GOD LIKES YOU!
How do you get close to someone who does not like you?
Our problems in developing intimacy with God was aptly summarised by Rev Ed
Silvoso at the weekend conference.
God loves me but does He like me??It happens,?even if?the feeling of being
disliked is not true but perceived.
So the devil has wormed his way into so many?Christians' lives. No wonder
many do not feel like reading the Bible and praying, it could be as simple
as, I do not know the Bible well nor do I pray well. So God must be
displeased with me. Many go around doing it out of duty and guilt. We do
not enjoy the time with God, yet we force ourselves to do it.
Some quit being a cell leader, and even leave church, because they do not
think they please God with their service.
We thus set a performance trap, not only on ourselves, but on others too,
and find it difficult to develop affirming relationships.We cannot let
these rule our lives. Instead, we must ask the Lord to search our hearts to
see if there is any hurtful way (Psalm 139:23-24, NASB) in us,
thoughts that confuse or deceive us about God's displeasure towards us,
that drives us away from intimacy with God.
Lord,now I know you like me, hold my hand and draw me near to you..
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Sunday, July 27, 2008
youthnet Buzz ~ 27th July
EAGLES SOARINGIf you have been following the 40-Day Prayer Guide, you would have been greatly encouraged by the testimonies of seven godly men and women who have made tremendous impact for God's Kingdom, particularly among the poor and needy: William Wilberforce, George Mueller, Amy Carmichael, William Booth, Jackie Pullinger, Henri Nouwen, and Mother Teresa.
Closer to home, our very own Senior Pastor, Apostle Lawrence Khong, led the Gateway Entertainment team into a very successful run of the MAGICBOX performances at the Esplanade! What an inspiration, these eagles of our faith!
Yet, we aren't all suddenly eagles. Eaglets learn to fly through repeated drops and catches by their parents in the air. These young ones learned to flap their wings wildly and in good time, realised that their wings do work and... they could fly!
How's your life looking like right now? If you are facing challenges that seem beyond you, God the Papa Eagle is allowing the sudden drop, and teaching you to fly above and beyond the comfy nesting days. Don't complain, argue or lament when you are out of your comfort zone. Trust Papa and work hard at flapping your wings!
James 1:2-4 (MSG) says, "Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colours. So don't try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way."
Eaglets out there, you have seen all the fine role models! Get ready, flying season starts now!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Pray For Our Pastor and The MagicBox
Dear Family,
Have you bought a ticket to support our Pastor and Magicbox? If not, you can quickly go to http://www.sistic.com.sg/ to purchase them or support through your prayers!
Let's support Magic Box church-wide in synchronized prayer throughout the
entire run from 12-20 July.
Have you bought a ticket to support our Pastor and Magicbox? If not, you can quickly go to http://www.sistic.com.sg/ to purchase them or support through your prayers!
Let's support Magic Box church-wide in synchronized prayer throughout the
entire run from 12-20 July.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Youthnet Buzz ~ 6th July
Half-Time Check
We've just crossed the half year mark in 2008.
Do you still remember the key verse in this Year of Sabbath from Isaiah 58:13-14? Which portions do you remember more of? The "If's" of verse 13 or the promises of verse 14?
It is interesting that the LoveSingapore leadership has also chosen Isaiah 58 to be the key focus of this year's 40-Day theme. When our spiritual leaders hear the same thing from the Lord, it is time to wake up and listen!
1st July kicked off the 40-Day season of prayer and fasting. It was a momentous occasion when pastors, intercessors and leaders from different churches occupied all 28 capsules of the Singapore Flyer to pray over our nation. At the highest point of the Flyer, we declared in song, "No Other Name but the Name of Jesus!" - Awesome!
Let us continue with one heart and spirit to pray towards our nation's 43rd birthday, using the 40-Day Prayer Guide. There is power in corporate prayer and we will surely see God's hand at work in the days to come.
We've just crossed the half year mark in 2008.
Do you still remember the key verse in this Year of Sabbath from Isaiah 58:13-14? Which portions do you remember more of? The "If's" of verse 13 or the promises of verse 14?
It is interesting that the LoveSingapore leadership has also chosen Isaiah 58 to be the key focus of this year's 40-Day theme. When our spiritual leaders hear the same thing from the Lord, it is time to wake up and listen!
1st July kicked off the 40-Day season of prayer and fasting. It was a momentous occasion when pastors, intercessors and leaders from different churches occupied all 28 capsules of the Singapore Flyer to pray over our nation. At the highest point of the Flyer, we declared in song, "No Other Name but the Name of Jesus!" - Awesome!
