Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like You have loved me
Break my heart for what breaks Yours
Everything I am for Your kingdom's cause
As I walk from earth into eternity
Monday, December 31, 2007
Hosanna by Hillsong
Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like You have loved me
Break my heart for what breaks Yours
Everything I am for Your kingdom's cause
As I walk from earth into eternity
Monday, December 24, 2007
God L-O-V-Es His people!
It was Renewal's christmas carnival on the 23rd Dec 2007! I was involved in helping to tend Jie's store (which I helped to make some sales!) and 2 dance items. I was physically tired due to the many activities that has been going on for the past week.
I enjoyed dancing during the carnival! =) The first dance is called 'Brand New Dance' which is a hip-hop dance Anne learnt from her Australia Discipleship Course with the Performing Arts Ministry. It's a privilege to dance to this because I felt that it's a very meaningful dance. Each time I dance, I proclaim God's brand new beginning in the midst of people. At the same time, each time I dance, I am always very nervous! But thank God, I think the dancers did well! =)
And next was Mass Dance! I taught the dance with my voice.
I enjoyed dancing during the carnival! =) The first dance is called 'Brand New Dance' which is a hip-hop dance Anne learnt from her Australia Discipleship Course with the Performing Arts Ministry. It's a privilege to dance to this because I felt that it's a very meaningful dance. Each time I dance, I proclaim God's brand new beginning in the midst of people. At the same time, each time I dance, I am always very nervous! But thank God, I think the dancers did well! =)
And next was Mass Dance! I taught the dance with my voice.
Haha yes! I lost my voice on Saturday which was just one day before the carnival! Thank God for His strength to carry me through. And thank you Thomas for helping to repeat what I taught because it was a little soft. Though not many people were dancing, I believe it has been a fun time dancing (or rather working out with so many L-O-V-Es!).
.
Through this carnival, I see Renewal as a channel of blessing to the community. As I see people from all walks of life in church today, I really prayed hard that one day, they'll come to know and receive Jesus in their lives. Because I'm sure, God loves all of them, as much as He loves me.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
My holidays thus far
I have been...
on an adventure camp at Perak, Malaysia
where I did cave exploration, white water rafting and waterfall abseiling! It was really fun and exciting despite some cuts and abrasions I've got back from the trip. I was really glad that Seumas could make it for the trip and enjoyed the camp so much! God has been really faithful and answered our prayers. Our guide leader told us that our group had the best weather in this monsoon season. It was a very different camp and I look forward to more of such activities in the future. =)
reading 'the curious incident of the dog in the night-time'
It's a novel by mark haddon. Really happy to finish reading it this holiday because I really wanted to find out about the ending of this novel! This novel is written from an autistic kid's perspective and it's pretty interesting to read about how they think and analyse their surroundings in the novel. I guess it takes a lot of patience too because sometimes they tend to be really long winded!
Well, the rest of the holidays are gonna be projects, IJs and Christmas celebration! =)
on an adventure camp at Perak, Malaysia
where I did cave exploration, white water rafting and waterfall abseiling! It was really fun and exciting despite some cuts and abrasions I've got back from the trip. I was really glad that Seumas could make it for the trip and enjoyed the camp so much! God has been really faithful and answered our prayers. Our guide leader told us that our group had the best weather in this monsoon season. It was a very different camp and I look forward to more of such activities in the future. =)
reading 'the curious incident of the dog in the night-time'
It's a novel by mark haddon. Really happy to finish reading it this holiday because I really wanted to find out about the ending of this novel! This novel is written from an autistic kid's perspective and it's pretty interesting to read about how they think and analyse their surroundings in the novel. I guess it takes a lot of patience too because sometimes they tend to be really long winded!
Well, the rest of the holidays are gonna be projects, IJs and Christmas celebration! =)
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Term Test Thanksgiving!
Ever since poly started in April 2006 for me, I realised that every term test or main examination has been a different experience, churning out beautiful thanksgivings at the end of it. God has taught me 2 precious lessons this time round, He taught me to:
Be a cheerful giver (in time and love)
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Seek first the Kingdom of God
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
Having 4 theory papers to sit for in 1 week's time, IJs and project reviews due just 1 week before term test together with many activities going on in church (worship ministry retreat, neighbourhood invitation for Christmas carnival event, mission trip) and crusade (Life Meetings and DG), I do struggle to keep my commitments and really wish to just lock myself up in the room to study. I thank the Lord for encouraging my heart and keeping me close to Him, lifting my spirit up with beautiful verses and sending angels around me.
As I was contemplating if I should go for the invitation outreach for the upcoming Christmas carnival event, I was reminded of what God taught me way back in year 2005 during prayer meeting that Saturday afternoon. I remembered I was struggling so hard to attend church's vision meeting a few days before my 'O' papers and I really wanted to give it a miss. I did my Quiet Time that morning and God reminded me to be a cheerful giver of time to Him. So yes, I decided to go for the invitation at night after service and I was so blessed by the session together with Jia! The both of us really had fun and find joy inviting the people (though really tiring!).
I faithfully attended to my commitments and God really blessed me so much! He blessed me so much in crusade through the movie 'Facing the Giants' we watched during LM and also a wonderful DG session with my girls! =) Mission trip which I've found much joy in serving and worship retreat which encouraged my heart so much!
What's more is that, God really blessed my study time so so much! Even though time is really pressing, I always manage to finish my revision before 12am reading through my notes at least twice! Being able to enjoy a good 8 hour sleep before I wake up in the morning for one final revision as well. I'm amazed at the speed I can study actually. Really thank God for His strength!
The papers are all manageable and I hope that God will bless me accordingly to His measure. Thankful for this good learning experience and I pray that this will be engraved in my heart.
Be a cheerful giver (in time and love)
Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
Seek first the Kingdom of God
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
Having 4 theory papers to sit for in 1 week's time, IJs and project reviews due just 1 week before term test together with many activities going on in church (worship ministry retreat, neighbourhood invitation for Christmas carnival event, mission trip) and crusade (Life Meetings and DG), I do struggle to keep my commitments and really wish to just lock myself up in the room to study. I thank the Lord for encouraging my heart and keeping me close to Him, lifting my spirit up with beautiful verses and sending angels around me.
As I was contemplating if I should go for the invitation outreach for the upcoming Christmas carnival event, I was reminded of what God taught me way back in year 2005 during prayer meeting that Saturday afternoon. I remembered I was struggling so hard to attend church's vision meeting a few days before my 'O' papers and I really wanted to give it a miss. I did my Quiet Time that morning and God reminded me to be a cheerful giver of time to Him. So yes, I decided to go for the invitation at night after service and I was so blessed by the session together with Jia! The both of us really had fun and find joy inviting the people (though really tiring!).
I faithfully attended to my commitments and God really blessed me so much! He blessed me so much in crusade through the movie 'Facing the Giants' we watched during LM and also a wonderful DG session with my girls! =) Mission trip which I've found much joy in serving and worship retreat which encouraged my heart so much!
What's more is that, God really blessed my study time so so much! Even though time is really pressing, I always manage to finish my revision before 12am reading through my notes at least twice! Being able to enjoy a good 8 hour sleep before I wake up in the morning for one final revision as well. I'm amazed at the speed I can study actually. Really thank God for His strength!
The papers are all manageable and I hope that God will bless me accordingly to His measure. Thankful for this good learning experience and I pray that this will be engraved in my heart.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Exciting stuff!
I'm so happy because Seumas called and invited me to his church's evangelistic concert on the 22nd Dec! What's more? We're asking our secondary school friends to go along together! Something exciting to look forward to! Hope our friends can make it! =)
This is gonna be an exciting Christmas.
Anticipating life changes.
Okay! I'm supposed to be preparing for my last paper tomorrow but I'm thinking of which Christmas character I should dress up as for Crusade's Christmas party next week! Oh dear. Back to revision!
This is gonna be an exciting Christmas.
Anticipating life changes.
Okay! I'm supposed to be preparing for my last paper tomorrow but I'm thinking of which Christmas character I should dress up as for Crusade's Christmas party next week! Oh dear. Back to revision!
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Lead me dear Lord..
Dear God, I'm committing everything unto Your hand. Everything.
You know my fears. Lead me dear Lord...
You know my fears. Lead me dear Lord...
Motivation to Study!
I just finished attending 3 online lectures for Internet Marketing! =)
I'm just 1/2 chapter away to complete my revision for Advertising and Promotions!
Just as I was worrying about the many things to study for, I did my QT and God gave me the motivation I was lacking! =) Thank you dear Lord!
Way to go!
I'm just 1/2 chapter away to complete my revision for Advertising and Promotions!
Just as I was worrying about the many things to study for, I did my QT and God gave me the motivation I was lacking! =) Thank you dear Lord!
