Galatians 5:17
- Our flesh and the spirit do not conform
- Worldly pleasures and the desire of God for us cannot be on the same boat
- We are given the free will to choose, but we are eager for adoption in the spirit when we have the firstfruits of the spirit (Romans 8:23)
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
Then, we will find true happiness. In the given text, King Solomon said that he has tried all pleasures and have not found them satisfying in the end. I remembered all those times I had been in the same situation. I drank for consecutive days with my friends and yeah, they were fun. But each day I woke up, I found myself looking for the flighty happiness, wondering if it's even true. I was convicted, yes, but more than that was the sadness brought about by pretention. It was ten times greater than the sadness I felt before I even let alcohol take the night away.
Hence, walk in the light. See the truth offered before your eyes. Days will be brighter, I tell you. You won't be mistaking dusk for dawn.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Whose is the Vengeance
Genesis 45:4-7
And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.
We have every reason to hate somebody. There will just be moments like that in our lives when vengeance will weigh our hearts down. I was having a battle myself just recently. What if I do this and that in return? Just so they would know how it feels. Just so they would see how far the hurt has taken me.
But it would only take a toll on me. You see, vengeance is His (Romans 12:19). And anger only wraps our hearts in misery. Just read on how anger was considered murder (James 4:1-2). The right thing to do is to cast your cares upon Him and He will give you rest. Surely, it's tiring to hate people and plot against them. Let God take the wheel and guide your heart to forgiveness.
And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.
We have every reason to hate somebody. There will just be moments like that in our lives when vengeance will weigh our hearts down. I was having a battle myself just recently. What if I do this and that in return? Just so they would know how it feels. Just so they would see how far the hurt has taken me.
But it would only take a toll on me. You see, vengeance is His (Romans 12:19). And anger only wraps our hearts in misery. Just read on how anger was considered murder (James 4:1-2). The right thing to do is to cast your cares upon Him and He will give you rest. Surely, it's tiring to hate people and plot against them. Let God take the wheel and guide your heart to forgiveness.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Greatness in Humility
Humility
Giving your post up to somebody is not a sign of weakness. When you have served your time in that God appointed seat, you accept it, wholeheartedly. That's how a mature Christian thinks. Because it is not the power you have while you are there but what you can or have done for His Kingdom. And you stepping down is not like this world's definition of taking a rest. You are still working. You are still part of the body.
He foreknew, predestined, and called us. We will be justified and glorified in the end. That's the plan. That's the promise. For we know His plans, and his plans are greater than ours.
So, train as much as you can. Pass on your knowledge to others. Strengthen their faith as you declare yours. This is the G12 Philosophy. And I hope that it gets to this part of the world.
(Ref: Mark 1:1-8)
Luke 7:18-28
- John didn't know of Jesus' divine purpose when he spoke about that someone who is greater than he
- John followed God in humility
- We can live out our greatness by humbly serving God and His people (Tom Felten)
Giving your post up to somebody is not a sign of weakness. When you have served your time in that God appointed seat, you accept it, wholeheartedly. That's how a mature Christian thinks. Because it is not the power you have while you are there but what you can or have done for His Kingdom. And you stepping down is not like this world's definition of taking a rest. You are still working. You are still part of the body.
He foreknew, predestined, and called us. We will be justified and glorified in the end. That's the plan. That's the promise. For we know His plans, and his plans are greater than ours.
So, train as much as you can. Pass on your knowledge to others. Strengthen their faith as you declare yours. This is the G12 Philosophy. And I hope that it gets to this part of the world.
(Ref: Mark 1:1-8)
Luke 7:18-28
- John didn't know of Jesus' divine purpose when he spoke about that someone who is greater than he
- John followed God in humility
- We can live out our greatness by humbly serving God and His people (Tom Felten)
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Preparing for Something Bigger
The Task Being Handed
I was scared. And I guess still now I am. This is by far the greatest task ever handed to me by God. But in times like this, courage from Him is what we need to keep going.