Let us continue with one heart and spirit to pray towards our nation's 43rd birthday, using the 40-Day Prayer Guide. There is power in corporate prayer and we will surely see God's hand at work in the days to come.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Youthnet Buzz ~ 29th June
“Who R U?”
This was the question posed by Pastor Wes Richards as he shared from the book of Nehemiah at our staff worship time.
How would you answer this question? It's so important to know who you are, because if you can't answer this question, somebody else is going to answer it for you!
Many of us let other people or our circumstances define who we are, and how we should feel about ourselves. Have you experienced days when you feel like a worm? You know... so small, so insignificant, so easily trampled upon and crushed? Well, hear what Winston Churchill has to say,
"All men may be worms
But I am a Glow-worm!"
Your identity will define your sense of confidence and how you carry out any work assigned to you, whether in your job or studies. Your identity will keep you from going down when facing adversity, and help you achieve your destiny. Pastor Wes brought a timely message for to FCBC as a church, as we press on with our prayers and support for our Senior Pastor and
Pastor Nina for the successful launch of MAGICBOX
Nehemiah knew who he was and what he was called to do - to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. Let us stay strong and focussed, with everyone working hard at what he or she is assigned to do, and we will see the victory when all will realise "that this work had been done with the help of our God" (Nehemiah 6:16 NIV).
This was the question posed by Pastor Wes Richards as he shared from the book of Nehemiah at our staff worship time.
How would you answer this question? It's so important to know who you are, because if you can't answer this question, somebody else is going to answer it for you!
Many of us let other people or our circumstances define who we are, and how we should feel about ourselves. Have you experienced days when you feel like a worm? You know... so small, so insignificant, so easily trampled upon and crushed? Well, hear what Winston Churchill has to say,
"All men may be worms
But I am a Glow-worm!"
Your identity will define your sense of confidence and how you carry out any work assigned to you, whether in your job or studies. Your identity will keep you from going down when facing adversity, and help you achieve your destiny. Pastor Wes brought a timely message for to FCBC as a church, as we press on with our prayers and support for our Senior Pastor and
Pastor Nina for the successful launch of MAGICBOX
Nehemiah knew who he was and what he was called to do - to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. Let us stay strong and focussed, with everyone working hard at what he or she is assigned to do, and we will see the victory when all will realise "that this work had been done with the help of our God" (Nehemiah 6:16 NIV).
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Youthnet Buzz ~ 22nd jUNE
More Than These
How much do you love?
What a question! Is there a way to measure the extent of our love for God? Well, Jesus asked Peter this question in John 21:15 (NASB), "So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?" He said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You" He said to him, "Tend My lambs." What is the "MORE THAN THESE"? Jesus could not be referring to the rest of the disciples nor the fishes, because I believe Jesus had no doubt that Peter would love Him more than these.
So what does the word, "THESE", refer to? I believe it is probably referring to the miraculous catch. You can see the impact of the catch through the fact that the disciples actually COUNTED every fish caught - one hundred and fifty-three (as shown in verse 11).
Jesus knows the conditions of our hearts. He knew, in the case of Peter, that he was attracted to Jesus through the spectacular acts of God. When Peter was called, he was called right after a catch too. It is of no wonder that Jesus created a similar experience to allow Peter to revisit his motivation to love. Peter was confronted with this pointed question - Do you love Me more than the miraculous, more than the spectacular, more than the world could offer? And in his brokenness, Peter confessed his love for Jesus and as a result brought the much awaited healing for his soul.
Do you love God more than _________________ (fill in your own blank)?
Only when we truly love God, more than the rival thrones in our lives, can we live out the healed life that God intends for us. Finally, from the sequence of Jesus' question and prompting, we can see love precedes labour. It matters to God that our service for Him is accompanied by our passion for Him.
So, how much do you love God?
How much do you love?
What a question! Is there a way to measure the extent of our love for God? Well, Jesus asked Peter this question in John 21:15 (NASB), "So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?" He said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You" He said to him, "Tend My lambs." What is the "MORE THAN THESE"? Jesus could not be referring to the rest of the disciples nor the fishes, because I believe Jesus had no doubt that Peter would love Him more than these.
So what does the word, "THESE", refer to? I believe it is probably referring to the miraculous catch. You can see the impact of the catch through the fact that the disciples actually COUNTED every fish caught - one hundred and fifty-three (as shown in verse 11).
Jesus knows the conditions of our hearts. He knew, in the case of Peter, that he was attracted to Jesus through the spectacular acts of God. When Peter was called, he was called right after a catch too. It is of no wonder that Jesus created a similar experience to allow Peter to revisit his motivation to love. Peter was confronted with this pointed question - Do you love Me more than the miraculous, more than the spectacular, more than the world could offer? And in his brokenness, Peter confessed his love for Jesus and as a result brought the much awaited healing for his soul.