Way to go!
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Lovely Sunday with my Lovely God
I thank God for speaking to me through today's QT. Through the dance meeting as well as the many experiences during my break in dance ministry, many a times, I felt that I really do not deserve such grace from God. Jie spoke to me during our bus journey back to Tampines from church that God is giving me a second chance and God is fulfilling His promise to me as a dancer.
After being encouraged by Pastor Biyun and Rev Fucai during the Worship Ministry retreat, I thought it was really timely for Jie to talk to me. Her experiences and her fears (which comes with faith) have encouraged me a lot.
Guess what's today's quiet time on?
A Promise Fulfilled. =)
Matthew 1:18-25
I was pondering on the vision God impressed upon me as I was preparing for my dance assessment last year. This vision. God, do you still remember? Or is it I have forgotten about it? Or am I not working hard enough to pursue it? And there.. God reminded me, He will fulfill His promise. =) My heart is really filled with thanksgiving.
This particular passage in the bible brought me back to last year's Christmas when I was preparing for the Christmas Musical. As I danced for the role of Mary through this musical, God has affirmed the dance vision I caught through Rev Fucai (during prayer meeting) and also Auntie Margaret (during dance assessment).
I thank God for speaking to me so clearly and using a passage that could really bless my heart! Thank you dear Lord! =)
Anyway friends, I am too tired to continue from the last entry! Will share again, with my mission trip thanksgiving! =) Coming week will be revision week for test the next week! I can do it! =)
Friday, November 30, 2007
I am so forgetful!
I just finished studying for a test! =) Anyway, I am so forgetful today!
First of all, I left the house in a hurry wanting to submit my work before tutorial but I realised I forgot to bring the magazine article I'm doing on! So asked Mummy to pass it to me at the bus stop while I wait for the bus to go home. So, after getting it from Mummy, I boarded the bus heading to school and realised that I forgot another thing again! =( It was the questionnaires which I need to pass to the class! =(
I was so frustrated with myself! But strangely, I could hold myself quite well. Normally I'd get really 'argh!' and start the day badly but hey! after a while, I'm alright! =) Thank God!
So after tutorial, submitted Individual Journal and came back for lunch and revision.
I must remember to bring the questionnaires later! (You know, there could be a possibility I may forget again. Serious!) Anyway, just a thought, God has planned today well for me despite the many travelling which I don't like.
Oh no... running late for test! 3pm.
Tell you all why when I'm back to blog again!
Bye for now! =)
First of all, I left the house in a hurry wanting to submit my work before tutorial but I realised I forgot to bring the magazine article I'm doing on! So asked Mummy to pass it to me at the bus stop while I wait for the bus to go home. So, after getting it from Mummy, I boarded the bus heading to school and realised that I forgot another thing again! =( It was the questionnaires which I need to pass to the class! =(
I was so frustrated with myself! But strangely, I could hold myself quite well. Normally I'd get really 'argh!' and start the day badly but hey! after a while, I'm alright! =) Thank God!
So after tutorial, submitted Individual Journal and came back for lunch and revision.
I must remember to bring the questionnaires later! (You know, there could be a possibility I may forget again. Serious!) Anyway, just a thought, God has planned today well for me despite the many travelling which I don't like.
Oh no... running late for test! 3pm.
Tell you all why when I'm back to blog again!
Bye for now! =)
Monday, November 26, 2007
New Experience in a Mission Trip!
Hi all! I'm back from my weekend mission trip! =)
I was really sick on Friday morning lazing on the bed with my Mum asking me seriously, "Oh no, you fell sick is it?" (Because everyone in my family are sick except for me then!) and finally with me waking up reluctantly with a headache and a bad cold (cough, flu and sore throat). Thank you dear friends for praying, to whom I have sent the message to! =) The Lord heard our prayers and made me better! I left for the trip with very bad cough and one ulcer! Praise God!
This mission trip was a very joyful one! The team is made up of very special individuals! Just imagine, a 80+ year old lady in the team (Auntie Shao Zheng!) and people embarking on their first mission trip! It's an interesting mix and I've learned a lot from them. Really thank God!
As I was praying for this mission trip, God impressed upon me that I am going not only to serve the people there but to serve our team as well. Also, like how Pastor Seow prayed for me, I am to go with JOY! And I did. Really thank God I didn't allow any personal worries to put me down during the trip. In fact, wasn't even thinking about it! =)
Let me share with all of you my first times in this mission trip:
My first time staying over at a village!
My first time sleeping at the same house (but not under the same roof) with 5 dogs!
My first time sleeping without a rooftop! (but w a bright moon and shiny stars!)
My first time visiting an orphanage! The children were lovely! =)
My first time leading worship in Indonesia Bahasa!
I will blog more when I get photos from my team mates! =) I really thank God for bringing me to Indonesia this weekend. It has put in me a whole new perspective of mission work. Opening my eyes to see the needs of the people in Indonesia. I thank God for what I have now and I pray that the Lord will continue to watch over them!
Anyhow, I came back with a bad cough, bad flu and many ulcers! Continue to pray and anticipate my thanksgiving on this blog! Stay tuned!
I was really sick on Friday morning lazing on the bed with my Mum asking me seriously, "Oh no, you fell sick is it?" (Because everyone in my family are sick except for me then!) and finally with me waking up reluctantly with a headache and a bad cold (cough, flu and sore throat). Thank you dear friends for praying, to whom I have sent the message to! =) The Lord heard our prayers and made me better! I left for the trip with very bad cough and one ulcer! Praise God!
This mission trip was a very joyful one! The team is made up of very special individuals! Just imagine, a 80+ year old lady in the team (Auntie Shao Zheng!) and people embarking on their first mission trip! It's an interesting mix and I've learned a lot from them. Really thank God!
As I was praying for this mission trip, God impressed upon me that I am going not only to serve the people there but to serve our team as well. Also, like how Pastor Seow prayed for me, I am to go with JOY! And I did. Really thank God I didn't allow any personal worries to put me down during the trip. In fact, wasn't even thinking about it! =)
Let me share with all of you my first times in this mission trip:
My first time staying over at a village!
My first time sleeping at the same house (but not under the same roof) with 5 dogs!
My first time sleeping without a rooftop! (but w a bright moon and shiny stars!)
My first time visiting an orphanage! The children were lovely! =)
My first time leading worship in Indonesia Bahasa!
I will blog more when I get photos from my team mates! =) I really thank God for bringing me to Indonesia this weekend. It has put in me a whole new perspective of mission work. Opening my eyes to see the needs of the people in Indonesia. I thank God for what I have now and I pray that the Lord will continue to watch over them!
Anyhow, I came back with a bad cough, bad flu and many ulcers! Continue to pray and anticipate my thanksgiving on this blog! Stay tuned!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Tree of Heaven
I caught this for 15mins on SCV this morning and I really really really loved it!
The korea drama is titled "Tree of Heaven"! Anyone has the DVDs/VCDs for this? =P I have no patience to wait for youtube to load the videos!
The korea drama is titled "Tree of Heaven"! Anyone has the DVDs/VCDs for this? =P I have no patience to wait for youtube to load the videos!
Saturday, November 17, 2007
May I sing a song of You
God gave me a tune and a set of lyrics and yes, I composed a song! I didn't expect myself to do something like that! I am really thankful for this song as it serves as a reminder to me as I struggled very hard today.
I struggled, very hard. And I believe God has spoke to me using this song. Well, here's part of my humble composition, the chorus:
I struggled, very hard. And I believe God has spoke to me using this song. Well, here's part of my humble composition, the chorus:
.
May I sing a song of Love forever
In all circumstances I'll sing of Your Love
I ask of Your Joy to fill me each and every day
Every moment of my life
May I sing a song of You
Yes, it is every moment in our lives that we are to reflect God's love to others.
So am I going to give up? I need God's strength still!
Thank You Lord for this song...
Even though it may not be well done but most importantly, You have encouraged and comforted my heart! And this is enough.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Fieldtrip to River Island and Vivo City
Drafting out the 'floor plan' of River Island and jotting down the wall colours.
Lionel, Chuanxiang, Marian and me!
Happy 19th Birthday Lionel! =)
add ons: Haoming and lecture notes
Note the height difference! I never thought the guys were so tall!
It was quite a fruitful fieldtrip! Visited both River Island outlets and also decided on IMP1 individual journal storefront. I've chosen adidas! If you're free, walk in to any adidas store and look at how they do their window display, advertisements and lightings which is really cool! =)
Lionel, Chuanxiang, Marian and me!
Happy 19th Birthday Lionel! =)
add ons: Haoming and lecture notes
Note the height difference! I never thought the guys were so tall!