Esther 4:1-17
- Esther weighed the circumstances and tried to be realistic about the situation
- She had her doubts about the situation too
- But the Lord gave her courage, given the task handed to her
- (Esther 4:14) The task was given to her beforehand, for this purpose
I have also read on the story of a certain Todd Beamer. He was one of the casualties of the 9/11 bombing but he may also be the reason why they were actually less than originally planned. With his infamous "Let's roll" line, he led the attack on the hi-jackers inside the plane. "God help me", he said earlier as he was filled with fear. But then, courage took place and he was able to save a hundred (or even a thousand) more lives.
Nonetheless, we don't need to save a race or a hi-jacked plane to be a demonstration of this wonderful presence of God. That task for you might be smaller relevant to this, but the amount is still significant in the Kingdom of God. When asked when is your Let's roll moment, is it now? Do you have the courage of God? Mine, I believe, is on it's course at the present. And though the task might be too big for me, God will provide. He will pour his confidence, trust, and knowledge on me.
A Good Reminder
You are not here to be entertained.
My greatest dilemma now is how to revive the youth ministry. While thinking over and over for days what plan would suffice, I was confronted by this reading: Acts 2:37-27
- 3000 were added to the church when they believed what Peter said
- The transformation of the people is what kept the numbers growing (each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved)
- They devoted themselves to the teaching, fellowship, sharing in meals, & prayer
- It did not say that they were there because of entertainment, but rather they found joy in devoting themselves to the Word of God and prayer
It is not said, however, that games/programs shouldn't be done. But this is not to be the point of any fellowship just to attract the youth. Because they are not there to be entertained but to build a stronger relationship with God.
Salamat po para sa kaalaman na to! =)
I was scared. And I guess still now I am. This is by far the greatest task ever handed to me by God. But in times like this, courage from Him is what we need to keep going.
Esther 4:1-17
- Esther weighed the circumstances and tried to be realistic about the situation
- She had her doubts about the situation too
- But the Lord gave her courage, given the task handed to her
- (Esther 4:14) The task was given to her beforehand, for this purpose
I have also read on the story of a certain Todd Beamer. He was one of the casualties of the 9/11 bombing but he may also be the reason why they were actually less than originally planned. With his infamous "Let's roll" line, he led the attack on the hi-jackers inside the plane. "God help me", he said earlier as he was filled with fear. But then, courage took place and he was able to save a hundred (or even a thousand) more lives.
Nonetheless, we don't need to save a race or a hi-jacked plane to be a demonstration of this wonderful presence of God. That task for you might be smaller relevant to this, but the amount is still significant in the Kingdom of God. When asked when is your Let's roll moment, is it now? Do you have the courage of God? Mine, I believe, is on it's course at the present. And though the task might be too big for me, God will provide. He will pour his confidence, trust, and knowledge on me.
A Good Reminder
You are not here to be entertained.
My greatest dilemma now is how to revive the youth ministry. While thinking over and over for days what plan would suffice, I was confronted by this reading: Acts 2:37-27
- 3000 were added to the church when they believed what Peter said
- The transformation of the people is what kept the numbers growing (each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved)
- They devoted themselves to the teaching, fellowship, sharing in meals, & prayer
- It did not say that they were there because of entertainment, but rather they found joy in devoting themselves to the Word of God and prayer
It is not said, however, that games/programs shouldn't be done. But this is not to be the point of any fellowship just to attract the youth. Because they are not there to be entertained but to build a stronger relationship with God.
Salamat po para sa kaalaman na to! =)
Sunday, May 19, 2013
To Faith and Beyond
WHAT IS FAITH?
The basic of all basics. We hear it all the time. Faith. But what is it anyway?
It is so easy for us to talk about faith. Even having the misconception that when you believe in something, it is sufficient to say you have faith in it. But faith is more than just believing. The best definition can be found in Hebrews 11:1. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
I recently read an article about faith too and what should we do with it as Christians. In 1 Timothy 6:12, it says "Fight the good fight of faith." He replaced faith with its definition and it made more sense: Fight the good fight of things hoped for, of the evidence of things not seen. Now, that is faith. More than just believing, having faith meant action.
