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I share with you today an exhortation drawn from the timeless truths of God’s Word for our young men who are about to join the National Service (NS). GYF organised an online meeting for them yesterday, during which I gave this exhortation. 

By God’s providence, you have been enlisted to serve the nation and are about to embark on a period of training and preparation. Throughout history, men have been called upon to rise, defend, and serve their nation. And now, in His sovereign plan, God has arranged for you to step into this responsibility. This is not a mere coincidence but a divine appointment—a significant stage in your life where your faith and character will be tested and refined.

As you prepare for the journey ahead, I want to share with you four essential spiritual mindsets that will serve as guiding principles throughout your national service. Military service is not merely a profession, but a sacred duty that calls for spiritual resilience, unwavering faith, and Christ-likeness. 

Be Courageous

The Lord says, “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them ...” (Deuteronomy 31:6a). Courage is not the absence of fear, but the presence of faith in God and His promises amidst fear. On the battlefield—whether physical or spiritual—God calls men to remain steadfast, not swayed by fear but anchored in unwavering trust in Him. Therefore, we are commanded to strengthen ourselves by holding firmly to His Word. Do not allow circumstances or experiences to shake your confidence nor instil fear in your heart.

Be Disciplined and Obedient

Courage is not a reckless (or foolhardy), daring attitude but a disciplined and obedient approach to life, especially in the face of temptation and trials. A soldier must be disciplined and obedient to his commanding officer, and likewise, Christians must remain disciplined and obedient to our Heavenly Commander. As Scripture says, “Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3). A good soldier will be disciplined and obedient, equipping himself to face challenges, endure hardships, and remain steadfast in moments of crisis. Young men, train your bodies, discipline your minds, and guard your hearts with diligence and faithfulness.

Trust in God’s Presence

“For the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (Deuteronomy 31:6b). God does not send His people into battle without His presence accompanying them. Just as commanders lead their troops into the fray, God Himself promises to go with you. When fear creeps in, the nights are long, and the conflict seems insurmountable, remember: God is with you! In moments of doubt or exhaustion, you can commune with Him in prayer, draw strength from His promises, and rejoice in the assurance of His unwavering presence.

Be Righteous

The army may offer you rewards, promotions, and financial incentives, but do not let these become the driving force behind your service. Never covet them nor pursue them through dishonest or deceptive means. True excellence is not measured by rank or accolades, but by spiritual and moral integrity. Our country needs righteous men, for Scripture says, “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). Young men, your integrity and character will speak louder than your words. Serve with honour, truthfulness and respect. Be an example to others in speech, action and attitude, reflecting the light of Christ in all you do.

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Testimonies from the YAF-YF Retreat (Kuching)

Reuel Resuma

I thank God for enabling me and my family to attend the YAF-YF Retreat, and for the retreat committee who laboured much to prepare and manage the programme well. I thank the Lord for the 7 groups which sang praises to Him, as well as for the three preachers: Pastor Koshy, Pr Samson, and Pr Cornelius, who expounded on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”.

Pr Cornelius preached about the “Person and Personality of the Holy Spirit”. I learned that the Spirit is not a thing, but a Person. He reveals His divinity through His personality. The Holy Spirit’s personality is shown in His intellect, emotion, and will. He also guides, strengthens, assures, communes with, and convicts the believer. The right response to the Holy Spirit is to fear and reverence Him as God. Pr Cornelius also preached on the fruit of the Spirit, as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. Nine traits are mentioned: “love”, the essential nature of God; “joy”, the privilege and duty of every believer; “peace”, which stems from our justification by faith in Jesus; “longsuffering”, which is patience in suffering; “gentleness” and “goodness”, which are displayed in words and deeds of kindness; “faith”, our trust in God by the working of the Spirit; “meekness”, which is not being a pushover, but being sensitive to others, yet still standing firm in our convictions; “temperance”, also known as self-control, which is the believers’ wall of defence against sinful desires. We must honour God with our body, taking captive every thought for Christ, and fleeing from temptations. The fruit of the Spirit is singular, and is contrary to the works of the flesh. Without the Spirit’s help, we cannot bear the fruit of the Spirit.

Thereafter, Pr Samson taught us in 2 parts, about the “Work of the Holy Spirit”. Since the Holy Spirit has many roles, His works are many. He is the One who orchestrates our regeneration, quickens the believer, and gives new life. He baptizes us spiritually, and seals us. He indwells in us at the point of our salvation, and never leaves us. He adopts, fills, empowers, equips, and illumines us. He also bestows spiritual gifts upon and comforts the believer.

I learned from Pastor that, though we are still in our sinful flesh that constantly tries to make us sin, we are not to walk after the flesh. Because of this, there is a war in us waged by the flesh against our soul. Paul reminds us that “to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:6). The flesh is against God, and when we lived in the flesh before our regeneration, we were against God and was under God’s condemnation. Now being justified by faith in Christ, we have the Holy Spirit to help us to fight against the lust of the flesh.  Even though our life will always be a constant battle against the flesh, if we yield to the Spirit, we can overcome the flesh. 

I thank the Lord for all the things I have learned during the retreat, and also for the fellowship we had with the brethren in Kuching. “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place” (2 Corinthians 2:14). All glory and praise be to God!