It was quite a fruitful fieldtrip! Visited both River Island outlets and also decided on IMP1 individual journal storefront. I've chosen adidas! If you're free, walk in to any adidas store and look at how they do their window display, advertisements and lightings which is really cool! =)
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Drawing closer to Him
Sometimes, I thank God for the stress I'm facing because this drew me closer to Him. I thank God for all the little prayers I will make every now and then, telling Him how I feel and thanking Him for sustaining me.
I'm coping well so far!
Projects have started! Individual journals due soon. Written test coming up. I can somehow feel the stress right now. However, I'm quite happy that I can coping fine so far. Many times I thought I am not coping well, the Lord reminds me that He is my helping hand and the giver of wisdom. So I hope I can continue to trust in Him to pull through this term!
I'm going for mission trip!
I've decided to go for a 2D1N mission trip to Indonesia organised by my church. It'd be on the 24th Nov to 25th Nov and I need all of your prayer support! Pray that I would be able to juggle school work, crusade and mission trainings. I will also be having a written test upon my return on 26th Nov which I have to prepare before hand, where I need a lot of discipline. Despite all these, I'm actually quite excited! I will be visiting an orphanage and distributing rice to the poor!
Lunch with Estee!
I thank God for the opportunity to have lunch with Estee today! She's troubled over whether to choose Marketing or LOM and just so happen, both her disciplers are from Marketing and LOM! Both Michelle and I spoke to her about our diploma to help her understand more. I shared with her the pros and cons of Marketing and am glad she made her choice. She chose Marketing! =)
We didn't have DG this week! Pray that God will watch over them and bless them in their studies. =)
Trust, trust in the Lord
Lean not on your own understanding
In all, all of your ways acknowledge Him
He'll make your path straight
I'm coping well so far!
Projects have started! Individual journals due soon. Written test coming up. I can somehow feel the stress right now. However, I'm quite happy that I can coping fine so far. Many times I thought I am not coping well, the Lord reminds me that He is my helping hand and the giver of wisdom. So I hope I can continue to trust in Him to pull through this term!
I'm going for mission trip!
I've decided to go for a 2D1N mission trip to Indonesia organised by my church. It'd be on the 24th Nov to 25th Nov and I need all of your prayer support! Pray that I would be able to juggle school work, crusade and mission trainings. I will also be having a written test upon my return on 26th Nov which I have to prepare before hand, where I need a lot of discipline. Despite all these, I'm actually quite excited! I will be visiting an orphanage and distributing rice to the poor!
Lunch with Estee!
I thank God for the opportunity to have lunch with Estee today! She's troubled over whether to choose Marketing or LOM and just so happen, both her disciplers are from Marketing and LOM! Both Michelle and I spoke to her about our diploma to help her understand more. I shared with her the pros and cons of Marketing and am glad she made her choice. She chose Marketing! =)
We didn't have DG this week! Pray that God will watch over them and bless them in their studies. =)
Trust, trust in the Lord
Lean not on your own understanding
In all, all of your ways acknowledge Him
He'll make your path straight
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Dear Lord
Dear Lord,
I need You here with me right now.
.
Show me a glimpse of hope when all else fails
I know I can trust in You because Your love never fails to comfort my heart.
.
Only You understand.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Worthy is the Lamb
I love this. =)
I was browsing through my dance assessment file and I saw my assessor's encouragement to me:
Joelle, you're a beautiful dancer.
The Lord delights in your smile because it expresses that joyful worship that comes from within you. Continue to dance for joy before Him and watch Him use your dance in worship to set captives free.
This is the second time I'm reading this encouragement but yet it tells me something different. She also encouraged me after reading my essay on 'God's vision for my life' by leaving a footnote saying:
Joelle, the highest form of worship is obedience.
Obediently follow the call of the Lord upon your life.
The Lord delights in your smile because it expresses that joyful worship that comes from within you. Continue to dance for joy before Him and watch Him use your dance in worship to set captives free.
This is the second time I'm reading this encouragement but yet it tells me something different. She also encouraged me after reading my essay on 'God's vision for my life' by leaving a footnote saying:
Joelle, the highest form of worship is obedience.
Obediently follow the call of the Lord upon your life.
Monday, November 05, 2007
My calling in Dance
God reaffirmed me once again.
Now the question to me is: Am I willing to step out of my comfort zone?
I need courage.
Now the question to me is: Am I willing to step out of my comfort zone?
I need courage.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Lovely girls in crusade
Just got the BBQ night pictures from Michelle! =)
Jessica (my DGL!), Michelle (DG mate!) and me!
Reason why we were distracted: A cat flew by!
Our DG! =) Mich co-leading with me! Lovely girls!
Lastly, all the girls! =)
No. It wasn't a girls BBQ night! It was just that the guys were all too shy to take picture thus no nice pictures to post up! And partly because, Benjamin who loves to take pictures wasn't around that night! =P
Jessica (my DGL!), Michelle (DG mate!) and me!
Reason why we were distracted: A cat flew by!
Our DG! =) Mich co-leading with me! Lovely girls!
Lastly, all the girls! =)
No. It wasn't a girls BBQ night! It was just that the guys were all too shy to take picture thus no nice pictures to post up! And partly because, Benjamin who loves to take pictures wasn't around that night! =P
Friday, November 02, 2007
Woah Woah Woah...
School has been really tiring and draining! Anyway this is a picture taken during our first Internet Marketing tutorial in the computer lab: 2M02!
It has been a rather enriching week because I
(1) did tutorial! (note: tutorial)
(2) prepared for peer teaching on resume writing
(3) exercised with my classmates!
I am so tired! Especially after doing sports with my classmates yesterday, it's causing my whole body to ache! It was very fun to work out together with my classmates though! I jogged 6 rounds around the track, played soccer (i think the guys must have felt really bored!) and attempted squash which made me realise that I do not have much ball sense for this sport! I hope we are playing volleyball next week! =)
And today is the end of week 2 for the term! Time is flying and work is starting to pile up! I have 7 projects this semester and I think it is really enough to make us go mad. I believe it's also a process where I learn to depend on God for extra strength and wisdom. So yes, these are the things I need to get it done before the new week arrives:
(1) Attend Internet Marketing e-lecture 1 and 2
(2) Complete Internet Marketing e-tutorial 1 and 2
(3) Read up and post questions for Communication Skills online learning
(4) Research for a metro sexual brand for my Retail Management project
(5) Research on Zapcode for Tuesday's client briefing
(6) Research on Swensen's and start planning for questionnaire for project meeting
(7) Visit Vivo to observe and get IJs for Advertising & Promotions done
(8) Look out for business organisations and start on resume writing for assessment
Welcome to Diploma in Marketing.
(1) did tutorial! (note: tutorial)
(2) prepared for peer teaching on resume writing
(3) exercised with my classmates!
I am so tired! Especially after doing sports with my classmates yesterday, it's causing my whole body to ache! It was very fun to work out together with my classmates though! I jogged 6 rounds around the track, played soccer (i think the guys must have felt really bored!) and attempted squash which made me realise that I do not have much ball sense for this sport! I hope we are playing volleyball next week! =)
And today is the end of week 2 for the term! Time is flying and work is starting to pile up! I have 7 projects this semester and I think it is really enough to make us go mad. I believe it's also a process where I learn to depend on God for extra strength and wisdom. So yes, these are the things I need to get it done before the new week arrives:
(1) Attend Internet Marketing e-lecture 1 and 2
(2) Complete Internet Marketing e-tutorial 1 and 2
(3) Read up and post questions for Communication Skills online learning
(4) Research for a metro sexual brand for my Retail Management project
(5) Research on Zapcode for Tuesday's client briefing
(6) Research on Swensen's and start planning for questionnaire for project meeting
(7) Visit Vivo to observe and get IJs for Advertising & Promotions done
(8) Look out for business organisations and start on resume writing for assessment
Welcome to Diploma in Marketing.
