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September 27, 2013

A Leap Of Faith

Eversince, I want God to show me what to do with my life. I mean His will for my life. Since I went back to Bicol last March 2012, I am really seeking God for His plans for me. I tend to become frustrated whenever my plans didn't go my way. 

I really have the heart to work abroad, I mean just being practical. I have that desire, but I want it to be God's desire also for my life. It's a big bonus if it is really His will for me. Since then I dreamed of working in Western countries like Australia or Canada or even USA. My heart was so excited for those countries. But then I remember what Pastor Jun once told me, "Wag mo tulungan si God, kung Will Niya talaga sayo na makapunta ka ng Australia, eh makakapunta ka. Baka mafrustrate ka lang pag di nangyari. Let His will be done sa buhay mo." That's the thought of what Pastor Jun have said and I took it by heart. True enough. I've surrendered my plans on Him. I used to worry about my future but God always reminded me of His promise in Matthew 6:34 "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." True, right?

When 2013 came, I had in mind that I will someday apply for a job abroad, but I didn't even thought that it would be this soon. One of my churchmates, once told me that he had visions about me, but it's unclear, so he didn't told me about it. What he said was like this: " if may opportunity na dumating sa'yo, just grab it, as for now I know what you are pertaining to." A week or two after he said to me those lines, an opportunity came for me to apply abroad. I got excited and I ready my resume. But then I realized one thing, is this the opportunity that he has said to me? I considered it as a YES. It's a blessing from God. But the hard part is the country is Middle East. I don't want to go there ever since. I'm afraid of all the chaos that's happening out there. Then God reminded me again of His promise in Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." What a relief. 

But then my heart was still not okay about the application, but I already took a leap of faith. So I asked God for people who will be with me in prayers. I challenged people and all glory to God they committed to be my prayer partners. Every time, they are updated of my application. Bit by bit, God's showing His provisions for me.

FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
At the time that I was applying, I am currently working as a job-order nurse in our local hospital in my hometown and I am earning a monthly allowance of 3,000-4,000. At first, I thought that my allowance would suffice the requirements that I need but I'm wrong. We have so many requirements but above all God provided all the needed money. Once I said to my prayer partners that I was saddened that I didn't get that week my allowance for June. But God is good,cause He has a purpose why He delayed that. I got my allowance on the first week of July and on that week we need to pay 2500php for redribbon and stamping of our COE. Blessings of God always strikes on time. Then I asked my prayer partners for a provision of 7000php (4k for my exam and 3k as my pocket money) as my money going to Manila. I will leave Manila by July 20 and on that 3rd week of July I still don't have that amount of money. My friend who is also my companion in applying abroad, always told me that she lacks still some amount of money. I just smiled at her and told her: "it's okay cause God will provide, I still don't have money on hand but I know God is faithful to give me that amount of money." You know what's amazing? On the 19th of July, my brother texted me that he already deposited 3k on my bank account. That's a great news, so I only need 4k. On the night on that same date my mother hand me the money, it's 5k. So I have 8k on hand. God gave me 1k bonus.

When I was already in Manila, I still needed more money for other requirements. I asked for an express rush of my PRC License ID. I needed money for medical exam,for the red ribbon of my PRC certificates and school documents, visa stamping, stamping of documents in the embassy, and 25k for the processing fee. You know what's really amazing, God never failed me or even delayed His provision. 

I even thought that if I were rich maybe I didn't have to bother about money. But no! God made my present situation to work for His glory. Indeed my financial provisions were met! 

WISDOM
Before we make it through, we should first pass the PROMETRICS, it's one of those online examinations for those who will work in Middle East. While I was still working in the hospital, I make sure that I divide my time for me to be able to review. I just praise God that even though I don't get much enough sleep every day, He make sure that I am still well fit for me to finish all the requirements that I need before going to Manila. 

July 22 is the date of our examination, I was really nervous that time cause it's a 70 item exam and I don't know what questions would pop-up. I just let God guide me while I was in front of the computer. When I reached the last item, I'm still thinking if I would end it already or not.When I decided to click the end button, my heart was racing for I don't know if I would see the word in my screen. When I saw the word PASSED on my screen my heart was overjoyed and I utter these words THANKS GOD. Another provision met.



And as I am waiting for our papers to be released by POEA, I never forget to thank those people who have been with me through prayers. Our visa is ready.

