He is the Reason for the Season

Many years ago, a sister-in-Christ shared that she was very insistent that Christmas is not to be spelt as X'mas. I concur with her. Christmas has absolutely nothing to do with Santa Claus, snow man or christmas tree for that matter. Jesus is the reason for the season. He came that we can have new life in Him. His humble birth in an animal stall was witnessed by poor shepherds who were watching their flocks on that glorious night. The bright and shiny star came to earth to bring light into our darkened lives. He came into this world to bring hope and everlasting life to all that believed in Him. Glory to God in the highest!

Precious Moments

Oftentimes during times of worship, the Lord overwhelms our hearts with His love and goodness. These are precious moments of intimacy and communion. As tears begin to roll down our faces, the good Lord begins to speak into our lives. He draws us by His Spirit and restores and renew us daily with His great love. Lord, bring us into Your secret place for we long to bask in Your presence all the days of our lives.

Appreciating Our Parents

Monte and I have been blessed with wonderful parents who loved us and cared for us. They are my parents-in-law in the States, Mr Howard and Barbara Ham, and my parents in Singapore, Mr Tan Heng Koh and Boon Hai. Over the years, they have shown their love, support. care and concern to us in their special way. We thank God for blessing us with them for they have sacrificed and devoted their lives to us.

Because Of Love, It Doesn't Stink

On 2nd December 2007, I was so blessed to hear a powerful message by a lady preacher. She used a recent real life testimony to illustrate the power of God's love. One of the female singers in the church recently lost her mother to cancer.

Her mother was 54 years old when she went home to be with the Lord. In the final months of her illness, the family nursed her at home with the sister's father personally attending to most of her mother's needs. As time passed, her mother gradually lost her toileting capabilities, as she grew weaker with each passing day. Each time when her husband cleaned her up, she would apologised in Mandarin saying: "dui bu qi, hen chou" (对不起, 很臭) meaning "so sorry, it really stinks". Without fail, the loving husband would reply: "yin wei you ai suo yi bu chou" (因为有爱，所以不臭) which means "because of love, it does not stink". Tears were welling in my eyes.

This is a heart-warming story of human love, but God's love far surpasses the depth of human love.The stench of our sin is utterly awful but it is does not deter Him from perusing us with His unconditional love. How high and wide is the Father's love. How deep and strong is His love for you and I.

We Shall Behold Him

Lord, we crown You with many crowns. How awesome and great is the Lord our God who reigns forevermore. From everlasting to everlasting, You are God. You deserve all the praise, honour and worship from the depths of our hearts. Worthy is the God of heaven and earth. Worthy is the Lamb upon the throne. Sing Your praises through us as we worship and adore your most majesty name. We embrace the clarion call to worship and behold You in Your beauty, glory and majesty.

We Shall Behold Him

The sky shall unfold, preparing His entrance;

The stars shall applaud Him with thunders of praise.

The sweet light in His eyes shall enhance those a waiting,

And we shall behold Him then face to face.

And we shall behold Him, we shall behold Him
Face to face in all of His glory;
And we shall behold Him, Yes, we shall behold Him
Face to face, our Saviour and Lord.

The angels shall sound the shout of His coming,
The sleeping shall rise from their slumbering place.
And those who remain shall be changed in a moment,
And we shall behold Him then face to face.

We shall behold Him, our Saviour and Lord.

A Role Model

A child was once asked what he would like to do when he grew up. His reply was he wanted to earn a lot of money to give to his parents. My immediate response is: “Hey! This did not come from an innocent child; it could have come from his caregiver or other adults or maybe the media.” What grieved my heart is the wrong emphasis which can be detrimental to the growth and development of this child. The world links success with money. They link success with the accumulation of wealth, be it in the form of properties or assets. Christian parents have a strong responsibility to inculcate Godly values in their children so that Christ can be formed in them, particularly so for the first seven years for these are their formative years. With proper nurturing and guidance, our children will exhibit empathy, love, holiness, kindness, goodness, compassion, righteousness, humility and many other good Godly values.

