BSS - Verses for Addressing Confrontation

BSS - Verses for Addressing Confrontation

(go to Chinese 华文 text)

Preventing Confrontation

• Proverbs 17:14
  • "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out."

    Take no offense. Forgive - See next point

• Phi 2:3
  • Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Forgive when Offended

• Colossians 3:13

  • "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

    Unless it is a matter of sin. See Action Type#1 Correction

    Even so, find the right time, place, and with the right people

• Proverbs 19:11

  • "A person's wisdom yields patience;

  • it is to one's glory to overlook an offense."

• Anger is letting others' mistakes punish you - 曾仕强

Resolve the Confrontation - # pursuit of reconciliation

• Matthew 5:9

  •  "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."

• Romans 12:18

  • "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace  with everyone."

    What is under your control? forgive, avoid, correct, gentleness, listening ...

    What is not under your control? The behavior of the other person.

    Can influence them by changing your attitudes and behavior towards them first.

Foundational Standards

• mutual respect
  • apologize if the other feels he is offended
  • address the issues and not the persons
• fair and just
  • point out if any party feels unfair and address it
• seek win-win co-operation
  • paint a vision
  • expand the search area
  • explore and add options to the list.
  • consider intangible items
• Christians - Love God and Others like Self
  • Matthew 22:37-39

Principle Methods

• 以情入理立法 - Reach out to the heart, show the reasoning, establish the agreement

  # Show love, earn the rights to say/be heard,...

• create a calm, secure, safe, and loving environment for the dialogues

Listen First

# Get their Perspective

• James 1:19
  • Everyone should be
    • quick to listen
    • slow to speak and
    • slow to become angry

With Love & Gentleness

• Proverbs 15:1
  • "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
• Ephesians 4:2-3
  • "Be completely humble and gentle;
  • be patient, bearing with one another in love.
  • Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
• Galatians 6:1

  • "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.

  • But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted."

    # Stay clear of the opposite sex. Bring witnesses. Bring spouse.

• Ephesians 4:15
  • "Instead, speaking the truth in love,

    # Truth could be hurtful. Package it in love.

  • we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ."

    # The standard is Jesus Christ - What will Christ do?

Action Type #1 Correction

• Matthew 18:15
  • "If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault,
  • just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over."

    # make sure of same-sex if one-to-one.

• Proverbs 27:5-6
  • "Better is open rebuke than hidden love.

    # Love is correction with gentleness and help

  • Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses."

    # Make sure it is a friend. Watch out for flatteries.

• Galatians 2:14

  • 14 But when I saw that their conduct was not in step with the truth  of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you, though a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you force the Gentiles to live like Jews?”

  • (Gal 2:14) 但我一看见他们行的不正，与福音的真理不合，就在众人面前对矶法说：你既是犹太人，若随外邦人行事，不随犹太人行事，怎么还勉强外邦人随犹太人呢？

Action Type #2 Escape

• 1 Sam 19:10

  • And Saul sought to pin David to the wall with the spear, but he eluded Saul so that he struck
     the spear into the wall. And David fled and escaped that night.

    # When the situation is not right e.g. danger. Run. Wait for future opportunities.

Action Type #3 Co-operate

• Phi 2:2-4

  • 2) complete my joy by being of the same mind,

    having the same love, being in full accord, and of one mind.

  • Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

  • Let each of you look not only to his own interests

    but also to the interests of others.

Action Type #4 Principle-Centred

• Rom 14:12-13

  Pre-Judge Not

  • 12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.
• 1Cor 10:23-24
  • “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “
  • All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.

    # Lawful + Loving

  • Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.
• 1 Cor 10:31,33

  • So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

    # Does it glorify God?

  • just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, so that they may be saved.

Heeding Correction Brings Growth

• Proverbs 15:31-32

  • "Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise.

  • Those who disregard discipline despise themselves,
  • but the one who heeds correction gains understanding."
• Proverbs 10:17

  •  "Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray."