On September 20 we had our PDOS (Pre-departure Orientation Seminar) and yesterday September 26 we headed back to the agency because we will meet our employer. I thank God for the favor because our employer is kind and he is trusted by the agency for many years. Our flight should be today September 27, but then POEA just released our OEC yesterday so our reservations was cancelled. But then blessings of God is there, it was rescheduled by September 30, but they made another reservation to make our flight earlier. So our final flight date is on September 29 at 4pm. 

I am excited but then a little bit nervous because it's a closed country, a Muslim one, and a nation wherein chaos is present. But as I always pray, I still claim God's promise to me on Joshua 1:9 wherein He will always be with me wherever I go and I should never be afraid or discouraged. But then brethren I still want to ask you to please continue to pray for God's favor as I work abroad. Favor for the people that I will encounter, the culture changes, my adaptability and adjustment to their culture, good camaraderie with the Muslim people and Filipinos who are also working there, strength and endurance as I work abroad, strong faith and hope for me to keep going, and for me to be a blessing for the people I work with and to maximize what God has given me and be able to share my faith though the situation and the country that I am in is a Muslim country. I would really appreciate your prayers cause that would mean a lot to me. 

Thank you. Many would think that this is the end of the journey, but I say that we are just beginning. As I look forward for God's greater plan for my life and how He would gonna use me to be part of His wide ministry, I am excited. As my friend said to me, that I should always have an excited heart for God. Even though I would earn in small amount, I did not care, for I know that in time God would bless me with greater things. I would not complain. I will just obey. God also gave me a start to be part of a ministry. I don't know how to budget everything for I owe people money that I used for my application. But I know God will give me wisdom on proper handling of my salary and though l would earn little, I still praise God for He made a way on how I can support someone with His blessing. 

Again, shokran (thanks) for the prayers. May God bless you more. To God be all the glory for everything. Blessings!

I thank these people and I pray for greater things for you:

Crista Andrea Napay
Maricel Manayon-Opena
Cipriano Opena
Rodora Ibay
Joan Ibay
Cesar Lonceras
Jerson Baria
Francis Buenconsejo Balingbing
Patricia Lynne Alcid
Kristina Federez
Roland Christopher Buenaventura
Christopher Infornon Alvarez
Sarah Medina Gonzaga
Carlo Adriel Del Rio

September 13, 2013

MY LIFE'S TESTIMONY


A Father's love is greater than anyone else. Like our parents they know us more than any person that we share our life with. They love us no matter what wrong we have done  for them. All we need to do in order for us to be forgiven is ask for forgiveness and confess our mistakes. Our parents are willing to forgive us no matter what the cost is. Like our parents, God can do more of it than our parents can do for us. Remember how God gave his own own son in John 3:16 it says:

John 3:16

New International Version (NIV)
 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

God awaits us to call on Him..How about you? Are you one of God's child?If not what are you waiting for? Call unto God and let Him be your Savior and the Controller of your life. 

I will share you something, before when I am not still a Christian - a child of God, doing things I thought was right in this contemporary world  was way far different or let say wrong when you know what God really wants you to do. It is a life changing event when you truly accept God and when you have a personal relationship with Him. As a non-believer, I believe in the name of God and His son Jesus. Wouldn't you believe it or not, but I have lots of questions before in my faith that I am believing in. Not until when I was on my 2nd year in college that I have encountered the word of God. It was on October 2006  when I accepted God in my life. I wouldn't consider it as an accident but God's plan for my life. He knew what I am looking for, and He knew that He is the answer to all my life's questions. It happened one afternoon when I will  just pick up my friend Melody on their afternoon meet-up with their discipler, Ate Crista (who soon to become my discipler too) because we have a project to finish. When I am already there, Ate Crista was introduced to me and shared the word of God to me. From that day on my life was never the same. It became more exciting everyday as I seek for His will for my life. And on December 07, 2008 I was baptized. As I've known Jesus to be my sole Saviour of my life, I have dedicated my life to really look to His words and promises. Being obedient to His words was never easy but I tell you brethren it is all worth it. Once Jesus is in my life, there's no turning back. My commitment is that in simple ways I want to help expand God's kingdom. I have the heart ever since to support missionaries as much as I could and up to now I am continuously keeping that desire for I know that one day God will bless me so that I could also be a blessing. I would never barter my faith to anything that this world offers, I hope and pray that it would also be your commitment. There are lots of things that I could share to you on how God has been really faithful to my life. As  a CCC Alumni, I am blessed to see people who dedicated their lives to be volunteers or part-time or full time staff of Bicol CCC. I am excited for everyone of you as you continue your ministry and as God favors you every day with His provisions. You will always be in my prayers. May we all find God's glory in our lives more meaningful every day. This is all for God's glory alone, not ours. This is His story, not ours. May we enjoy our own journey with God.


