Reflection

Worship Song of July 2008

2008-07-27T22:27:00.005-07:00

“You are lone in grandeur,
You are lone in glory,
You are lone in everything far outshining everything I see.

The pillars of heaven tremble,
in hearing Your wondrous story.
Morning stars are singing.
The sons of men are shouting for their joy.

O how great is Your goodness,
You have saved for those who fear You.
Every day I take shelter in the glory of Your name.
For Your face I am jealous.
Just to gaze on Your beauty.
Nothing more, nothing ever.
I am Your treasury of praise.
I am Your treasury of praise.”

(Lone in Grandeur, by Seth Parks)

I heard Jon Thurlow and his worship team sang this song at the IHOP Prayer Room recently. It is a beautiful song. That time they sang it like the singing of heaven, and I was deeply touched by it.

"The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of His hands." (Psalm 19:1)

18 Years

2007-11-26T11:07:00.004-08:00

November 26, 1989 is the day I dedicated my life to Jesus Christ. Today is my 18th "birthday"! :)

Praise God for His wonderful love and faithfulness!!

In these past 18 years, God has walked with me and led me through some highs and lows, light and dark periods of time. Even the things that I could not understand before, or the times that I've lost my hope and strength, they are also parts of His amazing plan.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11)

There are so many things that I want to thank God for in this day, but above all, I want to thank Him for loving me so much.

I began to love God since 18 years ago, but God began to love me even before I was born.

Thank you Lord for pouring out His life and His love for me, so that I can have this freedom to live and to love.

Psalm 23 is what God has done in my life in these past 18 years:

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,

he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Even 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.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever." (Psalm 23)

I believe that His goodness and love will continue to follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Amen.

Thank you, Lord.

Open the Door for the Lord

2007-09-18T10:58:00.000-07:00

All the open doors are opened by the Lord, except one door, which is the door to your heart.

You can only open it by yourself. You are the only one who have the key to open this door.

If you have never opened this door before, would you open it and let the Lord Jesus Christ to come in and be with you from now on?

If you have opened it and received Christ into your life before, would you open this door again every day and invite Him to come in and spend time with you, no matter how busy you are?

The Lord is waiting outside the door, will you open it now, and let Him come in?

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." (Rev 3:20)

Once you open the door of your heart, and let the Lord come into your life, He will open the other doors in the ways you could never imagine.

You Are My Life

2006-12-31T15:58:00.000-08:00

Coming to the end of 2006, it is the time to review the year and give thanks to the Lord for all of His love, faithfulness and grace.

This year God has been leading me to experience Him in a deeper way. There were many unforgettable moments with the Lord, during worship, prayers, meetings or simply just thinking of Him or talking to Him. Some of the experiences were not easy to be shared or described, maybe even myself was not fully understand God's amazing love and perfect ways. Only my heart can truly know how great He is and how deep His love for me is.

Thank you Lord for showing me that: The One who is in me is greater than the one who is in the world. (1 John 4:4) Thank you for surrounding me with Your unfailing love, and filling me with Your light and your truth.

"Eyes can't see the way you hold me,
or how I'm hidden in Your heart.
Minds don't know all You've told me,
or how I ache for where You are.

It's invisible to the world, incredible to the angels.
Not since Eden have they seen this sight. Everlasting life.

You are all over. You are around. You are inside.
This is life, this is life.

I come in empty, I leave filled.
Bring my sickness, I leave healed.
Broken-hearted, You mend every piece.
I come in captive, I leave free."

(This is Life, by Laura Woodley)

Be Still and Know

2006-12-29T00:10:00.000-08:00

Will you believe in God even when you do not understand what was happening? Can you lay down your own thinking and limitations for the Lord, and let Him accomplish what He wants to do?

"'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the LORD. 'As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." (Proverb 55:8-11)

"Jesus turns to Mary and says, 'Did I not say that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?' (John 11:40). He then declares that He knows God always hears our prayers (John 11:41) and confident in this He cries out, "Lazarus, come forth!? And Lazarus came forth, revealing a greater measure of who Jesus was, and a fuller realization of all things being possible. Now Martha, Mary, and Lazarus not only know Him as friend, Lord, Messiah, God, and healer, but they also know Him as the champion over death and every work of the enemy. And because God did it His way instead of their way, they had a greater revelation of who He was and so did their town! Revival broke out, and many came to know that Jesus was Lord (John 11:45). Praise God!

Don't look back on what didn't happen last year the way you thought it would. Look toward Jesus and praise Him that His ways are higher than our ways. Pour your heart out to Him. Believe that He hears every one of our prayers, and that if we simply stand in that belief we will see the glory of God. And that just like Martha, Mary and Lazarus we will not only see the promise come forth, we will see a greater revelation of Jesus! Who knows, it may even trigger revival in your town like it did in Martha and Mary's.

So stand in faith. Refuse any discouragement. Believe God to show up in surprising ways that reveal more of who He is to you than you have ever known before. Be excited that God is doing it His perfect way. And that he is doing exceedingly and abundantly beyond all that you could ever ask, think (Ephesians 3:20). And in 2007 may those things you felt died in 2006 be resurrected in even bigger and better ways to the glory of God. May this be the year you hear Him speak over you, 'Dreams and destiny come forth!' Bless you."

-- Excerpts from "Destinies and Dreams Come Forth!" by Rob Hotchkin, Extreme Prophetic's Devotional January 2007

"Be still, and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)

"Be still and know that I am God.
Let Me come and do all I want to do.
Let go, be weak, give in, give up.
And I will do something new.

Rejoice in My presence, relax in My love.
Lay aside your agenda and receive from above.
Quiet yourself and remain here a while.
And I will do something new"

(Be Still and Know)

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a merry Christmas filled with love, joy and peace! :)

I Will Lift My Eyes

2006-11-21T01:49:00.000-08:00

"God, my God, I cry out. Your beloved needs You now.
God, be near, calm my fear, and take my doubt.

Your kindness is what pulls me up. Your love is all that draws me in.

I will lift my eyes to the Maker of the mountains I can’t climb.
I will lift my eyes to the Calmer of the oceans raging wild.
I will lift my eyes to the Healer of the hurt I hold inside.
I will lift my eyes, lift my eyes to You.

God, my God, let Mercy sing her melody over me.
God, right here all I bring is all of me.

'Cause You are and You were and You will be forever the Lover I need to save me.
'Cause You fashioned the earth and You hold it together, God.
So hold me now.

God, my God, I cry out. Your beloved needs You now."

(I Will Lift My Eyes, by Bebo Norman)

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Rm. 15:13)

"The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you." (Rm. 16:20)

Walk in Love

2006-11-13T07:34:00.000-08:00

The Way

"Who seeks for Heaven alone to save his soul

may keep the path, but will not reach the goal;

While he who walks in love may wander far,

yet God will bring him where the blessed are."

-- Henry van Dyke

"Love never fails." (1 Cor 13:8)

Send Your Love to the Children

2006-11-10T15:33:00.000-08:00

"Operation Christmas Child provides a practical way for Canadians to share the joy of Christmas and the hope of Jesus Christ with children living in countries that have been ravaged by war, famine, extreme poverty, disease, or natural disaster.

Anyone can participate in this simple project by packing a shoe box with personal gifts to be sent to a child overseas. Participants can follow the How To Pack a Shoe Box instructions, and leave the shoe box at one of the Drop-Off Locations.

In 2005, nearly 7.4 million shoe boxes (723,091 from Canada) were collected worldwide and distributed to children in more than 95 countries. Each one of these unique gifts is a special reminder to the children that receive them that someone cares about them and God loves them.
The principles of Operation Christmas Child can be reflected by three simple, yet powerful, words - joy, faith, and compassion.

JOY: To bring joy and hope to children around the world, regardless of their race, religion, or gender, by giving them an unconditional gift to remind them they are loved and not forgotten.
FAITH: To share the even greater gift of God's love - reflected in His Son Jesus Christ, the Christmas Child - through acts of love and kindness and when possible, through written and spoken word.
COMPASSION: To foster compassion in Canadian children by expanding their world-view and teaching them it truly is greater to give than to receive ("kids helping kids")."

You can know more about this project by watching the report video:
http://www.samaritanspurse.ca/occ/

and reading the testimony:
http://www.samaritanspurse.ca/occ/feature/

more details:
http://www.samaritan.ca/occ/faqs/

"The most important gift inside each Operation Christmas Child shoe box is prayer. Through prayer, the value of the shoe box gift reaches far beyond the initial smile of the child receiving it."
http://www.samaritan.ca/occ/prayer_network/

For those in U.S.:
http://www.samaritanspurse.org/OCC.asp?MPGID=1

I can't wait to pack the shoe boxes!! :)

"It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving." -- Mother Teresa

Why

2006-11-07T00:50:00.000-08:00

Even though we were praying together,

but I felt like I was praying alone.

