MARRIED LIFE: Initial Report

After almost a month of being married, I can say that we're doing pretty well. I know that we are still in the honeymoon stages of this new life together...but still...God's grace is overwhelming. 

Marriage has proven to be tough on newbies like us...especially in trusting God and keeping your faith in His sovereignty. Romans 8:28 has been our battle cry from day one. I thought I've properly covered all the bases...but no one can really be prepared with what's coming. My melancholic side is constantly tormented with the unannounced and unforseen testings and trials...It can really push you to a corner where all you have left are stored Bible doctrine. But even after all the hardships and anxiety attacks...I am choosing to praise and trust God!

Lately, the call of God for the ministry has been exponentially intensifying in my soul...since the death of our missionaries in Hernani because of the super typhoon that ravaged through Central Philippines, I feel like God is calling me to do something. I know that after all the relief efforts, rebuilding will be the next step...and this time, I want to offer myself to help.

I am not an action man who can quickly respond to an immediate need...but I know God has equipped me with a unique combination of personality and Spiritual gift that can withstand the long haul. So please pray for me and pray with me...that God may use the people he wants to use for the revival of Visayas.

Well...it's already 2AM...my wife's already in dreamland and I think I've given her enough headstart.

Thank you for all you prayers...thank you for all your support.

more than a word

Grace is just a common word for the common person. Nothing special...nothing spectacular...nothing breath taking.

Grace is just a word...but when you have nothing to show forth...grace becomes your everything.

My first personal and face-to-face encounter with grace came when I was a little over 11 years of age. A Pastor and dear family friend of ours made me realize that unlimited grace was just a positive decision away. The moment I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior, grace became amazing in my eyes. The fact that a sinner like me...with nothing worthwhile to show forth...with righteousness as filthy rags...became acceptable in the sight of a perfectly just and righteous God...made grace more than amazing and wonderful for me. The awesome fact that Jesus who knew no sin became sin for me so that I, who have done nothing, can become worthwhile in the eyes of God. That was something I have truly appreciated in my early years as a Christian...til everything became complicated.

Years have passed and God blessed me and my family with so much...we were living a very comfortable life...and our convenience became a breeding ground for leniency in our spiritual lives. Soon, our prosperity quickly turned from being a blessing to a heart breaking test. We forgot what was important. Detailing our struggles here will be unfair for my family...but let me let you this...we were left with nothing...except for God's grace.

Up until now, we are still recovering from what had happened...times became more difficult and tensions within the family rose...but still, God's grace overflowed from the heavens. We may never be as comfortable or financially stable as we used to be, but we are much more secured now as we were before...because now, we understand that security comes from the absolute source of grace. As long as God is in the business of flaunting grace...there is nothing to worry about.

I'm not promoting the abuse of grace...but the idea that without grace, we are nobody with nothing going nowhere...our lives are pointless and senseless.

It's no accident that you are reading my post...maybe God is speaking to you..telling you that it's time you allow grace to be more than a word.

1st fbcsm youth camp

53 souls saved out of 109 attendees...what more could we ever ask for!?

For the past months, the church has been planning for this two and a half days of fun and Bible study. Our theme was "Panunumbalik" or restoration and revolved around the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11. Every game and activity of this event is a reaffirmation of the salvation message...and on the last night of the camp, the last invitation, that's when 53 of them came forward to receive Christ and restore that original relationship we had with God the Father.

The whole 2 1/2 days are still fresh in my mind...and I give back all tje glory to God who made this youth camp possible.

Please pray for this kids as we equip them to take on what challenges are ahead of them with yhe right kind of ammunition - The Word of God!

the marriage initiative

This will be a 10-month, soulishly intense and mentally challenging engagement preparation on all aspects. The engagement period is a very crucial point of my life where I will be preparing to spend my remaining life here on earth with another soul under a soon to be established divine institution ordained by God and recognized by every law of the land. My 10-month engagement period should be a time of honest assesment on my capabilities to take on the responsibility of taking another soul under my care and protection. Close scrutiny should be reflected on the only existing absolute standard which is the Word of God. The spiritual aspect of my preparation is on top of my list. The foundation of my norms and standards will be the basis of everything in my life. My conscience will be the key player of my future decisions. The condition of my spiritual life will directly affect all aspects, but this time of preparation is not limited to such training only.

In the course of my self-assessment period, I have to also financially discipline myself and make sure that biblical principles on money are being applied. I have to be faithful in the commitments I have made regarding my giving in my local church. All debts should slowly be taken care of and not increase its hold on me. It would be an accomplishment to start my married life debt free!

Health is also a major issue I wish to resolve in my life. It is important that I recognize this part as one of the foundation of the anticipated success of the whole marriage initiative process. My goals and aspirations in life will be meaningless if my health is compromised.

My soon to be wife is the second most important person right after the Lord Jesus Christ. I love her and will continue to love her with everything I have...personally and unconditionally! And to commemorate my commitment to my soon to be wife and mother of my children, I will be starting, pursuing, and finishing this initiative as best as I can!

This commitment was conceptualized on 0018hrs of the 6th day of January year 2013!

SOLI DEO GLORIA!

true love is...

GRACE FILLED in all aspect. I can never imagine mankind without true unconditional love. The functional virtue of every motivated believer is true unconditional, integrity love. Love that knows no boundaries and limit. Love that unites and demolishes the spirit of offense that promotes division.

When Jesus Christ was born...we were given the opportunity to know love and accept love. Jesus is love.

This season...give love a chance...give Jesus Christ a hearing. Accept what He is offering and get to know what true love really is.

conversations

conversations are like a preview of what to expect from a person. The way we communicate our thoughts through words or actions somehow translates to what kind of person we are. People view us in part by first impressions (mostly by the way we look and act) then understands us wholly through conversations.

Everything we say and convey to another person, from short phrases to hour long life stories, will make a lasting impression. The words we choose to use also makes a big difference...even the tone of how we say it bears great significance. That's why the Apostle Paul advised the church in Colossus to let their conversation be full of grace and seasoned with salt.

Life will always be full of conversations! Be a good steward on how you handle them...

Realities

When things unexpectedly turn to our favor and liking...we forget the realities and responsibilities that come with it. We jump in too soon...not realizing the dangers we are about to run into. Sometimes we are ignorant of that fact...sometimes we intentionally turn a blind eye. Whatever the case may be...it's still detrimental to our emotional, mental and spiritual make up.

I'm not here to burst your bubble...but think of me as a reminder! As long as we are here on earth...the imperfections of life should always be considered. A good thing enjoyed in the wrong time is technically wrong! Believe me...I know!

I pray that we learn to live within the bounderies of the realities of life...it will lessen the probability of heart aches!

aged with grace

Every second we age...the moment you finish reading this sentence, you've already aged. It's inevitable. It's unstoppable. When God started time in the beginning, it did not yet have the ageing effect...death was not yet introduced til eve listened to the devil and disobeyed the only commandment that was ever given. What happened next is history.

Now...we have no choice but to live with the fact that everyone will meet their own demise sooner or later. But then God sent His only begotten Son to give us hope that transcends the boundaries of our time here on earth. We are given the opportunity to live with an eternal purpose! Jesus Christ who was never bound with time in the beginning willingly entered our realm to take on the punishment for our sins so that our existence may have an eternal value. Jesus experienced a sudden demotion during his time here on earth...scripture even said that He emptied himself and did not use His deity to better Himself. All that He endured with us in mind.

Now, as we continue our journey in this death bound and cursed life...we have to live for Christ. The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 1:21 that for him, living is Christ and dying is great gain! And the secret in getting through all the problems and predicaments life has to offer is a greater understanding of God,s grace! His GRACE is sufficient for us!

Yesterday, my grandmother turned 83. We celebrated her birthday in Loyola Memorial Park, Marikina City...where my grandfather is laid to rest. I can sense the sadness my lola (grandmother) is feeling...but I can see the grace of God in her life as she celebrates life! She understands the natural way of life...but she also recognizes a higher law governing everything in this world...and that's Grace!

