How Was 2015 For You?

Yes, all checked in and nicely settled into what will be my sanctuary over the next two days. As you might have guessed, I am on a personal retreat to rest in the Lord and also to receive from Him. It’s been a full year and I am indeed looking forward to a time of silence and solitude.

And since there’s no better way to get into His presence than to begin with praise and thanksgiving, that’s exactly what I shall do. To be sure, I have experienced so much of the Lord’s love and favour this year. Rejoice with me as I reflect on just 10 highlights of 2015.

1. 20 Years of Marriage: On 11 March, Serene and I celebrated our 20th Wedding Anniversary! Looking back, I still marvel at how we met; and even more significantly, how the Lord drew each one of us, individually and personally, to Himself. This prepared us to embark on a journey of faith and adventure with Him as a larger-than-normal family, a homeschooling family and a ministry family! Whilst Serene has always been supportive and understanding of the ministry demands I face, I confess that I have not always reciprocated adequately to her needs and challenges. I’ve learnt much over 20 years and yet, there are still many areas to improve in. Still, 20 years is a milestone to be celebrated and we will build on the foundation we have in Christ as we enter new seasons of our relationship and the family. [Read more…Marking 20 Years Of Being Together]

2. Me on the Trapeze: Surely, this is worth another mention. This may not seem much to some but at 50 years old, it’s a big deal for me to be able to execute the Knee Hang Catch at Club Med Bintan. Definitely the first and last time I attempt this acrobatic feat! Don’t believe? Watch the video. [Read more…I Believe I Can Fly!]

3. Intergenerational Ministry Trip: In January, the extended Lim Tribe went on a ministry trip to Tacloban Leyte, Philippines as part of TEAM ARCHIPPUS. This was the very first time three generations were involved – my father and mother, myself and three of my children (David, Sarah & Esther). It was really meaningful serving the Lord together as an extended family. [Read more…Houses for the People of Tanauan Leyte: Ministry Trip 22-26 Jan 2015]

4. One Day At A Time registers 200,000 Views: On 28 Sept, this blogsite registered 200,000 hits. Although it takes time to write and contribute articles, I continue to make an effort because I know many have been encouraged along the way. Going forward, it remains a challenge as I do not only manage ONE DAY AT A TIME, but also ARCHIPPUS AWAKENING. So, keep cheering me on by liking and sharing the posts 🙂 [Read more…200,000 Hits: Thanks for Your Support & Encouragement]

5. My Experience of Going Viral (well almost): Within a month of reaching 200,000 hits, someone shared my personal response to the City Harvest Case after the verdict was delivered. Over the next days and weeks, this post garnered thousands of views. As at the time of writing this post, it has exceeded 43,000 views! Not bad for a post written 3.5 years ago, back in 2012. Looks like we will be hitting 300,000 views sooner than expected 🙂 [Read more…A Personal Response to the City Harvest Case]

6. Three Homeschool Achievements: This year registered three milestones for us as a homeschool family. Our eldest, David, completed his High School Diploma as well as his SATs. Esther cleared her PSLE and Ruth, her P4 Exams. All three did very well and I am so proud of them. Of course, Serene deserves mention and definitely, full credit for her hard work. Now, we brace ourselves for David’s NS enlistment next year!

7. The Lim Tribe Goes Down Under: For obvious reasons, it’s not often we attempt a major holiday for the Lim Tribe. This year, we thought it would be timely for us to venture a little further than the usual church camp escapades and destinations. Although a little last-minute (understandably), we planned and booked everything within two weeks (kudos to Serene again!) and flew off immediately after Esther’s last PSLE paper! Although it wasn’t much of a rest for Serene and myself, we sure appreciated the nice, cool, crisp, fresh air in Gold Coast … before returning to the haze! The children enjoyed the farm stay and most definitely, the theme park rides! Still thanking the Lord for His provision that we can enjoy such an experience.

8. Our Home Church: At the close of 2014, we felt that it was time to look for another home church. We went back to last checkpoint at Full Gospel Assembly and found ourselves staying put there. A key criterion for me was that the pastors and leaders must understand and support my kingdom assignment in Archippus Awakening (which they do!). At the same time, FGA has a vibrant youth and young adults ministry, which works out well for our growing up children. It’s been encouraging to see our children fit in well and involved in the ministries of FGA.

