Somebody's Praying For Me

Have you ever experienced a season when the world suddenly becomes eerily quiet? It's not a peaceful stillness, but a heavy silence. Don Moen called it "being lost in the wilderness." There, the wind and sand choke your throat, and words simply cannot be uttered. You want to pray, you know you "should" pray, but your heart is like a dry well.

In those moments, it's easy to feel forgotten. But the most beautiful secret of the Christian life is this: when your voice fades, an invisible symphony quietly begins. You are not alone in that wilderness; a complete structure of prayer is rising around you.

Knocking on Heaven's Door

I really love one line from the lyrics: "I knew it had to be Somebody down on their knees Somebody praying for me" The image is both humble and powerful. It's the image of a friend, perhaps someone you haven't contacted for weeks (or even longer), who suddenly feels a pang of sympathy and decides to "knock on heaven's door" for you.

As Jesus taught his disciples in Matthew chapter 6, His prayer did not begin with "My Father," but with "Our Father in Heaven." God's children are one family. When you are so weak that you can't even knock on the door, your friends in the Lord will lean on that door for you. They become "gifts" sent by God, building a bridge between your weary heart and His grace.

Defender in the Supreme Court

But what struck me most was this: while we need friends, we also have a greater Intercessor. Jesus is not a distant figure who "doesn't understand" us. He walked through wilderness, He felt thirst. He is our High Priest and Advocate.

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:14-16)

If you're worried that your struggles or silence are disqualifying you, consider this as a divine legal guarantee. The Apostle Paul was essentially asking, "Who can accuse you?" The answer is: No one. Why? Because Jesus Christ, who died for us and rose again for us, is at the right hand of the Father interceding for us. So neither hardship, distress, nor even your self-doubt can separate you from His love.

"Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" (Romans 8:33-35)

Understanding the Silent Holy Spirit

What about those days when you can't even squeeze out a single word? Never forget that the Holy Spirit knows our "unspeakable groans," the heavy sighs we utter under pressure or in sorrow, and translates them into the most perfect prayers to bring before God the Father.

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God." (Romans 8:26-27)

It's like a triple protective net: your friends kneel down for you on earth. The Holy Spirit intercedes deep within your soul. Jesus Christ, the Son, stands in heaven, defending and interceding, guarding your heart.

Break through the Encirclement

Don Moen sang about the moment his faith finally returned, saying, "That's when your prayers broke through" That "breakthrough" is usually not a lightning bolt, but like the first drop of rain after a long drought. It's the moment you realize you'll be alright, not because you're strong, nor because the situation has changed, but because you're being carried by God and people, and you believe that everything is in God's good will.

So if you are in the wilderness today, take a deep breath, inhale grace, and exhale burdens. You don't need to find the perfect words. Because someone is knocking on heaven's gates for you, and someone is defending you. Someone is leading you back to God's house through prayer, to live in Christ, and to pray for one another.

Rising from the Dead

One night, I had a dream: I was rehearsing a song with the choir. The conductor said: The next song is "My Dearest Friend". I'm so happy because this is one of my favorite hymns.

Experience the Lord’s Healing in Singing

But suddenly, I remembered that I was sick and had been sick for a long time. I sadly admitted: "But I can no longer sing high notes." The conductor looked at me confidently and said, "We can do it." Following the conductor's beat, I took a breath and sang "Lord" loudly. To my surprise, I hit the high notes and sang in harmony with everyone else's singing. I'm so happy.

Suddenly, I realized that my body still couldn't move easily. It turned out that I was still lying in bed. The dream was so real that in that dazed state, I actually sang while lying down. What surprised me even more was that I actually sang the whole song. Before this, no matter whether I was sitting or standing, I would have difficulty breathing and my throat would be tight when singing; but this time I sang very smoothly, my breathing was smooth, my diaphragm rose and fell naturally, my breath flowed naturally without any effort, and even my throat was unobstructed. This is the first time since I've been seriously ill.

It was as if the Lord Jesus Himself was leading me to sing, and I poured out my heart to Him through the song. While singing "My heart is thinking of you every day, hoping to meet face to face. In my living and every step I take. In this life, every stop along the way. Your hand is always guiding me, keeping me right by your side." Tears could not help but fall down my cheeks.

Look to the Lord Again in Weakness

Thinking back to a few hours before going to bed, when I could not sleep due to back pain, I thought I was "going to die". I was feeling depressed at that time, and the more I thought about it, the more bitter I became. But at that moment, a Scripture verse suddenly came to me: "And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of His Spirit who lives in you." (Romans 8:11)

In my weakness, I was almost deceived by this "corrupt and domineering body", so that my faith in God was shaken, and I forgot the grace of God the Father, the power of Jesus' resurrection, and the Holy Spirit who lives in my heart. When I turned my eyes upon Jesus, stopped thinking wildly, and gave no place to the devil, I fell asleep peacefully. Unexpectedly, between dreaming and waking up, I was comforted and encouraged by the song "My Dearest Friend". I especially cherish this precious time of singing with the Lord Jesus in my dream and communicating with Him spiritually. My heart is full of happiness and gratitude.

Share the Lord’s Grace in the Morning

On the one hand, I didn't want to get up, and on the other hand, I started to want to go to the bathroom. But with my fragile body, I still need help from my husband to get out of bed. So I asked softly, "James, do you hear me singing?" He didn't respond. I didn’t want to wake him up, so I sang “Jehovah Is Love” softly. After that, I asked again: "Are you awake?" Still no response. So I started singing "Whom Have I But You."

After these songs, James finally woke up. I couldn't wait to tell him my dream and experience. He also found them incredible. Thank God for regenerating us and giving us eternal life through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. When we face challenges and difficulties, our Father God also comforts His children in different ways, strengthens our faith, and gives us hope. Whether I live or die, I want to continue to live by faith.

"Through Him you believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and glorified Him, and so your faith and hope are in God." (1 Peter 1:21)

United as One

I enjoy chatting with my husband James, both listening and talking. Recently, I suddenly asked him, "James, do you understand me?" He replied, "I'm still getting to know you." I continued, "But I thought you understood me very well." He added, "But that doesn't mean I can always read your mind, because you're so unpredictable."

Another day, I asked him, "What do you like most about our marriage?" He blurted out, "Adventure." Then he paused, and seriously asked himself, "What do I like most about our marriage?" Finally, he answered thoughtfully, "You. Because without you, we would have no marriage."

First Conflict Occurred Over Squeezing Toothpaste

My whirlwind marriage to James was somewhat influenced by his parents. The first time we met, they showed up hand-in-hand. Their family of six were chatting and laughing, embracing and hugging, naturally radiating love and warmth. This made me, a lonely college student, yearn for a happy family. We married after dating for only a few months. At the time, I thought our love would last forever, and we would live happily ever after.

To my surprise, after getting married, James and I had our first argument over squeezing toothpaste. This might be a common pattern in many families, but for me, it marked the beginning of my shattered dreams. It turned out our personalities weren't entirely compatible; we had different backgrounds, interests, and pace of life. We were simply attracted to each other because of our differences. Initially, James was very accommodating, and I was very gentle with him, but in reality, we were both strong-willed. In the early years of our marriage, we experienced both wonderful and terrible times. Arguments about life direction and raising our son led to repeated disappointments as neither of us was willing to compromise.

He couldn't stand my temper tantrums. From his perspective, he couldn't understand the insecurity and fear I felt because of my family background. He tried to make me happy, but I was hard to please. I couldn't stand his reasoning, so he would remain silent, trying to ease the conflict, but I felt he was ignoring me. I accused him of not caring about me, while telling myself it wasn't worth arguing with him. He was no longer the graduate student who would take time to drive me around or sit down and chat with me. "Living happily ever after" wasn't as simple as the world promised; it was like a fading dream, and hope was fading. I needed to "take care" of myself and plan for my future by putting my energy into work.

Rebuilding Marriage on Solid Rock

Thank God we didn't remain in despair. Thirteen years into our marriage, I met Jesus, realized I was a sinner, repented, and came to Christ, experiencing God's unconditional love and acceptance. After knowing Christ, I understood that Jesus was my "closest friend," and realized that my expectation that James would meet all my needs put him in a dilemma. Thank God, within just a few years, my husband and son also came to faith, and I now understand how extraordinary it was that James had remained steadfast in staying with me.

