Monday, December 17, 2018

Reflection - Jonah Runs, God Pursues - with love and grace

Source (book): "God in Pursuit", Chapter 2, Question 3, Page 29.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012


Reflect on how God interacted with Jonah and how He demonstrated His sovereign power and grace.

PHOTO: Reflect on how God interacted with Jonah and how He demonstrated His sovereign power and grace.
If God had allowed Jonah to go his own way, that would have been the end of the prophet. He would have sailed into destruction because he had chosen to disobey God outright and deserved to be punished. But God is not interested only in what we can do for Him. If that was indeed the case, He could simply have left Jonah alone to face the full consequence of disobedience. Instead, God chose to pursue the fleeing prophet because He loved him. He was more interested in Jonah the man than in what Jonah could do for Him.

Every action of God is met by a further act of disobedience on Jonah's part, which is then matched by further gracious act of God. We see a number of "buts" and "thens" here: God called Jonah to go to Nineveh, but he ran away (Jonah 1:1-3). The Lord then sent a great wind, but Jonah went down to the bottom of the boat (Jonah 1:4-5). Then God made the sailors find the sleeping prophet (Jonah 1:6-7), who was eventually thrown overboard to calm the angry seas. The Lord then provided a great fish to save Jonah from drowning (Jonah 1:17).

The story of Jonah shows how God initiates His gracious actions, and how He responds graciously to whatever we decide to do. Whether we act obediently or disobediently, God shows His true character: gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, and full of love (Jonah 4:2). And we are indeed blessed that He is, because our disobedience tends to take us into a downward spiral.

Spiritually, running away from God always puts you in one direction: down. A man who leaves God may become successful in the eyes of the world, but his journey will always be headed downwards. From the hills, he descended to the harbour, then below deck on the ship, and finally into the depths of the sea in a fish's belly. A man who runs away from God is always running downwards.

God, however, had other plans for the disobedient prophet. He was still pursuing Jonah, still intent on rescuing him in spite of his disobedience.


Have you experienced God pursuing you with love and grace, even when you disobeyed Him? Turn your thoughts to worship and prayer.
Unimpressive childhood and youth
Around the fifties and sixties, we lived in rural areas without the modern day’s amenities. There were no electricity, treated water supply and proper sanitation. Mode of transportation were few. We mostly travelled by walking, or by cycling. Our countryside were quiet and its environment full of natural greenery. No MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) or buses except for a few private motorised vehicles. Besides the public telephone at the roadside, and grocery shop, there were hardly any other means of communication. When I was a boy, there were no radio or television. We were almost isolated from the rest of the world.

There were no high rise buildings, unlike the cities. Our country roads were from natural footpaths, and at night we travelled in the dark, whereas the city had lighted streets. It was normal to encounter fierce dogs, reptiles, and other wild animals. Living in the countryside had to cope with dangers of nature.

Our standard of living were different from those living in the city. We had to evade unsafe forested areas, be careful of uneven grounds and deep holes. During the raining season certain roads were covered with muds, and we literally had to jump to cross over. Despite been skilful in manoeuvring along those improper routes, we were still authentic “mountain tortoises”.

We were unable to adapt to city lifestyle, being ignorant, and slow to learn their skills. We lack the necessary knowledge, and skills to survive in the city. Our parents, and neighbours were farmers since young, and were mostly illiterate. All of us were without formal education from school.

Fortunately, God provided primitive schools to start having our required education. The transition period from a country bumpkin to a school student was tough and painful. We were severely disciplined to stay in our own seats in class. No more wandering around at will, but to learn how to listen, understand, read, speak, hold a pencil, and write English and Mandarin. Our education started at the age of seven in primary one. It was hell but soon we got used to school life, and begun to learn the other subjects; mathematics, science, and arts. Teachers had hard time teaching us. We were not graduate from nurseries and kindergarten. So teachers also played the role of caregivers. All primary one students were without early childhood qualifications.

Our school was situated near a Catholic Church. As we did not have a definite religion, we did not attend its services. As young children without the encouragement of our elders, we did not make the initiative to join the Church. I was totally ignorant about God, until our primary school form teacher told us the biblical story of Jesus being tortured, and killed, but raised up on the third day. Quite some time later, in my secondary, a classmate introduced to me more about God. However, it never occurred to us that we needed to build a relationship with God.

In the seventies and eighties our economy was then growing very fast. After our National Services, we managed to find jobs in the manufacturing sector, with relative ease. We were slowly leaving the agriculture farming, which was a dying trade in our country. We were being moulded to support different industries, especially those growing in the technological age. We did not know, but by God’s consistent love and grace, the country bumpkins were developed to fit into the new society.

Struggling adulthood
In my twenties, I tried various jobs and managed to have one in the manufacturing industries, with relatively good pay and opportunities. My career picked up, as there were in-house trainings provided. Due to the tremendous growth in demand for our products, we had to do shift work to meet the required volume of output. I had many colleagues, and met many other staffs in our department. But I was still a “mountain tortoise” struggling to cope with competition at work, and with love. Life was stressful, and there were constant failures.

Without noticing, I was in my thirties, and discovered that a fast growing company also had its problems. Although we had sophisticated machine and equipment to assist us in our trouble-shooting and fault diagnosis, not all of them gave the same quality standard. Similarly, not all human superior adhere to a fix set of operating procedures which in itself was already imperfect. But things still worked, and we were still in employment. While the world went into serious recession, our company continued growing. So did our stress level.

Life became more unbearable with increasing quality standard, restrictions, and targets (individual output volume). I was given more difficult tasks to work on. Very quickly I was unable to meet the new demands, and my performance dropped. I was unable to overcome all the daily obstacles fast enough, and problematic products piled up. I felt stressful with having to work continuously through weekends and holidays. However, a superior of mine was helpful, and we managed to clear some of the issues together. I must be in God’s radar still, for He intervened timely.

The mother company recalled back the defective products and helped us to solve the problems. However, I felt my age was catching up, and with unhealthy lifestyle, soon was unable to work in such a demanding environment. The country bumpkin had to look for alternative environment to survive in. The “mountain tortoise” characteristic was not applicable in places with such gruelling nature. Again, God was understanding towards my plight, for soon with the help of a former colleague, I was able to join another company. I was relieved to be able to run away from difficult tasks and responsibilities – or so I thought.

