Jesus' name I give thanks.

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world (James 1:27) ESV.

Father, my desire is to keep my heart pure and undefiled in my words and deeds. While praying for those who are in affliction or in distressing situation, lead me to be your hand to feed the poor and heart to love the weak and troubled. Let my faith and action reveal the Gospel of Jesus Christ during this festive season.  In Jesus' name I pray.

But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:31) ESV.

Father, help me learn to wait upon you especially the first thing in the morning. I need your strength each day to face new challenges at work, in the family and the world. Thank you for the assurance that I won't be weary or faint as I wait upon you to refresh and renew my inner man. In Jesus' name I pray.

This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24) ESV.

Father, I am rejoicing and more so today because my thoughts are filled with many precious memories of Jesus - my Saviour, Friend and Lover of my soul!  I know that I live, move and have my being in Christ. Help me reflect deeper on the truth of Christ's goodness and love for me, and be conscious to be a blessing to those around me during this festive season. In Jesus' lovely name I pray.

And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent (John 17:3) ESV.

Father, no one can be saved and have eternal life without receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. I am forever grateful to you for by the shed blood of Christ I have received  God's love and forgiveness. Thank you Lord Jesus for giving me the assurance of knowing who and whose I am.

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (James 1:2-4) ESV.

Father, inner joy truly comes from you and I do experience it in a personal way. Help me remain steadfast by being faithful to you and obedient to your Word. Thank you for moulding me to be more Christlike with each trial that comes on my way. In Jesus' name I pray and give thanks.

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him (1 John 5:14-15) ESV.

Heavenly Father, I want to put my confidence in you in all circumstances.  Help me to give thanks with a pure heart and simple faith knowing that I can ask anything according to your perfect will for my life. In Jesus' name I pray.

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence (2 Peter 1:3) ESV.

Father, I thank you for your divine power given to me for a purpose, which is to make me godly, holy, blameless and victorious over everything in life.  Also, I am called by you personally for your glory. May I dwell in this truth and be empowered to make God's love visible to those around me especially during this festive season. In Jesus' name I pray.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23) ESV.

Father, there are so many blessings by walking in the Spirit as i can experience your love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.  May I live a Christian life that is truly authentic and meaningful regardless of external circumstances for the One who is in me is greater than one in the world.   In Jesus' name I give thanks.

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians 1:6) ESV.

Father, I rejoice and gladly declare your guidance, provision and strength constantly help me to walk in faith and love. I thank you for Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith, who is journeying with me to fulfil your perfect will for my life. In Jesus' name I give thanks.

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God (Ephesians 5:1-2) ESV.

Father, I can walk in your love because Christ loves me. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you throughout the day.  Like Christ, may my life be a sweet fragrance unto your throne. Thank you Lord Jesus for loving me unconditionally, sacrificially and eternally.

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. (1 John 1:7) ESV.

Father, it is so amazing and awesome to know that my sins with its shame, guilt, bitterness, hatred and many other sinful thoughts and behaviours have been washed and completely cleansed by the blood of Jesus.  Through confession of and repentance from sins, I am now a new creation walking in the light having true fellowship with brothers and sisters in-Christ, and most importantly, with you Almighty God! I give thanks to you Father with a heart filled with joy, peace and love. In Jesus' name I rejoice and give thanks.

Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established (Proverb 16:3) ESV.

Father, thank you for being able to wake up this brand new day knowing you are with me. I want to walk with freshness in your abiding presence. Let me experience the love of God, the grace of Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit as I commit all my ways and works this week to your loving hand. Thank you for establishing the plan you have for me throughout the week. In Jesus' name I pray.

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? (Romans 8:31-33) ESV.

Father, thank you for assuring me that I have already received your best gift, that is Jesus Christ, the wonderful gift of salvation. And whatever I need and is beneficial for me, I shall have it because you are my good and gracious Heavenly Father. Help me to remain patient and prayerful. In Jesus' name I pray and submit my life to you.

In the fear of the LORD one has strong confidence, and his children will have a refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death (Proverb 14:26-27) ESV.

Heavenly Father, my strong confidence is in you and I am filled with life and vitality for my heart worships the living God. My children are always safe in your embrace. Increase in me a greater sense of adoration and love for you as I walk in holy and awesome fear knowing that I belong to the Creator God whose divine love for me is unconditonal and throughout eternity because of Jesus Christ. Let me also experience more deeply the fear of the Lord today.

But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, because he has dealt bountifully with me (Psalm 13:5-6) ESV.

Heavenly Father, let my heart be filled with your joy always because of the assurance of my salvation in you. Thank you for your steadfast love which enables me to keep trusting you for daily provisions. In Jesus' name I pray.

"What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing (Luke 15:4-5) ESV.

Father, your heart goes out to everyone who needs your love and mercy. You desire to touch the lost and broken-hearted individually and personally with your warmth and comfort all the times. Thank you Lord Jesus that I am in your fold and receive God's love every day and throughout eternity. Let my walk with you today be a blessing to someone. I truly love you Lord.

But if anyone loves God, he is known by God (1 Corinthians 8:3) ESV.

Father, thank you for being my God. You are the true and living God, my Healer of my body, soul and spirit. Father I am known by you - all about me is clear to you. You accept me as I am including my weaknesses and fears. I commit my life to you afresh today.  In Jesus' name I pray.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight. For by me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life (Proverb 9:10-11) ESV.

Father, I want to be filled daily with the holy fear in my heart because of who you are. May I experience more knowledge and insight of your awesome ways in guiding and caring for me. Thank you for assuring me that you are the Source and Giver of my life. In Jesus' name I give thanks.

The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you (Psalm 9:9-10) ESV.

Father, you have been my stronghold and always shall be in good times or trying times for my trust is in you alone. You have known me and called me by my name. You know my everything and I can put my confidence in your name. Thank you Jesus for yet another brand new week to walk in your love and mercy.

Sunday Sermon Title: Subtle Lies

Speaker: Pastor Samuel Sam

Date: 8 December 13

Church: Lighthouse Evangelism 

Introduction

Confession of  faith in Christ brings newness of life. Our lives then become a living sacrifice desiring to walk in the Will of God. However  we soon realise our walk is no smooth sailing as we are surrounded by the world filled with lies, deceptions and counterfeits. The source of these are from Satan, the father of all lies.  He operates in three basic areas in his deceptive scheme. They are:  a. Lust of the flesh  b. Lust of the eye  c. Pride of life.  Two parallel passages revealed this scheme: 1 John 2:16 and Genesis 3:1-5

1. In Genesis 3:1-5, we see two conditions for Satan's strategy to work.
a. Eve was near to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil

Reflection: Christians often choose  to walk near the edge of the cliff thinking that they are strong enough not to fall, instead of “miles” away from the source of tempation
b. Eve was alone.

Reflection: Christians who are detached from God’s people and church’s involvement tend to be easy target for the Devil and easily fall into his scheme.

2. When examining the response of Eve, one can see the beginning of doubt working in her mind.  This makes her mind vulnerable to Satan’s subtle lie.  In Genesis 3, we see the first mention of Satan’s scheme of deception basically in these three areas, namely, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life.

