ONE CELL

story of a nail

2009-03-26T00:43:00.000+08:00

Written by Country Director of Singapore Campus Crusade for Christ. Do reflect on it as Good Friday is coming.

"Don't look down on me just because I seem to be an insignificant nail. I traveled the world and I have seen much in life. The highlight of my life was the day I was taken by a Roman soldier along a dusty road that led to Calvary.

When he took me out of his bag, I saw three men waiting to be crucified. Serve them right, these criminals! But there was something different about the man in the middle. Those weeping women called Him "Messiah". A plaque on the cross read "King of the Jews". So this was no ordinary man. He seemed to be well loved and respected. I hate to see this man die. For once, I wish I wasn't a nail.

A soldier placed me at the wrist of the man in the middle and hammered me in. "Ouch, ouch!" my head hurts. How self-centered I was. The pain must have been excruciating for Him, but He was silent. As His head turned, I saw those eyes. They were not eyes of anger and hatred, but of love and compassion. I heard Him say, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.

"There was something I didn't understand. What crime has He committed? "He claimed to be the Son of God," one woman told another. But...to be crucified for that? Later, I gathered it had to do with what man called "sin". This man had to bear the sins of the world. That sounded pretty heavy. Poor man.

It wasn't long before He breathed His last. Honestly, I was sad to see Him die. If He claimed to be God, and if it is true, surely He can save Himself? Why didn't He come down from the cross? My fellow nails and I secured Him to the cross. But it was love, love for the world that held Him there."

The story of a simple nail triggered much thought about all that Jesus had done. Who drove those nails? Was it the crowd-pleasing Pilate? The religious establishment of the day? Or the dutiful Roman soldiers?

The apostle Peter, in addressing the crowd at Pentecost, said, "...and you, with the help of wicked men, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross. But God raised Him from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him' (Acts 2:22-24, NIV, italics mine).

It was our sins that drove those nails! And it was love, God's love for us that held His Son to the cross.

This Easter, as we ponder on the significance of our Savior's death and resurrection, may we love Him even more. Let us take this opportunity to bring someone into the loving embrace of His nail-scarred hands.

God is neither bounded by time nor space.

2009-03-01T23:57:00.003+08:00

What do you Want the Lord to Do for you?

Lord, that I may receive my sight. (Luke 18:41 KJV)

What is the thing that not only disturbs you but makes you a disturbance? It is always some thing you cannot deal with yourself. "They rebuked him that he should hold his peace . . . but he cried so much the more." Persist in the disturbance until you get face to face with the Lord Himself; do not deify common sense. When Jesus asks us what we want Him to do for us in regard to the incredible thing with which we are faced, remember that He does not work in common-sense ways, but in supernatural ways.

Watch how we limit the Lord by remembering what we have allowed Him to do for us in the past: I always failed there, and I always shall; consequently we do not ask for what we want. "It is ridiculous to ask God to do this." If it is an impossibility, it is the thing we have to ask. If it is not an impossible thing, it is not a real disturbance. God will do the absolutely impossible.

This man received his sight. The most impossible thing to you is that you should be so identified with the Lord that there is nothing of the old life left. He will do it if you ask Him. But you have to come to the place where you believe Him to be Almighty. Faith is not in what Jesus says but in Himself; if we only look at what He says we shall never believe. When once we see Jesus, He does the impossible thing as naturally as breathing. Our agony comes through the wilful stupidity of our own heart. We won't believe, we won't cut the shore line, we prefer to worry on.

Many times, we dare not to ask God for the things that we are hoping to see. Maybe because we are afraid that He will not give it to us, maybe because we are afraid we'll be disappointed. But all these, are manifestations of our doubt.

Faith, is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see.

Don't limit the power of God, but instead allow Him to show you the full measure of His power and might. And you will be amazed.

Our journey with God should be an amazing one, not one filled with fear of disappointment.

Even as you decided that you want to know God more on Saturday, even as you decided that you want to go all out to do His will, take this step of faith. And trust Him. He will reveal Himself to you, for that is His desire.

Enjoy your journey with Father God! =)

When you feel small, He tells you how big He is.

2009-02-27T11:57:00.001+08:00

God Can Use You
By Greg Laurie

For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. — 2 Chronicles 16:9

Think of all the ordinary people God has used to turn this world upside down.

Think of that shepherd boy David, who God raised up to be the greatest king in the history of Israel. God used that frightened man Gideon to lead a great army and he turned out to be a man of courage and valor.

A simple Jewish girl named Esther saved her people from destruction because she stood up for what was right. God used Deborah to lead the armies of Israel into battle when everyone else was afraid.

God called two ordinary fishermen, Peter and John, to speak His Word with boldness.

You see, God can use ordinary people like you. As the Scripture says, "For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him" (2 Chronicles 16:9).

God clearly looks for ordinary people to turn this world upside down. There exists a place and a calling for every one of us. We all have something to do for the Lord.

God can do a lot with a little. My life is evidence of that! God changed me, and He can change you. When you have been with Jesus, God can use you.

Copyright © 2009 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.

snoopy

2008-11-10T23:37:00.001+08:00

Something for all of you to read and reflect as part of your quiet time ....

You can find the article HERE.

FOR 50 YEARS, cartoonist Charles Schulz gave us pictures of ourselves wrapped in a smile. One of the last strips I clipped from our Sunday paper showed Snoopy the dog sitting on top of his doghouse with a typewriter, writing about his life. He titled his story . . .

The Dog Who Never Did Anything

Snoopy remembers it this way, “You stay home now,” they said, “and be a good dog.”

So he stayed home and was a good dog.

Then he decided to be even a better dog. So he barked at everyone who went by. And he even chased the neighbor’s cats.

“What’s happened to you?” they said. “You used to be such a good dog.”

So he stopped barking and chasing cats, and everyone said, “You’re a good dog.”

The moral, as Snoopy typed it, is “Don’t do anything and you’ll be a good dog.”

As I turned the smile around in my mind, I noticed a quirk of the English language. Snoopy and God have something in common. They are related not only by alphabet (dog and god), but by what “creatures in the middle” expect of them. The idea intrigued me enough to try another version.

The God Who Never Did Anything

“You give me what I want now,” they said, “and be a good God.”

So He gave them what they wanted and He was a good God.

Then He decided to be an even better God.

He started knocking over the furniture of other gods, and He used pain to help people in ways they could not understand.

“What’s happened to You?” they said.

“You used to be such a good God.”

So He stopped knocking over the furniture of other gods, and He stopped using pain in ways that were beyond people’s ability to understand.

And everyone said, “You’re a good God.”

The moral, as angels might see it, “Stop acting like God and people will think You’re good.”

The God We Want

Many of us imagine God as we want Him to be. To our wishes we add expectation. We expect Him to encourage us when we are afraid, to comfort us when we’re hurt, to forgive us when we fail, and to give us what we think we need when we think we need it.

Yet, along the way, we keep stumbling into the awareness that the King of Heaven is more apt to come to us in His own style, time, and mystery. He is seldom as we imagine Him to be. He is more like the God who reveals Himself in the pages of His own history.

There He comes to us in the unexpected surprises of joy, in the unwanted nights of our misery, and in the solitary sounds of our own loneliness. He comes to us in the unexpected joys of Adam, in the numbed grief of Eve, in the inconsolable tears of the childless Hannah, in the murderous anger of Moses, and in the madness of a powerful Nebuchadnezzar.

But me? Until He responds, I’d rather have it my way. In the moments of my dissatisfaction, I don’t want to have to wait for what I want. I want it now. Now. I’ll pray. I’ll pay. I’ll bargain. I’ll crawl on my knees. But I want God to prove that He is good—right now.

The God Who Has Been Good

Even in our “maturity” we can be like 2- and 3-year-olds pulling at the pant leg of heaven. Our Father isn’t surprised. He knows how to raise physical, emotional, and spiritual toddlers. He knows how to run with us in our youth, and how to walk with us at 74, 84, and 94.

And for those who go further, He is still there, hearing once again our whimpers in the night, and reaching down with the affection of an adoring mother who carefully lifts her children from their crib to herself.

No, He has not always been the kind of parent we wanted Him to be. Yes, He has been good on His terms rather than on ours. He has not answered our prayers in the way we asked. Seldom has He allowed anything to play out according to our own expectations or childish demands. Yet His determination to lead us in the paths of His own choosing is what has made Him so good.

The God Who Will Be Good

The promise of tomorrow comes with the wrinkled snapshots of yesterday. Even though our memories are not as sharp as we’d like them to be, and even though the happy times are mixed with regret, our albums contain memories of a God who keeps reminding us that He is better than our expectations. He is better than our demands. He is better than anything this life has to offer.

If He allowed a relationship to be lost, He stayed with us to remind us that we weren’t made for one another as much as we were made for Him. As our bodies give way to time, they become painful reminders that we were not made for these bodies. We were made for the One who said from the top of a thundering, burning mountain—to a people huddled in the middle of a life-threatening wilderness—“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before Me.”

This is the God who, because He is good, refuses to “stay home and do nothing.”

Father, thank You for a man named Charles Schulz who brought us elements of truth amid our smiles. Thank You for being God on Your terms rather than ours. May Your name be hallowed as we wait on You. May Your kingdom be reflected in our patience. May Your will be done in our disappointments. Please, give us this day our daily bread.

Heart's cry.

2008-10-01T01:36:00.004+08:00

No long words. No long sentences. Just a simply prayer.

Father, bring us all nearer to You. Open up our blind eyes and unblock our deaf ears, that we may know You for who You really are. I'm crying out, have Your way with Your cell, Lord.

To know what's important.

2008-09-22T00:51:00.003+08:00

More than a month has passed since the last time I blogged here. It has been a busy month, filled with school, people and events. Things come and go like the wave of the sea, with each one going, another one comes. And yet, at the end of it all, I ask myself, "Where have I placed God in all these?".

Perhaps, it's time we each ask ourselves this question. Life is busy, and it always will be. But no matter what, it's never enough reason to forget about God. Just think about it, He's thinking about you every single second, every single moment, and in every single thing you're doing, He's still watching over you and thinking of you. Will you ever be able to find anyone who loves you more than that? Absolutely not.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will go strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace

No matter what circumstances you've been going through - conflicts at home, stress from the upcoming exams, loneliness, hurt from people you love - keep fixing your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith. And remember, faith is not just a matter of believing, it is a matter of doing. Faith without actions, is dead.

Even as you fix your eyes on Him, even as you constantly remind yourself to look and focus on Him, you'll come to see that everything else will become so small, compared to His greatness.

Is He your all in all?
Do you believe that He's a great and mighty God?
Has all that He has done proven enough for you to know that He's your all-knowing Saviour?

Take time, to realize, how great He is.

But yet, even in His greatness, He never overlooks us - small precious children of His, Kings and Priests of the Lord Most High.

The Lord is great, and worthy to be praised. Always.

Thank You, Lord. =)

Always there.

2008-08-20T02:14:00.002+08:00

Walking with Jesus

By Greg Laurie

After that, He appeared in another form to two of them as they walked and went into the country. —Mark 16:12

I think it's interesting to note those to whom Jesus chose to appear after His resurrection. We don't read about Him appearing to Caiaphas or Caesar.

Now if it had been me, the first person I would have appeared to would have been Pilate: "Yo, Pilate! Remember me? Can't keep a good man down, can you?" Or I would have appeared to Caiaphas, the high priest who, for the most part, orchestrated the crucifixion.

But it is interesting how Jesus appeared to two disciples on the road to Emmaus and joined them on their journey. We don't know who they were, and they are not mentioned again in the Bible.

The Bible tells us that Jesus appeared in another form to them as they went into the country. In other words, He was going incognito. They didn't know that it was Jesus.

The last sight they had of the Lord was His beaten and bloodied body. Surely they wanted to get that image out of their minds.

There they were, walking along, and Jesus was walking with them. It's a reminder to us that at all times, even when we don't realize it, Jesus is walking with us.

Isaiah 43:2 promises, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you."

Maybe when you are in church, you feel close to God. But wherever you go, you can know that Jesus is with you there too. When you are going through hard times, even when you cannot feel Him, Jesus is there.

Used with Permission

This is one of the devotions I read today. And it just made me remember to hold onto the Truth, that He is always here, even when I can't feel Him. Have you been feeling like He's seemingly far away? I urge you, to hold onto the Truth, to hold fast to His promises, that He is always there, no matter what the circumstance.

Monday was Day of Prayer. I'm looking forward to hearing stories of how God has moved in your schools as the weeks pass. Even if things don't seem to be changing now, God is moving. Every prayer you utter, no matter how small, it will still have great impact in the spiritual realms and on the people around you. So keep pressing on, keep praying for your schools, even when there is seemingly no result.

Well, here's another song for you to remind you of His presence in your life, no matter how things are, no matter what you've done, no matter what the circumstance.

Corrinne May - On The Side Of Me

On The Side Of Me - Corinne May

I'm not the easiest person to love
I'm often the one who lets things go unresolved

Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me

I'm not too proud of some things
I've done in my life
The skeletons in my closet
Are too big for me to hide

Yet you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
Blessed Charity
You're on the side of me
on the side of me

'Cause everyone needs a friend to hold
when it's cold outside
and there's no place to go
Everyone needs a friend to hold
all alone I cried
there was no place to go
I remember when nobody cared
but you

I'm not the easiest person to love
But you, you've opened your heart to show me what I'm worth

'Cause you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me
What a mystery
You're on the side of me
on the side of me

'Cause everyone needs a friend to hold
when it's cold outside
and there's no place to go
Everyone needs a friend to hold
all alone I cried
there was no place to go

I remember when nobody cared
I remember when nobody cared
Nobody cared
But you

Yeah you choose to be
on the side of me
on the side of me

It's true, isn't it? Mmm. Why not take some time to thank Him for His love and grace in your life this day?

"Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths. Ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls." - Jeremiah 6:16

He is the way, the truth and the life.

A decision to make.

2008-08-16T02:19:00.003+08:00

The Desert Song
Hillsongs United

This is my prayer in the desert
When all that’s within me feels dry
This is my prayer in my hunger and need
My God is the God who provides

This is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flame

And I will bring praise, I will bring praise
No weapon formed against me shall remain
I will rejoice, I will declare
God is my victory and He is here (play intro)

This is my prayer in the battle
When triumph is still on its way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand

All of my life, In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be emptied again
The seed I've received I will sow

A song to share.

Will you still praise Him through the tough times? Through the periods where He seems far away from you, will you still lift your voice and hands to worship Him? Will you give Him your heart and say "Father, take control."

It is a tough decision. But when you've made the decision, He will help you to carry it out.

He knows. He knows the pains we have, the temptations we face, the struggles we fight. And He is fighting each battle with us.

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." - Psalm 34:17-18.

His perfect love casts out all fear.

To be more than conquerors. Only through Christ Jesus.

2008-08-09T03:03:00.004+08:00

Okay. It's 3.03am now. Mmm. I really wonder why sometimes I sleep so late.

Well, how has the week been? Spotted a few of you at Day of His Power just now. And somehow, it's been a rather encouraging week. Not anything significant that happened or some mega or major revelation about things. It's more of a... day-to-day relationship with God that keeps me going. And of course, I do hope and pray that we will all have this day-to-day relationship with Him. Well, at least I know He desires it. Do you desire it as much?

