People p Features Happenings pp g
Issue 3/2008
The
Extraordinary Special! Living the Extraordinary Life Extraordinary Encounters Building an Extraordinary Legacy Real Life Miracles: God Built My House!
www.trinity.net
Have you heard God inviting you to you will find intimacy with Him? the place
WHERE
ARE you hearing His voice and knowing His heart for you and your family?
YOU
Will boldly step out with new authority and dominion in prayer?
e r e h W
? u o Y e r A Respond to God’s invitation
and let your faith rise to a new level!
Come for…
Church Prayer Meetings Sep 3 • Oct 1 • Nov 5 • Dec 3 Wed, 8pm
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Take advantage of our Special Package Rates! Trinitarian magazine is a quality Christian publication with articles relevant to life in a contemporary society. Published quarterly by Trinity Christian Centre, it has a readership of over 14,000, and reaches the churches in Singapore, the entire y. congregation of Trinity Christian Centre, and 2,000 visitors of Trinity. It is also available online in full colour at www.trinity.net Our special package rates will help stretch your advertising dollar. Don’t miss it! For advertising rates, contact Janica Chan at 6468 4444 or email admin@trinity.org.sg The Trinitarian magazine has an excellent editorial environment that captures readers’ attention. The contents are credible and readers trust the magazine, and that’s important to advertisers! Soh Liang Liang, media director
Trinity Christian Centre Celebration Services 2008 Trinity@Adam 21 Adam Road
Contents
ENGLISH SERVICES Adult Services, Nursery & DiscoveryLand* Sat 5pm Sun 10am Pre-teens Service (age 10-12) Sat 5pm IGNYTE Services (age 13-19) Sat 5pm Sun 10am CHINESE SERVICE Sun 10am FILIPINO SERVICES Sun 10am Sun 3pm
Trinity@Paya Lebar 247 Paya Lebar Road ENGLISH SERVICES Adult Services, Nursery & DiscoveryLand* Sat 5pm Sun 8.30am Sun 11.30am Pre-teens Service (age 10-12) Sat 5pm Sun 11.30am IGNYTE Service (age 13-19) Sat 5pm Sun 11.30am CHINESE SERVICES **Sun 8.30am Sun 11.30am FILIPINO SERVICE Sun 11.30am INDONESIAN SERVICE Sun 11.30am THAI SERVICE Sun 6.30pm * Nursery (birth to age 4) & DiscoveryLand (age 4 -12) ** With Cantonese interpretation through earphones. Information is correct at time of printing, and is subject to change.
Radio Ministry Thought for the Day FM 107 - Mon to Fri 7.40am & 10.30pm (repeat broadcast)
TRINITY CHRISTIAN CENTRE Tel: 6468 4444 • Fax: 6467 6005 Email: admin@trinity.org.sg Website: www.trinity.net Trinity@Adam 21 Adam Road Trinity@Paya Lebar 247 Paya Lebar Road
6
10
27 Features 10 Expectation Key to the extraordinary life
20 Extraordinary Provision The God of more than enough
32 Go for the Double Portion! Extraordinary abundance
46 Secrets of the Extraordinary Life Revealed!
62 New Dimensions of Glory Enter in!
42
46
68
Snapshots
Buzz
People
42 Extraordinary Legacy
16 Extraordinary Encounters!
27 God Built My House!
From vision to reality
Real Life Miracles
Glimpses of Jesus
56 One Extraordinary Journey An IGNYTEr reflects
59 06.07.08 A watershed event
38 Above and Beyond!
Finding an unexpected friend
83 Abounding Provision CCSS receives and gives
IGNYTEd
More than expected
74 Care & Connect Toolkit 10 handy tips
80 The Accidental Volunteer
52 Extraordinary Lives!
77 Needs Met!
68 Retire? Refire! A life of legacy
84 When Someone Met My Need Our L-Team pastors share
Because we care
88 Different Nations, One Kingdom Missions Impact Trips
104 Netball Champion Trinity makes history
106 Fever Pitch Trinity’s soccer scene
86 A Trinitarian Tradition Seminars and courses
100 Game of Life What an experience!
92 A Life of Significance Prayer rally 2008
94 Breaking All Records Church camp 2008
102 Survivor Tribe Trinity
108 Raising the Standard Of Singapore’s counsellors 7
We see our worship services, prayer meetings and carecells as places where
Vibrant Atmosphere
people hunger for the presence of God and where God delights to inhabit and dwell. In a vibrant atmosphere of worship, prayer and discipleship, we see people encountering God and the manifestation of signs, wonders and miracles.
Adviser Wang Look Fung Chief Editor Pastor Janice Chng Editor Huang Rui Lin Assistant Editor Tan Rou’en Sub-Editor Corinne Lim
Incredible Unity
Passionate Heartbeat We see a people consumed with a vision to touch the world for
We see Trinity Christian Centre as a
Jesus Christ and to see His glory
church living together in covenantal
displayed throughout the world.
relationships; where carecells, ministries, families and individuals
heartbeat to fulfill God’s global agenda through sending men
fulfill God’s purpose and plan for
and women of faith to equip and empower cell churches.
We see the church as a place for the
Strategic Leadership
Contributing Writers Rev Dominic Yeo Rev Dr Naomi Dowdy Pastor Dennis Lum Rev Ong Sek Leang Dr Pat Francis Pastor Edward Lim Pastor David Chng
Chia Shuang Ai Dorothy Poon Gracia Tan Kevin See Michelle Leong Michelle Lim Tan Pei Ling
We see a church with a passionate
are flowing in corporate unity to the church for that hour.
Editorial Support Veronica Teo
empowerment and development
Contributing Photographers Daniel Tan Law Kian Yan Doris Tan Lorraine Chee Eileen Lee Lynn Koh Faith Koh Phyllis Phua Jonathan Lim Yeo Rong Rong Ken Chua Advertising Sales & Admin Janica Chan For ad sales enquiries, Tel: 6468 4444 Email: admin@trinity.org.sg
of Spirit-filled leaders who will be strategically positioned and deployed within the Body of Christ. Every
Mailing Address Singapore Post Centre Post Office PO Box 616 Singapore 914021
Trinitarian a leader with a ministry.
Website www.trinity.net
Passionate Honour Passion to love and honour God
Audacious Fervour Boldness and zeal to believe and ask largely for the impossible
Relentless Belief Unwavering belief in people and their God-given destiny
Contagious Faith Authentic and infectious faith that reaches out to the lost
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Email admin@trinity.org.sg ISSUE 3/2008 The Trinitarian is published quarterly by Trinity Christian Centre. Company registration number 197802911H MICA (P) 023/03/2008 Printed in Singapore by Print & Print Pte Ltd License number L001/01/2008 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited. Opinions and views expressed do not necessarily constitute the official stand of the church.
We’ve got Mail!
SLEtT ar TER
I was so blessed by your article about 2008 being the Year of New Beginnings! Even before I came across it, I had
Congratulations to Trinity for producing such an outstanding magazine! It is a good
known 2008 to be so. But reading your
magazine that has encouraged, blessed and ministered to
excitement. I am claiming for myself
me. I liked all the sections of the magazine:
this year to be one of experiencing new
article brought me to a new level of
life, dominion, authority and provision. • The teachings of your pastors ministered to my need for
Jun E. Suministrado, Philippines
spiritual growth and application. • The section on how God blessed Pastor Dennis Lum with the healing of his child touched my heart. • The testimonies about the experiences of carecell
I am very proud of our magazine! I was showing a visitor around church the other day and the Trinitarian proved
members in the cells encouraged me and reminded of
very handy in helping me share our
the importance of being in a cell and serving one another.
vision and mission. I love the attractive visuals of the magazine and the
There is much more that I can write about! I look forward
encouraging testimonies. It makes a
to receiving your magazine! Thank you once again for
difference to know that real-life miracles
helping me to grow in the Lord.
are happening right here, to people
Agnes Lim, administrative officer
whom I know! Lilin Khoo, educator and writer T Thank you for the article ““Going a Little Further”. It’s assuring and reaffirming to read that God values every little step and effort, even in our
Win!
An autographed copy of Apostle Dowdy’s latest book!
weariest moments. Being away from home inevitably ma makes everything harder, but I’m really glad God has continued to use Trinity to inspire me. The magazine’s really encouraging – brilliant! Louise Loo, student
Tell us what you think off the Trinit Trinitarian i aria ian n magazine! What articles would you like to see in future issues? SMS <Trinity>space<your feedback> to 77177 or email we_are_trinitarians @trinity.org.sg
Spread the word… and shout His fame! Help us widen the impact of Trinitarian magazine! Take extra copies and place them in your office, retail space, café or doctor’s waiting room. Who knows… that testimony or article might just speak to someone at their point of need, and get them connected to God! 9
Expectation: The Key to the Extraordinary Life Want to arrive at the place of extraordinary living, success and ministry? Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the key: Go beyond the Expected, do the Exceptional, and God will do the Extraordinary in your life, says Rev Ong Sek Leang.
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EXPECTATION IS THE FIRST STEP to the extraordinary
extraordinary. If you are willing to go beyond
life and ministry that God has promised us.
what is expected and do the exceptional, God
Expectation is very important because God responds
will do the extraordinary. There is a tendency for
to our expectation. The religious spirit comes with
us to cling to statements like, “To err is human…” We
a ‘move-me-if-you-can’ attitude rather than with an
like to surround ourselves with indemnity clauses
expectation. If you come to God with this attitude,
like, “We are only human…” We just want to do
there will be a lid and a limit upon your life. If you
what is expected. If your attitude in your Christian
want to have a life that is unlimited and that taps into
life and in the church and family is merely to do
the unlimited resources of God, you must begin to
what is expected, if you are always thinking about your limitations and using the
have a spirit of expectation.
fact that ‘you are only human’ Contrary to what society and our educational system would have us believe, great exploits do not come about when we know everything. Men and women in the corporate world as well as the church who
If you are willing to go beyond what is expected and do the exceptional, God will do the extraordinary.
as an excuse, you will always be ordinary. But if you are willing to do the exceptional, God will do the extraordinary. In Jeremiah 32:8-20, we have an
have done the greatest exploits
account of Jeremiah buying a field
will tell you that their extraordinary
despite knowing that Jerusalem
success is often achieved by the power of their ‘gut
will fall to the enemy. This happened one year before
feel’. They may have all the facts and statistics but
the fall of Jerusalem into the hands of the enemy.
very often, the extraordinary – that which is above
When Jeremiah exclaimed in Jeremiah 32:17, “Ah
and beyond their peers – is achieved because of a
Sovereign Lord, You have made the heavens and
sense within their hearts. This sense or gut feel is
the earth by Your great power and outstretched
given by God and is birthed through expectation. If
arm. Nothing is too hard for You”, it was actually an
you are going to live an extraordinary life, you are
exclamation of shock. He was shocked that God told
going to need an expectation. This will lead you to
him to buy a field (verse 9). God had already said that
an experience of God that will give you an impetus
Jerusalem would be taken captive by the enemy. And
and power to do great exploits for Him.
yet God told him to buy a field! Jeremiah cried out to God because it was just not practical for him to invest
One reason why many Christians never arrive at the
in that piece of land! But God could see beyond the
place of extraordinary living, extraordinary success
captivity and told Jeremiah that He wanted him to
and extraordinary ministry is because we are always
buy the piece of land by faith because it was going
doing only what is expected. When you are always
to belong to him. God can see the future even before
doing just what is expected, you will not do the
the future arrives.
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This is what Christian life and ministry is all about.
natural barriers – your fears and regrets – and live
One of the keys and obvious manifestations of the
in the supernatural and the extraordinary. The
extraordinary Christian life is the dimension of the
extraordinary life is the miraculous life and if you
supernatural and the miraculous. God wants the
want this life, you need to go beyond the expected,
miraculous and supernatural to be part and parcel
do the exceptional – and you will experience the
of our lives so that we will be ‘supernaturally
extraordinary and the miraculous.
natural’, or ‘naturally supernatural’! We should be experiencing miracles all the time and everywhere.
In 2 Kings 5:1-14, we have an account of how a
Something is drastically out of alignment if prophecy
great man, Naaman, the commander of the army of
and words of knowledge can only flow in the church
the king of Aram, nearly missed the extraordinary
and not in the boardroom. We obey not only for
moment because he was only willing to do the
tomorrow, but because we have a vision based on
expected instead of the exceptional. Verse 1 tells us
what God says. Jeremiah obeyed God and bought
that “He was a great man in the sight of his master
a piece of land that was going to be confiscated for
and highly regarded, because through him the
many years. This was something that no businessman
LORD had given victory to Aram. He was a valiant
in his right mind would
soldier, but he had
do! But it was what God
leprosy.” This is a story
told Jeremiah to do, and after some time, he was convinced to obey. Have you ever been convinced by God to do something and then thereafter, regretted your
For many people, the extraordinary life is within reach, but they miss it because they are merely willing to do the expected rather than the exceptional.
actions? This shows us
of how he was healed of leprosy by the power of God. But he almost missed his healing! For many people, the extraordinary life – that extraordinary contract or that extraordinary touch or that
that even though God may speak to us through a
extraordinary family or ministry – is within reach,
prophetic word, we are still human. Sometimes after
but they miss it because they are merely willing to
obeying God’s word, you and I will still react humanly
do the expected rather than the exceptional.
and say, “God, what have I done?” This was where Jeremiah was when he cried out to God and had to
Naaman was told by Elisha to dip in the River Jordan
remind himself about the greatness of God.
seven times. This river was not the cleanest, neither was it politically correct since it was, of all places, in
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The extraordinary life does not remove the reality
Israel! Naaman became very angry. The expected
of our humanness but has the miraculous in it
thing for a man of his calibre – a Syrian master over
that says, “It can be done!” You can overcome the
conquered Israel – was to get angry. Not only was
he angry, but he was also controlled by the familiar – what he knew and what had been done in the past. He came to God with a fixed mindset and preconceived notions of what should be done: “’I thought that he would surely
How to be exceptional What does it mean to do the exceptional instead of the expected? Here’s what you need to do:
come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. Are not Abana and Pharpar, the
1
Have a brand new attitude towards God’s Word
Base your life upon the Word of God and just obey it. The Bible tells
rivers of Damascus, better than any of
us that the whole world
the waters of Israel? Couldn’t I wash in
is framed by the Word of God. The heavens and earth
them and be cleansed?’ So he turned
were created and are held together by the Word of
and went off in a rage.” (verse 11). He
God. We need to simply obey God’s Word.
was controlled by his mindset, prejudice and anger.
The servants went to Naaman and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing,
Very often, we are willing to be stretched
would you not have done it? How much more, then,
and do things differently out in the world
when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed!’” (verse
when it comes to business and making
13). In other words, they told Naaman, “Don’t look
money. But somehow, when we come
down on what God wants to do. A lot of people get
to God, we refuse to change, and we
offended and miss the extraordinary because they
arrogantly demand that He takes us just
think that the Word of God that was preached or
as we are. If you want the extraordinary,
spoken was belittling or patronising. But far from
you must be willing to go beyond the
it! God actually wants to give you the keys to an
expected, and do the exceptional rather
extraordinary life. When the Word of God was given
than to react, get angry and refuse to do
to Naaman, the prophet actually wanted to do
it because it has never been done before.
something great for him. But this great commander,
Nothing is more pathetic than trying to
who had won great conquests and battles, was
remind God of what He has done before!
merely behaving normally and doing only what was
God can definitely remember it without
expected when he got offended!
us telling Him. Don’t do only what is expected, human and normal. If you
If we are willing to do the exceptional, God will do
want the extraordinary touch of God in
the extraordinary. The expected says. “I want to do
your life, do the exceptional instead of
what I have always done before. I don’t want to
the expected.
do it differently.” God does not want to belittle or
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patronise you. He wants to give you the keys to the
beings, something called pride? We need to
extraordinary life. But for Him to do that, we must
overcome that pride. How can we do so? 1 Peter
learn to just obey the Word of God even when it
5:5 tells us, “Young men, in the same way, be
does not sound logical or is not what we expect
submissive to those who are older. All of you
it to be.
clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because “God opposes the proud but
As a commander, Naaman surely understood
gives grace to the humble.” In this particular
authority, but he needed to understand that
verse, God has actually given us the key to
the Word of God was greater than any other
humility – it is to be submissive. The greatest
authority. To be extraordinary and be on the
manifestation of humility is the ability
cutting edge, you and I need to understand that
to obey instructions. How smart or how
God’s orders are greater than man’s. The Word of
knowledgeable you are is inconsequential.
God written on a page has no power unless it
Peter tells young men just to be submissive.
is spoken, preached, taught and carried out. To have extraordinary
2
Overcome pride
The prophet said, “Go,
success, you must learn
wash yourself seven times
to obey instructions.
in the Jordan, and your
Clothe yourself with
flesh will be restored and
humility, be submissive
To have extraordinary success, you must learn to obey instructions.
you will be cleansed” (verse 10). Naaman had to
and do it even if you have
overcome his pride in order to go to the prophet
an issue with the way it
in Israel and then dip into the river in Israel seven
is done. If you want to
times publicly as instructed by the prophet.
have an extraordinary life and ministry, you must
Many people have a right attitude towards the
be willing to go beyond the expected to the
Word of God but they are offended by the way
exceptional. To be exceptional means that you
the instruction is given. They question why it
learn to submit as long as it is the Word of God.
cannot be done another way and feel that others
To be very honest, the issue in the church is very
are just trying to make things difficult for them.
seldom the Word of God but usually how it is delivered. If you want to experience the power,
We need to learn to do things God’s way without
you must develop the attitude of submission
any questions even if it is embarrassing or
regardless of the system of delivery. If it is indeed
offensive. When God gives an instruction, as a
God’s Word, you must have the attitude that is
pastor, I sometimes struggle in delivering the
willing to submit to it and to receive it.
message but yet I must just do it. Even though
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it is biblical, I sometimes wish that I could do
Jesus performed many miracles, but he did not
it differently. Could it be that God is dealing
do things in the same way each time. For one
with the foundational problem of sin in human
who was blind, Jesus spat on the ground and with
the mud, healed the blindness. For others, He told
arm. Suddenly, Jeremiah remembered God’s
them to go and wash. For some others, He just
revelation to him and he pressed through. You
declared it. We need to learn to be submissive
have not exercised until you have felt the strain
and follow instructions. That is the exceptional
of a contrary force. There is no exercise of faith
thing to do.
for the extraordinary until there is the battling and the overcoming of the spirit of doubt. Elisha told Naaman to dip
The Bible tells us that Naaman went into the
seven times. Sometimes,
water and did the exceptional thing by dipping
you will do it the first
seven times. This man of honour and great
time because you have
calibre, master and conqueror, had to submit
no choice. The second time, you do it because
– not even to the words of Elisha the prophet
you are inspired. But it is not faith until you do it
but to the word of his servants. The Bible tells
seven times! There are many reasons why people
us that Naaman did the exceptional and then
come to church. Sometimes in the first five
God began to do the extraordinary: “So he went
minutes of worship, they are just warming up.
down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven
For the next 20 minutes, they worship because
times, as the man of God had told him, and his
it is the right thing to do. But the third stage is
flesh was restored and became clean like that of
when they recognise that this is the only reason
a young boy” (verse 14).
3
Exercise faith
they are alive – to worship God. Let me ask you a question: Have you done the Faith is seldom exercised with one step. You
exceptional? If you will do the exceptional, God will
cannot say that you have gone to the gym and
do the extraordinary. Or will you just say, “But I’m
have exercised just because you have just picked
only human!” Do you want to live like everybody
up a dumb bell. You have not exercised until you
else, or do you want to live like a child of God with a
have felt the strain of a contrary force. In the
cutting edge? Do you want to be the head or the tail?
same way, there is no dimension of faith until
If you want to live an extraordinary life, be willing to
you feel that you have fought and overcome the
do the exceptional. Then God will release upon your
power of doubt. This is very important. Sometimes
life His extraordinary and supernatural power!
after we pray, we make decisions at home or in the boardroom and say we have faith. But what
Rev Ong Sek Leang is the senior pastor of Metro
we are doing is really simply making decisions
Tabernacle in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and was one of
as a matter of fact. It is when we feel the doubt
Trinity’s guest speakers at Church Camp 2008.
that we need to exercise faith, like Jeremiah who
Were you blessed by this article? Tell us about it! SMS <Trinity>space<your comments> to 77177 or email we_are_trinitarians @trinity.org.sg
bought that piece of land and then wondered what in the world he had done. Then God spoke to him and reminded him that He had created the heavens and the earth with His outstretched
77177
This sermon can be heard online at www.trinity.net/sermons.htm
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Extraordinary Encounters! God is doing something extraordinary in Trinity Christian Centre! In this season of open heavens, people are encountering God in extraordinary ways, at times and in places where they least expect it.
I saw Jesus!
their ‘O’ Levels, I took the chance
When tutor Esther Koh invited her godson and ex-student Ben to church, little did she expect that Ben would have a divine vision of Jesus right there at the Guest Reception.
helped me when I was a student.
to share with them how God had As my husband and I only came to Trinity in the middle of last year, the culture of Caring & Connecting at Trinity was foreign to us. We knew that we were supposed to Care & Connect, but
Giving tuition
we didn’t know how to
is not just a job
do so. So, I asked God to
but my ministry as well.
show me.
I make time to get to know and interact with my students. Ben
I invited Ben to church for the
was my student in 2000; he was
first time for our Christmas event
15 then. Six years
“The Father’s Love”. To be honest,
later, when he graduated, he
the idea of opening my mouth
requested my husband and
to invite someone to church
I to be his godparents. Of all our
was very scary because I was
godchildren, he was the only pre-
afraid of being rejected. When he
believer, so I understood that God
said that he could not make it, I
had a purpose in his choosing
was disappointed but consoled
of us as his godparents. In other
myself with the thought that
words, my husband and I had
maybe it wasn’t the right time.
work to do!
Ben told me that he would come to church ‘one day’. I resolved
16
I had always looked for
to press on and continued to
opportunities to reach out to Ben
stay in contact with him, pray
and his sister. For example, during
for him and wait for other
opportunities to invite him.
closed his
Ben likes spending time with us
eyes, he saw
and our two children. About two
a figure of a
and a half months later, we asked
man who had
him for dinner. While we were
golden locks
picking him up, he suddenly said,
and shoulder-
“I’ll come for dinner with you all
length hair. The
and then we can all go to church
man then turned and smiled at
accepted Christ, he was nurtured
together.” I was taken by surprise
him. Ben was shocked. He quickly
by Bernard, a spiritual parent.
at how easy it was.
opened his eyes but did not see
Initially, he was hesitant to
anyone in front of him. Though
join our carecell, so Bernard
The service that day was just a
shocked, he felt a sense of peace.
met him individually to get to
‘normal’ service – there was no
He did not tell anyone what he
know him better and nurture
special event or guest speaker.
had experienced.
him. Bernard then invited him to our district event ‘Sentosa
Ben sat through the service, and when the last song “Come
The next week was the Easter
Night Out’. There, Ben met all
Holy Spirit” was sung, he began
presentation “Guilty!” and Ben
the carecell members and felt
to cry. He could not control the
came to church again. He even
very comfortable. He decided to
tears. He said, “Godma, I don’t
invited a friend along. During the
attend our carecell and has since
know why I’m tearing”. I told
worship and drama, he could not
settled in comfortably and is
him, “It’s the Holy Spirit.” I don’t
control the tears that streamed
growing in the Lord. He has even
think he really understood what
down his face. When the altar call
finished New Beginnings with
I said! After service, at the Guest
was made, Ben calmly responded
Bernard and will be attending the
Reception, the pastor asked him if
and accepted Jesus into his heart.
