Goodbye 2008

We are almost at the end of this year, and I think it is a good time for us to reflect on all that has happened plus what we have learnt along the way. But more than that I like us to focus and prepare ourselves to live out God's will and plan for the coming year. Here are some suggestions for all of us to consider.

1. Commit ourselves to continual self development and improvement. In other words, never be satisfied at where you are as far as our character and life in God. We should always have an improvement mentality which can then bring God's blessing into our families' lives, into our work, our studies, our ministries and especially in our personal walk with Jesus.

2. Realize that we must live out our lives from a strong spiritual centre. In other words, everything we do should be an outworking and expression of God's love. When we are passionate for God, we will express that passion in all that we do. Many times God's work in our church suffers not for lack of giftedness, but lack of passion.

3. Pray for what we want to see happening in our church. Sometimes people pray and tell God what they don't want. I would rather that we pray for what we want to see happen! 2009 is a big year for us as we prepare move into our new church building.

We have a passion and a BIG goal to reach and have many people attending our church service. It is not an impossible goal. And I am sure that God would be pleased to see new lives enter His Kingdom. To see this happen, it would take a lot more passion, love for God, love for the lost and intense and continual commitment to excellence in all that we do, and to be impactful and influential people wherever we are (salt & light).

I am very excited about what God is going to do in our lives in 2009. But it takes more than excitement, it takes all of us willingly giving ourselves to glorify God as a church by participating actively to grow God's Kingdom.

Hope Tawau Christmas Celebration Opening Dance

An opening dance by our 2 sisters during the Chirstmas Music Celebration 2008

Don't come empty-handed

We usually don’t go to a birthday or wedding party without bringing along a gift. Since we were invited to share in the joy of the occasion, it is our privilege to shower with gifts to those whom honor is deserved.

The Feast of Tabernacles was party-time for the Israelites to celebrate God’s generosity and faithfulness! Gathering as a nation, they brought freewill offerings to God; reflecting on how much God had blessed them in the year that had passed. God commanded them never to come before Him empty-handed.

The MNC is our party-time. Hooray! We have so much to catch up on, and to share with one another. We look forward to the times of teaching and celebrations of praise. One important element of the MNC is taking time to give thanks to the Lord. Let’s not come empty-handed.

This is not limited to just bringing a financial offering. Some of us may have acquired a new gift or talent which can be offered to edify the church. Some of us may have seen growth in our business or ministry – we can bring the “first fruits” before the Lord. Some may want to fast and pray for the remaining days prior to the MNC; to make intercession as an offering to the Lord. A few of us may take this opportunity to say to the Lord, “Here I am, use/send me!”

There are many innovative ways we can bring our freewill offerings to the Lord. Let’s take stock of the blessings we have received from the Lord, and joyfully bring a freewill offering that would honor Him proportionately.

(Deu 16:16-17 NIV) Three times a year all your men must appear before the LORD your God at the place he will choose: at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Tabernacles. No man should appear before the LORD empty-handed: {17} Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you.

The Secret of Long Life and Prosperity

Since Chinese New Year is approaching, let us blessed by God through His word:

Pro 3:1-10

1 My son, do not forget my teaching,but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;bind them around your neck,write them on the
tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.
5 Trust in the LORD with all your heartand lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;fear the LORD and shun evil.
8 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.
9 Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops;
10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

Hope Tawau Camp 2008

We have a great camp at Kuharah Court condominium during the Hari Raya holidays

Our theme is a growing church .... indeed the church of Christ will continue to grow as all living things must grow. We truly believe that our church shall grow just like a mustard seed. It starts small but it shall not remain small. God has mandated that the church should grow. There is enough evidence in Scripture that God is not pleased with a stagnating church.

Love Enough To Confront

Read: Luke 7:36-50

If a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. —Galatians 6:1


We hear a lot of talk these days about following the example of Jesus by “accepting” and “affirming” people just as they are. The implication is that we must never confront them when they do something wrong.

Yes, Jesus loved and accepted people, but He did not shrink from confronting them. We see this in Luke 7.

Jesus had accepted a dinner invitation from Simon, a self-righteous Pharisee. While at his house, the Lord permitted a woman with a bad reputation to wash His feet with expensive perfumed oil. Jesus knew Simon’s judgmental thoughts as the weeping woman lavished Him with love (vv.36-39). So He confronted the Pharisee about his hypocrisy.


It’s likely that Simon had invited Jesus to his home to try to trap Him. Jesus reminded him of his failure to extend the courtesies normally bestowed on a guest (vv.44-46). Then He acknowledged the evil of the woman’s past and the genuineness of her repentance. The Lord said, “Her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much” (v.47).

Jesus was respectful to self-righteous religionists, dishonest tax collectors, and prostitutes alike. Yet He never glossed over their sins. He loved people enough to confront them. And so should we. — Herbert Vander Lugt

I know that I am far from perfect, Lord,

But if you tell me I should recognize

And tactfully address some wrong in others,

I will, with all the love that in me lies. —Hess

True love dares to confront and correct.

Hope Tawau 7th Anniversary

We celebrated our 7th anniversay with the theme Planting The Kingdom
As a church we want to continue to plant the kingdom of God in all aspects of our life...

