I officially retired after 38 years of full-time career. Our loving God has blessed me and my family in bountiful ways more than I deserve. After graduation in 1981, I had opted for a stable civil service career in Ministry of Defence as my first job. After working in MINDEF for 12 years, I joined the private sector despite the uncertain and volatile environment. God is so gracious and never failed me despite my wavering faith throughout my spiritual journey since my baptism in 1975. God said, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” (Jeremiah 31:3)
In 2018, I thought I was ready for retirement. Although I prayed for God’s guidance, in my human will I wanted to pursue a course which I thought I was well-prepared for. I could not adjust to the changes. After attending courses, followed by a few failed ventures, my pride and ego that was built up over a long successful career took a deep dive. I suddenly felt worthless. The crushing feeling was deep-seated; everyone in the family was contributing through their jobs, except me. I went into depression and at times harboured suicidal thoughts.
During this very trying period, I turned to God for healing and help. I was worried that recovery will be long. Apart from family support, Elder Boon from Cornerstone Church stayed close and responded promptly whenever I needed prayers, counselling and support. Together with regular consultation at Ng Teng Fong Hospital and taking low dosage medication for 1.5 years, thank God I have fully recovered.
During the recovery process, I kept myself busy in church ministry, taking care of the growing needs of my grandchildren, volunteering with RSVP (an organisation of Seniors), helping out at the Community Club, and writing letters on behalf of the vulnerable to apply for aid from government agencies. God’s wonderful steadfast love in the last 5 years helped me to transit my life to one where I can be fulfilled in a different way to my past career.
Since retirement, I have made new friends with new groups, such as Cornerstone Church, and attended worship services at Suntec City. I learnt to be thankful and appreciate the things that I presently have, and forget my past glories. At this stage of my life, my main goal is to bless the lives of others through my service and volunteering work. In the last 5 years, I learnt humility and priorities, and to overlook trivial matters.
My application for a transfer from my home church of more than 40 years to Cornerstone is a significant milestone in my spiritual journey. Though my spiritual knowledge is lacking, I am happy to serve and advance God’s kingdom. I look forward to contribute at Cornerstone and to deepen fellowship with brethren through church activities. To God be the Glory!
“It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.” Lamentations 3:22.