chilling out
It has been a very hectic 2 weeks - teaching classes, youth meetings, song practices, Sam's wedding special preparation (Kenrick and Phui Han thanks alot, you guys are superb!), more song practices and more meetings. Thank God on how He sustained me. I find strength in the midst of tiredness and frustration through praising God and believing He will make a way. There was coughing in the morning of Sam's wedding service, there was unforseen hindrances, there was need for ministry and all the possible energy draining factors but there was God and His unchanging promise that He'll be there with me. And it made the difference. I did alot of stuff that would make people proud of me but it's God who made the difference in what I do. He deserves all the glory and the praise. I'm still tired today, but happy kind of tired. There's also a sense of tension, kind of like a disatisfied feeling within and I know it's there because it's time for me to receive after a long period of giving out. Time to chill out in God's presence.
31 May 2005
24 May 2005
Feminism
Feminism
According to the Pocket Dictionary of Apologetics & Philosophy of Religion, feminism is understood as “A way of thinking that makes the differential experiences of men and women fundamental to its conclusions and methods. Feminists argue that much traditional scholarship in many fields reflects an unconscious male bias, adding that when theorizing takes account of women’s interests and identities, it can help overcome these problems”. It also went on to note: “It is important to distinguish among various forms of feminism, such as liberal feminism, socialist feminism and so-called radical feminism. Though many feminists are stridently anti-Christian and antireligious, some feminists are committed Christians who argue that a concern for women’s well-being is grounded in Christian views of equality.” There is ground for this statement as the Bible advocates women’s welfare and destiny, most notably in Proverbs 31, the book of Ruth and Esther, not forgetting the many incidents reported in the Gospels of lives of women who was touched by Jesus later became ministers. In addition to this, the New Testament records the ministry of female teachers and elders. So feminism shouldn’t be a funny word after all, since it is natural for females to champion concerns for females and it is a historical fact that women in general, had in times past been denied much of the access to self-development and corporate or even political achievement. Much has changed in the last 30 years in which women have been increasingly visible in their contribution and excellence in many fields traditionally heralded by men. Take for example Margaret Thatcher in politics, Mother Teresa in mercy works. Israel, to my surprise, had a female prime minister, Golda Meir in 1969 (she was then 71!) who steered the country in the midst of wars. The following definition of the Reader's Digest Universal Dictionary offers much comfort that feminism is really a positive thing, unless it fell into the hands of the loony: "A social movement that seeks to change the traditional role and image of women, to eliminate sexism, and to heightenm appreciation of the experiences and qualities unique to the female sex."
According to the Pocket Dictionary of Apologetics & Philosophy of Religion, feminism is understood as “A way of thinking that makes the differential experiences of men and women fundamental to its conclusions and methods. Feminists argue that much traditional scholarship in many fields reflects an unconscious male bias, adding that when theorizing takes account of women’s interests and identities, it can help overcome these problems”. It also went on to note: “It is important to distinguish among various forms of feminism, such as liberal feminism, socialist feminism and so-called radical feminism. Though many feminists are stridently anti-Christian and antireligious, some feminists are committed Christians who argue that a concern for women’s well-being is grounded in Christian views of equality.” There is ground for this statement as the Bible advocates women’s welfare and destiny, most notably in Proverbs 31, the book of Ruth and Esther, not forgetting the many incidents reported in the Gospels of lives of women who was touched by Jesus later became ministers. In addition to this, the New Testament records the ministry of female teachers and elders. So feminism shouldn’t be a funny word after all, since it is natural for females to champion concerns for females and it is a historical fact that women in general, had in times past been denied much of the access to self-development and corporate or even political achievement. Much has changed in the last 30 years in which women have been increasingly visible in their contribution and excellence in many fields traditionally heralded by men. Take for example Margaret Thatcher in politics, Mother Teresa in mercy works. Israel, to my surprise, had a female prime minister, Golda Meir in 1969 (she was then 71!) who steered the country in the midst of wars. The following definition of the Reader's Digest Universal Dictionary offers much comfort that feminism is really a positive thing, unless it fell into the hands of the loony: "A social movement that seeks to change the traditional role and image of women, to eliminate sexism, and to heightenm appreciation of the experiences and qualities unique to the female sex."
