wings to fly

Word from Abba: I am Your Judge

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 08:54:19 -0500

I alone am your judge. When you stand before me at the judgment seat, the only opinion that matters is mine. So it’s ok to take time to discover what I think about you and see how I have already inscribed these words upon your heart. You have my permission to do less with others and less time in ministry in order to hear My words and thoughts, feel my embrace more clearly.

Cultivating a relationship takes time. It is I who will clear up the cluttered thoughts. I who bring peace to anxious hearts. It is my love that casts out fear. But it takes time my little one.

Come sit with me a little while and let me tell you who I am, and who you are.

1 Peter 2:23 “who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously”
Hebrews 10:30 “For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. And again, “The LORD will judge His people.””
Jeremiah 31:33 “But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the LORD: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”

Word from Abba: Keep Your Eyes on Me

Thu, 31 May 2012 10:05:00 -0500

Keep your eyes on my loving gaze towards you my beloved child. I am ever for you in my constant faithful delight and love over you. Though there are people around you with varying opinions concerning you. These may be people you respect, close friends you’ve endured difficult seasons with, or they may even be your parents, the opinion that matters most, is mine.

I only highlight two to three things I want to work on with you each season. I give you the grace through my presence to mature and bring you to a greater place of freedom in these areas. You are not alone.

Though there maybe conflicting opinions, perhaps even attacks from others I am inviting you to put your hands to the plow and not look back. Sometimes I help end relationships in your life that are not beneficial to you in the long run. Relationships that you can’t even see that are hindering your growth towards me rather than helping.

Though it’s difficult, and your heart aches, come and gaze into my eyes and see my love for you. Come close and let me comfort you. I am your compassionate High Priest.

Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep. I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. -John 10:7-16
“But Jesus said to him, ‘No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.’” -Luke 9:62
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.” -2 Corinthians 1:3-5

Word from Abba: True Treasures

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:54:00 -0500

I know I have been writing my blogs from the perspective of the Lord speaking to us, His beloved children. But I just wanted to interject today’s post with a testimony of how the Lord has been leading me to this place of waiting and resting in His presence. Finding a haven in God.

Though the world deems it foolish. Though my flesh fights against it and the enemy tries to lure me away with list of things I need to do and am not accomplishing when I’m quieting my heart before the Lord, God draws me to Him and teaches me how to esteem the things He esteems.

There are needs everywhere! Brokenness, unfinished tasks and rooms left to clean. I used to try to tackle and accomplish them all. But in the midst of that endeavor, I discovered that the minute I finished one thing, there’s always something else waiting for me. In addition to the stress of unending lists, the enemy usually tells me I didn’t do the task good enough.

Does my life just amounts to check lists and tasks? If it were so, I’ve got a lot of unfinished business ahead of me before I die.

Life is not about how much I can accomplish, but rather how close I can draw to the Lord. How deep can I go into His chambers, His Holy of Holies and gaze into His eyes?

I’ve got it wrong so many times. My priorities have been straightened out time and time again tenderly and gently by God. Slowly, I’m starting to get it. No matter how good it looks like from the outside, no matter how busy I am with “good” ministry works, at the end of the day what really matters is my relationship with God.

Am I listening, abiding, leaning and trusting Him today? Or am I planning and controlling every minute of my day? Not letting Him into the life He so desires to be a part of? Or do I allow pauses, thankfulness and glances towards Him?

Lord help us all draw near You and give ourselves to that which truly matters.

“And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” - Luke 10:41-42

“If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.” -1 Peter 4:11

Word from Abba: It's ok to Rest in Me

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:59:45 -0500

Though everything around you will accuse you that you’re being lazy and unproductive, it’s ok to take time to be with me and rest in me. In the time you spend resting and looking to me, conversing with me, you’re doing a much greater work and giving your energy to what truly matters.

Productivity in the world’s definition is getting a lot done. Productivity defined in my Word is time spent with me. You can do a lot on the outside but actually not getting anything done at all.

Quieting yourself and letting me hold your burdens, pains and problems, you will be able to focus on what truly matters and gain true wisdom from Me.

