Kingdom Discussion 14 Facing Realities of Life

To live victoriously in life, we must first be able to face up with realities of life. The first of which is the co-existence of good and evil in this world. God has His own plan to deal with the evil here. We just have to accept and live righteously and wisely in the mean time looking forward to that great day. One principle of life is "Good Fit or Matching" - between oneself and the environment, between job and the person, between God and man and man with one another. Another principle is to know who to be fruitful in this world of theft, pressure and temptations. It is only when we are fully committed to the practicing of God's words against theft, pressure and luring away that we may be fruitful. 

Continued from Kingdom Discussion 13 Battle for Your Mind, we discussed "Facing Realities of Life". The map-mind below gave the main topics and the questions to be discussed. Please attempt the questions first and then compare with the answers that we discussed. You may be able to learn more and better.

The Outlines and Questions:

1. Co-Existence of Good & Bad

Many people challenge us with the question, "If there is a good and powerful God, how come there are evil in this world?". Jesus told the parable of the wheat and tares to give us the answer. Here is the mind-map:

2. The Principle of Good Fit - Matching of Wine and Skin

The answer to living successfully in life is to find the good fit between oneself and the environment, between the job and the person, between the tools and the uses. Extending this concept of a Good-Fit, man should live harmoniously with his creator God and with one another, and man with the environment that provides for his living. Here is the mind-map:

3. Optimizing the Outcome - Same Seed yet Different Fruitfulness

In the parable of the Sower, we find the seeds being planted in different environments and resulting in different fruitfulness. We can see the challenges of life in this parable - the stealing, the pressure, the temptations and the real hard work of living out God's words. Here is the mind-map that summarized the parable:

The answers to the questions are found here:

See also Bible Study John 15:1-8 Vine & Fruits - Keys to Success. 

Application in our workplace:

Note: The group has decided to take a break from these discussions on "The Kingdom Laws and Principles". We shall be studying on the Book of Daniel and then come back to this topic again in the future.

Lim Liat (C) 24 March 2012

A Concise Theology for Christians in One Verse

A friend sent an eMail with the title "A concise Theology for Christians" pointing a to post titled "Gateway". But the post contains many pages. It triggers me to see if we can come out with a truly short and concise Theology for Christians.

After some consideration, I think the best is still John 3:16:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life [ESV].

1. Theology of God.
• God is LOVE. God did not create the world and left it to run its own. He take care of it.
• LOVE is expressed in action of GIVING your very best - His only SON.
• GIVING to open the door way for the lost and separated Man to return to Him to live with Him forever.
2. Theology of Jesus Christ
• Jesus Christ is God.
• Jesus Christ is the Son of God that was given to man to pay for the sins of Man on the cross that man may be re-birthed with eternal life of God.
3. Theology of Salvation of Man
• Whoever - Salvation is for EVERYONE.
• By his own choice - Choose to belief. Even God does not force man to accept His way of salvation.
• Man is in the condemned state already when we are born into this world. One day we will die physically and be externally separated from God. 
• What to belief about Jesus? That He is the sent one, the Son of God, to us and for us. This is better seen in John 17:3  Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
• Eternal Life is not just unending-life. All of us die physically on the earth but our soul and spirit lives on. Eternal life refers to the very God's kind of life. 
• 2 Cor 5:17 tells us that we are born again as a new creation. 
• Eph 1:5 In love he predestined us for adoption to son-ship through Jesus Christ,...

So, Christianity is not a religion of rules that one has to do to gain salvation.

Christianity is a relationship with God our creator through knowing His Son Jesus Christ. Once we desire to believe that Jesus is the Son of God sent from the Father God, and enter into a relationship with Him. His promised of His Holy Spirit will rebirth us that we become His children and having His type of eternal life and is to be with Him forever.

Christianity is a DONE and is a Being (Born of God as New Creation as Children of God).

Religion is Trying to Do then Trying to Be. A monkey may mimic man's behavior very well but still remain a monkey. A 'being' is not done by trying to be. The way to God is not by us trying and doing but simply accept by faith and enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ, the Son sent of God, our Heavenly Father that love us.

Law and Grace - Knowing and Forgetting

The topic "Law and Grace" invites much heated discussion.
Paul wrote Galatians to explain this.
He uses the example of tutor for law to guide the kid until he is a mature son.

I will like to use the following modern days artifacts to explain Law and Grace.

1. Law is the scaffolding of a building during its construction. When the concrete has settled and matured, the building is strong and can stands on its own. The scaffolding is not longer needed and is taken down. 
2. Law is like the support wheels of children bicycle. When the child know how to ride with 2 wheels, the support wheels are more hindrance and help and they are taken off.

In the same way, 

1. The Law is meant to lead us to Grace by point out our sins and our inability to live up to its demand.
   (Gal 3:24 So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith.)
2. Once we received and internalized grace, we need not the law, not because we are freed to break the laws but that in grace, we will walk only in righteousness naturally.
   (Gal 5:18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law." See the fruit of the Spirit in 5:22-23 which surpass the Laws)
3. He who loves automatically fulfill the commandments.
   (Rom 13:8b for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law).

We see the progression of learning the Law to know Grace and then after knowing Grace we must forget, or more accurately, shift focus away from, the Law to focus on Grace. Focusing on Grace enables us to walk in greater satisfaction and peace to more more things that glorify God. If we just go back to focus on the Law, we are doing the minimum and likely to fail( the Paul of Rom 7 I know right and yet do not but sin). Once saved, we must change our mindset to be that of God and of the Spirit. (see Col 3:1-2)

Interesting, Confucius, the famous Chinese Sage, show us how this is done.

子曰:“吾十有五而志于学,三十而立,四十而不惑,五十而知天命,六十而耳顺,七十而从心所欲,不逾矩。”

Confucius said, "When I made up my mind to learn at 15. I was able to stand (be independent and mature) at 30. At 40, I was not longer confused. At 50, I know my calling. At 60, I can hear and learn from any thing (even criticisms and not be upset). At 70, I could act according to my heart desire without transgressing.

