From: Josephine Lim
Date: Thu, Nov 19, 2009 at 12:16 AM
Subject: Email from London - Who is Jesus in my life?
Who is Jesus in my life?
By Josephine Lim
Recently I found out something concerning a friend. I was quite disturbed and didn't know what to do. I asked the Lord why I have to face this and how am I going to handle this in the right way? My mind was blocked. Then I sat down and silent my heart and allowed the Lord to speak to me. The words I received as follows:
"Look at this person from the eyes of Jesus. What will Jesus do? Look at the person with hope and believe change can happen. Pray according to what you want to see change and happen in this person's life. Believe that whatever you pray it shall come to pass. Don't go with a judgmental or already condemned him/her mentality. People do want to be better and improve if given the chance. I can't change them but God can. All I can do is continue to be their friend, be there to support not as a critical friend but as a friend that constantly shows the grace and loving-kindness of our God and at the same time be wise, be led by the Holy Spirit at all times."
When people receive the gift of no condemnation (Romans 8:1), then they are empowered to go and sin no more. Though they may fail sometimes, but when they know they are forgiven much, they will love God much (Luke 7:47) and will always be able to come back to God in His sweet loving embrace whenever they need a refuge. When sin abounds, grace much more abounds (Romans 5:20) because only through the overflowing abundance of His grace, people's life can be transformed.
Jesus died for the world, died for sinners and His heart is filled with compassion for all mankind. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus (Romans 3:23-24). We need a Saviour who can wash us clean and reconcile us back to God. If we are so perfect, we have no need of God anymore. So, we admit we are not perfect that's why we need Him in our lives and He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Surrender to God areas in our lives that we want to improve and change. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect (Hebrews 11:40).
We are not designed by God to be satisfied by lowly things but we are designed to be satisfied by higher and more precious thing and that is Christ Himself. Remember, since the very beginning we are created to be in relationship and fellowship with God. If we seek fulfilment from the world, we will never be satisfied or maybe just a temporal satisfaction. We need Christ in every area of our lives, in our career, ministry, relationships and all things that concern us. When Jesus is in the centre of our lives, we'll see breakthrough because in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37).
When Jesus becomes the central bigger important powerful figure in our lives, we will see marvellous things happen in life that we know is only possible through Christ. We will do things that are beyond our normal ability of which people will be amazed and all glory will be given to Christ our Lord! We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
When Christ takes priority and centre stage in our lives, we are unshakable. We are wiser, stronger (mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually), respected, honoured, favoured and victorious. In the midst of circumstances and whatever that comes our way, we will not be easily threatened or intimidated. We will remain composed and self-controlled because we know who is our God, and He is with us and in us, and He is our peace our confident trust. We have no fear because all things (good, bad or ugly) that happened work out for good to us who love Him and called according to His design and purpose (Romans 8:28). The enemies want it for our bad, but God shall surely turn it around for our good our advantage. Just trust and believe in God.
The enemies want us to doubt God's goodness as of the time of Adam & Eve, he poisoned their mind about God's intention. So, don't be like Adam and Eve, fell prey to the scheme of the enemy by doubting God's nature. Hold fast to God's goodness and faithfulness, for those with good opinions of God and remain steadfast in their faith great is their reward and they shall prosper and reign in life!
Circumstances can break or make us stronger. Choose wisely. Where is your focus? Fix our eyes upon Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith (Hebrews 12:2) who is able to make all things possible to those who believe OR fix our eyes on troubles and circumstances around us that the more we focus on it, the larger it gets and the more depressed we become. The Lord said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). "So don't ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself" (Matthew 6:33). "Look at the birds in the air.....your Heavenly Father feeds them, ....see how the lilies of the field grow...and how God clothed the grass of the field...aren't you more precious than these, oh you of little faith? (Matthew 6:26-30)
Trust in Him, my dear friend. Let our heart be at rest. Know our identity in Christ who dwells in us and is able to carry us through. We will not be afraid because He is our real true Hero who rescues us each time when we call. “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
Let people around us see the kindness and beauty of Christ in our eyes and through our lips and actions. What do you want to see happen, always tell the Lord in prayer and He can make all things possible and beautiful for us in due time.
Saturday, 28 November 2009
Saturday, 7 November 2009
Abundant Mentality a Kingdom Mentality
From: Josephine Lim
Date: Mon, Oct 19, 2009 at 8:41 PM
Subject: Email from London - Abundant Mentality a Kingdom Mentality
Abundant Mentality
By Josephine Lim
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will (for you and I) - Romans 12:2
Our actions and speech are fruits of our heart and mind. What we believe is how we behave. Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45). Below are some examples of not having (enough of) an Abundance Mentality:
Jealousy can come in all forms either jealous of others’ achievements, success, riches, looks, wisdom, intelligence, diligence, talent or anything others have that we see ourselves lacking.
Firstly, we don’t have to be jealous of others because we are all uniquely and wonderfully created by God (Psalms 139:14). We are different from others. Each one of us has our role in our family, community, church and nation. We will never be satisfied with ourselves if we start to compare as there will always be somebody else we think are more successful. Real success is not measured by comparison but by how comfortable we feel of ourselves. Real success is when we’ve found our true joy and peace that bring real satisfaction to our whole being. In the end, when we leave this world, it is not success or material possessions that we bring with us into eternity but the relationship and identity we have in Christ and the lives we have touched from the abundance of our heart. This is Kingdom mentality.
Secondly, jealousy shows our lack of faith (towards God). We think that He is not capable enough to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). We think that He has abandon or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). We think that He doesn’t hear our prayers (1 Peter 3:12) but in fact, He makes all things beautiful (for us) in His appointed time (Ecclesiastes 3:11). He wants us to embrace all that we have (been blessed with) today so that we can appreciate what we are going to have tomorrow and in the future. A person who is secure knows who he/she is in Christ and acknowledged that God is faithful to provide for his/her present and future needs (Deuteronomy 7:9). He is for us and not against us. Let us not be too self-conscious that we lose our confidence and identity just wanting to become what society defined as successful. Be comfortable in our own skin, have an abundance mentality and be the best person we can be without subjecting to unnecessary comparison and competition that will only result in much stress, frustration and worse - depression.
When we are stingy or reluctant to contribute. This is the result of the wrong concept we have concerning giving. We think after giving, we will have less. He (referring to us) who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully (2 Corinthians 9:6). A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed (Proverbs 11:25). If we are stingy, it is most likely due to our wrong concept of God that we think He too has a meager hands and not willing to bless us much more. According to Matthew 6:33, Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.
When the Lord bless, He bless generously with sinking boats of fish (Luke 5 and John 21), fed 4,000 and 5,000 and gathered 7 and 12 baskets full of leftovers respectively (Mark 8 and John 6), turned water into the best wine (John 2), prospered and made rich Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the Israelites that came out from Egypt, King Solomon and many others. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed (2 Corinthians 9:8). We will never out-give God. The more we give, the more we will receive. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).
If we worry, sad, depress, panic, or complain that's because we don’t believe God is bigger and more powerful than our circumstances. Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37). Now to Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Ephesians 3:20). “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “I tell you the truth, if anyone …does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:22-24)
Let us give, forgive, love, serve and work from the abundance of our heart. Whatever we do, do it from the abundance of our heart as for the Lord rather than for men (Colossians 3:23) then our receivers will be moved by our deeds and truly blessed. Thus whatever we do will prosper and bear much fruit. People with abundance mentality is not bound or limited by what they think they have or capable of instead their trust and dependence are on the inexhaustible resources of our God who supplies us richly according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19) enabling us to do everything through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13) with all confidence. People with abundance mentality acknowledge that their God has a "big heart".
Let me share with you some of my personal testimonies relating to abundance mentality.
I used to worship lead every month in my church in Malaysia and whenever my turn came to worship lead in the coming big events, etc I would have the tempting thoughts of withholding my best songs or best song list for that event. So, I intended to sing the second best song list first until the Lord prompted my heart that this kind of thought was not right that I decided to give my best each time I serve. Abundant mentality is giving our very best each time we are given the opportunity to serve and God will supply even better ideas the next time.
