2010 ~ Jf Kinetics

On this day, God wants you to know...

I see a lot of this on Facebook. And by just reading through them it gives us the lift we need for the day. Whether you're glad or unhappy, the words are just so comforting. Some people might ask, "what's with those words that upon reading or hearing them we experience joy and peace in our hearts?"

In the recent NY Times news article (you may check this link out), the honorable Mr.Lee (the first Prime Minister of Singapore) said in a statement that though he's not a believer, he finds the sounds soothing -- referring to the phrase from St. Paul’s first epistle to the Corinthians that he uses to calm himself by reciting them in his meditation.

If our body needs be fed to keep us physically fit and help us get through the day, I believe same is true with our spirituality. When Jesus fasted for several days the tempter came to Him, when He was hungry the enemy asked Him to turn the stone into bread. What was His response? Well, He didn't give in to the enemy's lies, instead He simply replied...

"It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' (Matthew.4.4.NIV)

We see the need of everyone for a daily dose of encouragement. And I believe God's word is the best source that is readily available. It is living and active, online 24x7 as we term it in modern days. So why wait for the time that we're in dire need before we seek Him if we can talk to Him anytime and anywhere? God wants to talk to us. He's been longing for us. He's always there for us. He even knows our concerns. Conversing with God shouldn't be complicated. As Paul encourages us..

"Do not worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus" (Phil.4:6-7.NLT)

Lord, thank you that you are our Wonderful Councelor, a Great Provider. Thank you that through your Word we see life, we get encouraged, we get reminded of Your faithfulness, and most importantly we get to hear You personally in our hearts. Teach us to become more sensitive in hearing You, O Lord, as you speak to us in various ways and thru Your written words. Help us to learn to acknowledge You in everything we do. And thank you for the assurance that you will never forsake nor leave us... that you long to prosper us. Thank you for your love and for teaching us to love other people. In your sweet name Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Thanks for reading. God bless y'all!

People Need The Lord
Artist: Steve Green / Gary Valenciano (revival)

Everyday they pass me by,
I can see it in their eyes.
Empty people filled with care,
Headed who knows where?

On they go through private pain,
Living fear to fear.
Laughter hides their 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 seems 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 peo-ple need the Lord.

People need the Lord.

[+/-]

Hangin' tough..

I was reading through my old blog this morning in my multiply page (which I copy-pasted below) and I was reminded of God's faithfulness thru this verse..

"The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving" (Ps.28.7.NLT)

It's always a blessing reading through God's word... truly, it's a good source of encouragement :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Tough times don't last, but tough people do!"

What a pretty strong and motivating words from an optimist. I found this line in one of the books I’m reading currently. This phrase allow us to move forward and give us the courage to overcome any obstacles.

I remember when the Apostle John wrote about what Jesus have said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world.”

Jesus is an overcomer! He is indeed “tough” for He overcome the world! Imagine the rejections, the persecutions, the bruises and all the pains He experienced (which He didn’t deserved but He endured anyway because of His love for us), He surpassed all of them! Some skeptics might argue, “of course he can engage himself into that because he is God or at least he claims to be God.”

Well yes, God’s power alone is incomprehensible (Please read through Psalm 145:3/Isaiah 55:8-9). What’s striking about what Jesus had stated is that He conquered the hardest phase in His life without any Godly powers. He lived like one of us (remember Jesus was the Word and the Word become flesh). Knowing that He went through so much torture during His last days here on earth, the kind of torture that neither of us would be willing to undergo nor we’d be able to withstand, He alone have triumphed over these whole ordeal! You can almost hear the pain, we as humans are likely to feel if we’re on the same situation, when he cried out “Father, why hast thou forsaken me?”

Yes tough times don’t last and they are part of this world we're living in. But tough people do! If you watch Fear Factor, Amazing Race, and even the funny “I survived the Japanese Game Show,” their common challenge is.. "will you be tough enough to survive?"