3. In Matthew 4:1-11, Satan repeated his deceitful tactics in tempting Jesus. However Jesus defeats him with the Word of God.

a. Tempted by the lust of flesh, Jesus responds by saying that one shall not eat by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
b. Tempted by pride of life, Jesus responds by saying that no one should put God to the test.

c. Tempted by lust of the eye, Jesus responds by saying that one should worship God only.

d. Important principle: Just as Jesus rebukes Satan for all his deceptive tactics, Christians should boldly expose and rebuke every scheme of the Devil.

4. Subtle lies of Satan in three categories.
A. Concerning God - God's Word is not final.

1) Satan deceives man by making them believe that the Gospel of man’s redemption are found in philosophy, sciences, religions and man's experiences.

2) Question like “Did God say?” often causes doubt in the mind of Christians.  It clearly states  in 2 Timothy 3:16 that “All Scripture is God-breathed” and in 2 Peter 1:21, it affirms that “prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

3). In Psalm 19:13, David says, “Keep your servant also from willful sins”. This indicates that Christians are capable of testing God through willful sinful act.

Reflection: Every Christian should never presume that since God is merciful, He would easily forgive our willful sins.  We should learn from King David whose willful sin of adultery, and subsequent sin of murder had terrible consequences.

B. Concerning Sins - Show the bait but hide the line and hook
1) Sadly many Christians fall into this deception rather easily.  Though there are pleasure in sins, they would make you pay more than you would ever think of.  Oftentimes, the consequences are more  than one could bear.  God's love is always not in the equation when Christians deliberately choose to sin.

2) One common weakness of Christians is the tendency to minimize or rationalise sin.  One unconfessed sin would quickly lead to another and before long, like David, the sin of adultery led him to commit the sin of murder!

3) Christians are also prone to compare their sins with others, even quoting the sins of biblical characters like Noah’s drunkenness or Peter’s  denial of Jesus.  They fail to see the biblical lesson God wants us to learn from the sins of these men, for example, the need for  true repentance  - keeping short account with God.

Reflection: The great American Evangelist once said, “Either sin will keep you from the Bible or the Bible will keep you away from sin”.

C. Concerning self
1) Every Christian needs to understand that true repentance is a change of mind leading to a direction towards God as mentioned in 2 Timothy 2:25-26.

2) Once a Christian holds to this false assumption that he can handle a particular  temptation, he is deceiving himself by falling into the trap of the evil one. We shall always remain victorious if we take seriously the clear instructions of God’s Word in these three passages:

(a) Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? (Proverb 6:27)

(b) So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall (! Corinthians 10:12)

(c) Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those call on the Lord out of a pure heart (2 Tim 2:22)

3) Satan likes to whispers this into our ears “You cannot accomplish anything significant for Christ!’.  Our immediate response is to use the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God. These two passages affirm every Christian that he is gifted in God’s sight!

(a) Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. (1 Corinthian 12:7)

(b) For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith (Romans 12:4-6)

Conclusion

1. Let’s humble ourselves and obey God, if you are easily given to the pride of life.  The Lord exalts those who humble themselves before Him.

2. Look to God and surrender to Him wholeheartedly, if you have been struggled with the lust of the eye.  God understands your weakness and He wants to set you free so that you can truly live an abundant life with Christ.

3. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Renounce all fleshly desires that easily entangle you to live an effective Christian life.

4. No longer let any Satan's lie make you live a defeated life. God is calling us to walk with a pure heart and simple faith in Him.

O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens (Psalm 8:1) ESV.

Lord Jesus, truly your name is awesome, holy and great! I belong to you completely knowing that I bear the powerful name of Jesus, the name that is above every other name! Every knee shall bow and every tongue confesses you are the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. Help me to experience more and more of your awesome name Lord. In Jesus' name I pray.

As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love (John 15:9) ESV.

Lord, I receive your love for me and I am now abiding in your love. Let me experience a deeper love of God every day. I want to know you more and more for you are my everything. I really want to walk in your love.  Thank you Jesus!

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words (Romans 8:26) ESV.

Holy Spirit, thank you for the strength I need to keep me steadfast in the Lord, especially in helping me to keep on praying when words fail to express everything in my heart. I worship you and treasure your constant presence. Let my heart be filled with God's love and goodness today. In Jesus' name I pray.

You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. (Psalm 4:7-8) ESV.

Father, you are my source of joy and peace all this while. My going out and coming is surrounded by your presence, even when I am asleep. I dwell quietly in your presence all the times. Holy Spirit, I receive your comfort and help every day. Thank you Lord Jesus. I praise you.

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke 14:11) ESV.

Father, you love humility for your desire is to see me always be ready to humble myself before your throne of grace, and put my faith in you completely for all my needs and desires. I know you shall lift me up in due time for your ways and timing are always perfect. May I keep experiencing your abiding presence and love you deeper each day. In Jesus' name I pray and give thanks.

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke 14:11) ESV.

Father, you love humility for your desire is to see me always be ready to humble myself before your throne of grace, and put my faith in you completely for all my needs and desires. I know you shall lift me up in due time for your ways and timing are always perfect. May I keep experiencing your abiding presence and love you deeper each day. In Jesus' name I pray and give thanks.

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke 14:11) ESV.

Father, you love humility for your desire is to see me always be ready to humble myself before your throne of grace, and put my faith in you completely for all my needs and desires. I know you shall lift me up in due time for your ways and timing are always perfect. May I keep experiencing your abiding presence and love you deeper each day. In Jesus' name I pray and give thanks.

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints. (Proverb 2:6-8) ESV.

Father, you are my shield for you watch and guard every path I take. I desire to increase in your wisdom, knowledge and understanding so that my walk with you is always a path of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray.

For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of his saints. (Proverb 2:6-8) ESV.

Father, you are my shield for you watch and guard every path I take. I desire to increase in your wisdom, knowledge and understanding so that my walk with you is always a path of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. (Psalm 1:1-3) ESV.

Father, delighting and meditating on your living Word constantly refresh and rejuvenate my soul for it is my source of abundant life, daily vitality and constant freshness. Holy Spirit, you are always alongside me and remain faithful to empower me to fulfil God's will. I receive your comfort and strength continually. Thank you Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name I pray.

And there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, "Woman, you are freed from your disability." And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God (Luke 13:11-13) ESV.

Lord, I see your compassion on the suffering and your desire is to see me whole, completely healthy to worship and glorify God. You are my Savior, Healer and Deliverer! Healing of spirit, soul and body is God's perfect will for me. I believe and receive everything God has given me. Thank you Jesus!

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Lukec12:6-7) ESV.

Lord, thank you that I am immeasurably valuable in your sight. I bring to you every single need today. You know me inside out - fear, worry, concern and desire. I now submit all these to you, yes, everything for what I have are what you have given me. May I worship you with a heart if love, adoration and thanksgiving. In Jesus' wonderful name I pray and ask.