BEYOND YOU
Judges 6:1-40
12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”
I couldn't believe I would ever land on the story of Gideon and be able to appreciate it more than I do now. I mean, as a child, I was only accustomed to hearing his success stories. I never knew of his background. He was basically far from the "might warrior" the angel had called him.
But God knows better. And he sees us better than anybody does. Better than we do ourselves. He doesn't look at what we are but at what we could be. His plans are bigger and his views are larger than we could ever have. So, be still. If you are having doubts about yourself and your capabilities. How would you want to be called when God sends an angel to meet you? Look far ahead. Look beyond and see what God has in stall for you.
The basic of all basics. We hear it all the time. Faith. But what is it anyway?
It is so easy for us to talk about faith. Even having the misconception that when you believe in something, it is sufficient to say you have faith in it. But faith is more than just believing. The best definition can be found in Hebrews 11:1. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
I recently read an article about faith too and what should we do with it as Christians. In 1 Timothy 6:12, it says "Fight the good fight of faith." He replaced faith with its definition and it made more sense: Fight the good fight of things hoped for, of the evidence of things not seen. Now, that is faith. More than just believing, having faith meant action.
BEYOND YOU
Judges 6:1-40
12 When the angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, he said, “The Lord is with you, mighty warrior.”
I couldn't believe I would ever land on the story of Gideon and be able to appreciate it more than I do now. I mean, as a child, I was only accustomed to hearing his success stories. I never knew of his background. He was basically far from the "might warrior" the angel had called him.
But God knows better. And he sees us better than anybody does. Better than we do ourselves. He doesn't look at what we are but at what we could be. His plans are bigger and his views are larger than we could ever have. So, be still. If you are having doubts about yourself and your capabilities. How would you want to be called when God sends an angel to meet you? Look far ahead. Look beyond and see what God has in stall for you.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Hard Love
Yeah, that's how we say it when they require us to love our enemies. Really, is it even possible? Especially if that somebody has hurt you so bad you thought you won't be able to recover?
We usually get the same scenes from romantic movies. This guy cheats on his girlfriend, this wife cheats on his husband with his bestfriend. We get it. There will be reconciliation and forgiveness in the end. Anyway, movies are just representations of cliches, huh?
But this is real life. And though I agree with you on the part where some movies are cliche, love is an entirely different matter when you have come to know Christ. Yes, I am not in a position to say anything (maybe in time I will be). Love is not just about forgiving the other person. Not just about letting it be. Whether or not you'll get back together, leave it to time. It's not just that.
True love should be redeeming.
Read the story of Hosea and Gomer (Hosea 3:1-5). Hosea did not only accept Gomer back into his life, but he made her wait in his house and be freed from her carnality. He did not simply keep her just to satisfy his ego or keep her to himself. Hosea did this because he wanted to be part of God's great plan for Gomer, which is to experience real repentance and freedom.
That should be your love (and I am telling this to the future me). It should not be centered only on the two of you. It should be redeeming, with Christ as the focal point of everything there is to trust, hope, and wait for.
You see, we love because He loved us first (1 John 4:19). And His is unconditional and redeeming. Behold, fellas, you must strive for yours to be the same.
We usually get the same scenes from romantic movies. This guy cheats on his girlfriend, this wife cheats on his husband with his bestfriend. We get it. There will be reconciliation and forgiveness in the end. Anyway, movies are just representations of cliches, huh?
But this is real life. And though I agree with you on the part where some movies are cliche, love is an entirely different matter when you have come to know Christ. Yes, I am not in a position to say anything (maybe in time I will be). Love is not just about forgiving the other person. Not just about letting it be. Whether or not you'll get back together, leave it to time. It's not just that.
True love should be redeeming.