When Jesus Christ entered our lives, everything changed. It wasn't just a change in behavior, but a change in our hearts. We stopped fighting with one another and began to learn how to submit to Him. We began to rebuild our marriages on solid rock, not just based on feelings. When Jesus Christ entered our families, the entire trajectory changed. We not only found new interests and directions, but also new paths. By God's grace, we embarked on a long, beautiful, and arduous journey of learning to understand the true meaning of love and to live out love in Christ:

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Redefining Happiness and Being Together

Even when we're busy and tired, we still make time to sit down, even if it's just for 5 to 15 minutes. It's not just about chatting, but about listening to each other and cherishing the precious time we spend together. I'm so grateful that James makes time for me. When he's too busy, I no longer get angry, but pray for him because I know he's busy and tired too. We support each other, just like the song "You Raise Me Up" says, "Until you come and sit awhile with me."

"But with God all things are possible." God shows us that a happy marriage is not because the two people are perfect, but because they are united and live in Christ. We have redefined "to live happily ever after" and true joy comes from a life built on the rock of Christ, which stands firm even in the fiercest storms. We hope that our son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren will see not just a long marriage, but a long period of submission moving in the same direction following Christ.

We had a simple 50th wedding anniversary celebration with our family and offered our praise to God. In a world where people give up at the first sign of trouble, when two people decide to stay together "through thick and thin," the Lord shows us His grace and mercy. When our hearts turn, we realize that Christ is the bond that holds us together.

Over the past two or three years, my health has presented many challenges. Every day, whether visiting the doctor or spending a quiet afternoon, we say, "I trust in Him," and we see God manifesting His presence more clearly. Our faithfulness is not measured by how much we can do, but by how much we trust. We trust in a God who walks with us through our suffering. Dear Lord! Thank You for showing us that although our strength is little, You are enough.

While in jail, the apostle Paul wrote these words, "As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:1-3)

New Year's Hope and Comfort

"What are your plans for the New Year?" This is a common question, but for someone over seventy years old suffering from a chronic illness, it's not an easy question to answer. It's not that I don't believe in plans, it's just that I've experienced too many unexpected things, making it difficult to make plans now. I just want to live each day well, in the presence of the Lord.

Reflecting on God's love, grace, mercy, and faithfulness, I plan to begin a new way of life. I pray that in the new year, I will not be defined by my physical ailments, but by the sweetness of God's Holy Spirit. My Heavenly Father loves me so much that He sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to save me! Please allow me to share with You the comfort, joy, and hope that God has given me in the new year.

Comforted by God who Sustains

God has said, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (Isaiah 46:4)

After retiring and moving, I suddenly fell ill and remained sick for almost three years, a period that shocked and disheartened me. However, what I have learned from this experience is that I no longer need to "gather" my strength; now, it is only God who sustains me. I have accepted God's sovereignty and seen His goodness and love in my situation. I pray that in the new year, we can all draw closer to our Lord and rely on Him completely in all things, big and small.

Joyful as a Child of God

One day, instead of asking me to watch videos, play games, or tell stories as usual, my six-year-old granddaughter asked, "NaiNai, may I read to you?" I thought I misheard, because not long ago she had said she couldn't read and always needed me to read to her. "You want to read to me, right?" "Yes, because I've never read to you before." I was naturally very happy to hear this, because she had only been in first grade for a few months!

Although I often teach others that "being" is more important than "doing," I myself am still unconsciously focusing on work. I am grateful that I can continue writing even when my efficiency is extremely low, and I thank the readers who have written to encourage me to share my testimonies. Although I don't have the energy to devote to my family, my value lies in companionship and listening, not in efficiency of work. I pray that God will make joy the guiding principle of my life; I pray that the Lord Jesus will help you and me remember that Christian joy is related to "whom we belong to," not to what we do.

Hopeful with Inner Renewal

The Bible delivers a powerful declaration: "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day." (2 Corinthians 4:16). To my surprise, my heart and mind have undergone many changes in the past few years. I have gained a deeper understanding and closer relationship with God, others, and myself.

I pray that the new year will bring about an inside out "new creation" who is living "in Christ" at all times. Regardless of physical condition, may we possess spiritual vitality, abundant mental energy, and unwavering willpower.

Grateful for Encouragement and Support

Without the devoted care of my family, friends, medical staff, and especially my husband, I simply could not have survived the past few years. Sometimes, I felt sad because of my illness, feeling like I couldn't help and was only a burden to my husband, son, and daughter-in-law. But I know they have always love me, no matter what I am like. Nevertheless, words alone cannot express my gratitude to them. In fact, their faith in the Lord, their love, and their joy have truly given me immense strength. I would like to dedicate a prayer I read, the gist of which is as follows, to them and to caregivers worldwide:

Heavenly Father, please grant your servants divine patience and emotional resilience. When overwhelmed, remind us that we need not be sources of strength, but simply vessels through which your power flows. Grant us discernment and wisdom. In moments of silence, grant our hearts rest, and may your peace guard us in the new year. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!

In the new year, whatever we face, let us remember that God has His plan and purpose for our lives. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11). "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

Immanuel – God with Us

It was a bitterly cold day. There were no available handicap parking spaces. My husband James temporarily parked the van at the drop off zone and helped me out carefully. I told him to go ahead to find parking. I then pushed my walker and slowly walked into the open courtyard that connected to the clinic entrance.

Sustained by God's Word in the Wind

I zipped up my hooded coat and covered my head. I felt a bit warmer, but my vision was only a few steps ahead. I took each step carefully, trying not to fall. The wind was strong, and I had to stop several times to adjust my hood. How I wished James was there with me.

Suddenly, a familiar verse in the Bible came to mind: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

I read this verse soon after becoming a Christian. At that time, I was still deeply troubled by the hit-and-run accident I had experienced on Highway 101 many years earlier. That accident left me with severe psychological trauma; I was always afraid of being hit by a drunk driver from behind, to the extent that I couldn't help but check my rearview mirror while driving. This verse let me know that God was with me and that He would protect and help me. So I made it a habit to pray with this verse as soon as I got in the car. One day, my fear of driving disappeared.

I began to silently recite this verse and walked toward the clinic in faith. God was with me; I was not alone, for God said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (See Hebrews 13:5)

Remembering the Suffering of the Lord Jesus on Earth

Although James could not park the car and walk with me at the same time, our Creator God the Father is not limited by time, space, or matter. But how can one come to know God? This is precisely why Jesus, the Word, became flesh and dwelt among us: "No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made Him known." (John 1:18)

The Apostle John wrote: "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us."  (1 John 1:1-2)

When Jesus lived on earth, He also experienced temptations, challenges and sufferings, but He knew, “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father (God) is with me." (John 16:32)

The Good News that God is with Us

In the United States, about one-third of adults report feeling lonely, and one-quarter report a lack of social and emotional support. With Christmas approaching, my friend, do you know the meaning of Christmas and the two names of Jesus?

"This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him." (1 John 4:9)

"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.... All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel (which means “God with us”)." (Matthew 1:21-23)

Outstretched Arms and Mighty Hands

One day I was very tired and wanted to take a nap. I slowly moved my body to lie down, and there came the sharp back pain. I've gotten used to pains during rehabilitation, but undeniably, these ups and downs leave me exhausted, and sometimes I feel like I can't go on.

Everyone Extended Their Right Arm to Me

Although I knew that the Lord Jesus was with me and understood my pain, I still felt confused, wronged, and sad. I lay there silently weeping, and drifted off to sleep. It felt like I slept for a long time. The gloom I felt before falling asleep was gone, and I thanked the Lord for still being with me. Suddenly, I heard the soft sound of a door opening and closing downstairs. I guessed it was my son, and immediately used the hospital bed to slowly sit up. Just as I was focusing on how to get out of bed, I heard my eldest granddaughter's voice: "Hi, NaiNai."