I was then in my late thirties, and I was to learn another language, go oversea and learn to do project work. With having to leave home to another country with different language, climate, and culture, it was a great challenge. Fortunately, with other colleagues, we managed to adapt and overcome new difficulties. Two years later, we successfully came back home together with project’s tasks and responsibilities. Another testimony that God was in control, He wanted us to learn how to handle problems, and develop ourselves to accept responsibilities.

Throughout my working life, I was given opportunities to faced injustices, criticisms, rejections, threats, failures, fears of unknown, physical and mental fatigues, and experienced many other negative emotional feelings. But there were also times when I was joyful with success, feeling of satisfaction at the successful completion of dedicated tasks. Thinking back, it was certainly amazing that although working life was full of difficult moments, with the guidance and correction from our Lord, we could still manage.

The world changed from bad to worse with terrorism, trade wars, environmental disasters, and scams. God had been pursuing us with warnings; a safe and secure life doesn't mean a trouble-free life. But we conveniently bypass undesirable security measures. I don’t want to follow computer security protocols, and my computer was attacked by ”virus”, until it cannot function. The computer “virus” was actually deliberate effort from the super-user to remove us from the network until the security implementation was completed. Being disobedient, and undisciplined had its consequences. There was no escape from those who could monitor and control us. Likewise, when God with His loving nature was determined to develop us, and to keep us safe. All for our own good.

Every generations had its unique problems, partly due to the rapid changing technology and environment. With satanic manipulations, any loopholes of new technology could be used to devise evil schemes to handicap others. The innocent “mountain tortoise” had to evolve with the help of supernatural power, and to become vigilant to avoid fiendish schemes. Following His words was the important criteria.

But being alert and vigilant may not be sufficient. With Satan’s help, desperate people could still exploit our sympathetic nature, and exhort fund from our depleting savings. Then procrastinate in returning what was borrowed. God wanted us to realise how He was feeling when we became disobedient and procrastinate from following His instructions. If God had allowed us to go our own way, we could headed for destruction. Allowing us to face difficult problems could be His way of developing us to identify similar problems. That could be how He was correcting and nurturing me, when I was in my adulthood focusing on everything except Him.

Unhealthy old age
I was not “careful”, and before I realised it, I was in my fifties. After being retrenched from employment for the second time, my learning and adapting ability deteriorated. I could no longer kept up with changing work scope and adapt fast enough in new working environment. My health also became worse, and I could no longer find suitable employment. I lost my main income, and depended on past savings for livelihood and other expenditures.

It was also during this period, when I started to feel depressed because of so many failures happening at the same time. My muscles were failing, and I couldn’t attempt some of the exercises which I could do earlier. I suffered from stiff joints, especially at the shoulder and knees. My movements were restricted, and endurances were minimising. I have weak kidney and irregular heartbeats, added to my existing diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. My physical ability, just like my financial situation, was going downhill.

It was during my lowest moment when God provided the Park Connector Networks (PCN) for me to improve my health. Every day, before sunrise, I and my sister would walk and exercise along the PCN, and enjoying the cool morning air. As a form of bonus, God also provided elderly uncles to accompany us. Together we walk the recommended 10,000 steps daily, reaching home in time to wake up our nephew to go to school. We managed to prevent our health from deteriorating too fast, giving us a sense of achievement. With God’s protection from wild animals, bad weathers, and other dangers, we could still accomplish the impossible, to maintain our health.

During my retirement, God also provide opportunities to develop spiritually. Although moving at snail pace, I try reading Christian Bible, books, and do reflections. Books by Christian authors, especially Robert M. Solomon. Other literatures are also sent to us by Our Daily Bread Ministries. Digital books are also available online.

God pursue us with His love and grace even when we disobeyed Him. A country bumpkin with his “mountain tortoise” characteristic, is also accepting the offer of Salvation from our Lord Jesus Christ. With the little I know, hopefully this offer of Salvation can be made known to everybody. Together, we can then have joy and real rest for eternity in heaven with God.
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Reflect on how God interacted with Jonah and how He demonstrated His sovereign power and grace. Have you experienced God pursuing you with love and grace, even when you disobeyed Him? Turn your thoughts to worship and prayer.

Reflect on how God interacted with Jonah and how He demonstrated His sovereign power and grace.
God Pursues Jonah [1]
If God had allowed Jonah to go his own way, that would have been the end of the prophet. He would have sailed into destruction because he had chosen to disobey God outright and deserved to be punished. But God is not interested only in what we can do for Him. If that was indeed the case, He could simply have left Jonah alone to face the full consequence of disobedience. Instead, God chose to pursue the fleeing prophet because He loved him. He was more interested in Jonah the man than in what Jonah could do for Him.


If God had allowed Jonah to go his own way, that would have been the end of the prophet.
PHOTO: If God had allowed Jonah to go his own way, that would have been the end of the prophet. He would have sailed into destruction because he had chosen to disobey God outright and deserved to be punished. He could simply have left Jonah alone to face the full consequence of disobedience. Instead, God chose to pursue the fleeing prophet because He loved him.
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God can and does pursue those who flee from Him. The 19th-century English poet Francis Thompson likened Him to a "divine hound" that pursues us with love, no matter where we choose to flee. In the first and last parts of his poem, "The hound of Heaven", he says: [7]

I fled Him, down the nights and down the days;
I fled Him, down the arches of the years;
I fled Him, down the labyrinthine ways
Of my own mind; and in the midst of tears
I hid from him, and under running laughter.
Up vistaed hopes I sped;
And shot, precipitated,
Adown titanic glooms of chasmed fears,
From those strong Feet that followed, followed after.
But with unhurrying chase,
And unperturbed pace,
Deliberate speed, majestic instancy,
They beat - and a Voice beat,
More instant than the Feet -
"All things betray thee, who betrayest Me."
. . .

Now of that long pursuit,
Comes on at hand the bruit;
That Voice is round me like a bursting Sea:
"And is thy Earth so marred,
Shattered in shard on shard?
Lo, all things fly thee, for thou fliest Me!