Monday, October 29, 2007
A Special Friend
From Michelle Tan:
I received my birthday present from Michelle today! =) (Due to many miscomm!) Thank you Michelle dear! The present is really meaningful and thanks for spending your time to choose it! I like it very much and will always read it when I need encouragements. =)
I thank God for Michelle ever since school reopened. She's usually the one whom I share the most with! About everything in my life. Thank God because our conversations always end with "No worries I will keep you in prayer. Trust God." A tremendous spiritual support in school. Let's have more meet ups in between breaks, I love our sharing times! =)
I thank God for Michelle ever since school reopened. She's usually the one whom I share the most with! About everything in my life. Thank God because our conversations always end with "No worries I will keep you in prayer. Trust God." A tremendous spiritual support in school. Let's have more meet ups in between breaks, I love our sharing times! =)
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Above all
I really want to thank God for speaking to me during teens worship yesterday. Like what Sarah said, it was really spirit led. To be honest, it hasn't been a smooth sailing week ever since school started, in every way. I was really ministered by the worship, thank God and thank you Jimmy for your willing heart to lead worship despite having to prepare your 'O's. It has blessed many of the teens mentors, I believe. =)
Above all by Michael W. Smith
Above all powers
Above all kings
Above all nature and all created things
Above all wisdom and all the ways of man
You were here before the world began
Above all kingdom
Above all thrones
Above all wonders the world has ever known
Above all wealth and treasures of the earth
There's no way to measure what You're worth
Crucified
Laid behind a stone
You lived to die
Rejected and alone
Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall and thought of me
Above all
Dear Lord, You don't have to come to this earth to suffer, to go through what we will go through. Yet, you came with love and reign victory ultimately when You died on the cross. Thank You for your love Lord. Thank You for having me in mind. Thank You for being by my side during difficult times. It is in You I find comfort in. =)
Above all by Michael W. Smith
Above all powers
Above all kings
Above all nature and all created things
Above all wisdom and all the ways of man
You were here before the world began
Above all kingdom
Above all thrones
Above all wonders the world has ever known
Above all wealth and treasures of the earth
There's no way to measure what You're worth
Crucified
Laid behind a stone
You lived to die
Rejected and alone
Like a rose
Trampled on the ground
You took the fall and thought of me
Above all
Dear Lord, You don't have to come to this earth to suffer, to go through what we will go through. Yet, you came with love and reign victory ultimately when You died on the cross. Thank You for your love Lord. Thank You for having me in mind. Thank You for being by my side during difficult times. It is in You I find comfort in. =)
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
My fainting experienceS
I fainted this morning! (No longer in the toilet but in the living room)
And so I end up resting at home and not extracting my tooth today (It's too much for me to take!)
I really thank God that I've learned how to protect myself this morning. I rushed out of the toilet and hurried myself to the living room and finally fainted on the mattress in the living. Phew. It was a rather scary experience though because I couldn't see properly for about 5 minutes.
Anyway to all of you who do not know, I will faint when I cannot take stomach pain. The places where I've fainted before are as follows:
1. Eastpoint rooftop swimming pool (my first fainting experience!)
2. The toilet in my kitchen (for many times)
3. The toilet in my Mum's bedroom (for many times)
4. The toilet in Sentosa
This was an interesting experience. I told my friend to call out for me in 5 mins' time before I fainted because I didn't want her to barge in into the cubicle. So the conversation went like that:
Friend: Hey are you still there?
Me: Yes yes I am.
(felt the fainting feeling)
Me: Hmm. Don't call out for me now alright? Call me in 5 mins' time!
Friend: Okay (she actually agreed!)
So yes I fainted. And when I woke up, I immediately told her, "Hey I'm still here. No worries!"
5. Kallang MRT station
It was too painful for me to continue to travel to church so I took a rest at the control station and gave my sister a call. I couldn't take it, I fainted and my head knocked the floor hard and I woke up! So I stood up and forced myself to keep my eyes open. It was then my eyesight starts to black out till I could only see shadows! I sat on the floor (with my pale face) and no one rendered help! I could even see the shadow right in front of me looking at me! Goodness! My sis and laksa came and I fainted in her arms.
I do not have any illness no worries. It's just that I cannot take pain. But to play safe, I'm actually intending to do a full body check up sometime soon! My body is quite weak recently.
And so I end up resting at home and not extracting my tooth today (It's too much for me to take!)
I really thank God that I've learned how to protect myself this morning. I rushed out of the toilet and hurried myself to the living room and finally fainted on the mattress in the living. Phew. It was a rather scary experience though because I couldn't see properly for about 5 minutes.
Anyway to all of you who do not know, I will faint when I cannot take stomach pain. The places where I've fainted before are as follows:
1. Eastpoint rooftop swimming pool (my first fainting experience!)
2. The toilet in my kitchen (for many times)
3. The toilet in my Mum's bedroom (for many times)
4. The toilet in Sentosa
This was an interesting experience. I told my friend to call out for me in 5 mins' time before I fainted because I didn't want her to barge in into the cubicle. So the conversation went like that:
Friend: Hey are you still there?
Me: Yes yes I am.
(felt the fainting feeling)
Me: Hmm. Don't call out for me now alright? Call me in 5 mins' time!
Friend: Okay (she actually agreed!)
So yes I fainted. And when I woke up, I immediately told her, "Hey I'm still here. No worries!"
5. Kallang MRT station
It was too painful for me to continue to travel to church so I took a rest at the control station and gave my sister a call. I couldn't take it, I fainted and my head knocked the floor hard and I woke up! So I stood up and forced myself to keep my eyes open. It was then my eyesight starts to black out till I could only see shadows! I sat on the floor (with my pale face) and no one rendered help! I could even see the shadow right in front of me looking at me! Goodness! My sis and laksa came and I fainted in her arms.
I do not have any illness no worries. It's just that I cannot take pain. But to play safe, I'm actually intending to do a full body check up sometime soon! My body is quite weak recently.
I love Baby Matthias because...
1. He greets me with a SMILE =D every morning without fail!
2. He's so fun to be with, especially during playtime!
3. His laughters are contagious! Even Jordon laugh along with him!
4. Whenever we raise our voices at them, Matthias will jump up! (too shocked)
5. When he's shocked, he shows a "are-you-shouting-at-me" face with pouted lips.
6. I'll smile at him immediately when he's shocked and he'll ...smile back (after 2-3 sec)
The best thing:
7. He vomited on my bed this evening and that's one more reason for me not to sleep in my own room. Haha!
(and I just changed my bedsheets a few days ago!)
"Matt Matt..........."
2. He's so fun to be with, especially during playtime!
3. His laughters are contagious! Even Jordon laugh along with him!
4. Whenever we raise our voices at them, Matthias will jump up! (too shocked)
5. When he's shocked, he shows a "are-you-shouting-at-me" face with pouted lips.
6. I'll smile at him immediately when he's shocked and he'll ...smile back (after 2-3 sec)
The best thing:
7. He vomited on my bed this evening and that's one more reason for me not to sleep in my own room. Haha!
(and I just changed my bedsheets a few days ago!)
"Matt Matt..........."
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Faithful God, teach me to trust You like never before
I drew this on Saturday afternoon:
I was feeling really really down. I felt so tired of everything and feeling really discouraged in my heart. I wanted to make full use of my Saturday afternoon (because I wasn't in church) but I just can't get myself to do anything properly other than doing nothing. (I am actually doing it, doing nothing!) It was terrible.
I was watching a show while Mummy came back from Giant (she bought lots of fruits!) so I chatted with her awhile and told her that I did nothing for the day despite all the plans. It was then, this thought came to my mind that I should pray and submit everything unto Him and it was also then, Jimmy messaged me this verse, Cast all your anxieties on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7.
I washed up, changed into a fresh set of clothes and typed a prayer in Notepad before listing the things that I want to do. And guess how much I did? =)
1. Tidied my desk
2. Changed my bedsheets (though I don't sleep in my room)
3. Swept and mopped the floor
4. Sent an email to RYM for sec4/5 cell
5. Did Quiet Time (which spoke to me so clearly!) =)
Woah I'm in awe of how God can work through me (even in such simple things) as I come before Him first. I felt that God is teaching me that if I can't even trust Him in such simple stuff, how to trust Him to bring me through the tough times in my life? Thank you Lord, are you preparing me for the new semester? =)
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith--of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire--may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed (1 Peter 1:6-7).
Friday, October 19, 2007
Thankful!
Hello! I have many thanksgiving today (after a whiny day yesterday) God is really good!
I thank God for..
1. The 5 hour long ministry planning!
Met up with Benjamin and Irene for ST meeting at Crusade's office GCTC (Great Commission Training Centre) and we really had a fruitful time of planning. At least there's some direction for the ministry now! I can't wait to see our faithful God bringing us through milestones in the ministry! =)
2. God's encouragement to me
On my way to GCTC, Benjamin and myself were sharing some of our fears as we serve in ST next semester. As for me, I am really afraid that I cannot handle things as well as the first semester. I took a break off from ministry during Sem 2.1 and I did exceptionally well. Now, with more core subjects in Sem 2.2 and with ST and going back to dance ministry in January, I am really fearful and insecure. I really need God's assurance and proclaim that He is my provider! And yes, God really encouraged my heart as Irene shared this verse:
I thank God for..
1. The 5 hour long ministry planning!
Met up with Benjamin and Irene for ST meeting at Crusade's office GCTC (Great Commission Training Centre) and we really had a fruitful time of planning. At least there's some direction for the ministry now! I can't wait to see our faithful God bringing us through milestones in the ministry! =)
2. God's encouragement to me
On my way to GCTC, Benjamin and myself were sharing some of our fears as we serve in ST next semester. As for me, I am really afraid that I cannot handle things as well as the first semester. I took a break off from ministry during Sem 2.1 and I did exceptionally well. Now, with more core subjects in Sem 2.2 and with ST and going back to dance ministry in January, I am really fearful and insecure. I really need God's assurance and proclaim that He is my provider! And yes, God really encouraged my heart as Irene shared this verse:
After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision:
"Do not be afraid, Abram.
