We have just celebrated our 54th National Day and we have much to thank God for His blessings on our nation.
In my interaction with fellow Singaporeans, some do not appreciate how blessed we are living in our small island state. We have little natural resources and yet we are enjoying many blessings that other countries aspire and seek after. The following are some of the blessings I thank God for.
1.Religious freedom
2.Racial harmony
3.Clean water
4.Spoilt for choice for food
5.Good public health
6.Good health care
7.Good housing
8.Clean and green environment
9.High standard of education
10.High employment rate
11.Corruption is in check
12.Law and order
13.Safety and security
14.No earthquake, tsunami, hurricane, volcanic eruption, etc.
15.Our people’s generous response to the needs of those in dire situations, (e.g. disaster victims in other countries, etc.)
Admittedly, no nation is perfect. I pray that God will continue to grant us, Singaporeans, humility, gratefulness, graciousness, resilience and love for people [expressed in terms of respect, service, giving, practical help, etc.]. And I pray that He will continue to grant our leaders: humility, honesty, patience, love for people, wisdom and the will to do what is right, willingness to spend more time listening and communicating with the people and to respond to their needs.
So, as we continue to celebrate our National Day, let us be grateful and thankful to God for the many blessings He has showered on us. Pray for our nation and leaders continually. For in 1 Timothy 2:1-2, we are urged to make requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving for everyone – for kings and all those in authority that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
And for believers, I pray that we will, by His Spirit and grace, continue to “hold unswervingly to the hope that we profess, for He who promised is faithful” and “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:23-24) which include being the salt of the earth and light of the world, Christ’s ambassadors, witnesses and disciple-makers.
By Mr Lim Han Soon (YCKC Bulletin 11 August 2019)