Don't be caught up in the fast paced lifestyle of today...take time to realize the wonderful things God has provided...enjoy life...age with grace!

my first mobile entry

Sinc everything in this hightech world is going mobile, I've decided to make use of the available technology around me! Now...I will be able to post stuff in this blog whenever and wherever I am!

So...watch out for more posts!

pseudo-freedom

A Bible teacher once said that "For us to experience real freedom, there has to be an option."

In the beginning, our Sovereign God created the heavens, the earth, the beast of the fields, the creeping things, the fowls of the air, the sea creatures and of course man. Everything God created was good...nothing in His creation was below the standards of perfection. It was pleasing in the sight of God.

Man was created differently from the animals. It is said in Genesis that man was FORMED IN THE LIKENESS AND IMAGE OF GOD...not like the rest of creation that were just spoken into existence. God was hands on with us. Once formed, He even shared the BREATH OF LIFE with us...a trademark that is unique to man. Man was given life and shared an intimate relationship with God.

Man was placed in a perfect environment. Out of every tree in the garden of Eden, man is free to eat...EXCEPT for the tree in the middle of the garden which is the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The moment Man decides to eat of it...death will be the consequence...thus the first law was passed.

Why would God do that you might ask. If the garden was perfect...why put death in the midst of it? This question was a struggle for me also...but then I realized that since we were patterned from the image of God, we have freedom. Man was taught by God in the COOL OF THE DAY as Genesis puts it. Man was given the mental capacity to reason and think. So...for man to exercise his reasoning and faith...there has to be another option for man to say NO...I WILL NOT EAT OF THIS TREE or YES...I THINK I'LL HAVE A BITE.

Real freedom has no limitations. God is not in the business of tyrannical rule...He is a loving God who willingly lets us decide. In order for freedom to exist...options should exist also. But with great freedom...comes great power...and with great power, comes uncle Ben's famous line to Peter Parker. ("with great power comes great responsibility.")

So...what's the deal?

With all the cybercrime talks that's happening...I just want to say this - abused freedom will lead to captivity! If we continue to neglect the freedom that was fought by our ancestors, we will revert to bondage and relive the days of tyranny and eventually buy back freedom! We have to be responsible citizens and be wise in the use of freedom...our liberty and right to do things must not trample on the liberty of others. This is one Biblical principle that I have learned the hard way. And if we have constrained our liberty to make way for others and still get treated unjustly, then love steps in. Love that is not conforming but affirming...we love with integrity, standing firm in what we believe in...unmovable in the midst of trials...yet impersonal in application.

freedom...rights...love...and sacrifice...what does it really mean? Don't be fooled by blind activism...don't be persuaded by anti-authority protests...know where to stand! Align your perception on current events with the light of scriptures. God provided real freedom in the beginning...offering eternal life opposed to corrupting knowledge...so choose wisely! It's time you recognize what is real and absolute freedom against fake pseudo freedom!

a constant hope in a cruel world

Everything is bound to change...

You can desperately wish that everything stays the same...but then the reality of this cursed and fallen world do not permit such lunacy to happen.

Things deteriorate, circumstances change, and relationships crumble...that's how life works! From the moment we are born into this world, we are slowly expiring. I'm not here to scare you...but it's a reality that everyone needs to accept. Everything will eventually turn into something else as time moves on.

So if our existence is based only in the corrupt nature of this world...if our hope is taken from the lies of the cosmic system...if life itself has no definite meaning...then purpose is meaningless to pursue! We are just mindless goo walking on the face of this floating rock in the expanse of  meaningless space.

Our outlook in life will be determined by the truths that we take in and considered as important. Remember, absolute truth will remain absolute even if we do not acknowledge it. So, what do we consider as truth?

I have been raised in a Christian home...where the only standard and absolute truth we consider is the Word of God. As a child, I have memorized verses and read through my favorite Old Testament stories. As I got older...I became skeptic and began testing the mandates of the Bible. I began doing the opposite of what was considered right and pure by the Scriptures. Yes I am saved...a believer in Christ...but a deteriorating one! It was going fine at first...but then reality struck me! It struck me so hard that it knocked me right out of college (never did finish) and began experiencing the hardships of earning money for a living.

Slowly in my Christian life did I realize how important and practical God's mandates are. Wisdom is wrapped around every verse, chapter and book in the Bible. Now...I claim in my life that God is the only constant variable in my life and His Word is the only absolute truth I will accept. Clinging to the reality of God keeps me sane in coping with the reality of this lifetime.

Now...things in my life are taking a hard turn...it pains me so much to see things not go my way and people  I care for start fighting over superficial petty things...but then this is an opportunity for me to cling to Jesus Christ - our constant hope in this cruel world!

...till we meet again...

7:40pm | 09 September 2012

A saint has gone home with our Maker. My grandfather, Anselmo S. Ermitaño Sr., is now partying in heaven with the likes of Moses, David, the Apostles and of course...Our Lord Jesus Christ. I can't imagine the relief he must be experiencing right now...can't wait to see him soon!

With all the grief and sorrow that the family is experiencing right now...God's grace is still overwhelming. Everything that transpired before the time the Lord took my grandfather home is mind boggling. I can surely attest to the fact that if we seek God first...everything will fall into place...and that God works all things together for good! The Lord honors our requests and petitions...I am a living testimony of God's grace and faithfulness to us!

I have nothing else to add...nothing else to say...I don't have deep theological principles to dissect today...just a deep feeling of gratitude and appreciation to God's grace. Nothing beats God's timing in showing His awesomeness!

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

made to float

It rained for three days and two nights...flood waters has risen to devastating heights...people were injured physically and scarred emotionally...death toll rises inevitably...what now?

WE FLOAT!

There's nothing in the world that can hinder us Filipinos from flipping tragedy into something worth laughing about. I'm not here to make the death of some of our fellow Filipinos lightly...but to insinuate the fact that we Filipinos are just witty as hell. Who would think of using a flooded underpass as a venue for a mini Olympic freestyle diving competition??? Who would stop in the middle of treading the black murky water just to take a picture??? Who, in their right mind, would jetski in a foot of flood to 711??? ONLY IN THE PHILIPPINES.

We are a unique people who can easily adapt into different cultures and situations. We have been blessed by the Almighty God with flexibility in spirit. Our history has been full of ups and downs...but where ever we are in the graph of life, we Filipinos have the potential to reach our destination no matter what the odds are. Life has been tough...but we Filipinos are tougher! And when we realize that God has placed us into this country for a reason...then our potential would exponentially increase!

These tragedies have a purpose...God intends to bring out the best in us in every situation. I'm sure God has nothing to do with the floods...Sure, He allowed the rain...why wouldn't He...Rain is part of this world's design. Now the reason behind the floods...I'm sure is man made. I'm not here to point fingers and play the blame game...because I, for one, am also guilty! But now that we understand where we lack...where we need to improve...and where to move forward...let's do our part and contribute in the healing of our nation. Part of the healing process is going back to God.

If you are reading this and you've been spared by the flood...then God has been good to you. If you have been affected by the flood but came out of it alive and kicking...the God has been merciful to you. You, my friend, have been specifically preserved by God for a purpose...and that purpose is for you to find out. But before you go exploring your spirituality...let me give you crucial tip! There is only one way to find out...and the Bible says that JESUS IS THE WAY! I'm not here to convert your religion...but I am here to convert your heart into accepting the reality that Jesus paved the way for you to know and understand your purpose here on earth. What if you were one of the unfortunate few who died? Do you know where you are going? Something to think about...

Well...here we are...the rain is dying down and flood waters are subsiding! The road to recovery will be a difficult one....but one thing I'm sure of. God is always with His children...He will never leave us nor forsake us. He might not be there when you call...not because He's tired of you. It's because He knows that we Christians are made to float.

resolved to be courageous

just the other day, I finally decided to watch the movie COURAGEOUS. It's an independent Christian film that circles around the story of fathers who decided to keep their integrity intact with Jesus as their stable constant. Their story was not far from typical domestic issues...but their response to their predicaments were non-conforming to the world. I'm not going to talk about the movie...but I do enCOURAGE you to watch it! You'll be blessed!

