specify in prayer.

Sometimes i feel like prayer life can feel like such a routine. Sometimes i pray, and i confess that sometimes its just nonsense coming out of my mouth. And i know that its so wrong, that i shouldn't be praying like that, but it just happens sometimes. I feel like its very dull.

I was reading my devotions before heading into first period today, and it was about pray specifically. Instead of saying things like "Lord, bless and heal the sick ones", you can pray for those who are sick that you know. I personally do do that often in my prayers, i have specific requests, and certain people i pray for. Just something about it seems dull. I feel like that spark is kinda of lost, and I'm unsure of how to get it back.

I think what i can do right now is just to try my best to be fully honest in prayer, and be wholehearted. Not to rush it, and to treasure it because I'm spending time with the God of the universe. It can easily be just brushed off because its hard to realize how BIG this is.

 ³ When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

James 4:3 

continue to pray

Im completely guilty of not spending enough time with Christ in prayer. Usually, its short and simple before meals, and long and lengthy before I head to bed.

Prayer is so important with Christ, its our only form of communication with Him. Thinking about it, sometimes I really feel like I'm just using Christ, with all my requests, not only for myself but for other people as well. We've learnt to pray Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication. I know that many of us usually just skip to supplication. God is not our vending machine for us to take advantage of.

I really hope that i can continue to pray more, its hard to go to him in prayer sometimes, but its so important and i hope i can continue to practice that.

Remember that prayer can be simple, it doesn't have to be formal and crazy, God hears you, you can cry out, you can speak softly, he's listening.

²⁴ Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Mark 11:24 

more than just pain,

¹² Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. ¹³ But rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. ¹⁴ If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. ¹⁵ If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. ¹⁶ However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. ¹⁷ For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? ¹⁸ And,

   “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
   what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

 ¹⁹ So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

1 Peter 4:12-19

Suffering. We constantly have obstacles we face, whether we like it or not. This past week was definitely not one of my best weeks. Im so glad that i pulled through. I don't know how this upcoming week will be like, but my head is up high and I'm ready to start it off right.

Everyone is always questioning suffering. Why God allows it. Why we have to go through it. As Christians, i've learnt that its a trial for good. God has a greater plan and a lesson to teach us through it. I guess for myself, this week taught me a few things.

First to cry out to God. We talked about this in sunday school today too. When Jonah was in the belly of the fish, it was only when he finally submitted himself to Christ and cried out was when God answered. We often, too often go to friends and others first before God. We should always be going to God first. Last weekend, i was ready to give up, but crying out to God reassured me. Through his Word, through music and worship, and through friends. God hears you. But its when you fully give yourself to him, finally realizing that you cannot do anything more, you're helpless and are in need of a greater power. I think thats a general lesson from suffering. Knowing you can't do it alone and you need the help of Christ.

Also i've learnt about reminders. Watching that video, "I Am God's Original Masterpiece". I've constantly been repeating that to myself, constantly telling myself that I'm not junk. God doesn't make junk. I think in times of tribulation, you need to really listen for God. That video was exactly what i needed to hear to get through the rough patch, it may not necessarily be the same message for you, but there's something out there if you're willing to seek it.

God grants us these pains ultimately for growth and for character. Rejoice in your suffering. (v.13) This is still difficult for many people to understand. How can I be happy that I'm in pain? You're happy because you know that God will nurture you with these trials to strengthen you. Sometimes, i don't know what I'm saying, but i pray to Christ saying "thank you for giving these struggles, i don't know why and what you're trying to teach me but I'm willing to learn."

Don't be ashamed that you're going through these things. (v.16) I've learnt that you are never alone in your struggle. Everyone has their own package of pains and worries, we're just in a world that has adapted to hiding these flaws well because its looked down upon. I can confidently say that I'm going through many trials. I hope that i can use these trials to help others, to inspire others, and inform others that I'm fighting through it, and you shouldn't give up.

Yes, i completely agree. Suffering is hard, its tough, i don't like it, no one does, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. God has reasoning for this. Whether you see it or you don't, learn to put your trust in him knowing that he will give you whats best for you. Let us continue to push forth, committing our lives to Christ, continue to reflect his love and life and doing good. (v.19)

came across this article. take a look!

¹³ No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

1 Corinthians 10:13 

break my heart for what breaks yours.

Today was Today's Teens Conference for the AGAPE/BASIC leaders, and during our first breakout session, we went to Running With Fire: Passion for the Broken. Although it wasnt a session I wanted to attend, and reading the blurb about it, it didnt really appeal to me, but crazy things happen. I truly believe that if you willingly open your heart/mind/eyes to receive God's word, and whatever he wants to say to you, you'll get something out of it.

So during this session, our speaker talked about the broken. He talked about the brokenness, personal brokenness, the things we deal with, from cutting, to drugs, to sexual immorality, loneliness, depression, and pain. We are all broken, and im sure there are broken people around us. Its really important to really try to see that and be of support. One of the videos they showed today talked about seeing how God sees the world. At first, everyone seemed normal, playing games, socializing, but then when we were "given God's eyes", it revealed the baggage that everyone was going through, from teen pregnancies, to being self absorbed. God truly knows what everyone is going through, but we should be sensitive and see that in others as well.

