2013 DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL
1 - 24 February
Redeemed
forglory
Redeemed
forglory
Meet an irresistible God Live an irresistible life Be an irresistible church
FOREWORD BY SENIOR PASTORS MEET THE IRRESISTIBLE GOD! At the annual listening retreat in September last year, we distinctively heard the passionate call of God for His people to walk in intimacy with Him. There is nothing radical about this invitation. Since the Garden of Eden, God has not stopped issuing this call for us to walk closely with Him. It’s the modern man who has often worked God out of the equation and subtracted Him from our daily lives. Hence in 2013, one of the primary expressions of our redeemed life is to meet the irresistible God through our in-house devotional. We will not only walk through the book of Exodus as our devotional but we will also include 35 days of the Lent season to prepare us for Good Friday and Easter. Other important topics will be included to enhance our spiritual intimacy with God. The Book of Exodus is the overarching frame for this daily devotional. Exodus is about meeting with God. Israel reached the foot of Mount Sinai after leaving Egypt. There, God renewed His covenant made with Abraham, with Israel as a nation (Ex 19). The covenant renewal took place when “Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet with God… at the foot of the mountain” (Ex 19:17). God stated very clearly His purpose for redeeming Israel — “They shall know that I am the LORD their God who brought them out of the land of Egypt that I might dwell among them” (Ex 29:46).
The God whom we shall meet in Exodus is an irresistible God. Throughout the whole Exodus narrative, the people of God faced various situations and obstacles en-route the Promised Land. But God proves Himself as the great Redeemer! He is the irresistible God — “There is no one like Me in all the earth”. (Ex 9:14) Exodus is all about meeting this irresistible God. What was true of Israel as a covenant people is also true of us today as the New Covenant people of God. May you meet and experience the irresistible God this year, and find Him too irresistible not to follow!
Ps Kay Kiong and Ps Tony
Exodus is all about meeting this irresistible God. What was true of Israel as a covenant people is also true of us today as the New Covenant people of God.
GUIDE TO USING this devotional journal Prepare your heart in God s presence Select a fixed time (preferably mornings before you begin the rest of your day) and a quiet place where you can be alone and undisturbed. Observe a moment of silence as you acknowledge God’s presence.
Worship God with a song or hymn. (Refer to the list of worship songs provided). Offer a prayer to God as you prepare to listen to His word. (A sample prayer you can use is the morning prayer by John Stott found on the next page).
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Allow God to S.O.A.P. you with His Word and Spirit
Each daily devotional entry is divided into four parts: Scripture1 — take your time to meditate on the Scripture passage for the day. Pause and mull over words and phrases that stand out for you. Observation — jot down significant insights and reflections from the passage you have read. Use the guiding questions provided. Application — note down a specific and practical commitment to God’s Word for you. Is there a command to obey, a sin to avoid, an example to follow, or a principle to live out? Where appropriate, share your devotional entry with someone. Prayer — bring your response to God in prayer using the suggested prayer for the day.
1 All scripture quotations, unless otherwise noted, are from the New American Standard Version of the bible (NASB).
Morning Prayer by John Stott
good morning heavenly father, good morning lord jesus, good morning holy spirit Heavenly Father, I worship You as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Lord Jesus, I worship You, Saviour and Lord of the world. Holy Spirit, I worship You, Sanctifier of the people of God. Glory to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Heavenly Father, I pray that I may live this day in Your presence and please You more and more. Lord Jesus, I pray that this day I may take up my cross and follow You. Holy Spirit, I pray that this day, You will fill me with Yourself and cause Your fruit to ripen in my life — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Holy, blessed and glorious Trinity, three persons in one God, have mercy upon me. Amen. Prayer Before Opening The Bible Blessed Lord, who has caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning—Grant that we may in such wisdom hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort of Your holy Word, we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which You have given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. Book of Common Prayer
CALENDAR FEBRUARY 2013
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CG Alpha 1
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8 CG Lo-Hei
11 Chinese New Year
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Chinese New Year
19
15
25
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Start of 35-Day Prayer
Ownership Events (The Non-Negotiables)
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CG Alpha 2
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22 Prayer & Praise
Chinese New Year
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MARCH 2013
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Men’s/Marriage Men’s/Marriage CG Alpha 5 BTW BTW Men’s/Marriage BTW
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CG Alpha 6 Women’s BTW Women’s BTW
25 Dawn Prayer
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Dawn Prayer
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Dawn Prayer
Ownership Events (The Non-Negotiables)
29 Good Friday
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24 Women’s BTW
31 Easter
ary 1 , u r b e F y Frida
2013
The Holy Presence
SCRIPTURE Exodus 3:1–5; Isaiah 6:1–5 The presence of God is a vital theme in Exodus — “the centerpiece of the Book of Exodus is the theology of the LORD present with and in the midst of His people Israel. Throughout the book, this theme is constantly in evidence, serving as a theological anchor and also a kind of compass indicating the direction in which the book is to go.”1 In assigning Moses the divine mission, God began with revealing His presence (Ex 3:2). And the first truth that God wanted to impress on Moses about His presence is — the holiness of His presence. God’s first instructions to Moses were, “Do not come near” and “Remove your sandals from your feet” (Ex 3:5); because he was standing in God’s holy presence. Does everything in your life begin with God’s holy presence? What begins ought to continue until it ends. As you read Exodus, look for His presence!
