I am now blogging in Malaysia, Sunway Resorts!

Technically, opposite the hotels, at a LAN Shop.

The first impression is simply amazing. One word can describe this place- Grand.

The Christmas lights is simply amazing. If Orchard road is nice, this place is like heaven. The moment the taxi drove into the hotel, both Kim and I went crazy at the sight of the pretty and running lights.

Christmas is totally in the atmosphere here in this place.

My hotel room is cool too.

There's a bath tub! A mini kitchen and a really comfortable looking bed for me to lie on.

And right now, I'm chatting with Bernice in MSN!

GOTTA GO!

Like some old classmates reunion, today I met up with some of my friends that grew up together with me.

So much has changed and happened. The last time I met them as a group was probably 2 years ago? Before my National Service. From then till now, I've never really joined them for group outings or birthday celebrations.

Thinking back now, maybe I should have joined them more frequently.

So many changes in just 2 years.

Weilun is working as an Marketing Executive, Weiming is studying his Diploma in Logistics, Herman is still in the army, but doing his Degree, Carmen has grown taller and has two more years in her Vet studies.

It's amazing how time has past so quickly. Before we know it, we're all getting married and having kids.

It seems like yesterday was just one of the days that we played basketball together. The swift Herman always on his toes, deadly Weilun making impossible shots, miracle maker Weiming being the critical player all the time and no fears Carmen showing off her elbows to guys 10 times her size.

Seems like it was just yesterday, we played basketball from 4pm till 10pm, skipping dinner all the time.

Seems like it was yesterday, we played pool for 12 straight hours on New Year's Eve, because we won a lucky draw that entitled us 12 hours of free play.

Some things just don't change and I wish that they'll never change.

Because that's what make us unique.

Taylor Swift - Love Story - Official Video (HQ)

woohoo!

more taylor swift please!

Mamma Mia The Movie - Money Money Money- FULL VIDEO

It's DECEMBER!

27 more days to my birthday.

If you're reading this blog, and realize that it's going to be my birthday soon, don't worry! I thought of the BEST birthday gift you can give me.

1. CASH

2. CASH

3. MORE CASH!

YES! Don't bother squeezing with 4 million Singaporeans this christmas month and buy something that you think I may like! Just give the amount that you're willing to spend on me and GIVE IT TO ME!!

Isn't it better that way?

1. You've 'given' me my birthday gift

2. You don't to squeeze/queue/choose my gift

3. I get to buy whatever I like!

It's a WIN-WIN situation!

Btw. Christmas is a separate occasion. I'm expecting $_$ too!

MONEY MONEY MONEY! IT'S A RICH MAN'S WORLD!

A need to rise up to another level.

Guess God is intervening? Several desires, thoughts and dreams got re-ignited. 

The progression of another caused the progression of mine too.

Stay focused and BREAKTHROUGH!

Is it a need or a want?

Today, I was tempted with an offer that no man could resist.

A free ($100 trade-in) iPhone 8g!

FREE OF CHARGE!

How could that be possible? My limited wisdom started to manifest and go crazy. A free iPhone! Think of all the coolness that will be added into your life! The interactive games that you get to play on the boring bus trips, the phone that's also an iPod, the very interesting navigation features; it's simply the geek's phone.

Mom made the phone call and checked. We can upgrade our plans and get the free iPhone! My heart skipped a beat upon hearing the good news and I was all geared up, ready to change and head straight to the nearest singtel shop.

Doing all these without thinking if this is a need, or a want.

Made a phone call to Bernice and she pulled me back to earth. Haha! Thank God for someone like her, so ungeeky and unfazed by technology. Pragmatic and wise, she didn't have to ask if I needed the phone. All she had to do was to sound disinterested and immediately the hype within me died. But that brought me back to reality, existence, earth.

Is the iPhone a need or a want? I definitely want it because it's cool and geeky. But do I need it now?

My sleek Sony Ericsson is serving me well. Though it has multiple functions, I would frequently use the SMS and phone call functions only. If I were to change to the iPhone, probably I'll only use the SMS and phone call functions too! Well, maybe including the games, skype, facebook and any other cool applications that make you cool.

But ultimately, does it reflect a need in my life or a want in my life?

It concluded as a want; and I love Bernice =)

Isn't it irritating when a body of people DO NOT work together? 

Can you imagine what would happen if you wake up one day and your hand says, "I don't feel like working as a hand today." It would be disastrous! 

Same goes as working in an office. If the employees don't work together, doing their parts, other departments would malfunction! 

This is getting so irritating. It seems that everything has to wait. Nothing seems to be done fast enough, and they complain that the management is too fast for them.

Perhaps now i understand why the management is rushing everything. 

Maybe I'm used to getting things done fast, of cos with reason. But having so many procedures before the final outcome is ridiculous! 

Invoices come in, it's forwarded to the accounting department. From there, it's always bounced back to me to check on this and that and this and that. Look, am I an accountant that knows such stuff? I don't mind checking it for you, to ensure that the numbers are correct, but if you're asking me if the terms and stuffs used are correct, how would I know!? You should know it clearer than I do!

Why am I doing your job!?

Even after my signature is GIVEN, payment can't be made immediately. When the whole world was around, you didn't want the invoices to be checked and signed. Now that the world is gone, and the other company is pressing for payment, you nonchalantly say that nobody's around. What is this!?

I am not surprised that companies are disinterested working with us because of such a system!

I understand there's a need for procedure. I understand there's a need for clearance.

But I also understand that there's always a deadline for everything!

Making things easier for you doesn't mean that it's convenient for others!

Life as an working adult is tough. Your days start from 7am, lasting till 10pm at night.

In the morning, after washing up, you'll be sent into a factory where you'll be packed like sardines in a can on a bus. Thank God when you're not standing around people that will literally stick onto you or squeeze into the tiniest gap they can possibly find. 

The next thing you thank God for is when the driver decides to be Lewis Hamilton and drive really fast, you can really reach your work place 10 minutes earlier. But having that advantage also means that the risk of him braking hard is high. When that happens, hold on tight to the hand-grips! Bodies will be flying and toes will be squashed. 

Then you thank God when you finally reached your work place, but you start to dread working because it's another 9 hours before you step out of office, back into the crazy traffic. You just hope and wish that you've leave or MC so that you can stay at home and play Wii with your kids.

Dragging yourselves to the office, you noticed that you've a million unread mails and your in-tray is stacked high with work, stamped with big red letters- URGENT.

Like working in a production line, your mind switches off and you start to work your guts out.

1230! It's lunch time! Your mind comes back alive and now you start to feel really hungry. Thinking of what and where to eat, you're constantly reminded of the crowd, sweat and smell that sticks onto your favorite Hugo Boss top. With much reluctance, you decided to dine at a swanky restaurant.

Back to work and you totally regretted eating at the swanky restaurant because you had to gobble your food down, before you're late to start work again at 1.30pm.

Time seems to slow down at 5pm. Every minute feels like an hour and you keep glancing towards the huge clock thats placed at the side of your monitor. Your mind starts to come up with plans after work; how are you going to surprise your wife, kids today? Suddenly your boss appears out of no where, in your face, and says, "OT tonight! Major change in plans!"

Your sandcastles starts to get destroyed by the waves and waves of working that's piling up your in-tray again. Your phone beeped. It's your wife! She says there's dinner home and she's waiting for you. With tears in your eyes and trembling fingers, you revealed to her the bad news.

silence.

Your eyes shifted back to your monitor screen and off you go, furiously typing away. Your short term goal is etched in your mind- "Finish fast, home fast."

A shout of triumph! You've done the impossible! A quick glance to the clock, you wondered why did time past by so fast when you're not looking at it. It's 9pm! Kids maybe still awake if you rushed home now, your wife would be still up, waiting for you to return.

The run to the bus stop never seemed so slow. You feel yourself running, breathless and dodging every obstacle. But the bus stop seems so far away! You see a bus pulling up, the number looks familiar. A voice in your head says, "RUN! It's your bus!!"

With a deep breath, you sprint like as though you're a 16 year old kid. Taking long strides, you ran your lungs out. Waving at the bus, a sense of desperation comes onto you; you really want to get onto it. Bus stops, with a sigh of relief, you boarded it and tried to scan your ez-link card. 

*beep beep beep*

The dreaded 3 beeps! You've insufficient funds in your card! Face flushed and still gasping for air, you grope for your wallet in your bag and ask for the bus fare. 

