Monday, February 28, 2005 · 0 comments

Saturday's XS challenge. My cell won... I can never get used to winning things. It wasn't easy though. Had to go through two bowls of peppery Wan Tan (dumplings) to win. I ate a total of 38 dumplings I think. Others had to gulp down half a watermelon, solve puzzles, get the clues which were on the ground floor from the 3rd floor. And so my nameless cell got off to a good start. Jeremy Gan suggested a verse from Ephesians 4:1-6. It refers to unity as a body of Christ which is one of the key points of a healthy cell.

"One body, one spirit, one hope, ...one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God & Father of all"

Verses 5 & 6 emphasise the word 'one'. Would it be good as a cell name?
One

Yesterday was one of the most relaxed Sundays I've had in a long long time. Really enjoyed playing drums for CPC 1. Had a good time of prayer and praise before CPC 2 service started. Without the pressure of booking in lurking at the back of my mind. I really thank God for this new phase of NS. More time to spend with Him, more time to prepare for cell group and more time to myself.

Soccer with Marine Parade Christian Centre was a feisty one. But it ended off well. We still lost 2-1. Thats two losses in two weeks. Oh well... Still have a lot to improve in the team. I played alright I guess. Trying to nail down my midfield role. Its easier with the improved fitness but I still need to improve on my dribbling. I think my strengths are holding up the ball and passing. I've also been wondering whether I shout too much at my players. Am I expecting too much?
Stars of Charis FC

There's still something missing though. Something thats not there. But that will settle itself in time. Because I don't like this feeling of being alone. Don't get me wrong. I'm perfectly fine. But there's a desire that cannot be quelled. I don't think its supposed to be gotten rid off. Only temporarily quietened so that it doesn't consume you.

::: Verse of the Day :::
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
| Philippians 4:12-13 |

Friday, February 25, 2005 · 0 comments

"We've got to get better."
I said, "It's all in your head."
We could live through these letters
Or forget it all together.
See the months they don't matter.
It's the days I can't take
When the hours move to minutes and I'm seconds away.

Just ask the question (Just ask the question).
Come untie the knot.
Say you won't care,
Say you won't care.
And retrace the steps (Retrace the steps)
as if we forgot.
Say you won't care.
Say you won't care.
We try to avoid it (Try to avoid it),
But there's not a doubt
And there's one thing I can do nothing,
There's one thing I can do nothing,
There's one thing I can do nothing about.

Well all that we need is just a reaction,
It's too much to ask for when there's no attraction anymore
If chasing our dreams is just a distraction,
I want to remember when I know that I can't go back.
| taking back sunday - new american classic |

Thursday, February 24, 2005 · 0 comments

I'm a corporal now... Didn't manage to walk the 32km route march but it wasn't a requirement for passing BSLC. I reported sick on Monday when I booked back in to camp. Not sleeping for more than 40 hours is not a good idea. And playing soccer during that time isn't recommended either...

Anyway, I've been posted to Stagmont Camp to be trained as a signal specialist. I was almost disappointed to hear my name being called out for the signal specialist. I had been preparing myself for ASLC for a long time now and had convinced myself of the good points of being there.
1) I have a 1st Sergeant Instructor whom I really respect. He does things the 'experienced' way. Gets the job done and knows how to relax.
2) I have a really good Staff Sergeant who is a buffer for the shit coming from the big bosses
3) I sort of like the section training. (a.k.a. Chionging)
4) I respect my Platoon Commander for his 'Garang-ness'.
5) The combat pay would be useful. ($100 more)
6) You get promoted to 3rd Sergeant sooner.

But God knows best. I've been thinking a lot about how I would take care of my cell group if I had gone to ASLC. Now with a lighter load, I can focus more. Hopefully I focus more. I need to FOCUS!!! Haven't been very steady lately. I dunno why I waver. Thank God. Gotta go rest. Have to be at Stagmont Camp at 0745...