TENet course ‘Welcome to the Trinity Family’ next. He also plans
he was ready to accept Christ. He was not ready primarily because
I look back in awe at how
to learn how to play the guitar
his parents had given his two
wonderful God is. God knew my
for worship. Another blessing is
siblings a hard time when they
fears and simply encouraged
that Ben’s sister has also received
became Christians.
me to play my part in being
Christ. I thank God that Caring
obedient. He told me not
& Connecting is a partnership
The pastor then asked to pray
be discouraged but to have
with God. All we need is to do
a prayer of blessing. When Ben
relentless belief. After Ben
our part, and God will do His!
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My uncle saw Jesus! When teenager David David Chong invited his uncle to witness his water baptism, it sparked off a supernatural vision and resulted in an entire family turning to Christ. I wanted to invite my uncle and my grandmother to witness my water baptism. But I forgot about it and my parents had to remind me. I invited my uncle just the day before the service. When I invited him, I was not thinking of anything in particular or expecting anything spectacular; I simply asked my uncle whether he wanted to come. He came but told me that he would leave immediately
18
after I shared my testimony on stage. Somehow, he
headache. It was odd as he rarely had headaches. Three days after attending my water baptism, he
ended up staying
called my mother and asked her
through the
many questions about Jesus.
entire service
My mother had shared previously
and heard
with the family about how Jesus
each of the
had healed her of a serious sinus
water baptism
problem; he remembered this
candidates share about how God
and asked her if this was true. My
had changed their lives. During
mum answered his questions and,
this time, my uncle also saw a
at his request, arranged for him to
vision of Jesus stretching out
meet a pastor. At that meeting, he
His hand as if
accepted Christ as his Lord and
inviting my uncle
Saviour.
to come to Him. He was shocked
I am not
and thought it
sure when
was a figment
the vision
of his own
stopped,
imagination. But
but since
he kept seeing
that day, my
the vision over
uncle has
and over again.
brought his
Whenever he closed his eyes,
entire family
or whenever anyone approached
to church. My grandmother,
him, he would see that very
aunt and cousins have also
same vision of Jesus inviting
accepted Christ. They are now all
him to come to Him.
attending church regularly. God is indeed an extraordinary God and
Over the next few days, my uncle
this miracle has built up the faith
came down with a persistent
of our family!
Extraordinary Encounters!
A glimpse of Heaven Senior administrative assistant Emily Wong’s father turned down her invitations to church. But one day, following a dream about his late eldest daughter, he asked to be brought to church. Ever since I became a Christian 20 years ago, I have been reaching out to my father, who is 87 this year. But each time I invited him to come with me to church, he would say ‘no’ and tell me not to bother him. My eldest sister Karen succumbed to cancer and multiple organ failure and passed away three years ago. She was someone who loved and cared a lot for the family. Needless to say, we were deeply saddened by the loss. I told my parents that Karen is now in heaven with Jesus and she is free from pain and suffering because the Bible tells us that there is no pain nor suffering in
Heaven. My
and all the carecell members.
parents just
When my father told them that
kept quiet.
he had trouble understanding
A week after
and speaking in Mandarin, Poh
Karen’s death, my seven year-old
Lian and Duncan, his spiritual
niece had a dream. My little niece
parent offered to speak to him in
was very close Karen and she
Cantonese instead. Duncan and
dreamt that Auntie Karen was
his wife Bee Ling also offered to
dressed in white and Jesus was
give a ride to my dad to and from
with Auntie Karen. When my niece
the carecell meeting every Friday.
woke up, she was crying, partly
I was touched that they went
because she missed my sister but
the distance in order to bless
these were partly also tears of joy.
my father.
She was overjoyed that God had given her a glimpse of heaven.
My father has always been a ‘tough nut to crack’. Yet, after
When my father heard about the
20 years of ceaseless praying
dream, he kept very quiet. But I
and sowing into his life, he has
could tell that my niece’s dream
finally
left a deep impression on him.
come to
One day, my father suddenly
know the
asked my second sister how to
Lord Jesus
go to church.
Christ. He now looks
I invited him to Trinity’s Chinese
forward to
Service and was so happy that he
attending carecell every Friday
accepted Christ there. My father
and is very enthusiastic about
to be connected to a Chinese
attending service. In fact, he is
carecell and on his first visit to
preparing to be water baptised!
the carecell, my father and I
God has been faithful to His
could sense the care and concern
promise that my household and
of the carecell leader, Poh Lian
I will come to serve Him!
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Extraordinary Provision, Abundant Grace The extraordinary life is one that is full of Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s abounding provision and abundant grace, says Pastor Dennis Lum.
20
AUTHOR JAMES Montgomery Boice once told
of some clothes, blankets, food and money. It is in
this story about a French lady who was taught to
this letter that we find the promise of Philippians
put Bible promises in a box when she was young.
4:19. Let’s unpack the truth found in this promise.
Whenever she felt down or discouraged, her mother would tell her to take out one of the promises, read it and let the Scripture verse encourage and
1
A Great God Paul says ‘My God’ will meet all your needs.” He
cheer her up. It was a very difficult time during
doesn’t say “The Lord” or even “Our God” but uses
the Second World War and at a time when she was
the personal pronoun “My God”. This is significant
feeling terribly discouraged, she remembered this
because it tells me that Paul was not referring to
little box with Bible promises. She searched for the
any God, but to his God – a God he has met and
box and when she found it, she began to pray, “Oh
personally experienced. He confidently declared that
Jesus, if only I could just find one verse in this box
his God would supply all their needs. Paul could be
that would cheer me up and lift my spirits!” As she
sure because he had experienced the greatness and
prayed, she tripped and fell, spilling all the verses
generosity of this God. Have you seen the greatness
out onto the floor. At that point, God spoke to her
of God? Have you tasted of His goodness? Can you,
and said, “My daughter, there is not just one promise
like Paul, testify of His generosity?
for you – all the promises of God are for you!” •
In Exodus chapter 1, the Israelites found
That’s the truth: God’s provision is extraordinary,
themselves as slaves in captivity in the land of
and His resources of grace and riches are
Egypt, brutally oppressed by the Egyptians. They
abundant. If you grasp this amazing truth, it
were in the ‘Land of Not Enough’. But God didn’t
will assure and anchor you firmly at all times
want them to stay in this land. So He provided
in His abundant grace, enabling you to live the
them a deliverer, Moses who brought them out
extraordinary life in every circumstance.
of the Land of Not Enough into the desert.
In Philippians 4:19, Paul declares, “And my God will
•
The entire nation of Israel then spent more than
meet all your needs according to His glorious riches
40 years wandering in the desert that could be
in Christ Jesus.” The Apostle Paul was in prison when
referred to as the ‘Land of Just Enough’. Each
he wrote this letter to the church at Philippi. Paul
night, manna would fall from heaven and in
wrote this letter to the Philippians as a thank-you
the morning, the people would gather, cook or
note because the church at Philippi had blessed
roast it and eat it. They could not collect manna
Paul by sending him a package probably consisting
for tomorrow, but only enough manna for each
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day. When they didn’t have any water, God
But our God is not a God of ‘Not Enough’. Neither
caused water to flow from a rock so that they
is He the God of ‘Just Enough’. He is a God of ‘More
could quench their thirst. We are also told in
than Enough’ – a God of abundant blessings and
Deuteronomy 29 that their clothes and sandals
provision. That is the God we see in Scripture – the
did not wear out. God sustained them in this
Jehovah Jireh, the Lord our Provider, the King of
way for 40 years with food, strength and health.
kings, the God who is rich, generous and delights in
But this Land of Just Enough was not their final
blessing His people who serve Him.
destination. •
God wanted to bring them to the ‘Land of More Than Enough’ – the Promised Land, the land of Canaan, which the Bible describes as a land that overflows with milk and honey and drinks
He is a God of ‘More than Enough’ – a God of abundant blessings and provision.
rain from heaven, a land of grain, vineyards, new wine and oil, with fields for cattle to graze (Deuteronomy 8:7). In other words, it was a land
When Jesus fed the multitude of 5000 with the five
of abounding provision and abundance. God
loaves and two fishes, It was not just enough for
wanted to bless His people and show them that
everyone but abounding because after everyone
He is not a God of ‘Just Enough’, but rather, He is
had their fill, the disciples picked up 12 basketfuls
a God of ‘More Than Enough’.
of leftovers. Doesn’t this show God’s generosity and abounding provision?
Some Christians seem to think that God has called us to live in a Land of Not Enough. This is a ‘poverty
The greatest demonstration of God’s generosity can
mentality’ that thinks we must always suffer
be found in John 3:16 – for God so loved the world
as Christians. It is the mistaken notion that our
that He generously gave His one and only Son to die
suffering somehow glorifies God.
for us so that we may be reconciled to Him. If God would not even spare His most valuable possession,
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Some believers think that they live in the Land of
His own Son and willingly gave His Son, do you
Just Enough, where God gives them just enough
think God would hold anything back? Romans
strength to get by, just enough provision to pay the
8:31-32 says it this way, “What, then, shall we say in
bills, just enough wisdom to finish the project, meet
response to this? If God is for us, who can be against
the deadline or get through each day.
us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave
Him up for us all – how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?”
b. Our Need for Sustenance Paul knew that God would meet a second need the Philippians had – the need for sustenance.
Truly God is the God of ‘More Than Enough!’
God is the source of all provision and provides for us in every situation. I heard a testimony from
2
Great Needs
a Trinitarian who went on a Missions Impact
Besides a great God, Philippians 4:19 also speaks
Trip. She experienced the abounding provision
of great needs. Sometimes I think people misread
of God in giving her the right words to speak.
this verse as “and my God will meet all your ‘greeds’
She and a fellow team member were sharing
according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” But
the gospel with a couple. After they shared
that is not what the Bible says. The verse actually
the bridge illustration, they asked if the couple
tells us that God will meet all our needs. Paul was not
would like to receive Jesus as their Lord and
promising the church in Philippi that everyone was
Saviour. Although the woman was ready to do
going to be a millionaire, always in pristine health
so, the man declined. This team member wanted
and never facing any persecution. After all, Paul was
to say something to convince the man, but didn’t
writing to them from prison. In fact, the Philippians
know what to say. In desperation, she opened
were also facing the same persecution and hardship.
her mouth to speak and suddenly found herself
But in spite of their difficult circumstances, Paul
telling him that he wasn’t ready to receive Jesus
assures them that God is still a God of ‘more than
because of a fear within. As she said that, she
enough’ who will supply all of their needs.
was shocked – and so was the man!
What kind of needs could he be referring to?
Then she found herself continuing to describe the fear he had. At this point, the man started
a. Our Need for Salvation
affirming what she was saying. Now the team
The greatest need that man will ever have is the
member was even more anxious because she
need for salvation. God has already bountifully
didn’t know how to address his fear. Suddenly,
demonstrated His grace and generosity through
she had the thought that she should share her
the gift of salvation. Even now, He is patient with
own testimony. But even as she started to share,
us and waits for us and our loved ones to turn to
she couldn’t understand the connection since
Him. 2 Peter 3:9 tells us that “The Lord is not slow
her testimony did not address his fear at all.
in keeping His promise… He is patient… not
After she shared her testimony, both the man
wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come
and woman decided to receive Jesus Christ into
to repentance.”
their lives as their Lord and Saviour. This team
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member testified about how God had taught her
without any hope said this: “Character cannot
to trust Him and rely on the Holy Spirit to give
be developed in ease and quiet. Only through
her the right words to speak and the wisdom to
experience of trial and suffering can the soul be
know what to do.
strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved.”
In the midst of His sufferings, Paul could still say, “I can do everything through Him who gives me
God promises us that His grace is sufficient for
strength.” (Philippians 4:13). Paul knew he could
us and His power is made perfect in weakness (2
emerge victorious because he had the comfort,
Corinthians 12:9). God’s grace will see us through
strength and warm fellowship of the Holy
our times of trial, and will sanctify us so that
Spirit to sustain him. God knows your need for
we can become the very perfect bride of Jesus
sustenance. Whatever those needs are – in your
Christ and emerge looking just like Him.
job, family, health or whatever situation you may be in – He is the God of ‘More Than Enough’.
d. Our Need for Significance We all have a need for significance. Right at
c. Our Need for Sanctification
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the top of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is our
God allows trials and suffering in our lives
need for self-actualisation. But there can be no
because we all have a need for sanctification. We
significance aside from God. Significance comes
need to become more and more like Jesus Christ.
from having a purpose and destiny, and
God’s purpose for us is not to be comfortable
these can only come from God. Paul tells us in
as Christians but to be conformed to the very
Philippians 2:13 & 14: “Forgetting what is behind
likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ. God permits
and straining toward what is ahead, I press on
trials to come our way because they shape,
toward the goal to win the prize for which God
mould and help us become like Jesus.
has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 2:13 tells us that it is God who works
Paul had a calling and a destiny. He was pressing
in us to will and to act according to His good
in to embrace God’s abounding provision of
purpose. That is what sanctification is. God
purpose and destiny in his life. You are not just
is working in us so that we will ‘will and act’
another face in the crowd nor another statistic
according to His purposes. Helen Keller who
on a piece of paper. You are a child of the Most
was born blind and deaf at a time when people
High God, and you have been given a sense of
with such disabilities would be considered as
significance – a divine assignment, a task, a call,
a purpose and a destiny. It is
b. God supplies the ‘faith-full’
yours to embrace, to pursue and
This second principle is similar but
to take hold of. You have only one life, and only one God can make it significant.
3
Great Supply We have a great God. We have
great needs. But we can rejoice because we also have a great supply!
As finite beings, we can never exhaust the infinite riches of our God, nor can we drain His resources.
yet different. God supplies those who are full of faith. The Bible teaches us that without faith, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). It is only when we step out in faith that God will supply our needs. For that Trinitarian on the Mission Impact Trip, she experienced God’s
Philippians 4:19 tells us about the
abounding provision of divine
great supply of God’s “glorious riches
wisdom and knowledge only as she
in Christ Jesus”. God is the creator and sustainer of
took steps of faith – by going on the mission
all things. He holds all the power in the universe
trip, by approaching the couple and sharing the
and has inexhaustible and glorious riches! As finite
gospel with them. When we step out in faith,
beings, we can never exhaust the infinite riches of
God will supply the need.
our God, nor can we drain His resources. But there are two principles we must bear in mind when we
I recently heard a testimony that beautifully
want to tap on God’s great supply.
illustrates Philippians 4:19. John and Mary had 2 young children. They had lost four family members
a. God supplies the faithful
in a very short period of time, and were going
God’s glorious riches are found only in Christ
through a season of grief. They had also just returned
Jesus. This means that we must remain in Christ
to their home country because John’s overseas work
Jesus, be obedient to His Word and be aligned
contract had ended. But they returned home during
to His purposes in order to receive this provision.
a time of recession. John was not able to find a job
Jesus tells us in John 15:7 that if we remain in Him
and was out of work for seven months. In those
and His Words remain in us, we can ask whatever
seven months, they were grieving, anxious and
we wish and it will be given to us. We must
depleting their savings by the day. They were eating
remain in Jesus Christ and if we do that, God will
carrots everyday because it was about the cheapest
supply all of our needs. When we obey the Word
vegetable they could buy. It became exceptionally
of God, God promises that He will supply, prosper
hard for Mary when their 5-year-old child asked her
and cause us to succeed (Joshua 1:8).
why they were eating carrots everyday. John was
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depressed because he could not find work. Mary
But the abounding provision of God didn’t stop
was trying to hold the family together but it was
there. One day, someone knocked on their door.
getting really tough. There was no one she could
It was someone who lived in the vicinity, but they
turn to. One day, out of desperation, she ran out of
had never spoken to him before. He was standing
the house weeping and crying out to God, “God,
there with a huge box filled with different kinds of
don’t you care? Don’t you love me?”
vegetables. They thought he had come to sell them some vegetables but he just put the box down and
Just then, she felt this big arm reaching down to her.
walked away. Those vegetables lasted them awhile.
She felt the loving embrace of Jesus. Then she heard
When they ran out of vegetables, there was another
Him say to her, “I do love you and I do care.” Mary was
knock. It was the same man with another box of
so taken aback that God had heard and answered
vegetables. When they asked him why he was doing
her. As she went back into the house, she talked
this, he told them that God had told him to buy
to God and told him that it would be so wonderful
vegetables for them.
if they could have some fish to eat instead of just carrots. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.
Eventually, God provided a job for John. John
As she opened the door, a neighbour whom she
and Mary went to visit this man to thank him for
didn’t know very well, stood there holding two huge
meeting their needs, and to let him know that John
fish. Her neighbour told her that she had bought
now had a job. His reply was, “I know, because God
too much fish that day and asked if she would like
has stopped telling me to buy you vegetables.”
to have some. Mary experienced the abounding provision of God and had fish for dinner that night.
Friends, we serve a God of ‘More Than Enough’. He knows and He cares. He is a God of abounding
God’s provision didn’t stop there. Some time later,
provision who will supply all of your needs
Mary was again just talking to God and telling Him
according to His bountiful riches in Christ Jesus.
that she wished she could have a nice well-cooked meal instead of cooking simple meals with carrots day after day. Suddenly, there was another knock
Rev Dennis Lum is a Lecturer in TCA College and
on the door. This time, another neighbour, whom
serves in the Dean’s Office.
she also didn’t know very well, came with a pot of
Were you blessed by this article? Tell us about it! SMS <Trinity>space<your comments> to 77177 or email we_are_trinitarians @trinity.org.sg
special Nasi Kunyit, asking if they would like to have some because they had cooked too much. That evening, Mary and the family had very good Nasi Kunyit for dinner.
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This sermon can be heard online at www.trinity.net/sermons.htm
77177
Accountant Trina Wong tells of how she went through cancer with joy, recovered from surgery without pain, and how God provided a home for her in the most extraordinary way.
God built MyY H O U S E ! I have been in Trinity since the 1980s. I was looking
Two years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. Upon
for a home church then, when a bus advertisement
discovering a lump in my breast, I went to see a
about Trinity caught my eye. The ad simply said,
doctor. The lump was malignant. It came as a deep
“God cares”, with the word ‘Trinity’ below it. I felt like
shock to me, as I had always thought I was a healthy
I wanted to come to this church, and I did.
person, and I was quite health-conscious too. I didn’t think I would be a candidate for ‘such things’.
Over the years, I loved the worship and learnt a
I was going through a stressful period at work, and
lot from the sermons and the pastors, while the
the illness added to my stress.
testimonies of God at work in the lives of Trinitarians never failed to amaze me. Being in Trinity has really
Thankfully, the cancer was detected at an early
anchored me in my faith.
stage. However, the treatment involved surgery,
27
chemotherapy and radiotherapy for a period of six
waking up from surgery with excruciating pain. I was
months. I cried out to the Lord, and I began to hold
afraid that the same thing would happen again with
onto His Word for comfort, hope and direction. In
this surgery. I voiced this fear to my district pastor,
doing so, I saw His power being displayed in my life.
and she prayed for me before I went in for surgery.
A few months before I was diagnosed, a friend gave
The Lord answered in a marvelous way. When I came
me with a booklet on healing. It was a small booklet
out of surgery, I woke up with no pain! I felt just
full of God’s promises about healing. At that time,
an ache, a sensation similar to the muscle ache one
I wasn’t sick yet. I didn’t realise that I would really
might feel after some strenuous exercise. I did not
need it a few months later! She just thought she
need any injections to relieve pain, and I didn’t
would bless me with a small gift. It was a timely gift.
take a single pill! The whole packet of painkillers
I can only say that the Lord knew what I would be
prescribed to me was left unused. It was amazing!
facing and what I would need. Before I knew about my illness, He had already made provision for me!
In the previous surgery some 15 years ago, I vividly remember waking up after the anesthesia had
I started to prepare myself to go through the
worn off – I felt a lot of pain, and to this day, I still
treatment by meditating on God’s Word and
remember that pain. But this time around, after the
When I started practicing, meditating on and declaring the Word of God in my life, I felt the difference.
speaking it out as a declaration of my trust in
anesthesia wore off, I felt no pain. It was as if the
Him. The Lord bore our sicknesses and diseases on
healing had already begun. I told the nurse I felt
the cross, and I discovered He bore my pain on the
okay. The nurse found it unusual. She thought
cross too.
I had a high threshold for pain – but it was really the Lord’s touch. My family and friends really could
28
I went for surgery in late 2006. Now I had gone
not believe it. They could see that it all went very
through surgery some years before, and I remember
well. The wound healed very quickly.
After the surgery came the therapy. Knowing the common side effects of chemotherapy, I dreaded the thought of going through it. The doctor had prepared me that I might have nausea, and with lowered immunity, I could get sick easily. For these reasons, some people choose not to go through it, and I too contemplated not going through it, until I met another sister who had gone through the same thing. I believe the Lord arranged for me to meet her and hear her testimony. She radiated a glow
I can only say that the Lord knew what I would be facing and what I would need. Before I knew about my illness, He had already made provision for me!
even though she was undergoing chemotherapy for late stage cancer. She testified to me about the
life, regenerating my body. Throughout this time,
power of His Word in her life. She said she spoke
I was reading and using the little book of Scriptures.
God’s word aloud to herself. I felt so encouraged and
It really displayed the power of God’s Word.
strengthened within me that I decided to go through the chemotherapy.
I went through six cycles of chemotherapy, all over a period of 18 weeks. At first, I was sad at losing
True enough, when I started practicing, meditating
my hair. After the first cycle, I shaved my head so
on and declaring the Word of God in my life, I felt the
that I would not see any more of it falling off. But
difference. Both the chemotherapy and radiotherapy
after that, I got used to the ‘cool’ feeling of being
went smoothly and were trouble-free. I just felt
bald and was no longer self-conscious about it. The
normal! I had three doctors attending to me – one
other side effects such as nausea, vomiting and low
for surgery, one for chemotherapy and one for
blood count did not occur. This testifies to me of His
radiotherapy. The chemotherapy doctor was most
amazing power at work in my body. The glow I saw
surprised at how I was responding to the therapy.
in that sister, I felt it in me too.