A few weeks ago, I caught a heartwarming documentary about a mother who had a heart for elderly people. In reaching out to needy old people in Housing Development Board flats, she influenced her two wonderful young children to be involved in what she was doing. Her children were featured mingling happily with the old people. What amazes me is that they enjoyed the process. A few years back, when this kind woman asked her daughter what she wanted for her birthday, she told her mother that all she wanted was to buy some things for the old people. Ever since then, she stopped asking for birthday present instead her heart was solely on these precious old people. My salutations to this kind mother for her excellent example of love, care and concern.

Partner for Life

If you are praying for a life partner, look no further because all the qualities and characteristics of a good husband or wife are found in God's word. Having a good education, financial stability, charisma, and good looks may be on some of your priority list. But I feel that what is more crucial is that this man or woman must possess the character of Christ. Some important characteristics are love for God and people, compassionate, kindness, gentleness, trustworthiness and humility. The list goes on and on. In other words, he or she radiates with the glory of the Lord.

God always gives the best to His children. As you begin to pray for your life partner, He begins to sensitize you to His leading. One day, when your path crosses, you just know that this is the one the Lord has provided for me.

He Keeps Us As One

Two days ago, I received a heartbreaking news which really shocked me. A Christian leader Monte and I knew had divorced his wife and he is currently involved with another woman. Their lovely young children will certainly be affected adversely at this time and for a long time to come.

When a man and a woman come together as one in holy matrimony, we make our vows to cherish, to love, to uphold one another till we are separated through death or sickness. Sad to say, last year alone, more than 7000 couples went through divorce and marriage annulment. It is imperative for us to guard our marriage zealously. We must not allow small and petty disagreements to snowball into irreparable communication breakdowns. We cannot lay eyes on a third party who obviously does not care that a family is ruined.

God has instituted marriage and the family unit will always be the building block of our society. And as we call upon the Lord to build and strengthen our marriages, we become a beacon of light shinning ever so brightly. We can help other struggling couples to allow God to intervene in their marriages, to reignite their love for one another again. I have seen people whose marriages are restored though they were at the brink of divorce and I know that God is more than able to help us when we call on Him.

Ministry of Encouragement

In the early 90s when I was leading a cell group in Bukit Ho Swee area, I knew a wonderful sister, Jessie, in that cell group. She is a couple of years younger than me. She is such an encouraging person. She would constantly encourage and support me in her own special way. Up till today, Jessie always comes to mind when I think of what encouragement means.

Another person that has a strong ministry of encouragement is Monte. I thank God for bringing him into my life. In times of discouragement and despair, he never fails to help me to redirect my focus back on God’s mighty love and power.

Prayer Walks

These are some snapshots that we have taken while we are doing our prayer walks at different times. As we pray, we begin to see the marvelous Lord intervening in our lives. We are so privilege to have free access into the throne room of our almighty God. For His hand is never too short to reach out to rescue and deliver us. He comforts and strengthens us when we call upon Him daily. He gives us new hope and vigour to embrace every new day. Lord, empower us to live for You today.

Magnificent Fireworks

Monte (my husband) and I love to catch every opportunity to view the many fireworks show that pop up once in a while particularly around the Marina Bay waters. The magnificent, glorious and breathtaking moments cannot be expressed with words. We have come to realise that one cannot enjoy great fireworks from a distance; you have to be near enough to hear the loud pounding and thundering sound which go to make it a complete experience.

A Cause for Celebration

Last Friday night, Monte and I were out to celebrate at Ivins, a great Paranakan restaurant because I have passed my LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (UK)) - Public Speaking (Grade 8 - Gold Medal) examination which fell on October 30, 2007. When we received the good news, we were overjoyed. Many thanks to Monte who spent an enormous amount of time to help me in my preparation. In fact, he was the one who encouraged me to take it.

Two weeks prior to the big day, I was not doing too good physically. The examiner who flew in from London was strict but I found her nice in general. The grace of the Lord was on me and I give Him all the glory for all He has done. Thank you, Lord!

The Greatest Miracle

Have the greatest miracle taken place when a magnificent church building is built? No! How about when a church is well known for their ongoing outreach programmes? No! Now, how about if a church sends out hundreds of people into the mission field? No!

The greatest miracle takes place when someone accepts Jesus as his or her Lord and Saviour. When a lost soul is ushered into the kingdom of God, there is great rejoicing in heaven. What amazes me is the Lord knows each of His own by name. He knows what is in our hearts before we can put it in words. He even knows the numbers of hair on our heads. What more can we ask for, A God who takes my burdens and give me enormous joy and peace.