For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. (Psalms 62:5-6)

Father, I know that I shall not be shaken for you are my rock, my salvation and my fortress. Grant me the strength as I wait silently, also confidently, for you. My hope is forever in you. Let today be a meaningful day reflecting your love and power to many who need a touch from you. I give you glory and honour. In Jesus' name I pray.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3) ESV

Father, I am blessed for your abiding presence in me is what makes me completely satisfied and peaceful despite of the external circumstances. May my attitude always be one of deep spiritual hunger for desiring to know you and to becoming more like Christ. Father, the Kingdom of Heaven is truly where I belong. Let my heart, soul, strength and mind worship your holy name in yet another brand new week. I pray in Jesus' lovely name!

And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. (Luke 9:23-24) ESV.

Lord, I am saved and I know it. I am affirmed by your timely words that 'whoever loses his life for my sake will save it'. Jesus, you already had my life since that day I asked you into my heart. Now my whole being breathes and lives is to worship and glorify you, my personal Saviour and Lord. Strengthen me as I choose to put you first, to take up my cross everyday, and to fully trust you to lead me to be in the Will of God all the times.

But the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. (Luke 9:11) NIV.

Lord Jesus, your Kingdom is about the unconditional and steadfast love of God which is all inclusive, for everyone, rich or poor, sick or healthy. You proclaimed the good news to them and Healed them all! Jesus, I needed to be healed. Touch me, let your healing flow into my weak body. I receive your healing Lord because you have provided it at the Cross. Thank you Lord!

But the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. (Luke 9:11) NIV.

Lord Jesus, your Kingdom is about the unconditional and steadfast love of God which is all inclusive, for everyone, rich or poor, sick or healthy. You proclaimed the good news to them and Healed them all! Jesus, I needed to be healed. Touch me, let your healing flow into my weak body. I receive your healing Lord because you have provided it at the Cross. Thank you Lord!

But the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. (Luke 9:11) NIV.

Lord Jesus, your Kingdom is about the unconditional and steadfast love of God which is all inclusive, for everyone, rich or poor, sick or healthy. You proclaimed the good news to them and Healed them all! Jesus, I needed to be healed. Touch me, let your healing flow into my weak body. I receive your healing Lord because you have provided it at the Cross. Thank you Lord!

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6) ESV.

Father, thanks for another fresh week, another new day to begin my walk with you. Slowly but steadily, my faith in you has increased, that is, knowing who you are and what you have done and still doing what is best for me. May the intimacy with you reflect a life of joy, meekness, righteousness as well as eternal blessings to many this entire week. I know that you will bring into completion what you have begun in me. In Jesus' name I pray.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:3-5) ESV.

Heavenly Father, I have received your great mercy. I thank you sincerely. Now I have been born again, have a living hope and salvation.  Let my faith, my relationship with you, remain unmovable by your divine strength every day.  Refresh me with your abundant grace and mercy. Father, may my life glorify Jesus as I experience more of your love each new day.  Thank you Jesus.

Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise that he made to us-eternal life. (1 John 2:24-25) ESV.

Father, I abide in you, in your love, in your goodness and grace. You are everything to me since the day Jesus came into my life and remain in my heart. I know I have your divine life, that is eternal life with you throughout eternity.  Thank you Father!

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.  (Psalm 19:14) ESV.

Father, may I reflect on your goodness quietly in my heart knowing you are always faithful to me in all my sleeping and waking time. Let my heart today be close to you as I ponder all you are to me. Thank you Jesus!

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him. (1John 5:14-15) ESV.

Father, your perfect will is for me to believe you, love you, fellowship with you and glorify Christ with the divine life you have given me. Help me to love you with all my heart, mind, soul and especially with my strength. Let my whole body worship you Father. This is my sincere request and I know you hear me. My confidence is in Jesus, the name which I experience salvation of my soul, healing of my body and deliverance from sin, satan and sicknesses. Deepen my love for you and increase my faith in you God. In Jesus' wonderful name I pray.

With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; (Psalm 18:25) ESV.

Father, I know you are merciful, all the times.  With you, I receive comfort and strength.  Thank you for touching me.  I have been made blameless because of Christ. I pray in Jesus' name.

I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me. (John 10:14) ESV.

Lord, it is so assuring to know I am your very own, who was once a lost sheep but now in your loving and protective hand. Jesus, you are really my everything.  I commit my life to you afresh again.  I love you and thank you for loving me.

Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. (James 5:11) ESV.

Heavenly Father, i know you are compassionate and merciful toward me all the times. Strengthen me Father so that I can remain steadfast in you. I desire to fulfill your purpose you have for me. Thank you for this brand new week.  In Jesus' loving name I pray.

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live (John 11:25) ESV.

Lord, my life is a resurrected life because you have risen for me and sent the Holy Spirit to live in my heart. I live, move and have my being in you Father God, and shall live with you forever.

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20) ESV.

Father, I live because Christ lives inside me. He truly loves me and give His life in exchange for mine. I belong to Jesus, now and throughout eternity.  Thank you Jesus, my Lord, Savior and Healer!

In the path of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death. (Proverb 12:28) ESV,

Lord Jesus, I am eternally grateful for you are my righteousness making my life blameless before God. Every waking and sleeping moment is eternal life with you giving me love, peace and joy. I praise you with all my heart, mind and soul, my Lord and Savior!

And they went and woke him, saying, "Master, Master, we are perishing!" And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm. (Luke 8:24) ESV.

Lord, you are always with me in the boat, and I know it. The Holy Spirit affirms it in my heart. Therefore I cannot and will not sink, despite of any external circumstance. Thank you Jesus for this timely assurance that your will for me shall be done for the glory of God! Thank you Jesus!

Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. (1John4:15-16) ESV.

Father, I know you love me because of Jesus who had gone to the cross for me. I will always abide in your love. God, your love in me indeed cast out all my fears. Let today be a day filled with your loving presence gently touching my spirit, soul and body. Thank you Lord!

And to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:19) ESV.

Father, help me to experience Christ's love in a deeper way today. Let me be filled with everything that is from above, which is good and perfect for in Christ is abundant life. Fill my heart with your love, peace and joy.  In Jesus' name I pray.

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:11) ESV.

Heavenly Father, the life I have now is given by you. I am now, and always will be, living in your presence and under your protective right hand. Keep my heart warm so that my love for you remains steadfast in your sweet presence.  Jesus, I thank you for showing God's love to me. May this brand new week be filled with your abundant grace and mercy. In Jesus' name I pray.

Sermon Title: What Lurks Behind
Speaker: Pastor Samuel Sam
Date: 10 November 13

1. Introduction
Many parents and young people alike struggle emotionally and spiritually in this age of post-modernism.  The truth is that what we behave depends on what we believe. In other words, if one's belief system is biblical, his behavior produces the fruit of the Spirit. Conversely, if one’s belief is unbiblical, his behaviour will reflect worldly values.