Saturday, February 12, 2005 · 0 comments

Tomorrow the holiday ends... Tomorrow I begin my work again. Its been a good time of rest. Responsibilities don't end although I'm in camp. Even though I don't hear anything from XS, things still move on. My responsibility to find out. Next week we will be having the multiplication of the cell groups in XS. Maybe a better word would be 'reorganisation'. The problem is... I'll be in camp. Another confinement weekend.

Am I being responsible if I say I'll continue with my tasks but end up not being able to fulfill them? I don't think it would be possible to just drop them though. There's no one else to do those tasks. So I'll just carry on But God will make a way. I just have to be willing.

Finally meeting the 'gang' (Matt, Ziig, Cheng, Pam, Denise) after so long. Time doesn't permit. Organise my time? I only have a total of one and a half days to 'organise'. Thats on a good week. And then I have to leave out most saturday evenings, sunday mornings, and some sunday afternoons. So the only free time is just after I book out. Oh well... I'm not complaining. I know God sees and He will honor even if men don't.

Wednesday, February 09, 2005 · 0 comments

God... Its times like this where I feel like giving up. When I've come so far and have nothing to show for it. Do I have nothing to show? Maybe I'm grading myself with a wrong system.

You don't want to be associated with the world? You want to be associated with spiritual things? Then you need to be graded along with spiritual people. But the problem is, there is a lack of people who are like-minded where I am. I'm residing at a place where 80% of the sentences are littered with expletives. I have no opportunity to talk about spiritual things. And times where I do bible study could be interrupted at any moment.

Maybe life will be like that next time. Maybe this is my familiarisation phase. To get me used to living like this when I start serving Him. Its just like doing physically strenuous activities. You do it often enough and sooner or later you're able to do more when you reach the same level of tiredness. Maybe this is the level of independence that I have to achieve. A level where it becomes a part of me. Maybe there is a change... Maybe I do have an influence on others. But I don't see the fruits.

It could be a time to exercise patience or a time where I need to re-evaluate myself. It could be a time to let go of certain responsibilities which I know I won't be able to fulfill well. Is that me? If I can't do it to the best of my ability, should I continue doing it?

I’ve been really afraid of being close to God for the wrong reason. I don’t want my relationship with God to be affected by external events. Its true that I got a ‘kick start’ from you but I hope that I’m doing it for the right reason. Time will tell...
| written 12 November 2002 |

::: Lyric of the Day :::
This is to a girl who got into my head
With all the pretty things she did
Hey, you know you keep me up in bed
This is to a girl who got into my head
With all these screwed up things I did
Hey maybe baby, you could keep me up in bed
My Konstantine...
| something corporate - konstantine |

Tuesday, January 25, 2005 · 0 comments

    Character
  • You may be well thought of because you rarely antagonize others or rarely want the spotlight.
  • When treated fairly, you can be sound and stable and seen as a dedicated and devoted individual. You hesitate to say no and will seldom, if ever, attack.
  • You are rather quiet and modest. You tend not to show assertiveness and are never domineering or egocentric. You prefer others to be in the spotlight rather than yourself.
  • When meeting new people, you may be rather unassuming and mild mannered. You will be cooperative and easygoing in social groups and family events, because of an inherent need not to make waves or cause hostility.
  • You become most comfortable in situations when the best offense is a good defense. You seldom act aggressively towards others, but will demonstrate a passive resistance from time to time.
    Communication
  • Your style shows you to be a much better listener than many other styles. You will listen carefully and attend to what others say. People who are talkative by nature may seek you out because of the natural audience you provide.
  • In some new situations you may become somewhat unsure because of your need to feel secure in most activities. You will warm up to the new people or event in your own time.
  • You would most likely not consider yourself an extremist on various issues, or in socializing with others. You do not need to be the center of attention like others, and in fact may feel rather uncomfortable when in the limelight.
  • You generally communicate with others in a mild-mannered way. You do not like to make waves and create disharmony. As a result, you may defer your own ideas to those of others.
  • Because of a need to avoid confrontation, you may not express an opinion. As a result, you may go along with others, even if you disagree with the activity, sacrificing your own self-interests to accommodate others.
    My Strengths
  • You are excellent at listening to your partner.
  • You are very sincere in actions and words.
  • You are a dependable and caring partner.
  • You tend to be a very calming influence in heated situations.
  • You are excellent at listening to the concerns and ideas of others.
  • You are generally very patient with people.
  • You are very respectful of the needs and wants of other people.
  • You take pride in being very loyal to friends and family.
  • You are good at helping others people to reach their goals.
  • You tend to work hard at making sure that other people are happy.
  • You tend to bring feelings of security and stability to a relationship.
  • You like to gather facts and think things over before offering a strong opinion.