Let us face this day together. Let me be there for you and tackle this day with you.

Word from Abba: All that You Need

Mon, 28 May 2012 09:00:22 -0500

The world tells you endless things you need, making you feel poor no matter how your financial circumstances changes.

The truth is I am all that you need. Yes, the world tells you that you’re foolish for following my footsteps, for not valuing its treasures but my eternal Word says you’re storing up true treasures in heaven that you will enjoy for all of eternity. Treasures that will not erode away. Treasures that will withstand the test of my fire and time.

The words and opinions of man are here today and gone tomorrow, they are but a vapor. Their words change and sway with the shifting sand, but my Words are eternal. The material things you possess does not give you true lasting pleasure, it is my presence that brings fullness of joy and peace that surpasses understanding. I have blessed you with wealth and materials to be a tool in your life not an idol you look to for joy, peace, identity and love.

Invite me into the pain of your needs and lack by thanking me for what I have blessed you with. Let me show you how rich you already are.

Matthew 7:26, James 4:14, 1 Peter 1:7, 18

One of the Most Beautiful Love Stories: Dustin's Parents

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:48:51 -0500

When Dustin shared with me his parent’s love story, I was deeply touched. I’ve been trying to get a hold of the article Dustin’s mom, Barbara, wrote for a contest in the Ladies’ Home Journal. As a result of winning the essay contest, her and Dave, Dustin’s parents won a trip to London to meet Margaret Thatcher in addition to many other wonderful prizes. Below is the story. Read it and you’ll see. God writes the best love stories.

I couldn’t help but tear up as I finished the article. This is the Bridegroom heart of God for us. He is not easily angered, but so patient in loving and washing us with His love and Word. So faithful in convincing us of the truth, we are His beloved.

p.s. I’m going to Chicago for a week, then to Minnesota for another support raising trip so I’ll be M.I.A for the next two weeks. I’ll try to post when I can…maybe just some instagram photos. Blessings to you all and pray for our trip if you feel led!

Word from Abba: Don't Look Back, Look Up

Tue, 15 May 2012 09:01:39 -0500

Where are you looking? Inside yourself? Into your past failures and recounting them again and again?

I have called you to put your hand to the plow and not look back. There are only a few things I highlight each season, a few words I speak to you. Hold fast to these words that weave a ladder that takes you up higher to me. My words are light, life and your daily bread. Treasure these things that are alive, that lead you to life, provide the sustenance you need for this day and greater light for the path you’re traveling.

Let go of the past. Let go of the past failures. These baggages that hold you back and weight you down from the height which I’ve called you to. Remember what I say, write down, read, sing what I say. Hold fast to what I say. Put your hand to the plow and don’t look back, look up into my loving eyes that are always with you.

MarriageMondays: The Incredible Worth of A Woman

Mon, 14 May 2012 09:01:38 -0500

Every year, on Mother’s day weekend, Mike Bickle preaches his message titled, “The Incredible Worth of a Woman.”

It wasn’t until the end of the message when the Lord touched me with the revelation of His Bridegroom heart. Mike gave an invitation to husbands and men that are engaged to come to the front to commit to honoring and cherishing their wives.

I myself didn’t feel it necessary that Dustin go up there and commit to honoring me since I felt he already does such a great job loving me as my husband. But as he got up unashamedly to answer the altar call, my heart was moved by God’s Bridegroom heart for me.

God whispered to my heart, “Sunny, I value and honor you so much. You are my Bride, and I will take a stand for you. I am not ashamed to show the world my love for you.” I tried to hold back my tears to no avail. My heart was moved by my Bridegroom’s love.

Mike then invited women to come and pray for and bless these men. As I put my hand on the shoulder of an older gentleman, I looked around at all these married men who are taking a stand to cherish their wives as Christ cherishes the church, my heart was moved once again.

Oftentimes the world portrays and encourages men to be chauvinistic, macho hulks that barrel women over. Many times that’s what women experience growing up and in their lives. But last night before me was a vision of the true desire of God, for husands to cherish their wives and for marriages that proclaim Christ’s love for His Bride to the world.