Summary addressing conflicts

• in a loving and respectful manner
  • use
    • gentle words
    • active listening,
    • pursuit of reconciliation.
• seeking to restore relationships
  • peace,
  • patience
  • forgiveness
  • humility
  • effective communication
• promote growth and understanding
  • Healthy Relationships

Prayer

May the Lord gives us the grace and wisdom to live out His commandment that we should love one another. It is by our love that others know that we are His disciples. So let us not stir trouble and quarrels, forgive when offended, and at our best try to live in peace with everyone. Nevertheless, there is a need to resolve any conflicts that arise. Maybe address the hearts first, showing love and care to gain the trust and listening ears. Then present the reasoning clearly that we may end with an agreement for actions and growth in healthy relationships. May the community of our Lord be united in love, understanding, and mutual support, to show forth the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

 Lim Liat (c) 12 Jun 23

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读经分享 - 冲突 解决冲突的经文 

• 预防冲突
  • 箴言 17:14
    • 纷争的起头如水放开，所以，在争闹之先必当止息争竞。

      不要生气。宽恕 - 见下一点

  • 腓立比书 2:3
    • 凡事不可结党，不可贪图虚浮的荣耀；只要存心谦卑，各人看别人比自己强。
• 被冒犯时宽恕
  • 歌罗西书 3:13
    • "容忍彼此，彼此宽恕，若有人怨恨人，总要彼此宽恕，怎样主怎样宽恕你们，你们也要怎样宽恕人。"

      除非是关乎罪。参见行动类型＃1 更正

      即使如此，找到正确的时间、地点和正确的人

  • 箴言 19:11
    • "人有见识，就不轻易发怒；
    • 宽恕人的过失，便是自己的荣耀。"
  • 生气是让别人的错误惩罚你 - 曾仕强
• 解决冲突

  # 追求和解

  • 马太福音 5:9
    • "使人和睦的人有福了！因为他们必称为神的儿子。"
  • 罗马书 12:18
    • "若是能行，总要尽力与众人和睦。"

      在你控制范围内的是什么？宽恕、避免、更正、温和、倾听...

      在你控制范围之外的是什么？对方的行为。

      通过改变你对他们的态度和行为，影响他们。

• 基本标准
  • 相互尊重
    • 如果对方感到冒犯，道歉
    • 解决问题而非攻击人
  • 公平公正
    • 如果任何一方感到不公平，指出并解决
  • 寻求双赢合作
    • 展示一个愿景
    • 扩大搜索范围
    • 探索并添加选项到清单中
    • 考虑无形的因素
  • 基督徒 - 爱神和像自己一样爱别人
    • 马太福音 22:37-39
• 主要的方法：
  • 以情入理立法 - 触及内心，展示推理，建立共识

    # 展示爱，赢得说话/被倾听的权利...

  • 为对话创造一个平静、安全、温馨和充满爱的环境
• 先倾听

  # 获得他们的观点

  • 雅各书 1:19
    • 每个人都要
      • 迅速听，慢慢说，慢慢发怒
• 以爱和温和的方式
  • 箴言 15:1
    • "回答柔和，能止息争端，言语暴戾，能激起怒气。"
  • 以弗所书 4:2-3
    • "凡事谦虚、温柔、
    • 忍耐，用爱心互相宽容，以和平彼此联络，
    • 竭力保守圣灵所赐合一的心。"
  • 加拉太书 6:1
    • 弟兄们，若有人偶然被过犯所胜，你们属灵的人就当用温柔的心把他挽回过来
    • 又当自己小心，恐怕也被引诱。

      # 避免与异性接触。带上证人。带上配偶。

  • 以弗所书 4:15
    • 惟用爱心说诚实话

      # 真相可能会带来伤害. 要用爱包装

    • 凡事长进，连于元首基督，

      # 耶稣是我们行为的标准。耶稣会怎样做？

• 行动类型＃1 更正
  • 马太福音 18:15
    • 倘若你的弟兄得罪你，你就去，趁着只有他和你在一处的时候，指出他的错来。他若听你，你便得了你的弟兄；

      # make sure of same sex if one to one.

  • 箴言 27:5-6
    • 当面的责备 强如背地的爱情

      # 爱是温柔和帮助的纠正

    • 朋友加的伤痕出于忠诚；仇敌连连亲嘴却是多余。

      # 确保它是朋友先才听。当心奉承。

  • 加拉太书 2:14
    • 但我一看见他们行的不正，与福音的真理不合，就在众人面前对矶法说：你既是犹太人，若随外邦人行事，不随犹太人行事，怎么还勉强外邦人随犹太人呢？
• 行动类型＃2 逃避
  • 撒母耳记上 19:10
    • 扫罗用枪想要刺透大卫，钉在墙上；他却躲开， 扫罗的枪刺入墙内。当夜大卫逃走，躲避了。