When we internalized the grace of God, the Christ in us, and follow our heart, we will not violate the Law in our actions. The key is abide in Christ and we shall surpass the Law. We do away with the Law by abiding in Christ.

Lim Liat (C) 14 March 2012

Kingdom Discussion 13 Battle for Your Mind

Believers' warfare is not fought with physical weapons but with ideas and beliefs. We must therefore know how to guard our mind by filtering out the ungodly beliefs and evil ideas and let our mind be renewed with the Words of God. We are to be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit that give us Rema Words (right words for the right time and situation). Believers must have the right mindset and we shall show them what they are in this post.

Continued from Kingdom Discussion 12 Law of Humility - Power Covered with Gentleness, we entered into the next phase of a series of discussions on our mindsets and attitudes. We also want to discuss them in greater details from the viewpoint of an individual, a career and family.

Here is mind map that summarized our discussions from 1 to 12 and also showing the topics to be covered in future.

This week discussion is on "The Battle for Your Mind".

The Questions to Prompt your Thinking:

1. What influence your behavior and hence the outcomes?
2. Describe the Believers' war-fare.  How does it defer from conventional war?
3. How do you change and enrich your mind?
4. What should be the Believers' mindset?
5. Contrast your worldviews vs that of the Free-thinkers'?
6. How can you relate better to the non-believers?

The Answers and the Biblical References:

The Believer's Mindset:

May be you can add to the list above by sharing with me.

Next: Kingdom Discussion 14 Facing Realities of Life


Lim Liat (C) 10 March 2012

Kingdom Discussion 12 Law of Humility - Power Covered with Gentleness

Humility is a badly understood term. It should rightly be defined as "Power covered with Gentleness". It begins with "Have" and yet "Show or Demand NOT". It must "Serve" yet "Don't claim credits". It counts others more significant and show respect, learn from and also to serve them. It has great benefits. The humble inherit the lands. It attracts favors and good and lasting relationships. The life of the humble is abundance and peace most often times and even  eventually.

Continued from Kingdom Discussion 11 Law of Amplification - Growth with Care for Details. we discussed on the Law of Humility - Power Covered with Gentleness. We cover this topic in greater depth than in Kingdom Law & Principles - Law of Humility.

Humility is a badly defined or understood term resulting in much confusion and arguments. Humility is not poverty. Humility is not being a door-mat to be stepped upon by others. But rather, humility is a virtuous and powerful attribute of God and should be of His believers. We should let the Bible tells us what the term humility, or meekness, or gentleness (depending on the translations) actually means. The humility of Jesus is best illustrated in Phil 2:6-11 and it is mentioned in Mat 5:5 as one of the Beatitudes (see .The Behavior of His Kingdom People - Mat 5:3-12).

There are so much to say about humility that I think is best condensed with a mind-map shown below. Please go through it carefully and you will have good and enlightening understanding of humility.

Let me now challenge you with some questions.

1. Define Humility. What are the attitudes and behavior that characterizes humility?
2. What are the benefits of humility?
3. Contrast false and true humility. How to tell the difference?
4. Does keeping silent under oppression means humility?
5. Do you think you are humble? How can you tell?
6. What are the tasks that you need to do/change?

Compare Your Answers

Please compare with our answers below and share your new found understandings with us by posting your comments.

Next: Kingdom Discussion 13 Battle for Your Mind

Lim Liat (C) 26 Feb 2012

The Behavior of His Kingdom People - Mat 5:3-12

The behavior of a true Kingdom person is very different from the world. Know what the differences are. These differences are like light that shine and the salt that make this world a better place. You have a part in it.

We are not known by what we say but how we behave.

Most people think that branding is about marketing and advertisement. But real branding comes from people experience with the use of the product or the services. Our brand, or identity is determined by how we behave. Hence, Jesus said in John 13:35 "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

The verse covers how we should treat each other within the body of Christ. In Matthew 5:3-12, widely known as the Beatitudes, Jesus cover how believers, His Kingdom People, should behave towards others and in a community.

Here is a mind-map that summarizes that key blessings for the people with the 9 types of behavior.

Firstly, there are blessings promised. 

Different types of behavior will have different types of rewards. Essentially, the promise is given that for those that seek, hunger and suffer for, you shall get exactly what you set out to accomplish. Victories are ensured, from now on earth to the heaven in eternality. 

A similar promise is given in Mark 10:29-31 Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or mother, or father, or children, or lands, for my sake, and for the gospel's sake, 30 but he shall receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. 31 But many that are first(here) shall be last(there); and the last(here) first(there). *

*note: here and there are added by me to clarify the meaning.

His Kingdom Ways - Different from the World

With the promises given, we shall now focus the behavior of His Kingdom people. How will the behavior differs from the worldly standards?

Here is a map that show how:

1. Desire for Spiritual Things

Kingdom people begins with desire not of earthly and physical things but of spiritual things. They reflect on life and know that life is more than just mere material existence. see Col 3:1. They value spiritual things rather than material wealth. They use material wealth to gain spiritual wealth (Mat 6:20).  

2. Compassion & Passion for the Sufferings and Injustice

They are not self-centered but are concern about the suffering, injustice and evils in the world. They may even be victims of such injustice. But they don't stay as victims. They have passion to change the sufferings and injustice. The compassion stir them to rise up to do something and keep them moving with endurance(see 6 Endurance later).

3. Methods of Gentleness, Mercy and Peace

When they arise with a good cause, the methods they employed are not by force nor by violence. They are meek (gentle), merciful and peaceful. They are the more than conqueror with ways that draw and change the heart of the enemy. See The Meaning of "More than Conquerors" A real world example will be that of Martin Luther King Jr. in the Civil Rights Movement.