I was overjoyed: "Oh, you've come!" She stood by the bed, giving me her sweetest smile: "I came with Baba to see you. NaiNai, what are you doing?"

I slowly moved my left leg towards the edge of the bed. "I just woke up and wanted to get up." Immediately she extending her right arm and said, "May I help you?"

I looked at the teenage girl and said, "Thank you, but NaiNai might be too heavy for you." "Okay. I'll go find Baba." She hurriedly ran out.

I closed my eyes and continued to focus on moving my lower body. Hearing footsteps, I opened my eyes and saw my husband James, our son, and granddaughter lined up around my bed and at its foot, each of them extending their right arm towards me. At that moment, I earnestly wished to take a picture.

God Often Saves Us with His Mighty Hand

James stood closet by my bed. As usual, he knew not to pull me up by force, so he patiently watched me slowly turn my lower body, and once I was in position, I grabbed his arm and pulled myself up.

I didn't take any photos, but I'll never forget this moment. I believe God is in control of every detail of my life. Behind all this love, there is an unseen hand. I remember the Bible mentioning many times how God uses His powerful hands and outstretched arms to save His people; He will also save and help you and me in the same way, because: "The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms." (Deuteronomy 33:27a)

Arms We Can Always Rely On

I once knew a friend who was going through a very difficult time, weathering one storm after another, feeling hopeless and helpless. All I could do was be there for her, listening, comforting, and praying to my Heavenly Father to give her a way out. One day, she suddenly told me that she had accidentally heard a song called "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" the night before, and she liked it very much and felt peaceful. Thank God!

God is good, and He is the source of love. This love is gracious, faithful, loyal, and steadfast. God is full of love, mercy, and grace forever. The one true God is in control of everything; will we trust in Him? Will we live under His absolute sovereignty? Having repeatedly experienced God's presence, protection, and promises, how then we are to express our gratitude?

Psalm 136, from its beginning to the end, reminds us to praise and give thanks to God. Each verse reiterating the phrase "His love endures forever." Each verse also provides experiential examples demonstrating God's work. This psalm can serve as a model for our praise and thanksgiving, and we can all give thanks in all circumstances —— "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good. His love endures forever....With a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.... Give thanks to the God of heaven.  His love endures forever." (Psalm 136:1,12,26)

Jeremy Lin: God's Amazing Works

In February 2012, 23-year-old Jeremy Lin led the New York Knicks to a string of consecutive wins in the NBA, prompting fans to coin the term "Linsanity." How could an undrafted reserve player rise to worldwide fame in a single week? Numerous reports and stories have emerged about "Linsanity." Some claim it was a fleeting phenomenon, others say it was a matter of luck and timing, a matter of place and people, unremarkable. But the impossible became possible, and those involved deeply understood it to be a miracle.

Jeremy Lin's Basketball Journey

In December 2011, Jeremy Lin was waived by the Golden State Warriors and subsequently drafted and waived by the Houston Rockets. When he joined the New York Knicks, he was still confined to the bench, with no chance of even playing, let alone starting. Then his opportunity came, he seized it, and then he made history! At the end of August 2025, Jeremy Lin announced his retirement from professional basketball on Instagram:

"As athletes, we are always aware that the possibility of retirement is never far away. I’ve spent my 15 year career knowing that one day I would have to walk away, and yet actually saying goodbye to basketball today has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made.

It's been the honor of a lifetime to compete against the fiercest competitors under the brightest lights and to challenge what the world thought was possible for someone who looks like me. I've lived out my wildest childhood dreams to play in front of fans all around the world. I will forever be the kid who felt fully alive every time I touched a basketball. 

So many people have sacrificed and poured into my journey, more than I could ever repay. Thank you all for believing in me, for walking with me, for celebrating my highs and picking me up in my lows. This is a ride I never wanted to end but I know it’s time. I will forever miss playing basketball in front of you all but our time will go beyond just playing. Here’s to what’s ahead. Love you all."

The Role of Basketball in Life

Basketball was once one of my favorite sports. Believe it or not, I made my high school team. Although we never won any games, I learned and practiced the sport I loved. In my 30s, working as a software engineering manager, I still played three-on-three basketball with my male colleagues under the scorching sun. I wasn't as tall, strong, or quick as them, but my shooting improved, earning me the nickname "Downtown Winnis." This was because I had a 6-foot-7 colleague to protect me, and the other colleagues tried their best not to bump into me. Looking back, that is grace.

I also enjoyed playing basketball with young people, especially my own son. When he was ten, my husband James and I took him on a short-term mission trip to an Indian reservation. The team members consisted primarily of high school students, their youth counselors, and a few parents. Before the trip ended, we exchanged thank-you notes. One read, "Dear Auntie Winnis, thank you for playing basketball with us in the scorching sun. This shows us your care for young people. It demonstrates the love of Jesus!" Those teenagers were also full of grace.

From Sport Fan to the Father of Sport Star

Back to Jeremy Lin. I'm grateful for the opportunity to know Jeremy's family, to minister to children at church with his mother Shirley and watch our kids grow up. All three Lin sons love basketball. Every day, Jeremy's father Gie-ming waits for his children to finish their homework before taking them to play basketball. Loving basketball, Jeremy continued to attend Sunday worship and youth group during high school despite his busy academic and basketball schedules. He also served as a teaching assistant at our church's Sunday School and served as a game leader at Vacation Bible school for several years. His parents helped him pursue his dreams while also learning how to manage his time and priorities and shaping his character through faith. For almost his entire basketball years, he worked hard to get opportunities and hence proved some critics wrong.

While attending university in Taiwan, Jeremy's father became fascinated with NBA games through television. Although he only saw highlights, he knew the famous players well. He longed to study in the United States, dreaming not only of academic success but also of watching full games on television.

In his early 30s, he began playing basketball for fitness and later joined an amateur basketball team. When his three sons were born, from a few years old, each followed their father and older brother(s) to play basketball. Jeremy's father set an example by working hard and personally taking his children to play basketball whenever he had free time. However, he insisted that his sons prioritize both schoolwork and exercise: "Finish your homework first, then we'll go play."

Going Through the Ups and Downs with God's Grace

Because of such early start, each child was able to join the school basketball team. Around 2009, Jeremy was interviewed in college and talked about his past: "I didn't expect to play in college. Honestly, I didn't know if I was going to be able to play in high school. I was always one of the smallest guys. I went into high school at 5'3", 125 pounds, and every day I came home from practice asking my parents if I would grow taller. So, physically, I was so far behind. I was just trying to make the varsity team, let alone play in college. I had no idea what God had in store for me. That's why everyday, when I wake up and go to practice, I remind myself to be grateful that I have been so blessed. I could try to take credit for whatever success I've had, but honestly I see my basketball career as a miracle.”

Jeremy has always loved basketball, so he constantly works hard, expresses gratitude, and prays, knowing that it is God who has enabled him to grow taller and stronger and given him opportunities. Even if things don't always go his way, he persists in his faith, accepts God's sovereignty, strives toward his goals, and is always ready to seize opportunities.

None of this is a coincidence. After the "Linsanity" miracle, things didn't always go smoothly for Jeremy. Instead, it felt like a long road ahead. He was traded to multiple teams and plagued by injuries. But by God's grace, he worked tirelessly to recover, weathering highs and lows, becoming an inspiration to many, and continuing to play until retirement. I would like to wish Jeremy and his family all the best, and I thank God for giving me the opportunity to see how He shapes each person according to His will, wisdom, and plan.

"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10)

Using Story To Heal The Past And Change The Future

When we think of "story," we tend to think of three bears, a girl with loathsome stepsisters, or the latest novel we've read. But story is integral to our personal lives, as well as our collective culture.