Wednesday, January 19, 2005 · 0 comments

Its more or less confirmed that I'll be going to Advance Section Leader Course (ASLC). Had a good time chatting with my Platoon Commander about the platoon just now during my interview. Asked questions about what ASLC would be like.
"An average leader with a positive attitude. A bit slow at times. Has a good SOC timing of 8 minutes 51 seconds"
I'm not OCS material I guess...

The problem with you, Daryl, is that you're too honest. You cannot wayang. You cannot smooth talk your way through interviews. You cannot pretend to be what you're not. Your 'what-you-see-is-what-you-get' attitude, although honorable, is working against you now.

Its strange... My heart holds so many things but I don't know what they are. I feel a strange burden. God, please watch over my family, my friends and my future. I know you will and I will let go of my worries.

::: Verse of the Day :::
On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night.
Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.
My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.
| Psalm 63:6-8 |

Monday, January 17, 2005 · 0 comments

Today was so slack, it was boring!! Yes, yes I know... Complaining about things I should be grateful for. But all we did was march back & forth from the compant line to the canteen. Supposed to have a lecture in the auditorium behind the canteen but it ended up being a canteen break because of faulty AV equipment. I think we went to the canteen about 4 times today. Why do things like this happen when I have no money? Go figure...

Got a chance to watch Singapore beat Indonesia 2-1 yesterday night. The instructors set up a television set in front of the company. The Singapore squad look more like a complete team now. Hopefully their form will carry them into the SEA games. If they don't make it to the last 4 of the SEA games, they should be prepared to kiss goal 2010 goodbye...

Anyway, the outfield camp/exercise was surprisingly good. Kinda enjoyed the fighting patrols & ambush patrols. My night ambush exercise went pretty well except for 2 things. Night Vision Goggles & a minor screw up at the FRV. I shan't elaborate. Other than that, I think I enjoy this part of SISPEC. Maybe the tough part isn't here yet. But I trust that favour & grace will carry me through. I dare not imagine what I'll get myself into without Him.

2 days till I'm 22... Today I sat through another recruitment talk. They keep emphasising about having enough money to support your future family. They keep emphasising about how important it is to have a life plan. And how you're basically screwed if you don't. If you put 'logical' reality up against 'illogical' spirituality, which do you think makes more sense? Am I running into life unprepared? Is my desire to spend 2 years of my life in Rhema Bible School just a foolish ambition? The diploma that I'll get isn't even recognised by the methodist church!
Daryl... Can't you even throw yourself into God's work properly? Why of all things choose something that makes the least sense? Why choose something with the least security?

Doubt
You know what? I take comfort from the fact that doubt comes along my way. Because even Jesus had doubt. But more importantly, He knew His purpose & His desire was to please God. Doubt isn't the problem here. Its a natural human response to uncertainty. Its what you do with doubt that matters... Do you fall out? Lose the plot? Run away?
Or do you grit your teeth, clench your fists & stride forward with a quiet assurance and a smile in your heart that God is pleased with your obedience.