At a family gathering about a year ago, an old aunt, my father's late brother's wife, came beaming with joy to tell me that she was about to be water baptized. I was lost with words and I thank God for the marvelous work He has done in my family. One of this aunt’s daughter and her family had also come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. In the course of time, I learnt that other relatives have come into His fold. Now back to my aunt's conversion, It certainly took a lot of courage for her to follow the Lord because my relatives are very staunch ancestor worshippers. She must have faced a lot of opposition. As for me, in 1980 when I became a Christian, I was not a secret Christian, I stood up for my Lord and some of relatives did not agree with my conversion. My parents were apparently upset. But I can stand tall and declare that Jesus reigns. He saw me through all the difficult years. Today, my parents are open to the gospel, Monte and I continue to ask God to shower His mercy and grace on all our families and relatives both in the States and here in Singapore because the best gift that we can ever receive in this lifetime is Jesus. God is good!

Jesus Never Fails

There is one thing the Lord cannot do. He will never fail us. The trials and tribulations we go through are real but if we allow Him to intervene, we are propelled to trust Him in greater measure because we know our Master and Maker is in control. He will be with us till the end. He promised never to leave us nor forsake us. Awesome and mighty is the Lord, our God. He knows our deepest anguish, He hears our cry for help and He understands us through and through. He is the answer to our every need. Yes, Jesus never fails!

Loving Jesus More Than Their Lives

According to Fox’s Book of Martyrs, almost all the twelve apostles of Jesus died torturous and painful deaths. Run down the following list:

Andrew was crucified
Bartholomew was beaten then crucified.
James, son of Alphaeus was stoned to death.James, son of Zebedee was beheaded.John, exiled for his faith; died of old age.
Judas (not Iscariot) was stoned to death.
Matthew was speared to death.
Peter was crucified upside down.
Philip was crucified Simon was crucified.
Thomas was speared to death.
Matthias was stoned to death.

How did they do it? What motivated them to do it? I believe these amazing men of God loved God more than their lives. They had been with Jesus, they knew deep in their hearts that it was a worthy cause. They were willing to pay the price to see the advancement of the work of God.

Today, we are living in this world that is hostile to the gospel. We live in a world that sin is glorified. Lust, pride, abuse, rage, perversity, hatred and violence thrive. Many believers are nominal, some of us may profess to be Christians but our lives are not any different from unbelievers. We are prone to compromise when they are tempted. On the other hand, there are millions and millions of believers on this earth who are steadfast and immovable in Christ. If you will dangle a million dollars in their face, they will not be moved. These are the people who would boldly declare that they would rather have Jesus than anything this temporal can offer because Jesus is irreplaceable. Lord, please help us to be strong in You at all times

People Need The Lord

When a heart beats, it sounds like ‘pip pop’, 'pip pop'. Someone once said that it sounds like 'people'. God’s heart beats for ‘people’. The Lord burns in our hearts the deep desire for those who are lost without Him. One day while i was on a bus travelling along Orchard Road, the Lord’s burden came upon me so strong and i started to tear. I knew the reason was because of His burden and love for those who need Him so desperately. All these hopeless, helpless, lonely, dejected people who walk through life aimlessly need the Lord. May the Lord continue to burden our hearts to reach out to the lost and dying world. Lord, burn your deep desire in us!

People Need The Lord

Everyday they pass me by,
I can see it in their eye;
Empty people filled with care,
Headed who knows where.
On they go through private pain,
Living fear to fear;
Laughter hides the silent cries
Only Jesus hears.

People need the Lord,
People need the Lord;
At the end of broken dreams,
He's the open door.
People need the Lord,
People need the Lord;
When will we realize
People need the Lord.

We are called to take His light
To a world where wrong is right;
What could be too great a cost
For sharing life with one who's lost?
Through His love our hearts can feel
All the grief they bear;
They must hear the Words of Life
Only we can share.

People need the Lord,
People need the Lord;
At the end of broken dreams,
He's the open door.
People need the Lord,
People need the Lord;
When will we realize
That we must give our lives,
For people need the Lord.
People need the Lord.

