It has been almost 4 years since I last wrote in my blog. Partially due to the intervention of Facebook and other social media which has robbed me of the time to do so.
I shared with my cell group last week on the power of reflections. I felt that instead of talking the talk, I need to do what I preached. One of the best way to do reflection is to pen down my thoughts and review along the way.
Steve Job shared in his 2005 commencement speech at Stanford University about 3 stories of his life.
1) Joining the Dots
2) Love & Loss
3) Death
As I reflect upon these 3 points. I began to see how my life has developed thus far.
For (1), many people have came across my life, but a handful of people who have positively impacted my life which I would like to list them below:
- My secondary accounts teacher, Ms Tan, her tireless work attics
- Boon Aun, my ex colleague in Starhub, a passionate guy & spiritual buddy in my early working years.
- Tizane, my buddy in Uni who brought me to church.
- Eddie, a cell group helper who followed up on me relentlessly when I first came to church
- Andrew Wong, my first cell group leader, one of the wisest & spiritual man I've known
- Pastor Chee Kiang, my first zone Pastor, strong disciplinarian.
- Evelyn, Pastor's wife, great preacher & passionate lady.
- Pastor Aries, my current Pastor, contemporary, passionate & friendly man.
- Johann, my zone supervisor, tremendous servant of God.
- Cannice, my former boss, taught me this if anything money can settle, it's not a problem! ;)
- Pastor Kong, of course don't need to mention much.
- Col Kahar Hassan, my CO, leadership & people management
The list goes on and on..
Of course not forgetting my dear wife & family.
I'm grateful for the things they've done or said which shaped the way I think & lived.
Along the way, there may be a few who have done detrimental things. But I've learnt to forgive and forget. Hence I should not list any of these.
(2), There are many love & loss in my life. Love define as passion, things I would do even I'm not paid for. Just to boast a little of my achievements ;p
1) Cell group ministry - To preach & communicate the WOG in faith.
- 10 years as a cell group leader. Started since 2004 Feb.
2) Snooker & pool - My passion since secondary 1.
- Achievement 3 time SIM champion.
- New Paper after 5, 1st runner up
- NTUC pool champion
- Trained with the National intermediate squad
- Rep Lagoon Billiards for National league Div 1.
- National open 2012 last 32,
- National ranking 2012 last 16
- National Snooker Masters 2013 quarter finalist
3) Singing
- SIM 2004, 2nd runner up
I'm glad to have gone through OCS in 1999 and SOT in 2003.
For my career, I'm also proud to be promoted as a senior manager this year ;)
Some of these passion may have died from point to point and there may be sacrifices as my personal commitments grows. It is a challenge to keep all these alive after so many years!
Lastly (3), I shared below in my previous blog about my near death incident. It's funny that all of us doesn't cherish what we have and do what is important until we are near to our death bed.
Steve Job constantly asked himself. If he has only a short time to live, what would he be doing differently?
I too though this from time to time. My wish is that I can
1) Live a life that is blameless (Not blamelessly perfect) before The Lord.
2) To love my family & give them the best I could.
3) To lived out the purpose God has given me.
The bible says He is the potter, we are the clay. There is still a long journey for me ahead. I do not know my end destination but one thing for sure if I continue to stay faithful to God. I will eventual reach the place my maker has called me to be!
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Power of Pauses!
Recently i was back to my favourite past time hobbies, snooker. I had hung my cue years back as mentioned in my previous blog due to certain reason. However i believed that season has past in my life. Anyway, i started practicing a couple of months back on the average once a week. Initially i was dismayed by the lousy performance in the earlier games. It seemed like i have lost the touch from the standards i used to have previously. After a while, i decided to evalute my games and spend some time in youtube observing some of the top players in action. One of the key critical reason I found which affects my game was the lack of pauses in my delivery stroke. If you are an avid player, you'll know that it is so important to have pauses in every stroke. In a good stroke, there should be 2 pauses and a nice follow through action after the second pause.
After making the changes and of course some practices, my game rose from leaps and bounds. I was making half centuries once in a few game.
Lesson i drew from this which is so relatable to life. Sometimes as we move on in life, we tend to stretch ourselves to the limits by doing a lot of things, going from one place to another. It is almost very difficult to learn how to say no to certain things in the name of wanting to expand our capacity and doing great things in life. However, not knowing that we are all humans and our body is subjected to deteriotion as we grow older in age. This was evidence in some of my peers serving in ministry. I've seen so many of my fellow cgls who started so promisingly, doing so many great things for God, ended burning up after a few years of ministry especially so when they turn 30s, starting to have their family and children. Do they stop loving God anymore? Answer is usually no. Do they still want to serve God. Answer is Yes. However due to physical and spiritual tiredness which results in unfruitfulness in the things they do, wrong thoughts came in and allow themselves to deviate away from their goals and dreams.
Hence in this blog i wanted to hightlight about the power of pauses which might be of help.
Some points about pauses:
1) Pauses does not mean that you are slowing down or ineffective.
2) Pauses allows you to take a breather to recuparate.
3) Pauses allows you to observe things better from a different angle.
4) Pauses helps to realign ourselves back to the original plan we started out with.
Symtoms when you should take a pause:
1) You find that you are complaining all the time.
2) You find that you are stuck at a certain thing for too long.
3) You find that waking up in the morning seemed so tiring.
4) You find that goals & dreams are not enticing you anymore
What to do during your pauses:
1) Stop wanting to get back to your work immediately.
2) Do something you enjoy the most.
3) Sleep and rest well.
4) Sweat it out.
5) Forget about the things that upset you.
6) Pray.
7) Read some lighthearted materials.
8) Set yourself a time to get back in action.
Know that in life is not always a long marathon. But it can be many 100m sprints. There are no hard and fast rules on how many and how long our pauses should be. But the key is that all of us finish the race well.
After making the changes and of course some practices, my game rose from leaps and bounds. I was making half centuries once in a few game.
Lesson i drew from this which is so relatable to life. Sometimes as we move on in life, we tend to stretch ourselves to the limits by doing a lot of things, going from one place to another. It is almost very difficult to learn how to say no to certain things in the name of wanting to expand our capacity and doing great things in life. However, not knowing that we are all humans and our body is subjected to deteriotion as we grow older in age. This was evidence in some of my peers serving in ministry. I've seen so many of my fellow cgls who started so promisingly, doing so many great things for God, ended burning up after a few years of ministry especially so when they turn 30s, starting to have their family and children. Do they stop loving God anymore? Answer is usually no. Do they still want to serve God. Answer is Yes. However due to physical and spiritual tiredness which results in unfruitfulness in the things they do, wrong thoughts came in and allow themselves to deviate away from their goals and dreams.
Hence in this blog i wanted to hightlight about the power of pauses which might be of help.
Some points about pauses:
1) Pauses does not mean that you are slowing down or ineffective.
2) Pauses allows you to take a breather to recuparate.
3) Pauses allows you to observe things better from a different angle.
4) Pauses helps to realign ourselves back to the original plan we started out with.
Symtoms when you should take a pause:
1) You find that you are complaining all the time.
2) You find that you are stuck at a certain thing for too long.
3) You find that waking up in the morning seemed so tiring.
4) You find that goals & dreams are not enticing you anymore
What to do during your pauses:
1) Stop wanting to get back to your work immediately.
2) Do something you enjoy the most.
3) Sleep and rest well.
4) Sweat it out.
5) Forget about the things that upset you.
6) Pray.
7) Read some lighthearted materials.
8) Set yourself a time to get back in action.
Know that in life is not always a long marathon. But it can be many 100m sprints. There are no hard and fast rules on how many and how long our pauses should be. But the key is that all of us finish the race well.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Worship!
I had the opportunity recently to link up with our church's most senior and anointed worship leader, bro Poh! Bro Poh was invited by Pastor CK to share about worship with the zone adults and i was tasked to coordinate for the session.