Each time, before they administered the chemo shots, I had to take a blood test to ascertain that
Radiotherapy followed, and once again, my
I was fit for the treatment. (If my blood count was
body took it very well. How could it be otherwise,
low, I would not be able to undergo it.) However, my
when the Word of God says that the spirit of Him
blood test results were good every time.
who raised Christ from the dead, lives in me and quickens my mortal body? (Romans 8:11) The Lord
The doctor was really surprised. He remarked, “You
restored health back to me. Thank God!
are different from my other patients! Every time you come in, you’re always smiling.” The joy of the
Build My House, and I will build yours
Lord was in me. It was like the Holy Spirit giving me
What the enemy intended for evil, God turned it
29
around for good. I saw how the Lord turned this
realise was the company, in addition to the usual
bout of illness around to bring about another of
hospitalisation and surgery policy, had also bought
His amazing works in my life.
a Critical Illness Plan which pays a lump sum upon diagnosis.
For the last couple of years, I told the Lord of my desire to have my own home. I was getting tired of
When I was going through treatment, and getting
renting and having to shift every once in a while.
the doctors to fill up the forms and all, I wasn’t
However, I did not have much spare cash to pay for
very sure whether my type of cancer was covered
the downpayment, and I was not comfortable with
by the plan. But it was. I was shocked to receive
taking a huge mortgage, as I am single and would
a lump sum of $250,000. I had only expected a
have to shoulder the mortgage alone. Moreover, I
small amount to cover my hospital bills, so this
am not a Singaporean and therefore not eligible for
lump sum amount really surprised me. With this
public housing.
amount, coupled with the money from my CPF, I could buy a $500,000 home. It was like a done deal!
For many years, besides tithing, I have been sowing
All I had to do was look for a house.
during each year’s Vision Rally towards to the church building fund. This time, I felt the Lord
Extraordinary Home
telling me to make a fresh commitment to sow
Yet I didn’t make a move to go and look for my home.
into Trinity@Paya Lebar. He said, “Build My
I was too busy getting my life back to normal after
house, and I will build yours”.
the treatment. But when property prices started to go up at an alarming pace in 2006 and 2007, my
I estimated how much my new home would cost
landlord gave me notice to move out, as she was
($500,000), and committed a percentage of that
going to rent out the place at a much higher rent.
($500) to the building fund. I committed to give this sum every month. But later, when I was diagnosed
As I went house-hunting, I was quite disheartened
with cancer, I put aside this matter of getting my
to find the prices had gone up quite a bit. What I
own place. Although I continued giving, I shelved
had originally budgeted for didn’t seem enough
my dream to get my own home. Nonetheless, even
anymore. I remember telling the Lord, “I would
though I had forgotten about it, God was faithful
be happy just to have a home. Just a one or two-
to His promise. He was working this out for me all
bedroom apartment is good enough for me.” But
this while; indeed, He who watches over us neither
when I went looking for these types of apartments,
slumbers nor sleeps.
I couldn’t find anything that I liked. So I went on to look at three-bedroom apartments. I found
30
My medical expenses were fully covered by
something I liked – but the price was much higher! I
insurance – both my own insurance policy as well
was quite disappointed; it seemed like the $500,000
as my company’s medical insurance. What I didn’t
was not enough anymore.
Around that time, in October
more than what I expected an
2007, Trinity started a preaching
executive condo to be! The place
series on Covenant. In one of
was seven years old. Though it
the sermons, Pastor Gerald Tan
was a resale flat, it was almost
preached on the covenant of
brand new, because the couple
David. When he read 2 Samuel
that owned the place rarely
7:10, the Word of God jumped
stayed there. The apartment was
out at me: “And I will appoint a
in move-in condition. All the
place for My people Israel, and
fittings were all already there; all
will plant them, that they may
I had to do was to give it a fresh
dwell in a place of their own and
coat of paint!
move no more.” But the best was yet to be: It spoke directly to me. Interestingly, the message also talked about how David wanted to build God’s house, but God
I felt the Lord telling me, “Build My house, and I will build yours”.
The couple was willing to let go of the place at the price I asked for, within my original budget of $500,000. Isn’t the
blessed him more in return. I felt
Lord good? The Lord is totally,
so joyful and excited! I started to
absolutely faithful to His Word.
call out to the home that fits my needs and desires
We can indeed trust in the Lord with all our heart and
to “come to me right now” and I declared that “God’s
lean not on our own understanding. In all our ways,
highest and best is being done in this matter!” Within
as we acknowledge Him, He will direct our paths!”
2 weeks, I got my home!
(Proverbs 3:5-6)
Here’s how it happened: One day, when I was flipping
I am now living in my new home! I moved in January
through the classified ads, I looked at the column on
this year, which is truly the year of new beginnings!
executive condominiums, which I would normally
I feel so blessed. God is so faithful to His Promises in
not look at. I called the agent who advertised,
His Word. I can put my absolute trust in Him. When
arranged to see the place, but had no high hopes.
I was going through the bout of illness, I couldn’t see
But when I went there, opened the door, stepped
what was ahead, and what things would be like, but
into the apartment, I just felt that this is my home!
God knows what is ahead, and
It just felt so right. There was simply a great sense
He has already gone ahead
of peace!
to make all the provision for me. My extraordinary
Initially, I had doubts about executive condos. But
experience is living proof
this executive condo turned out to be quite classy,
that God cares – indeed!
31
Go for the Double Portion! God wants you to experience His double portion of blessing, and live in extraordinary abundance – even in times of economic crisis and uncertainty, says Rev Dr Naomi Dowdy.
FRIENDS, ARE YOU CONVINCED that God wants you to live in extraordinary abundance? The Apostle Paul declares in 2 Corinthians 9:8 that “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” That is God’s will for you. God wants to give you a double portion. God wants you to be the head and not the tail (Deuteronomy 28:13). Yet the fact of life is that “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender” (Proverbs 22:7). Therefore you must believe that God wants to erase debt, alleviate poverty and create wealth. God wants to break your poverty mentality, bring you out of lack and release you into abundance.
32
Poverty is Not the Will of God
must resist it and begin to declare that poverty is
Deuteronomy 28 reinforces to me the
not the will of God for our lives and business.
fact that poverty is a curse. We discover that out of 68 verses, 14 verses describe blessings
You Will Lack Nothing
and 54 verses describe curses. From God’s Word,
One of the keys to understanding that
we understand that the curse of the law includes
God wants you to prosper with His
spiritual death, sickness and poverty. Through
divine blessings is found in Deuteronomy 8:7-13:
the Abrahamic covenant we have the promise of blessings. Since the curse of the law is three-fold
For the LORD your God is bringing you into a
(poverty, sickness and spiritual death), it stands to
good land – a land with streams and pools of
reason that these curses must be broken.
water, with springs flowing in the valleys and hills; a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig
•
•
We know the curse of spiritual death is broken
trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land
through salvation. When we receive Jesus Christ
where bread will not be scarce and you will lack
into our hearts and come into a right relationship
nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you
with God, the curse of spiritual death is broken.
can dig copper out of the hills.
What about sickness? Can this curse also be broken off our lives? 1 Peter 2:24 says, “He himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you
We must begin to receive into our spirit the reality of what God wants to do.
have been healed.” What do we do
When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe his commands, his laws and his decrees that I am giving you this day. Otherwise, when you eat and
when sickness attacks? We begin to claim our
are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle
healing. We refuse to allow Satan to steal from us
down, and when your herds and flocks grow large
what Jesus paid a price to secure for us.
and your silver and gold increase and all you have is multiplied… (emphasis added)
•
What about the third curse of poverty? Remember, Jesus came to reverse the curse – all of it. Thus
We often read the rest of this passage without
our attitude toward poverty should be the same
seeing the obvious picture that God is painting
as it is towards spiritual death and sickness. We
for us. We must begin to receive into our spirit the
33
reality of what God wants to do. He wants to bless
When I handed the church over to Pastor Dominic
your finances. Read that verse again. It is a picture of
Yeo in 2005, we had more than 4000 members and
absolute abundance, without lack or scarcity. Think
3 properties in strategic locations – all freehold.
of it this way: We are not like the Israelites in search
When Trinity@Paya Lebar is completed, the total
of a Promised Land. We are a people who are living
value of all three properties will be approximately
in a season of promises. The land is ours to take.
$173 million. At this year’s Missions Convention, our
Now enter in and possess the land!
faith promises crossed the $9 million mark. We have moved from being nomads to being landowners!
Give Your Way out of Lack
We have made the shift from searching for the
One of the major keys to breaking out
Promised Land to possessing the Land.
of poverty is to give your way out of poverty. You may say, “But that
People often ask me how it
does not make sense.” Yes, it
happened. Very simply, we
may not make sense – but it works! No matter how hard it seems, just trust God and do it. I have seen this principle work in amazing ways.
To receive God’s double portion and live in extraordinary abundance, you must first get a new mindset from God.
taught what God’s Word said about the principles (not just the promises) of faith and blessing. As we modeled it, people ‘stepped out of their boats’ and made faith promises
When I first came to Singapore
– not according to their bank
in 1975, Trinity was a church
balances, but according to what
with 42 members and 75 problems! The
they believed God was asking them to trust Him for.
congregation’s chief worry was their inability to
That broke the poverty mentality. People began to
pay the bills. I told them, “If you have a financial
walk in the promises of God for their lives, career and
problem, the way to get out of debt is to give. Give
business. Testimonies rolled in, and this encouraged
to God, and give to missions.” At that first Missions
others to believe God for the same thing. Now
Convention, we had faith promises amounting
giving and faith are part of our church culture, and a
to S$30,000. The church owned no property. For
hallmark of a Trinitarian.
years we rented halls, function rooms and public
34
auditoriums for our worship services. We were
God Wants to Prosper You
like nomads moving from one meeting venueto
To receive God’s double portion and live
another.
in extraordinary abundance, you must
first get a new mindset from God. You need to break
“Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my
out of that ‘small’ mentality that says, “My work or
territory” (1 Chronicles 4:10).
business is simply about getting by or just having enough to pay the bills or send my kids to school.” You
Go ahead, pray it! Say, “God, bless my work and my
must be convinced that God wants to prosper you!
business so that I can have an influence for Your Kingdom.” To some Christians, it may sound greedy
1. God wants to prosper you so that you can
and materialistic, when in fact, the opposite is true. If
extend the Kingdom. It takes money to build
you pray, “God, give me sufficient money to survive,
and expand the Kingdom. It takes money to
enough just to get by,” you may sound humble,
win people to Christ. It takes money to make
pious and religious, but it is actually a very selfish
disciples. It takes money to pay your staff, or to
prayer because it reveals that you are only thinking
buy a bigger location for your business. With
of your own needs. God wants to supply over and
money, a business or ministry can travel, rent
above your needs so that you will have enough left
office space, buy advertising space, and the like.
over to sow into His Kingdom and to bless others.
greater influence. People like to align themselves
Prosperity in the Time of Famine
with winners. Successful businesses draw the
God’s principle is that of sowing and
2. God wants to prosper you so that you will have
attention of other people. When other people are
reaping. Galatians 6:7 says, “Do not be deceived:
attracted to you, you will begin to have a voice
God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”
of influence. That’s why it is important for us to
When we sow a ‘seed’ offering into God’s plans, He
have successful careers and businesses – not just
will multiply it. The principle works this way. When
for survival, but for expansion and growth. You
we give to Jesus the little that we have, He blesses it.
are to increase your business and expand your
The blessing of God on that ‘little thing’ multiplies it,
influence. When you have influence, you can
until there is much left over (see Mark chapters 6 and
invoke change. Friends, God has not positioned
8). It becomes more than a double portion!
you just for subsistence living. He has positioned you to hear His voice, so that you may dare to
God’s miracle of multiplication and blessing can
see yourself as an instrument in His hand for
happen at the most unlikely times and in the most
His glory. God has positioned you for strategic
unlikely places. An illustration of that would be in
influence in your city. Let me urge you to break
Genesis 26:2-3. There was a famine in the land, and
that poverty mentality and pray the Jabez prayer:
yet “The LORD appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not
35
go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to
Possess the Land
live. Stay in this land for a while, and I will be with you
God wants to position you to inherit a
and will bless you.” God told Isaac to stay in a place
double portion of blessing in the land.
of famine. Clearly that did not seem like a good plan
I am believing for Isaiah 61:7 to become a reality in
but remember, it is always better to obey God. As we
your life and business: “Instead of their shame my
read further, we discover that Isaac planted crops in
people will receive a double portion, and instead of
the land during the famine and the same year, he
disgrace they will rejoice in their inheritance; and
“reaped a hundredfold, because the Lord blessed
so they will inherit a double portion in their land, and
him” (Genesis 26:12).
everlasting joy will be theirs” (italics added).
I know a businessman who owned a company
I believe God’s plan is for you to own your own
that was doing well. Then the Lord told him to sell.
home and, if you are in business, to own shops and
He talked to his partners, but they were reluctant
businesses. Your business is part of God’s plan to
because business was so good. However, they finally
possess the land. Possess the land; take ownership
agreed to go along with the man who heard God
of it. In Singapore, the government has a wonderful
speak. They sold everything at a good price. Within
program that enables almost everyone to become
four months, the whole market came crashing
a home-owner. That is powerful in our world today.
down. They were blessed because the man heard
However, I believe that God wants you to move from
and obeyed God. I believe God protected the man
having a survival mentality of home-ownership to
because he was a faithful sower into the Kingdom.
taking the position of a landowner. Let me add that God also wants you to move towards becoming the
If you have been faithful in sowing into God’s Kingdom, God will release a double portion into your hands.
owner of many lands. If you look at the lives of Elijah and Elisha, you will see a shift in thinking. Elisha did not just ask for Elijah’s anointing or spirit; he asked for a double portion. You can do the same thing. If you are a business person, don’t just ask for one business;
36
If you have been faithful in sowing into God’s
believe for two or more. Don’t just ask for one shop;
Kingdom, God will release a double portion into your
believe for a franchise. Then ask for the nations as
hands. You don’t have to worry whether the stock
your inheritance. You have not because you ask not.
markets are going up or down. Famine or no famine,
When you begin to believe that God wants to bless
God will prosper you.
you and move you up to another level, suddenly
nothing is impossible. No vision is too grand. No
God to bring multiplication. Be among a new breed
giant is too big.
of Kingdom men and women who will rise up to a new level of spiritual authority and anointing, break
Turning Danger into Opportunity
the poverty mentality and press in for the double
In life, we will always face danger and
begin with you. This is the time for turnaround. This
opportunity at the same time. These are times when
portion. You cannot wait for someone else. God will is the time and this is the hour to declare:
the economic outlook is confusing and uncertain, when everything looks bad, and there are signs
Get behind me Satan. I know who I am in God.
of impending economic crisis. In the Chinese
I will stay focused on my calling and not be
language, the phrase ‘crisis’ is a combination of two
distracted. I will not be intimidated by man or
words – ‘danger’ and ‘opportunity’. I love the lessons
religious systems or economic conditions, because
we can learn from these combined elements of
the principles of God’s Word do not change.
danger and opportunity. It is so clear in Scripture. A
I will go forward in what God wants me to do.
great example is when Peter attempted to walk on
I will sow and reap. I will extend God’s Kingdom.
water in the midst of the storm (Matthew 14:25-33).
I will experience His double portion and live in His abundance, for the glory of God.
Yes, there is no doubt that these are risky times. Storms – sluggish markets, rising business costs and recession – are always looming on the horizon. But along with the risks come divine opportunities
This article is adapted from
to expand God’s Kingdom, and be His channel
Apostle Dowdy’s latest book,
of blessing and multiplication. Though the
Moving On and Moving Up in the
circumstances may look bleak in the natural, can
Marketplace: Practical Principles
you see Jesus watching over you during these
for Reclaiming the Seven
times? When you have a clear vision of Jesus, you
Mountains of Culture.
have an awareness of His presence. You will dare to step out of the boat like Peter did. Rev Dr Naomi Dowdy is the Resident Apostle It is time to move from your ‘survival’ mentality and
of Trinity Christian Centre.
start thinking ‘increase’. God is calling you to know
Were you blessed by this article? Tell us about it! SMS <Trinity>space<your comments> to 77177 or email we_are_trinitarians@trinity.org.sg
and live in extraordinary abundance. Start doing things differently. Start giving. Start believing. Ask
77177
37
! d n o y e B d n a Above Graduate From Jobless Owner! to Business I graduated from a local University in 2004 and like
a multimedia design service business. It was very real and assuring. God also revealed to me specifically the strategies and how
all my peers, I was full of
to go about doing it. Since I did
dreams and hope for the future.
not have any budget for publicity,
One by one, each of my friends got
He told me to advertise my services
accepted by different companies,
by setting up a website. There was a
started working and earning a living.
sense of peace and I acted upon the
I was the only one who was still
impression immediately.
jobless after nine months. I sent out more than 200 resumes and went
True enough, by His grace, just within
for interview after interview, but to
a few weeks, the website ended up
no avail. Being jobless was certainly
on the second page of the Yahoo!
bad for my self-esteem.
search engine. Now a website is only effective in getting the attention
For the next two years, I worked on
of Internet users if it ranks among
all kinds of freelance jobs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from
the top 20 to 30 positions in the
teaching, video production to
search engine results. However it is
translation services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just to pay my monthly bills. On top of my daily needs, I had a $40,000 study loan to clear. It was certainly financially challenging! I had also tried to set up a small business, hoping to earn more, but it ended up in failure as well. In my desperation I cried out to God, asking Him for a breakthrough. very difficult to have your website
38
One day, during my Time Alone
rank top among thousands of other
with God, the breakthrough came.
similar websites. Many companies
I heard God telling me to start
pay web experts to create keywords
These Trinitarians experienced God’s extraordinary abundance as they heard His voice, responded in obedience and stepped out in faith.
in their website content so that
ays! Fulfilled in 30 D
their company website can rank high in the search engine results.
I had plans to leave my job
However, for my website, God’s
of nine years. My boss warned
hand placed it there.
me of the loss of bonuses as well as the detrimental effect
My website was then noticed by
on my upcoming performance
the public and I soon had the
appraisal. However, my wife and
first business deal. Subsequently
I resolved in our hearts that we would
we experienced many open doors,
not allow the monetary rewards to distract us from what we believe
one after another. God’s favour
God had called us to do – expand my wife’s business in the area of
is tremendous! He has provided
music education. Hence, whether the bonuses came in or whatever
above and beyond my financial
the amount was, it wasn’t that important to us.
needs. Then God impressed upon my heart a 5-figure sum for our faith Today, not only has my $40,000
promise. I had a hard time putting that figure on the Faith
study loan been cleared, God
Promise Card! I wrestled and reasoned with God that the amount
has also blessed my wife and
would make a severe dent on our finances. I needed to save up to
I with our own home. I have
get ready for my transition out from my current job and to provide
experienced the reality of Psalm
our two young boys with a good education.
145:14-16: “The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who
However, God reminded me of His Word in Matthew 6:19-21 and 25-
are bowed down. The eyes of all
34 where the treasure that I seek should not be the amount in my
look to You, and You give them
bank account, but what God can do with the money that is released
their food at the proper time. You
back to Him as it belongs to Him. Hence, though still struggling,
open your hand and satisfy the
I wrote down the sum and prayed that He would provide me the
desires of every living thing.” I am
resources to fulfill the faith promise.
thankful to God for His abundant provision!
My bonus day came in at the end of that same month. To my surprise, despite my lowered performance appraisal, I was given
Daniel Kuan Zi Yu multimedia designer
39
a bonus amount that was more than the 5-figure sum that I had written! God had helped me fulfill my faith promise in less than 30 days and answered my prayers! Wow!! I wanted to be able to give to God, but I am in awe of what God has done
I had some concerns about how to fulfill my faith promise.
and how He has again taught
My concerns were:
me about submission and trust. I pray that this will enable us to
•
I did not have much savings left in my bank account.
•
I was on three months of unpaid leave, as I was joining the 28th batch of AlphaTrack.
•
During these three months without a salary, I still wanted to give my mum a monthly allowance. I am the only believer in my family and I wanted to be a good testimony to her.
But I really wanted to give to God, and because I was able to trust Him for the things that
fulfill my faith promise for the last few years, I believed that
our human minds cannot easily
I would be able to do the same this time round. So, on the
conceive and believe, like the
Faith Promise card, I simply wrote: “The difference between
salvation of unbelieving parents,
my current salary and my new salary, multiplied by 12”. I was
breakthroughs in our families and
expecting a pay rise, but I knew the percentage difference
jobs, and the reconciliation of
would probably be small. After turning in my faith promise card,
strained relationships. Praise God!
I had a thought: Since my entire increment would be given to God, why not ask Him for a BIG increase? So I prayed to God
Marcus Cheng
about it.
self-employed Three months later, a week before my AlphaTrack programme
40
ended, I received an SMS from my
expenses, including my mum’s
This unexpected large bonus
boss saying that he had changed
hospital bill due to dengue. This
I received enabled me to fulfill my
my status to that of a permanent
made me rethink my decision
Faith Promise before March 2008.
staff. (I had been a contract staff
to fulfill my Faith Promise. In
In addition, because there was a
in the same company for 7 years.)
February this year, I finally
surplus, I could go for the Church
That meant that in addition to all
decided that I would fulfill my
Camp in June. And that is not all!
the benefits of a permanent staff,
Faith Promise. I decided in my
As there is still some leftover, I am
I would have an increment and a
heart that I would use the pro-
planning to use the remainder for
variable bonus! I was scheduled
rated variable bonus due in
a Missions Impact Trip this year.
to sign the appointment letter
February, as well as my salary for
on my first day of work. By then,
the month of February, to fulfill
As I look back, God’s blessings
my bank account was already
my promise to God. (Because
are abundant and definitely
zero. My salary would only come
I was now a permanent staff,
more than just financial in
in at the end of the month.
I would be receiving a variable
nature. He has provided me with
Nonetheless, when I looked at
bonus for the first time.) I had a
three month’s leave to attend
the letter, I was surprised at
sense of peace about this.
AlphaTrack, the ability to pay for
what I saw – the pay rise was
my mum’s hospital bills, and, after
more than I had imagined it to
Two days after I made this
AlphaTrack, a permanent job that
be! Elated, I began to calculate
decision, my boss gave me a
I enjoy.
how much I would give to God.
letter concerning my variable
It turned out that the increment
bonus. Again I was extremely
Truly, I have no lack! I have
(multiplied by 12) would be the
surprised. The bonus amount
received over and above what
biggest one-time amount I would
was the largest one-time
I have given, even when I least
give so far!
amount I had ever received!
expected it. No one can give like
In fact, I was sure that the figure
He gives, and no one can love me
However, as the months
was wrong; perhaps they had
like He does! I thank God for His
passed, I still had not fulfilled
forgotten to pro-rate it. But my
blessings and unfailing love. How
my faith promise. I began
boss explained to me that he
could I ever out-give Him?
to have reservations about
appreciated my work and had
giving because I had used up
given me the highest rating,
May Khoo
my increment for some family
hence the big amount.
regional credit assistant
41
Extraordinary Legacy From Vision to Reality
1999 A Vision for the Future Trinity’s Board learns that the Shell Sports Club along Paya Lebar Road is available
January 2000 Trinity takes over the premises of Paya Lebar and renames it OnePLace
for sale through tender. At
The existing complex comprises classrooms,
approximately 3.71 acres or
badminton halls and a swimming pool. Among
161,459 square feet, it is a large
other things, the facilities are used for seminars,
piece of land. It is freehold, like our properties along Adam
district events, meetings and DEW Ministry Weekends.
