Testimony - Eternal Life Assembly

Shaped by God, Sustained by Grace: No longer “the girl with a chronic illness”, but God’s beloved daughter

Michelle Chiang — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 04:00:00 +0000

It began with increased thirst and urination, constant fatigue, and frequent cravings for sweet drinks. Then one day, I fell very ill, and my mother rushed me to the hospital. The doctor told her that I was in diabetic ketoacidosis – a life-threatening complication from Type 1 diabetes.

Had I gone to the hospital a day late, I would have died!

At eight years old, I did not understand what having Type 1 diabetes meant, nor expected needles, insulin, and medication to become my daily companions.

Besides pain, the injections also left scars on my abdomen and thighs, to the extent that my body was not absorbing the insulin well at one point, due to the build-up of scar tissue. The insulin pump would also malfunction because it could sense that it was unable to deliver insulin into my body.

While other children could freely enjoy ice cream, cakes, and sugary treats, I could only look at them longingly through the shop display windows.

There were activities such as swimming that I had to avoid too. School camp was out because my teachers did not allow it. I almost could not join the ultimate frisbee team because the teacher-in-charge was concerned about my condition.

Gradually, the burden of living with diabetes took over. Shame crept in as my lifestyle was different from my peers’. Fear of being seen as weak and fragile lowered my self-esteem. All the missed opportunities and the challenges my friends never had to think about made me resentful.

“The girl with a chronic illness” became an identity I gave myself.

As years passed, new worries emerged. Would I become a burden to my parents? Would anyone be willing to marry me? Could I have children, and would they inherit my condition? The future felt uncertain and discouraging, prompting countless cries to

God: “Why me?”

God did not answer my question.

In His time, He revealed His grace in the midst of my struggles.

Managing diabetes is something that cannot simply be put on hold. Any malfunctioning device or an unexpected change in blood sugar levels demands immediate attention. In those anxious moments, God gently reminded me to lift my eyes from my circumstances to Him.

One such occasion came during a school elective in India. The buttons on the insulin pump were stuck, and the pump could not work. That was my only pump for the trip, and the nearest help centre was at least two hours away. Panic set in.

My friends and my family in Singapore prayed for me fervently. God answered!

He gave my friends, who were trawling the Internet, the solution to fix the buttons. By His grace, I survived!

Even in everyday situations, God has reminded me of His care and of how real He is. There were times when only high-sugar or high-carbohydrate food was available. I would then have to administer more insulin to curb my blood sugars from spiking after meals. But there is no guarantee that my blood sugar would remain stable. Yet on many occasions, my readings had remained stable or risen only slightly. Medical science cannot fully explain this, but

truly, it is God’s gracious hand at work, even in the smallest details.

Experiences like these remind me that God is in control, even when life feels uncertain.

Over time, the condition I once resented became the very means through which

God taught me dependence

not on medication but on Him. Through every challenge, He has faithfully sustained me.

Spending time reading His Word, praying and growing in my relationship with Him led me to know who I am in Christ and to reconcile with my condition.

Yes, living with diabetes requires sacrifices, but they pale in comparison to Christ’s sacrifice for all who would believe in Him.

That truth has given me hope, purpose and strength to persevere.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

As God continued to shape my heart,

He showed me that my identity is not defined by my illness or my limitations. I am a deeply loved daughter of the Most High King.

Indeed, the fears I carried were largely unfounded. New friends did not see me as “The girl with a chronic illness”. They accepted me for who I am. The truth that my identity is firmly rooted in God’s love freed me from the insecurity that had held me captive.

It gave me a new purpose – to live for God’s glory and serve Him faithfully.

Today, I embrace life with gratitude. Rather than dwelling on what I cannot do, I choose to focus on what God has enabled me to do through His strength. His love has given me the confidence to move forward with hope.

Years ago, a pastor prayed over me,

“God is going to turn your infirmities into inspiration for people”.

At that time, I could not imagine how that would happen. Looking back, God’s hand is evident throughout my journey with Type 1 diabetes. More than a story of living with a chronic illness, it is a testimony of God’s sustaining grace, unwavering faithfulness, and overflowing love.

His grace is unending, His love is overflowing, His mercies are new every morning.

Reflections:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

2 Corinthians 12:9

Bring your “Why?” to God. Trust that even when He does not answer your questions, His grace will sustain you.
Let God shape you. Allow Him to use your struggles to transform you.
Look for God’s faithfulness every day. Recognise and thank God for His constant presence and provision, even in life’s ordinary moments.

