Men's Camp - A Men Encounter Weekend

When some people saw this name - MEN's CAMP will immediately thought of something bad that related to sex thingi! Well it is quit true if you search in Google. But you are totally wrong to have this perception. In fact, you will surprise to know my wife has been forcing me for years to join the MEN's camp. She believe after I joined I will be a better husband or better father.

Well... is it true ?

And now, finally I am here in the SIBKL MEN's camp. It is a camp organised by the church solely for men. It is Men's Encounter Weekend. A place that men re-connect back with the mighty God and we are here to re-focus back on becoming an authentic man, authentic husband and an authentic father.

It is not easy to become a good father or a good husband. By just bringing money to the family's table is not sufficient. Many broken families started when man of the house chasing after materialist gain but neglected family bonding. Thus, we should spend more time with our family.

We macho man may looked strong outside but many times are weak inside. Especially when we face temptation of the world, many will fall for it and cause marriage failure. The camp hopes that we men can gather together to share our life story, to encourage each others. We are human being and for sure, we will face many up and down, difficulties in our work life, family life and even personal life. So, it is important to have a male buddy to help one and another, when one face life issues, at least we know someone to turn to. Off course, the fundamental of men relationship is based on trust and we are committed to keep it within the group.  

I am glad that Pastor Chris from DUMC is leading the men's camp. It is truly an awesome time with him. With his sharing and encouragement, I have learned so much from him. He is a Godly man that show us how to live as an authentic husband and father in his family. I believe he has inspired many of us.  

First night, Pastor Chris shared some tips for being a good father. He suggested we men should show our love by saying out. We're too shy of saying "I love You", especially in Chinese family, we don't do that. Our parent also never say it to us, it is something that "you know lah". Henceforth, we are embarrassing to say it to our wife and kids. Similarly the hugging culture, for us we don't feel comfortable. We don't have such habit. But somehow, I do believe it is importance. Both wife and kids are important part of our life, we men should be leading by example. Telling our wife and kids we love them and hug them ..... I believe family bonding will be improved by doing so.

Similarly we should do it to our parent too, I do remember the time when I hug my mum, I believe she enjoy my hug, but I regretted of doing not enough for her. But now, she rested in peace, I do not have any chance to do it.

Pastor encouraged us as father must always give positive affirmation to our kids. We should not be a "dis-charger" but rather be a "charger", our kids need our encouragement, they will excel in life if positive affirmation is given to them in their early life, these are some words that Pastor encouraged us to say to our kids:-

• I love you
• I am proud of you
• you are good in what you do

In camp, we watched a movie - The Courageous. It talked about life of 4 police officers and their families. It was an awesome movie that I do encourage you to watch. This movie has inspire me in many ways ...

• It is not okay to be a "just Okay Father"
• We must spend time with our kids, they will grow up, if you lost the Golden Time with them, it may be too late.
• God will provide no matter how difficult the situation is
• Dignity is important, no matter how bad is the situation, don't cheat. God will be pleased of what you do.

The movie demonstrated the right way to become a good father. I truly enjoy it. Like what Pastor Chris said, we men must spend time with our kids one to one in private session, no matter how busy we are. The kids will treasure the time with you. You no longer just their father, you can be their friends too.

A successful men always has a successful women in life. When men talked about their wives, we always laugh it out but inside, sometime full of unhappiness.... I guess this is  苦中作乐. I am glad that some brothers have shared their life stories to us and encourage us. They have talked about their relationship with their spouse and how they overcome critical issues in life. They are so encouraging.

By the way, Pastor said, we men should always give compliment to our wife about their beauty ... and always remember for the wedding dinner. No doubt it is small matter in the eye of men, but it is "huge" in the eyes of wives.

hahahaha ....

Last but not least, Pastor shared about "intentional living". Have you wonder how people said when you die ? What will they say about you ? He advise us to write what will people said in our funeral ? What will my wife say about me ? What will my kids say about me ? Intentional living is to draft out what you expect them to say. If we want them to say you are a kind person, then we better live up to the expectation of a kind person. If we want wife say we are a lovely and responsible husband, then we must live up to the expectation. If we want our kids to honor us as a good father, a role model, then, we must live up to their expectation. It is not easy. It is Intentional living.  

