Spiritual Markers

When we drive from one destination to another (especially places we are unfamiliar with); we use tools such as GPS and map to help us. In addition to these, we will look for signboards and landmarks to ensure that we are on the right track. Using this illustration, it encourages me to view that our Christian life is also similar to driving. We have to constantly look for "signboards" to ensure that we are still on track towards the "destination" that God has prepared for us.

Hence, it is important to build and look for spiritual "signboards" to spiritually mark our journey in the Lord. Joshua in (Joshua 4:4-7) was one such person who knows how to spiritually-marked his journey in the Lord. After he successfully led the Israelites to cross the Jordan river, he instructed 12 men to build a memorial to remember the goodness of the Lord. It may not mean much to the Israelites, but I believed it meant a lot to Joshua because he waited 40 years for this moment to enter the promise land. It serves as a remembrance for him that the Lord has fulfilled what He has promised to him; that is "Joshua and Caleb should possess the land because they have a different spirit" (Num 14:30)

This reminded me of how important spiritual markers are to remind me of the journey in the Lord. I just recalled that the Lord has spoken to me 15 years ago that he wanted me to be strong and strengthen others. Along this journey, I stumbled, I have experienced discouragement in the midst of shepherding His people but He continued to assure me that this is what He has called me to do. In 2001, the Lord assured me through a prophetic word that He wants me to build up people and encourages me to be faithful. Throughout the years, I do feel that I have not accomplish much but once again, last year, the Lord assured me again through Pastor Simon that He wants me to continue to be faithful and strengthen the brethren. I well remember all these to encourage me to move on. When I lose track; I will recall of all these to move me back on track again. Finally, it's all about JESUS. Praise Him.

By His Grace

I was pondering upon this verse from James 4:6

But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

A couple of weeks ago, I had supper with some friends and we talked about how God uses situation, even our job to mould our character. In the conversation, I "confidently" said that God has been good to me in my job and has not tested me yet. To this end, God has really been good to me in my job and I experienced lots of favour and blessing.

Guess what, recently I was greatly humbled in my job. Being an educator for almost five years; this is the first time in my record of having more than 50% failure rates in 3 of the modules that I taught in the university. Previously, failure rates stayed in the range of 20 - 25% which is reasonable. After much evaluation on my part; I just believe that this serve as a reminder that I shouldn't be over-confident but to acknowledge that I need God's grace in everything; even those things I felt I am competent already.

When I start to acknowledge my need for God to lead me in everything; He reassured me of His grace again. Recently, I was given an award "Hopeful Young Researcher Award" by my faculty. I am still "shock" by this surprise gift as I thought there are many more deserving receipients. However, I know well that this is not an achievement because that "I can" but an assurance of God's grace and favour again in my life. Praise the Lord for he really give us grace when we humble down before Him.

Let's Share The Goodness of Life

Praise the Living God. I have just started this blog today. I pray that this will serve as a platform for testimonies and inspiring stories of life that will encourage others and also myself to be a blessing and inspiration. Experiences and lessons learnt in life are valueable. They became our assets and resources to bless others. May the Lord add unto this blog with testimonies, interesting devotions, a Word in season and many more........

Emmanuel,
Kok Mun