OBSERVATION How did God reveal Himself to Isaiah in Isaiah 6:1–5?
APPLICATION Why did God reveal Himself to Isaiah as He did, and what does that mean to you?
PRAYER Holy Father2, keep me from being presumptuous and taking Your presence for granted, when I worship You and pray to You. Help me to always be aware that Your presence is a holy presence. It is only in Christ and through Christ alone that I can come into Your presence.3 And my worship to You is acceptable to You only through Jesus Christ 4. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 1 John I. Durham, Exodus, Word Biblical Commentary (Nelson, 1987), xxi 2 John 17:11 3 Ephesians 2:18; 3:12 4 1 Peter 2:5
, ary 2 u r b e F day Satur
2013
SCRIPTURE
The Redemptive Presence
Matthew 1:21–23; Isaiah 6:6–8 Observe the two parallel expressions in Mt 1:21 and 23 — “and you shall call His name Jesus” and “and they shall call His name Immanuel.” There is a theological relation between these two names in the parallelism. Jesus’ name was originally given in Hebrew — Yeshua, which means “Yahweh is salvation”; also explained by Matthew as “for He will save His people from their sins.” “Immanuel” means “with us is God.” Jesus-Immanuel is God-with-us who saves us from sin. JesusImmanuel is God’s redemptive presence with us. When we sin, the way into God’s presence remains open to us in Christ. The holy presence is also a redemptive presence; where “in Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us” (Eph 1:7-8). Therefore, “we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence” through faith in Christ (Eph 3:12, NLT).
OBSERVATION What happened when Isaiah was in the holy presence of God (Isaiah 6:6–8)?
APPLICATION In what ways can Isaiah’s experience be a reality in your life?
PRAYER My gracious Redeemer, when I keep silent about my sin, my body wastes away, and I groan all day long. Day and night, Your hand of discipline is heavy on me. My strength evaporates like water in the summer heat.5 You do so to draw me back into Your presence. Forgive me my sins. Restore me to Yourself; that I may dwell in Your presence in Christ again. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 5 Psalm 32:3-4
, ary 3 u r b e F y Sunda
2013
1. Review — look back at your past week using the Examen (modified) a. What was my high point?
b. What was my low point?
c. What gave me life?
d. What drained me?
e. How was the Spirit of God at work?
2. REFLECT — What is one key thing that God said to you this week in light
of what has happened?
3. RESPONSE a. What is one thing you need to do in light of what God is saying?
b. Journal your prayer
, ary 4 u r b e F y Monda
2013
SCRIPTURE
Excuse of Being Unqualified
Exodus 3:8–12; 1 Corinthians 1:26–31 At 40, when Moses answered God’s call, God’s response was, “No, thank you!” (Ex 2:11-15). When Moses thought he was ready, God saw him as unready. However, at 80, when God called Moses to answer His call, Moses’ response was, “No, thank you!” When Moses thought he was not ready, in God’s eyes he was ready. There was a long exchange between God and Moses, where Moses gave five excuses for his “no” to God’s call (Ex 3:10–4:17). Moses’ first response was “Who am I?” (Ex 3:11) — the excuse of being unqualified. In Moses’ second 40 years, God had been quietly preparing him for his mission by emptying him into brokenness. The bold Moses at 40 was now a broken Moses at 80. When God wants to use a person for His purpose, He begins with brokenness. That’s how God works. True discipleship begins with “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 5:3).
OBSERVATION What can you learn about God calling you in 1 Corinthians 1:26–31?
APPLICATION How should you respond to God’s call for you?
PRAYER Lord Jesus, when You took on humanity to be our Saviour, You chose to be born in Bethlehem, a small, humble and unimpressive place. You grew up in a town where the remark, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth6?” was so often made. This is Your glory! So, when I feel small and insignificant and ask “Who am I?” I will look to You and ask, instead, “Who am I in Jesus the Nazarene7? ” Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 6 John 1:46 7 Acts 3:6
, ary 5 u r b e F ay Tuesd
2013
SCRIPTURE
Excuse of Not Knowing
Exodus 3:13–15; John 10:11–15 Moses anticipated that the children of Israel would ask him a question which he would not be able to answer satisfactorily (Ex 3:13). “What is His name?” indicates that Moses himself did not know God’s name. In the Bible, a person’s name is a description of his or her character. Likewise, the names of God in Scripture are various descriptions of His character.8 Moses said to God earlier on, “Who am I?” (3:11); and now Moses heard God telling him “Who I Am.” God revealed to Moses His name — “I AM WHO I AM” (3:14), which means “I am there (with you, wherever you are), I really am”9 This name reflects God’s promise to Moses, “Certainly, I AM with you”10 (3:12). Knowing who God is, is enough. It makes “Who am I?” an irrelevant question. Eternal life is knowing God and Jesus (John 17:3). Is knowing God and Jesus the purpose, passion, and pursuit of your life?
OBSERVATION What does Jesus say about knowing God and Him in John 10:11–15?
APPLICATION How would you seek to know God and Jesus deeper?