Ministering Together

The Lord opened the door for Monte (my husband) and I to minister together at a Church Staff Retreat for Church of Christ the Redeemer from November 12 - 14, 2007. Monte took on the main sessions while I took care of the praise and worship time. We enjoy ministering together. We had a fruitful and wonderful time with the pastor and his staff. We thank the Lord for enabling us to minister in His strength and grace. He never fails to amaze us with each step we take with Him. Thank you Lord for the opportunity to serve You.

Great Music

Yesterday, Monte (my husband) and I were at the Esplanade for a concert by an award-winning local symphony orchestra. They played to a full house. We were soaking in the melodious pieces for about an hour. Every now and then, we will catch the Singapore Symphony Orchestra perform at the botanic gardens or other locations. One time, we were so blessed to be entertained by a hundred guzheng performance at the botanic gardens. It was absolutely spectacular. It is certainly one of the best ways to relax ourselves.

Meaningful Work

I thank God for giving me the opportunity to be a trainer. Yesterday, I was conducting a Managing Emotions Workshop with Primary Five children in a school in the west. The children were wonderful. We dwelt quite a bit on managing anger and dealing with stress. I find what I do very meaningful. These children I am involved with are our future leaders and I count it a privilege to be involved in their growing years. I also enjoy the flexibility of this freelance training work. Besides the Managing Emotions Workshop, I have also conducted Speech and Drama Programmes and workshops on Critical Thinking Skills, Leadership, Servant Leadership and Study Skills. I have trained in primary and secondary schools.

Prayer Answering God

A few days ago, while Monte (my husband) was jogging in Jalan Kayu area, his new handphone fell out of his pouch. I prayed for the Lord to help us find it. A kind Mrs Nara who resides in that area picked up the phone and Monte later went to her home to pick it up. A big 'thank you' to Mrs Nara.

Last night, Monte and I were playing Otello or some people call it Reversi on the beach at Changi. It was high tide and ground sheet was near the water's edge. Great waves came and wet our ground sheet. We packed up in a hurry and moved on somewhere else on dry ground. We later decided to have another session of Otello at a seat about 5 minutes walk away. We found to our horror that one of the Otello pieces was missing. We head back to the beach to find it. In the natural the odds were against us. Firstly, it was pitch dark and our tiny torch light was much of a help. Secondly, we were not very sure where we were based earlier and thirdly, the Otello piece could have been swept away by the strong waves. Nevertheless, I prayed and the Lord heard us and came to our help. Finding the Otello piece is seemingly impossible.Thank you, Lord, for looking out for us, One of most important characteristics of a christian is gratefulness. When we fill our minds and hearts with gratitude, we leave no room for the enemy to distract and discourage us. We grow to love and appreciate the Lord with each passing day.

My Upcoming Vocal & Singing Techniques Workshop

My Vocal & Singing Techniques Training Workshop is scheduled on
15 December 2007 at 9.45am at 2 Leng Kee Rd #03-04 Thye Hong Centre S(159086) and the registration closing date is 10 December 2007.

In this workshop, I will cover:
· Voice projection, focus, and volume
· Tone and diction
· Pitch and control
· Enunciation and articulation
· Body posture and breathing
· Microphone techniques
· Voice care

You are welcome to visit my website at http://vocaltrainingjeefong.tripod.com/

Balancing Act

Once I was in conversation with someone about her work. She held a good job but it took up much of her waking moments. Going in to the office about nine in the morning and often knocking off about eight or nine at night. She looked so drained and tired.

Work is one aspect of our lives. If our life revolves around work, what happens to other areas of life that are also important or may I say more important than our vocation.

As we entrust ourselves to the good hand of the Lord, He helps us to allocate our time wisely in the different areas and aspects of our lives thus enabling us to live wholesome and balanced lives for Him.

Melodies of Heaven

The late Dr Sam Sasser once related his experience in Samoa in the Pacific Islands. He saw a group of young children who were singing together. The amazing thing is that these children were singing in harmony. They did not have any formal training yet they were singing in parts. It was their natural talent. I could just picture that in my mind, it must have been heavenly.

I enjoy music and singing. I believe there is melody that we have never heard. God is the one who has made music and He will open our ears to hear the melodies of heaven. As we declare His majesty, may the Lord sing His song through our mouths.