Mmm. I sort of got weary during the week. A little lost. A little disoriented. A little discouraged. And a little disappointed. All these "a littles", I guess at the end of it if you keep focusing on it, it becomes quite a lot actually? That's the way humans are most of the time. So if you find yourself like that, don't worry, you're just human. But of course, don't stop at that. Know that God created us for so much more. So expect! Expect more of His power in your life! Expect more of the Holy Spirit's movement in your life! Expect more love, more power, more of Jesus in your life! And even as you expect, it will come to pass.

God will meet you, wherever you are this day. You're never too far from His grasp and grace. =)

So... here's something I read from Our Daily Bread yesterday and I found it really encouraging, and true of course. It made a lot of sense. I guess... many things we know, but at times, we just need a little reminder? So here's one for all of you!

"Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation—but it is not to the sinful nature, to live according to it. For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba,Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." - Romans 8:12-17

Lew Wallace’s book Ben-Hur tells the story of a Jewish aristocrat betrayed by his best friend and condemned to serve as a galley slave in the Roman navy. On a forced march to the ship, Judah Ben-Hur meets Jesus of Nazareth, whose compassion fills him with hope. Eventually, Ben-Hur saves the Roman commander during battle. In gratitude, the commander adopts Ben-Hur as his son, instantly elevating him from slave to heir.

That’s what happens to us when God adopts us into His family. But great privilege brings great responsibility. Paul said that we become “heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him” (Rom. 8:17). The gospel does not say, “Come to Jesus and live happily ever after.” God’s syllabus for His children’s education includes training through hardships.

Ben-Hur’s years of enduring hardship as a Roman slave strengthened him and increased his endurance. He eventually defeated his “friend-turned-enemy” in a chariot race.

As endurance and training were key to Ben-Hur’s victory, so are they vital to victory in the Christian’s war with sin and evil. The hard times we endure are God’s way to prepare us for greater service for His glory. — C. P. Hia

So send I you to hearts made hard by hatred,
To eyes made blind because they will not see,
To spend though it be blood—to spend and spare not—
So send I you to taste of Calvary. —Clarkson

We conquer by continuing.

- Adapted from Our Daily Bread: 7 August 2008; God's Training School.

Mmm. If you couldnt get yourself to read through the whole thing, at least read the last three paragraphs. I hope it inspires you to persevere on this race marked out for us.

And remember... you're never alone. Because we're all here for each other. We're a team. So don't give up! And keep each other in prayer. Because prayer changes things. And even as we pray, we find ourselves becoming more and more like Jesus.

Continue on, sons and daughters of the Lord Most High!

Spiritual Maturity - from monoliths to jewels.

2008-07-27T23:06:00.003+08:00

It's been yet another week. But has it been JUST another week, or has it been ANOTHER week with God? Think about it.

All of us go through a period of struggling at one point or another. But that doesn't mean we're never going to get through it. The Bible says that we're victorious, so how do we become victorious? Or are we already victorious because Christ died for us? Mmm. Have you been living your life as a victor, or one who is defeated?

Life is hard. And that's why it's only with Christ that we can get through it. What about your friends? Do they know Christ? Do they have Christ to walk each step of life with them? You know how tough life is, what more without Christ. So think about what you can do for your friends who haven't known Christ yet.

And I really couldn't help but thank God when Daryl came for cell outing/outreach that day. So little planning, or not planning at all, but yet still one person came to know more about God. Our friends may not accept Him right away, but at least take joy in knowing that they've heard about Him, and God is in control. So give it to Him, your troubles, your struggles and your problems.

And of course, remember... Spiritual maturity is not something that is gained overnight. Growing deeper in our walk with Christ is a process, it takes time. So don't be too hard on yourself, or think that God's going to abandon you. Because He won't. And I'm so sure of it. He'll NEVER leave you nor forsake you. Don't just remember it, but believe it.

Here's a verse for you...

"Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD." - Psalm 27:14

God has been moving in our lives. And I know it. He's moulding each and everyone of us, renewing our minds according to His will. Moulding may be painful at times, but if you think about it, it's worth it at the end. So don't give up.

Simply because YOU ARE LOVED.

Father, I thank You for each and everyone of us - Caleb Soh, Caleb Teo, Nicholas, Jemina, Sarah, Jian Quan, Arie and Lynette. Lord, thank You for working in our lives, for allowing us to know You, the One true and living God. Father, it gets tiring at times, it gets painful at times, but Lord, we know that You are moulding us, into a jewel for You - precious and valuable. Father, i pray that You will constantly remind us of our worth in You, that no matter what the world says, we will cling fast to Your promises and Your Truth. Father, help us to bear Your words of life in our hearts and minds, that we will not be shaken. Lord, grant us a deeper desire to know You, to love You. We thank You for Your faithfulness, Lord. And we praise You, because all Your works are good. In Jesus' name... Amen.

Sharing lives.

2008-07-13T02:23:00.002+08:00

Hey.

It's 2.23am right now. What am I doing blogging here? Haha. Well, I just felt like doing so.

Somehow, I left cell today feeling very happy. Not just happy, but I felt as though we've come a step further - sharing. Although it might seem a little... comical and not very serious, but still, I was just really encouraged.

Opening up takes a really long time, especially with people you don't find yourself that familiar with, even if you see them once a week. But still, I believe that if we work towards it, we will reach it.

God will be our helper, in all circumstances. And that, I can testify to.

Press on, children of God!

Running the race marked out for us.

2008-06-11T23:48:00.003+08:00

Hey (LOVELY) people!

You know, it's been quite awhile since the last time I blogged here. And not forgetting, I wonder who still visits. But that's not the point. The point is... I'll still keep writing. And I guess, we'll add everyone in. So everyone can write. Is this a good idea? Hmm.

Well, how has the week been? And hopefully Arie's leg has recovered. (It has recovered!) Just that he's still quite lame, like always. Mmm. We haven't had cell meetings on Saturday by ourselves for quite awhile. And most probably, this Saturday we will have it! Mmm.

I don't really know why I decided to post. Hmm. Lots of things have been happening lately. And I know that in each and every one of our lives, we're all being tested and tried time and again. But I'm glad that all of us are overcoming and growing step by step in the Lord. The road will never be easy, but at least we know that we're not walking this road alone. There's Jesus with us. And each other too. =)

Though we might not be the perfect cell right now, but it doesn't matter. Let's just continue to share life with one another.

I know many of you struggle. But if you really think about it, we don't struggle with our problems. But actually, our only struggle is that with God. Because we want to be in control, because we think we can handle things. And it is struggling to surrender that is our greatest struggle. Of course, surrendering is not an easy task, it's an ongoing process. That's why the Bible says we are living sacrifices. And sacrifices which are living will always try to get off the altar. So... we have to surrender time and time again. Giving up our control over things. It is not something we do because we've given up, but rather, it's something we do out of our love for God. Worship is a lifestyle of obedience. And a heart of worship is surrender.

Think about it alright? What areas are there in your life that you can't surrender? Or you've been struggling to surrender? Take time k? Remember the 5Ds - Dedication, Direction, Discipline, Determination and Desire.

He never asks for too much. All He asks for is your heart. Just you. The way you are.

Love you guys.

And thank you for praying for my university admission. I really really thank God for you all.

"Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." - Isaiah 46:4

True Trust

2008-05-15T09:23:00.002+08:00

Hi people,

Here's a devotion extracted from Our Daily Bread (14 May 2008). Please take time to read and reflect.

May you be encouraged and continue to put your trust in God, no matter what circumstances you may go through in your life.

******************************

True Trust
READ: John 9:1-11
Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. -John 9:3

If you didn't know him, you might think Nick Vujicic has everything going for him. Nick has never had a sore arm. He's never had knee problems. He's never smashed his finger in a door, stubbed his toe, or banged his shin against a table leg.

But that's because Nick doesn't have a shin. Or a toe. Or a finger. Or a knee. Or an arm. Nick was born with no arms and no legs. Before you begin to feel sorry for Nick, read his words. "God won't let anything happen to us in our life unless He has a good purpose for it all. I completely gave my life to Christ at the age of 15 after reading John 9. Jesus said that the reason the man was born blind was 'so that the works of God may be revealed through him.' . . . I now see that glory revealed as He is using me just the way I am and in ways others can’t be used." Nick travels the world to spread the gospel and love of Jesus.

Nick says, "If I can trust in God with my circumstances, then you can trust in God with your circumstances. . . . The greatest joy of all is having Jesus Christ in my life and living the godly purpose He has for me."

Can we say that? Can we look beyond our limitations and have the same trust in God that transformed a man with no arms or legs into a missionary for Jesus?

— Dave Branon

Lord, shape my life as only You can,
Guiding each day by Your loving plan;
Take what You need and give what You will;
My life is Yours to use and to fill. —Branon

Trusting God turns problems into opportunities.

Living for Eternity.

2008-05-07T18:01:00.005+08:00

Fields Of Strength
by Marie Paradise

Whenever my journey gets hard to bear
To fields I go to meet You there.

The Holy psalms I shall recount
My horse of courage I shall mount.

My journey through this land gets longer
My hunger for Your home gets stronger.

When hills to climb get only steeper
My love for You gets only deeper.

I shall not stray nor lose my course
With rein in hand, I'll guide my horse
To fields of good and plenty be
These fields, the ones You promised me
Are void of enemies and grief.
These fields supply me with relief.

I mount my horse, I'm on my way
And in Your fields, My Lord, I'll stay.

Hey.

I guess it's been a tough week for all of you, with exams and common tests in the days ahead and in the days before. But perhaps, some of you don't feel that exams are that big a challenge to face. Mmm. But whatever it is, in all things, remember that God is in control. Even if we don't do well, even if we do below our expectations, God still loves us the same. Cause nothing we do can ever make Him love us more, and nothing we do can ever make Him love us less. That is His character. Hmm.

And after all, we have been called to our schools for a higher calling, not just to get good grades. If all we're doing is getting good grades, is that it? He has told us to make disciples of all nations. Some of you may think "I can't even cope with school work, how do I go and make disciples of all nations?". I would say, this then is where you decide, whether you're going to trust Him with your heart and with your actions, believing that He will make all things work for the good of all those who love Him, who have been called, according to His purpose, or whether you're going to just focus on the things which will fade away.

Have a great week ahead. And keep holding on to Him, for He is Your rock and Your salvation.

Father, we thank You for Your faithfulness in each and everyone of our lives. Lord, we acknowledge that You are the God who is in control, who knows our every coming in and our every going out. You are the One who knows when we sleep and when we rise. Lord, I ask that You would meet each and every one of us wherever we are this day, even if we've gone very far from You, Lord, we know it's never too far for You. Father, allow us to encounter You and draw nearer and deeper into Your grace. Father, we praise You in all circumstances, for You are worthy. In Jesus' name, Amen.

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." - John 17:3

Just a little note.

2008-04-21T00:22:00.003+08:00

Week of December 7, 2007

The Journey

by Max Lucado

I drove the family to Grandma's last night for Thanksgiving. Three hours into the six-hour trip, I realized that I was in a theology lab.

A day with a car full of kids will teach you a lot about God. Transporting a family from one city to another is closely akin to God transporting us from our home to his.

A journey is a journey, whether the destination be the Thanksgiving table or the heavenly one. Both demand patience, a good sense of direction, and a driver who knows that the feast at the end of the trip is worth the hassles in the midst of the trip.

For me, six hours on the road is a small price to pay for my mom's strawberry cake. I don't mind the drive because I know the reward. I have three decades of Thanksgivings under my belt, literally. As I drive, I can taste the turkey. Hear the dinner-table laughter. Smell the smoke from the fireplace.

I can endure the journey because I know the destiny.

For some of you, the journey has been long. Very long and stormy. In no way do I wish to minimize the difficulties that you have had to face along the way. Some of you have shouldered burdens that few of us could ever carry. You have bid farewell to life-long partners. You have been robbed of life-long dreams. You have been given bodies that can't sustain your spirit. You have spouses who can't tolerate your faith. You have bills that outnumber the paychecks and challenges that outweigh the strength.

And you are tired.

Let me encourage you with a parallel between your life's journey and the one our family took last night.

It's worth it.

As I write, the Thanksgiving meal is over. My legs are propped up on the hearth. My tablet is on my lap.

I have every intention of dozing off as soon as I finish this chapter.

The turkey has been attacked. The giblet gravy has been gobbled. The table is clear. The kids are napping. And the family is content.

As we sat around the table today, no one spoke of the long trip to get here. No one mentioned the requests I didn't honor. No one grumbled about my foot being on the accelerator when their hearts were focused on the banana splits. No one complained about the late hour of arrival.

Yesterday's challenges were lost in today's joy.

God never said that the journey would be easy, but he did say that the arrival would be worthwhile.

Remember this: God may not do what you want, but he will do what is right ... and best. He's the Father of forward motion. Trust him. He will get you home. And the trials of the trip will be lost in the joys of the feast.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll close my eyes. I'm a bit tired from the journey, and it feels good to rest.

The Great House of GodFrom In the Eye of the Storm

Copyright (W Publishing Group, 1999) Max Lucado

Remember, God doesn't see you for who you are, He sees you for who you can be. And mistakes are a part of growing up. Mistakes allow us to get better and better, as long as we learn from it.

P.S. Jian Quan, you do love making funny noises during cell isn't it? Haha.

The Oyster Man

2008-04-10T09:50:00.003+08:00

The Oyster Man
Taken from The Daily Bread - 10 Apr 2008. May you be encouraged to do what you can where you are with what you have, for the Lord's glory. No offering from you is too small for Him to use.

************

In the days of John Wesley, lay preachers with limited education would sometimes conduct the church services. One man used Luke 19:21 as his text: "Lord, I feared Thee, because Thou art an austere man" (KJV). Not knowing the word austere, he thought the text spoke of "an oyster man."

He explained how a diver must grope in dark, freezing water to retrieve oysters. In his attempt, he cuts his hands on the sharp edges of the shells. After he obtains an oyster, he rises to the surface, clutching it "in his torn and bleeding hands." The preacher added, "Christ descended from the glory of heaven into . . . sinful human society, in order to retrieve humans and bring them back up with Him to the glory of heaven. His torn and bleeding hands are a sign of the value He has placed on the object of His quest."

Afterward, 12 men received Christ. Later that night someone came to Wesley to complain about unschooled preachers who were too ignorant even to know the meaning of the texts they were preaching on. The Oxford-educated Wesley simply said, "Never mind. The Lord got a dozen oysters tonight."

Our best may not always measure up to the standards of others. But God takes our inadequacies and humble efforts and uses them for His glory. — Cindy Hess Kasper

The Master can use what you have to offer,
Though you may consider it small;
His work here on earth is done through His children,
So give Him your best, give your all. —Hess

signing off
alex
10 apr 2008

ways to reduce stress

2008-04-08T14:55:00.003+08:00

Courtesy of Uncle Dick from COOS Missions Dept, here's a list of ways which you can reduce stress the Christian way. Start on the ones which you can do now and do it consistently, for example, point number 1 below.

1. Pray
2. Go to bed on time.
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.
4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others.
6. Simplify and unclutter your life.
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.)
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together.
10. Take one day at a time.
11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it.
12. Live within your budget; don't overspend and go into debt.
13. Have backups; an extra petty cash in your wallet, or extra house key buried in your hidden compartment of your bag.
14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble.
15. Do something for the Kid in You everyday.
16. Carry a Bible with you to read while waiting in line.
17. Get enough rest.
18. Eat right.
19. Get organized so everything has its place.
20. Listen to a CD or MP3 on how you can help improve your quality of life while in bus or train or your parent's car.
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.
22. Every day, find time to be alone.
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.
24. Make friends with Godly people.
25. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you Jesus.'
27. Laugh.
28. Laugh some more!
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
32. Sit on your ego.
33. Talk less; listen more.
34. Slow down.
35. Remind yourself that you are not the boss of the universe.
36 Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before.

