Sunday, February 23, 2014

The BIGGER Picture

Matthew 27

Inspired thots

Man is generally myopic in attitude where the bigger picture is not seen nor understood. Evil happens within God's control for His purposes to be fulfilled. God's people must remain patient and faithful to wait for the finale that would benefit them.

Taking matters into one's own hands would bring about regretful consequences for we are not as wise as God. Hence, let God be God. Pray only for His mercy and grace in every situation to keep our hearts steadfast in Him alone. The things of the world fade.

Difficult Moments for Eternal Life

Matthew 26

Inspired thots

This chapter contains poignant moments from different characters to reflect the different responses of faith in God.

1) The chief priests continued to plot against Jesus' downfall through false accusations and betrayal.

2) Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus for burial with an alabaster flask of expensive perfume as moved by the HS although others viewed her action as 'wasting resources'. But a sincere heart prompting a simple action is never wasted or jeered in God's eyes.

3) Judas Iscariot chose the worldly ways of quick rich scheme when the moving gets slow for his pocket. Perhaps his eyes and heart opened to wider greed on seeing Jesus' approval of Mary's anointing rather than passing the buck to his safekeeping and laundering.

4) Jesus struggled too with the will of God but submitted eventually to God's glory.

5) The disciples, Peter, James and John, struggled with the physical in earnest praying at the Garden of Gethsemane.

6) Peter disowned Jesus when He was arrested for fear of arrest and ridicule by association.

7) The disciples forsook Jesus and fled when He was arrested.

May God forgive us for our weakness in faith but let 2 Cor 12:9 come true.

Friday, February 21, 2014

Provoking Thoughts for Self Preparation

Matthew 25

Inspired thots

Every Christian MUST prepare for the day of judgment; the TIME IS NOW! 

The parable of the 5 wise and 5 foolish virgins waiting for the bridegroom's coming teaches us to be well prepared in case of delay. Know who you are waiting for and be prepared for all situations; then you would not be caught short.

The parable of the talents speaks of using our God-given talents wisely to earn God's pleasure; to be called "good and faithful servant" who did their best for their Lord instead of reacting out of fear and discontent.

The final parable of the sheep and goats reminds us which category we can fall into if we do not execute the Lord's ministry well as called. How lightly do we take the ministry we are called into? Are we serving the Lord through serving others? 

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Preparing for Tribulation

Matthew 24

Inspired thots

While the disciples admired the temple buildings, Jesus cautioned them on setting their hearts on temporal beauty and worth. Eternal treasures are more important to grasp but come with a price. Tribulation will come to those belonging to Jesus for the world does not accept His Lordship.

Signs of the times will show His forthcoming; let us be prepared to meet our King. Know His word and even the great King personally to identify the TRUE from the false as the latter will try to deceive many. Be watchful; stay alert.

The King is coming!

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Avoiding Falsehood

Matthew 23

Inspired thots

Knowing what is right and doing it are two different matters. One can KNOW WHAT is RIGHT but not do it; just like the parable of the two sons (Matt 28:21). How important to be OBEDIENT to God's command and be blessed.

Falsehood is hypocrisy. There would be many such occasions in life where one acts falsely to protect self; only God is merciful to enable strength to live rightly for His name's sake. Otherwise, one can end up as a Pharisee.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

God Has ALL the Answers

Matthew 22

Inspired thots

The Pharisees, Sadducees and teachers of the Law came constantly to Jesus with trick questions; but Jesus is Lord! He has all the right answers to silence them. Better to seek God with a sincere heart than to try to outwit God. We cant!

And only God can give revelations and inspirations to His word and Self. Be humble to seek the will of God and He may reveal Himself.

Monday, February 17, 2014

Repent & Be Saved

Matthew 21

Inspired thots

Listen to your heart for it will point you to the right path of fruitful life. The Pharisees hardened their hearts towards Jesus; following Him only to find fault with Him while the crowds responded to salvation and healing.

There would always be two types of responders; one who says 'No' but repent and the other who says 'Yes' but not obey. Repentance is required to do the will of God and enjoy His blessings. Let us not miss out on the goodness of God while we can.