🕊 Building Lives and Rebuilding Broken Worlds Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:5–11 (NIV)

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for this wonderful morning and for the blessing of coming together once again as thy disciples. We are grateful for the opportunity to learn, to share, and to encourage one another in Christ.

Lord, we thank You especially for last Sunday’s sermon on Building Lives and Rebuilding Broken Worlds, taken from 1 Thessalonians 5:5–11. thy Word reminded us that we are children of the light and that we are called to encourage and build one another up. As we gather today, may thy Holy Spirit guide our reflections, open our hearts to thy truth, and help us to apply what we have learned. Strengthen us, Lord, so that our fellowship today will bring glory to thy name.

In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen.
________________________________________________

Sermon Summary

Date: 28.09.2025
Title: Building Lives and Rebuilding Broken Worlds
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:5–11 (NIV)
Speaker: Brother Yap Koon Roy

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
—1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

---

Introduction

Last Sunday, Brother Yap Koon Roy reminded us through his sermon “Building Lives and Rebuilding Broken Worlds” from 1 Thessalonians 5:5–11 that as children of the light, we are not meant to live in defeat or brokenness but in hope and encouragement. He emphasized that the Christian journey is not about walking alone but about building each other up, extending grace when we or others fall, and creating a community of support. This reminder helps us see that rebuilding broken worlds—whether in our own lives or in the lives of others—requires God’s grace, vigilance over our environment, and the willingness to strengthen one another in love.

Paul’s encouragement to the Thessalonian believers reminds us that Christian living is not about isolation, but about support, grace, and rebuilding broken worlds together.

   

---

Main Points

1. Rebuilding is about our ability to rise from failures and receive grace

Scripture: “The righteous may fall seven times but still get up, but the wicked will stumble into trouble.” —Proverbs 24:16

Life is filled with setbacks, but God calls us not to remain in defeat. Rebuilding begins when we acknowledge our failures, humble ourselves, and receive God’s grace to start again. Grace transforms bitterness into growth and allows us to move forward instead of being chained to the past.

---

2. Without grace, broken worlds do not get rebuilt

Scripture: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’” —2 Corinthians 12:9

Brokenness cannot be rebuilt by human strength alone—it requires God’s grace. Grace enables forgiveness, restoration, and reconciliation. Without it, bitterness takes root, and healing becomes impossible. Grace is the bridge between failure and restoration.

---

3. Watching the environment

Scripture: “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” —1 Corinthians 15:33

Our environment shapes us. The company we keep, the media we consume, and the influences around us either build or break us. Rebuilding broken worlds requires careful guarding of what enters our hearts and homes, especially in this digital age.

---

4. Create support systems

Scripture: “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” —Galatians 6:2

No one is meant to walk alone. The church must establish nurturing and supportive systems where people can be guided, counseled, and strengthened. Just as Nehemiah rebuilt Jerusalem with the people working side by side, so too must we build structures of care and accountability within our community.

---

Conclusion

In closing, Brother Yap Koon Roy stressed that rebuilding is not just about rising from our own failures but also about helping others rebuild theirs through the grace of Christ. He urged us to live as children of the light, always encouraging and supporting one another in love. Rebuilding broken worlds requires us to rise again when we fall, extend grace to others, guard our environment, and create strong support systems within the church. His reminder challenges us to be builders of lives, encouragers of hearts, and restorers of hope. Through God’s grace, what is broken can be made whole again, and together as His people, we can shine His light into a broken world.
God has not called us to live in ruins but to become restorers, encouragers, and builders of hope.

---

Take-Home Message

👉 “Encourage one another and build each other up.” —1 Thessalonians 5:11
We are builders of hope in a broken world. Receive God’s grace, extend it to others, and stand as part of a support system that helps rebuild lives for the glory of Christ.

---

Reflection Questions with Sample Answers

1. Share a broken world experience. Did you benefit from it or become bitter?

   • I once lost a close friendship due to misunderstanding. Initially, I was bitter, but God used the season to teach me forgiveness. I grew stronger in character and learned to extend grace instead of resentment.

2. To what extent should we exercise grace to someone who has committed a wrong?

   • We are called to forgive as Christ forgave us (Colossians 3:13). In Scenario 1, where someone suffers from a broken relationship, grace means comforting, not condemning. In Scenario 2, with a quarrelsome member, grace means patience and correction in love, while setting healthy boundaries.

3. Do you constantly watch your environment, especially in social media and relationships?

   • Yes, because influences shape my heart and thoughts. I filter what I consume online and guide my children to do the same, ensuring that we engage with things that build rather than corrupt.

4. Do you think our church has sufficient support systems for members needing help?

   • Our church has some systems like prayer groups and counseling, but there is room for growth. We can strengthen mentorship, discipleship, and care networks to ensure no one falls through the cracks.
     ___________________________________________
     

     Closing Prayer

     Gracious Father, we thank You for the rich time of fellowship, reflection, and encouragement we have shared in this discipleship group today. Thank You for thy Word from 1 Thessalonians 5:5–11, which reminded us to live as children of the light and to keep building each other up in love.