I didn't understand why the pain was there,

but I trust that You are always by my side.

Then a sister responsed that she has heard my cry.

It remimded me that Father You have never forsaken me,

nor ignored even my little cries.

But in that darkest hour,

You allowed Your Son to bear the greatest pain alone,

just to give us eternal life.

So how could I give up and quit the fight,

when this amazing love fills my life.

Thank You Lord, for telling me why,

You are why I must live and shine the light.

Why

by Nichole Nordeman

We rode into town the other day, just me and my Daddy.

He said I'd finally reached that age,

and I could ride next to him on a horse,

that of course was not quite as wide.

We heard a crowd of people shouting,

and so we stopped to find out why.

And there was that man, that my dad said he loved,

but today there was fear in his eyes.

So I said "Daddy, why are they screaming?

Why are the faces of some of them beaming?

Why is He dressed in that bright purple robe?

I'll bet that crown hurts Him more than He shows.

Daddy, please can't you do something?

He looks as though He's gonna cry.

You said He was stronger than all of those guys.

Daddy, please tell me why, why does everyone want Him to die?"

Later that day the sky grew cloudy, and Daddy said I should go inside.

Somehow he knew things would get stormy.

Boy was he right,

but I could not keep from wondering

if there was something he had to hide.

So after he left I had to find out. I was not afraid of getting lost.

So I followed the crowds to a hill where I knew men had been killed,

and I heard a voice come from the cross.

And it said, "Father, why are they screaming?

Why are the faces of some of them beaming?

Why are they casting their lots for My robe?

This crown of thorns hurts Me more than it shows.

Father, please can't You do something?

I know that You must hear My cry.

I thought I could handle the cross of this size.

Father, remind Me why, why does everyone want Me to die?

When will I understand why?"

"My precious Son, I hear them screaming.

I'm watching the face of the enemy beaming.

But soon I will clothe You in robes of My own.

Jesus, this hurts Me much more than You know.

But this dark hour I must do nothing,

though I've heard Your unbearable cry.

The power in Your blood destroys all of the lies.

Soon You'll see past their unmerciful eyes.

Look there below, see the child, trembling by her father's side.

Now I can tell You why.

She is why You must die."

Let It Shine

2006-11-01T17:25:00.000-08:00

Last night when I was organizing some computer files, I saw the new year resolutions that our Cantonese cell group made at the beginning of this year. When I was reviewing it, I realized that it's already November now, and we have only two more months for 2006! This year has gone by so fast, but there are still many things that yet to be done. I was saying to my friend today: "We need more time (for our 2006 new year resolutions)!!" :)

I found out that my new year resolutions in these past few years were actually quite the same. Every year I wanted to love God more and more, spend more time with Him. Live healthier. Treasure the people who I love and care, spend more time with them. Be more creative and productive. Learn and experience more new things. It was not easy to measure the achievements for these goals, but I just kept reminding myself to do as much as I could.

My sister and I watched the movie "Last Holiday" last week. The movie was funny and meaningful. It reminded me again to treasure the time and opportunities to set myself free to fulfill the dreams in my heart, and also treasure all the people and things in my life. This is not the only "reminder" that I've got recently, there are also some other messages that I received was speaking about the same thing. Life is really unpredictable sometimes, but thank God that He is in control. I put my trust in Him, and believe that He will give me the love and strength to treasure all these things that He has given me.

Last Sunday service I was very touched by the greatness of God and also the message and prayer. I began to sob since worship, and my tears still couldn't stop coming out after the meeting, not until my friends came to pray for me. It was interesting that before the Tuesday night prayer meeting, I thought that God would continue to break my heart even more, but then it turned out that I was smiled and laughed the whole time at the prayer meeting! We had a fun and victorious fight and celebration! God's thoughts are not our thoughts, neither are our ways His ways. We just have to be there and allow Him to accomplish what He desire and achieve the purpose for which He sent it.

May God's light continue to shine through our lives to bless others!

My Heart Burns for You

2006-10-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

"They asked each other: 'Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?'" (Luke 24:32)

"The word burn means exactly what you think it does: 'to make to burn,... flaming... to consume with fire.'... Your heart means far more to Christ than anything. That your heart is utterly taken with Christ is more important than any amount of service you could render or rules you could keep. If Christ has your heart, He will have your obedience (see John 14:21). God wants to completely captivate your heart and cause it to burn with passion for Him. It is His absolute priority for you according to Mark 12:30; joy and satisfaction will elude you in its absence. Two immutable keys exist that turn our spiritual ignition and inflame godly passion. Both are tucked like rubies in the embers of Luke 24:32. '"Were not our hearts burning within us while he [1] talked with us on the road and [2] opened the Scriptures to us?"'

"To me, 'talked with us on the road' is a wonderfully personal and tender representation of prayer and 'opened the Scriptures to us' is a perfect representation of Bible study. Beloved, we may do many other things to fan the flame of our spiritual passion for Christ, but all other efforts are in vain without the two sticks of prayer and Bible study rubbed together to ignite the fire."

"I'm talking about entering into a love affair of prayer with Jesus Christ, where you talk to Him throughout the day recognizing that He, the unseen One, is a far greater reality than those within your vision. I'm talking about opening up the Word, throwing back your head, face toward heaven, and saying, 'Thrill me with Your Word!' (see Ps. 119:18). Evolving into this kind of intimacy with God takes time, but the road trip is half the excitement!... I'm talking about the meshing of two lives, yours and Christ's, increasingly engulfing and igniting the whole of heart, soul, mind, and strength. God is more than eager to give you a heart full of fire for His Son."

-- by Beth Moore, Jesus, the One and Only

As we talking to God and meditating His Word, He will fill us with His light and His truth, and give us the true passion for Him.

Then we will realize that our hearts are burning for Him, for He has risen, and He is in our midst!

Our God Will Fight for Us

2006-10-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

There are many exciting things going on in this new season. We are unfolding God's new plans for us one by one. As we are stepping out in faith and moving forward, the enemies are also trying hard to come and stop us to keep advancing. We need the covering and protection from the Lord.

These two days I was reading Nehemiah chapters 1-4. Nehemiah was leading the people to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. It was a great project. Even though there were opposition, attacks and discouragements from the enemies, but Nehemiah knew that God would fight for them and help them to finish the work.

"Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families, with their swords, spears and bows." (Neh 4:13)

Nehemiah posted the people by families, with their swords, spears and bows, to stand on guard for the whole team and for the works of God. The unity of the people was much needed at this time. They had to function together in unity, to do the works of God, and to stand together and be ready to fight together when the enemies came.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." (2 Tim 4:7)

Yesterday I watched Beth Moore on "Life Today", she shared that the secret to win the fight is to "keep the faith", knowing that God is with us, trusting Him and never giving up. I think this is also why Nehemiah asked the people to remember God's goodness and mighty power, and encouraged them to fight for each other, fight for their families.

"Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes." (Neh 4:14)

"The work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!" (Neh 4:19-20)

All of them were in different positions and locations, but they were ready to join together anytime and fight as one.

We have to keep the faith and unity to work and fight together. And we need to support and protect our families and our team. The enemies try to come and destroy, but our God will fight for us!

10 Simple Pleasures

2006-10-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

Here's my 10 Simple Pleasures list:

Spending time with my family or friends.
Reading in bed.
Writing what I want to write.
Receiving/sending phone calls, emails, letters, cards, little notes or surprises... from/to my friends.
Staying at home.
Walking on the beach or park.
Listening to live music.
Singing with my friends. (Usually when my friends were singing with me, I could sing better! And it's more fun to sing with others.)
Learning/trying something new or interesting.
Bringing God's love and truth to others.

Enjoy the simple pleasures in your daily life! :)

Fly with Dreams and Courage

2006-09-08T00:28:00.000-07:00

Find Your Wings
by Mark Harris

"It's only for a moment you were mine to hold.

The plans that heaven has for you will all too soon unfold.
So many different prayers I'll pray for all that you might do,

but most of all I want to know that you're walking in the truth.

And if I never told you, I want you to know,

that as I watch you grow...

I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams.

And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things.

I'm here for you whatever this life brings.

So let my love give you roots, and help you find your wings.

May passion be the wind that leads you through your days.

And may conviction keep you strong and guide you on your way.

May there be many moments that make your life so sweet.