I am your shield,
your very great reward."
Genesis 15:1
"Do not be afraid, Abram.
I am your shield,
your very great reward."
Genesis 15:1
I am really thankful to God and at the same time taking a step of faith to really trust God in the coming semester! It's gonna be a faith stretching semester for sure but I know, I'm gonna grow more as well! =) I believe as we honour God, He will bless us, in whichever ways it may be. I pray that most importantly, my faith will be stretched. =) So yes, Sem 2.2 here I come!
3. Interesting conversations over dinner
The dinner was really a good break for us! (okay maybe not for Benjamin, it made him more sleepy!) Irene was sharing with us about some documentaries about Christian faith in tribal countries which are so encouraging to me. She also shared with us the documentary on Jim Elliot which speaks so much about forgiveness! It reminds me of how amazing our God can be. =)
4. Sharing with Benjamin!
I really thank God for Benjamin being such a good friend in my poly life, especially in crusade! The many sharing we had really encouraged my heart a lot. He's really a man after God's heart! (Too bad he's taken? =p) Alright, so today we really had a good catch up session which I believe is edifying to both of us. We shared about our struggles and ministry (and also thanksgiving! how God has been so real as we serve). It was a good session!
5. Divine appointments?
My itinerary in the afternoon:
Take bus to interchange, take train to Habourfront and then take bus to GCTC.
Wanting to save on MRT fare (I have bus concession!), I decided to take train to Boon Keng and alight near my church area and take bus home. And then I received a sms from my sis that she's in church! (which means my bro-in-law also in church) and so, I just need to take one bus stop to church and I have free ride home! =) Woah really praise the Lord! =) I was so tired.
Praise the Lord for today! =)
3. Interesting conversations over dinner
The dinner was really a good break for us! (okay maybe not for Benjamin, it made him more sleepy!) Irene was sharing with us about some documentaries about Christian faith in tribal countries which are so encouraging to me. She also shared with us the documentary on Jim Elliot which speaks so much about forgiveness! It reminds me of how amazing our God can be. =)
4. Sharing with Benjamin!
I really thank God for Benjamin being such a good friend in my poly life, especially in crusade! The many sharing we had really encouraged my heart a lot. He's really a man after God's heart! (Too bad he's taken? =p) Alright, so today we really had a good catch up session which I believe is edifying to both of us. We shared about our struggles and ministry (and also thanksgiving! how God has been so real as we serve). It was a good session!
5. Divine appointments?
My itinerary in the afternoon:
Take bus to interchange, take train to Habourfront and then take bus to GCTC.
Wanting to save on MRT fare (I have bus concession!), I decided to take train to Boon Keng and alight near my church area and take bus home. And then I received a sms from my sis that she's in church! (which means my bro-in-law also in church) and so, I just need to take one bus stop to church and I have free ride home! =) Woah really praise the Lord! =) I was so tired.
Praise the Lord for today! =)
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
God is good despite the bad news
I have 2 bad news to share. They made me really sad (and maybe whiny).
Bad News No. 1
End of Year Youth Perak Trip clashes with Mid Sem Tests!
The semester time table on TP website clearly states that the first day of the term break is on the 15th (which means term tests should end on the 14th or before the 14th!) But now there are changes:
Mid Term Tests (11/12/07 - 18/12/07)
Perak Trip (14/12/07 - 16/07/07)
Should I still go ahead for the Perak trip over the weekend having a possibility that I might have to sit for a paper on Monday/Tuesday? I am really looking forward to this adventure camp! =(
Bad News No. 2
An opportunity flew by because of one miss call!
I'm so sorry that this made me really whiny today. I am so irritated by myself! Always overlooking small matters like that (e.g. forgetting my keys) and regret in the end. Some marketing students are selected to go for an advertising event held at Suntec. Ms Sue Lou called me on Monday morning while I was sleeping after sending Angie off at the airport and I didn't realize there were miss calls! (I only realised it today!) And, 20 names have already been submitted.
Okay, shall whine no more seriously! What's for me will be for me (I don't usually like this quote because I believe you have to make an effort to pursue the things that you want) so yes, I've tried my best asking the tutors and all so I really believe it's God'swill grace for me. =) At least Ms Sue Lou told Marian and I that we can pop by and visit the event after school! =) That's not so bad afterall right? =) Most importantly, I will learn from this lesson. No more next time!
I'm really glad for myself because I slept early last night knowing that I have a project meeting in school this morning! =) That's a good start for my disciplined life I hope. But I'm feeling pretty exhausted the whole of today still, why? Still need more sleep? I wonder.
Bad News No. 1
End of Year Youth Perak Trip clashes with Mid Sem Tests!
The semester time table on TP website clearly states that the first day of the term break is on the 15th (which means term tests should end on the 14th or before the 14th!) But now there are changes:
Mid Term Tests (11/12/07 - 18/12/07)
Perak Trip (14/12/07 - 16/07/07)
Should I still go ahead for the Perak trip over the weekend having a possibility that I might have to sit for a paper on Monday/Tuesday? I am really looking forward to this adventure camp! =(
Bad News No. 2
An opportunity flew by because of one miss call!
I'm so sorry that this made me really whiny today. I am so irritated by myself! Always overlooking small matters like that (e.g. forgetting my keys) and regret in the end. Some marketing students are selected to go for an advertising event held at Suntec. Ms Sue Lou called me on Monday morning while I was sleeping after sending Angie off at the airport and I didn't realize there were miss calls! (I only realised it today!) And, 20 names have already been submitted.
Okay, shall whine no more seriously! What's for me will be for me (I don't usually like this quote because I believe you have to make an effort to pursue the things that you want) so yes, I've tried my best asking the tutors and all so I really believe it's God's
I'm really glad for myself because I slept early last night knowing that I have a project meeting in school this morning! =) That's a good start for my disciplined life I hope. But I'm feeling pretty exhausted the whole of today still, why? Still need more sleep? I wonder.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
A Whole New World
I have something to declare! I am so in love with the song A Whole New World!
The Original Version:
The Korean and English Mixed Version: I really like this!
Enjoy! =)
The Original Version:
The Korean and English Mixed Version: I really like this!
Enjoy! =)
Monday, October 15, 2007
Tired tired Joelle
I've lost the momentum to blog after 5 exciting days in Hongkong and 3 very tired days spent in Singapore before I got some quality sleep only this morning! Like what Sixiu has been saying, it's back to reality! The moment I reached Singapore, after less than 8 hours of sleep,
1. I headed back to church and gave testimony for mission teens service.
I was really nervous but thank God it went well! I am also very thankful for this opportunity to share with the teens about how God has brought me back to him after I backslided back then reason being I was the only girl in my Sunday School class!
2. Cell group with my Sec 4/5s!
Full attendance! =) Really glad to see that!
3. 2040 Service
I was really tired and kept dozing off! I was struggling to keep my eyes open and listen to what Rev James Chan is teaching but I find myself nodding the very next moment and wondered when did I fell asleep! Oh dear, see how tired I am.
4. Cell group till 10+pm
Half asleep and got home only at 11+pm? I watched the very thrilling 9pm drama show my Mum recorded for me while I was in Hongkong till I couldn't take it after 45 minutes!
(And after less than 8 hours of sleep again)
5. Esther's Birthday Breakfast
9am at Boon Keng MacDonalds for breakfast to celebrate Esther's birthday! =) She wore her favourite shirt (with a giraffe on it!) and we had a really enjoyable breakfast with lots of smiles and laughters! =) Hope it's a great start to her birthday! I'm in the the process of making her birthday gift because she told me I can only hand make her gift!
6. Bugis to get materials to do up Esther's present
but the shop wasn't open! Got quite frustrated and tired thus decided to head back home to sleep but I was..
7. Locked out of the house because I forgot to bring keys
I took a short nap downstairs while waiting for Mum to be home. Can you imagine how I felt at that point of time? Frustrated. Tired. Hungry. No keys.
8. Chuan's stayover at my house!
Since my house is near the airport, she came to stayover and did up a small book with all the encouragement letters for Angie! I helped her with it while she's typing her essay for her tutorial this morning (uni essays seem really tough!) Glad that Chuan enjoyed the stayover because the told me the blanket she used was really comfortable.
I had a really funny dream last night where I dreamt of Marian, Shawn and Haoming (marketing coursemates!) and I burst out laughing in the middle of the night. Now, I can't exactly remember the dream except that we're taking photos in the dream? It was really silly!