      # 当情况不对，比如危险时。逃跑，等待未来的机会

• 行动类型＃3 合作
  • 腓立比书 2:2-4
    • 你们就要意念相同，爱心相同，有一样的心思， 有一样的意念，使我的喜乐可以满足。
    • 凡事不可结党，不可贪图虚浮的荣耀； 只要存心谦卑，各人看别人比自己强。

    • 各人不要单顾自己的事，也要顾别人的事。

• 行动类型＃4 以原则为中心
  • 罗马 14:12-13

    # 不要预先判断

    • 这样看来，我们各人必要将自己的事在神面前说明。

    • 所以，我们不可再彼此论断，

    • 宁可定意谁也不给弟兄放下绊脚跌人之物。
  • 林前10:23-24
    • 凡事都可行，但不都有益处。
    • 凡事都可行，但不都造就人。

      # 合律法 + 有爱心

    • 无论何人，不要求自己的益处，乃要求别人的益处。
  • 林前 10:31,33
    • 所以，你们或吃或喝，无论做甚么，都要为荣耀神而行。

      # 那样做 会荣耀神吗？

    • 就好象我凡事都叫众人喜欢，不求自己的益处， 只求众人的益处，叫他们得救。
• 顺从纠正带来成长
  • 箴言 15:31-32
    • 听从生命责备的，必常在智慧人中。
    • 弃绝管教的，轻看自己的生命；
    • 听从责备的，却得智慧。
  • 箴言 10:17
    • "谁遵守训诲的，乃在生命的道上；违弃责备的，便失迷了路。
• 总结解决冲突的方法
  • 用充满爱和尊重的方式
    • 使用
      • 温和的言辞
      • 积极倾听
      • 追求和解
  • 寻求恢复关系
    • 和平、耐心、宽恕、谦卑
    • 有效沟通
  • 促进成长和理解
    • 健康的关系
• 祷告
  
• 愿主赐给我们恩典和智慧，活出祂要我们彼此相爱的诫命。因着我们的爱，别人才知道我们是祂的门徒。因此，让我们不要惹是生非和争吵，当被冒犯时原谅，并尽我们最大的努力与大家和睦相处。然而，有必要解决出现的任何冲突。也许首先要解决心灵问题，表现出爱和关怀以获得信任和倾听。然后清楚地提出推理，我们可能会以在健康关系中采取行动和发展的协议结束。愿我主的团体在爱、理解和相互支持中团结起来，彰显我们主耶稣基督的救赎恩典。阿门。

Bible Study Sharing - Healing Verses for Your Healing

Jesus Paid the Price for Your Healing

# by his wounds you have been healed

• 1 Peter 2:24: "He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds, you have been healed."

• Isaiah 53:4-5: "Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed."

God wants to and is able to heal you.

# healing every disease and sickness

• Matthew 4:23: "Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people."

• Matthew 9:35: "Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness."

• Psalm 147:3:
  • "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."

    # Phyical and Spiritual & Emotional Healings

• Psalm 103:2-3:
  • "Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—

    # Healing is a benefit from God.

  • who forgives all your sins

    # Sickness comes from sin - either ours or others spread to us.

  • and heals all your diseases."

Ask God and be Healed

# I called to you & you healed me.

• Jeremiah 17:14:

  • "Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed;

     save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise."

• Psalm 30:2:

  • "Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me."

A Method for Healing

# call the elders to pray

• James 5:14-15:

  • "Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up.

  • If they have sinned, they will be forgiven."

Stay Healthy

# Walk in the Lord's Way

The Lord who Heals You

• Exodus 15:26:
  • "He said, 'If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees,

  • I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.'"

Remember:

• God's power + willingness to heal us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
• Seek His healing touch and Trust in His faithfulness.

  # 2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one

Prayer

• May we come to the Lord to ask for our healing and then trust and give thanks for healing. He is faithful and will deliver us from sickness and evil. Praise and thanks be to our God who forgives and heals us. Amen.