Oh but more than memories...

I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams.
And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things.
I'm here for you whatever this life brings.
So let my love give you roots, and help you find your wings.

It's not living if you don't reach for the sky.

I'll have tears as you take off, but I'll cheer as you fly.

Recently I often heard this song from the radio. Every time when I listened to it, I felt that the Lord was reminding me the dreams that God has given me, and encouraging me to take the courage to fulfill those dreams.

What are the dreams that God has given you? Do you have faith in Him, believe that He loves you so much, and He can give you the strength and grace to fulfill all those dreams? He wants to see you fly, and the Lord Himself will fly with you.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9)

May God guide you with His light and His truth, and give you the courage, strength and grace to fulfill the dreams that He has given you.

Blogging

2006-08-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

I am excited to know that Keith Hazell, one of my favourite prophets, has began a blog!

Prophet Keith's blog

I am always glad to see that my friends or the people that I know have a website that I can visit sometimes. I love to read their blogs and view their pictures.

I think having a website is one of the good ways to share the interesting and wonderful things of our lives with others. Especially when many of my friends are living in other countries now, I really appreciate our websites that allow us to continue to share the details of our lives with each other.

One of my lovely friends, who is living in Hong Kong now, began her cooking blog this year, her site is beautiful and the pictures of her cooking are so attractive!

Ellen's Vanilla Garden

Dare to share the things that you have learned and experienced with the people that you care! ;)

"Three keys to more abundant living: caring about others, daring for others, sharing with others." -- William A. Ward

New Prayer Meeting

2006-08-07T11:33:00.000-07:00

We have started a new prayer meeting last week. It is a Saturday morning prayer meeting for all the young people to come together and seek God individually and corporately. We want to "P.U.S.H." (Pray Until Something Happen) together and see God's will be done in each of our own lives and in our generation. We believe that revival will come first in our own lives, and then to our generation.

Before the prayer meeting, God gave me this scripture: "I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me." (Pro. 8:17) Then during the meeting, I read this verse again and found out that there is a great promise followed: "With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver. I walk in the way of righteousness, along the paths of justice, bestowing wealth on those who love Me and making their treasuries full." (Pro. 8:18-21)

Instead of looking to the world and seeking treasures, God wants us to look upon Him and seek Him first. Then He will show us how faithful He is: "Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matt. 6:33)

He has already loved us before we love Him, but when we love Him, He loves us even more.

At the end of the meeting, one of the sisters prayed Psalm 24 over our generation: "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. He will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God his Savior. Such is the generation of those who seek Him, who seek Your face, O God of Jacob." (Psalm 24:3-6)

I was touched when I heard this prayer, because when I was on my way to the prayer meeting, one of the songs that I listened was "Give Us Clean Hands", which also came from Psalm 24.

"We bow our hearts, We bend our knees,
Oh Spirit come make us humble.
We turn our eyes from evil things,
Oh Lord we cast down our idols.

So give us clean hands, give us pure hearts,
let us not lift our souls to another.
And God let us be a generation that seeks,
that seeks your face, Oh God of Jacob.

We bow our hearts to you."
("Give Us Clean Hands", by Mark Schultz)

After the prayer meeting, I told the sister about this. We were both amazed, and believe that this is God's heart for our generation.

Something "Weird" About Me...

2006-08-04T22:01:00.000-07:00

"I've just been tagged! Once you are tagged, you must post six things about yourself which are either weird, unusual, habitual or are just plain fun to hear about (and true!). Once you post these things in your blog, you must tag six to ten others in the Xanga world, who then, in the spirit of not wussing out, must follow the same rules you did!"

I've never done this on my blog before, but it's always fun to do something new, so here's my list:

1. I didn't like to eat oyster and green onion when I was little, except when they were pan-fried together. Now I still only eat oyster when it is baked or pan-fried, and green onion when it is dropped.

2. I keep all the letters, cards and little notes that I received. I also keep everything that I wrote.

3. There are more books than clothes in my room.

4. I used to have to listening to music when I sleep... Now I can sleep with or without it, but I usually like to have it.

5. I could not concentrate to write when someone was around.

6. I like to use big eating utensils (bowl, plate, fork, spoon, cup). It makes me want to eat more.

Actually I don't think these things are weird or unusual, but my family do... so I guess these things would be qualified for this post?! :) Anyway, hope you have fun hearing about them.

Once Again I Thank You

2006-07-28T14:02:00.000-07:00

"When the prophet Isaiah foretold of Jerusalem's coming restoration, he likened its condition to a barren woman. He told the Israelites to sing in the face of it. He said, "Sing, O barren, you who have not borne! Break forth into singing, and cry aloud, you who have not labored with child!" (Is. 54:1) This is how we should respond to unanswered prayer or to the barren or unfruitful situation in our own lives. We are to sing praise to the One who can bring to life the places in us and our situations that are dead. The One who can birth something new in us and our circumstances. The One who hears our prayers and answers in His way and His time."

While we are waiting on the Lord, even if we are discouraged or all hope for our situation seems dead, we can press into God more and more in worship and praise, and release His resurrection life to flow in us.

"At first the thought of singing in the face of terrible disappointment may seem like a cruel thing to ask of someone. But the very act of singing praise and worship to God releases His blessings to us. When we become discouraged or defeated over unanswered prayer, we can turn our sorrow into joy through singing praise. When we do, heavy chains of despair are broken. When we sing, we indicate that our faith and focus are in God's goodness and power and not in our circumstances."

"We are not worshiping God to obtain His blessings. That's not really worshiping God; that's worshiping the blessings. But whenever we fully acknowledge who God is and worship Him as such, our praise unleashes the blessings that are with Him and in Him and because of Him. Praise brings us into the presence of God and invites His presence to dwell in us in a deeper way. And in His presence it is impossible not to be blessed."

— Stormie Omartian, The Prayer That Changes Everything: The Hidden Power of Praising God

Remember what the Lord has done for us on the cross?

"Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered Him stricken by God, smitten by Him, and afflicted. But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed." (Is. 53:4-5)

We can always thank God for His mercy and unfailing love for us!

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the LORD, who has compassion on you." (Is. 54:10)

"Once again I look upon the cross where You died, I'm humbled by Your mercy and I'm broken inside.Once again I thank You. Once again I pour out my life." ("Once again", by Matt Redman)

The Fragant Oil of Worship

2006-07-11T23:57:00.000-07:00

"A passionate pursuit of God delights Him, and it's when we pursue Him and abide in His presence in the one place of absolute devotion and intimacy--that glorious place of His feet--that we feel Him return our holy kiss: 'To beautify the place of My sanctuary; and I will make the place of My feet glorious' (Is. 60:13b). It's then that we smell the aroma of His love drifting back. It's then that His love pierces our hearts and wrecks us for eternity. It's then that we experience the glory."

I always love the story of Jesus anointed at Bethany. It's one of the most beautiful stories in the Bible. I was deeply touched by Mary's passion, love, worship and faith for the Lord. Last night I saw an article, "The Fragrant Oil of Worship" by Todd Bentley, which talks about this story and the true passion, true worship, true intimacy that release the fragrant oil of anointing and its aroma.

"Mary of Bethany was a woman of great passion because she knew she was rescued out of a pit of ungodly spiritual darkness. She remembered what it was like to live without God in her life. She knew the mercy and love of God that forgave her great sin, and she was forever indebted to the Lord Jesus Christ. I believe she came to the Pharisee's house to see Jesus because of her great love and devotion to the Lord.... I don't believe she realized the prophetic significance concerning anointing Jesus for His burial. Rather her whole motive flowed from a burning heart for her King; gratitude and adoration for Jesus drew her to his side. God wants us to have this same intense passion in our hearts for Him. And just like Mary, we ought never to forget the pit of darkness Jesus pulled us out of because of His great mercy and love."

"Mary's passion turned into worship as she expressed her great love for Jesus by pouring out upon Him her most precious and costly possession, the fragrant oil, or spikenard. This precious oil was worth three hundred denarii, comparable to a year's wages today. However, Mary, broken, symbolically broke her alabaster box and released the costly oil. She ignored the offense taken by the others present and continued to convey her passion by worshipping at His feet, wiping them with her hair, and drenching Him in the valuable oil..."

Even though other people said: "Why this waste?" But Jesus said: "She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." (Matt. 26:8-13)

"I believe that there is a place of intimacy and abandonment in worship to God that we can touch Him in such a way as though we scar Him. It's as if when our true worship and passion touches Him, a seal comes upon His heart that causes Him to remember our worship: 'Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is as strong as death, jealousy as cruel as the grave; its flames are flames of fire, a most vehement flame' (Song. 8:6)."

