mybravesong

[mybravesong]

The Lady next to the Shopping Cart

My mum and I had just found a parking spot in the huge multistory carpark and were excited to make our way into Westfield Carousel. As we took our steps towards the entrance, my eyes caught sight of an elderly lady at the place where you drop off your shopping carts mid way through one of the lines of cars and immediately I had a feeling of anxiety. She sat on the metal pole with her hand bag on her lap. I stopped and my feet carried me to her. Are you okay? I asked as I crutched down. She began to share about how the environment had put her into a state of anxiety, she was suffering from fatigue and she could not seem to find her car. I got to know her a bit and I knew God had put it on my heart to help her. I told her I was a chrisitan and asked if I could pray for her. She said an excited yes and that she too followed Christ. I prayed for peace and I left her in my mother's hands while I went looking for help. In the end, she was reunited with her car and was so thankful.

As I reflected on it with my mum after, it occured to me that I was like that lady. The situation put her into a horrible state, filled with anxiety and hopelessness but God didn't see her as unworthy or to be turned aside from. He reached right in and saved her. I love that about my God. He knows I'm not immune to the woes of life. When it seems like my world is caving in and it fills like hopelessness is gonna overtake me, He's right there. I may not always be aware of it. He knows my capabilities but also my weaknesses.

My prayer is like that of Psalm 90. It talks about God being our dwelling place for generations and there is an anminate death that comes because of sin. Yet there is this line that spoke to me in the midst of the wrath and chaos:

"Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days."

Remind me God of your deep love for me. For you know that my life is gone like grass. You know that I am not satisfied. I forget the weight of sin and I forget Your goodness and gravity of sending Jesus to die for my sin. Remind me God of your love that is steady, that has been steady and has not changed through my whole life. Thank you that You didn't sit on the sidelines but you reached down. You reached down for me. You've literally rescued me from death so many times. And yet I forget. Help me walk in Your will and ways! <3

[mybravesong]

Until next time Perth!

Happy new year everyone! I’ve got exciting news, I’m heading to Broome in March. Hold your horses, I’ll explain a bit further down. Since my last update, I've been back in 100E ministry for the whole of January. 

Here are some highlights!

^ Partnering with the high school summer camp and taking them out on evangelism as well as praying times over Perth

^ Another ministry Worship for the Nations merged with the 100 Evangelists ministry

^ Partnered with Exodus Project to bring people out on evangelism

^ Jesus’ Night

We've been going into the streets and sharing God's word - we recently got to be part of Jesus' night hosted by Exodus Project. Love how many church communities came together. We got to take people out on evangelism and encourage others in that. In the night we prayed for people. Some got to walk again, others had a touch of God and some gave their lives to Jesus. The timing of the event was so amazing because had it been the next day, the event would have been cancelled because of the 5 day lockdown.

Yes, I’ll be going to Broome!  The end of 2020 came as swiftly as Jan 2021 has passed. I've been grappling for a vision into the future. I've definitely had my share of wondering what's God's plan. 

Some of the things God has revealed to me is: Yes, where I am is where God wants me to be. I used to dream of being up on stage to tell people about Jesus but in the past I never had the courage to do so - not even to whisper to a single soul. Deep in my heart had always been a desire to love God well but I was afraid to make Him known. I've seen how God has grown me to be bold and courageous in Him. 

God has given me a picture of a bridge - a bridge between YWAM and the local church for the purpose of equipping others for evangelism. I know there are many who want to share the good news but don't know where to start. It’s not a scary thing, it’s simply sharing the joy and hope we’ve found in following Jesus. He's helped me recognise that it's in working together that the good news of Christ will be spread. We are after all one body. For that reason, I envision that I will be in YWAM for some time.

Why Broome? Another thing that God has laid in my heart is to complete the outreach portion of the school I joined towards to the end of last year 2020 - School of Frontier Missions. It is a school that preps for front line missions. Part of that was a chosen focus on a specific people group. Mine was the Noongar people. It so happens YWAM had planted a base (we call them the Broome team) in the Kimberley's last year to reach out to the First Nation people in Australia. It’s the perfect place for me to go.

After seeking God in December and inviting others alongside to pray also, I got confirmation to go. In early January, I asked the base leader to pray about having me on board for SOFM outreach and had meetings with my leaders to process this. Just a week or so ago, I got a YES from the Broome Base Leader.

How long will you be gone Lynn? At least 3 Months! When are you going? I’m going on the 10 March. Yes I know, it sounds quite sudden but it's been a decision I've been actively pursuing behind the scenes of daily ministry work. I'm excited to partner with God in Broome and to gain a better understanding of this people group and God’s heart for them is as well as to partner with the team in their pioneering stages.

Through it all, the ways of Jesus continue to surprise me. I’m always challenged to lay down what I think should be and to grow in greater trust and faith in Him.

I want to extend this invitation to you to come alongside this vision. I’m trusting for ongoing support for current living expenses of $600 AUD per month which covers rent, ministry upkeep fees as well as basic essentials. Living in Broome will cost about another $2700 AUD for 3 Months (includes airfare). From there, there will be opportunities to reach remote communities with the gospel. These trips aren’t covered by the $2700 AUD.  Please join me in prayer and also about continuing support in this journey with God here in Australia and nations to come when the borders open.

Would love to hear if God gives you a word on how to come alongside this vision, please do share! I'd love to hear what God is speaking to each one of you and how we can work together to see the good news spread like wildfire!

If this interests you, you can reach me via Email: miss.linchan@gmail.com or Lynn Tan on Facebook Messenger!

[mybravesong]

Yours truly, 2020

My honest raw notes of being me in 2020. I don’t think 2020 has been particularly kind to the vast majority. I would include myself in that equation.. at least at the start of the year. I definitely felt like I started off the year on a low before even Covid happened. If this is news to you, I had a heartbreak, of which I felt a lot of shame about but on top of that, I was completely jaded. Being a missionary isn’t as simple as I thought. I had expectations of leaders, expectations of myself, expectations of God and being a planner - I had to get everything right first try and as you know those things added up aren’t a great combination because your hope is in your own expectations rather than God. I felt so numb to God in the first few months and wrestled with the decision to come back into missions this year. Despite the doubt and mistrust, I still chose to say yes. Saying yes doesn’t mean it’s easy, it’s extremely hard but I was reminded that God was not done with me yet (a word He had given me in Oct 2019). 

God is so good, He provided for my stay as well as letting me be able to meet with family just before Australia closed its borders. It was truly a miracle. And in small ways like these, God continued to woo me and assure me that I can be confident in Him. Even though I wasn’t in a good place, I still persisted in doing my quiet times with God (I’d definitely encourage any of you to do so). Continued to surrender to Him. I felt down a lot, even in ministry. There was lots of crying and anxiety as I walked with my leaders in reconciliation as well as being able to let go of the injustice of heartbreak. I thank God for friends who were with me in that. You know who you are. In that dark valley, God met me and my dark thoughts and restored me - the ability to hope once again. 

Isaiah 40:31  But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint. 

As you can see, I’m no special human being, I just serve a God who is big and truly loving. 

It was in September when we as YWAM had a month of prayer. It was so good. God spoke clearly through a book as well as the way we worship. I remembered that there was one day during worship where we had a time (one by one) to tell God we love him and this lady didn’t tell God she loved him like you normally would. She sang aloud to God, there was definitely croaks and it didn’t sound perfect but I felt strongly her heart towards God more than telling would have. It really clicked with me then about God’s creativity in culture. Our cultural assumptions shape our responses towards God and our understanding of Him. These need to come under biblical truth. Worship God in spirit and in truth. The truth sets us free. 

From Oct to Dec, God led me to do a school called Online School of Frontier Missions. It prepares you to share the gospel cross-culturally (not just word for word but to bring meaning to the good news in a way others understand). In that, I’ve learnt about being a bridge between the local and global church, unity as well as more about the Noongar people. This school was online with people from many nations, translation was needed for every session and it was beautiful seeing cultures come together to learn and worship God. Somehow in the midsts of that busy schedule and timezone differences, I also moved houses. Crazy!  

Here are some Photo Highlights from my Year

All my lovely friends <3

^ Kathrin, Ieshia, Anna & I

^ Ronda, Hayley, Emily, Elsie & Andrew 

^ Sam & Paola

Lots of Evangelism

Partnering with Different Local Churches

-

Doing the online School of Frontier Missions school!