Pastor Chris said something impacted me, he said "The Future is Now"

Yes ... the future is now, what you want in the future, is what you do now.

I am glad that I have enroll in this 3 days 1 night men's camp, I am not only learned so much but I am very encouraging. Now, I have a group of men that can support one another. Just a short 3 days 2 nights, God has changed my perspective in life.

Thank you father God. Amen.

A Good Friday Story

Many years ago, I remember seeing a drama on a stage. There was a wicked man who cheated and hurting many people that cause many people in pain and suffering …. One day, he got caught and prosecuted … The stage then changed to a court room scenario. The defending lawyer was trying very hard to help this man but because of the evident is so obvious; the Judge concluded a judgment order with a dead sentence.

At that moment, the lawyer stands up and appeals to the court order that willing to die on behalf of the man  .. Hor !!? How can it be ?? No one has a sound mind would do this, right !!?

Well, off course this is unreal and just a drama play. But again, aren't we heard many true stories of people scarifying their life in order to safe their loved ones … In an emergency case that life threatening, a mother (or father) would let her son save first before saving her. I remember I came across of these touching stories in newspaper before but unfortunately I can't remember the details...

But again, this is possible especially the person is your loved ones. I believe, mother of a cancer child would have the thinking of "What not me that suffer?" when she saw her child in pain …. isn't it?

So, would you be surprised that Jesus did the similar acts for us?

Bible tells us that Man and God were being separated by sin. God is a holy God and He cannot tolerate sin and for him the price for sin is death … just like the man who committed sin, the judgment is death sentence.

However, Jesus came to save us because he LOVES us. He came to die on the cross and paid the price of sins for human race; despite he did not commit any sins.

Only those who believe in him would receive this provision. The grace and love of Christ is so great. The scarified of Christ is sufficient for all but only is effective for those who trusted in him.

For your info, Jesus resurrected 3 days from his death. That why we celebrate Easter day.

So, my friends, if you happen to see this blog, please do not reject it, seek after Him.

because

He is the Truth, the Way and the Life ….

 

Good Friday Reflect

Well, Good Friday and Easter Day have special meaning to Christian.

It is not like most people will do .... celebrate with Easter Egg.

On the morning of Good Easter at 1.56 am, I realized I have neglected another blog with the title "My Faith". This is a blog that I want to write about the journey of me and Jesus Christ, that why I named it as "Daily Walk with Jesus ... " But my last post was in Nov 9, 2010, about 6 months ago. Man, am I not walking with Jesus in my daily life ? Am I neglected what is important in life ?

The best joke is I almost forgotten what my blog address is ... oh dear (knocking my head to the wall)

http://www.myfaith123.blogspot.com/

Emmmm....!!

Man, time to change!!

Worry Not. I am in a Safe-Hand.

Something bad is expected to be happen long time ago never had happen but when it is really happening, heart sink and pain really there. Somehow, we contracted the disease of self-denier symptom that denies bad thing would happen. So life goes one without any preparation. But suddenly, “Bomb!!”, like a Tsunami hits ….

Well, somehow worry accomplishes nothing; don’t waste the energy in worry.

In bible, Jesus did teach us something:-

Matthew 6:27-29

Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are.

Proverbs 12:25
Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.

Matthew 6:30
And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?

Matthew 6:31-33
So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

1 Peter 5:7

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT)

Yes, thank you heavenly Father for being there for me, I know! I know! I know!, I need not worry so much because I have you. I have peace in mind as long as I follow your words. Like what the bible quotes, ... heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need (take note, is not want .. hahaha).

Thank you Father God the love and grace on me despite I have disappointed you many times. Forgive me. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray, Amen.



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Govt allows import and local printing of Bible in all languages

Today news from the Star.

Govt allows import and local printing of Bible in all languages
I would said brovo for the actions that the authority has taken. Praise God for this wonderful news. For the first time, I would see the Christian way of handling a matter by the authority.