From Loss to Belonging

A few months after I married James, my mother passed away suddenly in Hong Kong. As a result, my first Thanksgiving with my new family was not as happy as I had imagined. For one thing, at that time I only knew James' family for a few months. For another, theirs is a close-knit Mandarin speaking family. Even though they tried their best to talk with me in English and their limited Cantonese, I still felt left out. I later realized that the biggest impact on me was my inner insecurity and fear. Interacting with them reminded me of my family back in Hong Kong, and not only did I miss my mother deeply, but I also felt reeling from the shadows of my family of origin. Even when someone expressed their love, my emotional baggage prevented me from enjoying the present moment

After becoming a Christian in 1989, I experienced a new sense of belonging. For the next few years, we attended our church retreat every Thanksgiving weekend, and experienced the church family as my home. When those annual retreats were moved to the summer, we resumed celebrating Thanksgiving with James' family. With my new perspective and attitude, I finally belong with James' family and enjoy time with them.

Change Your Story, Change Your Life

A popular teaching holds that we have the power to change our lives simply by changing our thoughts. This shift stems from recognizing that our thoughts are an ordered structure of reality, part of a story we're living. Instead of getting caught up in an endless stream of chaotic thoughts mid-sentence, examine the story you're telling yourself about yourself and decide how to rewrite it.

Jim Loehr, author of "The Power of Story: Change Your Story, Change Your Destiny in Business and in Life", says the stories we tell about our work, relationships, accomplishments and shortcomings determine our success in life and their destiny.

Here are some exercises to help you become aware of the stories that shape your life and reduce the influence of those that work against you:

Discover What You Learned from Your Life Stories

Divide a piece of paper into two columns. On the left, list the significant stories from various stages of your life and your understanding of those events. On the right, briefly describe what you learned from each experience or the decision you made.

Healing Past Experiences by Changing Your Story

Choose a difficult childhood event, or one that led you to make unhelpful decisions, and write about it. What happened? How did you feel at the time? Now, rewrite the story with a different ending. Use your imagination. Any outcome is possible.

Life stories can be filled with twists and turns, like the story of Joseph recorded in Genesis. He was his father's favorite son, dreaming of greatness. However, his life was not always smooth sailing. At 17, Joseph was betrayed by his 10 older brothers and sold to slave traders into slavery in Egypt. Who could have imagined that Joseph would become God's messenger, saving his father's entire family, including those who had betrayed him?

Years later, when his brothers were safely settled in Egypt, they became afraid that Joseph would avenge what they had done. After their father's death, the brothers fabricated a story to protect themselves from this possible threat. Genesis 50 records Joseph's stance: "His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. 'We are your slaves,' they said. But Joseph said to them, 'Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.'"

Don't let your past wounds kidnap your future. With God's help, you too can rewrite the ending of your story!

Discover Your Core Story

Explore how you view the "Five Dimensions" of yourself: work, family, health, money, and love. Write a page for each dimension. How do you feel about these aspects of your life? What did you learn as a child? Does the story you tell about one area undermine the values ​​and beliefs you hold in another? If any story doesn't align with your goals, start telling a different story.

Seeing your life as a story is a powerful way to understand its meaning, connect with your experiences, and share in their richness. When you realize that your stories can change, you have the power to improve your life.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2)

Author’s content used under license, © Claire Communications

The Importance of Entertainment and Play

Do you feel that there is less and less time for leisure and entertainment in life? High technology and fast-paced life have created a culture of always working, always rushing, and always connected.

Finding Happiness in Busyness

With cell phones interrupting the theater, laptop computers at the beach, internet connections at every other café, and home offices that beckon us all hours of the night and day, it's hard to separate "play" from "work." However, play is crucial.

Have you seen kids staring at their homework for hours but going nowhere? Instead of scolding, lecturing, threatening, yelling, and nagging, try to look beyond the surface symptoms and understand what's happening inside them. When they complain about school, homework, and activities they don’t like, what’s the reason?

Whether adults like it or not, kids like to play. Indeed play brings pleasure. I often ask children what they like most about school, and the most common answer is "recess." It is so sad to see that children have less and less time to move around freely and play. In play, we discover joy, develop a sense of accomplishment, and gain a sense of belonging. In play, we learn, grow, and find an outlet to release stress.

When we fully immerse ourselves in recreation and leisure, worries and anxieties fade away. Whether we're running, walking, playing ping-pong or basketball, or immersing ourselves in a good novel, we feel joyful, energized, and relaxed. Nothing makes us more present than this.

Discovering Each Other's Fun

Often times, playing, laughing, and having fun put people at ease. Children of all ages (including youths and adults) can best focus their energy on learning, growing and performing when they feel emotionally secured.

Long ago, facing the pressures of life, I saw my husband James playing chess on the computer. I asked him, "With such a tight schedule and so many things to do, why are you still playing chess?" His answer shocked me: "I need to relax." That was when I understood his need. For someone who loves to think, having time to focus on other things is a great distraction and a coping mechanism for stress. While I don't relax by playing chess, I do find myself relaxing by playing Tetris on the computer when I'm at my most stressed.

Our eldest grandson also loves to play chess. A few years ago, James taught him how to play chess over video chat. The two of them teamed up to play against a computer. Clearly, playing chess brought them both joy and interaction. After we moved closer, James also taught him how to play Chinese chess. One night at dinner, I shared the story about James playing chess to relax. A few days later, near the end of dinner, our eldest grandson asked, "Yeye, do you need to relax after dinner?" This phrase has become a codeword for inviting him to play chess.

These memories remind me of the times when our son was growing up: I played Lego with him, told him stories, played ping-pong and basketball with him; and James played chess and various strategy games with him. It was amazing to see how much a child could learn while having fun.

When things are going well, you might enjoy working constantly because it's exciting, thrilling, and fun. I was a workaholic like that when I was young. However, with looming deadlines and a demanding boss, you might lose focus. If your boss or coworkers are overly demanding, the pressure might even cause you to call in sick. Similarly, our kids might lose interest in school if it is no longer fun.

Having Fun with Family and Friends

Life is too short. Think about what and who are really important to you when all is said and done! Any time you have the choice of whether to work "just one more hour" or give yourself over to play, consider what Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it." If you feel like you're losing free time and unstructured play in your life, try these suggestions:

• Turn-off. Turn off the television, computer, beeper and cell phone for at least two hours a day.
• Let your mind wander. Recall what you used to enjoy doing or what you always wanted to do before we became so technology-oriented.
• Include others. Invite someone over to play and hang out, just like you used to when you were a kid. Nothing planned, nothing structured. Let your play evolve naturally.
• Think physical. Go for a walk, ride your bike, rent some skates, play basketball ... go for a swim or a run.
• Pretend. Just for a moment, pretend you don't have any cares or worries. Pretend you have all the time in the world to laugh and play and enjoy. The truth is, you don’t need to pretend at all, just turn to the Lord Jesus.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7).

When We Are Together

The lyrics of the nursery rhyme "The More We Get Together" are: "The more we get together, together, together. The more we get together, the happier we'll be. 'Cause your friends are my friends, and my friends are your friends. The more we get together, the happier we'll be." When we were young, we might not fully understand the meaning of "when we are together", but we already experienced and even longed for that simple and sincere happiness of having someone to accompany, smile and walk with us. So, what if you grow up?

Myth of Perfect Togetherness

The story goes like this: Two people fall in love and from that moment on, they go everywhere and do everything together. They are, of course, a perfect match, and their interests and values coincide in every respect. In fact, if they spend much time apart or socialize separately, people might wonder if there is trouble in the relationship.

This is the "Myth of Togetherness". Two people must merge into one, and individuality will disappear from then on, as if there is only "we", and there is no longer "me" and "you". However, such stories actually contain crises, which often lead to the opposite of togetherness: one side feels smothered and withdraws. The other feels rejected and abandoned. This push-pull dance of too much closeness or too much distance sets up a high level of anxiety for both partners and too often ends in heartache and separation.

The story about togetherness can be re-written and worthy of re-written. We might as well change our point of view: true togetherness is not merging of two people in which two halves make a whole, but two independent and complete individuals deeply commit to support each other's growth, dreams and call, and walk together in the journey of life.

"A co-creative relationship is one in which two people access more of their creativity as a result of their loving interaction," write Drs. Gay and Kathlyn Hendricks in Conscious Loving: The Journey to Co-Commitment. "Out of the harmony of a co-committed relationship springs an enhanced energy that enables both partners to make a greater contribution than either one could have made alone."