"Strange, piteous, futile thing!
Wherefore should any set thee love apart?
Seeing none but I makes much of naught" (He said),
"And human love needs human meriting:
How hast thou merited -
Of all Man's clotted clay the dingiest clot.
Alack! Thou knowest not
How little worthy of any love thou art!
Whom wilt thou find to love ignoble thee,
Save Me, save only Me?
All which I took from thee, I did but take,
Not for thy harms,
But just that thou might'st seek it in My arms.
All which thy childs mistake
Fancies as lost, I have stored for thee at home:
Rise, clasp My hand, and come!"

Halts by me that Footfall:
Is my gloom, after all,
Shade of His hand, outstretched caressingly?
"Ah, fondest, blindest, weakest!
I am He Whom thou seekest!
Thou dravest Love from thee, who dravest Me."

(edited from https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-hound-of-heaven/)


I fled Him, down the nights and down the days;
PHOTO: I fled Him, down the nights and down the days;
I fled Him, down the arches of the years;
I fled Him, down the labyrinthine ways . . .
Deliberate speed, majestic instancy,
They beat - and a Voice beat,
More instant than the Feet -
"All things betray thee, who betrayest Me." . . .
Now of that long pursuit, . . .
That Voice is round me like a bursting Sea: . . .
"Strange, piteous, futile thing! . . . "
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Every action of God is met by a further act of disobedience on Jonah's part, which is then matched by further gracious act of God. We see a number of "buts" and "thens" here: God called Jonah to go to Nineveh, but he ran away (Jonah 1:1-3). The Lord then sent a great wind, but Jonah went down to the bottom of the boat (Jonah 1:4-5). Then God made the sailors find the sleeping prophet (Jonah 1:6-7), who was eventually thrown overboard to calm the angry seas. The Lord then provided a great fish to save Jonah from drowning (Jonah 1:17).


Every action of God is met by a further act of disobedience on Jonah's part, which is then matched by further gracious act of God.
PHOTO: Every action of God is met by a further act of disobedience on Jonah's part, which is then matched by further gracious act of God. The Lord then provided a great fish to save Jonah from drowning (Jonah 1:17).
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The story of Jonah shows how God initiates His gracious actions, and how He responds graciously to whatever we decide to do. Whether we act obediently or disobediently, God shows His true character: gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, and full of love (Jonah 4:2). And we are indeed blessed that He is, because our disobedience tends to take us into a downward spiral.


The story of Jonah shows how God initiates His gracious actions, and how He responds graciously to whatever we decide to do.
PHOTO: The story of Jonah shows how God initiates His gracious actions, and how He responds graciously to whatever we decide to do. And we are indeed blessed that He is, because our disobedience tends to take us into a downward spiral.
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Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral [1]
Spiritually, running away from God always puts you in one direction: down. A man who leaves God may become successful in the eyes of the world, but his journey will always be headed downwards. This can be seen from Jonah's experience.


Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
PHOTO: Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
Spiritually, running away from God always puts you in one direction: down. A man who leaves God may become successful in the eyes of the world, but his journey will always be headed downwards.
Picture posted by Dirk Bakker on 11 January 2018 - Representation image edited
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http://etcbc.nl/bible/text-hierarchic-trees-in-the-etcbc-database/


First, Jonah "went down to Joppa" (Jonah 1:3). Whether it was from the hills of Galilee or from Jerusalem on the hills of Judea, his journey took him downwards. Jonah could have turned back and returned to where God had first called him to service, repented of his disobedience, and started all over again. But he continued downwards.


Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
PHOTO: Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
Jonah "went down to Joppa" (Jonah 1:3). Whether it was from the hills of Galilee or from Jerusalem on the hills of Judea, his journey took him downwards.
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https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/12/reflection-jonah-runs-god-pursues.html


On the ship headed for Tarshish, Jonah went "below deck" to sleep: "But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship" (Jonah 1:5 ESV). This part of the ship was likely below the waterline as well.


Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
PHOTO: Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
During the strom, Jonah went "below deck" to sleep: "But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship" (Jonah 1:5 ESV). This part of the ship was likely below the waterline as well.
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Then, after Jonah admitted that the storm was his fault, the sailors threw him overboard - down into the sea (Jonah 1:12). In Jonah: The Reluctant Prophet, theologian William Banks observes that Jonah remained disobedient even at the height of the storm, preferring "to perish rather than to preach". [8] He would have drowned if God did not provide a large fish to swallow him. And it was in the belly of this fish that Jonah spent three days and three nights (Jonah 1:17).


Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
PHOTO: Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
After Jonah admitted that the storm was his fault, the sailors threw him overboard - down into the sea (Jonah 1:12).
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Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral

PHOTO: Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
Jonah would have drowned if God did not provide a large fish to swallow him. And it was in the belly of this fish that Jonah spent three days and three nights (Jonah 1:17).
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We can see how Jonah's journey of disobedience kept taking him downwards. From the hills, he descended to the harbour, then below deck on the ship, and finally into the depths of the sea in a fish's belly. A man who runs away from God is always running downwards.
 

Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
PHOTO: Jonah's Disobedience: A Downward Spiral
From the hills, he descended to the harbour, then below deck on the ship, and finally into the depths of the sea in a fish's belly. A man who runs away from God is always running downwards.
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God, however, had other plans for the disobedient prophet. He was still pursuing Jonah, still intent on rescuing him in spite of his disobedience.


Have you experienced God pursuing you with love and grace, even when you disobeyed Him? Turn your thoughts to worship and prayer.
Unimpressive childhood and youth
Around the fifties and sixties, we lived in rural areas without the modern day’s amenities. There were no electricity, treated water supply and proper sanitation. Mode of transportation were few. We mostly travelled by walking, or by cycling. Our countryside were quiet and its environment full of natural greenery. No MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) or buses except for a few private motorised vehicles. Besides the public telephone at the roadside, and grocery shop, there were hardly any other means of communication. When I was a boy, there were no radio or television. We were almost isolated from the rest of the world.
 