So Close

Rom 8:38-39

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jeusu our Lord."

Nothing on this earth can separate us from the love of the Father. His love is poured into us so that we inturn can love others with His love. We can hide in His loving embrace when we are confronted by many of life's hard and threathening blows. He shields us from all harm, dangers and threats. Cling on to Him and do not let go.

So Close

I'm so secureYou're here with me.
You stay the same
Your love remains
here in my heart.
So close I believe
You're holding me now,
in Your hands I belong.
You'll never let me go;


So close I believe
You're holding me now
in Your hands I belong,
You'll never let me go.
You gave Your life and
Your endless love.
You set me free and show the way
now I am found


All along You were beside me
even when I couldn't tell
and through the years
You showed me more of You
more of You

Undaunted Optimism

A story was told of a man who sent two of his top salesmen to a remote town to sell the company’s shoes. To the horror of the two salesmen, they found out that no one in that town wore any shoes, they were all barefooted.

The first salesman came back to his boss and lamented: “Why did you send me there, no one will need any shoes there.” Meanwhile, the second salesman came back beaming: “Boss, please prepare 1000 pairs of shoes, they will buy our shoes.”

The difference between these two salesmen is that one is pessimistic while the other is exceedingly optimistic and positive. They were both posed with the same difficulty, one saw defeat and hopelessness and the other saw boundless opportunities.

(Adapted from Better Life Coaching Blog)
http://betterlifecoachingblog.com/2010/05/21/shoe-salesmen-in-africa-a-story-about-optimism

A Great Legacy

Andre De Foe was an ex-student of Monte in Assemblies of God Bible College (AGBC). He passed away on 21 Jan 2005. He could be either in his mid 40’s or early 50’s when he passed on. I knew him because I was then working in AGBC. He came across as one of the most unassuming person I have ever known. He was humble, helpful, friendly and kind. He was well loved by people. Prior to studying in AGBC, he was involved in some missionary work abroad.

One time I learnt that Andre’s mother had taken ill and was hospitalised. I bought some grapes and passed them to him for his mother. I saw tears in his eyes as he thanked me for the grapes. Right at that moment I saw the tenderness of the Lord in him. Another thing I learnt is that it is the little things in life that counts, those grapes may not cost a lot but they sure went a long way.

Andre shone for Christ while he was on earth. He left behind a great legacy. Today, many of us who are impacted by his life and we continue to journey on with the sole purpose of honouring and bringing glory to the name of Jesus.

Overflowing Kindness

It was once on a phonics and phonetics course and one of the prerequisite is to make a presentation prior to the test. While I was presenting, an Indonesian girl about 16 to 20 years old age was sitting in to observe. I learnt later that her name is Siti. She is working as a domestic helper in Singapore. Her kind employer had sent her to do the course thinking that what she has learnt can be put to use when she gets back to her home country after the end of her employment here.

Siti's employer paid a substantial amount of money for her course fees and gave her time off to attend classes. I am touched by what she had done for Siti. Her kindness and generosity is heart-warming.

I often see young foreign Indonesian girls working as domestic helpers here. They should be in school or some vocational institute but no, some of them are slogging their lives away to provide money for their families. Some are blessed with caring and understanding employers but others have to put up with punishing work environment and schedules toiling from morn till dark.

Not Everything that Glitters is Gold

The story was told of a rich man who requested that on the day of his death, he wanted his driver to prop him up and sit him at the back seat of his expensive car and drive him around town. 

On the day of his death, his wish was fulfilled. Right at that moment, a man saw an extremely well dressed man being chauffeured in a luxurious looking car and he thought to himself “How I wish I can be like him?”

Sometimes, we envy others for what they have acquired in life, but what we often see is at face value. It is only the exterior.  We do not know the actual situation they may be facing.  

Blind envy is misleading and damaging.  Covetousness rears its ugly head to trap us.  

In recent years, we often hear news of family relationships turning sour, family members fighting over properties and assets.  Family relationship is more important than earthly possessions.  A strong family bound by the cord of love stands together through thick and thin.   