I believe in generosity and to be honest I am still learning day by day to be more generous. I have seen numerous times, whenever I see or feel there is a need in somebody’s life or just feeling like wanting to bless someone, I will do it. The joy and reward are in the giving itself when you see how much it means to the other person. I’ve learnt that the more I give, I am not lack at all but always have more than enough to enjoy all things that the Lord has created.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
Let us not postpone our enjoyment. Enjoy our time with God, family, friends, colleagues, teachers and leaders in our lives. Love and appreciate them. When we are with them, make the most of the time together. Remember be generous. People love to be around those who are generous (either with their time, finances, energy, knowledge and most importantly love). Let us not postpone enjoyment for ourselves too. It doesn’t mean we spend lavishly but treat ourselves and others in the way that we want to be treated (Matthew 7:12) so we will truly be blessed. Do it from the abundance of our heart. Enjoy our work, ministries and hobbies too!
We are generous because we believe our God is generous, if we are stingy that is an indication that we see God with meager hands. We increase in wisdom, becoming more creative, loving, kind, generous and forgiving because as Christ is so are we! Let us have a Christ-like mentality - Abundance Mentality. Before long, we shall see the fruit of our right belief and as a result of our faith, great and wonderful things will happen in and through our lives.
Let us honour the Lord with Abundant Mentality of Him and towards one another.
God bless all of you exceedingly abundantly above all that you ask or think (Ephesians 3:20)!
You are Greatly Blessed, Highly Favoured and Deeply Loved by God!
Date: Mon, Oct 19, 2009 at 8:41 PM
Subject: Email from London - Abundant Mentality a Kingdom Mentality
Abundant Mentality
By Josephine Lim
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will (for you and I) - Romans 12:2
Our actions and speech are fruits of our heart and mind. What we believe is how we behave. Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Luke 6:45). Below are some examples of not having (enough of) an Abundance Mentality:
Jealousy can come in all forms either jealous of others’ achievements, success, riches, looks, wisdom, intelligence, diligence, talent or anything others have that we see ourselves lacking.
Firstly, we don’t have to be jealous of others because we are all uniquely and wonderfully created by God (Psalms 139:14). We are different from others. Each one of us has our role in our family, community, church and nation. We will never be satisfied with ourselves if we start to compare as there will always be somebody else we think are more successful. Real success is not measured by comparison but by how comfortable we feel of ourselves. Real success is when we’ve found our true joy and peace that bring real satisfaction to our whole being. In the end, when we leave this world, it is not success or material possessions that we bring with us into eternity but the relationship and identity we have in Christ and the lives we have touched from the abundance of our heart. This is Kingdom mentality.
Secondly, jealousy shows our lack of faith (towards God). We think that He is not capable enough to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). We think that He has abandon or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). We think that He doesn’t hear our prayers (1 Peter 3:12) but in fact, He makes all things beautiful (for us) in His appointed time (Ecclesiastes 3:11). He wants us to embrace all that we have (been blessed with) today so that we can appreciate what we are going to have tomorrow and in the future. A person who is secure knows who he/she is in Christ and acknowledged that God is faithful to provide for his/her present and future needs (Deuteronomy 7:9). He is for us and not against us. Let us not be too self-conscious that we lose our confidence and identity just wanting to become what society defined as successful. Be comfortable in our own skin, have an abundance mentality and be the best person we can be without subjecting to unnecessary comparison and competition that will only result in much stress, frustration and worse - depression.
When we are stingy or reluctant to contribute. This is the result of the wrong concept we have concerning giving. We think after giving, we will have less. He (referring to us) who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully (2 Corinthians 9:6). A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed (Proverbs 11:25). If we are stingy, it is most likely due to our wrong concept of God that we think He too has a meager hands and not willing to bless us much more. According to Matthew 6:33, Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.
When the Lord bless, He bless generously with sinking boats of fish (Luke 5 and John 21), fed 4,000 and 5,000 and gathered 7 and 12 baskets full of leftovers respectively (Mark 8 and John 6), turned water into the best wine (John 2), prospered and made rich Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, the Israelites that came out from Egypt, King Solomon and many others. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed (2 Corinthians 9:8). We will never out-give God. The more we give, the more we will receive. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).
If we worry, sad, depress, panic, or complain that's because we don’t believe God is bigger and more powerful than our circumstances. Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37). Now to Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Ephesians 3:20). “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “I tell you the truth, if anyone …does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:22-24)
Let us give, forgive, love, serve and work from the abundance of our heart. Whatever we do, do it from the abundance of our heart as for the Lord rather than for men (Colossians 3:23) then our receivers will be moved by our deeds and truly blessed. Thus whatever we do will prosper and bear much fruit. People with abundance mentality is not bound or limited by what they think they have or capable of instead their trust and dependence are on the inexhaustible resources of our God who supplies us richly according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19) enabling us to do everything through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13) with all confidence. People with abundance mentality acknowledge that their God has a "big heart".
Let me share with you some of my personal testimonies relating to abundance mentality.
I used to worship lead every month in my church in Malaysia and whenever my turn came to worship lead in the coming big events, etc I would have the tempting thoughts of withholding my best songs or best song list for that event. So, I intended to sing the second best song list first until the Lord prompted my heart that this kind of thought was not right that I decided to give my best each time I serve. Abundant mentality is giving our very best each time we are given the opportunity to serve and God will supply even better ideas the next time.
I believe in generosity and to be honest I am still learning day by day to be more generous. I have seen numerous times, whenever I see or feel there is a need in somebody’s life or just feeling like wanting to bless someone, I will do it. The joy and reward are in the giving itself when you see how much it means to the other person. I’ve learnt that the more I give, I am not lack at all but always have more than enough to enjoy all things that the Lord has created.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
Let us not postpone our enjoyment. Enjoy our time with God, family, friends, colleagues, teachers and leaders in our lives. Love and appreciate them. When we are with them, make the most of the time together. Remember be generous. People love to be around those who are generous (either with their time, finances, energy, knowledge and most importantly love). Let us not postpone enjoyment for ourselves too. It doesn’t mean we spend lavishly but treat ourselves and others in the way that we want to be treated (Matthew 7:12) so we will truly be blessed. Do it from the abundance of our heart. Enjoy our work, ministries and hobbies too!
We are generous because we believe our God is generous, if we are stingy that is an indication that we see God with meager hands. We increase in wisdom, becoming more creative, loving, kind, generous and forgiving because as Christ is so are we! Let us have a Christ-like mentality - Abundance Mentality. Before long, we shall see the fruit of our right belief and as a result of our faith, great and wonderful things will happen in and through our lives.
Let us honour the Lord with Abundant Mentality of Him and towards one another.
God bless all of you exceedingly abundantly above all that you ask or think (Ephesians 3:20)!
You are Greatly Blessed, Highly Favoured and Deeply Loved by God!
Just Ask!
From: Josephine Lim
Date: Sun, Sep 27, 2009 at 4:27 PM
Subject: Email from London - Just Ask!
Dear lovely precious people,
How are all of you? September is coming to an end and another fresh new month is ahead of us, a fresh new start for us all. Here is a fresh new email that I hope will encourage you.
Just Ask! These words have been lingering in my heart for the past two to three weeks as only today I found the time to type it. Thank God for His guidance that I woke up at three till half past four yesterday morning to pen down these words that kept pouring into my heart. I prayed the night before for His guidance for Email from London as I wanted to see people’s life transformed by understanding God’s heart and intention, and what He wants us to know so that we can live life joyfully and in freedom. God is good. He answers prayers, always does and always will!
God treats our prayers with great importance. He loves us so much that whatever concern us, concern Him. So have an expectant heart when you pray and know that God’s way of answering our prayers is the best. When people are afraid and worried, it saddened God’s heart as they don’t trust that He is good enough.