Road and Lavender Street. The church leadership senses that this would be a good investment for the future growth of the church.
SHELL SPORTS CLUB
PAYA
LEBA
A R RO
D
October 1999 Tender won – by a whisker! After much deliberation and prayer, the Board puts in a tender of $19.1 million. Raymond Leong, who was Trinity’s board member and Treasurer at that time, recalls, “We were told that Trinity’s bid was just a whisker higher than the next highest bid. In other words, we didn’t pay any more than was necessary to win the tender. The managing agent said, ‘Surely the God you serve has given you this figure to win the bid!’”
42
Trinity@Paya Lebar has come a long way from the days when it was first conceived as a vision. Today it stands as a concrete reality that we can see, touch and enjoy – a testament to the power of God-given vision, faith and legacy.
March 2001 Architects Appointed The Board appoints an architect to plan for the development of
May 2004 Application Approved
Approved
Trinity@Paya Lebar. DP Architects
Our application for change of
are the professionals behind
zoning is approved. In fact, we are
Dubai Mall (one of the largest
told that we can have 3 separate plots
malls in the world) and, closer
– a civic and community institution,
to home, the
an education institution and a place
revitalised
of worship. It is a miracle! Our
Wisma Atria.
request for a higher plot ratio of 1.4, up from 0.8, is also approved, paving the way for us to maximise the use of the land.
July 2001 Change of Use The vision is to house Trinity Christian Centre, Care Community Services Society and TCA College within one complex. Hence we submit an application for a change
June 2004 The Incredible Favour of God
of use from ‘sports and recreation’ to ‘place of worship’
The development charges were initially
and ‘civic and community institution’. Trinitarians pray
estimated to be $4.5 million. The authorities
for divine favour upon the application process, which
adjust development charges every six
involve several rounds of dialogue and submissions.
months, according to market conditions. By God’s perfect timing, the development charges applicable during this window of time are zero. We do not need to pay any development charges at all! It is the incredible favour of God!
43
Extraordinary Legacy From Vision to Reality
September 2004 Ground Breaking Ceremony The ground-breaking ceremony takes
December 2006
2004. Demolition works commence,
TOP granted! Trinity@Paya Lebar hosts its first event
and the Shell Sports Club building
Phase 1 of Trinity@Paya
makes away for a new building.
Lebar is near completion.
There is a sense of
Trinitarians pray for the
excitement, as the
granting of the Temporary
vision is on its way to
Occupation Permit (TOP)
becoming a reality.
for the Education Hub.
place at Paya Lebar on 5 September
It comes through, and Trinity@Paya Lebar hosts its first event on 31 December 2006: The annual Family Communion and Watchnight Service. More than 3000 people take part in the historic occasion.
August 2006 A New Look The distinctive facade of the complex is now visible from Paya Lebar Road. Its iconic design is inspired by the mountainous terrain of the Holy Land. To bring out the
January 2007
dramatic land form, Tai Lee Siang, director of
Weekend Services begin
DP Architects, and his team use slanting and vertical planes of dark stones, light stones and tinted glass. The look is one of art and architecture, combined with an air of awe and unpredictability.
Weekend services begin at Trinity@ Paya Lebar on 6 January 2007. While the building continues to be a workin-progress, Trinitarians enjoy the spaciousness of the building, and the abundance of car park lots. A month later, Trinityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s church office and Care Community Services Society move into Trinity@Paya Lebar.
44
August 2008 Structural Works at Phase 2 are completed The structure of Phase 2 of Trinity@ Paya Lebar (the Conference Centre) is completed. Interior design works
August 2007
of the 3,000-seat sanctuary and
TCA College moves in
two 400-seat theatrettes is now
TCA College moves
underway. The TCA College Hostel,
into the Education Hub
which comprises
of Trinity@Paya Lebar.
dormitories, classrooms and creative studios, is also completed.
Coming up next... Paya Lebar will be the hub of the East Since Trinity purchased its property on Paya Lebar Road, a few key developments have taken place on the national front: â&#x20AC;˘ The government announced plans to develop Paya Lebar into a commercial hub of the East. â&#x20AC;˘ The Circle Line was planned for, and Trinity@Paya Lebar is right on the Circle Line, located between the upcoming MacPherson and Tai Seng MRT stations. We could not have known this when we made the purchase, but God was surely guiding us!
As Trinitarians continue to sow towards an extraordinary legacy, the vision continues to unfold and manifest before our very eyes!
45
Revealed:
Secrets of the Extraordinary LIFE
How can you have an extraordinary and abundant life, overflowing with great fruitfulness and favour, and with relationships that are whole and victorious? Rev Dominic Yeo reveals the secrets.
46
WHAT IS the extraordinary life all about? It is the abundant life, a life that experiences the abundant favour of God. It is also about experiencing abundant success, great victories and fruitful relationships in God. If we take an honest look within, we will find that there are areas of lack in our lives, areas where we have been stricken with a sense of poverty. This is why you and I need to learn the secrets to the extraordinary, abundant life. I believe that God wants to give you success in all aspects of your life - your work, your relationships and even your spirituality.
God is the source of abundance, and His intent is for us to live in abundance. From the very beginning in the book of Genesis,
1
Receive the Lord Jesus Christ and His Word
we see that God’s intention for Adam and Eve was that they
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and
experience the abundance and
only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish
provision of God. They experienced
but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
no lack as long as they lived and remained in the Garden of Eden
What does eternal life have to do with abundant
and obeyed their God. But when
life? Receiving Jesus Christ and entering into eternal
sin came into the world, it stripped
life is the beginning of abundance. Abundant life is
this abundance from humanity.
about stepping into that eternal relationship with
It was only through the death of
God. As you venture in, you will experience ‘zoe’, the
Jesus Christ that God’s provision
abundant life or qualitative life here and now, and
of abundant grace and life was
then at the consummation of your faith when you
restored.
meet the Lord face-to-face, you will experience the abundance of eternity in heaven. You cannot take
A man whose life encapsulates the
eternal life and separate it from abundant life. It is a
extraordinary, abundant favour and
total package.
fruitfulness of God is Joseph. When you study his life, you will discover
If you are a pre-believer who has not yet received
that Joseph lived the abundant life
Christ, the starting point is to receive Jesus Christ.
because the tremendous favour of
But for the rest of us, it has to do with receiving the
God was upon him. Everything he
Word of Christ. We must give more than just mental
touched was successful. Whether he was in Potiphar’s
assent to John 10:10 which states, “I have come that
house or in Pharaoh’s court, he had the abundant
they may have life, and that they may have it more
grace of God in his relationships. It was Joseph who
abundantly.” Often, we may read it, hear it, and
ultimately redistributed and stewarded the food
believe it only in our heads: we don’t fully take hold
supply to everyone in that day. I believe God wants
of it.
this for us as well. When the time comes, God will ordain for you and I to be in that place of
There was this little boy who lived in the 1800s. He
authority, to steward His grace in a way that men
had never seen a circus nor been to one. So when
and women can encounter our glorious God.
he heard that a circus was coming to town, he got really excited and asked his Dad to let him go. When
How do you and I attain this abundant life? What are
his dad looked at his pleading eyes and angelic
the secrets of the abundant life?
face, he decided that even though the family wasn’t
47
well-to-do, he would find a way for his son to go to the circus. When that great day came, the boy woke up really early, got dressed in his Sunday best and was all ready to go to the circus. The boy’s father reached into his pocket and gave him a one dollar note, which was a lot of money in those days. The boy
read, listen and understand
When we receive the Word into our lives, the Word will impregnate us with a revelation of God’s abundance, and the revelation will give birth to the reality.
John 10:10 and then decide to receive this word. We have to go beyond just hearing the Word to receiving the Word, the same way we received Jesus Christ into our lives. You have to receive the Word, let it get into you and really believe it until it becomes a conviction
put the money safely into his
in your heart. When we receive
pocket, gave his father a kiss and
the Word into our lives, the
was off to the circus. The boy joined the long queue
Word will impregnate us with a revelation of God’s
and while he was in queue, the circus parade came
abundance, and the revelation will give birth to
by. The animal cages came by, and the boy had never
the reality.
been so close to lions, tigers and elephants before. After the animals came the clowns, somersaulting
Jesus said, “I have come that you might have life,
and doing their number. The boy cheered excitedly
and life abundantly.” Do you believe it? Have you
and then when one of the clowns stopped in front
received it into your heart? That’s the key.
of him, the boy reached into his pocket, took out the one dollar note and gave it to the clown. Then he ran all the way home, saying that he had been to the circus. But in actuality, he had only experienced the parade and not the circus.
2
Remain in Christ and in His Word
That’s the reality for many of us who are believers.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains
We hear about the abundant life, get excited about
in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from
it and say that we believe in it. We get dressed in our
Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
best for church on Sunday and when the offering bag passes, we put in our dollar notes. We hear a
The extraordinary, abundant life is not just about
great sermon, get all excited about it, and then we
bearing fruit but about bearing much fruit. Much
leave and claim that we have lived the abundant
means ‘more than usual!’ Many believers live just
life. But that’s not the abundant life; we have merely
for the ‘enough’ but it is not God’s intention. God’s
experienced the parade.
intention is that you and I bear much fruit. That’s the extraordinary or abundant life. How can we bear
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Many Christians do not experience the abundant
much fruit? The key is to remain in Christ. To ‘remain’
life because they have merely given mental assent
means to be connected; to stay, to live in, to abide
to John 10:10. The abundant life comes when we
and to remain centred in the Lord, come what
may. If you are abiding in Him, circumstances that
allowed the Word of
come your way will not shift you off-centre.
God to apprehend us. It is so important to
It is so important to hold on to the Word of God such that the Word of God begins to hold on to you.
Charlie Wedemeyer was born into a very athletic
hold on to the Word
family and learnt to play American Football early
of God such that the
in his life. He became a great all-star player, led his
Word of God begins
College team to the State championships and later
to hold on to you. This
became the coach of the Los Gatos High School
way, when you go into
football team. But as he was coaching the team
the office and the current realities hit you, you have
towards the championship, Charlie Wedemeyer
the Word of God that remains in you. This Word of
contracted a degenerative illness known as the Lou
God that remains in you will quicken you to a life
Gehrig’s disease that impaired his entire nervous
of abundance. When the Word does not remain in
system. He became known as the speaker who
us, we lose the conviction of the Word of God that
couldn’t speak because even when he moved
will cause us to step into the place of prosperity,
his mouth, no words came forth. Yet, Charlie
blessing and favour. But Jesus said, “If you remain in
Wedemeyer coached his team to victory and they
Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you
won the state championship that particular year.
wish, and it will be given you” (John 15:7). In other
How did that happen? Charlie Wedemeyer’s secret
words, you will have the extraordinary, abundant life!
to the extraordinary and abundant life was to remain connected to the Lord. In his autobiography, Charlie describes how he met the Lord Jesus Christ and learnt that if he remained in the Lord, never shifting off centre, he would be able to bear much fruit. Together with his wife, he continues to coach
3
Remember that God uses the pruning process to lead us to abundance
and speak publicly. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He The great tragedy today is that believers listen to
cuts of every branch in me that bears no fruit, while
great testimonies and messages in church, and yet
every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it
when they walk out of the church, they somehow
will be even more fruitful. (John 15:1,2)
leave the reality of God and His Word behind. Come Monday morning, when they go into the office, they
Some people believe that when you are doing
forget that God had convicted them and had given
alright with God, everything is going to be perfect.
them a promise. When something happens, their
I’m sorry to shatter your illusion, but God’s intention
faith is shaken and they lose their Christianity. This
is for you to bear much fruit and even more fruit,
is because they have failed to remain in the Word.
and the only way for that to happen is for God to start pruning you! It is God’s intention that you
Many of us cannot even remember what was
move into the place of abundance. If God doesn’t
preached the week before because we have not
prune us, you and I will remain status quo.
49
I have a potted plant that flowers everyday and
wonder if God is even there. Friends, this is the
is full of nice orange flowers. But it wasn’t always
very process that will cause you to walk into
like that. A few weeks after I bought the plant, the
abundance.
flowers started dropping off and it looked like it was dying. I began the process of pruning just like John
Before you know it, the grace of God and the
15:2 describes and pruned it to the point where
provision of God will come through. Your roots
it was totally bald. That was a painful process for
will grow, and your shoot will start coming forth.
me because it was a sight for sore eyes and looked
Through the process of God’s grace and time, you
awful. But after a few weeks, buds started growing
will become a tree. You will no longer be one seed;
and since then, flowers have been blooming
you would have produced much seed. No believer
everyday. Now here’s a spiritual principle: God will
is spared this pruning process. Why does God
prune you, and the pruning process isn’t pretty.
prune us? He prunes us because He wants us to bear much fruit. God will prune those He loves and
In many ways, the pruning process is like the dying process.
He will discipline His children. God’s intention is for us to have abundance! I remember being pruned quite badly when I was a Bible School student. I had no money for lunch
In many ways, the pruning process is like the dying
or dinner, and I complained to God: “Lord, what’s
process. The pruning process is about dying to self,
wrong with you? I’ve answered your call to be a
dying to your selfish ambitions and dying to sin.
minister and here I am, with no money for food.”
The analogy of a kernel of wheat dying and that of
I fasted the first day and things went fine. When
a plant being pruned is the same. John 12:24 tells
the rigours of fasting kicked in on the second day,
us that “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground
I started questioning God. My self-esteem and
and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies,
self-worth were being torn away. Yet today, I walk in
it produces many seeds.” Imagine yourself as a seed
abundance. The pruning process and the grace of
that suddenly gets dislodged. You feel disconnected
God have structured me for abundance.
from your community, the world around you and even from God. You feel alone, unseen, forgotten, isolated and overlooked. Sometimes you feel inundated and overwhelmed by pain and sorrow. Then you get drenched in the rain and shiver in the cold. Just as you wonder, “What in the world is
4
Recognise that God will use others to bless you with abundance
happening?” suddenly the skin of the seed breaks
50
open, bringing on even more pain. You feel as
God will send others into your life to bring you to
though your self-worth, self-esteem and everything
the place of abundance. In 2 Kings 4, there was a
about you is being torn off. Amidst the pain, you
woman whose husband had passed away. She was
living in poverty and the creditors were coming
When you and I live the extraordinary and abundant
to take her sons. But God sent people into her life
life, our lives will be an inspiration to others. When
to bring her into His intended abundance. Elisha
Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, a little
came on the scene and told her what to do. Her
family restaurant was completely destroyed. The
sons contributed by going around to collect the
family who owned the restaurant were immigrants
jars. Her neighbours contributed by giving up their
and didn’t have any insurance or money to rebuild
jars. So there were many who contributed to her
it. But the people around them encouraged them
abundance.
to start their restaurant again. Contributions came from different ones in the community, and the diner
You need to recognise that God uses people! Don’t
was rebuilt. It is said that in the rebuilding of the
be like the man who prayed for God to save him from
city, this little diner became a source of inspiration
the flood. The rain continued to pour down and soon,
to others that their homes and their city could be
he was sitting on the roof top praying, “God, rescue
rebuilt. As this family allowed others to help them
me. I need a miracle!” Not too
become successful, their success
long after, the coast guard came by and they invited him to climb aboard their boat. He declined politely and told them that he was waiting for God to send a miracle. Then a neighbour came by paddling a canoe and offered
was not just for themselves but
Your extraordinary and abundant life is not only for yourself, but for the sake of all who are connected to you.
to take him to safety. Again he
for the rebuilding of the city. Today, New Orleans may not be the same as it was before Katrina struck, but the story of this little diner remains an inspiration and connection for others to experience life.
declined and said that he was waiting for God to send a miracle. He drowned in
Make no mistake about it: Your extraordinary and
the flood. When he went to heaven, he was rather
abundant life is not only for yourself, but for the
angry and demanded to see God. When he came
sake of all who are connected to you. What God
before God, he said, “God, what is the matter with
does in your life will be such a testament and an
you? I prayed and you didn’t answer.” God’s reply was,
inspiration to them, and cause them to see that they
“I did answer. I sent you the coast guard and your
too can experience such life!
neighbour but you said ‘no’”. God will send people into your life to add abundance into your life. He will cause people to come into your life, to speak that word or do something to contribute to your abundance. Sometimes He may send the most unlikely people who may say the funniest or weirdest things, so just be open.
Rev Dominic Yeo is the Senior Pastor of Trinity Christian Centre.
77177
Were you blessed by this article? Tell us about it! SMS <Trinity>space<your comments> to 77177 or email we_are_trinitarians@trinity.org.sg. This sermon can be heard online at www.trinity.net
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I did not know what I was living for and was just living aimlessly. I was also mean and extremely self-centered. I didn’t have any friends, much less good friends! I was lonely, confused and completely blind to my sinful behaviour.
CHIJ Toa Payoh IGNTYE, Trinity@Adam
My aunt invited me to IGNYTE, Trinity’s youth service. What impressed me was how on fire the youths were for God. I wanted to be like them – to know God so intimately and feel His unconditional love. I wanted to have a real relationship with God – and I did! It has been two extraordinary years. I now know and understand God’s purpose for me, and am no longer aimless like before. God has not only given me a new perspective on life, He has also changed my character and I am now a much better person. God has brought many good friends from church into my life. But my best friend is still God and I believe that He has much more in store for me. After all that He has done in my life, He is definitely a great and mighty God!
13-18 years o
ld
y r a n i d r o Extra Lives! Coming to IGNYTE was a major turning point in my walk with God. I found a family that loved, encouraged and supported me. I discovered strong covenantal relationships with my fellow buzz group members. During the Ex[PL]ode Camp at the end of 2007, I was amazed at how God touched and healed
Deyi Secondary School IGNYTE, Trinity@Paya Lebar
52
Although I grew up in a Christian family, I never
Things changed when two of my JC friends invited me
really understood what it meant to experience
to Trinity’s Easter event two years back. I rededicated
God’s love. At best, my faith was like a seed with no
my life to Christ and joined the IGNYTE ministry. For
root and so it didn’t take much to blow me here,
the first time, I experienced a personal touch from
there and everywhere. As a result, I was a highly
God that began healing and restoring my hurts
insecure person. I found solace in worldly music
and insecurities. I also found genuine friendships
and culture, always striving to prove that I was
with people who were interested in me and not just
unique. My friendships were fun
which bands I liked. I also
but often superficial, because
communicate much better
I wasn’t brave enough to reveal
with my parents now.
how weak I felt inside. I used to place my self-
Raffles Junior College (Just graduated) IGNYTE, Trinity@Adam
worth in the many ear piercings I had. Now my identity rests in the nail-pierced hands of my Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Amidst a troubled generation, these cool teens from IGNYTE, Trinity’s youth ministry, are nothing short of extraordinary. We cue you in on the phenomenal transformation that has occurred in their lives. the lives of my fellow IGNYTERS as we were
with IGNYTERs as well as other fellow believers. We
worshipping God. I fell under the power of the
prayed for our community in school and for one
Holy Spirit during the altar call and at that point, all my problems seemed like nothing compared to the greatness of my God. I
another to remain strong in the faith. Through this, God has touched lives and we have witnessed salvations and rededications. I know God has
knew then that my life
raised IGNYTE Ministry
was going to be totally
for His Purpose in My
transformed.
Generation and I believe
Empowered, I began
that we are building and
2008 seeking to live
leaving a lasting legacy in
my life for God. I was on a mission to reach the lost and started a prayer group in my school
our school. I am now driven by eternity and I thank God for igniting this fire for Him in my life!
53
God has transformed my life especially with regards to my studies. I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour two years ago but being a very laid-back person, procrastination especially in my studies was a real problem. I was in the Normal Academic stream and constantly labelled as a slow learner. I was able to be in an integrated programme which allowed me to proceed to the ‘O’ Levels without having to do my ‘N’ Levels. Without the pressure of preparing for the major ‘N’ Level examinations, I started
to slacken in Secondary four and my
St Hilda’s Secondary
results started spiralling downwards.
Trinity@Paya Lebar
y r a n i d r o Extra Lives!
During my first year in Junior College, I started hyperventilating and became really sick. I also suffered from migraines that affected my vision and caused numbness in my body. This usually happened at night when I was alone. My parents were very worried and took me to different doctors. I went through many scans but all the results showed that nothing was wrong. All the doctors could give me were bottles of painkillers.
54
I kept thinking that I still had time
span of three days, God really
I was only hoping to make
and seemed unfazed. When I
transformed my life. God
the grade so that I could get
received my mid-year examination
touched me deeply when He
promoted but God showed me
results, I was jolted back to reality
spoke to me through Jeremiah
that He could do exceedingly
because I had failed everything
29:11 and said, “For I know the
and abundantly, above all
except for two subjects. This was
plans I have for you, plans to
I could ever ask or think of.
compounded when my principal
prosper you and not to harm you,
I actually managed to get As
raised the bar for the final term
plans to give you a hope and a
and Bs. I give God all the glory
promotion exercise, I found myself
future.”
because He is the One who has
plunging into desperation. I could
transformed me. God has shown
not muster the determination
With the confidence that
me that if I strive to give Him my
or drive to study and I needed
God was with me and that
very best, He will certainly take
God’s help badly. I found myself
nothing was impossible, I was
care of the rest!
praying much longer each night
determined to be an overcomer.
desperately seeking a touch
I hit the books and started
from God.
making up for lost time. My final examination results
It was at the Life Conference
were the evidence of God’s
at Trinity that I received my
never-ending love and
breakthrough. In the short
grace for me.
This went on for six months and I got
stopped. In less than a month,
really tired of it. I was also getting more
Ngee Ann Polytechnic
my migraines stopped too!
and more dependent on the painkillers,
IGNYTE, Trinity@Paya Lebar
I was amazed at the power of
going back to the doctor for more each
prayer. It really showed me how
time they ran out. I got very depressed
great and powerful God is.
and couldn’t do anything. I felt nervous, could not think properly and
I thank God for healing me and showing
eventually quit going to school. I just
me how much He loves me. He has
stayed at home all day. This went on for a
placed so many wonderful people in
whole year.
my life – my pastors, spiritual parent and carecell. They prayed for me, sent
I wasn’t a strong Christian at that time and
me many encouraging SMSes and gave
didn’t attend church regularly. When my
me very assuring and affirming hugs
aunt who is a Trinitarian came to know
whenever they saw that I was stressed.
about my situation, she asked an IGNYTE pastor
I am now continuing my studies at Ngee Ann
as well as her friends and leaders in her carecell to
Polytechnic, and look forward to meeting with God
pray for me. That was when the hyperventilation
and my carecell every weekend.