^ Our classroom set up! Streamed to many nations!!

^ Having mentor time online

^ Learning some Noongar Language at local libraries

And most of all, so fortunate to have spent time with Family <3

At the start of the year, God gave me the verse 

Ezekiel 36:26 I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit within you. 

At the end of 2020, I can say despite everything that has gone on.. that God has restored hope, strength, peace and love. He has given me a new heart, He has replaced my heart of stone and given me a soft heart towards Him. He’s not only done that but given me direction and vision for the year coming (will update you guys soon). I can safely say I’m ready to embrace the upcoming challenges of 2021. I am ready again to be of good courage, to be bold again, to stand on truth, to trample the lies of the enemy and to point others to the restorer of hope - Jesus, King of my heart.

[mybravesong]

Singapore Trip & 14 Day Self Isolation

Hello everyone! It's been awhile since my last update so this is a pretty long one. I am now in Australia, currently finishing up my self isolation for 14 days. In my last update, I talked about the last year & how I am currently fundraising for YWAM.

A lot has happened since. In late Feb, my family & I had gone on a trip to Singapore visiting relatives. In the end, weddings were cancelled, plans were changed but it gave us time to spend with loved ones. In all honesty, the trip felt timely. It was as though it was planned and orchestrated by God. It was also the first time in a long time, my whole immediate family was with me on this trip. Here are some highlights from my trip.

Below: Caught up with a couple of friends <3 

Below: Showing love to Construction Workers during this Covid19 crisis

Below: Ohana <3

It was a wonderful trip. During the trip, we did see a slight glimpse of precautions in wake of the virus in our first week in Singapore. That did not however prepare us for the coming days in Perth. Since being in a 14 day isolation, I have seen our world suddenly engulfed by fear & a lot of uncertainty. I too was deeply affected by this. I also carried a lot of anxiety for fear of the possibility of having the virus. And as you know, I initially planned to join YWAM around this time but unfortunately due to self isolation, I cannot. As many things are shutting down around us and with the rapid amount of change going on, there have been lots of changes within YWAM Perth as well.

Times like these cause a lot of shaking in our inner life. It's like our carefully sculpted foundation is suddenly enveloped in cracks & worse still, we can’t stop it from collapsing. I too struggled really bad and I tried to hold it altogether. It's times like these that reveal where our security really lies. It made me realise what I placed my security in was truly fragile and I cannot find steadiness in it. My man-made foundation of day to day systems, money, people, talent & coping mechanisms cannot withstand what the world throws at me. I did not have peace. I had thought my security had already been found in God but He has revealed there's still much more work to be done in my heart. I had become too proud with the little knowledge I knew in my head & my heart had grown distant from Him. I am being brought really low but in that, I am thankful.

It has taught me I don't have to be pretend I'm okay when I'm really not. It has taught me to not run away from my problems but to take courage & voice my struggle with closed ones, find strength in God & take things one step at a time. It's taught me we are all human, we all have tough days and we can be kind towards one another. I'm learning in this season to be thankful for things I've taken for granted - personal freedoms and rights of the everyday life. I’m thankful for Godly friendships & family. I'm thankful for our health care staff on the frontline. I'm thankful for our government that has taken up the challenge of leadership in such a difficult time. I'm thankful to be alive.

I don't know what God is teaching you today but I pray you would find strength in Him in your day of trouble. I don't confess to know everything about life but I know leaning on God has helped me overcome a lot over the last few years. He has not been a distant God that many think He is. 

There are still tougher days ahead. I believe what the world needs the most now is the good news & Jesus truly is good news. It is in times like these that God asks of us to not hide the light we carry but to show others that there is still hope & there is still a tomorrow in Jesus and peace is a possibility.

Isaiah 60:1-3, 19-20 Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. For behold, darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness is over the peoples; but the LORD will rise upon you, and His glory will appear over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

No longer will the sun be your light by day, nor the brightness of the moon shine on your night; for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your splendor. Your sun will no longer set, and your moon will not wane; for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and the days of your sorrow will cease.

We draw strength from the source. Look to Him. He is our everlasting light in the darkness. May these verses encourage you greatly as it has for me. I do still intend on joining YWAM Perth, it’s just a matter of time. Ministry will look differently but that update is for another time. Have a great week ahead & do let me know if there’s anything I can pray for. Let us encourage & build one another up in these coming days <3

[mybravesong]

Hello February 2020!!

Hello February!! Time flies when you’re not looking. I think that’s been something that has rang true in the past months after the School of Evangelism ended in late September. I’ve since mentioned I will be in Youth with a Mission from late march until at least the end of 2020. I’ll add an update about fundraising at the bottom of this post. 

Anyway, I thought I’d catch you up to speed on what’s been happening. I’m gonna be a bit vulnerable here and admit to you that since returning home, I actually struggled a lot adjusting back to suburban life. It definitely has been kinda a reverse culture shock. I really thank God that He held onto me through the first few months & I want to say a huge thank you to people who’ve reached out and showed me love after returning late last year. In being back home, God revealed to me the importance of this season and specifically pointed out 3 elements - rest, recalibration and reconnecting. Rest from a crazy schedule, Recalibration to God and Reconnecting with friends & family. 

Something I had to re-learn again was to receive from God, His love. I think I got used to giving out so much there were times where I missed out on just being content in His presence. He was teaching me in a deeper way to hold onto His ways more than the world’s ways & my way. It was like learning to dance when you’re just not great at it (but somehow or another you think you’re an expert - that was pride; something I had to lay down). Hahaha! In addition to that, I’ve had wonderful opportunities to connect, share Christ with others as well as looking for ways to grow and prepare myself for the coming year. I am now thoroughly enjoying my season here with friends & family. Here are some highlights from the last few months!

^ Catch-ups with friends

^ Met this lovely couple from Africa (what a divine appointment)

Birthday with the fam <3

^ My birthday with these peeps!

^ Celebrating Christmas with my home church

^ Roadtrip with the fam! <3

^ Celebrating Chinese New Year with the family!

It’s been so good & I can’t believe it’s passing so fast. If you scrolled all the way down, you’re probably looking for an update from Fundraising for 2020!! <- this link will be updated with the specific amount.

The gist of it is - we’ve already raised ⅓ of 6000 which we were looking for which will cover accommodation, ministry contribution and basic needs. I’ve been so grateful to God for His constant reassurance through this. He’s shown me in little ways that He is trustworthy & faithful. Thank you so much for everyone whose seen what God is doing & have been prompted to participate in this!! If you’d love to partner with us in 2020, do drop me a message. Please do continue to keep us in prayer for this coming season. Also, for all of you, I’d love to hear how you’re doing & how I can pray for you too! :) Thanks for reading & be encouraged! <3 

[mybravesong]

It’s Not About You, Lynn

It’s not about you, Lynn.

That phrase echoed in my heart. I had met a friend earlier in October and it came out of my mouth. I don’t quite recall the exact things we were talking about but I looked at her and said - sometimes we think we’re the main character of the story but actually it’s God.

In April this year, I joined a second level school (basically it means you’ve completed a Discipleship Training School and you can opt to go into more specific areas of training - I picked Evangelism). The word evangelism doesn’t quite sit comfortably with most people. I mean I would like to put it into a dusty corner of life where it’ll never see the light of day. But yet here I was being put into this uncomfortable spot in my life where I had to question myself - Do I really believe the gospel message? Is it REALLY good news? And what is my response to it?

Our beliefs shape our responses. If I believe a chair can hold my weight, I will sit on it. I can assure you I was without doubt - fearful of a lot of things. Thankfully He was with me through everything. I’m reminded that without fear, courage and boldness hold no meaning. During the whole school, time and time again, God reminded me: 

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

And so, God challenged me in this, Lynn would you still choose to be brave, courageous, bold despite the apprehension, despite the fear, insecurities, inadequacy, disappointment, hurt, sorrow in all things - not just sharing the good news. I said, “Yes, I am willing.” The good thing is God doesn’t let us do it on our own, I got to do this alongside these lovely ones!

(From Left: Zach, Daniel, Anouk, Emily, Zoe, Tess, Lydia & Teina)

Here are some highlights!!

