Tag: New Testament

Categories
Music Songs

Jacob’s Well

Man speaking to woman holding a water jar by a stone well with inscription
A man and a woman converse beside an ancient well in a rural setting.

🎶 A Song Inspired by John 4

I’m delighted to share my new song, “Jacob’s Well,” a heartfelt worship piece inspired by the powerful encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4. This passage has always spoken deeply to me, and this song seeks to capture its timeless message of grace, transformation, and true spiritual thirst.

💧 The Story Behind the Song

, In John 4, we see Jesus meeting a woman at a well, a simple, everyday setting that becomes a place of divine revelation. What moves me most is how Jesus crosses boundaries, social, cultural, and spiritual, to offer “living water.” This living water is not physical but eternal, satisfying the deepest longing of the human soul.

While writing Jacob’s Well, I reflected on how often we search for fulfilment in temporary things, yet remain thirsty. The Samaritan woman’s journey, from confusion to revelation, from isolation to witness, inspired the emotional and spiritual flow of the song.

🎼 Musical Style and Mood

The song is written in a gentle, reflective worship style, with a melody that is easy to sing along to. I intentionally kept the structure simple and meditative, allowing listeners to linger on the message rather than be distracted by complexity. The music builds gradually, mirroring the unfolding conversation at the well.

🌿 Themes and Message

Jacob’s Well highlights several key spiritual truths:

  • God meets us where we are, even in unexpected places.
  • Jesus offers living water that satisfies the soul permanently.
  • Transformation leads to testimony, like the woman who ran back to her village to share the good news.
  • True worship is in spirit and truth, not confined to a place.

I hope listeners will hear not just a retelling of Scripture, but a personal invitation: Come to the Well. Drink deeply. Be changed.

💡 A Personal Reflection

Writing this song reminded me that we all have our own “wells”, places where we encounter God in quiet, ordinary moments. And just like the Samaritan woman, our past does not disqualify us from receiving His grace. Instead, it becomes part of our testimony.

🙏 Final Thoughts

My prayer is that Jacob’s Well will encourage you to draw nearer to Christ and experience the life-giving water He freely offers. May it also inspire you to share that joy with others.

“Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.” John 4:14

Thank you for listening and journeying with me.

Listen to “Jacob’s Well” here

Join the Conversation

I would love to hear how this song speaks to your own journey of faith. What does Jacob;s Well means to you? Leave a comment below, share this post with someone who needs a reminder of God’s grace today, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more behind-the-scenes updates on my musical and writing journey!

Download

Free ebook, The Gospel according to Luke, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/bcb88f94-7904-11ec-8dca-5361fbc9fae8

Dr Andrew C S Koh


Categories
Music Songs

The Father who ran

Two men embracing tightly on a city sidewalk with bags on the ground nearby
Two men share a heartfelt hug on a city sidewalk at dusk.

A Song of Scandalous Grace

We have all heard the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. We know the beats of the narrative. The rebellious son demands his inheritance, squanders it in a distant land, hits rock bottom in a pigpen, and decides to crawl back home begging to be a hired servant.

But there is a specific, radical moment in that scripture that completely flips the cultural norms of the ancient world upside down.

It’s the moment the Father ran.

My new song, “The Father Ran,” is born directly out of this profound, beautiful text. It is a musical reflection on the heart of a Father who doesn’t wait for us to clean ourselves up before He embraces us.

The Scandal of the Running Father

In ancient Near Eastern culture, an elder patriarch, a man of stature and wealth, never ran. It was considered deeply undignified. To run meant a man had to lift up his long robes, exposing his ankles, a deeply humiliating act in that society.

Yet, Luke 15:20 tells us:

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”

The Father didn’t walk. He didn’t wait on the porch with a lecture prepared. He didn’t demand an apology first. He cast aside his dignity, broke all the social rules, and ran to bridge the gap. He took the shame of the village upon himself to intercept his broken son before anyone else could condemn him.

Behind the Song

When I sat down to compose “The Father Ran,” I wanted the music and the lyrics to capture that breathtaking transition from the heavy, lonely isolation of the pigpen to the overwhelming, fast-paced joy of the Father’s embrace.

This song is for anyone who feels like they’ve wandered too far. It’s for the person who thinks their past is too messy, their mistakes are too loud, or that they’ve used up their second chances.

The message of this song is simple: God is not waiting to judge you; He is running to restore you.

Listen to “The Father Ran” Now

Join the Conversation

I would love to hear how this song speaks to your own journey of faith. What does the image of a running Father mean to you? Leave a comment below, share this post with someone who needs a reminder of God’s scandalous grace today, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more behind-the-scenes updates on my musical and writing journey!