9. Kingdom Connections: On the ministry front, this year has been a time of meeting new people and making new friends. This has been a breath of fresh air as my circle of contacts expanded beyond what I had been accustomed to. I welcome these new exposures as it enlarges my perspective and challenges certain mindsets I may unknowingly hold to. More critically, I sense that the Lord is opening new doors and presenting new frontiers for what He has called me to do. It’s really wonderful to discover like-minded kingdom friends who really stand alongside you, and willing to travel with you on this kingdom journey! [Read more…Kingdom Connections Can Be Messy]

10. Archippus Awakening Milestones: I have already written about this in a separate post on the Archippus Awakening Website so I shall not repeat myself. Suffice to say that it’s been a great year, entirely by the Lord’s grace. Even so, I know that we have only just begun and the new year holds even greater promise for this movement. I just need to hear and move as He directs. Sound easy but it is not quite as straightforward, I assure you. And that’s why I am here on a personal retreat. [Read more…2015: A Season of Sowing]

What a year it has been! I know that the Lord has been with me through it all, and He will continue to walk with me into the new year. One of my favourite messages this season is Trekking Through Transitions, inspired by last year’s year-end reflections. Truly, the God who goes before us is also One who promises to walk closely with us. In that, we can be strong and very courageous to accomplish all He has assigned to us!

How was 2015 for you? May this encourage you too as you make your transition into the new year and into all that the Lord has in store for you!

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A Lovely Note of Encouragement by Ruth

I am presently on a 10-day Consecration Fast, full fast with just water, in preparation of the next phase of Archippus Awakening; and today is Day #6. Naturally, in the first few days, the body is physically weak and I move about rather slowly. It’s much better now, having adjusted, but I still get breathless at times.

This evening, I decided to go for prayer walk, allowing me to get some exercise and sun whilst I lift up items to the Lord. As I prepared to step out, I found a little heart-shaped note written by my 9yo daughter Ruth.

I was overwhelmed as I read what she wrote:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid nor discouraged for the Lord will be with you wherever you go. Keep fasting. Keep praying. Don’t overwork yourself. God bless you.”

This is the verse that the Lord used to encourage me when He first gave me instructions to step down from my pastoral position and to go as He would lead. What Ruth added on her own accord was so beautiful, spurring me on towards the end of the fast yet reminding me that prayer is very much a part of the process, but not without cautioning me to go at a pace that is manageable (it’s been a very heavy ministry schedule so far).

Often, as a parent, you don’t really know if you are teaching your children right or if they are receiving all you hope for them to receive. I thank God for these little moments that makes the parenting journey worth it, watching them grow in the Lord and being sensitive and a blessing to others around them.

Learn From Others But Remember To Just Be You

I just returned from an awesome “Restoration of the Kingdom” Conference (10-12 April), listening to four very experienced and anointed speakers – Peter Tsukahira, George Annadorai, Ari Sorko-Ram and Steve Carpenter – and being thoroughly stirred by the Holy Spirit through their timely messages. From the word ‘go’, it was one session after another, and another, and then another … twelve power-packed messages across two and a half days! It was physically and mentally draining; but spiritually so exciting and refreshing! Through each speaker, I learnt so much more about Israel and the Kingdom of God. At the same time, the Lord also spoke very clearly and affirmed the next steps for me.

As I listened to these dear brothers, their passion came across so clearly as did their obedience to the Lord. Their lives are all totally sold out for Jesus and His Kingdom. There is nothing they wouldn’t do for Yeshua. For sure, they have given and sacrificed so much that they are ready to lay down their lives, if needed, for the sake of God’s kingdom. I simply loved the way they spoke from their heart; I mean, these guys know their stuff and they know the Scriptures. More critically, each knew their assignment from the Lord and were dedicated to fulfil them no matter what!

There were so many moments I found myself secretly wishing how nice if I could be like them, to speak like them and to teach like them. I began taking notice of the phrases they used and how they would make their presentations so interesting, hoping to implement some of these pointers the next time I get to speak. If only I could be more engaging, more prophetic, more humorous, more … I must have taken this to such an extreme that I felt the Lord check me as He gently reassured me, “Just be you.” 🙂

What a timely reminder! Yes, as these have their own journeys and stories, I too will have mine. As these have their messages to proclaim, the Lord has also given me one which I am to be faithful to declare. And that I will do; and as I do that, I will remember to “just be me”.