This is something I want to share with you and I know all of you knows this very well. This is part of my blog. I just made some edit for my testimony. Just visit my blog kdescobido07.blogspot.com and be blessed.
Here is something that I will share to you, it was shared to me when I was in 2nd year college - the time that I accepted God in to take control of my life. From Campus Crusade for Christ - the Christian organization where I have been affiliated. Try to visit http://www.campuscrusade.com for more information on how you can develop your Christian life. 

NOW, BEFORE YOU GO OVER READING THIS, I WILL LEAVE YOU JUST ONE QUESTION: WILL YOU RESPOND TO BE GOD'S CHILD AND WILL YOU LET HIM BE YOUR LORD AND SAVIOR?


 Four Spiritual Laws




Four Spiritual Laws
Just as there are physical laws that govern
the physical universe, so are there spiritual laws
that govern your relationship with God.
Law 1
God loves you and offers a wonderful plan for your life.
God's Love
"God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever
believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16, NIV).
God's Plan[Christ speaking] "I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly"
[that it might be full and meaningful] (John 10:10).
Why is it that most people are not experiencing that abundant life?
Because...
Law 2
Man is sinful and separated from God.
Therefore, he cannot know and experience
God's love and plan for his life.
Man is Sinful"All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
Man was created to have fellowship with God; but, because of his own stubborn
self-will, he chose to go his own independent way and fellowship with God was broken.
This self-will, characterized by an attitude of active rebellion or passive indifference,
is an evidence of what the Bible calls sin.
Man Is Separated"The wages of sin is death" [spiritual separation from God] (Romans 6:23).



SeparationThis diagram illustrates that God is holy and man is sinful. A great gulf separates the two. The arrows illustrate that man is continually trying to reach God and the abundant life through his own efforts, such as a good life, philosophy, or religion
-but he inevitably fails.

The third law explains the only way to bridge this gulf...
Law 3
Jesus Christ is God's only provision for man's sin.
Through Him you can know and experience
God's love and plan for your life.
He Died In Our Place
"God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners,
Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).
He Rose from the Dead
"Christ died for our sins... He was buried... He was raised on the third day,
according to the Scriptures... He appeared to Peter, then to the twelve.
After that He appeared to more than five hundred..." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6).
He Is the Only Way to God
"Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life, no one comes to
the Father but through Me'" (John 14:6).



Bridge The Gulf


This diagram illustrates that God has bridged the gulf that separates us from Him by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross in our place to pay the penalty for our sins.

It is not enough just to know these three laws...
Law 4
We must individually receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord;
then we can know and experience God's love and plan for our lives.
We Must Receive Christ"As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children
of God, even to those who believe in His name" (John 1:12).
We Receive Christ Through Faith"By grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves,
it is the gift of God; not as result of works that no one should boast" (Ephesians 2:8,9).
When We Receive Christ, We Experience a New Birth(Read John 3:1-8.)
We Receive Christ Through Personal Invitation[Christ speaking] "Behold, I stand at the door and knock;
if any one hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him" (Revelation 3:20).
Receiving Christ involves turning to God from self (repentance) and trusting
Christ to come into our lives to forgive our sins and to make us what He wants us to be.
Just to agree intellectually that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He died on the cross
for our sins is not enough. Nor is it enough to have an emotional experience.
We receive Jesus Christ by faith, as an act of the will.
These two circles represent two kinds of lives:
Circles



Self-Directed Life
S-Self is on the throne
wpe463.jpg (790 bytes)-Christ is outside the life
wpe464.jpg (719 bytes)-Interests are directed by self, often
resulting in discord and frustration
Christ-Directed Lifewpe463.jpg (790 bytes)-Christ is in the life and on the throne
S-Self is yielding to Christ,
resulting in harmony with God's plan
wpe464.jpg (719 bytes)-Interests are directed by Christ,
resulting in harmony with God's plan
Which circle best represents your life?
Which circle would you like to have represent your life?

The following explains how you can receive Christ:

You Can Receive Christ Right Now by Faith Through Prayer
(Prayer is talking with God)
God knows your heart and is not so concerned with your words as He is with the attitude
of your heart. The following is a suggested prayer:



Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life.
Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.
Does this prayer express the desire of your heart? If it does, I invite you to pray this
prayer right now, and Christ will come into your life, as He promised.