Can we imitate Jesus in trying times? That if we pray to take the cup of difficulties away from us, are we able to pray as well that if it’s God’s will then let His will be done?

Dear Father, we know that tribulations are bound to happen, but we also believe that they are just temporary. Allow us to see these challenges as opportunities. The opportunity to become a strong-willed individual, and the opportunity to draw us closer to you, knowing that you are the source of our strength and in you comes perfect peace. For your power is made perfect when we are weak.

God bless y'all! c",)

[+/-]

Rainy Tuesday

Nonetheless, a blessed day :)

It may look a li'l gloomy outside but it is during this time that we get to really, i mean really, enjoy small things like a piece of bread dipped in a hot cup of coffee (or hot milo as others would prefer to have it), or an extended time tucked in a blanket on a nippy tuesday morning.

I actually don't like rainy days, but thinking how it turned the muggy warm weather we had the past few days into a chilly atmosphere has allowed me to just be simply thankful for the day.

Each day is diff'rent from the other. We could be most of the time happy, yet we may sometime brush through gloomy days. I believe as we approach each day with optimism, it'll certainly stir a thankful heart as we conclude our day. And what happens if we have a thankful heart? We sing praises to God. Ü

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." (Col.3:15-16)

I'm inspired to share today's devotional, pls see below.

Thanks for reading and God bless y'all!

- Jep c",)

Today's Devotion

March 23

Encourage Each Other

I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong-that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith (Romans 1:11,12).

Scripture: Romans 1:8-15

Song: "Blest Be the Tie That Binds"

When a friend shared her heart-breaking trial with me, I was amazed at her strong faith. "Don't you ever get discouraged?" I asked.

"Of course," she replied. "That's why I need to keep in close contact with my Savior through prayer and reading the Bible. I also stay connected to my church, which lifts my spirit. And I thank God for the gift of my Christian friends. Their faith gives me strength, as well."

She then pointed to the apostle Paul, who was a spiritual father to numerous individuals and church groups throughout Asia. He had such a positive faith and was a constant encourager to others, even though he, like all of us, was subject to discouragement at times. That's why he longed to visit the believers everywhere. It's what nourished his faith and brought him joy.

"We all deal with problems too heavy to bear alone," my friend added. "If Paul needed to constantly talk to God and seek the company and encouragement of other Christians to bolster his faith . . . how much
more do I?"

O Lord my God, thank You for the gift of Your presence, Your Word, and Your people-all of which nourish my faith. May I always praise You, even in trying circumstances. In Christ's name, I pray. Amen.

(This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions)

[+/-]

More Love To Thee..

[+/-]

PhotoTech+Devotional: Good Ehh!

Meanwhile in a board meeting:

CEO:"Okay folks, you're in a board meeting so there's no excuse for you to get bored. C'mon, I need you to suggest any new products we can offer"
Creative Staff1:"How about mobile phones?!?"
CEO:"Bright idea! As if none of us have thought of that. Besides, Mr.Jobs seem to have permeated the mobile phone industry with his i..iProducts. I'm beginning to think he produced and directed the movie iRobot. Anyway, any other ideas?"
Creative Staff2:"Digital Cameras! ...sounds good ehh?"

Have you noticed that most electronics manufacturing companies nowadays are jumping into either digital cameras or mobile phone business? You might've heard of GE's digital cameras before. Yes, you read it right.. GE, your flourescent lamp and/or your fridge' brand. This company has unveiled more digital camera lines.

Here's one of 'em.

(image courtesy of GIC)

Well, competition among digital electronics manufacturers could mean a wide array of great new products to choose from :)

Hooray for modern tech! hehe, actually I'm talking about the devotion I read this morning. Check it out below. God bless y'all!

- Jep c",)

Today's Devotion

March 10

Hooray for Modern Technology!