Sinking onto the seat, you smile at the thought that at least you're going home now and you get to see your wife and kid. Cruising along the expressway, a smile is formed on your face. You're getting closer to home, you can literally smell the food that your wife has prepared and the sounds of joy your kid makes whenever you're around.

Storming up the stairs, as the lift took such a long time, you opened the door, waiting for 2 figures to run towards you. But that never happened. You tiptoed into your  room and you see something that touches your heart.

Your beautiful wife cuddled up in bed, with your kid in her arms. 

You get washed up, changed and headed straight to bed, cuddling them.

Reflecting back, you realize the reason why you're willing to go through all the trouble everyday. The answer is in your arms, they're the love of your life- you'll do everything to provide for them and at the end of the day, you thank God for the job that He has given to you.

A ring.

To many, it's just a ring. A ring that costs thousands and loads of heart ache. But more than that, a ring is symbolic of your love to your partner.

The ring is worn on the fingers. Why fingers? So that you can flaunt your diamonds when you worship God? NO!

Your hands are used to work everyday. You type, clean, literally do everything with your hands everyday. On your hands, are your fingers. When you work, you look at your hands. Well, besides typing. But whatever you work with your hands, your eyes will be fixed on the object and your hands.

The glittering diamond ring should be distracting enough for you to cast another look on it. Now the test comes, do you just brush it aside or look in adoration?

Will you remember how your spouse proposed to you? Or the first date that you had with him? All are these memories hidden somewhere in the dark corner of your memory?

Keep the love fresh! Keep it lasting! A commitment has to be developed, not taken for granted. Just because you're married to him, doesn't make him psychic, knowing how terrible your day has been or how lousy you feel.

Though it takes 1 hand to slap, it's still nicer to clap with your partner! Communication is still the key of life! 

Back to the ring. So when you look at your ring now, do you remember the painful thoughts or the sweet memories? It's a choice that you make and nobody can force you. 

You choose your own destiny.

Do you want to be bound by sad and negative thoughts or feel euphoric about your relationship with your better half?

Your partner is not  perfect. She's not everything that you wished for. He's not the perfect listener nor is she the best advisor. But since you made the choice to go through thick and thin with her, why waste time getting into meaningless arguments?

Arguments are normal for all relationships. But if there's a conclusion and both parties learn something about each other, it's good! But if it goes on forever and it never fails to revive itself whenever an argument comes on again, it's really pointless.

I just can't understand why people expect a perfect partner when they themselves are not perfect. Why must she do this! Why must he act like that!? Why this why that. Why do you want to make your own life miserable!?

Why not cast aside all differences, re-ignite the fire thats extinguished and start all over again? 

If she doesn't change, YOU change.

Post Asia Conference.

Still trying to catch up with the lack of sleep, accumulated over the conference week. So many things happened during the conference.

Pastor Ulf laid hands and prophesied, Pastor Phil laid hands and prophesied too, Dr Bernard shared a great world that took the church up another level and Pastor Benny Hinn moved in science and wonders.

Not forgetting our very own Pastor Kong, preached with great fire, passion and conviction to the delegates from Asia.

Though it has been a really tiring week, I found it really fruitful. Learnt so much more in depth about the Cultural Mandate, Holy Spirit and the impact CHC is making through the community services. I really believe that for this entire week, the delegates really got their eyes opened up and mouth left hanging open.

Many people came filled with expectancy. Now is the time for them to return back to where they came from, to be the salt and light, transforming their churches, engaging culture and eventually their countries.

It is really amazing to see CHC working together as one, to make this conference possible. The magnitude of this event is huge and the staggering amount of volunteers serving during the conference astonishing. Just the Elites alone, we've close to 15 of us serving together for each session.

Halls were packed beyond belief. Hall 8 was jammed packed for all services, Hall 10 and 7 would always be filled with thousands of people, hungry for the Word of God. It is really amazing to experience such a conference of this scale.

Just when we thought Emerge Conference is one of the biggest conferences.

It is evident that many people are searching for God. Many people want to learn about His words and experience His love.

It's time to share the blessings that God has given to you all these months and years. Its about time someone else gets to know about Jesus Christ and experience the same love, blessings and prosperous life that you're experiencing now.

Asia Conference 2008!

It has finally kicked off with a huge bang! Pastor Kong spearheaded the first service and I'm really believing God for GREATER breakthroughs!

Pastor shared about breaking into the realm of the second space and aiming to be in the realm of the third space. It's really phenomenal to hear from Pastor, sharing about the Cultural Mandate in a different angle.

Simply amazing! Really didn't realize that Paul was faced in such a situation and the breakdown of events that happened, written in the bible, was such a great revelation! Pastor didn't have a intenstive line upon line, bible study with us. But he guided us through the steps of Paul and shared with us the way he responded to the marketplace leaders, even though they were pagan worshippers!

In modern day context, Paul is like a senior pastor of a mega church. He meets up with the CEOs and ministers of the country who aren't Chrisitans. But he doesn't goes there to condemn, instead he's there, winning the lost over! How? By loving them, accepting them and influencing them with Christian values!

Now, how many people really does that? Most people will shun away from the 'world' during the weekdays because they are afraid to engage the world. But Jesus has come to send us out among wolves!! Sent back to the world!

Why should we reject the world, when the world needs Jesus Christ?

Without you, THEY will never come to the knowledge of the love of God.

Without you being the salt and light, THEY will never know that Christian moral values are true and the promises of God stands.

Without you to reach out to them, THEY will never step into a church and experience God.

Don't wait anymore.

You And I Both

Jason Mraz - The Remedy

Jason Mraz - Wordplay

Should've Said No

Love Actually- What Hurts The Most

Love actually

Love Actually - All I want for Xmas

Love Actually (i'll see it throught)

Alan Silvestri Forrest Gump Suite

I love you i love me - Love actually

Last Train Home (Ryan Star)

If you just want sunny days in your life, you'll get a very dry desert.

Heard this phrase during cellgroup, shared by Marlin just now.

This phrase is so true! If all we want in life is nothing but the sun, optimistic and always bright and sunny, we'll really get a desert! It's impossible to live in an condition like this! It'll be so hot that you wouldn't be even able to sleep at night! IF there's a night.

Many people tend to deceive themselves, living life on a constant high. But it is the lows of the life that moulds you as well. Psalms 23, the very famous passage in the bible, says that I may walk through the valley of death, but I do not fear!

What's a valley? A valley is a very low point in planet earth and psalmist David says valley of death! How low can that be!?

But he chooses to praise God!

Wow.

I really believe that if everyone adopts the mentality of David, praising and trusting in Him even though you're going through trials and tribulations, you'll not just be a better person, you'll become someone whom God can use for His eternal glory!

What happens when you've tried your best, doing everything but no results produced?

It means that it's time for God to take over and have some fun.

Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat - Lucky

Not the official video, yet. But this song is nice!

When there's new leaders, there's new members.

This entire entry is taken from Peiling, a note that she wrote in facebook, which I thought is seriously good stuff.

The Parable of The Eagle

Eagles fly alone at high altitude and not with sparrows or with other small birds. No other bird can go to the height of the eagle. When Moses went to commune with God on the mountain, he left the crowd at the foothills. Stay away from sparrows and ravens. Eagles fly with eagles. Eagles have strong vision. They have the ability to focus on something up to five kilometers away. When an eagle sights his prey, he narrows his focus on it and sets out to get it. No matter the obstacle, the eagle will not move his focus from the prey until he grabs it. Have a vision and remain focused no matter what the obstacle and you will succeed.

Eagles do not eat dead things. They feed only on fresh prey. Vultures eat dead animals, but eagles will not. Steer clear of outdated and old information. Always do your research well.

Eagles love a storm. When clouds gather, the eagles get excited. The eagle uses the storm's winds to lift it higher. Once it finds the wing of the storm, the eagle uses the raging storm to lift him above the clouds. This gives the eagle an opportunity to glide and rest its wings. In the meantime all the other birds hide in the leaves and branches of the trees. We can use the storms of life to rise to greater heights. Achievers relish challenges and use them profitably.

The Eagle tests before it trusts. When a female eagle meets a male and they want to mate, she flies down to earth with the male pursuing her and she picks a twig. She flies back into the air with the male pursuing her. Once she has reached a height high enough for her, she lets the twig fall to the ground and watches it as it falls. The male chases after the twig. The faster it falls, the faster he chases it. He has to catch it before it falls to the ground. He then brings it back to the female eagle.