Download

Free ebook, The Gospel according to Luke, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/bcb88f94-7904-11ec-8dca-5361fbc9fae8

Dr Andrew C S Koh


Categories
Music Songs

The Good Samaritan

Young man assisting elderly woman kneeling on cobblestone street
A young man helps an elderly woman who has fallen on a cobblestone street.

A Song about compassion that crosses boundaries

In a world filled with division, suspicion, and indifference, the story of the Good Samaritan remains one of the most powerful teachings ever told by Jesus.

My new song, “The Good Samaritan,” is inspired by the parable found in Luke 10:25–37, a story that challenges us to move beyond words and show mercy through action.

The Story Behind the Song

Jesus told the story of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who was attacked by robbers, beaten, and left half dead on the roadside.

Several religious men passed by him.
They saw the wounded man.
But they kept walking.

Then came a Samaritan, someone considered an outsider and enemy by the Jews of that time. Instead of ignoring the wounded stranger, he stopped, cared for his wounds, carried him to safety, and paid for his recovery.

Jesus ended the parable with a simple but life-changing command:

“Go and do likewise.”

That message became the heartbeat of this song.

Why This Message Matters Today

It is easy to talk about faith.
It is harder to live it.

The Good Samaritan reminds us that love is not measured by religious appearance, but by compassion in action. True faith bends down to help the hurting, even when it is inconvenient.

In today’s world, many people feel wounded:

  • emotionally
  • spiritually
  • financially
  • relationally

Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply stopping to care.

This song is a reminder that kindness still matters, mercy still heals, and God can use ordinary people to reflect His love.

Writing the Song

While writing The Good Samaritan, I wanted the lyrics to feel both biblical and personal, faithful to the Gospel narrative while speaking to modern listeners.

The song moves through:

  • the loneliness of the wounded traveler,
  • the silence of those who passed by,
  • and the unexpected compassion of the Samaritan.

Musically, I wanted it to carry both tenderness and hope, because mercy changes lives.

The Spiritual Challenge

The question behind the parable is not:
“Who is my neighbor?”

The real question is:
“Will I become a neighbor to someone in need?”

That is the challenge Jesus leaves with every believer.

Listen and Share

I pray this song encourages you to live out your faith with compassion, courage, and generosity.

If the song blesses you, please listen, share it with others, and help spread the message of God’s love through music.

Download

The Gospel according to Luke, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/bcb88f94-7904-11ec-8dca-5361fbc9fae8

Dr Andrew C S Koh


Categories
devotion

Finding Gratitude in Every Circumstance

Devotion: In Everything Give Thanks

Scripture

In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Reflection

If you look closely, this verse isn’t really saying “be thankful for everything.” Instead, it says “be thankful in everything.” That’s a big deal because it means you don’t have to force yourself to be thankful for rough patches, like a flat tire, getting sick, or facing obstacles. 

The Bible doesn’t just mention “some things” or “a few things.” It talks about everything. And when it says everything, it really means all of it, big stuff, small stuff, important stuff and trivial stuff. l 

Philippians 4:6-7 is all about not letting anxiety take over your life. Whenever you’re feeling stressed out, just take a moment to chat with God. Ask for His help and remember to say thank You for the good stuff too. This is a great way to deal with your worries. And then, you’ll feel that peace from God that goes beyond what you can understand, keeping your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.

When things get tough, try to find thankfulness by remembering that God’s goodness is still around you. He’s always there, guiding you through everything for your growth and betterment, just like it says in Romans 8:28.

Practicing gratitude is a great way to step back from the crazy stuff going on around you. It reminds you to look to the One who supports and cares for you. Jesus can be like your personal “reset button,” making it easier to handle and get past those negative feelings that might mess with how you see things.

It helps you see and value the kindness and understanding that’s always around you, even when times get tough. At the core, this routine is all about helping you find that inner peace and build a stronger connection while you grow spiritually.

Prayer

Father, help me notice the little things today that usually go unnoticed, like the cozy warmth of the sun and the friendly smiles of people around me. I’m making a real effort to be grateful for what I have, even with everything going on. I believe You’re always here with me, helping me tackle whatever life throws my way. 

I’ve come to understand that even minor things can really boost my mood, so I want to take a minute to acknowledge and treasure those small details that make my day a bit brighter. Thanks a lot for sticking by my side through everything.

You’ve shown me how important it is to appreciate both the little things and the big stuff in life. With profound humility, I worship You, Almighty God, for I know there is absolutely none like You anywhere in existence. 