Sing for joy, O heavens, for the Lord has done this; shout aloud, O earth beneath. Burst into song, you mountains, you forests and all your trees, for the Lord has redeemed Jacob, he displays his glory in Israel (Isaiah 44:23).

Scripture: Isaiah 44:21-28

Song: "Shout to the Lord"

We know people misuse the Internet-looking at the wrong things, talking to the wrong people. But it's great to use our computers for good things, isn't it? Many of us conduct business from our homes through the Internet. Research is simplified. We can buy and sell. And e-mail helps us stay in close touch with loved ones.

It's exciting, as well, to use computers to enjoy the magnificent things God is doing. Some churches and radio programs broadcast their services live, shows that can also be accessed later through video archives.

I love using the Internet to see what God is doing in churches all over the world. Using Google, I access God-tube and You-tube to see church worship teams playing a variety of music. I sing and worship with them. Mime and drama teams perform gospel truths right on my screen.

As with most everything God has created or allowed, it can be used for the good or the not-so-good. Computers are no exception. Let us use them for the glory of God.

Thank You, Lord, for the wonderful opportunities the Internet provides. May I use it only for good purposes, promoting the values of Your kingdom and growing in knowledge of Your will. Through Christ, amen.

(This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions)

[+/-]

The Purifier and the Lid

I have here in the office this nice white mug that I use solely for drinking water. And to prevent any unwanted particles from hopping in, making my mug their private pool, I bought a ceramic cup lid that fits just right. But even with this cover on, albeit the water's been purified, there's no guarantee that my drink will remain clean and pure. Still, it's comforting to know that I'm taking in safe drinking water. Water-purifiers and refilling stations sprouted because there's a need for us to ensure that the H2O we are consuming everyday stays clean.

Purification and protection are both God's desire for us. I'm not perfect, neither anybody else. So I believe there's a need for us to constantly allow God to purify us. If we try to look at the "purifier" as the Word of God and the "lid" as God's protection thru our prayers, as we meditate daily on His word and converse with Him in prayer, we can be confident that we're being cleansed and always protected. :)

Create in me a clean heart, O God,
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from Your presence
And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of Your salvation
And sustain me with a willing spirit (Ps.51:10.12.NASB)

Have a fine Tuesday! God bless Ü

Ciao! c",)

Hiding Place
Artist: Jars of Clay
Album: Redemption Songs

Amidst the sorrows of the way
Lord Jesus, teach my soul to pray
Let me taste Thy special grace
And run to Christ, my hiding place

You know the vileness of my heart
So prone to act the rebel's part
And when You veil Your lovely face
How can I find a hiding place

Hiding place, hiding place

Lord, guide my wandering feet
Draw me to Thy mercy seat
I've nought to trust but sovereign grace
Thou only art my hiding place

How unstable is my heart
Sometimes I take the tempter's part
And slight the tokens of Thy grace
And seem to want no hiding place

Hiding place, hiding place

But when Thy spirit shines within
Makes me feel the plague of sin
And how I long to see Thy face
'Tis then I want a hiding place

Lord Jesus, shine and then I can
Feel sweetness in salvation's plan
And as a sinner plead for grace
Christ, the sinner's hiding place
And as a sinner plead for grace
Christ, the sinner's hiding place

[+/-]

RSF

[+/-]

PhotoTech: Delilah's true love.. Samsung TL 500

Another breed of high-caliber compact digital camera was seen enticing tech-geeks and photo-enthusiasts at PMA 2010 held at Anaheim Convention Center last month. A worthy LX3 contender I must say, as it sports a wide angle and ultra bright lens @ f/1.8 (Canon and Panasonic are probably raising their eyebrows now since both their products, S90 and LX3 respectively, can only go as fast as f/2.0 aperture). The new Samsung TL 500 is a high-end digital compact camera with PSAM modes -- the functionality that you'd normally find in SLR cameras. It'll be officially out in the market second quarter of this year ('got this release timing info from Samsung's website).