He also talked about brokenness outside, internationally, in the world, from the poverty, famine and hunger, and how we can help. From sponsoring a child, to working with World Vision or doing the 30 hr famine and raising awareness. There were some crazy statistics they gave,

- The US Defense Bill for ONE DAY could eliminate world hunger

- The average amount spent on ice cream by Canadians could eliminate world hunger

But the end, he challenged us with this. He dared us pray this prayer, and mean it. "Break my heart for what breaks yours." I dont think i fully took it in, but its really a prayer to see with God's eyes, to build that passion for the broken. And if we can see the world from God's perspective, we can truly follow in his footsteps, and be his representatives and help those in need. If you can read this, it means you've been blessed to live in such a wealthy environment/country. God placed you in this position to be the leaders to help the broken, those who do not have that luxury. Challenge yourself, to pray that prayer, and take the first step forward.

Holy To The Lord

8 And all the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate. And they toldEzra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had commanded Israel. ² So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. ³ And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law.⁴ And Ezra the scribe stood on a wooden platform that they had made for the purpose. And beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand, and Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam on his left hand. ⁵ And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood. ⁶ And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. ⁷ Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites, helped the people to understand the Law, while the people remained in their places. ⁸ They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.

⁹ And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lordyour God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. ¹⁰ Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” ¹¹ So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” ¹² And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.

Nehemiah 8:1-12

This was the devotional scripture reading for today, and the overall lesson was about rejoicing in understanding the word. Verse 9 really spoke to me. Just recently, someone who I've known from years ago in choir had suddenly passed, and i was taught by her daughter as well. Because it was so sudden, it got me thinking. First, once again, that life is fragile and short, each day should be lived to the fullest, not for yourself, but for God. But more importantly, i thought about the families, how they must feel right now with what they're going through. I cant imagine how their world was the past few days. It must have been full of tears, overwhelming emotions and confusion. Im keeping them in my prayers. But this verse, "this day is holy to the Lord, do not mourn or weep."

Each day is holy to the Lord, his will is done. Think about the greater things, that she's now in a happier, eternal, place without pain, suffering or tears. She's with the father now, happier than ever. It is difficult to lose a close loved one, but it is when you acknowledge that she is in a better place that you can move on. I hope they are taking it okay. May God bless their family and provide comfort and reassurance.

Clearing The Air: Prayer

Prayer is one of our only ways to communicate to our father. Its a time of confession, praise, thanksgiving, and acknowledgement, but i think many people misunderstand what prayer really means.

Im guessing that when people first hear the word "prayer", they imagine people in white cloaks, getting onto their knees, heads bowed, hands together, eyes closed, and just completely in the zone. Prayer does not need to be like that.

Prayer also doesnt need to be out in the open, fully obvious and evident. (Matthew 6:5-8)

⁵ “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. ⁶ But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

⁷ “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. ⁸ Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

Prayer can be something as simple as a quick word to our Father. You dont necessarily have to get on your knees, it can be just a sign of devotion and respect. You can think a prayer as well.

Prayers also dont have to be formal. You're not talking to the president. And although you're talking to the king of kings, the creator and the saving one, he's your father as well as your friend. Prayers can be like "heavenly father, we thank you for your grace and love..." or it can be "hey God, how's it going, i've been feeling really tired lately...". Whats important is that you are praying wholeheartedly.

Another misunderstanding. God is not a vending machine. You dont pray and expect him to give you things. God does have a say in all this, if he decides to give what you want/need. For instance, praying that you'll do well on a test versus praying for wisdom to make the right decisions for university.

Prayer is simple, informal, formal, intimate, wholehearted conversation. Just remember one thing, that you are talking to the Father, the almighty and powerful wise king.

The Means of Grace

Going through the book "You Can Change" by Tim Chester that my pastor gave me, i came across this, "The Means of Grace" and i just wanted to share my thoughts.

This is basically another way of saying spiritual disciplines, how reinforce your faith. The author prefers "The Means of Grace" and here are the seven.

1. The Bible

- the bible reveals our hearts and Christ's glory

- through the bible we can see what Christ has done, his greatness and his power, his miracle and control.

- the bible is able to cut through you and expose your heart, uprooting the source of our sinful desires and thoughts.

- Psalm 119:11 talks about storing God's word in your heart, and with this power, this truth, we can fight against sin and not fall into Satan's traps.

- "Dont read Scripture everyday as a duty to tick off, but savour the truth of God that it reveals. Read it not to be INFORMED, but to be TRANSFORMED and CONFORMED to the likeness of Jesus."

The Bible is the TRUE TRUTH. I think i've said before, a quote there reading Christian books arent a replacement for the bible. With the Word, we know that each word is truth and is right and is God's voice. Indulge and really KNOW IT and it'll change you from the inside out.