Lim Liat (c) 11 Jun 2023

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医治的经文

耶稣为你的医治已经付上了代价

因他受的鞭伤，你们便得了医治。

• 彼得前书 2:24：

  • 「他被挂在木头上，亲身担当了我们的罪，使我们既然在罪上死，就得以在义上活。因他受的鞭伤，你们便得了医治。」

• 以赛亚书 53:4-5：

  • 「我们以为他受责罚是为自己的过犯，被压制是为自己的罪孽。哪知他为我们的过犯受害，为我们的罪孽压伤；因他受的刑罚，我们得平安，因他受的鞭伤，我们得医治。」

神愿意也能医治你的病

又医治各样的病症。

• 马太福音 4:23：

  • 「耶稣走遍加利利，在各会堂里教训人，

    传天国的福音，医治百姓各样的病症。」

• 马太福音 9:35：

  • 「耶稣走遍各城各乡，在会堂里教训人，

    宣讲天国的福音，又医治各样的病症。」

• 诗篇 147:3:
  • 他医治伤心的人，裹好他们的伤处。

    # 神医治身体与精神的病。

• 诗篇 103:2-3:
  • 「我的心哪，你要称颂耶和华，不可忘记他的一切恩惠。

    # 医治是你应得的神的好处

  • 他赦免你的一切罪孽

    # 病是从罪而来 - 我们的或是他人的传染。

  • 医治你的一切疾病。

求神来得医治：

求神医治我，我便痊愈

• 耶利米书 17:14:

  • 耶和华啊，求你医治我，我便痊愈

     拯救我，我便得救；因为你是我所赞美的。」

• 诗篇 30:2:

  • 耶和华我的神啊，我曾呼求你，你医治了我。

医治的一个方法：

请教会的长老来祷告

• 雅各书 5:14-15:
  • 你们中间有病了的呢，他就该请教会的长老来，他们可以奉主的名用油抹他，为他祷告；出于信心的祈祷要救那病人，主必叫他起来；
  • 他若犯了罪，也必蒙赦免。

保持健康

遵守神的话语

耶和华是医治你的

• 出埃及记 15:26:
  • "他说：『你若留意听从耶和华你神的话，又行我眼中看为正的事，留心听从我的诫命，守我一切的律例,

  • 我就不将所加与埃及人的疾病加在你身上；

    因为我耶和华是医治你的。』

总结:

• 上帝有能力 并 乐意 在 身体、情感和灵性上 医治我们
• 寻求上帝的医治触摸，并信靠祂的信实

  # 帖撒罗尼迦后书 3:3) 但主是信实的，要坚固你们，保护你们脱离那恶者。

• 这些经文提醒我们。它们鼓励我们

祷告：

• 愿我们来到主面前祈求医治，然后相信并感谢神给的医治。 他是信实的，会救我们脱离疾病和邪恶。 赞美并感谢我们的上帝，他宽恕并医治了我们。阿门。

Bible Verses for Comforting and Uplifting for Older People

 These verses remind us of

• God's faithfulness and continued care for us,

• the value of wisdom gained through age, and

• the promise of renewal and strength in Him.

God Sustained

• Isaiah 46:4:

  • "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. 
    I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."

    # It is God who is sustaining us. It is not us. So we don't have to worry at all.

• 1 Peter 5:10

  • "But the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore  you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast." - # God is restoring you and making you strong again!

God Renew

• 2 Corinthians 4:16

  • "So we do not lose heart.

  • Though our outer self is wasting away,

  • our inner self is being renewed day by day." -

    # Our inner man is growing though our physical strength may weaken

• Isaiah 40:30-31:

  • "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;

  • but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.

    # Relying on the Lord will enable the old to outdo the youth.

  • They will soar on wings like eagles;

    • they will run and not grow weary,

    • they will walk and not be faint."

Growing Wisdom

• Proverbs 16:31

  • "Gray hair is a crown of splendor;

    # Age is the sign of wisdom and enlightenment

  • it is attained in the way of righteousness." -

    # We get it through abiding in Christ, our righteousness

• Job 12:12:

  • "Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?"

• Psalm 92:12-14

  • 2. "The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. 
    # We, who received Jesus as Savior and Lord, are righteous in Christ. His grace will strengthen and uphold us.

  • They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green." -
    # We remain youthful.

God Cares for You

• Psalm 55:22

  • "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain  you;

  • he will never let the righteous be shaken." -

• Jeremiah 33:3

  • Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that 
    you have not known.

    # The Lord will give you the answer to your need and show you the path out.

• Psalm 71:9:

  • "Do not cast me away when I am old;

    # Call unto God and see His rescue and supplies

  • do not forsake me when my strength is gone."

• Psalm 71:18

• "Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, 
  till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all 
  who are to come." -

  # The purpose for our long life.

Prayer:

May the Lord give you good health and strength. May He bless you with peace and joy as you testify of the Lord's goodness to all generations. Praise and thanksgiving be unto the Lord who saves us. Amen.