The A-Zs of Our Diploma Journey

Last Saturday afternoon, at the end of our very last Student Tutorial Relationship & Accountability Platform (STRAP) Session, this year’s CVSOM Diploma students prepared a simple presentation chronicling their journey through the Diploma programme. Needless to say, I was touched and moved, not just by their efforts, but by how relationships and friendships have formed and grown through their going through this programme together. With their permission, the script is presented hereunder for your encouragement and enjoyment too.

Thanks, Diploma 2013! It has been such a joy, an honour and a privilege to walk with all of you through this leg of your spiritual journey!

THE A-Z’S OF OUR DIPLOMA JOURNEY
By Class of 2013

A is for ASSIGNMENTS. There’s those dreaded, deceptively simple but really tricky multiple choice questions, and there was a tough four-in-one for Growing in the Word. Some students aim to score aces, some just want to complete the assignments so they can graduate, but all agree that doing the assignments has helped us to really grow. Kris actually said, the thing she will miss most about this programme, is the assignments. A is for “AHA”! The AHA moments are what Linda relishes, in Rev Francis’ classes.

B is for BABY BENJAMIN. First time in CVSOM history that STRAP was presented by 3 men and a BABY. Erwin says it was really stressful juggling work, studies and a baby. But you know what, Baby Benjamin actually motivates him to complete this course, so that he can join daddy in the graduation.

C is for CHALLENGING. Having to balance work, studies and family has been CHALLENGING, but we thank God for His abundant grace in seeing us through every week.

D is for DEAN. Thank you DEAN, for walking with us, teaching us, praying for us, and helping us to grow. We love and appreciate you! D is for DIVERSITY. Despite the DIVERSTY of views, ages and personalities, the bond of peace helped us overlook differences when we were working in our assigned teams, and kept us united in the Spirit.

E is for EXAMS. What a relief that there are no EXAMS in this program! E is also for END TIMES. The urgency of the times became more real to us as we became aware of the spiritual environment in Singapore through the GRAP research, and why we need to really pray and help raise consciousness among other Christians.

F is for FRIENDS. We have become close FRIENDS who share lives, pray together, help one another, serve one another. Someone said – parting will be painful! F is also for FUN and FELLOWSHIP. We will really miss the FUN and FELLOWSHIP after we graduate.

G is for GREEK words we’ll never forget – “Teknon” and “Huios”.

H is for HEART. We’ve learnt to engage our HEARTS and allow God to speak to us through each lesson.

I is for INSTRUCTORS. We thank God for our INSTRUCTORS, who have imparted spirit and life to us, and we are grateful to them – Dean, Rev Francis, Bro David Leong, Bro Isaac and Bro Jacob.

J is for JOEL. He is the terror of every STRAP team with his questions. J is also for JOY every Thursday as we look forward to class.

K is for KINGDOMS. We have been taught about the different KINGDOMS and about battlegrounds, strategies and weapons of spiritual warfare. We learnt so many new things, but most importantly, we learnt how to win battles in our individual lives, and also in the heavenlies and in the church.

L is for LIVE THE WORD! The school’s rule is that no instructor can preach or teach unless he LIVES THE WORD! And so we students have to LIVE THE WORD too!

M is for MOVING PEOPLE ONTO GOD’S AGENDA. We learnt that spiritual leadership is MOVING PEOPLE ONTO GOD’S AGENDA.

N is for NIGHTMARES of Dean telling us we can’t graduate because we didn’t pass up our PRAP!

O is for OBEDIENCE. We grew as we learnt to respond in OBEDIENCE when the Holy Spirit convicted us.

P is for PRAP. A scary ministry module for many of us, requiring us to gather so much information, yet in the end so rewarding because in the process, we discover God’s call.

Q is for a QUANTUM LEAP in our understanding of God’s Word through the two Growing in the Word modules.

R is for RECORD – every lesson also must RECORD!! R is also for RUN THE RACE.  We learnt to run not aimlessly, but in such a way as to win the prize – a crown that will last forever.

S is for STRAP – everyone’s favourite ministry module!! Provokes us to check our understanding of many Christian doctrines, and Dean makes difficult concepts easy to understand. We want STRAP in Alumni!

T is for TESTIMONIES. We won’t easily forget Bro Jacob’s amazing TESTIMONIES of how we can help others encounter God in a powerful way, when we make discipleship a lifestyle, and become people on assignment for God, who operate under the cloud in Jesus’ authority and power.