Thanks to Dato Sri Idris Jala, a man that truly love God. I like some of his statement which states as below:-

Dato Sri Idris Jala said,

“I hope this 10 point solution will be received positively by the Christian groups as being fair and reasonable. We have to look for a solution that deals with the Bible issues and also put a way forward to handle other issues raised by the Christian groups”.

“I think the Bible issue is very unfortunate, and in the spirit of Lent, it is time for sacrifice, reconciliation and forgiveness.

"In our history as a young nation, we achieved a lot in a short period of time, but we have our shortcomings.

"The Government and our civil servants are not perfect as indeed all human beings are “beautifully imperfect” in the eyes of God.

"And for all our shortcomings in handling the Bible issue, I hope the Christians would find it in their hearts to forgive us.

"In my Church at SIBKL, we have been praying for a Christian revival to take place in our country. For all the hurt that exist as a result of our differences, I believe that we need healing, forgiveness and reconciliation in this country.

"The Bible says in Matthew 18: 21-22 “ Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times”.

Finally, the 10-point solutions to resolve the issue.

1.Bibles in all languages can be imported into the country, including Bahasa Malaysia/Indonesia.

2.These Bibles can also be printed locally in Peninsula Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. This is a new development which should be welcome by the Christian groups.

3.Bibles in indigenous languages of Sabah and Sarawak such as Iban, Kadazan-Dusun and Lun Bawang can also be printed locally and imported.

4.For Sabah and Sarawak, in recognition of the large Christian community in these states, there are no conditions attached to the importation and local printing of the Bibles in all languages, including Bahasa Malaysia/Indonesia and indigenous languages. There is no requirement for any stamp or serial number.

5. Taking into account the interest of the larger Muslim community, for Peninsula Malaysia, Bibles in Bahasa Malaysia/Indonesia, imported or printed, must have the words “Christian Publication” and the cross sign printed on the front covers.

6.In the spirit of 1Malaysia and recognising that many people travel between Sabah and Sarawak and Peninsula Malaysia, there should be no prohibitions and restrictions for people who bring along their bibles and christian materials on such travel.

7.A directive on the Bible has been issued by the Ketua Setiausaha (KSU) of the Home Ministry to ensure proper implementation of this cabinet decision. Failure to comply will subject the officers to disciplinary action under the General Orders. A comprehensive briefing by top officials, including the Attorney General (AG), will be given to all relevant civil servants to ensure good understanding and proper implementation of the directive.

8.For the impounded Bibles in Kuching, Gideon, the importer can collect all the 30,000 Bibles free of charge. We undertake to ensure the parties involved are reimbursed. The same offer remains available for the importer of the 5,100 Bibles in Port Klang, which have already been collected by the Bible Society Malaysia (BSM) last week.

9.Beyond the Bible issue, the Government wishes to reiterate its commitment to work with the Christian groups and all the different religious groups in order to address inter religious issues and work towards the fulfilment of all religious aspirations in accordance with the constitution, taking into account the other relevant laws of the country. In order to bring urgency to this work, the Prime Minister will meet the representatives of the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) soon to discuss the way forward.

10.The Christian Ministers in the cabinet will meet on a regular basis with representatives of the various Christian groups in order to discuss their issues and work with the relevant Ministries and PM in order to resolve them.

Praise God for the wonders and thank you God for answering our prayer.

Release of the Bibles in Bahasa Malaysia (AlKitab)

Ah yorr …. I read newspaper yesterday with the headline “The Gideons not ready to collect “stamped” Bibles!!.

..and someone from Bible Society of Malaysia (BSM) wanted to “preserve the BM bible in a museum” just because the bibles were defaced with a stamp stated “For Christian only” …..

Oh goash … Bible is only be Bible when people read it. The purpose is to share the word of God in the bible. They are many Christian Bumiputra who do not have a BM Bible. They don’t read Mandarin or English. I heard that there is revival going on in Sarawak, many Bumiputras who newly converted to Christianity need Bible urgently.