2. There are six untrue statements to look out for:
a. There is no absolute truth. It is relative depending on a person's perception. Truth is in one’s perception of reality! For example, one person believes that it is true that by drinking alcoholic drinks, it can improve one’s health. This is truth to him and it is acceptable!    
b. Facts and falsehood are interchangeable.  What is factual today may not be so tomorrow.  For example, drinking coffee is generally good at one time, but as time passes, drinking coffee can only be good if it is brewed in a certain way! Facts can become obsolete, and even can become false as time passes. Thus it brings only confusion, unlike biblical truths which are absolute.
c. Opinions only matter. For example, New Age Movement is rampant in our culture today, for they embrace anything and everything without subscribing to absolute truths.
d. "Truths are beliefs one had been conditioned by his society to accept”.  In other words, when one leaves his society with its rules and norms, whatever he has been conditioned will not continue to be true when he moves into another culture.
e  Any statement that claims to be true is a power play to dominate others.  It means that truths are used as power to make others conform or submissive.

3. What experts say about this age? They called it the age of post-modernism. People challenge conventional ways and go for convenient ones throwing out objectivity and absolute truths.  For example, the idol Lady Gaga has become so famous that she is listed amongst the top 100 most popular figures in the world according to Forbes’ list.  Also, gay movement and its practices are getting prevalent throughout the world championing its rights and privileges in the age of post-modernism.

4. What are our young people's view of God? Their common responses are: God is a killjoy God, God is like my grandfather, and God is a very busy God. Their views of God should make us think of the influence our societal norms have upon their moral value and belief system. Today's teens are led to teens to believe that everything is relative and nothing is absolute.  For example, they will say: “What you believe is good if it works for you. Everyone can have his or her own belief system.  It is fine because there is no absolute truth”.

5. It is no wonder that many teens do have problems with absolute truths.  They question whether the Bible is God’s Word or Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. They do not want to offend anyone, and they want others to be non-judgmental by not shafting one's belief system into their throat.  They are convinced that a truth is only true if one believes in it to be true!

6. Such subjective belief system is destroying one’s biblical foundation.  Warning: If Satan cannot destroy your house, he wants to ensure you are building your foundation on sinking sand!

7. God’s Word forewarns us of his deception:
a. Colossian 2:18 warns Christians of having a hollow foundation.
b. Romans 12:1-2 warns against following the worldly pattern.
c. Psalm 11:3 laments on what could the righteous do, if their foundation is destroyed. Our Christian faith is  objective, and can be verified and identified.

8. The Bible reveals absolute truths:
a. God is the author of the Bible as mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:16. The Bible was written by about 40 writers who were inspired by the Holy Spirit. It spans over a period of 1400 years, and amazingly, they all point to Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Saviour!
b..God created the entire universe as recorded in the first chapter of Genesis. The physical world began to exist at one particular point in time; the creation account revealed how God created this world from day one to day six. Man is His highest creation!
c. Every person has sinned as recorded in Romans 3:23.  To sin is to miss the mark which is missing God’s standard of perfection. Only the sinless life of Jesus Christ meets God's standard. One need not be a murderer to be a sinner. A person sins against God when he tells a white lie or brings home office stationeries secretly  or by steals "time" by deliberately displaying a carpark coupon with incorrect timing.
d. All who sin will die without Jesus as indicated in Romans 6:23a.  We know that the result of a divorce is a physical separation between two persons, but the result of sin is an eternal separation between the created being and the Creator God!
e.  Jesus died for us to reveal God’s love as found in Romans 5:8. Jesus is an expression of God’s tangible love for mankind.
f.  Jesus is the only access to God and Eternal Life according to John 14:6.  Only a sinless life can make this possible.  Jesus makes eternal life a reality for sinful humanity.
g. Jesus resurrected as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:6.  There were more than 500 people who saw Jesus after His resurrection. Thus history recorded the true account that Christ’s resurrection had indeed taken place!

9. Conclusion:
We have deep conviction in what we believe and what have experienced in our heart.  Our personal experiences bring meanings to our lives.  Therefore, we can demonstrate to the world that objective and absolute truths can be experienced in a relational manner.

10. Applications:
How do we translate subjective beliefs into steadfast convictions?
a. Check our faith by devoting ourselves to an indepth study on the God's Word as Apostle Peter admonishes us in 1 Peter 3:15.  We must be able to explain to others our faith.
b. Encourage open and honest discussions about other’s beliefs, especially with that of our teens.  We must be non-judgmental.
c. Engage with others on fundamental questions of life. Our teens need to be grounded on absolute truths!
d. Teach biblical truths with life applications as clearly taught in 2 Timothy 3:16. The goal of teaching is to connect people to God so that they are taught, corrected, reproved and trained toward righteous living
e. Relate truths to the loving Person of Jesus Christ according to John 14; 6.  We have to help people find the relevancy of God's Word in their lives, so that they will know and love God resulting in holiness and Christ-likeness.

Note: This is a personal sermon notes with additional pointers. Some points have been added which may differ from the intent or purpose from speaker.

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) ESV.

Father, this morning I come to your throne of grace for my needs. I want to receive your mercy at this juncture of my life, and find your grace to strengthen me so that I can manage the challenging circumstance I am in now. I know this assurance is from you instructing me to come to you personally with confidence. I know you listen to me and know all of my immediate needs.  In Jesus' name I ask and pray.

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. (Psalms 73:26)

Father God, I need your divine strength today. I want to experience more of your goodness and abundant love for I know that when I am weak then I am strong in the Lord. Help me to keep experiencing your peace. Thank you Jesus!

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:2-4) ESV.

Father, help me to be steadfast in trusting you despite of the external circumstances. Let every new day see me desiring more and more of Christ. Thank you for the inner joy and your abiding presence all the times.

Give ear to my words, O LORD; consider my groaning. Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I pray. (Psalm 5:1-2) ESV.

Father, let your presence be with me always for to you alone do I pray. I need your peace as I quietly reflect on your love and faithfulness.  Thank you Father. In Jesus' name I pray.

But if anyone loves God, he is known by God. (1 Corinthians 8:3) ESV.

Father, it is assuring to know that you truly know me. Help me to love you the way i know and let everything I say or do pleases you. I need your strength every moment Father. In Jesus' name I pray.

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. (John 10:11) ESV.

Lord, you are my good Shepherd and always will be. I thank you again for exchanging your perfect life with my sinful life, so that I can experience God's love in a deepest possible way.  May my heart always be grateful and my life constantly glorify your holy name in words and deeds. Thank you Jesus!

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17) ESV.

Father, I receive your comfort and the eternal hope I have in you because of Jesus Christ. May your grace keep me steadfast in loving you as I abide in your sweet presence today and throughout this brand new week.  Thank you Jesus!

Sermon Title: The Rich Fool (Mirrors and Windows - Part 7)
Speaker: Senior Pastor Rony Tan
Date: 3 November 13
Scripture: Luke 12:13-21

Introduction
A. These 2 words seem incongruent.  But God's opinion of the rich can be foolish for one can be rich materially but bankrupt spiritually.
B. Successful failure is one who is unprepared for eternity. Only Christ can give us the perspective of a balance and joyous life now and prepare us for eternity.