Read the story of Hosea and Gomer (Hosea 3:1-5). Hosea did not only accept Gomer back into his life, but he made her wait in his house and be freed from her carnality. He did not simply keep her just to satisfy his ego or keep her to himself. Hosea did this because he wanted to be part of God's great plan for Gomer, which is to experience real repentance and freedom.
That should be your love (and I am telling this to the future me). It should not be centered only on the two of you. It should be redeeming, with Christ as the focal point of everything there is to trust, hope, and wait for.
You see, we love because He loved us first (1 John 4:19). And His is unconditional and redeeming. Behold, fellas, you must strive for yours to be the same.
Being a Part of the Body
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Our God is a God of hope. When you lack it, trust in Him and he will supply you with all the hope you need.
- We experience true freedom (hence, peace) as we believe in His truth. There is no other way but Him.
The Body of Christ
- We are different (see Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25:14-30). This is because we are given different roles in the fulfillment of His kingdom.
- When one says that he has no use for His kingdom, we should tell them that each of us is given a gift and we should desire it. Now, the amount or intensity of that gift is not really directly proportional to your importance in the body of Christ. It says here too that sometimes, the things we honor are those that are really less important. There are some parts of the body that is less cared for or seen, but are vital in keeping the body alive.
- I personally liked the verse I posted above. Having read a devotional about being sent away from his comfort zone by God, I feel like I am going to lose connections back home anytime soon. I was comforted when I realized that yeah, we are part of the same body. Even though we are a thousand miles apart, we work for the same purpose. And we will always be connected by God's grace and in God's perfect time.
- I also think that this has something to do with the Gift of Exhortation and Encouragement. A friend once told me that it is not my work anymore to understand him. But I can't help it, sir. Besides, it was never really a work for me. I only fear, though, that it might drain me someday. But we all know where we get our strength (Philippians 4:13).
- We experience true freedom (hence, peace) as we believe in His truth. There is no other way but Him.
The Body of Christ
1 Corinthians 12:26
If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.- When we were baptized into Christ (accepted Him as our Savior), we became part of His body.
- We are different (see Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25:14-30). This is because we are given different roles in the fulfillment of His kingdom.
- When one says that he has no use for His kingdom, we should tell them that each of us is given a gift and we should desire it. Now, the amount or intensity of that gift is not really directly proportional to your importance in the body of Christ. It says here too that sometimes, the things we honor are those that are really less important. There are some parts of the body that is less cared for or seen, but are vital in keeping the body alive.
- I personally liked the verse I posted above. Having read a devotional about being sent away from his comfort zone by God, I feel like I am going to lose connections back home anytime soon. I was comforted when I realized that yeah, we are part of the same body. Even though we are a thousand miles apart, we work for the same purpose. And we will always be connected by God's grace and in God's perfect time.
- I also think that this has something to do with the Gift of Exhortation and Encouragement. A friend once told me that it is not my work anymore to understand him. But I can't help it, sir. Besides, it was never really a work for me. I only fear, though, that it might drain me someday. But we all know where we get our strength (Philippians 4:13).
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Just One
Judges 6:1-32
I told you, “I am the Lord your God. You must not worship the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you now live.” But you have not listened to Me
We may have accepted Christ as our Savior. But that does not mean that we have invested everything in Him. Chances are we may have faith, but we have a contingency plan. And this is the surest way to spiritual death.
Why? Because we should trust in God alone. Do you have relatives who often go to church and bet their wealth in the lotto? Do you, yourself, say that you trust God but then make plans in case His doesn't work out? I was guilty of charge. I always thought I could get away with going to church and believing in God while I live the life of my supposed freedom.
But sometimes, we are deceived of our own definitions. Freedom is submission. Submission to the truth that is God. Let us learn to trust Him. And not make back-up plans.