U is for UP AND DOWN MOMENTS. Our UP MOMENTS must surely be those moments when: the Holy Spirit gives new revelation on a lesson, or when we suddenly realize how much we have grown and been transformed, or when we are touched by our classmates’ love in praying for us. Our DOWN MOMENTS were mainly moments when our health failed or we were injured in an accident – slipped disc, dengue, shingles, knee problems, injured back. But these presented opportunities to pray for one another, to grow in faith and trust in God.

V is for VAPOUR. Erwin’s close call during his accident was a stark reminder to him that our lives are but a VAPOUR, and we can vanish from this earth in an instant. It has made him more appreciative of his family and pastors, and has stirred him to want to serve God more. Amen to that!

W is for WORSHIP. Being able to WORSHIP together as a class has drawn us closer together and reminds us who we serve, and why we are in this class.

X is for XPERIENCE. We have XPERIENCED the difference – different kind of school, different perspective to ministry, and we’ve become different people!

Y is for YES, we’re glad we signed up, and we’re definitely going to tell all our friends about this program!

Z is for ZZZZ – the one thing it was impossible to do in class!

10 Reminders for My Parenting Journey

Hands up, all who agree that parenting is not for the faint-hearted.

We’ve all been told that we have an awesome responsibility to train and raise our children in the ways of the Lord. We may start out with zest and enthusiasm, but it doesn’t take very long to realise the challenges and distractions that come against us every day; and sometimes, every moment! We determine to take these in our stride. And then we discover that the battles are not necessarily always against the external influences but some of the toughest ones are found right at home, in the hearts of our children and in the issues we each personally grapple with.

Like the winds and waves that come against a seemingly solid rocky cliff, our resolve to be great parents can be slowly eroded as fatigue and discouragement set in, slowly but surely. If you have been there, you know what I’m talking about. You know the feeling, and it’s not a nice one. All you have are questions but no answers. And worse still, the loudest questions are those that taunt, accuse and condemn your ability and credibility as a parent.

I’ve been there too — many times. God may have blessed and graced me to be a father to my seven children, and indeed, I know my roles and responsibilities as a steward of these blessings. That said, how I view parenting and what I expect of myself may not always be accurate, even though I strive to be as biblical as I possibly can. And that’s why I need to be reminded of the following over and over again.

1. I am not a perfect parent. This sounds like a no-brainer, but I desperately need to remember this and not beat myself over the head each time I fail. But my perfectionist streak gets the better of me, time and time again, and I feel really lousy when I mess up or am told that I have overlooked something again. But perfect I am not, and the truth is, I will make mistakes. I can be aware and learn from them, or I can wallow, be condemned, and give up.

2. I do not have perfect children. Another obvious point, but don’t we all wish that they are perfect? I know that my children all struggle with their sinful natures, and yet, my idealistic streak keeps hoping that I will wake up one day and suddenly discover children who are always cheerful, polite and obedient. (Interestingly, as I am writing this, there is a whining and crying child in the background.) Oh, how my countenance falls each time my expectations of them are not met! But they are not perfect, and it is utterly foolish and unreasonable of me to consider otherwise. Remembering this enables me to understand their struggles, as I do mine, that I may be patient and compassionate in my dealings with each of them.

3. I cannot monitor every activity my children engages in. I will be as involved in the lives and activities of my children as I possibly can. But to be present physically 24/7 and to know every detail is simply not practical. The biggest irony is that often, children break the rules right under the parents’ nose, right in the home where boundaries are clearest! What about when parents are not around? You can set up an entire tracking system but there will come a time when their own schedules will take them out of the house and they will have to make decisions on their own. Admittedly, this is toughest as we watch our children grow. We know there is a need to let go. We just don’t know if we are doing it too soon or too late. My prayer is for knowledge not just to be lodged in their heads, but that godly wisdom would rise and rule in their hearts.

4. I am not responsible for my children’s sins. As parents, it grieves us when our children sin. When they are little, it may be lying or throwing a tantrum. But as they grow, they may read books, listen to songs, watch movies that are just not right. We tell them, they know and yet there is a curiosity in them that needs to be satisfied. We pray they wouldn’t sin, and yet they do. And we feel as if we have failed miserably in our instruction and training. I am reminding myself that my part is to teach and impart, and discipline. But if they choose to disobey, to sin, it would totally break my heart, but the responsibility remains theirs — and the consequences too.