2. Prayer

- we have to realize that God is the only one that can truly change us, and when we do, prayer will become more and more important and powerful in our lives

- "prayer will consume sin, or sin will choke prayer" - J.C. Ryle

- we need to learn to immediately look towards the Father in prayer when we are tempted

I think we're all lacking prayer, but that second point really hit me. Its one or the other. There is no inbetween. Dont fall away from God. Prayer is the only telephone line we have with him. Pray to Him, not only in times of need and suffering, but just anytime. May it be a prayer of thanksgiving, cry, or celebration. Pray with others, pray together. Prayer doesnt have to be get down on your knees and pray, it can be a simple thought and a word.

3. Community

- the church is to be a community of change, where there is support, love, and accountability. no judgement or put downs.

- remind each other, watch over each other, walk with each other, pray for each other, serve together, and learn from each other

Accountability is SO important, and that is what the church should be. We must all individually work hard to be good representatives of our Saviour, of Christ, reflecting his love, his mercy, his grace and his life. Support one another in all things and walk through life holding each other.

4. Worship

- "when we worship God, we're minding ourselves that God is bigger and better than anything sin offers."

- "we sing the truth so that it moves, inspires, stirs, encourages, and so transforms us."

- let God "retune" our hearts through worship

Remember that worship isnt only about singing during that sunday service, you can worship him through anything, and we should worship him through everything. Through speech, through actions, and through thoughts. Continue to keep Christ in mind and you will learn to embody and remember his glory, his greatness and his love.

5. Service

- Sin is fundamentally an orientation towards ourselves, therefore when we serve we learn to think of others' needs first.

Service is extremely important. It reminds us that its not about us, its about God and others. It also is a great opportunity to try new things and see what our gift is. There are many ways to service God. It doesn't have to be the forefront and in the spotlight, it can be simple, small, and hidden as well.

6. Suffering

- "often the events of our lives appear to be meaningless and irrelevant. But all the time God is training us in grace and godliness."

Suffering is always questioned, but know that its for a better good, and through it we learn to rely and trust in our Father who knows all, cares for all, and controls all. There is a greater, bigger and better plan ahead, push through it and dont lose faith!

7. Hope

- meditate on the future, eternal life

- remind yourselves that there is better yet to come, greater things that will happen and eternity of happiness that awaits

- "thinking of Christ's return loosens the hold that the world has on us and inspires us to change."

Salvation is a past, present and future thing. Focus on what is eternal, do not dwell on the earthly things, things that dont last and will fail, but think about whats to come, and the end, where a eternity of happiness, without tears, without pain, awaits us.

Why Not With God?

This thought just popped into my mind.

Today i found was one of the most productive days i've EVER had academically, how much was good and will stay in my mind? i have no clue, but i was able to study 3/4 of my math course, and i completely my first round of studies. I couldnt believe it. I was blasting music, singing along, but i was surprised i wasnt tempted to check twitter, facebook, i wasnt even tempted to have breaks. Even times when i said "you deserve a break", i wouldnt, i was totally in the zone and the momentum contuinued to carry. Working from 11am - 8pm (with breaks of course, lunch and dinner, and my... occasional get up, dance and sing moments), it was extremely efficient and im so proud of myself.

But now sitting down, thinking about what to post, a question popped into my mind, why dont we spend this much time and put this much effort into our relationship with God? Why cant we do this with God? Is it cause we're not being marked? Because it doesnt impact our near-future? Because it's "old" and "boring"? Because we cant see Him? What's stopping us from spending a day with God, whether it be studying his word, or communicating through prayer? What is this barrier that is hindering us from doing this?

Quickly reflecting upon it right now, i actually dont know. I cant figure out why i am not able to do this with Christ? Im thinking maybe because its boring? The bible isnt fully placed in today's context, but there are so many things in there that we can learn from and need to understand. Maybe its because it happened so long ago? I know i struggle with this. Yes i know God died for me, but that +2000 years ago. It just doesnt fully feel relevant to me, like i dont feel the connection because it was just so long ago. I dont feel like i dont fully know God like how i know a friend, but that's partially my fault for not taking the time to know Him.

Think about it, what's really stopping you from doing that? Its kind of mind boggling, that we're able and willing and will even force ourselves to sit down and practice graphing squiggles on paper, and learn about how enzymes in our body's work, but not sit down and communicate with the Father, the Creator, the One that sent His Son down to earth to die for us?

just a thought.

personal blended juice.

Regrets are a part of life, yes? If i could go back in time, these would be the regrets i’d like to change.

Dating Someone at the age of 12. What the heck was I thinking? It was a horrible decision, not only was it a failure, ha, i dont even know if you can even call it a relationship, there was nothing. Just shy kids trying something out that had a 100% fail rate. Thinking through it, it was such a stupid move. Reflecting on it, ive come to realize, why would you date so young? even in high school, what are you reasons? Dating has two results, marriage or break up. So dating at an age like that… are you planning on getting married? if not, then you’re just setting up a time bomb that’ll break two hearts at once. And after going through it, there were more regrets that came like a chain reaction. I personally just dont see the point if you dont think/plan on making it last. But it doesnt really matter now cause my love life is currently on hold.