Prayer:
Lord, I apologize for the times I doubt your plans for me. I am scared, really. Even right now while I'm writing this. It took a lot to leave my comfort zone and I think I am still spending energy from it. I pray that you continue to make me understand and break my heart everyday. I pray for the people I left there too. That they may find whatever it is that you want them to find. Thank you. I love you. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
PER #1: Matthew 1 to 3
Matthew 1
The Genealogy of Jesus Christ
A. Overview of Matthew
- placed first among the gospel books bec. it shows transition form Old to New T. (Jewish flavor)
- THEME: Jesus as King and Messiah (fulfilling prophecy was mentioned 16 times)
B. The Genealogy
a. Son of David: Jesus is the kingly Messiah promised from David’s royal line (2 Samuel 7:12-16)
b. Son of Abraham: Jesus is the Seed of Abraham in Whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3).
- provides Jesus' lineage through Joseph (Luke, lineage through Mary)
- Women were mentioned (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, wife of Uriah)
- to show that God uses unlikely people in great ways
- that there is a place for women in the New covenant
- that Jesus identifies with sinners and did not come from a pure aristocratic background
C. The Birth of Jesus Christ
- Miraculous conception, by the Holy Spirit
- Joseph as a good and just man (he didn't want to shame Mary, 'divorce" for engaged people)
*see how commitment was before o.O
- JESUS means the salvation of Yahweh (common name before, Acts 4:12)
- His purpose was to SAVE us from:
(1) the penalty of sin
(2) the power of sin
(3) the presence of sin
D. Fulfillment of the Prophecy
- IMMANUEL means "God with us", refers to his deity and his identification with men
- Wrong: Catholic's belief of Mary's Perpetual Virginity (Joseph did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to Jesus, verse 25)
Matthew 2
Escape to Egypt
A. Wise Men from the East
- misconception: they were not kings, Magi rather. (wise men, KJV)
- not sure if they were really three of them, but the number was based from the number of gifts
- *legends say that these were ancient scientist from Persia sent by Daniel
- they thought the Jews are excited to meet their king
- looking for a star that serves as a guide
B. Herod Panics
- he is known for his building projects and his ruthlessness (he killed his wife, mother-in-law and his 3 sons)
- "and all Jerusalem with him" - not that they sympathize with Herod, but that they fear of what he might do, consequences, new laws
- bible scholars, priests can be compared to some people today who have the knowledge but do not really have a personal relationship with God (Micah 5:2)
C. Presentation of Gifts
- Gold for loyalty, Frankincense for priesthood, Myrrh for death
- More important than these was when they WORSHIPED Him
- displayed Obedience to the heavenly dream when they didn't tell Herod where Jesus was
D. Flight to Egypt
- Herod's cruelty by ordering children 2 years and below to be killed (Jer. 31:15). Rachel was a picture of Bethlehem mothers
- Joseph quickly got up and took Mary and Jesus away (note his Obedience here)
- Hosea 11:1 - "Out of Egypt I call my Son" - fulfillment of prophecy
- Jesus was to be called a Nazarene. Though Nazareth dis nothave a good reputation (John 1:46)
Matthew 3
The Ministry of John the Baptist
A. Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!
- Repentance is not just a feeling of guilt, but an action (to turn from sin)
- change of direction, not a sorrow in the heart
- not something we must do but what coming to Christ is like
- note the sense of urgency, repent now
B. John the Baptist
- forerunner of the Messiah (Isaiah 40:3). His purpose was to prepare people's heart for the Messiah
- like building a road: both are expensive, problems may be encountered, an expert engineer is needed
- he worked to prepare the way of the Lord
- success: people recognized their sinfulness and were willing to do something about it
C. Baptism
- recognize poverty of the spirit (Matthew 5:3) to experience awakening
- means to immerse or overwhelm
- today's baptism: being called to repentance and baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ
- before: conversion of Gentiles to Jew
D. John's confrontation with Pharisees
- living repentance, not talking repentance
- there ar eno merits for being in Abraham's lineage
- 10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
- refers to people who could be deceived of their stand with the Lord (relationship)
- can be connected to the older brother in the Prodigal Son parable
*note: see what happens in most churches today undergoing the G12 transformation
- humility to Jesus, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire (Ezekiel 37:14, promised out-pouring of the Holy Spirit)
E. The Baptism of Jesus
- John hesitated due to the irony of the situation
- To fulfill all righteousness --> Jesus wants to identify himself with sinful man, standing in his place
- the heavens opened and God was pleased
- Holy Spirit descended like a dove, the Trinity manifested
The Genealogy of Jesus Christ
A. Overview of Matthew
- placed first among the gospel books bec. it shows transition form Old to New T. (Jewish flavor)
- THEME: Jesus as King and Messiah (fulfilling prophecy was mentioned 16 times)
B. The Genealogy
a. Son of David: Jesus is the kingly Messiah promised from David’s royal line (2 Samuel 7:12-16)
b. Son of Abraham: Jesus is the Seed of Abraham in Whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3).