Christopher Low

“Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 106:1).

I thank God for helping my family and me to attend this year’s YAF-YF Retreat on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”.

In the 1st theme message, I learned that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are equal in essence, glory, and power. We must not grieve the Holy Spirit, as the Bible says in Ephesians 4:30 – “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”

In the 2nd theme message, I was taught that regeneration is the act of the Holy Spirit alone. He quickens elect sinners and makes them spiritually alive. Regeneration is once for all divine work; it is not repeated.

The 3rd theme message taught me about the Holy Spirit’s work of sanctifying believers and transforming them to be more like Christ. The Spirit also empowers us to serve God faithfully.

In the 4th theme message, I learned about the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. We must bear these various traits in our lives.

In the 5th theme message, I learned about the peace we have through our Lord Jesus Christ. His mercy keeps us from falling. Romans 8:6 says, “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”

The 6th theme message reminded me that the carnal mind is against God. We must not follow worldly trends or philosophies, but walk after the Spirit.

In the final theme message, I learned that sin will always try to pull us back, and we will face trials and temptations. But after salvation, we are made into new creatures in Christ and have the Holy Spirit’s power to overcome sin.

I thank God for Pastor, Pr Cornelius, and Pr Samson, who preached God’s Word faithfully. Praise God also for the seven choir groups that presented songs, and for everyone who worked hard to organise the retreat. I thank God that I could join a choir group and sing for His glory. I have learned many wonderful lessons during this retreat. I pray that God will help me live by the Spirit and walk closer to Him every day. All glory and praise be unto God!

Caleb Low

“Praise ye the LORD. Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD” (Psalm 113:1). I thank God for giving me the opportunity to attend the YAF-YF Retreat on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”. I would like to share some lessons which I have learnt from theme message 4 on “The Fruit of the Spirit”. 

I learn that we are to love God and others, to be joyful, and to have peace with God, personal peace, and peace with others. 

I am also reminded to be longsuffering, slow to anger, and to be gentle and do good to others. As Galatians 6:10 exhorts us, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” 

We must have faith in God and trust Him. We must be humble, “with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2).

Lastly, we must have temperance, i.e. to have self-control. 

I pray that God will help me to live out the fruit of the Spirit every day. I want to show love and kindness to my family and friends, to be patient when things don’t go my way, and to trust God in everything. I also want to have self-control in how I speak and act, so that I can be a good testimony for Jesus. May God help me to grow more like Christ!

Nathan Resuma

I am thankful to God that my family and I could attend the YAF-YF Retreat in Kuching, as well as for the fellowship among brethren from Kuching and Singapore, and for the lessons I have learned from Pr Cornelius, Pr Samson and Pastor Koshy.

I learned from Pr Cornelius on the “Person and Personality of the Holy Spirit”, and how it is fundamentally important for Christians to understand that the Holy Spirit is a divine Person, who reveals His divinity through His divine personality. He has intellect, wisdom, emotions, and the will to decide and choose, and He can be obeyed, mistreated or abused through actions, such as blaspheming or lying to Him. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, yet and is equal to both of them. From this, I learned that Christians must worship Him accordingly, and not sin against Him.

I learned from Pr Samson on the “Work of the Holy Spirit”, concerning how He has been working since the beginning of time, and on how He works in believers. Pr Samson taught us how the Holy Spirit regenerates us to make us alive unto the call of salvation, baptizes us into union with Christ at the point of conversion, seals us by His presence as an assurance of our redemption and salvation, indwells all believers of the Old and New Testaments, graciously adopts us and give us the rights of God’s family, bestows spiritual gifts unto believers, never fails to intercede for us, and comforts us. Along with these, I learned that the Spirit calls, fills, empowers, and equips God’s servants for the ministry.

I also learned about the “Fruit of the Spirit” from Pr Cornelius, and how that Christians must live a fruitful life by partaking of the virtues of godliness. We must obey the Spirit’s working in us, so that the fruit of the Spirit, which is “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22-23), can be strengthened and preserved. The fruit of the Spirit is different from but works hand in hand with the gifts of the Spirit, for without the fruit, the gifts are poorly applied. Fruitful character and godly traits come from devotion to God, and results from the Spirit’s working in us.

I learned from Pastor on the main theme, “Living by the Spirit”, that we need the Spirit to convict us of sin, to bring us to Christ, help us against temptation, and teach us to follow Christ. For In our life, there is a conflict – flesh warring against our souls. Furthermore, we are not free from Satan’s attacks. However,  we can rely on the Spirit to help us against flesh and Satan’s temptations. We must be willing to obey the Spirit’s bidding, surrender to God, and be spiritually minded by walking after the Spirit. We must never degenerate into carnal mindedness, but fight against it with the Spirit’s help, and let Him lead us to be more than conquerors for Christ.

Finally, I thank God for another opportunity to encourage the church in Kuching, and for the camp committee in the planning of this retreat. To God be all the glory.

Juffrey Balicao

Praise the LORD for the recent YAF-YF Retreat held in Kuching, on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”. It is by the Lord’s mercy and grace that all participants were sustained, preserved, and fed with His Word. He also blessed all the participants with a good time of fellowship during the breaks and game session, and in meeting the brethren at the Kuching mission station.