     As we prepare for the Mid-Autumn Festival this Saturday, we pray for thy blessing of good weather, protection from harm, and safe travels to and from the event. Let it be a joyful time of fellowship that strengthens our bonds as a family of faith.

     We also lift up Pastor Danny Chiew on his coming mission trip to Nepal. Lord, grant him journey mercies, protect him from danger, and empower his ministry with wisdom, strength, and fruitfulness. We remember Pastor Aaron as well—bless his leadership and stewardship, grant him good health, and continually renew his spirit as he shepherds the church.

     Finally, we pray for each member of this disciples group. Bless us with health, wisdom, and perseverance. Strengthen us daily in our walk with Christ, that we may truly live as children of light, shining thy love in this world.

     We entrust all these into thy hands, in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Amen.

     
     

Journalling Job 1 to 5

📖 Job 1

1. Bible Summary
Job is introduced as a blameless and upright man who fears God. Satan challenges Job’s integrity, suggesting he serves God only because of his blessings. God permits Satan to test Job by taking away his possessions and children, but Job does not sin against God.

2. Key Scripture
“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” (Job 1:21, NIV)

3. Reflection
Job’s response to devastating loss shows his deep reverence for God. He acknowledges that all he had was from the Lord and still praises Him in his grief. True worship is not based on circumstances but on recognizing God’s sovereignty.

4. Response
Lord, teach me to trust You even in seasons of loss. Help me to worship You not for what You give, but for who You are.

---

📖 Job 2

1. Bible Summary
Satan strikes Job again, this time with painful sores. Job’s wife urges him to curse God, but Job refuses, remaining steadfast. His three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—arrive to comfort him, sitting with him in silence for seven days.

2. Key Scripture
“Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said. (Job 2:10, NIV)

3. Reflection
Job recognizes that God is sovereign over both blessings and trials. His faith is not shaken by suffering, showing us that trust in God means surrendering to His will, even when life feels unfair or unbearable.

4. Response
Father, help me to trust You not only when life is good, but also in times of pain. Strengthen my faith so I may endure trials with integrity.

---

📖 Job 3

1. Bible Summary
Job breaks his silence and curses the day of his birth. He laments his suffering, longing for death to release him from his misery. This chapter reveals Job’s raw pain and deep sorrow, though he does not curse God.

2. Key Scripture
“Why is life given to those in misery, and life to the bitter of soul?” (Job 3:20, NIV)

3. Reflection
Job’s cry is an honest expression of anguish. His words remind us that God allows space for lament. Faith does not mean suppressing pain; it means bringing our deepest struggles honestly before God.

4. Response
Lord, when I face seasons of despair, help me to bring my cries to You rather than hiding them. Teach me that You are big enough to handle my questions and pain.

---

📖 Job 4

1. Bible Summary
Eliphaz, one of Job’s friends, speaks for the first time. He suggests Job’s suffering may be due to sin and encourages him to seek God for help. Though some of his words contain truth, his assumptions about Job’s guilt are misguided.

2. Key Scripture
“Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed?” (Job 4:7, NIV)

3. Reflection
Eliphaz’s statement reflects a common but incorrect belief—that suffering always results from sin. This shows how human wisdom often fails to grasp God’s purposes. We must be cautious not to judge others’ pain through our limited perspective.

4. Response
Lord, guard my heart from being quick to judge others in their suffering. Give me compassion to listen and love rather than offering careless words.

---

📖 Job 5

1. Bible Summary
Eliphaz continues his speech, urging Job to turn to God because He disciplines those He loves. He highlights God’s greatness in frustrating the plans of the wicked and blessing the humble. While some truths are spoken, Eliphaz misapplies them to Job’s situation.

2. Key Scripture
“Blessed is the one whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty.” (Job 5:17, NIV)

3. Reflection
This verse carries truth: God’s discipline is for our growth, not destruction. However, Eliphaz wrongly assumed Job’s suffering was discipline. We must remember that not all hardship is punishment; sometimes suffering is a mystery beyond human understanding.

4. Response
Father, help me accept Your discipline with humility when You correct me. But also give me wisdom to discern when suffering is not discipline, so I may comfort others with grace and truth.

Facilitator : Consider The Cost

### **Facilitator Script for DG on "Consider The Cost" (Luke 14:25-33)**

**Facilitator:** Good morning, everyone. It’s a blessing to see you all here today as we gather to reflect more deeply on Sister Christina Ong’s powerful sermon from last Sunday, "Consider The Cost."

Before we begin, let’s still our hearts and ask the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts and conversations. Let's pray.

**(Opening Prayer)**

"Heavenly Father, we come before you this morning with grateful hearts. Thank you for your Word that challenges and refines us. Last week, we were confronted with the serious cost of following you. This week, as we look at the final psalms of praise, remind us *why* you are worth any cost. Fill our hearts with worship as we study your character. May our time together be encouraging and edifying. We commit this session to you. In Jesus’ name, **Amen.**"

---

**Bible Journaling Time: Psalms of Praise (146-150)**

"To help us focus our hearts, we're going to spend a few minutes in the beautiful crescendo of the Book of Psalms—Psalms 146 to 150. These are pure, unadulterated praises to God. As we reflect on the cost of discipleship, these psalms remind us of the magnificent God we are committing to.