- provides Jesus' lineage through Joseph (Luke, lineage through Mary)
- Women were mentioned (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, wife of Uriah)
- to show that God uses unlikely people in great ways
- that there is a place for women in the New covenant
- that Jesus identifies with sinners and did not come from a pure aristocratic background
C. The Birth of Jesus Christ
- Miraculous conception, by the Holy Spirit
- Joseph as a good and just man (he didn't want to shame Mary, 'divorce" for engaged people)
*see how commitment was before o.O
- JESUS means the salvation of Yahweh (common name before, Acts 4:12)
- His purpose was to SAVE us from:
(1) the penalty of sin
(2) the power of sin
(3) the presence of sin
D. Fulfillment of the Prophecy
- IMMANUEL means "God with us", refers to his deity and his identification with men
- Wrong: Catholic's belief of Mary's Perpetual Virginity (Joseph did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to Jesus, verse 25)
Matthew 2
Escape to Egypt
A. Wise Men from the East
- misconception: they were not kings, Magi rather. (wise men, KJV)
- not sure if they were really three of them, but the number was based from the number of gifts
- *legends say that these were ancient scientist from Persia sent by Daniel
- they thought the Jews are excited to meet their king
- looking for a star that serves as a guide
B. Herod Panics
- he is known for his building projects and his ruthlessness (he killed his wife, mother-in-law and his 3 sons)
- "and all Jerusalem with him" - not that they sympathize with Herod, but that they fear of what he might do, consequences, new laws
- bible scholars, priests can be compared to some people today who have the knowledge but do not really have a personal relationship with God (Micah 5:2)
C. Presentation of Gifts
- Gold for loyalty, Frankincense for priesthood, Myrrh for death
- More important than these was when they WORSHIPED Him
- displayed Obedience to the heavenly dream when they didn't tell Herod where Jesus was
D. Flight to Egypt
- Herod's cruelty by ordering children 2 years and below to be killed (Jer. 31:15). Rachel was a picture of Bethlehem mothers
- Joseph quickly got up and took Mary and Jesus away (note his Obedience here)
- Hosea 11:1 - "Out of Egypt I call my Son" - fulfillment of prophecy
- Jesus was to be called a Nazarene. Though Nazareth dis nothave a good reputation (John 1:46)
Matthew 3
The Ministry of John the Baptist
A. Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!