20 May 2005
automatic blog post generator... anyone?
automatic blog post generator... anyone?
This is mind bogging. An automatic blog post generator "for those too busy or too empty to write" and it generates entries randomly, you only have to pick the one you like and post it on your blog. If you really suffer the writer's block, do what the writers do - take a break! Later, when you're regained yourself, return to write, that is if you're serious about blogging. If not, just scrap the whole thing and you don't have to worry about not updating this and that. I think your blog is good enough reason to be authentic as it has lots to say about you. OKla, I'm getting a scapegoat to be crappy over with, if this makes you feel better but I just don't agree with people masquerading around. Ain't no false face in real life, ain't no such pretending on cyberspace baby!
18 May 2005
I thought he would be techy
I thought he would be techy...
I am surprised to read that John Maxwell, one of the most forefront communicators on leadership today keeps a simple note book that carries a few sections to enable him to note things that might be of interest for him. He calls it his "Travelling Companion" and uses the Travelling Companion for things he decides to apply in his life and to keep life-changing insights he has discovered so he could refer to it every now and then.
What caught my attention was the simplicity of doing important things in a way that works for him - he's a highly respected leader, much sought after speaker and his books sells like Future Net hamburgers (if you stay around my area, you'll understand this), not too difficult to imagine him moving around with mobile communications gadgets marked to the latest state of the art technology. And he could be. PDAs, sleek notebooks and broadband access is really nothing new to be amazed about. In fact, we're getting into a time where if you do not have these, you're considered highly deficient. This is where I find myself respecting him other than being successful - he does the first things first, without waiting. I believe he sees value in the daily lessons of life and he does not allow important information to pass him by. I liked the way he would notice a touching poem from a funeral bulletin and would keep it in his Travelling Companion so he could memorise it. Talk about a love for living. I think there's plenty to learn here.
Start with the fact that he finds no need to be techy when it comes to his life-long interest: learning. I really had a picture of him etched in my head as some guy who talks and thinks technology. But a simple notebook, being handy and available with room to write in, organised, comfy as it is personalised. Most appealing feature to all writers (I think) - it is convenient, and provides a kind of "link" that motivates thinking. Yeah, I can identify with this. It used to be a particular spot in my bedroom, then it changed to be a particular table in the apartment, now it's the single seater by the sunny window downstairs. It's the "right spot" where you know you can still your mind and focus, integrate your thoughts. Then, there's another kind of link. I would call it the "pen-to-paper" link. It would be my favourtie pen in my writing hand, in my peculiar thinking pose and set on the road to reflection, and I need my personalised journal to add the final touch. I find it magical in such moments as thoughts crystalise into ideas and responses, such clarity at a different degree different from other times of the day. I think that is why I love my solitude hours. It's creating a personal space - inner space especially. Once it's there, thinking can be done comfortably wherever it is - on a plane, at a cafe, during a meeting, on the road... the possibilities are endless.
Check out his article and be inspired at www.injoy.com/leadershipwired
12 May 2005
Qoute Bite.. On Courage
Persius
He who endures, conquers.
Euripides
There is courage in a man: to bear unflinchingly what heaven sends.
Plautus
Courage is its own reward
Winston Churchill
If you are going through hell, keep going.
He who endures, conquers.
Euripides
There is courage in a man: to bear unflinchingly what heaven sends.
Plautus
Courage is its own reward
Winston Churchill
If you are going through hell, keep going.