How can anything be more satisfying? However, I feel there's a need for some things to be left behind. To be a leader requires strength to shine forth. No more complaints. No more yearnings. However, new beginnings require new hope & motivation. I need to look past these 2 years...

Tuesday, January 11, 2005 · 0 comments

Why God, why?!?
I was enjoying myself! I was having fun in SISPEC for the first time and it all had to be spoilt by me signing my first extra. When I was doing well. When I was cruising along. Why did this have to happen? What did I miss Lord? Where did I go wrong?

"...Whoever heeds correction gains understanding."
| Proverbs 15:32b |

"How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver"
| Proverbs 16:16 |

"Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools."
| Proverbs 16:22 |

Dear Lord... Teach me what I need to learn from this situation. Lord, you know it wasn't an intentional mistake. Lord, I pray for favour from my superiors. Lord, you know how much this long weekend means to me. If its possible, revoke the punishment. But most importantly, teach me to be joyful in all circumstances. Amen.

Sunday, January 09, 2005 · 0 comments

Here I am settled in my bunk. 7 minutes left before I really need to go to sleep. That feeling of dread wasn't very intense today. And it totally disappeared when I reached the company line.
Peace... There's nothing like it. But sometimes its so difficult to attain. Maybe if we stopped thinking of it as something to be attained but rather as the absence of worry. For example, on the way to Pasir Ris just now, I had to literally tell God, "I'm going to stop worrying now... If there's anything I forgot please let me know."

I guess thats why things are better now... Ok, I gotta go sleep now. The ASTW company opposite my window has turned out the lights & I'm writing in the dark. Thank You God in advance for a good night's rest.

· 0 comments

Twenty-four hours... A measly twenty-four hours before they confine us for 2 weeks. Just too bad I guess.

Dear Lord... I pray that this time will be a good time of learning and new experiences. I pray against fear and anxiety. I pray against bad situations. I pray against feelings of dread and despair. I thank God for joy, wisdom, strength, endurance, patience and everything else that I might need.

Its just 2 weeks. Its not so bad. It can be done. It will be done.

Friday, January 07, 2005 · 0 comments

Whoosh... We've been going outfield these few days and doing lots of section movement under fire and things like that. Its been surprisingly fun so far. I really enjoy fighting the 'invisible' enemy. And being able to lead the section provides a whole new experience for me. Many first time experiences...

I've been getting a lot of stick from my section mates though. Because of my 'relaxed' manner, they think I'm slacking off... Am I slacking?
I'm trying the best I can, learning as I go along. If my best isn't good enough, then maybe I don't deserve to be here.

Speaking of best, I hit a new personal best for the SOC trial test yesterday. 8 minutes 41 seconds. My previous best in BMT was 9 minutes 35 seconds. Today was the actual test and I was worried about muscle fatigue. Afraid that I wouldn't be able to keep that timing. But after committing it to God & clinging to Him for strength during the strenuous, torturous run, I managed to hit 8 minutes 51 seconds. Praise God for that!

Sleep calls. Last day of being sectino commander tomorrow. IF I can make an impact, I want to.

Tuesday, January 04, 2005 · 0 comments

::: Quote of the Day :::
"All the time we are pursuing Him, realise that we already in His hand."

The grace of God has been overflowing this week. Or rather, my awareness of it has been heightened. The navigation exercise we had this week went pretty well. Managed to find every single checkpoint. But the most amazing thing was that I had the strength to walk for the entire day. I wouldn't be surprised if the total distance we walked for the navigation test was over 15km.

Today's SOC was postponed because of a drizzle... This is unheard of in SISPEC. Usually we continue in spite of the rain. I believe its God doing His thing with those in authority. I was telling God that my body could not take the SOC tests after the walking but I committed the situation to Him saying that if I had to run it, He would provide the strength & endurance. I was praying this just before the test when I was preparing my webbing. Training is getting tougher every week. But I think we're unwittingly preparing ourselves for whats coming up by endurance training like this.