A woman’s desire to be cherished, honored and taken care of are good. These are godly desires that our Father in Heaven put in our hearts. God is raising up sons who reflect their Abba’s heart for His daughters. As we ourselves embrace Biblical feminity, we in turn are calling godly men forth, giving them opportunities to be who the Lord called them to be as men.

Lord, grant us grace to embrace the role You’ve ordained for us.

Click here for Mike Bickle’s notes from last night’s message.

Word from Abba: When You are Scared

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:35:00 -0500

When you are scared. When you find yourself suddenly awake in the dark. When you have no answers. When the right thing to say or do escapes you, let me be there for you.

I will rise out of my bed. I will walk into your room and sing a song over you. I will remind you of the many promises I’ve made. Ones that I will never break. I’ll weave them into little pillows for you to hold close and fall back asleep with My peace.

When things are not going well, when you’re not doing ok, when everything seems to be falling apart, it’s ok to let me know how you’re doing. I want to know. I’m not just waiting for perfection, I’m waiting and longing for you, right where you’re at.

Look at these moments, these difficulties and challenges you face throughout the day as blessings. Little doors for me to walk in and show you again what I mean when I say I love you.

1 Peter 5:7, John 17:24 & 26, Malachi 4:2

Kefir: How it's Clearing My Skin

Thu, 10 May 2012 22:16:24 -0500

So a few weeks back I wrote a post on Kefir. Ever since then, I’ve been making kefir at home and drinking it nearly everyday.

(close up image of kefir grains)

After a week of having kefir nearly every morning for breakfast, my skin started clearing up and glow! Though I wrote about all the great benefits of kefir, I myself am now experiencing its incredible health benefits.

After changing our diets to incorporate more whole plant based foods, I noticed that my chin started breaking out which hasn’t ever happened in my life. I didn’t know what to do. I put tea tree oil on it, but all the while knowing that skin conditions usually cannot be treated through the exterior. Our skin conditions usually has to do with our diets.

Knowing that my body is most likely detoxing, I just brushed it aside thinking the breakouts will subside once all the toxins are out of my body. But after a couple months, they were still there, camping out on my chin.

But recently, after reading up on all the health benefits of kefir and also not knowing what to do with the gallon of raw milk, I began making and having kefir for breakfast. After a week of incorporating it into my diet, I began to notice my chin clearing up and my skin started to glow! Even my friends started commenting on it. : )

So, I just wanted to share this tidbit with you all who are struggling with breakouts. Give kefir a try, especially try to make it yourself. Let me know how it goes!

Word from Abba: My Good Pleasure

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:45:52 -0500

You wake up with a ready list. A list of things you need to accomplish today. A list of areas you want to do better. A list of your own failures. Your mind is filled with many thoughts about your own evaluation of your life.

Look at the birds, they do no know how to grow what they must eat. They have no barn to store up the seeds they need. Yet I feed them. Look at the flowers in the field, they only rest and bloom. They do no manual labor, yet they continue blooming.

If I take care of the birds, flowers and grass, how much more so do I desire to take care of you my beloved child? I know what your needs are. Even the needs you feel are too small to bother me with.

It is my GOOD PLEASURE to give you the Kingdom, to provide for you what you need. What I instruct you to do, I do it with you, I provide and help you.

Luke 12:22-34

Word from Abba: What Do I Say?

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:51:38 -0500

My child what do I say about you? Remember my words. Let these words sink in. Let me slowly write it, rewrite it, and write it again upon your heart.

Let go of the words of man. Let go of your own evaluation of yourself, for those are mere man’s words but My Words are eternal. Those are words made with eyes that see only the earthly, through broken veils and hearts.

My words are declared in the heavens. My words are true. My words are clean. My words do not return to me void. My words I’ve made into a banner and wave above you day and night. The angels see it, the cloud of witnesses see it, now I want you to see it. You are loved, treasured, valued.

The words of men are a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow. My words are written forever. Let my truth hold your hand throughout your day and as you fall asleep at night.