(Us sleeping in the frankfurt airport)

(Skits in a beach town)

(Stats from Paris)

(Sharing a word with our host church)

(Sharing the good news in the walkways)

It was a wild ride with lost phones and even a lost passport. We found ourselves at beaches, sitting with the homeless & even in a temple to share God’s love to each one. There were definitely tough moments - being shouted at, being ignored etc but I was like that, ignoring what God is trying to say, doing things my own way but God’s love is so big. I’ve never ceased to be amazed by His pursuit of people. I saw God meet people through us, some in really hard moments of their life by the sideway, in parks etc. 

In September, I returned to Perth. In the last months, I’ve been refreshed once again by God and just sitting content in His presence. I’ve had a fair share of weddings, catching up with some of my homegirls, picked up barista-ing and even working with our church’s community arm - wrapping presents for Christmas, tuition for kids, even partnering with an NPO that reaches out to the homeless here in Perth.

Since coming back however, I’ve been asked many times, “Lynn what’s next for you?”. I love how excited people are for me. To be honest, I had an incline but I wanted more clarity before sharing. So after seeking God about it, I’m now ready to tell you lovely people. But firstly, I want to thank you for taking an interest in what God is doing through me. I appreciate every one of you!

So here’s what you’ve been dying to know - I’ll be applying for staff at Youth with a Mission Perth this coming year. In seeking Him, He also reminded that I am His. He’s made it very apparent to me of His big big heart for people. I’m excited but nervous at the same time. I definitely felt the stretch in this school but I believe God is not done with me yet.

Please stand in prayer with me! Each staff in YWAM has to pay for their own accomodation etc while constantly engaging the community and bringing the good news on the streets. The need is real but our God is even more real. If you’d like to be a part of this, pray and ask God how. Maybe it’s to stand together in prayer, maybe it’s giving up a bit of your coffee money per month, forwarding this blogpost to someone else or giving a word in season etc. Our God is a creative God. It could look like so many things and I don’t ever want to limit what God wants to do through you! :) Let’s take this faith journey together and see what God will do. If you have a question or would like to ask more, just message me! :D 

I hope this update encourages you. When we choose to step out, God honours that step of obedience and He will grow you in ways & depths you can only imagine! As I look back, with the amount of change I’ve seen in me - I can only say it is God. He alone gets the glory! :)

[mybravesong]

Purpose in the Busyness

This is a bit of a different update - it’s been a few challenging couple of weeks. Previously, I mentioned embracing the call for leadership and it has been tough but it’s been a privilege. We’re having a lot of fun!! Here are some highlights:

^ Dinner with My co-lead Kathrin!

^ Our whole school is learning a stamp routine for Open Airs in Europe!

^ Zach sacrificing his face for a donut tower at the base event

^ We had the chance to preach on a park bench in the city. Each taking turns. This is Teina! Crazy! God brought him out from drug addiction and some crazy stuff!

^ This is Emily C, Zoe & I! Part of the London outreach team

^ On the 1st June - my whole school did a 20km walk-a-thon (city to fremantle) to raise funds for some people still trusting for finances! This is us walking through the city.

^ The guys on our London Team (From Left: Teina, Zach & Daniel)

A lot has been happening from plans for the upcoming outreach, a research project, fundraising, creative workshops, leading evangelism groups, events, late nights and many meetings, Holy Spirit been brought to my attention that as I feel the weight of the task at hand, there is a tendency to isolate myself sub-consciously thinking I can handle it on my own (in my own way - based on experience) and “hold it altogether”, so unaware of the dangers of doing so. Experience is great, don’t get me wrong, but so often we can fall into the false security of experience to see us through God’s promises that we don’t allow Holy Spirit to lead us in new ways of doing things. What you think will work one season, might not always work the next. I’ve been very challenged in this. When we choose to get weight down by the “responsibilities”, the once exciting work then becomes a dull duty as we start to focus on what is not working (according to our experiences).

Proverbs 21:2 says: All deeds are right in the sight of the doer but the Lord weighs the heart.

I’ve had to really sit down and ask myself some honest questions: Is Leadership about me? Does my leadership help those around me or do I just look to “levelling up” and gaining more recognition for the things I am doing? Do I work for the pat on the back from others? 

These may seem like simple questions with obvious answers but it reveals what is happening on the inside because it’s the daily simple decisions we make that reflect our relationship with God. The questions therefore become - What is the motive of my heart in leadership? As much as I have to give out, am I making time to be filled in to give out again? Am I living day to day or am I living in light of the big picture? Have I reflected well the nature of God in my communication? Am I being a servant to those under my wing? Our decisions become not about ourselves or our happiness. When we choose to make daily decisions like these, they have the power to turn a generation to God as Jesus came to show us.

Jesus had a clear picture of discipleship. He didn’t do what was good in the eyes of men. Many questioned his moves but He did not allow how others saw Him, to affect the decisions He made - whether to move cities or spend time with the Father. But what He was focused on was how to point others to God.

In some cases, you might never see fruit in your lifetime. But I’m so encouraged by Hebrews 11 where it says - “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Are we allowing ourselves to be convicted by Holy Spirit? It goes on to talk about Abraham and Isaac. The truth is they never saw the promise land in their lifetime but they walked in such conviction of God’s promises. Or how about John the Baptist, he spent 30 odd years in preparation and his ministry only lasted 6 months. Or what of Noah who was so convinced, that he spent 100 years on the ark only to have people mock him in unbelief.

If that’s you today and you’re feeling like your world is caving in and the weight of the work is too much to bear. Remember the people of the Bible who against all, held onto the promises of God. I leave you with this:

Isaiah 40:31 Yet those who wait for the Lord Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.

Psalm 118:5-8 In my distress I called to the LORD, and He answered and set me free. The LORD is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? The LORD is on my side; He is my helper. Therefore I will look in triumph on those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.

[mybravesong]

The Call to Lead

A couple of us entered pass the glass walls of Pete’s office (Pete is our base leader here in YWAM) and took a seat on the black leather couch nicely nested in his corner office with our staff. Pete also takes a comfortable seat right across from us along with Ari and Christel (our staff). He opens his mouth and we dive into an introduction about leading teams out of the country in the second half of our study. As he spoke, this thought came to me - “Wow, they see something in me worth investing in!”. 

I’m talking about these spiritual giants that have been loving Christ and loving people for many many years, often going through crazy adventures into the world with Holy Spirit - seeing people set free from their demons and encountering Christ. These are people who have plowed in the harvest fields for years!! And here I am, just a student and yet, they see me and say, “I see leadership in you, Lynn!”. 

Over the last few weeks, God has been speaking to me about Joshua. I’m not talking about just one day or the other. It’s literally every other day for the last few weeks. Joshua had to take over Moses in leading the Israelites across the Jordon. That is no easy task leading a whole nation to the Promise Land. But God said I want you to lead the Israelites. I think about leading a team and it’s no easy feat. I told God, “It’s too big for me, I can’t do it” and yet God said, “But Lynn, it’s not too big for Me!” So, He says in 

Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Wait Lynn, what’s this about? Aren’t you already leading a team on the streets right now? Yes, I am but I’ve recently also been asked to co-lead a team with the lovely Lydia & Zach to London, Europe! 

^ this is Lydia! She’s from England :D

^ Lydia & Zach!

Yes, I’m going to London, Europe. And so yes, I feel so stretched beyond what I feel I can bear and yet, He is giving me grace to lead, to love, to serve my team. It’s so so big but I count it as an opportunity to grow, it is a privilege and I receive it with grateful hands. If that’s you in this season, one where it feels you’re being stretched - trust that He is Lord of all and because of that, He will be the one who will supply your every need! He is with you as you go through the storms of life, He loves you so much. Be strong and courageous!! You are so valuable and priceless to Him. The God of the universe says You have worth!! Do drop me a note, I’d be happy to keep you in prayer <3

^ This is our whole team! <3 (From Left: Emily, Zoe, Me, Tess, Anouk, Zach, Lydia, Daniel & Teina)

On top of that, since my last update and I’ve been learning about what it means to church plant. We as the SOE(School of Evangelism) have had the opportunity to have breakfast together as well to go to the beach. 

I’ll also post a couple of pictures of all my friends below! :) 

^ Here’s the Singaporean Crew! We had steak!