4. Motive of Purity

They do not have any hidden ulterior selfish motives. We know of quite of number of people who exploit and abuse others in the name of God or of Love. Their motive is pure and they are only interested in the pursuit of righteousness and for Jesus.

5. Objectives of Righteousness and Jesus Christ.

What shall be the standards of good and bad? Jesus Christ and his righteousness shall be. People with power and fame often think that they are above the righteous standards and behave as they like. They think they are free and acting on their power. The truth is that they are the slaves of their lusts and pride. Kingdom people should never deviate from the Righteousness of God and of Christ who died for us that we may have the new birth in His righteousness. With Christ within, we then act out accordingly. 

6. Endurance in the Midst of Persecutions.

Because the motive is pure, the standards are clear, the blessings are sure, the character of meek, mercy and peace, and the passion are strong, we are able to endure without anger and complains. We do not seek revenge. But we endure with a positive attitude of love and hope that in the end, the enemy is changed to become friend. 

Lastly, Go and Shine the Light

The nine blessings are followed immediately by a call to go out and show forth the difference as salt and light of the earth. We are not to hide it nor to compromise with the world that we loose our saltiness. 

We then will understand this verse better ....
Phil 2:12 ... continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Be careful in our walk to not to bring shame on Christ but at the same time also be confidence that His grace is within us to empower us to live out His life through us. Apply Heb 4:16 to cover our short-fall, get up, and continue in this walk in and to glory.

Lim Liat (c) 24 Feb 2012

Two Top Singers and Their Lessons for Believers

This is an eventful month.

We have the news of the passing away of two top singers, Whitney Houston of the West and Feng FeiFei of the East. People in the West may not know Feng FeiFei (The Singing Queen with a Hat) but her standing in Chinese Community is no less than Whitney Houston of the West. FeiFei could be said to be the Houston of the global Chinese Community. She was the top singer for 40 years!

Both had great impacts on the world (East or West) with their songs and voices. But their death and life styles were in sharp contrast.

Whitney Houston started with singing in the church and became a great success. However success seemed to be a cause for her decline. There were probably many factors and understandable factors that caused that. Her story was well known and need not be repeated. The good thing was her attempt to make a come back and we were all saddened by this mysterious death.

In contrast, FeiFei was praised and respected by the media, her colleagues, her fans, relatives and those that work with her and for a long period of 40 years! She had a long lasting and loving marriage with her husband. Her husband died from cancer in 2009. Sorry that she also died from cancer. But her death was so different from any other celebrities. She died on 3 Jan 2012. Chinese New Year 2012 was on 23 Jan. She wanted everyone to have a good and joyful Chinese New Year. So she left instructions that her death was to be made known after the Chinese New Year season. What kind consideration had she shown to the world even with her death?!

What bothered me about their deaths was that FeiFei was not a Christian (most likely a Buddhist and was brought up with traditional Chinese Culture with her mother having a strong influence on her life and career) and Houston was brought up in a Church. Many famous singers were brought up in Church and many suffered the same problems with chemical addictions, divorces and bad lifestyles. Instead of they influencing the world with their Christian light, they let the world get into them!

Of course, there are always bad sheep in any culture and race. I should not be bringing the bad of one and compare with the good of another. This contrast is great and serves as a warning or wake up call for us to raise questions and explore deeper.

How can we prevent success from destroying us?
Success did not spoil FeiFei but did for quite a number of gospel singers of the West.

We have quotes, even from the Bible (e.g. Luke 16:10), that success did not change a person but only bring out what was already there in the person.

For those of us that grow up in Church, especially our 2nd and 3rd generation Christians (typical of a Chinese Family like me who receive Christ as the 1st generation and bring up our children who also receive Christ as 2nd generation), how can we ensure that the good Christian values are passed on. (Chinese has the additional advantage of Chinese Cultural values on top of our Christian values. But Chinese and Christian values are essentially the same. See Chinese Classics & The Bible and so Chinese Christians have double doses of good values).

The factors that help us be strong and not be destroyed by success seems to be:

1. strong teaching of the words from young ( Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.... Proverbs 22:6)
2. family values, unity and support.
3. support from a close group of friends (brothers and sisters in Christ)
4. mentors that help those in time of needs.

What about the Church?

1. Have our Church been stressing too much on evangelism and too little on discipleship? We seem to make babies and discard them.
2. Have our Church been neglecting the family and the close fellowship and strong grouping to help each other? 

I have seen the mega churches here to be committing the above two errors! These are warning signs for us. Mega Churches seem to stress on growing larger church and larger attendance on Sundays only and to support the lead pastors and neglecting the less socially influential people.

The Lies that creep into our mind.

In the name of freedom and liberty, we have let the lies of enemy into the church or our mind. We remove responsibility and accountability and essentially mistaken Debauchery as freedom. We may have made grace into licence for sin.

Development is a life long process.

Salvation is just a start.

May we all, with the true grace of God, giving us the power to live out the Christ within, be the light that shine, and that we be able to spend time and resources to train up our next generation, to give support to those in need in our midst, and truly build up this Body of Christ here on earth.

Kingdom Discussion 11 Law of Amplification - Growth with Care for Details

Many people fail to get promoted because they are waiting for big responsibility to excel at while they are ignoring the present 'little' tasks.  

Faithfulness does not depend on the size of the task or the resources given. Any task, whether little or large, if it needs to be done, it must be done with integrity and excellence. Don't follow the earthly lie that we can be faithful in big thing when we cannot even bother with the little. If one cannot be faithful in little things, the Bible tells us that one will not be faithful in much and will definitely not be entrusted with much. Greatness comes from doing the little things well. Growing businesses follows the same rule. Perfect the working when it is small and easy so that the business can scale easily with the market demand. Many businesses suffer growing pains and bring the business down due to internal conflicts and problems. Quality and luxury goods are goods that take care of the little details. The big ship is steered by the little rudder. 

There is no task too little that I reject or condemn and do it poorly nor task so large that I want to take even if I know I cannot (unless I know for sure that it was called of God for me and empowered me with His grace).