Do you love God more than _________________ (fill in your own blank)?
Only when we truly love God, more than the rival thrones in our lives, can we live out the healed life that God intends for us. Finally, from the sequence of Jesus' question and prompting, we can see love precedes labour. It matters to God that our service for Him is accompanied by our passion for Him.
So, how much do you love God?
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Buzz for 8th June
Starting points are always exciting. After five months of reading Psalms, we
have moved to the Book of John. From the Old Testament to the New Testament.
From a Poetical book to a Gospel. I believe John's Gospel is the first
introduction to the Bible for many of us as it was for me. That's why it
remains one of my favourite books of the Bible till this day.
I remember how excited I was to be introduced to Jesus, the Son of God. I
had made a decision to follow Christ and I hungered for more of Him. I was
taught well. I came to know a God who "became flesh and dwelt among us....
full of grace and truth and I beheld His glory (John 1:14, NKJV).
My first memory verses came from John 3:16-18. Yes, I was expected to
memorise a whole portion, not just one verse! Then I went on to memorise
each of the "I am" statements made by Jesus. I thank God for that early
foundation because it instilled in me a love for the Word of God.
As you read each chapter of John daily, you have begun another adventure in
knowing God. He will reveal Himself to the God Seekers and God Chasers.
Let's begin with the end in mind, shall we?
"... That you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that
by believing you may have life in His name" (John 20:31, NIV).
Grace (Youthnet)
have moved to the Book of John. From the Old Testament to the New Testament.
From a Poetical book to a Gospel. I believe John's Gospel is the first
introduction to the Bible for many of us as it was for me. That's why it
remains one of my favourite books of the Bible till this day.
I remember how excited I was to be introduced to Jesus, the Son of God. I
had made a decision to follow Christ and I hungered for more of Him. I was
taught well. I came to know a God who "became flesh and dwelt among us....
full of grace and truth and I beheld His glory (John 1:14, NKJV).
My first memory verses came from John 3:16-18. Yes, I was expected to
memorise a whole portion, not just one verse! Then I went on to memorise
each of the "I am" statements made by Jesus. I thank God for that early
foundation because it instilled in me a love for the Word of God.
As you read each chapter of John daily, you have begun another adventure in
knowing God. He will reveal Himself to the God Seekers and God Chasers.
Let's begin with the end in mind, shall we?
"... That you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that
by believing you may have life in His name" (John 20:31, NIV).
Grace (Youthnet)
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Youthnet Buzz ~ 1st JUNE
What Are We Striving For?
>
> His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the
> legs of a man; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope
> in his unfailing love.(Psalm 147:10-11)
>
> These verses reveal God's "unseen" heart in a psalm that contains praise
> about God's outward "seen" acts.
>
> We usually feel good when we excel in our work and ministry. People around
> us cheer, celebrate and admire us for our great talents.
>
> Do we play it that way too when we try to win God's pleasure?
>
> We get upset and depressed when we do not "do well" in the ministry, our
> work and our studies. We think we are less favoured because there are those
> who are more talented and anointed. We give up and think God likes other
> people more.
>
> But in the process, we may just lose focus on what really matters to God.
> Are we barking up the wrong tree?
> * God is delighted when we revere Him and when we take Him seriously and
> honour Him in what we do. It is an inward condition of our heart.
> * God is delighted when we trust Him, especially in difficult situations
> when He seems absent. It is a deliberate action we can take.
>
> Today, even if you're facing poorer exam results,or disappointments in the
> ministry, you are no further from delighting God.
>
> Even if you are barely coping with a difficult work situation, you can melt
> the Father's heart by putting your hope in His unfailing love.
>
> Don't stay outside! Come into your Father's presence!
>
> His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the
> legs of a man; the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope
> in his unfailing love.(Psalm 147:10-11)
>
> These verses reveal God's "unseen" heart in a psalm that contains praise
> about God's outward "seen" acts.
>
> We usually feel good when we excel in our work and ministry. People around
> us cheer, celebrate and admire us for our great talents.
>
> Do we play it that way too when we try to win God's pleasure?
>
> We get upset and depressed when we do not "do well" in the ministry, our
> work and our studies. We think we are less favoured because there are those
> who are more talented and anointed. We give up and think God likes other
> people more.
>
> But in the process, we may just lose focus on what really matters to God.
> Are we barking up the wrong tree?
> * God is delighted when we revere Him and when we take Him seriously and
> honour Him in what we do. It is an inward condition of our heart.