In such a relationship, both parties deeply support each other and help each other exert their unique talents. Whether it is intimate connection or necessary space, each other's needs can be respected and honored; and the communication channels are open to express each person's feelings, thoughts, needs and desires, and inject more passion and energy into the relationship.

A Togetherness that is Healthier and More Free

You can start from the following points to move towards a marital relationship that is healthier and more free:

First, pursue your own interests. Take classes, participate in projects, and engage in creation just because you like it. When you are nourished in creativity, emotions or wisdom, it will also inject fresh energy into the relationship; 

Second, cultivate pure and healthy friendships outside of marriage. Don't isolate yourself because of marriage. Your partner may not be able to meet all your emotional needs. Interacting with friends not only allows you to explore yourself, but also brings vitality and joy;

Third, be alone with yourself for a moment every day. Whether it is close to nature, exercise, gardening, bathing, singing, reading, writing a diary, praying or meditation, these can help you reconnect with yourself and with God;

Fourth, spend exclusive time with your partner and establish deep connections. Communication with love and honesty is the key to making relationships flourish. Take time to talk about each other’s hearts and desires, not just daily trivial matters. This emotional connection will become the source of strength to support your contribution to each other and to the world.

Even if You Work Hard, You Still May Hurt Each Other

"Conscious loving" and "Common commitment" can indeed greatly improve the marital relationship. Unfortunately, even if you work hard, some couples will accidentally hurt each other. It seems that human efforts alone are not enough. True "conscious loving" comes from a deep understanding and admiration for yourself, others, and for God. "Common commitment" is not just an expression of emotion, but also a promise, a vow, and a sacred covenant. At weddings, we often hear such vows: "I am willing... from now on, no matter whether it is good or bad, rich or poor, health or illness, I will love you and cherish you until death separates us. All of this, I am willing to follow the divine law of God." However, how many people can truly keep this promise for life?

The Bible clearly states that marriage is not a human invention, but a creation of God, as recorded in Genesis 2:20-25: So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals. But for Adam no suitable helper was found. So the Lord God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man’s ribs and then closed up the place with flesh. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.

This passage depicts the original design of marriage. God created and arranged a partner for Adam so that the two would become one, support each other and bless each other. However, after Adam and Eve committed sin and fall, sin entered the world and the hearts of the people. Sinfulness makes people want to love but don’t know how to love. Want to be close but always hurts.

This fallen world, coupled with the errors in family environment, social structure and cultural concepts, has quickly exposed our weakness, selfishness, and self-centeredness to intimate relationships. When conflicts come, both sides often choose to blame each other and hurt each other, but they are rarely willing to admit their mistakes and humbly admit their guilt. People cannot repair broken relationships by themselves, nor can they achieve the love that "until death separates us." Such love is really hard to maintain by people alone.

Making Covenant in God and Walking with God

Romans 7:24-25 says, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin."

It is God who can truly help us love. Only by returning to the Lord who created marriage and let His love fill us first can we learn how to love. Because in Christ we are "new creations", the Holy Spirit in us not only heals our hearts, but also continues to help us, turning from the center of "I" to "you", from "demanding one another" to "denying oneself for one another." The perfect union is not the encounter between two perfect people, but two incomplete people who make covenant in God to walking together step by step and learning the lessons of love through His truth and grace.

Author’s content used under license, © Claire Communications

Honor Your Father and Mother

“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” (Ephesians 6:2-3)

Is Mother the Only Good Person in the World?

I was hurt by my father's infidelity, his betrayal of my mother, and his rejection of me. When I was young, I only thought about honoring my mother when I grew up, and I also tried to make my mother proud of me because she had sacrificed a lot for me. I rarely thought about honoring my father, even though I always worked hard to please my father and grandmother with good grades and good behavior, and seek their approval.

It is undeniable that mothers carry their babies for 9+ months and that mothers and children are closely connected. In addition, mothers usually spend more time taking care of their children than fathers, including holding babies, feeding, and changing diapers. During their growing years, children’s interactions with their parents are often based on the cultural tradition of “strict father and loving mother”, which has been passed down from generation to generation: “If you don’t obey, your father will beat you when he comes back.”

Even if both husband and wife go out to work, more mothers will still sacrifice their spare time to accompany and pamper their children. Focusing on reasoning, fathers are often more likely to make their children angry, causing them to be less willing to speak up, participate in family relationships, or even walk away. Compared with mothers, fathers often appear to be more indifferent, contemptuous, strict, reluctant, repulsive, disgusted, or even absent. Unfortunately, because many fathers have not experienced the love of a loving father since childhood, they have been hurt and even destroyed in sin from generation to generation.

Flowers of the Field

There is a song that has extraordinary meaning to me and our whole family.

There was a time when my husband James and I took our then teenage son on a short-term mission to teach English to elementary school students. We sang this song at the graduation ceremony with other teenagers from the United States. When my father-in-law passed away, James, our son, and I sang this song at the memorial service. When I was learning piano accompaniment, I played the piano when James sang this song solo in a family talent show. Many times, we often sang this song when we shared the gospel in the park or gathered in support groups. Many times, I have seen or heard that gospel friends were moved to tears by this song and drew closer to the Father because of it.

The song is "Flowers of the Field" by Heavenly Melody Choir. The lyrics show how our Heavenly Father cares for us and treats us with love:

Flowers of the field, put on beautiful clothes.
Birds of the air, never worry about their lives.
The loving Father watches over all.
He loves men so much, that He prepares them eternal life.

All of our needs, our heavenly Father already knew.
Sadness of the heart, let Him take away for you.
The loving Father watches over all.
He is the almighty God, blessed are those who believe in Him.

Boys are Future Fathers

"No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is Himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made Him known." (John 1:18)

In his book, "Bringing up BOYS," Dr. James Dobson included a chapter on "the Essential Father" which shares the following research findings:

There is an undeniable linkage between fathers and babies beginning at birth. Infants as young as six weeks old can differentiate between a mother's and a father's voice. By eight weeks, babies can distinguish between their mother's and their father's caregiving methods.

Infants are born with a drive to find and connect to their fathers. As they begin to speak, their word for "father" often precedes their word for "mother." The reasons for this are unknown.

Toddlers are especially obvious in their assertions of their fatherneed: they will seek out their father, ask for him when he's not present, be fascinated when he talks to them on the phone, and investigate every part of his body if allowed.

Teenagers express fatherneed in yet more complex ways, competing with their father and confronting his values, beliefs, and, of course, limits. For so many sons and daughters, it is only at the death of the father that they discover the intensity and longevity of their fatherneed, especially when it has gone begging.

Dr. Dobson went on to show many statistics and trends about effects of fathers on the lives of sons. Here is the story of a fifty-eight-year-old man he met:

The man's father was a pastor who was busy with ministry and personal interests for many years and never took the time to participate in the important moments of his son's growth. He never appeared at his son's sports games, and never accompanied or encouraged him in extracurricular activities. He neither disciplined nor affirmed him.

By the time the boy was a senior in high school, he was the starting guard on a winning big-school football team. When his team advanced to the state championship game, he was looking forward to his father coming to watch the game, and pleaded with hope, "Can you come on Friday night? This is really important to me." His father agreed. However, on the night of the game, while the boy was warming up on the field, he saw his father and two men in suits walking into the stadium from a distance. They stood and chatted for a few minutes, then turned around and left without staying to watch the game.

Dr. Dobson recalled that when the man told this story, he still burst into tears. Although forty years have passed since that night, the loss and heartbreak of being rejected as a teenager still seem to be unforgettable. A year later, his father died at the age of 83. Standing in front of the coffin, he choked up and said, "Dad, we could have shared so much love together, but I never really knew you."

Dear friend, do you know the earthly father who gave birth to you and raised you? Do you really know the heavenly Father who created you, is always there, and loves you to the end? He is still waiting for you to respond to His love. Please listen to His voice:  "Because you are His sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father.' ” (Galatians 4:6)

Having Sons and Daughters

"So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.' ” (Genesis 1:27-28)

Passing on the Family Line and Establishing a Connection  

The eternal God is the source of life. He created Adam and Eve so that humans can reproduce from generation to generation, connect with God, live out God's love, and manifest God's glory.