This was actually the second time i had to liaise with him for our zone event. The first time was many years back when i helped to organise a maskerade party for the zone at quality hotel. He was the invited guest back then to perform for us. I still remembered at that time i was only a young cg leader, just took on the leadership role. It was my first major event involving nearly 200 people. I was so engrossed in making sure 'my scheduled program' goes as plan running around here and there such that i was totally insensitive to the man of God eventually resulted in him delaying his time by almost an hour! I was given a lesson back then by Pastor Ck which i will never forget till now.
Fortunately this round, everything went smoothly. I communicated a few times with him prior to the session and went the extra mile to make sure everything he needed was taken care of. It was an awesome time with him whereby he shared about developing a worship life.
After the session, he commented that the session was very well coordinated. Phew! Finally redeemed after so many years. (Although not sure whether he still remembers it is the same person that coordinated the event the last time. But I'm glad that i'm able to serve a great man of God =)
Below is a snapshot of a photo taken with him after the session.
This was actually the second time i had to liaise with him for our zone event. The first time was many years back when i helped to organise a maskerade party for the zone at quality hotel. He was the invited guest back then to perform for us. I still remembered at that time i was only a young cg leader, just took on the leadership role. It was my first major event involving nearly 200 people. I was so engrossed in making sure 'my scheduled program' goes as plan running around here and there such that i was totally insensitive to the man of God eventually resulted in him delaying his time by almost an hour! I was given a lesson back then by Pastor Ck which i will never forget till now.
Fortunately this round, everything went smoothly. I communicated a few times with him prior to the session and went the extra mile to make sure everything he needed was taken care of. It was an awesome time with him whereby he shared about developing a worship life.
After the session, he commented that the session was very well coordinated. Phew! Finally redeemed after so many years. (Although not sure whether he still remembers it is the same person that coordinated the event the last time. But I'm glad that i'm able to serve a great man of God =)
Below is a snapshot of a photo taken with him after the session.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Talents!
For the past few days, this word talent keeps popping up from time to time. Tues, i was tasked to lead ice breakers for the zone meeting. I led this game call CK got talents. It's pretty similar to the TV show America got talents. I got a few 'volunteered' contestants to stage and got them to showcase their talents. Some sang, played guitar, dance and one is able to recite the names of 40 Asean countries. Eventually the singer who sang an Andy lau song bagged the winner with the most votes.
On Sat, i happened to see on TV this programme, top earning celebrities couple of the world. Some of the top couples are David & Victoria Beckham, Brad Pitts and Angelina Jolie, Will Smith & Jada Pinkett, Tom cruise & Katie Homes. The top award goes to Beyonce and Jay-Z, a whopping nearly US$100 million in just a year!
To most of us would be thinking, we've worked so hard 9 to 5 each day going through all the stress at work and earn a far cry of just a few thousand dollars each month. How is it that these people just play football, act and sing and they can earn so much more?
The answer lies in how we make use of the talent given to us.
The bible is a very practical book. It teaches us principles of life that if we can apply it. There is endless of possibilities we can achieve in this lifetime.
In Gen 8:22 While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease. And in the parables, Jesus also quoted about the Master's instructions for the servants to invest the talents given to them irregardless of whether you have 1, 2 or 5 talents.
What makes all these celebrities rich and famous? I believed what they did right was to pursue their talents, invest it and grab the opportunities when it comes. Of course you might justify some are just born lucky with good looks, natural talents. But it doesn't mean the rest of us are not. I believed if we were to dig deep into understanding who we are and what has God given to us, we will be amazed of what some of the things we can discover. Most of us are made to choose to do a lot of things outside your choice. I've seen some parents sending their child at the age of 4-5 for music classes, dance classes etc wanting their sons or daughters to be so and so in the future. And in school we made choices not based on what we like, probably through peers or societal influence and other factors. I remembered at my Uni days, i was given an opportunity to train snooker/pool with the top coach in Singapore with the rest of the national team. This was something i loved to do and would spend hours and hours of playing and practising. However reality struck, I came to know that our national top players are paid a miserable $5/ hr for their trainings and each day they are only able to claim $15 max each day plus just a small amount of allowance each year. They had to depend on their winnings from tournaments which ranges from hundreds to most a couple of thousands for a local tournament. I was thinking how am i able to survive with this sort of income! That was a huge deterent for me at that time not to pursuing this dream to become a national player. But looking back, perhaps if i were to persist back then, i may have a chance to continue move on beyond the local scene and have a go with the top international players unlike now which now i can only admire them online through youtube.
Things took a turn when i came to know God and i discover another passion. I was greatly inspired by Pastor Kong's weekly messages. I told myself i wanted to be someone like him encouraging and inspiring people through the Word of God. In my second year of coming to church, i enrolled into SOT despite objections from my parent to take up this 10-month course in the midst of my Uni days. Upon graduating, shortly i was given opportunity to lead a cg and now i'm helping to lead a subzone of 160 members.
Although i may not be earning millions now which i hope in the future i would. I'm glad that i'm able to pursue something i'm passionate about. Where will this lead to i do not know exactly. Maybe God will reveal something more to me in time to come.
Are you living your life pursuing your passion today?
On Sat, i happened to see on TV this programme, top earning celebrities couple of the world. Some of the top couples are David & Victoria Beckham, Brad Pitts and Angelina Jolie, Will Smith & Jada Pinkett, Tom cruise & Katie Homes. The top award goes to Beyonce and Jay-Z, a whopping nearly US$100 million in just a year!
To most of us would be thinking, we've worked so hard 9 to 5 each day going through all the stress at work and earn a far cry of just a few thousand dollars each month. How is it that these people just play football, act and sing and they can earn so much more?
The answer lies in how we make use of the talent given to us.
The bible is a very practical book. It teaches us principles of life that if we can apply it. There is endless of possibilities we can achieve in this lifetime.
In Gen 8:22 While the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease. And in the parables, Jesus also quoted about the Master's instructions for the servants to invest the talents given to them irregardless of whether you have 1, 2 or 5 talents.
What makes all these celebrities rich and famous? I believed what they did right was to pursue their talents, invest it and grab the opportunities when it comes. Of course you might justify some are just born lucky with good looks, natural talents. But it doesn't mean the rest of us are not. I believed if we were to dig deep into understanding who we are and what has God given to us, we will be amazed of what some of the things we can discover. Most of us are made to choose to do a lot of things outside your choice. I've seen some parents sending their child at the age of 4-5 for music classes, dance classes etc wanting their sons or daughters to be so and so in the future. And in school we made choices not based on what we like, probably through peers or societal influence and other factors. I remembered at my Uni days, i was given an opportunity to train snooker/pool with the top coach in Singapore with the rest of the national team. This was something i loved to do and would spend hours and hours of playing and practising. However reality struck, I came to know that our national top players are paid a miserable $5/ hr for their trainings and each day they are only able to claim $15 max each day plus just a small amount of allowance each year. They had to depend on their winnings from tournaments which ranges from hundreds to most a couple of thousands for a local tournament. I was thinking how am i able to survive with this sort of income! That was a huge deterent for me at that time not to pursuing this dream to become a national player. But looking back, perhaps if i were to persist back then, i may have a chance to continue move on beyond the local scene and have a go with the top international players unlike now which now i can only admire them online through youtube.
Things took a turn when i came to know God and i discover another passion. I was greatly inspired by Pastor Kong's weekly messages. I told myself i wanted to be someone like him encouraging and inspiring people through the Word of God. In my second year of coming to church, i enrolled into SOT despite objections from my parent to take up this 10-month course in the midst of my Uni days. Upon graduating, shortly i was given opportunity to lead a cg and now i'm helping to lead a subzone of 160 members.
Although i may not be earning millions now which i hope in the future i would. I'm glad that i'm able to pursue something i'm passionate about. Where will this lead to i do not know exactly. Maybe God will reveal something more to me in time to come.
Are you living your life pursuing your passion today?
Monday, October 5, 2009
Charis 1st year birthday!
In a few days time, 9 Oct, Charis will be turning 1 year! Just last sat, we had a birthday party for our princess at Pasir Ris (Downtown East) chalet. By grace, i'm able to get 2 units side by side at a really cheap rate from my company.