What I want to point out from the movie is the resolution they signed. Thanks to GOOGLE... I found the copy of the resolution they signed. It goes like this:

THE RESOLUTION

I DO solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself, my wife, and my children.

I WILL love them, protect them, serve them, and teach them the Word of God as the spiritual leader of my home.

I WILL be faithful to my wife, to love and honor her, and be willing to lay down my life for her as Jesus Christ did for me.

I WILL bless my children and teach them to love God with all of their hearts, all of their minds, and all of their strength.

I WILL train them to honor authority and live responsibly.

I WILL confront evil, pursue justice, and love mercy.

I WILL pray for others and treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion.

I WILL work diligently to provide for the needs of my family.

I WILL forgive those who have wronged me and reconcile with those I have wronged.

I WILL learn from my mistakes, repent of my sins, and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God.

I WILL seek to honor God, be faithful to His church, obey His Word, and do His will.

I WILL courageously work with the strength God provides to fulfill this resolution for the rest of my life and for His glory.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ---Joshua 24:15

The four men in the movie signed this resolution in-front of their family and pastor. As I watched them take on this resolution, I felt the great burden to abide by the same code. I am not perfect...I have not attained much in my spiritual life...but I feel God tugging me in a direction of integrity and honor for His glory! I have knowingly shamed His name and forsaken His principles...It's time I make an effort to contend and stand by  His word.

I am not yet married. I don't have kids yet. But as I move towards entering a divinely ordained institution like marriage and someday start a family on my own, I have to resolve within myself that I have to preserve my integrity for the benefit of my future wife, kids and glorify God in the process. God has given me so many second chances through out my life...and it's time I stop abusing His grace and mercy. It's high time that I gird up and move on to higher level of responsibility!

This resolution does not guarantee an easy life...it's actually a challenge to BRING IT ON! I will still make mistakes and sin...but, as the resolution did state, I have to learn from these mistakes, repent of my sins and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God.

Upon committing to this resolution, I understand that I am now doubly responsible for all my decisions I will be doing in life. A passive Christian life is no longer acceptable...sitting in the sidelines are for slow moving believers...I'm here to take on God's promises with every ounce of faith in me. I may not have much to offer, but I see God moving mountains with it.

So with all inhibitions aside...and all seriousness in set...I would like to sign this resolution:

I, Timothy Jonsel S. Ermitaño, a bachelor betrothed to my best friend, do solemnly commit to the ethical, moral and spiritual aspect of this resolution. I am acting on my own accord with confidence that God, Who has begun His work in me, will be faithful to complete His purpose in my life. Failure to adhere to the set standards of this resolution is a result of my unwilling and unfaithful condition. Grace is the seal of this resolution for I understand that nothing in me can ever get me through this code of conduct. I am a product of God's mercies and grace...I am therefore lifting my hands as a sign of my submission to His sovereign will. By God's loving kindness and compassion...I will set my heart to what is right...facing my fears...contending the faith...loving my future wife...and protecting my family...knowing that Jesus Christ is my rock and salvation in whom I can be COURAGEOUS.

manna from heaven

"GOD WILL PROVIDE"

I've grown up hearing my Dad utter those words a gazillion times. I was so familiar with it, that I've never really taken it to heart. Yes...God owns everything and I believe that to be true...but for Him to delegate His wealth to someone like me has never really crossed my mind. The money I earn every month is always seen as compensation for my services rendered to the company...nothing more! Therefore, I see it as a right...because even the Bible says that a man should be paid according to his workload.But that kind of perspective got me into a loop of greediness...and when my pay is delayed a day...a violent reaction is acceptable! As I went deeper into this terrible pattern...perspectives were changing and priorities were shifting...everything was going out of control!

Just this morning I was confronted with the reality that what I earn in my current job is just enough to sustain a bachelor. I was making ends meet with a little extra to spare. But once I threw in my future married life into the equation...I always end up lacking...in the red, so to speak! I've tried cutting down on food and other essential things that I can survive less or without...but no luck there! It was inevitable that I was lacking some resources. It irritated me, and started complaining and questioning God in the confines of my heart! "Lord...do you really want me to get married? is this really your plan?" Reality can really be frustrating. Then...I remembered MANNA!

God has set apart a bunch of people from the growing populous of the earth and called them His people! They were a bunch of whiners and complainers...but always shown grace by God. When they were being mistreated by Pharaoh and prayed for deliverance...God pushed through! But once they were on their way to the promise land and their comfort and convenience were taken away, THEY COMPLAINED! Instead of remembering God's grace in their lives...they mocked God with their ungrateful hearts. Just like us...but what I want to point out is this...Their position as the people of God still stood even through the times of their unfaithfulness. God still took care of them...and provided logistical grace. What I liked about the story of the Exodus is how God provided food. Manna rained from heaven...they did not have to do hard work for food...all they have to do is pick it up.

Today...actual manna won't fall from the sky...but in our lives, a different kind of provision overflows. It might be our health, wealth, relationships, happiness, love, etc. Whatever it is...let's not neglect it. God may not allow great wealth but He did promise in His word the He will never leave us nor forsake us. If God can feed the sparrow and clothe the lilies...why worry about rent money, food budget, bill payments and whatever life throws at us! Thank God for your own kind of MANNA!

what's your value?

"A life without purpose, is a life without value"


It's easy to set a daily schedule especially if our work depends on a daily routine. When the clock strikes a certain time, a given task is set to be accomplished. But sometimes, we get caught up with the routine that we don't know why in the world are we investing our time in such a task. They said that it's easier to have the job done if you knew beforehand the reason behind it.

As a newly installed authority of a fairly new department, It's hard to get all of your staff on the same page. I thought that as a manager, you just manage their workloads and let them do magic. In some areas of our job in the multimedia department it does work but most of the time it doesn't. I learned the hard way to give them the bigger picture and from there draw out their part. Explain that without their part in this area of the project, it will simply fail. Emphasize their participation and purpose in the project and they will realize their value as a team player. Same is true in God's kingdom!

The moment we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we are automatically installed into the family of God as royal priests and ambassadors. We have been given the written revelation of the Father with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We are part of the ordained workforce who are mandated to GO and into all the world with the gospel of absolute truth! The field of unbelieving souls are ready to receive the Word of God yet the workers are few. In actuality, a lot of us are in the line-up of available workers but only a few are willing to work.

What's your value? What's your participation in the kingdom of God? If you're new to the Christian life then get some sound doctrine and be aligned in God's plan! If you've been a Christian as long as you can remember then go out into the field. I'm not saying force yourself to be a missionary in a foreign field...but in the routine of our jobs, in the decisions that we make, in the words that we say, we should reflect the intended purpose God has for us! The moment we understand God's specific plan for us and the purpose behind it, then will we find our value as a member of the royal family of God.

playing safe

I just realized, after our mid-week service, that I'm a play safe Christian. I know the Truth...I understand the Truth...but somehow I won't proclaim the Truth! When my conversation with a stranger takes a sudden turn towards my faith and belief...my mind goes "hmmmmm.......*OFF*" There's a fear within me of being rejected..."what if?" questions will suddenly flood my mentality...then, I walk off the conversation without even presenting or hinting that I am a follower of Jesus. * sad *

The operative word in the great commission (Matthew 28:16-20) is GO...it indicates an active participation of the believer to move where God wants them to be. Sometimes the fear of GOING indicates a lack of confidence...not in our abilities...but confidence in Jesus! Acts 1:8 also states that "...you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you..." Meaning...the whole "GO" scenario is mainly dependent on our willingness to let the power of the Holy Spirit manifest in us!