 Now That You Have Received Christ


How to Know That Christ Is in Your Life

Did you receive Christ into your life by sincerely praying the suggested prayer? According to His promise in Revelation 3:20, where is Christ right now in relation to you? Christ said that He would come into your life. Would He mislead you? On what authority do you know that God has answered your prayer?
(The trustworthiness of God Himself and His Word.)
The Bible Promises Eternal Life
"The witness is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, in order that you may know that you have eternal life" (1 John 5:11-13).
Thank God often that Christ is in your life and that He will never leave you (Hebrews 13:5).  You can know on the basis of His promise that Christ lives in you and that you have eternal life from the very moment you invite Him in. He will not deceive you.
An important reminder...
Do Not Depend on Feelings
The promise of God's Word, the Bible - not our feelings - is our authority. The Christian lives by faith (trust) in the trustworthiness of God Himself and His Word. This train diagram illustrates the relationship among fact (God and His Word), faith (our trust in God and His Word), and feeling (the result of our faith and obedience) (John 14:21).


[TRAIN DIAGRAM]

The train will run with or without a caboose. However, it would be useless to attempt to pull the train by the caboose. In the same way, as Christians we do not depend on feelings or emotions, but we place our faith (trust) in the trustworthiness of God and the promises of His Word.
Now That You Have Received Christ
The moment that you received Christ by faith, as an act of the will, many things happened, including the following:
  1. Christ came into your life (Revelation 3:20 ; Colossians 1:27).
  2. Your sins were forgiven (Colossians 1:14).
  3. You became a child of God (John 1:12).
  4. You received eternal life (John 5:24).
  5. You began the great adventure for which God created you (John 10:102 Corinthians 5:17 ; 
    1 Thessalonians 5:18
    ).
Can you think of anything more wonderful that could happen to you than receiving Christ? Would you like to thank God in prayer right now for what He has done for you? By thanking God, you demonstrate your faith. To enjoy your new life to the fullest...
Suggestions for Christian Growth
Spiritual growth results from trusting Jesus Christ. "The righteous man shall live by faith" (Galatians 3:11). A life of faith will enable you to trust God increasingly with every detail of your life, and to practice the following:
    G       Go to God in prayer daily (John 15:7).
    R       Read God's Word daily (Acts 17:11); begin with the Gospel of John.
    O       Obey God moment by moment (John 14:21).
    W       Witness for Christ by your life and words (Matthew 4:19John 15:8).
    TTrust God for every detail of your life (1 Peter 5:7).
    H       Holy Spirit - allow Him to control and empower your daily life and witness (Galatians 5:16,17Acts 1:8).
Fellowship in a Good Church
God's Word instructs us not to forsake "the assembling of ourselves together" (Hebrews 10:25). Several logs burn brightly together; but put one aside on the cold hearth and the fire goes out. So it is with your relationship with other Christians.
If you do not belong to a church, do not wait to be invited. Take the initiative; call the pastor of a nearby church where Christ is honored and His Word is preached. Start this week, and make plans to attend regularly.      



Share your faith to others. Shalom!

July 16, 2013

GLIMPSE OF TRUE CHARACTER & IMPACT OF ATTITUDE

Read through this passage on how character and attitude have great impact if we are considering marriage in our life. I've read this in the book of Joshua Harris' I Kissed Dating Goodbye. This made me think deeper and take into consider things in life that should be taken seriously and within God's perspective. I believe that there's no such thing as it's too late for someone who is growing and maturing in spirit. And this one I want to share with some Christians and non-Christian singles that I know - both men and women - and also to married couples who have been an inspiration. :)


Glimpses of True Character
      How do we evaluate a person's character? How do we get past image and reputation to catch a glimpse of who a person really is? Let's look at some of the little acts that can tell us more about a person.