> * God is delighted when we trust Him, especially in difficult situations
> when He seems absent. It is a deliberate action we can take.
>
> Today, even if you're facing poorer exam results,or disappointments in the
> ministry, you are no further from delighting God.
>
> Even if you are barely coping with a difficult work situation, you can melt
> the Father's heart by putting your hope in His unfailing love.
>
> Don't stay outside! Come into your Father's presence!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
PSALM 150 ~ 29 MAY 2008
Author Unknown
We praise him for he is the best
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Ps 150:6
The first chapter and last chapter of psalms have the same number of verses. And both are short, and very memorable. However, they are very different in message. Chapter prepares us for a life of devotion and holiness. Whereas Psalm 150, last chapter shows us that we are to praise God.
The psalmist had been himself full of the praises of God. And here, again and again he calls, "Praise the Lord, praise him, praise him,’’ no less than thirteen times in these six short verses.We are called to a lifestyle of praise. We can praise God for what he has done, for his mighty acts, for his love etc…We can also praise him simply for who he is.
To enjoy the presence of God is to praise Him. Praise him genuinely. Don’t wait for circumstances to change to praise God. Praise him at all times, both good times and bad times.
*hallelujah – Hebrew word means:
halel:tell someone that they are great *PRAISE
u : all of you *YOU
jah : a name for God that we translate "*LORD" THE *LORD
Application:
Memorize verse 6, let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Commit to live a life to praise God and make him happy.
We praise him for he is the best
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Ps 150:6
The first chapter and last chapter of psalms have the same number of verses. And both are short, and very memorable. However, they are very different in message. Chapter prepares us for a life of devotion and holiness. Whereas Psalm 150, last chapter shows us that we are to praise God.
The psalmist had been himself full of the praises of God. And here, again and again he calls, "Praise the Lord, praise him, praise him,’’ no less than thirteen times in these six short verses.We are called to a lifestyle of praise. We can praise God for what he has done, for his mighty acts, for his love etc…We can also praise him simply for who he is.
To enjoy the presence of God is to praise Him. Praise him genuinely. Don’t wait for circumstances to change to praise God. Praise him at all times, both good times and bad times.
*hallelujah – Hebrew word means:
halel:tell someone that they are great *PRAISE
u : all of you *YOU
jah : a name for God that we translate "*LORD" THE *LORD
Application:
Memorize verse 6, let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Commit to live a life to praise God and make him happy.
PSALM 149 ~ 28 MAY 2008
Author Unknown
Praise him our Redeemer
For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation. Ps 149: 4
It is a psalm of triumph in the God of Israel, and over the enemies of Israel. Probably it was written upon occasion of some victory which Israel was blessed and honoured with.
God takes delight in this people despite all our failures and weaknesses. God is not impressed with your perfect behaviour, rather, he is interested in your perfect trust in him. Delight yourself in the Lord.
Application
Rejoice in the king who has crown you with salvation. Delight yourself in him. To delight in him means to find enjoyment and pleasure in him. Love him and love his ways and you will enter into delighting yourself in the Lord.
Praise him our Redeemer
For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation. Ps 149: 4
It is a psalm of triumph in the God of Israel, and over the enemies of Israel. Probably it was written upon occasion of some victory which Israel was blessed and honoured with.
God takes delight in this people despite all our failures and weaknesses. God is not impressed with your perfect behaviour, rather, he is interested in your perfect trust in him. Delight yourself in the Lord.
Application
Rejoice in the king who has crown you with salvation. Delight yourself in him. To delight in him means to find enjoyment and pleasure in him. Love him and love his ways and you will enter into delighting yourself in the Lord.
PSALM 148 ~ 27 MAY 2008
Author Unknown
He is worthy to be praise
Let them praise the name of the Lrod for his name alone is exalted; his splendour is above the earth and the heavens. Ps 148:13
All of heaven & earth praise the Lord. Indeed he is the Lord of lords and God of Gods, master and creator of the universe that all are to praise him. Psalm 148 is a call to all things, both in heaven and on earth to praise the Lord.
This psalm has three parts:
1. verses 1 – 6
The psalmist tells everything in the sky to praise the LORD;
2. verses 7 – 10
The psalmist tells everything on the earth to praise the *LORD
(not people);
3. verses 11 – 14
The psalmist tells people to praise the LORD.
There is no prayer or supplication in this psalm, except praises.
Application:
The divine purpose of all creation is to praise God. Lift up your head and join with the angels in heaven to praise and extol the Lord your God.
Ask God to grant you a spirit of praise and worship that you may truly praise His name on high all the days of your life.