The moment we have trusted in Jesus Christ as our Savior, and believed in what John 3:16 has stated...we are automatically new creatures with a different set of standards. The change may not be noticeable, but from within we are guaranteed to be IN CHRIST (2 Corinthians 5:17). In order for us to stand out as Christians, we have to let the Holy Spirit work on us and willingly stop conforming to this world (Romans 12:1 & 2). This world and our flesh does not provide genuine confidence...even the Apostle Paul stated in Philippians 3:1-7 that everything he gained (education, popularity, status, wealth, etc.) cannot compare to what Jesus has provided.

Now...going back to my original point. Once we gain consistency in rejecting the world and gaining absolute truth...once we have prioritize God's Word and make it a point to always assimilate and diligently study the Word of God...then our testimony will be like a city on a hill that can never be hidden (Matthew 5:14-16). Awkwardness about our faith and beliefs during casual conversations won't be an issue anymore...because now, we're through playing safe!

I'm a screw-up

who isn't?

I'm not proud to be a screw-up...but I can't deny the fact that I am a big one! I've made wrong choices that brought pain to myself and others as well. My selfish and arrogant tendencies has even boosted my screwing-up abilities. *deep sigh*

It's hard to have a melancholic personality that thinks a lot and, at the same time, be a major screw-up! It doubles the pain after the act of screwing up...guilt becomes a long haul...a dragging burden! Then...self-pity comes into the picture! *now ain't that great* Instead of quickly recovering from a depressing and self induced state of misery...I let it brew and simmer...wallowing in my own filth...like it would solve anything! *SHEEESH!*

Then after a while...when all hope and dignity has departed my soul...I start putting up a defense mechanism. Trying hard to hide the real condition of my soul with pseudo happiness and false doctrine. Denial becomes a routine that slowly drains reality from my perception! *what a loser*

If you're reading this and somehow, you can relate...I'll be praying for you! I know what it feels like to be cornered by our mistakes with nowhere to run...It's a reality we all have to face and endure at some point. But when we do...I pray that we would not lose hope. Before we reach the point of no return...we have to purposefully undergo a paradigm shift...with whatever strength we have left, we have to divert our perception to a divinely inspired thinking. Understand that being a screw-up is inevitable...it's how we get over that fact that matters most! As a famous saying goes (and I'll reword it a bit) Screw-up seven times, get up eight! *right on!*

In reality...the sinful nature we are innately born with is the source of our screw-ups...It's a predicament that we have to live with...and the only way we can cope is by adhering to someone who was born without this curse. Jesus Christ was sinless...never did sin...never did screw-up...yet gave His life for screw-ups...like me and you!

Don't achieve to be perfect...because you won't and you can't...we'll always be a screw-up! Accept that reality along with the fact that you need someone who is not a screw-up to cover for you...and that's Jesus! Accept Him today as your Lord and Savior...and be a meaningful screw-up! *AMEN...AMEN...AMEN!*

the sinner in me

"anak ng...akala mo kung sino umasta...kristyano kuno...ang galing magkunwari!" says the sinner in me...

This is the moment our emotions exceeds the threshold of responding and starts the destructive trend of reacting. Our capability to think and assimilate is replaced with so much emotional turbulence and distress that the mind simply shuts down and hands over the reigns of our soul to the undependable tyrant - emotion. The tyrannical rule of the emotion pushes the conscience to unload credible truths and principles to make way for selfish and arrogant pseudo truths. This then destroys our perspective to view the reality of life and afterwards, we undergo a paradigm shift that would leave a scar in our heart as reminder of how reckless we have been with our choices in life. This does not happen instantaneously...it's a process that starts from the moment we wallow in our sins and ends either with dying grace or the realization that life is too short to live in sin.

Jesus laid down His life to give us an opportunity to live the life of a winner and conquer the sinner in us. God provided a way for us to always be protected in His everlasting love and grace...He even promised that NOTHING can ever nullify His love for the believer. It's the same love Jesus said that we should operate from to conquer the selfish and arrogant sinner in us. When you consider all these...we have no reason to let the sinner in us reek havoc in our life and in the life of others.

You will always have a reason to unleash the sinner in you...but there's a greater mandate to kill our old self and reflect the grace Jesus has been showing us. It's easy to react but it's wiser to respond. So...I leave you again with a choice...react or respond? but as for me and my soul, I know what to do with the sinner in me.

some people just don't get it

YES or NO...anything in between is just unacceptable!

Compromising Christians have a hard time sticking to what is right....I know I'm one of them. When something so appealing to my lust nature is presented before me...There's no guarantee that I would control myself. That's why the bible states that we should FLEE from the presence of evil...If you know you'll regret sticking around, might as well leave.

Jesus and James both stated in the scriptures that our YES should stay YES and our NO should stay NO! Jesus even added in Matthew 5:37 that anything apart from YES and NO comes from the evil one! There's a  strong emphasis in the Word of God regarding sticking to what is right! The mind baffling thing about this is that, God in His sovereignty and omnipotence strongly mandates what we should do, but in His grace and love allows us to make wrong choices.

The responsibility to stay the course and always choose for God lies in our capacity to comprehend and apply faith in the absolute truth of God's Word. We have a lifestyle to uphold as Ambassadors and Priests of the royal family of God...and that's a lifestyle of constant worship!

Me, being a sinner, was never a consideration in living the Christian life as unto the Lord...all the more that we should cling to God! I know for a fact that that doing what is absolutely right according to God's standards is a challenge on it's own...we're not yet even taking into account the outside components of life that makes this task even more complex! But before we complain and whine...let's take into consideration the extent Jesus Christ had to endure for us to enjoy many of the grace gifts we have acquired in our life time. The protection and prosperity that was given to us even in our moments of unfaithfulness towards God...imagine the forgiveness the Father is willing to show to us!

All those benefits and more comes from our dedication in maintaining our YES to be YES and our NO to be NO! got it?

MATCHLESS: Lesson Download

I firmly believe that the Word of God is a grace gift and should be given freely to those who seek it. With that in mind, I am sharing with you my mid-week lessons regarding our MATCHLESS GOD!

You can download the PowerPoint, Lesson handout, and the Audio.

MATCHLESS I (Handout)
MATCHLESS I (PowerPoint)
MATCHLESS I (Audio)


MATCHLESS II (Handout)
MATCHLESS II (PowerPoint)
MATCHLESS II (Audio)


MATCHLESS III (Handout)
MATCHLESS III (PowerPoint)
MATCHLESS III (Audio)


MATCHLESS IV (Handout)
MATCHLESS IV (PowerPoint)
MATCHLESS IV (Audio)


MATCHLESS V (Handout)
MATCHLESS V (PowerPoint)
MATCHLESS V (Audio)

I pray that you would grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ!

crappy days

Crappy days are just by-products of a crappy me. It's not the weather's fault...not the non-moving traffic...not even insensitive people in my environment! Crappy days will remain crappy until I do something about it. I can't stop the rain, move traffic or make people conform to my emotional needs...but I can choose not to react and look at things with a divine perspective.

God allows certain people and situations in our lives for a definite purpose...the moment we forget that God intends the best for us in everything that is happening, then we will quickly lose focus and even lose our temper. We have to hold on to God's promise that He can miraculously work all things for a definite purpose to those who would adhere to His plan. The problem with us is we have a different agenda...there are certain things we want to happen in the whole scheme of things. We try to be a "know-it-all" and plan our lives to what our finite minds see as good and profitable...ignoring the ultimate plan of the Father for us.

Today...is a crappy day...my emotions are high, my old sin nature is kicking in, and I'm irritatingly irrational. I won't share details...because in reality, no one is to blame...I allowed people to get in my head and get affected...and that's my loss. 1 John 1:9 can only be effective on my sins...I need to let the Holy Spirit calm and drive away the evil thinking within me.

Lord...I'm not perfect...I don't claim to be...but please be with me today...and kick my butt if you need to. I can't let this day remain crappy!

worthless yet forgiven

I can never fully elaborate the reality that everything I was, am and will become is attributed to the concept of  GRACE! Nothing absolutely good in me has ever contributed to what I am now...my ability to make worthwhile decisions was based on the Word of God working in and through me...everything else are products of the old sin nature: lying, cheating, judging, maligning, just to name a few. In short...I am worthless.