Psalm 19:7, 39:5, Isaiah 55:11, Song of Solomon 2:4

Aligning with God's Eyes

Tue, 08 May 2012 09:02:00 -0500

I have to admit, I got caught up in how many people were visiting my blog and felt pressured to write what would get more hits. Until yesterday morning.

I was reading a devotional my small group leader had given me written by Sarah Young, titled, Jesus Calling.

I’ve been reading this devotional for several days now but I only happened upon the story behind how the devotional came about this morning. In it, Sarah describes how she came to Christ through encountering His presence in a forest in the Swiss Alps. But how after this encounter and one other one the following year, despite how she went on to live an “exemplary Christian life”, she did not feel the presence of God for nearly sixteen years.

Later, the Lord drew her to a devotional titled, God Calling written by “two listeners,” anonymous women of God who would wait upon the Lord and write down what He speaks to them, that she remembered the importance of time with the Lord alone, in silence, waiting for His words to feast upon daily. Thus came the birth of Sarah Young’s devotional.

Reading her journey pressed an ache in my own heart to be silent and crawl up into the Word of God, His presence in the mornings again. I have been trying, striving to be there to no avail. The Word of God has been dry as toast. I read it. Reread it, wondering how many times I’ve already read it. Longing for the days, mornings when I would find myself pouring over the Word of God, journaling down all that the Holy Spirit speaks to me. Those days seem so long ago……

Until this morning. The Lord helped me to just let Him talk to me instead of trying to fix my dryness on my own, as if I can really fix it with my religious activities. But we always think we do in those situations haha.

After the morning with the Lord, I feel led to write what the Lord speaks to me each morning in hopes of blessing your walk as well. The format will be basically the Lord speaking to you directly, similar to how Jesus Calling is written. I’m going to try this out and see how it goes.

Thanks for bearing with me and being patient as I figure out how the Lord wants to use this blog : ). Pray for me to have grace to be still before Him and just receive.

How are you guys doing in your walk? Would love to hear about how you’re doing and pray for you!

MarriageMondays: Learning Christ Love through Receiving My Husband's Love

Mon, 07 May 2012 11:37:00 -0500

As I look at Dustin, I can’t help but be thankful for how generously the Lord has blessed us both. He’s led us so perfectly and faithfully throughout our single lives and now in our marriage. Every good and perfect gift comes from the Father of lights, in whom there is no shadow of turning (James 1:17). He doesn’t play with our hearts, He doesn’t leave us alone to figure things out for ourselves, but He is our ever present help (Ps. 46:1).

Even as I post these pictures from our honeymoon, I can’t help but laugh at the insecurities that arose in my heart during our time in Taiwan. Our honeymoon was the first time we were together all the time. Prior to our honeymoon, Dustin was busy serving on staff at IHOP-kc and I was preoccupied with wedding planning. With a sudden increase of time together, I was unsure of how Dustin would feel towards me. Despite my insecurities and anxieties, time and time again, Dustin would look into my eyes and remind me that he loves me and embrace me with comfort. Dustin has and continues to be a faithful reminder to me of the truth, giving me strength and courage to chase away the lies.

Such is Christ’s love for us, His Bride. He desires that we would turn from our shameful downward and inward gaze into His eyes burning with love for us. How often do we look and seek the Lord’s constant faithful love when we feel that we have fallen short? Are we confident that the Lord laid down His life to do that which we can never do for ourselves?

Help us Father to stand on the firm foundation of Your finished work. Root and ground us with confidence in Your unchanging love towards us. It is Your love that heals, transforms and takes us from glory to glory. Lift our eyes up to gaze into Yours today.

Why Did It Not Work Out With Him/Her?: My Take

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:56:30 -0500

Every one of us find ourselves asking that exact question after a breakup or when things don’t work out as “planned” with that individual. I’ve asked it. Both my guy and girl friends have found themselves asking this question internally, vertically and out-loud…sometimes very loud.

So why did it not work out? I mean everything seemed perfectly set up for success. He/she liked me (or so I thought) and I them. We both love the Lord. We both enjoy the same coffee shop, share similar taste in clothes, books, food, music, art, etc. Even our values lined up! So how did it just self-combust like that right before my eyes?