55
y r a n i d r o a r t x E e On As IGNYTE, Trinity’s youth ministry, crosses the three-year mark, an IGNYTE leader reflects on the phenomenal growth of the ministry, and her own journey to new levels of faith, passion and possibilities.
! y e n r Jou
I was, to say the lleast, a very reluctant member of the IGNYTE youth ministry. Although I had been in Trinity since I was seven, I ‘ran away’ when it came time to transit from DiscoveryLand into the youth ministry. I attended the Adult services as I did not have any friends in youth ministry then. I refused to join them despite repeated calls by my youth
leader. During that period, my self-worth and preoccupation were pretty much based on my academic and co-curricular achievements in school. God was sidelined in my life. I was very driven, but by all the wrong things. However, when my mum connected me to a youth cell in secondary 3, the warmth of the carecell won me over and helped me settle in. I formed covenantal friendships with my peers who, up to this very day, encourage and rally behind
By Michelle Lee
me. My cell leader and spiritual parent, through their persistent follow-up and friendship, helped pry open the shell in which I hid. The pastors and leaders really impacted me; they believed in me and spoke into my life, helping me grow stronger in God. The vibrant atmosphere of faith, fellowship and purpose made it impossible for me to stay uninfected by the contagious passion everyone carried. I began to regret not getting in on all the action earlier! In 2006, I was challenged to serve as a leader in the lower secondary section. I was feeling awfully inadequate and inexperienced because I was still a youth. Yet, God told me that He could use me even though I was young. All it took was a willing heart, a pair of available hands and the courage to step out, and He would pour out His love and power through me, an empty vessel. As He encouraged me through
56
of growth, with the initially empty seats in Lecture Theatre 1 and Chapel filling up quickly. IGNYTE at the relentless belief of my pastors and mentors, I began to realise a greater sense of destiny and purpose in my life. He burned a passion in my heart
both Trinity@Adam and Trinity@Paya Lebar have each come into their own, with each centre taking on a slightly different flavour and culture from the other, but yet still remaining as one family. Personally, seeing my youths grow and becoming harvest warriors for God by bringing in their friends
for reaching my generation. It was
made it all worthwhile. It made me realise one thing:
not a sea of nameless faces that I saw every
multiplication, though initially painful, was worth it!
day in school or on the streets; every face was a lost sheep that needed Jesus. The greatest challenge I faced was when IGNYTE multiplied into two centres at the beginning of 2007. The news of the multiplication into two centres was received with much disappointment and apprehension as most of us were looking forward to moving over to Trinity@Paya
IGNYTE ministry has indeed
But the fruits of walking in obedience to God by multiplying into two centres became evident as IGNYTE at both centres witnessed an explosion of growth.
grown, with each young person maturing spiritually and rising up as a leader in their own way. It was especially heart-warming for me that day to see one of my youths from two years back joyfully serving as a celebration host. I had not seen her ever since we multiplied, as she attends IGNYTE,
Lebar together. Friendships were
Trinity@Adam. Chatting with
affected as different ones had to
her made me realise how much
follow their parents to different centres. It was an
she has changed, from the aloof and indifferent
especially difficult time of transition for me as most
teenager I remember to a pleasant young
of my closer friends â&#x20AC;&#x201C; my cellmates whom I grew
woman actively serving in IGNYTE. I thank God for
up with â&#x20AC;&#x201C; were going to be at Adam. I felt uprooted,
moments like these that spur me on as a leader in
away from my friends and challenged to step out of
IGNYTE to impact the young lives in my care, so that
my comfort zone. I recall a time when my friends
they can go on to impact those around them.
from Adam came over to Paya Lebar to surprise me on my birthday. I blubbered like a baby because
When IGNYTErs from both centres came together
I missed them so much!
for our third anniversary celebration, it was an awesome sight: What was once a congregation
But the fruits of walking in obedience to God by
that filled the Chapel at Trinity@Adam now
multiplying into two centres became evident as
spread across the entire Summit! The Summit
IGNYTE at both centres witnessed an explosion
was filled to the brim with more than 720 youth.
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Even after taking into account the first-time visitors who joined us that day, it was mind-blowing to consider how far God has brought IGNYTE ministry – an ever-growing army advancing His kingdom. The feeling of being part of a congregation this big, experiencing the literally ground-
As much as we were always
But the fruits of walking in obedience to God by multiplying into two centres became evident as IGNYTE at both centres witnessed an explosion of growth.
encouraged to envision greater growth in IGNYTE, I was amazed at the growth in attendance as it was charted on a graph. Visually, the rapid growth was astounding. I could perceive more clearly God’s fingerprints all over IGNYTE ministry from Day One. Yet, as much as I marvelled at
shaking praise and worship time as IGNYTErs packed the altar area and spilled into
the statistics, the number was merely a reflection
the aisles, and hearing the sound of young people
of many young people whose lives have been
worshipping in one voice, was both exhilarating and
transformed by God, each with his or her own story.
epiphanic. As IGNYTE crosses this milestone in its history, it is I had never imagined, or rather, never dared to
a consolidation of sorts: a consolidation of three
envision, an IGNYTE of this size. (Yes I need more
years of growth, a time of celebration, a rejoicing
audacious fervour!) But with this, God enlarged
over challenges overcome and victories won in the
my vision. I could hear Him say, “Get used to this
Lord. As Pastor Dominic charged IGNYTErs to be
because this can become a reality for each centre
Champions for God – to run the good race for His
every week.” The possibilities stirred an excitement
cause, with faith, without fear and with foresight
within me as I realised that the very hand of God
– it served as a poignant reminder of how far we
that has brought us thus far will bring us once again
have come as a ministry. At the same time, God was
to another level as a ministry. He has so much in
nudging us forward toward another level of faith,
store for us, if only we would dream big for Him
passion and possibilities to live out His Purpose for
because the harvest is still plentiful!
Our Generation.
Milestones of an Extraordinary Journey:
JUL 2008 JAN 2008
DO
S! UBLE
JAN 2006 Birth of IGNYTE; average attendance 330
58
JAN 2007 Multiplication into 2 centres; average attendance 482
IGNYTE, Trinity@ Paya Lebar multiplies into two services; total average attendance 555
IGNYTE, Trinity@Adam multiplies into two services; total average attendance 618, almost double that of Jan 2006
Three glo
That â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wh
It was es
rious yea
at 06.07.0
pecially a
rs.
8 refers t
pt and in
o.
genious niversar y celebratio IGNY TE M n of inistr y to ok place on 6 July 2008. M i chelle Le ong repo r ts on the w a te r s h e d e ve n t . as the an
nd thoughts t and a thousa en ev e th re minutes befo flow of the hat would the W d. in m y m o flooded ers of the vide would the view ow H ? e be t to en ev respond th ld our youths ou w ow H t? ac gether to competition re s gathered to am te g in rv se at as all the d The Summit message? But ended and fille sc de st ju t th iri Sp thick in e pray, the Holy of God was so ce en es pr e Lebar. Th t stand in awe. Trinity@Paya uld not help bu co ne yo er ev us at w much any of atmosphere th nger about ho lo no as in our w it do t, to about At that poin what God was t ou ab ly re t pu ation, but a had done, bu a day of celebr st ju t no be ing to midst. It was go E. stone for IGNYT significant mile
The Summit doors flung wide open with our celebration hosts ready with a chorus of greetin gs. Our hosts Andy Chen and Gwen Zhou launched th em into a time of ice breakers. Within seconds the entir e hall was filled w ith the buzz of excitem ent. IGNY TErs ran around giving hu gs to friends from the other centre, whi le others reminisc ed about the past as they gazed at the exhibits of events from previous ye ars.
am
59
Pastor Gary (District Pastor of IGNYTE, Trinity@Adam) and Pastor Darick (District Pastor of IGNYTE, Trinity@ Paya Lebar) burst through the doors for the opening ceremony, running with batons in their hands. This was symbolic of IGNYTE Ministry holding onto the call of God and running the race with the same purpose for God.
am
Then the video competition began. Six shortlisted videos, created by the youths themselves based on the theme â&#x20AC;&#x153;His Purpose. My Generation.â&#x20AC;?, were screened. If you think that would have been boring, think again!
Think Glamorous. Think Oscar Awards show. Think Grammys. Think, very very Glamorous. We had the video completion done awards-show style! A total of 12 youths from both Adam and Paya Lebar came up in pairs to introduce each of the video entries. It showcased all hidden comedic talents that our youths had! Everyone had a blast watching the videos, and even more fun as they voted via SMS for their favourite videos. The first prize went to an ingenious video produced by Daniel Ho, who used the trailer of the movie IRON MAN and did voice-overs. That video had IGNYTErs rolling on the floor with uncontrollable laughter.
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After all the fun and games, our Senior Pastor Rev Dominic Yeo took the stage and began to share his heart for the ministry. He challenged the youths to be Champions for God, through foresight, fearlessness and faith. As the altar call was given, 21 youths made a decision to follow Christ. Then Pastor Dominic led us in a time of communion. It was a meaningful act for the new believers and those who rededicated their lives. Significantly, for the first time in three years, IGNYTErs from both centers were partaking communion together. This powerful act declared and affirmed once again that we are one family. Following that was a time of united prayer. First, we had Shiny (Trinity@Paya Lebar) and Jullian (Trinity@Adam) pray for the youths of our generation to rise up and fulfill the call of “His Purpose. My
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Generation.” Then Pastor Gary and Pastor Darick prayed a prayer of blessing for each other’s ministry in Adam and Paya Lebar. To top it off, Pastor Dominic sealed the prayers and blessed the entire ministry as he asked God to bring the ministry to another level.
In the days to come, 06.07.08 will be remembered as a defining moment for IGNYTE. For it was not only a day of celebration
or a milestone in the history of
IGNYTE, but a stepping stone
to an even greater and more glorious future.
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Want to enter into new dimensions of the extraordinary life, where His favour, glory and presence will be evident in your life like never before? Dr Pat Francis shares how.
Entering New Dimensions of Glory THE FAMOUS PRIME MINISTER of England, Sir
was the same Moses who had witnessed miracle
Winston Churchill, was very popular and led
after miracle, yet now, it seemed as though he was
England into one of her greatest victories. But
in a wilderness. He needed something to move into
right after that, the people did not re-elect him
the next dimension. Yesterday’s presence is no
for another term. The reason was that although Sir
guarantee for tomorrow.
Winston Churchill was very good in planning for war and leading the people into victory, he had no
The Bible tells us that Moses asked God for
vision for establishment. He did not have the vision
something new to take him to the next level. Moses
to take England into her new season. We can learn
prayed, “Show me Your glory.” He didn’t ask God,
from this. Every time we need to go into the next
“Tell me about Your glory.” The Kingdom of God
level, we need a new revelation.
is not talk but power (1 Corinthians 4:20). Moses needed God to show him the visible evidence of
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In Exodus 33:12-18, we see Moses at the point
His glory. The Hebrew word for glory, ‘kabod’, refers
where he needed to go to a new dimension. This
to the weight of God’s splendour and manifestation,
abundance, glorious honour, wealth and Kingdom
bring the right partners on board, and ended up
influence. God’s glory speaks of His strategic
in the wilderness for forty years. Now Moses came
alliances and His unprecedented open doors
to God to ask: Who were his God-given strategic
which no one can shut. What Moses essentially said
alliances for the next level?
was, “Show me the weight of Your presence that will demonstrate that God is with me.”
I asked God the same questions: Who is to be part of my team and my leadership that will bring me
Nine Things Moses asked of God
into the next level? Who needs to be on my Board
Moses asked God for nine specific
in my business? Who are the mentors in my life for
things, and God granted him the very
this next dimension? The people who have been
things he asked for. Now I am encouraged to know
with me have done great, but in order for me to go
that I don’t have to re-invent the wheel. God is the
to the next level, I need to know whom God will
same yesterday, today and forever.
send with me.
I can ask God for those very same things and expect God to grant me the very things I ask. I know that if I apply the Word to my life, God will do the very same things in my life.
I know that if I apply the Word to my life, God will do the very same things in my life.
You too can ask God
2
Teach me Your ways “If You are pleased with me, teach me Your ways…” (Exodus 33:13)
I can imagine Moses saying, “I know how to build a tabernacle and how to battle plagues. I even know how to part the Red Sea! I know about all that, but now I need to know Your ways for the new season.”
for these nine things! The Church today needs to catch up. The world
1
Who are my strategic alliances?
is way ahead of us in the age of information and
Moses said to the Lord, “You have been
technology. The church needs to catch up because
telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but You
God is not an old-fashioned God. God is creative,
have not let me know whom You will send with me…”
innovative and is always doing new things. He
(Exodus 33:12)
keeps His principles but is always using new measures. Ask God to teach you His ways so that
Moses had sent out twelve spies into the Promised
you can always be on the cutting edge. I am always
Land. Ten of them came back with a negative report
learning, growing and developing myself. I don’t
where they saw themselves as grasshoppers who
want to be in a rut. I need God to teach me His ways
were no match for the enemy. Their negative report
and give me information and revelation, so that I
paralysed over two million people. Moses didn’t
can be ahead of the game.
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3
Let me know You “…so I may know You…” (Exodus 33:13)
• Even when you end up in prison as a result of being unfairly accused, favour causes you to rise to be chief prisoner.
Why was Moses asking to know God? With all the
• When the people you help like the baker and the
time he spent with God, how could he not know
cupbearer turn their backs on you and forget you,
God? When he first met God in the burning bush,
favour will reroute them such that they will not
Moses asked God, “Who are you?” God answered,
be able to forget you and will end up serving you.
“I AM.” Then he asked God again, “What is Your
• Favour will keep that appointment with you
name?” God again said, “I AM.” That didn’t help,
and promote you in God’s timing and season and
so he asked God again, “What do I tell the people
nothing can stop it – because favour is powerful!
when they ask me who this God is?” His reply was the same: “Tell them that I AM has sent you.” God
That is why Moses asked God for continued favour.
was whoever Moses needed Him to be. When they
Favour brings strategic alliances and open doors
needed food, God was the Provider of manna. When
that no man can shut.
they needed water, God was the Healer who healed
Let me find continued favour
5
“…and continue to find favour with
“Remember that this nation is Your people.”
You.” (Exodus 33:13)
(Exodus 33:13)
the water so they could drink it.
4
Remember that everything belongs to You and I am your servant
What is favour?
God will come through for those who belong to
• Favour is when God makes people love you even
Him. When you dedicate everything – the business,
when they don’t like you.
the church, your life – to God, they no longer belong
• Favour is having open doors that no man can shut.
to you but belong to Him. This will bring you into a
• Favour is when there are twenty other candidates
new dimension of rest.
going for the same interview and they choose you. • Favour is when you are a Jew like Esther and yet the Persian King can’t help but choose you as queen. • Favour is when you are a Jewish exile in Babylon,
6
Let Your presence always go with me The Lord replied, “My Presence will go
like Daniel, and before you know it, you become
with you, and I will give you rest.” Then Moses said to
the Chief of Staff to the king of Babylon.
Him, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not send
• Favour is when you are a slave in Potiphar’s
us up from here…” (Exodus 33:14,15)
house like Joseph, and before you know it, you are promoted to Manager.
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My background is in medicine. I did not go to Bible
school, nor did I receive a call to be a pastor. God has
Just believe the Word, and His Presence will manifest
not led me in that usual way. Everything that I have
the power. Cry out as Moses did: “Lord, I want Your
done has simply been because the Word of God said
presence!”
it. I became a believer in the Word and just obeyed
travel the world because I thought that was what
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everyone was supposed to do. When I learned about
pleased with me and with Your people unless you go
a trip to Hong Kong, I asked God if I should go. But
with us? (Exodus 33:16)
the Word. The Word says, ‘Go into all the nations’ and I took that literally. I took time off from work to
Let it be obvious that You are pleased with me as a servant How will anyone know that You are
God simply asked me, “Do you have the money to go?” I answered that I was working on it. “Can you get
The same thing happened when I went into the
the time off to go?” My answer was ‘Yes’. God’s reply
ministry. I didn’t go into ministry because I heard a
was, “Just believe for the money and go.” When I got
calling. I went into the ministry by default. I was just
to Hong Kong, people from different nations were
serving in church and doing whatever was needed.
all sharing their testimonies of how God had called
Whenever there was a gap that needed to be filled,
them to Hong Kong. I was embarrassed that I had nothing ‘special’ to share. I was just obeying the Word!
I just believed and I stepped out in faith to fill it. I was in the children’s ministry, youth ministry and choir – wherever there was a need. I was always chosen by
When I was in Hong Kong, I just
default.
believed the Word that said God would work signs and wonders in the name of Jesus through me. One day, I was on the streets handing out tracts. A man came by and I asked if I could speak to him about Jesus. He replied that he had
I was in the women’s ministry and my job was to carry doughnuts for the refreshments. But once, the worship leader didn’t turn up and the president asked if I could go up and just lead a few
no time to listen because he was on the way to the
songs. So I got up there and suddenly realised that
doctor. I told him that he would not have to go
I was anointed for worship. I continued carrying the
to the doctor because Jesus would heal him! After
doughnuts. One day, the speaker didn’t turn up.
I spoke to him and he accepted Jesus into his heart,
Again, the president asked me if I could just go up
I said; “In the name of Jesus, be healed!” Then I asked
and share something. So I did and all of a sudden,
the man, “How do you feel?” He said, “The pain is
miracles happened. Everyone was shocked that I
gone!” That man accepted Jesus and was healed right
was anointed to speak. Then word started getting
there in the streets of Hong Kong – not because I felt
around, and I got invitations and started travelling
anything, but because I simply believed the Word.
the world! I had no calling but suddenly, I was
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speaking, preaching, healing the sick, driving out
their lives. They are now university graduates, in
demons and meeting with all kinds of people,
ministry, and married with families.
including presidents and leaders of nations. We had a hundred thousand dropouts in our city, I didn’t hear a call to start a church, but one day, I
so I created an alternative High School for young
was home on a Friday night and I just thought, why
people whom others had written off as stupid,
don’t we just get together to read the Word of God?
dysfunctional and challenged with all sorts of
Ten of us gathered one Friday night in my home to
learning disabilities. We are now graduating them
read the Word of God. By the end of the year, it was
and every one of them is on their way to college and
so packed that I was embarrassed by the crowds
university. They were called stupid but now they are
that were coming to my home. So I rented a church
scholars!
for these gatherings. Before I knew it, the church was packed out. I called it ‘Thank God it’s Friday’ and
When God’s presence goes with us, it will be obvious
after hundreds of people came, God started telling
that He is pleased with us!
me, “This is not just your little joke, Pat Francis, this
have 3000 people meeting in four services every
8
weekend for the glory of God.
Your people from all the other people on the face of the
is your ministry!” I had no marketing strategy. God just advertised His presence and His glory. Now we
Distinguish me from the rest of the world “What else will distinguish me and
earth?” (Exodus 33:16) I had a burden for hurting young people Acts 1:8 says; “But you will receive power
and asked God to send them to me. We
when the Holy Spirit comes on you;
invaded the judicial system. When
and you will be my witnesses…”
young people committed a crime, instead of being sent to jail,
When God is with you, there will be
they would be sentenced to the
evidence. There will be a mark of
church. I became the jailor for
distinction upon your life. Moses
the glory of God! People told me it
told God that he did not want to be just average; he wanted to be
couldn’t happen, but the Word says,
distinguished from others. He wanted
“With God, all things are possible”
God’s glory to be seen in his life.
(Luke 1:37). God sent me 120 of the worst youth in the city. They didn’t come to church with Bibles. They came with guns, filled and tormented with anger. I worked with those young people every Sunday morning and God transformed
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9
Show me the manifestation of Your glory “Now show me Your glory.” (Exodus 33:18)
God wants to manifest His glory in our midst.
These are the new dimensions God wants to bring us
Because I was working with people who were
into! Yet we have not even begun to grasp the realms
needy and did not have anything to give,
that He can take us into – if only we dare to believe.
I told God that I couldn’t build the ministry on
He is going to blow our minds, and we haven’t seen
offerings alone. I asked God to help me to
anything yet! I believe that God is going to transfer the
create wealth for His Kingdom’s sake.
wealth of the world into the church and the demon of
I asked God to show me how I could bring
mammon is going to come down. God has said that
people into a new level of prosperity. God
the wealth of the sinners is stored up for the righteous
told me that He was pleased with what I asked,
(Proverbs 13:22). How is this going to happen? It will
and just like He told Moses, He would do it.
happen as we go back to God’s covenant principles, strategic alliances, and open up our womb to innovation
The Word says that there shall be no poor
and creativity.
among us (Deuteronomy 15:4, KJV). So we began a home acquisition programme so that
Do you want to go to the new dimensions? Do you dare
everybody could own a home. Then I started
go to the next level? Would you let God take you to
my own companies as an entrepreneur. I am
places where no one has gone? God is looking for the
a pastor and I am also an entrepreneur
unlikely, so that when God does something, it will be
because I operate in the king-priest anointing.
obvious that it is God who is with you. It is not about
I guess I just don’t know any better! I just
you but about the Glory. God is looking for a ‘Moses’
knew that like Joseph, I could be a prophet
who will cry out: “Show me Your Glory!”
and at the same time, an entrepreneur. Like Daniel, I could operate in Babylon. Like David, I could rise up and write poems and establish the tabernacle and, at the same time, be a
Dr Pat Francis is the Founding Pastor of Kingdom
king with both natural and supernatural gifts
Covenant Ministries in Canada and a humanitarian who
operating in me.
helps people through medical missions, orphanages, providing support to international leaders and building
We started a mortgage business and went
churches. She is also President and CEO of Elomax
from glory to glory. We started a call centre
Enterprises, and a United Nations Representative and
business with more than 100 staff and
Transformational Activist dealing with humanitarian
went from glory to glory. We have gone
issues and systemic poverty in partnership with world
into commodities – gold, diamonds, oil.
leaders.
God brought contracts that grew from the thousands into the millions and just recently
This message was preached at Trinity on 29 June 2008
crossed into the billions.
and can be heard online at www.trinity.net/sermons.htm
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Trinitarian magazine comes face to face with Trinitarians who embody Trinityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vision, Values and Culture of Care & Connect. 68
At age 86, Pastor Ng Buck Chua is Trinityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest pastor and is still actively praying for the critically ill. He tells Trinitarian magazine about his passion for meeting needs, and the extraordinary miracles he has witnessed, where God revived the dying and gave them an extension of life.