Try it out, ok?

signing off,
alex
8 apr 2008

UPDATES

2008-03-30T14:54:00.001+08:00

Hey PEOPLE!
This blog will be alive again(x
hmm.. hope you all have a great week and may God continue to guide you all and
HELP YOU in time of needs.

continue seeking God and tell Him your needs. For he who ask, shall be given. and he who seek, will find.

a short post to send my regards to all of you(x

nicholas(x

31 December Post.

2007-12-31T01:54:00.000+08:00

Hello people!

It's my first time posting here. Wahaha. Anyways, the end of 2007 is here! It's the last day of the year! So I figured, I should at least post once this year. Haha. Well, the main purpose of this post is to say... I hope you have a blessed new year ahead.

Time may have seemed to past really quickly this year, and I guess many many things happened. Things which brought us much tears, things which made us feel alone, things which may have made us jump for joy, but I guess the most important thing in all these things is that we should learn how to praise God in all circumstances. Simply because this was what we were made for - to worship and honour Him, giving Him the greatest glory in our thoughts, actions and attitudes. Yups.

May we all grow together as a cell and family! (:

Anyways, there will be NO CELL SESSION on 5 January. PLEASE TAKE NOTE and pass the message around.

Have a blessed year ahead! God bless all of you, special people!

In His Love,
Grace Ong.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 DEC 2007 TO 5 JAN 2008

2007-12-16T00:07:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 DEC 2007 TO 5 JAN 2008

Hello all,

The cell session on 15 Dec 2007 which is also our 24.365 prayer session, is officially our last session together. For everyone of you who has been with me over the past two years or three years for the older members, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to journey with you, to share with you on biblical stuff and on life issues which I hope you will continue to reflect, to learn and put into practice. Most of all, I thank you for your love and friendship.

I may not be exactly the dream leader you hope to have - someone who may be vibrant, jovial, versatile, rich in knowledge ... I may not have been able to spend quality time with each of you. And for all the things which I have failed to fulfilled as a cell leader, for all the grief and hurts I have caused, for all my shortcomings, I sincerely apologize and I humbly ask for your forgiveness.

What will happen next year since this is our last cell session? I'm pretty sure that Michelle, Grace and Gideon will take on the leadership role, but who will assume what responsibilities, the church will probably inform them pretty soon. And once that's announced, we will update you accordingly. Meanwhile, please keep a look out for further updates on this cell blog or through our emails.

As for me, I don't know where I'll be going ... cell sup? joining P6s? or the senior citizens singing group over at room 205/206? I am leaving it to God's hands to tell me where to head on next. But if given the choice, I would still like to serve you again in some other capacities ... unless you prefer someone else lar. :)

And please don't forget our cell chalet cum BBQ from 21 to 23 dec. Invite your friends along too and share with them on the love of Jesus when opportunity arises. Please let Nicholas know who are staying over the two nights, who are coming.

Once again, thank you for the time spent together and the memories.

.... And thank you for the birthday card and the rocher ... really grateful and thankful from the bottom of my heart :)

Onward, Christian Soldiers! Serve the Lord Your God with all your hearts, with all your soul, with all your strength, be like King David who yearned and pursued after God's own heart.

"May the roads rise to meet you. May the wind be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; The rain fall soft upon your fields And, until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand." - A Gaelic blessings to you

blessings and love,
alex

2007-12-10T17:56:00.000+08:00

heyhey! heres the list of what we'll need for bbq during cell chalet(:

list for bbq food:
chicken wings
chicken - other parts
other kind of meat
crabsticks
otah
satay
hotdogs
squid
garlic bread/toasted bread
marshmellows
corn
~~sweet potato~~
fishballs
sotong balls
prawns
stingray

cooked food
fried rice - mich
logcake - lynette loo
icecream - lynette loo
turkey - lynette loo
Shepard's pie - grace

utensils we'll need
plastic fork & spoon
paper plates
cups
serviettes/tissue (lots of it)
juice concentrate
containers for mixing
ice
tongs
skewers
satay sticks
charcoal
fire starters
grills
butter
honey
brush
snacks - potato chips
sambal for stingray!

yups heres the list. eh is it agreeable that each one of us pay $10? oh yes, and pleasepleaseplease volunteer to help buy food on sat morn. i think alex will drive yall to ntuc or wherever you all going.

alright see yall in cell on sat! rmb to come earlier for prayer=)
have a fantabulous week ahead!

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 9 DEC TO 15 DEC 2007

2007-12-08T23:56:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 9 DEC TO 15 DEC 2007

Hello all

Cell session on 15 Dec is ON. We will be having our 24.365 prayer starting from 4pm sharp for one hour. As such, I will need you to reach our cell room around 3.45pm to prepare your heart and mind before we go into prayers.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 2 DEC TO 8 DEC 2007

2007-12-02T22:29:00.001+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 2 DEC TO 8 DEC 2007

Hi people

Cell session on 8 Dec 2007 is ON. Please be present.

Those who have yet to confirm if you are going for the cell chalet cum bbq, please do so asap.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 25 NOV TO 1 DEC 2007

2007-11-25T00:37:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 25 NOV TO 1 DEC 2007

Hi all

Cell session on 1 Dec 2007 is ON. Please be present.

signing off
alex

2007-11-19T12:20:00.000+08:00

hello!
i'll be buying donuts for all of you this sat
SO if you want one (duh?!) come okay haha
its from the F-A-M-O-U-S donut fac
=)

MICHELLE

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 18 NOV TO 24 NOV 2007

2007-11-11T21:33:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 18 NOV TO 24 NOV 2007

Hi people

Cell session on 24 Nov 2007 is ON. Please be present and please be punctual. If you want to try out the donuts (compliments of Michelle), please remember to come :)

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 4 NOV TO 10 NOV 2007

2007-10-28T23:19:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 4 NOV TO 10 NOV 2007

Hi all

Apologies for this late posting.

Cell session on 10 Nov is ON. Please be present.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 21 OCT TO 27 OCT 2007

2007-10-22T21:20:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 21 OCT TO 27 OCT 2007

Hi all

Cell session on 27 OCT is ON! Please be present!

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 14 OCT TO 20 OCT 2007

2007-10-14T02:15:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 14 OCT TO 20 OCT 2007

Hi all

1. Cell session on 20 OCT 2007 is ON. Please be present.

2. EAST TIMOR MISSION TRIP - There's another unannounced trip to East Timor from 8 to 16 Dec 2007. Those who have yet to go for any trip are encouraged to sign up. Your life may never be the same after that.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCMENTS - 7 OCT TO 13 OCT 2007

2007-10-06T22:02:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCMENTS - 7 OCT TO 13 OCT 2007

Hi all

Cell session on 13 OCT is ON. Please be present.

Those who were present for the hospitality duty on 6 Oct, thank you for your hardwork which you had put in. Keep up the good work which you are doing for the Lord.

And lastly, congrats to Jemina and Sarah for going through the water baptism on 6 Oct.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 30 SEP TO 6 OCT 2007

2007-09-30T16:06:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 30 SEP TO 6 OCT 2007

Hi all,

1. In lieu of our usual cell session, we will be performing hospitality corner duty on 6 OCT 2007. Please meet in Room 214 at 4pm for a short time of fellowship and games before we proceed to hospitality corner and report to Uncle Patrick. On top of serving drinks and snacks, Nicholas will be leading some praise and worship songs as part of the "performance gig". Let us join him in worshipping God even as we serve our fellow brudders and sistahs.

2. YOUTH BAPTISM DAY - Also on 6 OCT 2007, Jemina and Sarah will be going through water baptism. You are strongly encouraged to stay behind and support them in this occasion. Don't forget to congratulate them after they have gone through the baptism. If you like to buy them small gifts to congratulate and encourage them, you can consider pooling your resources and buy something for them as a group. As this is not compulsory, you are not obliged if you do not want or are not ready to.

3. YOUTH MISSION TRIP - COOS has added three youth mission trips. This is an opportunity for you to reach out and to bless, as well as allowing our Heavenly Father to touch your life and bring you to another deeper level of your love relationship with Him. The dates and venues are as follow:
26 Nov TO 1 Dec 2007 - Bangkok, Thailand
14 Dec TO 21 Dec 2007 - Bangkok, Thailand
14 Dec TO 21 Dec 2007 - Laoag City, Philippines

Registration Forms are available form the Take-One Rack, facing the Admin Counter. Please sign up today.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 23 SEP TO 29 SEP 2007

2007-09-23T00:16:00.001+08:00

Hello all

1. Cell session on 29 SEP is ON. Please be present.

2. YOUTH HEALING SERVICE - please pray for the youth healing service that God will use this moment to demonstrate His glory and love to all the people who needs healing. If you know of any friends or family members who need healing, please invite them for this service.

3. CELL CHALET AND BBQ WEEKEND - It will be held from 21 - 23 Dec 2007 (Fri - Sun) at Garden Terrace Unit A, Aloha Loyang Resort. You are free to stay over for two nights. Check in will be on 21 Dec 3pm and checking out time will be before 10am on Sunday. More details will be released to you in due time.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 SEP TO 22 SEP 2007

2007-09-15T22:34:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 SEP TO 22 SEP 2007

Hi people

1. Cell session on 22 Sep is ON. Please be present.

2. HEALING SERVICE ON 29 SEP 07 - Please invite your friends who needs healing and be touched by God because of their illness or hurts. Take note that there will be cell session that day too.

3. CLARIFICATION ON 15 SEP'S SHARING -

I would like to clarify two points:

a. I mentioned that if you do not hear God's voice, it means you are going to have trouble in your Christian experience. I felt the need to rephrase this - if one do not build a intimate relationship with God, which part of the process also involves learning to hear His voice, eventually, he or she may not know how to hear Him and it can lead one to have a troubled Christian experience. Those who are committed to have a relationship with God, God will help them to hear His voice which may be different from each other.

b. Sometimes, God chooses not to speak ... as in He is keeping silence. I believe that when He is not speaking, He may also be telling you to be still before Him, to wait upon Him and His timing. God may use silence to speak to your heart.

4. THE FERN AND THE BAMBOO

Some of you are going through struggles in life to establish your identity in this world, to find your place in His purpose .... and I empathize with you that it's not easy for you to go through this phase of your journey while being afraid of other people despising you, afraid to tell others your weaknesses and confusion. Please forgive me if I have not been spending time over these years with everyone of you at a personal level, to reach out to you, to understand and hear you out, to be there for you or support you as a cell leader. If I am given the last words, I would like to say that - You are God's beloved ones and I still believe in you, no matter what you are going through now. I hope this article about a person's encounter with God during trail time, will give you inspiration to press on ... to focus on His unending love for you :

One day I decided to quit.... I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality..... I wanted to quit my life.

I went to the woods to have one last talk with God. "God", I said. "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?" His answer surprised me..."Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?" "Yes", I replied."When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them. I gave them light. I gave them water.

The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor. Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo. In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful. And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo". He said. "In the third year, there was still nothing from the bamboo seed. But I would not quit.

In the fourth year, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would not quit."He said. "Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant. But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.

It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive. I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle." He said to me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots. I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you.

"Don't compare yourself to others." He said. "The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern, yet, they both make the forest beautiful.""Your time will come, "God said to me. " You will rise high!" "How high should I rise?" I asked. "How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return."As high as it can?" I questioned."Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."

I left the forest and brought back this story. I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you........

Never regret a day in your life.
Good days give you Happiness.
Bad days give you Experiences.
Both are essential to life.Keep going...

Happiness keeps you Sweet,
Trials keep you Strong,
Sorrows keep you Human,
Failures keep you Humble,
Success keeps You Glowing,
But Only God keeps You Going!

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 9 SEP TO 15 SEP 2007

2007-09-08T23:03:00.001+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 9 SEP TO 15 SEP 2007

Hi people

1. Cell session on 15 SEP is ON. Please be present.

2. YOUTH HEALING SERVICE - With effect from 29 Sep 2007 onwards, COOS will have its own youth healing service, along with the adult healing services. In view of this, we will have cell session on those days too. If you know of any friends of yours who need the healing touch, please invite them to the service and allow them to have the opportunity to be healed by God.

3. END OF YEAR CELL CHALET AND BBQ - Think we missed out this discussion during cell. Please feedback if you are keen to have it when we discuss it next week.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 2 SEP TO 8 SEP 2007

2007-09-01T22:10:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 2 SEP TO 8 SEP 2007/

Hello all

1. Cell session on 8 Sep 2007 is ON. Please be present.

2. PRAYER 24/365 - COOS is one of the participating churches in this LoveSingapore network project. Please prepare yourself between 9 DEC - 16 DEC 2007 for a time of prayer. More info to be released in due time.

3. CHALET AND BBQ TIME - The ACGLs have suggested having a chalet and BBQ time for the cell either over the last weekend of November or 3rd weekend in December 2007. We would like to hear from you if you are keen. The venue is likely to be Aloha Resort at Pasir Ris. Please let us know your feedback so we can plan and book the place.

signing off
alex

The Purpose of Prayer

2007-08-29T08:42:00.000+08:00

THE PURPOSE OF PRAYER

Extracted from "My Utmost For His Highest, 28 Aug 2007". Recently, you have been taught on Prayers. This devotion is pretty appropriate. Read it, meditate on it, put it into action and be blessed ...

alex

******************

Prayer is not a normal part of the life of the natural man. We hear it said that a person’s life will suffer if he doesn’t pray, but I question that. What will suffer is the life of the Son of God in him, which is nourished not by food, but by prayer. When a person is born again from above, the life of the Son of God is born in him, and he can either starve or nourish that life. Prayer is the way that the life of God in us is nourished. Our common ideas regarding prayer are not found in the New Testament. We look upon prayer simply as a means of getting things for ourselves, but the biblical purpose of prayer is that we may get to know God Himself.

"Ask, and you will receive . . ." ( John 16:24 ). We complain before God, and sometimes we are apologetic or indifferent to Him, but we actually ask Him for very few things. Yet a child exhibits a magnificent boldness to ask! Our Lord said, ". . . unless you . . . become as little children . . ." ( Matthew 18:3 ). Ask and God will do. Give Jesus Christ the opportunity and the room to work. The problem is that no one will ever do this until he is at his wits’ end. When a person is at his wits’ end, it no longer seems to be a cowardly thing to pray; in fact, it is the only way he can get in touch with the truth and the reality of God Himself. Be yourself before God and present Him with your problems— the very things that have brought you to your wits’ end. But as long as you think you are self-sufficient, you do not need to ask God for anything.

To say that "prayer changes things" is not as close to the truth as saying, "Prayer changes me and then I change things." God has established things so that prayer, on the basis of redemption, changes the way a person looks at things. Prayer is not a matter of changing things externally, but one of working miracles in a person’s inner nature.

******************

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 26 AUG TO 2 SEP 2007

2007-08-26T00:47:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 26 AUG TO 2 SEP 2007

Hello all

1. Cell session on 2 Sep 07 is ON. Please be present.

2. Please pray for Michelle, Grace and Gideon who are taking their prelims exam this week. Pray for God's strength and wisdom when they are preparing their papers and going through the exam. Pray for God's peace to remain with them and His presence will always be felt as they go through this period.