Sat was a very eventful day. Noon time, our cg had organised a visit to an old folks' home at Thomson (Lee Ah Mooi's home). Patricia did a great job in organizing this whole event. I was also heartened that many of our cg mates were involved in this. We had a short but great time interacting with the elderly and singing songs together with them. This is probably the first time for many to step into a old folk's home.
After this Andrea and i rushed off to visit another fellow church mate, Steven's baby shower at Ang mo kio. Seeing baby Zoe reminded Andrea and i how Charis has grown from the time of birth till now!
We left the place shortly and proceed to the chalet venue. I had already checked in the chalet the night before. Upon reaching, Andrea and i quickly get our hands and leg to work on the deco of the place, putting up banners, photos, setting up of projectors etc. In less than an hour, everything has been set up nicely including the catering. Everything seems perfect except one thing. Despite praying, the sky continues to get darker and eventually started to rain heavily. Fortunately for us, all the food are catered indoor and we manage to order quite a number of stools for the people.
My sisters and her kids followed by Andrea's parents are the first to arrived the place. Friends started to arrive in drips and draps thereafter. By 820pm, the place was packed! Michael, who was helping us to get the cake also manage to reach at that time.
At 840pm, we carried Charis to the centre stage. Charis was waiting for this moment. She was so excited to see the beautiful 2 tier, 3kg, lited cake and went wild when the birthday song is sang. The amazing thing is that I notice something happen after the cake was blown. Some tears start to roll down from Charis' cute little face. It wasn't the normal kind of crying. But it was as if telling us how touched she was. My heart almost melted when i saw this. I think she really appreciate what was done for her.
The fellowship continued thereafter. Charis received so much gifts and ang paos that the whole corner of the room was filled with her new toys! One of which was so big that it required 2 men to carry it! I'm sure little Charis is singing in her heart like the praise song 'One day', So bless i can't contain it =)
The day ended later for us. At 11, i had to send my elder sister back to their place and come back again to the chalet. To my surprise, our cg 'newly attached' couple Zhuomin and Michael are still around when i came back. We went for a chat at Mac Donald and fellowship until 1am.
By the time Andrea and i went to bed, we were so tired that we doze off shortly with our dear Charis sleeping in between us.
Really want to thank all the friends, relatives and CG members for their time and generousity to be part of this special day for Charis and the family. (If you happen to be reading this blog.)
Indeed we experienced like what Psalms says, Sure His goodness and mercies shall follow us the days of our lives!
Charis, Mummy and Daddy love you so much! Continue to grow strong and healthy and be a blessing to many in time to come.
Yours
Alvin
Sat was a very eventful day. Noon time, our cg had organised a visit to an old folks' home at Thomson (Lee Ah Mooi's home). Patricia did a great job in organizing this whole event. I was also heartened that many of our cg mates were involved in this. We had a short but great time interacting with the elderly and singing songs together with them. This is probably the first time for many to step into a old folk's home.
After this Andrea and i rushed off to visit another fellow church mate, Steven's baby shower at Ang mo kio. Seeing baby Zoe reminded Andrea and i how Charis has grown from the time of birth till now!
We left the place shortly and proceed to the chalet venue. I had already checked in the chalet the night before. Upon reaching, Andrea and i quickly get our hands and leg to work on the deco of the place, putting up banners, photos, setting up of projectors etc. In less than an hour, everything has been set up nicely including the catering. Everything seems perfect except one thing. Despite praying, the sky continues to get darker and eventually started to rain heavily. Fortunately for us, all the food are catered indoor and we manage to order quite a number of stools for the people.
My sisters and her kids followed by Andrea's parents are the first to arrived the place. Friends started to arrive in drips and draps thereafter. By 820pm, the place was packed! Michael, who was helping us to get the cake also manage to reach at that time.
At 840pm, we carried Charis to the centre stage. Charis was waiting for this moment. She was so excited to see the beautiful 2 tier, 3kg, lited cake and went wild when the birthday song is sang. The amazing thing is that I notice something happen after the cake was blown. Some tears start to roll down from Charis' cute little face. It wasn't the normal kind of crying. But it was as if telling us how touched she was. My heart almost melted when i saw this. I think she really appreciate what was done for her.
The fellowship continued thereafter. Charis received so much gifts and ang paos that the whole corner of the room was filled with her new toys! One of which was so big that it required 2 men to carry it! I'm sure little Charis is singing in her heart like the praise song 'One day', So bless i can't contain it =)
The day ended later for us. At 11, i had to send my elder sister back to their place and come back again to the chalet. To my surprise, our cg 'newly attached' couple Zhuomin and Michael are still around when i came back. We went for a chat at Mac Donald and fellowship until 1am.
By the time Andrea and i went to bed, we were so tired that we doze off shortly with our dear Charis sleeping in between us.
Really want to thank all the friends, relatives and CG members for their time and generousity to be part of this special day for Charis and the family. (If you happen to be reading this blog.)
Indeed we experienced like what Psalms says, Sure His goodness and mercies shall follow us the days of our lives!
Charis, Mummy and Daddy love you so much! Continue to grow strong and healthy and be a blessing to many in time to come.
Yours
Alvin
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Devotion
Devotion
Finally got a chance to write in my blog again!
Not sure whether it is just me, time seems to go faster as you age. I'm turning 30 this year, still 3 months more to go before i say goodbye to my 20s. I felt that it's good for me to recap and take stock of the blessings that God has given to me thus far.
I came to know the Lord in 2001 Aug, 10 at the age of 21. It has been more than 8 years since i first walked with him. I was very blessed to have good leaders around my life. One of which is none other than Andrew Wong. He's really one of the key reasons that aspire me to lead cgs till this day. I will always remember one of his message which talks about the 3 Ses which represent the 3 kinds to people, Survial, Successful and Significant. In short, we should all aimed to be people of significance. Not just living for ourselves but be a blessing wherever we go.
I have been serving more than 5 years as a cgl now. As i looked back, sometimes it's hard to believed that i've led so many cg meetings. If calculate an average of 40 weeks a year minus away big days where there's no cg. Not forgetting most of the time i'm leading 2 cgs a week. I would have led about 200-300 cell meetings! Think it is really by His grace that i'm able to do what i did. I pray that He'll continue to give me the strength to do so!
In the midst of serving him, i see my life has change for the better. I came from a dysfunctional family in the past whereby i grew up most of the time with one parent. My sisters left home very early after their 'O' levels and stayed at their friends place. I remembered staying with my uncle most of my secondary days envying my cousins who has the love of their father.
My own dad 'came' back when i was in my secondary 3-4s. It has brought temporal happiness but due to the bad habits he acquired in the past, our family once again sinked into darkness. Going to NS is probably one of the best getaway at that time from the home without love. But i realised back then running away will not solve the problem until i found God.
The bible says it very clearly. We love because He first loved us. The only reason I can start loving is that because I've experienced the love from my heavenly father.
In my first year of knowing God, i brought my sister to come to know God. That was in the midst of her broken relationship that gave an opportunity for me to bring Christ into her life. My parents also came to know God within the year. Shortly, restoration begins to take place in my home. Nowadays, we had frequent gathers with my sisters and thier family together at home. At times my dad would also cook some nice dishes for us to eat. This was something that i would never imagine years back.
God is indeed someone who is true to His words. Matt 6:33 When you seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, all these things you need shall be added to you.
I'm eternally grateful to God. I may not be perfect and make mistakes from time to time, but i will always love God wholeheartedly for what He has done for me.
Yours with revival,
Alvin
Finally got a chance to write in my blog again!
Not sure whether it is just me, time seems to go faster as you age. I'm turning 30 this year, still 3 months more to go before i say goodbye to my 20s. I felt that it's good for me to recap and take stock of the blessings that God has given to me thus far.
I came to know the Lord in 2001 Aug, 10 at the age of 21. It has been more than 8 years since i first walked with him. I was very blessed to have good leaders around my life. One of which is none other than Andrew Wong. He's really one of the key reasons that aspire me to lead cgs till this day. I will always remember one of his message which talks about the 3 Ses which represent the 3 kinds to people, Survial, Successful and Significant. In short, we should all aimed to be people of significance. Not just living for ourselves but be a blessing wherever we go.
