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. 

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 people who will 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. Let Your fire burn bright and strong in our hearts.

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 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 a second chance. 

The Lord does not want us to write people off easily. When Peter betrayed Jesus; 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. The Lord compels us to forgive. He honours our obedience and love. He helps us to overcome. He loves through us.

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!

Cheer Them On

In the 80’s, I was teaching at a child care centre for about two years. Part of this time, I was seconded to a class that was started by the organization with the help of a psychologist. That class was for special needs children from the ages of two to six years. Some of the children are autistic, has Down’s syndrome or cerebral palsy conditions. What many normal children can achieve easily can be a mountainous task for these special needs children. So when there complete a task assigned to them, we would encourage, praise and spur them on enthusiastically. It brought much joy to us to see them growing and developing slowly and steadily.

A mother of a child came to mind, her son has Down’s syndrome. At that time the boy was about two years old. What stunned me most was that his vocabulary far surpassed children of his age. The reason was because his mother was teaching and stimulating him so well. His mother, whom I believe is a Christian, always had a smile on her face despite of the challenges and difficulties she faced.

Silent Retreat

I was so blessed to be at a three-day silent retreat in the year 2003. No reading materials were allowed except the Bible. There was absolutely no entertainment and hand phone. We spent a lot of time meditating on the word of God and on God Himself. There was minimal communication between the retreatants, even at meal times we were not holding any conversation. 

 What I appreciated most at the retreat was the time alone with the Lord; I was able to lock myself in with the Lord. Oftentimes, we cannot fully bask and dwell in the presence of the Lord because of the many demands and distractions we face. As we shut out all other voices and tune in to the voice of God, we are empowered and strengthened to live the life that God has blessed us. Although I am a Pentecostal, I appreciate times of quiet solitude.

Love from the Heart

I caught a documentary on Channelnewsasia the other day. It was on a real life story of a Singaporean woman who is currently based in Cambodia. She once lived the high life. With a high paying job, she had no qualms of splurging on expensive handbags or other material goods. She was fully immersed in retail therapy.

On one of her trips to Cambodia, she was moved by the plight of the people there. She knew that she could do something to help them in some ways. She started a business making bags and employed some women to work for her. She got by with a much simpler lifestyle. The lives of the women who worked for her have improved with the employment. In the interview, she said that even if her business venture does not turn out well, she would have given these women and their families some form of respite with these months of regular income. I am so inspired by this dear woman's life.

Odourless Fish Food

For a long time, I have been scouring for odourless fish food because I do find the smell a little unpleasant. My search came to an abrupt end one day at an aquarium shop. I told the shop owner what I was looking for and he told me that if the fish food has no smell, the fishes will not want to consume them.

From this little encounter, I see a striking parallel to how we as the light and salt of the earth can lose our impact and influence if we do not reflect the glory and light of the Lord. We become ineffective and useless. We are no longer savoury. May the Lord flow through our lives to make the gospel more attractive to the lost and dying world.

His Hand of Protection

What I am about to relate happened many years ago. One day, I was walking on a pavement along Kay Siang Road. Some work was done part of the pavement and I got off and stepped onto the road without realising that vehicles were coming from behind. At that moment, a bus sped by at a moderately high speed, I was so closed to being knocked down. I know that God's hand of protection was on me that day or I would not be alive today.

In the 1990's, I was on some ministry trips in a third world country. On arrival at our destination, I learned that it was common for bombs to blow up where we went. The Lord protected my team members and me. He builds a hedge of protection over us. He protects us from dangers seen and unseen. We rest secure in the loving arms of our God and Saviour.

His Special Grace

I took on a work assignment in January this year which lasts all the way till this October. One day of a week, I will be up by 4.45 in the morning and on another day at 5.45. I have to admit that it is not easy getting up so early. I thought what I am going through is tough until my recent encounter with someone at Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia.

Recently, a couple friend of ours invited Monte (my husband) and I to JB. We gladly accepted the invitation. While in JB, our friend introduced us to another couple who happened to be our friend’s business contact. They have two lovely young children and the wife is now pregnant with their third child. Her health is not good in this early stage of her pregnancy. She works in Singapore. Every morning, she is up by three in the morning. She goes to work daily and comes home to make dinner for the family. I cannot imagine doing this day in and day out, not mentioning having to battle the often maddening traffic conditions while getting in and out of Malaysia and Singapore. Life is tough.