3. Please pray for Michelle to recover from a hairline fracture in her leg, that God will heal her in His good time, that God will give her peace in her heart, that she will continue to find joy and peace as she copes with her exam and her injury.

4. To all the ACGLs, we are all behind you in prayers ... jiayou! ganbatte! do your best for His glory!

signing off
alex

NNOUNCEMENTS - 19 AUG TO 25 AUG 2007

2007-08-19T22:54:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 19 AUG TO 25 AUG 2007

Hello all

1. Cell session on 25 Aug 2007 is ON. Please be present. :)

2. MOTORCYCLE FUND RAISING PROJECT - I'll be doing a one-time fund collection on 25 AUG 2007. If you have already set aside some funds to support this project, please hold it on to that day. If you are still keen to be part of this noble cause, feel free to contribute that day.

signing off
alex

Sweetly Broken

2007-08-16T23:37:00.000+08:00

SWEETLY BROKEN

If you have attended the previous two youth services, you would have seen the video on Worship. In case you are wondering, the song in the video is "Sweetly Broken" by Jeremy Riddle. Here are the lyrics:

To the cross I look, to the cross I cling
Of its suffering I do drink
Of its work I do sing

For on it my Savior both bruised and crushed
Showed that God is love
And God is just

At the cross You beckon me
You draw me gently to my knees, and I am
Lost for words, so lost in love,
I’m sweetly broken, wholly surrendered

What a priceless gift, undeserved life
Have I been given
Through Christ crucified

You’ve called me out of death
You’ve called me into life
And I was under Your wrath
Now through the cross I’m reconciled

In awe of the cross I must confess
How wondrous Your redeeming love and
How great is Your faithfulness

At the cross You beckon me
You draw me gently to my knees, and I am
Lost for words, so lost in love,
I’m sweetly broken, wholly surrendered

Here's a video done by someone which uses the song (not the same as the one we saw). May you be ministered by it.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 12 AUG TO 18 AUG 2007

2007-08-13T23:59:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 12 AUG TO 18 AUG 2007

Hello all

1. Cell session on 18 Aug 2007 is ON. Please be present. :)

2. MOTORCYCLE FUND RAISING PROJECT - Apologies for not conducting the fund collections last Saturday due to memory failure on my part. I'll be doing a one-time fund collection on 25 AUG 2007. If you have already set aside some cash to support this project, please hold it on to that day.

3. END OF YEAR MISSION TRIP - I've checked with Ps Victor Seet regarding the end of year mission trip. It sounds like the East Timor trip is quite a firmed thing. The team leader could be Peter Tan. Once again, I would like to encourage you, that if you have never been for one mission trip in your life, please make this your first one. If you have been there before, you are also strongly encouraged to go again. Please start saving up for the trip, as well as keeping yourself free from 8 to 16 Dec 2007 period. If we can go as a cell, I'll let the church know.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 5 AUG TO 11 AUG 2007

2007-08-07T23:48:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 5 AUG TO 11 AUG 2007

Hi people

1. Cell session on 11 AUG is ON. Please be present.

2. MOTORCYCLE FUND RAISING PROJECT -

This project is initiated by another Sec 1/Sec 2 Cell Group led by Pauline Lau. She and some of her cell members went to Cambodia over the Christmas period last year. Through the pastor in the Cambodia church, one of the needs that touched their hearts is the motorcycle for Cambodian teachers. A motorcycle can ferry 2 to 3 teachers to the village to teach the children, thus providing them education. Pauline Lau's cell (also known as the White Hot Flame Cell") is fronting this project to raise money for Cambodian church to purchase one motorcycle.

The youth ministry in COOS is aware and supportive of this project. So far, two youth cell groups have responded to the call. I would like to challenge you to contribute for this project. How much to contribute is entirely up to you. if you can give more, by all means give more. If you can only give a few dollars, it's all right too. Most importantly, it's the heart and the attitude that counts. Heavenly Dad can use even that small sum and turn it into a tremendous blessings to the Cambodian children who may one day come to know the Lord and become mighty men and women of God ... and it all started with you who gave what you could. You can start today by setting aside a small amount from your pocket money everyday for this fund raising.

I'll be making a one-time collection during the cell's praise and worship on this Saturday (11 Aug). If you felt the touch by God to help the teachers and children, you may bring the money to the cell.

If you need more enquiries, you can also contact Ps Debbie or Ps John Chiong in church.

3. YEAR END MISSION TRIP -

I would also like to make another call to all members, to consider going for a mission trip at the end of this year. Especially if you have never been for one in your lifetime, this is a good time to consider making yourself available for it. Some of you may have reservations about feeling too young to be in a mission and not able to do anything, but remember what 1 Tim 4:12 says - don't let anyone look down on you because you are young. To me, it also means that God can use you to do great things despite of your youth, if you are willing to commit and make yourself available to His calling. There are many things you can learn and experience which you may not have the chance if you are in Singapore - such as planting your chocolate landmines on open field in the middle of the night (ask Arie if you like to know more what it means) or bathing with cold water at night and you can't see what else is swimming in the water. There are also many areas which you can get yourself involved - such as prayers, praying for the sick, sharing your testimonies and the gospel to those who have not heard of it before, play with the kids in that land and be a blessing to them - and if you are willing to be used by God, He will show you great things, lives will be touched and changed and your outlook in life as well as your personal self may never be the same.

The available trips in December 2007 are:

East Asia - 1 to 9 December
East Timor - 8 to 16 December
Thailand - 13 to 20 December

Youth Ministry will be fronting these three trips.

All you need is a heart that's willing to go. Tell God that you would like to go for a trip at the end of this year and ask God to make a way for you. Start saving money for your trip from today onwards too.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 29 JUL TO 4 AUG 2007

2007-07-29T18:21:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 29 JUL TO 4 AUG 2007

Hi people

1. Cell Session on 4 AUG 07 is ON. Please be present.

2. DAY OF HIS POWER - A prayer event for our country. 8 Aug 2007 (Wed) at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Be seated by 7.15pm. Admission is free and all are welcome. Organised by LoveSingapore network.

3. 21st FESTIVAL OF PRAISE - 3 to 5 August 2007, 7.30pm at Singapore Indoor Stadium. You are encouraged to attend this event with your fellow cell members or your family! In anticipation to full houses on these evenings (especially Fridays/Saturdays), you are advised to be there as early as 5pm to queue up for this free event.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 22 JULY TO 28 JULY 2007

2007-07-23T22:06:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 22 JULY TO 28 JULY 2007

Hi people

1. A gentle reminder that there will be NO CELL SESSION and YOUTH SERVICE on 28 July 2007, due to Healing Service weekend.

2. DAY OF HIS POWER - A prayer event for our country. 8 Aug 2007 (Wed) at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Be seated by 7.15pm. Admission is free and all are welcome.

3. 21st FESTIVAL OF PRAISE - 3 to 5 August 2007, 7.30pm at Singapore Indoor Stadium. You are encouraged to attend this event with your fellow cell members or your family! In anticipation to full houses on these evenings, you are advised to be there as early as 5pm to queue up for this free event.

signing off
alex

Interview with Rick Warren

2007-07-19T23:35:00.000+08:00

INTERVIEW WITH RICK WARREN

Something for you to read and ponder on his words ....

*****************************************************

*It certainly does make you stop and think!! This is an absolutely incredible interview with Rick Warren,author of "Purpose Driven Life ". His wife now has cancer, and he now has "wealth" from the book sales. In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said: "People ask me, "What is the purpose of life?" And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.

One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body--but not the end of me. I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't going to make sense. Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one!

The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than your comfort. God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in making your life happy. We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life. The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.

This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest, with my wife, Kay, getting cancer. I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that anymore. Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life. No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on. And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for.

You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems. If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness, "which is my problem, my issues, my pain."

We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her. It has been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character, given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn her closer to Him and to people.

You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life. Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance, this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it made me instantly very wealthy.
It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before. I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you to live a life of ease.

First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our lifestyle one bit. We made no major purchases. Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the church. Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and educate the next generation. Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 years since I started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to serve God for free.

We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity? Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?

When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You better. God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more interested in what I am than what I do. That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.

"Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.
Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.
Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.
Painful moments, TRUST GOD.
Every moment, THANK GOD. "

In Him,

*Rick Warren*

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 15 JULY TO 21 JULY 2007

2007-07-15T01:10:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 15 JULY TO 21 JULY 2007

Hello people,

1. Cell session on 21 July 2007 in ON. Pre-cell prayer will begin about 3.45pm.

2. Cell session and youth service on 28 July 2007 is OFF as it will be the Healing Service weekend. Please join your parents for the service.

3. I would like to encourage everyone to make friends with our newcomers. You can exchange contact numbers, email address and get to know them better.

4. COOS Missions Month - This month being the Mission Month in COOS, I would like to encourage everyone to pray for the country according to the card which you have received during the youth service, regularly. At the same time, I would also really encourage you to consider making yourself available for a short-term mission trip at the end of the year. You can start praying to God and ask God which country to go and to place that burden in your heart.

5. 40-DAY PRAYER - this is an event which COOS is supporting, as part of the LoveSingapore network of churches. Please download the devotional booklet from www.lovesingapore.org.sg. In the booklet, it will tell you the types of fasting which you can choose one that fits you better. At the same time, you can even learn more about what God is doing around us and find out what is God trying to tell you.

6. DAY OF HIS POWER - This LoveSingapore event will be held on 8 Aug 2007 (Wed), 7.30pm at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Please try to attend this event with your family or as a cell group. Note that you will need to be seated by 7.15pm. Mark this on your calendar and try to go for it.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 8 JULY TO 14 JULY 2007

2007-07-08T21:07:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 8 JULY TO 14 JULY 2007

Hello people,

1. Cell session on 14 July 2007 in ON. Pre-cell prayer will begin about 3.45pm.

2. Those who have invited your friends to YES3, please continue to invite them for the service and the cell. Those who have invited their friends but did not turn up, please continue to pray for them and invite them to attend the normal service and cell too.

3. Mission Trips (Nov to Dec 2007) - Even though this announcement is pretty early, I would strongly encourage everyone in the cell who have not made any trips out to the field, to give it a shot. Those who have been to previous trip(s) like East Timor, please consider making another trip in December too. More details will be released to you, but at this moment, please pray about it and ask God to give you a burden to go.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENT - 1 JUL TO 7 JUL 2007

2007-06-30T22:22:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENT - 1 JUL TO 7 JUL 2007

Hello people

1. There will be NO CELL SESSION on 7 July 2007 due to YES3 Evangelistic Rally.

2. Please remember to invite your friend to the rally. You may want to pray for God to anoint the invitation. Remember what Ps Glenn has taught us regarding about prayers and praise. Use these two weapons to bring down the works and spiritual hindrance brought about by satan and his demons. The key to your friend's salvation could be you, and they may not have the chance to hear it again if you do not take this opportunity to reach out to them.

3. Prayer warriors and intercessors are required. Please join in the battle against works of the darkness as the good news are being reached out to the lost.

4. 40-DAY PRAYER - Starting from 1 July 2007 to 9 Aug 2007, COOS is involved in the 40-day prayer and fast to pray for the nation which will be celebrating its 42 years of independence. You can choose to go on one-meal fast everyday and take that time to do the devotion and pray for our country. There will also be an event "Day of the Power" which will be held on 8 Aug 2007 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium (to be seated by 7.15pm). For the devotional materials, you can collect it from COOS or download it from the 40-Day under the Love Singapore website. Be part of this national prayer mobilisation. Be a prayer warrior. God can use you to pray and to intercede.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 24 TO 30 JUNE 2007

2007-06-24T16:38:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 24 TO 30 JUNE 2007

Hi people

1. Just a reminder that there will be cell on 30 June. Pre-Cell Prayer begins at 3.45pm.

2. YES3 Event on 7 July 2007 - please remember to invite your pre-believing friends for the event. Remember what Gideon has taught us and start your prayerwalk around the school compound regularly.

signing off
alex

REMEMBER ME

2007-06-17T23:10:00.000+08:00

REMEMBER ME

Incidentally on this year's Father's Day, this song was on constant replay in my mind ... a song from the Heavenly Dad to all His children on earth ...

As we are embarking on Experiencing God series, I pray that this song will also speak to you, encouraging you to remember Him everyday of your life.

This is God's love song for you.

Remember Me
In a Bible cracked and faded by the years
Remember Me
In a sanctuary filled with silent prayer

And age to age
And heart to heart,
Bound by grace and peace.
Child of wonder,
Child of God,
I've remembered you,
Remember Me.

Remember Me
When the color of the sunset fills the sky
Remember Me
When you pray and tears fall from your eyes.

And age to age
And heart to heart,
Bound by grace and peace.
Child of wonder
Child of God,
I've remembered you,
Remember Me

Remember Me
When the children leave their Sunday school with smiles
Remember Me
When they're old enough to teach,
Old enough to preach
Old enough to leave.

And age to age
And heart to heart
Bound by grace and peace
Child of wonder,
Child of God,
I've remembered you,
Remember Me.

Age to age
And heart to heart
Child of wonder
Child of God
Remember Me.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 17 JUN TO 23 JUN 2007

2007-06-17T01:12:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 17 JUN TO 23 JUN 2007

Hi people

1. Cell session on 23 Jun 2007 is ON. Please be present. Pre-cell prayer begins at 3.45pm.

2. FROM ZERO TO HERO (7 Jul 2007) - We need prayer warriors to join a big team of youth intercessors to pray for the event from 3pm to 7.30pm that day in Room 301 and 302. Between 3.30pm to 5pm, there will be prayer walk around the church and the carnival. If you are not able to bring any friends along, you are strongly encouraged to be part of this work, to cry out to God that many will receive salvation. Please let me know by 23 Jun 2007 so I can update the church.

3. UPDATING OF PARTICULARS - Please give your fullest cooperation to Grace Ong and update your particulars with her by 23 Jun 2007.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENT - 10 JUN TO 16 JUN 2007

2007-06-09T23:17:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENT - 10 JUN TO 16 JUN 2007

Hi people

1. There will be NO CELL SESSION on 16 June 2007 as more than half the cell will coming back to COOS from the Adventure Camp at Christ Church Secondary School. Cell will resume on 23 June 2007.

2. FROM ZERO TO HERO (YOUTH EVANGELISTIC SERVICE) - It will be held on 7 July 2007. There will be NO cell session on that day, but every member are strongly encouraged to invite 5 pre-believing friends to the mini-carnival which will begin at 3.30pm. There will be food and game stalls and they are free of charge. Service will start at 6pm and the ministry aims to see the whole auditorium are filled with your prebelieving friends, not for you to enjoy the entertainment and show. What you can do? Collect the invitation postcards from the Take One Rack at the Admin Counter area and use it to invite your friends who need to hear the good news and be saved. You may just be the last key for them to receive salvation.

3. UPDATE OF PERSONAL PARTICULARS - Please update your particulars quickly to Grace Ong before 16 June 2007.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 3 JUN TO 9 JUN 2007

2007-06-02T23:04:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 3 JUN TO 9 JUN 2007

Hi pple

1. Cell session on 9 June 2007 is ON. Please be present. Pre-Cell Prayer will still be on, so just come slightly earlier. Will start around 3.45pm.

