Adult Camp 09 - HEROES

I felt like going thru an 'emotional roller coaster' for the past 2 weeks; The passing of Grandma, followed by Adult Camp. Honestly, it's hard to feel excited & prepared for the camp... In addition, the need to stay up late almost every nite during the wake... OOH... That adds on to the tiredness...

Admist the tiredness, camp was good!!!... In my opinion, camp is only good if I am able to bring back something with me to work on... :) Since the theme of the camp is 'HEROES', there are many bible characters that were being taught to us... And I realised that there is one common trait in the life of these heroes: Their r/s with God. Every single one of them had a close, intimate r/s with God. They knew God as a multi-dimensional God, both as a loving Father, as well as a great coach. Their r/s with God sustained them thru various situations & difficult times.

One thing that I brought back with me is the aspect on my faith in God. 'Active Faith vs Passive Faith'!!!... The question I asked myself is, 'How am I living out my faith in God?'... Upon reflection, I realised that my faith in God is rather passive. I often find myself trapped in not standing up for my faith when situation calls for it. To me, NOT DOING the wrong thing is good enough, as compared to CHOOSING to do the right one. Again, I asked myself, 'What does others see in me?'... Do they see CHRIST in me, the quality of God's character, confidence in God, conviction in my faith? etc...

I was blew!!!... Living out an authentic Christian life is not easy, or should I say, it's Tough?... However, doesn't God wants us to learn what perseverance actually means? Having to go thru some struggles in life is not necessary a bad thing... :p At least thru them, we know that we still need Him daily to do life with us, and that in itself, produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, HOPE. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us (Rom 5:3-5). Isn't He good?... :)

Lots to learn & grow...