5. I am not the one to meet my children’s every need. Today, just being dad is not enough anymore. You must also be friend, coach, mentor and teacher (did I mention pastor and counsellor too?). And every parenting talk and sermon adds another descriptor to the already endless list of who you are to be and what you should be doing. In short, we are never doing enough and we are the one to blame for any dysfunction our child may display. Hey, I will watch out for my children’s needs. Yes, I will be dad, the best that I can be. But if they hope to have one that never fails them, man, will they be disappointed. My prayer is that they will quickly learn and find sufficiency only in Christ, and Christ alone.

6. I do not have all the answers. By now, this statement should not be a surprise at all. Yes, it’s ok to say “I don’t know.” I don’t know why things are happening this way. I don’t know what to do. I don’t know when the children will love the Lord passionately and serve Him wholeheartedly. I don’t know. I don’t know. I don’t know. What I do know is that God is faithful and His Word is true. That is who and what I will cling to, regardless how my children are behaving or responding, and especially when I don’t know what I know anymore!

7. I am not the one who provides for my children. At some point, every parent struggles with needs and wants of our children. With seven children, this is a very real point! Just this week alone, I have been advised (warned) that certain expenses have increased and that I should not faint when the next statement arrives. Sure, as dad and head of the household, it is my responsibility to provide for the family. That could be a huge burden for me if I do not first understand and then remember that it is the Lord who provides as we serve Him and Kingdom faithfully.

8. I do not have to worry nor be anxious. I am not joking. I know that you think this is totally impossible. After all, we love our children and that is why we will always worry for and about them. That said, let us be reminded that there is an extremely fine line between loving concern and anxious worry. I am concerned for my children, and rightly, I should be. However, when I dwell on that and all the unknowns, it begins to eat me up from the inside out! My focus on the Lord shifts to my own inability to comprehend nor resolve the issue. It turns to worry and before long, I am taking it out on myself and my children. This reminder is for me to always trust the Lord, regardless. He has great plans for each child and only He can bring it to pass in His time.

9. I do not have to journey alone. Sometimes, parenting can seem like a very lonely journey on a very long road. Allow this to stick in your mind and you will soon be having the biggest pity-party ever. Unless you are a single parent, always remember the partnership of your spouse. Discuss and pray with one another often. And don’t forget the extended family through the Body of Christ. At times, the same point I have been making, when made by another may bring conviction in the hearts of my children. Ouch! That just dented my pride. Precisely, for often, it is our pride that restricts us from sharing our challenges with others, or learning from them. This only leaves us stranded and alone.

10. I do not have to take everything so seriously. If I can remember the above, it would be much easier to remember this. Then again, this might be the first and most important reminder to heed. Serene and I say this often, “If we don’t laugh about it, we will go crazy!” Most definitely, we could do with a lot more of that when we parent. In most cases, it is not the end of the world. Don’t let our uptightness, our pride, our need for control, our worry, our ‘face’ rob us of the joy of loving and walking with the children God has so graciously blessed us with. I know this is more easily said than done, hence, the need to be reminded over and over again. Not only will this be good for the parents, but also for the children. After all, who wants to live in an environment where there is only stress, anger and anxiety? Stop frowning. Smile more. Laugh.

Oh, how I need to revisit these points often in my parenting journey. You may have more to add but I would be happy if I can remember these for starters, consistently. And most importantly, that the Lord is enabling me by His Holy Spirit to achieve what He has called me to do as a father. May He enable you too!

Serene’s Testimony at CVCC

This morning, at Covenant Vision Christian Church, Serene shared her testimony of God’s healing. In her own words, she struggled with whether it was the right time since her skin is still not fully cleared of eczema and she still has itchy bouts once in a while. But after reviewing the photos she had taken along the way, and seeing how her skin was then and how it is now, she felt convicted to share A Story in Pictures of God’s goodness and healing mercies so that Jesus would receive all glory and honour!

After her sharing, Rev Francis and Rev Wilfred prayed for her. It was a bold step of faith for Serene to share the photos and her journey thus far. I believe her faith will position her to receive complete and total healing and restoration for her condition to the glory of God!

To all who have prayed for Serene (and still praying for her), thank you!!! We deeply appreciate your standing in agreement with us.

A Positive Church Experience Is Nice But Not Enough

This has become a concern as I interact more with various Christians facing challenges and difficulties in their situations and spiritual walk. In the course of our conversation, I would always ask them where they worshipped at. This would indicate at least three things to me: one, if they belonged to a local church; two, if they are regular in their attendance at this community; and, three, if they are actively involved in the life of this community.