This year-end retreat is particularly noteworthy for my family and me. Firstly, I thank God for allowing me to serve as a member of the retreat committee. The Lord guided, strengthened, and gave wisdom to every committee member to fulfil their duties. Thank God for the spirit of unity and humility to serve Him and His people during this retreat. Additionally, I thank God for the good voices of the brethren who presented song presentations during each theme message. Furthermore, the Lord has blessed my family by enabling us to join this year-end retreat and be reunited. Thank God for the provision through the church, which sponsored both my family’s retreat fee and flights. This was our first visit to the mission church in Kuching, and our first time having fellowship with the brethren there.

During this 3-day event, the Lord blessed us with spiritual blessings through the preaching of His Word. The 1st theme message was delivered by Pr Cornelius and focused on the “Person and Personality of the Holy Spirit”. He thoroughly explained the Holy Spirit’s attributes of personality (intellect, emotions, will) and the Holy Spirit’s actions in the believer’s life (guiding, teaching, testifying, convicting of sin, interceding, restraining, sanctifying, equipping for service, calling for special service, assuring salvation). As Christians, we should know the workings of the Spirit and worship God accordingly.

For the next two theme messages, Pr Samson focused on the works of the Holy Spirit. It is important to note that every genuine believer has the Holy Spirit, and He is constantly working for the perfection of the believer’s faith. In the 4th theme message (by Pr Cornelius), we were taught about the two opposing forces in a believer’s life: the Spirit and the flesh. If you are led by the flesh, you shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Conversely, if you are led by the Spirit, you will be fruitful in the kingdom of God. With the nine traits listed by the apostle Paul in Galatians 5:22-23, we are encouraged us to bear all of the godly traits and to manifest them until we are perfected by the Lord.

Lastly, Pastor Koshy preached the remaining theme messages on “Living by the Spirit”, based on Romans 8:1-14. The Holy Spirit has quickened us from the deadness of sin, liberated us from the bondage of sin, and made residence in us permanently. He also leads believers to desire and passionately love and serve Christ. Spirit-minded believers must be Spirit-functioned and minded individuals. May we continuously fight against the works of the flesh with the help of the Holy Spirit, and walk constantly in His leading. All glory to God!

Stephanas Tan Yeh Wen

By God’s grace, my family attended the recent Kuching YAF-YF Retreat without much hindrance or sickness. Thank God also that the seven presentation groups (who had prepared tirelessly) were able to present their respective items well, even though some had fallen ill during the course of the retreat. May the Lord be pleased to use their music to edify both the musicians and the congregation.

Familiar doctrines, such as sanctification, calling, equipping, were given greater and more personal emphasis during this retreat. What blessings such doctrines and their implications bring to me! It is comforting that I am able to confess my sins and to trust in Jesus (the very first work of the Spirit in us) – only because of the Spirit that works in me, and not of myself. It is the Spirit that sanctifies me, calls and consecrates me to ministry, equips me with the relevant gifts and right attitudes to serve Him, and even grants me grace to be faithful – not of myself. Praise God that it is the Spirit alone who saves and empowers us!

One practical implication from the doctrines of the Holy Spirit is an emphasis in using the Word of God in evangelism, through which the Spirit of God works in order to bring about salvation. Another is to pray for the illumination of the Spirit upon the preachers and the listeners – for no theological degree nor human intelligence can grant such knowledge to our minds and hearts. Yet another is to trust wholly upon the Word of God in all that we say and do - for it is perfectly inspired and perfectly preserved by the Spirit for us!

Thank God for the messages addressing the gifts which the Spirit has bestowed upon us, as well as the nine traits of the fruit of the Spirit. What a reminder that we should take every opportunity to serve God, no matter how small or laborious, with much joy and thanksgiving, and not out of forced obligation (1 Corinthians 15:58) – relying upon the Holy Spirit to bear the fruit of the Spirit! May we not limit ourselves to ticking off a checklist, but to consider the list of 9 traits as non-exhaustive. 

I also praise God for the reminder that the love borne as part of the fruit of the Spirit and the world’s love is not the same. Though the world has hijacked the term “love” to disguise their lust, yet nothing is further away from biblical love. Such a difference may be seen by the phrase, “preferring one another” (Romans 12:10). So often we emphasise on what others can do for us, rather than what we can do for others! How often have we then imbued the love of the world, rather than bearing biblical love in ourselves! Oh, that we should have more of Christ’s love, and put off, yea, detest, despise, even hate the lust of the world that has clothed itself with the term “love”.

May the Lord be pleased to apply these lessons continually in my life for the benefit of others around me.

READ:

1 Peter 1:23a

^23a Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God.

EXHORTATION:

All genuine Christians are “born again”. A second birth other than the natural birth is mentioned here. Jesus in his conversation with Nicodemus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). So, being “born again” is to enter God’s kingdom. Jesus tells us, “Ye must be born again” (John 3:7). In other words, no one enters His kingdom by virtue of his natural birth. Even though you are born to Christian parents, you do not enter His kingdom until you are born again.

Our text also says that our being born again is “not of corruptible seed”. In other words, it is not by means of any perishable seed of this earth. No earthly or human means, which are perishable, is sufficient to give us access into God’s kingdom.