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Lim Liat (c) 7-6-23     

安慰和鼓舞老年人的圣经经文  

• 这些经文提醒我们

  • 上帝的信实 以及他继续的看顾我们

  • 年龄带来的智慧价值，以及

  • 在祂里面更新和得力的应许。

• 上帝支撑你

  • 以赛亚书 46:3-4:

    • 你们这家族，就是我从胎生养、抱在怀里的，你们要听我说：

    • 你们年老的时候我仍这样，直到你们发白，我仍要负担；
      我造作，也必保抱；我必扶持，也必拯救。

      # 是神在扶持我们。不是我们。所以我们完全不用担心。

  • 彼得前书 5:10

    • 那赐诸般恩典的神曾在基督里召你们，得享他永远的荣耀，
      等你们暂受苦难之后，必要亲自成全你们，坚固你们，赐力量给你们。

      # 上帝正在恢复你，让你再次坚强！

• 神更新你

  • 哥林多后书 4:16

    • 所以我们不灰心。

      • 外体虽然毁坏，

    • 内心却一天新似一天。

      #虽然我们的体力可能会减弱，但我们的内心在成长

  • 以赛亚书 40:30-31:

    • 就是少年人也要疲乏困倦；年轻人也必跌倒。

    • 但那等候耶和华的，必从新得力。

      # 靠主能使年老的胜过年少的。

    • 他们必如鹰展翅上腾；

      • 他们奔跑却不困倦

      • 行走却不疲乏

• 你的智慧增长

  • 箴言 16:31

    • 白发是荣耀的冠冕

      # 年龄是智慧和觉悟的标志

    • 这在公义的道上必能得着

      # 我们通过住在基督里得到在我们身上的耶稣的义

  • 约伯记  12:12:

    • 年老的有智慧，寿高的有知识。

  • 诗篇 92:14：「他们年老的时候仍要结果子，要满了汁浆而常发青。」

  • 诗篇 92:12-14

    • 义人要发旺如棕树，生长如利巴嫩的香柏树。
      他们栽于耶和华的殿中，发旺在我们　神的院里。 
      # 我们这些接受耶稣为救主和主的人，在基督里是义人。
      他的恩典会加强和支持我们。

    • 他们年老的时候仍要结果子，要满了汁浆而常发青，

      #我们永葆青春。

• 上帝关心你

  • 诗篇 55:22

    • 你要把你的重担卸给耶和华，他必抚养你；

    • 他永不叫义人动摇。

  • 耶利米 33:3

    • (你求告我，我就应允你，并将你所不知道、又大又难的事指示你。

      # 主会给你所需的答案，并告诉你出路

  • 诗篇 71:9:

    • "我的神啊，求你不要在我年老的时候丢弃我 
      # 呼求上帝，看看他的拯救和供应

    • 不要在我力气衰败的时候离弃我。

  • 诗篇 71:18

    • 神啊，我要传扬你的大能，直到年老的时候传扬你的大能，
      直到年老的时候传述你的能力。

      # 我们长寿的目的。

• 祷告:

  • 愿主赐给你健康和力量。当你向万代见证主的良善时，
    愿祂以平安和喜乐祝福你。赞美感谢拯救我们的主。阿门。

Verses for People suffering Depression - 给抑郁者的经节

God is Aware - 神知道你的痛苦

• God is aware of our pain and is there to provide comfort, strength, and hope.

  上帝知道我们的痛苦，并在那里提供安慰、力量和希望。

God save us - 神拯救你

• Psalm 34: 17-18 (NIV): 诗篇 34
  • "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; 义人呼求，耶和华听见了

    We who are saved by Jesus Christ are righteous. 信主的人就有耶稣的义了

    • he delivers them from all their troubles. 便救他们脱离一切患难。

      Hold on to this promise of deliverance。 所以，神必拯救我们脱离忧患

  • The Lord is close to the brokenhearted 耶和华靠近伤心的人，

    Is that you? 是你妈？

    • and saves those who are crushed in spirit." 拯救灵性痛悔的人。

      God is close and He saves you.