Continued from Kingdom Discussion 10 Perseverance to Mission & Values, we discussed on the Law of Amplification - faithfulness in little to promotion. We cover this topic in greater depth than in Kingdom Law and Principles - Law of Amplification.

Here is the mind-map that summarized our discussion:

We have much discussion on the Questions. Here is a summary:

This law of Amplification helps us to excel in our work for the glory of God. it will tell us how to pick others for promotion and picking them to join our team. Observe how they handle the small tasks that we assign to them.

On faithfulness, see also The Secrets of Faithfulness - How can one be faithful as Moses.

The Chinese Methods referred above can be found in The Principles for Greatness: #1 Know Others & Self.

Next:

Lim Liat (C) 11 Feb 2012

Preparing for Christ 2nd Coming - Part 2

From multiple perspectives of time, activity and attitudes, we know how to prepare better for the 2nd coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the post Preparing for Christ 2nd Coming, I covered the teaching that I learned from Don Carson. He had four key points:

1. be ready anytime
2. be prepared for a long-time
3. be occupied in the meantime
4. be thankful for the pastime

Recently, I heard Chuck Swindoll's message on "Until He Returns...What?".
He also has four points:

1. Occupy: 
1. live responsibly, 
2. work diligently and 
3. think realistically.
2. Purify: lead a Godly and purified life.  
• He mentioned that in NT, whenever 2nd coming is mentioned, it will be followed by a call to godly living.
3.  Watch
4.  Worship

Don looks from the time perspective and Chuck looks from the activity perspective. It is good to combine both.

I just want to add the attitudes dimension.

1. The joy of waiting.
1. Joy in the Meantime- How to Really Wait
2. The Seven Steps to Joy
2. Gratefulness.
1. Take a Different View - Getting Rid of Grudges 

So here is the mind-map:

The Basis for Our Joy:

• Romans 8:18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
• 1 Cor 15:50-58
  50 I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— 52 in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53 For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. 54 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”...  57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

The Perspective of our Work:

• Matthew 6:19-21 19 “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

Related:

• Living the New Christian Life - Romans 16 Real Living...
• The Behavior of His Kingdom People - Mat 5:3-12

Lim Liat 9 Feb 2012

Legalism or Discipline

Be neither the victims of legalism nor weaklings with ill-discipline. Become a mature person in Christ with good habits and live in freedom and victory.

In the past, the Church stresses on holiness and having good testimonies and behavior and put much stress on discipline. They come out with many guidelines, such as keeping quit time, fasting, tithing, serving etc, to help believers mature. But very soon, guidelines become rules and adherence to such rules become criteria for leadership. It soon develops into legalism and much control and abuse by the Church Leadership.

Under the present time of a shift in emphasis on grace(saved by grace and not of work) and the finished work of Christ, there is a slow drift towards lawlessness and the abuse of grace as a license for sin (Condemned by Paul in Roman 6:1. So there is a call for the babes in Christ to grow up as stressed by Paul in Hebrew 5-6. That calls for discipline (Heb 12:6).

We therefore must clearly see the difference between Legalism and Discipline so as not the let discipline falls into legalism.

Legalism is about making a set of rules and its adherence as criteria for acceptance. It is about following the letter of the Laws rather than the spirit of the Laws. Following the rules is the utmost objective and importance. It starts with a person as a zero who try to become someone as worthy. It result into two groups of those who can and those who fail. Those who can feel proud and condemn on those who cannot. It leads to minimum standard.

Discipline, on the other hand, is about become better by following a set of practices. It is about development of skills and character that one already possess. It begins from I am OK and developing into better person. Because the desire is there, it follows the spirit of the laws rather than just the letters. Failures are part of the process. We just learn from it and try to overcome them to reach greater heights. We don't feel forced or condemned. In fact, we savor the feeling of strength and victories as we reach the greater height.  Here is mind-map that shows the key differences:

So, are you under the bondage of legalism or just under the training pains of discipline? Reflect on the objectives of the rules and you may find your answers. Start with a New Creation in Christ (2 Cor 5:17) and embark on the journey of greater discovery through picking up the good disciplines that develop into good habits and keep you in maturity and victory in Christ.

Lim Liat (C) 7 Feb 2012.

The Secrets of Faithfulness - How can one be faithful as Moses

The secrets to faithfulness begins with knowing who we are and then holding on to Jesus the author and perfecter of faith. Having a mission and an empowerment enables us to be faithful till the end.

I was asked to write a devotion based on Heb 3:1-6. It was in Chinese and had a restriction of 400 words limit. Here is a freer and longer sharing for the passage.

Know Who We Are
Heb 3:1 begins with Paul addressing us as holy brothers with a mission - heavenly calling. We are holy and are with a mission all because of Jesus.  It follows then our job is to consider and focus on Jesus - Who He is, what he did and what he will be doing, especially in relation to us. In verse 6, we are reminded that we are the house built by Jesus and are encouraged to hold our confidence and even boast of our hope in Jesus. Let's then focus on Jesus.

Focus on Jesus - Who He is and What He Did and Will Do for us.
Verse 1 continues with "consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession."

What About Jesus?

1. Jesus is the reason for our faith - our confession.
2. Jesus as the Apostle - the Messenger, the Sent One, of the mission from God to tell us and to save us.
3. Jesus as the High Priest - who present us, with His own blood, purified and reconciled to God. He is our advocate (1 John 2:1)
4. Jesus as the Faithful Son to all of God's household (v6 tell us we are of His house). Because Jesus is faithful and hence we can be faithful.
5. Paul used Moses as a standard of faithfulness. The faithful deeds of Moses can be seen in the mind-map below. One key to Moses' faithfulness is found in v5 "to testify to the things that were to be spoken later". Moses himself holds on to the revelation of Jesus that God had given to him in the two forty-day periods with God. A mission with a vision will help us to be faithful and to persevere in difficult times.
6. If Moses is great, Jesus is even more glorious. Moses is a faithful servant. Jesus is the faithful Son. Jesus is the builder of the house and receives more honor.