Off to do some Spotlight shopping with Mummy! =) Update on Hongkong soon!
1. I headed back to church and gave testimony for mission teens service.
I was really nervous but thank God it went well! I am also very thankful for this opportunity to share with the teens about how God has brought me back to him after I backslided back then reason being I was the only girl in my Sunday School class!
2. Cell group with my Sec 4/5s!
Full attendance! =) Really glad to see that!
3. 2040 Service
I was really tired and kept dozing off! I was struggling to keep my eyes open and listen to what Rev James Chan is teaching but I find myself nodding the very next moment and wondered when did I fell asleep! Oh dear, see how tired I am.
4. Cell group till 10+pm
Half asleep and got home only at 11+pm? I watched the very thrilling 9pm drama show my Mum recorded for me while I was in Hongkong till I couldn't take it after 45 minutes!
(And after less than 8 hours of sleep again)
5. Esther's Birthday Breakfast
9am at Boon Keng MacDonalds for breakfast to celebrate Esther's birthday! =) She wore her favourite shirt (with a giraffe on it!) and we had a really enjoyable breakfast with lots of smiles and laughters! =) Hope it's a great start to her birthday! I'm in the the process of making her birthday gift because she told me I can only hand make her gift!
6. Bugis to get materials to do up Esther's present
but the shop wasn't open! Got quite frustrated and tired thus decided to head back home to sleep but I was..
7. Locked out of the house because I forgot to bring keys
I took a short nap downstairs while waiting for Mum to be home. Can you imagine how I felt at that point of time? Frustrated. Tired. Hungry. No keys.
8. Chuan's stayover at my house!
Since my house is near the airport, she came to stayover and did up a small book with all the encouragement letters for Angie! I helped her with it while she's typing her essay for her tutorial this morning (uni essays seem really tough!) Glad that Chuan enjoyed the stayover because the told me the blanket she used was really comfortable.
I had a really funny dream last night where I dreamt of Marian, Shawn and Haoming (marketing coursemates!) and I burst out laughing in the middle of the night. Now, I can't exactly remember the dream except that we're taking photos in the dream? It was really silly!
Off to do some Spotlight shopping with Mummy! =) Update on Hongkong soon!
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Leaving for Hongkong!
I love Saturdays! Stayed back in church to support Jimmy for the audition! Even though I am not going through it personally, it's fun to see all of my churchmates practicing before their turn!
Made a deal with Nellis some time ago during her holidays that if she can finish her holiday homework before school reopens, I'll give her a MacDonald treat! And yes, she did it so here's her treat. Hello Nellis, hope you'll always remember this meal and work hard k! =)
Indeed, to give is a blessing! =)
And now, I need to pack for my Hongkong trip! =) Will be back in a week's time!
(I'm finally packing!)
Made a deal with Nellis some time ago during her holidays that if she can finish her holiday homework before school reopens, I'll give her a MacDonald treat! And yes, she did it so here's her treat. Hello Nellis, hope you'll always remember this meal and work hard k! =)
Indeed, to give is a blessing! =)
And now, I need to pack for my Hongkong trip! =) Will be back in a week's time!
(I'm finally packing!)
Friday, October 05, 2007
Having fun with Facebook!
Facebook finally accepted me after my 18th birthday! For some reason, because there wasn't a Temasek Polytechnic network, I could only sign up after 18 years old. Ah well! So I finally own a facebook account and I had fun with it, especially drawing on Superwalls! =)
The first person I drew for was Ethel!
Those red lines you see are her highlighted hair:
Next for Benjamin, drawing how he learnt diving during ministry outing:
And for Marian: I really love her smile! & laughters. A joy to be with.
And for Phyllis who's attending SOLEAD training now:
Inspired by Serene's love for Pink:
Not to forget, to draw something to encourage my sec 4/5 cell!
And Sinyi, who is meeting up with me soon to catch up and donate blood! =)
I sure had fun! =)
The first person I drew for was Ethel!
Those red lines you see are her highlighted hair:
Next for Benjamin, drawing how he learnt diving during ministry outing:
And for Marian: I really love her smile! & laughters. A joy to be with.
And for Phyllis who's attending SOLEAD training now:
Inspired by Serene's love for Pink:
Not to forget, to draw something to encourage my sec 4/5 cell!
And Sinyi, who is meeting up with me soon to catch up and donate blood! =)
I sure had fun! =)
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
My 18th Birthday!
1st October this year felt like any other normal days because I celebrated my birthday on Friday. Nevertheless, the day was still special with all the birthday wishes coming in and also because of the fact that I cooked dinner for my family to thank them for planning the surprise for me! =)
First time doing grocery shopping alone:
First thing that happened at NTUC: I realised I do not have one dollar coin with me. I had to carry the basket and it was really heavy! Still, it was fun shopping for what I want to cook for dinner. I walked around in circles and realised I am back at the same place! (That repeated for 2 times!) Thank God for Seumas who came to pass me my birthday gift and helped me to carry the groceries home!
First cooking experience:
Cooking is actually pretty fun and brings about a sense of satisfaction especially when people tell you good comments for your first try! =) I'm glad to see that my family enjoyed the dinner I prepared. The dinner I've whipped up includes: Carbonara pasta, creme of chicken soup, hash brown, nuggets, fruit salad (real yum!) and butter corn in replacement of baked beans. We had some wine too! =)
On my 18th birthday, I got myself a new hobby: Cooking! =)
More to come in future, need Mummy's guidance.
First time doing grocery shopping alone:
First thing that happened at NTUC: I realised I do not have one dollar coin with me. I had to carry the basket and it was really heavy! Still, it was fun shopping for what I want to cook for dinner. I walked around in circles and realised I am back at the same place! (That repeated for 2 times!) Thank God for Seumas who came to pass me my birthday gift and helped me to carry the groceries home!
First cooking experience:
Cooking is actually pretty fun and brings about a sense of satisfaction especially when people tell you good comments for your first try! =) I'm glad to see that my family enjoyed the dinner I prepared. The dinner I've whipped up includes: Carbonara pasta, creme of chicken soup, hash brown, nuggets, fruit salad (real yum!) and butter corn in replacement of baked beans. We had some wine too! =)
On my 18th birthday, I got myself a new hobby: Cooking! =)
More to come in future, need Mummy's guidance.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Life is good with Daddy God!
Do not grieve for the JOY of the LORD is your STRENGTH.
This verse really materialized in my life this week. The Lord has been so ever faithful in answering my prayers and sending angels around to bless my life.
The JOY of praying
God always answers my prayer at the most unexpected moment.
So here's my answered prayer that I've mentioned in the earlier entry: Farm Visit! =)
This verse really materialized in my life this week. The Lord has been so ever faithful in answering my prayers and sending angels around to bless my life.
The JOY of praying
God always answers my prayer at the most unexpected moment.
So here's my answered prayer that I've mentioned in the earlier entry: Farm Visit! =)
The place is beautiful! I love such places. The animals were quite scary though and I heard from the keeper that some birds (e.g. parrot) actually escaped! Maybe that's the reason why 2M02 saw a beautiful dead bird outside LT27 before our FAOM lecture. I was in charged of the goat station and some children were really naughty (e.g. bullying the goat). Nonetheless, I had a great time with them teaching and feeding the goat. =) Oh and this little girl here:
She calls me "di zer" (teacher) and end her conversations with hor? or lah!
"Look at the camera and smile" and she really tried her best. By the way, the reason why she's frowning is not because of me but because of the glaring sun!
Another answered prayer: I had lunch with Nainai! =)
I was on my way to Yeye's nursing home on Saturday and I missed the bus! When I looked over to the other side, I saw Nainai, who have just missed the bus too! I realised the prayer I made a week ago:
The JOY of giving
I really thank God for giving me the opportunity to shepherd sec 4/5 cell for it has brought me so much joy in my life and taught me the joy of giving and serving the Lord. The lovely cell celebrated my birthday on Saturday morning with Sarah's breakfast treat (may the Lord bless you more sis!) Thank you all for the birthday wishes, it has touched my heart to see that I've been a blessing in one way or another. =)
It has always been my prayer to see God working in the lives of the younger girls in church. Sometimes it may seem impossible but many a times I was reminded of how God has changed my life. I thank God for using me to help Nellis with her walk with God by teaching her things from the bible that she do not understand. =) I am sure she has learned a lot from the Lord recently, right Nellis? By the way she loves to take pictures:
Thanks little sis. Your growth in Christ has encouraged me. =)
And yes! I had a good date with Shumin at Chomps and Ice Cube. She treated me to dinner and I treated her to yummy ice cream and banana mudpie (its awesome!) at Ice Cube! We had a good catch up session about our life and her Batam mission trip over the weekend!