      神与你同在并会拯救你。

• Psalm 147:3): 诗篇 147
  • "He heals the brokenhearted 他医好伤心的人
  • and binds up their wounds. 裹好他们的伤处。

Praise God even so 你要赞美神

• Psalm 42:11 诗篇 42
  • "Why, my soul, are you downcast? 我的心哪，你为何忧闷？
    • Why so disturbed within me? 为何在我里面烦躁？
  • Put your hope in God 应当仰望　神

    Start to praise Him no matter what

    那就要赞美神。不管你觉得如何。

    • for I will yet praise him, 因我还要称赞他
    • my Savior and my God." 他是我的帮助和拯救，是我的神。

Come to Jesus - Shift your focus 到耶稣那里 改变注意

• Matthew 11:28-30 马太 11
  • "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
    凡劳苦担重担的人可以到我这里来，我就使你们得安息。

    Change from self-focused to Jesus-focused. Go to Jesus.

  • Take my yoke upon you and learn from me 你们当负我的轭，学我的样式
    • for I am gentle and humble in heart, and 因为我心里柔和谦卑，
  • you will find rest for your souls. 这样，你们心里就必得享安息
    • For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
      因为我的轭是容易的，我的担子是轻省的。

There the Purpose for our Suffering -痛苦有目的

• 2 Corinthians 1 :3-4 (NIV): 哥林多后 1
  • "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God."
  • 愿颂赞归与我们的主耶稣基督的父神，就是发慈悲的父，赐各样安慰的神。
    我们在一切患难中，他就安慰我们，叫我们能用神所赐的安慰去安慰那遭各样患难的人。

Don't go alone. Seek Help - 不要自己承担 找人帮助:

• It is important to seek support from loved ones, reach out to professional help, and lean on the promises and teachings found in the Bible during seasons of depression.

  重要的是寻求亲人的支持，寻求专业帮助，并在抑郁的季节依靠圣经中的应许和教导。

A New Method for Bible Study - ChatGPT

You are probably aware of the AI (Artificial Intelligence) Re-generative Chat software. The most popular is ChatGPT (https://chat.openai.com/). This post is just to encourage you to try ChatGPT for your Bible Study. It is great for Book Bible Study(even for a verse) or Topical Bible Study. It is also great if you are confused or puzzled by some biblical text. It can save you lots of time in searching, reading commentaries, asking pastors, etc. to get the guidance or answer you need. It could at least be the first step.

Let's start with an example.

Book Study:

I asked ChatGPT to preach on Psalm 23.

Here is the answer:

Psalm 23 is one of the most well-known and beloved passages in the Bible. It is a powerful expression of trust and confidence in God's loving care for His people. Let us reflect on the profound truths found in this psalm:

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1, NKJV)

These opening words establish a foundational truth: God is our shepherd. As a shepherd tends to his flock, God cares for us, guides us, and provides for our every need. When we acknowledge God as our shepherd, we can find contentment and rest in His provision.

"He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters." (Psalm 23:2, NKJV)

Just as a shepherd leads his sheep to nourishing pastures and calm waters, God leads us to places of rest and refreshment. In the midst of life's challenges, He invites us to find solace and peace in His presence. He knows our weary souls and leads us to places where we can find restoration and tranquility.

"He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." (Psalm 23:3, NKJV)

Our shepherd not only cares for our physical needs but also tends to our inner being. He brings healing to our wounded hearts, refreshes our spirits, and renews our strength. Through His guidance, He leads us on paths of righteousness, aligning our lives with His purposes and bringing honor to His name.

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4, NKJV)

In life, we may face dark and challenging valleys. Yet, even in the face of adversity and fear, we can find courage and peace because our shepherd is with us. God's presence brings comfort and protection, assuring us that we need not be afraid. His guidance and discipline guide us, offering assurance and security along the way.

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over." (Psalm 23:5, NKJV)

In the face of opposition and difficulty, our shepherd prepares a feast for us, symbolizing His abundance and provision. He blesses us even in the presence of our adversaries and pours out His anointing upon us, filling our lives to overflowing with His goodness and blessings.

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." (Psalm 23:6, NKJV)

The psalm concludes with a powerful declaration of God's unfailing goodness and mercy. As we walk in relationship with our shepherd, goodness and mercy become our constant companions. And the ultimate promise is that we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever, experiencing His presence and love for all eternity.

Psalm 23 reminds us that we have a loving and faithful shepherd who cares for us deeply. In every aspect of life, He guides, protects, and provides. May we find comfort, peace, and hope in knowing that our shepherd is with us always, leading us into a life of purpose and joy.

You can click on "Regenerate Response" to get another answer.

Verse Study

I asked ChatGPT to commend on John 20:23.