The female eagle grabs the twig and flies to a higher altitude and then drops the twig for the male to chase. This goes on for hours, with the height increasing until the female eagle is assured that the male eagle has mastered the art of catching the twig which shows commitment. Then and only then, will she allow him to mate with her! Whether in private life or in business, one should test commitment of people intended for partnership.

When ready to lay eggs, the female and male eagle identify a place very high on a cliff where no predators can reach. The male flies to earth and picks thorns and lays them on the crevice of the cliff, then flies to earth again to collect twigs which he lays in the intended nest. He flies back to earth and picks thorns laying them on top of the twigs. He flies back to earth and picks soft grass to cover the thorns. When this first layering is complete the male eagle runs back to earth and picks more thorns, lays
them on the nest; runs back to get grass it on top of the thorns, then plucks his feathers to complete the nest. The thorns on the outside of the nest protect it from possible intruders.

Both male and female eagles participate in raising the eagle family. She lays the eggs and protects them; he builds the nest and hunts. During the time of training the young ones to fly, the mother eagle throws the eaglets out of the nest. Because they are scared, they jump into the nest again.

Next, she throws them out and then takes off the soft layers of the nest, leaving the thorns bare. When the scared eaglets again jump into the nest, they are pricked by thorns. Shrieking and bleeding they jump out again this time wondering why the mother and father who love them so much are torturing them. Next, mother eagle pushes them off the cliff into the air.

As they shriek in fear, father eagle flies out and catches them up on his back before they fall and brings them back to the cliff. This goes on for sometime until they start flapping their wings. They get excited at this newfound knowledge that they can fly.

The preparation of the nest teaches us to prepare for changes;

The preparation for the family teaches us that active participation of both partners leads to success;

The being pricked by the thorns tells us that sometimes being too comfortable where we are may result into our not experiencing life, not progressing and not learning at all. The thorns of life come to teach us
that we need to grow, get out of the nest and move on. We may not know it but the seemingly comfortable and safe haven may have thorns.

The people who love us do not let us languish in sloth but push us hard to grow and prosper. Even in their seemingly bad actions they have good intentions for us.

When an Eagle grows old, his feathers become weak and cannot take him as fast as he should. When he feels weak and about to die, he retires to a place far away in the rocks. While there, he plucks out every feather on his body until he is completely bare. He stays in this hiding place until he has grown new feathers, then he can come out. We occasionally need to shed off old habits and items that burden us without adding to our lives .


Attitude
Is A Small Thing That Makes a BIG Difference.

Robbie Williams - Angels

Finally I'm able to blog again. Laptop has been cranky recently, refusing to log into blogger or load some script for me to blog.

About a month has past and I've been coping well with work. Apparently my bosses are very happy with my performance and they're starting to trust me with more responsibilities. Thank God for that! If not for Him and His favor, I would have been fired a million times already.

I'm back in Security Ministry! Was quite shocked to receive the news from Desmond. Didn't expect it coming because I thought I wouldn't be going back to Security for eternity. But still, Thank God for the chance once again to serve in Security and to serve Pastors and his guests in Elites. Really feel that my return is very different and somewhat feels that there's many things to impact.

Euphoria training has been picking up as well. Shoulder hurts everytime after training and it would last through the week. At least it's getting better now and I'm able to do tosses without any problems. Thank God. Quite excited about the performance, even though our status now is quite terrible. Messy and off-timings. But I believe everyone will put their act together and piece a great performance for God, CHC and the rest of Asia =)

I really do need a new laptop.

Seriously, this is just random rumblings.

I love food and I want to eat breakfast now.

God of this City - Chris Tomlin

Starting work tomorrow!!

Got a job from my ex-boss, reBorne Pte Ltd. The company that deals with Xando and other healthcare products.

Was quite surprised that my boss still remembers me and wants me to work for him again. Went for numeral interviews last week and he showed me around the office and their new concept stores. The company is moving in a new direction and their focus is on transforming lives with their products.

Quite interesting. Would be doing something that I've totally no experience in. But by the grace of God, they're willing to give me the chance to learn.

Was planning my budget and there's really nothing left after essential expenses are deducted. Gosh! To think that my salary is quite high for a poly graduate. Hoping and praying that they'll increase my salary a little more! =)

God is still very good to me. Loads of favor upon my life, kinda obvious.

Besides reBorne, I went for other interviews such as UOB Bank and Tuas Power. Received great favor from the employers and attractive perks.

God REALLY answers prayers.

I was quite specific about my job requirements and all the offers I had were close, if not similar, to the requirements that I prayed for. I was also brought to remembrance that there was a period of time during SOT, I was praying that I'll be able to work in reBorne as well.

After speaking to my boss last Monday, he mentioned that he thought of me during the week of my graduation. And that's ALSO the week that I prayed for a job in his company!! Amazing thing is that I happened to meet him during service and he gave me his name card, wanting me to contact him.

But i forgot to contact him=/ 1 week later, he managed to get my email and messaged me. Lol. Thank God!

This really shows me something. That God is never late! He's always on-time!

Some people really struggle with the fact that God is a good Father. They hide in fear because they feel that they're not worthy of Him. But the VERY fact that He's our Father, it means that we can approach Him for help!

Which father would turn away his children?

Some people stereotype God as an angry God whom holds a hammer and lightning rod in His hands. Ready to strike punishment onto anyone.

If that's the God I serve, I'm pretty sure I'll be dead by now.

Anyway! God is a good God and we all should not be afraid of approaching Him!!

We've been made righteous by Jesus' blood. We confess our sins and repent from them, get planted in the house of God, discipled by His leaders and have a relationship with Him!

There will be hardships, sufferings and pain. BUT this is the amazing part of the Christian walk!! Because you'll never walk alone again! God is with you and He guides you through valleys and storms!

Are you ready to trust Him? to walk on waters?

Wet Wet Wet - Love Is All Around (original clip)

Heard this song last night at a petrol station.. NICE!

Official Jason Mraz - I'm Yours video

SOT'08 has officially ended.

It has been a really exciting 5 months in CHBTC.

This 5 months is nothing short of an adventure with Jesus. The endless assignments, bible reading and examinations is enough for sleepless nights. But there's still cellgroups to attend, mission trips to go for, conferences and early morning prayer meetings!

But it was never a drag for me to attend classes every morning, praising and worshiping God or finishing my assignments.

In SOT, I learned to be understanding. I started becoming meek and not get easily offended by others. In SOT, my faith in God grew and I experienced Him in so many different ways!

He's never late, always on time. His promise for me came to past! That everything will be settled, that I do not have to worry about finances.

Now that SOT has ended, a new chapter begins.

What lies ahead maybe hazy, but now I've the faith to trust God and His ways, that He has a great plan and destiny for me. Being equipped with the Word, I can now be an effective minister of Jesus.

Having much "head knowledge" about Jesus Christ, now is the time to experience it!

Plain White Ts - Hey There Delilah - Official (HQ)

For your dream to come to past, you must help others achieve their dreams first.

Classes with Pastor Kong is always so inspiring.

Pastor finished up the Cultural Mandate Series today and he opened up the time for some Question & Answer.

Several interesting questions were asked and I remember very vividly a question asked by a female student, with regards to stepping out in faith into the entertainment world.

Pastor's reply to her question really inspired me a lot.

"We chose to walk in faith." - Ps Kong

Pastor was sharing with us the experience he and Sun had to go through and the decision he had to make. They could have cruised through life when church was 10,000 in strength. But Pastor felt that this isn't what he wants to be.

So Sun crossed over into the entertainment scene and Pastor became a voluntary, to go off salary.

To me, that's really walking in faith. Making the decision to go "salary-free" and Sun crossing over is definitely something that requires tons of faith! It's really something that most people wouldn't even think of!

As Pastor was sharing his experiences, it just made me feel that Pastor such a normal person. Someone that struggles with weaknesses as well. But the difference is not because he's the Senior Pastor of a mega-church.

But he's a man after God's heart.

He's willing to lay aside all the comfort, riches and glory to pursue God's kingdom. It really takes a lot of security and faith to make the decisions he has made.

I feel really blessed to have Pastor Kong as my Senior Pastor!

All things are possible with Jesus!

Who am I?

Have you ever pondered upon that question?

Who are you, to somebody else.