As Christians, i think we can just put our trust and faith in Him to know that he'll provide the perfect spouse in our life, or to not provide one. Maybe we're meant to be single for our life, whats important is that we are adoring and glorifying God in our actions, words, AND our relationships. I think its also important to think about what you're looking for in your partner. I think that the love for Christ is extremely important. I heard from a marriage thing once, if you draw a triangle, God is at the top, and Husband and Wife are on the bottom. If you are both working towards God individually and or together, you two will also get closer to each other.

Family. I’ve been thinking about this a LOT lately, especially since i feel like God is calling me towards family this year. Im kinda ashamed about this. Im sure you’ve read before that my relationship with them arent the best. I see EVERYONE and they have the greatest families, oh so knit and tight, and im thinking my own, about everything, from how we communicate to how we interact, i regret not spending and investing time in them. I wasted 17 years not building up my relationship with them. And sometimes i think to myself, its a lost cause. I cant get it back, its done, next year im leaving for university, and then for 4 years i’ll be gone, and then wow, i’ll be 21 and who knows what’ll happen then. I look at myself and my family, and im in shock, what have i done, i cant believe i failed myself and my family. Its probably one of my bigger struggles right now, and i just dont know what to do about it. Like the other night, we were “discussing” for an hour or so because we were trying to resolve a conflict, and by the end of it all, i think to myself, we still dont fully understand each, it seems like it, but we’re totally on different channels. It may be the culture/generation difference, but i dont know. i just dont know what to do next. It just seems impossible to revive.

This is hard to work with everyday. Family is extremely important. Like it says in the bible, obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord. Sometimes i question God why i was placed in this family, why do i have this mom, this dad, and this brother? What are you trying to tell me? I personally dont think we really mesh at all... but thats how it is and that was apart of God's plan. Can i ask that you pray for me about this, i really dont know what to do, i have 9 more months with them before i leave, and then who knows what'll happen after that.

Letting Go. If you read the last post on the blobfish site, you wouldve read about this one friend i have. I’ve been trying to build a strong friendship with them for the past 6-7 years. Its been a long time, and i wouldnt give up. I’d be constantly praying for it to work out, but i’ve always felt like it was a one way thing. I feel like im working so hard at it, and they just decide to be inactive and just non-responsive. Its frustrating but i just kept hacking away at it. This friend is also so unpredictable, sometimes they’re a happy as a bird and just yay-oh-the-world-is-great with you and the next thing you know it, they’re just out of it, and just.. like a rock sitting at the bottom of the ocean. But finally, after 7 years (i know right!) i’ve finally learnt to let go and move on. I told myself that ive done my part, and its just their turn, im waiting for them to take the initiative. I dont know if they’ve realized what i’ve done, but even though im letting go, i just want them to know one thing. The past few years was “lets be best friends and get through everything together! yay!” but now its “yah know what, do what you like, but even though im giving up, doesnt mean i wont be there for you.”

Trusting in God. im learning to do this everyday. I remember during those 7 years, i would trust and constantly be praying for opportunities for the friendship to grow stronger, i was literally praying everyday for years. Wild eh. Even now, that i've moved on, im still praying that they'll remember that im here, and that even though we'll go our separate paths, that it wont affect our friendship or either of our walks with God. Im praying for my friend constantly, and i wish the best for them.

Going through the post again, i wonder why God gave these to me, am i to learn something from this? And what would it be? What is he trying to tell me? Whats the bigger picture? Trusting in God, Let Go[d].

Remain.

This image is my iphone wallpaper at the moment.

I think this has really stuck with me the past few days, especially on Sunday when Pastor Ming was talking about it. I remember writing in Jacky's bookmark to forever remain in Him. Ha just going to side track. Im so happy and proud of him. He's shared his story with me and im honestly amazed at how much he's grown and how much he's changed, he's a true inspiration to me and hope i can experience some kind of change like that someday, or at least somehow find the willpower to make such a change. But writing that in his bookmark, and hearing Pastor Ming speak about it, i remember thinking, "i wonder what he's thinking right now" (that is if he saw the connection).

But i think this is a great reminder we need to constantly remind ourselves of. To remain in Him. This verse comes from "The Vine". The gist of it talks about how we are branches that are attach to the vine, the vine being God. The vine provides us with the nutrients, the minerals to grow and to thrive. We need to remain in Him. Its a scary thought when you read on and learn that the ones that fail to produce good fruit are withered, cut off, and then burned. We have to be constantly producing good fruit, that is the fruit of the spirit. And this only happens when we remain in Him. Whether if that is indulging in His Word, spending time in prayer with Him, or glorifying in Him.