The post Shaped by God, Sustained by Grace: No longer “the girl with a chronic illness”, but God’s beloved daughter first appeared on Eternal Life Assembly.

Another Chance to Live for Him – A journey of trust and surrender

Philip Sng — Sat, 30 May 2026 04:08:43 +0000

“You have cancer.”

Those were the only words that registered when the doctor called me in January 2026 with the final biopsy results. A large, bleeding polyp had been discovered during a colonoscopy—and it was cancerous. Just weeks earlier, on the last Sunday of 2025, I had experienced severe abdominal pain accompanied by a significant amount of blood in my stool. Two doctors initially diagnosed it as a colon infection, which subsided after a course of antibiotics and a pain injection. I thought the episode had passed. I did not expect it was only the beginning.

The news left me shell-shocked. My doctor explained that I would need surgery to remove about 20cm of my colon, or else the cancer could spread beyond control in 3 years as it would hit the lymph nodes and liver. For now, the cancer had already reached the deeper layers of the colon tissue. He reassured me that the cancer was in its early stage, and that the prognosis was good.

Yet, despite the hopeful outlook, the word ‘cancer’ felt like a death sentence and the three years, a timeline.

I struggled with the sudden news and tried to make sense of it all.

Cancer? Where did that come from? Why me? What happens next? Questions flooded my mind.

Would I face long-term treatment like my late father did with kidney failure? Would I even survive the surgery, or have the same outcome as my mother, who passed on the operating table during an angiogram? I was confronted with a future I was not ready for. What made it even harder to grasp was that I had already been dealing with autoimmune conditions—vitiligo (a chronic skin disease in which cells that make pigment are attacked and destroyed, causing the skin to turn a milk-white color) and a dysfunctional thyroid. Since August last year I had been seeking medical treatment to manage and prevent further complications. And now cancer? Why another health battle?

I was not afraid of dying.

Really. I was anxious about what life would look like after the operation if I should survive the surgery. Honestly, I was a little disappointed at this setback. There was so much I was looking forward to in this new season. I had just completed my doctorate. I had just stepped into a new leadership role in the church. I was teaching at Bible Institutions. There was momentum, vision, excitement and suddenly, everything felt interrupted and put on hold. I just couldn’t process it.

I began making calls to close friends and colleagues, informing them of the diagnosis. I am deeply grateful for my brother, family, godfamily, mentors, ministry partners, colleagues, and church friends. Though they were equally taken aback by the news, they rose up in faith — praying and walking with me in the weeks leading up to surgery.

Community became a tangible expression of God’s assurance that I am never alone in my struggle.

I was scheduled to travel to Baguio, Philippines before my surgery, to speak at an international women’s conference. With my mentor’s prompting and reminder, I decided I would focus. I chose to do so through worship, prayer and the Word. I curated a Spotify playlist titled ‘Songs of Comfort’. It played constantly — throughout the day and even during my hospital stay. I held on to God’s word daily, especially Isaiah 26:3: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” As I fixed my thoughts on Him daily, His peace guarded my heart. I prayed in the Spirit as often as I could because I just had no words to describe my pain, disappointment and confusion. Praying in the spirit strengthened me spiritually and it also prepared me for the days ahead. As my body was wasting away, God was giving me life through his Word.

During the final session of the women’s conference in Baguio, in a time of worship, I was overwhelmed by the presence of God. I found myself on my knees, face to the ground, weeping. In that sacred moment, the Lord quietened my fears and spoke gently to my heart:

This is a reset. A new season. You can trust Me.

The encounter was deeply personal—reminiscent of when I first received my calling. But this time, it was not a calling; it was a recommissioning and I had to come to a place of surrender. I had to surrender my confusion and the need for all answers. Surrender my plans, my future, my will and my entire life to Him. God was beginning to expand my faith, my perspective, and my vision. I still wrestled with my “whys”, “how comes” and “what ifs”. Surrendering was a daily exercise.

There were many moments of tears. But each time in my struggle, I sensed the Lord gently reminding me: Trust Me. Trust my plan.

I told the Lord that I would walk through this fiery trial, as long as I was assured of His presence. And He reminded me that my life was not my own. You see, when I was two years old, I had been miraculously revived from an epileptic episode that almost took my life away. My parents had prayed me back to life. For 50 years, God had held me in His hands. He would not fail me now.