To someone, I am the nonchalant, can't be bothered with you guy.
To another, I am the nice and caring friend.
To another, I am the wallpaper, never noticed until I start peeling.
To another, I am the guy that smiles a lot.
To another, I am the laid back one.
To another, I am the one that you talk to when you need a listening ear.
To another, I am the one you can rely on.
To another, I am the one that passes you by.

The list just goes on..

But to God,

I am His child.
I am anointed.
I am special.
I am called by Him.
I am protected by Him.
I am uniquely created by Him.

I am Joel Kuek and God loves me.

If not for God loving me who I am, would I be able to freely express my love for people around me? No.

God gave me a Role Model and His name is Jesus Christ. God says, "Follow His footsteps and He'll guide you in every single step you take, every decision that you make."

"I've called you and this call is irrevocable. Hold onto it."

Hello World!

Everything has been quite good. I do not know where to start, or share. But God's good.

In SOT, we are in the process of going through the Five Fold Ministries. Really amazing stuff. From the beginning, Pastor Ming mentioned that after the course, we'll realize that we're actually NOT who we think we are. Lol.

Totally true. I found myself not being very Pastoral like, though it's my desire to be a Pastor. Haha! Got to work very hard in that area! Feel that I'm a little more inclined towards a Prophet and Teacher ministry. Heh! I'll Call down fire and TWO female bears will MAUL you if you offend me!

Not finding any inspiration to blog now. Heh. Perhaps things that has been happening are rather personal and I've no desire to publicly air them. Bleh.

Well. We'll see =)

Squeaky clean!

Weekday classes with Pastor Mike is simply amazing. Learnt so many things from him, not just deliverance, but ministering and releasing the anointing to others.

The MOST amazing revelation was probably releasing the anointing to others. It's quite easy to pray for someone, when you receive a word of knowledge, but how do you impart that anointing, presence, love into his heart?

If we do not know how to release it, that prayer will just sound good!! Must release the anointing, then people receive something in their Spirits and things will then begin to change!!

Releasing the anointing can be as easy as, as much as I received, I give! Just freely receive and give!!

So the easiest way to minister is in the area of the joy of the Lord. Receive the joy of the Lord into your Spirit and release it to the people around you! And if they're open to receive it, you'll find people laughing crazily around you. Haha!

God's amazing right?! It's not by my abilities, or the things that I do, but it's by His Spirit that all these things are happening!

Praying for people during the kairos moment is so powerful. Words of knowledge and wisdom begins to fill your Spirit. Like a double edged sword, the word pierce through every harden heart and brings forth healing into their lives!! An a touch from heaven, the anointing is released into their lives.

WOW!

God is an amazing God!

Now I feel so good, it's easy for me to accept people. But I need to draw strength from the Holy Spirit because it's Him who gave me that power to forgive!

Perhaps this is brokenness. That you depend entirely on God, not on your own abilities and strength.

=)

The last time i blogged, unknown.

So many things had happened for the past few weeks, not a lot to say. But God is very good to me =)

Pastor Mike Connell is in town! Whole week of lessons with him, learning about deliverance and how it should be done. Definitely, spring cleaning as well.

Deliverance can and should be done by any believer. But of cos one must be walking in holiness and righteousness before even attempting on someone else.

Loads of exciting experiences!! Manifestations, a student hiding a knife in his pocket, unclean spirits that "runs" away or falls asleep whenever you pray for them.

I've no idea what to share here. There's so many things that I want to say, but... haha! I can't =P

Oh well. God is good.

Updates!

Cultural Mandate with Pastor Kong.

Simply amazing classes we've with Pastor Kong. I don't know how to describe the feeling when we go through the class. It's exciting, revelational and challenging.

Its exciting because you really see how God is moving in the marketplace, and how He uses people to impact the lives of so many people in their area of influence.

How great servants of God are raised up and reaping all the blessings they've sown.

It's revelational! The cultural mandate existed ever since Genesis 1:28! When God said, be fruitful and multiply, subdue the earth! That's the cultural mandate! WOW! ALL things are created for His glory. That includes businesses, the arts, media and loads more.

It's challenging! Because your faith will be tested. There'll be persecution from non-Christians and fellow Christians.

But we're not here to please man, but to please God.

-

Pastor also shared about the right age to get married. He mentioned that he would very much prefer members to get married between the age of 21 and 25. No money? All the more better! Cos they'll learn to save money once they've married each other.

And i've one year left to get a gf and get married.

Back from BIGBANG Camp!!

Totally amazing experience.

Darryl said something that challenged me. She mentioned that this camp is not just about new friends. But its also about that touch from God that everyone should desire for, that even though we maybe tired, we still seek after the face of God, for Him to strength us.

It's so easy to neglect God during the camp. You'll be busy doing things till the wee hours of the night and by the time you're free, you're so dead tired. But I was super encouraged by the campers! As I walked around the chalet site at 3am, I'll see groups of people gathered together worshipping, or praying together! 3am!! These groups of people aren't really the young adults, but they were the KIDS! the secondary school students!!

Super amazed.

Something amazing happened too. During morning devotion, Darryl prayed for me and it was amazing. She moved in the gifts of the Holy Spirit and ministered to me. Extremely blessed by her prayer and really believe that my breakthrough is about to come!! Praise God!!

Ultimately, my team had five new friends. Out of the five, four responded to the altarcall!! Praise the Lord!! WOOHOO!! The four who responded were the four girls who came in harden, but left soften by the love of God!! Praise GOD!!

If not for the love of God flowing endlessly in the team, I think all these salvations wouldn't be possible. And if not for my wonderful team members, this camp wouldn't be a life-changing camp for not just the new friends, but members as well!

Really believe that this love of God will continue to flow in our lives and we'll see a revival breaking forth in the zone!!

Bao-wer!!

Praise God.

I've completed Spirit Filled Believer's Handbook Assignment within a total of 6 hours. 4 hours last night, very unproductive. 2 hours this evening, super productive.

Can only hope and pray now that whatever I've written is correct and acceptable in the eyes of Bobby. Haha!

Played basketball just now. It's been light years since I last played and it was fun. I think I jumped higher, longer and further than usual. Haha! Should maintain my physical being! My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit! Must keep myself FIT!

Randomic post, but I just wanna thank God for everything He done man. There's too many to be listed down here, but I'm really thankful for EVERYTHING that had happened.

Be it good, bad or whatever.

Simply because God is good, all the time.

Lesson today was special. How to describe that feeling in words?

Didn't feel anything special, but it was something special in the spiritual realm.

Yielding, receiving and openness. Very important keys to having a word from Him. Breakthrough may just come like that. And if you miss it, you really miss it.

I know what God wants me to do. Spirit is indeed extremely willing, but my flesh is weak. Seldom experience this but I actually fell asleep while praying!! Not at 10.00pm!! I was quite shocked when I realized I dozed off.

Tried again afterwards and it happened again. Man! The weird thing is that I don't even feel sleepy now! But the moment I close my eyes and pray, BAM! It hits me hard.

But now as I'm typing this blog, I have a better understanding of why it might have happened. Hmm.

Not gonna give up so easily!!

Class today was amazing.

Truely, the end of a matter is always greater then the beginnings.

I didn't quite experience science and wonders, visions and dreams or visitations of angels. But I simply had this encounter with God, this assurance from Him, and i think it's amazing for me.

While we were worshipping Jesus, I just felt God saying this, "Joel, I've anointed you." Then I felt this weight on my shoulders. My arms started to ache, even though I didn't raise up my arms fully. It was probably just raised above my waist level.

Then the weight on my shoulders started to feel heavier.

Before that, there were so many miracles that happened! Legs grew to equal length, arms, backaches, neckaches! SO MANY!! Simply amazing man.

Maybe I can start praying and believing that God can stretch my legs by another 5cm! =P

To think of it, we're left with 3 months of SOT. It's ending too fast!! Week after week is flying by too fast and I really don't want to stop SOT'ing so soon. Gotta receive as much as I can, and start activating it!!

What Kuek Si Jun, Joel Means

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life. You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip. People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them. You are a very lucky person. Things just always seem to go your way. And because you're so lucky, you don't really have a lot of worries. You just hope for the best in life. You're sometimes a little guilty of being greedy. Spread your luck around a little to people who need it. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong. You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know. You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do. You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing. You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long. You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start. You are fair, honest, and logical. You are a natural leader, and people respect you. You never give up, and you will succeed... even if it takes you a hundred tries. You are rational enough to see every part of a problem. You are great at giving other people advice. You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals. You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life. You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you. At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself. You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow. You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily. Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

What's" Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

-

The Five Love Languages

My primary love language is probably
Words of Affirmation
with a secondary love language being
Quality Time.