PRAYER God of all glory, You have said, “Let not the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone — that they truly know Me and understand that I am the Lord.”11 Give me the Spirit of wisdom and revelation that I may know You better.12 Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 8 Wayne Grudem, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine (IVP, 1994), 157 9 Victor P. Hamilton, Handbook on the Pentateuch (Baker, 1982), 151 10 John I. Durham, 28 11 Jeremiah 9:23–24 12 Ephesians 1:17
, ary 6 u r b e F sday Wedne
2013
SCRIPTURE
Excuse of Being Unfruitful
Exodus 4:1–9; Isaiah 6:9–13 It seemed that “I AM WHO I AM” was not enough for Moses to say “yes” to God. He gave his third excuse — “What if they will not believe me or listen to what I say?” (Ex 4:1). Moses was saying to God, “I’m not going, because I will not be effective and fruitful in this mission.” Perhaps, Moses recalled his failed mission 40 years ago. God’s answer to Moses’ excuse was His power to turn a staff into a serpent, and turn the serpent back into a staff (v 2–4). It is God Himself who causes us to be effective and fruitful in ministry “that they may believe” (v 5). God does not call us to turn a staff into a serpent. That’s God’s job. Our part is to just throw our staff to the ground, and grasp the serpent by its tail; as God commands and directs — “the LORD said to Moses” (v 2, 4).
OBSERVATION What can you learn about calling and effectiveness in ministry in Isaiah 6:9–13?
APPLICATION How would what you learned from Isaiah 6:9–13 shape your service to God?
PRAYER Servant Lord, You call and choose me to be a servant like You. Serving You is always by Your grace and mercy.13 You give me the privilege to co-labour with You; in an endeavour where 95 percent is Your responsibility, and 5 percent is mine. Teach me and help me to serve You as You direct; doing my best, and letting You do the rest. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 13 1 Corinthians 15:10; 2 Corinthians 4:1
, ary 7 u r b e F day Thurs
2013
SCRIPTURE
Excuse of Being Unable
Exodus 4:10–12; 1 Corinthians 2:1–5 “O Lord, I’m not very good with words…I get tongue-tied, and my words get tangled” (Ex 4:10, NLT). This seems to be Moses’ major problem and obstacle in answering God’s call, as this is repeated thrice (Ex 6:12, 30). God responded to Moses’ excuse with a three-fold answer. Look at God — God is sovereign over mouth and eyes, speech and sight (Ex 4:11). The issue has nothing to do with merely speaking or seeing at the human level. The issue is that God must be the focus; because He is the Sovereign Creator of all things, and He is in sovereign control over all things. God is therefore greater than anything. Lean on God and God would be present with Moses when he speaks (v 12a). Learn from God and God would teach Moses what he is to say (v 12b).
OBSERVATION How does Paul describe the ministry that God has called him to in 1 Corinthians 2:1–5?
APPLICATION How can you apply what you learned about Paul and his service to God help you in your ministry?
PRAYER Lord, I need You. I can do nothing apart from You14; and yet I go on rushing through life as if I could do everything in my own strength. Forgive me. I need to pause in quietness before You; and let my heart and spirit focus on You again, to abide in You anew, to be empowered by Your Spirit. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 14 John 15:5
, ary 8 u r b e F y Frida
2013
SCRIPTURE
Excuse of Being Unwilling
Exodus 4:13–18; 1 Corinthians 15:9–11 “Please, Lord, now send the message by whomever You will” (Ex 4:13). At the heart of all the previous excuses of Moses was his unwillingness to answer God’s call. The divine response — “Then the anger of the LORD burned against Moses” (v 14). God had promised Moses of His presence when he felt unqualified; His power when he was fearful about unfruitfulness; and His provision when he felt unable. No wonder the longsuffering God lost His patience with Moses when he turned down His call. It seems that Moses’ unwillingness stemmed from his inadequacy in speech for God’s angry response focused on this area (v 14–16). Speaking from God is a form of ministry. There are other forms of ministry in serving God. In whatever form of ministry we may have to take, we will always feel inadequate. We need to remember that God’s work is God’s work.
OBSERVATION What does Paul say about himself in 1 Corinthians 15:9–11?
APPLICATION Are you unwilling to serve God in any way? How can the ideas in 1 Corinthians 15:9–11 help you?
PRAYER God of all grace,15 You have promised that Your grace will always be sufficient for me; and that all I need is Your grace. Your power works best in weakness.16 This is Your wisdom, Your delight, and Your glory. Help me not to allow anything to discourage me from serving You. I receive Your grace now, just as I am. Grant me a heart that serves You with gladness.17 Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 15 1 Peter 5:10 16 2 Corinthians 12:9 17 Psalm 100:2
, ary 9 u r b e F day Satur
2013
SCRIPTURE
What Is That In Your Hand?
Exodus 4:1–2, 19–20; John 6:1–12 “What is that in your hand?” God asked Moses in the course of dealing with his excuses. Moses’ answer was “A staff” (Ex 4:2). It was the staff that Moses used to shepherd his sheep for years. It was just a simple and ordinary staff. Perhaps, other shepherds had better, nicer staffs than Moses. God had chosen Moses’ staff to play a very significant role in his mission. Moses’ staff is mentioned 11 times in Exodus, all in reference to God doing His great and mighty works in Egypt. God did not give Moses another staff, a specially anointed “made in heaven” staff. God chose to use the very staff that Moses had been using in his vocation. But when Moses obeyed God’s call, the “a staff” became “the staff of God” (4:20)! God uses us to accomplish His purposes just as we are. Is the “a staff” in your hand still “a staff”? Or, it has become “the staff of God”?