"This is the written account of Adam’s family line. When God created mankind, he made them in the likeness of God. He created them male and female and blessed them. And he named them 'Mankind' when they were created. When Adam had lived 130 years, he had a son in his own likeness, in his own image; and he named him Seth. After Seth was born, Adam lived 800 years and had other sons and daughters. Altogether, Adam lived a total of 930 years, and then he died." (Genesis 5:1-5)

The description of "Had other sons and daughters" appears more than a dozen times in Genesis Chapter 5 (before the flood) and Chapter 11 (after the flood). The usual pattern of description is: "After X (father's name) became the father of Y (son's name), X (father's name) lived so many years and had other sons and daughters. Altogether, X (father's name) lived a total of so many years, and then he died."

The only exception to that description is: "After he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked faithfully with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters. Altogether, Enoch lived a total of 365 years. Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away." (Genesis 5:22-24)

Did you see how Enoch was different from the others?

Human Sinfulness Makes Good Things Difficult

God placed Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, where they could have walked and talked with God. But after they ate the fruit of the tree that God had commanded them not to eat, sin entered the world and mankind. But Enoch was an exception in his walk with God.

Having sons and daughters become complicated when sinful people live in a fallen world. Adam and Eve originally gave birth to Cain and then Abel, but Cain killed his brother Abel, and Adam and Eve later gave birth to Seth.

Although the above verses only record the names of fathers, giving birth to a child is impossible without a mother. The Book of Genesis records the stories of Sarai, Rebekah, Leah, and Rachel. Their grudges and love fragments include:

"Now Sarai was childless because she was not able to conceive." (Genesis 11:30)

"Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife, because she was childless. The Lord answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant." (Genesis 25:21)

"When the Lord saw that Leah was not loved, he enabled her to conceive, but Rachel remained childless." (Genesis 29:31)

In order to win Jacob's favor by having children, Rachel and Leah each gave their maids to Jacob as concubines. Jacob's two wives and two concubines gave birth to twelve sons and one daughter. Joseph, born to Rachel, was the eleventh son. When his ten half-brothers saw how much their father loved Joseph, they hated him and alienated him, causing the breakdown of their brotherly relationship.

Habits that Alienate People

In his book "Unhappy Teenagers: A way for Parents and Teachers to Reach Them", author William Glasser, M.D. wrote about seven disconnecting habits. We get into such habits as criticizing, blaming, complaining, nagging, threatening, punishing, and rewarding to control others. 

However, such external control never really works unless the other person is also motivated by survival, love and belonging, power, freedom and fun. Our children may be afraid of harsh punishments when they are small. But as they grow taller and stronger, any additional control can only lead to power struggles. Which prompt children to say things like "You can't make me!", further undermining the intimacy we so deeply desire.

Dr. Glasser suggested replacing these deadly habits with seven connecting habits. Think back to your own growing years, would you rather have caring, trusting, listening, supporting, consulting, befriending, and encouraging words and actions from your parents?

Let Go and Let God Take Charge

We cannot completely isolate our children from the corrupt world, but we can influence them through love, teaching, discipline, guidance, encouragement, support and good examples. Although some people have never had children, they help people grow, and bring people to God. Because the real help comes from God.

Having children is the continuation of God's great love. Therefore, whether you have children or not, when to have children, how many children to have, or whether they are boys or girls, everything is God's sovereignty and God's good will. Therefore, parents should be grateful for every child, because "Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him." (Psalm 127:3)

May all parents walk faithfully with God and be connected to their children in Christ because "His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation." (Luke 1:50)

Without Knowing Death, How Can We Know Life?

Even though my husband James did not approve of my newfound faith, he was still happy to see his wife find peace. Therefore, on the day of my baptism, he was willing to come to church to help me take pictures.

My Baptism, My Husband's Coolness

After the baptism, an elder of the church came over to shake hands with James. With a big smile, he said, "Congratulations. You will be next." To that, James responded with, "Over my dead body" in his calm, cool and collected way.

Normally, I would be embarrassed by his reply, but that day I didn’t react much because I knew he meant what he said. He believed that "man could conquer nature" and thought that as long as he was alive, he could face life with his own efforts. When he said baptism would only happen "over my dead body", he was really willing to do whatever it took to prevent it from happening.

In his eyes, it was incredible that I went from not believing in Jesus to being baptized in just three months. To him, I was just impulsive and stubborn, and I habitually turned from a workaholic to a churchaholic, even though he also saw some positive changes in me.

Not Believing, Looking for the Weakness Link

As an engineer, James set out to find the weakest link in Christianity. In order to protect me from entering a cult, James took "undercover" and accompanied me to church every week to observe. He found that everyone was carrying a Bible and said it was "the Word of God." He disagreed and mocked it as a "myth".

He began to read the Bible on his own during his sabbatical and finally discovered the biggest loophole: "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith." (1 Corinthians 15:14)

Why is Christ's resurrection the weakest link? The reason is: If the witnesses are credible, then we can believe what the witnesses say, but how do we know whether the witnesses are credible? There are three possibilities for witnesses of Christ's resurrection. First, they are all lying, second, they are all confused and deceived, and third, they are all telling the truth.

So he began to look for which one was most likely. After all, they couldn't be lying, because people might lie to save their lives, but they wouldn't lie to endanger their lives, so this possibility is extremely small.

The possibility of being deceived is also extremely small, because it is not just one person who claims to have seen the resurrected Christ. The Apostle Paul described it this way: "For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6)

What remains then is that they are most likely telling the truth. That is why their testimony can be considered credible.

Discover the Truth and Facts, Confess Sins and Return to the Lord

Although James believed that Jesus' resurrection from the dead was credible, he was unwilling to acknowledge Jesus as his Lord. After all, he still wanted to be his own boss and master. Moreover, he felt that he was a good person and did not need Jesus. A few months later, one day he suddenly thought of a verse: "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse." (Romans 1:20)

In this way, under the inspiration of the Bible and the Holy Spirit, James finally admitted that he was also a sinner. The irrefutable evidence is that he clearly knew there was a Lord, but he was unwilling to acknowledge that Jesus was the Lord. Therefore, he finally confessed his sins and prayed, and accepted Christ Jesus as his Savior and Lord of life. If you don’t know death, how can you know life? Only when you are put in the position of death can you be reborn. The shameless words "over my dead body" really came true.

"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his." (Romans 6:4-5)

10 Things We Can Control

That day, I went to the hospital for an injection. As usual, the disability parking space near the entrance was full. Hence, my husband James first unloaded my walker and then walked me in before he went to park the car. People came in and out, and I stood silently in the corner waiting. I worried that James couldn't find a parking space and prayed that he would come back soon.

In the corridor leading to the Check-In station, there was a row of wheelchairs parked aside waiting for patients. As soon as James came in, he went to get a wheelchair. I was confused by the lack of movement in the wheelchair queue. It turned out that a woman with a below-the-knee amputation was being helped onto her wheelchair. I was shocked and felt bad for her.

James pushed my wheelchair to the Check-In station. We were behind our arrival time. After turning a few corners, we got on the elevator, and hurried to the laboratory to draw blood. Afterwards we took the elevator again and walked for a while before finally arriving at the orthopedic clinic. I waited in the waiting room for the nurse to receive the blood test report to ensure that I could receive the injection that day! I was very tired by then. Sitting in a wheelchair with a heavy back brace was very uncomfortable, but I didn't want to move anymore and just wanted to close my eyes and rest.

After a while, I told James, “I’m going to get out of my wheelchair. I need to stretch.” Just then, I heard a woman whisper, “It must be nice.” I turned my head and looked, a woman nearby was sitting in her own electric wheelchair. It looked like she couldn’t move the lower half of her body at all. I was shocked and felt sorry for her.

While we can’t control the weather, illness, death, or what other people think, we would do well to pay attention to the areas in our life that we can actually do something about.

1. Our actions. We alone are responsible for what we do.

2. Our words. Spoken or written, the words we choose impact our lives and the lives of others.

3. Our beliefs. If we believe that others should take care of our needs, then we will be frustrated when they don’t. We can change our beliefs.