So how is it compared with the tough pocket-able rivals? ..the prevailing & dynamic LX3 and the undaunted S90, that is.

Okay, allow me to pull the tech specs of these two from my previous blog and line up this new TL500 with 'em.

Effective Pixels
LX3 : 10.1 megapixel
S90 : 10.0 megapixel
TL500: 10.0 megapixel

Sensor Size
LX3 : 1/1.63" CCD
S90 : 1/1.70" CCD
TL500: 1/1.70” CCD

Lens Type/Build
LX3 : Leica DC Vario-Summicron Lens
S90 : Canon Lens-Shift System
TL500: Schneider-Kreuznach Varioplan Lens

Aperture
LX3 : f/2.0 (Wide); f/2.8 (Tele)
S90 : f/2.0 (Wide); f/4.9 (Tele)
TL500: f/1.8 (Wide); f/2.4 (Tele)

Focal Length
LX3 : 5.1-12.8mm (35mm equivalent: 24-60mm)
S90 : 6.0-22.5mm (35mm equivalent: 28-105mm)
TL500: 5.2-15.6mm (35mm equivalent: 24-72mm)

Optical Zoom Factor
LX3 : 2.5x
S90 : 3.8x
TL500: 3.0x

Continuous Shooting Speed (in FramesPerSecond)
LX3 : 2.5 FPS
S90 : 0.9 FPS
TL500: not mentioned

Image Stabilization Tech
LX3 : MEGA Optical Image Stabilization System
S90 : Optical Image Stabilizer System
TL500: Dual Image Stabilization System (Optical and Software)

Macro Focusing Range
LX3 : Wide 1cm
S90 : Wide 5-50cm
TL500: not mentioned

Built-in Flash
S90 : Yes
LX3 : Yes
TL500: Yes

External Flash Compatibility
LX3 : Yes, via standard hotshoe
S90 : Nil
TL500: Yes, via standard hotshoe

ISO Sensitivity
LX3 : Auto / 80 - 3200
S90 : Auto / 80 - 3200
TL500: Auto / 80 - 3200

Shutter Speed
LX3 : 60 - 1/2000 sec. (for Manual Mode, while PSA Modes varies)
S90 : 15 - 1/1600 sec. (only for Shutter Priority and Manual Mode)
TL500: not mentioned

Image Recording format
LX3 : JPG, RAW
S90 : JPG, RAW
TL500: JPG, RAW

Video Recording
LX3 : HD 1280x720p
S90 : Standard VGA
TL500: Standard VGA

Basing on the TL500 specs, apart from those details which are not mentioned anywhere yet, i.e burst speed and macro focusing range, I think this digital snapper will be very snappy in terms of delivering good quality image. It is slimmer than LX3 and almost the same size as S90. And it's in black! So what if it's black? Well, you know, black-colored devices have that professional look and they're more elegant. Anyhow, let's see if the numbers and all other features up there will translate to what we should be expecting from this newcomer.

TGIF! God bless y'all.

Ciao! c",)

[+/-]

What a computer and a man ought to say...

[+/-]

RED: Luck or Love?

I just read today in yahoo news why the color "RED" symbolizes luck. (I saw the news article earlier, but I dunno why it was removed. Actually they just put up a link to this article from Yahoo!Answers)

Some people may find it interesting and enlightening particularly those who are more than curious about how certain things came to be. It's a cultural belief that anybody may find easy to embrace especially if their ancestors were following the same traditions.. if it's in their bloodline, so to speak. While others wouldn't even care about such -- they'll just accept and follow because it's the norm.

Red is a very strong & passionate color. It may represent love or perhaps connote conflict. Red is the color of successful Singapore. We see a lot of red-colored items in February, as well as during Decemeber. Red is also the color of our blood -- and we know same is true even if you have royal blood :)
In scripture we'll find a very significant story (yes, not from any tales nor legends) about a blood that has been shed for us. A blood of the covenant. A blood of love.