- Repentance is not just a feeling of guilt, but an action (to turn from sin)
- change of direction, not a sorrow in the heart
- not something we must do but what coming to Christ is like
- note the sense of urgency, repent now
B. John the Baptist
- forerunner of the Messiah (Isaiah 40:3). His purpose was to prepare people's heart for the Messiah
- like building a road: both are expensive, problems may be encountered, an expert engineer is needed
- he worked to prepare the way of the Lord
- success: people recognized their sinfulness and were willing to do something about it
C. Baptism
- recognize poverty of the spirit (Matthew 5:3) to experience awakening
- means to immerse or overwhelm
- today's baptism: being called to repentance and baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ
- before: conversion of Gentiles to Jew
D. John's confrontation with Pharisees
- living repentance, not talking repentance
- there ar eno merits for being in Abraham's lineage
- 10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
- refers to people who could be deceived of their stand with the Lord (relationship)
- can be connected to the older brother in the Prodigal Son parable
*note: see what happens in most churches today undergoing the G12 transformation
- humility to Jesus, who will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire (Ezekiel 37:14, promised out-pouring of the Holy Spirit)
E. The Baptism of Jesus
- John hesitated due to the irony of the situation
- To fulfill all righteousness --> Jesus wants to identify himself with sinful man, standing in his place
- the heavens opened and God was pleased
- Holy Spirit descended like a dove, the Trinity manifested
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Be Transformed
And I am here. This is what God has prepared for me today.
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
- Romans 12:1-2
Do not be conformed. Be transformed.
I was moved by these two words and how it was defined in the commentary. To conform means to take the shape of a container, to be shaped by the outside. Meanwhile, to transform means the exact opposite. That is, to enable change from the inside to the outside.
Transformation occurs when something inside of you changes, and you start exhibiting this change outside. Just like when I started with my daily devotion. I wasn't able to notice what has become of me right away. But I guess people did. My habits have made a complete turn and I can now proudly say that unlike before, I am not easy anymore to take judgment on things.I check on my temper every now and then, try to see the best of people and things.
But I am not perfect, of course. I believe that transformation is constant. And it is made possible if I enable my growth in God through praying, reading His word, and listening to His appointed authorities. I don't know His plan yet but I am ready.
Now, to those who hate going with the flow and conforming to what the society deems to be standard, why not try to be transformed? It's more fun and gratifying this way :D
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
- Romans 12:1-2
Do not be conformed. Be transformed.
I was moved by these two words and how it was defined in the commentary. To conform means to take the shape of a container, to be shaped by the outside. Meanwhile, to transform means the exact opposite. That is, to enable change from the inside to the outside.
Transformation occurs when something inside of you changes, and you start exhibiting this change outside. Just like when I started with my daily devotion. I wasn't able to notice what has become of me right away. But I guess people did. My habits have made a complete turn and I can now proudly say that unlike before, I am not easy anymore to take judgment on things.I check on my temper every now and then, try to see the best of people and things.
But I am not perfect, of course. I believe that transformation is constant. And it is made possible if I enable my growth in God through praying, reading His word, and listening to His appointed authorities. I don't know His plan yet but I am ready.
Now, to those who hate going with the flow and conforming to what the society deems to be standard, why not try to be transformed? It's more fun and gratifying this way :D
Prayer:Lord, thank you for guiding me through my journey. This is such a wonderful message po. I can't thank you enough for always reminding me to not let my guard down and not be part of the flow. I am the city on a hill, Lord. I am here. You put me here. Now, let's do this! Haha I love you po. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.
Monday, May 6, 2013
The Need for Balance
I stumbled upon a few verses about love but this is the text that struck me most today.
See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
1 Thessalonians 5:15
At first glance, it basically reminds us that if you are to do something, see to it that it is not only for your welfare. However, as I read on and on (and read some commentary), I realized that it applies to a lot of things, especially in making plans.
I plan to go to the states to save money. I plan to buy a DSLR, learn a few photography techniques, and start to make a business out of my hobby. I plan to continue with my stock education and raise my level to that of Janni. I plan to be everything in so little time.
But my plans didn't include what is best for all. It did include my parents, though. Now, when I think about it, my plans should have included what's best for the Lord. Hence, I need to work so I can help the church in its needs. I want to learn things and profit so I can give back. I want to teach people whatever my learnings are. I want my plans to be for the good of God's kingdom. I want to experience love in everything I do and share it with others.
As they say, His plans are netter than ours. Always will be. And when we seek God first, everything shall be added unto us.
See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
1 Thessalonians 5:15
At first glance, it basically reminds us that if you are to do something, see to it that it is not only for your welfare. However, as I read on and on (and read some commentary), I realized that it applies to a lot of things, especially in making plans.