  • HOW A PERSON RELATES TO GOD
          A person's relationship to God is the defining relationship in his or her life - when this relationship is out of order, every other relationship will suffer. Scripture plainly states that a Christian should not even consider a non-Christian for a spouse. "Don't team up with those who are unbelievers," the Bible says (2 Corinthians 6:14 , NLT). Both you and the person you marry must have a dynamic, growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The question is not merely "Are you and a potential spouse saved?" but rather "Are both of you in love with Jesus Christ? Will you place Him before even each other?"
          "This is one of those beautiful paradoxes of biblical truth," write David Powlison and John Yenchko. "If you love and want your spouse more than anything, you will end up selfish, fearful, bitter, or disillusioned. If you love Jesus more than anything else, you will really love and enjoy your spouse You will be someone worth marrying!"
           Once, in a conversation about relationships, two Christian girls told me that they find focus on God one of the most attractive qualities in a guy. "It's obvious when he really love the Lord," my friend Sarah said. "When he's telling you about his love for God, you can tell that he's not distracted by you."
           "Exactly!" affirmed Jayme. "It's funny because the guys that really go out of their way to impress girls don't impress me at all. They make me nauseated."
           Look for, and work on becoming, a man or woman who, as a single, seeks God wholeheartedly, putting Him before anything else. Don't worry about impressing the opposite sex. Instead, strive to please and glorify God. Along the way you'll catch the attention of people with the same priorities.

  • HOW A PERSON RELATES TO OTHERS
          The second window to a person's character is his or her relationships with others. Watch how a potential (and you) relate to the following people:

     Authorities
How does a potential mate respond to [people in authority? Does this person respect the authority of a boss or pastor even if he or she disagrees with that authority figure? A guy who can't follow legitimate orders will have difficulty holding a job or receiving pastoral correction when needed. A girl who can't respect a teacher's or coach's authority will have difficulty honoring her husband. Look for, and strive to become, a person who respects God-given authority.

     Parents
You've probably heard this sage advice before: "The way a guy treats his mom is the way he'll treat his wife." It's true. The same goes for the way a girl relates to her dad. I'm not saying that a person who has had a bad relationship with his or her dad or mom can't have a good marriage. By God's grace we can overcome old patterns. But we do need to ask, "If he can't be loving and gentle with his mom, why should I believe he'll be loving and gentle with me as his wife?" or "If she can't respect her dad, will she be able to respect me as her husband?"

Don't forget to evaluate your own life. How do you relate to your parents? Can you improve the way you interact with them so you'll know how to honor your future spouse? If you'd really like the answer to these questions, ask your parents to tell you their perspectives on your relationship with them.

     The Opposite Sex
There's a huge difference between genuine friendliness and flirtatiousness. Learn to distinguish between the two. No one wants to marry a flirt. Guys, if a girl flits like a butterfly from one guy to the next, always in need of male attention, do you really think marriage will suddenly change her? Girls, do you want to marry a man with a wandering eye? And what about yourself? Where do you stand on the friendly-flirtatious scale? Do you need to change your attitudes and actions toward members of the opposite sex?

     Companions
A person's companions are the people who influence and shape him or her. In this category, the way someone treats his or her friends is not as important as who these friends are. A. W. Tozer observed, "There is a law of moral attraction that draws every man to the society most like himself. Where we go when we are free to go where we will is  a near-infallible index of character."

Who are a potential marriage partner's closest friends? How do these friends act? What do they value? If they're caught up in partying and living recklessly, the person who spends time with them will probably share those pursuits. What about your companions? Are you pursuing relationships with people who encourage you in your walk with the Lord? Or do your friends drag you down? Don't underestimate how much your close friends shape your character. 

  • PERSONAL DISCIPLINE
          The third window to character is how a person disciplines and conducts his or her personal life. "Habit," writes Charlotte Mason, "is the greater part of nature." The things we do involuntarily, almost without thinking, reveal our character.
          When we consider this category, we need to note the difference between sinful habits and simply annoying habits or poor manners. Everyone has habits that another person will find silly or irritating. My dad drives my mother crazy with the way he eats corn on the cob. His method is reminiscent of an old typewriter: Munch, munch, munch, munch, kaching! Munch, munch, munch down the next row. This may not be the best table manners, but it isn't a sinful habit. Instead of concerning ourselves with issues such as these, we need to examine whether a potential spouse (or we ourselves) fosters habits that are disobedient to God or that reveal a deeper disregard for others.

          The following are a few areas in which a person's habits give us a glimpse into his or her character. Watch these closely in your own life, too.

     How a person uses time
I heard Elisabeth Elliot give a speech in which she said that one of the things that first attracted her to Jim Elliot was the fact that he memorized Scripture as he waited in the cafeteria line. that observation told her that Jim was disciplined and efficient.

The way a person spends his of her leisure time tells us what he or she values.  Does this person fill free time with mindless hours in front of the TV? Does this person cultivate his or her mind and build relationships, or does he or she run to the next distraction? Seek to find someone (and to be the kind of person) who uses time wisely.