Rather, as our text says, we are born again “of incorruptible, by the word of God”. It is only by means of the “incorruptible” or imperishable seed that one can be born again. This incorruptible seed, which is the imperishable life, is planted in a man “by the word of God”.

Here, “the word of God” is set forth as the means by which the incorruptible seed is implanted, that one may be born into God’s kingdom. James says in James 1:18, “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth”. The Word of God is the divine means of our regeneration. God’s Word has the power to give life to those “who were dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1).

Later in verse 25, Peter reminded his readers that “this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” The Word of God is brought to us by the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and by believing it, we are born again. How important it is that the Gospel be preached everywhere for the regeneration of men! Let us pray that the Lord will raise up preachers of His Word, and that His Spirit would empower them to preach the Gospel effectively. At the same time, let us praise God for the understanding of His Word that He has given to us, so that we might be born into His kingdom. Let us also love the Word of God and meditate upon it daily, that we may persevere in our spiritual life and bear fruits.

READ:

Matthew 24:35

³⁵ Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

EXHORTATION:

What a glorious affirmation by the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ concerning all the words He has revealed to us! Every word in the Bible that He has revealed is here to stay. You may sooner see the heaven and earth pass away than His words fail. The permanency of every word that the Lord has revealed by His Spirit (cf. 1 Peter 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:16) is here guaranteed by Him.

The enduring nature of all the words that He has revealed in the Bible is unequivocally declared by the Lord Himself. He will not fail; neither will His words. We must trust His promise concerning all His words to be true. His words are not transient, but permanent!

Jesus’ assurance concerning the ever-abiding nature of His words was declared not only by Matthew, but also by the other Gospel-writers, namely Mark and Luke (cf. Mark 13:31; Luke 21:33).

Jesus’ assertion of the eternality of His words has been reiterated by His apostles in their epistles. For instance, the apostle Peter said, “… The word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” (1 Peter 1:23b); “But the word of the Lord endureth for ever” (1 Peter 1:25a).

Deplorably, even scholars within the church challenge the authenticity and accuracy of the words of Scripture. Worse still, a vast number of churchgoers, including preachers, do not believe that every word of the Bible is perfectly preserved. But let us pay attention to Jesus’ promise that His words are immortal and immutable. Since we have Jesus’ assurance concerning the unchanging nature of all the words of the Bible, let us boldly reject all the suggestions of errors in the Bible. Every word of the Bible is perfect, true and eternal, not because scholars said so, but because Jesus said so. There is no greater witness to the infallibility, inerrancy, perfection and eternality of the words of the Bible than Christ our Saviour Himself!

Upon the ever-abiding and never-changing words, let us build our lives. There is no other foundation as stable and steadfast like His words to build our lives on. What a precious promise Jesus has given us, that we can fully trust all His words to be true and faithful forever!

READ:

Psalm 103:2

² Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.

EXHORTATION:

The proper response to divine favours received is a personal commitment to bless the LORD. Thankfulness leads the beneficiary to worship the Giver, who is the LORD. In the previous verse, the psalmist has already exhorted his soul twice to bless the LORD. Now for a third time, he says, “Bless the LORD”. Such repetition denotes the earnestness of his desire to express his gratitude. Besides, he stirs up his soul to employ itself in grateful worship of the LORD. The worship of the LORD must arise from the inner man. It is a soul-work. Jesus reprimanded those who engaged in “lip-worship”. Citing Isaiah, He said, “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me” (Matthew 15:8; cf. Isaiah 29:13; Ezekiel 33:31). No worship exists when the heart is not sincerely and earnestly employed in praising the LORD.

In Deuteronomy 8:10-14, the LORD warned Israel against forgetting His benefits – “When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God ...”

Recollecting and recognising the LORD’s help, guidance, rebuke, promises, spiritual blessings, physical provisions, strength, hope, etc. will provide genuine impetuses for the worship of His name. Grateful emotions make the soul yearn to bless the LORD. Recognition of the LORD’s blessings in his life causes the psalmist to cry out: “What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people” (Psalm 116:12-14).

In order to mould oneself to be a better worshipper of the LORD, one should awaken one’s memory to the benefits one has received from the LORD. Our memory is like a large storehouse. Recollection will bring to our present awareness those things stored up in the memory, producing powerful emotions of gratitude and worship in our hearts.

READ:

Psalm 103:1

¹ Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

EXHORTATION:

This is the first line of a psalm of praise, which glorifies the Lord for all His gracious blessings upon His servant, David. The object of praise in this psalm is the LORD; and that is clearly set forth right at the beginning of the verse, when it says, "Bless the LORD." The LORD is worthy of our praise at all times. As Psalms 145:3 tells us, "Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised" (Cf. Ps. 48:1; 96:4; 147:5).

What does it mean to say "Bless the LORD"? When the LORD "blesses" us, He mercifully bestows upon us His goodness. But when we "bless" God, we add nothing to Him, for He lacks nothing, and needs nothing from us. Our blessing the LORD is a grateful acknowledgement that He is the source of all our blessings. When we joyfully recognise and exclaim that the LORD had done great things for us and praise Him for His blessings, we bless the LORD. Each of His children must say, "I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth" (Ps. 34:1; Cf. Deut. 8:10; 1Chr.29:20; Neh. 9:5; Ps. 16:7; 26:12; 34:1; 103:1-2,20,22; 104:1; 115:18; 134:2; 135:19-20).