OBSERVATION What can you observe about the ways Jesus works in John 6:1–12?
APPLICATION How would you personally relate to the ways Jesus works?
PRAYER Lord, I’m so prone to view myself, think of myself, and measure myself by my own standards, by human standards, by the world’s standards. As a result, I have a low view of myself, and reject myself. Forgive me. You never see me in any of these carnal ways. I am “a staff” that You want to make into “the staff of GOD.” Indeed, GOD is enough! Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self:
, ary 1 0 u r b e F y Sunda
2013
1. Review — look back at your past week using the Examen (modified) a. What was my high point?
b. What was my low point?
c. What gave me life?
d. What drained me?
e. How was the Spirit of God at work?
2. REFLECT — What is one key thing that God said to you this week in light
of what has happened?
3. RESPONSE a. What is one thing you need to do in light of what God is saying?
b. Journal your prayer
, ary 1 1 u r b e F y Monda
2013
Covenant God
SCRIPTURE Exodus 3:16–18; Micah 7:18–20 Exodus 3:16–18 is a portrait of the Covenant God. The divine name, “the LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” (v 16) indicates that God is a Covenant God. The Covenant God reigns. God’s personal name, “the LORD,” is repeated thrice (v 16, twice in v 18). “The LORD” shows clearly and emphatically the lordship and kingship of God. The Covenant God remembers. He remembers His covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and their descendants, Israel (Ex 2:24–25). He remembers with covenant faithfulness. The Covenant God reassures His covenant people, by revealing Himself as Covenant God in three different ways — “the LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” (v 16); “the LORD, the God of the Hebrews” (v 18a); “the LORD our God” (v 18b). He reassures Israel of His covenant commitment to them; that His Covenant presence is with them.
OBSERVATION How is God portrayed as the Covenant God in Micah 7:18–20?
APPLICATION How does an understanding of the Covenant God affect your life in your covenant relationship with Him?
PRAYER Covenant Lord, when Your people suffer Your righteous judgment for their unfaithfulness, You are still their Covenant God; whose unfailing, steadfast covenant love never ceases; whose compassions and mercies never come to an end. Even in their deepest darkness, they can worship You: “Great is Your faithfulness!”18 I thank You for this covenant hope of grace. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 18 Lamentations 3:22–23
, ary 1 2 u r b e F ay Tuesd
2013
The Cross Of Love
SCRIPTURE Exodus 3:16–18; Luke 9:22–23 Oftentimes, Jesus’ discipleship call in Luke 9:23 is taught apart from v 22. Verse 23 is to be based and built on v 22. Jesus foretold His disciples that He would suffer, be rejected, killed, but raised from death on the third day. What would happen to Jesus is the accomplishment of salvation for fallen humankind. Without what happened to Jesus in v 22, what happens in v 23 would not be possible. We must first receive the salvation in Christ (v 22), offered to us by God who is rich in mercy, and loved us with His great love (Eph 2:4–5); “according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us” (Eph 1:7–8). Then, we respond to God’s salvation in Christ by “turning away from your selfish ways, taking up your cross daily, and following Me” (Lk 9:23, NLT). Following Jesus is relating with the Saviour in His love, grace, and mercy “to the praise of the glory of His grace” (Eph 1:6). Jesus first loves us, then we love Him. This happens on the Cross of Love.
OBSERVATION Exodus 3:16-18 shows us three movements of God’s salvation — salvation from, salvation to, and salvation for. Identify the three salvation movements.
APPLICATION How would you grow deeper in living out your salvation in Christ?
PRAYER My Saviour Lord, You died on the cross and rose from death on my behalf that I may have eternal life in You. And I am to live no longer for myself, but for You.19 Forgive me for the many times I live for myself, and not You. Restore me to Yourself. I want to commit my life anew to You, who always loves me; to walk with You, live for You, and serve You. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 19 2 Corinthians 5:15
, ary 1 3 u r b e F sday Wedne
2013
“I Know”
SCRIPTURE Exodus 3:19–20; John 21:15–19 (with John 18:17, 25–27) Even before Moses said “yes” to God’s call, God told Moses “I know” (v 19). God knew that Pharaoh would not let Israel leave Egypt; but that Pharoah would eventually be compelled by God to release His people; and Israel would leave Egypt with many possessions given by the Egyptians. Before anything happens, God already knows the beginning, the process, and the end. God has already made known to us in His word, the end of our life on earth. In the different journeys each one of us is taking, there is so much that we say “I don’t know” to. Just like Job, we are often kept in the dark of what’s transpiring above, what’s really happening now and what lies beyond the bend. Ezekiel was shown a valley of “very many”, “very dry” bones; and God asked him, “Can these bones live?” (Eze 37:1–3a). All that Ezekiel could say was, “O Lord GOD, You know” (v 3b). However perplexed we may be in life, we can trust and rest in Him who always says, “I know.”
OBSERVATION What do you observe in the short, but significant, exchange between Jesus and Peter in John 21:15–19 (with John 18:17, 25–27)?
APPLICATION How can God saying “I know” to you encourage you in your discipleship journey?