God loves originality. Don’t pray for the sake of “I have to” or others pray like this and I follow. Pray with all sincerity and wholeheartedness as the way you want to see it happen. Pray because you know something wonderful and miraculous are going to happen as you pray. God hears our every single prayer even those silent whispers and the two seconds thoughts in our hearts, none slip away. He is the God of faithfulness. He is reliable and trustworthy more than any person you can find in the world because He is our creator. We are created in the image of this wonderful, loving, kind, forgiving, thoughtful, and ever so powerful and a willing God.
Let us pray fervently knowing that God hears the prayer of the righteous (Proverbs 15:29).
The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective (James 5:16).
Know this, we have been made righteous by Jesus’ death on the cross. He has bore our sins and punishment on the cross once and for all for eternity. We are forever (past, present, and future) forgiven. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, to obtain mercy, and find grace to help in times of need (Hebrews 4:16). Remember it is not how good we are that determines whether our prayers will be answered but it is how exceedingly good our Heavenly Father is that He will not leave our prayers unanswered. We can come boldly into His throne of GRACE because He knows we have failed and imperfect and coming to Him shows we acknowledge that He is good and ever so forgiving and gracious to grant what we pray.
Now it is obvious that no one is justified in the sight of God by the law, because "The righteous will live by faith." – Galatians 3:11.
For we live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). As it is written (God said), "I have made you the father of many nations." Abraham acted in faith when he stood in the presence of God, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence things that don't yet exist (Romans 4:17). The same way, learn from our God and call into existence those things which are not (into existence) by our prayers. Be it a job you need, a life-partner, breakthrough in ministry, a sincere friend, a daughter/son you long for their return, financial help, etc. Call them into existence by your prayer of faith and see it coming to pass at the appointed time. Remember that God created the earth from nothing into a wonderful beautiful universe that we live in. After travelling to several countries and recently to Cumbria and Lake District, I understand what beautiful means.
Let me share some of my testimonies in point form with you what “Just Ask” from the Lord has done for me.
- My dream destination since I was a teen – Israel. God provided for me financially. I went there last year with my family and will be going there again next year that will include Egypt and Jordan.
- Initially my boss was difficult to work with but God changed Him somehow that together with other Directors, they never fail to remember my birthday since I started working with them
- More than a month ago, my boss thought I made a terrible mistake of something important but it turned out to be not my mistake at all, thus further reinforced my boss’s trust on my work
- Prayed for a sincere good friend but God blessed me more friends who have touched my heart by their genuine love and kindness
- Prayed for good colleague(s) and I am blessed to have known Magda who loves cooking delicious meal for me whenever I visit her and family. Her husband too will make my meal portion larger than theirs even though I have got a tiny stomach. I am honoured and touched by their hospitality
When we pray, we are in fact declaring what God can and will do in that particular situation in our lives. We are saying to God that here I am surrendering all to You that I know You are handling it on my behalf what I can not do. So, don’t worry, feel sad and burden yourself anymore. By choosing not to worry, this is faith. It touches God’s heart to respond. We pray because we know He is the best to deal with it and He surely is. He will not disappoint us whatever the answer may be.
Just ask from the Lord! Whatever that concerns you, concerns Him; whatever that bothers you, bothers Him. The difference is, there are many things in life not in our control but our God is above it all, seen it all, know it all and can do it all on your behalf. Just trust Him for He cares for you. Nothing is impossible when you believe.
Asking someone else to pray for you. I hope it’s because you want to share your “concerns” with someone or wanting someone else’s moral support and not because you doubt God’s unconditional love and faithfulness to provide for you. No one is more superior than others in the sight of God. Each one of us is loved by God and He wants a personal relationship with us. He longs to fellowship with us (Revelations 3:20). He hears our prayers as He would to Pastors, priests, ministers or whoever. God loves those who just trust Him and come just as they are before Him knowing He will never leave them nor forsake them (Joshua 1:5) especially in their moment of need. He loves us and wants to bless us much more. Remember, it is not the matter of how good we are but how good He is.
I want to encourage you with this beautiful moving clip:
http://piperoo.multiply.com/video/item/23/Charisse_Pempengco_duet_with_Celin
I've learnt that whenever I desire something to change, happen, or want certain things, I will just tell the Lord. Just Ask from Him, just a simple faith trusting and believing, the Lord will make it happen for us in His time. I've seen amazing things happened by just asking and involve the Lord in every area of my life, miracles happened. When I see things as impossible or difficult that's when I practise my faith by asking the LORD to do something about this situation. The righteous man will live by faith. We are the head not the tail. We are not pressed down by circumstances or live life by sight but we are to live and walk by faith believing in His deliverance and faithful provision. You'll see that a miracle you need in that particular area of your life, the miracle you'll receive!
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
“You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God.” – James 4:2
Let us not give up BELIEVING, just ASK!
Love in Christ,
Josephine
Date: Sun, Sep 27, 2009 at 4:27 PM
Subject: Email from London - Just Ask!
Dear lovely precious people,
How are all of you? September is coming to an end and another fresh new month is ahead of us, a fresh new start for us all. Here is a fresh new email that I hope will encourage you.
Just Ask! These words have been lingering in my heart for the past two to three weeks as only today I found the time to type it. Thank God for His guidance that I woke up at three till half past four yesterday morning to pen down these words that kept pouring into my heart. I prayed the night before for His guidance for Email from London as I wanted to see people’s life transformed by understanding God’s heart and intention, and what He wants us to know so that we can live life joyfully and in freedom. God is good. He answers prayers, always does and always will!
God treats our prayers with great importance. He loves us so much that whatever concern us, concern Him. So have an expectant heart when you pray and know that God’s way of answering our prayers is the best. When people are afraid and worried, it saddened God’s heart as they don’t trust that He is good enough.
God loves originality. Don’t pray for the sake of “I have to” or others pray like this and I follow. Pray with all sincerity and wholeheartedness as the way you want to see it happen. Pray because you know something wonderful and miraculous are going to happen as you pray. God hears our every single prayer even those silent whispers and the two seconds thoughts in our hearts, none slip away. He is the God of faithfulness. He is reliable and trustworthy more than any person you can find in the world because He is our creator. We are created in the image of this wonderful, loving, kind, forgiving, thoughtful, and ever so powerful and a willing God.
Let us pray fervently knowing that God hears the prayer of the righteous (Proverbs 15:29).
The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective (James 5:16).
Know this, we have been made righteous by Jesus’ death on the cross. He has bore our sins and punishment on the cross once and for all for eternity. We are forever (past, present, and future) forgiven. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, to obtain mercy, and find grace to help in times of need (Hebrews 4:16). Remember it is not how good we are that determines whether our prayers will be answered but it is how exceedingly good our Heavenly Father is that He will not leave our prayers unanswered. We can come boldly into His throne of GRACE because He knows we have failed and imperfect and coming to Him shows we acknowledge that He is good and ever so forgiving and gracious to grant what we pray.
Now it is obvious that no one is justified in the sight of God by the law, because "The righteous will live by faith." – Galatians 3:11.
For we live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). As it is written (God said), "I have made you the father of many nations." Abraham acted in faith when he stood in the presence of God, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence things that don't yet exist (Romans 4:17). The same way, learn from our God and call into existence those things which are not (into existence) by our prayers. Be it a job you need, a life-partner, breakthrough in ministry, a sincere friend, a daughter/son you long for their return, financial help, etc. Call them into existence by your prayer of faith and see it coming to pass at the appointed time. Remember that God created the earth from nothing into a wonderful beautiful universe that we live in. After travelling to several countries and recently to Cumbria and Lake District, I understand what beautiful means.
Let me share some of my testimonies in point form with you what “Just Ask” from the Lord has done for me.
- My dream destination since I was a teen – Israel. God provided for me financially. I went there last year with my family and will be going there again next year that will include Egypt and Jordan.