Matthew 26:28 says, "For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remmision of sins"

So, would you bank on luck in finding life and success? Or would you rather be guided by His love and naturally receive abundance?

Which would you rather declare, "I must've been very lucky I survived that ordeal," or "I'm protected, loved, and blessed I survived that agonizing test"

I believe things happen for a reason. In John 9:1-3 we'll find this story,
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.

God created us in His own image and likeness, by His grace and faithfulness. We're here NOT out of chance, but of love.. unconditional love :)

Try to think of any phrase, title of a song, or a name that has the word "red" and replace it with either "luck" or "love." Which of the two sounds better? =)

God bless y'all! Ciao! c",)

Here's an interesting read: What about Luck(?)

Faithful and True
Artist: Marc Taylor & Jennine Henderson

I know the thoughts that You think towards me.
Thoughts of peace and not of evil.
You sent Your Son to die for me.
To be my future and my hope.

Lord You are faithful, and I will call to You.
You're always there when I need You.
And in this life, when the world falls down,
Lord You alone are faithful and true.

Jesus said "I go to prepare a place,
That you could always be with Me.
And when I come back,
I'll take you home, for all eternity."

Lord You are faithful, and I will call to You.
You're always there when I need You.
And in this life, when the world falls down,
Lord You alone are faithful and true.

You will wipe away all my tears.
Dry my eyes and calm my fears.
This is the promise that you have made,
When the former things have passed away.

Lord You are faithful, and I will call to You.
You're always there when I need You.
And in this life, when the world falls down,
Lord You alone are faithful and true.

[+/-]

Happy Red Day! c",)

It's amazing how GPS in mobile phones has greatly improved and continues to advance. With this modern technology we have no reason to get lost. We can even plan our route, and some far advanced devices can give us information such as the flow of traffic and/or petrol, banks, & store locations.

Such tool, and other technological inventions, exist because tech achitechs painstakingly believed it can be done. Yes, anything you can think of nowadays seems possible, mostly in terms of tech doodads.

Thinking all things are possible is agreeable, but believing it.. is notewothy. It's the kind of faith God is expecting from us. In Mark 11:23, Jesus talks about this (you can find the verse quoted in the devotional I attached below). May our sweet and mighty Savior strengthen you everyday. With God all things are possible :)

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God." (Mark 10:27)

TGIF!
Happy weekend, V-day, and CNY everyone! :)

- Jep c",)

Today's Devotion

February 12

Moving Mountains

I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, "Go, throw yourself into the sea," and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him (Mark 11:23).

Scripture: Mark 11:20-25

Song: "Faith Grasps the Blessing"

I once saw a bumper sticker that said, "I'm not lost; I'm exploring." I had to laugh, because I related so well. Call it what you will, the truth is that I get lost very easily. Thankfully, I live within view of the Rocky Mountains. Just knowing they loom to the west is often enough for me to get my sense of direction squared away.

Some days, however, when a storm moves in, I can't see the mountains. The view in any direction looks the same. I'm without my compass.

When Jesus taught His disciples about prayer, He told them they could move mountains. Frankly, those words frighten me. I need my mountains. How else will I know where I am?

The answer, of course, is that I will be right where God wants me to be. I will be more dependent on Him, more trusting of His guidance, more reliant on Him for the next step. I wonder sometimes why we fail to pray for the mountains in our lives to move. Is it because they give us a sense of security, and we're afraid to let go?

Lord, You know the mountains looming in my life right now. Help me look only to You for guidance as I climb. In Jesus' name, amen.

(This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions)

[+/-]

Pssst! c",)

It's funny how almost everyone tends to look around when somebody goes "pssst." It is really an attention grabber. And when someone calls out our name and we recognize the voice, we look around immediately for that person.