(Adapted from Benny Ong's Financial Freedom Seminar at Trinity Christian Centre in the mid 90s)

More of You, Lord

We need more of you, Lord. Fill us with more of you till we overflow with your goodness. Not more money, more properties, more shares, more cars, more material goods, more degrees, more promising careers; but more of you. If we have more of You, every aspect of our life will be in place. If we have more of You, we have everything.

It Is Well With My Soul

It Is Well With My Soul

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot
Thou has taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul

It is well, with my soul
It is well, with my soul
It is well, it is well, with my soul

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
et this blessed assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate
And hath shed His own blood for my soul
It is well, with my soul

It is well, with my soul
It is well, it is well, with my soul

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part but the whole
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul

It is well, with my soul
It is well, with my soul
It is well, it is well, with my soul

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul
It is well, with my soul

It is well, with my soul
It is well, it is well, with my soul

Our Burden Bearer

God bears our burdens. He tells us to cast all our burdens on Him. We are often prone to worrying and empty speculations. They sap all our energy away. 

We cast our burdens on the Lord, it frees us to love and serve Him. We will no longer be downcast.  

He upholds us with His  power. He promised never to leave us or forsake us.  He carries our burdens.  He grants us release.

Lord, we lean on You and we pray that You will infuse us with Your strength and power.  

As we lay our burdens on Your altar, Your peace and hope flood our hearts.  Teach us to rest in Your love.

Jesus is the Answer

Jesus is the Answer

Jesus is the answer for the world today
Above him there's no other, Jesus is the way
Jesus is the answer for the world today
Above him there's no other, Jesus is the way

If you have some questions in the corners of your mind
And traces of discouragement and peace you can not find
Reflection of the old past, They seem to face you every day
There's one thing I know for sure that Jesus is the way

I know you got mountains that you think you can not climb
I know that your skies have been dark, You think the sun won't shine
In case you don't know, I'm here to tell you that the World of God is true yeah
And everything that He's promised, I tell you he would do it for you
Let me tell you that



Last year, 390 people in Singapore died of suicide. One of which is an acquaintance of us. He jumped to his death. He was only in his 30’s. He loved and served the Lord. Why did he take his life? We do not know the full details. There were many unanswered questions. I remember when Monte (my husband) and I were at his wake, it was so painful, especially so for his family.

If we ask God daily to direct us to someone who is in need, someone who is downtrodden and in utter despair. The discouraged, disillusioned, dismayed people are all around us. We can be that vessel to speak the hope of God into their lives. Oftentimes, they merely need a listening ear. They need someone to hold on to their hands and say we will walk through this crisis with them and Jesus is able to see them through. I recall the many difficult times I had in my life, and how people around me had encouraged me and how they had spoken words of hope to me in my hour of need. In my desperation, I cried out to God and He came to my rescue.

If we are so caught up with our personal life and the immediate needs that catches our attention, we miss out on the opportunity to the people who are in desperate need of the divine intervention of the Lord; the people who are in need of the touch of God upon them. Lord, let your compassion flood our hearts to touch the people that are upon your heart. Yes, Jesus is the answer for the world today.

Flow through Us

The Lord deserves the best because He gave His best to us. Whatever we do in this lifetime, we do it unto the Lord. 

For this reason, we shine for Him daily. God has placed us strategically to minister the love of Christ.

We saturate His life and light in every nook and corner of this earth. 

We allow God to flow through us in increasing measure. God will touch the lives of many as we touch the lives of many through every willing vessel.

 

The heart beat of God is people. Someone once said this “people do not care how much you know but they want to know how much you care”.

 

Lives are transformed and impacted for the glory of God. The agape love of God burns bright and strong.

I'd Rather have Jesus

I’d Rather Have Jesus

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold
I’d rather be His than have riches untold
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands
I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand

Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin’s dread sway
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause
I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause
I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame
I’d rather be true to His holy name

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom
He’s sweeter than honey from out the comb
He’s all that my hungering spirit needs
I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead

"It was in the thirties. Business curves were still heading downward and there was rumour of a salary cut at the New York insurance office where twenty-two-year-old Beverly Shea was employed as a clerk. Possessor of a deep melodious voice, the young man was offered a radio contract and immediately saw opportunities for fame and possible riches in his regular appearance on a secular program.