- Initially my boss was difficult to work with but God changed Him somehow that together with other Directors, they never fail to remember my birthday since I started working with them
- More than a month ago, my boss thought I made a terrible mistake of something important but it turned out to be not my mistake at all, thus further reinforced my boss’s trust on my work
- Prayed for a sincere good friend but God blessed me more friends who have touched my heart by their genuine love and kindness
- Prayed for good colleague(s) and I am blessed to have known Magda who loves cooking delicious meal for me whenever I visit her and family. Her husband too will make my meal portion larger than theirs even though I have got a tiny stomach. I am honoured and touched by their hospitality
When we pray, we are in fact declaring what God can and will do in that particular situation in our lives. We are saying to God that here I am surrendering all to You that I know You are handling it on my behalf what I can not do. So, don’t worry, feel sad and burden yourself anymore. By choosing not to worry, this is faith. It touches God’s heart to respond. We pray because we know He is the best to deal with it and He surely is. He will not disappoint us whatever the answer may be.
Just ask from the Lord! Whatever that concerns you, concerns Him; whatever that bothers you, bothers Him. The difference is, there are many things in life not in our control but our God is above it all, seen it all, know it all and can do it all on your behalf. Just trust Him for He cares for you. Nothing is impossible when you believe.
Asking someone else to pray for you. I hope it’s because you want to share your “concerns” with someone or wanting someone else’s moral support and not because you doubt God’s unconditional love and faithfulness to provide for you. No one is more superior than others in the sight of God. Each one of us is loved by God and He wants a personal relationship with us. He longs to fellowship with us (Revelations 3:20). He hears our prayers as He would to Pastors, priests, ministers or whoever. God loves those who just trust Him and come just as they are before Him knowing He will never leave them nor forsake them (Joshua 1:5) especially in their moment of need. He loves us and wants to bless us much more. Remember, it is not the matter of how good we are but how good He is.
I want to encourage you with this beautiful moving clip:
http://piperoo.multiply.com/video/item/23/Charisse_Pempengco_duet_with_Celin
I've learnt that whenever I desire something to change, happen, or want certain things, I will just tell the Lord. Just Ask from Him, just a simple faith trusting and believing, the Lord will make it happen for us in His time. I've seen amazing things happened by just asking and involve the Lord in every area of my life, miracles happened. When I see things as impossible or difficult that's when I practise my faith by asking the LORD to do something about this situation. The righteous man will live by faith. We are the head not the tail. We are not pressed down by circumstances or live life by sight but we are to live and walk by faith believing in His deliverance and faithful provision. You'll see that a miracle you need in that particular area of your life, the miracle you'll receive!
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
“You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God.” – James 4:2
Let us not give up BELIEVING, just ASK!
Love in Christ,
Josephine
Life Worth Living
From: Josephine Lim
Date: Thu, Aug 20, 2009 at 9:07 PM
Subject: Email from London - Life Worth Living
Dear precious lovely people,
I hope and pray that all is well with you and your family. I almost got to give this month a miss but deep inside my heart I felt there are people who need encouragement.
Three weeks ago, all of a sudden I felt depressed for about three or four days. In fact I have never felt so low before. No one knew until I was liberated that I shared with two friends of mine after church service. In perfect silence, they looked attentively at me as I shared. Later that evening, one of them said she felt the same but upon hearing my sharing she found strength to live her life.
After many years of living our lives, some of us might have experienced the "awakening" period and began to question our lives. Sometimes, we would allow the sudden negative feelings to take over our whole emotion as doubts began to set-in. It is very dangerous that some had resorted to end their lives due to the sudden "mind-block" disabling them to think rationally. Instead of allowing the lowly feelings become a stronghold in my life, I decided to listen to God and what He has to say as I'd tried not listening for a few days. Please bear in mind that I was not in any conflict with anyone or having any trouble in life, it was just all of a sudden feeling of depression that set-in and I felt so unhappy and sad. I began to question what is the whole purpose of living and for whom and for what reason am I living for. I reasoned in my heart that I'm living for my family, that was good enough reason to live and yet my heart was still unsettled with that answer. Finally I allow the Lord to speak into my heart. The Lord said, "You are living for me. I am the reason to live. You are mine. You have no right to give up living as I am the giver of your life. I am with you, I am your strength, I am all that matters. I will always be with you!"
After hearing His voice in my heart, I felt liberated. I don't have to please anyone neither myself but only God. As He is all that matters. I am now living life not subjecting to others opinion of me of how successful or good I should be but this life of mine belongs to Christ and He is the reason to live. I found a new transformed life in Christ and a new found freedom to live the abundant life God has given me to enjoy. Just being me!
After sending out my July Email from London, a young lady responded by asking me how to know God's will for her life. The followings are the excerpt from the reply I sent to this lovely lady:
"We have our own destiny. We are different according to God's design. I may be called into .... ministry in future but you may or may not be. The measurement being used on others, we cannot use that on ourselves. We have to be clear of this - we are uniquely created by God with different interest, ambition, skill, talent and roles. We are even created with different likings in terms of colour, food, hobbies, etc. We are not determined by what our parents want us to be neither our friends' influence. We have our unique identity and desire according to God's plan and purpose.
If you read my previous email, you would have known coming to London has always been my desire. Serving the Lord and ministering to people have always been my calling. I have been prophesied by different church leaders and pastors throughout Malaysia .... I know if these prophesies are true, I don't have to exert myself, the Lord will pave the way and at His appointed time, He'll lead me there and make it come true. At the moment, I know the place I have to be is London. The moment I decided to apply for a visa to come to London, others have all kinds of things said against me, others not willing to let me go and cried. But one thing I knew deep inside was I could not betray my desire to see the world. I do not want to become an inexperienced minister. I want to learn and know more. I am a keen explorer although not the risky type.
The Holy Spirit indwells in us will give us the courage and stir in our hearts to do what needs to be done even though on the outside we may face all kinds of conflict or discouragement. Follow the voice within us.
There are many people who have asked me how do you hear God's voice and how do you know His will. I replied, "Make Him the first that you go to whenever you need an advise. Make Him the first voice you want to hear. Jesus said, "My sheep know my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27).
What do you want to do? If you know Jesus is with you wherever you go, you have His Favour, Love, Approval, Acceptance, Protection, Grace and Provision. You are secure and have no fear as He will always be there to guide you even to the ends of the world."
Two days ago as I was shopping for groceries in Sainsburys I came across a young lady with down syndrome pushing a supermarket tall steel shelf loaded with boxes to the storeroom. The same afternoon a 40+ year old man (shorter than me) delivered 2 boxes of A4 papers to our office. Hearing aids plugged into his ears, spoke politely and clearly as best as he could with heavy mumbling voice and acted as normal as he possibly knew how while confidently established eye contact with me throughout our conversation with such great respect. It's poignant to see them putting their hands and feet into good use contributing to society instead of giving up due to their disabilities.
Sometimes we complain of having to wake up early every morning for school or work but to those with disability or suffered from certain diseases, to be alive and well, and being mobile are their greatest joy. To be like others able to go to school and have a job, they are happy and grateful. They are wonderful people with kind heart and soul shining brightly in this world. They are living inspiration to us without realising while they admire us and wanting to be like us healthy and normal so that they could do more in life.
Some video clips to share. I'm aware that some of you have seen these but worth watching again:
Nick Vojicic: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY&feature=related
Blind 5 year old Korean girl: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSOaLH8vxYw
Let us be grateful for the "little things" in life. Appreciate all that we have and make the most of it with a thankful heart. On the day my Chairman lost his son, everything stood still including his busy and "productive" life. All he wished for was to have his son back to life, other things didn't matter anymore. Now, he just got to get on with life and thank God for the life of his late son that had inspired many people. He has got to appreciate and stay strong for his wife, son and daughter. He appreciates every moment spent with his family much more than ever before.
Jesus said, "I have come that they might have life and have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)
God bless all of you and let us learn to live life joyfully as best as we possibly know how. Let us not underestimate the small gesture of kindness that we shown others as many of times without realising, it means so much to the other person that could help shape the person he or she becomes. Know this: You are uniquely and wonderfully made. You are precious and loved by God. You are Highly Favoured, Deeply Loved and Greatly Blessed!