He is worthy to be praise
Let them praise the name of the Lrod for his name alone is exalted; his splendour is above the earth and the heavens. Ps 148:13
All of heaven & earth praise the Lord. Indeed he is the Lord of lords and God of Gods, master and creator of the universe that all are to praise him. Psalm 148 is a call to all things, both in heaven and on earth to praise the Lord.
This psalm has three parts:
1. verses 1 – 6
The psalmist tells everything in the sky to praise the LORD;
2. verses 7 – 10
The psalmist tells everything on the earth to praise the *LORD
(not people);
3. verses 11 – 14
The psalmist tells people to praise the LORD.
There is no prayer or supplication in this psalm, except praises.
Application:
The divine purpose of all creation is to praise God. Lift up your head and join with the angels in heaven to praise and extol the Lord your God.
Ask God to grant you a spirit of praise and worship that you may truly praise His name on high all the days of your life.
PSALM 147 ~ 26 MAY 2008
Author Unknown
Praise God for his powerful deeds.
Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him! Ps 147:1
This is another psalm of praise. Some think it was penned after the return of the Jews from their captivity. Great is our Lord and he is mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.
Psalm 147 tells us something about God’s love and his power.
There are three parts in this psalm:
1. Vs 1-6
God’s power in Israel and Babylon and in the skies above;
2. Vs 7-11
God’s power on the earth in the physical;
3. Vs 12-20
God’s power in providing his people what they need.
God is to be glorified as the God of nature and the God of grace to his people. He is also to be glorified as the God of Israel, Jerusalem, and Zion.
Application:
Glorify God now through your praises to him. Glorify him now by telling how great and powerful a God is he, how marvelous are his deeds and how good he is to provide for all your needs.
Thank him for your salvation in him. Welcome him and his presence into your life’s circumstance.
Praise God for his powerful deeds.
Praise the Lord. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him! Ps 147:1
This is another psalm of praise. Some think it was penned after the return of the Jews from their captivity. Great is our Lord and he is mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.
Psalm 147 tells us something about God’s love and his power.
There are three parts in this psalm:
1. Vs 1-6
God’s power in Israel and Babylon and in the skies above;
2. Vs 7-11
God’s power on the earth in the physical;
3. Vs 12-20
God’s power in providing his people what they need.
God is to be glorified as the God of nature and the God of grace to his people. He is also to be glorified as the God of Israel, Jerusalem, and Zion.
Application:
Glorify God now through your praises to him. Glorify him now by telling how great and powerful a God is he, how marvelous are his deeds and how good he is to provide for all your needs.
Thank him for your salvation in him. Welcome him and his presence into your life’s circumstance.
PSALM 146 ~ 25 MAY 2008
Author Unknown
Trust in the Lord
I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. Ps 146:2
The book of Psalm ends with praise. It is called the Hallelujah psalms. Psalm 146 is the first of the 5 Hallelujah psalms, Ps 146- 150. Hallelujah means praise the Lord.
In this excellent psalm of praise, the psalmist himself praises God in verses 1-2 and he also engages others to trust in God -
an important way to praise God in verse 5.
We should not trust in men but to trust in God. God is the creator of all, the Lord of all. He is the faithful one who defends the weak and oppressed, he provides for the poor and needy, he heals the sick.
In summary, Psalm 146 can be divided into 2 parts:
Part 1 Why we should not trust in men (vs 1-4)
Part 2 Why we should trust in God (vs5-10)
Application:
Delight in praising the Lord while you live. God will not fail those whose trust is in him The psalmist encourages us to put confidence in God. We must hope in the providence of God for all that we need.
You can gladly praise the Lord when you put your trust and confidence in him.
Each day in your time with God, praise Him for who he is and for what he has done and can do.
Trust in the Lord
I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live. Ps 146:2
The book of Psalm ends with praise. It is called the Hallelujah psalms. Psalm 146 is the first of the 5 Hallelujah psalms, Ps 146- 150. Hallelujah means praise the Lord.
In this excellent psalm of praise, the psalmist himself praises God in verses 1-2 and he also engages others to trust in God -
an important way to praise God in verse 5.
We should not trust in men but to trust in God. God is the creator of all, the Lord of all. He is the faithful one who defends the weak and oppressed, he provides for the poor and needy, he heals the sick.
In summary, Psalm 146 can be divided into 2 parts:
Part 1 Why we should not trust in men (vs 1-4)
Part 2 Why we should trust in God (vs5-10)
Application:
Delight in praising the Lord while you live. God will not fail those whose trust is in him The psalmist encourages us to put confidence in God. We must hope in the providence of God for all that we need.