PRAYER Lord, You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know what I’m thinking even though You are far away. You know when I go out to work and when I come home. You know exactly how I live. Even before I speak a word, you know all about it. 20 You know what I need even before I ask You.21 And in moments when I struggle to express to You what I’m going through, I can just say, “Lord, You know.” Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 20 Psalm 139:2–4 21 Matthew 6:8
, ary 1 4 u r b e F day Thurs
2013
Surprise!
SCRIPTURE Exodus 3:21–22 (also Exodus 11:2; 12:35, 36); Ezra 7:11–28 Just before she left Egypt, an Israelite woman, with much awkwardness, asked her neighbour, “Please give me your ‘articles of gold and silver and fine clothing’ (v 22)?” To her surprise, her neighbour said, “Sure, of course!” Many Israelite women were doing the same thing; and every Egyptian neighbour said, “Sure! Help yourself.” “Were the Egyptians gullible or simply generous? Why were they so philanthropic to those who had caused so much agony and turmoil?”22 We really do not know why the Egyptians did that. All we know is that God granted Israel favour before the Egyptians (v 21) — a fulfillment of His promise to Abraham centuries ago, that his descendants “will come out with many possessions” (Ge 15:14). This is God’s covenant faithfulness! We, too, may hear God, in His faithfulness, say to us, “Surprise!”
OBSERVATION Israel’s exodus from Babylon has similarities with their exodus from Egypt. What can you see about God in Ezra 7:11–24, 27–28?
APPLICATION How does what you have discovered about God affect your faith in Him?
PRAYER O God, how great are Your riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand Your decisions and Your ways! Who can know Your thoughts? Who knows enough to give You advice? Who has given You so much that You need to pay it back? Everything comes from You and exists by Your power and is intended for Your glory. All glory to You forever! Amen.23 Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 22 Victor P. Hamilton, Exodus: An Exegetical Commentary (Baker, 2011), 67 23 Romans 11:33–36
, ary 1 5 u r b e F y Frida
2013
When We Struggle In Faith
SCRIPTURE Exodus 4:1–9 Belief in God is a key idea in Exodus 4:1–9. The word “believe” occurs five times. One of Moses’ excuses for saying “no” to God’s call was “What if they will not believe” (v 1). The whole exchange between God and Moses here focused on this question. Twice God said of Israel “if they will not believe” (v 8, 9). And each time, God’s response to Israel’s “if they will not believe” was a miraculous sign (v 3–4, 6–7, 9). This is God’s grace towards unbelieving Israel. God is graciously patient. Peter attempted to walk toward Jesus on the sea. He began to sink when he saw the strong wind; and cried out desperately, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately saved Peter; but rebuked him for having little faith and doubting (Mt 14:25–31). Jesus did not do nothing; letting Peter sink deeper until he overcame his little faith and doubt. God is gracious to us when we struggle in our faith in Him. He will never ignore that desperate cry — “Lord, save me!”
OBSERVATION What can you observe from Exodus 4:1-9 concerning man’s belief in God?
APPLICATION What are the challenges to your faith in God, and how would you deal with them?
PRAYER Gracious Lord, the man, whose son was severely demonised, desperately appealed to You, “Have mercy on us, and help us, if You can.” You seemed to chide him in response, “What do you mean ‘If I can’? Anything is possible if a person believes.” You healed his son, nonetheless, when he cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” 24 This, also, is my prayer. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 24 Mark 9:22–25
, ary 1 6 u r b e F day Satur
2013
SCRIPTURE
Father, Glorify Your Name
John 11:1–15 It was painful for Mary and Martha to watch their very sick brother withering away to death. There was nothing they could do, but pray, “Lord, the one You love is sick” (v 3). By faith, they expected the Lord to answer immediately. Of course, He should! The need was critical and urgent. And above all, He loves Lazarus. This is a faulty assumption, not true faith. To God, the equation is never always God loves = God must act now. “This sickness is not to end in death,” Jesus said (v 4a). Lazarus did eventually really die. But that wasn’t all there was. Through Lazarus, God was glorified (v 4b). Every negative situation faced by Jesus’ disciples, however bad, “is not to end in death, but for the glory of God.” When bad things happen to us, we can become confused and worried. But one thing we do know beyond a doubt — at the end of it all, there is always the glory of God. Wait and watch for it. Your life will be a story of God’s glory! However you pray; always end with “Father, glorify Your name” (Jn 12:28).
OBSERVATION How will God be glorified in the episode in John 11:5–15?
APPLICATION What are the trials in your life that ended with God being glorified, and how does this encourage you?
PRAYER Father of mercies, I don’t understand the difficult journey I’m going through; but glorify Your name. I don’t know why You are leading me in this way; but glorify Your name. I don’t know what the end is going to be like; but glorify Your name. I don’t know how long this trial will be; but glorify Your name. When I don’t know how to pray about my situation, this is my prayer, “Father, glorify Your name!” Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self:
, ary 1 7 u r b e F y Sunda
2013
1. Review — look back at your past week using the Examen (modified) a. What was my high point?
b. What was my low point?
c. What gave me life?
d. What drained me?
e. How was the Spirit of God at work?
2. REFLECT — What is one key thing that God said to you this week in light
of what has happened?