1. Jesus is prompted to give this parable because an unhappy person comes to Him hoping He will make a judicial decision to get his brother to give him the share of his inheritance.
A. However Jesus deals with the root cause of the problem which is man's covetousness.
B. Covetousness is about acquiring an appetite that craves for worldly things in this life without true fulfillment or satisfaction in one's heart.
C. It then develops into greed that blinds one from seeking what is truly matters - the destiny of one's soul.

2. Two fatal mistakes in life
A. Living a life as though there is no God, and
B. Living a life without an end in mind.
As long as these 2 fatal mistakes continue, the results will be a life filled with haughtiness, pride and arrogance.

Three Warnings to take heed:

3. 1st warning: Life does not consist in the abundance of things.
A. Physical life is never freehold. Many earthly life is much shorter than HDB 99 years lease!
B. Spiritual side of man like emotions, will and thinking faculties continue after he dies. Eternity once dawns on you, it is the spirit of man that matters.

4. 2nd Warning: Matthew 6:19-24:  it warns us to not focus on temporal things but on things that will not rust or be destroyed.
A. What is truly the treasure in a person's heart?  It is the answer from this question: "What does he think of most of the times?" That is his treasure in life!
B. If a person is thinking of making money all the times, then money is his treasure!  He worships mammoth and not God.
C. No one can serve two masters. You cannot serve Jesus truthfully, if you are money-minded. This person will have an unhealthy mindset for he sees life issues always in monetary terms. Money becomes his master!

5. Matthew 16:26 - Jesus is saying even if you have the whole world, it is absolutely folly of him if he loses his soul!
A. True wealth is contented with a few things and trust Jesus for all his needs in this life.
B. Real life is one who trusts God daily and be prepared to meet Him face to face.

6. All earthly possessions will eventually pass from your hand.
A. 2 Tim 6:7-10: Craving to be rich and having the love of money will  lead to destruction.
B. Warning for shoppaholics: It is an addiction which can develop into covetousness.

Seven Guidelines to help impulsive shoppers:

1. Do I know exactly what I buy?
2. Don't be mesmerize by the packaging and the promise of the product.  Eg. Can you believe you will have beautiful skin complexion for 10 years by using a bottle of cream for 30 days? The salesman is not selling to you the bottle or the cream but the hope of what this product promises! Unfortunately it is leading the buyer to believe a hidden deception.
3. Can I afford it? Walk away if it is a clear NO!
4. Do I really need it or am I feeling bad to disappoint the very likeable salesperson?
5. Am I going to use it regularly or it is because there is a terrific special offer? Why buy a shirt for $5 if you are going to wear it only once?
6.. Does it require high or expensive upkeep?
7. Do I have a space in my home for it?  Is your home too cluttered?  A cluttered home may lead to a cluttered mind!

3rd Warning: You may even die  tonight.
Hebrew 9:27 - Death appointment supercedes everything.

Conclusion
1 Timothy 6:17 - Don't trust in uncertain riches!
2. The day will come for life's accountability.
3. God gives us all things richly to enjoy without resorting to being covetous.
4. How many people are speeding to their death prematurely, and into the judgement of God?

Altar call: Come to Jesus to trust Him fully, If you are not certain about eternity.

I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living! Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!  (Psalm 27:13-14) ESV.

Father, help me reflect on your goodness and grace  today as I learn to wait upon you knowing that my prayers shall be answered. Refresh and strengthen me Lord. In Jesus' name I pray.

He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. Blessed is the man who always fears the LORD, but he who hardens his heart falls into trouble. (Proverb 28:13-14) NIV.

Father, I desire my walk with you to be blameless at every moment.  Help me to keep a very short account of things that displease you. May the holy fear of God in me keep me from hardening my heart. Thank you Father for your rich mercy toward me every morning.  May my heart be pure and faith simple as I let the fear of the Lord guide me today.  In Jesus's name I pray.

Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy.The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song. (Psalm 28:6-7) NIV.

Father, I receive your mercy for you listen to my every cry. My heart trusts in you and you only, for you are my strength every day. I know you help me even though I am unaware many a time. I want to give thanks to you regularly. Thank you for another day with you Lord Jesus for your joy brings strength to my soul. I sing Hallelujah!  and Amen!

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1) ESV.

Father, what you have filled in my heart is the Holy Spirit, my Comforter, Teacher and Helper, who shows me how to exercise faith to receive what you have for my life, even life abundantly. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight so that I shall exeperience many breakthroughs and answered prayers walking with you. I give you all the glory and praise Father!

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1) ESV.

Father, what you have filled in my heart is the Holy Spirit, my Comfirtir, Teacher and Helper, who shows me how to exercise faith to receive what you have for my life, even life abundantly. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight so that I shall exeperience many breakthroughs and answered prayers walking with you. I give you all the glory and praise Father!

I love you, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalm 18:1-2) ESV.

Father, you are everything to me - strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, horn of salvation and stronghold!  Everything in me created by and for you. Increase your strength within me so that I stay steadfast for you are truly my Rock in every moment whether I am asleep or awake.  Thank you Lord Jesus!

In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. (Psalms 4:8)

Lord Jesus, you are my peace. I rest fully in your sweet embrace, your comforting arm, every moment,  day and night.  I want to stay close with you Lord for in your presence my whole being is refreshed and rejoiced.  Praise you Jesus!

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:3) ESV

Father, I am blessed for your abiding presence in me is what makes me completely satisfied and peaceful despite of the external circumstances. May my attitude always be one of deep spiritual hunger for desiring to know you and to becoming more like Christ.Father, the Kingdom of Heaven is truly where I belong. Let my heart, soul, strength and mind worship your holy name in yet another brand new week. I pray in Jesus' lovely name!

Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverb 3:3-6) ESV.

Father, my trust is in you always whether in good times or difficult times for you direct and watch over me all the times. Let my heart experience more of your steadfast love as I ponder on the marvellous benefits of the finished work of Christ for me today.Thank you for being my faithful God Heavenly Father!

I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:12-13) ESV

Father, this is a awesome truth of knowing who I am and what I have is Christ. May I experience this truth of Christian contentment in a deeper and personal way as I walk with you daily. I praise you Father for Christ is truly my sufficiency - body, soul and spirit. Help me walk humbly while embracing this truth in my heart. In Jesus' wonderful name I pray.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (2 Corinthians 12:9) ESV.

Heavenly Father, refresh my spirit and strengthen my heart and mind as I let your grace carry me through yet another day with you. Thank you for giving me this quiet confidence that the power of Christ rests upon me especially in our weaknesses. Thank you Almighty God!

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10) ESV.

Lord Jesus, I have received your life fully, abundantly and without lack for your complete work at the Cross is absolutely finished! Thank you for the born again experience, the divine nature in me, and the abundant graces experienced in my daily walk with you. Thank you for the countless rich blessings flowing from this abundant life to make me prosper in all things, more so in my inner man becoming more like you Lord!  May this brand new day help me to reflect this blessedness in me and to reach out to others that they, too, shall quickly recreive this abundant life, full of grace and truth. In your awesome name I pray.

Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings, (Psalm 17:8) ESV.

Father, this is my daily morning prayer to you. Keep my mind from anxious thoughts, quieten my heart with your peace, and  deliver  me from harm and evil. Let me be a blessing to someone you are bringing to me today.  I give you glory Lord.  I love you always.

How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you. (Psalm 139:17-18) ESV.

Father, thank you for assuring me that I can always come into your Holy Presence by having my mind saturated with your precious thoughts every morning. Help me to keep my mind renewed and pure that I can keep receiving fresh revelation of Christ's love for and in me first thing in the morning I pray. Thank you Jesus!

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14) KJV.

Father, let my heart be pure and tender daily meditating on your Word to let the Holy Spirit teach, correct and empower me to live a Spirit-filled life speaking words that bring comfort, peace and hope to myself as well as to people around me. Holy Spirit, I want to obey your voice and walk close with you this week. In Jesus' holy name I pray.

Sunday Sermon: The Great Marriage (Mirrors and Windows - Part 6)
Speaker: Senior Pastor Rony Tan
Date: 20 October 2013

1. Introduction
Jesus gives this amazing parable of the great marriage. It is the marriage of the Lamb that will take place at the Rapture, just before the Great Tribulation.

2. What will happen at Rapture mentioned in 1Thessalonians 4:16-18?
A. Dead in Christ will rise first.
B. We who are in Christ and alive shall be caught up in the air.
C. Jesus' feet will not touch the earth. He shall meet us in the cloud.
D. Why the word "therefore"? It is because Christians can take comfort from this truth!

3. What is the Glorious Appearing of our Lord Jesus in Revelation 19:11-16?
A. This event will take place after the Rapture mentioned in 1 Thess 4:16-18.
B. The sequence of events is as follows:
1st event:  Rapture
2nd event: Great Tribulation
3rd event: Glorious Appearing of our Lord Jesus
4th event: The Millennium (We are going to rule and reign with Christ on earth for a 1000 years).

4. What is the difference between these 2 events - Rapture and the Glorious Appearing of Jesus?
A. 1st Event: Rapture is to rescue the saints. The Lamb in the Great Marriage will come FOR the saints (John 14:1-2).
B. 2nd Event - the Glorious Appearing of Jesus Christ is that He will come WITH the saints (Jude 14-15 - Enoch walked so close with God that God took him up. Enoch prophesied Christ will come with ten of thousands of His holy ones to execute judgement of God)

5. The Lamb in the Great Marriage will come for His Bride, the Church - Revelation 19:5-9.
A. Question - Will you be ready for the Rapture?
B. People who are saved during the Great Tribulation will not be part of the Bride.
C. The fine linen mentioned here is good work of righteousness by the saints empowered by the Holy Spirit. This good work is naturally produced after salvation, for good work by itself cannot save a person.

6. Parable of the Great Marriage - Matthew 22:1-14.
What does it mean by "Many are called but few are chosen"?
A. Only Jesus can clothe us with His garment of righteousness through the blood of Christ.
B. Many are called to salvation but a lot will slip away. At the end few are left.
C.  In Matthew 21:45-46, the Pharisees know that Jesus is referring to them.
D. This Supper is in the Father's mind all the times.  Angels and guests (eg. OT prophets and NT saints) are waiting for this supper to take place when the Bride, that is the Church on earth, is caught up to meet the Groom at Rapture.
E. Parallel parable is found in Luke 14:16-24.

7. Conclusion
A. Many earthly issues distract Christians from focusing on things matter to God for they don't seem to have time for spiritual things.
B. The condition of human heart in Bible times is the same as in the present generation.  People have no time for God until crisis strikes!

8. Applications
A. Two paramount questions that every true child of God must ask:
1st question - Will I make it to Heaven?
2nd question - Am I ready for the Rapture to partake the Great Marriage with my Lord Jesus?

B. Personal Reflection for the Week:
a. Stay on the straight and narrow way.
b. Don't stray
c. Be faithful
d. Trust Christ at all times

C. Warning from  the Parable of 10 Virgins - 5 ready for the Rapture but 5 left behind.

D. Most people in the Church will make it to Heaven but may not be ready for the Rapture.

E  Invitation to the Prebelievers - Jesus wants to dine with you so that you can receive the gift of God's love, the salvation of your spirit, soul and body. Repent of your sins and receive His forgiveness by openthe door of your heart to Him. He wants to have intimacy with you and partake the Great Marriage with Him.

Note: This is only a personal sermon notes. For complete sermon, you may purchase a copy of the sermon in a DVD format.

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. (Psalm 139:13-16) ESV.

Father, I thank you and praise you for being my Creator. You know me very well for every part in me is not hidden from you. I commit my spirit, soul and body to your loving care and protection. Thank you Jesus for dying on the Cross to make me a  child of God and to give me the gift of eternal life. Strengthen me today so that I can worship you with all my heart, soul, strength and mind  In Jesus' name I pray.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.(James 1:17) ESV.

Father, I receive every gift you have for me. I thank you Father for giving what is best for me all this while. I thank you for your goodness to me all the times. I want to keep trusting in your abundant goodness and steadfast love.Thank you Lord Jesus!

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. (Luke 6:45) ESV.

Father, let my heart always be filled with your goodness so that whoever I speak and whatever I do your goodness permeates my being as well as people around me.  Thank you for your abundant goodness I am experiencing every day. In Jesus' name I give thanks and praise!

Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32) ESV.

Holy Spirit, help me to know and experience more of the length, breadth and depth of Christ's love and forgiveness for me, so that my heart be continually filled with Christ's lovingkindness and tender mercy enabling God's forgiveness to gently flow through me and touch everyone around me today. Thank you Holy Spirit!

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7) ESV.

Lord, help me to ask boldly for my daily needs and needs of others, as I abide in you and your Word constantly. I thank you for experiencing abundant life since the day you came into my life. I want to keep trusting you and believing your Word in greater measure everyday. Let me be conscious of your abiding presence in me wherever I am. Thank you Jesus!

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by. I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills his purpose for me. (Psalm 57:1-2) ESV.

Father, shower upon me your mercy and grace.  Refresh and strengthen me with your healing hand. Teach me to walk by faith and not by sight for through Christ shall be my healing and wholeness. In Jesus' name I pray.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. (2 Corinthians 1:3-5) ESV.

Father, your comfort and mercy strengthen me always, albeit quietly but assuredly. May this brand new week be filled with precious, intimate moments of receiving and giving comfort for you are truly the source of all comfort and mercy.  I praise you Heavenly Father!

Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. (Psalm 100:3) ESV.

Father, thank you for your assurance that I truly and dearly belong to you. I am strengthened by your steadfast love every day. Thank you Heavenly Father.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. (Psalm 1:1-3) ESV.

Father, I am bountifully blessed by meditating daily the richness and refreshing dew of your living Word making me fruitful and prosperous in all seasons of life. May I keep delighting in your Word day and night, and experience your Presence with me wherever I am - awake or asleep. Thank you Lord!