You can gladly praise the Lord when you put your trust and confidence in him.
Each day in your time with God, praise Him for who he is and for what he has done and can do.
PSALM 145 ~ 24 MAY 2008
By David
God the great king
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made Ps 145:13
This is a song to God the great king for his mighty acts and his compassionate character. Psalm 145 is an acrostic psalm. Every first letter of a verse is a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This means that verse 1 begins with A, verse 2 with B, and so on, in Hebrew alphabet.
We should speak of God's wondrous work of redemption, while we declare his greatness. The words of our Lord are words of goodness and grace; his works are works of goodness and grace too. He is full of compassion; hence he came into the world to save sinners. He showed his compassion to all.
All God's works show forth his praises. He does good to all. He is all ready to hear and answer the prayers of his people. You may have what you ask when you call upon him in truth and sincerity.
He fulfils the desires of those who fear him. And He watches over all who love him. He is a loving God.
Application:
Proclaim the great deeds of God to all around you that he may be exalted.
Love God and love his holy ways and he will save you from the destruction of the wicked. Choose to walk in his ways.
God the great king
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made Ps 145:13
This is a song to God the great king for his mighty acts and his compassionate character. Psalm 145 is an acrostic psalm. Every first letter of a verse is a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This means that verse 1 begins with A, verse 2 with B, and so on, in Hebrew alphabet.
We should speak of God's wondrous work of redemption, while we declare his greatness. The words of our Lord are words of goodness and grace; his works are works of goodness and grace too. He is full of compassion; hence he came into the world to save sinners. He showed his compassion to all.
All God's works show forth his praises. He does good to all. He is all ready to hear and answer the prayers of his people. You may have what you ask when you call upon him in truth and sincerity.
He fulfils the desires of those who fear him. And He watches over all who love him. He is a loving God.
Application:
Proclaim the great deeds of God to all around you that he may be exalted.
Love God and love his holy ways and he will save you from the destruction of the wicked. Choose to walk in his ways.
PSALM 144 ~ 23 MAY 2008
By David
Prayer for rescue and prosperity
Our barns will be filled with every kind of provision. Our sheep will increase by thousands, by tens of thousands in our fields Ps 144:13
David acknowledges the great goodness of God, and prays for help in verses 1-8. A confession of man’s insignificance was found in vs 3-4. We are so insignificant, only God can deliver us. David turns to God to ask for deliverance (vs5-8) is because of his dependence on God. He depended on God for help. God is like David’s rock, his fortress, and his shield. A rock will not move if there is trouble. In the same way, God will not move. He will always be there to send help. A fortress is a strong building where people are safe in it. In the same way, people are safe with God.
To David, deliverance is more than just being free from troubles and pursue of enemy. True deliverance will bring the blessings of God where there is prosperity and security. He prays for the prosperity of his kingdom from verses 9-15.
We too, may pray for the prosperity of our souls, of our families, and of our land.
Application:
Make the Lord your God (vs15) and be assured of his blessings. Love and obey him as much as you can.
As you come before God to give to him your troubles and ask for his help, move in faith to ask God for his blessings and prosperity.
Prayer for rescue and prosperity
Our barns will be filled with every kind of provision. Our sheep will increase by thousands, by tens of thousands in our fields Ps 144:13
David acknowledges the great goodness of God, and prays for help in verses 1-8. A confession of man’s insignificance was found in vs 3-4. We are so insignificant, only God can deliver us. David turns to God to ask for deliverance (vs5-8) is because of his dependence on God. He depended on God for help. God is like David’s rock, his fortress, and his shield. A rock will not move if there is trouble. In the same way, God will not move. He will always be there to send help. A fortress is a strong building where people are safe in it. In the same way, people are safe with God.
To David, deliverance is more than just being free from troubles and pursue of enemy. True deliverance will bring the blessings of God where there is prosperity and security. He prays for the prosperity of his kingdom from verses 9-15.
We too, may pray for the prosperity of our souls, of our families, and of our land.
Application:
Make the Lord your God (vs15) and be assured of his blessings. Love and obey him as much as you can.
As you come before God to give to him your troubles and ask for his help, move in faith to ask God for his blessings and prosperity.
PSALM 143 ~ 22 MAY 2008
By David
God is my only hope
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I life up my soul. Ps 143:8
Psalm 143 is the last of the 4 Psalms ( Ps 140-143) about David seeking God’s deliverance.
This psalm is full of complaints of the great distress and danger David was in, probably when Saul persecuted him. He complains of his troubles, through the oppression of his enemies (vs3) and the weakness of his spirit that is about to sink (vs 4,5).