Your wondrous attributes and boundless kindness leave me utterly speechless, as I reflect on the unparalleled nature of Your being. I lift my voice and heart in adoration, celebrating the unique essence of Your divinity. Truly, You are the One and Only God, deserving of all my praise and devotion. In Jesus’ name, Amen,

Click to the link and get a free ebook, 33 days of Daily Faith, by Dr Andrew C S Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/8ee89042-ed49-11f0-9c2c-7f45f393f813

Dr Andrew C S Koh
Categories
devotion

The Power of Forgiveness: Finding Peace Within

Devotion: Passing the Cup

Scripture

And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32.

Reflection

Imagine grace as a vibrant river that flows through you, giving you what you need, instead of being a quiet pond that stays put next to you and your feelings. 

When you finally understand the depth of God’s forgiveness to you, it will seriously alters how you feel about those who annoy, hurt, or let you down during your life. 

Just because you decide to let go of the grudge doesn’t mean you’re saying what they did to you was right or should be brushed under the rug.

You’re making a real effort to shake off the emotional baggage they gave you, just like how Christ has taken away the emotional baggage of your sins.. 

If you keep being bitter and resentful, you’re locking yourself up in a prison of your own making. Your bad vibes and thoughts hold you captive. 

When you actively choose to forgive people who had messed up with you, you’ll realize that you’re the one who ends up feeling good about it all. 

Letting go of that bitterness not only helps you ditch the anger but also opens the door to healing and becoming a better version of yourself. Ultimately, embracing forgiveness can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful existence. 

Matthew 6:14-15 really hits the point that forgiveness matters a lot. It tells that when you forgive others, God will forgive you too. Letting go of what others have done to you can be tough, but if you do, God will be happy to forgive you as well. Holding onto those bad feelings keeps you from receiving God’s grace, so it’s better to release them.

Meditation

Reflect on a moment when someone did you dirty, leaving a mark on your heart and mind. Spend a moment to connect with all those feelings around that painful experience and really feel how heavy that grudge is.

Envision yourself in a nice chill moment where you’re finally letting go of that heavy “debt” you’re carrying, sharing it with God and honestly saying, “I choose to forgive because You forgave me first, and I really want that grace to shine in my life.” 

Allow yourself to truly experience the relief that comes from letting go of anger and resentment by embracing the strength and change that forgiveness brings. 

Taking a leap like this lets you let go of any bitterness that’s been weighing you down and helps you realize just how grateful you should be for those amazing moments that life has thrown your way.

Click the link below and get a free ebook “Ephesians: Every Spiritual Blessing in the heavenly places in Christ”

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/ac8d13f6-7931-11ec-afb2-93d74e05b123

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
bible study book promotion books

Transform Your Faith Journey with Christian E-books

Welcome to Book Haven Digital E-book store

Enjoy seamless downloads and carry your faith with you wherever you go. Join our community of readers and experience the transformative power of Christian literature today!

Let the words of scripture guide you in your walk of faith. Deepen your spiritual journey one page at a time. Immerse yourself in the wisdom and encouragement found within the pages of our e-books, to enrich your faith journey.

Discover e-books that will uplift your spirit and inspire you on your path of spiritual growth. With the convenience of digital downloads, you can easily access these transformative resources anywhere, anytime.

Experience the joy of diving into biblical wisdom and let it shape your faith journey in profound ways.

Book Collection (catalogue)

https://csk.lemonsqueezy.com

About the Author

Dr. Andrew C. S. Koh is a Christian author with an impressive portfolio of 40 published books. He is a writer, blogger, podcaster, Bible teacher, digital creator, and medical director. He studied theology at Laidlaw College in Auckland, New Zealand, and now lives in Malaysia with his family. He set a record in the Malaysia Book of Records for publishing the most books in 2021. Bringing Faith to Life Through Inspiring Stories and Timeless Truths Author of From Stethoscope to Wisdom: https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/a517155c-75a2-11ef-a813-bbd0e34c8b27   Link Tree:   https://linktr.ee/andrewcskoh    Universal book link:   https://books2read.com/ap/xX066D/Dr-Andrew-C-S-Koh   New Release Notification:   https://books2read.com/author/dr-andrew-c-s-koh/subscribe/1/384961/   Free Books:   https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/b295be58-7736-11ec-ac4b-e34d930c508e   https://books2read.com/u/3kYJlN  

Testimonial

“Dr. Andrew C S Koh has such a wonderful way of bringing the Bible to life in his books” Rowan Elizabeth Creech.

Free Download-Galatians

book cover galatians

Reviews

Dr. Koh’s reflections have been very enlightening to me. His words helped me to apply God’s Word in my everyday life. H. Nana, Amazon, 5 stars.