---

**Sharing and Response**

"Thank you, everyone. I hope that time filled your heart with a fresh sense of God's greatness. Now, let’s share and encourage one another. We'll connect what we learned about God's character in the Psalms to the sermon's call to consider the cost of following Him.

Let’s begin with **Arthur**. Arthur, thank you for being prepared. Could you please share a brief summary of your sermon response and how it connects to the God we see in the Psalms?"

*(After Arthur shares...)*

"Thank you, Arthur. That connection between God's faithfulness and our trust is vital.

Next, let’s hear from **Aileng**. Aileng, what was a key scripture from the Psalms that stood out to you, and why?"

*(After Aileng shares...)*

"Thank you, Aileng. It’s amazing how praising God puts everything into perspective.

Now, **Emily**, could you share your reflection on how seeing God's character makes the cost of discipleship meaningful in your current season?"

*(After Emily shares...)*

"Thank you for your honesty, Emily. He is indeed our sure foundation.

Let’s hear from **Roseline Sik** next. Roseline, how did the psalm you read encourage you in your commitment to Christ?"

*(After Roseline Sik shares...)*

"Thank you, Roseline. That’s a powerful truth.

Now, **Mrs. ChuGlory and John**. Would one of you, or both, like to share your response?"

*(After they share...)*

"Thank you both. We appreciate your wisdom.

**Roselind and Alex**, your turn. How does the praise in Psalms 146-150 strengthen you for the journey of discipleship?"

*(After they share...)*

"Thank you for sharing that.

Let’s hear from **Jasmine**. Jasmine, what is your reflection after this time in the Word?"

*(After Jasmine shares...)*

"Thank you, Jasmine. Praise is indeed the fuel for surrender.

**Teck Yen**, what would you like to add from your reflection?"

*(After Teck Yen shares...)*

"Thank you, Teck Yen.

And finally, **Mr. Loh Sen**, we’d love to hear from you. How does the greatness of God, as shown in these psalms, impact your view of the cost of following Jesus?"

*(After Mr. Loh Sen shares...)*

---

**Closing Prayers**

"Thank you, everyone, for your wonderful insights. We've moved from considering the cost to celebrating the priceless worth of our God. Let’s now close our time in prayer, responding to who He is.

**Jasmine**, you mentioned praise as fuel. Would you please open our closing time in prayer, focusing on praising God for His worthiness?"

*(After Jasmine prays...)*

"Thank you, Jasmine. **Ai Leng**, would you please pray for us next, asking God for the strength to follow Him wholeheartedly?"

*(After Ai Leng prays...)*

"Thank you, Ai Leng. And **Glory**, would you please lead us in a final prayer of commitment and thanksgiving?"

*(After Glory prays...)*

Here’s the revised Closing Prayer with prayer included for Pastor Danny Chiew and the Nepal ministry:

---

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We come before You with grateful hearts, remembering that to follow Jesus is to count the cost and to surrender everything under His lordship. Lord, we confess that we often cling to comfort, possessions, and approval—but today we lay them down before You. Teach us costly obedience and total devotion, just as Christ showed us the way.

As the Lantern Festival approaches, may it not only be a celebration of light but a reminder that Christ is the true Light of the world. May Your light shine through us in our communities, in our families, and in every relationship, drawing people to Your saving grace.

We lift up our pastors who are struggling with poor health. Strengthen them in body, renew them in spirit, and surround them with Your peace. Lord, anoint their service with fresh oil and let them know they are not forgotten but deeply loved.

We especially pray for Pastor Danny Chiew and the Nepal Ministry. Father, bless the work of his hands, protect him in his travels, and open doors for the gospel to touch many lives in Nepal. May his ministry bear lasting fruit and may many come to know Christ through his obedience and service.

We also commit our DG members into Your hands. Unite us in love, deepen our discipleship, and help us to encourage one another toward faithfulness. May our group be a place of support, growth, and true fellowship in Christ.

Father, as we close, we pray for the courage to surrender every part of our lives to You—relationships, ambitions, and possessions. Help us to embrace obedience over comfort and devotion with healthy rhythms of rest. May our lives be living testimonies of Your grace, love, and truth.

We pray all this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ,
Amen.

---

"Amen. And now, let us unite our hearts together in the prayer that encompasses all praise, all provision, and all surrender—the prayer our Lord Jesus taught us. Let's pray:

**All:** *Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.*

Thank you all for a wonderful time of fellowship. Let’s go out this week with hearts full of praise, ready to follow our worthy King, whatever the cost. Amen."