2. FROM ZERO TO HERO (7 JULY 2007) - This is another YES event in coos. We won't have cell that day, so please bring some of your friends to attend this fun-filled evangelistic event which starts at 3.30pm.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 28 MAY TO 2 JUN 2007

2007-05-28T00:18:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 28 MAY TO 2 JUN 2007

Hello pple

1. Cell session on 2 June (Sat) is ON. We will have pre-cell prayer but will be commencing at 3.45pm.

2. SONIC EDGE ALBUM LAUNCH - a gentle reminder that those who are holding the tickets, please be reminded that the event will be held on 30 May (Wed) night.

signing off
alex

20 to 26 MAY 2007

2007-05-20T22:36:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 20 TO 26 MAY 2007

Hello people

1. Gentle reminder that there will be no cell session and youth service on 26 May 2007. Cell session on 2 Jun will be ON.

2. ADVENTURE CAMP - Those who wants to attend the camp, please remember to sign up latest by 26/27 May weekend. Encourage your pre-believing friends to sign up too.

3. SONIC EDGE ALBUM LAUNCH 30 MAY 2007 - Those who have gotten the tickets on Saturday night, please remember to bring your pre-believing friends as this launch is also evangelistic in nature

4. GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER, 27 MAY 2007 - Please join your family or fellow cell members and attend this national prayer event. It will be held at the National Stadium - your last chance to step foot into this place before it is being demolished.

signing off
alex

What do we do with our fears?

2007-04-06T00:10:00.000+08:00

WHAT DO WE DO WITH OUR FEARS?

What do you do when you are faced with your fears ... such as, exams, tests, problems, ... whether at home or in school or anywhere...?

Read on (taken from the blog of another bro-in-Christ, Rags) >>>

This week is by far one of the toughest week in 2007. I'll spare you the details for if not, you'll not be edified. I'm confronted with what do I do with my fears. My greatest fears that is!

From experience here is the best thing to do! "Run towards our greatest fears" ... Not move, not walk but run...

The deal is this...
1) We can just not do anything about it. But then, it'll linger and never go away. What will become of our days? It'll be living in constant fear. The sad thing is that we can get used to it and be subdued all the days of our weeks, months and years.

2) We can run away from it! Yes maybe the change our environment will help. I thought so too but I realise fear follow you. Only that it'll change form just like a mighty mutant monster. It'll still be 'fear' but I'm afraid it gets stronger than before.

3) Our only choice is to run towards it. Confront it and here what I think we'll find. Most of these fears are unfounded and its not that bad after all. Why run and not walk. The reason is because you think too much when you walk. When we run towards fear, that's when it starts to run away from us.

Some hints to help: Don't run towards fear in our weakest state. Not when you are sleepy in the afternoon or tired at night. Run towards it when you are strongest which I would suggest to start your day early and confront your greatest fear as top priority. That's the most important task for you. Pray and let the Lord be with you. If you overcome our greatest fear in the morning every single day, it'll give us the victory and confidence for the rest of the day. Keep doing that you'll develop courage.

Run towards your greatest fear and shine. Don't fear fear. Strong and courageous living is God's prescription. I suggest to do this not because its a cool idea. So far to me it's the only way to live. I don't see any other way.

no cell session on 10 march 2007

2007-03-09T17:11:00.000+08:00

NO CELL SESSION ON 10 MARCH 2007

Hello people,

This is a last-minute announcement from Grace Ong ...

There will be NO CELL SESSION on 10 March 2007 (Saturday), but you are still required to attend the youth service.

Please help to disseminate the news to everyone ... especially those who can't access the blog or don't have email facilities ...

Thanks a lot! Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy your week-long holidays !

alex

LIFE WITHOUT LIMBS

2007-02-15T01:19:00.000+08:00

LIFE WITHOUT LIMBS

Before you read on, please play and watch the two videos first – one is about 6 minutes long, and the other is about 10 minutes. Watch one at a time and listen carefully to what have been said. Reflect and ask yourself on what you have learnt through these videos.

I first saw these videos which were played on the screen by my lecturer, as part of my lecture on the topic "Anger". I was very moved by what I saw through the life of this limb-less person named Nick Vujicic – a man with no arms, legs, hands .. except a little feet which he called "chicken drumstick". I believed God was teaching me something through the videos and I would like to share them with you, to help you to pick up something which you can apply to your own life.

If there’s someone who has every right to be angry with life or with God, I think it is Nick Vujicic. He was born without any limbs – arms, hands, legs. He didn’t ask for it. He didn’t do anything to deserve this. Was it his parent’s fault? No. His parents are faithful followers – father is a pastor of a church too. Then we ask, "why did God make him that way? Was it because God made a mistake? Was God careless? Was God a sadist?". Nick could have remain angry throughout his whole life, his parents could have been angry too … they have been depressed at times … they may not understand why God wanted that way… but they continued to believe in God, trust God, believing that "that in all things God works for the best for those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). And I believe that God had a bigger picture even for the limb-less Nick Vujicic … He was planning to use him to bring people into His glory, use him to bring the Gospel to the lost and the hopeless. Nick didn’t let anger or the unfortunate events or the handicaps ruin his hope in God. He continued to trust God that He has a purpose for him, to prosper him and not to harm him (Jeremiah 29:11).

Many times, and I am sure this is true to many of us, that we would point finger at God and blame God for all the unfortunate events, problems, our handicaps in our life or the handicaps – "I am not smart", "I am born fat", "I cannot run as fast as the others", "I'm not as handsome or pretty as others", "my life sucks big time" … and the list goes on. There are things you cannot control in your life. You didn’t ask for them. They come as they will. Remember that, as long as you live, whether you are super rich or poor, whether you like it or not, there will always be problems in your life. You can call this God's hard lessons for you to learn. What He wants you to learn, I won’t know, but you can ask Him if you seek Him. But trust Him that He will mould you to be the person He wants you to be, not you want to be … in His own time, not your own time … according to His will, not your will.

Of course, some people actually ask for trouble or problems because they are the root cause. What you do onto others, they will do onto you. You have to live with it and bear the consequences. If you know you are the cause of the whole fiasco, then take on remedial actions to rectify them quickly and don’t ask for further troubles or problems.

You don’t have to go looking for problems … problems will come looking for you.

I believe God is not here to make your life comfortable by removing problems … but to make your life more enriching and meaningful, to shape you up to be a better person by giving you problems. If you are running away from problems or not dealing with them, then you become an escapist and you won't learn anything and God may not be able to mold and change you becuase you won't allow Him to do so.

If you find life is yucky, life isn't making any sense at all, you don't deserve to have this yucky life … think about Nick Vujicic and you may want to relook at your own life differently.

If you happen to have the mentality that the whole world owes you everything for all the unfortunate incidents in your life, then I think you have been lied and misled by Mr S.A.Tan.

Another note to share - God uses the weak to do His work. God uses a kid (David) to knock down Goliath. Why God doesn't use the strong? because "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness"(2 Corinthians 12:9). What does it mean to be weak? It does not mean you don't exercise and become physically weak or stop spending time with God / reading the Bible and become spiritually weak. You have to confess to God that you are truly weak in your own eyes and in His eyes. If you think you are very strong and you are in control over your life or situations around you, then God cannot manifest His glory through your life or use you to do His work.... because you do not allow God to be at the center of your life equation. It is only when you acknowledge your weaknesses and tell God to take over your life and learn to be humble, then God can enter into your heart, use you for His glory.

There may still be a lot to say but that's all for now... I hope you do a bit of reflection on this.

Meanwhile, visit www.lifewithoutlimbs.org to know more about Nick Vujicic.
-alex- 14 feb 07

TODAY IS NEVER TOO LATE

2007-01-23T11:36:00.000+08:00

TODAY IS NEVER TOO LATE

Hi people,
Just wanted to share this entry which was written by Rags, a bro-in-Christ from another church. It is extracted from his online journal.

**********************************

Just when I thought that we is closed to recovering fully from last year, Uncle Ah San passed away with a stroke last week on the 17th Jan. It was exactly 3 months after auntie Elsie (she left us on the 17 Oct) Rachel their 15 y/o daughter was in such sorrow though she knows they are in a better place. We pray for the strength of God's hand and peace to be with her. We are also doing whatever we can physically.

Another death in Mag's family humbly reminds us again of our mortality. We talk about it, reflect upon it more and its never enough. If we die today will we die doing what God has called us to do or will we die caught with our pant's down just trying to make life more comfortable? I believe all of us are born with a set of right things to do. It's not about doing what's easy than it is about doing what's right.

Most of us live unreflected lives, allowing life to control us with its demand every single moment. When that happens, it is so easy our day will turn into weeks and our weeks into months, months into years and without realising it, it becomes a little too late to do things that matters.

Some of the things that people will never regret having done when on their death bed are hugging people, building friendships, skipping rope with children, investing in the next generation, giving of our time and money, telling loved ones how much you love them, writing a book or creating something with our hands to bless others, using God given talents and gifting and developing them. There are much more and maybe many things unique just for you.

Today is never too late, we should reflect upon what we are doing against what we should be doing for a truly regret free life. After we have done that, to work on how to do these things with great love and passion. Nike got it not quite right.It's not about just doing it. It's about doing right things greatly.

**********************************

Especially those who have gone through baptism last saturday, and those who had been baptised last year, just ask yourself this question - "If we die today will we die doing what God has called us to do or will we die caught with our pant's down just trying to make life more comfortable?".

I believe that God is not trying to say that you cannot make life comfortable - as in get study hard, get good grades, having fun, finding your loved ones ... but if we allow the fun and comforts to control our life, leaving God out of our life equation and not building up the gifts which God has given you while you are on this Earth, then you would probably have already gone off-course.

Reflect and ask yourself if you have not been building up a love relationship with God. If not, start today by getting to know your Heavenly Father more intimately, to know His heartbeat for you, to know His purpose for you ... so that whatever you do in your life, you can align your heart and desires with what He has for you. How to do? start with these -
1. reading His word/devotional materials and take time to reflect, ask God what they mean and how they can be applied to you.
2. pray to Him, talk to Him, be still before Him.
3. live your life more Christ-like, not more worldly-like. You must abandon your bad attitudes and change to be more like Him.

It's also when you desire to know Him more and start to seek Him with all your hearts, that He will begin to show you more things and teach you.

Meanwhile, please listen and obey to Moses and your assistant cell leaders. They are also God's anointed authority over the cell and you. If you disobey them, you are also disobeying God.

blessings,
alex

YOUTH BAPTISM SERVICE - 20 JAN 2007

2007-01-23T01:08:00.000+08:00

YOUTH BAPTISM SERVICE - 20 JAN 2007

Hello pple

CLICK HERE to view the album. Feel free to download and save them into your hard disk.

Congrats to Caleb Soh, Kai En, Joshua Chia, Brenda Teo, Rachel Koh, for going through the water baptism. :)

signing off,
alex

Cell - 13/1/2007

2007-01-12T22:02:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENT.

Cell - 13/1/2007

Hey everyone!

There will be cell on the 13th of January. No pre-cell prayer though. Come expecting... something different. (: Yep, see you all there - 4 pm, room 212!

____________________________________________________

CELL SESSION ON 6 JAN 2007

2007-01-02T10:35:00.000+08:00

CELL SESSION ON 6 JAN 2007

Hi pple,

Happy new year to all!

Cell session on 6 Jan 2007 is ON. Time - 4pm, venue - Rm 214. See u pple there.

Asst leaders, pse be present by 3.30pm.

signing off
alex

Christmas Lunch

2006-12-26T09:17:00.000+08:00

hey all.. this is nicholas and the picture we took during Christmas lunch.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 17 DEC 2006 TO 6 JAN 2007

2006-12-20T23:34:00.000+08:00

Hi people,

1. Thank you for turning up last Saturday for our last cell gathering. Personally, it's been a great privilege to serve you people for the last 1 to 2 years. I'll be away for about 6 months, but in between, I'll drop by the cell. After that, I'll be back again to join some of you, unless Ps Debbie has other plans in mind.

2. A reminder that there will be no more cell sessions for the rest of the year. You will be updated again on the new cell session for 2007.

3. Here's a short letter from Keith Teo, another youth leader from urbanRace regarding the Youth Christmas Outreach. Please read and join in the pre-service prayers if you are not bringing any friends along. Remember, prayer is a communication tool to God:

<<< START OF MESSAGE >>>

The Christmas Outreach is Coming very very soon!!! And we need to pray for it, asking God to usher in His Presence and Kingdom into our midst so that lives will be transformed and never be the same again!!

Let's continue to press in to pray for the 5 things we have been praying for during Youth Service over the pass 2 weeks:

1) For us to have the Father's COMPASSION.
Luke 14:21, 23
"Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. Go out to the roads and country lanes and make them come in, so that my house will be full."

2) For our friends: RECONCILIATION of broken relationships.
Malachi 4:6
He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse.

3) HEALING for the CRUSHED in spirit.
Proverbs 18:14
A man's spirit sustains him in sickness,
But a crushed spirit who can bear?

4) For a MEETING with the FATHER to take place.
Zephaniah 4:6
The LORD your God is with you,
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing.

5) To have open eyes to SEE.
Ephesians 1:17-18
I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightenend in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you.

WE will Continue Pressing in with the Holy Spirit Partnering us and Let's expect to see God do Great and Awesome things in out midst!!

There will be constant prayer before and throughout the service:

1) On the 23rd, There will be a pre-service prayer from 430pm to 530pm at Room 302.

We know that your cell may be having a program before service, to meet the newcomers beforehand, so if you do not have, pls come to join us at the pre-service prayer!!

2) There will also be a Time of Prayer throughout the service from 530pm to the end of service which will be about 8pm in Room 301.

There will be 2 one hour slots throughout this segment of prayer:
530pm - 545 pm --> Break
545pm - 645pm --> 1st Slot
645pm - 700pm --> Break
700pm - 800pm --> 2nd Slot
800pm - ........ --> Continue on depending on length of service

Please ask any of your cell members to come for this prayer if they are not bringing any friends or if they are not assigned to take care of any of your cell's newcomers..=)

Let's Press in as Leaders to take the land for God as He delivers it into our hands!!
But First, We need top avail ourselves to pray and inspire our sheeps to do the same!! =)

See ya peeps on Saturday!!
God Bless!!

Love,
Keith

<<< END OF MESSAGE >>>

That's all folks. Take care and be good.
May the Lord bless you and keep you
May the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious unto you
May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 10 DEC TO 16 DEC 2006

2006-12-11T18:58:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 10 DEC TO 16 DEC 2006

Hello all,

1. Our LAST cell session will be held on 16 Dec 2006, 4pm. We will be having a time of thanksgiving to God for what He has done for in this whole year. Please attend this session. Note that there will be NO CELL SESSION on 23 Dec and 30 Dec 2006. For the year 2007, Grace Kong will inform you in due time.

2. EVANGELIZER - NEVER GIVE UP : The next session will be held on 13 to 15 Dec 2006 at Room 308 (Chapel). Please attend this free course if you have not signed up.

3. CHRISTMAS THANKSGIVING LUNCH - We have signed you up for this event cum lunch session 25 Dec 2006. Please remember to attend.

see you on 16 dec.

alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 3 DEC TO 9 DEC 2006

2006-12-03T23:46:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 3 DEC TO 9 DEC 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 9 Dec 2006 is OFF. Please don't come for cell session on that day, but please attend the youth service at 6pm.

2. The last cell session for the year will be held on 16 Dec 2006. Please attend this last session as we want to do a closure for the year, with thanksgiving for what God has done for us in 2006.

