(Here’s an excerpt of a conversation that I recently had with Ms Jane Yang, author of the book, “God of the Ordinary.” The 91-year-old reflects on her life filled with simplicity and contentment— which I believe the secret of her full and joyful life.)
Born on November 24, 1933, as I approach my 91st birthday, I find myself reflecting on my life. Looking back, there isn’t a single achievement that stands out, but rather a life lived responding to what God placed before me. I never had grand plans or ambitions, but I believe this simplicity was part of God’s design for me. My life verse could easily be found in Philippians 4:11: “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” This journey of contentment is one I treasure deeply.
Throughout my life, I never chased after success or recognition. When others achieved great things, I celebrated with them, feeling no envy. I believe this contentment has been a gift from God. As 1 Timothy 6:6 reminds us, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” I didn’t need more than what God provided, and I’ve always trusted that He would open doors when the time was right. God’s faithfulness has been evident, and I’ve seen Him guide my steps even when I didn’t fully understand His plan.
Whether it was caring for my students during their illness or helping others in need, I’ve always acted out of love, trusting that God was using me to make a difference. Sometimes these acts of kindness led me into complicated situations, but I’ve learned that following Christ isn’t about avoiding challenges. Instead, it’s about having faith, even when the outcome is uncertain. As Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Even in raising my three sons, I didn’t see it as an achievement but as my God-given duty as a mother. People often tell me that raising God-fearing men is one of my greatest successes, but I simply did what was necessary, trusting that God would take care of the rest. Psalm 127:3 says, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” I’ve always believed that my children’s spiritual growth is a reflection of God’s grace and not just my own efforts.
Though I was baptized as a child, my real spiritual journey began during the charismatic movement in the 1970s. That was when I truly began to understand what it meant to walk with God and experience the joy of the Holy Spirit. It was a turning point in my life, one that filled me with a deeper sense of purpose. Romans 8:14 says, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” From that moment on, I sought to be led by the Spirit in everything I did, trusting in God’s guidance.
Establishing the Marine Parade Christian Centre was one of the ministries God led me into. I never saw myself as particularly clever or capable, but God used me despite my limitations. As 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” I have seen firsthand how God’s grace carries us through, especially when we feel inadequate. My journey with God has never been about perfection but about being willing to say, “Here I am, Lord. Use me.”
As I reflect on the years gone by, I see how God’s timing has been perfect, even when it didn’t match my own expectations. When my husband passed away in my early 40s, I struggled to understand why, but I learned to trust in God’s plan.
One of the greatest joys has been giving to others. Whether it was giving away my best dresses or helping someone in need, I have always found joy in generosity. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” God has always provided for me, and it’s been a blessing to share His abundance with others.
As I think about the legacy I want to leave, I am reminded of the importance of holding on to God through every season of life. Proverbs 3:3-4 says, “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” This is the message I want to pass on to my children, grandchildren, and future generations: hold on to God, remain faithful, and trust Him in all things.
Forgiveness has been another important lesson I’ve learned. It took me years to forgive someone, but once I let go, I found peace. Ephesians 4:32 teaches us to “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Holding onto grudges only weighs us down, and I’ve experienced the freedom that comes from releasing past hurts.
God has been faithful through every season, and I wouldn’t change a thing. My prayer is that the next generation will find contentment not in worldly success, but in walking closely with God, trusting Him with all their hearts.
★★★★★
One of the greatest joys has been giving to others. Whether it was giving away my best dresses or helping someone in need, I have always found joy in generosity. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.” God has always provided for me, and it’s been a blessing to share His abundance with others.