David prays earnestly that God would hear him, v6. He pleads of God not to deal with him according to his sins, v2. That God would not hide his face from him, v7. He asked God to grant him favour in verse 8.
In his prayer, he asked God to guide and direct him in the way he should go, vs 8, 10. That it will be righteousness that will bring him out of trouble.
David in his cry to God for help, most of his prayers are for spiritual blessings. He is not only interested in being free from troubles, but that he will be found faithful and blameless before God.
Application:
In your distress, do not only ask for God’s hands of blessing. Ask for God to touch you in your life. This way will find yourself growing in your ways in the Lord.
God is my only hope
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go,
for to you I life up my soul. Ps 143:8
Psalm 143 is the last of the 4 Psalms ( Ps 140-143) about David seeking God’s deliverance.
This psalm is full of complaints of the great distress and danger David was in, probably when Saul persecuted him. He complains of his troubles, through the oppression of his enemies (vs3) and the weakness of his spirit that is about to sink (vs 4,5).
David prays earnestly that God would hear him, v6. He pleads of God not to deal with him according to his sins, v2. That God would not hide his face from him, v7. He asked God to grant him favour in verse 8.
In his prayer, he asked God to guide and direct him in the way he should go, vs 8, 10. That it will be righteousness that will bring him out of trouble.
David in his cry to God for help, most of his prayers are for spiritual blessings. He is not only interested in being free from troubles, but that he will be found faithful and blameless before God.
Application:
In your distress, do not only ask for God’s hands of blessing. Ask for God to touch you in your life. This way will find yourself growing in your ways in the Lord.
PSALM 142 ~ 21 MAY 2008
By David
Prayer for Rescue
Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Ps 142:6
This is a prayer of David when he was finding his refuge in a cave. He was hiding from Saul’s pursue of his life.
There can be no situation so distressing or dangerous, where faith is not being strengthen even by prayer. When our spirits are overwhelmed by distress, and filled with discouragement; when we see snare (traps) laid for us on every side, we need to pray to God even more.
Those who truly seek God &call on him, will find their sufficiency in him.
In this situation David prayed earnestly to God. We may apply it spiritually too. Our souls are often invaded by doubts and fears. We must learn to go to God to set us free from doubts and fears.
Finally when deliverance comes, we could praise God and testify of his powerful works. That more will see His goodness.
Application:
When you face problems, do you turn to God to solve the problems for you? More often, we want quick fixes to problems. Instead of turning to God for help, our fear and anxiety often drives us to do something about the situations.
Invite God to the situations or problems and allow his mighty presence to come. And he will show you what to do or not to do.
Prayer for Rescue
Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Ps 142:6
This is a prayer of David when he was finding his refuge in a cave. He was hiding from Saul’s pursue of his life.
There can be no situation so distressing or dangerous, where faith is not being strengthen even by prayer. When our spirits are overwhelmed by distress, and filled with discouragement; when we see snare (traps) laid for us on every side, we need to pray to God even more.
Those who truly seek God &call on him, will find their sufficiency in him.
In this situation David prayed earnestly to God. We may apply it spiritually too. Our souls are often invaded by doubts and fears. We must learn to go to God to set us free from doubts and fears.
Finally when deliverance comes, we could praise God and testify of his powerful works. That more will see His goodness.
Application:
When you face problems, do you turn to God to solve the problems for you? More often, we want quick fixes to problems. Instead of turning to God for help, our fear and anxiety often drives us to do something about the situations.
Invite God to the situations or problems and allow his mighty presence to come. And he will show you what to do or not to do.
PSALM 141 ~ 20 MAY 2008
By David
Pray to God when in distress
But my eyes are fixed on you, O sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge – do not give me over to death. Ps 141:8
David was appealing to God to hear his prayers and his call for helps in verses 1-2
He pleaded with God to keep him from speaking or desiring evil.
David could be facing a great distress that he was concerned that he will be influenced by what is evil. When enemies are provoking, we are in danger of speaking unduly. While we live in an evil world, with sinful hearts, we have to learn to pray for ourselves not to be drawn or driven to do anything sinful.
David, the psalmist, knowing full well the evil desire that is in our hearts, he prays to God to bring righteous man to rebuke him.
Such is a humbled man who knows how easily it is for man to sin and he was willing to be discipline so that he will not sin.
Application:
Do not fight difficulties and tough people the way the wicked world does. Exercise self-control.
Do not join in gossip and slandering of other people.
What kind of words tend to come out of your mouth when you are under pressured? Pray to God to help you keep away from speaking evil or unedifying words.