3. There will be NO CELL SESSION on 23 Dec and 30 Dec 2006. For the year 2007, Grace Kong will inform you in due time.

4. EVANGELIZER - NEVER GIVE UP : The next session will be held on 13 to 15 Dec 2006 at Room 308 (Chapel). Please attend this free course if you have not signed up.

5. CHRISTMAS THANKSGIVING LUNCH - We have signed you up for this event cum lunch session 25 Dec 2006. Please attend.

6. WEDDING INVITATION BY PAULINE KOH AND KAH WOON - You have been cordially invited to attend the holy matrimony of Pauline Koh and Kah Woon on 1 Jan 2006, 11am at COOS Auditorium. Wedding lunch will be followed after the ceremony is over. Please note thaat you have to be seated by 10.40am. To facilitate the logistics preparation of the bride and bridegroom, if you are going, please reply to Michelle Loh by 8 Dec 2006, so that she can update the couples. You may like to give cash gift if you are attending.

that's all

alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 26 NOV TO 2 DEC 2006

2006-11-27T11:32:00.000+08:00

Hello all,

No new announcements this week ... just a reminder that cell on 2 Dec 2006 is ON.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 19 NOV TO 25 NOV 2006

2006-11-20T00:43:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 19 NOV TO 25 NOV 2006 (UPDATED ON 20 NOV 2006)

Hello,

1. Cell session on 25 Nov 2006 is ON. Please remember to attend.

2. NOVEMBER RAIN
This is an evangelistic event specially designed for you to reach your pre-believer friends through friendship (oikos) evangelism. Produced by the Creative Arts Ministry, "November Rain" is a 1-hour dance & drama performance.

Date: 3 December 06
Time : 7.30pm
Venue: COOS Auditorium

3. BLESSED TO BLESS - ST ANDREW'S FAMILY DAY

Join the larger family of Christ in fun & fellowship! Event highlights include the 'AmazinGrace', Line Dance Competition and a celebration concert at night. All are welcome!

Date: 25 November 06 (Saturday)
Time: 9.30am - 8.30pm
Venue: St. Andrew's Cathedral

Call 6333 4568 for more details!

4. EVANGELISER - NEVER GIVE UP

Those who could not sign up for the november session, please sign up for the december session. Sechedule is as follow:
Dates: 13 - 15 December 06 (for all other levels)
Time: 10am - 4pm
Venue: Room 308

5. (UPDATED ON 20 NOV 2006) YOUTH BAPTISM AND MEMBERSHIP CLASS

This notice is for members who have yet to but want to go through water baptism. It's still not too late to sign up but you MUST do so personally at the UR Admin Counter by this coming weekend. Also note that you MUST attend all the lessons before you can go through water baptism. For more information, please contact Ps Debbie or Choi Yin at the church office.

Programme/Timing

28 Nov - 2-4pm [What is Christianity]

29 Nov - 10am-12pm [Prayer & QT] / 12-2pm [Lunch break] / 2-4pm
[Relating to your new family]

30 Nov - 10am-12pm [Water Baptism] / 12-2pm [Lunch break] / 2-4pm [Holy
Communion]

1 Dec - 9-11am [Deliverance] / 11am-1pm [Inner Healing] / 1-2pm [Lunch
break] / 2-4pm [Baptism of Holy Spirit]

Signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 12 NOV TO 18 NOV 2006

2006-11-12T21:33:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 12 NOV TO 18 NOV 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 18 Nov 2006 is ON. Please be punctual.

2. CORPORATE PRAYER IN NOVEMBER 2006 - This is the latest. There will be NO corporate prayer on 24 Nov because of a children's evangelistic performance. As such, the cell session on 25 Nov will be ON.

3. EVANGELIZER - NEVER GIVE UP

Introducing a new tool for long life evangelising. This NEW Evangelizer pack is designed to provide reliable and sustainable ability to reach your pre-believing friends and loved ones.

Evangelizer will teach you how to :
Hear the voice of God
Strike up spiritual conversations
Evangelise strategically
Share a 3-min testimony
Follow-up
Evangelistic Training

Dates: 22 - 24 November 06 (for Secondary level)
Dates: 13 - 15 December 06 (for all other levels)
Time: 10am - 4pm
Venue: Room 308
Closing Date: 18 November 2006

Guranteed! 100% attendance at this 3-day training will give you tools and practice to effectively reach out to 5 friends!
MIchelle will be contacting you to sign up for the course soon. Please get ready to go for it.

4. THE PRODIGAL TALE

Come and be part of our ushering team at our children's evangelistic event!: RocFish Productions’ The Prodigal Tale.
Date: 24 November 06 (Friday)
Time: 5pm & 7pm
Venue: Auditorium

5. YOUTH BAPTISM AND MEMBERSHIP CLASS

This class is for the youths who like to get baptised or transfer membership to Church of Our Saviour. Cell members who have yet to but and would like to get baptised, you must register yourself at the UR Admin Counter by 26 Nov 2006.

Date: 28 Nov - 1 Dec 06 (Tues – Fri)
Time 2 - 4pm (28 Nov, Tues), 10am - 4pm (29 & 30 Nov, Wed & Thurs), 9am - 4pm (1 Dec, Fri)
Venue Blk 6C Margaret Drive, #01-74

You must attend ALL the classes before you are allowed to go through water baptism.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 29 OCT TO 4 NOV 2006

2006-11-05T01:52:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 5 NOV TO 11 NOV 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 11 Nov 2006 is ON. Please be punctual.

2. SINGAPORE 24/365 PRAYER - To all those who have attended and sat through the "Singapore 24/365 Prayer" session, I would like to say thank you for your commitment and for being part of this great prayer chain. You have made a difference to the prayer atmosphere, even though it was just an hour ... and God honours that act. Keep up the good work and continue to pursue prayer to God as part of your daily lifestyle. Ganbatte!

3. CORPORATE PRAYER IN NOVEMBER 2006 - This is the latest. There won't be any corporate prayer on 24 Nov because of a evangelistic performance for the children. As such, the cell session on 25 Nov will be ON.

4. YOUTH MISSION TRIPS - DEC 2006

The last day for application is 5 NOV 2006. However, if you are still keen to go but has passed the date due, please contact Wong Lishan, missions department at the church office and ask her what can you do to sign up! Don't wait any longer! This is really an opportunity for you to experience what mission trip is like, and you may never know that God would use you to bless other people and children in the place you visit.

I have reattached the information of the trips for you to consider. Please consider it seriously and SIGN UP TODAY!

- East Timor (2 teams)
Date: 4-13 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $900
Type of ministry: school and church ministry in Maliana, Bobonaro District.

- Central Thailand (1 Team)
Date: 6-14 Dec (To Be Confirmed)
Estimated cost per head: $800
Type of ministry: English teaching and football (*need more guys in this team)

- Batam (1 Team)
Date: 8-11 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $200
Type of ministry: Orphanage and church ministry

- Nepal (1 Team)
Date: 5-14 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $1300
Leader: Ingrid Tham
Type of ministry: Children's ministry, small group ministry

- Philippines (Laoag City) (1 Team)
Dates: 6-13 Dec
Costs: $1,100
Type of ministry: Small group ministry, House to House visitation & ministry, mini crusades

Interested members who are keen to go, MUST take note of the following points:

A. All members, whether first timers or not, MUST attend the missions training, organised by Missions Dept.
- E-Timor teams: 11 Nov (Sat) 1-4pm
- Other teams: 18 Nov (Sat) 1-4pm
Failure to attend may render your trip application being revoked or disapproved.

B. Minimum age is 13. But any P6s members who are keen to give it a try, you are strongly encouraged to contact Lishan at the church office.

C. Please ask for the application form from Lishan at the church office and have it completed and returned as soon as possible.

signing off,
alex

YOUTH MISSION TRIP 2006 - REMINDER

2006-11-01T23:47:00.000+08:00

YOUTH MISSION TRIP 2006 - REMINDER

A gentle reminder that you have to submit your youth mission trip application form by 5 Nov 2006. You can hand it in to me on 4 Nov AFTER the youth cell prayer session. Don't pay any money to me or church yet, just submit the forms first. Most importantly, make sure your parents have signed on the form. I'll get a youth pastor to countersign on the form for you.

I strongly encourage everyone to make it a point to go for, at least, one trip ... if you are willing to offer your time and serve God even if it is only those few days, God will use you according to His own plans and ways ... and He will make a way for you to go.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 29 OCT TO 4 NOV 2006

2006-10-30T22:58:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 29 OCT TO 4 NOV 2006

Hi all

1. There will be CELL SESSION on 4 November 2006 (Saturday). As our cell will be engaged in the 24/365 prayer that day, all members are required to arrive in Room 214 by 3.50pm to prepare your hearts for an hour of intense prayer. We will start PROMPTLY around 3.55pm and finish around 5.05pm. Please take note that there will be NO toilet breaks during that hour of prayer. In addition, casual chatting is strictly prohibited and anyone caught doing so will be asked to leave the room.

2. CORPORATE PRAYER (NOV 2006) - Our cell will be attending the Corporate Prayer in November 2006. Date is tentatively on 24 Nov 2006, 7.30pm at COOS Auditorium. I will confirm with you again after the church has confirmed the date. Note that if we attend the Corporate Prayer, there will be no cell session on the following day (25 Nov), but you will be required to attend the youth service.

3. YOUTH MISSION TRIP IN DEC 2006

UrbanRace Ministry, together with Church's Missions Departiment, will be organising the youth mission trips in Dec 2006. Here are the latest updates on the trip details:

- East Timor (2 teams)
Date: 4-13 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $900
Type of ministry: school and church ministry in Maliana, Bobonaro District.

- Central Thailand (1 Team)
Date: 6-14 Dec (To Be Confirmed)
Estimated cost per head: $800
Type of ministry: English teaching and football (*need more guys in this team)

- Batam (1 Team)
Date: 8-11 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $200
Type of ministry: Orphanage and church ministry

- Nepal (1 Team)
Date: 5-14 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $1300
Leader: Ingrid Tham
Type of ministry: Children's ministry, small group ministry

- Philippines (Laoag City) (1 Team)
Dates: 6-13 Dec
Costs: $1,100
Type of ministry: Small group ministry, House to House visitation & ministry, mini crusades

All members are strongly encouraged to make it a point to go for a mission trip. Expect God to do great things in the lives of the people there and your life too.

Interested members who are keen to go, MUST take note of the following points:

A. All members, whether first timers or not, MUST attend the missions training, organised by Missions Dept.
- E-Timor teams: 11 Nov (Sat) 1-4pm
- Other teams: 18 Nov (Sat) 1-4pm
Failure to attend may render your trip application being revoked or disapproved.

B. Closing date : 5 Nov 2006

C. Pax per team: 4 to 10

D. Minimum age: 13. P6s members who are keen to attend, please check with Lishan at the church office,

E. All application forms must be duly completed, signed and submitted to UR Admin Counter BY 5 Nov 2006

G. For more enquiries, please contact Lishan at the church office.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 22 OCT TO 28 OCT 2006

2006-10-22T21:56:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 22 OCT TO 28 OCT 2006

Hi all

1. There will be NO CELL SESSION AND YOUTH SERVICE on 28 October 2006 (Saturday). However, all members are encouraged to follow your parents to attend the healing services at 4pm on Sat or, 8.30am or 10.30am on Sunday.

2. PARACHUTE BAND SINGAPORE TOUR 2006 - The New Zealand praise and worship band will be performing in Singapore on:
Date: 2 Nov 2006 (Thursday)
Time: 8pm
Venue: Esplanade Theatre
Members who are interested in attending, please purchase the tickets from any one of the SISTIC outlets. Each ticket costs $36. There will also be a booking fee of $2 per ticket too. For more information, please check out the website at www.sistic.com.sg

3. CORPORATE PRAYER (NOV 2006) - Our cell will be attending the Corporate Prayer in November 2006. Date is tentatively on 24 Nov 2006, 7.30pm at COOS Auditorium. I will confirm with you again after the church has confirmed the date. Note that if we attend the Corporate Prayer, there will be no cell session on the following day (25 Nov), but you will be required to attend the youth service.

4. SINGAPORE 24/365

Schedule for Church Of Our Saviour : 29 NOV 2006 (12pm) to 5 nov 2006 (12pm)

Schedule for our cell: 4 NOV 2006, 4pm to 5pm, Room 214

All members are required to arrive by 3.50pm to prepare your hearts for an hour of intense prayer. We will start PROMPTLY around 3.55pm and finish around 5.05pm. Please take note that there will be NO toilet breaks during that hour of prayer. Also, casual chatting is strictly prohibited and anyone caught doing so will be asked to leave the prayer session.

5. YOUTH MISSION TRIP IN DEC 2006

UrbanRace Ministry, together with Church's Missions Departiment, will be organising the youth mission trips in Dec 2006. Members can choose to go for any one of the following places:

- East Timor (2 teams)
Date: 4-13 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $900
Type of ministry: school and church ministry in Maliana, Bobonaro District.

- Thailand (1 Team)
Date: 2-10 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $800
Type of ministry: English teaching and football (*need more guys in this team)

- Batam (1 Team)
Date: 8-11 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $200
Type of ministry: Orphanage and church ministry

- Nepal (1 Team)
Date: 5-14 Dec
Estimated cost per head: $1300
Leader: Ingrid Tham
Type of ministry: Children’s ministry, small group ministry

All members are strongly encouraged to make it a point to go for a mission trip. Expect God to do great things in the lives of the people there and your life too.

Interested members who are keen to go, MUST take note of the following points:

A. All members, whether first timers or not, MUST attend the missions training, organised by Missions Dept.
- E-Timor teams: 11 Nov (Sat) 1-4pm
- Other teams: 18 Nov (Sat) 1-4pm
Failure to attend may render your trip application being revoked or disapproved.

B. Closing date : 5 Nov 2006

C. Pax per team: 4 to 10

D. Minimum age: 13. P6s members who are keen to attend, please contact Lishan or Choi Yin at the church office,

E. All application forms must be duly completed and submitted to UR Admin Counter or to Lishan BY 5 Nov 2006

G. For more enquiries, please contact Lishan at the church office.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 15 OCT TO 21 OCT 2006

2006-10-17T23:03:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 15 OCT TO 21 OCT 2006

Dear all

1. Cell session on 21 OCT 2006 is ON.

2. There will be no cell session and youth service on 28 OCT 2006.

3. 24x265 PRAYER EVENT - It was announced that UrbanRace Ministry has been scheduled to pray from 3 to 4 Nov. More details will be made known to you soon.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 8 OCT TO 14 OCT 2006

2006-10-09T13:26:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 8 OCT TO 14 OCT 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 14 Oct is ON. Please be present.

2. End of Year Mission Trip - details are still being worked out by the pastoral staff between UrbanRace and Missions Department. There may be over-the-weekend trips to neighbouring countries, by coach or ferry, without the need to burn a hole in your wallet. Just stay tuned for more updates from the church. Meanwhile, those who wants to have a first hand taste of what mission trip is like, start saving up now, ask God to open a way for you to go and to show you His glory during the trip.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 1 OCT TO 7 OCT 2006

2006-09-30T23:31:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 1 OCT TO 7 OCT 2006 (UPDATED 4 OCT 06)

Hello all,

1. Please be informed that there will be NO CELL SESSION on 7 OCT 2006 due to end-of-year examination. However, all members are still encouraged to attend the youth service as Ps Michael Ross Watson is invited to deliver God's word.