3. RESPONSE a. What is one thing you need to do in light of what God is saying?
b. Journal your prayer
, ary 1 8 u r b e F y Monda
2013
Exploits Faith
SCRIPTURE Hebrews 11:32–40 Most of us know that Hebrews 11 is about faith. The word “faith” is repeated 24 times in the 40 verses. The Book of Hebrews teaches three kinds of faith; which can be encapsulated in Hebrews 11:35. First, Exploits Faith — “women received back their dead by resurrection.” Exploits Faith is that which “expect great things from God; attempt great things for God” (William Carey). We tend to focus on Exploits Faith in our Christian walk. Many of us often prefer this kind of faith. When it comes to faith, the first thing that comes to our mind is almost always Exploits Faith. Our presupposition is — the greater our faith, the greater will be things that we can do. When we pray, “Lord, increase our faith” (Luke 17:5), we are asking for greater Exploits Faith. There’s nothing wrong about that. However, the faith emphasised in Hebrews are the other two kinds of faith.
OBSERVATION What are some other Exploits Faith mentioned in Hebrews 11:32–35?
APPLICATION What is an area in your life that you need to exercise Exploits Faith, and what are your thoughts about that?
PRAYER Almighty God, You are the God who brings the dead back to life and who creates new things out of nothing.25 Indeed, nothing is too difficult for You.26 You call me to live by Your promises; and You will keep Your promises; for You are faithful and cannot lie.27 Thus, even when there is no reason for hope, I can still keep hoping.28 Help me not to waver in believing Your promises.29 Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 25 Romans 4:17 26 Jeremiah 32:17 27 Titus 1:2 28 Romans 4:20
, ary 1 9 u r b e F ay Tuesd
2013
Endurance Faith
SCRIPTURE Hebrews 11:35 and 11:8–12 The second kind of faith in the Book of Hebrews, Chapter 11 is Endurance Faith — “and others were tortured, not accepting their release.” The expression “not accepting their release” implies that these people of God who were tortured were given the opportunity to be released. But they did not accept their release. Why? We can safely assume that they were tortured for their faithfulness to God. They could be released, but on the condition that they deny their faith in God. That they refused! They would rather be tortured until they died, than to deny their God. They were “faithful until death” (cf. Rev 2:10). Faith and endurance (also perseverance) go hand in hand together. Faith produces endurance (Jas 1:3). Faith partners perseverance (Rev 13:10). Faithfulness to God is faith exercised with endurance.
OBSERVATION How was Endurance Faith expressed in Abraham and Sarah’s faith journey in Hebrews 11:8–12?
APPLICATION What is an area in your life that you need to exercise Endurance Faith, and what are your thoughts about that?
PRAYER Faithful God, help me to run with endurance the race You have set before me.30 I know that patient endurance is what I need now, so that I can continue to do Your will. Then I will receive what You have promised in Your Word.31 Help me to fix my eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross, suffering hostility from evil people; that I won’t become weary and give up.32 Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 30 Hebrews 12:1 31 Hebrews 10:36 32 Hebrews 12:2–3
0, ary 2 u r b e F sday Wedne
2013
Eschatological Faith
SCRIPTURE Hebrews 11:35 and 11:13–16, 39–40 The third kind of faith in the Book of Hebrews is Eschatological33 Faith — “so that they might obtain a better resurrection.” Two kinds of resurrection are mentioned in Heb 11:35: the resurrection of Exploits Faith and the resurrection of Eschatological Faith. The latter faith has “a better resurrection” than the former faith; because the resurrection of Eschatological Faith lasts for eternity; whereas those resurrected through Exploits Faith will eventually die again. Endurance Faith is built on Eschatological Faith. Eschatological Faith is living having the end in mind — the end of history, the Second Coming of Christ, “new heavens and a new earth” (2 Pe 3:13; Rev 21:1), reigning with Christ forever and ever (Rev 22:5). Such faith lives for “something better” (Heb 11:40), something greater. Biblical faith is both “live by faith” (Heb 10:38) and “died in faith without receiving the promises” (Heb 11:13). The faith of the “died in faith” is Endurance Faith and Eschatological Faith.
OBSERVATION How is Eschatological Faith exercised as seen in Hebrews 11:13–16, 39–40?
APPLICATION How much emphasis do you place on exercising Eschatological Faith, and how would you want to grow in that?
PRAYER Eternal God, my present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for me a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! Help me not to look at the troubles I can see now; but rather, fix my gaze on things that cannot be seen. The things I see now will soon be gone, but the things I cannot see will last forever.34 Grant me love for Jesus’ glorious return.35 Come, Lord Jesus.36 Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 33 The word “eschatological” comes from the theological term “eschatology” (the doctrine of the last things), which comes from the Greek word eschatos, which means last or final. 34 2 Corinthians 4:17–18 35 2 Timothy 4:8 36 Revelation 22:20
, ary 21 u r b e F day Thurs
2013
SCRIPTURE
The Weaker, Not The Stronger
Exodus 4:14–16; Judges 6:11–18 Moses appealed to God, “Lord, didn’t I tell You to send someone else? Didn’t I say that I’m not cut out for this mission to deliver Your people from the earth’s most powerful man? I told you that I’m very weak in speech. I stammer. I’ll be at a loss of words if I speak to Pharaoh and Your people. Since You know that my brother speaks fluently, and speaks better than me; why don’t You send him instead? Why go through such trouble to first speak to me; have me relay the message to him before he speaks to the people? Why can’t You make things simple and straightforward? Speak to Aaron directly that he may speak Your words fresh from the oven.” The world that works by efficiency and effectiveness will choose Aaron, rather than Moses. As far as getting the job done is concerned, Aaron is a better choice. But, that’s not how God thinks or acts. It is His pleasure and glory to choose the weaker Moses rather than the stronger Aaron for the task of speaking His word.