I told God, “If I live, I will continue to live for You, for You are my strength and my victory each day. Because You live, I can face tomorrow, whatever the outcome. And if the surgery does not go well and I die, it is truly gain. I will be with you.”

In fact, in a conversation with Sister Diana, Pastor Gary’s wife, I told her that this was my stance – “for me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”

Two days before the surgery, I attended my last onsite service. I remembered singing the song ‘Firm Foundation’ loudly.

I was declaring truth: My house is built on You. Christ is my firm foundation.

The announcement of my surgery was made to the church after the service. The congregation prayed earnestly. I felt an overwhelming sense of love, support, and, above all, the peace of God.

God has always been faithful to see me through every fiery furnace and deep waters. In this season, I sensed that the Lord was inviting me to live out the very message I have been preaching to the church for the year:

To trust the Master’s plan, to yield to the Potter’s hand and to allow Him to empower me for expansion even through this trial.

On 24 February 2026, I went into surgery with a deep sense of peace that Jesus was with me. When I woke up from surgery, there was a deep rejoicing in my spirit although I was in pain.

I was alive! There was no infection, no stay in the high-dependency ward, no blood transfusion, and no complications. The surgery was described as “uneventful”—the best possible outcome.

I had a good surgeon—and an even greater God who presided over it all. The first words I uttered to those waiting for me in the ward were: “I am alive!” I was so grateful for another chance to live for God!

During the eight days in hospital, I witnessed God’s healing hand at work – swift, steady and sure. Each day brought good progress and much encouragement. I cleared one milestone after milestone swiftly, much to the medical team’s delight and surprise. I received exceptional care from doctors and nurses, and was surrounded by the love of family and friends. Visits, prayers, and messages strengthened me. I rested well and soon had all four tubes removed from my body. After discharge, I continued my recovery at home.

I learnt to rest and be patient with my recovery. I chose to focus on thanksgiving and praise. I curated another Spotify song playlist and played it daily, giving thanks to God and strengthening my spirit because I knew if I didn’t, I would be consumed by what I couldn’t do, couldn’t eat and where I couldn’t go. It was a season of deep restoration—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I thank God for people who sent groceries, lunches and made healthy meals for me.

On 11 March 2026, the full pathology report was released. My surgeon called with the news:

All was well – I could now be considered cancer-free. No chemotherapy. No further treatment.

This is nothing short of the grace of God. My heart overflowed with gratitude. I stood in awe of God’s mercy and kindness. He is my Healer, Deliverer, Redeemer, and Restorer. I have been given another opportunity—to live for Him, to love deeply, and to embrace the relationships and calling He has entrusted to me.

I trust Him still to bring healing to every other area of my body.

I have learned that surrender is not a one-time moment, but a daily choosing – of laying down my plans, my questions, my need to understand. And a daily renewing of my trust in my Lord.

Today, I stand on the other side of what once felt impossible. Cancer is no longer my diagnosis. Christ is my everything and my all. I carry in my body the marks of surgery which are evidence of God’s mercy and grace. What could have taken me out became the very place where I encountered God more deeply than ever before. He did not just bring me through — He met me there, walked with me and worked in me there.

I was finally able to return to church for Good Friday service. My heart was filled with joy as I stood among my church family once again in worship. In that sacred moment, I was deeply reminded that because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, I am not only a cancer overcomer I am more than a conqueror.

My life is not my own. It never was. And now, more than ever, I live remembering that every breath is a gift, every day is grace, and every step forward is an opportunity to live fully for Him.

For me to live is indeed Christ and to die is gain – ultimate, full restoration and everlasting life with Jesus. But it is not the end until He says it is the end. I look forward with faith to the good things He has prepared for me in the days to come.

The post Another Chance to Live for Him – A journey of trust and surrender first appeared on Eternal Life Assembly.

Shaped for Mission – At Every Age

Michelle Chiang — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 04:00:08 +0000

“Missions begin when we recognise that God has already been at work in our lives – shaping our stories, using our gifts and experiences for His redemptive purposes. Every believer has a role to play in His mission, both locally and across the globe.”

Rev Dr Daphne June Lau

In 2025, Eternal Life Assembly’s (“EL”) Missions Committee organised 14 mission trips and outreach events to share God’s love and spread His word in Singapore and beyond.