God of This City

If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God: You will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. --- Deuteronomy 28:1-3

对基督徒非常有帮助的29条建议‏

1.下次如果觉得自己了不起时，试试行在水上。
2.当魔鬼提起你的过去时，请提醒牠的未来。
3.你不是幸运，是蒙福。
4.若想要真正活着，得先彻底死去。
5.机会也许只敲一次门，但试探却总是在按门铃。
6.我们常在强壮时，忘了 神。
7.那些只在星期天呼唤"天父"的人，在一星期余下的日子里活得像孤儿。
8.不要以自我为中心，要以基督为中心。
9.没有基督，没有平安；认识基督，得到平安。（No Christ, no peace; know > Christ, know peace）
10.为什么我们不常向朋友提起 神？因为我们不常向 神提起我们的朋友。
11.当把你的一切献给基督，因为祂把祂的一切都给了你。
12.你现在所追求的，值得基督为它死吗？ （好问题…）
13.使你向 神靠近的人，是你真正的朋友。
14. 神爱我们，不是因为我们是怎样一个人，而是因为祂是怎样一位 神。
15. 神的应许像夜空里的星星。夜越深，星星的光芒越亮。
16.没有基督的生命，是无望的尽头。有基督的生命，是无尽的盼望。
17.我虽不知道未来掌管着什么，但我知道谁掌管着未来。
18.把你的重担交给主，让它留在主那里。
19.不要畏惧明天，因为上帝已在那里。
20.当你除了 神，一无所有时，你将知道 神就是你全部的需要。
21.放手交给上帝，别再向 神讲述你的风暴有多大，当向风暴讲述你的 神有多大。
22.能够满足人心的，是造人心的那一位。
23.请常常保持着你心里的光，因为你不知道，谁会借着这光走出黑暗。
24..当我们只顾工作的时候，我们独自工作；当我们祈祷的时候， 神工作。
25.神无所不在，所以我们可以随处祷告。
26.一个没有需要的人永远见不到神迹。
27.敬拜提醒我们生命的价值，但世界却使我们忘记它。
28.步履艰难的时候，别一味的祷告，却不迈向 神要你走的路。
29.祷告会为我们作很多事，忧虑同样可以。

Stronger

"May the GOD who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the GOD and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." ---Romans 15:5-6

T.A.S.T.E

We are now in the last 3 months of the year. As we preparing ourselves to reap the harvest let us continue to improve in few areas (T.A.S.T.E) as shared by Ps Denis.

Target – I believe that to be effective in our lives We shud set periodic targets for improvement in our lives, be it quantitative targets or qualitative targets. This applies to our personal professional as well as spiritual growth. See the Lord for some targets that you should aim personally this quarter.

Assimilation – when I think of the Lord Jesus, He was able to assimilate or draw in disciples because he first invested time relating with the crowd in very natural context – that like having meals together, conversing with people and ministering to their felt needs. We should capitalized on every activities as opportunities to draw our visitors and friends closer to us so that they may taste and see that the Lord is good.

Shepherding – the one compelling command of the Lord for us is that if we love Jesus we will take care of His sheep (people). It is these stated in Matthew 28:18-20 as making disciples. Either way each one of us should take on greater spiritual responsibilities by learning to take care of others who are younger in their faith. Both shepherd and sheep ought to taste and see the goodness of God in their discipleship relationship.

Training - as we consider training it applies to that of helping existing leaders to break through their own leadership ceiling as well as to encourage and raise up new leaders within every care group. To put in bluntly great nation are lead by great leaders while even good nations will deteriorate with bad leadership. Leaders are made not born. We should exert Godly leadership in every sphere of our lives for the glory of Christ.

Encounters with God – Ps Jim Cymbala wrote about the need to have fresh fire and fresh wind. What it means is basically that for us to have a vibrant and healthy spiritual life we need fresh encounters with God daily. We need to taste the goodness of God personally and regularly so that our love, devotion and commitment to Him will not grow cold.

We will help if we all commit ourselves to this focus for the quarter – T.A.S.T.E.
Let’s together planting His kingdom in our land!

A JOB . . . or A MINISTRY?

In the Church some people have a job, others have a ministry.

What is the difference?

If you are doing it because no-one else will, it's a job.
If you are doing it to serve the Lord, it's a ministry.

If you quit because someone criticizes you, it's a job.
If you keep on serving, it's a ministry.

If you do it only if it doesn't interfere with other activities, it's a job.
If you're committed to it, though it means letting go of other things,
It's a ministry.

If you quit because no-one praises or thanks you, it's a job.
If you stay with it (even without recognition), it's a ministry.

If your concern is success, it's a job.
If your concern is faithfulness, it's a ministry.

An average church is filled with people doing jobs.

A great growing church is people doing ministry.

If you have a job, give it up and find a ministry.

God does not want us being stuck with a job, but excited and faithful to Him in ministry.

Is Work Your God?

You shall have no other gods before Me. —Exodus 20:3

The ability to work is a wonderful gift, but are we taking it too far? In the past, people left their jobs at the office, but now they come home to e-mail and phone messages.

Dr. Dave Arnott, associate professor of management at Dallas Baptist University, says, "I don't know whether work is taking over family and community, or whether family and community are giving up their place to work. But I know the movement is going on. Everyone's job seems to be who they are." We tend to equate our identity with what we do for a living.

The president of the Families and Work Institute says, "How busy you are has become the red badge of courage. . . . It's become a status symbol," even though people complain about it.

Making a god out of work is not a new problem. In the first commandment, God said, "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3). That includes our jobs. Through God's gift of work, we can honor Him, care for our families, and help people in need. Work is not to be our main source of fulfillment; that must come from God Himself.

No matter what our occupation, we must keep work in perspective. God and family are more important than dedication to a job. Work is a gift, not a god. — David C. McCasland

It's not the hours you put in,

but what you put in the hours that counts.

