Volume. XXXVII, No. 50
Sunday, 11 June 2023
It is already the second half of 2023 and let us consider how we can develop 5Ps in our lives and ministry. They are namely,
1. Be Positive
There may be negative events in your life, be it in the past or the present. It is important to maintain a constructive outlook as we look to Christ our Refuge and Strength in life and move forward in the will of God and not be discouraged and defeated by the evil one.
Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
2. Be Patient and Polite
Learn to wait upon the Lord in the new year and not insist on our timing or rush listlessly in life. Psalm 27:14- Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.
The Chinese have a saying, ‘no one will blame you for too much courtesy’.
Treat others with patience and courtesy whether it is reciprocated or not, even to the hawker (food stall owner), bus driver, the cleaner or the maid and it is often returned. Remember, no one dislikes a courteous and patient person, and the opposite is also true.
3. Be Persevering
Many give up easily and hence do not taste success. We need to be resolved and resilient and not do a half job but to finish it and complete the course.
Perseverance is the key to victory in our spiritual life and our work as well. Gumption is an important quality to develop this year.
Hebrews 12: 1-2 - 1Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
4. Be Prayerful
Prayer is the breath of godliness and the lifeline to divine supplies. Be humble and pray to God and thank God for your success for without Christ and his blessings, we cannot do well in life and eternity.
Philippians 4:6-7 - 6Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
5. Be Productive
Let us be diligent in whatever we do for the Lord in whatever he calls us to do.
Be it our secular profession, studies or service in the Lord. An industrious person is blessed of God and the indolent and idle brings sorrow. Labour has its own rewards and laziness its own consequences too.
Remember these 5Ps and beyond and let us put them into practice in the second half of 2023.
Rev Jack Sin
Sovereign Hope B-P Church, Singapore
More Lively Hope