2. Also, please be informed that there will be NO CELL SESSION and YOUTH SERVICE on 28 OCT 2006 due to COOS Healing Service. All members are strongly encouraged to follow your parents for the healing service on that weekend.

3. Cell Sessions will be resumed on these two dates: 14 OCT and 21 OCT 2006.

4. SINGAPORE 24-365: This is essentially a prayer chain program which 52 singapore churches will be taking part and praying continuously for one year without any breaks ... yes, I mean over the nights and over the weekends. You may want to know that Church of Our Saviour has taken a time slot from 29 October to 5 November to pray, 24 hours a day for that whole week. You may be scheduled by the church to pray, but you won't need to pray non-stop for 24 hours or for whole week ... once the church has allocated the specific time slots, they will let you know. For more information on Singapore 24-365, click HERE to read.

5. Meanwhile, please study hard for your exam and give your best shot for God. Jiayou!

signing off
alex

RETURN TO GIVE THANKS / ARISE AND WALK

2006-09-28T23:16:00.000+08:00

RETURN TO GIVE THANKS / ARISE AND WALK

Click on the titles to read these two devotions - "RETURN TO GIVE THANKS" AND "ARISE AND WALK"

Just wanted to share a bit of my thoughts ...

1. Remember to give thanks to the Heavenly Dad, no matter how you have performed for your school exam or PSLE. Please don't treat God like a servant or a magic wand or a genie in a magic lamp. Don't be an ungrateful person, especially when you have scored well in your results. Even if you have not, you still have to give thanks to Him.

2. Sometimes, when we pray to God on our requests or needs, we don't get what we have asked. Has God not answered our prayers? After reading the second devotion, I come to believe that He has already heard and He has already answered .. and His answer may be a "no" or "wait, not now" or "I got something better than what you are asking for". In other words, He has answered but He felt that your request is not suitable or is asked not at the right time ... or whatever reasons God may have ...

"Our loving Father always hears our prayers - and He always answers. His answer to prayer is either yes, no, or wait...and sometimes He answers with, "Here my child, I have something much better for you."

Study hard for your exam and do your best for God. Here's the exam prayer which we have recited last week .. you may like to use it again for your own prayer to God ... (Prayers For Exam koped from galvin,worshipsingapore.com)

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the love You have for me that endures forever, and for the faithfulness that You have shown throughout my life.

As the days draw near towards the all important exams, Father I pray that You will draw me even closer to You, to know that You are the God who brings me through it all.

All the stresses and pressure to achieve or even to pass the papers can get a little bit daunting at times... Father I pray for strength not of myself but from You, to know that You will sustain me even as I revise my work.

Teach me to commit the results into Your hands, to know that my worth as a person is not in the results that I will get, but wholly in You alone. Lord I pray for Your will to be done, not Your will for me... but Your will alone, not asking that You bless me with disctinctions... but for the results that You have purposed.

Teach me day after day to know that it's not the results that matter but it is the attitude that I am putting in that testifies. Lord I acknowledge that it is very easy for me to succumb to peer pressure, but I also know that Holy Spirit You are in me to guide me and rise above the temptations to simply follow along.

Grant me wisdom in the way I uphold myself as Your child... so that others may see the difference. Above all, grant me closeness to You, that I may continually commit everything into Your hands.

In Jesus' most precious name.

Amen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 24 SEP TO 30 SEP 2006

2006-09-25T11:53:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 24 SEP TO 30 SEP 2006

Hello all,

Cell session on 30 Sep is ON. Please remember to attend. Also, remember to study hard for your exam and do your best.

signing off
alex

YOUR LEGACY

2006-09-20T23:55:00.000+08:00

YOUR LEGACY

If you have been reading papers lately, especially the New Paper, you would have seen this article of a 16-year old student named Samuel Tan, from St Hilda's Secondary School who has passed away due to dengue fever.

Click HERE to read the article.
Click HERE to read the tributes by members from Boys' Bridage 49 Coy.

I'm writing a short reflection here which I believe you are mature enough to start to reflect on it and question yourself. Please read on.

I was reminded of this thing called the legacy we leave behind when we die. We will die one day, whether we like it or not. The main point is not how we die, but how we have lived our life that would leave an impact on the life of other people around you, such as your parents, siblings, schoolmates and friends. Do you live a life such that God can make a great impact through you into other people's life, so that when you depart from this world one day, the impact of God's love, mercy and grace will continue to live on in their hearts?

Would you want to hear these words coming from their mouth when they attend your wake - "I don't see God in this person's life at all" ... or would you want to hear these - "I thank God because this person has exhibited so much of Christ-like characters, that I want to believe in this God .. and I want to be like this person for the rest of my life" ?

Samuel Tan did it ... a leader in his school's Boys' Brigade who had the heart of a servant ... to serve and not to be served.

Rich Mullins, a songwriter who wrote Awesome God and passed away in a car accident, once said these - "If my life is motivated by an ambition to leave a legacy, what I would probably leave is a legacy of ambition. But, if my life is motivated by the power of God's spirit in me and the awareness of the indwelling Christ, if I allow his presence to guide my motives, that's the only time I think we have a great legacy."

Would you want to leave a legacy of your own ambition which God cannot use it for His glory and nobody else will remember, or do you want to leave a great legacy which is motivated by God's spirit and Christ, that many more people will start to praise the Lord? Have I lived a life that truely reflected Christ in me or am I just wasting my life away, missing all the opportunities which God could have used me for His glory ... and eventually God could not even use me at all because I have become lukewarm, neither warm nor cold and have to be spitted out from His presence?

The choice is yours. What is your choice?

Will you be able to say this as your last words before you pass on - “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7) ?

**************

Please take time out to read these two devotions if you have not done it yet:

Click HERE to read the devotion from My Daily Bread - 20 Sep 2006.
>Click HERE to read the devotion from My Utmost For His Highest - 20 Sep 2006.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 17 SEP TO 23 SEP 2006

2006-09-17T00:54:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 17 SEP TO 23 SEP 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell Session on 23 SEP 2006 is ON.

2. All members are once again reminded to verify your particulars with Grace Ong jie-jie as soon as possible. Those who have not given, please approach her and furnish her the information required. Urbanrace ministry appreciates your prompt response in this area.

3. Can everyone send me your exam time-table or get a member to send to me on your behalf if the both of you are from same school? This applies to all assistant cell leaders too. Please send it to cchiahoc AT gmail DOT com (just replace the AT with "@" and DOT with a ".") so that I can compile and start praying for you during the exam period.

Study hard. Ganbatte.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 10 SEP TO 16 SEP 2006

2006-09-11T12:20:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 10 SEP TO 16 SEP 2006

hello all,

1. cell session on 16 Sep 2006 is ON.

2. Urbran Race has a new Head and he is none other than our senior pastor, Rev Canon Derek Hong. The youth pastor will be Ps Jennifer Heng and our area pastor will be Ps Richard Kwan.

3. UrbanRace is currently doing an update on every member's particulars. As such, each member in our cell group MUST check and verify the accuracy of your particulars with Grace Ong jie-jie before the end of this month. Friends who have been joining us but have not given your particulars to her, please help by furnishing your data to her before the month ends.

4. Those who have taken the coloured card from ps debbie to design or write something for ps bee, please remember to finish it and pass it to auntie Choi Yin or ps debbie by 16 Sep 2006.

5. Those who have their exam schedule, please make a copy and pass it to me.

Please start preparing for your exam, study hard and do your best.

signing off
alex

COMBINED CELL OUTING PHOTOS / FAREWELL GIFT FOR PASTOR BEE

2006-09-07T10:54:00.000+08:00

COMBINED CELL OUTING PHOTOS / FAREWELL GIFT FOR PASTOR BEE

Just some additional updates ...

1. The combined cell outing photos can be found in this website - http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/553858959. Please download the photos yourself. I will not be producing CDs of these photos for anyone.

2. For those who have taken the coloured paper from pastor debbie last Saturday, you can write or design stuff which should be meaningful for pastor bee. Please submit your completed works to pastor debbie personally as soon as possible (preferably this saturday).

alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 3 SEP TO 9 SEP 2006

2006-09-03T14:32:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 3 SEP TO 9 SEP 2006

Hello all,

Just a reminder that the cell session on 9 Sep 2006 will be ON. Please be present.

Enjoy your holidays, and take this time to start your preparation for your final-year examination.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 27 AUG TO 2 SEP 2006

2006-08-26T23:34:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 27 AUG TO 2 SEP 2006

Hello everyone

1. Just a gentle reminder, there will be NO CELL SESSION at 4PM on 2 SEP 2006.

2. COMBINED CELL OUTING - The whole cell (together with Uncle Ezra's) will be having an outing to Palawan Beach, Sentosa, on 2 Sep 2006. Few pointers to take note:

a. Those who have just received the consent form, please remember to get your parents to sign and return it to Grace Ong on the day we meet for the outing.

b. Meet at 9.30AM at QUEENSTOWN MRT.

c. If you have friends who would like to attend, but have not gotten the consent form, please request a softcopy from Grace Ong through email, and forward it to your friend to get consent.

d. You are strongly advised to bring some change of clothings, so you smell and feel good when we go back to church after the outing.

e. If you are a holder of Islander card, please bring it along that day for free admission and bus ride.

f. All members are to strictly observe the safety regulations at the beach. Everyone are requested to look after each other's safety.

g. Each person is to bring $10 (for those who have yet to pass the money to Grace Ong).

For more information and queries, please contact Grace Ong, or Uncle Simon

3. YES2 RALLY PRAYER CHAIN

Just a reminder, the cell is scheduled to pray for 30 MINUTES, on 29 August 2006 (Tuesday) from 9.30pm to 10pm. All members are strongly urged to support and be involved in this non-stop 30 minutes prayer and expect by faith that God will do many wonderful things on the day of YES2 RALLY. Either Grace Kong or Gideon will drop an SMS to all (those who have given their HP nos to them) to signal the start of prayer on that evening.

In case you have not received the prayer pointers sheet during the cell, here they are for you to use for the prayers:

A. pray that the rally will be directed and energized by the Holy Spirit, that Jesus will be highly exalted in our worship, testimonies, sharing, drama skit etc. The minute our guests step into the auditorium, they can sense God's presence. There will be many wonderful testimonies of salvation, physical and emotional healing and personal breakthroughs for those who attend this event.

B. pray for wisdom, strength, unity for all the people involving in the rally - work harmoniously for His purpose

C. pray that you will be bold and daring to invite your friends, understand and see the urgency to be "fishers of men". reject the spirit of fear, rejections, apathy and indifference.

D. pray that the hearts of the invitees will be opened to receive God's word, able to experience the love of god in a very real
and tangible way, and find what they are looking for in Jesus - that they can see God's love in our youths.

E. pray for wisdom, passion and patience for counselors and leaders who are following up with the new believers

You can do it and you can definitely make a difference in this area. Be part of the ministry prayer-chain.

4. YES2 RALLY - 2 Sep 2006. 5pm is the start of the games and food. 6pm is the service. Please bring your pre-believing friends along and let God touch their lives.

See you next Saturday. Study hard and do your best.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 20 AUG TO 26 AUG 2006

2006-08-22T00:02:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 20 AUG TO 26 AUG 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell Session on 26 August is ON.

2. YES2 Evangelistic Rally - 2 Sep 2006 at COOS. Fun activities start at 5pm, service starts at 6pm. Please remember to personally invite your pre-believing friends to the rally. Pray for your friend's salvation too. You may be called to be the key for their salvation.

3. Cell Outing - 2 Sep 2006 at Palawan Beach, Sentosa. Those who have received the indemnity form from Grace Ong last Saturday, please submit them to her by 26 Aug 2006. Those who have yet to receive a copy because you didn't come for the cell, please get them from Grace Ong on 26 Aug 2006. Fees per head is $10. Please pay them to Grace Ong on 26 Aug 2006. If you have friends attending the YES2 Rally, you can also invite them for the outing but they will also have to pay $10. Please pray for good weather that day and pray that everybody will be safe. Remember to bring extra clothings and toiletries too, in case you are going to play in the water. For more information, please contact Grace Ong or Julian or Uncle Simon.

4. YES2 Rally Prayer Chain - our cell has been scheduled to pray on 29 August 2006 (Tuesday) from 9.30pm to 10pm. The prayer pointers will be highlighted to you again during the next cell session and on next announcement. However, you can also start praying for the rally now using the following points:

pray for the rally that God is in control
pray for wisdom, strength, unity for all the peope involving in the rally.
pray for pre-believers that their lives will be touched by God’s words and they will come to know the Lord
think of two or more friends you are bringing, and ask God to convict their hearts to come, as you personally invite them
pray for the speaker that his message is God-inspired.
pray for wisdom and patience for counsellors and leaders who are following up with the new believers

Have a good week ahead.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 13 AUG TO 19 AUG 2006

2006-08-13T23:38:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 13 AUG TO 19 AUG 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 19 Aug is ON as per normal.

2. YES2 Evangelistic Rally on 2 Sep 06 (6pm) - please start praying for at least two of your pre-believeing friends and start inviting them for the rally. Don't give up even if they say no initially. Just encourage and motivate them a bit. You just do what you can, and ask God to help to do the rest.

3. If you have friends coming for the YES2, you can also invite them for the cell outing on that same day. More information to be released by Gideon & Grace Ong soon.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 6 AUG TO 12 AUG 2006

2006-08-07T11:53:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 6 AUG TO 12 AUG 2006

Hello

1. Another gentle reminder that there will be cell group on 12 Aug. Please be present. Please be punctual.

2. CELL OUTING - there will be a cell outing to be organised by Gideon and Grace Ong and .... some other people. The outing is set to be on 2 Sep, before the YES2 Youth Evangelistic Rally in church. Please keep this date free from other activities, and join in the fun. More details will be released by Gideon and Grace Ong.

3. DAY OF HIS POWER (LOVESINGAPORE PRAYER CONCERT) - It's held on 8 August at Singapore Indoor Stadium, 7.30pm. You are strongly encouraged to attend this event with your family. If you want to join me, please SMS me and leave a message on my handphone ... or drop me an email by Monday night.

4. YES2 RALLY - UrbanRace is organising a youth rally in our church on 2 Sep. Time is 6pm. Please start to pray for your pre-believing friends and bring them for the rally that day.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 JULY TO 22 JULY 2006

2006-08-02T11:12:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 31 JULY TO 5 AUG 2006

Hi all

Cell group on 5 August 2006 is ON. Please remember to attend.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 JULY TO 22 JULY 2006

2006-07-24T19:04:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 23 JULY TO 29 JULY 2006

Dear all,

1. Please be reminded that there will be NO YOUTH CELL AND YOUTH SERVICE on 29 July 2006 due to COOS healing service. However, there is a Games Day activity which is organised by Simin from Auntie Choi Yin's CG. Those who have responded on Saturday to attend the Games Day, please contact Grace Ong jie-jie for all administrative and logistical updates.

2. If you have experienced God's move or works in any part of your life, and want to give glory to God, you can share your testimony with the youth ministry. Just send your testimony through email to me or Auntie Choi Yin any time.

3. FESTIVAL OF PRAISE 2006 - 4 TO 6 AUGUST 2006, 7pm, at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Don Moen and CCC Worship Band will be leading the praise and worship while Ed Silvoso will deliver the word. Lots of youths from other churches are expected to be there. Don't miss out on this.