But worthless as I am, God never withheld love. The world was loved by God that He was willing to give up His only begotten Son whom He is well pleased...and Jesus, the obedient Son, willingly accepted His role and offered Himself as payment for sins that He did not do. We have been enjoying in sin without considering the sacrifice Jesus made for us...that while we were yet sinners, CHRIST DIED FOR US!

When we accept these two concepts: 1) We are worthless 2) we are forgiven...then we would ultimately understand our role in this lifetime. We are worthless yet forgiven...with just this phrase, lives can be changed!

freedom with a price

A lot of people died pursuing and protecting the very freedom we are enjoying. We raise our flags today in honor of all the people who risked and are still risking their lives for the Filipino people. I salute our military and peace keeping institutions who are willing to endanger themselves in exchange for the safety of the people. A bunch of them may be rotten and corrupt but in general, we are doomed without them. Include them in your prayers...they are essential for the unity of our nation.

As we celebrate our independence, never forget that freedom was achieved with a price. The freedom we have now did not come cheap. People had to suffer and even die for the sake of freedom. Think about it...everything you are free to do now came with a price. Even your chance to be heaven bound was paid for.

John 3:16 clearly states that God the Father had so much unconditional, integrity love towards mankind that He was willing to give His only begotten Son, whom He loved so much, to DIE for our sins so that whoever believes and put their faith in the work Jesus did will be given everlasting life. Jesus...the God-man...laid down His life for the freedom of sinners like us. Free from what you may ask? Well...we are given the opportunity to be free from the wages of sin which is death...SPIRITUAL DEATH! Yes...we are celebrating our country's independence from the rule of oppressors...but the real question is: are you celebrating independence from the rule of your old sinful nature?

Freedom is never free...it comes with a price. Jesus paid for you already...now is the time to accept that fact!

the forgotten aspect of virtue love

Unconditional love in it's truest form is radical in nature. Jesus' teachings include loving our enemies, praying for our persecutors and blessing those people who curse us. There are no exemptions in not doing these things...for if we really love God, we will keep His commandments (John 14:24) But there is one aspect of God's command that we tend to forget and not include inside the sphere of unconditional love - FORGIVENESS.

Peter once asked Jesus in Matthew 18:21 the extent of forgiving someone...He even offered a traditional answer, thinking it was more than enough to forgive an offender seven times. But Jesus' answer was more than the number Peter had figured. Sometimes, we Christians put a running meter on grace thinking that only a certain definite percentage should only be given to a certain individual. How stupid can we get. Grace is unlimited...when Jesus died on the cross, it was for EVERYONE! "That whosoever believes..." say John 3:16...therefore, the love that the Father had shown us has no limit. God is eternal...no beginning and no end...He is from everlasting to everlasting as Psalm 90:2 had declared. God is also Love, he is virtue love as stated in I John 4:8 & 16. So...if God is eternal, no limits...and God is Love...you do the math!

Unconditional, virtue love is how Jesus operated in this world which we are also expected to operate from (John 15:9) But sometimes, we pick and chose the people we want to show virtue love...and we even chose the things we WANT to express when it is clearly stated in the scriptures the extent of this kind of love Jesus showed. Learn to forgive...don't wait for the other person to ask for it...give it...according to the integrity you've acquired from learning the Word.

Do not put off forgiveness...because in the same manner, God will deal with us. (Matthew 18:35)

true greatness

Moses: Palace raised, dessert trained, Anti-Pharaoh, Pro-God, insecure leader of two million whining, complaining, violent, God doubting Hebrew children who, out of his willingness to serve, endured 40 years of public service without even entering the promised land.

Whenever I am tempted to give up and start an endless streak of rants and raves, I try to remember Moses. Moses had a complicated childhood. He was born in a Hebrew home but ended up being raised in the palace of Pharaoh (the same guy who decreed the elimination of all non-Egyptian male babies during his time) and his nanny/tutor was his own mother...TALK ABOUT DIVINE INTERVENTION! Well...Moses grew up with the proper understanding of who he is, and the real identity of his heritage. But his strong ideologies about his own people pushed him to kill and murder one of the oppressor. This act of crime lead him to the backside of the desert...this is where his real training will start! Alone and depressed, he opted to work for his father-in-law (oh yeah, in the mix of things, he got married while he was in hiding) There...he was trained to be a master herder of sheep! A not so intelligent bunch of creatures who need constant care (not far from what he's about to do). Then in the appropriate time, God called him back to Egypt to free his people...at first he tried making excuses. But in the end, it was Moses' destiny to lead the people out of bondage.

To make the looooooooooong story short...Pharaoh released God's people, all 2 million of them not including animals, after a devastating last plague. Moses accomplished the task not because of him but because he allowed God to work through him.. Moses encountered the difficulties of serving, but in all of those things...he gained a deeper relationship with God. Exodus 33:11 brought me to tears when I read that "...the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend..." The level of relationship Moses had with God was unbelievable. Moses had integrity and humility that made him acquire true greatness.

When you finish reading the story of Moses, you will notice that God did not allow him to enter the promise land because of an incident where Moses and Aaron misinterpreted and misapplied the instruction of God. It may seem unfair for them to get such punishment for one incident of disobedience...but you will notice that God's intention was not to punish, but to give grace. Yes...it is the effect of an intended cause...but with God, the effect of things may have a different purpose. In the last part of Deuteronomy...specifically in chapters 32-34, you will notice that every event that transpired before the death of Moses was grace filled. Moses even composed a whole chapter of praise attributed to God. Then in Deuteronomy 33:1, Moses even found so much grace from God that he chose to BLESS the children of Israel before his death. The same people who chided and complained and even went close in to stoning him were blessed.

Life may be full of irritating people who despises the very truth of God's word...but we have no excuse in giving up on them. As long as we are alive, we have been commanded to preach the gospel...but more than that...we have to love the people we are reaching with the same love God is showing us. Let us remember Moses...he's still human...he still failed...but we cannot deny the fact that he acquired TRUE GREATNESS!

freedom should be ruled by love

I'm not the type who super imposes ideologies on people. My personality is the quiet yet stubborn type who never pushes and can never be pushed. I totally abide by the principle LIVE AND LET LIVE. I have realized early on in life that people will abide to their own set of priorities...priorities that are based on importance and convenience. People are innately selfish...so I do not expect people to adjust for my own convenience and importance. But as I continue studying God's word and make divinely concrete conclusions...I see a different application!

Everybody loves freedom. We enjoy freedom of speech, freedom of thought and freedom to join any advocacy we want. But our liberty to do things should be governed by love. The law of the land is a good guideline to which our freedom can follow...but once we have accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior, the law of the land is now secondary to impersonal and unconditional love. The level of living our lives and handling our freedom went up! Following the law is still important, but the reason we follow is because of love.

So what am I driving at?

Well...recently, there has been a lot of talks about freedom of speech and freedom of this and freedom of that. A lot of people have been appearing in media imposing their rights and what they believe and openly stating the flaw of the other party and so on and so forth. The activist part of us are being wooed into empathizing with their cause. It makes me sick to my stomach to even hear fellow believers taking part in this sick cycle. In all of these...I say this - LIVE AND LET LIVE!

God will never interfere in our decision making...He will give us the opportunity to be wrong...and He will allow us to get hurt. It's not because He is a sadistic God, but because He knows what it takes to get our attention. He knows what is needed to work out everything for good. He waits patiently for us to respond to Him positively. That's how God works. Of course, God will still provide divine discipline...but it is still up to us if we are willing to respond or not.

Same thing in our case. Let us respect the opinion of people. Their lifestyle is their problem. If you have the appropriate relationship to state your opinion...then do so! But don't stick your nose in other people's business. Everything outside of your control should be dealt with faith and not Christian activism. Being world changers starts from within and radiates naturally in God's perfect timing.