Conclusion:

The keys to faithfulness then begin with knowing that we are of Jesus and Jesus is our savior. He is the faithful Son that accomplishes His missions.

Paul rewords it again, in even clearer terms, in 

Heb 12:2 [NIV]
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.

Lim Liat (C) 1 Feb 2012 

Kingdom Discussion 10 Perseverance to Mission & Values

Perseverance means sticking it out and not quitting. But it does not mean not making changes. We must always stick to the Biblical Values (e.g. the commandments) and our God given calling (e.g. Our Great Commission). But our methods may, and at times should change, so that we can achieve our mission. To persevere, we need to put our faith to work as our servant. Our faith should be on the unchanging words and promises of our God. Faith gives us hope to work in the meantime until we succeed. Waiting is not waiting idly but be busy. During this period of working, we may encounter complains and even sabotages. The pressures against us may grow as we get close the destination. We shall see failures as the necessary and good parts of exploration - discovering the ways that work. Don't condemn ourselves because of failures but to learn from them. We must celebrate successes along the way. Joy gives us strength to carry on. Always remember that the Lord is with us throughout this journey of life.

Continued from Kingdom Principles Discussion 09: Servant Leadership - Law of Greatness, we discuss about Perseverance. We cover this topic in greater depth than in Kingdom Law and Principles - Law of Perseverance.

The Table of Content:

What is Perseverance?

It is about being persistence and not quitting but sticking to your objective until they are accomplished. Jesus told us two parables about this. They are:
  Luke 18:1–8 The Importune Window
  Luke 11:5-8,10 The Friend at Night

Here is the mind-map about the parables and the lessons learned.

The lessons to be learned are:

1. Persistence brings result with people. How much more will it do with God who loves you.  
2. Their asking (the widow and the friend) are expressed in their actions and not just mere talking. 
3. Someone may ask how many times should one pray about a request. Our answer is pray until your faith rises up and that you could live expectantly with hope. There is no sin in repeated asking. Asking a few times may help you to understand your requests better.
4. God answers speedily. His answer could be Yes, No, or Wait and in His way that is good for us. We sometimes miss His answer because we insist that He should answer us in the way we think He should!

We Should Be Persistence In What?

We should never change in Godly Values, our calling or mission. Our vision may get enlarged with time as we grow in maturity and as God extends our influence and territory. Other things can and should be changed if they do not work out. We can change our methods, the resources we use, etc. Values and Mission change not, but we can be flexible and adaptable in other areas, 

Here is the mind-map that show it:

How Can We Persevere?

What to Do in the Mean Time - The Waiting and the Process?

Most people think that waiting means waiting idly. That is not what Jesus taught us. Jesus told us to be watching for His return (Matt 25:13) and to keep busy doing His work until He comes (Luke 19:13). There will be time that we should rest and there will be time that we should work. We discussed this in Kingdom Principles Discussion 07 Law of Seasons. The enemy will not rest but will tempt and trouble us as well. In my study of Ancient Chinese Classics, I found a teaching that is very close to our Biblical Teaching. It help shed lights on this need of waiting for the right time and opportunity and what to do in the mean time. I shared it below in mind-map.  I also share related posts in my blog on this time of waiting. 

Failures and Don't Beat Yourself Up

Bible is filled with stories of the failures of many people, even Moses, Paul, Peter, etc. Life is about growth, discovery and creating. Trying and exploring means we will fail or find a dead-ends. Failures are parts of the process of discovery or experiments. Don't condemn or beat yourself up because of failures. We just need to learn from them. In fact, it is good to fail fast and often that we may learn more and make progress faster. 

If we have moral failures, i.e. sins, then remember to go to God for forgiveness and receive the mercy and grace(Heb 4:16) to make the right restitution.

Conclusions- Perseverance Faith:

Hold fast to 

1. Faith in the promises of Most High God which gives us Hope.
2. The Biblical Values & Doing the right things -Kingdom Principles Discussion 03 The Golden Rule

Questions for Reflections:

1. What is Perseverance?
2. In perseverance, what should not be changed and what could and should ?
3. What could we hold on to so that we can persevere?
4. How can one build up his perseverance?

Next Discussion: Kingdom Discussion 11 Law of Amplification - Growth with Care for Details.

Lim Liat (C) 31 Jan 2012

Kingdom Principles Discussion 09: Servant Leadership - Law of Greatness

This lesson tells us about leadership. How to become great leader. Greatness is not measured by our rank or possessions but by influence we have on others to become better through our serving them. We don't lead just by giving commands. We lead by serving them to show them the way, give them the motivation and help them to do and become better in their calling of lives or roles in the organization. Serving is a more effective way of leading than just commanding, or by incentives and punishment. 

Continued from Kingdom Principles Discussion 08 Law of Reciprocation, we discuss about the Law of Greatness - Servant Leadership. Unlike the worldly system when those in higher positions are served by those in lower positions, in the Kingdom of God, the leader serves his followers. Greatness is measured by the influence one has through one's serving of others.

Worldly system tells us to give commands, have an incentives and a punishment system. The Bible tells us a better way to lead. It is by serving them to show them the right way to do things. It is clearer than just giving commands. It is more engaging and motivating than incentives/punishments because it is about intrinsic motivations rather than extrinsic.

Jesus as God set the Example - To Die for Man
The example is set by Jesus as in Phi 2:1-11 Though Jesus is God yet he became a man just to suffer and die on the cross that men may be saved and become children of God.