Pray to God when in distress
But my eyes are fixed on you, O sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge – do not give me over to death. Ps 141:8
David was appealing to God to hear his prayers and his call for helps in verses 1-2
He pleaded with God to keep him from speaking or desiring evil.
David could be facing a great distress that he was concerned that he will be influenced by what is evil. When enemies are provoking, we are in danger of speaking unduly. While we live in an evil world, with sinful hearts, we have to learn to pray for ourselves not to be drawn or driven to do anything sinful.
David, the psalmist, knowing full well the evil desire that is in our hearts, he prays to God to bring righteous man to rebuke him.
Such is a humbled man who knows how easily it is for man to sin and he was willing to be discipline so that he will not sin.
Application:
Do not fight difficulties and tough people the way the wicked world does. Exercise self-control.
Do not join in gossip and slandering of other people.
What kind of words tend to come out of your mouth when you are under pressured? Pray to God to help you keep away from speaking evil or unedifying words.
PSALM 140 ~ 19 MAY 2008
By David
The Lord is your deliverer
Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from men of violence who
plan to trip my feet. Ps 140:4
Psalms 140 – 143 are 4 Psalms that were penned by David when he was persecuted by Saul; one of them is said to be his "prayer when he was in the cave". It is probable that all the rest were penned at about the same time.
When God’s people are persecuted, they should go to Him in prayer and be confident that God will do something.
Therefore, the greater the danger we faced, the more earnest we should be in our prayers to God. God is our protection. David turns to God for His rescue, vs 1-3. And God has never disappointed him.
We may pray that God would not grant the desires of the wicked, nor further their evil devices.
Application:
Are there any challenging relationships you could be handling now? Someone don’t like you and is speaking ill against you. When people attached you verbally, turn to God in prayers. Be confident that God will supernaturally intervene for you. He will come to you help to deliver you.
The Lord is your deliverer
Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked; protect me from men of violence who
plan to trip my feet. Ps 140:4
Psalms 140 – 143 are 4 Psalms that were penned by David when he was persecuted by Saul; one of them is said to be his "prayer when he was in the cave". It is probable that all the rest were penned at about the same time.
When God’s people are persecuted, they should go to Him in prayer and be confident that God will do something.
Therefore, the greater the danger we faced, the more earnest we should be in our prayers to God. God is our protection. David turns to God for His rescue, vs 1-3. And God has never disappointed him.
We may pray that God would not grant the desires of the wicked, nor further their evil devices.
Application:
Are there any challenging relationships you could be handling now? Someone don’t like you and is speaking ill against you. When people attached you verbally, turn to God in prayers. Be confident that God will supernaturally intervene for you. He will come to you help to deliver you.
PSALM 139 ~ 18 MAY 2008
By David
God knows everything
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Ps 139:23-24
Psalm 139 can be a prayer for God to examine your heart. God know you full well. He knows you far beyond you know yourself. He knows your every action, your every activity, your every thoughts and even your words before you even uttered them.
God is omniscience, he is everywhere present; therefore he knows everything.
First part of Ps 139: 1-6, tells us that God knows all about us. Thus, we cannot hide from God, vs 7-12. God created us (you). He created your inmost being and knit you together when you were in your mother’s womb, Vs 13- 18. We should not be afraid of God because he knows everything about us. Instead, be assured of God’s love for you that he takes special attention to form you. Finally, David moves on to pray about his enemies and himself in vs19 -24
Application:
Pray the verses of 23-24 to ask God to search your heart and reveal your anxious thoughts. Take time to wait on Him.
Do not be afraid because God is love. It is his desires to manifest his power in each area of your lives so that his will, his good, pleasing and perfect will (Rom12:2) can be accomplished in your life.
God knows everything
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Ps 139:23-24
Psalm 139 can be a prayer for God to examine your heart. God know you full well. He knows you far beyond you know yourself. He knows your every action, your every activity, your every thoughts and even your words before you even uttered them.
God is omniscience, he is everywhere present; therefore he knows everything.
First part of Ps 139: 1-6, tells us that God knows all about us. Thus, we cannot hide from God, vs 7-12. God created us (you). He created your inmost being and knit you together when you were in your mother’s womb, Vs 13- 18. We should not be afraid of God because he knows everything about us. Instead, be assured of God’s love for you that he takes special attention to form you. Finally, David moves on to pray about his enemies and himself in vs19 -24
Application:
Pray the verses of 23-24 to ask God to search your heart and reveal your anxious thoughts. Take time to wait on Him.
Do not be afraid because God is love. It is his desires to manifest his power in each area of your lives so that his will, his good, pleasing and perfect will (Rom12:2) can be accomplished in your life.
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