I have been serving more than 5 years as a cgl now. As i looked back, sometimes it's hard to believed that i've led so many cg meetings. If calculate an average of 40 weeks a year minus away big days where there's no cg. Not forgetting most of the time i'm leading 2 cgs a week. I would have led about 200-300 cell meetings! Think it is really by His grace that i'm able to do what i did. I pray that He'll continue to give me the strength to do so!
In the midst of serving him, i see my life has change for the better. I came from a dysfunctional family in the past whereby i grew up most of the time with one parent. My sisters left home very early after their 'O' levels and stayed at their friends place. I remembered staying with my uncle most of my secondary days envying my cousins who has the love of their father.
My own dad 'came' back when i was in my secondary 3-4s. It has brought temporal happiness but due to the bad habits he acquired in the past, our family once again sinked into darkness. Going to NS is probably one of the best getaway at that time from the home without love. But i realised back then running away will not solve the problem until i found God.
The bible says it very clearly. We love because He first loved us. The only reason I can start loving is that because I've experienced the love from my heavenly father.
In my first year of knowing God, i brought my sister to come to know God. That was in the midst of her broken relationship that gave an opportunity for me to bring Christ into her life. My parents also came to know God within the year. Shortly, restoration begins to take place in my home. Nowadays, we had frequent gathers with my sisters and thier family together at home. At times my dad would also cook some nice dishes for us to eat. This was something that i would never imagine years back.
God is indeed someone who is true to His words. Matt 6:33 When you seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, all these things you need shall be added to you.
I'm eternally grateful to God. I may not be perfect and make mistakes from time to time, but i will always love God wholeheartedly for what He has done for me.
Yours with revival,
Alvin
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
FAITH, HOPE, LOVE
Apostle Paul made this statement in 1 Cor 13:13 Faith, Hope and Love. The greatest of these is Love. God prompted me this question while i was spending time playing with Charis in the bedroom earlier. He asked, "What do you know about Love?"
I began to ponder a while about this question. I thought about a list of things relating to the word love.
1) Love is spending undivided attention with someone
2) Love is meeting someone's need at the expense of ourself
3) Love is wanting to know more about someone
4) Love inspires us to change
5) Love is touch
6) Love is engaging conversations
7) Love is God
What Jesus said about Love
Jesus said to Peter, if you love me feed my sheep.
Love your neighbours as yourself.
Love me with all your heart, mind, soul, strength
I love you with everlasting love.
The list goes on and on...
To be continued...
I began to ponder a while about this question. I thought about a list of things relating to the word love.
1) Love is spending undivided attention with someone
2) Love is meeting someone's need at the expense of ourself
3) Love is wanting to know more about someone
4) Love inspires us to change
5) Love is touch
6) Love is engaging conversations
7) Love is God
What Jesus said about Love
Jesus said to Peter, if you love me feed my sheep.
Love your neighbours as yourself.
Love me with all your heart, mind, soul, strength
I love you with everlasting love.
The list goes on and on...
To be continued...
Monday, June 29, 2009
Motherhood July 2009!
Check out this July issue of Motherhood magazine! Charis' photo appear in a full page of the magazine found at page 44. This came as a surprise to Andrea and myself. I actually got to know this through my fellow cgl Steven who called me on a sunday. He and his wife happen to browse the magazine in a motherhood fair and saw the photo.
Not long later, we managed to grab hold of the magazine and lo and behold we saw her cute photo in the magazine! We realised that it was actually Sean Lau (the photography studio who took Charis' photo a month back) who published her photo on that column. We are both happy and a little angry also that he did not seek our permission before publishing it. Nevertheless, it was Charis first appearance in the magazine just after the Miss Singapore revelation was writen the week b4. God is indeed preparing for her destiny from young!
Below is the photo they use in the magazine!
Not long later, we managed to grab hold of the magazine and lo and behold we saw her cute photo in the magazine! We realised that it was actually Sean Lau (the photography studio who took Charis' photo a month back) who published her photo on that column. We are both happy and a little angry also that he did not seek our permission before publishing it. Nevertheless, it was Charis first appearance in the magazine just after the Miss Singapore revelation was writen the week b4. God is indeed preparing for her destiny from young!
Below is the photo they use in the magazine!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Happy Hour!
Just came back from an interesting event called the Happy Hour organised by our Singles Ministry. It was held at Meritius Mandarin hotel at a very nice ballroom on the 6th level. The turnout was tremendous with many 'gate crashers' coming in for the event. It was a good time for everyone getting to know one another from different zones, play some games and learn salsa dancing together. This was actually my first actual event with the Singles ministry team. The team has about 7-8 of us led by this ZS Jeremy Choy. Although the team is small, but think it's really like Gideon and his men. Was really impressed by the work efficiency of the people especially Joanne who coordinated most of the work.
Somehow or another I felt that God has led me to this ministry for a purpose. Despite already having a rather hectic ministry leading CGs and subzone, I immediately accepted the task when Pastor poached me to join this 'CCA'. To me, it's a joy to be able help someone find a partner of his/her lifetime.
For now, let me just take a good rest before moving on to meet tml's challenges!
Somehow or another I felt that God has led me to this ministry for a purpose. Despite already having a rather hectic ministry leading CGs and subzone, I immediately accepted the task when Pastor poached me to join this 'CCA'. To me, it's a joy to be able help someone find a partner of his/her lifetime.
For now, let me just take a good rest before moving on to meet tml's challenges!
Thank God for His strength!
These few days i've been meditating more on Isaiah 40:31 "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, walk and not faint."
It has been a very challenging week for me. Ever since God spoke to me a couple of weeks back to train and raise up the leaders under my care. Things have been a roller coaster. But having been through years of leadership. This is something that i would expect. Whenever you wanted to do something great for God, you will definitely faced some resistence.
Just yesterday night, my mother in law was admitted to Tan Tock Seng A&E due to some food alergy. Halfway through the dinner, her face turned red and swollen to the dismay of many of us. We quickly rushed her to TTS and she was given a jab. Fortunately the swell did subside after some time and she was discharge after 2-3 hours.
This morning another incident happen. This time is my dear precious daughter, Charis. She is becoming more active by the days. We took from her baby cot and placed on our bed. And just a slip moment off guard, she crawled and fell off to the floor! Fortunately my bed was quite low, Charis escaped with just a small little bruise on her forehead. Must really learn to guard her even better!
The excitement is not over yet. In my company, there are 2 confirmed cases H1N1. Being part of the newly formed crisis management team, we had to firefight and contain this situation so that it would not affect our operations.
Afternoon i was called to present a last min project to our COO (Chief Operating Officer). Thank God for prayers, the presentation went smoothly!
Evening time, after coming back from a long day of work, i sent Charis back to my MIW's place and went on to suntec office to help in the preparations for tml's Singles' event at Meritius Mandarin.
Phew, finally manage to get some rest now. I think just by reading my blog, one would get easily tired. But nevertheless, i know that i'm fulfilling my purpose to serve God to where He called me to. I would never be where i am today without His grace and guidance thus far.
Time to take a peep at my beautiful girl now. Another Challenging day tml..Nitz....
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It has been a very challenging week for me. Ever since God spoke to me a couple of weeks back to train and raise up the leaders under my care. Things have been a roller coaster. But having been through years of leadership. This is something that i would expect. Whenever you wanted to do something great for God, you will definitely faced some resistence.
Just yesterday night, my mother in law was admitted to Tan Tock Seng A&E due to some food alergy. Halfway through the dinner, her face turned red and swollen to the dismay of many of us. We quickly rushed her to TTS and she was given a jab. Fortunately the swell did subside after some time and she was discharge after 2-3 hours.
This morning another incident happen. This time is my dear precious daughter, Charis. She is becoming more active by the days. We took from her baby cot and placed on our bed. And just a slip moment off guard, she crawled and fell off to the floor! Fortunately my bed was quite low, Charis escaped with just a small little bruise on her forehead. Must really learn to guard her even better!