Consider Your Cost Luke 14:25-33

 Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We gather this morning as a group of disciples, hearts full of gratitude for this precious time to meet together again. We are grateful for the love and grace You have lavished upon us at no cost, yet aware that following You costs us everything. As we reflect on thy words in Luke 14, we ask for thy Spirit to be present with us.
We also want to thank You for Sis Christina Ong and her touching sermon last Sunday. May the seeds of truth she planted continue to grow in our hearts as we discuss them now.
Quiet our hearts from the distractions of the day. Help us to set aside, for this time, the attachments and comforts that so easily compete for our devotion. Give us the courage to be honest with You, with ourselves, and with one another.
Grant us wisdom as we consider the cost of discipleship, not with fear, but with faith. May our conversation be gracious, our listening attentive, and our hearts open to the recalibration You invite.
We commit this time to You. In Jesus' name, Amen

*Sermon Summary: Consider Your Cost**
**Speaker:** Sis Christina Ong
**Date:** 21 September 2025
**Scripture Passage:** Luke 14:25-33
**Title:** Consider Your Cost

**Introduction**
Sis Christina Ong began her sermon by acknowledging a common tendency in the Christian life: the desire for the blessings and promises of God without a full appreciation of the commitment required. She introduced Luke 14:25-33 as a "sobering and clarifying" passage where Jesus, surrounded by large, enthusiastic crowds, turns to deliver a message that is intentionally provocative. He was not interested in superficial followers; He was calling for genuine disciples. The central theme of the sermon was that authentic discipleship requires a conscious, premeditated consideration of the cost, leading to a life of total devotion to Christ.

**I. The Radical Demand of Discipleship (Luke 14:25-27)**
Sis Christina focused first on the startling hyperbole Jesus uses in verses 25-27. The command to "hate" one's father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters is not a call to literal animosity. Instead, drawing from the Hebraic understanding of "hate" as meaning "to love less by comparison" (cf. Genesis 29:30-31, Matthew 10:37), she explained that Jesus is demanding supreme, absolute loyalty.

*   **Challenging Our Attachments:**
The first reflection question was addressed here. She asked the congregation to consider which relationships and possessions are most difficult to place under Christ's lordship. These are not inherently evil—family, career, personal ambitions, financial security—but they become idols when they compete for the ultimate allegiance that belongs to God alone. Discipleship requires a reordering of our loves, where Christ is preeminent in everything.

*   **Taking Up the Cross:**
The call to "carry his cross" (v. 27) was explained not as bearing life's general hardships, but as a specific call to embrace the path of self-denial, rejection, and sacrificial obedience. It is a daily decision to die to self-will and to live for God's purposes.

**II. The Prudent Calculation of the Cost (Luke 14:28-32)**
The core of the sermon centered on the two parables Jesus tells: the builder of a tower and the king going to war. Sis Christina emphasized that these stories highlight *wisdom*, not discouragement.

*   **The Parable of the Tower (v. 28-30):**
A person who begins a project without calculating the cost faces public ridicule for their failure to finish. Similarly, discipleship is a project of a lifetime. To embark without counting the cost leads to a shallow faith that abandons Christ when challenges arise.

*   **The Parable of the King (v. 31-32):**
A king must realistically assess his strength against a powerful enemy. This, Sis Christina explained, illustrates the spiritual battle of discipleship. We must recognize that the forces opposed to God are formidable, and our own strength is insufficient. True discipleship relies not on self-power but on surrendering to Christ's strength and sufficiency.

The key takeaway from this section was that Jesus *invites* us to calculate. He is not hiding the demands; He is laying them out plainly so that our decision to follow Him is informed, deliberate, and resilient.

**III. The Call to Total Surrender (Luke 14:33)**
Sis Christina identified verse 33 as the culminating, non-negotiable conclusion of Jesus' teaching: "In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples."

*   **Costly Obedience vs. Comfort:**
This directly addressed the second reflection question. She clarified that "giving up everything" is not necessarily a call to literal poverty for all, but to a fundamental attitude of surrender. It means relinquishing ownership of our possessions, our plans, and our very lives. Discipleship is a call to "costly obedience," and she challenged the congregation to identify areas where they have chosen personal comfort—be it financial security, relational harmony, or cultural acceptability—over obediently following Christ's leading.

**IV. The Grace-Filled Recalibration (A Balanced Application)**
In her application, Sis Christina wisely addressed a potential misunderstanding. The call to total devotion can lead to burnout and legalism if not balanced with the rest of Jesus' example.

*   **Model of Rest and Boundaries:**
She pointed out that Jesus Himself, while utterly devoted to the Father's will, regularly withdrew to desolate places to pray (Luke 5:16) and demonstrated healthy boundaries. This led to the third reflection question: sensing where the Spirit is inviting "recalibration."

*   **A Spirit-Led Life:**
For some, recalibration means *letting go* of attachments that hinder discipleship. For others, particularly those weary from striving, it might mean *taking up* the practice of Sabbath rest, trusting that God is in control. True discipleship is not a frantic self-effort but a responsive, Spirit-led journey of walking with Christ.

**Conclusion**
Sis Christina Ong concluded by bringing the congregation back to the cross. The ultimate cost of our discipleship was first paid by Christ Himself. He is not a king who demands what He Himself has not given. The call to "consider your cost" is an invitation to a life of profound purpose, freedom from idolatry, and deep, joyful fellowship with the One who gave everything for us. The response is not one of fearful obligation, but of grateful surrender, leading to a faith that is thoughtfully chosen and powerfully finished.
**Key Scriptures Referenced:** Luke 14:25-33, Genesis 29:30-31, Matthew 10:37, Luke 5:16, Romans 12:1-2.