让圣灵充满的步骤

作者：麦道卫(Josh McDowell) | 出处：当代信仰实践手册

圣灵是有位格的。一个人一旦接受基督为救主和生命的主，圣灵这位位格就会进入他里面，居住在他里面。这是发生在每一位基督徒身上的事。保罗在罗马书第八章9节就曾说过：“人若没有基督的灵，就不是属基督的。”

我们既然亲自认识了基督，祂也与我们同在，我们又怎样才能确定我们是被圣灵充满呢？以下有四个步骤帮助我们明白：

第一，对圣灵充满的渴慕。主耶稣说过：“饥渴慕义的人有福了……必得饱足(充满)”(太五6)。我们必须渴望让圣灵管辖、掌权。

第二，在你的生活中，不容许有未认的罪存在。我们在约翰壹书第一章9节读到：“我们若认自己的罪，神是信实的，是公义的，必要赦免我们的罪，洗净我们一切的(过去、现在、将来的)不义”。因着信，我们可以为神赦免我们的罪感谢祂(参西二13—15；来十11、12)。

第三，祈求圣灵充满你。这是神必成全的祷告，因为这样的祈求符合祂的旨意。我们可在约翰壹书第五章14、15节找到这样的应许：“我们若照祂的旨意求什么，祂就听我们……既然知道祂听我们一切所求的，就知道我们所求于祂的无不得着。”

现在，我们都已确定，我们的凭信心而行、被圣灵充满都是符合神的旨意。事实上，这都是祂命令我们遵行的。例如以弗所书第五章18节就说：“不要醉酒，酒能使人放荡，乃要被圣灵充满。”

因为我们已奉命要靠内住圣灵的能力而活，我们当然可以确定，只要我们祈求祂，祂就会释放祂的大能，以圣灵充满我们。

第四，要为圣灵的充满感谢神。然后每时每刻都要凭信心而行，为你已被圣灵充满感谢祂。

当我被圣灵充满时，我作了这样的祷告：

我在天上亲爱的父，我需要祢。我承认，我一直受地上的生活所辖制，一直犯罪背叛称；但我感谢祢，因为借着耶稣基督死在十字架上，祢已赦免了我的罪。

我现在祈求基督在我的生命中掌权，坐宝座。求祢以圣灵充满我，因为祢已命令我要被圣灵充满，而且祢的话应许我，只要我凭信心祈求，祢就会以圣灵充满我。我这样祈求是奉耶稣基督的名。

为了表白我的信心，我现在就要感谢祢在我的生命中掌权，并以圣灵充满我。阿们。

作了这样的祷告之后，我明白我已被圣灵充满了，我就凭信心而行，从此之后我变了一个人，这是以前不曾有过的。一旦有罪进入我的生活中，我就认罪，并为基督的内住感谢祂，求祂再次充满我。然后我再继续凭信心而行。

我相信，圣灵的大能就是这样释放在一个人的生命中，并非凭个人的感觉。有时候我觉得自己被圣灵充满到一个地步好像自己要沸腾了；又有时候觉得我人在这儿，圣灵却被放迁到阿根廷去了一样。但我被圣灵充满绝不是以个人的感觉作根据的，而是倚靠神在耶稣基督里所说信实完全的话。

为何基督会对宗教人士造成威胁？

宗教家们把耶稣当作危险人物，祂威胁到以色列宗教和政治势力的微妙平衡。人们知道祂会做一些「不可思议之事」，祂以权柄教导世人，把人们的注意力从外在的宗教事物转移到内心的态度。祂教导说，上帝不是在寻找宗教人士，而是在寻找：

虚心的人──他们意识到在生命的各方面都得倚靠上帝。
哀恸的人──他们为自己及他人罪的本性和结果而悲哀。
温柔的人──他们愿意让上帝掌管自己的生命。
饥渴慕义的人──他们接受从上帝而来的公义。
怜恤人的人──他们周济穷人而不求回报。
清心的人──他们的内心是清白的。
使人和睦的人──他们使人与上帝、人与人之间的关系和好（马太福音5章1-9节）。


基督被心灵破碎者接受，而不为骄傲的宗教家所接受。祂对宗教家是个威胁，因为任何人接受了祂，便再也不需要法利赛人的宗教了。法利赛人谨守律法细节，而耶稣却教导说，上帝会赦免罪大恶极的人。多年以后，曾是法利赛人的基督使徒保罗主张，律法从没有、也不可能将任何人从罪中解救出来。在数封新约书信中，保罗向我们解释，律法的本意是要让我们明白需要一位在各方面都超越宗教本身的救主。

无论怎么看，基督都超越了宗教本身：

过去──祂是创造者、永恒的道。祂不仅在创世之初与上帝同在，而且祂就是上帝（约翰福音1章1-3节）。

未来──祂是再来的君王和审判者。有一天，祂要统治世界，审查每一颗心（使徒行传1章6-11节；罗马书14章7-12节）。

天上──祂是我们的救主。祂独自从天降下拯救我们，让我们能有一位慈爱和智能的主（约翰福音3章13-16节；腓立比书2章9-11节）。

人间──祂用手扶持我们，作我们的供应者和维持者（歌罗西书1章16节）。

向右──当我们寻求正道时，祂成为我们的教师和榜样（彼得前书2章21节；约翰一书2章6节）。

向左──当我们远离正道，走入叉路时，祂成为我们的代祷者和中保（约翰一书2章1-2节）。

内心──祂是我们的生命、平安及力量（加拉太书2章20节；歌罗西书1章27节）。

这就是法利赛人所错过的完人。他们怎么可能错过祂呢？他们和以色列人等待着弥赛亚降临，当祂真的来临时，他们为何要杀祂呢？让我们仔细地看看耶稣说过的话吧！ --Martin R. De Haan II

基督时代的宗教是什么样子？

耶稣知道宗教的危险性。祂被耶路撒冷一些最重视宗教的人士所憎恶。当罪人和社会所厌恶的人都被耶稣所吸引时，当时的宗教人士，如法利赛人、文士、撒都该人以及祭司，反而视祂为敌。

法利赛人── 一个犹太宗教团体，企图透过谨守圣经以及那些将上帝的律法应用到日常生活中的口述传统，从而保守犹太人免受异教徒的污染。

文士──圣经律法的专家，即律法师。他们往往是法利赛人。法利赛人依赖文士作正确的解经。

撒都该人──一个犹太人的高层宗教团体。拒绝法利赛人的口述传统，坚持死板的解释，并坚守摩西的律法。

祭司──亚伦的后裔，继承主持耶路撒冷圣殿祭拜仪式的责任。他们常与撒都该人为伍。

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耶稣不去讨好这些宗教领袖。祂从来不认为这些人是敬虔的，因为他们犯了不承认祂是基督的错误。祂说他们若认识父，也必认识子。当着他们的面，祂称他们是假冒为善，瞎子给瞎子领路的。