Last night was a whirlwind. But after the wind blew, the things flew, and everything was messed around, i've come to somewhat of a weird... odd conclusion. I dont really know where i am in my walk with Christ at the moment. Pastor HM is my mentor, and he says that im on the right track, but many times, i think, and i dont know what im doing. Where i am. Doubt floods my mind. I feel like my faith has plateaued, and i havent progressed for a while now. I always say i need to step it up, but i never really do. Last night, I let Satan get the best of me. I was told that I meant nothing, that no one cares, that life is just too difficult to manage. I didnt feel worthy of anything. His love, his grace, his sacrifice, why he hasnt given up on me, and why he's still here. All that piling on top of school stress and friendships, i just felt really lost. I have to learn to remain in him. I have to learn to get right with God and i just have to have Him reassure me. No worries, last night, i just tripped and fell, but im slowly getting back up on my feet and trying to walk this out again. Who said the Christian Life was going to be a breeze? no one.

Remain in Him and He will Remain in You.

Why Do I Ask?

As a kid, I always asked my parents for things. Things such as toys, new clothes, the latest electronics, and money. I always thought that once I ask, I’ll receive it right away. I thought that that was how God worked, ask and I’ll receive right away.

There are many Christians out there that ask but don’t receive. Why? Because they don’t have the right heart. I realized that most of my requests to God weren’t being answered. I kept questioning why He would do that.

I thought He listened then brushed it off. Then, I realized that I wasn’t asking because I needed those things. I asked because I wanted them.

Growing up in a Christian school I was very exposed to “The Lord’s Prayer”.

It’s located in Matthew 6:9-13 it says:

⁹ “This, then, is how you should pray:

“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
¹⁰ your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
¹¹ Give us today our daily bread.
¹² And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
¹³ And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.’

I always thought that it was just another thing to memorize until January 1, 2012. After all those years I soon realized that there was a deeper meaning to it. I’ve studied these verses but it was just a quick brief about what it was, I never really dug deep into what it really meant.

The first day of this year I entered the gym (where we have our youth service) not expecting anything. As I was listening to my pastor she focused on these verses and I realized that there was more to those words that came out of my mouth. I thought of it as a slap in the face. Something that I’ve been doing for so long and not knowing what it meant really hit me hard. She said this one line in her sermon, “God doesn’t answer because we’re doubtful.”

I think that this hit me hard because I wasn’t asking God for the right things. It was just for me, me, and me. She helped me realize that God only answers our prayers when we have the right heart. We don’t need to use big words or be in a certain place at a certain time. We just need to have the right mind and heart.

My pastor explained 3 reasons why God doesn't answer our prayers.

1. Because of the unconfessed sins in our lives.

Isaiah 59:1-2:

¹ Surely the arm of the LORD is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. ² But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.

2. Because of our own doubt.

James 1:6-7:

⁶ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. ⁷ That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.

3. Because we have the wrong motives.

-

James 4:2-3:

² You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. ³ When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

"The greatest prayer anyone can pray is, “They will be done.”"

-Lehman Strauss, Sense and Nonsense about Prayer

Prayer Granted: 1.25$

Expect God to Answer Your Prayers

Rick Warren

“If you want to know what God really wants you to do, ask him ... but if you don’t ask in faith, don’t expect the Lord to give you any solid answer.” (James 1:5-6 TLB)

God wants to direct you in life, but two things need to line up: You have to ask the right person, God, and you have to ask with the right attitude — in faith, expecting an answer.

Have you ever asked God for something and didn’t expect to get it? That’s why you didn’t get it. God works in our lives according to faith. So many times we say, “God, please guide me!” and we walk away not even waiting for guidance. We just immediately start to work. We say, “God, I want you to give me wisdom; help me make the right decision.” But we don’t really expect him to do that. We think it all depends on us.

God has promised to give us wisdom, if we will ask. Wisdom is seeing life from God’s point of view. Wisdom is the ability to make decisions the way God makes decisions.

Think about this: God never makes a bad decision. He never makes a mistake. He says if we trust him and listen to him, he will guide us. But we must ask in faith.

Just to start.. i had this problem with devos before... sometimes i feel like the message is super repetitive and that i already know this concept.. teach me something new kinda, that usually results in me stopping because i find it boring and useless. I've been told that maybe this is God trying to tell me something, to remind me something, but sometimes i dont know. We'll see :)

Expecting God to answer your prayers. God DOES answer prayers, and there are usually 3 answers. YES. NO. and WAIT. Like we've stated before, God knows best, and sometimes you may not understand what is going on, why certain things happen, but know that its for the better. You may not understand God's plan at this exact moment, but you will eventually. It may be tomorrow, it may be in weeks, or even in years.

Over the years i've also learnt that God is not a vending machine. Now that i think about it, i think i am using him like that recently, and sometimes not meaning it either. Its just ME ME ME, i want THIS THIS THIS, give me THAT THAT THAT. You cant just ask things from him. Like the structure i guess you can say for prayer, ACTS: Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication. We first praise our God and Saviour, confess our sins, a big reason God may not answer your prayer is because you have unconfessed sins. thank Christ for all he's blessed you with and then AT THE END you ask him for things.

Pray to God IN FAITH. He WILL answer your prayers if you pray humbly and wholeheartedly.

prayer is key!

Jason

Is that really you?