How do we recognize someone's voice?
I believe it's when we've established some sort of bond with the person. The moment you hear a familiar tone, it links up and searches through the address book embedded in your brain. And that familiar voice also connects to your heart, which in turn will send the type of emoticon your face will display :)

In other words, it's our relationship with someone that enable us to quickly identify their voices. Same is true in terms of hearing from God, it's our relationship with Him that will allow us to easily recognize His voice.

Quoting from Ps.Kenneth's preaching yesterday..

"When we walk with God with intimacy His will becomes our will."

Isn't that amazing? Some of us desperately search for God's will for our lives, but God is simply saying, "Be still, and know that I am God" (Ps46:10)

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with Me." (Rev3:20)

Have a blissful week everyone!

- Jep c",)

Today's Devotion

February 8

Listen Up!

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me (John 10:27).

Scripture: John 10:22-30

Song: "The Shepherd of Love"

Our little flock of black-faced sheep always came running when we called. Whether we were standing at the fence with a treat or calling them in for the night, when they heard us, they came. They knew us, and we knew them. We knew Rosie, with her beautiful eyes; Dinger, with his warning bell; Old Mamie, with her bony back. They were a flock, but they were individuals too.

It is no accident that Jesus calls us His sheep. Sheep may throw their heads around and act tough and independent, but without someone caring for them-providing for their basic needs, keeping them safe from danger-they will not survive long. Their dependency, however, is part of what makes them so lovable. One word from the shepherd, and they know that all is well.

Do you know the sound of Jesus' voice? Does it seem distant and hard to hear? Or is it near and familiar? A sheep's job is simple: listen to the shepherd. What is the Shepherd saying to you today?

Lord, sometimes I don't listen very well. My mind wanders as a sheep wanders, nibbling here and there. Teach me to listen, to recognize Your voice above all others. In Your precious name I pray. Amen.

(This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions)

[+/-]

Goodah c",)

[+/-]

He wants what's Best :)

We sometimes hear these remarks,

"I don't deserve this"
"I'm not worthy of this"
"he/she is just too perfect for me"
"I'm not qualified for that job"

I remember when I was first applying for a job, a young man seated next to me waiting for his turn to be interviewed asked me, "what position are you applying for?" To which I replied, "just the entry level post, this is my first attempt so I hope they'll consider me."
After inquiring about the degree I took he then challenged me by asking, "why don't you apply for the second level post? If they feel you're unqualified for that then you'll always have the entry level position to apply for." I gazed at this young man and inquired, "may I ask which post are you applying for?" He smiled and replied, "PM"

I pondered about what he said when I reached home. I knew there's a reason why I'm seated next to that guy, why he chose to chat with me, and why he challenged me. I was thankful to God that day and have asked Him for guidance & courage as I prepare for my next interview.

We can easily gauge our own capabilities because we know our physical and mental capacity. But what do you think causes us think less of ourselves sometimes? Perhaps the fear of failure? Being less prepared? Or maybe we just need a li'l push, words of encouragement, to take the next step that we know in ourselves we can in the first place. At times when I lack the courage to take the next step, I try to lift myself up to Him instead. Because I believe, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song." (Psalm28:7).

As we seek Him for guidance and strength in whatever circumstances, He will surely direct our paths for He wants what's best for us! (pls see Jeremiah29:11 and Psalm37:4)

Today's Devotion

January 28

God's Way Is Best

In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:6, New American Standard Bible).

Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-12

Song: "I Know Whom I Have Believed"

In the records of Judah's kings, Hezekiah stands out as one of the few good kings. He tore down the places of idol worship and reformed their spiritual festivals. He followed the commandments of God and did not make alliances with pagan nations.

If you tour historical sites in Israel, your guide will most likely include Hezekiah's tunnel. It was built as a provision and a defense. To prevent the armies of Assyria from getting a needed water supply, Hezekiah built the tunnel to divert the Gihon Springs, making it flow into Jerusalem at the Pool of Siloam.