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这出乎我们的意料，我们或许认为耶稣的敌人应是无神论者、世俗的思想家，或社会上的罪犯。其实不然：路人被耶稣吸引，罪人也是祂的朋友。甚至犹太的罗马政府官彼拉多，也愿意给祂多一些自白解释的机会。然而，耶路撒冷的宗教人士，如撒都该人和法利赛人，总是企图诋毁耶稣。他们认为耶稣对他们毫无益处，他们相信没有耶稣的世界会更好。

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仔细看看法利赛人。他们也不是十恶不赦的。他们被视为是最敬虔、最具有宗教情操的以色列人，他们是：

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神学家──他们相信以色列的上帝，提倡过以上帝为中心的生活。

独立主义者──他们决心保护以色列不向外邦世界屈服、被吞并或同化。

圣经专家──他们相信以色列的未来取决于尊崇和奉行上帝的律法。

平民主义者──他们当中有许多人从事手工艺和商业，所以被一般人所认同。

实用主义者──他们不仅努力解释律法，而且尽力将律法应用到日常生活中。

传统主义者──他们小心地去记忆、保存并重现属灵的传统。

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然而，在尝试生活中实践上帝律法的这条路上，法利赛人走偏了。当他们竭力将上帝的话语应用于日常生活中时，他们僵硬的应用将自己带入死胡同。久而久之，他们就迷失在鸡毛蒜皮的事情上了。正如耶稣所说的：「他们将人的吩咐当作道理教导人」（马太福音15章9节）。他们太注重细节，反而丧失了真心。 --Martin R. De Haan II

宗教形式化的危险性

自古以来宗教就具有危险性。早在日本的神经毒气邪教──奥姆真理教（Aum Shinrikyo）之前，狂热的信徒就一直以上帝的名义互相残杀；在瓦口（Waco）和琼斯镇（Jonestown）事件之前，宗教狂热就已经建立了战场，在那里有些人得救了，有些人却迷失了。
　　
宗教形式化的危险性在我们的始祖身上就可以看到。当亚当和夏娃试图变得更象上帝时，他们犯下一个致命的错误。他们的错误不是他们停止相信上帝，而是他们相信的方式是被禁止的。

亚当的儿子也尝试用自己的方式去信靠上帝。主拒绝了该隐的无血之祭，而喜悦他弟弟所献上的羔羊。该隐怒气冲天，因嫉妒而杀了亚伯，也因此毁掉他自己的一生。

以色列人也因尝试用自己的方式服事、敬拜上帝而招来麻烦。在快要进入应许之地时，一些犹太人接受当地的宗教习俗，与当地女子行淫，造成犹太人在数小时内死亡逾万（民数记25章）。

以色列的第一任国王扫罗也是如此，他因犯了宗教上的错误而丧失王位。当祭司撒母耳没有及时出现在战前献祭时，扫罗认为需要他自己来献祭，但是他错了（撒母耳记上13章8-14节；另请参阅15章）。

甚至大卫也因形式化的宗教而招惹麻烦。他成为以色列国王以后，他要求把装着十诫的约柜搬来。他率领以色列众民热切地要把这个圣物运来耶路撒冷。然而，当拖负着约柜的牛跌倒时，为了防止约柜倒下，一个名叫乌撒的祭司伸手去扶它，但他却被上帝击杀。大卫既害怕又愤怒，他如何能与这样的上帝同行呢？大卫重读上帝的律法后，才意识到自己是以错误的方式去做正确的事情（历代志上13章；15章12-15节）。

为何上帝那么重视我们相信什么，以及用什么方式来服事和敬拜祂呢？因为祂在寻找那些真心敬拜祂的人，而不是那些只顾形式而盲目随从的人（约翰福音4章23-24节）。上帝要人们以发自内心的敬拜来回报祂的慈爱和恩典。

这听来复杂，其实却不然。上帝只不过是要我们认识并爱祂的儿子。如此，正确的信仰必会随之而来（雅各书1章26-27节）。--Martin R. De Haan II

Seven "Ones"

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3)

Have you ever worked at a job where you felt a strong bond with your co-workers? Perhaps you were united by a sense of mission, or by a respect for your boss, or by the belief that a prosperous company will benefit everyone financially. The more points of agreement among members of a group, the more they will be unified, the better they will perform, and the less likely they will be to fight among themselves.

Christians have a built-in list of unifiers that can keep them working together with a oneness of spirit. In Ephesians 4:4-6, Paul listed seven uniting "ones." Think of how helpful they can be to any group of believers working together on the same project:

One body—we are a single family unified for one purpose

One Spirit—we all have the Spirit as our power source

One hope—we all look forward to the same future

One Lord—we all trust the same Person in charge

One faith—we all trust Jesus' sacrifice for our salvation

One baptism—we all have a single identity

One God and Father—we all share the same source of our existence

What a difference it would make if we all could dwell on those seven "ones." — Dave Branon

Followers of Christ should focus on what unites them, not on what divides them.

Why Go To Church?

Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together. —Hebrews 10:24-25


In a letter to the editor of a British newspaper, a man complained that he saw no sense in going to church every Sunday. "I have been attending services quite regularly for the past 30 years," he wrote, "and during that time . . . I have listened to no less than 3,000 sermons. But, to my consternation, I discover I cannot remember a single one of them. I wonder if a minister's time might be more profitably spent on something else."

That letter sparked many responses. One, however, was the clincher: "I have been married for 30 years. During that time I have eaten 32,850 meals—mostly of my wife's cooking. Suddenly I have discovered that I cannot remember the menu of a single meal. And yet, I received nourishment from every one of them. I have the distinct impression that without them I would have starved to death long ago."

The Bible assumes the importance of going to church, and the only admonition to do so appears in the context of the danger of forsaking the practice (Hebrews 10:25). We need help to keep our faith and hope from wavering (v.23), and to love and do good works (v.24). Just as physical food keeps us alive and strong, so also the spiritual nourishment of teaching and fellowship are necessary for our survival. — Dennis J. De Haan

To keep growing in Christ, keep going to church.