Sometimes we might not realize or remember how much we love someone until our hearts were broken.

"True worship involves brokenness. It must kill us and bring a sense of humility into our body, soul and spirit. Remember, Mary has to break her alabaster box--symbolizing her brokenness and her death to self. The breakings of God release fragrant worship. If we're going to release the fragrant oil of worship, we must die every time we come into His presence. We become humbled under His mighty hand, broken inside, and our pride is overthrown. It was only after her alabaster box was broken that the oil could be poured out, releasing its fragrance. Listen! Even after Mary walked out of the house, there was still the lingering aroma--something had happened, someone touched God!"

The Holy Spirit knows that we love our Jesus deep down in our hearts. He is the only One who knows how to break our hearts in such a way that can release our true fragrant worship to God.

"Our hearts are just like the alabaster box containing precious treasure soaked in an exquisite fragrance. But we must allow the Holy Spirit to break our hearts His way, by His Spirit. He never damages our hearts; He breaks our hearts with a purpose, so that we can release our true fragrant worship to God. Brokenness helps us die to our inhibitions and ourselves; we can forget about ourselves and worship God with great freedom and abandonment. We can even become like Moses! When he descended the mountain after forty days of being in the glory of the Lord, he didn't even realize his face shone with the brightness of God's glory. In some Bible versions, it says that he lost sight of himself (Ex. 34:29)."

"I believe that brokenness and death to self not only release true worship, it also releases the glory of God to cover us."

Out of brokenness, there is beauty--the beauty of knowing God and His great mercy and love, the beauty of our passionate desire of pouring all our love on the Lord, and the beauty of God's glory falling on us as we worship Him with our kisses and anoint Him with costly fragrant oil.

"True worship to Jesus happens when we're so caught up entertaining the presence of the Lord that we forget about everything around us. We push in past any barriers that would try to keep us out of the Holy of Holies. We literally forget about everything, just like David did, and we give all that we are in worship to the Lord (2 Sam. 6:14)."

"It's all or nothing for God. Nothing should hinder our display of our love for Him, not people, not pride, not self-righteousness, or religious mindsets; He deserves all of our oil."

"True passion, true worship, and true intimacy release the fragrant oil of anointing and its exquisite lingering aroma. Remember your first love and remember where He found you. Allow the Holy Spirit to break and crush you. Give Him everything. Esteem Him with pure and holy incense. Pursue Him with true passion. Honor the worthy One. Drench His head and feet with the fragrant oil of worship."

--Excerpts from "The Fragrant Oil of Worship" by Todd Bentley, Destiny Prophetic Journal - Vol. 2 No. 1

May the fragrance of your worship delights the Lord, and awake the passion for the Lord in people's hearts.

True Friends

2006-07-07T23:18:00.000-07:00

This week we had a Christian conference with some other churches. It was a three-evening conference, from Tuesday to Thursday, which called "Divine Power 2006". Every night I was so touched by God during the worship and prayers, and very encouraged by the messages.

But to my surprise, God has done an interesting thing for me in this conference. On Wednesday night, He has shown me that some people are indeed my true friends! I didn't fully realize what God was trying to tell me about this until I got home and picked birthday cards to write to a friend. When I was picking the cards, I saw one of them written: "A true friend listens with her/his heart, and hears the words you leave unsaid." Then I suddenly realized what God has shown me during the conference that night. He has opened my heart to see my relationships with these friends. Even though I have always known that they are special people in my life, but now God is showing me even clearer about that.

It wasn't a word or a picture that I have received in the conference, but just a deep recognition in my heart which knowing that these are my true friends. I was really amazed by how God has zoomed in on this fact and showed it to me once again, in a way that I could hardly explain or describe.

God has done lots of wonderful things for us in this conference, things that are greater than what we have seen or understand in these three evenings. But one of the things that I appreciated the most is the reveal of these true friendships. I couldn't thank Him enough.

Inside the card, it says: "Though time may pass, our hearts will always know true friendship."

Yes, I believe that.

Things to Do This Summer

2006-06-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

spend a weekend with 10 girls at Sunshine Coast (June 23 - 25)
go to several shows at Vancouver International Jazz Festival (June 23 - July 2)
maybe Festival Vancouver too (Aug 7 - 19)
1 Christian conference (July 4 - 6)
1 worship training (July 9, 16, 23)
attend 2 weddings
3 days of Christian gathering at Edmonton (Aug 24 - 26)
watch fireworks at English Bay (July 26 - Aug 5)
learn Photoshop and Illustrator
make a new Chinese Christian magazine
more picnics!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

How about you? What's on your list?

Enjoy this beautiful summer! :)

Fighting on the Frontlines

2006-06-21T00:22:00.000-07:00

"One of the best examples of the power of praising God when the enemy comes against us was when King Jehoshaphat found that there was an enormous multitude of enemy soldiers gathered against him. He was afraid, but he sought God and called his people to a fast.... Jehoshaphat recognized his vulnerability and his dependence upon the Lord, saying, 'We have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.' (2 Chr 20:12)."

Our eyes are upon You, Lord. We need You to fight the battle for us.

"And the Lord spoke to Jehoshaphat one of the greatest promises of the Bible: 'Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's... You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you... Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.' And they bowed before God and worshiped Him (2 Chr 20:15-18)."

"Jehoshaphat knew the important of worship, so he strategically positioned the worshipers ahead of his army. 'He appointed those who should sing to the LORD, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying: "Praise the LORD, for His mercy endures forever."' (2 Chr 20:21)"

We praise You, Lord, for You are our Almighty Deliverer and Defender! Your mercy endures forever!

"The reason he put the worshipers in the front was because their worship exalted God above all else. And nothing could prevail against the living God. The result was that when they faced the enemy with praise and worship, this so confused them that they destroyed one another.

When we worship God, we open the channel through which God works most powerfully to defeat the enemy on our behalf. We confuse the enemy and weaken him to the point where he has to flee. That is the hidden power of praising God."

— Stormie Omartian, The Prayer That Changes Everything: The Hidden Power of Praising God

"Hail Jesus You're my King. Your life frees me to sing.
I will praise You all my days. You're perfect in all Your ways.
Hail Jesus You're my Lord. I will obey Your Word.
I want to see Your Kingdom come, not my will but Yours be done.

Glory glory to the Lamb. You will take us into the Land.
We will conquer in Your name, and proclaim that Jesus reigns.
Hail hail Lion of Judah, how powerful You are.
Hail hail Lion of Judah, how wonderful You are."
(Victory Chant, by Nicole C. Mullen)

Quality Time

2006-06-18T13:25:00.002-07:00

Words of affirmation, receiving gifts, quality time, acts of service or physical touch, which one is your primary love language?

I have learned about Dr. Gary Chapman's five love languages from his interviews and also from our cell group meetings. It is interesting to know that people have different love languages, and you can speak their love languages to connect with them or improve your relationships with them.

I've found out that quality time has become more and more people's primary love language, especially for those who are feeling lonely, depressed or rejected. They need lots of love and caring, but most of all, they want other people to spend time with them, even just sit down and talk to them or listen to them.

"Time is, at its core, a gift of love. Every night on the radio, I encourage my listeners: 'Love someone.' One of the easiest ways to show someone how much you love them is to give them your time. The time we spend with others, the small moments we share in our busy lives, are the most precious gifts we can give or receive. But even more important, you must know that time is always passing. When you fully understand this, you'll never let a moment of it get away from you without making sure you're caught in the act of giving love to someone. It can't wait until tomorrow."

Will you give this precious gift of love to those who you love today?

"When you see an opportunity to share your time with others—your parents, your children, or the stranger you run into on the street—I hope you'll embrace it passionately, giving your time freely and enjoying it to the fullest."

"If you knew this were your last day, what would you do?"

If there is no tomorrow, would you tell your love ones how much you love and appreciate them? Would you tell them all the things that you have been storing in your heart now?

If we still have tomorrow, could we spend some time together? Could we share our hearts with each other, and maybe sing a song together? :) I don't want to wait till the last day, I want to give you my time and my love today.

"Time runs out. But love never ends. It is the only truly renewable resource—you make more by giving it away. We don't have all the time in the world... not in this world, anyway. Even if you have faith in the next world, as I do, you must feel the same urgency I do. We've all wasted time, withholding love... or denying it, or mistaking something else for love. When you finally learn what love is, as I have, you don't want to spend another minute without filling every second with love. Love someone. Start today."
—Delilah, Love Someone Today

Praise and Worship

2006-06-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

"When you have been set free and are trying to rebuild your life in the Lord, the enemy will come and tell you, 'You weren't really set free.'... Remember where the voice of discouragement comes from and determine to stay close to the Lord in praise and worship. Praise silences the voice of the enemy so you can better hear the voice of God."