Sunday, January 02, 2005 · 0 comments

Here we go again God...

::: Song of the Day :::
Into your hand, I commit again
All I am, for You Lord
You hold my world in the palm of your hand
And I am yours forever

I'll walk with You wherever I go
Through tears and joy I'll trust in You
And I will live in all of Your ways
And your promises forever

Jesus I believe in You
Jesus I belong to You
You're the reason that I live
You're the reason that I sing
With all I am

I will worship You...
| united live - with all i am |

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship.
| Romans 12:1 |

Saturday, January 01, 2005 · 0 comments

Usually the new year would warrant a celebration... But I haven't actually celebrated any occasion for over 3 years. But its not that I've been lying around depressed. It just seems to me that these are days worth noting, (as in note) and just spending with close family and friends. Maybe its time to look back on how this year has changed me.

Daryl, you've toned down
Its true... I accept the fact. Things that used to attract me don't seem so fun anymore. I'm not the wild experimenter I used to be. Although there are other not so good desires that have become stronger but I can't seem to bring myself to fulfill them. People tell me its because I've passed a phase. The point in life where a youth can be rebellious and rude. But I know, it is because my spirit doesn't allow me to.

Its been a fun year. Based on the photographs in my computer and the posts in my blog, I know I've been so blessed...

In a nutshell
    JAN
  • My last semester in Temasek Polytechnic
  • My 21st birthday
  • My last gig for cheapthrills
  • Solar Energy won the XS Challenge Cookout
    FEB
  • Prayed for purpose & direction in life
  • Sessioned for Ignite in Love Day '04
    MAR
  • Soccer match with Bedok View classmates (lost 0-1)
  • 3 Letter Session Album Launch Gig
  • Passed NAPFA (Silver)
  • Sessioned for SCGS concert
    APR
  • TGI Good Friday Steamboat
  • Organised Movie MagiXS (Screening of The Last Samurai)
  • Rhema Bible School Open House
    MAY
  • Passed Exams in Temasek Polytechnic
  • Called to go to Chiang Mai with PLMC
  • Cell Retreat in Johor Bahru
    JUN
  • Boot Camp & Mission Trip
  • European Cup 2004
JUL
  • Soccer Match with PLMC (Won 3-1)
  • Cousin Debbie's Wedding
  • Baybeats '04
  • 2nd Soccer Match with PLMC(Lost 2-4)
  • A Vacant Affair's debut performance
  • Volunteered as crew for Sonic Festival '04
    AUG
  • Chiang Mai Mission Trip with Charis Team
  • Soccer Match with Raymond's friends (Drew 3-3)
    SEP
  • Carnival @ Charis
  • Enlistment into NS (BMT)
    OCT
  • Field Camp
    NOV
  • SIT Test
    DEC
  • POP Parade
  • Youth Camp XScapade Elpizo
  • The highlights of 2004... I pray that 2005 will bring more of the same.

    ::: Quote of the Day :::
    Sow a thought, and you reap an act
    Sow an act, and you reap a habit
    Sow a habit, and you reap character
    Sow character, and you reap destiny

    Friday, December 31, 2004 · 0 comments

    I made it through another week. Thank God for that. This week has been made bearable by my section commander... He was unusually nice. Strict, no doubt, but at least he took the time to explain things properly. We had basic navigation exercises this week. Walked till my feet were rubbed raw. Thank God my team didn't have to repeat the second exercise even though we didn't do very well... We could only find one checkpoint and only after 4 hours. I'm convinced that the MGR (Map Grid Reference) and the description of the location they gave us was wrong. My Garang Platoon Commander said he'll look into it. There'll be a third exercise on Monday. This will be the actual test... I pray that I won't screw up and I pray for decent team mates.

    Been rather listless these few weeks. Training is always at the back of my mind. Even when I'm sleeping at home, I wake up every few hours to check whether its time to fall in. I had to force myself to sleep longer today. Thats why I managed to have the luxury of 9 hours of sleep.