Changed To Bring Change

You will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. —Acts 22:15


One night a woman dreamed that she was having a conversation with God. She was angry about all the suffering and evil she saw around her, so she complained to the Lord, "Why don't You do something about all this?" God gently replied, "I did. I created you."

God could send another flood, as He did in Noah's day, to cleanse away the wickedness of the world. He could, but He won't. He has promised never to do that again (Genesis 9:11). Instead, He chooses to work through human beings like us, changing them, then enabling them to function as His agents of change.

He changed Paul from a persecutor of the church to "His witness to all men" (Acts 22:15). Paul's life and letters taught, inspired, and comforted the church in its early days, and they still do today. It was the power of God that changed Paul, then used him to change the world around him.

What about you? Have you been transformed by the power of Jesus Christ? Are you now obediently serving Him to change the lives of people around you?

Let's ask God to work in our hearts and lives so that through us He will bring about change in our families, our communities, and the world. — Vernon C. Grounds

Only when we are changed we can help others to change.

The Critic

The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise. —Proverbs 12:15


When I was a teenager, a family joined our congregation. The wife was quiet, but the husband was loud, critical, and overbearing. I was standing nearby one Sunday morning when he stormed up to the pastor and verbally attacked him for something he had said in the sermon. The man's voice was loud, his tone disrespectful.

The pastor didn't do what I expected. He spoke softly, thanked the critic for his insights, and promised to think through the issue again.

Later, I asked my pastor why he didn't argue right back. He gave me some valuable advice I still try to follow. He said, "Every piece of criticism can be helpful. God may be in it, and if He is, I need to hear what He's saying. The critic just might be right."

When someone criticizes you, here are some biblical principles to follow: First, don't respond in anger (Proverbs 15:1). It will only accelerate the tension between you. Second, realize that you have been presented with a golden opportunity to model Christlike behavior—love, unselfishness, humility, and concern for others (Philippians 2:1-4). Third, the critic may be right; you may need to change. A wise person welcomes advice (Proverbs 9:8-9).

Treat a critic as a friend, and you both win. — David C. Egner

If criticism comes your way,

Consider its intent;

It may be that some truth from God

To you is being sent. —D. DeHaan

Criticism is a good teacher if we are willing to learn from it.

The Debt Of Leadership

Save Your servant who trusts in You! —Psalm 86:2


Examine the words of Psalm 86, and you might forget that you are reading the musings of a good leader. King David prayed, “O Lord, hear me; for I am poor and needy” (v.1). Then the king of Israel refers to himself as a “servant” and pleads for mercy. Think of it! This was the man God had chosen to lead His people, pleading for God’s help. Wow!


As we think about the role of leaders—whether centuries ago or today—it’s vital that we review what leadership means. According to businessman and author Max De Pree, whose leadership moved his company near the top of the Fortune 500: “The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between the two, the leader must become a servant and a debtor. That sums up the progress of an artful leader.” Those two words, servant and debtor, describe David’s view of himself as he asked God for help during his time of leadership.


All of us who are in a leadership position—whether leading a family, a church, a classroom, or a business—need the humble words of Psalm 86 as our guide. The “poor and needy” (v.1) servant-leader who trusts God is the one who, in the end, can say as David did, “You, Lord, have helped me and comforted me” (v.17).
— Dave Branon

Controlling other people’s lives

Is not a godly leader’s trait;

But serving other people’s needs

Is what the Lord considers great. —Sper

The only leaders qualified to lead are those who have learned to serve.

Contentment

I stumbled upon a Bible verse the other day from Hebrews 13:5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “ Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

Reality check: Are we content with what we have? The poor wishes to be rich and the rich wishes to be richer. How many times in our lives we complain that we don’t have enough money to but this and that? We often hear people say that money can’t buy happiness, but yet people still trying to buy happiness.

Take a moment to think about it. Myself, for example. I loves shoes, bags, clothes and fancy gadgets like laptop, Blackberry, and the list goes on. People thought I had it all but there’s always an emptiness inside. Yes, you can be ‘happy and content’ when you’re buying something. But how long does it last? The so-called ‘happiness and contentment’ are temporary. After the excitement goes off, you’ll find yourself still lost in trying to find happiness and contentment.

Besides things that we possessed or wish to have, we try to capture contentment through relationships with others. Relationships are important – some are vital – but even these will not provide complete fulfillment. Sports, hobbies, careers, and other types of activities are also used as substitute to satisfy our hunger for contentment.

However, in the end we will find out that things never bring real gratification to our lives and none of these will fill that basic need. The Bible, in the Book of Ecclesiastes, declares that all the things in this world is meaningless and will not bring lasting satisfaction.

We might wonder if there is such a thing as ‘true contentment’ and can it be attained in this life. We may have our doubts but from the Book of Philippians, the apostle Paul gave us some insights: I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every stuation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:10-13)

The secret to contentment, as with all things, lies in our relationship with God. It is not based on circumstances but depends on the Lord, who orders those circumstances. As our relationship with Christ deepens, we will grow in grace and contentment in all things. As we strive to shift the focus from self to others, our contentment will grow. Dwelling more on the love, mercy and grace of God will increase our contentment.

Make a list of the blessings God has given to you. Reflect on how the world distracts us from the contentment that we should draw from these blessings. Start each day with thanksgiving to God.

I have started my journey to contentment, have you?

Just Be Yourself

Stir up the gift of God which is in you. —2 Timothy 1:6

Some Christian groups exert pressure on their members to talk, act, or look alike. This must frustrate the people who are judged for not conforming. In trying to make them "fit," the group may be stifling their strongest and best gifts.

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Here's a parable that illustrates the point : A rural village was located in an area inhabited by parrots, One day a falcon landed on a windowsill, The owner of the house caught it. The villagers had never seen such a bird. They decided to trim back its feather, cut its talons and file down its beak so it would be like the birds they were familiar with.