Sometimes when we feel discouraged or helpless, all we have to do is just keep praising and worshiping God.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." (Eph 6:12)

"When we sing our praises to God for who He is and what He has done, our worship becomes the very instrument He uses to set us free. That is the hidden power of praise."

Focus on God, worship Him in spirit and in truth (worship our Father God by the Holy Spirit and in Jesus' name), praise Him for His love and faithfulness, for He is with us, He is here to help us and fight the battles for us!

"Paul and Silas were worshiping God because they loved Him more than anything and wanted to glorify Him in all things. They knew that no matter what happened to them, He would be with them every step of the way. It was in the very act of praising God that they were set free. And not only did their chains fall off, but the chains of every prisoner in the jail as well. Even the prison keeper saw what happened and was saved. There is freedom that happens just being in the presence of people who are worshiping God when our hearts are tuned to it. Whenever we worship and praise God, things are shaken up around us, chains fall off, and we are set free."

— Stormie Omartian, The Prayer That Changes Everything: The Hidden Power of Praising God

"The Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever." (2 Tim 4:18)

Compassion Without Restraint

2006-05-31T17:58:00.001-07:00

"When the Lord saw her, His heart went out to her and He said, 'Don't cry.'" (Luke 7:13)

"Usually the words come from one who can't stand to see the hurt because she is powerless to help. Christ, on the other hand, is never helpless. When He said, 'Don't cry,' He meant, 'Not only do I hurt for you, but also I'm going to do something about the cause of the hurt."

"Jesus ran into a woman in hopeless despair and just reacted with what came most naturally to Him - healing mercy."

Jesus said, "Don't cry," He knows and understands what you are going through, and He is here to help you. He is full of mercy and love, and He has the mighty power to change the situation for you!

"No pacing, waiting, or wondering. No garbled nonsense from a patient slowly regaining consciousness. Jesus said, 'Get up!' and the dead man did. Instantaneously."
— Beth Moore, Jesus, the One and Only

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." (Psalm 90:14)

Wonderful Surprises

2006-05-20T23:33:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday was my birthday. Yes, it was also Mother's Day. My mom and I shared May 14 together once every seven years. I think this is quite special, it doubled my gratitude for my mom—not only thank her for being my mother, but also thank her for bringing me into this world, so that I can experience love and life. We spent the day with our family, we went to Church, lunch, shopping and dinner—a typical Sunday and family day, with the celebration of Mother's Day and my birthday.

This year I have not made any birthday wish. I used to be excited to make birthday wishes before my birthdays. But this year, I think I was already content with what God has given me, so I didn't even think about making any birthday wish. There were a lot of surprises that God has given me in these past two weeks:

Seven days before my birthday, I joined the healing ministry team in our Church. It has been my desire to join a healing ministry team, so I can serve the needy better with other brothers and sisters. I have been to many other healing meetings, training and ministries before, but it feels really different to serve with my own Church family. I am truly grateful that we can have this new healing ministry team in our Church.

Five days before my birthday, when I stepped into the room for the Tuesday night prayer meeting, one of the pastors came to me, brought me to his side, and started to pray for me. Then he led all the brothers and sisters to pray for me corporately. They declared that with God all things are possible. We walked around the room several times, to bring down the walls of Jericho! After that, I shared with them that last month I have written about coming together as an army and bringing down the walls of Jericho. I also shared with them that this coming Sunday will be my first day to serve with the new healing ministry team, so I believe that what we are fighting for tonight is not just for me, but for God's greater healing power to come to our Church! Then once again, we prayed for God's healing power to come upon us. I was so surprised that God would lead all of them to pray for me before I started to serve in the healing ministry team, I was totally overwhelmed by His amazing love that night.

Last Saturday, my dear brothers and sisters threw me a surprise birthday party. We had barbeque, dinner, game and cake at my friends' house. It was a wonderful party with yummy food, warm setting, and most importantly, my favorite people. God surely knows what I like the best. I was actually quite speechless that night, with all the surprises that I have got in that whole week, so all I could give to my brothers and sisters were just thank you and hugs. But I felt so blessed by their love and thoughtfulness, and I am truly thankful that God has brought each one of them into my life.

"He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." (Pro. 11:25) I have experienced this scripture many times in these past two weeks. Every time I thought I was helping and encouraging others, but then I found out that God helped and encouraged me in the exact same ways! You never know how God will surprise and reward you as you step out of faith to bring His love and blessings to others. He is truly faithful and gracious.

So, I can tell you that I had a really wonderful birthday this year! :) And I know that this is another new beginning for me. I really thank God for all of His surprising love for me!

Believe

2006-05-05T02:37:00.000-07:00

"Those who feared the LORD talked with each other,

and the LORD listened and heard." (Malachi 3:16)

In front of the river,

we opened up our hearts,

and shared the love of God.

"The LORD your God is with you, He is mighty to save.

He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love,

He will rejoice over you with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17)

Let us believe together that
no matter what we are going through,
or how long will it take,
God will lead us through,
and His grace is sufficient for us.

I Believe in You

2006-05-05T02:33:00.000-07:00

Follow your heart, follow your dreams. Don't let go. Be strong.

"Lonely, the path you have chosen.
A restless road, no turning back.
One day you will find your light again. Don't you know?
Don't let go. Be strong.

Follow your heart.
Let your love lead through the darkness.
Back to a place you once knew.
I believe, I believe, I believe in you.

Follow your dreams.
Be yourself, an angel of kindness.
There's nothing that you cannot do.
I believe, I believe, I believe in you.

Someday I'll find you.
Someday you'll find me too.
And when I hold you close, I'll know that it's true"

(I Believe in You, by Il Divo & Celine Dion)

Worship Song of April 2006

2006-04-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever

"Over the mountains and the sea, Your river runs with love for me,
and I will open up my heart, and let the Healer set me free.
I'm happy to be in the truth, and I will daily lift my hands:
for I will always sing of when Your love came down.

I could sing of Your love forever,
I could sing of Your love forever,
I could sing of Your love forever,
I could sing of Your love forever.

Oh, I feel like dancing - it's foolishness I know;
but, when the world has seen the light,
they will dance with joy, like we're dancing now."

I have been listening to and singing this song since last week (I like this live recording version by Hillsong and Delirious). Then I found out that as I kept singing this song, more and more of God's love has come down!

There are many things that I am thankful for in these two weeks: the things that I have learned and received at the Fresh Fire Living in the Supernatural Conference, the special time that I have spent with my friends, and also all the wonderful worship time! I could sing of His love forever!

"I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations." (Psalm 89:1)

Why does God need us?

2006-04-20T02:55:00.000-07:00

I didn't understand before why did God say that He needs me? He is the One who created me, and He is the almighty God, who can do anything! Nothing is impossible for Him, so why does He still need me?

I've learned that the reason why He says: "With God all things are possible." is because He loves us and wants to give us opportunities to work with Him and experience things together!

I've also learned that He has already given us the authority on earth, so He needs us to release the authority and accomplish His works.

But then I realized that God never said: "I love You because I need You." He says: "I need you, just because I love you."

"Immature love says: 'I love you because I need you.' Mature love says: 'I need you because I love you.'" — Erich Fromm

This is a new song that I sang and wrote yesterday. May you be blessed by God's wonderful love, and know that you are the one He desires. He loves you and He needs you!

"Lord why do You say that You need me?

You are the almighty God.

What are the things that You cannot do by Yourself?

So do You really need me Lord?

You kissed my lips and said You love me.

I am the one You desire.

No one could ever replace me in Your heart.

That's why You need me so much."

A Team According To God's Heart

2006-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

In this month's "The God Who Speaks" newsletter, the listening prayer question that Brad Jersak has given us was: "Lord, would you show me what people and events you are stringing together in my life? How have you already been doing that? Open my eyes so that I might flow with you."

Last week when I was sharing with a sister, we found out that we have the same mission statement. We were so excited to know about that. We shared about our passion and dreams. We realized why God has been leading us to minister together. And we also began to think about the possibility to work and serve together in the future.

This year I have been thinking about who are the people that God wants me to walk closely with in the coming days? I've tried to see more of my relationships with others, and wanted to know more about God's will and purposes in our lives.