^ This is the very special crazy “want to go for a run, Lynn?” Anna everybody! <3 </p>

^ People from my Team (Emily, Christel & me - also the car ticket guy)

^ Joel, Me & Kat (on the way to scout locations at night)

^ The “We will go” crew! (From left, Ben, Me, Elizabeth, Nate & Sam)

Overall, It’s been fun and yet such a challenging time. I hope this update brings you much encouragement. I’m confident in God and what He is capable of. I will continue to trust in His timing and that He will indeed see me through this huge task!! Please do keep me in prayer as I continue to ask God for vision for the team going forward. I’m looking forward to exciting times ahead! :) 

[mybravesong]

It has begun!!

Hey everyone, this is a bit of a short update. It's been exactly a week since I've entered into the School of Evangelism. I've met a few of pretty cool peeps! I have close to no photos though. Here’s a picture of Elise & I twinning with Zach in the background!

It is different from what it was like in DTS. On the first week, we had Neil Cole author of the book 'Organic Church'. This week was mainly about church planting. We even had the privilege of helping host a breakfast on Saturday morning with people from all over Perth who have a heart for church planting. 

He opened our eyes to see evangelism in a new way (based on the parable of the good seed & 4 different types of soil) not as a structure but something fluid and uncontainable by human hands. He talked about how if we get the DNA of the seed right, what we multiply will be right. DNA stands for Divine Truth (Relationship with God), Nurturing Relationships (Relationship with others) & Apostolic Missions (Evangelise). It really related to what God placed in my heart for fundraising which was Relationship with Him, Relationship with others and all I did was talk about what God was doing! I see now, He had already started the work and this was just confirmation of what God is doing.

We were also called to go to where the wolves are. Another thing is, I've been asked to lead a team for evangelism. It's a humbling experience because I didn't think to be asked. It's a little crazy when the school's 3 staff members suddenly want to ask you about something haha! I prayed about it and I believe God is challenging me to not shrink back and continue to advance and be bold and courageous in this. It will not be about me, but Him leading the team. He also reminded me that all authority belongs to Him so GO. He is the light of the world and He will be with us wherever we go (which is also related to the experience I had during DTS)! God's confirming word after word and prayer after prayer that He is on the move and I need to walk in tandem too! Please do keep us in prayer as we walk the streets of Perth bringing the good news wherever we go! :)

[mybravesong]

He turned it!!

Psalm 30:3-5 You brought me up from the grave, O LORD. You kept me from falling into the pit of death. Sing to the LORD, all you godly ones! Praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.

As many of you know, I will be embarking on a new school - School of Evangelism. It's just a few sleeps away and I’m super excited about it. But that’s not quite what this post is about. I wanted to just share in honesty my journey in fundraising the past month and a half. Every other night in February, I’d lay my head on the bed and my eyes would stare into the abyss of blackness in the night. The neurons in my brain continue to fire away and I feel so alone in my thoughts. "God, why am I waiting? Is what you say really coming to pass? Can I trust You? Was what I heard true?" The long wait felt like I was stuck in limbo between two worlds, dipping my feet in one while in another. I was struggling.

Yes, I was very consistent with my daily quiet times with God. It was temporary solace for the many hours I would spend just feeling - for lack of better word; DOWN. It was not that I did not know that God was good but I could not understand why I was feeling anxious. That's a horrid thought. You might say - where is this coming from? God has been so good and you have seen the transformation in my life - you've also heard how He has been providing. I don't quite know how to put this into words but I started to worry and I was impatient - I became blinded. It was a slippery slope. This went on for a good 2 weeks late February til early March. Oh, how quickly we can fall to our flesh if we aren’t careful like in Matthew 26:41, Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!". Looking back, I recognise now even more so - be aware and the importance of powerful prayer.

God is faithful, He revealed to me hidden pride and I came to Him in repentance. It was not easy after but at least I knew what I was waging war with. Throughout the last month and a half, I was in a constant heated battle within myself to continually choose Jesus over what I wanted and in my timing. I prayed hard and cried hard. There were times, I slipped and fell back into my old thinking - into a cycle of pride and self-sufficiency. If I was not getting the results fast enough, I need to be putting in more, I need to save more. I need to do more. I will be the first to admit, that there were days where I'd wake up with no motivation to keep going. Oh boy! What a time to be so human and so forgetful (I say forgetful because we can quickly forget who we are in Him and who our God is). A lethal combination!

And yet here's the other thing, even in the struggle, He says - “Lynn I am the same, yesterday, today and forever”. Yes, God’s still the very same and He chooses to be personal and meet us where we are anyway. He’s doesn’t choose to save us from our demise because we are good but because He practices this simple truth - He loves us. Can you imagine if that weren’t true? What’s more, He chooses us to carry His presence wherever we go. What an amazing love!! This is truth that I’ve consistently experienced in this season. My heart is so thankful and grateful to God because He did not leave me despite it all but also for people like you, who chose to walk in obedience with whatever God showed you to do - whether it was to give or pray (I value your prayers so much, they saw me through a lot of moments!!). Thank you so much!!! I know for a fact, that it was He that brought it altogether but I also love that we’ve all done little bits of the puzzle that He’s weaving together (Reminds me of the widow and the 2 small copper coins). I can't recall the number of times, He's said time and time again, “Lynn - trust me, I've got this.”

I've seen His Father heart through: 1. my dad - despite being in a rush to go to work, paused and came round to encourage me (he also gave me a big hug which was very nice), also after I scratched the car and he still assured me, prayed for a reaffirming of my identity in God. 2. community - whenever I felt really unsure if we'd reach our 10k goal, I'd get a word of encouragement (I really value your words of encouragement because they spur me on towards Christ!) or conviction to give, a meal paid for and even surprise bank transfers. I am very humbled!!

It was Father God just consistently reaching down and saying, "Lynn, I love you. Remember, fundraising is not about the 10k goal. It’s about My relationship with you and your relationship with others. I've got this - let go, Trust me!" He's also shown me areas of my life that need to grow in surrender - mindsets that needed to be changed, to kick pride in the butt and be quick to ask for forgiveness and mostly to value people more in action and speech. Even though I am still yielding to God in these areas, I can testify that He was the one that did this! On Friday, we were still at 7.5k. My sister and I made cookies to sell. On Saturday, I got transfer of 1000 and on Sunday 1001. And on Monday, my sister felt convicted to give $5. I calculated the total on the Monday itself and realised we reached 10,000.28 (I'm 28 this year). 

Yes, that’s right!! We've reached the goal of 10k. God is really accurate and His timing is perfect!! I write to you just 63 days after we started fundraising so you may recognise His faithfulness and that ultimately the glory does not belong to you or I but the glory truly belongs to God alone! 

I thought I’d end with this song. It really is a reflection of God’s goodness despite where we are in life, He’s turned it around! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOa10F8YkgI Be encouraged because we serve a God of faithfulness and goodness. He will not let you stumble as you lean in towards Him. He does not promise that you'll always have sunshine and rainbows but He promises that He is with you wherever you go! :) 

[mybravesong]

Fundraising Update

Hello from sunny Singapore. It’s been about 3 weeks since we started fundraising for the School of Evangelism. In total, we’re around 1/4 of $10,000 goal. In 3 weeks!! Can you believe it? I really want to pause here and give a shout out to many who are championing what God is doing in and through me. I can only response with deep gratitude towards God and towards you. I do love to be transparent about amounts I’m getting from sales + donations so I’ve put up a dashboard here: https://www.thedash.com/dashboard/Nk949Jax6

I know people are asking why fundraise? why not just work? I 100% totally understand that. I too found that it would be easier to just work and raise the money myself and believe me, I very much wanted to. But haha as you know, 

Isaiah 55:8-9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,  neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.

 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,    so are my ways higher than your ways    and my thoughts than your thoughts.

God had other plans. He said, “No, I want you to fundraise. I don’t want this to be about what you can do and accomplish by yourself. But I want this to be about relationship - relationship with Me and relationship with others. I want you to collab with others.”. With much trembling, I said - ok God, I will take a step of obedience and fundraise. What happened afterwards was nothing short of amazing. God brought alongside people. I didn’t ask but He just brought people. People who were filled with excitement for God to work, who were inspired by Him. GOD DESERVES ALL THE GLORY AND ALL THE PRAISE FOR THIS. Words cannot express the encouragement I’ve felt as you’ve all avail yourselves to partner with us on this ride of a lifetime - from the Adult Zone to Friends and Family (if I could I would name all of you!!!). You continue to spur me on towards Christ and His purposes. It’s been nothing short of crazy and I am humbled by your love, encouragement and generosity.