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As followers of Christ, we are to imitate Him (1 Corinthians 11:1; 1 John 2:6). If we become more like Him, does that mean we all will begin to act alike? Yes and no. Yes, in that our behavior toward others and reactions to circumstances will increasingly become like those of Jesus. No, in that we are each given unique gifts and interests and abilities to develop and use for His glory (Ephesians 4:7).

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Let's not be guilty of stifling our fellow Christians. Instead, let's allow for differences. God has made them unique and gifted them to fulfill His purposes. It's a shame to turn a falcon into a parrot. — David C. Egner

God builds His church with different stones,

He makes each one belong;

All shapes and sizes fit in place to make the structure strong. - Sper

All Christians have the same employer—they just have different jobs.

The Right Track

Double Headed Christian

Hillsong Conference 2007 Opening

Enjoy! It's amazing!

Hillsong Conference 2007 Opening
by ajchz

Sushi Night Care Goup Report :P

It was a great reach out care group we had on Wednesday. With the theme Sushi Night, we play games and make sushi, with our sisters in charge of the food. Really appreciated those who prepared a lot to make this care group a success!

We have 21 people attending our care group. 3 first time visitors and some friends who came back and joined us after a while. It is good to have fellowship while making the sushi. It's kinda more informal way to know each other more. In fact food can be part of our Christian fellowship or evangelism.... mmm.. food evangelism sound delicious. But most important of all, our objectives is not only to fulfill our stomach but to fulfill the will of God! I remember in Acts during the early church, the disciples used to gather and meet together at temple courts every day. They broke bread and eat together. (Acts 2:46). How good it is ..... Thanks to all for your partnership in Christ!

Be Prepared

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. (1Peter 3:15)

Most of us would agree that it is frustrating to stop and ask someone for directions to a specific destination, only to find out from that person's response that they aren't sure how to get there themselves. Even worse are those situations when the person seems convincing and definitive in giving the directions but turns out to be totally wrong. Unfortunately, many people seek directions in life situations but receive confusing and incorrect answers. Those answers often come from those of us who are supposed to have the directions. Sadly, many of us are not prepared to give a sound reason when someone asks why they have the hope of eternal life. Tragically, there are countless individuals willing and eager to provide people with directions that are totally wrong.

As children of God, we have been called to be prepared to share our faith and point the lost to Jesus Christ. In order to do that with clarity, accuracy, and compassion, we must be growing in our own understanding of God's Word and in our personal relationship with Christ. Those who are not growing is fading. We need to be maturing daily in our walk with the Lord and deepening the knowledge of our faith.

As our minds and hearts are properly prepared to explain the hope that is within us, we should examine our own families and circle of friends to see if there may be a need for some of them to come to Christ. Begin by praying for those relationships and asking God for the opportunity to discuss the issue of eternity with those people. Take time to get to know them, seek ways to engage them in conversations that invite your telling the Word of God. Always speak the truth in love. Avoid confrontational discussions and never force involvement if they do not invite dialog.

We must always remember that the Holy Spirit does the work of preparation as well as the work of bringing a person to salvation. It is our role to be willing and able to provide the gospel message and be ready to provide biblical answers to questions they may want to ask.

It is also important to remember that in many ways it will be the testimony of how we live daily that causes others to notice a real difference in our lives as compared with others. This is why it is so critical for us to be in constant fellowship with the Lord and have a clear understanding of His Word that our lives may reflect Him to others. Strive to always be prepared!

Thanks for Thorns

To give thanks in every situations is sometimes very difficult. When your body is wracked with pain, or you have just learned that you have a physical problem for which there is no cure, or you have lost your job, or a cherished relationship has been broken, it's hard to feel grateful. But we can learn to thank God because He gives us strength when we feel weak. That's why Paul could say, "That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:10).

As we surrender ourselves to the Lord and remember that He is working in everything to accomplish our ultimate good, we can thank Him even when we are pierced by 'thorns'. Just remember that it's easier to bear the burden of suffering when we carry it with gratitude. Cheers!

What Type Are You?

There are two types of people in the world," someone once said, "those who come into a room and say, 'Here I am!' and those who come in and say, 'Ah, there you are!'

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How different are those two approaches! One says, "Look at me! I need attention"; the other says, "Tell me about yourself." One says, "I'm important"; the other says, "You are important." One says, "The world revolves around me"; the other says, "I'm here to serve you."

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Wouldn't it be great to be known as that second kind of person—someone others love to have around? Someone who displays the love of Christ openly and unashamedly?

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The New Testament gives us some practical suggestions about becoming the kind of person who demonstrates Christ's love. We are told to give preference to one another (Romans 12:10), edify one another (Romans 14:19), care for one another (1 Corinthians 12:25), serve one another (Galatians 5:13), bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2), forgive one another (Colossians 3:13), comfort one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and pray for one another (James 5:16).

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There should be only one kind of Christian: the "love one another" kind. What type are you? — Dave Branon

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Lord, teach us the secret of loving,The love You are asking today;Then help us to love one another;For this we most earnestly pray. —Anon.

People with a heart for God have a heart for people.

Speaking The Truth In Love

There are times when we must "contend earnestly for the faith" (Jude 3). But in doing so, we must never be ungracious or antagonistic. The 17th-century English Puritans were right when they said that faith can never be foisted on another person. Consent must be gained by gentle persuasion and reason.

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Today's Bible reading underscores that principle. Paul told Timothy that "a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all" (2 Timothy 2:24). He wanted Timothy to be thoughtful and relevant in proclaiming the truth, not defensive. When people opposed the truth, he was to gently correct them in the hope that God would "grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil" (25-26).

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What was true for a young leader like Timothy applies to all believers. Those who oppose us are not the enemy but victims of the enemy. They can be delivered, Paul insisted, but we are to speak the truth in love.