In the fifties, we lived in rural areas without the modern day’s amenities.
PHOTO: In the fifties, we lived in rural areas without the modern day’s amenities. There were no electricity, treated water supply and proper sanitation. Mode of transportation were few. We mostly travelled by walking, or by cycling. When I was a boy, there were no radio or television. We were almost isolated from the rest of the world.
Representation picture
Picture posted by Avanti Nim, avantin@sph.com.sg, Business Times on 22 April 2017 at 5:50 AM
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https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/sites/default/files/styles/lifestyle_cover/public/image/2017/04/22/11019611.jpg?itok=vTdiFi0b
https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/nostalgia/remember-amber


There were no high rise buildings, unlike the cities. Our country roads were from natural footpaths, and at night we travelled in the dark, whereas the city had lighted streets. It was normal to encounter fierce dogs, reptiles, and other wild animals. Living in the countryside had to cope with dangers of nature.

Our standard of living were different from those living in the city. We had to evade unsafe forested areas, be careful of uneven grounds and deep holes. During the raining season certain roads were covered with muds, and we literally had to jump to cross over. Despite been skilful in manoeuvring along those improper routes, we were still authentic “mountain tortoises”.


Living in the countryside had to cope with dangers of nature.

PHOTO: Living in the countryside had to cope with dangers of nature. We had to evade unsafe forested areas, be careful of uneven grounds and deep holes. During the raining season certain roads were covered with muds, and we literally had to jump to cross over. Despite been skilful in manoeuvring along those improper routes, we were still authentic “mountain tortoises”.
Representation picture
Picture from Wikimedia Commons, the free media repository
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https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/20/Children_playing_in_a_stream%2C_Singapore_Wellcome_L0018799.jpg
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Children_playing_in_a_stream,_Singapore_Wellcome_L0018799.jpg


We were unable to adapt to city lifestyle, being ignorant, and slow to learn their skills. We lack the necessary knowledge, and skills to survive in the city. Our parents, and neighbours were farmers since young, and were mostly illiterate. All of us were without formal education from school.

However, we were quite comfortable with our lifestyle. Our parents might have hope for better living standard and earning power. We never realised that one day we would be resettled to the city, for all rural villages were targeted for redevelopment. Our familiar lifestyle would disappear. We would then face problems adapting to a different lifestyle.
 

Our parents, and neighbours were farmers since young, and were mostly illiterate.
PHOTO: Our parents, and neighbours were farmers since young, and were mostly illiterate. All of us were without formal education from school. However, we were quite comfortable with our lifestyle. Our parents might have hope for better living standard and earning power.
Representation picture
Credit Line: Collection of Singapore Philatelic Museum; Donated by Mr Koh Seow Chuan
Picture posted by National Heritage Board
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https://roots.sg/CollectionImages/1219459.jpg
https://roots.sg/learn/collections/listing/1219459


We often helped out in the farm, but most of the time we were carefree, running and playing around the neighbourhoods. Our past time hobbies included catching fighting fishes, spiders, ants, and climbing trees. We never worry about what would happen in our future. But all the farms would definitely disappear and we would be working in factories or other establishments. And we would need to have basic requirements before we could be trained to work in the new business world. We must know how to read and write, before we could learn further.
 

We often helped out in the farm, but most of the time we were carefree, running and playing around the neighbourhoods.
PHOTO: We often helped out in the farm, but most of the time we were carefree, running and playing around the neighbourhoods. Our past time hobbies included catching fighting fishes, spiders, ants, and climbing trees. We never worry about what would happen in our future.
Representation picture
Picture posted by National Heritage Board - Collection of National Museum of Singapore
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https://roots.sg/CollectionImages/1138790.jpg
https://roots.sg/learn/collections/listing/1138790


Our past time hobbies included catching fighting fishes, spiders, ants, and climbing trees.
PHOTO: Our past time hobbies included catching fighting fishes, spiders, ants, and climbing trees. All the farms would definitely disappear and we would be working in factories or other establishments. And we would need to have basic requirements before we could be trained to work in the new business world. We must know how to read and write, before we could learn further.
Picture posted by Thimbuktu on 21 February 2012 - Rural vegetable farm
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http://blogtoexpress.blogspot.sg/2012/02/ways-done-in-past-rural-farming.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2016/10/reflection-thoughts-at-end-of-life.html


Fortunately, God provided primitive schools to start having our required education. The transition period from a country bumpkin to a school student was tough and painful. We were severely disciplined to stay in our own seats in class. No more wandering around at will, but to learn how to listen, understand, read, speak, hold a pencil, and write English and Mandarin. Our education started at the age of seven in primary one. It was hell but soon we got used to school life, and begun to learn the other subjects; mathematics, science, and arts. Teachers had hard time teaching us. We were not graduate from nurseries and kindergarten. So teachers also played the role of caregivers. All primary one students were without early childhood qualifications.
 

Fortunately, God provided primitive schools to start having our required education.
PHOTO: Fortunately, God provided primitive schools to start having our required education. The transition period from a country bumpkin to a school student was tough and painful. We were severely disciplined to stay in our own seats in class. No more wandering around at will, but to learn how to listen, understand, read, speak, hold a pencil, and write English and Mandarin. We were not graduate from nurseries and kindergarten. So teachers also played the role of caregivers. All primary one students were without early childhood qualifications.
Picture posted by Chew Hui Min, The Straits Times on 23 November 2015 at 7:52 pm SGT
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sites/default/files/articles/2015/12/08/pearls-hill-1-141123.jpg
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/merger-of-qiaonan-and-griffiths-primary-schools-singapore-schools-lost-to-time


Our school was situated near a Catholic Church. As we did not have a definite religion, we did not attend its services. As young children without the encouragement of our elders, we did not make the initiative to join the Church. I was totally ignorant about God, until our primary school form teacher told us the biblical story of Jesus being tortured, and killed, but raised up on the third day. Quite some time later, in my secondary, a classmate introduced to me more about God. However, it never occurred to us that we needed to build a relationship with God.
 