    From 14 June 2004
    A storm. You are about to walk into a storm. A storm which will challenge the way you think, the way you speak and the way you behave. You will be challenged spiritually, mentally, morally & physically. You have to ground yourself in the word. Let God drop an anchor in the bedrock of your heart. So you will not waver. You need to prepare yourself so that you become consistent.

    There will be times when you are down and you will hear God speaking to you and comforting you. But there will be times when you won't hear anything. It doesn't mean He's not there. This is when you just have to cling to Him. this storm, this fire is a purifying process so that when you get out of it, He will be able to use you.


    How long more Lord?

    Sunday, December 26, 2004 · 0 comments

    Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
    | Psalm 73:24-25 |

    Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
    | John 14:25 |

    You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.
    You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier.
    | 2 Timothy 2:1-5 |

    Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
    Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me.
    | Philippians 2:14-18 |

    Thank You Jesus...

    Saturday, December 25, 2004 · 0 comments

    Its a whole different ball game. The amount of anxiety they place on you to get you to do your job properly is insane. I've said before that I believe that fear is a poor form of motivation. Now I'm actually convinced... Yes, there should be discipline and standards to be met. But I believe that we would be able to carry out our task with quality if only they a tad more patient. But of course, I'm not in charge and there's a reason why they are. There's so many things that I've learnt that I can't even recall what they are. From navigation to signals to safety regulations. Everythings taught at a blinding pace. And physically strenuous activities every other day don't make things better.

    This coming week will be a step higher in terms of the instructor's expectations. And I always have to be prepared for the role of Learner Platoon Sergeant (LPS) or Learner Sergeant Major (LSM). You never know when it'll be your turn. This week has been bearable but I feel physically drained... Fatigue is one of the key factors in this course.

    But Christmas is here... Thats all that matters for now. Happy Birthday Jesus. Thank You for being with me. Your presence is undeniable and Your guidance unmistakable. But Lord, the future looks bleak and uncertain. I don't think I can make it with my own strength or determination. But I know that You give the strength and You provide the means to complete this phase of life. Despite issues that I choose to distract myself with, I pray to be soaked in your presence so that I will know Your will more each day. That there will come a day where I will no longer question the direction that I'm travelling in and have enough faith to throw myself completely into your arms and let you carry me. Lord, carry me through... Amen

    Sunday, December 19, 2004 · 0 comments

    Back home after a week of SISPEC training. It will definitely not be easy. But I will pull through with God by my side. I will do well! I know I can because He never leaves not forsakes me. He guides me at every step of training. He causes favour from my instructors to be shown to me. Although I didn't have time to read the bible this week, I thank God that He has been showing Himself to me in ways that I can understand.

    We had thanksgiving night tonight in church. Rushed down to church after booking out. Really enjoyed myself there with the rest of XS. Its like being with your family again. The thanksgiving was really touching. I'm glad that I made a difference in their lives. Although I feel that I could have done more as a leader, I thank God that they have grown. I was also voted as 'Prom King'... All because I overdressed. Hahaha!

    Probably going for paintball later with some of the church people. But I have to rush down to beach road to buy army stuff immediately after that. Have to buy a lot of things. I'm already broke for this month!!!

    -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
    And so I feel as if I'm left behind.
    But I know better than that.
    Cos I know, now is not the time
    To be playing around with that.
    Its not something lost, rather
    a lesson has been learnt
    A obstacle crossed, a step further
    I could have lost my way, but I didn't
    -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

    ::: Quote of the Day :::
    When my body cries out, 'Enough!'
    My Spirit shouts, 'NEVER!'
    | Seen at Alpha Coy Line |

    ::: Lyrics of the Day :::
    You are the God of the broken
    The friend of the weak
    You wash the feet of the weary
    Embrace the ones in need
    I want to be like You, Jesus
    To have this heart in me
    You are the God of the humble
    You are the humble King
    | Vineyard Music - Humble King |