Love in Christ,
Josephine
Date: Thu, Aug 20, 2009 at 9:07 PM
Subject: Email from London - Life Worth Living
Dear precious lovely people,
I hope and pray that all is well with you and your family. I almost got to give this month a miss but deep inside my heart I felt there are people who need encouragement.
Three weeks ago, all of a sudden I felt depressed for about three or four days. In fact I have never felt so low before. No one knew until I was liberated that I shared with two friends of mine after church service. In perfect silence, they looked attentively at me as I shared. Later that evening, one of them said she felt the same but upon hearing my sharing she found strength to live her life.
After many years of living our lives, some of us might have experienced the "awakening" period and began to question our lives. Sometimes, we would allow the sudden negative feelings to take over our whole emotion as doubts began to set-in. It is very dangerous that some had resorted to end their lives due to the sudden "mind-block" disabling them to think rationally. Instead of allowing the lowly feelings become a stronghold in my life, I decided to listen to God and what He has to say as I'd tried not listening for a few days. Please bear in mind that I was not in any conflict with anyone or having any trouble in life, it was just all of a sudden feeling of depression that set-in and I felt so unhappy and sad. I began to question what is the whole purpose of living and for whom and for what reason am I living for. I reasoned in my heart that I'm living for my family, that was good enough reason to live and yet my heart was still unsettled with that answer. Finally I allow the Lord to speak into my heart. The Lord said, "You are living for me. I am the reason to live. You are mine. You have no right to give up living as I am the giver of your life. I am with you, I am your strength, I am all that matters. I will always be with you!"
After hearing His voice in my heart, I felt liberated. I don't have to please anyone neither myself but only God. As He is all that matters. I am now living life not subjecting to others opinion of me of how successful or good I should be but this life of mine belongs to Christ and He is the reason to live. I found a new transformed life in Christ and a new found freedom to live the abundant life God has given me to enjoy. Just being me!
After sending out my July Email from London, a young lady responded by asking me how to know God's will for her life. The followings are the excerpt from the reply I sent to this lovely lady:
"We have our own destiny. We are different according to God's design. I may be called into .... ministry in future but you may or may not be. The measurement being used on others, we cannot use that on ourselves. We have to be clear of this - we are uniquely created by God with different interest, ambition, skill, talent and roles. We are even created with different likings in terms of colour, food, hobbies, etc. We are not determined by what our parents want us to be neither our friends' influence. We have our unique identity and desire according to God's plan and purpose.
If you read my previous email, you would have known coming to London has always been my desire. Serving the Lord and ministering to people have always been my calling. I have been prophesied by different church leaders and pastors throughout Malaysia .... I know if these prophesies are true, I don't have to exert myself, the Lord will pave the way and at His appointed time, He'll lead me there and make it come true. At the moment, I know the place I have to be is London. The moment I decided to apply for a visa to come to London, others have all kinds of things said against me, others not willing to let me go and cried. But one thing I knew deep inside was I could not betray my desire to see the world. I do not want to become an inexperienced minister. I want to learn and know more. I am a keen explorer although not the risky type.
The Holy Spirit indwells in us will give us the courage and stir in our hearts to do what needs to be done even though on the outside we may face all kinds of conflict or discouragement. Follow the voice within us.
There are many people who have asked me how do you hear God's voice and how do you know His will. I replied, "Make Him the first that you go to whenever you need an advise. Make Him the first voice you want to hear. Jesus said, "My sheep know my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27).
What do you want to do? If you know Jesus is with you wherever you go, you have His Favour, Love, Approval, Acceptance, Protection, Grace and Provision. You are secure and have no fear as He will always be there to guide you even to the ends of the world."
Two days ago as I was shopping for groceries in Sainsburys I came across a young lady with down syndrome pushing a supermarket tall steel shelf loaded with boxes to the storeroom. The same afternoon a 40+ year old man (shorter than me) delivered 2 boxes of A4 papers to our office. Hearing aids plugged into his ears, spoke politely and clearly as best as he could with heavy mumbling voice and acted as normal as he possibly knew how while confidently established eye contact with me throughout our conversation with such great respect. It's poignant to see them putting their hands and feet into good use contributing to society instead of giving up due to their disabilities.
Sometimes we complain of having to wake up early every morning for school or work but to those with disability or suffered from certain diseases, to be alive and well, and being mobile are their greatest joy. To be like others able to go to school and have a job, they are happy and grateful. They are wonderful people with kind heart and soul shining brightly in this world. They are living inspiration to us without realising while they admire us and wanting to be like us healthy and normal so that they could do more in life.
Some video clips to share. I'm aware that some of you have seen these but worth watching again:
Nick Vojicic: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MslbhDZoniY&feature=related
Blind 5 year old Korean girl: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSOaLH8vxYw
Let us be grateful for the "little things" in life. Appreciate all that we have and make the most of it with a thankful heart. On the day my Chairman lost his son, everything stood still including his busy and "productive" life. All he wished for was to have his son back to life, other things didn't matter anymore. Now, he just got to get on with life and thank God for the life of his late son that had inspired many people. He has got to appreciate and stay strong for his wife, son and daughter. He appreciates every moment spent with his family much more than ever before.
Jesus said, "I have come that they might have life and have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)
God bless all of you and let us learn to live life joyfully as best as we possibly know how. Let us not underestimate the small gesture of kindness that we shown others as many of times without realising, it means so much to the other person that could help shape the person he or she becomes. Know this: You are uniquely and wonderfully made. You are precious and loved by God. You are Highly Favoured, Deeply Loved and Greatly Blessed!
Love in Christ,
Josephine
Monday, 26 October 2009
Real Relationship
From: Josephine Lim
Date: Sat, Jul 18, 2009 at 1:28 PM
Subject: Email from London - Real Relationship
Dearly loved by God,
How are all of you? I hope all of you are well and in good health. One month has passed and it’s time for a fresh new email that I hope will bless all of you.
When I was five years old, I longed for a best friend. Someone to play and talk with, and who understands. I found none at the time but found Jesus as my best friend that I could pour all my tiny little heart’s contents to. I was introduced to Jesus by my Sunday School teacher and grateful towards my Christian grandparents and parents who brought me there. So, ever since then Jesus has always been my best of best friends.
When I was twelve, frustrated not being able to speak English fluently although it was my favourite subject in school that I told the Lord, “You’ve got to help me! I don’t want to be looked down anymore! I am going to start speaking (practicing) English with you as I know you are not going to laugh at me”. So, this began an exciting journey for me. I started reading the Bible and at thirteen, I got baptised.
At twelve years old, I found a very good friend, Wendy my classmate. Because she wanted me to be her roommate on our school trip, she was brave to convince my strict and protective grandmother allowing me to go on the trip with her. Her action melted my grandmother’s heart that she in-turn convinced my parents to let me go on this trip. I was so happy and grateful to Wendy as she also knew I wanted to go on this trip and being a good friend, she “fought” for me. I enjoyed the trip. It was my first independent holiday with friends.
At thirteen, I became quite popular in school. I remember being very scared of jab. We had this “Rubella Drive” in school, all girls got to have it. After the jab, I walked out from the room and fainted. The news spread to the whole school and I was escorted back to class by my six or more female classmates. I was embarrassed but felt privileged of how my teachers and fellow schoolmates cared for me so much. That same year, I was one of the top students in school and the following year became a school prefect.
Since then I was blessed with friends and made very good friends too. Please bear in mind that I share my story not to boast of myself but to share with all of you that when we make Christ our first true and very best friend, He is faithful and able to multiply whatever little (small beginning) we have and increase it beyond our expectation (Matthew 14, Mark 6, Luke 9, and John 6). 2 Corinthians 12:9 And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness.