     How he or she handles money
The way a person handles money is one, if not the surest, indicator of character. At his nineteenth birthday party, my friend Andy asked people to bring money. But he didn't want the money for himself. Instead, he gave all of it to a Christian outreach effort in the inner city. Andy's attitude toward material things proved him a man of compassion, love and generosity. It showed that he valued the eternal more than the material.

Is the person you're observing (or are you) caught up in clothing, cars, and other material things? Does this person think through purchases, or does he or she spend impulsively, prone to splurging? A person's spending habits reveal his or her level of responsibility.

     How he or she takes care of his or her body
We should not fault a person because of things he or she cannot control - height, features, and in some cases, weight. Neither should we be overly concerned with the external. However, the way a person cares for his or her body tells us something about that person's character.

First, how does this person dress? A girl who dresses immodestly may catch guys' attention, but what does her clothing say about her heart? A guy who spends his money on the latest style of clothing may have the appearance of "togetherness," but his infatuation with fashion could mean he's too preoccupied with what people think of him (and that he may make poor decisions with his money).

Next, how does this person care for his or her body? Does he or she have disciplined eating habits? Does he or she have a reasonable and consistent program of staying fit? God wants us to maintain the health and condition of our bodies so that we can more effectively serve Him. This does not mean, however, that we should become obsessed with exercise. A person who is too concerned about weight lifting is just as out of balance as the person who doesn't exercise at all.


The Impact of Attitude
          After character, attitude is the second essential criteria in choosing a spouse. Attitude is a person's vantage point, the way he or she looks at and reacts to life. For the Christian, this involves more than mere positive thinking. A godly attitude involves God-centered, Bible-based thinking - working to view ourselves, others, and our circumstances from God's perspective.
         The following are a few key ways that godly attitudes are expressed:

  • AN ATTITUDE OF WILLING OBEDIENCE TO GOD
          As you seek a mate, look for someone who will listen to and act without hesitation on what God is telling him or her. You want someone with an attitude like David's, saying to God, "I will hurry, without lingering, to obey your commands" (Psalm 119:60, NLT). An attitude of willing obedience recognizes the lordship of Jesus in every area of life.
          Is the person you're interested in consistently looking for ways to submit more of his or her life to God? Does he or she work to overcome bad habits? Is this person being conformed to today's culture, or does he or she push against it, seeking to be transformed into Christ's image?
          Are you working to develop an obedient attitude in your own life? You'll never be perfect of find a perfect mate - we're all sinners - but only people with an attitude willing obedience to God's Word will continue to grow in godliness and maturity throughout their lives.
  • AN ATTITUDE OF HUMILITY
          An attitude of humility considers others' needs first. The Bible states, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3). Does the person you're interested in place the needs of others before his or her own? Watch the small things. When he's on the basketball court, how does he act? Even in competition does he seek to serve others? How does she respond when conflict arises in her family? Is she quick to blame the other party or humble enough to share blame and seek resolution  And how do you handle these situations?
          One of the things I respect most about my dad is his willingness to humble himself before my mom and the rest of my family by confessing sin. If he has spoken a harsh word or acted uncaringly, he doesn't hesitate to seek forgiveness. A lesser man can't do this.
          Two people don't keep a marriage strong because they never make mistakes; they keep a marriage strong by maintaining an attitude of humility that is quick to confess sin, put the other first, and seek forgiveness.

  • AN ATTITUDE OF INDUSTRIOUSNESS
          Don't judge a person by his or her line of work, but do take not of the attitude with which this person approaches work. An attitude of industriousness is one of willingness to work hard at whatever task presents itself. William Bennett writes: "Work ...  is not what we do for a living but what we do with our living... The opposite of work is not leisure or play or having fun, but idleness - not investing ourselves in anything."
          In Proverbs 31:17 the noble wife is described as someone who "sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks." (Of course, industriousness is important for both men and women.) Look for someone who energetically invests his or her life in something important right now. Strive for this attitude in yourself, too.