Our school was situated near a Catholic Church.
PHOTO: Our school was situated near a Catholic Church. As we did not have a definite religion, we did not attend its services. As young children without the encouragement of our elders, we did not make the initiative to join the Church. I was totally ignorant about God. Back then it never occurred to us that we needed to build a relationship with God.
Picture posted by Lam Chun, Welcome to Good Morning Yesterday on Thursday, 23 January 2014 at 9:38 AM
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http://goodmorningyesterday.blogspot.com/2014/01/retracing-iceball-trail-edmund-arozoo.html


Every day after school we would walked back home, a few kilometres away. We needed to walk along gravel roads, passing through swamps, crossing bridges, and climbing slopes. Time passed very fast, and soon we completed our primary, secondary, and pre-university educations. Those who were with better result would enter into the National University, while others would studied in Polytechnics or Institute of Education (ITE). I was not academically good enough to enter the university, so I opted for Polytechnics, learning skills suitable for working in factories. Spiritual and religious studies were not part of our education programme.


Every day after school we would walked back home, a few kilometres away.
PHOTO: Every day after school we would walked back home, a few kilometres away. We needed to walk along gravel roads, passing through swamps, crossing bridges, and climbing slopes. Time passed very fast, and soon we completed our primary, secondary, and pre-university educations. Spiritual and religious studies were not part of our education programme.
Painting by C Manuel
Picture posted by eBay Inc. - Ducks In Flight Art
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http://i.ebayimg.com/images/i/331882628079-0-1/s-l1000.jpg
http://www.ebay.com/itm/VINTAGE-MARSHLAND-HUNTING-OIL-PAINTING-SIGNED-C-MANUEL-DUCKS-GEESE-in-FLIGHT-ART-/331882628079?hash=item4d45bf03ef:g:PaoAAOxyaURTjTpq
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2016/10/reflection-thoughts-at-end-of-life.html


In the seventies and eighties our economy was then growing very fast. After our National Services, we managed to find jobs in the manufacturing sector, with relative ease. We were slowly leaving the agriculture farming, which was a dying trade in our country. We were being moulded to support different industries, especially those growing in the technological age. We did not know, but by God’s consistent love and grace, the country bumpkins were developed to fit into the new society.


After our National Services, we managed to find jobs in the manufacturing sector, with relative ease.

PHOTO: After our National Services, we managed to find jobs in the manufacturing sector, with relative ease. We were slowly leaving the agriculture farming, which was a dying trade in our country. We did not know, but by God’s consistent love and grace, the country bumpkins were developed to fit into the new society.
Picture posted by Bryan Mak, 3SG(NS), Infantry Sergeant (Res.) at Singapore Armed Forces (2015-present) on 09 December 2018
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https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-53662c0c4d2f22bce44bb0dd9a1f7159
https://www.quora.com/What-do-you-think-about-the-evolution-of-the-SAF-body-vest-What-are-your-thoughts-on-the-new-vest-coming-out-in-2019


Struggling adulthood
In my twenties, I tried various jobs and managed to have one in the manufacturing industries, with relatively good pay and opportunities. My career picked up, as there were in-house trainings provided. Due to the tremendous growth in demand for our products, we had to do shift work to meet the required volume of output. I had many colleagues, and met many other staffs in our department. But I was still a “mountain tortoise” struggling to cope with competition at work, and with love. Life was stressful, and there were constant failures.

Struggling adulthood

PHOTO: Struggling adulthood
In my twenties, I tried various jobs and managed to have one in the manufacturing industries, with relatively good pay and opportunities. I was still a “mountain tortoise” struggling to cope with competition at work, and with love. Life was stressful, and there were constant failures.
Picture posted by Stan Dubin
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https://employeetestingcenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/shutterstock_103206227.jpg
https://employeetestingcenter.com/how-did-they-handle-stress/


Without noticing, I was in my thirties, and discovered that a fast growing company also had its problems. Although we had sophisticated machine and equipment to assist us in our trouble-shooting and fault diagnosis, not all of them gave the same quality standard. Similarly, not all human superior adhere to a fix set of operating procedures which in itself was already imperfect. But things still worked, and we were still in employment. While the world went into serious recession, our company continued growing. So did our stress level.


Without noticing, I was in my thirties, and discovered that a fast growing company also had its problems.

PHOTO: Without noticing, I was in my thirties, and discovered that a fast growing company also had its problems. Although we had sophisticated machine and equipment to assist us in our trouble-shooting and fault diagnosis, not all of them gave the same quality standard. Similarly, not all human superior adhere to a fix set of operating procedures which in itself was already imperfect.
Picture posted by gettyimages
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https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/illustration/hard-working-man-royalty-free-illustration/97404098


The world constantly enticed us to join the rat race. We focus on improving our qualifications, status, and standard of living. We want the “4C” – Cash, Children, Cars, and Condominium. We ignore Him, and run after worldly desires, but He pursued the country bumpkins relentlessly, and made His Words known to us. We might have the whole world, but would still lose our life eventually. Money could not buy Salvation.


The world constantly enticed us to join the rat race.

PHOTO: The world constantly enticed us to join the rat race. We focus on improving our qualifications, status, and standard of living. We ignore Him, and run after worldly desires, but He pursued the country bumpkins relentlessly, and made His Words known to us. We might have the whole world, but would still lose our life eventually. Money could not buy Salvation.
Picture posted by ayala, Center Blog on 24 May 2013 at 15:00
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http://ayala.a.y.pic.centerblog.net/o/975a24f4.jpg
http://ayala.centerblog.net/4576-un-endroit-de-detente


Life became more unbearable with increasing quality standard, restrictions, and targets (individual output volume). I was given more difficult tasks to work on. Very quickly I was unable to meet the new demands, and my performance dropped. I was unable to overcome all the daily obstacles fast enough, and problematic products piled up. I felt stressful with having to work continuously through weekends and holidays. However, a superior of mine was helpful, and we managed to clear some of the issues together. I must be in God’s radar still, for He intervened timely.
 
The mother company recalled back the defective products and helped us to solve the problems. However, I felt my age was catching up, and with unhealthy lifestyle, soon was unable to work in such a demanding environment. The country bumpkin had to look for alternative environment to survive in. The “mountain tortoise” characteristic was not applicable in places with such gruelling nature. Again, God was understanding towards my plight, for soon with the help of a former colleague, I was able to join another company. I was relieved to be able to run away from difficult tasks and responsibilities – or so I thought.


Life became more unbearable with increasing quality standard, restrictions, and targets (individual output volume).