Accept the fact that people are 100% selfish...including you! Don't try to change society...but try and influence individuals without trampling on their freedom.

owning up

When you're exactly where God wants you to be, doing what God wants you to do, and having that confidence that is spiritually enlightening...be ready to face some giants! It is through this opportunity of claiming and accepting your individual purpose for life where your faith will be tested...and you are forced to either give up or own up!

II Corinthians 4:1-10 clearly states that God has given us a specific ministry out of His merciful attribute...and If He placed you where you are right now, He can surely protect you! There's going to be a lot of attacks towards you and your character...but never let it get to you! The Bible warned us of the fiery darts of Satan...surely the devil came prepared for this...so should we!

So I urge you fellow believers...now is the time to load up with Doctrine! Now is the time to store up treasures within this earthen vessels that will give glory to God! People...it's time that we start owning up!

insensitivity breeds a spirit of offence

the cause and effect of these two things can mess up years of friendship. Trust issues escalate to broken hearts once the trend of insensitivity and offence are not addressed. We sometimes think that situations can mend themselves together and people tend to forget...but that's not what happens. Most of the time, it grows into an uncontrollable monster that eats the offended ones from the inside out then leaves them bitter and unforgiving for the rest of their lives while the other party would grow more apathetic till they themselves start questioning their own trustworthiness.

This world will always be full of insensitivity and offence...it's the evil that comes with the fallen status. I hate to say this but it's inevitable...people will get offended at some point in their lives. It's part of our selfish arrogant nature. We think that we are worth a bit of respect, a bit of praise, a bit of this and a bit of that...when in contrast the Bible tells us that our righteousness are nothing but filthy rags. I hate to burst your bubble, but no one is worth even an ounce of anything...we are fallen, unworthy and doomed to experience death in every aspect of the word. But then Jesus still came to save us...now that's something you should consider.

If you are prone to be apathetic and insensitive and do not give a rat's ass about how people feel...then I pity you. You may only be deceiving yourself as you portray a confident "i-don't-care" attitude...but in reality, you are as insecure as the person you offended. An attitude of apathy is arrogance in a much higher level than you think. Not thinking about what you say is like firing a gun over a crowded area. Don't be caught up by children's rants about sticks and stones breaking bones and words never hurting...cause words do hurt...and can even kill! Think about the people of God shouting "CRUCIFY HIM!" during the illegal trials of Jesus...they're just words...but these words pushed Pilate to send Jesus to the cross. Not just words but your actions also...think about everything you do! You're not alone in this world...learn to adjust...It's the right thing to do.

If, on the other hand, you are on the other end of the pendulum...then stop being a cry baby. Don't be surprised with the capacity of a person to say stuff that hurts...everyone has an old sin nature...even you! If you get offended, muster enough integrity to tell the person...sometimes, the person who offended you is not fully aware that you got hurt. And once you do, and they apologize, drop it and move on. The problem with people who are easily offended is that they list the offences and store them in the deepest and darkest part of their soul...so that when the same person offends them again, they'll make sure it's brought up. I'm guilty of this...and every time I look back and remember my bitter self, my stomach churns...I can't take my childish self. It irritates me to death to hear or even see myself in someone. Once offended...confront with love...forgive with grace...and forget with an ultimate attitude of mercy.

Remember that the stronger person adjusts. If you are a believer and you are committed in growing spiritually, you will start building within you a sensor of awareness that discerns and takes into consideration the history, patterns of aggression and feelings of people...it's called SENSITIVITY. Even if you posses an out going, pushy and controlling type of personality...the sensitivity within you built through consistent study of Bible doctrine will balance you out.(read Tim LaHaye's Spirit Controlled Temperament) This sensitivity will also allow you to discern if people who are prone to say rubbish are worth taking into consideration...hence, avoiding offence. A violent reaction is therefore turned into a loving response

So people...watch your actions...watch your words...and confront in love once offended! Never give the evil of insensitivity the opportunity to breed a spirit of offence within each and everyone of you!

a new breed of heroes

the 2012 Avengers movie has been on its 3rd week in the movie scene here in the Philippines...and a lot of people are still lining up to see this unique team up of super heroes. Just this week, I've decided to see what the big deal was all about...and let me tell you this...IT'S A MUST SEE! The movie is basically fast paced from beginning to end...you won't notice time going by. It's even more enjoyable to see in 3D! 

The movie showcases a lot of special effects and witty humor...but what got me is the teamwork that is seen between these self-centered super heroes. They have their own agenda...they have their own hang-ups...but when push turns to shove, they have to work out their differences some other time and do their unspoken duty to mankind. I remember what my sister told me after the movie...she commented on the fact that there's a nice feeling when you see a group of strong guys team up for greater good...and I agree with her.

From the moment Adam and Eve bought in to what Satan was marketing, this world began dying...and the curse of death was passed on to generations after them. Death was the ultimate end of everything...even our soul...but while we are living, corruption is taking place. But then God the Father, sent His only begotten Son, not to just oppose death and corruption but conquer it...by offering Jesus...the only qualified sacrifice...as payment for the wages of our sins. And after Jesus was beaten, crucified, buried then risen after the third day...the Holy Spirit gave everyone who believed in Jesus - POWER! I'm not making this up...read the book of Acts in the new testament and see for yourselves...they were given POWER! This is what Apostle Paul was talking about in Romans 8:11 as the same power that raised Jesus! So...in essence...from the moment we have believed in Jesus Christ, we are now a new creature...all things are of the past (2 Cor 5:17) We are a new breed of heroes. We are not invincible, but God did promise in the Bible that if He is for us, who can be against us? (Rom 8:28-31) We don't have super powers but we do have the power of the fruits of the Holy Spirit! (Gal 5:22-23)

As believers, we have a different set of standards than what the world offers...Romans 12:2 even stated that we should no longer conform to this world...but renew our former thinking and start renovating our minds so that we might have discernment. We are considerably weak...our convictions will waiver at times and that is given because of our fallen state. I believe that God purposely installed I John 1:9 as one of His grace gifts to man because of our tendency to fail and sin. But as Apostle Paul did argue...should we continue in sin so that grace may abound? of course not! (Rom 6:1) Why go back to being a villain when we are given the chance to be heroes!

Let Christ rule your hearts and don't let your old sin nature get the best of you. One of the scene that got me thinking in the Avengers movie was when Loki (the villain) surrounded a bunch of people in a public square and demanded all of them to kneel. Because of his sheer strength that was demonstrated at a previous ordeal, the people obeyed in fear...then he said the most honest analogy of mankind...WE ARE MADE TO OBEY...our freedom gives us the illusion that we are free but in reality, we crave for someone to rule over us...now, the villain was obviously hinting that he should be ruling over mankind. But when you stop and think about it...we were actually made for God's glory, but then God still provided us with free will to exercise faith...because in reality...faith without freedom is not faith at all. I don't believe freedom is an illusion...it's more of an opportunity for us to truly build a system of belief without external factors...and freedom gives us that privilege. 

Well...the scene did not end there...while the villain was talking, an old guy stood up...and openly defied the order and even stated that he is not obeying men like the villain. Now that's a statement! Because of freedom to choose, the old guy exercised his conviction based on a belief system that was constructed in his soul! Now that's what we should do as believers. Build a spiritual system of belief in our soul founded on absolute truth...then believe on them as realities of life.

Being a spiritual hero in a carnal world is not that easy...Jesus even said that this world hated Him first...so if you're a believer of Christ, don't expect a red carpet. Even fellow heroes will challenge your belief system...as long as we are in Satan's battlefield...it won't be a stroll in the park. So always wear the armor of God...and be ready to defend your faith for the greater good!

atmos-fear

fear is a natural response to uncertainties in life...but as believers of the Lord Jesus Christ, we were never meant to live in fear. Fear of rejection, humiliation, poverty, death, or even the unknown should never get the best of us. Fear, if left unchecked, will consume our belief system that can cripple the very norms and standards of our soul. This will eventually lead to a miserable life...and that's not how God designed it for us.