4. Our values. What’s important to us is our our personal decision. No one else can tell us what to value.

5. Our work. Although many of us may complain of being stuck in a job or career, we still get to choose how we will contribute in our work.

6. Our friends. Those we associate with say a lot about what we think about ourselves. We can choose to have friends who support us or who bring us down.

7. Our input. We can select our sources of news, turn off social media, televisions and/or ignore advertising.

8. Our time. Though it sometimes feels like we have no choice, we do choose every day how we will use the 24 hours a day gives us.

9. Our basic health. While we cannot control our genetic make-up or diseases, we can choose to exercise, get enough sleep, eat healthy food, and get routine check-ups, etc.

10. Our legacy. Everything we choose while we are alive, including our actions, words, etc., will become the gift we leave behind when we die.

Sometimes it really does seem like we don’t have much choices, but in fact we do have some. That day, the Lord Jesus showed me that I could spend my time and energy feeling sorry for myself, or I could focus more on others, pray for them, and thank God for His life-giving grace.

We cannot achieve self-control alone. Only by submitting to the Holy Spirit can we control ourselves. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t control yourself, just remember to live in Christ:

"For in Him we live and move and have our being." (Acts 17:28)

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23)

Author’s content used under license, © Claire Communications

Love is Patient

That night my husband James was trying to teach me how to prepare a certain document on the computer. He was very patient and explained it slowly to make sure I understood. However, once I thought I knew it, I would act immediately and jump self-assuredly to the next step. Unexpectedly, there were some very important details that I didn't know so he tried to correct me. When I interrupted him he would slow down and explain again, but I wished he had told me earlier. I refused to admit that I didn't have the patience to listen carefully and understand. On the contrary, I got angry at him.

Because of my illness, I am not as alert and fast as before, but my habit of being impatient remains. Because I saw that James was working so hard, I wanted to do something to help him, but I ended up making things worse. I was embarrassed and sad to see him walk away quietly to wash dishes. I quickly apologized, added "I'm too tired", and went to bed.

This is a common pattern of interaction in many families. In fact, it is normal for one person to be faster or slower than the other. It is not necessarily as extreme as "a hasty man meets a slow man", but we always use our own pace as the standard.

The next morning, I thought about how I was impatient. Not only did I not help him, but I also ruined our relationship. I felt that I was very unloving and that I was taking the name of Jesus Christ in vain. What am I supposed to do now?

Before I could say anything, James said, “I just focused on solving the problem. You know I like to fix bugs.” He paused and smiled, “But there is a bug that I could not fix.”

I responded, “Maybe you can kill the bug single-handedly.” Suddenly, I couldn’t help laughing and said, “Remember the saying that this is not a bug, it is a feature?”

We both laughed and made peace with each other.

Home is a nest of love, where husband, wife and children live together, "Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred." (Proverbs 15:17)

Love means cherishing one another, and the same is true for brothers and sisters in the church. Jesus said: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:34-35)

Some couples do not feel loved in their marriage even though their spouse keeps saying: "Am I not cooking, cleaning, and driving around all day for you and our children?" or "I work so hard to make money to support our family, and you still say I don't love you?" The truth of the matter is that people wants their needs to be understood, and they want to receive the kind of love they desire. Therefore, please pay special attention to complaints in the home. Does a exhausted mother need acts of service from her family? Does a problem solving father wish to be respected and affirmed?

To nurture a relationship, you need to constantly make deposits to your "love bank" because every negative interaction can offset 5-7 positive interactions. Therefore, do more positive, effective and constructive things. Pay special attention to your words and body language such as facial expressions, tone of voice, gestures and movements. Arrange regular time for the two of you to cultivate your relationship. On this upcoming Valentine's Day, let go of negative interactions and thoughts, and start listing the other person's strengths. Express your love by encouraging and affirming their efforts, listening to their feelings, hugging and kissing, saying "I love you" and buying (or making) a heart-to-heart gift.

Christian author Gary Thomas once said to a young friend, "If you want to be free to serve Jesus, there's no question--stay single. Marriage takes a lot of time. But if you want to become more like Jesus, I can't imagine any better thing to do than to get married. Being married forces you to face some character issues you'd never have to face otherwise."

I meditate on the long-suffering patient love of God our Father. Although I haven’t done well, He is still teaching me how to slow down to become a patient and loving person, and stop being self-centered.

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a)

Living a Joyful Life

That day, I lay on the left side of my bed.  Although I could still move my arms and legs slightly, my torso was like a bag of flour, unable to move. Trapped in that position, staring at the ceiling, My heart was filled with sadness and anxiety. Would I ever recover?

Suddenly, my husband walked into the room and said, "Granddaughters are here with something for you."

Oh, they're here to visit the sick. I slowly raised the head of the bed that pushed my torso so that I could sit up diagonally.

Our three granddaughters came in. The middle girl excitedly handed me a piece of paper with three autumn leaves glued on it. "NaiNai, for You."

"Oh! Thank you, it's so beautiful."

The youngest girl looked a little scared in this temporary ward. I asked her, "Do you want NaiNai to read you a book? But I can only read one."

She nodded. Big sister immediately sent her two younger sisters to get the book while she continued to stand next to me and look  at me with concerned eyes. When the little sisters came back, Big sister picked up the youngest and put her on my bed. The middle sister wisely ran to stand on the other side of me.

I cleared my throat and started reading slowly, a little out of breath at first. Unexpectedly, I soon started telling stories almost as vividly as before, speaking in the voices of Papa, Mama, Brother, and Sister Bear, as if I had forgotten my illness. Three autumn leaves and three little angels made me see the invisible God.

"(A prayer of Moses the man of God.) Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You turn people back to dust, saying, 'Return to dust, you mortals.'” (Psalm 90:1-3).

In the blink of an eye, more than a year has passed. My health has its ups and downs but instead of giving up, I focus on the next holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, etc. and everyone's upcoming birthdays. In fact, I am very grateful to live one more day because:

"Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Reciting Psalm 90 and meditating on the verses day and night gave me a better and deeper understanding of God, man, and the relationship between them. Every verse is a wise saying, but two verses jumped out to tell me: What is the most important thing in life every day? What can we pray for?

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble." (Psalm 90:14-15)

The apostle Paul’s secret to living out Christ is: "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." (Romans 12:12)

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4)

My friend, are you willing to live a joyful life? Please listen to what the Lord Jesus taught His disciples:

"Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." (John 16:24)

And the Peace Which Transcends All Understanding

During November, I wanted to finish my December’s article early, but it didn't happen. With visits from the physical and occupational therapists, and time with my family, I was feeling very tired and needed a lot of rest. I actually didn't have enough energy or time to write because I could only move in slow motion. But to me, writing is a kind of therapy because it makes me grateful and joyful.

Christmas was coming. I wanted to celebrate the birth of my Savior and my Lord with my pen. I texted my editor and asked her to wait for me. Graciously she said yes.

Unexpectedly, not only was my body at its limit, but my laptop suddenly had flickering issues, and even our network suddenly stopped working. My son tried his best to diagnose and fix it, but now the computer was very slow. Maybe it's also because of aging?

I prayed and meditated on "Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain." (Psalm 127:1)

As the deadline approached, I kept praying to Jesus. He had already given me peace whether or not I could make it. Today is my last try. As I write, I pray and entrust ...

Most people hope to live in peace, hope for world peace, national peace and prosperity, and family harmony, but things often go against our wishes, because things are often unsatisfactory in life. Many times, our mood cannot be calmed, and we often struggle in various ways or feel angry, disappointed, sad, anxious, fearful... there is just no peace.

Husbands and wives often conflict over how to raise their children, each holding their own opinions and refusing to give in to each other, thus losing harmony. They all think that the other person is wrong and not considerate, and feel sorry for themselves. The first time I sang "O What peace we often forfeit? O what needless pain we bear? All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer," I knew there was hope. That night I confessed my sins, repented, and reconciled with God. My heart was filled with peace that surpasses all understanding.