Going back to where I first started, it dawned on me that what I am going through pale in comparison to what this dear woman is going through. One thing both of us have in common though is that we can call onto the Lord for strength and help for each new day. Yes! It is His special grace.

Seeing Through His Eyes

Picture with me a little boy who had gone to a fair with his father. Initially, he held on to his father's hand. Suddenly he lost his grip and drifted away from his father in the midst of a maddening crowd. 

He started to perspire profusely. The adults who were towering over blocked his view. Gradually it became a little difficult to breath below where he was standing. It was a frightening experience. He started to panic.

Finally, he cried out for his father at the top of his lungs. All of a sudden out of nowhere, two strong hands picked him up and hugged him tightly. Yes! His father came to his rescue.

We are like this little boy. Life’s threatening blows overwhelm us. We become disillusioned and discouraged.

In our desperation, we cry out for God's divine intervention. The Lord comes and lifts us up. He gives us new perspectives. He gives us new strategies. He grants us added strength. He fills our hearts with new found hope and joy. 

The mountains may still be there but He says: "You are more than conquerors in Me and you will triumph by the power of my Spirit". 

God is not bound by space, time or distance. He is almighty, omnipresent and omnipotent. He is limitless and fully dependable. We serve a mighty God!

Our Fishes

We rear fishes at home. Monte started it a few years ago. Before it came to being, he read a lot on how to set up a fish tank, the water preparation, the types of fishes, the filtering system, the rocks and many other details. Often times I will jokingly tell people who come by our home that Monte can pass off as a home aquarium consultant. As a hobby, rearing fishes is therapeutic.

Sometimes when a plague strikes we end up loosing many fishes. We have replenished fishes over time. Usually when the fishes lose their hunger, we know that they are unwell. Drawing on this, when we lose our hunger for the word of God; we have no desire to draw near to the Lord in prayer and worship. This is very often an indication of some spiritual 'ailments' which need immediate attention.

Enjoying Vocal Training

I have enjoyed vocal training thoroughly. Last Saturday afternoon, I had the opportunity to train at a company. I came away from the training feeling really good. I look forward to every training and coaching session, be it with individuals or in group settings. It is really wonderful to do something I enjoy. For that matter, I do not feel that I an actually working. Thank God for the open doors.

Amazing Instincts

A friend once sent Monte (my husband) and I the picture of this beautiful cat with a watermelon hat. Don’t you think it is cute? Monte loves cats. If we chance upon one, he will always want to pat it. As for me, I have never really been crazy about any animal until my brother, Edwin, bought a dog named Mickey a year ago. Mickey has been so much a part of our lives.

Coming back to the cat. One day, while we were in Kampong Glam area we saw this amazing cat. It was clearing its bowels and right after that, he used some soil to cover up it's waste. On top of that, it used some leaves nearby to cover the soil. How is it possible that an animal knows how to clean up after itself. Wow! Such amazing instincts. The Lord never fails to marvel me with His creation.

Liberating Ministry

When does ministry begin? Ministry begins when you and I touch the lives of people with the love of the Lord. May the Lord raise up a strong and mighty army; a nameless and a faceless people who will allow Him to minister through us with no other motives. We will not be concerned with titles, positions, power , and the accolades, acknowledgement and applause of men. We will be sold out to the calling God has placed on us; to be His royal priesthood, His servant and His bright and shining light. Our sole purpose in life is to give our all to our master and maker who redeems and empowers us for His bidding. Let us be His channel of blessing in this world.

Miyuki Touched My Heart

When Monte (my husband) and I were in APTS, Baguio, Philippines, we thank God for the people the Lord had brought into our lives. One person that stays in my memory is none other than Miyuki. She is a lovely Japanese wife of a student at the campus. Her husband and her stayed two units away from us.

A few days after we had arrived at the seminary, Miyuki came by our studio apartment one day. In her hands were two oranges, she told us that she came by to welcome us to the campus. She warmed my heart and we thank God for her kind gesture. In life oftentimes, it is the little things that count. A smile, a kind word, the nod of assurance or encouraging word.

Monte and I have always tried to do our part in connecting with our neighbours. We reap what we sow; our neighbours have also extended their friendship and neighbourly kindness to us in their special ways.