What have you been up to? As some of you know, I am currently in Singapore. Why am I in Singapore while my friends and family are holding the fort in Perth? That is yet another interesting story on it’s own. On the day I returned home, I received a letter from the Singapore government to renounce my Singapore citizenship! Honestly, I love love Singapore to bits - I’m what you called patriotic. Love the people, love the food, just love this country! To give it up was such a hard hard thing to do but God reminded me just before I went to sleep, “Lynn, remember your identity isn’t tied to a country.”. I woke up the next day and remembered an experience I had during my discipleship training school. This was the experience. DAY 64 Saturday (8 Sept)

I woke up around 7.30am? God wanted me to go to swan River. I didn’t want to (because it was about an hr before breakfast, I was feeling lazy and it looked like it was gonna rain) but He really wanted me to go so I got ready and went.  As I was walking I was singing the song he is the light light light light of the world. All throughout, it was cloudy but you could see the sun was just very bright behind the clouds. When I got to the swan River, I stood and waited. I looked down and suddenly I heard shouts from the river. It was a bunch of people rowing in a boat and the coach shouting directions in a speedboat next to it.

They paused in the middle of the river and I thought they were gonna turn back but the coach was talking to the rowers (there were 2 sets of them). Then they went further down the river. I walked a little further and sat at a bench, then I saw a train and it looked like the Singapore train and God asked me if I would lay down my identity as Singaporean and I said I have but he said not entirely and I said it’ll be hard but I’ll let it go if You want me to. As I got up from the bench, the sun came out at that same timing and the sky was just suddenly clear and the sun shined so brightly and as I walked up the stairs back on the path back to the base, God said I am the light of the world (I felt the warmth of the sun on my back) and he said just like the coach was with the rowers each step of the way, I am with You. You know what you must do.

At the time, I had thought that God wanted me to go into missions but He is so kind. He’s asked me about letting go my citizenship before I even saw the letter. He is so gentle and good. I checked the date in which the government had sent the letter and it was the exact same week I had this experience. It was so clear, He wanted me to give it up. Who was I to refuse Him? Who was I to say no to the one who loves me the most? I said, “ok God I’ll do it.. in April.” I thought, I’d do it but I’ll do it when it would be most convenient in April(I’d be back for my cousin’s wedding and stopover in Singapore) but God was taking it one step further, He said I want you to walk in activeness and not in passivity. He wanted me to go to Singapore as soon as I could to get it done. At that moment I told Him, are you kidding me? I don’t have the money God, how? This was His answer. When I was having a meal with my family, I suddenly remembered - my sisters(my sweetie pies) had decided together that for my birthday in Dec 2018, they’d give a total of $300 just for the specific use of flight travel. The amount I needed was $298 so it just covered it with $2 to spare. Wow, He had already known. God is so good. 

So, here I am now in a tiny red dot near the equator. This is what I’ve been up to so far, I’ve since renounced my citizenship and had to opportunity to partner with my good friend - Jamie in JB in macaroon making. She prayed about it and decided to give me part of the proceeds. LIKE WHUTT?! It was something unexpected.

Jamie and I (she makes bomb macaroons!! follow her at @jaeybakes on instagram)

Did a little semi-babysitting (they’re cute)

I’ve also got the chance to spend time with my extended family! God is truly good. If I’d not listen to His prompting, I’d have miss out on moments like these! <3

my grandpa, (Really thank God for sustaining him in health!) , my aunty and I

My cousins & I - gosh I miss this bunch of humans.

My cousin Teri and I

On top of that, I’ve had so many opportunities to share what Christ is doing and to encourage others in their walk with God (especially over chinese new year). It’s been so good catching up with all my aunties and uncles!! I’m thinking over all these moments and I’m just amazed at how God is orchestrating this! This has no means been an easy 3 weeks. There are days where I am still filled with doubt, but the best part of God’s nature is - doubts will always come but He CONSTANTLY without fail reassures the direction He has called us to take - through people, through His word. I’m amazed and so thankful! I love that what He said in DTS remains true, that He is with me wherever I go. His love is so comforting, so reassuring and so BIG! This is the God that came down to die for us, the God that said, I’ve traded your sins for my blessings. What an honour it is to serve Him!

I just want to take a moment and encourage you. Perhaps you’re in a bit of a situation yourself, you’re surrounded by doubts about the future, look to Him. He is able to supply your every need! :) His love is constant and He does not shift like shadows, no matter your circumstance. If there’s anything I can keep you in prayer for - drop me a message! I’ll be happy to!!

Please also do continue to uphold the fundraising and my time in Singapore in prayer. :)

[mybravesong]

Moving On

Don’t worry, I’m not physically moving anywhere. I am however moving on from 2018. Although I am, I can’t help but take a bit of time just to reflect on what transpired in 2018. 2018 for me has been a year where I would define in these words, “dare to be brave”. God led me to leave my job and go on a wild adventure with Him through the Music DTS(Discipleship Training School) in YWAM Perth. Some thought it was a crazy and an irrational, illogical choice to make. I was met with many who questioned the choice I was making. Why would you give up a stable job? I was plagued with constant worry about my future. But when I made the decision in my heart to follow Christ, there was PEACE, just so much peace. And when I move that conviction into action, God gave me a word that confirmed the redirection that was taking place in my life. I honestly can’t fully comprehend it and I don’t entirely even now - not the fullness of it anyway.

Proverbs 16:9 A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.

In DTS (Discipleship Training School), I found myself growing in the depth of God’s love, how personal He is or how much worth I have in His eyes. It was like my whole being was submerged and soaking in a bathtub full of so much enoughness in the light of who God is. That’s a weird image to put in your head but it’s true. Words can’t describe the transformation in my heart, it’s cliche to say, “God’s worked in my heart and I now know He is good and He is enough for me.” It sounds so simple, so fundamental, so foundational but it was this profound truth that penetrated my heart so deeply. The best part was, I got to do it along side this incredible bunch of people who, more than friends, I call family! <3 

As part of the DTS, we went to the nations to apply and share what we had learned. I went to Nepal&Manila. I found myself pushing my way out of my comfort zone, doing things I’d never thought I would ever do - preach the gospel, share my testimony in the open, be unafraid of who God has made me to be, to express love with kindness, to overcome control and a lot more. It is so REAL and I experienced God move like never before. Everything I thought was impossible became more than possible with God and I was experiencing it in real time. It would be sad if I didn’t include some highlights so here you go.

Highlights from my time in the nations

The Nepal/Manila Team

NEPAL

My team and I did a lot of gospel skits and shared about Christ (His nature and character).

We worshipped and proclaimed God’s goodness on mountain tops and interceded for the people there.

We partnered with many local churches, praying and doing house visits. 

MANILA

Sharing the gospel to many in villages and even in prison!!

We worked a lot with kids. They are so wonderful and we see so much of God in them.

That’s really brief but we saw God move so powerfully through ministry. At outreach, God began to show me His heart for people. He was the one moving the whole time and all my team and I were doing was just to partner with Him. 

The last few weeks of 2018 came and went in a snap. Outreach ended, then came Christmas and quickly after, New Years. So here I am now, in 2019. My heart is filled with much joy and thanksgiving for my Lord. He has saved me and continues to walk day by day with me. I take delight in knowing that everything that happened was every bit necessary. He has stolen my heart with His kindness and gentleness. He has taken me from sorrow to joy, from doubt to trust, from hopeless to hope, from defeat to victory, from captivity to freedom. Yes! I can honestly say I wouldn’t have chosen this for me, but He did and there is not a single bit of regret in that. 

So what does 2019 hold?

God’s on the move everywhere and I’ve been asking God where to next? What’s my next step God? I’m happy to say, God revealed to me His heart in a deep deep way as I was sharing who He is with people. I saw God’s compassion on people and His longing for relationship with each person. As I was sharing one time, He said this, “I long to comfort these people, to pour my love into these people, how can I reach them?". Through many confirmations, I knew God was calling me into evangelism. He wanted me to capture His heart for the ones far from Him. It could look like so many things but before outreach, there had been a school at the back of my mind and it just clicked. This school is called The School of Evangelism. This school aims to equip people to take the gospel wherever they go. So, in obedience, I have applied for this school. I’m kinda excited and filled with anticipation for God to move in this coming year. This is the season laid in front of me and I’m so ready to move with God in it.