I am grateful to God that over the years He has been so faithful to me and blessed me with wonderful family and friends. My mother is not only my mum but over the years she has become my best friend too who understands and we share many common interests. My brother, Joseph is not only my adviser but also my great fantastic travelling companion. He is also my personal stylist and I still remember the time when I started learning make-up when I was the bridesmaid for one sister in church, I did not even know how to apply nail polish that my brother who was nineteen at the time took the nail polish bottle from me, sat down in front of me, asked me to put my hands forward and started applying the nail polish coat by coat on all my fingers. He is such a natural talent. He is also my very respected and responsible Music Director in church who always made me feel confident when He was in the team while I led in worship. I still remember when I told my brother I wanted to go to London and at that time he was having a good job as a Senior Computer Engineer in a public listed company, without much thought he said, “I am coming with you!” He sacrificed his stable career to join me in the unknown of London all because he wanted to make sure I am being cared for. I am so grateful and blessed to have such a wonderful caring brother. My father will always be there for me and remain a wonderful support to me. He is a caring, fun-loving, humorous and responsible father. By the way, if you have been touched by my writing thus far, I inherited the passion for writing from my father for sure but definitely it is by the grace of God that it touches your heart.
Let me share with all of you something that happened quite recently. Coming to London is a bold step forward for me. I did not know anyone from London at that time. All I knew was when one of my friends talked about London, in my heart just leaped and said, “This is the place I’m heading!” I told my friends of my intention and one ex-colleague of mine, Wee Yee introduced me to her friend, Airene. The whole process from the point of meeting Airene who coincidentally was back for a short visit from London in January 2007 and to our application process till we arrived into London, we could see God’s faithful guidance and provision.
My brother and I are blessed to have known Airene and Chris. They are God-sent angels. Even though we were not close friends at that time but merely a friend introduced to us but Airene frequently followed up on us on our visa application status, called us all the way from London wanted to know our developments. She even tried to look for a flat for us even we were still two or three months away from our arrival. Once we arrived at Heathrow Airport even though it was delayed but she and her husband were already waiting for us at the airport to receive us, earnestly looked out for us and waved joyfully at us when she saw us coming out from the arrival hall and her husband helped us with our heavy luggage. The sky already dark when we arrived, once we were in the tube, both of them fed us with all the must-know information about London and brought us to their flat and cooked delicious dinner for us. We were treated so honourably by this amazing couple and even in the midst of preparing for a tough accounting exam, Airene still joined her husband and us for our flat-hunting and entertained us hospitably until we found our flat one week later.
When Airene and Chris heard about the tragedy involving my Chairman’s son, they called me out and we spent the whole day together with their one year old son. They were there for me when I needed comfort and support the most. Yesterday night, I received a call from Airene. She broke the news, “I have finally passed my exam! After all these years!” She is one determined lady. Hats-off to her. Not only that, there was one thing she said that meant so much to me, “You are the first person I wanted to tell this good news to!”
I can go on and on sharing to you about all the great wonderful beautiful friends I have met all these years but I have to make sure I am not drifted too far away. If our earthly family and friends who are not perfect but wonderfully created in God’s image know how to care for us, how much more our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ Himself who died and gave us eternal life would love, care, provide, comfort, and always long to talk to us, advise us and bless us even more than we could ever imagined.
I am also privileged to have known Em among all my great wonderful friends in London. She knows me although not as much and thorough as God. She is also like my Personal Assistant keeping me occupied with activities, updates, lent me books that she wanted me to read even though I already have tonnes of my own. All the good things she knows about, she wants me to know and have as well. She is also my sincere critic and honest about what she thinks.
From all these wonderful relationships I have been blessed with, I could see God’s heart in each one of them. He loves us unconditionally and sacrificially to the extent of laying down His life for us so that we can now claim all the wonderful blessings that we don’t deserve that by His grace we have become co-heir with Christ. To God, the prayer from a five year old child was not forgotten (she prayed for “a” best friend but God blessed her more than one) and as important as a 100 year old man or a 90 year old woman whose bodies were impossible to produce an heir but with God nothing is impossible, that a child named Isaac was born (Genesis 21) and their descendants became like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore (Genesis 22:15-18). What He has promised in His word, He shall bring it to pass. We don’t have to fight our hearts-out but just trust and be led by the Holy Spirit, giving thanks all the time in all circumstances, and enjoy His grace that is sufficient for all of us (2 Corinthians 12:9).
My prayer is that all of us will have a real relationship with the Lord. We will no longer pray mere prayers (either to impress or doing it dutifully) but we will pray what we mean so that we will have a real relationship with the Lord that grows stronger each day.
(Jesus said) “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” – John 15:15
“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name."- Psalm 91:14
Love & Blessings,
Josephine
Date: Sat, Jul 18, 2009 at 1:28 PM
Subject: Email from London - Real Relationship
Dearly loved by God,
How are all of you? I hope all of you are well and in good health. One month has passed and it’s time for a fresh new email that I hope will bless all of you.
When I was five years old, I longed for a best friend. Someone to play and talk with, and who understands. I found none at the time but found Jesus as my best friend that I could pour all my tiny little heart’s contents to. I was introduced to Jesus by my Sunday School teacher and grateful towards my Christian grandparents and parents who brought me there. So, ever since then Jesus has always been my best of best friends.
When I was twelve, frustrated not being able to speak English fluently although it was my favourite subject in school that I told the Lord, “You’ve got to help me! I don’t want to be looked down anymore! I am going to start speaking (practicing) English with you as I know you are not going to laugh at me”. So, this began an exciting journey for me. I started reading the Bible and at thirteen, I got baptised.
At twelve years old, I found a very good friend, Wendy my classmate. Because she wanted me to be her roommate on our school trip, she was brave to convince my strict and protective grandmother allowing me to go on the trip with her. Her action melted my grandmother’s heart that she in-turn convinced my parents to let me go on this trip. I was so happy and grateful to Wendy as she also knew I wanted to go on this trip and being a good friend, she “fought” for me. I enjoyed the trip. It was my first independent holiday with friends.
At thirteen, I became quite popular in school. I remember being very scared of jab. We had this “Rubella Drive” in school, all girls got to have it. After the jab, I walked out from the room and fainted. The news spread to the whole school and I was escorted back to class by my six or more female classmates. I was embarrassed but felt privileged of how my teachers and fellow schoolmates cared for me so much. That same year, I was one of the top students in school and the following year became a school prefect.
Since then I was blessed with friends and made very good friends too. Please bear in mind that I share my story not to boast of myself but to share with all of you that when we make Christ our first true and very best friend, He is faithful and able to multiply whatever little (small beginning) we have and increase it beyond our expectation (Matthew 14, Mark 6, Luke 9, and John 6). 2 Corinthians 12:9 And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness.
I am grateful to God that over the years He has been so faithful to me and blessed me with wonderful family and friends. My mother is not only my mum but over the years she has become my best friend too who understands and we share many common interests. My brother, Joseph is not only my adviser but also my great fantastic travelling companion. He is also my personal stylist and I still remember the time when I started learning make-up when I was the bridesmaid for one sister in church, I did not even know how to apply nail polish that my brother who was nineteen at the time took the nail polish bottle from me, sat down in front of me, asked me to put my hands forward and started applying the nail polish coat by coat on all my fingers. He is such a natural talent. He is also my very respected and responsible Music Director in church who always made me feel confident when He was in the team while I led in worship. I still remember when I told my brother I wanted to go to London and at that time he was having a good job as a Senior Computer Engineer in a public listed company, without much thought he said, “I am coming with you!” He sacrificed his stable career to join me in the unknown of London all because he wanted to make sure I am being cared for. I am so grateful and blessed to have such a wonderful caring brother. My father will always be there for me and remain a wonderful support to me. He is a caring, fun-loving, humorous and responsible father. By the way, if you have been touched by my writing thus far, I inherited the passion for writing from my father for sure but definitely it is by the grace of God that it touches your heart.