Just a while ago, during our midweek service, God gave me the privilege to tackle the importance of understanding God's integrity. We saw the significance of understanding who God is and what He is capable of doing in a believer's life. The Christian life is an ongoing process of growing in grace and understanding God. Without a clear understanding of God's character and essence, we will always live in fear. Because once we understand that as believers, God in His immutable and faithful essence would always give us another chance, then the notion of fear, worry and anxiety won't have a chance to creep into our mentalities! Life would be a lot less stressful with the clarity of who God is.

Fear will always be present and worry is its bestfriend...life will always be unfair and would always remain unfair. But through life's inconsistencies, we are given the chance to grow, mature and live in hope rather than fear. Hope is a stronger emotion than fear...because it gives you something to look forward to based on an absolute truth. So seek God, know His essence, grow in grace and get out of your self fabricated atmosFEAR!

settled to be second

The challenge in life is not found in struggling to be first...it's having the right mentality to settle for second.

I have been a believer and follower of the Lord Jesus Christ for 16 years. I have studied under the leadership of my Dad, my Pastor and other dedicated Pastor-Teacher. In those 16 years, I tried to be the best Christian that God would someday look upon with favor. I took control of my own Christian life and steered it the way I thought would be best for me and God. I volunteered to be part of our Church's praise and worship team and even mustered the guts to take a leadership position. I took interest in teaching God's word and even surrendered my life for future mission endeavors. I was doing everything according to plan...yet something was definitely wrong.

I immersed myself to deeper doctrinal concepts so that I won't venture into doubt and dismay. I even went on a mission trip to the most remote place i know here in the Philippines. I preached God's word there and even left an impact...but when I came back...nothing felt right.

Then it hit me...God was not in it. When I prayed to God about something, it was more of informing Him rather than asking for leading. I was taking the lead and not letting God work through me. I was enjoying the moment, but not gaining anything from it. I was living like a boss in a life that was graciously granted to me by God Himself. My perspective in life was messed up...I was struggling to be first.

I needed a total mentality makeover. As Max Lucado's book did say, it's not about me...it's all about God! I was living independently from God. I was king of my life...making poor decisions but was never ready for the consequence. It needed a lot of heart aches before I realized the stupid situation I was getting myself into.

Now...I learned to let go and let God. I'm not saying I don't do anything...I still do what I can, but now, I leave the results to God with a mentality that whatever God decides, it's always for the best! So let me encourage you...live a life that is second to God. It's worth it!

Hi...I'm TJ Ermitaño...and I am second.

purpose

It's a detailed description of why you think, talk and act the way you do. If your thoughts, words and actions do not adhere to a definite end goal in life...then what's your purpose in living? Purpose comes from a belief system where our norms and standards are founded upon. What we have accumulated in our hearts through the years of obedience or discipline has contributed to our belief system.

A definite purpose will help you through times of frustrations and disappointments. It may not ease the pain or relieve the heart ache, but it will give clarity on why you have to go through the unfairness of life. There will come a time where you will question your career path or your ministry obligations...you'll look back and ask yourself if it was worth the effort. But all of those doubts will soon be cleared when you reassess your defined purpose.

If you know what you are supposed to do in life...then I salute you. Few people are given the privilege of a clear path in life. But if you're still lost and unaware of the path you need to take...then don't fret...you are not alone. One thing we all have to do is NOT LET GO OF WHAT WE BELIEVE. In the end...God will work on what you have and what we are willing to offer. A personal sense of destiny is not easily attained...it's an accumulation of positive volition towards God and His word that will bring us to a state of peace, contentment and purpose.

Pray for me...as I reassess my purpose in life.

Lord, I'm trying

Lord I hate this feeling of worthlessness...when everything I've accomplished in life never did amount to anything substantial. All along, I thought that I'm half way to my goals in life when in reality I'm still at the starting line. I'm mentally burned out, emotionally unstable, physically worn out, spiritually confused and no one cares. I'm struggling to keep things together for the sake of the people I love, but deep inside I know that I'm about to snap and lose it. I'm grumpy and insensitive...and I'm sorry Lord...but I'm trying.

I find people very irritating...i find them unreasonable and selfish and unfair! I hate the fact that they have the same stinking attitude that I possess...therefore I hate myself and what I've turned into. I lack grace, I withhold mercy and I cut back on impersonal love...I'm sorry Lord...I'm really trying.

I still love teaching...I do...I love the fact that You are real Lord...that Your word is true! It's the only thing in my life that makes sense at the moment...I can never let go of teaching...but the lessons You've been teaching through me are too hard...I've been failing in most of them...and yet You still let me teach. I'm such a failure...I'm sorry Lord, I'm trying.

Lord...I'm lost...I have no idea what You're planning...You know my heart...I'm sorry for doubting or questioning you...I know I'm weak...but Lord, I'm trying.

the fact of abundance VS the myth of scarcity

Had a great time teaching at our midweek service. For those who missed it, here are the major points!

• Abundance was generously expressed during creation and continued throughout history

o   Genesis 1 - "Be fruitful and increase in numbers" can be noted all throughout

o   Psalm 104 - a recognition of God's abundance in creation

o   Psalm 150 - a recognition of God's goodness to show His abundance

• Scarcity was introduced in the Bible when Pharaoh dreamed about a coming famine

o   Up until that time, blessing was the order of the world.

o   Genesis 47:13 - "There was no food...the famine was severe"

o   Geneses 47:19 - Desperate people gave in to scarcity and offered themselves as collateral to gain food

• The world's scarcity will never affect God's abundance

o   Genesis 47:27 - "They...were fruitful and increased greatly in number"

o   Exodus 1:7 - "But the Israelites were fruitful and multiplied greatly and became exceedingly numerous."

• God's abundance is a threat to people who are mentally scarce

o   Exodus 1:9-10 - "Look...the Israelites has become too numerous...we must deal shrewdly with them!"

o   Exodus 1:15-22 - Pharaoh tried to limit God's abundance to meet his level of scarcity.

• The absolute truth of God's abundance will always prevail

o   Exodus 12:32 - after the final plague (taking of the first born) Pharaoh urges the Israelites to leave and bless him as they move out.

• Our everyday Christian life is an ongoing battle between the absolute fact of God's abundance versus the myth of scarcity.

o   Mark 6:30-44 - The disciples witnessed the miraculous feeding of Five thousand people with a couple of small fishes and 5 loaves of bread.

o   Mark 8:1-3 - The disciples failed to apply God's abundant provision in the same situation

•  Acknowledging God's abundance is a well balanced spiritual life

o   We have a responsibility to work AND believe that God will provide for our needs

o   We must act on a situation AND understand that God will have the final say

• Contentment is the mental attitude that will compliment God's abundance

o   Philippians 4:11-13 - Apostle Paul learned that the secret in being content is understanding the Deity Who is providing you strength!

nothing to offer

That's what I feel right now.

I have surrendered my life to God...but never expected this much life altering tests in such short intervals. But then I should have understood that His ways are not my ways and His thoughts are not my thoughts. He has His own timetable...and once we surrender to His ultimate authority, then we are bound to be a part of His vast imagination. Right now, I feel that God has me right where He wants me...helpless and broken.

God was never interested in what we can offer nor in what we can contribute. Compared to His glory, our righteousness will just seriously cramp His style. It's like waxing a Ferrari with honey...it may be sweet and pleasant but it will definitely ruin the car. Sometimes it's better to just give up and let God. I know it's hard...believe me...It's detestable in all aspects! But from where I am now emotionally and spiritually, I have to let God move me.

I'm not bitter nor angry...I'm just exhausted and emotionally drained...but surprisingly happy. So Lord, let's do this...I'm empty and ready!

incorruptible crown

Our church is almost done with our Daily Vacation Bible School (DVBS) and let me just state for the record on how proud I am with our young people and volunteers...they have conquered Sariaya, they have overtaken Las Pinas...and now for our last stop, Paranaque! Our young people have shared their all to their students...they have done a great job in sowing the gospel seed into the hearts of the kids...let us continue to water them with unconditional love and fervent prayers.