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Truth without love is dogma that does not touch the heart. Love without truth is sentimentalism that does not challenge the will. When truth is spoken with love, God's Spirit can use it to change another's mind. — David H. Roper

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To speak of the Savior in glowing terms,To tell how He died in our place,Will be unconvincing to those who hearIf we fail to show forth His grace. —D. De Haan

Truth spoken in love is hard to refuse.

Christian Giving

One thing that I learnt through my years as Christian is giving. Some said giving need to sacrifice a lot. I believe it is true if we first start to give freely when we know God. As we mature in Christ it become our second nature to give because Christ love compel and live in is. It is not our nature to give. People may give with motive or expect something back. Even if we are generous, it may be because of our self conscience and righteous. But for Christian we give because all thing belong to God and most important Christ first give His love and life for us. When we give we need to know why and willingly because we see the value. Otherwise our giving will be limited, conditionally and not cheerfully.

When I first started care group, I used to pick up people all over the place to joined us. Thinking back those days, I might get tired or even frustrated if the people I bring didn't response well. Or even think or ask why I am not appreciated by these people after all that I done.... well I realized that I did it all for CHRIST. It's OK if they don't response well, its OK if sometimes they hurt us or even make us angry. .. of course it would be good if they can response well. :P We do our best and let God do the rest. The motivation is from God. I draw strength from Him most of the time. God change my self-centered to more Christ centered. If we know this simple principle, no one can take away our peace and joy in God. Not people, bro & sis in church, family, environment, situation, circumstances, work and etc....

Every time we feel that we are tired or feel bad when we are serving God, check our heart motive and pray to God. It's what I do most of the time. It's amazing how God did all that change in my life. What I can say is all glory to Him... Amen

Upcoming Sushi Night Care Group !!

Koniciwa .....

Looking forward for our upcoming combine young adult care group at my house YEAH!!!


Long time no eat Sushi liao ........ can't wait





Meanwhile have to enjoy looking at the sushi picture first b4 next week :P

The Covenant of Unconditional Love

Covenant are agreement made between two parties. In our church, usually covenant will remain unspoken but we should always remind ourselves as the body of Christ to keep the covenant faithfully

When we make this covenant, we saying to one another that all of your past action and your future action will not stop me from loving you. Even though I might not agree with your ideas and actions, I will continue to love you. I will do my very best in every possible way to show concern and love for you so that you will experience a touch of God's love through me.

Mathew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven (NIV)

辨别鬼附与精神病

辨别鬼附与精神病

在福音书中常常提到耶稣或门徒赶鬼的事。按圣经所指，所谓被鬼附的“鬼”是灵界中有撒但（魔鬼）所控制的邪恶势力，利用它们来做破坏的工作，有时甚至附在人身上，使人身不由己，好像是疯狂的精神病患者，所以有时也会引起五会。

鬼附与精神病是不同的。新约圣经提到鬼的记载有八十多处，四福音书里有十多处，清楚分别鬼附与患病之不同（参可7：31-37）。主耶稣医治一个聋哑的“病人”时，是用指头谈他的耳朵，吐唾沫抹他的舌头，然后说“开了吧”，那人即告痊愈。另一个聋哑的孩子，耶稣清楚知道这是“鬼附” 的结果，所以斥责那鬼，把它赶出去（参可9章）。现在将被鬼附与精神病作一个比较，以便辨别。

被鬼附者

1. 起因 多为突然而起，鬼附在其身 上，原因可能是他拜偶像，交鬼问卜， 使邪 灵有机可乘。
2. 言语变态 能说出不是自己的声音和方言，能回答质问。
3. 超然力量 有不寻常的力量，不容易被制服，不知痛楚。
4. 理智 有时会有惊人的智能，知道许多他不可能的事，揭露人的隐私， 预言未来的事。
5. 人格分裂 访佛有内外两个人的争战，乃是鬼藏在里面要控制他。
6. 对神的反应 抗拒，惧怕，祷告时会挣扎。
7. 康复 鬼离开后，会立刻好转，完全痊愈。

精神病患者

1. 起因 心理曾受重创，打击，情绪，精神受困扰，大多由浅至深，由原而近慢慢演成。
2. 言语变态 重复的讲着几句话，自言自语，答非所问。
3. 超然力量 疯狂程度越高，怪力越大，更会有暴力的行动。
4. 理智 失去理智，喜怒无常，或痴呆不动，作一些荒谬无意识的举动。
5. 人格分裂 类似精神分裂症，分裂成不同的人格，左变右变,但两者却没有冲突。
6. 对神的反应 似懂非懂，对祷告茫无所知。
7. 康复 不可能忽然完全清醒，要一断时间才康复，有可能复发。

基督徒能否被鬼附？这是一个复杂的问题，神的子民，在他的大能保护下，邪术恶魔本无法加害，而且神也赐给他的儿女许多宝贵的应许。况且一个真基督徒，有圣灵在心里，鬼怎能进到他里面呢？但事实上，有些信徒乃会受鬼所搅扰，原因可能是：在信主前曾拜偶像或交鬼，信主后仍未完全离开他们；出于好奇而参与迷信或交鬼的活动，使魔鬼有机可乘；常常犯罪跌倒，不顺服神，以致给魔鬼敞开大门。所以我们要警醒，在圣经真道上造就自己，在圣灵里祷告，保守自己常在神的爱中，仰望主耶稣的怜悯，直到永远。

Faith CG (4 Apr 2008)

We had great time too in our Faith group, 1st time of 2nd quarter too! The atmosphere is very homy and filled with joy. Everybody was enjoying themselves especially when playing the "惊天动地" de game mastered by Lee Ling, as Ka Vun stated. 11 Faith attendance for 1st time in 2nd quarter..Let's give a loud applause to our Dear Father.. it's the highest mark we ever hit so far.... and it's surely a sign of good start. ;)

Punishment from games (cabut bulu kening mata ouchhh.... )

企鹅 - 象征忍耐、如同全副装备好的精兵

弟兄姐妹们，让我们装备好自己如同这个企鹅吧！Yo～～～

Hope Care Group (2 April 2008)

We have our first Hope Care Group for 2nd Quarter of the year at Taman Serene yesterday. Eventhough we have 6 people but we have a good time of sharing and fellowship. Pray that we shall have visitor and our friends joining us next week .......