Complete set of results

Words of Affirmation:		9
Quality Time:		8
Physical Touch:		5
Acts of Service:		4
Receiving Gifts:		4

Information

Unhappiness in relationships, according to Dr. Gary Chapman, is often due to the fact that we speak different love languages. Sometimes we don't understand our partner's requirements, or even our own. We all have a "love tank" that needs to be filled in order for us to express love to others, but there are different means by which our tank can be filled, and there are different ways that we can express love to others.

Take the quiz

Come on! Spend quality time with me, edifying me!! Isn't that the BEST combination you can ever wish for!? Haha!

Service is so very good, you'll feel like making this prayer, "God, send more trials and tribulations! So that many others can be blessed through me!"

Haha!!

So encouraged.

He went through everything, so that I can experience the breakthrough.

Wow.

AS I COME INTO YOUR PRESENCE
PAST THE GATES OF PRAISE
INTO YOUR SANCTUARY
TILL WE'RE STANDING FACE TO FACE
I LOOK UPON YOUR COUNTENANCE
I SEE THE FULLNESS OF YOUR GRACE
I CAN ONLY BOW DOWN AND SAY

YOU ARE AWESOME IN THIS PLACE
MIGHTY GOD
YOU ARE AWESOME IN THIS PLACE
ABBA FATHER
YOU ARE WORTHY OF OUR PRAISE
TO YOU OUR LIVES WE RAISE
YOU ARE AWESOME IN THIS PLACE
MIGHTY GOD

Dashboard Confessional - Stolen (Original Version) MV

'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty. – Zech 4:6

The truth is that I'm nothing without His anointing, His Spirit.

My gifts, talents and abilities, are laid on the foot of the cross. Clothe me with Your Righteousness and fill me with Your Spirit.

I'm just a vessel, for God.

The Holy Spirit is indeed my Guide. He has brought illumination into this dimly lit room of mine.

Not by strength, nor by might. But by the Spirit of the Lord.

Relevation!

Why God wants us to make specific prayers? Its not as though He doesn't know right? Haha!

But why God wants us to make specific prayers?

Because when we pray, He listens and says, "Okie! Done deal!" When we pray specific prayers! He listens to all the specific requirements and begins to form it in His mind, then VIOLA! Given.

But when we pray general prayers, He listens and says, "So what do you want?"

Haha!! So lets all pray specific prayers and God will say, "OKIE! DONE DEAL!"

Therapy to my soul.

After CG, i sent Saunders to his workplace, which happens to be 15 minutes away from my house. Decided to walk home from his workplace, just to pray in the spirit and spend sometime away from the hustle of life.

So I turned into Dairy Farm Road and walked towards Cashew Road. In that area, the houses were either semi-Ds or bungalows.

Immediately, I was captivated by the tranquility of the estate. As I looked at the houses, everyone of them were unique in their ways and extremely beautiful. Each house spoke has their unique story, background and atmosphere.

As I walked around the estate, I felt my soul relax, away from the rush of the city, sounds of rushing cars and people.

So as I walked through the estate, I started to tell God which house I like, what cars I'll drive and the kind of home that I want to build. A home that has the presence of God, the peace of God and a place that glorifies God.

Maybe a home like this?

=)

Before I'm a leader, I'm a Christian.



Take everything away, will I still go back to church?



Yes.

Blessed.

I'm blessed and highly favored of God.

Finding joy in the midst of trials and testings. No matter what the future testings will be, I believe with all my heart that I can pull thru.

'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty.

05 May 2008.

This date marks the end of my 1 year 10 months of National Service, and the beginning of my Operational Readiness.

In layman term, this is the day where many NSFs await eagerly, to collect their Pink IC and not wear the green uniform for a long period of time.

Mixed emotions consumed me as I walked out of my camp, as a civilian.

I felt happy as I've finished serving my National Service. I've done the best of my ability, been thru hell and back several times and felt like giving up on many occasions.

I still remember vividly on 06 July 2006, I handed over my Pink IC to two 3SGs. I was told that the green card I'm getting is my 11B and it's my IC from today on.

Then, a last wave to my parents and sister after we had lunch together in this place where I'll start to have my meals at for the next 9 weeks.

Soon afterwards, my head felt cool because of the $2 haircut provided by the army.

But I chose not to look back from that moment on.

I've already decided to do my best and hopefully get a place in OCS, to be an officer of the SAF. I've heard many stories about the army, about how Christians backslide because of the environment and how tough the training were.

I decided to think differently and adopt a positive attitude towards training. I know that it's during this period of time, I'll learn to rely on the Holy Spirit more than ever before. I know that this is the place where I can shine for God because of what I've in me.

Everyday, I find myself being thrust into situations. Do I really have to give my best? Do I really desire to be an officer? Do I think I really stand a chance? Do I really want to go cellgroup and service after booking out from camp?

Decisions after decisions. Spirit is willing, but my body is weak.

But i thank God for His grace. Each and every decision I made in favor of God crucified my selfish desires. Each time I say no to the devil, God is glorified. Each time I give my best effort, God is exalted. Each time I go to church and cellgroup, God gives me strength.

After 9 weeks, it was announced that I'm the Platoon Best Trainee.

Not by my strength, but by His grace.

Into OCS I went, as happy as I can be. Into this wing that many people fear.

ALPHA WING. A Motto that says, "Above, Beyond As One" A vision that says, "To create the S3F - Shiong, Shiok but Safe and Fun Environment" A Wing that's MAD, a Wing that's Making-A-Difference.

These were some of the punchline thrown to us. I was challenged and rose up to the occasion.

Yup. There were times when I felt like giving up, but something in me stirred up and urged me to carry on. There were times when I felt inadequate, but something in me rose up and took ownership of the situation.

9 months of officership training ended, with my Commissioning Parade on 09 June 2007 as an Armour Officer.

Into the 8th Brigade I went, as a Reconnaissance Officer. One of the most prestigious vocation in the Army.

I had real man under me. Sons of other parents that I'm responsible of. Everyone of them are precious and it's my duty to take care of them. I'm their Platoon Commander and friend. I'm the one that commands them during trainings and get commanded at during soccer games.

As I look back now, I've no regrets with the decisions I made.

I hope I've made a difference in their lives and I hope that they'll always remember what I've always reminded them.

Don't underestimate the power of positive thinking.

If I can do it, so can you.

Pastor Kong said that our dreams and visions are in the realm of our minds.

So I had a revelation when he said that. If dreams and visions are in the realm of our minds, does that mean that Godly thoughts in your mind can be considered as dreams and visions?

Thoughts that don't usually come during normal times, but they fill your mind when you're worshipping Jesus. Thoughts that you have never thought of or even imagined about.

Its so supernaturnal, its amazing.

One of the best joy someone can receive is knowing that he's restored and accepted back into the kingdom of God.

Though this process may take a long time, I'm determined to break through and meet Him in the Holy of Hollies.

Isn't God just so amazing? when I'm faithless, He remains faithful to me. Its like the parable of the lost son, I ran away from Him into the wilderness. Day and night, God waits for me to return. When I finally return, He restores me back into position. Though I may not feel worthy, but He says its worth it.

I can never hide from Him. He's omnipotent, omniscient. He KNOWS everything that I've done! Do you know what's everything? It's EVERY SINGLE THING! Tell me now, how do you hide from Him?

The first step towards God is always so difficult. But after taking that first step, you find strength, joy and fulfillment. You begin to realize how much you may have missed out. Though this is not the end of the testings, but I believe with a broken and contrite Spirit, He's able to lead me out of the valleys.

Today is the day of my salvation. Today is the day of my re-dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ. Today is the beginning of everlasting eternity reigning as King and Priest with my Father God!

HALLELUJAH!

-

oh yah. i saw ASIA in my Spirit. ASIA! NORTHEAST ASIA! I saw in my mind, Asia, a continent, in front of me. I asked for more, I saw Northeast Asia. I asked for more, I heard the word teach. I heard myself say, Father, I'll teach Your word. I'll teach your word in Asia, in Northeast Asia!

I've made that prayer, its commited between me and God. It's written on His palm, that I'll teach His word. I'll minister to His people.

BY FAITH! I RECEIVE! WOOHOO!

They say things happen in SOT. I believe that's an understatement. Things don't just happen in SOT.

It takes loads of faith, then the things happen in SOT.