OBSERVATION What do you discover about God in Judges 6:11–18?
APPLICATION How does your discovery of God speak to your life?
PRAYER The only wise God,37 You choose things the world considers foolish to shame those who think they are wise. You choose things that are powerless to shame the powerful. You choose things despised by the world; things counted as nothing at all, and use them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.38 I thank You that You have chosen me. Glorify Yourself through this weak and foolish vessel. Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 37 Romans 16:27 38 1 Corinthians 1:27–28
2, ary 2 u r b e F y Frida
2013
The Higher Needs The Lower
SCRIPTURE Exodus 4:14–16; 1 Corinthians 12:12–26 God spoke to Moses twice about his speech deficiency: “I will be with your mouth and teach you what you are to say and do” (Ex 4:12, 15). God did not fulfill His promise through supernatural means. He chose to use a natural way by using a man who was a better speaker than Moses. While God chose Moses to be above Aaron, as the leader and deliverer of His people, He also worked in such a way, that Moses needed Aaron to help him in his weakness. The whole of Ex 4:14–16 talks about God using Aaron to help Moses. The higher needs the lower —that’s a divine design. At home, a man needs his wife and children to help him; at the workplace, a superior needs a subordinate’s assistance; in church, the younger believers can contribute to the lives of the more mature ones. The ones higher in position ought not be proud or feel insecure; the ones who are seemingly lower need not feel small and insignificant. For all are in need of the grace of God.
OBSERVATION What is God’s design for the church revealed in 1 Corinthians 12:12–26?
APPLICATION How do you view yourself and others in the church?
PRAYER God, help me to have this posture — not wanting to be more than or less than what You want me to be; but instead, to desire and seek to be just as You will. Keep me from comparing with others. Keep me from pride, from thinking that I am better than some. Grant me sound judgment39 and quiet contentment. Help me to be a servant like the Son of Man.40 Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 39 Romans 12:3 40 Mark 10:45
3, ary 2 u r b e F day Satur
2013
SCRIPTURE
Don’t Be Presumptuous
Exodus 4:24–26; Romans 2:1–4 Moses moved quite quickly from obedience (4:18–20) to disobedience (v 24– 26). He failed to circumcise his son; it was a very serious sin before God; that He “sought to put him to death” (v 24). Circumcision was a sign of the covenant; failing to circumcise was deemed as the sin of covenant unfaithfulness (Ge 17:10–11, 14). God had called Moses to a very vital mission in His redemptive purposes. When Moses was reluctant to answer God’s call, God took much time and effort to convince him to take up the divine mission. No matter what, God wouldn’t let Moses go (Ex 3:1–4:20). Yet here, God was about to kill Moses — such a significantly important vessel of God! We dare not be presumptuous. God is God. He acts in His sovereign freedom and perfect righteousness. Let us always be humbly standing before the Throne of Grace, ever needing and receiving God’s grace and mercy (Heb 4:15–16).
OBSERVATION What can you learn from the warning against presumptuousness in Romans 2:1–4?
APPLICATION How can you guard yourself against presumptuousness about God?
PRAYER God, You are God in the heavens. You do whatever You please:41 in blessing or judging, giving or taking, speaking or in silence. You do not owe me any explanation for what You do or permit to happen.42 You are my Creator, I am Your creature. You are the Potter, I am the clay. 43 Keep me from presumptuousness about God. Grant me a humble submissive spirit that says, “It is the Lord. Let Him do what seems good to Him.� 44 Glory be to You! Amen. Prayer Pointers Give thanks: Pray for leaders: Pray for significant people: Pray for those in need: Pray for self: 41 Psalm 115:3 42 Deuteronomy 30:30 43 Isaiah 45:9 44 1 Samuel 3:18
4, ary 2 u r b e F y Sunda
2013
1. Review — look back at your past week using the Examen (modified) a. What was my high point?
b. What was my low point?
c. What gave me life?
d. What drained me?
e. How was the Spirit of God at work?
2. REFLECT — What is one key thing that God said to you this week in light
of what has happened?