Retire? Re-fire! Pastor Ng Buck Chua is a bi-vocational pastor and
I’ll be there
part of Trinity’s old guard. You won’t catch him
Meeting a need has become his mission and his
working at a desk, but you will probably bump into
lifestyle. He explains, “I believe that if someone calls
him along the corridors of Singapore’s hospitals.
you, there must be a need – a need which only God
To say that he is a frequent visitor to the hospital
can meet.” He meets a need even when it is
is an understatement. For over 20 years, he has
inconvenient. Once, he was in the midst of a birthday
visited countless patients with critical illnesses. He
celebration which his children and grandchildren
prays for them, shares the gospel, leads them to
had organised for him, when the son of a woman
receive Christ and baptises them as they choose to
suffering from the final stages of cancer called.
follow Jesus. In his ministry, he has witnessed many miracles, including people at death’s door being restored back to health the very next day. It all started when he officially retired from his insurance career in 1980. He had experienced God’s favour throughout his career, rising from the position of a clerk to that of Executive Regional Director. He says, “Upon retirement, I wanted to keep in touch with the developments in the industry, so I set up my own company. My intention was to sell insurance and share the gospel at the same time. But I still felt I wasn’t doing enough for God, so I shut down the company and shared the gospel ‘full-time’”. Apostle Rev Dr Naomi Dowdy, who was Trinity’s senior pastor at that time, offered him a desk in the
“I believe that if someone calls you, there must be a need – a need which only God can meet.”
Pastor Ng recalls, “He said the pain was getting unbearable, and asked if I could come and ask God to take her home without any further suffering. I didn’t want to say no to him, but I didn’t
church office. Pastor Ng declined the offer, saying,
want to disappoint my children either. So I made
“I sat in a corporate office for over 40 years; I don’t
an appointment with him for 9.30pm that night.
want to sit at a desk for another 20 years! Treat my
I didn’t tell my children about the appointment.
home as part of the church office. Whenever you
When we arrived at the restaurant, there were many
need me, call me and I will go.”
tables of diners who had arrived earlier and who
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were still waiting for their food. As we placed our
her and prayed for her, her life was miraculously
orders, I asked God to take care of the situation. To
extended by two months. She was discharged
our surprise, our dishes were served to us first, even
from hospital and was able to move around without
though we had arrived later. After we had cut the
the aid of a wheelchair or walking stick. During this
birthday cake, I quietly told my grandson to take me
time, she spent time with her family and enjoyed
back in time for my appointment.”
all her favourite food, including rojak and prawn noodles. After two months, God
When he arrived at the woman’s home, all her six adult children were there. They were prepared to stay up and keep vigil, as they thought their mother would not survive the night. But as Pastor Ng spoke with her, she suddenly sat up and talked – not at all like a dying person! She even told
took her home.
God is an opportunitycreating God. We must remain on the alert and move along with the opportunities God creates.
Time extension While Pastor Ng mostly prays for the elderly, there was once he prayed for a 12-year-old boy suffering from leukemia. Pastor Ng visited the boy when he was unconscious. While praying, he felt led to declare: “You
the children to serve him coffee. As he and his wife were leaving, his wife’s advice
are going to get up and walk tomorrow.” True
to the children was, “Better go home and rest. Take
enough, the boy regained consciousness the
turns to look after her. Be prepared that she may ask
next morning and even wanted to get out of bed.
for breakfast tomorrow.”
That happened just before the weekend and he was able to share some happy moments with his parents
The next day, the son called to say, “It’s a miracle! My
over the weekend. But on Monday, the boy slipped
mum really asked for breakfast this morning.” A few
back into a coma.
days later, he called again to say, “My mother wants to thank you for praying for her. She is planning a
Pastor Ng recalls visiting him that Monday. “I told
birthday dinner for 80 guests, and you are invited.”
the boy, ‘Open your eyes and look at me!’ He did just
The elderly woman was able to personally select
that. I prayed for him and just as I was praying, he
the dinner menu, plan her guest list and have her
slipped away into eternity.”
celebration with her family and guests. Two weeks later, God took her home. God had relieved her
This seemingly premature death troubled Pastor
pain and extended her life so that she could spend
Ng for some time. He admits, “I questioned God.
meaningful time with her family.
I told Him, ‘This is not extension of life! Why do You resurrect a dying person, only to take him home
The same thing happened to a 93-year-old who was
again?’”
in the Intensive Care Unit and had been given only two more days to live. After Pastor Ng visited
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“Then God showed me that He wanted to give the
boy’s family more time to spend with him. It is out of love that God revives a dying person and extends their lives so that their loved ones can spend time with them before He takes them home,” says Pastor Ng. An angelic visitation While Pastor Ng ministers most often to strangers referred to him by Trinitarians and friends, needs sometimes also present themselves within the family. There was a time when his brother-in-law was hospitalised because of a heart problem. He was a prideful man who did not believe in God. The doctor had given him just three days to live and
would listen to his testimonies about
Pastor Ng told his brother-in-law’s children, “I want
what God had done, but would not comment. He
you to know that my God can help your father.”
did, however, allow Pastor Ng to pray for him.
Pastor Ng recalls, “The 72-hour period after the
“Then on one occasion, he requested to take a photo
operation was so critical that he was not allowed
with me – without our spouses and children. I knew
any visitors, not even his wife. Yet the next morning,
then that the barriers had come down. I knew that he
when I went to visit him, he was no longer in the
would one day believe in God,” says Pastor Ng.
Intensive Care Unit. He was sitting up on his bed and eating a bowl of porridge! He then remarked to me in
Some time later, his brother-in-law fell ill again. “I
Mandarin, ‘Strange! Strange!’ When I asked him what
was told that his condition was unstable, and that
was so strange? He said, ‘When I was recovering from
he was incoherent. My wife Kim Neo and I decided
my operation, a beautiful woman served me.’
to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to go ahead of us and prepare him, so that he would be fresh, alert and
“In jest, I replied, ‘All nurses are beautiful!’ But
ready to listen when we visited him. When I arrived,
he said, ‘No, I mean she was beautiful beyond
his children said that he had been asking for me
description.’ I then realised that he had received a
anxiously. As I put my hand on his forehead, tears
divine visitation. I told him, ‘God sent His angels to
ran down his cheeks, and he cried out: ‘I am the
minister to you.’”
greatest sinner. Please ask Jesus to forgive me!’”
From that time, his brother-in-law believed
Pastor Ng led him in the sinner’s prayer and baptised
that there was a God and no longer spoke against
him. In the two weeks that he was in hospital, Pastor
Christianity. For the next three and a half years, he
Ng had the opportunity to share the gospel with
observed Pastor Ng, scrutinising his character and
the man’s wife and children. Then, sensing that the
his words. Every time Pastor Ng visited him, he
man was struggling, he assured him that he would
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take care of his family. With that assurance, the
Miracle Moments
brother-in-law went home to be with the Lord.
Trinitarian magazine coaxes Pastor Ng to share some of the many miracles he has encountered.
Miracles fuel his fire At the peak of his ministry, Pastor Ng prayed for more than half a dozen patients a day. His schedule was often packed from morning till 11pm at night, traversing the island to visit various hospitals and homes. These days, his health is not as good, and so people often bring the sick to him instead. Still, he is more active than most 85-year-olds. When asked where he gets his energy and passion from, the veteran explains, “When I see God using me in miracles, it encourages me to continue meeting needs and ministering to people. God is an opportunity-creating God. We must remain on the alert and move along
That someone is you! “There was a time when I was warded for a heart bypass. My children had very thoug htfully put me into a tw o-bed ward. But somehow, I just did n’t feel comfortable an d asked to be transferred to a four-b ed ward instead. I didn’t realise it then, but God had a plan for me to meet and minister to someone. Just opposite me in the new ward was a foreig ner who had cancer. I overheard the doctor saying to him, ‘Th at’s all we can do for you.’ It sadde ned my heart. I said to him, ‘How about trying Jesus? It’s free of charge!’ After I prayed for him, he
told me the most amazi ng story. He said, ‘When I was on the plane coming to Singa pore, I had a dream. In my dream, so meone told me, ‘In Sin gapore you will meet someone wh o can help you.’ Now I know… That someone is you!’
with the opportunities God creates. God is wonderful. He will lead us because He wants people to know that He really cares.” Ask him about ‘retirement’, and the long-time
I led both him and his
wife to receive Christ. He recovered fully, returned to his ho me country, got into a church, and was baptised. Where do ctors cannot help, God can!”
Trinitarian smiles. He leans forward and shares conspiratorially, “I just do what I see Jesus doing. You know, there are times when I feel a little ‘free’, and I would tell God, ‘Well, looks like You have nothing more for me to do. Time to take me home?’ The very next moment, before I know it, the phone would ring and the visitation requests would start pouring in!” Pastor Ng serves on Trinity’s Pastoral Support team. To contact them, email admin@trinity.org.sg or call 6468 4444.
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No more blockage! N to Singapore because “A couple from Bangladesh came man was due to the man needed heart surgery. The am, angioplasty, for a series of procedures – angiogr ld cost a total of and a stent operation – which wou a Trinitarian, and $30,000. The wife’s friend’s sister was him the night introduced them to me. I prayed for edure. before he was due for the first proc e with good After the angiogram, the doctor cam go through the news for him: “You don’t have to artery, which was rest of the procedures. The big more!” The man 100% blocked, is not blocked any had healed him.” acknowledged that it was God who
Trinitarian magazine gets Pastor Ng’s grandson, Aaron Ng, to tell us more about his grandfather. Like his grandfather, Aaron is meeting needs – as a CareHuts programme co-ordinator in Care Community Services Society.
that
everyone is welcome and well-fed. She sees to it that he is taken care of. They go for evening walks and do gardening together. Grandma used to bake the
The Miracles Every time we meet up, my granddad will talk about
communion wafers for Trinity. I’ve always remembered her doing it. She
what God has done, how God has been moving and
has since taught the younger ones how to do it. But
how things just happened. He tells me that he is
after that, she felt bored and so now she is serving
humbled by it and that God will always be faithful.
regularly as a celebration host. She is a volunteer
He has such faith to believe that something will
with CCSS as well.
happen. He says, “It’s very simple! You don’t have to do much, just ask God, and it will just happen.” In
Grandma has a fantastic memory. She is the
some cases, he admitted that he was at a loss as to
historian of the family. She knows the date and
what to do… but God was just there, and things just
time when each prayer took place! When she meets
happened.
people, she will ask, “How is your so-and-so since the last time we prayed for her?”
The Man When we talk, we are like friends. He is very candid
The Family
and open about things. He is not your traditional
One Christmas, he prayed individually for each of the
type, he is very forward-looking. We talk about
grandchildren. I will always remember that, because
politics and current affairs. It is good fun talking to
he took time to speak into our lives and pray for us.
him. Last year, we had Communion together as a whole He may appear like the silent type, but once you
family. It was a very special occasion. He prayed for
strike up a conversation with him, he is able to
everyone of us individually, shared his life testimony
converse on a wide range of topics with great
and reminded us to stay close to God. He told us that
insight. He listens not on the surface, but with deep
he had a dream that he would be taken home soon. I
understanding. He is not the kind who tends to talk
think he was preparing the family for an eventuality.
about himself. He gives good advice. When he was sharing, I could see that strength in His Marriage
him. He believes that no matter what happens, God
Even at their age, they are a loving couple. He teases
is in control. I am so inspired by his life, his legacy,
her. She is a very good cook, always making sure
and his love for God and people.
73
Care & Connect Toolkit:
10
Ideas & Tips!
There are three ways we can Care & Connect:
“I want my friend to experience God’s love. What can I do?”
1
Pique his interest with an enriching seminar or sermon series We have many platforms that your friend may be
We present handy tips that will help you leap across limits!
interested in. For example, there are Life Skills Seminars, TENet courses and preaching series. There is a different seminar every month, and the best of all, all it takes is one afternoon of your time. What’s more, fees for these courses and seminars have been waived, so there’s no better time to attend it than now!
Trinitarians tell us how they have met needs
2
3
Chill out and have fun together! Christians can have fun too! We have many fellowship opportunities such as the various district events, carecell gatherings and Young Adult events. Food, fun and fellowship – all under one roof!
Relive those Olympic moments Why simply admire Bolt, Phelps and Bryant from a distance? Sweat it out with your friends as you exercise
together. Business owner James Chong relates, “My wife
Look out for this in future issues! Watch this space!
and I started a weekly badminton session with our friends. Sometimes, other neighbours joined us. It has become a good platform for us to get to know more people, encourage them and meet their needs.”
74
Facing hurdles in your endeavours to Care & Connect? You are not alone. In this segment, we offer you ten tried and tested tips that will help you go further in caring and connecting with your friends!
4
7
Unleash the Chef in you!
Welcome him/her wholeheartedly
Most people won’t say ‘no’ to great
Some of our friends have never stepped into
food. As the saying goes, the way
a church in their entire life, so receive them warmly when they
to a person’s heart is through his stomach.
do come! You never know the difference a smile, handshake,
Fashion designer Brigid Pang shares, “I
introduction and an invitation for coffee makes!
couldn’t cook, but was keen to learn. I started with making jelly, and then progressed to
That somehow just
8
broke the ice. That
four friends, all of whom suddenly decided to come to carecell
very weekend, we
on their own accord. She recounts:
invited them to
“At first I thought they were
church. They came
‘terrorised’ into coming to cell, but
and got saved!”
there was such a joy on their faces,
making pizza. I prayed very hard that it would turn out well. I gave it to my neighbours and tthey enjoyed it!
Brigid and her neighbour
Whatever you do, P.U.S.H. PUSH – Pray Until Something Happens! Believe it or not, prayer works! Programme Executive
Jaena Teo shares an instance where her cell prayed regularly for
I knew they genuinely wanted to come. Praying and connecting is
Slip a Trinitarian magazine into their car or bag What better gift to give someone than this fantastic magazine with inspiring testimonies? (Of course, we had to slip that in!)
6
5
Share a testimony
worth it! God will honour us with His presence as well as His peace.”
Jaena and her cell
Find a need, meet the need! Remember a time when someone met your need? How about passing on this wonderful
9
experience? Pay it forward and be God’s love-wrapped-in-skin! Read the next article to find out how Trinitarians met needs, and what kinds of needs you can meet!
Share your testimony – it’s true, real and irrefutable. If you’ve run
out of testimonies, visit our website at www.trinity.net, be inspired by impactful testimonies, and forward them to your friends. You can in turn send in your testimonies to bless others too!
10
Trust God God loves your friend even more than you do. Believe that God Himself will draw your
friend to Him. Read about how various ones experienced a divine touch or visitation in the article Extraordinary Encounters!
75
ROAD TEST
Hold on a second… Do these principles really work? Or are they merely clichés? In our road test, administrator Josephine Chan shares her experience of reaching out to her sister and putting these principles to work.
My sister and I started attending Trinity together
whether she would be interested to go to Cha-Am
about eight years ago. Because of her busy work
but she was non-committal. I didn’t get a positive
schedule, she stopped coming to church after about
answer from her. I continued to pray and seek God’s
one year or so.
guidance.
When I started attending carecell about three years
One Saturday night after dinner, just one week
ago, the cell members shared with me testimonies
before registration, I felt the Holy Spirit prompting
on their families’ salvation. This spurred me on. Also,
me to ask her again. I broached the subject and
the preaching in Trinity’s services encouraged me.
asked her whether she would like to go with me.
So I made it my New Year’s resolution every year
To my amazement, her answer was “yes”! I was so
to pray for my family’s salvation and my sister’s
happy that I told her that I would sponsor part of
rededication to God. Whenever the church had an
the cost of the camp package.
evangelistic event, I would invite my sister to attend but I would always get a negative answer.
At the church camp, I was praying that she would hear from God. Throughout the first few services, I
I was disappointed, but kept on trusting Him.
invited her to respond to the altar call but she didn’t
I just did my part and continued to pray. In cell, we
want to. I asked God to touch her and renew her
encouraged one another not to give up. I really
once again. Finally, at the final night service, she
believed that God would do something. When I heard
res responded to the altar call and rededicated he her life to God. I was overjoyed!
there would be a church camp, I thought it would be a good platform
A After we returned from the church camp, I
to invite her to go
iinvited her to attend service with me. Praise
with me. When the
God, she is now back in Trinity and has also
church announced that
started attending carecell. All glory to God
registration for church
for His compassionate love and faithfulness.
camp would be open in
Amen!
March, I passed her the brochure and asked her
76
church camp administrator p se Jo hine Chan, inity@Adam) (West, Tr
Trinitarians share what needs they found, and how they met that need. The Need for Help in Moving House
The Need for Counsel
A couple of weeks ago, my friend, who is also my ex-colleague, was
Recently, my friend shared with me
moving house. My husband and I volunteered to help her in her
about her daughter’s misbehaviour
move and offered our place as temporary storage for items that
at school. She was troubled and at a
could not be stored at her current place. She was also facing some
loss as to how to help her daughter.
personal issues, so we stood by her, simply to ‘be a friend’.
I prayed with her over the situation and gave her some advice on what
On one occasion, she asked us out for a movie on a Saturday morning.
to do. We did this a couple of times.
With the prompting of the Holy Spirit, I asked her, “Why not join us for
I also linked her daughter up with
Saturday service, and then we can go for the show after the service?”
Care Community Services Society.
G Guess what, she agreed! My
Ela ine Phua,ity@Apetda-msi) tter (East, Trin
h heart was overwhelmed.
The following week, she informed
H However, I wanted to make
me that things started to improve,
ssure that I had heard correctly.
albeit slowly, since we prayed. The
S So I asked again, “ You sure? I
good news is that her daughter is
am not forcing you right?” She
now open to seek help, and is now
said, “No, no... I’m sure.”
undergoing counselling with CCSS.
She came to Trinity, was
I invited her and both her daughters
touched by the Holy Spirit,
to church. At the end of the service,
and rededicated her life
she was hesitant to go to the altar
that same evening. She is
for prayer. But when she was at
now coming to church regularly. Because she has some reservations
the Guest Reception, she could not
about coming to carecell, my cell leader’s wife is meeting her
resist the love of Christ any further
individually to do New Beginnings. Praise God for another soul
and gave her life to Jesus!
added into the Kingdom of God! To God be the All this could not have happened if there wasn’t any Care & Connect!
glory! I know
Everyone, myself included, needs genuine friends: Friends who
the Almighty
‘bother’ to care and love us as we are. In today’s busy world, caring
God will
and connecting starts off with a conscious effort. It happens not just
continue to
by our own effort, but foremost, with the help of God. When we step
turn things
out of our own world to ‘love our neighbor as ourselves’, caring and
around in her
connecting with those around us, God will open up doors. Salvation
daughter’s
belongs to the Lord! And always, take the opportunity to turn the
life in time
conversation into something deeper.
to come.
Vanessa Yeo, sales personnel (West, Trinity@Paya Leb ar)
77
The Need for Support & Friendship
The Need for Encouragement
I have been attending Trinity since December 2004.
A colleague of mine was preparing for his
After witnessing how much I have grown in Trinity,
wedding. However In the midst of his wedding
my sister and her family also join us here.
preparation, his fiancée’s father passed away. Both he and his fiancée were devastated with
Last year, my sister was struck
the shocking news but they decided to proceed
with an illness and was feeling
with the wedding nonetheless. When he was
down. I told my cell members
very stressed and felt down, I would sit next
about her situation, and they
to him, encouraging and reminding him of
decided to make a visit to her
the promises and the love of God.
home. During that visit, they prayed for and encouraged her.
M ary Seah, homemaker (East, Trinity@Adam)
Some mornings when we met, I would share with him from God’s Word and constantly
Yet, the cell members did
remind him that he would never walk alone as
not stop there; they visited
God was there with him. He had been searching
her two more times. She felt her
for the presence of God all these years and I
faith being built up as she received prayer, words of
could see him clinging onto the promises of
encouragement and support from the cell members.
God at this difficult moment of his life. He also
She was also very touched by all the care that she
shared with me his fiancée’s struggles in coming
received. She recovered very quickly from surgery.
to terms with the loss. I felt his helplessness
After a couple of months, she decided to serve the
and all I could do was to remember him in my
Lord because she felt she had been blessed by all
prayers daily.
the care and concern received. I invited her to serve alongside me, and she agreed. Now, she serves faithfully
In May this
as a Celebration Host with me every month. She feels
year, after theyy
very happy serving. Even though her hands and legs
got married
are weak, she says she feels a lot of strength while
and returned
serving.
from their honeymoon,
78
At the same time, my daughter connected my sister’s
he shared
daughter (her cousin) to IGNYTE. They now go for service
with me that
together. It doesn’t stop there – I also connected another
they
Joe Kong, banker
(North, Trinity@A dam)
of her daughters to Trinity. Her daughter then invited
desired to
her cousins to Trinity! They have even expressed their
urch h. I h id my join a local church. hid
desire to join a carecell. Now all of them go to church
excitement and asked him which church he had
together. Praise God for this movement of Care and
in mind. Someone had recommended him two
Connect to bring in lives into the Kingdom!
churches, one of which was Trinity. I took the
opportunity to invite him to my invitation, they were still
The Need for Comfort in the Face of Death and Bereavement
undecided if they wanted
My friend, a 22-year-old, was diagnosed ed with a brain
to attend Trinity. Sensing
tumour in 2007. She suffered from severe headaches and was very sleepy
their hesitation, I prayed and
most of the time. She went through surgery twice and had to rest at home.
committed them to God to
Knowing that she needed the healing touch from God, I prayed for her and
direct them.
invited her to church. However she kept declining my invitation as she felt
our Sunday service. Following
Jane Li, education execut (North, Trinity@P aya Lebar)
ive
inferior and her frequent headaches prevented her from going out. Unexpectedly, he called me one day and told me that
I prayed for God to open the way and remove all barriers. God heard and
he and his wife would like
answered my prayers. My friend sent me a message saying that she would
to join me for the Sunday
come. God also provided fellow Trinitarians who offered to drive us to
service. I was so glad that they
church.
had finally made the decision. Both came and enjoyed the
At the service she was touched by God and experienced relief from pain.
service. His wife received
About a month later, she was again hospitalised due to fits. God must
Christ and he rededicated his
have touched her and made her feel so loved for during this time, she
life. They felt so welcomed
gave her life to Christ and was baptised. As a friend, all I could do was to
in Trinity that they chose to
visit her, pray for her and buy or prepare her favourite food. Every time
make it their home church.
I sat beside her bed and prayed for her, she would experience instant
They are now connected to a
relief from pain, as could be seen from her facial expression. And no
carecell and have also signed
matter how drowsy she was from her medication, she would never fail to
up for some TENet classes.
say â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;amenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; after each prayer.
I am very grateful to God for
Although she never recovered from her illness, God certainly had a
two beautiful souls who have
purpose. As she came from a small family, they needed help during her
received the joy of salvation.
funeral, God made it possible for me to take leave from my new job to be
I am amazed by the way
there throughout the funeral. We took turns to be there so that her family
God connected me with
members could rest and see to the necessary arrangements. Although she
this wonderful couple.
was not a member of Trinity, our pastors, leaders and friends extended
I have learnt that when
their help to conduct her funeral service. Her family was touched and
we become fishers of man
amazed at how God provided for them in their time of difficulty. Her
for Christ, He will always
parents later received Christ and got baptised!
fill our nets with fishes as long as we faithfully cast
Our God is a God who provides for all, old or young, well or sick. God
our nets daily.
knows us by name and loves us all.