Our friendship is really special in some ways. Thank God for you Shumin! =)
"Look at the camera and smile" and she really tried her best. By the way, the reason why she's frowning is not because of me but because of the glaring sun!
Another answered prayer: I had lunch with Nainai! =)
I was on my way to Yeye's nursing home on Saturday and I missed the bus! When I looked over to the other side, I saw Nainai, who have just missed the bus too! I realised the prayer I made a week ago:
Dear Lord, I would like to have lunch with Nainai on my birthday.
"...I prayed to God that we'll become really good friends. As I recall this prayer that I've made, I thank God for answering my prayer!" I made this prayer in my heart too! It's great to journey with the Lord with Jia as we grow together in Christ's love in youth and dance ministry. I thank God for the many honest sharing we had! =) So before visiting Yeye, I brought her to lunch and celebrated her birthday for her. Nainai told me that she seldom visit Yeye at this hour but decided to do so today. It's really a God planned lunch I believe. I'm so happy I could meet Nainai and treat her to lunch. As I shared my good results with her, I could see that she's proud of me. =) After that, we (my family) and Nainai visited Yeye at the nursing home together to encourage him. He's looking good. Praise God for sustaining him! =)
The JOY with loved ones
I thank the Lord for blessing me with people in my life who loves me.
Mummy knew I love donuts and attempted to bake some for me:
It's a pleasant surprise for me! =) She wanted to perfect it and make 18 donuts on my birthday because I told her I don't like to eat cakes.
Jie brought me to highlight my hair as a birthday gift for me by giving me a nice look on my 18th birthday and Laksa paid 1/2 of my Hongkong trip for me!
Jie and Laksa planned a surprise birthday party for me on Fri held at Luke's condo:
They took time to plan and decorate the place for me with beautiful balloons at the function room. They invited my friends to surprise me too. That's really sweet of them for all the effort and time and money spent. I was really happy that night! =) I'll update pictures when I load it up from the camera. Thank you to all who made it possible and enjoyable.
I want to thank the Lord for placing these 2 very lovely friends in my life who is always always there when I needed them.
Michelle Tan:
"Its great having a good friend like you who encourages me, share your thanksgiving and not forgetting some personal stuff." Michelle, I thank God for you too! You've been a huge blessing.
My dearest Jia:
The JOY with loved ones
I thank the Lord for blessing me with people in my life who loves me.
Mummy knew I love donuts and attempted to bake some for me:
It's a pleasant surprise for me! =) She wanted to perfect it and make 18 donuts on my birthday because I told her I don't like to eat cakes.
Jie brought me to highlight my hair as a birthday gift for me by giving me a nice look on my 18th birthday and Laksa paid 1/2 of my Hongkong trip for me!
Jie and Laksa planned a surprise birthday party for me on Fri held at Luke's condo:
They took time to plan and decorate the place for me with beautiful balloons at the function room. They invited my friends to surprise me too. That's really sweet of them for all the effort and time and money spent. I was really happy that night! =) I'll update pictures when I load it up from the camera. Thank you to all who made it possible and enjoyable.
I want to thank the Lord for placing these 2 very lovely friends in my life who is always always there when I needed them.
Michelle Tan:
"Its great having a good friend like you who encourages me, share your thanksgiving and not forgetting some personal stuff." Michelle, I thank God for you too! You've been a huge blessing.
My dearest Jia:
The JOY of giving
I really thank God for giving me the opportunity to shepherd sec 4/5 cell for it has brought me so much joy in my life and taught me the joy of giving and serving the Lord. The lovely cell celebrated my birthday on Saturday morning with Sarah's breakfast treat (may the Lord bless you more sis!) Thank you all for the birthday wishes, it has touched my heart to see that I've been a blessing in one way or another. =)
It has always been my prayer to see God working in the lives of the younger girls in church. Sometimes it may seem impossible but many a times I was reminded of how God has changed my life. I thank God for using me to help Nellis with her walk with God by teaching her things from the bible that she do not understand. =) I am sure she has learned a lot from the Lord recently, right Nellis? By the way she loves to take pictures:
Thanks little sis. Your growth in Christ has encouraged me. =)
And yes! I had a good date with Shumin at Chomps and Ice Cube. She treated me to dinner and I treated her to yummy ice cream and banana mudpie (its awesome!) at Ice Cube! We had a good catch up session about our life and her Batam mission trip over the weekend!
Our friendship is really special in some ways. Thank God for you Shumin! =)
I would like to end this long entry with Psalm 23:
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Recent Happenings
Tuesday: Prayer Meeting + Limin's 17th Birthday!
Sunday: Service with Nainai + TWM gathering!
Headed down to accompany Nainai for morning service and it has encouraged my heart to see her listening so attentively to the sermon and asking questions whenever she is in doubt. It excite my heart to see her desire to know God. =) Nainai gave me $200 for my birthday and I will be using it for end of year Perak trip! God provided indeed! =)
Sec 4/5 cell gave Limin a little surprise on her birthday! We had dinner at block 3 and got her really surprised when we sang her a birthday song with cake and a beautiful red gerbera! The birthday girl went on stage to thank God on that day for her good prelim results too! Really happy for her! =)
Prayer Meeting was great! I had a great time praying and dancing before the Lord! Job prayed for me and he told me, "Your spirit is soaring. You will see a vision!" I claimed that immediately and when we went into personal prayer time with God, an image of a sunset at the beach came to me. Rev Chern then explained, those who saw sources of water, the Lord wants to encourage us that He will provide for us and that we'll be in abundance! =) Amen!
Friday: Crusade Ministry Outing at Sentosa
I took a different approach to beach life this time round. I took some time to read under the tree to enjoy the sea breeze and company of my crusaders. No longer Beach Volleyball all the way for me! =P It was a relaxing afternoon with lovely people in my school life! =)
Headed down to accompany Nainai for morning service and it has encouraged my heart to see her listening so attentively to the sermon and asking questions whenever she is in doubt. It excite my heart to see her desire to know God. =) Nainai gave me $200 for my birthday and I will be using it for end of year Perak trip! God provided indeed! =)
And then.. TWM gathering, I became a babysitter again:
Bliss and Joel
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Clue: An answered prayer!
Hangman by Page Paint
Hello everyone! I am so excited to share right now because God has answered a small prayer request of mine! =D
I am working with a company where they go around schools to conduct science enrichment classes and my job is to assist the trainer when he is teaching. There will be fieldtrip conducted for the primary school I'm attached to and I'm very interested to go. However, I am not allocated for that slot. So during last week's cell group, when asked for prayer request, I just said "Maybe can pray that I can go for the fieldtrip!"
For the final details and arrangement done last Wednesday, it's confirmed that I will not be going for the farm visit. But the I/C Luzanne (Glenn's wife!) messaged me this morning and told me there's some last minute changes where I'll be helping out for farm visit and not in the primary school itself! =D
See, even if it's a small request, God answered my prayer!
This is the joy I experience when I pray! =)
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Thank You Daddy!
On 1st Oct 1989, I was born.
On 1st Oct 2005, I had the most memorable birthday with a midnight surprise party.
On 1st Oct 2006, I had the most meaningful birthday spent at a mission trip:
1st October 2007 is coming!
To have my birthday falls on Children's Day holds a deep significance to me as I grow up. I grew up in a single-parent family not knowing how does it feels to have a Daddy to dote on me, to carry me on his shoulder like how most Daddy does to their little ones.
I thank God for coming into my life at such a young age as I follow my Mum to church, without knowing why. Despite not knowing God at a personal level when I was young, I believe that His Father's love has been showering on me. I don't remember asking my Mum anything about Daddy at all. Amazing right? I believed God's love has already filled the emptiness in my heart.
There was a period of time where I backslided reason being, I was the only girl in my Sunday School class. I ran away from church, not knowing I was running away from the Daddy God who loves me so much. But all thanks to His faithfulness as a Shepherd, I was brought back to Him through many divine encounters. =)
As I grow to know God more, I started serving in church as a dancer. It was the least expected ministry I think I'd be in. I never knew I could dance! I firmly believe its a gift from Daddy God. =) And indeed, God has affirmed that I am always his beloved child by choosing me to dance on Father's Day for 3 years. I don't celebrate Father's Day and it's always on that very day then I realised 'Hey it's Father's Day and I'm on duty again!" It's my 4th year in the dance team and I missed it because I was on break.
As I was reflecting yesterday, God has used my birthday (Children's Day!) to encourage my heart. That I'd always be his beloved child to know that I have a Heavenly Daddy to be with me in this life journey. Just like what Rev Chern prayed for me during a Sunday Service,
"Even though you do not have an earthly Father, but you have an everlasting Father who will never fail you." Thank you Lord, can never imagine my life without You because You have done so much for me. =)
On 1st Oct 2005, I had the most memorable birthday with a midnight surprise party.