Let me share with all of you something that happened quite recently. Coming to London is a bold step forward for me. I did not know anyone from London at that time. All I knew was when one of my friends talked about London, in my heart just leaped and said, “This is the place I’m heading!” I told my friends of my intention and one ex-colleague of mine, Wee Yee introduced me to her friend, Airene. The whole process from the point of meeting Airene who coincidentally was back for a short visit from London in January 2007 and to our application process till we arrived into London, we could see God’s faithful guidance and provision.
My brother and I are blessed to have known Airene and Chris. They are God-sent angels. Even though we were not close friends at that time but merely a friend introduced to us but Airene frequently followed up on us on our visa application status, called us all the way from London wanted to know our developments. She even tried to look for a flat for us even we were still two or three months away from our arrival. Once we arrived at Heathrow Airport even though it was delayed but she and her husband were already waiting for us at the airport to receive us, earnestly looked out for us and waved joyfully at us when she saw us coming out from the arrival hall and her husband helped us with our heavy luggage. The sky already dark when we arrived, once we were in the tube, both of them fed us with all the must-know information about London and brought us to their flat and cooked delicious dinner for us. We were treated so honourably by this amazing couple and even in the midst of preparing for a tough accounting exam, Airene still joined her husband and us for our flat-hunting and entertained us hospitably until we found our flat one week later.
When Airene and Chris heard about the tragedy involving my Chairman’s son, they called me out and we spent the whole day together with their one year old son. They were there for me when I needed comfort and support the most. Yesterday night, I received a call from Airene. She broke the news, “I have finally passed my exam! After all these years!” She is one determined lady. Hats-off to her. Not only that, there was one thing she said that meant so much to me, “You are the first person I wanted to tell this good news to!”
I can go on and on sharing to you about all the great wonderful beautiful friends I have met all these years but I have to make sure I am not drifted too far away. If our earthly family and friends who are not perfect but wonderfully created in God’s image know how to care for us, how much more our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ Himself who died and gave us eternal life would love, care, provide, comfort, and always long to talk to us, advise us and bless us even more than we could ever imagined.
I am also privileged to have known Em among all my great wonderful friends in London. She knows me although not as much and thorough as God. She is also like my Personal Assistant keeping me occupied with activities, updates, lent me books that she wanted me to read even though I already have tonnes of my own. All the good things she knows about, she wants me to know and have as well. She is also my sincere critic and honest about what she thinks.
From all these wonderful relationships I have been blessed with, I could see God’s heart in each one of them. He loves us unconditionally and sacrificially to the extent of laying down His life for us so that we can now claim all the wonderful blessings that we don’t deserve that by His grace we have become co-heir with Christ. To God, the prayer from a five year old child was not forgotten (she prayed for “a” best friend but God blessed her more than one) and as important as a 100 year old man or a 90 year old woman whose bodies were impossible to produce an heir but with God nothing is impossible, that a child named Isaac was born (Genesis 21) and their descendants became like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashore (Genesis 22:15-18). What He has promised in His word, He shall bring it to pass. We don’t have to fight our hearts-out but just trust and be led by the Holy Spirit, giving thanks all the time in all circumstances, and enjoy His grace that is sufficient for all of us (2 Corinthians 12:9).
My prayer is that all of us will have a real relationship with the Lord. We will no longer pray mere prayers (either to impress or doing it dutifully) but we will pray what we mean so that we will have a real relationship with the Lord that grows stronger each day.
(Jesus said) “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” – John 15:15
“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name."- Psalm 91:14
Love & Blessings,
Josephine
Health & Wholeness
From: Josephine Lim
Date: Thu, Jun 18, 2009 at 4:11 PM
Subject: Email from London - Health & Wholeness
My dearest family in Christ,
How are all of you? I was awaken at three this morning, all of a sudden I was overwhelmed with words of faith concerning healing that I had to write it down on my notebook before I forget. I hope that after reading this, all of you will be blessed and receive the healing and wholeness you have been praying for.
Make Jesus the ultimate source of your healing, blessing, wisdom and knowledge.
When I was in college, I had the desire to do my final year degree in United Kingdom. I found out about the cost and it was really expensive at that time that I decided to bury my wish and complete my degree locally. When I started working, I heard some of my church members talked about this new tour package to Israel which was new to Malaysians at that time. The tour package cost almost RM7,000 and I was thinking in my heart that it would take me years to save enough money for it. But God never forgotten my wishes and here I am in London working which before 2007, I would have never imagined possible. Not only that, I was able to bring my parents with me to Israel beginning of last year. Not that my parents couldn't afford but I wanted to honour them financially because I know all my blessings come from our Good Lord. You see, what we think is impossible, it's possible with God! We may forget our prayers and wishes but God never forget and He makes all things beautiful in His time (Ecclesiastes 3:11a)
My wishes can be considered secondary in comparison to health and wholeness that Jesus Christ died to give us that by His stripes, we are healed and made whole (Isaiah 53:5 and 1 Peter 2:24). In Matthew 7:11 & Luke 11:13 (Jesus said), "if you know how to give good gifts to your children. So how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him?"
I know some of you received discouraging medical report that you will not be able to conceive or you have inherited diseases that you are afraid it may pass on to your offspring. You've spent lots of money seeking treatment/cure, the story goes on and on...sometimes, you think you have lived all these years with it and got used with it. But, I can assure you it's not God's plan that you dwell any longer in your sickness. It's time to receive your healing!
"Right believing produces right living" according to one of my favourite pastors and shall I add, it produces right and excellent results too!
Remember Sarah who was barren but gave birth to Isaac (the child of God's promise) at ninety years old? Remember Rachel whom God opened her womb and she gave birth to Joseph who later became Prime Minister of Egypt and supplied food for his people during famine? She also had another son named Benjamin. Samson's mother too was sterile but God enabled her to have a son to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines and not forgetting Elizabeth who gave birth to John the Baptist at her old age. God remembered Hannah's prayer and she gave birth to Prophet Samuel and had other sons and daughters. There were many women in the Bible that suffered from the condition, God opened their womb and they gave birth to champions - people that left a significant mark in the history of mankind. Our enemies know that God has good plans for us, plans to prosper us not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11) and he will always want to discourage us by giving us lying symptoms though it seems real to us but it's not going to linger for long in our body unless we allow it, give in and surrender to it.
The enemies want to shake our trust in the Lord. But if we believe in God's Word that He is our healer and we are healed, then the diseases will be shaken off our body forever. A miracle you need, a miracle you'll get! Confess healing scripture verses against diseases and the enemies. God said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away."- Matthew 24:35. Miracles took place in the Old Testamant, New Testament during Jesus' time and the Apostles and are still taking place radically in the present time. God's word still remains and will remain effective forever.
Our receiving of healing should not base on other's experience as we are told in the Bible not to judge others. But we know our God. He is real. We have this relationship with Him and we are sure He will not leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5 and Joshua 1:9). God wants us to prosper and be in health, even as our soul prospers. (3 John 1:2) Our receiving of healing is based on Christ and His finished work at the cross.
When I was a teenager, my skin would break out with itchy rashes and spots each time I ate seafood e.g. prawn, sting rays, etc. The same happened when I ate eggs. My skin was so sensitive that I couldn't touch any detergent or washing liquid otherwise I would have "printless" fingers. My face used to have lots of pimples too. I spent lots of money on products to cure my skin conditions, some worked but after awhile lost its effectiveness and some made me suffer from side-effects (uneven skin tone, weight lost, hair started falling, etc) that I had to stop using or consuming them. But praise be to God that I got hold of a revelationary teaching of God's word in 2004 that I received my healing ever since. How it all started? I listened to Pastor Joseph Prince's sermon every day as faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of the Lord (Romans 10:17) and I also attended Christian seminars that taught us to confess healing scripture verses daily until we receive our healing that now I am healed and able to eat all the food I want and wash dishes and clothes bare hands without fear.
An excellent book that I highly recommend on healing is " Health and Wholeness through the Holy Communion" by Pastor Joseph Prince. Let us not get complacent with diseases. If God said He is our healer then it is so! He is the real and true source of healing that lasts with no side effects.
Believe and be made whole. Stand on God's Word and His promises, then you are on unshakable ground while your diseases are being shaken off you!