So, I’m inviting you! If you believe in what God is doing through me, come alongside and partner with us(God & I). 

Pray and ask God how He would like you to contribute whether it’s prayer, finance or anything else He brings to mind - holding a bake sale, doing a movie night etc. The possibilities are endless haha! I’ll also be starting to bake and sell some cookies so keep an eye out for that. The fees for the school is about $10k, this includes accomodation, food, plane tickets. It is an amount that’s kinda big but that’s where faith & trust come in. So, pray, reach out, shoot me a DM, I’ll be more than happy to answer questions.

How do I stay up to date with you?

Call, text, send me your email! I’ll be making newsletters which will give you a glimpse into my life. If you’d like to be subscribed to them, do pop me a message with your email address. :)

Thanks for reading, I hope it was an encouragement to you to keep the faith and continue persevering in Christ! Feel free to share this and encourage one another :)

[mybravesong]

Music DTS 2018

So I’ve graduated from Music DTS 2018. As you can see, I’ve only really updated this blog til end of my lecture phrase. 

Outreach was amazing, crazy and a full on adventure with God. All the things I thought were impossible to do were actually very possible with God. It amazes me how possible it actually is. I’ve done crazy things like, share the good news with people on the streets, done open airs where I’ve sang my heart out and testified in public that He is my God and I’m unashamed. I’ll be using this blog in the future, just to keep everyone up-to-date on what’s happening.

Currently, Christmas has just ended and we’re heading towards the end of the year. 2018 has flown by in a snap. Here’s my team in the early days of outreach and when we graduated!

Just Landed in Nepal

Back from Outreach

^ my friends and I <3 God is good!

[mybravesong]

Week 10

DAY 66 Monday (10 Sept) I can’t remember what I got for quiet time but during base worship time, I had this image in my head of an enemy, dark and ekky and the words, “I cut it down before u even move!” And the enemy was cut! This was what God was saying to me. God has the victory. This week’s topic was the Father Heart of God and Peter Brownhill was giving it. Also I found out that we’d be flying to Nepal through Thailand then through qatar to manila. We did rehearsals everyday 7:30pm! It was a busy week!

DAY 67 Tuesday (11 Sept) God woke me up that morning but I didn't want to wake up. I went to read my Eph passage today and it talked about forsaking first love. Conviction moment - God was telling me not to lose my first love. I got an image of a priest who is set apart but feels that he should do something immoral to tell others he is a sinner too. What a horrible misconception. I prayed against any lie of the enemy that invited a casualness towards sin and if that person is real, to ask God to protect him from the head to the toe. That day we learnt about Jesus as a human and what He went through.

DAY 68 Wednesday (12 Sept) Today I realised I don't expect from God. I don’t dream with God and I’m wondering why. I felt I needed to go to base early and not just lay in bed til 7am. I walked to base and read numbers - it was about the israelites being divided on who is really god? I really conclude that God is merciful, He got them swallowed up in Sheol. The day before we were talking about Numbers. 

At 7.30am, we had prayer for outreach, the question was what is your contribution to the team? Ask Holy Spirit for it! I ask and the word I got was light. Sam Hakes shared with me that she had this image of a fire on a torch, sharing the light, and burning bright. I thought that was pretty cool!

We also went to get our Manila visas done, guess where? Cockburn! LOL! That was pretty funny!

DAY 69 Thursday (13 Sept) We went to King’s park in the morning! It was like surprise to go there in the morning! 

Pete was outlining certain areas of our life that would relate to a need of the Father Heart of God. I was writing down things that come to mind straight away! 1. Self esteem - expectations / Trust No expectation with God in terms of relationship Security in not knowing 2. Authority/acceptance/affection / values This is a bit weird but we’re very proper in our culture in terms of affection. It’s a bit of a “Have to ask for hugs before getting hugged” kinda thing which is different in other cultures. Some just hug you without asking. Also the cycle of success - asian culture. Education, job, marriage, kids. 3. Authority Memories of disciplining by maid, parents etc. PSLE marks.

Pete was talking about to received the Father’s love, you have to come as a child to Him - having this child-likeness towards the Father. I like how He also talked about the point of the gospel was not to just point you to Jesus, but the end destination was to point you to the Father!

I also had my one on one today! Abigail wrote this on my cup when I ordered a latte! Sho sweeet! :D

We had rehearsal for the saturday after dinner dishes!

DAY 70 Friday (14 Sept) In the morning, I was doing quiet time and the words that came to me was, “Eyes of wonder”. Have the child-like wonder towards God and the things of God.  Matthew 6:22-23 Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!

Start to see things with wonder! I love how it related to light as well! Cause the previous day I was asking God what do I contribute and I got the word, “light”.

We had application day so basically, we went up to a couple. I had David and Coleen who are founding leaders at the base. Basically I went through my list and then they let me sob on their shoulder and prayed for me. They also told me interestingly to, “walk with gratefulness”. They also said, “God is good in everything. Ask what you are teaching me instead of why is this happening to me?” Which was pwetty interesting cause last week I was thinking about Joy and how I lack it sometimes. And when I practice gratefulness, it really fills me with the joy of the Lord and I begin to see things the way God sees them.

DAY 71 Saturday (15 Sept) Today was just an insane day. We have this thing called weekend service and basically it’s like work duties but the whole day - you serve the base. So I was there from 10am to about 1.30pm. Then went back to change into black clothes (that day was the day of the showcase). Went back for rehearsal for the performance and then prep for dinner. After that, we washed dishes and clean the area and went straight into the performance! I must say it was a great night! Had a lot of fun! :) God definitely gave me the strength to go through the day! Also, outreach teams from the April quarter were all coming back so our dorms are quite rowdy now!

DAY 72 Sunday (16 Sept) Today I basically spent the day with Ravi Zacharias. In the morning, he talked about: Opinion - preferences and styles. Conviction holds you - it shapes your life and choices. It is the bedrock in which you make. It is not based on the time of day etc. What is it that is a deep conviction of us? Matt 4 1. Intellect - wrong assumption 2. Will - right assumption, wrong conviction 3. Imagination - Young people you will always be a worshipper. The only question is who and what is the object of your worship. The way you prepare for conflict and temptation is that you have hidden His word in your heart. The wealthier we are the more self reliant we are. In one case they refuse the exception and the The intellect is a very powerful instrument and it can reason you into doing the most horrible sin.  They distort reality and your soul. The love of God that heals the brokenness within. 

2. Will This temptation is the greatest for the wrong reason. You don't determined when, God does, You just decided all times to lean into God.The message of redeemation and grace. Every other world view its your own deeds. Righteousness is a gift. Being covered by the blood of Christ that we lived. Illustration of Indian dude under the bodies of his friends.Evil, love, justice and forgiveness Where is the one place? It is at the hill. The 4 absolutes come together. 

3. Imagination Can wreak havoc in our souls. It can be capable of plunging us down in the darkest depths. We do not just worship in beauty, we worship him in the beauty of holiness. You can only worship the Lord Worship posture and service. Worship with your mind and serve him with your body.

Applications 1. Diversity and we long for unity, how do we do that? Greeks thought they unity and in diversity - university The first loving God becomes the foundation of loving your neighbour. How do we worship is all of the nature of God purifying of his life imagine Internal commitment. Don't ever lose your heart, cause I'm in there. God's love is supreme for you and me. He has us in His heart.  -------

After that, I went to Hifumiya for lunch, met a couple of peeps from FCC there. Then I went to the night session and met even more FCC people haha!

Night Service>> How does one rebuild your life? A life where so much went wrong Jacob Genesis 25:19 How God sees a child - it could be nations or even the son of God. Child can stimulate wonder and to enjoy wonder.** Nathan played with a balloon. And he took it outside and let the balloon go and he said to his dad.. ravi.. Next time u fly you can get the balloon for me.We come uniquely so equipped. In accordance and temperament of that child, it will never depart from the child. Perception becomes a reality. Half a baby and half a baby do not make a baby. - the uniqueness of a baby. Where God has placed you is unique with a part to play.2. They were taught to succeed through deception. 3. Breakdown of communication How to be a partner in life. 