3. RESPONSE a. What is one thing you need to do in light of what God is saying?
b. Journal your prayer
WORSHIP SONGS BE STILL FOR THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD Verse 1 Be still for the presence of the Lord The Holy One is here Come bow before Him now With reverence and fear In Him no sin is found We stand on holy ground Be still for the presence of the Lord The Holy One is here Verse 2 Be still for the glory of the Lord is shining all around He burns with holy fire With splendour He is crowned How awesome is the sight Our radiant King of Light! Be still for the glory of the Lord is shining all around Verse 3 Be still for the power of the Lord is moving in this place He comes to cleanse and heal To minister His grace No work too hard for Him In faith receive from Him Be still for the power of the Lord is moving in this place
BE THOU MY VISION Verse 1 Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart; Nought be all else to me, save that Thou art Thou my best thought, by day or by night, Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light Verse 2 Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word; I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord; Thou my great Father, and I Thy true son, Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one Verse 3 Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise, Thou mine inheritance now and always, Thou and Thou only, first in my heart, High King of heaven, my treasure Thou art Verse 4 High King of heaven, my victory won, May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s Sun! Heart of my own heart, whatever befall, Still be my vision, O Ruler of all
BLESSED BE THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY
Chorus Blessed be the Lord God Almighty Who was and is and is to come Blessed be the Lord God Almighty Who reigns forevermore Verse Father in heaven how we love You We lift Your name in all the earth May Your kingdom be established In our praises As Your people declare Your mighty works
BLESSED BE YOUR NAME
Verse 1 Blessed be Your Name In the land that is plentiful Where Your streams of abundance flow Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your name On the road marked with suffering Though there’s pain in the offering Blessed be Your name
Blessed be Your Name When I’m found in the desert place Though I walk through the wilderness Blessed be Your name
Bridge You give and take away You give and take away My heart will choose to say Lord, blessed be Your name
Pre-Chorus Every blessing You pour out, I’ll turn back to praise When the darkness closes in, Lord Still I will say Chorus Blessed be the name of the Lord Blessed be Your name Blessed be the name of the Lord Blessed be Your glorious name Verse 2 Blessed be Your name When the sun’s shining down on me When the world’s ‘all as it should be’ Blessed be Your name
DEEPER IN LOVE
Verse 1 There is a longing only You can fill A raging tempest only You can still My soul is thirsty, Lord, to know You as I’m known Drink from the river That flows before Your throne Verse 2 Sunrise to sunrise, I will seek Your face Drawn by Your Spirit, to the promise of Your grace My soul has found in You, a hope that will abide Here in Your presence, forever satisfied Chorus Take me deeper, deeper in love with You Jesus hold me close in Your embrace Take me deeper, deeper than I’ve ever been before I just want to love You more and more How I long to be deeper in love
FOREVER
Verse 1 Give thanks to the Lord, our God and King, His love endures forever For He is good, He is above all things, His love endures forever Sing praise, sing praise Verse 2 With a mighty hand and an outstretched arm His love endures forever For a life that’s been reborn His love endures forever Pre-Chorus Sing praise, sing praise Sing praise, sing praise Chorus Forever God is faithful, forever God is strong Forever God is with us, forever and ever Verse 3 From the rising to the setting sun, His love endures forever And by the grace of God we will carry on, His love endures forever Sing praise, sing praise Sing praise, sing praise Bridge His love endures forever, His love endures forever His love endures forever, forever
HALLELUJAH TO THE LAMB
Verse 1 Lord, I stand in the midst of a multitude Of those from every tribe and tongue we are Your people, redeemed by Your blood Rescued from death by Your love There are no words good enough to thank You There are no words to express my praise But I will lift up my voice and sing from my heart With all of my strength Chorus Hallelujah Hallelujah Hallelujah to the Lamb Hallelujah Hallelujah by the blood of Christ we stand Every tongue, every tribe, every people, every land Giving glory, giving honour, Giving praise unto the Lamb of God Verse 2 Lord, we stand by grace in Your presence Cleansed by the blood of the Lamb we are Your children, called by Your name Humbly we bow and we pray Release Your power to work in us and through us Till we are changed to be more like You Then all the nations will see Your glory revealed And worship You Bridge Every knee shall bow, Every tongue confess that You are Lord of all
TRUST HIS HEART
Verse 1 All things work for our good Though sometimes we can’t see how they could Struggles that break our hearts in two Sometimes blinds us to the truth Our Father knows what’s best for us His ways are not our own So when your pathway grows dim And you just can’t see Him Remember you’re never alone Verse 2 He sees the master plan And He holds our future in His hands So don’t live as those who have no hope All our hope is found in Him We see the present clearly But He sees the first and the last And like a tapestry He’s weaving you and me To someday be just like Him Chorus God is too wise to be mistaken God is too good to be unkind So when you don’t understand, When you don’t see His plan When you can’t trace His hand, Trust His heart Bridge He alone is faithful and true He alone knows what is best for you
WONDERFUL GOD
Verse 1 There is no other God like You Who made the heavens and the earth And fills my heart with joy unending All I can do is give my life Offer to You a sacrifice Here is my heart for You unending Pre-Chorus All of my life belongs to You alone With every breath my song will rise to You Chorus You are the joy of every nation The giver of salvation Wonderful God You are God throughout the ages Enthroned upon our praises Wonderful God Verse 2 Every morning when I rise It is Your presence I desire To see Your faithfulness unending Mercy and goodness follow me For in Your presence I am free I put my trust in You unending Repeat Pre-chorus and chorus
YOU ARE MY ALL IN ALL
Verse 1 You are my strength when I am weak, You are the treasure that I seek You are my all in all Seeking You as a precious jewel, Lord, to give up I’ll be a fool You are my all in all Chorus Jesus, Lamb of God Worthy is Your Name (repeat) Verse 2 Taking my sin, my cross, my shame Rising again I bless Your Name You are my all in all When I fall down, You pick me up When I am dry You fill my cup You are my all in all
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