 **Takeaway Message**

**True discipleship is a costly, all-in commitment, but it is a cost we are invited to wisely consider and a commitment we are empowered to make because Christ paid the ultimate price first.**

**The Call is Radical:**
Following Jesus requires giving Him absolute first place, above every other relationship and possession. It is a call to daily self-denial, not comfort.

**The Calculation is Wise:**
God invites us to thoughtfully count the cost of discipleship. This leads to a resilient, genuine faith, not a superficial one that fades when challenges come.

**The Commitment is Total:**
We are called to surrender ownership of our entire lives to Christ's lordship.

**The Grace is the Foundation:**
This demanding call is grounded in the grace of the cross. We can give everything to Jesus because He already gave everything for us. Our journey is not about striving in our own strength, but about following Him in surrendered obedience.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus,

Thank You for the honesty and fellowship we've shared. Thy word has challenged and comforted us. As we leave this place, we ask for strength to live out the truths we have discussed.

We confess that we cannot carry our cross in our own power. So, we surrender to You now the areas where we have chosen comfort over obedience. We relinquish the relationships, possessions, and dreams we struggle to place under Thy Lordship. Take them, Lord, and use them for Thy glory.

Help us to be wise builders and prudent kings, counting the cost daily but also resting in the finished work of Thy cross. May our lives be a testimony of total devotion, fueled not by obligation, but by grateful love for the ultimate price You paid for us.

Send us out now, empowered by Thy Spirit, to be Thy true disciples in a world that needs Your grace. We asked all these in Jesus's name, Amen.

Journalling Psalms 146 to 150

📖 Psalm 146

1. Bible Summary
Psalm 146 calls us to praise the Lord as long as we live. It warns against placing trust in princes or mortal men who cannot save, and instead directs our hope to God, the Creator, who keeps His promises forever. He cares for the oppressed, hungry, prisoners, blind, foreigners, fatherless, and widows, while frustrating the ways of the wicked.

2. Key Scripture
“Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.” (Psalm 146:3, NIV)

3. Reflection
This psalm is a reminder of where true hope lies. Human leaders, wealth, and influence are temporary and limited. Only God is faithful and eternal. He defends the vulnerable and brings justice where the world fails. It is easy to depend on people, systems, or even ourselves—but the psalmist redirects us back to God, the everlasting King.

4. Response
Lord, help me not to place my trust in people or things of this world. Teach me to rely on You alone as my hope and refuge. May my life reflect Your compassion toward the weak and vulnerable, just as You care for them.

---

📖 Psalm 147

1. Bible Summary
Psalm 147 praises God for His greatness and care. He heals the brokenhearted, binds their wounds, and determines the stars by name. He delights not in human strength but in those who fear Him and hope in His unfailing love. The psalm celebrates God’s provision of rain, food, and peace for His people.

2. Key Scripture
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3, NIV)

3. Reflection
God’s greatness is not distant or cold. The One who created and numbers the stars also cares deeply for broken hearts. His power is both majestic and tender. The psalm teaches us that God is not impressed with human power, but delights in hearts that reverence and trust Him.

4. Response
Father, thank You for seeing my wounds and healing my brokenness. Teach me to place my hope in Thy love, not in my strength. Let my praise rise to You for both Thy majesty in creation and Thy mercy in my life.

---

📖 Psalm 148

1. Bible Summary
Psalm 148 is a cosmic call to praise. The heavens, angels, sun, moon, stars, sky, sea creatures, mountains, trees, animals, rulers, men and women, old and young—all are summoned to praise the Lord. His name alone is exalted, and His glory is above earth and heaven.

2. Key Scripture
“Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; His splendor is above the earth and the heavens.” (Psalm 148:13, NIV)

3. Reflection
This psalm shows that praise is not optional—it is the rightful response of all creation. The stars, seas, and creatures already glorify Him by their existence. We, created in His image, are invited to join this unending song of worship. It’s a reminder that life is about God’s glory, not ours.

4. Response
Lord, open my eyes to see all creation praising You. Let my heart, words, and actions join in this symphony of worship. May my life point others to the greatness of Thy name.

---

📖 Psalm 149

1. Bible Summary
Psalm 149 calls God’s people to sing a new song of praise, rejoicing in their Maker and King. Praise is expressed with singing, dancing, and instruments. The psalm also highlights God’s justice, giving His people the honor of executing judgment on the nations.

2. Key Scripture
“For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory.” (Psalm 149:4, NIV)

3. Reflection
God not only deserves our praise—He delights in us. This is a powerful truth: the Creator of the universe takes joy in His people. Worship becomes both a celebration of who God is and a reminder of our identity in Him. The psalm also reveals that God’s justice will prevail, and His people share in His victory.

4. Response
Lord, thank You for delighting in me despite my weaknesses. Help me to worship You with joy and humility. Let my life be a testimony of Thy victory and justice.