The remarkable part of this undertaking was that crews worked from both ends and met in the middle. They made only a few false turns, for the work was guided by the men shouting to each other through the rock.

You can't call the tunnel "straight," because of the twisted layout. But the work was done right. Could it be because of how Hezekiah "acknowledged" his God in righteous living? So . . . how is God guiding your own paths these days?

Holy Spirit, continue to be my true guide. Although my life takes its twists and turns, I depend on You to keep me straight. I trust not in my own understanding, but in Your truth. Through Christ, amen.

(This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions)

- Jep c",)

[+/-]

They will know...

It all boils down to one.. i.e. Love :)

Jesus, when asked which is the greatest commandment, gave this answer.. "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matt 22:36-39)

Yes, it's easy to pour out our love to someone we already love, yet it's difficult to love those who have offended or hurt us. But God placed strong emphasis on the importance of loving, that He even instructed us to love our enemies, as recorded in Matthew 5:44.

And here's a good reminder.. I like these verses...

"My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart." (Prov 3.1-3)

"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." (1Cor13.13)

God's message for me today is coupled with an old worship song revived by my favorite band, Jars of Clay. Allow me to share them with you...

They'll Know We Are Christians By Our Love
Artist: Jars of Clay

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that our unity will one day be restored
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yeah they'll know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side
We will work with each other, we will work side by side
And we'll guard each man's dignity and save each man's pride
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yeah, they'll know we are Christians by our love.

Today's Devotion

January 22

On Loving and Praying

I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44, New American Standard Bible).

Scripture: Matthew 5:43-48

Song: "They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love"

The meeting was called to order. The question: Should we continue having Sunday evening worship services? Attendance was low, so we were considering home Bible study groups instead. A vote was taken: Sunday night church would continue.

The man sitting behind me bristled. The decision didn't please him, and he didn't hold back his feelings. (I thought about telling him he needed a serious attitude adjustment, but I kept quiet.)

I couldn't forget about his comments. The next time he taught Sunday school, I thought: How can you preach to me about holiness?

I held onto my contempt, though, until God showed me that I was the one sinning. Jesus said, "Love your enemies," but I was holding a grudge against my brother in Christ. Jesus said, "Pray for those who persecute you," but I wasn't even praying for a man who had been kind to me. I realized I'd never be able to love my enemies, if I couldn't even love those who were more than willing to be a friend.

Dear Lord, please bring to my mind those whom You would like me to love, and for whom I ought to pray. In this way, may I become more like You, through the inner workings of Your Spirit. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions.

[+/-]

Don't stray.. don't ever go away...

I've been hangin' around this time in the corner... hehe, LSS.

I'm still waiting for my boss to check the task I submitted yesterday. Meanwhile, allow me to share what God has reminded me today...

----------------------------------------------------

It's amazing and quite exciting to see how technology advances, agree? And sometimes we find ourselves being lured by these latest techs (usually housed in a soap-like shiny plastic with tiny buttons) that we even wish to own one, though what we currently hold still meets our basic needs (ouch! I must say, haha).

Or, there may be times when we get overturned by something and we wanted to just avoid exposing ourselves to what had caused our distressed.

Two strong emotions, excited and upset; the former might lead us to focus on one thing while the latter might cause us to change our course. I remember asking someone when I was a child, "why do they put blinders on race horses? And the plain answer is, to keep 'em from looking sideways & keep their heads pointed in straight direction. So even the 4-legged creature needs to be guided by this so-called "blinders" so they don't lose focus towards the direction their master wants 'em to go.

Which direction are we looking now? Was there anything that stirred our emotions to be disappointed or perhaps be very excited about? How has these affected our focus? And the most important question is, are we fixing our eyes onto something rather than on Jesus? These are just general questions and I'm blessed to read today's devotion because it reminded me of these things. There are a lot of things in this world that can either draw our attention or can cause distractions, and it could be a struggle to some. But if we know to whom we should be fixing our eyes on to, then I believe we'll never sway, reyt? =)

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1,2)

God bles y'all!