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13) ESV.

Father, thank you for assuring me of your faithfulness and provision each time I face trial or temptation. Let my heart be pure and faith simple as I constantly experience the gentle guidance of the Holy Spirit. Thank you Father for you are always faithful and know what is best for me in every circumstance.

Jabez called upon the God of Israel, saying, "Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border, and that your hand might be with me, and that you would keep me from harm so that it might not bring me pain!" And God granted what he asked. (1 Chronicles 4:10) ESV.

Father, I too ask for these four requests: you would bless me; enlarge my border; your hand might be with me; you would keep me from harm. I boldly bring this prayer before your throne of grace. I thank you for listening to my prayers and give you all the glory.  In Jesus' name I pray.

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21) ESV.

Father, thank you for the divine strength within me because of Christ in me by the Holy Spirit.  Let your healing continue to flow and strengthen every part in my body that needs a special touch from you. Thank you Lord for strengthening the quiet trust in you.  I want to stay in your love and abiding presence.  I love and adore you Jesus!

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world can not receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. (John 14:16-17)

Holy Spirit, you are precious to me. Living with and in me as my Helper to comfort, guide, strengthen and to reveal more of Christ to me. Help me to treasure you dearly by talking and sharing with you what is in my heart. Also, help me to increase my love for and intimacy with Christ. In Jesus' name I pray.

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9) ESV.

Father, as a chosen race, a royal priesthood and a holy nation,  help me to declare boldly your love and goodness to loved ones, friends and colleagues so that they shall be delivered from the kingdom of darkness into your marvellous light. Let your mercy and grace fall upon them.  In Jesus' name I pray.

My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh. (Proverb 4:20-22) ESV.

Father, thank you for your Word from which flows life and healing to my body, soul and spirit. Enlighten my eyes so that I may hear your voice to receive spiritual truths and treasure them in my heart. Let someone hear your name Lord Jesus and receive your amazing love today, as you lead me. Praise you Father!

For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Fear not, I am the one who helps you."  (Isaiah 41:13) ESV.

Father, life and vitality come from you for having held so strongly by you, I keep receiving your wonderful divine strength to live confidently in every circumstance.  Thank you Father for yet another new day with new mercy and steadfast love.

Testimony

Two nights ago Brother Robin had the privilege of giving a eulogy at Brother Wilym Koh's wake. He has gone home to be with the Lord after battling with cancer for 16 months (see photo). Brother Robin ended with an inspiring dream which God had given to Aiden, 9 yrs old son of Sister Audrey Koh.  Here are the details of Aiden's dream narrated by Sister Audrey Koh: Prior to Aiden's dream:  Months before,  I (Audrey) told him (Wilym) half jokingly that when he reaches heaven,  to come back in my dream to tell me he's there.   He said "cannot la. God won't allow that".   I said " u try la..maybe can!"  Details of Aiden's dream:  Last Sunday morning,  Aiden woke up and immediately told me " mom I just had a wonderful dream. I dreamt I ascended up to heaven n saw uncle Wilym n God on the clouds singing. He said meow meow to me (its a little game they played) n asked me how's mommy. I told him mommy's good. Then he continued singing with God.  Then I descended back to earth"  Wow...my (Audrey) heart sank. God's love filled me.  God has sent a msg to me through Aiden.  Wilym"s pastor also asks God for a dream on Friday.  When i told him this dream,  he's overwhelmed as God has answered his prayer too! I asked Aiden what was uncle Wilym wearing? He described the outfit Wilym was wearing in the casket.  My friend asked me to ask Aiden how God look like.  He said cant see God's face.  Its a shining light but can see his beard.   I want to encourage you that God is real. Put all our trust in Jesus. They were singing "with Christ in the vessel we can smile at the storm"  Aiden could give me so many details.   God is so good.  He uses this sad situation to encourage us, to continue have faith in Him. That's why I (Audrey) am sharing this openly with as many to encourage us Aiden is much affected by his demise. Aiden asked me "Uncle Wilym really going heaven? " " nobody can meow meow to me anymore"... God chose him because He wants to assure Aiden. Also children belong to the kingdom of God. If Wilym can't come down, then Aiden goes up I also think that children are innocent.  They won't be like adults searching for dreams. That's why that vision is real He could easily say how God look like from pictures n books. But he told me directly he can't see His face only shining light.

Scripture & Prayer

While he was coming, the demon threw him to the ground and convulsed him. But Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit and healed the boy, and gave him back to his father. (Luke 9:42) ESV.

Father, children truly belong to your Kingdom for they have a special place in your heart. Empower me to take your authority and power to heal and deliver any child that is stricken with diseases or oppressed by evil one. Praise you Father for through Jesus Christ, sins, sickness and Satan have been overcome. Thank you for this wonderful victory! In Jesus' mighty name I give thanks and praise.

Scripture & Prayer

O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me. O LORD, you have brought up my soul from Sheol; you restored me to life from among those who go down to the pit. (Psalm 30:2-3) ESV.

Father, truly how great thou art for your salvation, healing and deliverance of my spirit, soul and body are perfect expression of your awesome love for me. Let this day and the rest of this week be filled with precious moments of quiet rejoicing and steadfast trust in your unfailing love. Thank you Father!

Scripture & Prayer

The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is safe. (Proverb 29:25) ESV.

Father, help me to grow stronger in your Word and deeper in your love upon which shall my trust in you be permanently established, overcoming any snare that comes from the fear of man or works by any human flesh. Thank you Father for your divine, protective safety net all the times!

Scripture & Prayer

The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him. (Psalm 28:7) ESV.

Father, I need your strength. Shield me, protect me and help me. My heart's desire is to live humbly before you, be contented and joyful. Let me stay close to you all the times. Praise you Jesus!

Scripture & Prayer

One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in his temple. (Psalm 27:4) ESV.

Father, your abiding presence in me, in my heart, is truly Heaven to me. All my going out and coming in are always surrounded by your holy presence, oftentimes quiet but serene. May I learn to pause and be still and reflect on the beauty, holiness and majesty of my glorious Lord Jesus, triumphant and victorious, sitting on the heavenly throne. Let this time of solitude and contemplation be a true worship unto you, Almighty God, I pray.

Scripture & Prayer

Let not your heart be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. (John 14:1-3) ESV.

Father, thank you for preparing a dwelling place for me. This is a wonderful assurance for me. Thank you Jesus!

Scripture & Prayer

And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. (Luke 9:23-24) ESV.

Lord, I am saved and I know it. I am affirmed by your timely words that whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. Jesus, you already had my life since that day I asked you into my heart. Now my whole being breathes and lives is to worship and glorify you, my personal Saviour and Lord. Strengthen me as I choose to put you first, take up my cross everyday, and fully trust you to lead me to do the Will of God.

Scripture & Prayer

But the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing. (Luke 9:11) NIV.

Lord Jesus, your Kingdom is about the unconditional and steadfast love of God which is all inclusive, for everyone, rich or poor, sick or healthy. You proclaimed the good news to them and Healed them all! Jesus, I needed to be healed. Touch me, let your healing flow into my weak body. I receive your healing Lord because you have provided it at the Cross. Thank you Lord!