4. DAY OF HIS POWER! - 8 AUGUST 2006, 7.30pm, at Singapore Indoor Stadium. A prayer concert organised by LoveSingapore network, in conjunction with the 40-day prayer and fast season. Will you be part of the Defining Moment? Mark your calendar and make your way there.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 JULY TO 22 JULY 2006

2006-07-17T09:24:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 16 JULY TO 22 JULY 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 22 July 2006 is ON. See you there.

2. If you have experienced God's move or works in any part of your life, and want to give glory to God, you can share your testimony with the youth ministry. Just send your testimony through email to me or Auntie Choi Yin any time.

3. FESTIVAL OF PRAISE 2006 - 4 TO 6 AUGUST 2006, 7pm, at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Don Moen and CCC Worship Band will be leading the praise and worship while Ed Silvoso will deliver the word. Lots of youths from other churches are expected to be there. Don't miss out on this.

4. DAY OF HIS POWER! - 8 AUGUST 2006, 7.30pm, at Singapore Indoor Stadium. A prayer concert organised by LoveSingapore network, in conjunction with the 40-day prayer and fast season. Will you be part of the Defining Moment? Mark your calendar and make your way there.

signing off
alex

40-DAY PRAYER

2006-07-13T11:06:00.000+08:00

40-DAY PRAYER

There is a children's version of 40-day prayer and fast devotion material, which is prepared by LoveSingapore network, available on the Internet. To download it, just follow these instructions:

1. Go to www.lovesingapore.org.sg

2. Click on "05 40-Day" which is found somewhere on the top right hand corner of the browser

3. You will see ">> More" at the bottom right of the screen. Click on that for 3 times.

4. Then, you will see "40-Day for Children". Just click on available week for downloading into your PC or laptop.

Please note that you will need Adobe Reader program to open it. If you don't have this program, go to this Adobe website to download and install - http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html

spiritual checkup

2006-07-12T11:50:00.000+08:00

SPIRITUAL CHECKUP

Extracted from "Our Daily Bread", 11 July 2006
READ: Proverbs 4:20-27

Given a choice, I’d probably not voluntarily visit my doctor for a physical exam. I’m inclined to assume that everything is okay and not bother my doctor about it. But since my wife is a nurse, I don’t have a choice. I go in for regular exams.

And given a choice, many of us are a little afraid of spiritual checkups as well. After all, if we check our spirit too closely, we might have to change a habit or two. We might need something like an “attitude-ectomy.”

I suggest that we get over our reluctance. With God’s guidance, let’s undergo a spiritual checkup, using Proverbs 4:20-27 as a checklist.

Ears (v.20): Are we hearing God’s Word clearly and with understanding? Are we doing what those words tell us?

Eyes (vv.21,25): Are we keeping our eyes on the teachings that will guide us toward righteousness?

Heart (v.23): Are we protecting our heart from evil?

Tongue (v.24): Is our mouth clean and pure?

Feet (v.26): Are we walking straight toward God’s truth without wavering?

How did you do on your examination? Are there areas where you need to take action? Regular checkups will help to restore your spiritual vitality. —Dave Branon

Create in me a clean heart, O God,
Show me the way that Jesus has trod;
Then I will tell of Your saving grace,
Until the day when I see Your face. —Hess

A spiritual checkup is the key to spiritual health.

Fever06 Healthcare Wave 1

2006-07-12T10:34:00.000+08:00

FEVER06 HEALTHCARE WAVE 1

A video on Fever06 Healthcare Wave 1 from 2 to 7 July 2006.

It was a very fruitful trip. Would like to share it when I meet you for cell on 22 July. What I am most encouraged is that, even this is a medical relief trip, the youngest member is 15 years old sister (who is also from our team) and she is willing to step out of her comfort zone to prepare medication and play with kids, even though she is not medically trained in any way. As long as your heart is totally willing, and you surrender your whole life to Him, He can use you in many areas which you can never imagine.

Pray that your hearts will be stirred, and you will rise up and reach out for the lost in whatever ways you can serve.

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 9 TO 15 JULY 2006

2006-07-10T11:02:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 9 TO 15 JULY 2006

Hello all

1. Cell session on 15 July 2006 is ON. Please remember to come and bring your friends along.

2. Just to give you a heads-up, there will be NO cell session and youth service on 29 July 2006 due to COOS Healing Service. However, the UrbanRace Ministry is organising a games day on that day and it is opened to you. Helpers are also required. Please let me know, latest by 15 July 2006 evening, if anyone would like to form teams to participate or to volunteer as helpers.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 25 JUNE TO 8 JULY 2006

2006-06-24T22:14:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 25 JUNE TO 8 JULY 2006

Hello all

The following announcements will cover for the following two weeks.

1. Cell Session on 1 July 2006 is ON. ACGLs will be leading the cell. Please abide by all the instructions which are given by them.

2. A reminder to all that there will be NO Cell Session and Youth Service on 8 July 2006, because of the "Call Of Love", a chinese evangelistic rally organised by the chinese church from COOS in the evening. You are encouraged to bring your pre-believing Chinese speaking family members or relatives, if any, to this Chinese Rally.

3. DEFINING MOMENTS (40-DAY PRAYER GUIDE) - This prayer guide is produced by the LoveSingapore network, which Joshua 21 comes under. COOS is fully committing to this 40-day prayer and fast event. All church members are encouraged to fast for at least one meal a day. For example, you can just start by abstaining from food intake during lunch time, but you can consider taking in fluids as replacements. During these 40 days, you can take time out to do the 40-day prayer devotion guide. Please get involved in this, bring yourself to be more close and personal with God. If you have not collected the prayer guide material, please do so by 1 July from the church.

4. Please keep the Fever 06 Wave 1 in your prayers, as COOS will be sending out some teams for the medical work with the refugees in Dili from 2 to 7 July 2006.

5. Those who are attending Joshua Khoo's wedding on 1 July 2006, please be reminded that the ceremony will be held at 10.30am at SJSM church. Visit http://joshuaandsharon.com for more information. Those who would like to meet up with me that morning before proceeding to SJSM church, please sms me on Friday night between 10pm to 11pm.

signing off
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 19 JUN TO 25 JUN 2006

2006-06-20T01:35:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 18 JUN TO 24 JUN 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell Session on 24 JUNE is ON. Please be punctual.

2. Those P6s and helpers who are going for the PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME, organised by the T2T Ministry, please don't forget to turn up on 22 to 24 JUNE.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 12 JUNE TO 18 JUNE 2006

2006-06-13T23:48:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 12 JUNE TO 18 JUNE 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell session on 17 June 2006 is ON. Same time and same room.

2. THE AMAZING FOOD RACE - Those who want to form team for 24 June 2006, please remember that the closing date is 17 June 2006. You need to have at least one pre-believing friend in order to join the game.

3. WEDDING INVITATION FROM JOSHUA KHOO AND SHARON LIN - Those who are going for Joshua Khoo's wedding (who is also your cell supervisor), please let me have your final answer by 17 JUNE 2006.

4. Someone has suggested cell outing on 23 or 24 June 2006. In view of the PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME from 22 - 24 June and the food race on 24 June, I have decided that there will and should be no cell outing on both days of 23/24 June. However, there can be a cell outing on 1 July, but the outing will be limited to the youth rally at the Singapore Indoor Stadium and the ACGLs will have to agree to combine and organise this outing.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 4 JUNE TO 11 JUNE 2006

2006-06-05T00:47:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 4 JUNE TO 10 JUNE 2006

Dear all,

1. Cell Session on 10 June 2006 is ON. Please help to spread the message and remind everyone. Come punctually at 4pm. A reminder that every member must come in a serious mode and an expectant heart that God is going to move amongst us and teaching us something valuable. Any member who fails to come before God in reverence and treats God with contempt through the praise and worship, prayers and sharing, WILL be asked to leave the cell immediately.

2. PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME by Teach2Touch Ministry (under Urban Race). This is opened to all P6s. The church strongly encourages every single P6 to attend this programme from 22 to 24 June 2006 (1.30pm to 5.30pm) at New Town Primary School. CLICK HERE to download the application cum consent form today, fill it up, get your parent's consent and submit it to Aunty Choi Yin at the UR Admin Counter, LATEST BY 10 JUNE.

3. PSLE TALK WITH PARENTS AND PLAY WITH STUDENTS

Teach2Touch Ministry is inviting all the parents of our P5 and P6 students to a bilingual talk on “How to prepare your child for PSLE”. There will also be a separate programme for the children concurrently with the talk. A buffet refreshment will be provided at the end of the talk for parents and games for the children.

Date : 17 June 2006, Saturday
Time : 2pm to 4.00pm
Venue : Queenstown Community Centre

Application forms can be obtained from me during the cell session on 10 June. Please grab a copy from me, bring it home and pass it to your parents.

4. SONIC FEST 2006 BOOT CAMP

date: 21 - 23 jun 2006
conference:1300hrs to 1800hrs
performances & worship: 1900hrs to 2100hrs
speakers: dean rush, joseph chean, glenn lim, matthew lo, ian dierdan ... and many more
venue: coos
visit www.sonicfest.net or see ps glenn lim for more info and registration details

5. FIRE CONFERENCE SINGAPORE 2006

(NIGHT RALLIES)
date : 30 june to 1 july 2006
time: 7.30pm to 10pm
venue : singapore indoor stadium
speaker : evangelist reinhard bonnke

(YOUTH RALLIES)
date : 1 july 2006
time: 2.30pm to 4.30pm
venue : singapore indoor stadium
speaker: evangelist pat schatzline

All youths are encouraged to attend the rallies with your pre-believing friends and believe that God will do wonderful work in your friends' life.

6. DAY OF HIS POWER!
(a lovesingapore prayer concert event)
date: 8 aug 2006
time: 7.30pm
venue: singapore indoor stadium

7. WEDDING INVITATION FROM
JOSHUA KHOO AND SHARON LIN

date: 1 jul 2006
time: 1030am (all to be seated by 1015am)
venue: st john’s-st margaret’s church
officiating pastor: rev canon derek hong

lunch reception after the wedding ceremony.

All cell members are invited. Please indicate your interest of attending the ceremony LATEST BY 10 JUNE 2006 at the cell session.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 28 MAY TO 3 JUNE 2006

2006-05-27T22:50:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 28 MAY TO 3 JUNE 2006

Hello all,

1. Those who have attended the youth service, please reflect on what Ps Glenn has said and discipline yourself to reading God's word regularly.

2. Cell Session on 3 JUNE 2006 is ON. We will start the pre-cell prayer at 3.30PM and cell session punctually at 4PM as there are no T2T ministry people occupying our room over the next few weeks.

3. PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME - Those P6s who would like to participate in the PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME from 22 to 24 June 2006 at New Town Primary School, you can collect the application forms from Michelle Jie-Jie or UR Admin Counter. This programme is opened to all other P6s non-believing friends too. If you have school or classmates who would like to join in, please pass them the form to fill up too. THE DATELINE TO SUBMIT THE FORM IS 3 JUNE 2006. If you need further enquiries, please contact Pauline Lau at the church office.

4. GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER @ SINGAPORE - For those who did not sign up for the church camp, you are strongly encouraged to participate in this event on 4 June 2006 (Pentecost Sunday), 7.14pm at NATIONAL STADIUM. If you woud like to attend this at the cell level, please let me know LATEST BY 3 June 2006.

5. WEDDING INVITATION FROM JOSHUA KHOO AND SHARON LIN - Our cell has been cordially invited to celebrate this joyous ocassion with them. The details are as follow:

Date : 1 July 2006 (Saturday)
Time: 10.30am (Guests to be seated by 10.15am)
Venue: St John St Margaret's Church (Christ Sanctuary), 30 Dover Avenue, Singapore 139790
Officiating Pastor: Rev Canon Derek Hong

There will also be a lunch reception at 12.30pm. All members are encouraged to attend this wedding of our cell supervisor. If you are thinking of giving a love gift for the couple, a cash gift is appreciated. If majority of the cell members are going to turn up to support in full force, I may consider meeting up at a central location and proceed to SJSM church. I may also consider having a cell outing after the wedding (perhaps, to the youth rally .. see Item 7 below) until youth service at 6pm.

For more info and some "gossips" on their love at first sight, visit http://joshuaandsharon.com/ for your reading pleasure ... remember, no dart-board practices on their photos or on their homepage. :P

6. FIRE CONFERENCE SINGAPORE 2006
Date: 30 June and 1 July 2006 (Friday & Saturday)
Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium.
Speaker: Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke.
There will be evening rallies on both evenings which are opened to public. Admission is FREE. You can encourage your parents to go with you. If your parents are not saved, this is an opportunity for you to bring them along.

7. FIRE CONFERENCE SINGAPORE 2006 - YOUTH RALLY
Date: 1 July 2006 (Saturday)
Time: 2.30pm to 4.30pm
Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium
For who: All youth and youth at heart!
Speaker: Evangelist Pat Schatzline
If you have classmates, schoolmates or friends who have not heard of Jesus and will like to share with them the Good News, this is your opportunity to invite them to the rally. You may be their last hope to hear this Good News ... so don't give this opportunity a miss.

(PLEASE TAKE NOTE that Singapore Youth Festival 2006 Ceremony will be held on 1 JULY 2006 at National Stadium which will be filled with 60,000 students ... so be prepared to anticipate traffic jams and road closures if going to the Singapore Indoor Stadium).

8. ARISE! GOFESTASIA CONFERENCE

date: 7 - 9 Jun 2006 (Conference)
time: 9am - 5pm
venue: singapore expo hall 2
admission: $80 per head

date: 10 jun 2006 (praise/worship)
time: 9am - 5pm 3pm, 7.30pm
venue: singapore expo hall 2A
admission by ticket: $5 per head

See www.arise-praiseandworship.com for more information

9. PUBLIC TALKS ON "RESPONDING TO THE DA VINCI CODE"
Speaker: Dr Ben Witherington III
Date: 1 and 2 June 2006
Time: 7.45pm
Venue: St Andrew's Cathedral

See www.sccc.org.sg or www.davincicode.org.sg for more information on the public talk, other related events and reading materials on this subject.

signing off,
alex

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 21 MAY TO 27 MAY 2006

2006-05-22T23:58:00.000+08:00

ANNOUNCEMENTS - 21 MAY TO 27 MAY 2006

Hello all,

1. Cell Session on 27 May is ON.

2. PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME - Those P6s who would like to participate in the PSLE MENTORING PROGRAMME from 22 to 24 June 2006 at New Town Primary School, you can collect the application forms from Michelle Jie-Jie or UR Admin Counter. This programme is opened to all other P6s non-believing friends too. If you have school or classmates who would like to join in, please pass them the form to fill up too. THE DATELINE TO SUBMIT THE FORM IS 3 JUNE 2006. If you need further enquiries, please contact Pauline Lau at the church office.

3. GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER @ SINGAPORE - For those who did not sign up for the church camp, you are strongly encouraged to participate in this event on 4 June 2006 (Pentecost Sunday), 7.14pm at NATIONAL STADIUM. If you woud like to attend this at the cell level, please let me know LATEST BY 3 June 2006.

signing off,
alex

Davnici Code Movie

2006-05-20T13:41:00.000+08:00

a show by SYFC. view.. TRuth is Truth , false is false.. short movie.. go see it.. won't regret..

http://www.syfc.org.sg/events/dvc/cinema.html