Well young cricket. Pull up a bamboo leaf and I shall bless you with my wisdom….haha (j/k).

Actually, through a mix of observations, hearing friends’ stories and the Holy Spirit, I feel the reason is, there was just no grace for it. The Lord did not give that individual (you were madly attracted and perhaps also in love with) grace to love you just like how you don’t feel grace to like certain people who REALLY like you.

Ok thanks. That doesn’t really help? Well I think it really does because it relieves you of the stress and pressure you feel from the enemy that you’re the one to blame.

Most of us walk away from broken relationships…..well, broken. The enemy has a field day with us and taunts us with His lies and accusations of his take on why it didn’t work out. Usually he uses the tactic that’s worked for hundreds of years, he blames you. And sadly, many of us take the bait.

Even if there are character issues and areas of maturity you need to grow in, the Lord doesn’t just tell you what’s wrong with you and then make you fix yourself on your own (Matt. 23:4, Ps. 34:18). He gives us grace for transformation through gazing at His glory and getting to know Him intimately (2 Cor. 3:18). He is faithful to lead us to all truth (John 16:13).

So my point is, stop blaming yourself. The devil is a liar and he puts lies in our heads with the pronoun, “I.” Example: “I am ugly, I am fat, I am dumb.” He doesn’t go, “you are stupid.” He’s a bit more sneaky than that.

Instead of agreeing with the lies of the enemy, run to the truth, the person of Christ Jesus. The problem is not you. The problem is who you’re giving your attention to, the devil or God?

We are in a war and that’s why the enemy’s after you. We’ve got to realize this and learn to fight rather than believe that our lives doesn’t influence what’s going on in the spiritual realm. We’ve been given weapons, the sword of God’s truth to wield. By the simple act of proclaiming out loud, “God is good and He has good plans for my life,” despite how you feel, you’re blowing up demons and tearing down strongholds!

I heard this quote by David Platt recently, “What we want in suffering: an explanation from God. What we receive in suffering: a revelation of God.”

The revelation of God is worth so much more than a boyfriend, husband or wife. Though I often forget this truth, when once the glory of God touches me, the moment my eyes are open to another facet of the beauty of God or His love for me, I can die happy. Seriously! The true rewards of life is not the love of a man or a woman, but the love and revelation of God.

Abba, help us, your beloved children to come to You with our brokenness, questions and wounds. We proclaim that only You can heal, only You can fill that gap that is crying out in our hearts.

Practicals: when you hear the enemy accuse you with those “I am_________” lies, ignore him. Don’t pay attention to his worthless lies. Rather turn your attention to Christ by proclaiming in faith His truth: “I am His beloved, He is always with me. He has plans to bless me, not to harm me. Plans to give me a hope and a future.” Keep doing it and watch the lies flee!

Recipe: Curried Sweet Potato Salad

Wed, 02 May 2012 07:57:54 -0500

So some of my friends have been trying to convince me to post recipes. Honestly, I feel a bit sheepish about it. I mean I’m no Pioneer Woman or Heidi Swanson and my photos are taken with my iPhone. :P no SLR and photoshop to make it all glammed up. But I still thought it would be fun since I love cooking and eating so much : ) hehe.

So here’s my curried sweet potato salad recipe. I love the flavor of this dish! I mean what can be better than sweet potatoes and curry? On top of that, this recipe is fast and easy to whip up, not to mention affordable! So here goes. Let me know what you think when you do try it out.

First, boil around 3lbs of sweet potatoes (around 6 fairly large ones) but don’t let them overcook. You’ll get mashed sweet potato instead of a potato salad if you do.

The boiling time varies depending on the size you purchase. I just keep an eye on them and check every ten or so minutes with a fork to see how cooked they are. The fork should be able to poke into these little suckers fairly well with some resistance. I usually just get a 3lb bag from Trader Joe’s for $3.69.

Drain the potatoes and let it cool in the fridge for at least an hour. Next peel the skin off and dice into 1/2 inch cubes. Place them in a large bowl.