Heart Of Worship

In the mid 90's, some worship team members and I from the church that I was then attending, Calvary Charismatic Centre (now known as Victory Family Centre), were ministering in Kuching, East Malaysia. 

We were there to help out our worship team in our sister church there. We had such an amazing and fruitful time of ministry. We also had the opportunity to minister in the Sunday services. 

In that service, we had the privilege to worship together with some of our deaf brothers and sisters. They were using sign language to express their love and gratitude to the Lord. They were in such intense worship. Though they were not able to sing like you and I, they poured their hearts out to the Lord. It was such a glorious sight.

The Lord is worthy of our praise. We do not merely offer sacrifices of praise in good times. We praise God at all times.

God enables us to praise Him even at our darkest hour. He often does the deepest work in us in the most vulnerable and desperate times. 

Praise and worship is raised with everything that is within our hearts. Our hearts are overwhelmed by the power of God. Our Maker deserves all the praises. We are made to glorify His name.

Teaching English

During my time at APTS in Baguio, Philippines, I had the privilege to know a special group of women. These are the wives of the students at the seminary. It all started with one of them coming to me to ask if I woudl be willing to teach her English. I gladly said yes to her. Before long, a few others joined us in the class. There were Koreans, a Japanese and a Fijian. We had such a wonderful time together. We also spent time praying for each other. Helping them to learn the English language is good but more importantly I thank God for the opportunity to get to know them better.

Let Your Light Shine Through Us

I gave my heart to the Lord in the year 1980. Receiving the gift of salvation is the best thing that happened in my life. A friend once shared her salvation experience with me. Before she knew anything about Christianity and Jesus, she saw a cross in her dream one day and ultimately she came to know Jesus. This is the amazing power of God of work in people's lives.

More than ten years ago, Monte and I were talking to a pastor who was ministering in Luzon, Philippines.  We came to the topic on salvation and the pastor mentioned that many of the people there came to receive Christ as their Saviour after observing the lives of the Christians around them; usually it took years before they would make the decision to become Christians. As I dwell on the conversion experience of these people, I see how important our testimony is. Wherever we are on planet earth, you and I may be the only 'Jesus' that the unsaved may see. As carriers and couriers of God's presence, we spread the fragrance and light of Jesus in this darkened world. O Lord, empower us to be His channel of love and blessing.

Rising Confidence

In January this year, I started Speech and Drama training in two primary schools. An eight year old boy is one of these schools has made remarkable progress in these few short months. I vividly remember how he was so fearful; he was curled up and squatting on the ground when asked to participate in part of a skit. Recently, I asked him to come to the front of the classroom to participate in an item and I was overjoyed to see that he was no longer afraid. He had conquered his fears in the best of his abilities.

In another incident, a little seven year old girl who is always shy and soft spoken volunteered to be a lead character in a little skit that we were doing a few weeks ago. It was so different in the earlier months; I have seen tremendous growth and improvement. When I see these little ones grow in confidence, I am elated.

I believe Speech and Drama training does not merely comprise of good speech and acting but an important component is undoubting confidence. Children will grow and excel in an environment where they are free and encouraged to explore things around them. If we build them up with sincere encouragement and help them to believe in themselves, they will thrive.

The Gideon In Me

Chapter six of the book of Judges zoomed into a character who is all too familiar to you and I. When God called Gideon to save Israel out of Midian's hand, Gideon's reply was: "how can I save Isreal? 

My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." 

A few years ago, the late Dr Chin Do Kham from APTS (Asia Pacific Theological Seminary) was scheduled to do a Praise and Worship seminar in a church in Baguio, Philippines. Due to some unforseen circumstances he was not able to fulfill that commitment. 

Dr Kham My name asked if I will be willing to stand in for him. I was honoured and at the same time surprised.

Rhe Gideon in me surfaced and my initial response was that 'this is too big for me". To cut the long story short, I accepted the invitation and I've never regretted it because I learnt so much and grew through it too.

A few months later, Monte was invited to minister in the cold mountainous region of Luzon in Baguio. The door opened for me to speak to some pastors on Praise and Worship. Again, I asked myself: "These are pastors, I'm not sure if I can do this?" At the end I took it on and I thank God for that amazing opportunity to see Him at work in me. Though I am weak, I am strong in Him.