Without prompting, these would proceed to describe their church experience, and it would usually sound like this: “Oh, I enjoy the fellowship. The worship (referring to the time of singing) is wonderful and touches my heart. The messages are really good and I am always blessed by the preaching of the Word. The pastor is very nice and friendly.” In other words, on the surface, everything sounds ok to me … you are blessed and having a great time in this church.

And so, I ask the next question, “Why aren’t you talking to your pastor or church community about this problem you are facing right now?” And almost always, the reasons given do not necessarily line up with the positive church experience described, ranging from “I don’t feel a connection or belonging,” to “I don’t think it would be right to discuss this with my church,” to “My church doesn’t teach us to handle such challenges.”

As I thought about this, I realised something about this rather common occurence: All these may have had a nice, positive church experience. But the main question that must be asked is, “Have these grown in the Lord at all?” Sadly, from what is shared and observed, I don’t think so. This may sound overly harsh, but it is the truth. The scary thing is that these can quite readily quote Scripture and spew Christian slogans as well as any other believer. But they go on living compromised lives, basking in the feel-good messages of God’s love and grace. They are deluded and deceived into thinking that as long as the church experience is positive, they are ok. NO, IT IS NOT!

I believe these are not isolated cases that I have come across in my limited sphere of ministry. Given today’s consumer culture that has crept into the Christian community, more and more are going to church for that feel-good factor. This explains the musical-church phenomenon that is so prevalent amongst believers as they scout for the best speaker, the message, the ambience, the experience, the goose bumps, the worship team, the children’s ministry, the youth ministry, and the menu for Sunday lunch. If they feel good about it, they stay. And if they don’t feel good, it’s time to be ‘led by the Spirit’ to look for another church.

In case anyone misunderstands me, or the point of this article (rant), I am not begrudging anyone of a great time in the community and fellowship of believers. As a pastor, I definitely do not wish for my congregation to be dragging their feet to church, or dreading another Sunday morning, or another sermon preached by yours truly (God forbid!). But more than just a positive church experience, my deepest desire is for each to grow and mature in Christ.

To this end, I am challenging and provoking us all to reflect and ponder more deeply what our faith is really about. Is it just about having a good time, being entertained and feeling good about ourselves? I think not! We have been saved from sin and judgment for a plan and a purpose! Hey, Jesus paid a high price for that! The spiritual journey is about growth and maturity towards the image of Christ. Along the way, we must be meaningfully engaged in the ministry and mission for the sake of Jesus and His Kingdom.

Don’t be fooled that everything is fine just because your church experience is fun and happy-clappy, or if bank accounts are full and life appears good. The Pharisees and the rich of Jesus’ day were all deceived into thinking they were the ones more favoured and blessed of God. We could as easily fall into the same trap.

All said, praise God if you are really enjoying church and Christian fellowship! But don’t stop there. Ponder the following questions, and allow the Holy Spirit to search deep to reveal what is truly in your heart …

1. Is it primarily all about you, your emotions and your desires?
2. Have you placed church experience above your relationship with God?
3. Do you worship God for who He is, or only for what He can do for you?
4. Is worship defined as a good song that brings tingles and tears, or a response to the awesomeness of God?
5. Do you know and agree with the vision and mission of your church?
6. Are you contributing, with God’s help, to the fulfilment of this vision and mission?
7. Is it just between you and God, or are you connected with others who truly love Jesus?
8. Are you willing to be held accountable, allowing others to speak the truth into your life?
9. Is confession and repentance something you do regularly?
10. Are you a taker or a giver?
11. Do you ask “what’s in it for me?” or “who/what/where have you called me to serve, Lord?”
12. Do you enjoy church only for yourself, or do you derive joy from serving God and others?
13. Do you get upset and think of leaving when things don’t go your way in the church?
14. Are you following the crowd, or truly being led by the Holy Spirit?
15. Do you read your Bible? Do you know and abide in the Word?
16. Are you a hearer and a doer of the Word? Are you applying all you are learning?
17. Are you one who professes faith with no works to show for it?
18. Do you only talk Christian but not live Christian?
19. Are you growing and maturing spiritually?
20. Are you pursuing a life of holiness by His grace, or presuming upon His grace with a life of compromises and excuses?
21. Do you love Jesus as King and Lord of your life?
22. Are you one of the multitude, or are you a disciple of Jesus Christ?
23. Are you willing to surrender, to yield, to deny yourself, to take up your cross and to follow Jesus?