Scripture & Prayer

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6) ESV.

Father, thanks for another fresh week, another new day to begin my walk with you.Slowly but steadily, my faith in you has increased, that is, knowing who you are and what you have done and still doing what is best for me. May the intimacy with you reflect a life of joy, meekness, righteousness as well as eternal blessings to many this entire week knowing that you will bring into completion what you have begun in me. In Jesus' name I pray.

Scripture & Prayer

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:3-5) ESV.

Heavenly Father, I have received your great mercy. I thank you sincerely. Now I have been born again, have a living hope and salvation. Let my faith, my relationship with you, remain unmovable by your divine strength every day. Refresh me with your abundant grace and mercy. Father, may my life glorify Jesus as I experience more of your love each new day. Thank you Jesus.

Scripture & Prayer

Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. And this is the promise that he made to us - eternal life. (1 John 2:24-25) ESV.

Father, I abide in you, in your love, in your goodness and grace. You are everything to me since the day Jesus came into my life and remain in my heart. I know I have your divine life, that is eternal with you throughout eternity. Thank you Father!

Scripture & Prayer

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14) ESV

Father, may I reflect on your goodness quietly in my heart knowing you are always faithful to me in all my sleeping and waking time. Let my heart today be close to you as I ponder all you are to me. Thank you Jesus!

Scripture & Prayer

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him. (1 John 5:14-15) ESV.

Father, your perfect will is for me to believe you, love you, fellowship with you and glorify Christ with the divine life you have given me. Help me to love you with all my heart, mind, soul and especially with my strength. Let my whole body worship you Father. This is my sincere request and I know you hear me. My confidence is in Jesus, the name which I experience salvation of my soul, healing of my body and deliverance from sin, satan and sicknesses. Deepen my love for you and increase my faith in you God. In Jesus' wonderful name I pray.

Scripture & Prayer

With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; (Palsm 18:25) ESV.

Father, I know you are merciful, all the times. With you, I receive comfort and strength. God touch me, touch me for I have been made blameless by Christ, I pray in Jesus' name.

Scripture & Prayer

But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!" (Acts 3:16) ESV.

Lord, we bear you awesome name that has the authority to release God's healing power to the sick in the Body of Christ and to everyone in our community and family. Reveal to us more spiritual truths on learning to take your authority to save, heal and deliver, so that the power of God's love being experienced through your healing presence shall usher in many souls into the Kingdom of God. O Lord, increase our compassion for lost souls! We love you Jesus!

Scripture & Prayer

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.(1 Peter 2:9) ESV.

Father, you have set me apart to declare the awesome reality of Christ to the countless souls still groping in darkness. In this brand new week, lead me to places and people where I can light the way even just for one lost soul to your Kingdom. May I be found obedient and faithful as your royal priest. In Jesus' name I pray.

Sunday Sermon Title: God's Kingdom (Mirrors and Windows - Part 4)
Speaker: Senior Pastor Rony Tan
Date: 15 September 13
Key Scriptures: Matthew 13

1.    Introduction

Parables are like mirrors telling us who we are and also like windows helping us to see others from Kingdom's perspectives. Two Facets of the Kingdom of God

a. Tangible Kingdom which is Jesus' physical reign on earth when He returns.

b.  Luke 17:20-21 - Intangible Kingdom which is within us - Matthew v25:33-34. There are practical and powerful principles in this intangible Kingdom. What does it mean when Jesus said, “Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand?”.  He means that everyone, regardless of culture, family background, rich or poor, etc. can receive and experience the Kingdom of God.

2. Parable of the Mustard Seed
a. Matthew 13:31-33 - Mustard seed is like a full stop in our Bible, but it can grow to a big tree under the right conditions, and similarly, leaven can rise and grow. Therefore the Word of God can grow and populate an entire nation like what we see in the early church.  It is like leaven and mustard seed.

b. In Singapore churches, we should be like the leaven and mustard seen, rise and grow to populate the entire nation with the Word of God.

3. Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Great Pearl – Matthew 13:44-46
a. Hidden Treasure - In olden times, tenant farmers are poor but owner farmers are rich. The former works from sunrise to sunset and receive little, while the latter simply receives exorbitant renting fees. Then one day this tenant farmer suddenly discovered a hidden treasure and quickly     exchanged all that he had to purchase the land hidden with this such great treasure.

b. Great Pearl - This man liquidated everything he had to exchange this precious pearl of great price!
c. Two Kingdom Principles: One, it is the discovery of the reality and provision of Jesus to all our needs. It sounds simplicity to the unsaved mind for they do not even realize that Christ holds the very breath that they breathe! Two, in Christ, we have this hope of glory. There is glory in Christ - no sicknesses no death, but only peace, love and joy.
d. Reflection: We have all provisions on earth because we are joint heirs with Christ!

e. Question to ask ourselves: What am I willing to forgo to exchange for this hidden treasure and great pearl we have discovered and received?

4. Life is about exchanges. Every day, we exchange our time, skills, talents, and even energy for a certain salary.  We also exchange our hard earned money for goods and services.

a. Christ gave his life at the Cross to exchange for our sinful life.  How deep can we go depends on what you bring on the table of exchange!
b. Illustration: The story of a starved, famished Indian boy who gave the Maharajah only two grains of rice from his hand, which later turned into gold. The boy then filled with anguished as he could have all the grains turned to gold if only he have given this great man everything he has on his     hand.

c. Kingdom Principle: We can never outgive God.  Once we decide to trust Him and give Him everything we have, He shall multiply the 2 loaves and 5 fishes. Everything we touch shall turn into “gold”.
d. Example of Paul - He has everything that this world has to offer, but will have nothing from the after world. In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul declared that he is wiling to give his life in order to gain Christ

5. Four Reasons Why Christ is our only Treasure:
a. Acts 4:12 - Salvation can only be found in Christ. Three things are required to bring salvation to mankind.  He must be a human bring. He must be a sinless man. He must be willing to suffer and die on the Cross. Christ fulfilled all the three conditions.

b. Colossians 2:3 - True knowledge and wisdom can only be found in Christ.  In a TV programme on health matters, Dr Oz  says that what a medical student has studied will be outdated by the time he graduated, and he will also find many things taught are no longer true.

c. Matthew 16:19 - True power and anointing can only be found in Christ. All fathers can exercise the key of the Kingdom of God through binding and loosing.  For example, they can say, “I bind you, the spirit of waywardness and rebellion in my house, and I loose the spirit of obedience and submission in my house”.  Since God has entrusted us with a family or ministry, we must use this key to win our teenage children to the Lord.

d. Colossians 2:10 - Completeness and wholeness are found in Christ. Contentment means that you can do with little and yet be contentedi in life.In Mark 10:28, we are assured that we can have a hundredfold blessings in this life.

6. Conclusion:

a. What are you going to bring on the table to exchange for the things of God?

b. Are you bringing unsaved souls into the Kingdom of God as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20