2 May 2005
Snippets On My Break Down Under
Snippets On My Break Down Under
18/04/05 mon
Spent 8 hours walking the streets of Sydney, looking very much like tourists. The weather was splendid and we covered the Darling Harbour, Sydney Acquarium, The Chinese Garden, Queen Victoria’s Building (which by the way, is under the management of IGB – known in Australia as Ipoh Berhad!!), ate at my favourite Japanese restaurant and even met with Soke Ching, a friend of mine who’s trying to settle down in Sydney. We were very tired after such a long day. I dozed off couple of times on the bus to the hotel. Josh left us a welcome basket of fruits, fresh fruit juice, Tim Tams, crackers and cheese – what a warm note of reception. Had very scrumptious Australian burgers for dinner.
19/04/05 Tues
Rode to Sydney again for the favourite Japanese restaurant and visited the shopping arcade next to it. The restaurant guys seem to think we’re Japanese – I gather that they were laughing at the waitress for talking to us in English. I could be wrong, but then it was a funny feeling thinking you’re being mistaken while you’re not.6:45pm Chauffeured to conference venue by a young adult named Gary who was sent by the conference team in replacement of the shuttle bus and who decided to wait for a while longer “just in case”. Praise God he did, if not we’ll be left behind.
It was a slow start for me at the Conference. The not-knowing-what-to-expect feeling was still lingering around. Must have been eating too much. Phenomena kicked started with a bang and bright lights and very contemporary dance presentations and a loud band. Everybody was rocking except my legs, I was tired and dull. I had the privilege to hear Ps Phil Pringle address the first night session, bringing a clear message on commitment till the end – “U Follow Me (Jesus)” John 21:
Regardless of what others do, make the decision to commit to follow Christ, not place and things that do not glorify Him. Deal with things that will eventually destroy our walk with God.
Let Christ lead the way. My level of commitment will be the level where God can shape me.
Living for Christ involves a depth of commitment – lying down my life for His will.
20/04/05 wed
You’re all that I need
All that I see
All that I dream Jesus
I reach out my hands and worship You, Jesus.
Let Your Spirit fall and make me new, more like You.
Into the Deep (Luke 5:1-7)
Deep water = higher risks, <>Touching God (Mark 5:25-32)
Get close to God who will help us get dominion over our situation.
Breakthrough the “untouchables” mindset because with God, we the lesser can touch Him, the greatest.
God is closer to us than we think / realize.
“Reach Out” = in Greek carries meaning to fasten, bind, anchor. Not a soft glide or brush.
The Silence Of The Lambs (Mark 10:46-52)
1. God doesn’t leave us without help – He gives us just what we need to get out breakthrough. (Bartimaeus was blind but he could hear)
2. Spiritual blindness leaves us begging for what others can see.
3. Be bold to do what is rightful to do. Do not allow nay sayers distract us.
4. Do not be polite for the wrong reasons, bounce into action to get our breakthrough.
5. When Jesus calls us to come to Him, He qualifies us to do so and He provides us what we need.
6. Deal with spiritual blindness by throwing it away. Do not get used to what is limiting us or adjust ourselves to it accordingly.
7. Only Jesus has the ability to restore our spiritual blindness.
21/04/05 Thurs
I’m Naked And Lovin’ It (Gen 2:25)
Shame makes us cover up who we really are.
Shame puts distance between us and our dreams.
Shame always leads the blame.
Throw away shame and live passionately for God by drawing close to Him.
Stop blaming – deal with it. Blaming delays breakthrough.
Lethal Weapon 1,2+3
When praise goes up, power comes down.
3 kinds of praise:
Yadah “up lifted hands” – giving our life to God
Halal “Ridiculous praise” – bodily praise, glorifying God with our bodies.
Tahelah “Singing praise” – pierce the heart of worship in song for God
22/04/05 Fri
if you are unteachable, you are unreachable for Christ.
when we are dry, we gather things on us that might not be good attitude or good spirit. When we are soaked running over with God’s anointing oil, nothing ugly can latch on to us.
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