The author’s extensive knowledge and relatable writing style make this a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Scripture, Ric Hazel, E Book Fair, 5 stars.

Dr Koh has a vast knowledge of the Bible, and he explains each verse, along with the setting and context, Jennifer Surdam, Kobo, Goodreads, Bookbub, 5 stars.

A good commentary of the book of Galatians. I used it a chapter per day as a devotional. Most encouraging and enlightening, D F Hamman, Amazon, 5 stars.

Dr. Koh provides guidance on prayer and learning while providing enlightenment concerning historical and situational information on Paul and this epistle to the Galatians, Robert Foland, Bookbub, 5 stars.

A great way to study the Epistle of Galatians.It is well written, easy to read and easy to comprehend. I recommend this book as a good resource for furthering your understanding of the epistle, Kevin Booker, Amazon, 5 stars.

A beautiful study of Apostle Paul’s teaching to the Gentiles and Jews and his clear message about the doctrines of the church. This is a great book to read and learn Apostle Paul’s teaching and his strong advice that “Keeping the Law ” and ” Faith in Christ are two different teachings, J Sharmani, Bookbub, Goodreads, 5 stars.

The format of the book is the passage of scripture, translated into easy-to-understand words, reiteration, and a simple prayer. A great format for All, T Townsend, Amazon, Apple, Goodreads, Bookbub, 5 stars.

This is another great book for the Biblical student. Dr. Koh does a wonderful job breaking down the text and making it so relatable to today’s world, PAR, Goodreads, Bookbub, 5 stars.

The Epistle to the Galatians is commonly considered one of the earliest foundational instructions of the Christian faith. Archbishop M H Ng, Anglican Archbishop of South East Asia.

Free Download

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
short story

Short story: Touching the hem of God

. 

On the streets of Capernaum, I carried with me for years the name that would become associated with me, the woman with blood issues.

I was sick and felt weak and hopeless. However, I still had faith in my heart. One day, something happened that completely changed my life.

One morning, I heard whispers of Jesus being a miracle healer, and his stories of compassion and power to cure quickly sparked hope in me. Somehow I knew He held the key to my freedom from my affliction; thus inspiring faith and hope as I journeyed on a trip to search for Him and witness His power firsthand.

I inched forward slowly through the crowd of a mix of multitudes. Although it was challenging to approach Jesus in my condition, my strong desire for healing pushed me forward, overriding any doubts or concerns I had.

As I neared Him closer, excitement mixed with nervousness moved within my soul. I looked upon Jesus, fully understanding this was my moment for redemption. Even a simple touch of his robe had the power to unleash miraculous healing. I confidently moved through the crowd, feeling my faith grow with each step. I had a peaceful confidence in His power, knowing that my breakthrough was nearby.

At that moment, Jesus passed by, and I touched the hem of His robe. Instantly, I felt a powerful surge of energy flowing through me, as if healing was flowing from Him and into me. Within moments, years of pain vanished with no trace. The blood stopped flowing, and pain and weakness no longer plagued me, they were completely vanquished.

While I stood there in awe, Jesus looked around and asked, “Who touched me?” His disciples were startled, but He persisted in searching for someone whose faith had released His healing powers.

With fear and trembling, I stepped forward and admitted that I was the one who had touched Him. I then honestly shared my testimony with Him and the crowd. Jesus looked upon me with mercy and gently told me my faith had indeed healed me. He bestowed peace on me.

Tears of joy streamed down my cheeks. From that day forward, my life took on new meaning as an example of God’s power and healing presence in my life.

After experiencing this divine encounter with Jesus Christ, I felt forever thankful and loved. Not only was He instrumental in healing me from my past struggles; now my future holds promise because of Him.

This story comes from Mark 5:25–34, Luke 8:43–48, and Matthew 9:20–22.

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
article short story

The Miracle Lunch Box

On a day, near the Sea of Galilee, I decided to offer my lunch, consisting of five barley loaves and two fish to Jesus. Little did I anticipate that this simple gesture would transform into a feast for thousands of people.


As the crowd gathered around Jesus, eager to hear His teachings, I searched for a spot where I could listen attentively. Despite my hunger, I knew that my meager lunch wouldn’t suffice for such a number of people. Jesus started to speak. His words captivated us all for hours on end.


As the sun started its descent, hunger began to gnaw at the crowd. Jesus turned to His disciples and inquired about acquiring food for everyone. Philip expressed doubts about the feasibility of feeding such a multitude. It was then that Andrew noticed my lunch box and led me towards Jesus.


