following the ways and commands of the Lord

I truly realised that God's agenda for us is not to bind us to his commandments, his precepts, his ways for His own good. I really believe and know in my heart that it is for our own good that He says certain things He does, to protect us, to shield us from pain/harm.

This is further affirmed by Psalm 19 that spoke to me today, very clearly.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

7 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul;the testimony of the Lord is sure,making wise the simple;

8 the precepts of the Lord are right,rejoicing the heart;the commandment of the Lord is pure,enlightening the eyes;

9 the fear of the Lord is clean,enduring forever;the rules of the Lord are true,and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold,even much fine gold;sweeter also than honeyand drippings of the honeycomb.

11 Moreover, by them is your servant warned;in keeping them there is great reward.

12 Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults.

13 Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins;let them not have dominion over me!Then I shall be blameless,and innocent of great transgression.

(Psalms 19: 7-13 )

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Recently, a dear old friend of mine S, got together with my ex-coll's friend G. G is a christian who attends NCC. S is somewhat of an anti-christ but has thankfully mellowed over the years. So, now, G has not been attending church because she spends late nights out with S or she stays over with S.

One fine example of the consequence of being unequally yoked.

Fellowship is really important. Some people said church is not important, and that you can read the bible and worship at home, and also listen to online sermons. But corporate worship with fellow believers is different from worshipping God alone.. and surely believers who have experienced that would know the difference. The bible also says that when two and more are present, there He is in their midst. God rejoices in having His people worship Him as one body. And I think it is really really important. I just pray that G can get S to go to church. I have been waiting for her salvation a long while, praying every now and then. Will just wait for God's perfect timing.
.