- Jep c",)

Today's Devotion

January 20

Keep Your Eyes on Him

But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" (Matthew 14:30, New American Standard Bible).

Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33

Song: "Turn Your Eyes upon Jesus"

Imagine how much more fun Peter could have had in his water-walking experience. If he would have kept his eyes on Jesus, he could have walked directly into his master's happy embrace. But Peter didn't keep his eyes on Jesus. He turned to his left and saw the crashing waves. He jerked to the right at the sound of the howling wind-and he began to sink.

I sometimes do something similar. It seems the longer I pray for a certain thing, the harder it is for me to trust God with it. Doubts come in waves, crashing into my confidence. And I begin to sink, questioning the very thing I believe most: Does God really answer prayer? Will He ever answer mine?

After studying today's Scripture, I realized that doubts only come when I focus on my dire circumstances rather than the power of my Savior. Doubts fill my mind every time I take my eyes off the Lord of all. O, how much more fun when I keep my eyes on Jesus!

Almighty and ever-living God, forgive me for sometimes looking away from You, sinking into worry and doubt. Please, quickly grab my attention every time I look in the wrong direction. In the name of Jesus, Lord and Savior of all, I pray. Amen.

(This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions.)

[+/-]

Be Thou Near To Me

[+/-]

Talking to God

Yay, this is my first post this 2010 :) Happy New Year!

Hmmm, I couldn't think of anything to write.. perhaps I'll just share with you what God has revealed to me in Today's Devotion.

I have learned that communication is one of the keys in building a stronger, fireproof relationship. It also bridges the gap when your families, your partner, or your friends are in distant places. Sending them a warm hello today will surely stretch their face muscles and draw a smile. Likewise, a daily talk to God brings us more closer to Him. Seeking the Lord Almighty for guidance in everything we say or do, certainly God will do His part. Communication and prayer, they're synonymous. So let's communicate more with our loved ones and spend more time as well talking to our sweet Savior :)

God bless you all!

c",)

Today's Devotion:

January 13

The Power of Prayer

Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord,
"Remember, O Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with
wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes." And
Hezekiah wept bitterly (2 Kings 20:2, 3).

Scripture: 2 Kings 20:1-7

Song: "The Weapon of Prayer"

"One thing I know: God is still on the throne, and prayer changes
things." A youth minister at a Denver church spoke those words more
than once. I always liked that phrase, and furthermore, I believe he
was speaking a great truth.

Hezekiah surely knew this truth. After all, the 20th chapter of 2
Kings beautifully illustrates the power of prayer, the value of
heartfelt petition. The king lingered at death's door-until he prayed.
Then God had mercy and granted 15 more years of life.

Over and over in God's Word we see examples of the power of prayer.
When Nehemiah encountered opposition, he added prayer to his own
defense (see Nehemiah 4:9). And in the New Testament, Peter
miraculously escaped from prison because the church was "earnestly
praying to God for him" (Acts 12:5).

When has God answered your prayers? Why not make a list? And may God
encourage your heart as you remember all the times He has proved
surpassingly faithful.

Lord, You know my needs even before I ask, and You know what is best
for me. Thank You for Your faithful answers to prayer. In Jesus' name,
amen.

This devotion is from the book, 365 Devotions

On this day, God wants you to know...

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Kung Gusto Mo..

Go Philippines For It!

Just let me say this, O Lord...

Rainy Tuesday

More Love To Thee..

PhotoTech+Devotional: Good Ehh!

The Purifier and the Lid

RSF

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What a computer and a man ought to say...

RED: Luck or Love?

Happy Red Day! c",)

Pssst! c",)

Goodah c",)

He wants what's Best :)

They will know...

Don't stray.. don't ever go away...

Be Thou Near To Me

Talking to God

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