Felt God smiling at me again today. He has been smiling at me for two days.

It would start like this -

As we're all worshipping in His presence, I would enter into this place and there's only God and me in it. So I'll tell God everything thats in my mind. Things like full-time ministry, provision and santification.

Then I can feel Him smiling at me. It feels so........ comfortable, friendly and warm.

Yesterday, I felt Him say, all these that you've asked for, I've given. Receive it in your spirit.

Today, I saw myself in a vision. A picture of me preaching from a pulpit. Then thoughts of salvations, healing and anointing raced across my mind. Wasn't sure if that was my thoughts or God's thoughts, but I received it in my spirit.

When the Holy Spirit comes, some people feel electricity on their palms or heat running through them. I felt this warm heat on my upper back, something that I felt when I was much younger in Christ.

Definitely the Holy Spirit.

I think this is the problem with me. I'm too logical! I'm in need of serious work in my emotions. Pray with me, that I'll be touched in my emotions, that I'll be free to cry or laugh in His presence.

There are no formulas in seeking God. But a pure heart will see Him.

Heb 11:1,3

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

God spoke, something happened in the realm of the spiritual and it became visible in the realm of the physical.

Believing that you have it in the spirit though not of the realm of the physical. Because you have spoke about it, it WILL come to existence when you believe. In the spiritual realm, angels are already preparing for the day for your spoken word to manifest.

Believing is not just knowing. It's the psychological state in which an individual holds a proposition or premise to be true.

So it's not just knowing and accepting it. Its getting it sink into our spirits, knowing that it will come to past.

Interesting things had happened recently. Things that showed the favor, blessings and grace of God.

I don't know what to expect in the months ahead of me, but I believe it's going to be good. Attitudes will be made right, impurities will be removed and fruits of the Spirit will be developed.

My mom managed to "catch" a baby parrot, with her bare hands. In fact, the parrot hopped onto her hands after she held out her hand in front of it. Quite interesting eh? Then the parrot stayed in her palm and she brought it home.

Now it's like some crazy lunatic bird, running left and right of the cage and randomly screeching. Heh.

Just want to thank God for something that happened yesterday. I was on duty in camp last night, so I rest in my office when Caleb came to my office. He wanted to pray for me, and vice versa. Of cause I was more than glad to do so, but we fellowshipped a little before we prayed for one another.

I think it's just amazing how God will even move in the office. His peace just came and filled the office. There was a change of atmosphere the moment we started praying and it really didn't feel like we were praying in the office.

Truly when two or three are gathered in His name, there He is.

I'm really encouraged by Caleb's hunger, desire and fire for God. He's praying and fasting for directions in his life after his National Service. Such a fine young man, but already thinking like a matured son of God.

Challenged! Haha!

Well. God has His ways of revealing His plans.

http://aboutjoel.blogspot.com/2005/01/im-so-bored-i-can-click-ie-million.html

Ignore the fact that i had pastors driving me to church and stuffs. Haha! But, WOW! 3 years ago, God has already desired for me to enroll into SOT, even when I'm still in the army.

Well, my application was technically rejected, by my parents. But i kept assuring her that I'll be fine, I'll take up part-time jobs just to pay off the school fees!

And I'm definitely hoping to get the model student, because that would mean that I've really made a difference in the lives of many people! Plus the all expenses paid for trip to Israel. Haha!

But YAH! WOW!

Logan the Sky Angel Cowboy - CBN Spot

My laptop is officially dead! Why must it be damaged now!? Sigh. Gotta get it fixed before assignments and projects are given to us, else I've to write everything neatly on A4 paper.

So I am now somewhere blogging away...

SOT Orientation was a BLAST! I think I could have laughed till I developed 8 pacs, face cramps and burst blood vessels.

Barely slept for 6 hours and my alarm went off. Jumped out of bed, showered and headed straight to JW. HEAVY TRAFFIC!! Totally forgot about the morning traffic madness and I was hysterically checking my watch. Gotta go through much more Civilian Conversion Course. =D

Decided to take the train instead at Chinese Garden, towards Boon Lay. Finally reached church and there were so many excited people gathering at the lobby, waiting for registration to start.

Got hold of my lanyard, couldn't stop smiling.

We had about 1 hour to chill in the freezing auditorium. Read thru the students' manual excitingly. Even though 99% of the contents were rules and regulations, punishments we may face and other potentially depressing stuffs, it was surprising that I read it with much joy. HAHA!

Pastor Derek came and shared a word with us. Edifying word from a chapter. Just a simple chapter and it exludes so much strength, wisdom and challenge.

GAMES!

Gathered together in my team, TEAM 21, most of us were from the same zone. We've a Youth Pastor, Church Staff and CGL from another church. Anointed eh?

Anyway, I'm really challenged by my team mates. Their attitudes were amazing. SUPER sporting, fun loving and out going, I felt like a backdrop with them. Really challenged to step out and simply enjoy myself without much fears.

Thank God for His grace! Amazingly, after the first station, I found myself screaming and shouting like some 3 year old kid after being awarded with an ice cream. Haha!

Our team did extremely well for all the stations, completed on time, invested right and managed to get back returns. We got 3th overall for the games, which means $20 attributes voucher! $20!! Thats A LOT! You can like buy some materials, or lighten the burden of several super expensive materials.

Some of the stations were creative. Gotta dip our heads in a pail and fill up a plastic bottle within 10 minutes. Before dipping our heads, we gotta pass a rubberband with a toothpick held by our teeth.

Another station, eating CHILLI PADIS and GREEN ONES TOO! urgh. Thank God only 3 persons are required to do that. So the rest simply shouted directions to them, which I gladly did so. =X

Aiyah. If you want to know more, join SOT next year. ;)

I heard that those in classes now had holy laughter during worship. >.< But it's okie! 5 months of pure intensive discipleship from Him and definitely more of Him!!

Woah! Just came back from my zone's overnight cycling event!!

Really quite an experience. I was appointed to be last man, together with Alan. Basically we cycled from East Coast to Bedok, to Tampines, Paris Ris and finally Changi. Supposed to finish at Changi, but we reached a tad too early, thus we were challenged to cycle back to East Coast from Changi.

That LONGGGGG stretch of road beside the Changi Airport was extremely boring. I dozed off several times and even crashed once because i fell asleep while riding. But thank God I landed on the grass patch and I had no injuries whatsoever.

Anyway, I kinda woke up after that crash and continued cycling per normal till we reached this place and MJ came and pick us up. It was probably the best moment of my life, having to sit in the lorry, not having to cycle all the way back to ECP. Haha!

But, I still enjoyed myself, cycling casually and enjoying the breeze.

Limited time left for me to rest, gotta serve at Expo today!! 4pm!! >.<

Oh yah. Saw some transexuals in Changi. They really look pretty, just that its all manufactured. Heh.

Extraordinary results!

We took our IPPT test earlier and I'm really happy with the results of my company..!

We had about 16 GOLD, and 13 SILVER achieved. Only 3 didn't manage to get anything, but I believe that with constant training and hard work, they'll be able to achieve at least a silver as well.

Super encouraged by the effort put in by my soldiers. Some of them just missing a few seconds to achieve gold, but i believe they'll press on and achieve it in the coming year.

This IPPT also marked my swan song in the company. Most of them will be involved in training and I won't be able to join them. Bittersweet emotions, but I believe Andy and Dion will be able to bring them up another level of achievements. 

-

SOT Orientation this monday! I really can't believe that I'm starting school so soon. Seems like a long time ago when I was hesitant if I should sign up for SOT. I'm glad I made this choice and even though it maybe tough for the coming months, I believe that GOD will provide for me and He'll see me thru this year!

Connect Group PM was so refreshing. Was reminded of several things when Desmond prayed for me. Remembered the fervency, my attitudes and mentality when I received Christ in the beginning. Guess certain issues corrupted my mindset and soul. BUT, I believe that all these will change because GOD's gonna do something AMAZING in my life!

He'll change me inside out, outside in. He'll anoint me to overcome difficulties, trials and tribulations. He'll smilingly give me loads of problems, so that I'll learn to rely on His strength and He'll show me the way to victory.

Now, I've to make that decision. To remain open to His discipleship, teachings and word. Most of all, to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, to develop my relationship with GOD and maintain my spiritual disciplines. 

I am Singapore's, self declared, No.1 Fan of Taylor Swift.