Cut up half of a red onion. You can use less if you don’t want everyone’s mouth to stink afterwards hehe.

Next sprinkle two teaspoons of salt onto the onions.

Let it set in a colander for around 30 minutes, then squeeze them in order to allow excess moisture to drain out. Feel free to skip this step if you’re in a hurry.

Dice up two stalks of celery (feel free to improvise. Apple would be good as well) and a bunch of cilantro.

Mince one clove of garlic

Squeeze the lemon to get some juice. Got this sweet gadget at Sur La Table. Love how it removes the seeds and also measures the juice in the container below.

Put all the cut ingredients into the bowl with the sweet potatoes.

Then measure out 1 Tablespoon of curry powder. Add it to the bowl of ingredients.

measure out 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and sprinkle it into the bowl as well

Measure and add 1 cup of mayonnaise (or sour cream or vegenaise. I want to try to make my own mayonnaise one day)

Now stir the ingredients a few times to blend in the flavors but not too much so it turns to mush. Then chill it until you want to impress your friends! Enjoy!

Curried Sweet Potato Salad

Ingredients:

3 lb bag of sweet potatoes (around 6 fairly large ones)

1/2 red onion

2 teaspoons of salt

1 close garlic, minced

juice of one lemon

1 cup mayonnaise (sour cream, vegenaise, have your pick)

1 Tablespoon curry powder

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (around a small handful)

1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Boil the sweet potatoes until tender. Then drain and chill them for at least an hour. Next peel the potato skin off and dice them into 1/2 inch cubes. Place in a large bowl.
Cut up half of a red onion. Then sprinkle 2 teaspoons of salt on top. Place in colander for excess moisture to drain out for 30 minutes.
Dice up two stalks of celery (feel free to improvise. Apple would be good as well) and a bunch of cilantro.
Mince up the garlic
Squeeze the lemon for juice
Squeeze out extra moisture from the onions then add it to the bowl along with all the other ingredients above.
Add 1 Tablespoon of curry powder, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper and 1 Cup of mayonnaise.
Mix it a few times, careful not the break up the sweet potatoes. Chill until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Before Kony2012: George Otis Jr. Shares at IHOP-KC on the Transforming Power of Prayer

Tue, 01 May 2012 11:13:03 -0500

Is there actual power to prayer? Does God even hear my cries? These are just some of the questions we as believers struggle with including those of us at IHOP-KC.

George Otis Jr., the maker of the Transformation film series (which documents the transforming power of prayer in cities all over the world), testified of the power of prayer in modern day Uganda this past Friday at IHOP-KC. Reminding us of our identity and authority in the Kingdom.

Otis shared on how prayer drove Joseph Kony out of Uganda. Kony is the man behind the LRA (Lord’s Resistance Army) who has kidnapped 66,000 children and turned them into either sex slaves or child soldiers in the past 18 years. You may have heard of Kony from a recent video produced by Invisible Children that went viral within a few hours.

What many of you may not know is that Kony acknowledges that there are evil spirits who tell him where to hide and how avoid capture, hence why he was able to continue his activities in Northern Uganda for nearly two decades. He sought spiritual guides who lead him to build fifteen altars to demons and visited these places every six months to renew his covenant to the demonic realm. Despite the fact that Kony was indicted by the International Criminal Court in 2005, he evaded capture for eighteen years.

But the light of God and His power is greater than those of the darkness. When a few Ugandan believers gathered together to seek God’s face, they felt the Lord lead them to fast and pray for instructions on how to fight this war spiritually rather than by the ways of this world.

As a result, these believers called Uganda to repent for idol worship, to forgive Kony for what he has done to their children and to travel to Northern Uganda, the most dangerous area, to hold solemn assemblies. Eventually this caught the president of Uganda’s attention and he began to support these believers. The Lord led them to all fifteen altars and instructed them to tear them down. The evil spirits deserted Kony, resulting in him fleeing the country.