The answer:

John 20:23 is a significant verse where Jesus imparts authority to His disciples and commissions them for their ministry. The verse states:

"If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained." (John 20:23, NKJV)

This verse takes place after Jesus' resurrection when He appears to His disciples in a locked room. He breathes on them and says these words, giving them the power and responsibility to proclaim forgiveness or retention of sins.

The verse is often interpreted in light of the broader context of Jesus' ministry and teachings. It emphasizes the role of the disciples, and by extension, the Church, in proclaiming the forgiveness of sins through the message of the Gospel. It highlights the authority given to believers to share the good news of salvation and the offer of forgiveness to all who repent and believe in Jesus Christ.

However, it is important to note that this verse is not giving individuals the power to personally forgive or retain sins in an absolute sense. Rather, it speaks to the role of the Church in declaring and applying the forgiveness found in Christ's redemptive work.

This verse serves as a reminder of the significance of forgiveness in the Christian faith. It calls believers to embrace their responsibility to share the message of God's forgiveness and reconciliation with others. It also underscores the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness from God, as well as the role of the Church in guiding and nurturing individuals in their journey of faith.

Overall, John 20:23 carries a message of the Church's role in proclaiming forgiveness and emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel in reconciling humanity to God.

Topical Study:

I asked ChatGPT to give me verses for healing

The Bible provides numerous verses on healing, both physical and spiritual. Here are a few passages that highlight God's power to heal and offer encouragement:

1. Psalm 103:2-3 (NIV): "Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases."

2. Exodus 15:26 (NIV): "He said, 'If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.'"

3. Jeremiah 30:17 (NIV): "But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds," declares the Lord.

4. James 5:14-15 (NIV): "Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven."

These verses remind us of God's ability and willingness to bring healing to our lives, whether it's physical, emotional, or spiritual healing. It is important to seek God in prayer, rely on His strength, and have faith in His restorative power. Additionally, seeking appropriate medical care and support is essential for physical healing.

Hope you can try it for yourself and find it useful. Preachers perhaps should use it as a baseline to judge their sermons.

How to Pray and See the Result - A mind-map Abstract from Joseph Prince's Sermons

We tend to think that effective prayer is about how hard we pray and how earnestly and sincerely we pray. We are told to fast and prayed. There is too much emphasis on us as if we are the ones doing the answering. Ps Joseph Prince explained to us what "Earnest Prayer" is and getting the result is about the faith in the finished work of Christ on the cross. 

Over the years, the famous Ps Joseph Prince has preached and published articles on how to pray and see the result. There are other titles like "How to have powerful prayers?". Below is an abstract in mind-map format of the key teachings. The sources are as below. It is highly recommended that you either you watch the sermon or read the articles. I find them very enlightening and encouraging and pray that you may follow the advice and start seeing the results.

• Sources:

  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFFyXeVSQ8Y

  • https://blog.josephprince.com/how-to-pray-powerful-prayers-part-13/

  • https://blog.josephprince.com/how-to-pray-powerful-prayers-part-23/

  • https://blog.josephprince.com/how-to-pray-powerful-prayers-part-33/

  • https://www.josephprince.com/sermon-notes/how-to-pray-and-see-results

• Key Passage:

  • James 5:17:18 KJV

    • "Elias was a man [subject to like passions] as we are,

      Elias was a man like us -> we can also pray as effectively as Elias.

    • and he prayed [earnestly] that it might not rain:
      and it rained not on the earth by the space of  three years and six months.

      Earnest prayer is simply a proclamation of faith:
    • "And Elijah the Tishbite, of the inhabitants of Gilead, said to Ahab, 'As the LORD God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, except at my word.'"—1 Kings 17:1 NKJV
    • What declaring and decreeing looks like:
    • e.g. "In the name of Jesus, you foul spirit of depression, loose that person, let his mind go free! In the name of Jesus. Amen."—You're declaring that it's not the Lord, but the powers of darkness that are holding this person back. You're declaring that He's not the problem, but the solution.

    • And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain,
      and the earth brought forth her fruit."

      Earnest is not mentioned. 1Kg 18:42  Elijah climbed to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground, and put his face between his knees.
      • We think Elijah's prayer here is more earnest, but God just said he prayed again in James 5:18.
      • This is because when we declare God's goodness, we're partnering with Him. We're agreeing that Jesus has already borne the curse (of diseases, pains, etc.) at the cross, and given us all His blessings. In other words, praying pleading prayers (e.g. "Oh God, please heal my child") negates the truth of Christ's finished work, and gives the false impression that God still needs to be persuaded to bless us. And since the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, He cannot bear witness to that kind of prayer, and we don't see results

• Take-away:

  • We pray not to soothe our emotions, but to bring heaven to earth and get results.