He had been pondering the matter for several days when he sat down to the piano early one Sunday morning to rehearse a hymn he was to sing in church that morning. As he played and sang his eyes fell on a piece of paper, on which was written:

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold
I’d rather be His than have riches untold!

The poem, by Mrs. Rhea Miller, had been placed where Beverly would see it by his mother, a minister’s wife, who knew of the offer her son was pondering. Above all, she wanted her son, a Christian, to become wholly consecrated to his service.

As his eyes raced over the words, the sentences I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause and I’d rather have Jesus than worldwide fame struck his very heart. His fingers unconsciously left the tune he was rehearsing and began to find this melody which is today known to millions."

The above account is quoted from Earl C. Willer

Thank You for Giving to the Lord

In the early 80’s, I was then a very young Christian, a sister-in-Christ who first discipled me was May Lee. At that time, she was termed as a counselor. She cared for me. We spent time weekly to study the word and to pray. She also coached me in my studies. She was so patient and kind. Her labour of love touched me deeply and I thank God for her. I have lost touch with her for many years now. It would be good to see her again. After May Lee, the Lord gave me other Christian leaders who have also impacted in my life tremendously.

What is done for God has eternal value. The Lord sees our desire to love and serve Him, be it grounding someone in the word of God, encouraging the disheartened, praying for the sick and dying on a hospital bed, the list goes on. What is done for Him with a willing heart reaps an eternal reward that money cannot buy. May the Lord grant us faithfulness and love to do His bidding.

The Leading of the Holy Spirit

One day, the Lord laid a sister-in-Christ upon my heart. I was led to send a card to her to encourage her. While I was penning down my thoughts, I was tempted to discard the whole idea because I was fearful that I could be wrong. And if it turned out to be so, it would be embarrassing. I finally sent out the card with the peace of God in my heart.

Some time later, I received a call from this Christian sister. She thanked me for the card and she was so touched because she was going through some crisis during that specific period of time. God is so good.

Sometimes when the Lord drops a name or flash someone’s face before us, He may want to reach out to the individuals. As we pray for God to sensitize us, we begin to grow in faith and the things of God. We become in tune with the Holy Spirit. We become the extension of God’s love to the people who are in need of His touch and divine intervention.

Yummy Food

This sumptuous dinner was prepared by Monte (my husband). He whipped up the meal mainly comprising of a chicken dish, vegetables, bean curd with rice. It was very delicious. Last Sunday, he cooked us pasta (sea shells) with succulent sausages. It tasted so good.

Before I was married, most of the meals at home were prepared by my mother and I started picking up cooking after I got married. The cooking gets a little better over time as I put in effort to experiment different recipes. Sometimes, Monte will teach me to cook. He taught me to cook chicken rice, spageti, curry and some other dishes. I cooked a lot when we were away in Baguio, Philippines. The weather is cold and we somehow ate more than usual and it translated to some extra kilos on us.

A Tribute to Monica Wee

Monica Wee died at the age of 37 last month. You may like to visit her blog at http://www.monz-lifejourney.blogspot.com/ Many people turned up at her wake and funeral. She had to be one of the most cheerful person I have come across. She touched many lives and blessed many people around her. She did not allow her sickness to hinder her from serving the Lord. She left behind a great legacy. In the natural, dying at the prime of her life seems to be a waste but God is sovereign, Monica is now in the presence of the Lord; a place full of joy and singing; a place free from pain and suffering, a place free of heartaches and tears. One day, we will see her again.

Once Bitten Twice Shy

'Once bitten twice shy' is often what comes out when people feel they have been betrayed, marginalised or hurt. Very often our defence mechanism comes into combative mode when we are hurt by another party. Yet, the love of God compels us to give the person or persons a second chance. The Lord does not want us to write people off easily. When Peter betrayed Jesus; when David failed Hm; when those who had earlier laid palm branches to welcome Him upon His entry into Jerusalem later cried out in outright betrayal: “Crucify Him! Crucify him”, Jesus did not write off these people, He did not call down fire to banish them from planet earth. He loved them too much to write them off. He has never written off you and I or we will not be here today. His mercy triumphs over judgement. I am also thankful that I can see this excellent trait in my husband, Monte (my husband), he is never quick to write people off or harbour grudges or unforgiveness indefinitely. He always has reconciliation in mind and gives people second chances. Iron sharpens iron, we learn from one another especially so in our Christ like attitudes and values.