The excitement is not over yet. In my company, there are 2 confirmed cases H1N1. Being part of the newly formed crisis management team, we had to firefight and contain this situation so that it would not affect our operations.
Afternoon i was called to present a last min project to our COO (Chief Operating Officer). Thank God for prayers, the presentation went smoothly!
Evening time, after coming back from a long day of work, i sent Charis back to my MIW's place and went on to suntec office to help in the preparations for tml's Singles' event at Meritius Mandarin.
Phew, finally manage to get some rest now. I think just by reading my blog, one would get easily tired. But nevertheless, i know that i'm fulfilling my purpose to serve God to where He called me to. I would never be where i am today without His grace and guidance thus far.
Time to take a peep at my beautiful girl now. Another Challenging day tml..Nitz....
.jpg)
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Miss Singapore 2026!
Hi,
Time flies, Charis is 8 mths and 7 days now. Besides having more hair and 2 cute little teeth. She has grown really stronger now, crawling around to every inch of the house.
Last weekend's celebrity week was really good. Was really touched by the presence of God! Most impactful part of the service to me was when Miss Indonesia 2008 shared her testimonies and how she shine for God in the arena despite all the temptations she faced. Wonder if one day my dear Charis can be likewise..
Hmm... base on calculation, Charis will be 18 years by 2026.
Will she becomes the future Miss Singapore 2026 by then? Haha...
Daddy will support you all the way!
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Time flies, Charis is 8 mths and 7 days now. Besides having more hair and 2 cute little teeth. She has grown really stronger now, crawling around to every inch of the house.
Last weekend's celebrity week was really good. Was really touched by the presence of God! Most impactful part of the service to me was when Miss Indonesia 2008 shared her testimonies and how she shine for God in the arena despite all the temptations she faced. Wonder if one day my dear Charis can be likewise..
Hmm... base on calculation, Charis will be 18 years by 2026.
Will she becomes the future Miss Singapore 2026 by then? Haha...
Daddy will support you all the way!
.jpg)
.jpg)
Monday, March 16, 2009
New Blog Face!
Hi,
Just changed a new blog face! New look New content! My wife commented my blog is very boring and full of theories. I figured that she's right. Blogs should be lively and fully represent who the person is. I'll change my style of blogging from now onwards. Stay tune for more updates!
Send you a photo of the world's cutest baby (At least in my opinion), my daughter Charis!
.jpg)
Enjoy your life to the fullest!
Just changed a new blog face! New look New content! My wife commented my blog is very boring and full of theories. I figured that she's right. Blogs should be lively and fully represent who the person is. I'll change my style of blogging from now onwards. Stay tune for more updates!
Send you a photo of the world's cutest baby (At least in my opinion), my daughter Charis!
.jpg)
Enjoy your life to the fullest!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
2009!
Hi,
Really sorry for not being able to blog for the last few months. Things have been busy busy busy ever since becoming a new father.
This year has been really stretched for me trying to juggle with ministry, work and family as well in the midst of starting to build my own business.
I will be turning 30 this year. Lots of thoughts are running through my mine. This is the year whereby Jesus also started His ministry. Where will i be 3 and a half years from now?
I believed God knows best what is in store for me.
Matt 6:33
Alvin
Really sorry for not being able to blog for the last few months. Things have been busy busy busy ever since becoming a new father.
This year has been really stretched for me trying to juggle with ministry, work and family as well in the midst of starting to build my own business.
I will be turning 30 this year. Lots of thoughts are running through my mine. This is the year whereby Jesus also started His ministry. Where will i be 3 and a half years from now?
I believed God knows best what is in store for me.
Matt 6:33
Alvin
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
PROVERBS 31
The number 1 best selling book in the world is the bible. So much so that it was taken out from the best selling list as no other books can ever come close even till date. It may have been a religious book in the eyes of many, it is undoubtedly a book that contains so much wisdom that many of the businesses, schools, organisations and of course the churches are using it to provide guideline of values and inspirations.
Within the book itself, there are 66 other books, 39 in the old testaments (before the birth of Christ) and 27 in the new testaments. One book which stands out among the rest (In my opinion) is the book of Proverbs which was written by the wisest man in history, King Solomon.
It has 31 chapters to it, every single chapter relates to issues of life ranging from family to finances. It is recommended to read a chapter a day for daily wisdom.
Within the book itself, there are 66 other books, 39 in the old testaments (before the birth of Christ) and 27 in the new testaments. One book which stands out among the rest (In my opinion) is the book of Proverbs which was written by the wisest man in history, King Solomon.
It has 31 chapters to it, every single chapter relates to issues of life ranging from family to finances. It is recommended to read a chapter a day for daily wisdom.
Monday, November 24, 2008
What an amazing Asia Conference!
The curtains has closed for the amazing Asia Conference 2008. 5 days of power packed preaching from some of the top preachers all over the world sure to blow everyone's mind who attended the sessions. Just want to share some of my thoughts from what i've gathered for these days.
Day one:
Tremendous opening sessions with an overwhelming crowd. It's probably one of the largest crowd in Singapore Christian history probably in Asia of more than 20,000 people in a single session. CHC lift up to the expectations of the people by parading the best of all the ministries in church ranging from children church to drama, BBG, CHCSA etc. It reminded me of how i was drawn to the church when i first came during the 12th anniversary. The atmosphere was electrifying and hardly any pauses or dry moments. Heaven is indeed singing during the session. Andrea and i were seated at the last row of the bravo terrace overseeing the entire crowd of the place. My molehill mindset was immediately magnified on the possibility of the ministry that one could have. 30-40 members is not going to be my limit i proclaim. Pastor Kong's message on the 3rd space is a good recap on how Christians should not be boxed up in the 4 walls of the church but to engage the upper class society which will change the world.
Day 2:
Pastor Phil spearheaded this day by moving mightily through the leading of the Holy Spirit, prophesying to the different nations for revival. Tears were seen flowing in the eyes of many. I caught something from this move about the importance of believing in someone and encouragement that will change a person's life. I stood near to the front and it was as through God is encouraging me personally to move on strongly for God. Fear not, for i am with you!
Pastor Ulf Ekman took the later session and evening slots. Again the evidence of the Holy Spirit power was clearly found in this 60 over years old man of God. His zest and energy on the pulpit would have put many youngsters to shame in comparison.
Day 3
Probably the all-time favourite preacher of City Harvest, Dr A R Bernard took the stage delivering which i believed is the most revelational message of the entire conference. He opened with an interesting topic about the recent US election and how Obama's victory signifies the Kairos time where the finger of God is touching the human affairs in a great way. He use a parallel to the book of Daniel whereby the reign of Nebecenezza's(dunno how to spell) kingdom came to an end. He used the term 'Insulation' which i believe is the word for the conference which represent how Christians should be functioning in the world, keeping the warmth and fire of God internally through the layers of Spiritual protections and preventing the cold from entering into the lives of the believer. Wow! How come i can never think like the way he does?
Day 4:
Miracle man Benny Hinn! Although this man often found to be controversial in many articles and website forum, manages an entire spirit-filled 4 hour session. Besides the 'usual' miracles seen in the meeting, what was amazing was the salvation message he preached along with the move of the spirit drew the largest altar call crowd i've ever seen and also the challenging offering message which i believed left many pockets empty that day. He further shared about the calling of God which he deemed is higher than family and work, which left me pondering about the basic doctrines i learnt of priorities God, family, work, ministry. Fortunately, this portion was cleared the following day by Pastor Kong. He also gave a prophesy about Israel which left many with great concern about what is going to happen in the next few years, which Pastor Kong also mention to shelf it. Nevertheless it was still a great service.
Day one:
Tremendous opening sessions with an overwhelming crowd. It's probably one of the largest crowd in Singapore Christian history probably in Asia of more than 20,000 people in a single session. CHC lift up to the expectations of the people by parading the best of all the ministries in church ranging from children church to drama, BBG, CHCSA etc. It reminded me of how i was drawn to the church when i first came during the 12th anniversary. The atmosphere was electrifying and hardly any pauses or dry moments. Heaven is indeed singing during the session. Andrea and i were seated at the last row of the bravo terrace overseeing the entire crowd of the place. My molehill mindset was immediately magnified on the possibility of the ministry that one could have. 30-40 members is not going to be my limit i proclaim. Pastor Kong's message on the 3rd space is a good recap on how Christians should not be boxed up in the 4 walls of the church but to engage the upper class society which will change the world.