PHOTO: Life became more unbearable with increasing quality standard, restrictions, and targets (individual output volume). I was given more difficult tasks to work on.  I was unable to overcome all the daily obstacles fast enough, and problematic products piled up. I must be in God’s radar still, for He intervened timely.
Picture posted by Wallpaper Flare
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https://www.wallpaperflare.com/static/8/37/220/reflection-water-girl-woman-wallpaper.jpg
https://www.wallpaperflare.com/brown-haired-woman-wearing-blazer-with-reflection-in-water-during-sunset-wallpaper-27852
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/11/reflection-jonah-runs-god-pursues.html


I was then in my late thirties, and I was to learn another language, go oversea and learn to do project work. With having to leave home to another country with different language, climate, and culture, it was a great challenge. Fortunately, with other colleagues, we managed to adapt and overcome new difficulties. Two years later, we successfully came back home together with project’s tasks and responsibilities. Another testimony that God was in control, He wanted us to learn how to handle problems, and develop ourselves to accept responsibilities.


In my late thirties, with having to leave home to another country with different language, climate, and culture, it was a great challenge.

PHOTO: In my late thirties, with having to leave home to another country with different language, climate, and culture, it was a great challenge. Two years later, we successfully came back home together with project’s tasks and responsibilities. Another testimony that God was in control, He wanted us to learn how to handle problems, and develop ourselves to accept responsibilities.
Picture posted by Lynn Johnston
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https://store.gocomics.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/9780740733031_frontcover.jpg
https://store.gocomics.com/product/leaving-home/


Throughout my working life, I was given opportunities to faced injustices, criticisms, rejections, threats, failures, fears of unknown, physical and mental fatigues, and experienced many other negative emotional feelings. But there were also times when I was joyful with success, feeling of satisfaction at the successful completion of dedicated tasks. Thinking back, it was certainly amazing that although working life was full of difficult moments, with the guidance and correction from our Lord, we could still manage.


Throughout my working life, I was given opportunities to faced injustices, criticisms, rejections, threats, failures, fears of unknown, physical and mental fatigues, and experienced many other negative emotional feelings.

PHOTO: Throughout my working life, I was given opportunities to faced injustices, criticisms, rejections, threats, failures, fears of unknown, physical and mental fatigues, and experienced many other negative emotional feelings. Thinking back, it was certainly amazing that although working life was full of difficult moments, with the guidance and correction from our Lord, we could still manage.
Picture posted by Home Security - Medieval Cathedral Gargoyle
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45SorfHWns8HJHavO-YFDDOOITqJn-cBHAQPnKuaVm0tmeugtXDyVJlWm7hEVvxBgIQsLPhBbmlJuJEuDBSgjfxBR405soNzVJH-xBAM9wx-QF896BVORdlT378o5En6eRO4fBBFKF2M/s1600/il_fullxfull.526572102_bcne.jpg
https://i1.wp.com/img0.etsystatic.com/024/2/8503605/il_fullxfull.526572102_bcne.jpg
https://homesecurity.press/quotes/medieval-cathedral-gargoyle.html


The world changed from bad to worse with terrorism, trade wars, environmental disasters, and scams. God had been pursuing us with warnings; a safe and secure life doesn't mean a trouble-free life. [2] But we conveniently bypass undesirable security measures. I don’t want to follow computer security protocols, and my computer was attacked by ”virus”, until it cannot function. The computer “virus” was actually deliberate effort from the super-user to remove us from the network until the security implementation was completed. Being disobedient, and undisciplined had its consequences. There was no escape from those who could monitor and control us. Likewise, when God with His loving nature was determined to develop us, and to keep us safe. All for our own good.


The world changed from bad to worse with terrorism, trade wars, environmental disasters, and scams.

PHOTO: The world changed from bad to worse with terrorism, trade wars, environmental disasters, and scams. God had been pursuing us with warnings; a safe and secure life doesn't mean a trouble-free life. But we conveniently bypass undesirable security measures. There was no escape from those who could monitor and control us. Likewise, when God with His loving nature was determined to develop us, and to keep us safe. All for our own good.
Picture posted by yicai.com on 10 August 2016 at 14:39:00
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https://wpimg.wallstcn.com/da/50/cf/153338030.jpg
https://wallstreetcn.com/articles/3076849


Every generations had its unique problems, partly due to the rapid changing technology and environment. With satanic manipulations, any loopholes of new technology could be used to devise evil schemes to handicap others. The innocent “mountain tortoise” had to evolve with the help of supernatural power, and to become vigilant to avoid fiendish schemes. Following His words was the important criteria.

But being alert and vigilant may not be sufficient. With Satan’s help, desperate people could still exploit our sympathetic nature, and exhort fund from our depleting savings. Then procrastinate in returning what was borrowed. God wanted us to realise how He was feeling when we became disobedient and procrastinate from following His instructions. If God had allowed us to go our own way, we could headed for destruction. Allowing us to face difficult problems could be His way of developing us to identify similar problems. That could be how He was correcting and nurturing me, when I was in my adulthood focusing on everything except Him.

Being alert and vigilant may be insufficient.

PHOTO: Being alert and vigilant may be insufficient. With Satan’s help, desperate people could still exploit our sympathetic nature, and exhort fund from our depleting savings.  If God had allowed us to go our own way, we could headed for destruction. Allowing us to face difficult problems could be His way of developing us to identify similar problems. That could be how He was correcting and nurturing me, when I was in my adulthood focusing on everything except Him.
Charity Donation Scam
Picture posted by KEEP-SAFE Coalition on 06 October 2015
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https://keep-safe.org/wp-content/uploads/charity-scam.png
https://keep-safe.org/charity-donation-scam/


Unhealthy old age
I was not “careful”, and before I realised it, I was in my fifties. After being retrenched from employment for the second time, my learning and adapting ability deteriorated. I could no longer kept up with changing work scope and adapt fast enough in new working environment. My health also became worse, and I could no longer find suitable employment. I lost my main income, and depended on past savings for livelihood and other expenditures.