Our Song Official Video By Taylor Swift

dumdeedeedum.

tim mcgraw by taylor swift

*melts*

TAYLOR SWIFT: TEARDROPS ON MY GUITAR

can't get sick of her.

Blessed.

I've been so blessed recently. 

Mom gave me $150 in total, spanning 3 weeks in total. A mysterious person that signed off as God blessed me with $50.

-

When I'm in need, You heard and You gave. 

When I asked, You heard and You gave.

You said, "Be of no fear, for I AM with you." "Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened upon you."

All these promises that You gave may not have been fulfilled instantly, but in accordance to Your timing.

You said, "Look upon Me and I'll lift you up."

"Yes Lord." I said. "Take away these excess baggage, I just want to be that Joel once again."

"No. I've anointed you to do greater things for Me. You're not a nobody, but you're someone in the kingdom of Heaven. You'll provide for your family, you'll live in prosperity and you'll be a blessing to everyone." 

"A bruised reed I will not break, and a smoldering wick I will not snuff out, till I lead justice to victory." 

I think apple's really smart.

Launching their Safari (Internet Explorer) in Microsoft platforms, i can't help but download and use it.

Its smooth, links easily accessed and its an eye candy.

I think all the cool people should download and use it!

Taylor Swift - Picture to Burn [ Official Music Video ]

As usual. Super duper gorgeous

oh yah.

My links page looks pathetic. Send me your links and I'll link you up!

Taylor Swift has a new single!

Picture to Burn. Angst song, but it's nice! (because its by taylor swift) As usual, she looks extremely drop dead gorgeous. I'll probably turn into an apple if I ever get to meet her.

Check it out in YouTube! I tried uploading it in here, but it just wouldn't work.

Irritating.

Been eons since I wrote here in this space.

Feel that there's too many words here, lacking pictures! But I don't possess any camera phones or digital cameras, thus the lack of pictures.

Updates!

Easter has been fantastic. Though it was really tiring, but its all worth it! Did something different just now. I was the Wii station master at expo. The fun thing about that is that i get to see overexcited adults trying to box each other, or self entertained kids cheering whenever their bowling balls hit the pins.

Not to mention the numeral times I had to teach young and old on operating the Wii and gameplay.

I made several new friends too! All aged 12 and under.

Super cute kids standing shyly behind the crowd, wanting to play, but afraid to ask. But the moment you hand them the consoles, their facial expressions change. SUPER CUTE.

But then again, this happens only when they're happy. Heh.

School Of Theology! I checked with my ZS and he has confirmed that I've gotten into SOT! Praise God!! But the opening in church office isn't open for me as I lack the qualifications. Well, it's okie! I can still work at other places and I believe God will provide for me!!

So far, I've about 3-4 friends that signed up for SOT this year. Hopefully we'll get to work together and do great works for Him!!

To think of it, its just 2 weeks away from the first day of SOT. Wow!! Really got not much time left!! Got to look for a job to start working after I ORD!! Else i'll have to walk to church every morning and fast every single day. Haha!

Hello Mas Selamat,

Watch out.

I'm here to find you.

Cheerios
2LT Joel Kuek

Got to make decisions!

Decisions that will ultimately affect my destiny, my future and my calling in God.

Dilemna.

I'm feeling ultimately ultra-ly blessed right now.

Firstly, I had a zone prayer meeting yesterday and after the PM, i asked my ZS if he's rushing down to Jurong West. So he asked me to join him and travel down to Jurong with him, but he has to go back to Suntec first.

No problem with me, I felt.

In the cab, I asked if there's any vacancy in church office as I'm looking for a part-time job after I ORD. He said that there's a vacancy and its half related to what I did in polytechnic. Wasn't much details, but he'll check it out for me. Best thing is that I can work full-time for that job, while studying in SOT!

Then, he also mentioned that he'll find out if I'm applicable for sponsorship in SOT!!

Next in line, Pastor preached about being a servant. This time, he pitched for full-time ministry workers! My heart leaped in joy when he mentioned that and asked those who feels a call to full-time ministry to raise up their hands and he'll pray a special prayer for us. This happened in Jurong.

Rushed down to expo to support the security there..

Pastor shared the same message, but this time, not only did he ask us to raise up our hands, he asked us to stand up and asked those sitting around us to lay hands on us to pray for us! Wow! I'm really glad/blessed that I was asked to replace another security last minute. Don't tell me its coincidental because I believe everything has been planned for by God.

During the process of being prayed for, I felt this burning sensation on my eyes. The entire process of being prayed for, I felt this heat on my eyes and it didnt go off until we stopped praying. I strongly believe that it's the Holy Spirit's anointing and being on my eyes, it should mean something like the Holy Spirit strengthing the vision that God has given to me.

Well, thats my accessment. If you're able to interpret such signs, please let me know=P

So in 1 day, I seem to have gotten confirmation that signing up for SOT is the right thing and the jigsaw puzzle is forming at the right places now. I believe I've taken the right step, a step of faith into the unknown, trusting God that He'll provide for me.

Now I'm praying that these doors will remain open and more doors will open up for me to transform into what God wants me to be!

Praise the Lord!

Praise the LORD!

Let's hope for the best in the upcoming seasons! HAHA!!

SOT, HERE I COME!

I need more of You!!

Finding myself losing self control more and more. Especially when it comes to dealing with people that I dislike. Not that I hate them, but their actions make me slightly irritated at times. It doesn't help much when I'm related to them.

Though not everyone is sensitive to their surroundings, but everyone MUST learn to be! I'm not someone whom you can make fun of, tease about or joke of. I don't wear a red wig and nose with huge matching shoes. There's always a limit to something.

Whats worst is having this mentality. They can do it to me, but if I do something else, I'll get that, "How can you do that!?" remark. ARGH!!

So what are you trying to tell me? You're better than me? I don't have to prove to you that I'm better or whatever, but your antics are seriously irritating me! Its like telling me that I've a speck in my eye, but you've a log in yours.

Definitely, there's a lot for me to learn as well. I can learn to be much more long suffering, to learn how to love those that's slightly difficult to love. Maybe this is what God wants me to learn. So give me more strength Lord!! before I blow up and rebuke them.

Seriously resisting the temptation to scold them because they're just having fun and probably got overboard. Thats why they must all learn to be sensitive!! Can't expect you to keep smiling at me if I were to keep poking you right!?

So what did I do? Just smiled and kept quiet. SIGH. The meek ones are the strongest. I'm probably far from being strong, but I know that at least I made a right decision earlier and I'm slightly stronger now.

The journey continues and I really hope things will improve, though knowing that this is not the way God works. He sharpens me, with another iron.

>.<

I think I need to change.

Ok. Not I think, i MUST change!

Pastor Ulf taught about fears today for service. Something that's always being mentioned and reminded by many people. But its only today, I finally received something in my spirit, or simply mind.

Consider this for a moment. It would be difficult for you to talk to someone if he frequently shy away from you, or seems just afraid to talk to you. I realized that I've been doing that all these while and its certainly unhealthy.

I should learn to be more confident of myself, carry myself well and learn to speak with confidence. This will not just make me confident of myself, it dispels fears in my life.

I must stop being fearful of speaking up or being outstanding. Fearful of being the odd one out. But of cos, I do not want to appear boastful or prideful. Confidence is something that I carry in my spirit.

Even when situations screams in my face, I've the confidence and composure to make the right decision. I will not allow fear to take place in my decision makings and spoil God's destiny for me.

Its not self denial, thinking that you can handle situations that come your way. But it should come from the assurance that God is always with me and the Holy Spirit is always guiding me.

So when I serve Pastors every week, I should get more comfortable serving them. Things shouldn't remain the same from day 1. There must be growth!! Every week I serve them, there must be growth!!

If not, I'm just a person that walks them up and down every week.

Not that I become friendly with pastors, but I should become more confident whenever I speak to them. I shouldn't be mumbling my replies or look lost whenever I'm expected of something. I shouldn't come to a stage when I just get so tensed up whenever there are important guests.

Embrace the moment and serve with all of my ability!

Time to step out of my comfort zone and stretch my capacity again! Without fear, but faith! Knowing that through all these adversities, God will strengthen me and guide me in His ways!

Kids.

They're so adorable when they're having fun. Smiles on their faces or that gint in their eyes when they're up to something mysterious.

When you tell them something believable, they might just believe you whole heartedly. Probably thats why Jesus once said its easier for a child to enter the kingdom of God.

They simply just believe!