Day 2:
Pastor Phil spearheaded this day by moving mightily through the leading of the Holy Spirit, prophesying to the different nations for revival. Tears were seen flowing in the eyes of many. I caught something from this move about the importance of believing in someone and encouragement that will change a person's life. I stood near to the front and it was as through God is encouraging me personally to move on strongly for God. Fear not, for i am with you!
Pastor Ulf Ekman took the later session and evening slots. Again the evidence of the Holy Spirit power was clearly found in this 60 over years old man of God. His zest and energy on the pulpit would have put many youngsters to shame in comparison.
Day 3
Probably the all-time favourite preacher of City Harvest, Dr A R Bernard took the stage delivering which i believed is the most revelational message of the entire conference. He opened with an interesting topic about the recent US election and how Obama's victory signifies the Kairos time where the finger of God is touching the human affairs in a great way. He use a parallel to the book of Daniel whereby the reign of Nebecenezza's(dunno how to spell) kingdom came to an end. He used the term 'Insulation' which i believe is the word for the conference which represent how Christians should be functioning in the world, keeping the warmth and fire of God internally through the layers of Spiritual protections and preventing the cold from entering into the lives of the believer. Wow! How come i can never think like the way he does?
Day 4:
Miracle man Benny Hinn! Although this man often found to be controversial in many articles and website forum, manages an entire spirit-filled 4 hour session. Besides the 'usual' miracles seen in the meeting, what was amazing was the salvation message he preached along with the move of the spirit drew the largest altar call crowd i've ever seen and also the challenging offering message which i believed left many pockets empty that day. He further shared about the calling of God which he deemed is higher than family and work, which left me pondering about the basic doctrines i learnt of priorities God, family, work, ministry. Fortunately, this portion was cleared the following day by Pastor Kong. He also gave a prophesy about Israel which left many with great concern about what is going to happen in the next few years, which Pastor Kong also mention to shelf it. Nevertheless it was still a great service.
Final Day:
It's Dr Phil Pringle again. In his last session, he joked that he finally had the chance to preach the sermon he prepared. He shared on the book of Ezekiel about resurrection of the dry bones. How we serve a God that is alive! He continue build on the faith of the congregation about how we can change the nations if only we can take control of our own city. Also he gave lots of praises for what Pastor Kong did for this Asia Conference.
Night session start at 530pm after the beauty pageant. Our CK hunk Ricando won the Mr Asia Conference, unfortunately Cleo dint do likewise. Praise and worship was fantastic as usual. The song 'The God i know' sang into the hearts of many and also sums up the theme of this entire conference. The Church we know is righteous and holy, who strengthens the weak, light of the city... The night stretches with lots of performance from the Choir, orchestra, dance, celebrity performing etc.
Dr Bernard is the last speaker of this conference. Similar theme to what we've learnt. Change a person, change the place, change the nation. The city and nations will only be change by touching one life at a time. Indeed it's through the caring system which our church has adopt caused our church to grow to where we are today. I began pondering about my little cg and ministry. Have i impacted the lives of the members in my cg? Have i met their needs and caused them to do likewise?
Asia Conference has ended, i've benefited much from this whole session. Tired, but the spirit is strong. There are lots need to be done. But right now i'll spent more time on my baby..
Monday, November 10, 2008
ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE TO THOSE WHO BELIEVED
In the path of learning especially through the education system from schools, we tend to frame the way of our thinking after some time. Science has taught us about having observations through our 5 senses, seeing, hearing, touching, smelling and tasting. And upon every observation, derive certain conclusion about things whether an object is hot or cold, sweet or sour, colourful or dull etc. Similary we applied that to different experiences in our lives. Every situation, circumstances we faced, it will be recorded in our mind and it will ultimatedly form our thinking and affect every decisions we make in the future.
It is important for us to understand this as it will ultimately dictate the kind of life that we can live. A child who comes from a family background that is poor will have a tendency to believe that it is impossible for him/her to ever be rich. To have food on the table is considered luxury to them. In the circus, elephants when they are young are tied to a pole which is able to hold the strength of a young elephant. After struggling for a while to break lose and in vain, the elephant concludes that it is impossible to break free from the pole or the chains tied to him. When it grows up to be an adult elephant with strength 10 times greater, when it is tied to the same pole, it will not attempt to pull it down even if it has the ability to do so!
Today, i daresay many of us reading this blog are bounded with certain fixed belief system. To an average person, if i were to tell you that you can be a millionaire without changing your dollar notes to ruppiah, many would have said that i am crazy. But do you know that every min there are one millionaire sprouted up all over the world? Why can't it be you? If i were to say that you can be the top student in your school right now, will you give me a blank stare?
I have been meditating about this phase ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE TO THOSE WHO BELIEVED this week. From teachings i learnt in church and even the recent speech that Barack Obama gave in Chicago after the elections, I began to understand even more about the power of belief system that one can have? Unconsciously, we allow some of lids to restrict many of the things we could have done or achieve. Dr AR Bernard was sharing about the power of audacious goals. Audacious goals are those beyond perceived capacity which puts you to a place where you have no choice but to trust God. Indeed it is true that many of us including myself have allow ourselves to trap in this comfort zone only waiting to retire!
When you read till this point what comes to your mind? Ask this question, what is the one predominant thing that is running through your mind right now? What is something which you think is possible to achieve? Why it causes to think this way? Has anyone done that thing which you wanted to do? How did they do that?
Our lives will never change if our thinking never change. Your mind is the greatest asset you can ever have. Use it to the maximum!
Alvin
It is important for us to understand this as it will ultimately dictate the kind of life that we can live. A child who comes from a family background that is poor will have a tendency to believe that it is impossible for him/her to ever be rich. To have food on the table is considered luxury to them. In the circus, elephants when they are young are tied to a pole which is able to hold the strength of a young elephant. After struggling for a while to break lose and in vain, the elephant concludes that it is impossible to break free from the pole or the chains tied to him. When it grows up to be an adult elephant with strength 10 times greater, when it is tied to the same pole, it will not attempt to pull it down even if it has the ability to do so!
Today, i daresay many of us reading this blog are bounded with certain fixed belief system. To an average person, if i were to tell you that you can be a millionaire without changing your dollar notes to ruppiah, many would have said that i am crazy. But do you know that every min there are one millionaire sprouted up all over the world? Why can't it be you? If i were to say that you can be the top student in your school right now, will you give me a blank stare?
I have been meditating about this phase ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE TO THOSE WHO BELIEVED this week. From teachings i learnt in church and even the recent speech that Barack Obama gave in Chicago after the elections, I began to understand even more about the power of belief system that one can have? Unconsciously, we allow some of lids to restrict many of the things we could have done or achieve. Dr AR Bernard was sharing about the power of audacious goals. Audacious goals are those beyond perceived capacity which puts you to a place where you have no choice but to trust God. Indeed it is true that many of us including myself have allow ourselves to trap in this comfort zone only waiting to retire!
When you read till this point what comes to your mind? Ask this question, what is the one predominant thing that is running through your mind right now? What is something which you think is possible to achieve? Why it causes to think this way? Has anyone done that thing which you wanted to do? How did they do that?
Our lives will never change if our thinking never change. Your mind is the greatest asset you can ever have. Use it to the maximum!
Alvin
Thursday, October 23, 2008
New Birth!
Hi,
I'm excited to write this blog. My first child Charis was born! It was a long 28 hours delivery, but i'm glad it's worth the wait. I recall it was 1030am thurs 9 Oct, when Andrea was pushed into the operating room. In about 20 mins, i saw my baby being push out from the operating room. The eyes were wide open and she is the most beautiful person i've ever seen!
The nurse took down her weight and measurement. She weighs a good 3.245kg, considered amazing for a small tummy Andrea has. She's 50cm long, with long beautifully defined toes.