  • AN ATTITUDE OF CONTENTMENT AND HOPEFULNESS
          An attitude of contentment and hopefulness is one that recognizes God's sovereignty in every situation. It is faith-birthed optimism that looks to God- an attitude more aware of and grateful for the evidence of God's grace than of problems needing correction.
          Here are a few important questions to ask about the person you're getting to know as well as about yourself: Does this person have complaint or praise on his or her lips? Does he or she    nitpick at the faults of others or consistently encourage? Does this person view his or her circumstances with a spirit of hopelessness, or does he or she remain confident of God's faithfulness?
          Early in his marriage, the Reverend E. V. Hill and his wife, Jane, faced financial difficulty. He had foolishly invested in a service station, and the business had failed. Money was very tight. Dr. Dobson, who heard Reverend Hill share their story at Jane's funeral, recounts it this way:
          Shortly after the fiasco with the service station, E. V. came home one night and found the house dark. When he opened the door, he saw that Jane had prepared a candlelight dinner for two.
          "What meaneth thou this?" he said with characteristic humor.
          "Well," said Jane, "we're going to eat by candlelight tonight."
          E. V. thought that was a great idea and went into the bathroom to wash his hands. He tried unsuccessfully to turn on the light. Then he felt his way into the bedroom and flipped another switch. Darkness prevailed. The young pastor went back to the dining room and asked Jane why the electricity was off. She began to cry.
          "You work so hard, and we're trying," said Jane, "but it's pretty  rough. I didn't have quite enough money to pay the light bill. I didn't want you to know about it, so I thought we would just eat by candlelight."
          Dr. Hill described his wife's words with intense emotion: "She could have said. "I've never been in this situation before. I was reared in the home of Dr. Caruthers, and we never had out lights cut off." She could have been broken my spirit; she could have ruined me; she could have demoralized me. But instead she said, "Somehow or another we'll get these lights on. But let's eat tonight by candlelight."
          Tears come to my eyes every time I read this story. Mrs. Hill's optimism and readiness to walk through tough times with her husband exemplify the two qualities I desire in my own life and pray for most in a wife. I'm looking for someone who will light candles, not just curse the darkness.


Isn't it great to know these things? The ways on how to know a person's character, made a mark as I've read through. This reminds me and refocus my attention about proper mind setting when you want to consider marriage in your life. It also reminds me on keeping my standards high and not keeping it low whenever one tells me so, cause he won't be worth it. Although I am single, it is very important to know these things. It also reminds  me on true beauty that should be seen whenever you are considering someone. It's said in 1 Samuel 16:7 "The Lord does not look at the things man looks at," God says. "Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." The person who deserves the praise is the one who "fears the Lord."

I consider very deep in details the true character of a person. And if you're ready to consider marriage in your life, have the heart to seek for a partner who is same in your faith, 2 Corinthians 6:14 says, "Don't team up with those who are unbelievers." Meanwhile, while I have the gift of singleness, God made me realize the wonders of it - having all my time to serve Him, my family and others and to have ample time to prepare myself to become the best or should I say, the good wife for my husband-to-be.

Although I have some regrets in the past relationship that I had, but then through His grace and love for me, those experiences become channels of blessing to me and to other people. God won't put me in that situation wherein I can't learn something. When you are in trouble or have problems, it's an opportunity for you to grow and mature spiritually through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

And to all the girls, never set your standards low just to match up to their standards. We must endure patience and obedience as we wait for His perfect  will. Make every day of your life an opportunity to grow, bless other people and most of all honor God. The fruits of all these labor will be so rewarding. In everything that we do, may it be all for the glory of His name.

With this, I want to give my "thank you" to the two most influential woman in my life. Thank you Ate Crista (my discipler) and Ate Macel (who have been like a mom to me) for all your advice since then.

I may not have taken it seriously then, but it's well kept deep in my heart. I would never be the woman I am now without your inputs and all the advice for me, of course with the help of God and other believers.

As I was reading through the book, the past just flashback right in front of me and I am so grateful that I have met or let's just say, God made us met and be part of my life. Of course, everyone that I have met - whether they have been good or not - still I thank the Lord for their lives, cause nothing in our life is accident.

I have just been blessed that I want to share God's faithfulness to everyone. We have our own stories of blessings to tell and this is mine.

Blessings be upon you, my brothers and sisters in Christ! Blessings!!

June 14, 2013

WHAT HAVE I LEARNED LATELY???

There will come a time where God will really push you to your limits. I mean He will really test your faith and how well you will respond to His command. I've struggled this past few months emotionally because of something that God doesn't allow. Well it's difficult, but He continued to remind me on how very important obedience and patience is in a Christian life. You will go far and live peacefully and abundantly when you know how to obey even a single and simple command from God. Take for example a command coming from your parents, if it is difficult for you to obey that, how much more the command of our Heavenly Father?

What if He tells you that He doesn't want the situation that you are in? How would you respond? It's your emotion and feelings against God. It's difficult, right? But I do praise Him cause He gave me a strong and brave heart to endure every pain that is due to me. Cause I know I deserve that pain. God wants me to realize something and I did. The process of healing is difficult but happy, cause I know that God is with me all through out. 