79
Kevin See tells how he found an unexpected friend when he volunteered with the Elderly programme of Care Community Services Society (CCSS).
THE
Accidental Volunteer “ূ֭ĭ࣊็ނટŀ ” (“How are you today, old man?”)
It started a few months ago, when I was having
This is the way I greet the old man who sits at table
dinner with my long-time buddy, Soon Ming. He told
number seven every Saturday morning. And this marks
me that he was coordinating an art and craft session
the beginning of another interesting conversation.
for the elderly which was going to take place that
Whether it’s about the absurd rise in oil prices or
Saturday. Initially, I laughed at the idea, as I was not
about Jay Chou’s muffled singing, the old man and
exactly philanthropic by nature. But my interest was
I can chat about everything under the sky – even
piqued. Soon Ming is a talented artist. Back in school,
the Singapore soccer team winning the World Cup,
he was one of the top few Art students, scoring a
which we both agree will not happen in our lifetime.
distinction in the ‘A’ Levels for his clay model of an egg-shaped car. As for me, my weekends were often
A chit-chat. Nothing unusual, some may say. After
spent lazing in bed. Waking up early on a Saturday
all, this is common between good friends. However,
morning to do volunteer work, in my opinion, would
how many people can say that they are able to chat
be a miracle that was never going to happen.
with a blind man more than thrice their age and who
80
was a total stranger to them barely a few months
But it did. I woke up early that Saturday, much to
ago? This old man lost his eyesight completely some
the astonishment of my parents. It had been tough
years ago and walks with the help of a walking stick.
fighting the part of me that was telling me to go
Ageing has left him with a receding hairline and
back to sleep. As I walked into the foyer of the
wrinkles that line his face. When I first saw him, it
building where the art and craft session was held,
never occurred to me that we would be enjoying
I was surprised to see many old people gathered
each other’s company today.
together, their hands busy making what seemed to
be photo frames made of ice cream sticks. It was my
who are still stubbornly holding onto their beliefs
first time doing volunteer work. “Aiyah, one day only
and superstitions. In contrast, he was open-minded
lah!” I thought to myself. I learnt from the seasoned
and receptive to my views, and constantly shared
volunteers that the old folks gathered here once a
his personal anecdotes with me. For a blind man,
week. It was their way of passing time and also to
his general knowledge was noteworthy and he kept
break away from their loneliness.
abreast of current affairs.
Amid the constant chatter between the volunteers
His attitude towards life is something I esteem and
and the elderly and the occasional dropping of a
hold in high regard. He was not born blind. He
packet of ice cream sticks, I spotted this old man who
gradually lost his eyesight several years ago. Anyone
was sitting in a corner with apparently nothing to
in his shoes would have been devastated. If I were in
do. He had his eyes closed, his hands together, and
his place, I probably would have lost the will to live.
was happily whistling a tune which I could hardly
But being blind did not make him a weaker person.
make out from where I was. Anyway it probably was
Instead, it made him stronger. He is now more
not the latest David Cook song which I have started
appreciative of the things and people around him.
to hum lately. Nevertheless, I was drawn to the look
A proud man, he does not seek to win our sympathy
of tranquility on his face. The person in charge of
and neither does he allow anyone to look down on
the CCSS Elderly Dept told me that this man was the
him. In just a few hours, he had already left a deep
only blind person among all the elderly. I nodded in
impression in my mind. This was why I went back to
silence as I tried to picture what life without colours
CCSS the following Saturday.
would be like, living in total darkness. This unexpected friendship grew over the next I was curious and wanted to speak to this interesting
few months. In the old man’s own words, I have
character. I took a chair and sat down beside him. Of
effectively replaced his walking stick. He trusts me to
course he couldn’t see that I was new to this place,
take him where he wants to go and he can recognize
but he found my voice unfamiliar. We started to make
my voice even when I’m far away. He has become an
small talk, asking simple questions and sharing a little
old friend of mine (literally!). Today, I make it a point
about ourselves. It was a light-hearted conversation.
to get up early on Saturdays. It’s something we both
When we had nothing to say, we talked about the
look forward to each week, and I must say that he has
weather. However, it struck me that throughout the
influenced my life in a big way.
short and simple conversation, the generation gap was absent. So much so that I did not even realise
This blind man Mr Tan Hong Nam, and he is 65 this
that we had talked for 3 hours! At the end of it, I led
year. I am 21. Some Saturday mornings, I still feel
the man to the CCSS van that had just arrived to take
the inertia and am tempted to go back to sleep, but
the elderly folks home after the session.
recently, Mr Tan told me something that made me feel really good. He said that he had been feeling
That day, I felt different. I was impressed. I realised
much happier lately. And that he was glad to have
why I was able to click with this old blind man
met me, for I have made a difference in his life.
instantly. He was no ordinary old blind man. He was unique. I have come across many people his age
That alone makes it all worthwhile.
81
Abound ing
Provision!
When Care Community Services Society was blessed with a whooping oping
QUICK FACTS
20,000 kilograms of rice recently, it had the privilege of blessing other social service agencies and needy families with the overflowing provision. From May to July this year, a series of skipping road shows were held to raise funds for charity. The South
10 Skips in exchange for a bowl of rice
East Skipping Challenge was organised by the South
46
East Community Development Council (CDC) as
Agencies received rice from CCSS
part of its efforts to assist the needy and bring the community together. For every 10 skips performed by residents and volunteers, The Dairy Farm Group pledged to donate a bowl of rice to Care Community Services Society (CCSS). Two million skips were accumulated, resulting in a whooping 20,000 kilograms of rice donated to charity! CCSS had the privilege of being
4,000 Kilograms of rice distributed by CCSS to its beneficiaries and households at Balam and Merpati Roads
12,351 F Families blessed by the rice d distribution in total, through a all agencies
the steward of this generous donation. It distributed the rice to other social service agencies, so as to
20,000 2
benefit their beneficiaries – lower-income families
K Kilograms of rice sponsored b by the Dairy Farm Group
in the South East District. It then distributed the rice to its own beneficiaries, as well as households in the Balam Road and Merpati Road estates.
What recipients said: “We are indeed privileged to be the recipient of your kind donation. On behalf of the beneficiaries and Management Committee, I thank you again for your generosity and we look forward to your continued support.” Sathya Sai Social Service, Tembusu Neighbourhood Link
2,000,000 2 Number of skips accumulated through all the road shows. To find out how you can partner with us to serve the community either as a volunteer or a sponsor, please contact our Community Partnership Team: Mr John Chua at 6304 7619 (JohnChua@carecom.org.sg), or Miss Daryl Lee at 6304 7618 (DarylLee@carecom.org.sg).
“Thanks for your hospitality and also to your staff. Keep up the good work!” The Eurasian Association of Singapore
83
Our Leadership Team pastors share an instance where someone saw their need, and met it… and left an indelible impression on their lives.
For several years I lived a nomadic life, living in rented rooms and apartments. I finally decided to purchase a flat – There have been many needs
provided it was in move-in condition,
in my life, and I am so grateful
within my budget and located in Toa Payoh.
to my family members and
But because of my ministry schedule, it
many Trinitarians for meeting my needs at different
was not easy for me to look for a flat. A
junctures of my life. Not too long ago, I had fallen
good friend realised my predicament. Even
quite ill, but nonetheless ministered from the pulpit.
without me asking, she looked through
As a result, I felt very weak and tired. A Trinitarian
the newspapers
who knew
everyday to check
about it brought me
Pastor Jeffrey Wong
for available apartments
some herbal ‘stuff ’ to drink for the strengthening of
that would suit
my body. I was very touched by this act, and felt loved
my personal
and appreciated. I don’t know whether it was the
preferences. She
herbal drink or the act that made me feel better, but I
even viewed them
surely felt better! It reminded me that a simple act of
on my behalf to
service or kindness we do to meet a basic need can
see if they would fit
really make a big difference. Thank you!
my expectations. I am thankful to God for the apartment where I am living today. It was in move-in condition, priced within my budget, and located in Toa Payoh near the MRT and
Pastor Beatrice Kang
bus terminal. A dream place called home! All that made
possible because a friend saw a need and met the need – for which I am grateful and utterly blessed.
84
In 2003 when I had to move house, I was looking for a good and cheap carpenter to do some carpentry works. One Friday night when I was in a carecell meeting, I mentioned this need to the carecell members. The cell hosts knew of a carpenter from Johor Bahru who fit the bill. They gave me his contact, and I was able to do the carpentry works at a very affordable
Pastor Danny Leong
price, well within my budget. I am so glad that the hosts saw my need and met my need in a most tangible and helpful way!
The birth of my little girl Evanny has been a miracle. It is also a great testimony to the love and support from the Body of Christ and some dear friends. Due to some complications in the
Back in 1986, when I was a carecell member, I had many questions on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit as I came from a different Christian tradition. My cell leader saw my doubts and struggles and got hold of many books to help me with my questions. She took time to explain the different biblical texts and how I could receive this gift from
Pastor Wilson Teo
the Lord. Through her guidance and patient explanation, I eventually overcame my initial fear and received this gift of the Holy Spirit. She met my need and it made a huge difference in my life!
last stages of pregnancy, my wife Audrey was hospitalised for a month. During that time, many people came alongside to support us. It was a very busy December, but different ones looked after my five-year-old son Davian while I was running to camps and all. Some even offered to help with the household chores! It was amazing how God provided not just for the finances but all these little areas as well. But the blessing didn’t stop there. After Evanny was born, I was on leave to help with the confinement time. Some precious friends provided
Pastor Gerald Tan
the confinement food for Audrey – for a whole month! These friends have showed me the power of God’s love made tangible, and blessed my heart beyond what words could ever describe.
85
Have you seen the crowds thronging Trinity’s information counters on weekends? What’s abuzz? Well, like all Singaporeans, Trinitarians enjoy getting a good deal, and the latest deal is just too good to pass up. Since July, course fees for Life Skills Seminars and TENet courses have been waived. Not only is it now free to attend a Life Skill Seminar or TENet course, you can also register online with ease and convenience! To help those who are apprehensive about the online registration, computers have been set up at the Information Counter, where Trinity’s helpful administrative staff are on hand to assist.
A Trinitarian Tradition
Life Skills Seminars & TENet courses
Life Skills Seminars Every seminar is about a practical life skill that is relevant to our everyday lives. These are great opportunities for you to invite your friends
Whether you are wanting to
and loved ones. Each
invite a friend, meet a need or
seminar addresses an area of
simply pick up a new skill or some
you would be meeting
practical tips, Trinity’s courses and
a need in their lives!
need, and by inviting them,
seminars present many learning
Here is a sampling of the varied seminar topics:
opportunities. And it is now easier
• Unleashing Your Creative Potential
than ever, with the fees waived,
• Anger Management
and online registration available.
• Understanding Your Child’s Learning Style • Achieving Your Financial Goals • Sharpening Your People Skills • The Power of Mentoring Relationships
86
• Good Conflict, Bad Conflict
of ministry. Whether you are a Spiritual Parent, or a
• Effective Communication with Teenagers.
Nursery and Children Ministry helper, or one who desires to encourage others and make a difference
The seminar speakers are among the best in their
through the visitation ministry, you will find the skills
field, and at these seminars, you can tap on their
courses helpful.
wealth of experience, and pick up practical tips to help you succeed at work or at home.
Marriage and the Family is something Trinity values. Courses and seminars like ‘Raising Godly
TENet Courses
Children’ and ‘Making a Good Marriage
Trinity Empowering Network
Great through the 5 Love Languages’
(TENet) offers courses or
have been really popular with busy
seminars on the Bible,
couples and parents. There are also
Christian living, Ministry
longer courses like ‘After You Say Yes’ to
skills, and Marriage and
enrich marriages. Our highly sought after
Family topics.
‘Before You Say Yes’ prepares all couples in ‘ Trinity for a lifetime of marriage.
If you want to understand the Bible better and would like to go a little further
Children and Youth have a special place in Trinity.
in your daily Bible reading, you can get an overview
Various courses such as ’Welcome to the Trinity
from Bible courses like ‘Getting the Most out of the
Family’ and ’Spiritual Parenting’ are tailored just for
Bible’ or ‘Unlocking the Bible’. Or if you prefer to focus
them. This allows them to learn with their peers and
on one book or a specific theme or topic, courses like
enjoy the learning experience and the camaraderie.
‘Exploring Genesis’, ‘Parables of Jesus’ or ‘The Truth about God’ would be ideal for you.
TENet courses are also offered for various languages, including Mandarin, for your Mandarin-speaking
If you want to grow in your relationship with God
friends and loved ones.
and live out His truths in your life, Christian Living courses like ‘Encountering Jesus’ and ‘Victorious
With this wide spread of courses and seminars, the
Christian Living‘ will make significant input into
needs of the whole spectrum of Trinitarians and their
your walk with God. Trinity’s pastors share not only
friends are met. Isn’t it time you took advantage of
the principles, but illustrate these with their life
these learning opportunities?
experiences. You will learn to apply God’s Word, resulting in fruitfulness and abundance in every
Don't wait any longer, cut the queue and go online!
area of your life. Trinity believes that every Trinitarian is a strategic leader in his or her sphere of influence. As such, our Ministry Skills courses equip you with skills to
Register online at www.trinity.net for a course or seminar today.
enable you to be effective and successful in your area
87
Bali INDON E
SIA
Different Nations, m o d g n i K One
ct Teams s from Missions Impa uching of liive to l a tu u m e are about th e churches in rv e s e w s a s, n om different natio ss them out fr le b d n a s n o ti ssed other na t God has ble a h w f o e c n a cent trips. the abund re o tw t h g li h we hig us with. Here, ung Taich AN TAIW
Taichung, Taiwan (July 2008) Trinity’s Children Ministry was invited to conduct
The team, with their
training to equip teachers in Taiwan to share the
limited Chinese
gospel and minister to children, and to conduct a
vocabulary, conducted
three-day Children’s Camp.
the teacher;s training as well as the first half of the camp, leading praise and worship, preaching
The team of five DiscoveryLand teachers were led
and teaching – all in Mandarin! The amazing thing
by Pastor Priscilla Leong and Pastor Victor Toh. The
was that God moved and despite the limitations
teacher’s training involved 27 participants from
in language, many of the children responded by
various churches in Taichung. These participants
receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
then put their skills to practice at the camp, which had 150 children from 34 churches.
Then God provided a very dynamic interpreter for the second half of the camp. God broke through
It was a cross-cultural trip in more ways than one – cutting across
children were
denominational, cultural and
ministered to
language boundaries. In essence,
and transformed.
this is what Missions Impact
What also blessed
trips are all about: They take
the team and their
us out of the familiar into uncharted waters
Taiwanese counterparts
which require
was seeing the
us to walk by
synergy and
faith and to
unity of the
trust God all
team in action.
the more.
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in such a powerful way and both teachers and
“This trip caused me to step into the unknown and totally rely upon God!” Faith Koh, multimedia executi ve d let n to let go an “I had to lear t of ou e b and mov God do the jo .” ne zo rt my comfo or ct re di t Rita Chee, ar
Team spirit and morale was high; everyone took ownership and initiative, always ready to give and contribute. The team not only left their imprint upon the hearts of the Taiwanese, but there was a mutual touching of lives from different nations all from one Kingdom. What God deposited into the hearts of Taiwanese teachers were fresh tools and innovative ways of ministering to children – vibrant praise, worship and drama to stir children to worship God, draw near to God and experience God for themselves.
“I had not been using Mandarin for more than 20 years and was surprised that the words and ph rases just flowed. I really thank God for an ability that seemed so impo ssible to me.” Melinda Ng, educati on advissor or d t what I coul that it was no at th ” e! ed is m al h “I re throug God could do t en ag do, but what ty , proper Cynthia Lee
“I was v ery app rehensiv in Mand e about arin. Ho praying wever G me to do o d enable so and g d ave me I prayed the wor for peop d s as le a Tan Ha t the alt w Jia, s ar!” ocial wo rker
Different Nations, m o d g n i K e On ung Taich AN TAIW
Bali INDON ES
IA
Bali, Indonesia (July 20
08)
It was a first Trinity Missions Impact Trip for at least half of this team of nine. As such, many had to allow God to move them out of their comfort zones, to be stretched, and to live out and understand first-hand the Apostle Paul’s words from Philippians 4:13 and 2 Corinthians 12:9: “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength and “My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness.” From the very first training session, the two words constantly being emphasised by Pastor Alan See, the team leader, were “Stay fluid!” This was because the preparation runway was short, and this was the first time Morning Star Indonesia in Bali was hosting a team from Trinity. The team was a real mix in terms of age and experience, with first-year campus students on one side of the spectrum and working adults on the other. Yet the one thing that stood out for all was the unity and the sense of ‘family’ among the team. Ministry experience on this trip was just as varied, from street evangelism in campuses, shopping malls and prayer-walking, to preaching at weekend services and prayer meetings. There were also opportunities to present puppet shows and skits to children at orphanages as well as presenting a youth evangelistic event. All of these ministry times inspired the team. Fo For all on the team, it was not just what they had experienced on the trip, but what
heart and “Seeing their od and His passion for G ry deep work left a ve d has impression an to give inspired me me.” of e or God m udent st , n ia L Ho Li
th came away with that left a lasting impact upon them. th they “I felt that we ha d become like a family. Th e days passed all too qu ickly!” Tan Ee Li, stud ent
South, Trinity ty@Adam
@Adam
South, Trinity
“The spirit of together ness and willingnes s to suppo rt one ano ther was so unif ying for th e team.” Hoo Saw L an, homem aker West, Trin ity@Paya L
ebar
’s trip. this was God “I learnt that and plans, God’s agenda It was about as to avail eded to do w and all we ne s.” be His vessel ourselves to t en , stud Bernice Lee
“This has been one of the most impactful Mission tri ps that I have been on! My prayer is that God will continue to stir that desire in my heart for Missions. As I go back to m normal routine, I my pray that I will continue to carry that hunger a d desire to know Go an d more.” E gene Ng, PR consu Eu ltant
South, Trinity@Adam S
@Adam
South, Trinity
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how they were greatly impacted by e r a h s the th ns ree-n itaria a c m y e e h a T w . e a n c y n w i a i c t ight r h fi i a n T d g i e s eper u f Pray o e f i nders l er R a e c , n a a n c d fi i h n o g i w s g r G t o d ca n m andi fo ally h c r vin a i e l n s ake ou g of on r live thei s tru r ly sig nific ant .
The prayer rally really impacted me. There is always a ‘fear factor’ that drives us to do the things we do. The question that Pastor Dominic raised made me think about whether I am doing something out of fear or because of God. Jenny Lee, resident manager East, Trinity@Paya Lebar
The message about confidence spoke a lot to me. It’s very relevant in my workplace. The prospect of promotion motivates many of my peers but it does not motivate me. But the message caused me to realise that as long as I do my best for God, and not for man or promotion, God Himself makes me significant! Foo Yoong Heng, teacher Ignyte, Trinity@Paya Lebar
92
The message was wonderful. It helped me evaluate where I am, and to realign myself back to God’s significance, which is so important to our Christian walk.
The prayer rally was so good, I called my friends to come for the subsequent nights! I wanted them to recognise that they are significant! The message affirmed my confidence and significance as a child of God. I also learnt that obedience is a key to my significance. Selina Wong, real estate agent South, Trinity@Paya Lebar
Sunny Teh, financial advisor West, Trinity@Paya Lebar
The preaching was fantastic, and flowed seamlessly from one night to the next. The message caused me to re-evaluate what I thought was my own success, in the light of the significance God wants to release to me.
The messages were most powerful and interesting. It spoke to me and reminded me to offer my whole being to God as a living sacrifice. Now I find myself wanting to spend more time with Him! Eleana Ng, sales co-ordinator East, Trinity@Adam
Koo I-Wei, civil servant North, Trinity@Paya Lebar
The message was very good. The question God asked man in Genesis 3:9 “Where are you?” struck me deeply. It made me think about where I was in my walk with God. It made me hungry for more of God’s Word! Sam Ong, taxi driver South, Trinity@Adam
The message was spot-on and addressed the very fears that I was battling with! Chua Peck Hoon, teacher North, Trinity@Adam
What spoke to me very clearly was that as a child of God, I am significant. This truth spoke directly to my heart. It was really what I needed because I was feeling quite inadequate. When I learnt to apply the truth, the feelings of inadequacy went away! Yannie Yong, manager South, Trinity@Adam
Pastor Dominic’s message was a very appropriate message for a very appropriate time. God was dealing with certain areas in my life, to bring me back into alignment with His Word and will. The prayer rally also left me wanting to go deeper into the Word! Jonathan Chua, national serviceman Ignyte, Trinity@Paya Lebar
93
Extraordinary Camp! Church Camp 2008 was indeed an extraordinary camp filled with extraordinary expectations, experiences and exploits. True to its Olympic concept, the camp broke records and made history in numerous ways.
➦ Record number of campers: 1,280 ➦ Record number of venues: Four hotels! In Cha-Am: Holiday Inn Resort Regent Beach Cha-Am and Beach Garden Resort and Spa. In Bangkok: Royal Benja Hotel and Baiyoke Suites.
➦ Record sign-up time:
All packages sold within three hours on March 8 (first day of registration).
➦ Record queue:
First person queued up as early as 8.30am for registration that was due to start only at 4pm.
To get a headstart, a camper asked if she could sign up for the next church camp. If she could, she would sign up immediately – for a camp three years away!
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“Good morning Trinitarians, I am your First Officer Mahesh.” Trinitarians on board the JetStar flight to Bangkok went wild when they heard this greeting. First Officer Nathan Mahesan, a Trinitarian and JetStar pilot, had deliberately swopped duties with a colleague so that he could personally pilot this planeload of Trinitarians to the Church Camp. e Talk about delivering the Trinitarian Experience!
Good morning Trinitarians, welcome onboard...