---

📖 Psalm 150

1. Bible Summary
The final psalm is a crescendo of praise. It calls us to praise God in His sanctuary, His mighty heavens, for His acts of power and surpassing greatness. Every instrument—trumpet, harp, lyre, tambourine, strings, flute, cymbals—is invited. The psalm ends with the ultimate call: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

2. Key Scripture
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” (Psalm 150:6, NIV)

3. Reflection
The book of Psalms ends not with lament or petition but with overflowing praise. Worship is the final word. God deserves all glory from all creation. Praise is not confined to certain places or instruments but expressed in every breath of life.

4. Response
Lord, may my every breath be an act of praise. Let me worship You not only in song but in how I live each day. I join in the eternal hallelujah to Thy name.

---

✨ That completes Psalms 146–150 journaling. Amen.

Love Matters Scripture : 1 Thessalonians 4:9–12 (NIV)

✨ Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for gathering us today as one family in Christ. We are grateful for the love You have poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, a love that binds us together and teaches us how to care for one another. Lord, as we begin this meeting, prepare our hearts and minds to receive Your word with humility and joy.

May today’s fellowship remind us of the message we have just heard through Sis Ho—that love truly matters. Teach us not only to speak of love but to live it out daily, showing kindness, forgiveness, and generosity to our brothers and sisters. Lord, let this meeting be filled with Your presence, and may every sharing, discussion, and prayer reflect the love of Christ in us.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

📖 Sermon Summary – Love Matters

Scripture Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4:9–12 (NIV)
Speaker: Sis Ho Gaik Kim
Date: 14 September 2025

---

Introduction

Sis Ho Gaik Kim reminded us that the heart of the Christian faith is love—not merely an idea but a way of life. The Apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 4:9–12 calls believers to live out love in practical, everyday actions within the community of faith.

   

---

1. We Have Been Taught by God to Love One Another

Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 4:9b: “For you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.” Sis Ho emphasized that love is not something we generate on our own—it is something God Himself plants in us.

• God pours His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5).

• God is love, and He dwells in us (1 John 4:8; Jeremiah 31:33b).

• Christ demonstrated the ultimate example of love through His sacrificial humility (John 13:34; Philippians 2:5–8).

Thus, we are commanded and equipped to love as Christ loved us.

---

2. Love in Community

Sis Ho reminded us that love must be expressed within the fellowship of believers.

• 1 Corinthians 13—the hymn of love—only comes alive in community. Love is patient, kind, and not self-seeking; but these qualities are tested only when we live among others.

• Fellowship brings both challenges and dangers. Sometimes community exposes friction, selfishness, and misunderstandings. Virtual fellowship also risks creating shallow love without real accountability.

• Yet, genuine love strengthens our local fellowship. The call is to “love more and more” (1 Thessalonians 4:10).

Love must grow deeper, broader, and more enduring as the body of Christ matures.

---

3. How to Love in Practical Ways (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12)

Sis Ho explained that Paul makes love practical by urging believers to:

1. Live a quiet life – not restless, anxious, or meddling in others’ affairs, but steady and peaceful.

2. Mind your own business – showing care without becoming busybodies or interfering unnecessarily.

3. Work with your hands – living responsibly, not depending on others unnecessarily, and contributing to the community.

The purpose of this way of life is clear: “so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody” (1 Thessalonians 4:12). Christian love is both a testimony to the world and a foundation of healthy community life.

---

Conclusion

Sis Ho concluded that love is both God’s command and gift. It must be nurtured in community and lived out in daily choices—whether through words, attitudes, or actions. To love well, we must let God’s Spirit guide us to live quietly, work diligently, and serve humbly.

---

Takeaway Message

True Christian love is God-taught, community-tested, and practically lived out. We are called to love more and more, so that our lives shine as a witness of Christ’s transforming love.

---

📝 Reflection & Discussion – Suggested Answers

1. What are the ways in which we can extend brotherly/sisterly love more and more?

• By practicing intentional kindness, forgiveness, and encouragement.

• By being present in one another’s lives—visiting, calling, praying, and offering practical help.

• By extending patience when conflicts arise and choosing reconciliation.

---

2. Share how you have experienced love in practical ways and the difficulties you have in loving others in the church.

• Many experience love through meals, visits during illness, prayers, and support during crises.

• Difficulties often come when people misunderstand, judge, or fail to reciprocate love. Loving others requires humility and perseverance, even when it is not easy.

---

3. Do you think we should be concerned about virtual fellowship and virtual love in our church? Why?

• Yes, because while online platforms are useful, they risk creating shallow connections. Love requires presence, accountability, and sacrificial acts that go beyond screens.

• Virtual fellowship should supplement, not replace, face-to-face community.

---

4. How do we keep the balance between concern and non-interference?

• By genuinely caring while respecting personal boundaries.

• For busybodies, we can gently redirect them to focus on their own responsibilities (1 Thessalonians 4:11).

• For those sponging off others, the church should show compassion but also encourage responsible work (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

---

5. How do we cultivate a quiet, unflustered life in the midst of many responsibilities and world concerns?

• By prioritizing time with God in prayer and Scripture.

• By practicing contentment and avoiding unnecessary comparisons.

• By trusting God’s sovereignty over global events and personal struggles.

• By simplifying our lifestyle and focusing on essentials.