We have snack for food tonite hehehe and also home made soya bean (more nutrition :P)

基督徒如何面对忧虑

基督徒如何面对忧虑
忧虑是生活中一个常见的问题，对身心灵各方面都有影。

一. 忧虑的现象：
它使人情绪低落，无精打采，精神紧张，疲倦乏力。许多研究显示，它与高血压，冠心病， 胃溃疡，哮喘等病症有关。
二. 忧虑的影响：
使人退缩，自我中心，难以自然地与别人交往。它更使我们无心读经，祈祷和餐与聚会，间接阻碍我们与神交通。
三. 忧虑的成因：
1. 重视“成功”，轻视信仰，太注重物质及官能上的享受，人生目标模糊。正如圣所 说，“贪 爱现今的世界”。
2. 外来的压力和打击，如失业，亲友离世，因工受伤，交通意外，环境转变，前程未卜等。
3. 过于理想及完美主义，无耐性，急燥，同一时间想做很多事情，好战，好胜。
4. 生活节奏急促，时间表填得满满的；长期缺乏适量的运动，作息时间混乱。
四. 毋需忧虑的七大理由：
1. 深创造了我们的生命，我们自然可以相信他必关心我们身明的细节（参太6：25-26）。
2. 为将来忧虑，会妨碍我们今天的努力（参太6：27）。
3. 忧虑弊多于利（参6：27）
4. 神不会漠视倚靠他的人（参太6：28-30）。
5. 忧虑表示不认识神，对神缺乏信心（参太6：31-32）。
6. 神期望我们为真正的挑战而努力，忧虑却使我们逃避挑战（参太6：33）。
7. 忧虑使我们不能把握现在，活好今天（参太6：34）。
五. 忧虑之处理：
1. 积极参加教会的事奉，互相牧养，彼此扶持，建立更强的肢体关系。藉此了解神的慈爱及信实，并稳固建立对他的信靠及委身。
2. 每日定时灵修亲近主，祈求获得面对压力的智慧和力量。将各样难处，挂虑和恐惧交托给神。
3. 工作上，按先后次序排好每天应做的事情，逐一完成。遇到难处时，如能清楚写下该问题，有助过滤及澄清思想，获得解决的方法。当然，向别人请教也是明智的。
4. 心境上保持轻松，开朗，镇定，幽默是减轻压力的良方。
5. 多做深呼吸的运动，有助降低紧张程度，增加心肺工能，促进新陈代谢，使神经系统受刺激产生酵素，使人倍觉精神，机警灵敏，从而提高工作效率。
6. 多吃含丰富维他命B，C和高蛋白质的食物，有助抵抗压力与忧虑。起居作息定时，可使大脑皮层及全身肌肉有充分的休息。

如何鼓励和支持在困境中的人

人生在世，不如意的事十常有八九，人往往因而放弃理想，自暴自弃。基督徒也不例外。当基督徒陷入失望，无助的困境中，他除了可以向神祷告外，更希望有人鼓励他。正如保罗劝勉提摩太一样，我们也可以用神的话语来帮助他们。

以下的经文可作参考：
1. “因为神赐给我们不是胆怯的心，乃是刚强，仁爱，谨守的心。”（提后1:7）
神容许我们碰上困难，也赐我们能力和勇气去面对困难。
2. “在大户人家，不但有金器，也有木器瓦器，有作为贵重的，有作为卑贱的；人若自 洁，脱离卑贱的事，就必作贵重的器皿，成为圣洁，合乎主用，预备行各样的善 事。”（提后2:20-21）
失败的滋味不好受，失败的经验往往叫我们觉得自己不及别人，觉得自己无用，甚至
一文不值 ，我们的自尊心受到伤害；但我们只要继续警醒自己的思想行为，立志跟从
主，就能受神重用。
3. “主必救我们脱离诸般的凶恶，也必救我进他的天国。愿荣耀归给他，直到永永远远。阿 们。”（提后4:18）
我们今生虽然会遇到很多困难，有时甚至叫我们觉得支持不下去，但神赐我们盼望：
不但是将来的盼望，更是此时此地能克服的盼望。除了用神的话语来安慰别人外，我
们还可以怎样帮助沮丧的人呢？

一. 我们可以……
1. 细心聆听受助者诉苦；
2. 放下自己对事情的看法和既有的观念，尝试明白受助者身处的境况，以他的眼光看他的世界；
3. 肯定受助者自己有克服困难的能力，并能突破自己，更新成长，鼓励他积极面对困难；
4. 带领受助者从不同角度去看自己的问题，分析问题的成因和症结所在；
5. 接纳受助者的情绪和非理性的反应，带他明白这些反应的前因后果；
6. 跟受助者澄清自己困惑和担忧的地方，引导他用自己的言语或方法来表达自己的感受；
7. 跟受助者一同祷告。

二. 但我们千万不要……
1. 拿自己的观点，既有的概念或任何“标准答案”，去教训，批评，判断受助者的行为或对事情的看法；
2. 对受助者自己和他的情况过早下结论；
3. 给予受助者错误的冀望；
4. 过分乐观地分析现况。

Welcome

Shalom Bro & Sis

Your invited to share any thought or testimony or etc ..... here
Feel free to add anything or want to encourage anyone .....

Have a blessed time
Jason

About us

Welcome to Hope of God Tawau. We are a member church of Hope of God International (HGI). HGI is a disciple making & church planting movement currently in 35 countries across 6 continents. We believe that God has a wonderful plan for each one of us in His great commission (Matthew 28:18-20) and because of His great commission we are here today. Together we want to build a strong and biblical church for our Lord Jesus. It’s excited to see how God transforms one to be a strong and biblical person. Come and join us, we want to see more people to join our great family in Tawau, you won’t want to miss out the golden harvest field before our Lord Jesus returns!