I plan to go to the states to save money. I plan to buy a DSLR, learn a few photography techniques, and start to make a business out of my hobby. I plan to continue with my stock education and raise my level to that of Janni. I plan to be everything in so little time.
But my plans didn't include what is best for all. It did include my parents, though. Now, when I think about it, my plans should have included what's best for the Lord. Hence, I need to work so I can help the church in its needs. I want to learn things and profit so I can give back. I want to teach people whatever my learnings are. I want my plans to be for the good of God's kingdom. I want to experience love in everything I do and share it with others.
As they say, His plans are netter than ours. Always will be. And when we seek God first, everything shall be added unto us.
Prayer:Lord, thank you for giving me the capability to think of plans and achieve them. However, without you, I'm afraid I can't. I need you to guide me every step of the way and make that path for me. I cannot be the caption of the life you just gave. I may have plans, Lord, but let your will be done. In Jesus' name we pray, amen
Thursday, May 2, 2013
A Time for Everything
Let me start this blog with a verse I recently changed my cover photo into. It still resounds every corner of my small room. And I guess it fits so well with everything that's happening to me right now.
And now, as I finally leave college with my head up high, I can say that every thing that happened between then and now has formed me into what I am today. I am not saying I could have been worse if things didn't happen. It's more of the gratefulness I feel for the path prepared for me.
Say, if I didn't fail, I wouldn't have known what it felt like to disappoint the people I love the most. I wouldn't have known (in greater depth) the family we have in church. I wouldn't have been involved in issues and felt compassion for people. I wouldn't have been able to hold Marcus in my arms and make my parents jealous because I can. I wouldn't have been able to encounter God in time and experience true freedom in living for Him.
So I must say that things happen for a reason. And there is definitely a time for everything. If I am to write my own version, it will go like this:
There is a time to fail, and a time to be raised
God's plan is bigger and better than ours. If only we wait and serve, He'll give us the right things at the right time. So, don't rush your life. Rather, live in its glory. For it is given by God and He alone satisfies our hearts.
I remember that day when I first knew I was going to be delayed in college. Another year of hardships and sleepless nights. Another year of waking up early and being scolded for going home late. It felt like there was this big jar of plans that broke before me. Repair was possible, but it would take so much time. I was so disappointed of myself. I may have even doubted God for a second, just as when Kuya Alaric died.
And now, as I finally leave college with my head up high, I can say that every thing that happened between then and now has formed me into what I am today. I am not saying I could have been worse if things didn't happen. It's more of the gratefulness I feel for the path prepared for me.
Say, if I didn't fail, I wouldn't have known what it felt like to disappoint the people I love the most. I wouldn't have known (in greater depth) the family we have in church. I wouldn't have been involved in issues and felt compassion for people. I wouldn't have been able to hold Marcus in my arms and make my parents jealous because I can. I wouldn't have been able to encounter God in time and experience true freedom in living for Him.
So I must say that things happen for a reason. And there is definitely a time for everything. If I am to write my own version, it will go like this:
There is a time to fail, and a time to be raised
A time to bury resentment, and a time to create stronger relationships
A time to doubt, and a time to trust
A time to feel weak, and a time to overwhelm
A time to hurt, and a time to submit
A time to wait, and a time to love
A time to serve, and a time to harvest
God's plan is bigger and better than ours. If only we wait and serve, He'll give us the right things at the right time. So, don't rush your life. Rather, live in its glory. For it is given by God and He alone satisfies our hearts.
Prayer:Lord, you are a great God. And I thank you for everything that has happened and has been happening to me. Thank you for all those times I failed and felt hurt. Thank you for making me realize that truth and happiness can only be found in You. I trust in your plans, Lord. I give you now this glass that is me. Make me full and use me when I overflow. I also pray for our Pastor, that you may strengthen him amidst all these. I pray for my family and friends, that they may continue to seek you and know you. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
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