The psalmist's commitment to worship and praise the LORD is revealed in his self-exhortation, "Bless the LORD, O my soul." Furthermore, he summoned all his powers and passions to praise the LORD, saying, "And all that is within me, bless his holy name." A genuine worshipper would employ his heart, his mind, his emotions and all his strength to render praises to the LORD.

Twice, in this verse, the psalmist urged himself to bless the LORD. Such reiteration would help the believer to avoid slothfulness or negligence that would prevent him from worshipping the LORD wholeheartedly. He fortified his self-exhortation to bless the LORD by citing another solemn reason for the worship of the LORD, namely, the fact that the LORD is holy. So He said, "Bless His holy name."

It is most reasonable that we bless the LORD, for He is Holy. Before the LORD, who is holy we must bow in humble and solemn prostration. Like the Seraphims, the angelic hosts that surround the heavenly throne, we must worship the Lord saying, "Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory" (Isa. 6:3). Psalms 99:5 also teaches us, "Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy."

READ:

Isaiah 25:1b

^1b I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.

EXHORTATION:

Praising God is the outflowing of a thankful heart. When a heart is full of gratitude towards God, it hastens to bless His name. A thankful heart is resolute to praise God’s name, just as Isaiah said, “I will praise thy name”. Here the prophet was determined to praise God.

Isaiah was about to proclaim the great wonders which will occur upon the establishment of the LORD’s kingdom on earth. In chapter 25, Isaiah (speaking in the first person) described the great wonders which will occur when the LORD’s kingdom is established on the earth. His heart, being full of adoration and thanksgiving, was greatly excited to express itself to magnify the LORD. It is those who are so stirred up within themselves to praise God that will stir up others also to do the same. Isaiah thus began with an intensely personal affirmation that the LORD is his God. He had already laid claim that the LORD is his God; he had earlier said, “O LORD, thou art my God”. Such acknowledgment of the LORD as one’s God provides the desire and motivation to exalt Him.

Having in his heart the knowledge of the great wonders of God which will occur when the LORD’s kingdom is established on the earth, the prophet determined to praise God. Here he gave two specific reasons for praising the LORD. The first reason for exalting the LORD is that He “hast done wonderful things”. In fact, Scripture presents our God as “the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things” (Psalm 72:18). Even when the LORD acts to chasten us or try our faith, we must confess that all His works are wondrous. His works are perfect, great (cf. Psalm 92:5), marvellous (cf. Psalm 139:14), powerful (cf. Psalm 111:6), merciful (cf. Psalm 145:9), holy (cf. Psalm 145:17), and in truth (cf. Psalm 33:4).

The second reason for Isaiah’s dedication to the LORD’s praise is that His “counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.” The ancient counsels of God’s Word are perfectly trustworthy. All that God has revealed in the days of old remain steadfast and true even today. Not a word of His revealed counsels shall fail. The fact that His promises and prophecies continue to be fulfilled assures us of the veracity and profitability of all the counsels of the Scriptures. Isaiah later declared that “the LORD of hosts… is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working” (Isaiah 28:29). Praise the LORD!

 

READ:

Isaiah 25:1a

^1a O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee.

EXHORTATION:

The prophet Isaiah gives himself wholly to the worship of the LORD. He appears to be totally consumed by the desire to glorify the LORD. Nothing is more important to Isaiah than exalting his God. Every child of God must be gripped and driven with this singular passion to exalt the LORD.

Like Isaiah, Moses said in Exodus 15:2, “The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” Similarly, David said in Psalm 34:3, “O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together”. In Psalm 99, the psalmist twice exhorted, “Exalt ye the LORD our God” (vv. 5, 9).

What place has the worship of God in your life? Have you consecrated yourself wholly to praise and magnify the LORD? Do you promptly join the church to worship the LORD? Do you joyfully participate in the service of God? Are you mindful to exalt the LORD as your God through daily private and family worship? Have you been mindful to speak of the LORD’s goodness before your family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbours? Oh, how greatly it would please the LORD, if you would dedicate yourself to glorify Him! Jesus exhorted us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Isaiah’s consecration to exalt the LORD proceeded from his love for the LORD. With great delight, he said, “O LORD, thou art my God”. He unreservedly acknowledged the LORD as his God. There was no hesitation on Isaiah’s part to declare his allegiance to the LORD. It was his absolute joy, honour and privilege to have the LORD as his God.

Like the prophet Isaiah’s testimony, the testimony of God’s people should be heard and seen everywhere. Every believer must be ready always to testify that the LORD is his God. Let our attachment to our God be known to all, both friends and foes. None of His people should be reluctant in affirming his relationship with the LORD. Our heart’s love for the LORD must be openly confessed. He takes note of our open avowal of love and adoration for Him, and shall speak of it even in eternity. Jesus said, “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 10:32; cf. Luke 12:8).