The Lesson from Washing Feet John 13
When none of His disciples were willing to wash one another feet (a task for the servant) , Jesus set the example by washing his disciples feet and giving the teaching of John 13:14 "If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet" an powerful object lesson. When He came to Peter, Peter refused Jesus. Peter did not understand the principle that Jesus was trying to teach. Peter was still stuck in his own worldly standard for the low shall serve the higher. Jesus was very clear that if Peter did not accept His Kingdom Laws of leading by serving, then Peter should have no part in His Kingdom. Peter then went overboard by asking Jesus to wash him totally. He still seemed to miss the point. It is not about washing per se, but about serving others to ensure the shared mission is accomplished. Task has no ranks, only good and evil. If there be a needful task, then anyone able should do it irrespective of one's rank (King or slave).

Here is the mind-map that summarize the meaning of Servant Leadership:

Lessons Learned

Questions for Review & Application

Index of Kingdom Principles at Kingdom Laws & Principles

Next :Kingdom Discussion 10 Perseverance to Mission & Values

God is Our Peace in Betrayals - Psalms 4

May God be your peace in your times of restlessness, difficulties and even betrayals. A wrong cannot be corrected by another wrong. Trust and commit to God. Do it His way. God will surely give you the joy, favor and the peace.

It is so easy to loose our perspective and peace.

I was much encouraged by what I felt was God's message for us from Ps 65 and Kenneth Copeland's prophecy for 2012 that I wrote the post Start the New Year 2012 with Confidence in a Good God.

Yesterday I was attacked by a spirit of depression and condemnation. I woke up early not because I wanted to but because I lost my peace. I was unable to sit down quietly even to pray. I prayed in tongues while walking about. I part took the Holy Communion (see Christianity Rediscovered: The Meaning & Power of Holy Communion) reminding myself of Jesus' brokenness is for my healing and His shed blood is for my adoption as son. I turned on my Galaxy Tab to get to hear an encouraging message by Joel Osteen (Joel Osteeen - God make miracles out of our mistakes). I went for a long walk around my estate while listening to the message and at time commanding in Jesus name to reject and cast out the attack of the evil spirit of condemnation and receiving the Spirit of Joy, Love, Boldness and Sound mind (2Tim 1:7). I came back and prayed with my wife who gave me much support and understanding and wisdom all these years. After the joint prayer, I was able to quiet my spirit. I went about to clean the air-conditions in my house.

Today reading is on Psalm 4, since today is 4th day of year 2012. It is God's answer to my dis-quietness of yesterday. I have done a mind-map of Ps 4 before (see Handling Betrayals) and today reading again allow me to update the mind-map with additional thoughts. Today's emphasis is on the Joy, Peace and Favors that God give. The last verse, I will lie down and sleep in peace is just the right answer for my waking up and inability to sleep of yesterday's morning.

It is a great answer from God to restore my spirit and fill me be joy and confidence for this coming year of His blessings.

Hope you find this post an encouragement and comfort. I felt led to share my weakness and show how God can answer us in our time of needs. May God bless and comfort you as well.

Start the New Year 2012 with Confidence in a Good God

For the past week, reflecting on 2011 and looking forward to 2012, the Lord impressed me with Ps 65. It was an extra confirmation to Kenneth Copeland prophecy on 2012. 2012 will be a year of surprises, joy and miracles if we choose well - to listen to and to follow the Words of God. God has already provided more than what we have dared to ask for.

If you look at the forecast for 2012, they will tell you that it will be a difficult year, considering the Europe Crisis, the slowing down of the BRIC countries, etc etc. But we have insider news. Our God is still in charge. He is a good God and His news for you in 2012 is a different one. Would you care to listen?

Here is my reflections on Psalm 65 in mind-map format:

1. Our praise to God is not with our mouths. In fact, silence praise, praise by keeping our promises to God is much more meaningful.  1 Sam 15:22 tells us that God loves our obedience more than our sacrifices. 
2. We all come to God because we know God hear and answer our prayer. Coming to God is a sign of our trust in God. But do not confuse God with Santa Claus. God will not spoil us by heeding to any of our request. He can only answer us according to His righteous and loving character. He will not violate His own words to us. He will give us those things that are good for us according His wisdom. Do we trust Him enough to let Him answer our prayer according to His ways and timing? Will you still praise God when you don't see any changes yet in your situation?
3. When we fail God, or even ourselves, know that God is greater than our our heart 1 John 3:20 and He know. He has given us His Son Jesus Christ to redeem us and cleanse us. Come to Christ and know that we are re-birthed in His righteousness. Henceforth, go in peace and sin no more. Act from our new righteous selves.
4. We are the chosen ones of God that He bring us into His temple. His Holy Spirit dwell in us and us in Him. We must remember to come into His presence to draw and enjoy His goodness. To draw the power in Christ to live out His righteousness as in point 3.
5. Spread the Good News --- Jesus is the Savior of All and not just for a few. If anyone would only call upon the Name of Jesus and he shall be saved.
6. God is a Savior with POWER. The power that created the whole universe. The power to silence the roar of the oceans, the bad news of the economy, the uproar of the people. 
7. God gives joy. He created the morning and ended the evening with Joy (v8). 
8. God provides in Abundance v9-13. He provides the water, tills the land, cause the growth, and give the abundances (pastures clothed with flocks (i.e. so dense that looks a cloth), valleys covered with grains). 
9. God crowns the year 2012 with goodness v11.
10. Our response: rejoice and be glad for we have a Good God that bless us. Have an optimism and confidence in our God of goodness and work towards a good year of abundance of goodness.

What about 2012? 

It shall be a year of goodness and joy when we put our faith and work with our God of goodness.

Reflection on Ps 53 God's Calling His People Back

Today 21 Dec 2011 is the 353rd day of the year 2011. The Psalm for today is Ps 53. The verses from ASV of the Bible are reproduced here together with my reflections.

Some title it "A Portait of Sinners", "The foolishness and iniquity of atheism" and others stressing on the bad people and evil deeds. But for me, it is a calling by God to His people, His beloved creation, to return to Him and promising blessings.