That’s not the end, parents whose children were kidnapped by Kony began to have dreams of what their children were doing. These kids in turn also began to have dreams one of which the Lord appeared to them and told them they were going home that day. God gave these children specific instructions on when to escape, then led them through a field with a strong hand on their back, allowing them to escape the bombs the government shot at the LRA! Hallelujah! Our God is mightier than the darkness and answers our cries for justice!

Beloved, the Lord gave us the Holy Spirit to help us partner with Him in prayer. You and I, through our prayers, no matter how weak and powerless it may seem, we’re moving angels and destroying demons. These miraculous testimonies are not just for nations like Uganda and North Korea. It is for us today!

No matter what difficulties we are faced with, when we step out with faith as small as a mustard seed, we can be confident that God hears our cries and He moves mountains.

“I love the LORD, because he has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy. Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.” -Psalm 116:1-2

Let us continue to take hold of the promises in His Word, lean into Him and pray. There are great transformations awaiting each and everyone of us.

Click here to view Otis’ message at IHOP-KC (fast forward to 1:08 (1 hour and 8 minutes) to listen to just the message and skip the worship)

Click here for more information on how to access the film

MarriageMondays: Honeymooning @ Jiaosi

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:01:42 -0500

Sometimes I feel a little guilty dragging you guys along with me in reliving my honeymoon. But then I get over it hehehe. I mean, what else is a girl suppose to do with all these beautiful photos and memories? Good things are best when enjoyed with others right? :)

So in my previous post on our stop in Jiaosi on our honeymoon, I didn’t get to post much on the food we enjoyed during our stay there. Since it is Taiwan, the nation of endless supply of unique and delicious food, I felt that it was my duty to share with you what we ate.

What we ate while in Jiaosi…and all over Taiwan:

little cakes with some coffee from 85 degrees Celsius. This store is a Taiwanese national chain with the exception of the two stores in Los Angeles California that is sadly far away from me. Or is it a good thing…I am trying to eat healthy now.

some local specialties that are cooked in the hot spring water (I think?). We were served these choices to go with our congee (稀飯）at the hotel we stayed at. But after awhile, the server figured out that Dustin and I didn’t like most of these things which included chicken liver : P

We also enjoyed some local fresh vegies!!! These are my favorites!

I introduced Dustin to my favorite ice cream bar in Taiwan. It has carmel ice cream sandwiched inside of thin waffle layers. So good!

Dustin, an avid ice cream fan also approved of my choice

I stopped by the Lore Dong night market with my friend Pauline which is a night market in a nearby town famous for all the good eats. But then again, is any town in Taiwan not famous for its food? Hm…I don’t think so.

Dustin decided to pass since we would mainly be shopping and eating strange exotic things hehehe.

Here’s a shot of the night market. Basically, what a night market is: 1) takes place at night (duh) 2) has lots of good food 3) great shopping 4) where lots of Taiwanese kids like to hang out at night.

We stopped by to get ourselves a bowl of Dong Gui （當歸）noodle soup which is a soup made from Chinese medicine that is beneficial for your health.

Here’s a picture of the delicious soup which comes with cellophane noodles (also known as glass noodles, bean thread noodles, Chinese vermicelli. It’s made from beans or yam starch) and slices of tender lamb meat. It’s making me hungry just looking at it…yum….

Pauline really enjoyed it.

Of course no night market trip is complete without oyster omelets!

Oyster omelets are made with eggs, some veggies, cornstarch and oysters. It’s topped with a Taiwanese style ketchup, basically a lot sweeter than the ketchup in America with a bit of a spicy kick to it.

Ok, you can stop salivating now. I’ll leave you alone til next week…mwhahaa…..

Health: The Amazing Kefir

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:01:09 -0500

Why kefir? When recommended to choose kefir over yogurt and mango lassi available at Trader Joe’s, I kinda wondered why? The mango lassi was so delicious!

Then one fateful night I was given some kefir grains to make my own kefir. The mom who handed them to me could not stop gushing about her love of kefir, what other things you can make out of it and the health benefits of this white liquid. Her excitement was contagious.