These few days I was reading "52 Teachings for the G12 Meetings" (by Cesar Castellanos D), one of the chapters talks about "A Team According To God's Heart". It says: "Choosing one of the twelve is as important as choosing your spouse. It requires effort and time to get to know them and share together until having the total certainty that they are the indicated person. When the Lord chose His twelve, He did it thinking that they would be with Him forever." This made me think about who are the people that I "will be with forever"?

Even though now our new cell group is still like a little baby, so we are quite far away from the day of choosing the twelve. But for any G12 cell group leader, he or she will eventually become the leader of his or her team of twelve, and also part of another team of twelve, the upper level cell group. It means that he or she will have these 24 people to walk with forever! So who are these 24 people that God has been linking to our lives? Who are the ones that God wants us to be with and love forever?

Maybe everyone of us has different passion, dreams, gifting and anointing... but as long as we have the same ultimate goal: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind', and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Luke 10:27), God can string our lives together for His purpose.

One Body

2006-03-27T07:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at the Sunday service, a brother shared about alignment with the body of Christ. He said that when the body of Christ connect together as an army, the power of God will be released. When the army comes together, line up in the battle array, my strength become your strength, and your strength become my strength.

I was really touched by the fact that when we connect together as a body in Christ, we can share not only the love of God, but also our strength.

It's true that no matter how strong we are, there are still things that we can never achieve individually. But when we come together as a body, and fight together as an army, we can bring down the walls of Jericho.

"There are many parts, but one body." (1 Cor. 12: 20)

We are the body of Christ, and each one of us is a part of it. We need each other to fulfill our destinies. We need each other to accomplish what God wants us to do. We need each other to share the joy and tears. We need each other's love, support, encouragement and company.

May the love of God connect us and flow through us, the body of Christ, so that we can love each other deeply. May my strength become your strength, and your strength become my strength, so that we can glorify Him together!

What Are You Waiting For?

2006-03-24T19:12:00.000-08:00

"Sometimes I feel a little helpless, seems like I can't do a thing. But anything is possible, just you wait and see. Good things happen if you just believe.

So you wanna change the world, what are you waiting for? You say you're gonna start right now, what are you waiting for? It only takes one voice, so come on now and shout it out. Give a little more, what are you waiting for?"

Every time when I heard this song, it was like a reminder from the Lord: "What are you waiting for?"

"So Joshua said to the Israelites: "How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you?" (Joshua 18:3)

At the Tuesday night prayer meeting, one of the brothers shared that: as we asked God to enlarge our territory, we need to take the steps of faith to move forward and enter the land.

So where is the promised land that the Lord has given you? Are you ready to enter and possess the land?

"Someday, somehow, gonna take that step, cause time is ticking away. Right here, right now, before it's too late, gonna face tomorrow today.

So you wanna change the world, what are you waiting for? You say you're gonna start right now, what are you waiting for? It only takes one voice, so come on now and shout it out. Give a little more, what are you waiting for?" (What Are You Waiting For, by Natalie Grant)

Prophetic Encouragement

2006-03-22T16:58:00.000-08:00

Last night at the Prayer Meeting, most of us released our prayers and the words that we have received. I shared the scripture that I have received these few days: "Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert." (Isaiah 43:18-19) I believe that God is going to do something new this year. He is going to do immeasurably more than we imagine, including miracles, signs and wonders. God is going to win all the battles, and break down the works of the enemies! So I praised God and gave Him all the glory and honor!!

Just now I've received an Extreme Prophetic newsletter. It was like a confirmation to what I've prayed and declared with my brothers and sisters last night. I was really encouraged by it. May it be a prophetic encouragement for you too, and may the new fragrances of His grace will be released in and through your life as well!

A PROPHETIC ENCOURAGEMENT FOR YOU TODAY!

Last night at our Tuesday Night Extreme House Fellowship, the Lord gave me an exciting prophetic vision. This morning He told me to deliver it to you!

I saw a vision of butterflies being released out of heaven. Thousands of them. They were so beautiful - so free! The Lord says that it is a time of new beginnings for you. Even as a butterfly comes forth from a cocoon into a new state of being, into new freedom, new beauty, new presentation, so also will you! The Lord says, "Do not call to mind the former things or ponder the things of the past. Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it." The wind of the Spirit will delicately blow upon you and new fragrances of His grace will be released in and through your life.

This is a season of new beginnings for you. A season of reward for those who have diligently sought the Lord. The things that held you back in the past will not hold you back in the days ahead. Any cloak of shame, humiliation, or bondage is being cast off. A robe of honor is being prepared for you because you have humbled yourself.

Walk through the door into this new realm of blessing. It is prepared for you. All things are being made new.

Have a great day and remember that you are a great treasure to His heart.... ours too!

PATRICIA KING
Extreme Prophetic Television
patricia@extremeprophetic.com
www.extremeprophetic.com

The Shift of 2006

2006-03-20T14:22:00.000-08:00

A sister just sent me Dutch Sheets' recent article, which prophesied about "The Shift of 2006". It is an encouraging word. You can read it on his website.

"Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert." (Isaiah 43:18-19)

May you be encouraged too!

Beautiful One

2006-02-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

Last week while we were worshipping at the Sunday Service, we sang about the beauty of the Lord: "You are beautiful beyond description; too marvelous for words, too wonderful for comprehension, like nothing ever seen or heard. Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom? Who can fathom the depth of Your love? You are beautiful beyond description, Majesty enthroned above."

It was so wonderful to gaze upon His beauty. And it was true that: "Holy God, to whom all praise is due, I stand in awe of You." (I Stand in Awe, by Mark Altrogge)

I used to wonder why the Bible said: "He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him." (Isaiah 53:2) I thought He must be the most beautiful One in the whole world! So it was difficult for me to imagine that He was not attractive... But then God suddenly opened my eyes to see His true beauty! It was His glory, His love and His identity that shine out the beauty! We would not be able to see His beauty until we could see who He is and what is in Him.

I know this is also how God sees us. We are precious in His eyes, because we are His sons and daughters, and He sees the love and desire in our hearts. "The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7) God loves us with His unconditional love, so He said: "All beautiful you are, my darling; there is no flaw in you." (Song 4:7)

May you see the beauty of the Lord today, and realize how precious you are in His eyes!

"You opened my eyes to your wonders anew, You captured my heart with this love, because nothing on earth is as beautiful as You." (Beautiful One, by By The Tree)

Happy Valentine's Day

2006-02-14T16:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day! :)

May God's sweetest love fills your heart today and always!

Happy New Year

2006-01-08T21:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!! :)

2005 was an amazing year to me, because there were so many wonderful surprises, and I have experienced what the Bible said: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6) As I put my trust in God, He has truly led me through every step of my 2005, and I was constantly amazed by His great love and faithfulness.

So I am excited for 2006! and looking forward to know what God has in store for us in this new year.

These past weeks, as I was preparing my heart to enter into 2006, I have a desire to give you a gift for this new year. I want to give you something with my love and blessing, something that you can enjoy and use it practically. My heart is to see you living an enjoyable and fulfilling life in 2006! So, this is my gift for you in 2006:

Idea of the Day - a gift which you can open and receive every day!

You will find one new idea in this website every day. I encourage you to pick an idea and take action! Even though they are just little ideas, but I believe that if you could do one thing every day, your 2006 will be so full!

By the way, please don't forget to share with me your experiences of doing these things! :)

May your 2006 be filled with God's wonderful love and abundant blessings! And may this year be a year of love and giving! :)

Reasons to Love

2005-12-13T19:49:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wonder why do we have to love one another?

Last week I kept thinking about this question. We all knew that it is the command of God for us to love each other, but sometimes when you were tired of loving some people, or tired of being in some situations, could you still love them, even with the frustrations and disappointments?

God always knows how to answer our question in the ways that could touch our hearts, and this time He has answered me by two great news. Last Friday night during the Christmas party, I got the news that one of my friend is pregnant, and they are going to have a new member in their family soon! Then that night after I went home, I got another great news that a girl who joined one of our cell groups recently has accepted Christ after the Christmas party! I was really excited and happy for my friends, and the joy has even refreshed my heart. It is so wonderful to see these new lives! It reminds me that new life coming to this world or entering into the Kingdom of God because of God's love and also the love from the people around them. And this is one of the reasons why we have to love.

God has also answered my question by reminding me His love and faithfulness, and the things that He has done for me this year. Every time when He shown me how great He is, I could not question anymore but rest in His love and faithfulness. "We love because He first loved us." (1 Jn 4:19) God is love, and He is the ultimate reason why we have to love.