1. No God -> No Accountability -> Evil Everywhere.

Psa 53:1  For the Chief Musician; set to Mahakath. Maschil of David. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity; There is none that doeth good.

"There is no God" is the common concept promoted by secular world under the misleading disguise of "Modern Science". They forgot that the early scientists started with premise that there is a God of creator who created the universe with order and providing the foundation that it can be studied with science.

When men believe that there is no God or that God does not care even if He does exist, then there is no accountability. No accountability leads to unconstrained behavior and much evil deeds. This is a clear reflection of our present world.

2. Yet, God is Reaching Out to Man.
Psa 53:2  God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there were any that did understand, That did seek after God.

God did not reject or hide away from man. He seek after man, looking for those who seek Him. God's glory is reflected in the wonder of the creation. There is no accuse to ignore His existence. He is seeking for man and to relate to man.

3. Nevertheless, Man care Not.
Psa 53:3  Every one of them is gone back; they are together become filthy; There is none that doeth good, no, not one.

Men are too busy in his own business of getting more and more no matter what, even at the expense of harming others as seen in the next verse.

4. God cares for the Innocence.
Psa 53:4  Have the workers of iniquity no knowledge, Who eat up my people as they eat bread, And call not upon God?

Harming innocence is harming God's people. People are God's loved creation.

5. God will Punish Evil and Protect His People.
Psa 53:5  There were they in great fear, where no fear was; For God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee: Thou hast put them to shame, because of God hath rejected them.

A righteous and loving God has to uphold justice and hand out his punishments for the evil. Ignoring God, disbelieve in God does not nullify the existence of true God. There is no running away. God will protect His people. Please repent and go back to God.

6. God will save His people and establish His kingdom on earth. Let the World be Glad.
Psa 53:6  Oh that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion! When God bringeth back the captivity of his people, Then shall Jacob rejoice, and Israel shall be glad.

This is the meaning of Christmas. God came to save and to establish His righteous and loving kingdom on earth. Let's all rejoice.

Principles for Successful Living From Proverbs 18

‎8 simple principles for success in life from Proverbs 18. A reflection for our life even for those that are of age. There is always time to change for the better.

On quick reading, each chapter of Proverbs seem to be just a loose collection of words of wisdom and it is difficult to link up the verses for a main theme. It will take a bit longer time and more intensive study to find the linkage. Here is a attempt for Prov 18. Below is the mind-map showing the main theme and sub themes.

The 8 Principles for Good Life

1. No Man is an Island.
   Don't be a lone ranger. He who isolates himself is selfish and self-seeking. It is not sound. It important to have 2 types of relationships - with God (Principle 3) and with People (Principle 8).

2. Be Wise & Not a Fool

•   Fool just talk without wanting to learn. They lack understanding. Wisdom begins with learning and refreshes oneself and others without end.
•   Wisdom is about being fair and objective. Not to be unjust.
•   Seek Knowledge
•   Seek multiple views

3. Be with God - Source of Power and Righteousness

•   Wickedness -> contempt & dishonor ->disgrace.
•   The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

4. Talk Well - Watch our words as they are powerful, affecting life and death.

•   Don't talk foolishly that leads to a fight and invites a beating. (See Principle 8 on how to build relationships and prevent quarrels)
•   Story telling impresses - Don't gossip. But use stories to reach out the mind and touches the heart of people. 
•   Teaching satisfies the soul and benefits others. Be willing to be coach and helps others.
•   The Power of Life and Death is in the tongue and we need to use it to have good fruits.

5. Work Diligently

•   laziness/slackness brings forth destruction

6. Wealth is power

• Wealth has power and take the initiative. The poor have to beg for a living. Hence ....
• Create wealth by starting and running profitable business. 
• Use wealth to impact and benefit the world and not to hoard it or be enslaved by it.

7. Attitudes determines the Altitudes

•   humility -> honor 
•   hope lift life and give you confidence to start, continue and to accomplish.

8. Relationship are Important - Build Good Relationships

• Don't be a lone ranger (see Principle 1)
• Relationship begins with being good to people. Make Friends by Giving good things e.g. Gifts. 
• Don't Offend & Quarrel with others. Offense and unresolved quarrels are big barriers to friendship. They are difficult to unwind when committed.
• Find the Right Friend.
  It is not the quantity but the quality that count in friendship. Be careful in choosing your close friends.Those that care about your well-being and is able to correct your mistakes and also to support you in your time of troubles.
• Find the Right Spouse
  Ask God for a favor to help you find the right one. Open your eyes wide and be choosy. But after the marriage, make sure you are the right one with favor of God.

Kingdom Principles Discussion 08 Law of Reciprocation

Law of Reciprocation tells us we get treated by others according to how we treat them. This is the secret of building good relationship. We need to practice empathy. It also tells us that the way to change another is by us changing first, the way we treat them. There are nine levels of maturity and we need to, by the love of Christ in us, move towards Christ likeness of being able to good to others even though some may even repay our goodness with evil.

Previous discussion in at Kingdom Principles Discussion 07 Law of Seasons.

Here is an extended mind-map on this topic:

Next Discussion:  Kingdom Principles Discussion 09: Servant Leadership - Law of Greatness

Index of Kingdom Principles at Kingdom Laws & Principles

Lim Liat (c) 3 Dec 2011

Wisdom of Proverbs - Love

The strongest bond of love comes naturally from relationship - parent and child. There is no performance to earn the love. Love comes with the relationship. It is like Father God and us, His children. Love is unchanging, covers the effects of sins, and many other things. In short, love is powerful. Love is about righteousness, generosity and blessedness.

Continuing to work on additional topics for Wisdom of Proverbs by Topics.
This time is about 'Love'. But I am stuck right away on Prov 4 and in particular 4:3, (ERV)  When I was my father's little boy and my mother's dear son. Prov 4 is about how the Father, wanting his son to do well in life, gives him instructions about life. The instructions are for life v4, long life of many years v8, protection v6, not stumbling v12, having honor v8 and crown v9. The Father is doing it out of love. But why does the Father love his son? The son is still young and could not do anything for the Father. So, this brings out the key lessons about love.