 

Sermon Text: Psalm 97:1–12
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 29th December 2024

Dear brethren, 

I look forward to our gathering together for the Watchnight Service. Come prepared to praise God at the Watchnight Service. To keep your testimony within the 5-10 minute limit, jot down your key points beforehand in a clear and concise manner. This will help you share effectively, and ensure everyone has an opportunity to testify. To encourage you to do the same, I publish the following article. 

The Bible consistently encourages believers to approach God with thanksgiving. Psalm 92:1 proclaims, “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High”. Similarly, Psalm 75:1 echoes this sentiment: “Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare.”

However, it’s not just about feeling thankful; it’s about actively giving thanks to God. Many may feel grateful, but expressing thanks to God is what the Bible exhorts us to do. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 instructs us to offer thanks in all circumstances – “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” The Greek phrase, “in every thing”, implies a comprehensive scope, leaving no room for exceptions. This means giving thanks to the Lord in every situation life presents. We must express gratitude to the Lord in both positive and negative life experiences, knowing that it can change our perspective and bring us closer to Him.

Even in difficult situations like accidents, failures, or illnesses, we can find reasons to give thanks, trusting in God’s sovereignty and ability to use all circumstances for His glory. Romans 8:28 reminds us that all events work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose. While individual events may not be inherently good, they contribute to a greater beneficial outcome in God’s plan.

As believers, we should maintain faith and trust in God’s sovereignty, recognising that everything in this world is arranged to benefit us according to His purpose. We should not be bitter or ashamed of our circumstances. Instead, we should rejoice that God is present and working in our lives. Let us shift our focus from worldly possessions to God’s redemptive work, recognising that all things ultimately lead to His glory.

In 2 Corinthians 4:15, we are reminded that “all things are for [our] sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.” Let us be mindful to thank God in everything, trusting in His provision and relying on His strength, even amid trials and tribulations. He never forsakes us in our ordeals, and will use us for His glory.

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YAF-YF Combined Retreat 2024 (Kuching) Report

Report by Juffrey Balicao

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (Romans 8:1).

The LORD and our God blessed this year’s YAF-YF Combined Retreat, held at the Waterfront Hotel in Kuching, East Malaysia, on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”. The retreat was attended by 108 brethren from both Singapore and Kuching, including adults, young adults, youths, and children. Over three days, the Lord preserved and strengthened the participants to feast and be nurtured from God’s Word, and to have a blessed time of fellowship during breaks and the game session. Additionally, God enabled all the speakers, namely Pastor Koshy, Pr Samson and Pr Cornelius, to expound God’s Word through 7 theme messages.

First Day of Retreat (18 December)

Upon arrival in Kuching, the participants visited the Kuching mission church station, and then proceeded to the retreat venue. This marked the commencement of studying God’s Word. 

The 1st theme message was preached by Pr Cornelius, on the topic: “The Person and Personality of the Holy Spirit”. In explaining the relationship of the Holy Spirit to the Father and to the Son, Pr Cornelius emphasised that the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father, is sent by the Son, yet is co-equal with God. In expounding the reasons for the doctrine of the Personality of the Holy Spirit, he highlighted that the Holy Spirit has the attributes of personality, such as intellect / wisdom (1 Cor 2:10), emotions (Ephesians 4:30), will / volitional capacity (Acts 13:2; 1 Cor 12:11). The actions of the Holy Spirit are further mentioned, which are to guide (John 16:13; Romans 8:14), to teach (John 14:26), to testify (John 16:26; Rom 8:16), to convict of sin (John 16:8), to intercede, to restrain (Acts 16:7), to sanctify (1 Peter 1:2), to equip in service (1 Cor 12:7), to call for special service (Acts 13:2), and to assure us of salvation (2 Cor 1:21-22; Gal 4:6). Moreover, the Holy Spirit can be obeyed (Acts 10:18-24), mistreated / abused (Acts 5:3), quenched (1 Thes 5:22), grieved / angered (Eph 4:30; Heb 10:29), blasphemed (Matt 12:31). Pr Cornelius concluded the 1st theme message with the right response to the Holy Spirit. As believers, we must know how the Spirit works, and worship Him accordingly; we must live by the Spirit and submit ourselves to His leading.

To end the first day, Pr Samson delivered the 2nd theme message on “The Works of the Holy Spirit”. He highlighted the first four works of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. They are the work of regeneration or quickening (Eph 2:5; 2 Cor 3:6), work of baptism by the Holy Spirit, work of the sealing of the Holy Spirit in assurance of the final redemption (Eph 1:13; 4:30), and work of indwelling of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19; 2 Tim 1:14). 

Second Day of Retreat (19 December)

On the second day, Pr Samson continued with the 3rd theme message, where he elaborated on five more works of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. They are the work of adoption of the Holy Spirit (John 1:12; Rom 9:25-26), work of filling of the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:19-20) which speaks of the outcome of the Holy Spirit’s filling (desire to serve / minister, joyful singing, a thankful heart, and mutual submission), work of empowerment of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:41-47), work of equipping / perfecting of the Holy Spirit (Heb 13:21; 2 Cor 13:11), and work of bestowment of spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 12:1; 14:1, 12; Eph 4:11-12). Furthermore, the Holy Spirit intercedes for the believers (Rom 8:26), guides the church and believers (Rom 8:14), enables the believers (Acts 13:2), and comforts the believers (2 Cor 7:13; John 15:26). Truly, every genuine believer of Christ has the Holy Spirit, who is working in him mightily. 