With anticipation, I presented Him with my offering. Jesus offered up a prayer to His Father, blessed the food before Him, broke it into pieces and started distributing it among the crowd. To my amazement, those five loaves and two fish multiplied miraculously, continuously satisfying everyone’s hunger. Enough to feed 5000 men, and there were even leftovers!


This miracle extended beyond satiating their physical appetite; it touched their hearts deeply and provided them with spiritual nourishment as well. From that day I dedicated myself wholeheartedly as a follower of Jesus Christ. Spreading His teachings with unwavering enthusiasm.


Word quickly spread about the event, attracting people from near and far who were eager to witness the power of Jesus. I eagerly shared my account, emphasizing the profound truth that even the smallest offering can hold immense significance in the hands of the Almighty.
The miraculous occurrence, with the lunch box served as a reminder of God’s unwavering provision and boundless love. Every time I encounter bread or fish it instantly brings back memories of that day by the Sea of Galilee.


As time went on I was fortunate enough to witness an array of miracles performed by Jesus, – healing, feeding, and even raising the dead. However, among all these awe-inspiring events there was something about the miracle involving that humble lunch box. It reminded me to offer everything I have to Jesus, no matter how small, and trust that He can use it in amazing ways.


Reflecting upon that day fills my heart with gratitude for having been a partaker, in such a divine moment. My simple meal transformed into a testament to God’s provision and unending love. Now countless individuals are inspired by this memory – it continues to ignite faith and instill hope within their hearts.

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
bible study devotion

Feast of Tabernacle: devotion

Devotion

photo of a river

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we pray for soft, responsive, and receptive hearts to hear You speak to us. We pray for the transformation of our hearts and minds, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Setting

Jesus left Judea and came to Galilee because the Jewish religious rulers were plotting to harm Him. The Israelites were celebrating the feast of Tabernacles for 8 days. This feast commemorates the 40 years of wilderness wandering. The highlight of the feast was the water ceremony on the last day.

John 7:37-39

Now on the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink! He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, from within him will flow rivers of living water.” But he said this about the Spirit, which those believing in him were to receive. For the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus wasn’t yet glorified.

Reflection

The priest performed the water ceremony on the last day of the feast of Tabernacle. The priest will take water from the pool of Siloam with a golden pitcher, walk around the altar 7 times, and pour the water on the altar. Just when the priest was pouring out the water, Jesus declared in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Who ever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” The Holy Spirit is symbolically represented by living water. Jesus is symbolized by the rock. The water ceremony was a profound way to remember the story in Exodus 17:6. “Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.” 

Application

The promise of salvation is a universal promise. If you come to Jesus and receive Him as your Lord and Saviour, you will be saved, and the Holy Spirit will enter into you. To be saved, one must accept Jesus’ invitation with a positive response and believe in Him. The joy of the Holy Spirit will overflow from within you to others. 

Matthew 11:28, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Prayer

Dear God, we believe that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah and the Holy One of Israel. Thank You for salvation, justification, sanctification and eternal life. Thank You for mercy and grace, in Jesus name, we pray. Amen. 

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
bible study devotion

Woman of Samaria: Devotion:

Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com

devotion

picture of.a lady rowing a boat
Photo by Andre Furtado on Pexels.com

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we pray for soft, responsive, and receptive hearts to hear You speak to us. We pray for the transformation of our hearts and minds, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Setting

Jesus left Judea and came to Galilee because the Jewish religious rulers were plotting to harm Him. The Israelites were celebrating the feast of Tabernacles for 8 days. This feast commemorates the 40 years of wilderness wandering. The highlight of the feast was the water ceremony on the last day.

John 7:37-39

37 Now on the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink! 38 He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, from within him will flow rivers of living water.” 39 But he said this about the Spirit, which those believing in him were to receive. For the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus wasn’t yet glorified.

Reflection

On the last day of the feast, the priest will perform the water ceremony. in the temple The priest will take water from the pool of Siloam with a golden pitcher, walk around the altar 7 times, and pour the water on the altar. Just when the priest was pouring out the water, Jesus declared in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Who ever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” The Holy Spirit is symbolically represented by living water. Jesus is symbolized by the rock. The water ceremony was a profound way to remember the story in Exodus 17:6. “Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.” 

Application

The promise of salvation is a universal promise. If you come to Jesus and receive Him as your Lord and Saviour, you will be saved and you will be filled by the Holy Spirit. The prerequisite for salvation is responding to Jesus’ invitation positively and believing by faith. The joy of the Holy Spirit will overflow from within you to others. 

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11;28

Prayer

Dear God, we believe that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah and the Holy One of Israel. Thank You for salvation, justification, sanctification and eternal life. Thank You for mercy and grace, in Jesus name, we pray. Amen. 

Dr Andrew C S Koh