    Sunday, December 12, 2004 · 0 comments

    I've been taking a break from blogging. Haven't had much energy to type the last two weeks. Had my Passing Out Parade (POP), had quite a good youth camp, excellent megapraise night and got posted to School of Infantry Specialists (SISPEC). Thats how fast the week has seemed to me. How I wish I didn't have to go back to NS. How I wish that every day could be spent developing relationships with others. How I wish every day could be spent doing the things I desire and trying to achieve the things I want. Every part of me dreads the physical & mental strain which I will be facing. But there's something that God wants me to learn. Something I have to develop during this time. I've already seen the benefits that BMT has provided me with. I expect that SISPEC will be a step up. My responsibility is to do my best. Where God carries me with that is up to Him. I've already worried more than what is necessary.

    XScapade Elpizo has been a trying time as well. It was fun, yes, but tiring as well... I'm glad that I got a chance to serve even though I wasn't placed in any leadership role. I think I had a chance to help out in many areas of the camp. From logistics, fatigue work (Sai Kang), prayer, worship, ministry time. I'm pleasantly surprised to find myself in these roles. Its weird to be enjoying these areas of service. I mean, just 2 weeks ago, I was complaining about having to clean up the parade square in Tekong. But I would have swept the entire church willingly if it was required. It all depends on who you WANT to serve.

    Glad to see the youth accepting Christ and committing their lives to Him. Good to see God working through the camp. I'm reminded again that its not how well the camp is organised or run which brings results. But on whether we're willing to let God take control of the camp. I think the ministry times were the most rewarding for me. Allowing God to speak through me and at the same time letting Him speak to me. One area I think I could improve when praying for others could be the way I phrase the words. Sometimes the words I get from God are a little bit 'fuzzy'. And I speak it out fuzzy as well. Maybe I just need practice.

    God spoke to me today during worship.
    Assurance, Empowerment, Repositioning, Adjustments.

    ::: Song of the Day :::
    I felt for sure last night
    At once we said goodbye
    No one else will know these lonely dreams
    No one else will know that part of me
    I'm still driving away
    And I'm sorry every day
    I won't always love these selfish things
    I won't always live...
    No, stop it...

    It was my turn to decide
    I knew this was our time
    No one else will have me like you do
    No one else will have me, only you

    You'll sit alone forever
    If you wait for the right time
    What are you hoping for?
    I'm here and now, I'm ready
    Holding on tight
    Dont give away the end
    The one thing that stays mine

    Amazing still it seems
    I'll be 23
    I won't always love what I'll never have
    I won't always live in my regrets

    You'll sit alone forever
    If you wait for the right time
    What are you hoping for?
    I'm here and now, I'm ready
    Holding on tight
    Don't give away the end
    The one thing that stays mine

    You'll sit alone forever
    If you wait for the right time
    What are you hoping for?
    I'm here and now, I'm ready
    Holding on tight
    Don't give away the end
    The one thing that stays mine...
    | jimmy eat world - 23 |

    The Visits

    The Encouragement

    Books I'm Reading

    • The Practice Of The Presence Of God by Brother Lawrence
    • Vintage Jesus by Mark Driscoll
    • A Million Miles In A Thousand Years by Donald Miller
    • A Royal Waste Of Time by Marva J. Dawn
    • Travelling Mercies by Anne Lamott
    • Through Painted Deserts by Donald Miller
    • Thriving As An Artist In The Church by Rory Noland
    • The Adventure Of Worship by Gerrit Gustafson
    • Christ The Lord: The Road To Cana by Anne Rice
    • Christ The Lord: Out of Egypt by Anne Rice
    • Searching For God Knows What by Donald Miller
    • Sex God by Rob Bell
    • Jesus Wants To Save Christians by Rob Bell
    • Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller
    • Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell
    • The Wigglesworth Standard by Peter J. Madden