Social workers and sociologists had mixed views about whether the numbers on the scheme will rise.
PHOTO: Unhealthy old age
In my fifties, after retrenchment from employment, my learning and adapting ability deteriorated. I could no longer kept up with changing work scope and adapt fast enough in new working environment. My health also became worse, and I could no longer find suitable employment. I lost my main income, and depended on past savings for livelihood and other expenditures.
Picture posted by Kathleen Coxwell on 06 July 2016
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaZQ7Pwdvh5gN71bUHYnSq-0JIN534ibgm7wytCdATepdBRSeBm_Rjik8M9IwINASC36HcuZIbNOYzPuHnIkUqBORu3fUvRSeeOCCR2qqdWaXld5gnPFOTAOxxaQQIxTsZu0hvwegoOM/s1600/iStock_41243910_SMALL.jpg
https://cdn.newretirement.com/retirement/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/iStock_41243910_SMALL.jpg
https://www.newretirement.com/retirement/loneliness-puts-retirees-at-risk/
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/09/reflection-imitating-christ-difference.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/09/people-not-saving-enough-for-retirement.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/more-seniors-in-singapore-seek-long.html


It was also during this period, when I started to feel depressed because of so many failures happening at the same time. My muscles were failing, and I couldn’t attempt some of the exercises which I could do earlier. I suffered from stiff joints, especially at the shoulder and knees. My movements were restricted, and endurances were minimising. I have weak kidney and irregular heartbeats, added to my existing diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. My physical ability, just like my financial situation, was going downhill.


I started to feel depressed because of so many failures happening at the same time.
PHOTO:  I started to feel depressed because of so many failures happening at the same time. My movements were restricted, and endurances were minimising. I have weak kidney and irregular heartbeats, added to my existing diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. My physical ability, just like my financial situation, was going downhill.
Picture posted by Nancy Arruda on 05 July 2017
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj053PP41QeKnDq0UH7rMT_6UIySG1xJWP6MnZE9LhZm1JRNv4Q8dAvO_rFtYSk9MGtnUgyoALkkbJTce7oakFo7Rv_MIYrHjzfviXSSKNEf_gXek41RAgR8VlsI7EdXxxlYBMdC7_C8CI/s1600/wuus-July-2017-News-1.jpg
https://www.universalsky.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/wuus-July-2017-News.jpg
https://www.universalsky.com/whats-up-in-the-universal-sky-july-2017-astrological-newsletter/
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/09/reflection-imitating-christ-difference.html
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/more-seniors-in-singapore-seek-long.html


It was during my lowest moment when God provided the Park Connector Networks (PCN) for me to improve my health. Every day, before sunrise, I and my sister would walk and exercise along the PCN, and enjoying the cool morning air. As a form of bonus, God also provided elderly uncles to accompany us. Together we walk the recommended 10,000 steps daily, reaching home in time to wake up our nephew to go to school. We managed to prevent our health from deteriorating too fast, giving us a sense of achievement. With God’s protection from wild animals, bad weathers, and other dangers, we could still accomplish the impossible, to maintain our health.


It was during my lowest moment when God provided the Park Connector Networks (PCN) for me to improve my health.

PHOTO: It was during my lowest moment when God provided the Park Connector Networks (PCN) for me to improve my health. Every day, before sunrise, I and my sister would walk and exercise along the PCN, and enjoying the cool morning air. As a form of bonus, God also provided elderly uncles to accompany us. Together we walk the recommended 10,000 steps daily. With God’s protection from wild animals, bad weathers, and other dangers, we could still accomplish the impossible, to maintain our health.
Picture posted by picanimal.com on 09 January 2018 - Cygnets Beautiful Morning Ride
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruH5-8hKY9w4bf67KvT-rnTCM7GqaQbbmAnS6lGoKk-kPWmsLM08Yy0lI0CY5fG9aZhcPCsEZJjL8pxk660kH8nsfWVun1apGczYCCq-CEEHe51wglHVfEoWtKxDKdTm_4KPSNseWNkY/s1600/swan-beautiful-morning-cygnets-family-photo-desktop.jpg
http://picanimal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/birds-outing-white-bird-leaves-trees-ride-pond-swan-beautiful-morning-cygnets-family-photo-desktop.jpg
http://picanimal.com/trees-bird-pond-outing-swan-family-cygnets-beautiful-morning-ride-white-leaves-black-photos/


During my retirement, God also provide opportunities to develop spiritually. Although moving at snail pace, I try reading Christian Bible, books, and do reflections. Books by Christian authors, especially Robert M. Solomon. Other literatures are also sent to us by Our Daily Bread Ministries. Digital books are also available online.


During my retirement, God also provide opportunities to develop spiritually.

PHOTO: During my retirement, God also provide opportunities to develop spiritually. Although moving at snail pace, I try reading Christian Bible, books, and do reflections. Books by Christian authors, especially Robert M. Solomon, from Our Daily Bread Ministries, and online.
Picture posted by Fauzan
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https://i.pinimg.com/originals/47/81/7f/47817fdd6b7df5fd60b96793c6dc1034.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/fauzan7331/


God pursue us with His love and grace even when we disobeyed Him. A country bumpkin with his “mountain tortoise” characteristic, is also accepting the offer of Salvation from our Lord Jesus Christ. With the little I know, hopefully this offer of Salvation can be made known to everybody. Together, we can then have joy and real rest for eternity in heaven with God.


God pursue us with His love and grace even when we disobeyed Him.

PHOTO: God pursue us with His love and grace even when we disobeyed Him. Accept the offer of Salvation from our Lord Jesus Christ, and together, we can then have joy and real rest for eternity in heaven with God.
Picture saved by Rosmeire Cardoso Dias to PASTA DE SANTOS LUMINOSOS
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMpjY6mWnUayPyQNUQ5UT_Fgw5DxU-UjBRaETDdWXPRNsPUu-gO-zeTByFaEoqylhE7BK7aO4xcaD1Rk3_Ld0e4BF6dDwkvmc3KNS6u83-_BwpSOcwAN2bOgQqFyAhf2ElJ5KXaNqJII/s1600/6c11f8c5285824ef1fe2216cccf95082.gif
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/6c/11/f8/6c11f8c5285824ef1fe2216cccf95082.gif
https://www.pinterest.cl/pin/838795499325302928/