Since stepping into this new territory of organic foods, farmers markets, subscribing to Dr. Mercola’s newsletters, putting in my first order through vitacost and buying raw milk in a parking lot, I’ve officially become…….hm…is there a term for this? Let me know if you do.

Anyways, back to kefir,

What is it anyways?:

it means feel good in Turkish
it’s an ancient cultured, enzyme-rich food with friendly micro-organisms that help balance your “inner ecosystem”
contains probiotic bacteria found in yogurt but different to yogurt, which supplies beneficial bacteria for a healthy digestive system and food for bacterias there, kefir colonized your intestinal tract with healthy bacteria, something yogurt can’t do. Kefir also contain other strains of beneficial bacteria not usually found in yogurt.

Here’s a simple list of the benefits of kefir:

boosts your immune system
increases your daily energy
balances your intestinal flora (microorganisms or healthy bacteria that lives in our digestive tracks), cleans and strengthens the intestines
provides supplemental nourishment for pregnant and nursing moms
contains one of the essential amino acids, Tryptophan that helps give you a good night’s sleep by relaxing your nervous systems because of tis high content of calcium and magnesium
rich in vitamin B12 and K, makes kefir an excellent source of biotin, a vitamin B that helps the body absorb other B vitamins such as folic acid, pantothenic acid and B12. A healthy vitamin B intake helps regulate your kidneys, liver, nervous system, healthy looking skin, boosts your energy and promotes longevity
great supply of phosphorus, which is the second most abundant mineral in the human body. Phosphorus helps us utilize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for cell growth, maintenance and energy
supports your normal intestinal tract function
promotes bowel movements and a healthy digestive system
after using antibiotics, kefir helps restore balance to the digestive tract
curbs unhealthy food cravings by nourishing your body with nutrients it needs
contains minerals and essential amino acids which give your body its natural healing powers and maintenance functions
it’s a complete protein which is partially digested by your body, helping it to be more easily utilized
promotes beneficial yeast in the body
helps keep your colon clean and healthy
the size of kefir’s curds are smaller than yogurt, making it easier to digest

To make your own kefir, just follow the simple steps in the video below

I usually have my kefir with some raw cashews, raisins and a little agave or in my smoothies. I’ve been making my own kefir for the past two weeks and it’s a pretty simple process. Let me know if you do make your own kefir and if you have some delicious recipes for kefir.

(most of the information from the post was taken from Dr. Mercola’s site)

Finding Life in the Face of Death

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:01:23 -0500

Lately I’ve heard of several around me who have lost someone recently or are seeing their loved ones suffer through various illnesses. Though I know God is their comforter, the compassionate High Priest who is not distant from our sufferings but one who has suffered it all, still I feel quite inadequate to give the grieving what they really need.

The truth is, I do not have the answers nor what they need. Only God can comfort a wound that deep.

Even though at times God won’t answer the questions we want so much to be answered: Why did this happen? Why not someone else? Why this way etc. He knows what will truly comfort our hearts and is faithful to walk with us, the process of breaking and mending.

Thinking back to the time my sister Grace passed away, I was a mess. I felt really awkward, exposed and embarrassed. Grieving in front of strangers is the most uncomfortable thing ever.

But through the process, the Lord let me feel His hand and see His eyes of kindness I did not see prior to that. Good does come out of these deep sadnesses. Out of the seed’s death comes new life, new blossoms and fruits.

Though I don’t believe that the Lord purposed people to die tragically, He is able to bring good out of the seemingly senseless pain. He is able to speak words that breath life to places that have died in us.

There were countless times, especially before my wedding when the Lord would give me dreams of Grace that deeply comforted my heart that was missing her. Dreams where she would embrace me, where she would bring revelation from God to me. I’ll never forget the time when I was in the middle of worship and she said to me, “I’m doing the same thing as you!”

God knows us better than ourselves and will speak when we’re ready, in unique ways that will touch our hearts the deepest. He knows our favorite color, our favorite song, our favorite food better than we do. He will use the depth of His knowledge and love for us to bring healing into our hearts.

I pray that all of you going through difficult times will be encountered by His unfailing love.