  • Your prayers have results when you know your influence with God

    • Pray from a position of sonship, completeness, and victory.

  • God doesn't help those who help themselves; He helps those who are helpless.

  • Today, it's far easier to receive God's blessings than His judgment because of
     what our Lord has accomplished at the cross

    • We live in the age of grace where it's easy to pray and see results

  • Earnest prayer is simply a proclamation of faith

    • Pray by declaring the Words of God.

  • You can confidently pray for non-believers to receive God's goodness

• Conclusion:

• Keep on declaring:
  It's the secret to answered prayers

  • Don't ask God to deal with the problem.
    Just own the authority He's given you over it, and declare!

  • Jesus' finished work is why we can pray powerful prayers

  • Even before you pray, see your prayers answered

• Job 22:28–29

  • "You will also declare a thing,

  • And it will be established for you;

  • So light will shine on your ways

  • When they cast you down, and you say,

  • 'Exaltation will come!' Exaltation will come!'

• Then He will save the humble person."

See related posts:

• Better than the Lord's Prayer
• The Secret of Effective Prayers and How God Answer Prayer
• The Right Way to Pray Effectively from the Lord's Prayer
• Breakthrough Prayer with the Format like a Court Case

Can we eat from the "Tree of Life"?

When I first read the story of how Adam and Eve sinned in paradise, I was puzzled that Adam should have eaten the fruit from the "Tree of Life" first rather than from the "Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil", then Adam would have lived forever! Or maybe not, the curse of death may be stronger than the blessing of life? I also regret that we can no longer eat the fruit from the Tree of Life anymore. But is it true?

The answer is no. We can eat from the fruit of the Tree of Life. This is because of Jesus. Jesus is the Life.

• John 6:35 Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
• John 14:6 - Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." 
• John 11: 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

So, Jesus is the Tree of Life. We can then eat from the Tree of Life by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior, and we shall never die but have everlasting life.

Have you eaten from the Tree of Life to have eternal life?

Lim Liat (c) 23 Feb 23

Update 10 March 2023

Rev 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches;
To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

1 John 5:5 NIV Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.

Handling Fear and Anxiety in this Uncertain 2023

Let's start with the promises of God:

One of the verses that I quoted often in my times of fear and anxiety is 2 Timothy 1:7

NLT: For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
NIV: For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.

KJV: For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

I like KJV's version best. In panic mode, we can't think and may lose our minds. It is great that God had given us a Sound Mind. We maintain our sanity.

In the Old Testament, we have Isaiah 41:10

NKJV:

Fear not, for I am with you;

Be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you,

Yes, I will help you,

I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’

God gives us 5 assurances and reasons that we should fear not.
It is God who will be working or fighting for us.

We do not have to depend on ourselves, especially when we think we have no strength and no ability at all. It is all God helping us. The ever-faithful God is helping us.

What then should be our response?

The answer is in Isaiah 12:2

NKJV: 

Behold, God is my salvation, 

I will trust and not be afraid;
'For YAH, the LORD is my strength and song;
He also has become my salvation.

It begins with knowing who God is. God is my salvation, my rescuer, my savior.

We are then to TRUST God.
And then we will not be Afraid.

We shift our focus from the problem, from our weaknesses and inability, to focus on God and trust God. We are to proclaim when God had promised in Isa 41:10, we know repeat what God had said to us, and so we said, "The Lord is my strength and song, and He is my salvation." We repeat until we feel calmness and peace. 

Prayers:

May we acknowledge God's promises to us, trust and repeat what God said to our spirit and mind until we have the peace of God. May God give you this peace whenever you are fearful and anxious. In Jesus' name, amen.

Lim Liat (c) 12 Jan 2023

Additional verses for your encouragement:

Isaiah 40:29 NKJV

He gives power to the weak,

And to those who have no might, He increases strength.

Deu 31:8 NKJV
And the LORD,
He is the One who goes before you.
He will be with you,
He will not leave you nor forsake you;
do not fear nor be dismayed.

Isaiah 45:2 NKJV

'I will go before you And make the crooked places straight;
I will break in pieces the gates of bronze And cut the bars of iron.

Isaiah 52:12 NKJV

For you shall not go out with haste,

Nor go by flight;

For the Lord will go before you,

And the God of Israel will be your rear guard.