Dear Lord, Thank you for pursuing us out of your love even when we are running away from you. Even though your every action is met by a further act of disobedience, you still match by further gracious act. You initiates your gracious actions, and responds graciously to whatever we decide to do. We are bless because whether we act obediently or disobediently, you shows your true character: gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, and full of love.<br>Please help us not to run away from you, because running away from you is always running downwards. Thank you for still pursuing us, and intent on rescuing us in spite of our disobedience. Just as you have promised, you will grab hold, and not let go of us, forever.<br>Lord, thank you for helping us since from ignorant early age till today, by pursuing and walking with us through all the different stages of our life. Unknown to us, you have been developing us to become the people you wanted us to be – responsible and trustworthy.<br>Despite being disobedient, you slowly transform us, by guiding us through different stages of our life. You are together with us all these time, when we faced difficulties, and help us to accomplish impossible tasks. <br>Along the way we realised how you are feeling when we procrastinate, or when our love ones leave us.<br>While we still ignore your words, you still kept us in your radar, and timely intervened when the going is too tough to bear. We are grateful when you kept us safe from fiendish schemes of the world. At times we would have been enticed, and fallen into the traps, but you help us learn how to identify, and avoid them. We pray for your help to stop us from running towards such worldly attractions, but to run close towards you instead.<br>Even at our old age, you have provided opportunities to keep us healthy, both physically and spiritually. <br>Thank you for protecting us from all the dangers as we go about in our daily life. Without your help we would have been in great sufferings.<br>Thank you for preventing us to go our own way, and headed for destruction. Through your love and grace, <br>you have been correcting and nurturing us, especially when we are focusing on everything except you. <br>Please bring us back to our right sense, and focus on moving towards your safe haven.<br>Please help us to build a strong relationship with you, share your offer of Salvation with everybody, so that together we can have happiness and peace, among other good things, for eternity in heaven with you.<br>Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!

PHOTO: "Dear Lord, Thank you for pursuing us out of your love even when we are running away from you. Even though your every action is met by a further act of disobedience, you still match by further gracious act. You initiates your gracious actions, and responds graciously to whatever we decide to do. We are bless because whether we act obediently or disobediently, you shows your true character: gracious, compassionate, slow to anger, and full of love.

Please help us not to run away from you, because running away from you is always running downwards. Thank you for still pursuing us, and intent on rescuing us in spite of our disobedience. Just as you have promised, you will grab hold, and not let go of us, forever.

Lord, thank you for helping us since from ignorant early age till today, by pursuing and walking with us through all the different stages of our life. Unknown to us, you have been developing us to become the people you wanted us to be – responsible and trustworthy.

Despite being disobedient, you slowly transform us, by guiding us through different stages of our life. You are together with us all these time, when we faced difficulties, and help us to accomplish impossible tasks. Along the way we realised how you are feeling when we procrastinate, or when our love ones leave us.

While we still ignore your words, you still kept us in your radar, and timely intervened when the going is too tough to bear. We are grateful when you kept us safe from fiendish schemes of the world. At times we would have been enticed, and fallen into the traps, but you help us learn how to identify, and avoid them. We pray for your help to stop us from running towards such worldly attractions, but to run close towards you instead.

Even at our old age, you have provided opportunities to keep us healthy, both physically and spiritually. Thank you for protecting us from all the dangers as we go about in our daily life. Without your help we would have been in great sufferings.

Thank you for preventing us to go our own way, and headed for destruction. Through your love and grace, you have been correcting and nurturing us, especially when we are focusing on everything except you. Please bring us back to our right sense, and focus on moving towards your safe haven.

Please help us to build a strong relationship with you, share your offer of Salvation with everybody, so that together we can have happiness and peace, among other good things, for eternity in heaven with you.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!”
Picture saved by Jonni Parker to Amazingly Beautiful Flowers in Jonni's path
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmd3pKIH6aVo_qZsqzFYTKIVu_G5GIR2PvNGxEeM4wdCBIrlxx1zzTKkje6hdGyicxWwNJzag0i9ZKrEiwQQOtYjBMmAPinhpIHCWwI1hS9DASkBK_uL6QdqOLPU9peDf8TZAp-CeYW98/s1600/a08b998c3569eb2fa60c19664e0a64a9.gif
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/a0/8b/99/a08b998c3569eb2fa60c19664e0a64a9.gif
https://www.pinterest.cl/pin/580964420654708055/
Reflection - Jonah Runs, God Pursues - with love and grace
Question from source (book): "God in Pursuit", Chapter 2, Question 3, Page 29.
By Robert M. Solomon, Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 - 2012





 Also from the same author, Robert M. Solomon

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html



Reference
[1] From "God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, Copyright © 2017 by Robert M. Solomon, ISBN 978-1-62707-801-6, Part I: Jonah 1:1-17, Chapter 2 "Jonah Runs, God Pursues", Page 22-26.

[2] Rev Charles Seet, Psalm 18:1-3 - Secure in God, Sermon preached at Life BPC on 09 February 2014 at 8am & 1045am Svc, https://www.lifebpc.com/resources/treasury-of-sermons/43-psalm/334-psalm-18-1-3-secure-in-god

[7] For a modern adaptation of the poem, and with a more easily understandable vocabulary, see Oxley, Brian, and Oxley, Shirley, The Hound of Heaven: A Modern Adaptation (Fort Myers, Florida: Emblem Media, 2014).
PoemHunter.com, The Hound Of Heaven - Poem by Francis Thompson, https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-hound-of-heaven/, (with slight differences in punctuation, upper-case letter).

[8] Banks, Jonah: The Reluctant Prophet, 37.


New International Version (NIV), Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Jonah 1:1-3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A1-3&version=NIV

Jonah 1:1-17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A1-17&version=NIV

Jonah 1:3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A3&version=NIV

Jonah 1:4-5 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A4-5&version=NIV

Jonah 1:5 ESV - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A5&version=ESV

Jonah 1:6-7 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A6-7&version=NIV

Jonah 1:12 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A12&version=NIV

 Jonah 1:17 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+1%3A6-7&version=NIV

Jonah 4:2 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jonah+4%3A2&version=NIV

Matthew 11:28-29 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-29&version=NIV

Psalm 18:1-3 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+18%3A1-3&version=NIV
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