From the picture below tells it all.
Now i'm busy taking care of her. Will write more in my next blog.
Rgds
Alvin
I'm excited to write this blog. My first child Charis was born! It was a long 28 hours delivery, but i'm glad it's worth the wait. I recall it was 1030am thurs 9 Oct, when Andrea was pushed into the operating room. In about 20 mins, i saw my baby being push out from the operating room. The eyes were wide open and she is the most beautiful person i've ever seen!
The nurse took down her weight and measurement. She weighs a good 3.245kg, considered amazing for a small tummy Andrea has. She's 50cm long, with long beautifully defined toes.
From the picture below tells it all.
Now i'm busy taking care of her. Will write more in my next blog.
Rgds
Alvin
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Encounter with God
Hi friends,
The time now is 3.31am in the morning. Just came back from fellowshipping with some of the cell mates earlier. Today was the day of SOT graduation. 3 of my cell mates had graduated from SOT this year. Today's service was special to me. Pastor Alex Abraham shared a message which impacted me a lot about encounter with God.
Some people would often ask me why i love God so much or spend so much time serving in ministry. I would often smile at them. I know the reason is because of my personal encounter with God. Perhaps it's good for me to write my personal testimonies in this topic.
I came to know the Lord when i was 21. I remembered before i knew the Lord, i was often found alone at a park or playground in the middle of night gazing at the sky whenever unpleasant things or problems happened in my life, asking this question "is there a God, if so why this and that can happen to me?" Although i came from a buddhist family, besides enjoying to play with the joss papers, lighting of fire, burning joss sticks at designated hours each day. I never seriously pray to the idols in the house. I recalled i was made to kneel in front of the altar for more than 2 hours for something which i did not do. Cut the story short, i was never interested in spiritual things and i always considered myself a free thinker. I remembered once during my JC time, i was invited to a Christmas evangelistic session by a school mate, me and a friend laugh so loudly at the end when all were closing their eyes praying. God indeed is the one eventually laughing.
It was when i was in Army time, i had a real encounter with God. I was participating in a race when i collapse at the end point. That was the time when fear stuck me real deeply. Totally unconscious, i felt completely helpless. I saw myself as if in a long dark tunnel with no end to it. I thought to myself, am i dying? I kept thinking, i'm so young to die, only 21 of age. I want to get married and also take care of my parents. Please don't let me die.. At that moment, something struck me that i should pray. Having attend a period of Sunday school when i was young. I know about Jesus existence. Helplessly i started to pray to Him. God, if you exist, don't let me die! It was the moment after i said this, a ray of light came from the dark tunnel and stuck me in the face. I immediately shook myself up. I'm alive! From that day onwards, i knew God exist. I went to attend a church near my house. For weeks, i felt that there's peace. But too peaceful till i nearly fall asleep at times. I went to my first cell group meeting just opp my block and i never want to go back again. It was a one hour session, half the members came late. We played scrabbles for 15 mins, sang one song and hear a probably unprepared 5 mins message. I stopped attending the church after sometime.
Things took a change when i went to University. I was at an orientation camp, 2 girls from my orientation group had 'plotted' to invite me to their church. It was at Indoor Stadium. City Harvest was having their 12th anniversary celebration. The moment i stepped into the stadium, i felt an undescribable presence in the place. I was also impressed by all the ministries displayed. Poh looked like the taiwanese singer 'Zhou Hua Jian'. During the last part, there was an altar call given by Pastor Kong (at that time i didn't know who he was). I felt that every word he said was talking straight to me. I raised my hands in response to the altar call. Afterwhich, i was encouraged to go down to the front. I still remembered every step i took, my heart was pounding. Tear uncontrollably rolled down my eyes. God has touched me and my life was changed since. I continued to be planted in the house of God. Although there are ups and downs in my walk with Him, i stood on. I enrolled myself to SOT in the 2nd year, 2003 and thereafter i became a cell group leader till now.
Today God reminded me through Pastor Alex about encountering with God. If not for this experience with Him, i would never be doing what i'm doing now. Indeed His grace is sufficent for all. I know of many Christians who backslidded after some disappointments in life or their walk with God. It quite sad to see how their life move on without God. I pray that one day all those who have left will turn back some day. God, please show them the way of how you have shown me.
There's still a long way for me to go. Career, family, financial challenges are still ahead. I pray that i'll never lose my fervency for God. Let His kingdom come and His will be done in each and everyone of our life! Amen.
Rgds
Alvin
The time now is 3.31am in the morning. Just came back from fellowshipping with some of the cell mates earlier. Today was the day of SOT graduation. 3 of my cell mates had graduated from SOT this year. Today's service was special to me. Pastor Alex Abraham shared a message which impacted me a lot about encounter with God.
Some people would often ask me why i love God so much or spend so much time serving in ministry. I would often smile at them. I know the reason is because of my personal encounter with God. Perhaps it's good for me to write my personal testimonies in this topic.
I came to know the Lord when i was 21. I remembered before i knew the Lord, i was often found alone at a park or playground in the middle of night gazing at the sky whenever unpleasant things or problems happened in my life, asking this question "is there a God, if so why this and that can happen to me?" Although i came from a buddhist family, besides enjoying to play with the joss papers, lighting of fire, burning joss sticks at designated hours each day. I never seriously pray to the idols in the house. I recalled i was made to kneel in front of the altar for more than 2 hours for something which i did not do. Cut the story short, i was never interested in spiritual things and i always considered myself a free thinker. I remembered once during my JC time, i was invited to a Christmas evangelistic session by a school mate, me and a friend laugh so loudly at the end when all were closing their eyes praying. God indeed is the one eventually laughing.
It was when i was in Army time, i had a real encounter with God. I was participating in a race when i collapse at the end point. That was the time when fear stuck me real deeply. Totally unconscious, i felt completely helpless. I saw myself as if in a long dark tunnel with no end to it. I thought to myself, am i dying? I kept thinking, i'm so young to die, only 21 of age. I want to get married and also take care of my parents. Please don't let me die.. At that moment, something struck me that i should pray. Having attend a period of Sunday school when i was young. I know about Jesus existence. Helplessly i started to pray to Him. God, if you exist, don't let me die! It was the moment after i said this, a ray of light came from the dark tunnel and stuck me in the face. I immediately shook myself up. I'm alive! From that day onwards, i knew God exist. I went to attend a church near my house. For weeks, i felt that there's peace. But too peaceful till i nearly fall asleep at times. I went to my first cell group meeting just opp my block and i never want to go back again. It was a one hour session, half the members came late. We played scrabbles for 15 mins, sang one song and hear a probably unprepared 5 mins message. I stopped attending the church after sometime.
Things took a change when i went to University. I was at an orientation camp, 2 girls from my orientation group had 'plotted' to invite me to their church. It was at Indoor Stadium. City Harvest was having their 12th anniversary celebration. The moment i stepped into the stadium, i felt an undescribable presence in the place. I was also impressed by all the ministries displayed. Poh looked like the taiwanese singer 'Zhou Hua Jian'. During the last part, there was an altar call given by Pastor Kong (at that time i didn't know who he was). I felt that every word he said was talking straight to me. I raised my hands in response to the altar call. Afterwhich, i was encouraged to go down to the front. I still remembered every step i took, my heart was pounding. Tear uncontrollably rolled down my eyes. God has touched me and my life was changed since. I continued to be planted in the house of God. Although there are ups and downs in my walk with Him, i stood on. I enrolled myself to SOT in the 2nd year, 2003 and thereafter i became a cell group leader till now.
Today God reminded me through Pastor Alex about encountering with God. If not for this experience with Him, i would never be doing what i'm doing now. Indeed His grace is sufficent for all. I know of many Christians who backslidded after some disappointments in life or their walk with God. It quite sad to see how their life move on without God. I pray that one day all those who have left will turn back some day. God, please show them the way of how you have shown me.
There's still a long way for me to go. Career, family, financial challenges are still ahead. I pray that i'll never lose my fervency for God. Let His kingdom come and His will be done in each and everyone of our life! Amen.