Kids don't even know what's pain when they're enjoying themselves. They can fall countless of times while ice skating, but because its fun and something new, they'll pick themselves up and carry on skating.

Or if they're about to fall, they'll automatically grab onto something. They'll not move unless being led by someone and if they are left alone at a place, they'll move to a place where they feel safe.

If only most Christians were like this too!

Always having that child-like faith in us, we're always hungry for more of God and His word. We absorb whatever the bible says and believes it whole heartedly. Even though we may stumble in our walk with God, we'll pick ourselves up and laugh about it. Then carry on with life loving God even more than before.

I was with my nephews and nieces ice skating at kallang and noticed all these things. Though it might be just a once in a blue moon experience, I guess its more than enough for God wanting to tell me something.

Basically kids really don't have any worries. Who cares about food? Because their parents are gonna pay for their food everyday. Who cares about clothes? Because their parents buy them new clothes.

All kids know and do is to enjoy themselves as much as possible. No matter what it is, it can be very enjoyable for them. From ice skating to dunking a piece of popcorn chicken into pepsi is fun, and they can do it with such great passion!

I'm definitely not asking you not to work and wait for money to drop from heaven. But I guess its the assurance that God will provide because you're His child and being a good Father, He'll definitely give you whatever you want and ask for.

But if you're a spoilt and bad kiddie, would God still pamper you? Probably not as much right? same goes for those spoilt and bad kids that we usually experience once in a while. Didn't you just wish that he/she would just disappear from your sight and stop irritating you? Parents, wouldn't you feel that your child is just a disaster and out of control?

But at the end of the day, your child will still look extremely angelic when he/she falls asleep.

Same goes for our Heavenly Father! Well, I don't think he feel irritated whenever He sees us misbehaving, but I'm quite sure that at the end of the day, God would tell Satan that we're His beloved children and Satan has no dominion over us.

But that doesn't mean that we can remain childish and immatured all our lives. It's cute for a 5 year old girl to give bambi eyes over sweets, but disgusting for a 30 years old lady to do so.

If God has enpowered us with something, He expects us to use it! If not, why would He even give these gifts and talents to us?

As kids, they'll probably not understand what's their gifts and talents. But as grown ups, you should know what're your gifts and talents and you should start learning how to maximize your potential within!

If you do not know, means you're still living in a nut-shell. So its time for you to emerge and breakthrough! Break out of your nut shells and find out about your gifts and talents! It's about time now!

Somebody buy these tops for me?

http://store.soliscompany.com/moclmesatrsh.html & http://store.soliscompany.com/mosatrpomocl.html

You THE Leader!

Yes, YOU!

Amazing book. To think that I almost forgot Sharon brought for me that book years ago for my birthday. Thank God I found it and started reading it. Read it everywhere in my office. I think after a meeting with my boss, and the freedom that he's giving me, I'm so going to convert my office into a place of dreams and visions.

A place where people come and get inspired to achieve great results, and not just that, they envision success and enjoy the fruits of success after putting in hardwork.

I'll challenge my guys to achieve the impossible. Defintely within hardwork's and dedication's range, I'll place in them a vision to not just accomplish the ordinary, but the extraordinary. I'm going to place in them a vision that will last them thru their NS life and hopefully beyond NS life.

Since i'm their 'leader', might as well be one that empower their lives. Then we'll all have a fruitful 2 years of NS life and probably something that we'll never forget.

I think I'll spend majority of tomorrow to plan something life changing for my company.

*excited*

Late post.

Sunday was quite an eventful day. Served in Jurong West as Erick had an urgent job assignment, so I stood in for him. As it was Dr AR Bernard sharing the word with the church, i didn't mind serving an extra day because I get to listen to his sermon.

Missed out majority of his sermon as I was at backstage and there were pretty much movement in and out of the door. But I caught several points at the ending which I thought was very true.

Our character is so important, so is our reputation. If we are known to have good reputation and great attitudes, people would easily believe whatever we share with them. But if I do not have a good reputation and a good attitude, people may not believe whatever I'm sharing with them.

If I'm known to be a person that always lie, would you believe the things that I share with you? But if I'm a person that's proven to be trustworthy, whats the possibility of you doubting my words?

If I had a bad reputation, but I may have a good attitude, people may still judge me for my bad reputation. Things that I've done in the past may become my stumbling block, thus this is the reason why ex convicts find it difficult to adapt into society and some of them fall back into the vice again.

Good reputation but bad attitude? Always too proud to help those around you, snobbish and carries the 'holier than thou' attitude. These people are just building themselves an altar and they worship themselves. There's no God in their lives, but loads of 'ME-GOD'. Though he/she may have an excellence track of reputation records, such attitudes wouldn't attract much people into their lives because they're so self-centred.

So if you've a good reputation and good attitude, people trust your words and people would want to make friends with you because of your great attitude. Maybe they'll even lay down their lives for you if you help them out of a difficult situation. With good reputation, words that you speak carries power and anointing because its proven that you're trustworthy.

Talents vs Character?

Talents maybe good but without good character, basically its junk. If God has given you a talent, use it! Share it with others that may not be as talented as you are. Help those that aren't so talented. God gives you something for a purpose, not for you to indulge in self-admiration.

If God gives you the talent to sing, serve! Sing in the choir or lead praise and worship in CG. Do not just sing for yourself in KBox, basking in the admiration of your friends because they can't stop praising you after every song that you sing.

Some people may argue that they rather be humble and stay low. But I say its wrong as well! Some people are so humble that they're so proud that they're so humble. Its not wrong to accept praises, not wrong to bask in the glory for a moment. But its definitely wrong when people praise you and you keep denying even though you know that you're good. But in order to be humble, you 'reject' the praises.

Why don't you accept the praises and give thanks to God because He's the One that gave you the gift, talent or ability to do exceedingly well!

I think I'm speaking to several people in this post. I do hope that my short explainations do help you a little. But if you would like to prove your POV, you can always contact me and we can have a debate.

=)

Commanding leadership.

A question that burned in my head for the past few days as i thought to myself, "how am i going to command leadership, in my company that's full of sgts and some of them in the company longer than I've been."

Its not just wearing the rank on my shoulders and expecting everyone to respect me. No doubt they've to obey my instructions, but are they doing it with a willing heart or out of no-choiceness?

I thought being nice and everybody's friend would be the key. But soon i realized that there would be some that would step over your head and make a fool out of you. Sometimes you let personal relationships decide who gets the shitty jobs and who gets recognized.

I soon abandoned that choice.

Then I began to adopt a neutral attitude towards everyone. I should treat everyone as equal and set specific people to certain tasks. Knowing his capacity and abilities, I'll assign him tasks equivalent to his ability.

Then they begin complaining of overwhelming amount of work to do and why they're always doing such things.

Classical example of the rich getting richer, the poor getting poorer. Anyway, that's not the main point for this entry.

Based on what would my guys run if I ask them to. If I ask them to do something, will they do it because I said so or because i did so?

Being a leader, I set standards. At the same time, I'm a walking example of how things are to be conducted. If i want them to be neat, I've to be neat myself. If i want their uniforms ironed, mine has to be ironed. Everything I do HAS to be better then what's expected of them.

So if I ask my guys to run faster, I've to run even faster then them.

Something that i learnt during my exercise was that i set the morale and tempo of my troops. If I'm excited, they'll be excited. If I've a nonchalant attitude about things, so will they.

Basically, they'll adopt whatever the leader is carrying.

Of cos, I'm no superman. There'll always be somebody who's fitter, stronger and faster than me. So now, its not how I'm best in everything, but it's how I handle the situation.

I can be a loser and blame everything for the 'defeat'. Or I can be the ultimate winner and learn pointers from the other person. I believe this is what a leader is about. He's not just there to lead others, but he's also there ready to learn from others.

Leaders have always been associated as high flyers, proud snobs and impatient people. Not true! Jesus's a leader in his field of expertise. We don't read in the bible that He goes around ignoring people, insisting that everyone worships Him because He's the Holy One.

Instead, He goes around serving people and wins them over. He goes all over the place, preaching the gospel, healing the sick and performing miracles. So when Jesus asked His disciples to go into the world and preach His word to the lost, His disciples did!

Basically, they did what Jesus did when He was on earth. The disciples preached, healed the sick and performed miracles! Just like what Jesus did! Till today, such things are still happening all over the world.

So can you imagine the impact you'll be able to have, if you were to be like Jesus, going around doing things that you want others to do as well and in that process, impact their lives.

Wow.