The 4th theme message (by Pr Cornelius) focused on “The Fruit of the Holy Spirit”. He firstly explained the two opposing forces which war in a believer’s life, i.e. the Holy Spirit and the flesh. The fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-23) opposes the works of the flesh (Gal 5:19-21). Thus as Christians, we are responsible to obey the Spirit’s working in us, so that the Spirit’s fruit is preserved, increased, and strengthened. A healthy Christian life is one that bears fruit, whereas a life driven by the flesh will not inherit the kingdom of God. Though the fruit of the Spirit is to be distinguished from the gift of the Spirit, both ought never to be absent in a believer’s life. Without the fruit of the Spirit, the gift of the Spirit is thwarted and poorly applied. The participants were encouraged to have a greater devotion to God which will result in a fruitful character. Devotion to God includes fearing Him, loving Him and leaving sin (Eph. 4:22-24). In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul listed nine godly qualities or traits, which believers cannot pick and choose but are commanded to bear them all. Is it overwhelming for a believer to bear these nine listed qualities? It is only by the divine dimension that we can be kept from becoming frustrated and defeated in our desire to exemplify all these godly traits in our lives. The manifestation of the Spirit’s fruit in us is progressive and is never finished until we are perfected by God. Even in the areas where we have grown, there is always a need for further growth.

After being nourished by the Word of God, participants enjoyed a delightful time of fun and fellowship during the game session. The game masters guided them through the planned activities. We thank God for keeping everyone safe.

The evening meeting featured the 5th theme message, delivered by Pastor Koshy on “Living by the Spirit”, based on Romans 8:1-14. This session was intended for a “Gospel Night”, with seven visitors in attendance. We thank God for guiding the Kuching brethren to invite these individuals to hear the Gospel preached. Pastor Koshy began his sermon by underscoring humanity’s depravity due to its sinful nature—dead in sins, condemned, alienated from God, and devoid of peace with Him. He then highlighted the love of God, who sent His only begotten Son in the likeness of man to bear our sins on the cross, and grant eternal life to all who believe. He then directed the congregation to Romans 8, emphasising several key points: there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ (v. 1); the carnal mind is sinful and leads to death (v. 6); the carnal mind is hostile towards God (v. 7); and Spirit-led believers are marked as the children of God (v.14).

Third Day of Retreat (20 December)

On the last day of the retreat, Pastor Koshy continued with the 6th and 7th theme messages, preaching from Romans 8:1-14, under the topic “Living by the Spirit”. He expounded on the two opposing forces in a believer’s life—the Spirit and the flesh. The flesh, representing the sinful nature of man, corrupts the believer’s thoughts and inclines him to be carnally minded, which leads to death (Rom 8:6a). In contrast, the Holy Spirit liberates the believer from all sins, and takes permanent residence within him. Indeed, “to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Rom 8:6b).

The Holy Spirit leads the believer to desire, intend, and passionately love and serve Christ. Thus, the life of a genuine believer must be Spirit-led and Spirit-minded. Pastor Koshy reiterated that every genuine believer possesses the Holy Spirit, is quickened, freed from the bondage of sin, and is continually reminded of God’s Word and promises. He concluded his preaching by expounding on Galatians 5:17, which speaks of the flesh lusting against the Spirit. He warned participants that the flesh will persist in its efforts until one succumbs to its desires. Therefore, he encouraged everyone to continually fight against the flesh with the help of the Holy Spirit, and to walk in His leading. As a parting exhortation, he reminded all, “Yours is the call to become more than conquerors (cf. Rom 8:37).”

Finally, thank God for enabling the YAF-YF Retreat committee, led by Eld Low Boon Siang, to execute all the planning with unity of heart and humble spirit. Thank God for strengthening and giving good voices to the brethren who presented song items, and safe journey for all the participants. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage” (Galatians 5:1).

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Testimonies from the YAF-YF Retreat (Kuching)

Marcus Chui

I thank the Lord for the privilege of attending this year’s Combined YAF-YF Retreat on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”. It was a spiritually refreshing and edifying time, and I am deeply grateful to learn more about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, and for the opportunity to fellowship with church brethren.

The retreat gave me a greater understanding of how the Holy Spirit works and how to worship Him rightly. One key takeaway is the reminder of Jude 20: “building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost”. I learned that worshipping the Holy Spirit is not just about acknowledging His presence, but also about yielding to Him in prayer and living in the Spirit. Through intentional prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit, we can grow spiritually and align our lives more closely with God’s will.

Another significant takeaway is the teaching on the regenerative work of the Holy Spirit. Regeneration is entirely an act of God, whereby the Holy Spirit makes an elect sinner spiritually alive so that he can respond to God’s divine call of salvation. John 3:8 – “The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit” – beautifully illustrates that man is passive in this work of regeneration, and it is entirely by God’s grace that we are quickened to new life. I am humbled by this truth, and thankful for the Spirit’s transformative power in my life.