Rgds
Alvin
Thursday, April 24, 2008
BE an Overcomer!
Champions are not those who never fails but those who never quits! This is probably one of the best phrase i've heard. Indeed life is build in such a way that if we don't lose hope, there'll always be solutions to move ahead in life. Life is a journey. There will be times when we are high up in the mountains and also times we are in the deep valley. No matter how high you go, there will be one day when the valley will come and hit you. But also when you are at the valley, your mountain of breakthough will eventually come. Here are some pointers to help you to become overcomers in life!
1) Access your situation.
If you are willing to take some time to look into your problem or obstacles you faced, you'll realise that it's not that bad after all. Many a times when we face problems in life. We always choose to hide it or to run away from it. When things are not tackled at the level when it is created. It'll snowball and escalate to a bigger problem at a later stage. Don't let it have a chance to run lose. Learn to acertain the problem immediately it arises.
2) Don't try to repeat the methods that doesn't work!
Someone once say this. It is insanity to do things repeatedly and expecting different results. When a problem occur in our limited mind, we tends to start off by using the easiest, effortless methods to solve our problems. The method may have helped us solved easier problems in the past. However as times goes by, the 'enemy' or problems gets bigger and it'll be difficult to use the former methods to deal with it. Solutions? UPGRADE YOUR STRATEGIES!
3) Learn to celebrate each small step you take.
Just visualise a baby just starting it's first step. It may look clumsy and very unconvincing whether he can move on to take the next. But every good parents will know that it's important to cheer the kid on every step of the way. Similar for us when we are adults. We tend to put away the 'cheers' and celebrations when we did something right. And probably the asian mentally which often accredited all these things to luck. Learn to give yourself a pat and pamper yourself with some things for the right things you've done. The journey is still long. Learn to every small hurdle you've cross thus far.
4) Prepare yourself for the next challenges ahead.
Don't dwell on past victories for too long. Yes, as mentioned in previous points, we should celebrate the wins in our life. But people do tends to fall into comfort zone if they are not careful. In the example of corporate world. IBM use to be the market leader in PC industry experiencing success in manufacturing of CPUs. However as success leads to complacency in many of the managers in leaders in the company. When the era of notebooks, new technologies. IBM refuse to make new changes which they use to and as a results, many companies overtook them such as dell, apple etc and they end up having to do a lot of chasing work. Hence be quick to anticipate next changes in your life!
Rgds Alvin
1) Access your situation.
If you are willing to take some time to look into your problem or obstacles you faced, you'll realise that it's not that bad after all. Many a times when we face problems in life. We always choose to hide it or to run away from it. When things are not tackled at the level when it is created. It'll snowball and escalate to a bigger problem at a later stage. Don't let it have a chance to run lose. Learn to acertain the problem immediately it arises.
2) Don't try to repeat the methods that doesn't work!
Someone once say this. It is insanity to do things repeatedly and expecting different results. When a problem occur in our limited mind, we tends to start off by using the easiest, effortless methods to solve our problems. The method may have helped us solved easier problems in the past. However as times goes by, the 'enemy' or problems gets bigger and it'll be difficult to use the former methods to deal with it. Solutions? UPGRADE YOUR STRATEGIES!
3) Learn to celebrate each small step you take.
Just visualise a baby just starting it's first step. It may look clumsy and very unconvincing whether he can move on to take the next. But every good parents will know that it's important to cheer the kid on every step of the way. Similar for us when we are adults. We tend to put away the 'cheers' and celebrations when we did something right. And probably the asian mentally which often accredited all these things to luck. Learn to give yourself a pat and pamper yourself with some things for the right things you've done. The journey is still long. Learn to every small hurdle you've cross thus far.
4) Prepare yourself for the next challenges ahead.
Don't dwell on past victories for too long. Yes, as mentioned in previous points, we should celebrate the wins in our life. But people do tends to fall into comfort zone if they are not careful. In the example of corporate world. IBM use to be the market leader in PC industry experiencing success in manufacturing of CPUs. However as success leads to complacency in many of the managers in leaders in the company. When the era of notebooks, new technologies. IBM refuse to make new changes which they use to and as a results, many companies overtook them such as dell, apple etc and they end up having to do a lot of chasing work. Hence be quick to anticipate next changes in your life!
Rgds Alvin
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Matters of the Mind - Values
Hi,
Before this blog turns into a white elephant, let me add on something that i learned recently to this new post.
Life is like a marathon race. You'll see a lot of people at the starting point but few at the finishing line. It is always easy to start things, but hardest is to follow it through. Many people want to achieve great things in life. But the moment they start, they began to see the pain of disciplining themselves to do the necesssary things to reach their goals. Think about setting goal to lose weight by going to gym, or to save up a sum of money at certain age.
Indeed key to success lies in the areas of discipline. Nothing comes easily in life. If your goal is something easy to achieve, most likely the goal is not something that is really important to you. Set an audacious but realistic goal and set your heart to complete it. Someone once said, it's not the matter of where is the destination, but the journey that you are going through. Through the journey, we see our characters being develop. Through the mountains and the valleys, you begin to see your capacitiy being stretch, a wider perspective of what life is all about.
Recently i heard a powerful message about values. Values are important to every individual. It's what we call the makeup of a person. You are judged by the values you hold dearly to your heart. A person, other than the outer shell of the person and how he/she sounds, what distinguishn him/her would be the values that one holds. For example, I can say John is an honest person because he was never seen doing things against his integrity or there is a specific incident whereby he was tempted to be dishonest, but he stood firm.
Values will determine the decisions we make in life. Most of us learnt values from people that are close to us when we are young, either our parents, teachers, close relatives and sources like media, magazines, internet etc.
Value is like a seed that is planted in a person. It takes time to cultivate them but over time it will produce good fruits. Hence it's important to decide at an early stage what values we should embrace in our life. What kind of person do you want to be known for?
I've list down 10 values which i believed is essential for everyone of us. This may not be the complete list. But this should be sufficient for anyone who wants to lay a good foundation of character in life.
1) Loyalty
2) Family
3) Accountability
4) Respect
5) Love
6) Faithfulness
7) Commitment
8) Hardwork
9) Integrity
10) Generosity
To be continued...
Before this blog turns into a white elephant, let me add on something that i learned recently to this new post.
Life is like a marathon race. You'll see a lot of people at the starting point but few at the finishing line. It is always easy to start things, but hardest is to follow it through. Many people want to achieve great things in life. But the moment they start, they began to see the pain of disciplining themselves to do the necesssary things to reach their goals. Think about setting goal to lose weight by going to gym, or to save up a sum of money at certain age.
Indeed key to success lies in the areas of discipline. Nothing comes easily in life. If your goal is something easy to achieve, most likely the goal is not something that is really important to you. Set an audacious but realistic goal and set your heart to complete it. Someone once said, it's not the matter of where is the destination, but the journey that you are going through. Through the journey, we see our characters being develop. Through the mountains and the valleys, you begin to see your capacitiy being stretch, a wider perspective of what life is all about.
Recently i heard a powerful message about values. Values are important to every individual. It's what we call the makeup of a person. You are judged by the values you hold dearly to your heart. A person, other than the outer shell of the person and how he/she sounds, what distinguishn him/her would be the values that one holds. For example, I can say John is an honest person because he was never seen doing things against his integrity or there is a specific incident whereby he was tempted to be dishonest, but he stood firm.
Values will determine the decisions we make in life. Most of us learnt values from people that are close to us when we are young, either our parents, teachers, close relatives and sources like media, magazines, internet etc.
Value is like a seed that is planted in a person. It takes time to cultivate them but over time it will produce good fruits. Hence it's important to decide at an early stage what values we should embrace in our life. What kind of person do you want to be known for?
I've list down 10 values which i believed is essential for everyone of us. This may not be the complete list. But this should be sufficient for anyone who wants to lay a good foundation of character in life.
1) Loyalty
2) Family
3) Accountability
4) Respect
5) Love
6) Faithfulness
7) Commitment
8) Hardwork
9) Integrity
10) Generosity
To be continued...
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