We often struggle with making decisions. From eating the last cookie to taking that huge step in our faith and getting baptized. I, personally, have struggled with many decisions. We face challenges every single day of our life. We may not know it but it’s true.

It may be hard to believe but YOU ARE PERFECT. No matter what way, shape, or form, God made you perfect. I’ve struggled with accepting that. A few years back I was the kid that was shy and casted aside. I never felt the feeling of not being lonely. This was a very hard time in my spiritual walk with God. I often questioned Him to see if He would answer me or at least give me a sign. One day I was sitting in the school office (because I got hurt) and I read a poem called: “Footprints In The Sand”

It says:

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, other times there was one only.

This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life, when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat, I could see only one set of footprints, so I said to the Lord,

“You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you, you would walk with me always. But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there has only been one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most, have you not been there for me?”

The Lord replied, “The years when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you.”

I then thought that God never left me, He was always by my side. He didn’t want to see me sad, but I was. I soon realized that stepping out of my comfort zone was one of the hardest decisions that I’ve made at that time. I soon realized that taking chances and believing it or not, God wants to see you take that step. It was very hard to take at first but after a while I got the hang of it and I don’t regret a thing.

He leads us to many different places and gives us many challenges but there is always a reason for why He does them. You and I both have challenges in our lives and we have to accept that God gave it to us for a purpose. He’s almighty, all knowing, and our one true creator. He made you and I and he knew us before we were born.

We face many challenges but it’s up to you whether to follow them or not. Always remember that God is by your side no matter what. He never leaves you and He’s always there to talk.

God's Voice?

Afraid of Making The Wrong Decision?

Rick Warren

“He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3b NIV)

Sometimes we’re afraid of making the wrong decision. And that creates stress.

But God says there is an antidote to our indecision. Psalm 23:3 tells us, “He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.” We handle the stress of decision-making by letting God guide us.

You may be thinking, “But I’ve tried this!” You asked God to guide you, but then you became more confused than before. You still couldn’t figure it out. You wonder, “Why is knowing God’s will so difficult?”

Is God playing games with us? Of course not! God wants to guide us. He wants us to know his will more than we want to know it. Our problem is we often look for the wrong thing when we’re trying to find God’s will.

Some of us look for a feeling. Some of us want a methodical approach to God’s will, a recipe, or a formula to apply. Some of us take a magical approach and look for God to do some fantastic sign.

All of these ways lead to frustration and cause us to miss God’s will.

God does not want you confused, and he does not want you stressed over making any decision. He is there, guiding you every step of the way.

This is his promise, so you can believe it to be true: “He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.”

SPEAK TO ME. :) This has to be a sign right? I totally struggle with this EVERY day with ALL the decisions i cant make. For instance, that missions one (refer to posts below). Its good to know that God doesnt want me stressed or confused, but could he be more clear then? Unfortunately, after reading the devo it didnt answer any of my questions... so it wasnt the most helpful.

Everyone has different ways of interpreting God's voice. It may be through dreams, through other people (thats a reliable one), through reading scripture (which is also reliable because.. he wrote the bible), through signs, like if things come up often, there are just so many things that CAN be God's voice, but how are we to know if they are or arent?

BUT something that i can talk about is what i learnt at a devo at my Quebec's missions. It was based on waiting and watching. Here it is:

Throughout the missions at Ouje-bougoumou this summer, different people got to lead night devotionals each day regarding anything. They just had to share something with us. The following regards prayer and it just really really really stuck with me. I hope to be able to work it out more in my life, apply it more and watch it grow through me. It's based on one word in this passage;

⁴¹ “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” - Matthew 26:41

This was said by Christ Jesus during his last moments with his disciples in Gethsemane as he went to pray. At first when i read this passage, what stuck out to me is "pray so that you will not fall into temptation". But that day, what our leader pointed out blew my mind. WATCH.

There's a reason why God put WATCH and PRAY instead of just PRAY or WAIT and PRAY. The disciples stayed behind as Jesus went to pray. Why didnt he say WAIT and PRAY? Here's why. There's a distinct difference between WATCHING and WAITING. Let's look at 2 different scenarios that'll maybe help us understand.

"Today we went to the park for summer camp, but there was only one bus that had to take two trips to pick up the group in two different sections. During this hot hot hot day, (like 39 degrees), the group that is picked up second frolicks in the grass, looking at animals, and plays hand games while the bus returns for its second pick up."

"At the park, the sun shone brightly and strongly on all the kids. As groups C&D, the remain groups stayed behind as group A&B were returning to church, they continue to complain constantly about the heat, fatigue, hunger, and thirst. Although they were complaining, they stared at the park entrance and got excited whenever they saw something yellow pass by."

There is one scenario above that describes WAITING and another that describes WATCHING. Can you guess which one it is? Scenario one described waiting, and scenario two described watching. The dictionary provides a deeper understand with another perspective.

Waiting: to remain inactive or in a state of repose, as until something expected happens.

Watching: to be alertly on the lookout, look attentively, or observe, as to see what comes, is done, or happens.