---

Gracious Father,
As we close our meeting, we give thanks for the fellowship, the Word, and the encouragement we have received. Thank You for reminding us through Sis Ho’s sermon that love is not optional but central to our walk with You.

Help us to carry this truth into our daily lives—loving sincerely, not just in words but in action. Strengthen us to show compassion to those in need, patience with those who test us, and forgiveness to those who hurt us. Lord, may our love be a testimony of Christ living in us, so that others may see You through us.

Bless each one of us as we go from here. Keep us united in love, steadfast in faith, and joyful in hope until we meet again.

In Jesus’ most precious name we pray, Amen.

Journal Psalm 141 to 145

📖 Psalm 141

Summary
David prays for God to hear his cry and to protect him from sinning with his words or following the ways of the wicked. He desires his prayers to rise like incense and asks God to guard his heart and lips. He also acknowledges the correction of the righteous as kindness and places his trust in God to protect him from traps set by evildoers.

Key Scripture
Psalm 141:3 – “Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

Reflection
Words are powerful—they can build up or destroy. David understood the need for God’s help in controlling his speech and keeping his heart pure. Just as incense rises to heaven, our prayers are meant to be constant and sincere. In times of temptation or anger, only God can guard our lips and guide us toward righteousness.

Response
Lord, help me today to be mindful of my words. Let my speech bring life, encouragement, and truth. Keep me away from harmful conversations or thoughts, and let my prayers rise to Thee continually.

---

📖 Psalm 142

Summary
David pours out his complaint to the Lord while hiding in a cave. He feels overwhelmed, abandoned, and without refuge, yet he looks to God as his portion and deliverer. His cry is one of desperation but also trust in God’s saving power.

Key Scripture
Psalm 142:5 – “I cry to you, LORD; I say, ‘You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.’”

Reflection
Loneliness and despair are real human struggles, but David shows that the solution is turning to God. Even when no one else understands, God is our refuge and portion. We can bring our raw emotions to Him without fear.

Response
Lord, in moments when I feel abandoned or misunderstood, remind me that Thou art my refuge. Help me lean on Thee and trust that Thou art my portion forever.

---

📖 Psalm 143

Summary
This psalm is a prayer for God’s mercy and guidance. David pleads for deliverance from his enemies, confessing his weakness and seeking God’s righteousness. He longs for God’s presence in the morning and asks to be led on level ground.

Key Scripture
Psalm 143:8 – “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”

Reflection
Each morning is a new opportunity to seek God’s unfailing love. Life’s challenges can overwhelm us, but seeking God’s direction and trusting in His mercy give us strength. Our trust is not in ourselves, but in His faithful guidance.

Response
Father, every morning remind me of Thy steadfast love. Guide my steps in righteousness, and help me surrender my plans to Thee.

---

📖 Psalm 144

Summary
David praises God as his rock and deliverer, the one who trains his hands for battle. He acknowledges human frailty, calling life a fleeting breath, and prays for deliverance from foreign enemies. He concludes with a vision of blessing: flourishing children, prosperous harvests, and peace in the land.

Key Scripture
Psalm 144:15 – “Blessed is the people of whom this is true; blessed is the people whose God is the LORD.”

Reflection
True blessing is not found in material success or military strength, but in belonging to the Lord. David’s vision of prosperity is rooted in God’s presence and favor. When God is our Lord, our lives, families, and communities flourish with peace and joy.

Response
Lord, let me not measure blessing by worldly standards. May I always rejoice in the truth that I belong to Thee, and live under Thy favor.

---

📖 Psalm 145

Summary
A psalm of praise, David exalts God for His greatness, compassion, and mighty acts. He emphasizes God’s goodness, mercy, and faithfulness across generations. The psalm closes with a universal call for all creation to praise the Lord forever.

Key Scripture
Psalm 145:3 – “Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom.”

Reflection
This psalm reminds us that God’s greatness is beyond human comprehension. His mercy and compassion are extended to all, and His kingdom is everlasting. Our calling is to pass on this testimony of His goodness to the next generation and live in continual praise.

Response
O Lord, I will exalt Thee daily and proclaim Thy greatness. May my life declare Thy faithfulness and inspire others to worship Thee.

---

The Priority of Purity 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8 Reverend Aaron Liu

Preacher: Reverend Liu 
Date: 7th September 2025
Series: The First Letter to the Thessalonians
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–8 

Introduction

Reverend Liu reminded us that the Christian life is not static but a journey of continual growth and transformation. The Apostle Paul, writing to the Thessalonian believers, urged them to live lives that please God—lives marked by holiness and purity. Today’s message, The Priority of Purity, calls us to realign our walk with God’s will, not the world’s standards. 

1. Our Walk Must Be Our Priority (1 Thessalonians 4:1–2) 

Paul exhorts the believers to live in order to please God: “As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living.

Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.” (1 Thessalonians 4:1, NIV) 

Reverend Liu emphasized that this requires: 

 Commitment to know what God says – studying His Word diligently (Lamentations 3:21–22).
 Commitment to do what God commands – walking in obedience to His will (1 Thessalonians 4:1).

Faith is not proven by knowledge alone; it is proven by obedience. A genuine Christian walk is one where actions consistently align with God’s commands.