"For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." Matthew 7:8
"If you abide in me and my words abide in you, you can ask for anything you want, and you will receive it." John 15:7
Instead of seeking healing, let us seek the Healer; instead of seeking blessing, let us seek the Blessor. Let us not chase after healing and blessings without acknowledging the source of it all that is Christ Himself.
Finally, "A merry (joyful and cheerful) heart does good like a medicine; but a broken (depression, sorrowful, crushed) spirit dries the bones." Proverbs 17:22
In Christ, I am Happy, Saved, and Loved! Remember this Sunday School song? Trust and believe like a little child and have faith like a mustard seed, a miracle you need, a miracle you'll get!
God said, "So shall my word be that goes forth out of my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." Isaiah 55:11.
Your sister in Christ,
Josephine
Date: Thu, Jun 18, 2009 at 4:11 PM
Subject: Email from London - Health & Wholeness
My dearest family in Christ,
How are all of you? I was awaken at three this morning, all of a sudden I was overwhelmed with words of faith concerning healing that I had to write it down on my notebook before I forget. I hope that after reading this, all of you will be blessed and receive the healing and wholeness you have been praying for.
Make Jesus the ultimate source of your healing, blessing, wisdom and knowledge.
When I was in college, I had the desire to do my final year degree in United Kingdom. I found out about the cost and it was really expensive at that time that I decided to bury my wish and complete my degree locally. When I started working, I heard some of my church members talked about this new tour package to Israel which was new to Malaysians at that time. The tour package cost almost RM7,000 and I was thinking in my heart that it would take me years to save enough money for it. But God never forgotten my wishes and here I am in London working which before 2007, I would have never imagined possible. Not only that, I was able to bring my parents with me to Israel beginning of last year. Not that my parents couldn't afford but I wanted to honour them financially because I know all my blessings come from our Good Lord. You see, what we think is impossible, it's possible with God! We may forget our prayers and wishes but God never forget and He makes all things beautiful in His time (Ecclesiastes 3:11a)
My wishes can be considered secondary in comparison to health and wholeness that Jesus Christ died to give us that by His stripes, we are healed and made whole (Isaiah 53:5 and 1 Peter 2:24). In Matthew 7:11 & Luke 11:13 (Jesus said), "if you know how to give good gifts to your children. So how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him?"
I know some of you received discouraging medical report that you will not be able to conceive or you have inherited diseases that you are afraid it may pass on to your offspring. You've spent lots of money seeking treatment/cure, the story goes on and on...sometimes, you think you have lived all these years with it and got used with it. But, I can assure you it's not God's plan that you dwell any longer in your sickness. It's time to receive your healing!
"Right believing produces right living" according to one of my favourite pastors and shall I add, it produces right and excellent results too!
Remember Sarah who was barren but gave birth to Isaac (the child of God's promise) at ninety years old? Remember Rachel whom God opened her womb and she gave birth to Joseph who later became Prime Minister of Egypt and supplied food for his people during famine? She also had another son named Benjamin. Samson's mother too was sterile but God enabled her to have a son to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines and not forgetting Elizabeth who gave birth to John the Baptist at her old age. God remembered Hannah's prayer and she gave birth to Prophet Samuel and had other sons and daughters. There were many women in the Bible that suffered from the condition, God opened their womb and they gave birth to champions - people that left a significant mark in the history of mankind. Our enemies know that God has good plans for us, plans to prosper us not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11) and he will always want to discourage us by giving us lying symptoms though it seems real to us but it's not going to linger for long in our body unless we allow it, give in and surrender to it.
The enemies want to shake our trust in the Lord. But if we believe in God's Word that He is our healer and we are healed, then the diseases will be shaken off our body forever. A miracle you need, a miracle you'll get! Confess healing scripture verses against diseases and the enemies. God said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away."- Matthew 24:35. Miracles took place in the Old Testamant, New Testament during Jesus' time and the Apostles and are still taking place radically in the present time. God's word still remains and will remain effective forever.
Our receiving of healing should not base on other's experience as we are told in the Bible not to judge others. But we know our God. He is real. We have this relationship with Him and we are sure He will not leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5 and Joshua 1:9). God wants us to prosper and be in health, even as our soul prospers. (3 John 1:2) Our receiving of healing is based on Christ and His finished work at the cross.
When I was a teenager, my skin would break out with itchy rashes and spots each time I ate seafood e.g. prawn, sting rays, etc. The same happened when I ate eggs. My skin was so sensitive that I couldn't touch any detergent or washing liquid otherwise I would have "printless" fingers. My face used to have lots of pimples too. I spent lots of money on products to cure my skin conditions, some worked but after awhile lost its effectiveness and some made me suffer from side-effects (uneven skin tone, weight lost, hair started falling, etc) that I had to stop using or consuming them. But praise be to God that I got hold of a revelationary teaching of God's word in 2004 that I received my healing ever since. How it all started? I listened to Pastor Joseph Prince's sermon every day as faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of the Lord (Romans 10:17) and I also attended Christian seminars that taught us to confess healing scripture verses daily until we receive our healing that now I am healed and able to eat all the food I want and wash dishes and clothes bare hands without fear.
An excellent book that I highly recommend on healing is " Health and Wholeness through the Holy Communion" by Pastor Joseph Prince. Let us not get complacent with diseases. If God said He is our healer then it is so! He is the real and true source of healing that lasts with no side effects.
Believe and be made whole. Stand on God's Word and His promises, then you are on unshakable ground while your diseases are being shaken off you!
"For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." Matthew 7:8
"If you abide in me and my words abide in you, you can ask for anything you want, and you will receive it." John 15:7
Instead of seeking healing, let us seek the Healer; instead of seeking blessing, let us seek the Blessor. Let us not chase after healing and blessings without acknowledging the source of it all that is Christ Himself.
Finally, "A merry (joyful and cheerful) heart does good like a medicine; but a broken (depression, sorrowful, crushed) spirit dries the bones." Proverbs 17:22
In Christ, I am Happy, Saved, and Loved! Remember this Sunday School song? Trust and believe like a little child and have faith like a mustard seed, a miracle you need, a miracle you'll get!
God said, "So shall my word be that goes forth out of my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." Isaiah 55:11.
Your sister in Christ,
Josephine
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Jesus is my strength, hope, and help in times of trouble
Psalms 23 Explained
1 The LORD is my shepherd (He takes care of me by His guidance and provision) , I shall not be in want (will not lack).
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures (gives me rest),
he leads me beside quiet waters (to drink safely without fear),
3 He restores my soul (to drink from Him, our soul is restored)
He guides me in paths of righteousness (He directs our path) for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk trough the valley of the shadow of death (facing difficulties and in fearful situation), I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff (when we are in fear and difficulties, the rod and staff are not to beat us but to protect us by using it against our enemies) they comfort me (because we have a strong and reliable shepherd. We are in safe hands thus we are comforted).
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies (we will be exalted in the midst of adversaries), You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows (we constantly have more than enough).
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life (Seek after Jesus and surely goodness and love will chase after us), and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
I hope with this explanation, we will live even more confidently and victoriously in Christ Jesus!
1 The LORD is my shepherd (He takes care of me by His guidance and provision) , I shall not be in want (will not lack).
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures (gives me rest),
he leads me beside quiet waters (to drink safely without fear),
3 He restores my soul (to drink from Him, our soul is restored)
He guides me in paths of righteousness (He directs our path) for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk trough the valley of the shadow of death (facing difficulties and in fearful situation), I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff (when we are in fear and difficulties, the rod and staff are not to beat us but to protect us by using it against our enemies) they comfort me (because we have a strong and reliable shepherd. We are in safe hands thus we are comforted).
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies (we will be exalted in the midst of adversaries), You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows (we constantly have more than enough).
6 Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life (Seek after Jesus and surely goodness and love will chase after us), and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
I hope with this explanation, we will live even more confidently and victoriously in Christ Jesus!
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