Maybe sometimes God feels frustrated and disappointed with us too, but He has never and will never give up on loving us. I am thankful that He is the God who "will not grow tired or weary" (Is. 40:28), He loves us with an everlasting love.

"Father, I can't explain this kind of love, this kind of grace. I know, I still break Your heart and yet You run to welcome me.

This is my song of praise to You, for who You are and all that You do. From the moment my life began, You have been faithful. You have been faithful, forever faithful... Father." (Faithful Father, by Brian Doerksen)

Vancouver Ablaze Miracle Festival

2005-11-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

Last week we had the "Vancouver Ablaze Miracle Festival" in our city. It was one of the eighteen "Canada Ablaze" crusades by Fresh Fire Ministries. There were four evening meetings from Wednesday to Saturday. Every night the crusade gathered several hundreds people at the Glad Tidings Church.

There were many things that I have experienced and received in this crusade. But what I wanted to share in here are some of the special moments that I have experienced during this time.

Thursday night, several people got healed and they went up to the platform to give testimonies. Meanwhile, Pastor called out a person whose eyesight was affected by diabetes, and a girl came forward in respond. Pastor prayed for her, and asked how she felt. The girl tried to look around, and she said she could see better. Then Pastor prayed for her once again, and the girl said she could see even more clearly. Her eyesight was instantly healed. When she was walking back to her seat, she kept covering her eyes with her hands, and then opened; covered again, and opened. She tried to see things with her new eyesight! Then when she got back to her seat, she immediately fell on her knees, and began to cry on her family's (or friend's) knees. She must be overwhelmed by the love and power of God. She couldn't stand at all after being touched by the mighty power of God. Her families (or friends) were rejoicing with her. I believe that her life will never be the same again. That was the most touching scene that I have seen in this crusade.

Also on Thursday night, before Pastor praying for the sick, he asked all the people to pray for each other first. He asked all those who need healing to stand up, and then he asked people to pray for the ones who were sitting next to them and needing healing. That night I was sitting with two of my dear friends, so they were the ones who prayed for me. Their prayer was so special to me. I was really thankful that they were there. And I was also thankful for God's wonderful love and favor for us.

Many brothers and sisters from the Fresh Fire Ministries team have prayed for me during this crusade. One of them even came to pray for me every night. This was another favor that I have received in this crusade.

Even though many people have prayed for me, but when I was standing there in front of the platform, receiving ministering, I realized that what I wanted the most was Jesus' touch. Especially on Saturday night, after I walked through the "blessing/impartation/prayer tunnel", I was standing there, continuing to receive Jesus' love and healing touch. At that time, all I wanted was Jesus, so I kept crying out His name desperately. Then all of a sudden, I heard the worship team began to sing "Jesus... Jesus...". They were singing the name of Jesus. And my heart was melted away. At that moment, that was the most beautiful worship.

"I stand here in this place, see the glory of Your face, taken by the wonder of Your name. I'm desperate for Your touch, never needed it so much, 'cause all I want is You." (All I Want Is You, by Planetshakers)

Whether we were standing or falling on our knees, we realized once again how much we need God, and how great He is. Even though sometimes the road seems so long, and the "personal training" seems tough, but still, God is pouring out His love and favor to sustain us. As we seek Him and find Him, He will never fail to show us His glory and fill us with His amazing love.

50 Little Known Facts About Queenie

2005-10-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

I often saw people wrote "100 little known facts about me". And recently most people are writing 10 or 20 things about themselves. I have tried to see how many things that I could write about myself, and now I knew that 50 is my maximum so far... So here are some of the little things that I can tell you about myself:

1. Sensitive to date. Always record and recall things with date.
2. Childhood dream job: teacher or owner of a stationary store.
3. Writer, my dream job since I was 22.
4. Born in Hong Kong.
5. Vancouver, my current location, my favourite city. Immigrated to here with my family in July 1994.
6. Favorite flowers: roses, gerbera daisies and lilies.
7. Christmas, my favorite holiday.
8. Add milk and raw sugar to English tea and coffee.
9. Addicted to milk tea (both Hong Kong style and English) for several years, had to drink at least one cup every day. Got rid of it this year. Now only drink it once in a while.
10. Drink Chinese tea at home. Coffee sometimes.
11. Love cold drinks, esp. Coke, Shirley Temple, Hong Kong style lemon iced tea and iced milk tea.
12. Chinese food, my favourite.
13. Italian food, second favourite.
14. Used to have great memory for phone numbers, but not anymore after using cell phone.
15. Love colors, esp. pink & blue.
16. Milkshake, I usually like strawberry.
17. Häagen-Dazs strawberry ice-cream, all time favorite.
18. The Praise Assembly was my church in Hong Kong, it was also my first church.
19. Accepted Christ at Revival Christian Church with my mom, on November 26th, 1989.
20. White house on the beach, my dream house.
21. My wish list, very long.
22. Read in bed or sofa.
23. Sleep with music.
24. Dream a lot, in colors.
25. The only pets that I ever had were two white rabbits, a present that I received from my friend at Grade 8. But they only survived at my home for two weeks...
26. Cantonese, first language.
27. Learned and speak Mandarin since elementary school.
28. Enjoy live music, especially Christian music and Jazz.
29. Matthew 19:26, my favourite scripture.
30. Love each other no matter what, my definition of true love.
31. I have 3 sisters, all younger than me. They are my best friends and advisors, who always give me their VERY honest opinions...
32. I love my brothers and sisters in Christ, they are my favourite people. I enjoy being with them a lot.
33. Friendship is very important to me.
34. Close friends are the ones who I can call and talk to anytime; who I love to hang out with; who I can share all my happiness and sadness; who I can walk together closely in Christ.
35. Most of my best friends in high school are living in other countries now. I wish we never had to be apart.
36. There are some special people in my life, who I know that I will love them forever. I wish we will never have to say goodbye.
37. I used to write letters very often, when I was in elementary and high school. I wrote to many different friends, even the ones who sat next to me in the class.
38. Seldom write letters after using email.
39. I still keep most of the letters, cards and notes that I received from my friends.
40. I love receiving letters from my friends. Email is good too, but letter or card with their handwriting always warm my heart.
41. I need a lot of quiet and private time.
42. Prose and article, my favourite types of writing.
43. Poem, another favourite, beautiful, neat and romantic.
44. Favourite topics: "Love" and "Life".
45. Built my own website. I used HTML before, and then now I use FrontPage.
46. Favourite places: Home, Church, Friends' house, bookstore, beach, park, seawalk, nice restaurants and cafes...
47. I love music box.
48. Piano, learned a few times before, but seldom play it now. I always love to listen to others playing it.
49. I love sky. Sunny blue sky or clear dark sky with lots of shining stars.
50. One of the meanings of my Chinese name is related to the sky blue color. The Chinese character of my name is usually used to describe the beautiful blue sky. This is one of the reasons why I love sky.

I would love to hear the little known facts about you too! ;)

Hallelujah

2005-10-18T21:25:00.000-07:00

God is good! There were many things to be thankful for in these past two weeks.

We went to a G12 "Living the Dream Cell Conference" last week. We have learned a lot of things that we can apply to our new cell group. Some of the things can also be applied to another new group that I am now working with. It was good to learn all these things in this time.

During this conference, I have seen the spiritual growing and faith building of my sisters. One of them accepted Christ two years ago. We have witnessed her spiritual growth from a baby to a young lady. Even though she has not been to any training from the G12 School of Leaders yet, but she still joined us to go to this conference and learn with us. Another sister is one of the leader in our new cell group, she was wondering if she could be a good leader or not. But after this conference, both of them were encouraged and also got the faith to be a good leader. They realized that God can use anyone to do His work, only if we are willing. God knows how to encourage them and give them faith! They were not only encouraged by our brothers and sisters in these two weeks, but also by our Pastor during one of the dinner. And also prayed and blessed by Pastor Cesar Castellanos, the speaker of this conference. It was such a joy to see them lighted up the desire and passion in their hearts and believe that they can do it by the power of God. After the conference, both of them went home and called their unsaved and new believer friends to practice what they have learned! :)

Our new cell group have received many prayers, blessing, support and encouragement from our brothers and sisters in these past few weeks. Even though the enemy tried to confuse us and stop the work of God, but just like what a sister has shared in last Sunday service: "The enemy has his plan, but God has a better plan!" God has surrounded us with great brothers and sisters. We are greatly blessed by their support and protection, and also the light and hope that they have brought into this group. I believe that with love and unity, we can stand firm together in any circumstances. I praise God for this special opportunity for us to learn more about how to walk together in Christ. And I also praise Him for strengthening our faith and relationship in this time.

