Death Destroys A Man, But Thoughts of Death May Save Him

If I'm not mistaken, it's a quote from Charles Spurgeon: "Death destroys a man, but thoughts of death may save him." Truly, you and I have a brief opportunity of life. As a Christian, I think about eternal things a lot. I evaluate the life patterns I have, the mistakes that I need to correct, the fruit from my actions. I need to discern God's hand all the time upon where He is leading me to make the best investment of my earthly life before it ends. Everything is temporary. My possessions. My work or ministry. Even my wife and kids. Well, thinking of my kids these days ... they are with us for a season and I'm doing my best to plant the seeds of God's Word inside them. My hope is that, someday, these seeds will take root and bring godly character and stability into their lives. But I do this realizing they have lives and choices of their own. They too will leave us someday... for that's the way it is. In the end, my own life before death comes is my own project and stewardship. Pray for me that I'd make the most of it until the Lord takes me home.

When Delay is Not God's Denial

Luke 18:1 - "Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart ..." Do you sometimes wonder why there are delays to God's answer to your prayers? God knows your needs. So, you may ask, "Why doesn't God just give it to me when it's lined up with His Word?" Whether you understand or not, God's ways are perfect and He is in charge. It does us no good when we complain about the delays! Better to trust God and just press on. For one, there's the enemy of our soul, the devil. He wants us to get discouraged when there are delays so we'll give up on God's will. Then, there are things that God is working that involves people exercising good will. God does not force people to fulfill His purposes. This takes time and patience. And, of course, the delays may just be a part of God's plan for you to grow up spiritually, emotionally, relationally, and in other aspects of life. If God answers immediately, would you spend time building closeness with Him and His Word? Yes, even if the delay is a long one, it does not mean that God is saying "No" to what you have been asking Him.

A Pastor On My Journey

The other week, I was in conversation online with one of my pastor friends, Junie. I just want to put on permanent record (that's what blogs are for!) a brief memory and tribute about him. He's presently in the United States pastoring in a local church along with his wife Camille and kids. Back in 1993, Junie and I first met in an Asian seminary. And then the following year, we started working together in a church planting and pastoral ministry that lasted for almost 4 years. I praise God that during those early years, I had pastor Junie along on my journey to confirm my calling as well as make me accountable to the church and develop my spiritual gifts. Well, when we chatted together the other week, I was able to re-establish our friendship. It's such a joy when God works to renew relationships in special times like this for me.