A third important lesson is the perpetual conflict between the flesh and the Spirit – a sobering reminder that our carnal tendencies are at war with the Spirit within us. Observing the nature of young children illustrates this truth—they display natural, carnal inclinations that reflect the fallen condition we all share (cf. Rom 5:12). Truly, “they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit” (Romans 8:5). This verse challenged me to reflect deeply on what dominates my thoughts and to examine whether I am carnally or spiritually minded. I resolved to devote my life to being spiritually minded, as it leads to “life and peace” (Rom 8:6b), in contrast to “enmity against God” (Rom 8:7) that results from a carnal mindset. 

Finally, I thank God for enabling Pastor Koshy, Pr Samson and Pr Cornelius to faithfully expound His Word during the retreat. The 7 theme messages were spiritually enriching and convicting, helping me identify areas where I need to grow. I pray that God would grant me the grace and strength to walk in the Spirit daily. I desire to experience more of the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22–23)—love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance—so that I may be a godly testimony before the sight of God and my fellow men. May He continue to transform my life for His glory. Amen.

Joan Cheah

Praise the Lord for the retreat on the theme: “Living by the Spirit”. There were lots of spiritual lessons learnt, helping to ground us in God’s Word continually. One such lesson is that spiritual mindedness is “life and peace”, and involves fleeing carnality, which is “enmity against God” (Romans 8:6-7).

Another lesson is this: Not to grieve the Spirit is not to be engrossed with the world, but to be filled with thoughts after God. In this manner, we may bear the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Bearing the fruit is a mark of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, which helps us to do everything to the glory of God. I am grateful to God for the works of the Holy Spirit, that I may have a regenerated mind and experience being born again (cf. John 3:3).

I thank God for real godly examples amongst us. I am particularly encouraged by many, both young and old, who displayed diligence and joy despite various challenges. Thank God for the labour of Pastor, elders, preachers, and the organising committee. I can see the Spirit’s leading through much love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance that have been displayed by them. Praise God also for the heartening spiritual acts of witnessing by brethren to the several visitors whom God had moved to come to hear the Gospel.

Besides being spiritually well fed through the exhortations, I also appreciate the physical aspects of the retreat. Much thought was given to the details, such as games, special snacks, and provision of umbrellas to shelter us from rain in boarding the bus.

May God grant me a continually thankful spirit, like the psalmist – “Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion” (Psalm 111:1-4). 

Samuel Teo

I thank God for the opportunity to attend the GYAF-GYF Combined Retreat this year, held in Kuching. Thank God for the time of learning His Word on the topic, “Living by the Spirit”, and for the sweet fellowship with the brethren. I also thank God for the opportunity to have invited some of my friends over to the retreat. One of them, whom I am planning to share the Gospel with, came to listen to the Gospel message preached by Pastor Koshy on Thursday night. 

The key takeaways of the retreat’s 7 theme messages are as follows:  

Our Christian faith will manifest in good works. “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” (Romans 8:6). Moreover, “...the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23). 

Being regenerated by the Holy Spirit, we ought to be led by the Holy Spirit, living in submission and obedience to the Spirit, in order to bear the fruit of the Spirit. A healthy Christian life must be fruitful! Without the fruit of the Spirit, the gift of the Spirit will be thwarted and poorly applied. 

May we live our lives fruitful to the Lord until He comes again! 

READ:

Psalms 36:5

⁵ Thy mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.

EXHORTATION:

David was greatly troubled by the cruel premeditated designs of the wicked. Concerning the wicked, he said, “The words of his mouth are iniquity and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good. He deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way that is not good; he abhorreth not evil” (vv. 3-4). Against the backdrop of the malicious purposes of the wicked, David purposefully recollected and exalted the LORD’s mercy and faithfulness. Amidst the depravity of man, we must turn our eyes to the LORD’s glorious mercy and faithfulness.

David remembered and affirmed that the mercy of the Lord “is in the heavens”. Mercy is divine love extended to persons who might expect to be pronounced guilty. The LORD’s mercy gives us the hope of forgiveness and blessings instead of condemnation and death. All His goodness, forbearance and help are the expressions of mercy. Indeed, “It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not” (Lamentations 3:22; cf. Ezra 9:9; Nehemiah 9:32).

While we are on earth, the mischief of the wicked may disturb us. However, the mercy of the LORD that fills the heavens shall come to us as showers of mercy. The heavenly mercy is divine, eternal, pure, refreshing and renewing. It is of the highest and noblest kind. It never changes nor diminishes. Its goodness and praise are as high as the heavens. Elsewhere, David reiterated, “For thy mercy is great unto the heavens” (Psalm 57:10).

David also recollected and praised the faithfulness of the LORD – “thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds”. The Hebrew word for “faithfulness” (’emuwnah) comes from the root word “amen” (’?m?n), which means “truth”. God’s faithfulness means that He is true to all that He has revealed Himself to be, and to all that He has revealed about the past, present, future, as well as to all His promises and works. His fidelity to His people is so lofty that it is aptly said to reach to the clouds. Though the treachery of the wicked abounds, God’s faithfulness is steadfast.

The LORD’s mercy forgives and saves us. On the other side of the same coin, His faithfulness secures us by His Word and His Spirit. Similarly, while His mercy gives us His promises, His faithfulness delivers His promises to us. The LORD’s faithfulness is His mercy affirmed and applied in our lives.