The Lord wants us to know is that He will pave the way to do the impossible. When we step out in faith and obedience, He leads us to higher grounds and greater growth for His glory.

The Question Of The Universe

In my Speech and Drama training with little children, I have often been asked the question of the universe. 'WHY?' Sometimes I am caught off guard because I have not seriously given thought to their questions. The questions will always come for the simple reason that children are inquisitive. But what I am thankful for is that these little ones are comfortable with me to ask any questions with no inhibitions.

One day in either January or February this year, an eight-year-old boy in class asked me a question that startled me, he asked "Ms Jee Fong. Why are you angry?" My reply to him came after some reflections. The reason he thought I was angry was because my face was apparently rosy. You see, the classroom was not air-conditioned, the few fans in the classroom provided some ventilation and I was conducting this training from one to two o'clock in the afternoon. I must have looked rather flustered. I then told the boy that I was not angry, my face was merely rosy.

As I reflected on the matter, I am thankful that the little boy asked me that question because if you did not, he would have gone away with this wrong idea, which may affect him negatively. I reckon, there is so much to learn from children; they ask questions freely, whereas we adults are often held back by inhibitions or have unfounded fears that we might reveal our lack of knowledge of ignorance when we ask questions.

Clean Hands and Pure Hearts

The story was told of a pastor who was at his "farewell" as he was retiring.  He had served more than forty years in small town or rural churches in Nebraska and Minnesota. 

He said: "My brothers and sisters in the Lord, I have come now to the end of my pastoral ministry. I never served a large church, never received much recognition of crowds, and never wrote a book, but as I stand before you today my hands are clean before God."

The Lord wants purity and holiness. The pastor in this story is not boasting of himself, on the contrary he displayed contriteness.  He knew what is important in God's eyes. 

Ps 24: 3, 4 read "Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false." 

The pure in heart see the Lord.  The pure in heart hears the Lord.  The pure in heart knows the heart of God.  

God's hand rests on the pure in heart.  The pure in heart shall move in the power and the anointing of God.

Hey Mickey!

About a year ago, my brother, Edwin, bought a cute dog called Mickey. The whole family adore him utterly. He has become a part of the family. He brought so much joy to us. Monte and I love Mickey a lot. Every time we visit my parents at Bukit Panjang area, we will try to bring Mickey out for walks near my parent's flat.

Each time before reaching my parent's front door, I will whistle to attract Mickey's attention. Lo and behold, he will meet me at the door. Isn't it amazing!

Mickey never fails to meet my elder brother, Nicholas, from his work, he gets home between two to three in the morning. No matter what happens, Mickey will be welcoming him home faithfully. This feat can hardly be met by a human being. We might be able to do it occasionally but not long term. We love Mickey!

The Tenderness of Christ

This goes back to the early 90's when the evangelist, Roy Durman, was featured as a speaker for one of our crusades here in Singapore. The atmosphere was so charged up and the Lord's powerful anointing was on Bro Durman as he was used by the Lord to touch many who were there; some were in desperate need for healing and other needs. I remember praying to the Lord for this anointing that I saw in this servant of God. I was drawn by the tenderness and compassion of the Lord that is oozing out of him. It reminded me of many instances when Jesus ministered to the needy people out of such overwhelming love and compassion.

Another servant of the Lord who has impacted my life is none other than the late Dr Sam Sessar. His genuine love and compassion was so infectious. One time, he was our speaker in a church camp in Malaysia. What touched me most was when I saw how the campers were so comfortable with him. During our meal time, he will freely mingle with us. On the last day of camp, many approached him to have their photos taken with him, something I do not usually see. It was heartwarming. He loved people deeply with the love of Christ.

Bowing Down To Him Alone

Last Sunday, while we were on our way to church, Monte (my husband) and I witnessed something that was rather perplexing. The church was located a stone’s throw away from a temple, a couple who was walking in front of us stood in front of the temple briefly to bow to the deity in the temple before proceeding to go to church. There is a possibility that this couple may not have been born again and they could just be visiting the church. However if they are Christians, I have to say that they did not fully comprehend the meaning of salvation, as anyone who comes to a saving knowledge of Jesus needs to bow and worship Him alone. He wants our total allegiance and devotion. The need to follow up and disciple young believers is vital, we need to guide them in their journey of discovering, following and loving the Master.