(definitions from dictionary.com)

I love the one word in the waiting definition. INACTIVE. Waiting is INACTIVE, where as Watching is ACTIVE. Like the scenario, the kids were FOCUSED. EXPECTING for the bus to arrive, where as the other, the kids were just minding their own thing. The bus could have passed by, they could received a phone call saying a blue bus was coming instead, but they would have missed it.

Jumping back to the passage. Jesus said to the disciples, WATCH and PRAY. This gives us a CLEAR outlook and guide line on how we should pray. We have to pray and whenever we call out to God, God listens to you. He will always provide an answer. 3 main answers, YES. NO. and WAIT. But, we have to WATCH. We always say things like "if its according to your plan" but, not we have to EXPECT an answer because he WILL reply. When we expect an answer, it doesnt mean, do whatever you want and the next day you'll see a YES/NO/WAIT word made of clouds in the sky, but it means to be FOCUSED. Watch for the answer. Watch for his signs. If we just WAIT for an answer, its really easy to miss God's opportunities he gives us, the gifts and blessings we get, and what we want too. In fact, waiting causes distractions and maybe you wont even see the giant cloud providing your answer either.

We have to learn to WATCH instead of WAIT when we pray. Its something i need to improve one, and actually WATCH. EXPECT IT. FOCUS ON YOUR SURROUNDINGS THAT GOD WILL ANSWER. Watch and Pray.

That you God?

You always hear those intense stories where something tragic happen then someone came to Christ or heard his voice. Those happen to some people, not all. Personally, I’ve never been through any of those hardcore “I touched Christ” or “He was standing right in front of me” moments.

We’ve all been through challenges and through Christ we overcome them. From as simple as walking up those many stairs to struggling with a relationship. Believe it or not He’s by our side every single second of our lives. From when we were in our mother’s wombs till now. Young and old.

It may be hard to hear God’s still voice and we have to be careful with what we are listening to. Satan’s voice can be very similar to Christ’s but those tricks and obstacles that he makes us face involve him. Everyone has a purpose in their life, from striving to become your dream career to serving God in your own community. He speaks to everyone in a different and unique way, whether it be from an incident or through worship, He knows how to speak to you. We have to be patient and obedient with God.

Christ is accepting and He’s always happy to hear you confess your sins to Him. Overcoming an obstacle is very challenging and sometimes we may take the wrong path and regret it. Christ gave that reason for you to take that way, He’s willing to forgive your every move but only if you are willing to confess and come up front to Him about it. Be honest to Him and don’t lie.

Fully rely on Him because he creates your every move.

Where to God?

Day 2. First day of 2012 is over. Now what? What does God have in store for me this year?

Last year was one hectic year. Let’s start from the beginning. Dislocating my knee. How else can I describe it? While competing at a track and field meet I was in mid air and SNAP my knee dislocates and I land on the same leg. I didn’t know what to think about. Did I win? Obviously not. Can I walk? Who knows I was still on the floor. All of a sudden I bursted out in tears. Why? I was thinking to God why would you do this to me? What have I done to deserve this? There was no way I could compete for the rest of the year. This was my only way to take out my stress. Through sports and all of a sudden in one jump it’s all gone. As I was going back home I was thinking about what my restrictions were, now that I wasn’t able to walk. I was thinking about Church. We had an event called Acupe coming up and I was one of the main characters in a skit. How was I able to act without walking. It’s just not possible. As the day came closer and closer I prayed harder and harder asking God to just heal my leg. A week before the night I tried walking without my crutches and guess what? He DID answer my prayer! It was such a miracle and I didn’t know what to say.

I thought that this would be the first and last obstacle that I’d face in 2011 but I was wrong. Going to Kenya for a mission’s trip I didn’t expect any big challenges that I’d face (since I went the year before). 5 days into the camp I realized that my breathing pattern wasn’t very stable. I asked the doctor what could it be? He asked if I’m asthmatic and I said that I got it in grade 3 but grew out of it. he quickly got his stethoscope and examined my breathing. In my head I was asking God why me? (again) after dislocating my knee and now this. What is he trying to tell me? I was quickly diagnosed with asthma once again and I had to take my puffer once every 2 hours. It wasn’t easy living a life like this back in grade 3 and nothing would make it better now. There’s no cure for asthma so I knew that I’d have to deal with this my whole life.

After 2 big challenges that I faced I quickly got back up and continued my race. October 30 came along and this meant our annual fall retreat. Retreat is when our fellowship at RHCCC goes to a campsite for the weekend to spend time with God and each other. We were playing games and once was called Spokes. The objective of the game is to pop a balloon that is set in the center of a circle with whatever body part that is called out. So the last round came and I was called. i was about to pop the balloon and before I knew it I got tackled by a counsellor. He’s in his mid 20s and pretty big of a guy. It wasn’t easy to get up. He hit the knee that got dislocated a few months before and I realized that he had dislocated it. my mind went blank. I hit the floor with my head and it all went black. I didn’t know what to say or do. After 15 seconds of being on the floor I realized that my knee wasn’t in place. I quickly popped it back in (I know that sounds gross but its true :s ) and asked for help to get up.