Thank you Lord that all the things that we have experienced during this time of starting new works for Him, they were not only opportunities for me to learn, but also invitations for me to enter into deeper intimacy with Him. When the enemy tried to scare or defeat me, I hid myself under the wings of the Lord and I was saved. Then I realized the need to go into the secret place of His presence. There are so many things that God wants to reveal to us, but what He wants most from us is our passionate love and pursuing for Him. He desires our love for Him far more than our works.

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song." (Ps. 28:7) Hallelujah! Praise God for His amazing love and faithfulness!

New Season

2005-09-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

Praise God for this new season! I am excited about what He is going to lead us to do in these coming months.

Last fall I've started two new ministry groups with some brothers and sisters, one is a prayer group, another one is a writers' group for a Christian organization. Both of the groups were going well in the past several months. But during the summer, some questions were raised by the group members, and thus made us wanted to stop for a while and seek God for clear directions.

After waiting for the Lord for a few weeks, I believe that He has already renewed my strength and restored my peace to move on again.

For the writers' group, there are many things to do and learn in these next few months, and some are the things that I have never done before. But I just trust in the Lord for His provision for every area of our needs.

There was a new surprise from the Lord for the prayer group. He brought another sister into our group, and we decided to start a new cell group together next month! I was really surprised and amazed by His plan, it is even better than we expected. Wow... Lord, just like how Mary answered to the angel who suddenly came and told her about giving birth to a son: "I am the Lord's servant... May it be to me as you have said." (Luke 1:38)

It was interesting that most of the things that I've been reading in my devotion these last few weeks seem to speak to me about continuing to develop these two groups. One of the stories that I've been reading is how God used Zerubbabel to rebuild the temple. It encouraged me that even though sometimes we think that we are not good enough or might not be able to do His works, but God says that He is able. "'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the LORD of hosts. 'Who are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain! And he shall bring forth the capstone with shouts of "Grace, grace to it!"' (Zech 4:6-7)

"You are awesome in this place, Mighty God. You are awesome in this place, Abba Father. You are worthy of all praise. To You our lives we raise. You are awesome in this place, Mighty God" (Awesome In This Place, by Dave Billington)

Last night at the prayer meeting, I was so overwhelmed by the awesomeness of God. And my heart was filled with gratitude for His goodness.

"I stand, I stand, in awe of you. I stand, I stand in awe of you. Holy God, to whom all praise is due, I stand In awe of you." (I Stand In Awe, by Mark Altrogge)

Building the house of the Lord is just a preparation for His presence and glory to come. "'The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,' says the LORD Almighty. 'And in this place I will grant peace,' declares the LORD Almighty." (Hag 2:9) Praise God for His great promises!

"Be glorified, be glorified. Be glorified in the Heavens, be glorified in the earth, be glorified in this temple. Jesus, Jesus, be thou glorified." (Be Glorified)

What City Do You Belong in?

2005-09-16T23:57:00.000-07:00

You Belong in Rome

You're a big city girl with a small town heart, which is why you're attracted to the romance of Rome. Strolling down picture perfect streets, cappuccino in hand, and gorgeous Italian men - could life get any better?

What City Do You Belong in?

Rome is one of the cities that I would like to go. Will I belong in there? I don't know yet. So far I still think that I belong in Vancouver :)

God brought me and my family to Vancouver 11 years ago from Hong Kong. Many things has been changed in these years, but there are also things that still remained the same. It was always interesting to look back, and there were so many special memories that I've got in this city.

I think it was the work of God that I've experienced in here that made Vancouver became home city to me. And it was the people here that made me wanted to stay in this city. I missed them and Vancouver so much every time when I was away.

Even though now I belong in Vancouver, but there is another place that I truly belong. I like what my friend has shared. She said the time when she was wondering where she belongs, she heard this song and realized that the place near God's throne is where she could really belong.

"I'll sing Your praises forever, deeper in love with You; Here in Your court where I'm close to Your throne, I found where I belong." (You Are Holy, by Hillsong Australia)

In His court where I'm close to His throne, there is the place where I truly belong.

"Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." (Ps 84:10)

More of God in Our Lives

2005-09-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

After watching the Hurricane Katrina news and stories, and listening to my friends' sharing of their Africa mission trip, I couldn't stop thinking about our lives again.

I am so thankful for God's protection and provision for me and the people that I love. We are truly blessed. But I know that this is not because we are better than others that we deserve all these blessings, it is all because of God's love and grace.

All these sharing, news and stories have reminded me to rely on God in every circumstances, and seize every moment of my life to live for Him. It also reminded me that there are still so much more that we can do for God and others.

Sometimes it was sad to realize that our prayers and giving were insufficient for the needs around us. There were still so much more that we could do. God has been waiting for us to pour out more love and compassion for His people.

After a short break in August, now is the time for me to seek God for new directions for both of my work and ministry. I am waiting for God to unfold His plan for me for these coming few months. This is also another time for me to reorganize my life and all that He has given me.

I hope that in this new season, more of God will be filled into our lives, more of love will be poured out to the needy, and more of His glory will be shown.

2/3 Review

2005-08-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

2005 has already passed 2/3. There were many Christian meetings, training and gatherings this year. Each of them has become the highlights of my 2005. Not just because of knowing what God has been doing in Vancouver, Canada and the nations, but also because of His amazing love that I have experienced in these times.

Dec 31, 2004 to Jan 1, 2005 - Watchnight Service
Jan 9 - Ministering at the West Point Grey Baptist Chinese Christian Fellowship
Mar 3-5 - Extreme Prophetic Healing Outreach School
Mar 5 - Rise Up Gathering
May 5-7 - BC Rise Up Gathering
May 13-15 - Encounter Weekend
June 10 - 24 Hours Worship for the City
June 22-25 - Strategic Keys Breakthrough Conference
July 28-31 - One Heart Gathering (at Quebec City)
Aug 12 - Benny Hinn Vancouver Crusade

At New Year's Eve 2004, we went to our Church's Watchnight Service, to receive the word of God for the coming year. We worshipped, countdowned and entered into 2005, the year of grace, together. We rejoiced and celebrated for a while, and then we began to pray for Canada and the nations. When I was standing in front of the platform with other brothers and sisters, I suddenly realized that we were there praying for Canada and the nations at the beginning of the year. I didn't plan or expect to do this after the countdown, I thought I would go to have a drink with my sisters and friends. Yet God has already planned well and put us into that position to do what He desires us to do, in His perfect timing. At that moment I knew that this year we are going to have some shifts in the spirit realm. God is going to extend our concerns and ministry territories, even when we might not plan or expect to do so. He is looking for people who are willing to lay down their own agenda to follow His.

These meetings, training and gatherings in the past eight months were all special to me. Some of them I didn't plan to go at first, but then eventually I was there. I am thankful for every step that God has led me to follow Him and go to all those places. I am also thankful for all these opportunities that He has given me to experience Him and be a part of His works.

I am looking forward to the last 1/3 of 2005!

Focus on God

2005-08-10T23:55:00.000-07:00

Last week at the cell group meeting, we shared about some of the things that were hindering us to fulfill the plan and destiny that God has for us. Some of us said that we often had many excuses, even when we knew what God wanted us to do. We often allowed ourselves to ignore what we should do with those excuses. But what are the main causes behind all these excuses?

For me, sometimes I worried about what other people would think of me, sometimes I worried that I couldn't make things perfect... Fear of man and perfectionism often hindered me to step out or move forward.

One of the things that I always want to do is to write some sharing and testimonies in English, to testify God's goodness with more people. But with one of my top 10 excuses: "My English is not good enough." I seldom write in English, except emails. Even though I always encourage people to write, and tell them that the content is more important than the grammar. But when it came to me, I could hardly accept any bad grammar or even tiny mistake in my published writing pieces, especially the Chinese ones.

Our challenge of the week was to ask God to take away all these hindrances and walk freely into our destiny. But how can we take away the hindrances?

I shared with the group that sometimes when I prayed for the sick, I knew that some people would look at my body and wonder why I would still pray for others, what could I possiblely give to them? I doubted about that too sometimes... But I thank God that everytime when I looked to Him, He would lead me to submit myself to Him and then give me the peace and faith to complete His work.

So the solution is always "Focus on God." This is what He keeps reminding me these years. If I focused on myself or others, I would have missed what He wanted me to do.

After last cell meeting, I've decided to start my English blog! And also practice what I preach: concentrate on putting together some good contents, rather than entangling with the grammar. So please excuse me if you happened to see some Chinese-English or weird sentences in here. I hope you will only see the light and love of God, and be blessed by that.