I don't want any compromise in my life. I don't want to have a heavy heart in God's eyes. I do really regret those times that I have done wrong in His presence, but of course I've learned something. I am now enjoying a life where all I have to think of is my relationship with God, my family, my career, and those people I care. 

Patience is something that I will take with me wherever I go. It is the feeling wherein you get excited for something that you have waited for a long time, just for that moment to come. And when that moment comes, the patience is so rewarding. It is said in the Bible Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance.
Romans 5: 3  And I am patient with that. I know that God is faithful to my life. And that hope inside of me won't be stolen, cause God will never be stolen from me. God is my Hope, my Happiness, my Love, my Refuge, my Strength, my Comforter, my All in All. :) How can I respond to such great love? For you have need of steadfast patience and endurance, so that you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised. Hebrews 10: 36

So much blessed. And may you all be blessed. Thank you for those people whom God used as channels of blessing and mentors in my life. :) God bless!




February 03, 2012

God Gave Me You

For all the times I felt cheated
I complained, you know how I love to complain
For all the wrongs I repeated
Though I was to blame, I still cursed that rain
I didn't have a prayer, didn't have a clue
And then out of the blue

God gave me you to show me what's real
There's more to life than just how I feel
And all that I’m worth is right before my eyes
And all that I live for, though I didn't know why
Now I do, cos god gave me you

For all the times I wore my self-pity
Like a favourite shirt, all wrapped up in that hurt
For every glass I saw, I saw half empty
Now it overflows like a river through my soul
From every doubt I had, I’m finally free
And I truly believe

God gave me you to show me what’s real
There’s more to life than just how I feel
And all that I’m worth is right before my eyes
And all that I live for, though I didn’t know why
Now I do, cos god gave me you

In your arms I’m someone new
With every tender kiss from you
Oh I must confess, I’ve been blessed

God gave me you to show me what’s real
There’s more to life than just how I feel
And all that I’m worth is right before my eyes
And all that I live for, though I didn’t know why
Now I do, cos god gave me you
God gave me you


God gave me people whom to cherish and treasure forever. God gave this person to cherish and love.

January 27, 2012

How Awful It is To Be Sick

Well there is nothing special for this blog that I will make. I will just take down of my experience having chicken pox. Hahahaha. It's funny, right? Anyway this started last Monday, January 23. I felt different on that day, I felt very weak and felt cold. I thought it was just nothing - a simple feeling of not being okay. But on early Tuesday morning I noticed a blister on my upper chest, near my collar bone. I pricked it. But then I still feel very weak on that day. On Tuesday night, I notice that the blisters added up. Then I noticed that it's a chicken pox already. Having that same weakness of the body and that blisters on my body I still manage to go to work. Anyway I went to see the company nurse and of course I was sent home.

On Wednesday morning I see a doctor and he gave me a vaccine and I bought the medicine prescribed to me. And as days go by, I feel worse. It's so itchy and I can't sleep well. I just pray that this will soon be gone. Goodness. But anyway, I just entertain myself. Haha. Doing computer stuff, watching movies, eating fruits and all. That's life. But I still stay it's awful.
As Erica Jong says : "Surviving meant being born over and over." Definitely true. You just have to survive everyday of your life. :)

January 16, 2012

QUOTE FOR THE DAY

"In a culture where approval/disapproval has become the predominant regulator of effort and position, and often the substitute for love, our personal freedoms are dissipated."
                                                                                                           -Viola Spolin


    Wanting others to approve of our efforts, our appearance, our aspirations and behavior is perfectly normal, certainly not unhealthy. However, needing the approval in order to proceed with our lives is.
    In early childhood we are taught to obey others and to please them. We confuse love with approval, and we begin to march to someone else's drum. Then we get even more approval. But soon we get out of step with ourselves; we neglect our personal needs and become puppets.
     Giving away our power to the whims of others weakens our Spirit. Personal freedom means choosing our own behavior; it means acting rather than reacting. It also means allowing ourselves the full adventure of living, of meeting each moment wholly, of responding in a pure, spontaneous, personally honest manner. Only then can we give to life what is ours to give.
     Each of us has a unique part to play in the drama of life. And we need to rely on our higher power for our cues, not on those whose approval we think we need. When we turn within for guidance, all the approval we could hope for will be ours.


I will be free today. I will let no one control my actions. I will let God give the only approval that counts. Aligning my will with God's will guarantees it.