1. Love comes naturally from Relationship.
I was reminded of a short article we studied in school, written by a famous Chinese woman author 冰心 Bing Xin. Here is a key text:

不为什么-冰心
有一次，幼小的我，忽然走到母亲面前，仰着脸问：“妈妈，你到底为什么爱我？”母亲放下针线，用她的面额，抵住我的前额，温柔的，不迟疑地说：“不为什么，——只因你是我的女儿！”

No Other Reasons
Once, when I was little, suddenly walked to the front of my mother, lifting up my head and asked,"Mama, why do you love me?" Mother put down her needle and threads, touching my forehead with her face, gently and without any hesitation said, "Not because of anything, just because you are my daughter!".

 In this kind of relationship, parent-child, love comes with it and within. There is no need for performance. No need to earn it. True love is unconditional and yet wanting and supporting you to be the very best that you can be. Best not by worldly standard, but by your ability to be independent and living a joyful and healthy life with yourself and others.

The rest of learning on love in Proverbs can be found in the following mind-map. Hope you can read it carefully and be encouraged. 

Lim Liat (c) 1 Dec 2011

Wisdom of Proverbs

This is the index page for Wisdom of Proverbs organized by topics.

1. A Taxonomy for Proverbs
2. The Righteous.
3. Cause and Effect
4. Wisdom of Proverbs - Timing
5. Wisdom of Proverbs - Love
6. more to come ....

Wisdom of Proverbs - Timing

Timing and action are closely related. What are only temporaries and what last? Why is haste bad and fast good? What are we to say about the future? Don't forget to quit even though we talk about starting.

In Christianity Rediscovered: A Taxonomy for Proverbs, I try to categorize the wisdom of Proverbs so that we can retrieve it quickly and to study it with greater scope and depth.

Here is the list of additional topic:

• The Righteous - Wisdom from Proverbs. 
• Wisdom of Proverbs - Cause and Effect

In this post, we shall cover "Timing".

As usual, the mind-map below gives the main points of learning:

Here is the summary in list form about Timing:

1. It is seasonal and hence watch the season and prepare for the season. There is a right time for the right thing. Study Pro 27:23-27. See also Kingdom Principles Discussion 07 Law of Seasons - Cycle & Kairos Time
2. It is about Duration.
   Lies, wealth and position are temporary. Lies will be exposed, at least eventually if not sooner. Wealth and position can be gone quickly and we must not trust it but to prepare for its loss.
   However, there are things that last. Righteousness is one. Caring for others, especially the poor, keep the King on his throne.
3. Speed is an important factor in timing.
   Haste is bad - don't be hasty in words, promises, decisions, pursue of things. Hastiness will bring disasters. Yet, we need to have responsiveness. We need to do thing fast.
   So what is the difference between haste and responsiveness? It lies in the preparation and training to be fast and right. Fighter pilots go through OODA training so that they can make the act rightly in splits of a second. OODA stands for Observe, Orient, Decide and Action. His life depends on it.
   Suddenly is used to describe unexpected event. It will happen when we think we can get away with sinning, trusting of wealth (see point 1 and 2), and evil deeds and sowing discords. Take heed and make correction now.
   Slowly also means surely when we accumulate our earnings little by little. Journey of thousand miles is the accumulation of a first step and many steps thereafter. See Seven Easy Steps to Great Success According to LaoZi.
4. Frequency is another aspect of timing. Don't over use the welcome we get from from friends.
5. Future is a key part of timing (together with past and present). Proverbs warn us that we can't really don't know. Hence, when we make prediction, do provide additional qualifiers and keep the future options opened. Need to what-if's and risk management.
6. Quit or Stop is also about timing. It is better for us to fail fast, learn fast and quit fast. Mistake detected and corrected in the earlier stage cost much less than in the later stage. Know when to quit while the going is good. Don't over stay our welcome as in point 4. It is important to bring up the next generation and hand over. Prepare for retirement is additional thought that comes from meditating from this verse even though next explicitly stated in the Proverb.
7. Sequence vs Concurrency is something about timing that I did not yet discover in proverbs. We have covered some implicit sequence - disaster follows sins or evils; small accumulation of earnings will bring great success.

Here is the big mind-map with the related verses for your ease of reading and meditation. Share with me your discovery from the Word of God as well.

 

Lim Liat (C) 21 Nov 2011

Kingdom Principles Discussion 07 Law of Seasons - Cycle & Kairos Time

The most important thing is life is to recognize its seasons so that you can
1. detect and observe its happening - recognize the change and not be stuck in the past
2. prepare for it in advance - there shall be no regrets
3. living the best in it - there shall be greatest satisfaction
4. be ready anytime to meet the maker.

Following from Kingdom Principles Discussion 06 Law of Harvest, we discussed on the Law of Seasons. 


The Main Teaching: Right Thing for the Right Time

It also means the any time is the best time. Don't regret about the good times of the past and don't try to live in the future. See The Best Time of Your Life - Now, Any time, Every time and All the time.




From Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

 

The Seed Grow Through Stages Secretly Mark 4:26-29

 The Conclusions - Lessons Learned:

Questions for Reflections:


The Chinese since their beginning, have taught that everything has its cycles and seasons of life. Change is the only constant thing. The Classic of the Chinese Classics, i-Ching "Book of Change" teaches more - the various stages of change and how to live well in the state. See I-Ching in One Minute for Abundant Life. This is similar to the Biblical teaching here and I abstracted some teaching from the first 2 hexagram of I-Ching for reference. See Chinese Classics & The Bible for much similar teachings.

See also Wisdom of Proverbs - Timing

Next: Kingdom Principles Discussion 08 Law of Reciprocation


Index of Kingdom Principles at Kingdom Laws & Principles


Lim Liat (C) 5 Nov 2011