He Binds Us Together

I have often heard people say that when two persons fall in love and ultimately come together as husband and wife, it is as though two halves of a heart finally meet and match perfectly. However, I see it in a different light. These jagged edges of the two halves of the heart do not fit perfectly for the simple reason that these two persons are different. Very likely they have different backgrounds, upbringings, worldviews and mindsets.

God in His goodness and sovereignty join us together. He is like the superglue, the cement that binds the two halves of the heart together in His love. We become a beacon of light shinning ever so brightly to declare the goodness of our amazing God and Father. We affirm and place emphasis on the sacred vow and the sanctity of marriage. So that the Lord’s hand of mercy and love guide us to cherish and love each other just like the way God has lavished His everlasting love on us.

The Master's Approval

One day, an accomplished violinist was playing to a jam-packed crowd at a concert hall.  His amazing performance wowed the audience.  

At the end of his performance, thundering claps filled the concert hall as the audience stood to give the young man a standing ovation.  What followed was unexpected.  

The young man looked withdrawn; his focus was on his teacher and coach.  

He was the only one in the hall who was still seated.  He did not seem to think that his performance was up to par.  All he wanted was to please his teacher; all he wanted was his approval.

Just like this young violinist, all we need to concern ourselves with is winning the approval of the Lord. 

We can be trapped by the applause and accolades of the people around us if we are not careful.  

The Lord wants our obedience more than sacrifices. 

We desire the Lord to do a deep and a lasting work in our lives.  We do not compromise. Winning the approval of the Lord will be our first priority.

It's so Good to be Home

Monte and I have been residing in our Sengkang flat since August 2001. We are on the 17th floor which happens to be the highest one. We are grateful for the Lord’s providence. The photo in this blog posting is the view from our home. The night view is also absolutely spectacular. On a clear day, we can see the Shenton Way skyline. Very often, Monte and I find ourselves saying to each other, “It’s so good to be home”.

We have entertained many people in our humble home. The home environment is an excellent place to fellowship and minister to people. Sometimes we cook for our friends and guests and at other times we invite them over for tea. We have found our home to be a conducive, warm and great place for our friends and guests to mingle around. We believe this is part of sharing our lives with people.

Our All in All

O Lord! You are our all in all. For in You and through you, we find our hope and strength for everyday living. 

You are all that we ever needed. Just like the watchman who yearns to see the break of dawn; just like the deer that pants for water at the streams. So our hearts yearn and seek You, the lover of our souls. 

You are priceless, matchless, unchangeable, immovable, eternal and glorious. Let us cling to you and lean upon You, the rock of our salvation. 

Let Your name be magnified in all the earth.

All Creation Worships Him

The beauty and glory of the Lord is displayed through all His creation. The multicoloured fishes of all shapes and sizes in the sea point to the greatness and ingenuity of our maker’s handiwork. Heaven and earth proclaim the greatness and glory of the living God. Lord, let your praise flood our hearts, our souls and our beings all the days of our lives.

Beaming with Joy!

I am currently conducting a speech and drama training in a primary school in Bukit Panjang area. Sometimes I will base myself at the school canteen prior to my training. The children will be having their recess time and when they see me, their faces are beaming with joy calling out to me "Hi! Ms Jee Fong". It brings enormous joy to my heart to see that they are happy to see me.

One time, when I stepped into the classroom, the teacher who was present there told me that the kids were happy to see me. I have been encouraged by that teacher and obviously the precious little children.

Wonderfully and Fearfully Made

How great and awesome is God, our maker. The bible tells us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Our master designer created us with such amazing capabilities and functions. Just imagine how the heart pumps blood throughout our bodies carrying oxygen with it. If you happen to talk to people who are severely burnt and they will tell you that their clothing tends to stick to their bodies due to the absence of body hair. Isn't it amazing that even our body hair serve a purpose. Look at the structure in our ears and our eyes and we are awed by a God who is so great. He who calms the stormy seas; He who controls nature; He who performs mighty miracles. Yes, who is like unto the Lord our God. He is great and greatly to be worshipped and adored!