Those were the most intense and scariest moments of 2011 for me. Going into 2012 I honestly don’t know what God will do to me. Getting my knee dislocated twice and being diagnosed with asthma is something that isn’t fun to deal with.

Today’s devos is about missions. (Jason posted it so ya’ll can read it off his so it won’t take up that much space) I wanted to go to Belize and thinking bout the past year I’m a little bit iffy bout it. Getting asthma in Kenya and having a not very stable knee. Where would God send me? What would he do next? Being away from my family may not be the best since I do get hurt a lot :$

I honestly don’t know where my next field will be. Somewhere across the world or back here in my own community. Knowing that God will guide and provide it’s all up to him to decide.

After praying for healing I now know that he answers prayers. I’ve seen it for myself. But the worst part is that it takes time. Patience is key in a relationship. It may be hard to wait but God has a purpose for his every move.

In Isaiah 6:8 it says: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’”

We should always be ready for what God has in store for us. No matter how many obstacles he’s given us. He gives us these obstacles and challenges because he knows that we can conquer them one at a time.

I’ve learned to keep an open mind no matter how much I’ve been through. Holding a grudge on God is just a waste of time. He’s provided us with everything and he wants to see us happy.

Be happy with where you get sent because there’s a reason for everything.

"Here I Am, Send Me!"

Second Devo of the year!

So now its starting to become a mix, i've subscribe to Daily Hope by Rick Warren, so my posts may also come to here as well. And wow, perfect timing. This summer, im stuck in a conflict on missions. Here my dilemma in a nutshell.

The past two years i've done Day Camp/Overnight Camp as well as a Quebec missions trip and both years i've had so much fun, getting to know more people, working with kids, and it has impacted me so very much. I honestly LOVE working with kids, it brings genuine and true happiness into my life and i miss them so much. Now this year, i can go again with that route for the third year in a row, OR ive been asked to do a China's missions trip with my family, tagged along is also a vacation to HK/Japan/Korea, places like that. And I honestly dont know what to do. I feel like i should focus on family more this year.. but i feel like i cant give up my kids. At first i was planning to do missions according to Acts 1:8:

"But you will recieve power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all of Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

I was planning to do Urban Promise (gr 9), Quebec, OJ (gr 10), Belize/China (gr 11/gr 12). So basically starting small and going out and further. That makes sense right? But then my first year of OJ, one of the pastors said that maybe it should be the other way around, be more concentrated. Focus on ONE missions to build your relationship in that community, thats why i went to OJ again last year. So now what... :S

But today's devo was exactly about missions. Not really answering my question, but its a sign right?

Jesus Cleanses and Calls

by Jon Walker

“‘Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips ... and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty.’ Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal ... which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, ‘See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.’ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” (Isaiah 6:5–8 NIV)

One of the most effective tools the enemy will use to keep you from serving God this year is convincing you that you’ve either messed up too much or that you must clean up your life before you can get God’s attention. When these thoughts pop into your head, sniff the air for the scent of sulfur because they are lies straight from the fires of Hell!

God’s intention when he convicts us of our sins is not to condemn us; rather his breath of life disperses that satanic smoke the father of lies uses to keep us on the run from God.

If you follow the sequence of Isaiah 6, you’ll see how God initiates the process that brings you into his holy presence and purifies you to remain in his presence, and that your new guilt-free, sin-atoned status will compel you and prepare you for the unique mission God sets before you.

Isaiah reports that God’s fire is a cleansing fire that burns your guilt away and purifies you from sin, sealing within you the work of Jesus Christ. The prophet also suggests God’s ultimate purpose for cleansing us is to prepare us for mission: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” (Isaiah 6:8 NIV)

Prior to God taking the initiative to cleanse Isaiah, the prophet felt overwhelmed and unprepared for any mission on God’s behalf.

After the cleansing, Isaiah is energized with a desire to serve God.

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, God has done the work of preparing you for whatever task he will ask of you. How will you seek God and his mission for you this year?

One of the most effective tools the enemy will use to keep you from serving God this year is convincing you that you’ve either messed up too much or that you must clean up your life before you can get God’s attention. - i think i've struggled with this, maybe not with the missions field, but with baptism (totally off topic i know). But i'd always think i'd need to be completely "pure" for me to get baptized, but i soon realized that baptism isnt some sign of you being pure, its just a proclamation of your commitment to Christ. Baptism is the next step of faith after accepting Christ when you're ready to tell the world that you're a Christ follower. After you get baptized, you dont all of a sudden become perfect either, life is still a journey and you'll still face obstacles, but with Christ and that commitment you have the power and the faith to carry on.

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, God has done the work of preparing you for whatever task he will ask of you. How will you seek God and his mission for you this year? - i really dont know. i dont have much time either to make my decision. Im really bad at hearing God. When do you know if its just you talking, or if its the devil? How do you know when your thoughts/desires align with Christ? What is a sign from God and what is just a coincidence? i'll have to continue to pray for these signs and an answer, please pray for me too! :)

where will God send me this year?

Jason