Application Tabernacling 1. It all begins with a transformation in communant with God.2. Reunion with your brother You owe it to the individual - he has his own heart acknowledge your mistake - he sees God in his brother - the transferable of trust for the generations.3. Comes for the trust for the next generation Kids as builders of nations.

[mybravesong]

Week 9

DAY 59 Monday (3 Sept) In Qui3t time, I got reminded of how much God loves us that He knew us before the world began! I also felt to pray for Sarah which I did! We started the day differently and started with rehearsal, then band practice, lunch and then lecture. It was by Rod on Lordship!

DAY 60 Tuesday (4 Sept) Basically over the weekend I had a dream, everyone was there and when someone said a nasty comment and did something that was not bi biblical. They turned into Lego or they perished with a sign of the effect on the floor.

In addition, He gave me 2 verses. Daniel 3:2 worshipping of golden statue Then King Nebuchadnezzar sent to gather the satraps, the prefects, and the governors, the counselors, the treasurers, the justices, the magistrates, and all the officials of the provinces to come to the dedication of the image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up.

Isaiah 2:3 worshipping of God and many peoples shall come, and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord , to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

And today God gave me revelation on it. He gave me an image of the 3 Pokémon cute figurines I had on the shelf next to my bed and I was holding greater significance in the things I made than the things God made (the beauty of my own hands) and I got people to come admire it. I definitely knew God wanted me to smash them. He also revealed that I hold finance above Him. He gave me the figure 10,000 but i was not sure for what. He also said He'll anoint me to do even greater things that I'm not ready to hear yet. 

It really related to our topic this week - Lordship, that need to give up the right to make our own choices because God is Lord is ALL!

DAY 61 Wednesday (5 Sept) We had a busy day previously, I slept til 6.30am.. I read Eph again on http://www.stepstudyteach.com/ . 

During Lecture, Rod was talking about how Jesus gave everything for us. Jesus was rejected like sometimes we felt, he was a considered a “bastard”, He had gone through so much in life. Rod was explaining that the jewish culture and the asian culture were somewhat similiar and shame was something He would have felt so much shame when he saw his heartbroken mum at the cross. And sometimes in life, we would have to choose God over our family. But still, he said to look after Mary when He was on the cross - family was important to Jesus but He still chose God’s will over family. Honestly that is something I struggle with, putting God above family. Listening to God or listen to family - no doubt my family gives me sound advice and they’re always choosing the best for me but I also recognise that God knows the best above the best because He knew me and my family before the creation of the world. At the end of lecture, we had a time before God and kneeled beside our chairs to pray... I think deep down God might want me to be a missionary and it's not an easy life and I started thinking of how I would be able to provide for myself. Honestly, the struggle is real and all the more, we need to lean on God not our own strength.

I also had one on one with abigail and had a talk with her about what God has been speaking to me even over the weekend. She encouraged me to pray about it.

DAY 62 Thursday (6 Sept) During Quiet Time, I was doing the Eph series and I learnt about how Jesus includes all. He’s always had time for people even thought He was interrupted while doing things. As I was just waiting for God to speak, Jesus said I love you and sing! I was like sing? Are you sure? Mind you it was 6am in the morning. So I was like ok.. if you want me to. I sang light light light light of the world song hahaha. Then we went for Intercession, we stood in prayer with the japan team who are still in the midst of getting their funds together. They’ve still got a ways to go. David, my team leader was sharing about the Life of Joshua and the walls of Jericho. It seems like the weirdest thing to do but He did it anyway because that was what God was telling them. During Lecture, we were talking about rights and how our only appropriate response is really to say God I give you my choices, they aren’t for me to make anymore, they are Yours. Especially for what He did in us. This was something Rod shared the day before:

If God was a monster, unkind, brutal and completely unmerciful and unloving, you’d be an idiot to not obey everything He said. But the reason we call it good news, it’s because He’s not like that. He’s incredibly merciful, so humble, loving. (He gets involved in our tiny issues and would be trilled we have a chance to obey). If the creator of the world wants to be involved in our lives, be delighted in His input.

Definitely was insightful. I also got my parents to drop off the items to smash. My fam came during rehearsal (This is the greatest show) time but I went to go meet them for a bit! It was nice! :)

DAY 63 Friday (7 Sept) In the morning, I dreamt that I they had a huge aquarium in the agape house, there was lots of friend. I saw (someone from Manila) in agape house and she was looking at the fish in the long tanks and saying I love my church, so proud of my church. But honestly I was kinda thinking like, but you gave up on God and decided to go on your way. Then I was walking around, one section sold food. Many levels and .. it's like a mini maze, James(Music DTS) was there fixing the sound station. Hahah I don’t know what the dream is about yet. Today was application day and one by one, we brought up things we choose to give to God today. I think i was the 6th or 7th person to go? I told God in front of everyone that today I choose God above family, above finance, above myself. It was really hard and I cried a lot (lol sure that was no surprise). As they were praying for me after, I asked God to fill me with more of Him, His love - cause when you choose to surrender rights, there are empty spaces to fill those “right” slots. We ended around 8pm, everyone was so hungry. Fortunately, Ahreum (formally Kate) and I order some bibimbab from the 4WD, they were having a fundraiser. It was so good. We ate with a couple of girls then they started watching Tangled and I didn’t feel like I should really watch it so I went in and out. Showered and went to bed.

DAY 64 Saturday (8 Sept) I woke up around 7.30am? God wanted me to go to swan River. I didn’t want to (because it was about an hr before breakfast, I was feeling lazy and it looked like it was gonna rain) but He really wanted me to go so I got ready and went.  As I was walking I was singing the song he is the light light light light of the world. All throughout, it was cloudy but you could see the sun was just very bright behind the clouds. When I got to the swan River, I stood and waited. I looked down and suddenly I heard shouts from the river. It was a bunch of people rowing in a boat and the coach shouting directions in a speedboat next to it.  (You can see them in the far distance just under the bridge.)

They paused in the middle of the river and I thought they were gonna turn back but the coach was talking to the rowers (there were 2 sets of them). Then they went further down the river. I walked a little further and sat at a bench, then I saw a train and it looked like the Singapore train and God asked me if I would lay down my identity as Singaporean and I said I have but he said not entirely and I said it'll be hard but I'll let it go if You want me to. As I got up from the bench, the sun came out at that same timing and the sky was just suddenly clear and the sun shined so brightly and as I walked up the stairs back on the path back to the base, God said I am the light of the world (I felt the warmth of the sun on my back) and he said just like the coach was with the rowers each step of the way, I am with You. You know what you must do. 

I basically freaked out. Ah. I definitely knew God is prompting me for missions but in what capacity I don’t know. I think He was telling me Manila but I was like oh no! Hahha! Definitely need to pray about it more, perhaps ask God if there’s another option. 

After that, had breakfast and went to Milk&Honey(Thift Shop- own by YWAM) and bought a pair of Columbia pants for like $3. SO WORTH IT! Also Leonie got to try this outfit hahaha!

We went there again after lunch and Leonie got the pants and Iel got 2 pants. Then we headed to Uniqlo. Spent a good 1hr in there, and bought 2 pants and 2 underwear - was thinking of outreach. Then brought Leonie to try some foods - onigiri and pork floss bun. 

I went back to base and a couple of us spent the rest of the day in a meeting room and finished my journal. I did try the pants on and I realised that australia sizing and singapore sizing is different in Uniqlo. It was too long for me :(

DAY 65 Sunday (9 Sept) I went to church in the morning, they were talking about relationships and how the eyes are really important in communication! Gotta learn to make more eye contact!

After I went back to the city, to Uniqlo to see if I could get pants altered. The manager called Catherine L was really nice and allowed me to get refunds on both my pants because I had brought my version of the pants (an old pair I had). After that, I checked my messages and Jane had sent me a text of the 50% off on Hifumiya today! So I decided to go eat there by myself and low and behold, I met Lydia Lee and Caterine there. We ate there and had a good chat about church life and serving in ministry. It was an interesting conversation - some people don’t feel like FCC is home anymore so that’s pretty surprising. I think we need to be more vulnerable with each other on a cell level and also church level. After that, I wondered into woolsworths to buy some cereal and came back to base. The rest of my DTS had gone to Caversham which was pretty cool!