Thank God, finally, we heard good news that the BM Bible can be released, although the authority required the BM bible to be stamped, but at least from now onward, we can continue to import more bibles from overseas so that the BM reading brothers and sisters world have a book of bible without worry of no stock.

But the saddest part now is after all the efforts, the importer of the BM bible decides to Preserve the BM bibles in Museum … COME ON!, for my opinion, the BM bible is being humiliated and disgrace after being “lock-up” by the authority for so many years (since 2009), NOW! it has been “lock-up” again for the second time by the “God’s people”. This is totally unacceptable ! And please, please, please, for God sake, please release the bible to the people who need them. Bible belongs to the people of God and not in any museum !!!

The more I write this blog … the more rant on it !! (>,<)

I am no body and just a normal Christian. But hope that the importers, the high profile people of Gideons and Bibles Society of Malaysia (BSM), please re-consider your decision and after all the ultimate purpose is to bring the words of God to the people.

I pray that those BM bibles will be reaching the hand of HIS people and be a blessing to many people. Amen.

Firewall the Family

I have attended Dr Robi (http://www.drrobi.com/) conference for the last two days. It was a wonderful session to learn from this fantastic person who is a reputable Clinical Psychologist in Australia. He also help in the rehabilitation of trauma associated with war, sexual exploitation (human trafficking) and natural disaster worldwide. Thank to my church Senior Pastor Dr Chew of SIB bringing such a good conference to held on 28-29 May 2010 at SIB (http://www.sibkl.org.my/).

The theme of this conference is "Firewall Your Family". The theme is very suitable with nowadays content of life. With many negative news, culture and evil influences surrounding in the world, our children are affected by all sort of threats. It is important to instill the right healthy living value in our life, and also next generations, so that we can build a firewall surrounding us to protect our family.

Dr Robi linked the teaching of psychology with biblical teaching in the bible. Many people are lost and miserable. Many are living unhappy without clear purpose in life. Many people have lost their self-worth and respect in life.

As a Christian, we are blessed because we have the identity as the Heirs of God. According to Bible Roman chapter 8, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of Life set us free from the law of sin and death (Roman 8: 2). People that led by the Spirit of God are sons of God (Roman 8:14) and we Christian can call God as "Abba Father"(Roman 8:15). Henceforth, we should not worry so much as we have a clear Identify. Jesus said, " I love you so much that is absolutely noting can separate you from God. Dr Robi said as long as we do the right thing in life (which mean thing that are Not evil, wicker, selfish, hatred etc), and step out from our comfort zone to bless others, combine our gift and skill, turn into talents to help others, it will create a sense of self worthiness and self esteem in our life.

Dr Robi also touched on the topic on how to conquer anxiety and depression. Even many Christian are suffering this type of illnesses. People that suffer anxiety and depression are facing SWAP

• Sleep Disorder
• Worry about everything
• Attention to Threat
• Physically Discomfort

Dr Robi cited that there are a tiny part (almond shape) in our brain called Amygdalaet. The primary roles of Amygdalae is for the formation and storage of memories associated with emotional events. The Amygdale can release many fear responses, including freezing (immobility), tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), increased respiration, and stress-hormone release. When a person feeling worry, the Amygdale releases a form of hormone that are toxic to our immune system. If a person under distress for long period of time, the person health will be deteriorated and critical diseases will be happen.

Research said people that are easily get angry (uncontrollable anger) will face higher chance of getting heart disease whereas people always worry, is facing higher risk of getting cancer. Many people are looking for solution to cure, but according to Dr Robi,  the best medicine to cure has been long given by God, the solution for solving depression and anxiety have been clearly stated in the Bible.

In reference to Philippians, Chapter 4 :- Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ... Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. .... whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - If anything is excellent or praiseworthy .... think about such things. .... put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:4-9.

The principle is easy, as long as you find Christ Jesus as personal savior , place your understanding on Him, continue pray to Him, count the blessings and offer thank giving to Him. Do things that are good and noble, pure in heart, help others with love. God of Peace will be with you and you will be rejoicing in Him.