A total of 212 intergenerational ELites – children, youths, adults and seniors – answered God’s call to “do the good works which He has prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10).

Let us hear from eight of them what prompted them to step out in faith, and what they experienced while serving.

Q: Which mission trip did you go for?

Bernard (aged 76, English Congregation): Cambodia Care Centre.

Declan (aged 18), Gordon (aged 23), Alythea (aged 21), Hannah (aged 20) and Zanna (aged 24) (Youth): EL Cambodia

Junxiang (aged 34, Mandarin Young Adult): Outreach to migrant workers at Tuas Recreation Centre.

Frank (aged 33, Mandarin Young Adult): EL Tanjung Pinang.

Q: What prompted you to sign up for the mission trip?

Bernard: I felt God call me to step out of my comfort zone and serve others.

Declan: Honestly, my flesh was unwilling at first. But I knew that a heart of service, love, and sacrifice must be lived out through action. Cambodia, far outside my comfort zone yet hungry for God, felt like the perfect place for my first mission trip.

Gordon: I’d heard that mission trips are eye-opening experiences, so I wanted to experience one myself. I’ve received blessings throughout my life and wanted to give back.

Zanna: I had not been to Cambodia since my first mission trip in 2017. Hearing how much had changed encouraged me to go because the people there are on God’s heart.

Junxiang: Migrant workers build our homes and infrastructure, yet they are often overlooked. I joined the Tuas South outreach to show appreciation and share the love of Jesus.

Frank: I did not say “yes” immediately. After praying about it, I sensed God prompting me to step out of my comfort zone. That gave me the confidence to go.

Q: What impacted you most on the trip?

Bernard: The faith and joy of the people despite their circumstances. Many had little materially, yet their gratitude, generosity and trust in God were remarkable. I went thinking I would give, but I received far more – renewed gratitude and a deeper awareness of God’s presence.

Declan: Same here. I was blessed! Cambodia may appear “lacking” to many, but to me there was abundance – of faith, hunger for God and heartfelt worship. Seeing believers sacrifice so much to serve Him reminded me to keep God at the centre of my life.

Gordon: It has to be EL Cambodia’s love for God. The leaders served sacrificially while juggling school and ministry, yet always with joy. And even though many of the team members fell ill before the trip, God carried us through. It reminded me to trust Him fully.

Zanna: Indeed, God was with us all the way. I was supposed to preach with notes on my iPad, but it couldn’t connect to Wi-Fi. After a quick prayer, I spoke without a script, and ideas kept coming as I spoke – even demonstrating “being the light of the world” with a headlamp. It reminded me that God equips us when we rely on Him.

Alythea: I was deeply moved by the believers’ hunger for God despite persecution from friends or family. Their sincere worship and bold faith showed me what genuine faith looks like – trusting God even when it is costly.

Hannah: Missions are not limited to overseas trips. We can reach people around us in Singapore who have yet to know Christ. I want to continue bringing God’s love to the people around me – to be the salt and light wherever He places me.

Junxiang: I learnt that sometimes a simple act of service opens doors. Offering to take a photo for two migrant brothers led to a friendly conversation.

Frank: The people we met made the biggest impact. Even though we were together for only a few days, the bond felt deep. It reminded me how God’s love connects people beyond differences.

Q: What would you say to someone considering going on a mission trip?

Bernard: Don’t wait until you feel ready. Missions is not about ability but willingness. God will work in your heart as you serve.

Declan: Go for it! Even when doubts come, trust that God will provide. Missions bless not only others but it also allows God to enrich our spiritual lives.

Gordon: Go! Stepping outside our “little red dot” helps us see how God is working beyond our familiar surroundings.

Zanna: Mission trips allow us to experience God’s empowerment for His kingdom purposes.

Junxiang: Missions does not always mean going overseas. There are many opportunities in Singapore to bless others and share God’s love.

Frank: Step out in faith. God works powerfully through willing hearts, and the experience will transform your faith.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” – Ephesians 2:10

Eternal Life Assembly thanks every ELite who has answered God’s call to carry out the Great Commission – spreading His love in Singapore and beyond.

Age is no barrier. We are all SHAPED FOR GOD’S MISSION.

Step out in faith today. Click here to find out more about EL’s missions and indicate your interest for the upcoming mission trips in 2026.

The post Shaped for Mission – At Every Age first appeared on Eternal Life Assembly.