[mybravesong]

Week 8

DAY 52 Monday (27 August) I came back from the weekend feeling kinda crap. Not because of spending time with people but because reality was so different from ywam. And I was still so easily influenced by my own selfishness. I had to pray against the spirit of  indifference and for a continuous deposit of God's love. Break unwholesome culture and pray for hopefulness. I kinda snapped at Sarah and Emily. God prompted me to ask for forgiveness. Emily was really nice, she prayed for me. Also that day during break, Sarah asked me for a red cloud sweet and I tbh was quite hesitant cause I wanted to enjoy it on my own. But in the end I offered but she could see I was slightly unwilling. Overall, the day was a bit of a downer in my spirit.

DAY 53 Tuesday (28 August) We had outreach prayer in the morning but I didn’t quite get anything from God. During Quiet Time I asked God how can I love others? He said I'll show u the way. It so happened to be Shailyn’s birthday that day and I was prompted to give her a necklace I had been saving for someone. But somehow in my spirit I was still feeling down. It had been an ok day. I felt prompted by God to get red clouds sweets for her and to let her know that I do love her! That day too, somehow the energy in our school was sapped, we had rehearsal for the greatest showman and Randi wasn't happy with our practice. I did put in effort but some weren’t even really into it. Some people made smart comments. It was an alright day.

DAY 54 Wednesday (29 August) Quiet time - I was just waiting on God and He said He would show me a new way. Didn’t quite understand at the time. We also had worship, and the word was to fix our eyes on Him, to lock eyes with Him - not to let our gaze wonder. The song that God really spoke through was Holy by Kim Walker. It was really a song about the holiness of God and proclaiming His nature, that He is holy. It really lifted my spirit somehow, when I just focused on Him and worshipping Him.

During Lecture (we’re on the topic of relationships by Shirley Brownhill), one of the things that really hit me was when they were talking about broken relationships and how we end up with exposed emotions - whether it was oversensitivity, attention seeking. A lot of the time, you can have self control over a part of you but if it keeps coming up, it meant the inside wasn’t quite dealt with. I realised that I still have parts of me that have not been dealt with but I didn’t quite know what. I also had a one on one with Abigail  and I got to process with her what went on last weekend and how I was doing the week in.I was really feeling like I didn’t make progress in my walk and that being in ywam was so different from reality and it really made me feel down. She corrected me. And she spoke against the devil's scheme to tie down my progress. A word of wisdom she told me was.. God loves me for me, not what I can do for Him. I know this but I know there are so many times where I don’t practice this. I felt my spirits lift, my burdens lifted. Thank you God! :)

DAY 55 Thursday (30 August) I started with quiet time, and decided to start doing this 25 day devotion written by Cliff (Cristine’s husband). You can see it here -  http://stepstudyteach.com Book of Ephesians. I had to remind myself that I was chosen and beloved of God. I practiced and proclaimed it in my prayers. In my free time, I finished my last book report! We had sam from the manila team join us for lunch duty! It was nice! During lecture, Shirley spoke of the side effects of exposed emotions and we got to break into groups and repent before one another. I repented of attention seeking-ness and also rebellion against God. I ended the day with finishing my journal in preparation for the weekend.

DAY 56 Friday (31 August) We had 6am outreach prayer and the words I got was to pray against anxiety, passivity that has rob their courage and take courage. Afterwards I had quiet time (Eph 1:4-6) These were the questions that were asked:

1. When did God start thinking of you? Before the creation of the world. (Isn’t that amazing, that we were thought before the world was created.) 2. What kind of thoughts was he thinking of you? That I'm holy blameless, chosen, adopted. We're His glorious grace. 

When I ponder on this, I’m like God - wow! You really think of me. I was very encouraged. We finished the topic on relationships, Shirley really dived into romantic relationships and marriage. It was really interesting! After that we had evangelism, we had an open air! I got to act as a frog in the blob skit (It’s basically a story about a blob who is very negative and thinks no one likes him and he sees different animals and want to be like them but he fails at it. But he meets someone who likes him and would come down to his level and relate to him). I went for dinner with Leonie and met Yi huey and Gloria Tan at Hifumiya! It was pretty good!!

DAY 57-58 Saturday-Sunday (1-2 Sept) It was a weekend full of food and excitement! I’ve got the highlights here:

(also I got a cookie from Ling :D)

[mybravesong]

Week 7

DAY 45 Monday (20 August) I feel like majority of this week was about finances! Also didn’t really have photos from this week! Hahaha! Our finances were due on the Wednesday and we still have a lot of money left to go! During Quiet Time, I prayed and am trusting God for finances. For some reason during the night felt like I had mosquito bites but actually don't have any when I woke up. Also reading Psalm 23 .... What does rod and staff mean? Rod - discipline to be within the safe boundaries Staff - shepherding/chosen - Aaron's staff This week’s lecture was led by Q. He’s run 11 young people 1 medical DTSs’, can you believe it? Today I also got to have a chat with Jamie who was flying over to America! God also reminded me to follow up with people!

DAY 46 Tuesday (21 August) We had an interceding time with my manila team.. we were all gonna fast.. I was gonna fast my chickpeas cause I've been eating them  everyday..then.. we had quiet time and breakfast. During Quiet time, I got this verses. 

Hebrews 10:19‭-‬25 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.  You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, “In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.”  And, “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.”  But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. The Key words were , “don't throw your confidence away. “ -- God was telling me.. you're either in it totally or not at all.. so our whole team decided to fast lunch and dinner. God has been coming through we had 3441.. and I had a donation of 900ish but it was directed to me personally which ohmygosh so blessed!! We were also learning about the submission Jesus had towards the father then I also prayed about it and I wanted to be in line with the character of God.. he doesn't withhold.. so I decided to put the extra money I had left over to the team... Here’s the timeline of money reduction!

Friday:    5139 Monday: 5pm       4721 8pm       3971 Tuesday: 6am       3441 1:30pm  2776 2:45pm  1674 7pm       1624 9pm       1574

DAY 47 Wednesday (22 August) Outreach Meeting - By the time morning hit, we had enough pledges to take the whole team to the nations! Now we just had to wait for the money to hit the system. PRAISE GOD!!! The school got our team to share this huge testimony. During Quiet Time, I was thanking God for His goodness and He said thank you for trusting me. The verse I had was:

Psalm 91:2 I will say of the Lord , “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” After chores, we had worship together as a school but I felt worship didn't land. There was a lack of joyful singing instead, it felt like the atmosphere was gloomy. I had a One on one with Abigail and talked about it! Other than that, the rest of the day was pwetty chills!

DAY 48 Thursday (23 August) During the morning, the word was Unbelief is a big part of unsubmission to God. Accusation. Mistrust. Comparison. Passivity. We enforce the word of God and we empower His hand. I'm not responsible for saved souls but I am responsible for scattering seed.

For Intercession, we asked God.. How do you want us to fight to see the release for the rest of the team? 

- as a team, go down the list of everyone in school and ask if you could pray for them.. - take up the sword (word of God - when pray verse for everyone)Strategies of the enemies - dullness - indifference I was a little snappy today. My attitude wasn’t super good during lunch duties and I had to ask forgiveness from Sarah and Emily. I also got the chance to pray for Jacob against his tiredness. I got to ask Sammy about her story! It was her birthday! :)

Later in the day, I met Joycelyn who took my pulse! 

DAY 49 Friday (24 August) Quiet time - I realised, God doesn’t hold back. 

Isaiah 55:11‭-‬13 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.  You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.  Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the Lord ’s renown, for an everlasting sign, that will endure forever.” Also prayed for the teams!

For application, we washed each other’s feet as a sign of submission to one another! I washed david’s feet then I washed abigail’s and we cried together. I also got to wash karmen’s feet and leonie’s. It was super good!!

Also got the chance to go have dinner with Iel! We went to Hifumiya, then we went to the twilight markets which was pretty cool for her cause she’s not been to a market in Perth yet. We got to catch up with how each other was doing in DTS. We also went for ice cream right after! It was great!!!

DAY 50-51 Saturday-Sunday (25-26 August) Basically spent the weekend with my family! It’s been 7 weeks since I’ve seen my parents so it was a good reunion! :) 

I did however feel like I hadn’t grown much after 7 weeks and I saw the vast difference between the spiritual atmosphere in ywam and out of ywam! It sadden me greatly. I thought I wouldn’t get so affected by words that people said but it did and it felt like my security in God wasn’t as solid as I thought it’d be. God is still working through me!