Dear friend, do you want to have peace? Please listen to the record in Luke Chapter 2:8-14:

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Jesus, the Son of God, is the Word became flesh. He came to earth as a human being. A baby was wrapped in cloths lying in a manger. When he grew up, he was crucified and rose from the dead on the third day in order to save His people from their sins. Before He died, He said to His disciples:

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27)

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

My friend, what has taken away your peace?

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

Give Thanks in All Circumstances

That night, as family worship was about to begin, my son found the sheet music of "My Dearest Friend" from my piano bench. As soon as he played the guitar, I couldn't help but start singing, even though my throat was tight and it was hard to breathe. After singing that song, I suggested singing some familiar English songs because I like the whole family to participate.

A week later, my son came ready with slides and started our worship again with "My Dearest Friend". Each slide had one stanza, which included four lines of lyrics in Chinese characters, and corresponding lyrics in pinyin, in English, and Do Re Mi tunes. This way, everyone was able to sing, hum, or whistle. I was very grateful hearing the children singing my heartfelt words according to the pinyin:

Lord, you are the friend who knows me the most
Lord, you are my precious and closest friend
My heart is thinking of you every day
Hoping to meet face to face

In my living and every step I take
In this life, every stop along the way
Your hand is always- guiding- me
Keeping me right by your side

Tell me the way I should go
so I won't slip and fall towards death
Your- love is- long, wide, deep and high
My heart is amazed

With the Lord what do I need?
My heart is his / my heart is aligned
I have vowed to- follow the- Lord-
and [to] ne-ver- change

I seemed to be in pretty good health in previous years. Unexpectedly, I suffered severe back pain in May last year, which caught me off guard. Later, it was discovered that there were several spinal compression fractures, but they were not suitable for surgery. Suddenly I couldn't take care of myself, and it was hard to explain the pain and figure out what was going on inside me.

At that time, all I could do was to pray without ceasing. I thought about how the Lord Jesus had saved me, led me, and accompanied me in the past. He spoke to me with different scriptures every day. For example:

"I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." (Psalm 121:1-2)

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." (Psalm 139:13-14)

"Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice." (Psalm 51:8)

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)

I started wearing a special back spinal brace at the end of August last year and started monthly injections to treat osteoporosis in December, plus a nutrition plan and physical therapy to repair and build new bones and strengthen muscles. In May of this year, I thought I was much better when I no longer needed to wear the brace all day long. Unexpectedly, things went downhill again in June, and everything had to start over. To this day, I still need to wear a back brace all day and can only do very simple rehabilitation exercises, but thank God I am still alive.

Counting blessings and giving thanks can free our minds from worries. Try one or two of the following questions to cultivate a grateful heart.

1. What is the biggest gift (tangible or intangible) you have received this year?
2. What two things have changed your life this year?
3. What three things have helped your faith grow this year?
4. What are four blessings in your family that you would like to thank God for?
5. What are the five happy experiences you have had?
6. Even though we take them for granted, what six things in God’s creation are necessary for our existence?
7. Which seven people in your home or outside are you most grateful for?

In good times, we may take things for granted. During hard times, we complain about our misfortune. But how often do you and I encourage each other, help each other, and count God’s grace with thanksgiving?

Dear Lord Jesus, my most intimate friend, thank you for being with me and allowing me to deeply appreciate the love and faithfulness of God our Father. Please help me spend every day with joy and give thanks in everything:

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Life's Choices Aren't All Easy

Life is always about making choices.

Imagine you're standing at the counter of your favorite ice cream shop and asking the server "What do you think I want?"

Of course you wouldn't do that. With a variety of ice cream flavors tempting you, making a choice may be difficult, but you'll do it. "Please give me Cherry Jubilee and Chocolate Night, put the chocolate on the bottom and get a scoop with lots of cherries in it for the top."

It’s true that most choices in life are not as simple as choosing between chocolate and vanilla, but what you choose, how you make the choice, or don't make them, is as important to your self-esteem as taking responsibility for yourself. 

There are two types of choices: Active — when you make something happen and live with the consequences; and Passive — when you "choose not to choose," and continue with the status quo. Passive choice may be because you believe that making any choice may lead to change and come with high risks.

Active choices can be painful; feelings of fear and vulnerability often accompany these decisions. Just because we know what's best for us doesn't make it any easier. This kind of choice-making is risky, too. The most difficult choices don't have any absolute right or wrong; there is no perfect solution. It takes great courage to face these hard decisions. 

On the other hand, the postponement of choice can have serious backlashes in the way of stress, depression, discouragement, apathy, even physical illness. Procrastination seldom has any favorable results.

Though in the end the choice is yours, getting to the place to be able to make a decision doesn't have to be a solo trip. Ask for help. Talking things out with another person can be helpful, especially someone who is on your side but has nothing at stake in your decision. Don’t forget that God is always waiting for you to ask Him for help.

Even just expressing your concerns may help you sort things out, and writing down the pros and cons will give you more clarity than keeping everything in your head. Getting some distance (emotional or physical) may make assessment easier, especially if that distance allows you to see the reality of the situation and not just your wishful thinking.

Even with thoughtful consideration, not every choice will be the right one. But wrong decisions don't make you wrong. And, trite as it may sound, one of the ways we learn is through the mistakes we make.

Not each of the choices you make will have profound effect on the whole of your life. But the ongoing and continuous act of making choices will.

Seeking God's will, making choices you believe in, making conscious, thoughtful choices, and taking responsibility for your choices are all signs of becoming a person of faith and commitment, like the biblical character Joshua.

"But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)

Still worried about choosing? Please consider what Jesus Christ told his disciples and let our Lord guide you:

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you." (John 15:16)

Author’s content used  under license, © Claire Communications

Do Not Worry About Tomorrow

At its essence, worry is a useful reaction, helping us anticipate and avoid danger by taking constructive action. But too often, worry becomes an endless loop that makes it hard to focus and perform, and stresses our physical systems. Take the self-test below to see how well you handle worry.

1. I seem confident and carefree to everyone who knows me. Actually, that was when I kept my worries to myself because I didn’t want to burden anyone with sharing my concerns.

2. I write about my fears and worries. This seems to take some of the power out of them. After writing, creative solutions seem to just show up.

3. I lie in bed for two or three hours at night worrying, just hoping to fall back asleep. I feel tired all the time.

4. Getting involved with my family, friends, church, neighborhood, organizations, etc., gives me the sense of being part of something bigger than myself. When I turn my attention from inside to outside, my worries seem to disappear.

5. When I find myself worrying, I get up and move around. Action seems to relieve my anxiety and give me a better perspective.

6. What really works for me when I’m feeling nervous and afraid is to take a long walk, run or bike ride, or go work out. It seems like the more I move, the less I worry.

7. When my worries are on an endless cycle, I know it’s time to make a gratitude list. Focusing on the things I’m grateful for is like completely letting go of my worries.

8. My worries seem to come out of nowhere and out of control. When I'm stuck, I feel like I can't come up with any solutions.

9. I worry mostly about things that, in fact, have a very low probability of actually happening, such as going bankrupt, dying in a plane crash, getting fired, etc.

10. Instead of letting nighttime thoughts keep me from falling asleep, I focus on physical sensations, such as the feel of my sheets and the warmth of my body.

11. I try to catch my worrying as close to its beginning as possible. Then I take some time to relax, breathe deeply and get centered again.

12. When I'm lost in my worrying thoughts, I experience physical sensations that I rarely notice, such as a racing heart, sweating, and shaking.

13. The more repetitive my worrying becomes, the more persuasive it seems.

14. I worry about other people because I don’t really trust that they can take care of themselves.

15. When I worry about something, I take action. Then I let go, trusting that I have done all I could.

Shifting your worry to wonder opens up possibilities for curiosity and action rather than dread and immobility. It is not uncommon to think about "What will happen? How will it all turn out? How can I act to make the outcome the best it can be?" But don’t stress yourself out unnecessarily by worrying about what may or may not happen. The Lord Jesus knows your and my needs, and He also accepts that we will have worries. Please listen to His teachings:

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? ...

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ ... your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:25-34)

                                                                                                                                                Author’s content used under license, © Claire Communications