On 1st Oct 2006, I had the most meaningful birthday spent at a mission trip:
1st October 2007 is coming!
To have my birthday falls on Children's Day holds a deep significance to me as I grow up. I grew up in a single-parent family not knowing how does it feels to have a Daddy to dote on me, to carry me on his shoulder like how most Daddy does to their little ones.
I thank God for coming into my life at such a young age as I follow my Mum to church, without knowing why. Despite not knowing God at a personal level when I was young, I believe that His Father's love has been showering on me. I don't remember asking my Mum anything about Daddy at all. Amazing right? I believed God's love has already filled the emptiness in my heart.
There was a period of time where I backslided reason being, I was the only girl in my Sunday School class. I ran away from church, not knowing I was running away from the Daddy God who loves me so much. But all thanks to His faithfulness as a Shepherd, I was brought back to Him through many divine encounters. =)
As I grow to know God more, I started serving in church as a dancer. It was the least expected ministry I think I'd be in. I never knew I could dance! I firmly believe its a gift from Daddy God. =) And indeed, God has affirmed that I am always his beloved child by choosing me to dance on Father's Day for 3 years. I don't celebrate Father's Day and it's always on that very day then I realised 'Hey it's Father's Day and I'm on duty again!" It's my 4th year in the dance team and I missed it because I was on break.
As I was reflecting yesterday, God has used my birthday (Children's Day!) to encourage my heart. That I'd always be his beloved child to know that I have a Heavenly Daddy to be with me in this life journey. Just like what Rev Chern prayed for me during a Sunday Service,
"Even though you do not have an earthly Father, but you have an everlasting Father who will never fail you." Thank you Lord, can never imagine my life without You because You have done so much for me. =)
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Secret Weapon - to be Joyful.
Below is an extract written by Tom Brown (Benjamin's blog for more details)
Orange words are the paragraphs from the extract and
Yellow words are what I've gone through today.
One of the most popular passages in the Bible is
Nehemiah 8:10: "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Orange words are the paragraphs from the extract and
Yellow words are what I've gone through today.
One of the most popular passages in the Bible is
Nehemiah 8:10: "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."
Why is joy important? Because the "joy of the Lord is your strength!" Joy produces strength. And strength is needed to fight. You are called to "fight the good fight of faith" (1 Timothy
I was just chatting with Benjamin a couple of days ago and I asked him why he is always so joyful no matter what is happening to him. It’s like, if you see him with a frown, something big must be happening! He told me because he has got Jesus in his life, that’s why he’s so joyful! And on that very day, my Quiet Time was on Joy as well. I believe that God has used these 2 situations to encourage my heart today.
REJOICE ALWAYS
Philippians 4:4 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" How often are you to rejoice? You know the answer: Always! You are to rejoice always, because "joy" is the easiest fruit to lose. You can't live off of the joy you had yesterday. Joy can give you strength only when you possess it.
If you had joy last week, that joy will not give you strength today. Joy can only give you strength today, if you have it today. This is why you must rejoice always.
Just last year and also this year, the greatest lesson that God has taught me is to be thankful in all circumstances and to rejoice in all circumstances. It was hard but whenever I did that, I really feel so much better. I just had one of the worst days today where I was really feeling blue. I had no joy in my heart and feeling really helpless at such a situation that was placed in front of me. It seemed like a mountain that I can never conquer.
You might say, "I don't feel like rejoicing." God didn't say, "Rejoice, only if you feel like it." No! He said, "Rejoice always." Obviously, God knows that you don't feel like rejoicing always. Yet you need to rejoice always because if you don't then you lose the strength to fight.
Yes, I didn’t felt like rejoicing. My heart was at a mess. I was really tired (mentally and physically). I raised my voice at Mummy today just because I was almost late for work. I happily went down to Starhub at TM and got the news that the phone I wanted is out of stock. I travelled home and fell asleep because I was too tired. Then I woke up after a half an hour nap and travelled to church. Bus waiting has never been so long (about 20mins).
James 1:2 says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds." Pure joy is not happiness. "Happiness" comes from the word "happen." Happiness, therefore, is based on what is happening. If something good is happening, then you are happy. However, God says that pure joy occurs even in the midst of trials -- even when the car breaks down, or when the kids get sick, or when the boss cuts your hours, or when your spouse is in a bad mood, etc.
I messaged Michelle Tan to share with her my bad day and asked her to keep me in prayer. I prayed silently in my heart too. I prayed for more joy to overflow in me. I was actually on my way to church to teach some youths a dance for a rally for the Batam mission trip. I told God. I want to serve you with joy and not with complaints and a heavy and burdened spirit.
Why is James telling us to count it pure joy whenever we face trials? Because joy gives you strength to fight your trials, and if you'll fight the trials, you will overcome. James continues, "Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" (v. 4). You see, James has in mind "victory over trials", not "acceptance of his trials." So by rejoicing, you overcome your trials.
As I was walking to church after I alighted from the bus, I remembered this sharing about joy with Benjamin. I started to sing “With Christ in the vessel we can smile at the storm” followed by “I’ve got the joy down in my heart” and some other joyful children praise songs. I really felt better. And really, when I reached church, I felt rather energetic and excited to teach them the dance. And throughout the lesson, the youths brought me so much joy and laughter when they dance. (It was really hilarious!) It brightened up my day!
It’s a victorious day. Thank you Lord for making it possible. I can only do this with Your strength.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Friday, September 14, 2007
Babysitting at Staff Summit
Babysitting
I helped out at Campus Crusade's Staff Summit being a babysitter on Tuesday and Friday, which is today. It was quite a good experience altogether . Had fun with my fellow crusaders babysitting together.
Jeshua, my favourite baby! Very smiley!
From Monopoly to Transformer robots..
To Wordsearch..
With all the fun times aside, I had 2 bad experiences.
Bad experience #1
I folded a paper crane and asked a little girl if she wants it. She nodded her head and I gave it to her. What's next? She looked into my eyes and crushed the paper crane in her hands. I was too shocked to respond. Thank God Amber was around and told her it's rude to do this.
Bad experience #2
I was trying to play with the group of children a staff was playing with so that he could leave for the meeting in the hall. However, no matter how hard the little girl tries to explain the game, we couldn't understand at all. As we suggest to play another game, she replied with a firm NO! So she decided to read the instructions and while she's reading it, the staff went on to play with other children leaving just me and her.
Me: Why not I read it and explain it to you?
Little girl: NO (with her big eyes staring at me) I will read it myself.
So I waited for her patiently.
Me: How?
Little girl: Alright, I don't (this word was stressed) wanna play with you, alright?
and she kinda rolled her eyeballs.
As usual, too shocked to respond (I never expected kids to be like that), I walked away (as she's still struggling to understand the instruction) and when Amber asked how was it, I teared. I was so angry and heartbroken! I didn't do anything to her at all! =( But well, I'm not angry anymore. Just thought of sharing this bad experience and jotting it down in my blogspot.
Overall a good day still, thank God! ;)
And on a happier note, it's Glenn&Luzanne's wedding tomorrow!
I helped out at Campus Crusade's Staff Summit being a babysitter on Tuesday and Friday, which is today. It was quite a good experience altogether . Had fun with my fellow crusaders babysitting together.
The Babysitters
Jeshua, my favourite baby! Very smiley!
From Monopoly to Transformer robots..
To Wordsearch..
With all the fun times aside, I had 2 bad experiences.
Bad experience #1
I folded a paper crane and asked a little girl if she wants it. She nodded her head and I gave it to her. What's next? She looked into my eyes and crushed the paper crane in her hands. I was too shocked to respond. Thank God Amber was around and told her it's rude to do this.
Bad experience #2
I was trying to play with the group of children a staff was playing with so that he could leave for the meeting in the hall. However, no matter how hard the little girl tries to explain the game, we couldn't understand at all. As we suggest to play another game, she replied with a firm NO! So she decided to read the instructions and while she's reading it, the staff went on to play with other children leaving just me and her.
Me: Why not I read it and explain it to you?
Little girl: NO (with her big eyes staring at me) I will read it myself.
So I waited for her patiently.
Me: How?
Little girl: Alright, I don't (this word was stressed) wanna play with you, alright?
and she kinda rolled her eyeballs.
As usual, too shocked to respond (I never expected kids to be like that), I walked away (as she's still struggling to understand the instruction) and when Amber asked how was it, I teared. I was so angry and heartbroken! I didn't do anything to her at all! =( But well, I'm not angry anymore. Just thought of sharing this bad experience and jotting it down in my blogspot.
Overall a good day still, thank God! ;)
And on a happier note, it's Glenn&Luzanne's wedding tomorrow!