2. God’s Will is Our Call to Holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:3–7)

God’s will is not vague—it is clearly expressed in His call for us to be sanctified:

“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality…” (1 Thessalonians 4:3, NIV)

Reverend Liu highlighted three practical instructions:
 Avoid impurity – flee from sexual immorality and every form of moral compromise (1 Corinthians 6:18–20).
 Respect others – treat others with dignity, never exploiting or taking advantage of them (Hebrews 13:4).
 Assume responsibility – take personal ownership of one’s life and conduct, living in a way that honors God. Holiness is not optional; it is central to God’s design for His people.

3. God’s Approval Must Be Our Passion (1 Thessalonians 4:8)

Ultimately, our pursuit of purity is about pleasing God:
 “Therefore, anyone who rejects this instruction does not reject a human being but God, the very God who gives you his Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 4:8, NIV)

Reverend Liu underlined two key truths:
 Our Loyalty is to the Father – we live not for human applause but for God’s approval. Loving God means living God’s way.
 Our Power is by the Spirit – the Holy Spirit empowers us to walk in holiness, convicting, guiding, and strengthening us. The Spirit within us is stronger than the one in the world (1 John 4:4).

Conclusion

Purity is not merely a moral standard; it is the expression of our obedience and devotion to God. To walk in holiness is to live in alignment with His will, empowered by His Spirit, and seeking His approval above all. Reverend Liu challenged us to examine whether our lives reflect a pursuit of purity that honors God and strengthens our witness before others.

Take-Home Message

God calls us to walk in purity and holiness—not by our own strength, but through the power of the Holy Spirit. Purity is our act of obedience and the offering that delights our Father in heaven. Amen.

Journal Psalms 135 to 140

📖 Psalm 136

Summary

Psalm 136 is a hymn of thanksgiving, repeatedly declaring: “His love endures forever.” The psalm recounts God’s mighty works—creation, deliverance from Egypt, leading His people through the wilderness, victories over kings, and His continued provision. Each act is a testimony of His unfailing love.

Key Scripture

Psalm 136:1 – “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever.”

Reflection

The psalm reminds me that no matter what season of life I face—joy, trial, or waiting—God’s love remains unchanging and steadfast. His acts in history prove His faithfulness, and they give me confidence that He is working even in my life today.

Response

Lord, help me to be thankful in all circumstances and never forget that Your love endures forever. Let gratitude fill my heart daily as I remember Your faithfulness.

---

📖 Psalm 137

Summary

Psalm 137 is a lament from the Israelites in exile, sitting by the rivers of Babylon and mourning for Jerusalem. They feel mocked by their captors and grieve deeply for their homeland. The psalm ends with a raw cry for justice against their enemies.

Key Scripture

Psalm 137:5 – “If I forget you, Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill.”

Reflection

This psalm reveals the depth of longing for God’s presence and home. It reminds me that when I drift from God, my soul longs for Him. It also shows the reality of expressing raw emotions before God, including grief, anger, and longing.

Response

Lord, keep my heart faithful to You. May I never forget the place of Your presence, and help me to channel even my grief and pain into prayer before You.

---

📖 Psalm 138

Summary

Psalm 138 is David’s psalm of thanksgiving and trust. He praises God for answered prayer, acknowledges His greatness, and declares that the Lord looks kindly on the lowly. David expresses confidence that God will fulfill His purpose for his life.

Key Scripture

Psalm 138:8 – “The Lord will vindicate me; Your love, Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of Your hands.”

Reflection

This psalm comforts me that God not only hears but also answers prayer. Even in times of weakness or uncertainty, He has a purpose for me and will bring it to completion. His enduring love gives me strength to trust Him.

Response

Lord, thank You for always hearing me. Help me to walk in confidence that You are fulfilling Your purpose in my life. Strengthen my faith to trust in Your steadfast love.

---

📖 Psalm 139

Summary

Psalm 139 is a profound meditation on God’s intimate knowledge and presence. David acknowledges that God knows his thoughts, words, and actions. There is nowhere he can flee from God’s Spirit. David praises God’s wonderful creation of his life and ends by asking God to search his heart.

Key Scripture

Psalm 139:23–24 – “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Reflection

This psalm reminds me of God’s nearness and His deep knowledge of who I am. Nothing is hidden from Him, yet He loves me completely. It challenges me to live authentically before Him and to invite Him to transform me.

Response

Lord, search my heart and remove anything that does not please You. Help me to walk in Your everlasting way and embrace the comfort of Your presence in every moment.

---

📖 Psalm 140

Summary

Psalm 140 is a prayer of David for deliverance from evil and violent people. He describes the schemes of the wicked and asks God to protect and rescue him. David ends with confidence that God upholds justice and secures the cause of the needy.

Key Scripture

Psalm 140:12 – “I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy.”

Reflection

This psalm reminds me that God is my protector in times of danger and injustice. Even when evil seems strong, God defends His people and will bring justice. It calls me to trust Him instead of being overwhelmed by fear.

Response

Lord, protect me from evil and guide me in righteousness. Teach me to trust in Your justice and to live with faith, knowing You are my refuge and defender.

---