Volunteering for an evangelistic event like DVBS is not an easy task. This is not a paid event where you are compensated with money...this is something even bigger that any substantial amount. Your decision to genuinely help out and be used by God will be replaced with something incorruptible...something eternal in value. I like how the Apostle Paul said it in one of his epistles...he stated that runners run the race to gain something that will never last...but we, as believers, run a different race with a different prize. We do it for a higher purpose!

In two weeks time, the DVBS fever will be finished and long gone. I pray that the lives we touch during these events will gain the opportunity to grow in God's grace. I hope and pray, that the kids we ministered to during this week will be used by God for his own glory. Let's run this race with a perspective of eternity...run for an incorruptible crown! 

a commitment to integrity

A believer that follows Jesus is expected to be at par with His integrity...but that's not always the case. We are fallen creatures with sin centered intentions with our everyday interactions. Integrity is a far fetched idea and nearing its extinction. Nothing in us can ever produce perfect righteousness and perfect justice...we just don't have it in us. Therefore, integrity is just a big word that people seldom use to show the vastness of their vocabulary. But what is integrity?

A pastor-teacher in our church said it this way, "integrity is what you do when people are not looking!" Your thoughts, speech and actions when you are alone simply shows the character of your soul...your integrity. Is it really that simple? yup...but acquiring integrity is a different league in itself. When we are alone, the only authority we submit to that is divinely instituted is our free will...and our volition submits under the stored norms and standards that our conscience holds. Our choices are based on whatever standards we have acquired in our daily living. If our lives are spent conforming and compromising, then our conscience will retain the same standard...that's why we are commanded to do the exact opposite in Romans 12:2.

True integrity is based on something that is absolute and perfect. God is the only stable being who is absolute and perfect...therefore, God is the source of our integrity. But who can know the mind of God? That's what Paul rhetorically asked the people in Corinth...of course the answer is obvious! God has provided His word that prophets and apostles consistently marketed...acquiring wisdom begins with respect and acknowledgement of God's Word as the authority.

Integrity is the heart of every spiritual know-how that we intend to apply. It is the most important element in our relationships. It is the common ground of impersonal love. Never underestimate the importance of Integrity. Let us commit ourselves to integrity.

regret

It's the most paralyzing word that has stopped dreams and aspirations from flourishing. It has the power to bring down self esteem and confidence in an instant. It is promoted by fear and backed up by self-pity. It is an irreversible reality of life...don't dwell on them.

Everybody has their own share of stupidity in this world. Others contribute more than what is expected...and that's the sad truth about our fallen nature. Sometimes when we look back at a situation in our lives, we see a clearer and better option that we were not aware of at that moment...then we ask "if only"...the unending question that has no definite answer.

Regret is not a spontaneous emotion...it's the accumulation of feelings attributed to dissatisfaction in life. This feeling of dissatisfaction may come from envy or bitterness or whatever mental attitude sins you are prone to. If you lack the integrity to be content in what you have or in what situation you are in, then regret will be shadowing you...waiting for the opportune time to strike.

Regret is also the non-acceptance of grace. You may have done something in the past that has hurt or severed relationships and your melancholic self has that moment of you life set to replay. You are constantly in agony, regretting every thought, word and action attributed in that specific time in your life. You want it to stop...you want the agony to end...but you always think about it.

Apostle Paul took upon himself the title of being the chief sinner. Persecuting the church age believers before being involved in the movement. He must have a lot of things to regret...and I'm sure that sometimes he does, that's why in his letter to the church in Philipi, he said "My brethren, I do not consider myself to have obtained it, but I know one thing: I have forgotten that which is behind me and I reach out before me," (Phil 3:13). He admits the reality of being human and still not obtaining maturity, but he is learning to let go of the past and move forward.

Life will dish out unreasonable things at us where we are required to choose between two unlikely options. Unfairness will always exist in this world...and we are not exempted. We may even be an instrument of injustice  and not know it...but that's life. We have to accept the reality that these things happen for a purpose...and the only one I can think of is to see the glory of God in showing mercy and grace.

remnants of a melancholic

The quietness of the evening brings back unwanted memories in my head. Idiotic situations brought about by my immaturity pops out best during depressing moods.   Pessimism becomes a strange addiction overnight. These are the remnants of a melancholic.

moving out

Have you ever been stuck in a very comfortable sitting position that it kinda sucks getting up or even moving a bit? That's what I feel right now. I've been searching for the sweetest spot of my life...and now that I've found it and said "Yes Lord, this is what i want to do" God suddenly answers..."ok...move out of there!"

HUH!?!

It ain't fair! After all the hustling and praying and soul searching, it finally came down to moving out...that's just cruel! This better be a joke God, cause it sure ain't funny. Why do you have to rain on my parade? why do you have to pull the curtains before the best part of my life...

Sounds familiar? Going through the same dilemma? Experiencing the same struggle? Well...don't let your natural, whining, self get the better of you...it won't do you any good...trust me...I KNOW! There will be times when moving out is the best thing for you. If you believe that God is sovereign and righteous and omnipotent...then you better understand that He knows pretty well what is best for you. You may not see it now...but God will certainly lead you to a place where the grass is sufficient for you. It may not be greener than your previous pasture...but it will be all you will need.

Lord...I pray today for the person reading this post of mine...he/she might be struggling with something...I pray Lord that you lead him/her to the place of grace and mercy...where abundance is not found in quantity but in the quality of life. Thank you for the opportunity of reaching out to them and sharing with them a part of You in me...In Jesus' most precious name...AMEN!

even Judas was loved

"The Son of Man will go just as it is written about Him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born" Mark 14:21 (NIV)


"How Cruel!" you might say. How can Jesus, an advocate of life, ever wish for someone not be granted life? This passage was part of the scripture reading from our church's commemoration of the Lord's Supper last night. When I got to this part, I tried to put on Judas' shoes (or sandals) and tried to see what kind of response would he have given after hearing Jesus hint about things to come. Especially if he was playing the kiss and tell part.

It must have been hard for Judas to keep a straight face right after Jesus spoiled his plan. What was Jesus thinking? Why did he keep it a blind item from the other apostles? Some people say that Judas played a vital role on Christ fulfilling the scriptures...did he? really? well...here's what I think!

The first part of the verse is like an assurance that the plan will push through as it was prophesied before ("The Son of Man will go just as it is written about Him...") This validates the sovereignty of God...once it is planned by God, it will be accomplished. Even if Judas did not betray Jesus, the plan of salvation will still take effect...the sins of the world will be paid and God's justice will be satisfied. I believe that even if Judas changed his mind and chose to believe in Jesus, the pharisees will not stop until Jesus is killed! Judas chose the path of unbelief and he was pitied.

"...But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man!..." I believe that Jesus was not being sarcastic at this point. He was genuinely concerned and showed love by indirectly telling Judas "hey...i know you're gonna turn me over...why won't you ever believe that I'm the Messiah?" Can you imagine witnessing so much miracles coming from Jesus, a minute by minute encounter with God in human form, and free life lessons from the great Teacher and still deny? Woe to that man indeed.

And finally we get to the last part of the verse "...It would be better for him if he had not been born." Have you ever said that? have you been so pissed at somebody that you have thought about this phrase or even said it out loud? Well...don't think that this verse gives you every right to be God...because you're not and Jesus is! His spiritual discernment is above everyone. From His standpoint of compassion, he understood that if Judas would not come to repentance, it's better if he was not even born. I don't think Jesus said it with hate...Jesus was merely giving Judas a second chance to listen and assimilate the things he has been witnessing. There was still time...but we all know what happened next.

Everyone on earth is given a chance to have faith in the one true God. No one is born for hell...there's always a chance to escape the fire. The love of God is so unconditional and impersonal that no one is exempted. So if you think that an enemy of yours is not worthy of heaven...think again! because even Judas was loved.