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Church Camp 2008 was based on the Olympics theme to coincide with the Beijing 2008 Olympics. This is so that when campers watch the Olympic Games, they will remember this extraordinary camp! The fun began when Trinitarians touched down in Bangkok. Activities were planned for the three-hour journey from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Cha-Am. During the camp, there were two Extraordinary Games sessions with something for everyone â&#x20AC;&#x201C; infants, children, youth, young adults, families, and even senior adults. Lots of medals and prizes were up for grabs, and participants had an exciting time playing both the serious sports as well as the fun games. Campers also had a free and easy slot on Day 3 to take in the sights and explore Hua Hin and the surroundingg areas,, to eat and shop at Hua Hin Market Village
Games, games, games... All the way!
or the bustling bustllin ingg night nigh ni ht market. Many Ma campers extended their stay M or b fore o be er camp to eat ea at and and shop even more in Bangkok. before orr after
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Spiritual Engagement Wh W hat’s at ’ss a chu church camp mp w without vibrant worship ip sse ervviiccce es? Bu es But be beingg an ext xtraordinary cam mp, Trinityy ’s ’s Church urch ur h Cam Camp 20 2008 8 had nott on ne but three concu urr rren entt en sse ervic ice es – Childre ldren, en Chin nese a and nd English service cess – to me m eet th he needs eedss of evveryy camp mpe er. Thiss cam mp wa wass ve v ryy speci pecial al ffor the Chi Child dre ren’ ns Ministtryy, wh hic ich h pilo piilo lote ted ed a ne new in initi itiati tive for or DisccovverryL y an nd. d T Thi hiss wa w s a se seam amle am less ess ffo ormat mat th thatt in nteg te egrated the he ew wor orsh ship ip and the the se serm ermon,, re essullti ting ng in a total ally par a tici ar c pa pati tive ti ve experie ienc ncce fo n nce or th t e chilidre en. Pa arents an nd ch hilidren e resp pond ded en nthussia astica allllyy to t the th e new w in nitiative with co omme ents such h as a “A Awes esom o e children n worsh ship service” and d “The child dren re eally enjo joyed d the emsselve es!” Even the e Ch hildre en Ministtryy hel elpe perrs were w ble bl essed. ess sed. “I sense ed Go God’s pressence ea an nd lov ove e through h pla pl ayiin ng with ch hildre ren,” a he elp lper er com commented. An not o herr sa aid id, “ These chiildre en re eallyy far exceede ded my exp pecta ation with their extra rava agant ntt worsship and energy!””
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T init Tr in nitarianss in th he En ngl g ish and Ch Chinese ca camp mp se serv errvvic ices e had es had ad tthe h privi he iv lege ge o of hearrin i g frrom om tw wo ggrrea e tm me en off G God od – Rev e David id Doery ry and n Re ev Ong Se Sekk Le Lean ang. Ma an an ny we were re imp pacte ted d to leave e behin nd mund nda an ne lilivi ving ngg and to liive
Anointed Speakers
exxtraord din narry liives ve es fo for Go G d. One ccamp amper mp pe err eve evve en typed ty ou ut R v Ong ’s e Re en nti nti tire re ssermon and ciirc ci rcu rc ullatted it tto u om ma any others after th the he cca amp mp!! The e pr pre essence of God was tta anggiib bly felt duri ring ngg the worship n servviicces. All these rre essu ulltted in a vissib blle su surge in Triniitta ari ra an ns’ hu h ung nge err ffor or God, as evide ent nt in ou urr ser ser ervi vice cce e ess aft after the ch chur hur u cch h ca cam amp. p.
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Wonderful Testimonies God granted me favour
God healed my wrist!
This year has been challenging for me at
I injured my wrist during the second day of church camp.
work. In May, my boss decided to freeze
When I went to that morning’s camp service, there was a
everyone’s leave till year end. It became
call for people who wanted prayer for healing. After the
impossible for me to take four days’
prayer, I realised that my wrist didn’t hurt anymore! I was
leave for the church camp. The thought
quite shocked, and tested my wrist. The pain was gone! As a
of discussing this with my boss brought
matter of fact, I played basketball that very afternoon!
much fear. I felt that the only way to get my leave approved was to work
My prayer for this church camp was that my mother-in-law
late, achieve the daunting high sales
would receive Christ. On the third day of camp, there was an
target and then appeal for leave. So,
altar call for people to receive Christ. She did not respond
subconsciously, I used my own strength
to the call. I felt disappointed but later when the pastor was
to make it happen. I worked late till
leading in the sinner’s prayer, I noticed that mum-in-law
almost 10pm every night, sometimes
joined in too from where she stood. She held up her hands
even past midnight, went back to the
and closed her eyes during worship, and she was singing
office on Saturdays and squeezed in a
the songs too! I believe the camp has impacted her
business trip just to shore up my sales
spiritually. I thank God for what He has done!
targets. All my own efforts wore me out.
Wong Ming Fai, IT consultant
I lost joy at work and became impatient with my loved ones. Worse of all, my Time Alone With God was compromised.
I got to the airport on time!
I began to lose sight of who my true
I signed up for the Church Camp by faith. As I am currently
Master was.
pursuing a full-time masters course, I was worried about the workload and any unexpected circumstances that might
I began to surrender my situation to
arise. True enough, I found myself swamped with work just
God, and things began getting better.
before the camp. Just when I thought that things could not
God granted me favour with my bosses
get any worse, I was told to retake my oral exams on June
and eventually my leave was approved
2 – the day I was to depart for camp! I actually considered
without me reaching my sales targets!
giving up this two-year course despite having completed
At the Church Camp, I was blessed
three-quarters of it. But God reminded me that He would
with a good four days of rest, quiet
work all things out for all those who love Him. With this
times of dwelling on God’s Word and
promise, I held on in faith. I told my cell group about my
good times of fellowship with friends.
situation. I am grateful for their unceasing prayers, care
Through this camp, my carecell has
and concern and acts of service. My spiritual parent even
grown a lot closer, and our friendship
helped carry my luggage to the airport on so as to ease
has deepened. My Time Alone with
my load! I retook my oral exams at 8.20am on June 2,
God has improved much. I have learnt
and reached the airport at 9.15am – in time for my flight
one important truth, that is, to surrender
at 10.55am! Our God is a BIG God. His unfailing love never
and enjoy the fruits of God’s work!
fails to amaze me.
Faith Chan, relationship manager
Joyce Tan, student
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“Hear ye! Hear ye!” shouted
to help the Town Builder Brothers build a tower
the town crier as she walked
which could allow them to gain the most profits. At
down the aisle to announce
the port of Thames, visitors had to ferry balloons,
the arrival of the mayor.
symbolising things of importance to them, across the
Shortly after, the mayor in his
river. Throughout the journey, seagulls were flying
black and tall top hat made
around trying to burst the balloons, thus visitors had
his way down to the front to
to prioritise and protect the balloons they valued
give his opening speech. He
most. Periodically, loud squawks and shrieks could
cut the ribbon that draped across the entrance of
be heard from the station as participants tried their
the town, signalling the start of the Game of L.I.F.E.
best to protect the balloons while crossing from one newspaper “boat” to the next.
Soft strains of lively orchestral music played in the background, as people slowly streamed into the Town of L.I.F.E. The classrooms at Trinity@Paya Lebar had been transformed into a quaint little English town street along which different stalls beckoned for participants to try their hands at the various games. At the “Rees & Benjamin” station, town visitors had
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The young adults of Trinity were transported back in time to play out the Game of L.I.F.E. in an old English town.
What participants say
Chia Shuang Ai and Gracia Tan report on the experiential workshop held on May 13.
Very enriching. The sermons were the best! The topics discussed were relevant. In particular, I appreciated the topic on financial management.
To incorporate the themes of godly values of financial management and setting the right priorities, each team was assigned an occupation, which determined their income level. They were then told to attempt to maximise
Pamela Yeo, NIE student North, Trinity@Adam
their wealth at the end of the day. The teams would earn both Samaritan points, for edifying and positive behaviour, and pounds, the town’s currency.
It was very well-planned, and
There was a “St George’s School” where people could upgrade their jobs,
I could tell that the committee
and thus increase their income, as well as a gold mine where people could
had put in a lot of effort. I had
earn pounds and even a town café where teams could rest and nibble on
a lot of fun, especially during
snacks like sandwiches and cheesecakes. Some teams eagerly made their
the game where I had to cross
way from one station to the next, rushing to complete as many stations as
the ‘river’ with balloons. The
possible, while others proceeded at a more leisurely pace.
food was also nice. Ku Shan Li, NUS student West, Trinity@Adam
Very nice and refreshing! It was nostalgic and brought back a lot of memories for me. Desmond Teo, NUS student South, Trinity@Paya Lebar
A fun, interesting and stimulating experience! Through the simulated setting, the When the trumpet sounded, the visitors walked back to the Market Square
participants had the opportunity
where Lord Danny and Duke Jeffrey shared their insights about time
to learn and apply principles
management and financial management. Their words of wisdom provided
in financial planning and time
the visitors practical ways to manage both their finances and time.
management. There were also biblical perspectives given. All in
In the evening, all the town visitors gathered back at the town hall where
all, it was a fruitful time!
Pastor Gerald shared about our priorities in life. Both the worship and the
Jaena Teo, programme executive
Word ministered greatly to participants of the workshop.
East, Trinity@Paya Lebar
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Outwit. Outplay. Outlast. The young adults of Trinity did all this and more, at the Survivor@Trinity event. Dorothy Poon survived to tell the tale.
“Survivor@TCC”. Our tentbuilding skills were tested in Under The ingenuously designed games
One Roof; our marksmanship in
came with quirky names like Cast
the throwing of water bombs from
Away, World of Darkness, Under
the second storey (and catching
One Roof, Waterfall and Food
them in outstretched plastic bags)
Fiesta. True to the Survivor series,
in the Waterfall game. Finally, the
each team was given an immunity
Food Fiesta station was a variation
card, as well as the “Double
of Fear Factor, where participants
Trouble” pass, in which you could
gamely tried to finish the plate of
either double your score positively
food in front of them, all the while
or negatively.
being carried in the wheelbarrow
As the young adults gathered at
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position. Bonus points went to
the Summit of Trinity@Paya Lebar,
We were tested in our ability
we entered an atmosphere that
to remember the placement of
mirrored the popular Survivor
matching objects hidden in boxes
Each of the Survivor teams also
reality TV series, from the posters
for Cast Away. As we entered the
had a chance to showcase their
of wild animals all around, game
World of Darkness, we had only
creativity by designing unique
marshals clad in Safari hats, right
the glow of a single lightstick to
identity flags and costumes to a
down to the ambient tribal drum
guide us as our teams searched for
theme of their choice. Prizes for
beats playing in the background.
the alphabets to form the phrase
the winning teams, Best Flag and
those willing to ingest raw eggs!
It was during this time that we
nor anything else in all creation,
experienced a paradigm shift in
will be able to separate us from the
our understanding of Romans
love of God that is in Christ Jesus
8:36-39 – “It is written: “For your
our Lord.”
sake we face death all day long; Best Costume were given out at
we are considered as sheep to be
the end of the activities.
slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors
As we brought back the memories of a fun-filled afternoon with our cell members
After the games, Pastor Dominic,
through him who loved us. For I
and friends, we
our tribal chef, was carried in and
am convinced that neither death
also took away the
started sharing his own personal
nor life, neither angels nor
knowledge that
experiences of initially trying to
demons, neither the
‘survive’ his Christian faith. He
present nor
conquerors, meant
spoke of how he overcame family
the future,
to thrive and not just
disapproval and the pressures
nor any
to survive the trials
of being ostracised when he
powers,
and tribulations
accepted Christ, and how he went
neither
of life!
ahead to “conquer” more souls
height
for Christ, even in typically hard
nor
grounds like National Service.
depth,
we are more than
103
M HE
AKING
Trinity’s netball team emerged tops in a recent netball tournament. Team captain Tan Pei Ling tells how the team was birthed, and how it serves as a platform to build stronger relationships while having fun through the sport.
T
and made its maiden appearance in Grace
M AKING
Cup, a netball event organised by Christian
T
OF
Christian Centre was birthed last year
HE
A netball team representing Trinity
OF
A CHAMPION
God’s faithfulness and grace to the team were evident with His blessings and favour. Though I had obtained ‘informed consent’ from all the players that the team
Sports Club. The team was chiefly made up of my colleagues and Trinitarians,
expenses would be spilt equally
and was formed just two weeks before
amongst them, I remembered going
the competition! We did not have
to the T-shirt printing shop with
any training or preparation, yet the team
much apprehension. I was mindful of the tight budget to keep to
came in second runners-up!
because most of the players in the team are students. This year, Trinity Netball was formally
God granted me favour with the shop-owner as
formed. When I was approached to set
I negotiated a reasonable price for the team jersey.
up the team, the first question that
And shortly after I paid the deposit, I received
struck me was, “Where do
heartening news that a fellow Trinitarian had
I find the
players to form a team of fourteen?”
generously offered to sponsor the team jerseys and
After all, netball is not as popular a
all official team expenditure. Trinity Netball would
sport compared to basketball and
be fully sponsored!
soccer.” However, little did I know that God already had a plan for Trinity Netball! Through various
Trinity Netball serves as a platform to build and
publicity means like an advertisement on Facebook
foster stronger relationships while having fun
and by word of mouth, I received an enthusiastic
through this sport. Through the two and a half
response. Soon, a team took shape and we started
months of training and competing in the Grace
our first proper training at the end of May.
Cup 2008, the team bonded well. Off the court, after each weekly training and netball game, the
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One challenge we faced initially was finding a netball
players enjoy a good time of fellowship over dinner
court for our training. Public courts were fully booked
or supper. In addition, the team participated in the
well in advance most of the time and it was tough
recent Young Adults event Survivor@Trinity, where
finding a weekday where majority of the players
unity was further fostered through fun and laughter.
could train. Then came good news: we could train on
Camaraderie was also built with Trinity’s soccer
home ground – at the Summit of Trinity@Paya Lebar!
teams. Some of the soccer players act as sparing
So we trained every week, rain or shine. With a
partners during our netball trainings, while the
fixed training ground, the attendance of players
netballers cheer on the soccer teams in their Agape
became more regular.
Cup matches.
As coach, I had to make the best use of time
creates an attitude of thanksgiving,
during each training session to sharpen
rather than overt competitiveness.
our skills and court play. I particularly was encouraged as I watched how each player
As the captain of the team, I am proud of
claimed ownership of the team, offering
every team member of Trinity Netball for
advice to one another to improve together
her dedication, as well as positive attitude
as a team. Indeed, iron sharpens iron. The
and good conduct on court. I thank God
honing of each playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual skills during
for this privilege of leading this wonderful
training and matches produced results in due time.
team as I have personally reaped much joy and
We emerged champions of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grace Cup!
satisfaction. The responsibility of being the coach/ captain of the church netball team seemed huge
It is evident that the netball team carries a strong
in the beginning, but I thank God for bringing me
spirit of unity. There was constant encouragement
through the whole season and for showing me that
and enthusiastic cheering from the supporters and
His grace is sufficient for me.
players both on court and at the sidelines. Before each match, there will be a time of glorifying God
On behalf of Trinity Netball, I thank God for His
with songs of praises and sharing of testimonies.
faithfulness and goodness, through the strategic
Before the whistle blows for the start of the game,
leadership shown by Pastor Dominic, the incredible
the team will gather to say a short prayer to
unity of the team, and the relentless belief of our
acknowledge and thank God for His blessings of
loyal supporters who create a vibrant atmosphere at
protection and good health to enjoy the game. This
every game!
Fever Pitch How did the idea for starting a soccer team come about?
four years ago when the players wanted to play as a team again. So we got together, contacted the
Lawrence Ang, Captain of the
ex-players, brought some friends in, and the team
Veterans Team: Trinity has always
was born! Over the years, more friends have come
had a strong soccer legacy in terms
into the team and we now have a good mix of
of involvement, team build-up,
both Trinitarians and friends. The primary focus is
leadership and camaraderie. Many
on having fun and building relationships with
of the male pastors including our
Trintarians and friends alike.
Senior Pastor, Pastor Dominic, played for the Church Team in the 80’s. I myself have played on the Team since I came to Trinity in 1980. Over the
What do you think sets Trinity’s soccer teams apart?
years, many of the ‘old guard’ have taken a break due
Brian: Jesus has been and
to family commitments, while others have moved on
always will be our 12th player
to less strenuous sports.
in every game we play. God has been faithful in protecting
So why start a Veterans team? Well, invariably I meet
us from injuries. I have seen
numerous men around my age with ‘itchy feet’. They
players stand up and walk
watch and get excited about the English Premier
away uninjured from tackles that
League (EPL), kick the ball around with their kids
would otherwise have hurt them seriously. For
or play the occasional corporate game for their
example, in a recent match, we were leading against
companies. In short, they are more passionate
a very strong team. In their zeal to win the game,
about the sport and meeting fellow comrades,
some over-the-top challenges were put in. Our
than about the competitive and winning aspects
team captain was on the receiving end of a sliding
of the sport.
tackle that hit him in the knees, stud-first. I believe he would have been seriously injured as I have seen
When I took my sabbatical in 2007, and with the Care
a similar tackle break a player’s leg. However, he just
& Connect culture promoted strongly across Trinity,
walked away unscathed, with nary a scratch!
I decided to put the idea into action. We organised an inaugural friendly game against the TCC Young
Lawrence: The numerous players in the team who
Adult Team captained by Pastor Gary Chia and
are driven by passion, despite the physical pain and
Brian, and guess what. Despite the massive floods
injury! One of them has had a stent inserted in his
across Singapore and especially in the Thomson area
heart. I remember he said, “If I exercise, I will die; if
where the game was played, a drove of enthusiastic
I don’t exercise, I will also die – so I might as well play
veterans, comrades, cell-mates and friends turned up.
the game I love.” We’re going to have a tournament,
I counted 29 men for an 11-a-side game and had a
and he has put his name down for it! There are several
challenge trying to field everyone!
players who have had keyhole surgery to remove the meniscus in the knees, and yet now they’re
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Brian Lim, Vice-Captain of Team TCC: Trinity
back playing. It all goes to show their passion and
has had a soccer team for years, but they stopped
commitment. There are also many who keep playing
playing in 2002. Our current team started out about
to keep their weight down and fitness levels up.
Trinity’s sports scene is heating up with action and excitement, and reaching fever pitch. Trinity has five passionate soccer teams, who play against one another as well as in tournaments and friendly matches with other churches and organisations. Tan Rou’en catches up with two key players.
What opportunities have the team offered its players?
together or to watch live football matches. We also
Brian: Every game is an opportunity to bless and
have an annual team
impact not just our teammates, but our opponents as
retreat. As you can see,
well. At a recent game, an opponent, who happened
in many ways, we are
to be a friend of mine, kicked me in the head out
very much like a big
of frustration. His studs missed my eyes by mere
Carecell with gatherings
millimeters! Though provoked, our team responded
every week!
very calmly and steadily, and resolved the situation instead of escalating it. After the game, that very
Lawrence: Off the pitch, some of us fellowship at
opponent told me that he was impressed with our
the family level. Recently, we had a 15th anniversary
team’s conduct and that he would like to play for
celebration for another football association I used to
us if given a chance.
play in.
Every game is an opportunity to honour God. Not
What was your team’s proudest moment?
too long ago, an opponent chased one of our players
Brian: In one of the recent Agape Cup matches, we
just to kick him in the thigh! Though such situations
were trailing another church 3-0. With 15 minutes
arise from time to time, what has changed is the
to go, we staged a spectacular fight-back to take
way we dealt with them. We have learnt the value
the lead by 4-3, before eventually conceding a
of keeping our cool. It is on the pitch where being a
late equaliser to draw 4-4. Even though the result
Christian is the toughest. The mix of emotions and
knocked the other church out of the tournament, the
the sheer desire to win that goes into every game is
nature of that game brought the 2 teams closer.
the best testing ground for personal beliefs. I believe that as we continue to honour God, He will also
Lawrence: Back in the early days, the Trinity football
honour us.
team had a high level of respect from the other teams from the other
Lawrence: Trinitarians comprise one-third of the
churches. We used to
Veterans team; the other two-thirds are friends. I
beat other churches by
would say being in the team allows for various ones
big margins such as 9-0!
to Care and Connect. It also allows the core players
This team can always
to play in a different spirit. On the field, we play
look back and say that
with a Christian spirit – we play hard but clean.
we were the founding
Off the field, we try to portray Christ’s image to them
football team in Trinity.
through other platforms. The opportunity is not only
That’s our legacy!
about playing the sport, but fellowship as well. Speaking of fellowship, how does your team bond?
This team can always look back and say that we were the founding football team in Trinity. That’s our legacy!
Interested to be part of the action? There are five teams in Trinity: Veterans, IGNYTE, Chinese Ministry, Team TCC
Brian: Outside of games, we have informal
and Team Trinity. The latter two are young adult teams.
gatherings once in a while to play football games
Email admin@trinity.org.sg to indicate your interest!
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Raising the Standard TCA Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s School of Counselling is raising the standard of counselling in Singapore by equipping counsellors to be more effective, and enabling them to address community issues and needs. These postgraduate students tell us more.
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Started by TCA College’s School of
“Quitting my previous job to become a counsellor and enroll
Counselling in January 2006, the
in TCA College’s Postgraduate Diploma was a major decision
Post Graduate Diploma in Counselling
for me, but I have no regrets! The course lecturers gave of
provides established theoretical
themselves to help us with the educational process and our
frameworks and core clinical skills,
personal growth. They have made a real difference in my life.
along with a strong Christian ethos.
Thank you for giving us this great journey of discovery!”
It addresses many community issues
Margaret Chua, counsellor, Bethel Community Services
from a biblical perspective. It includes an internship programme that
“This course was very beneficial for me.
meets the standards set by local
The lecturers are very experienced and
professional bodies. Through it,
can relate with their trainees.
students gain 100 hours of clinical experience with substantive supervision, giving them valuable hands-on experience and greater confidence as counsellors.
“I highly recommend this course to anyone who has the passion and calling to Christian counselling! The course is well-designed and provides an excellent biblical
I came in with a degree in theology, but this course has opened up my understanding of people, and helped me see myself in a different light.” Sherrilyn Vaithilingam Thanam, part-time teacher, Kaki Bukit Prison School
foundation. The trainers are well-grounded in their fields of specialisation. Having learnt a whole array of therapeutic frameworks, I am now in a
“The core clinical skills were
better position to connect
demonstrated in class and we were
with counsellees and help
given opportunities to practise on one
them achieve their goals.”
another. These role plays enhanced
Susan Lincoln, counsellor, Trinity Christian Centre
the whole learning experience.” Shawn Lim, programme manager, Teen Challenge Singapore
“I would greatly recommend this course because the selfawareness you gain will help you to understand what your counsellees are experiencing. In particular, the module on Interested? Registration for the programme
‘The Self of the Counsellor’ gave me a deeper awareness of
commencing January 2009 has begun. Call
my own past issues, my natural tendency to project or to
Rev Anita Chia at 6304 7650 or visit our
experience transference, and how I relate to others.”
website at www.tca.edu.sg
Jennie Teo, DEW ministry worker, Trinity Christian Centre
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Only one life, soon it will pass; Only what is done for Christ will last! Everything you do for God counts for Vi s i o n M o nt h 2 0 0 8
eternity… What will you do? Catch God’s heart this September.
Adult Services Sep 6 & 7 • Sep 13 &14 • Sep 27 & 28 Trinity@Adam • Sat 5pm & Sun 10am Trinity@Paya Lebar • Sat 5pm, Sun 8.30 & 11.30am
Vision Rally Sep 19 Trinity@Paya Lebar • Fri 8pm Sep 20 & 21 Trinity@Adam • Sat 5pm & Sun 10am Trinity@Paya Lebar • Sat 5pm, Sun 8.30 & 11.30am Speakers:
Rev Dominic Yeo
Rev Dr Naomi Dowdy
Trinity@Adam 21 Adam Road Trinity@Paya Lebar 247 Paya Lebar Road Tel: 6468 4444 • Email: admin@trinity.org.sg • www.trinity.net