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THE TRUE MENTOR

2009-10-02T00:45:00.000-07:00

Last week, I have shared with you about mentoring, mentee, mentor, and secular mentoring. Early this week, I have imparted about Christian mentoring plus examples of my mentoring relationships. Today, I want to introduce to you the best mentor one could ever have—God.

As we have learned, mentoring is a personal relationship between the mentor and the mentee. We are in a relationship with God. We communicate to Him through prayers and He speaks to us through His Word (Scriptures), His Holy Spirit, circumstances, our conscience, His still small voice, visions, dreams, and spiritual authority. He wrote a guidebook or manual to give us life and to direct our lives. The characters, events, situations, promises, and prophecies incorporated in it can teach us to find meaning and purpose in this life.

If you do not have yet this personal relationship with God, come to Him now, ask Him to open your heart and receive His wonderful gift of salvation accomplished by the finished work of His Son Jesus Christ on the Cross. Afterward s, allow God to mentor you in conforming your thoughts, emotions, actions, and life in general according to the Scriptures.

For the Christians, establish a deeper intimacy with God by meditating on His Words and obeying His perfect will in every aspect of your life. You can invite God to penetrate your heart and spirit as you begin a mentoring relationship with Him. Human mentors may not be perfect and at times, fail you but the True Mentor will always be perfect and will never ever fail you.

There was a point in my Christian walk when I have stopped consulting my mentors for a time. I focused on hearing and learning from God without the aid of human voices surrounding me. I discovered that God is the best guide, teacher, counselor, and friend. He is just one prayer away.

Since then, I put much premium on what God has to say than what other people will admonish me. Although I submit to my spiritual authorities and honor what my family or parents have to say. When I obey my Supreme Mentor, I learn from His ways and consequently, become like Him in character.

Read Celebrate Recovery resources and attend an adult Bible study to discover a mentoring relationship with God.

REAL BEAUTY

2009-10-02T00:34:00.000-07:00

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1 Peter 3.3-4

Whosoever rules the world dictates the standard for beauty. For many decades, beauty is synonymous to being tall, white, blonde, and having pointy nose, perfect vital statistics, and flawless skin. In recent years, the exotic Asian appearance was being imitated then eventually, the darker or black top models had a strong following.

The media in the form of television, movies, radio, music, internet, magazines, billboards and its special forms influence society’s clamor for beauty. Women ought to resemble movie stars, models, music artists, and political figures. Commercials, infomercials, webcasts, and podcasts push women from all ages to avail and patronize their beauty and health products, equipment, self-help books, fashion forecasts and the like. The society has been bombarded with addiction to aesthetic beauty and insatiability for attention. Every week, there will be newer innovations in the fields of dermatology, cosmetology, body sculpture, and dieting. Couple these with tons of products promising perfect weight, skin, and sex appeal. Not to mention all the fashion accessories and objects used as a status symbol like mobile phones, laptops, cars, condos, bags, shoes, jewelry, and fat bank accounts.

God’s standard for beauty transcends the worldly paradigm. In the verse above, Peter writes to the women believers about the essence of womanhood and the true meaning of beauty. The externals like braided hair, clothes and fine jewelry does not make a woman beautiful. He mentions some keywords here—inner self, unfading beauty, gentle and quiet spirit. Though Peter does not emphatically say that outside accessories is bad but he emphasized on the importance of a woman’s character more than the physical side.

I believe that there is nothing wrong with appearing hygienic and beautifying oneself. Inasmuch as we fix our externals, all the more we need to clean our inner being or our character. When you are beautiful inside, such beauty will exude outwardly. I always see Christian women reflecting the glory of God in their countenance without the aid of make-up or accessories. It simply shows.

Attend an adult Bible study and read Christian books to discover the beautiful women in the Scriptures.

THE ANT

2009-10-02T00:15:00.000-07:00

Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provision in summer and gathers its food at harvest. Proverbs 6.6

Wherever you go, you will always notice ants parading into a procession carrying bits of food. Whatever the season, you will always find them storing, gathering, and working. They are so workaholic and preoccupied as if finding food is their only reason for living. Have you ever found an ant sleeping and staying put in one place doing nothing? Because of their industry and productiveness, the author of Proverbs (most likely, Solomon) noticed them and used them as an illustration to rebuke the sluggard.

As a background, King Solomon is the second son of King David and Bathsheba. In a dream, God asked him what he desires to have. Instead of asking for wealth, long life, and the death of his enemies, Solomon asked for wisdom or a discerning heart to rule God’s people. God was pleased and not only gave him supernatural wisdom but also those things he did not ask for. Solomon became the wisest and wealthiest king who has ever lived on earth. (Of course, next to Jesus) He authored most of the chapters in Proverbs and in its entirety, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs.

Let us take it from the author of the Books of Wisdom in Scriptures. He is commanding us to look to the ant and learn from its ways. Ants are so minute compared to bigger animals and humans yet Solomon was impressed by their activity and diligence. If by any chance you meet the wealthiest man on earth today and he voluntarily reveals his secrets to success and abundance to you, what will you do? I believe you will listen to him and certainly replicate his strategy. We can attend all the expensive business courses in Harvard or Yale to discover success in business but all the secular business strategies are all based on the Book of Proverbs.

If we emulate the ants in doing our jobs, raising our families, ministering in our churches, Proverbs assures that we will live a life of abundance and wisdom. Let us do our best in whatever area God calls us to function and work productively. Surely we will reap the same results the little ants are harvesting.

Read Proverbs to make you wise to make the right decisions every time.

Avail of Faith Lessons and bible study curriculum to enrich your knowledge about God and His ways.

FINDING COMFORT IN HIM

2009-10-02T00:03:00.000-07:00

Was there ever a time that you suffered from a disease that no amount of medical attention can bring relief to your condition? How about a time when you grieved for the loss of a loved one, body part/function, business, career, pet or dream? How about when you lost interest, passion, sense of purpose, direction, and experienced heartbreak, emotional wounds, and misery?

In all these questions, the common denominator is finding comfort to ease the pain and afflictions. We can always find someone to support us physically, financially, relationally, and spiritually. However, the only one who can supernaturally intervene to end all our miseries or comfort us in our miseries is God. Time and again He has proven this in the Scriptures. Remember the Israelites on their way to the Promised Land? God has delivered them from bondage in Egypt, provided supernatural food (manna and quail) for them, subdued their enemies, and took care of them like a mother nursing a child.

In the New Testament, the Promised Savior referring to Jesus Christ taught the crowd the very words and ways of God, healed all their diseases, cast out demons, cleansed the lepers, raised the dead, and commissioned believers to preach the Gospel to the nations. The criminals, prostitutes, tax collectors, and the Gentiles found comfort in Him. He did not reject them instead He opened the kingdom of God to them by saving them from their sins, bondage's, and unrighteousness.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13.8) If God has comforted His children before, He will still do so today. How does God comfort people today? Through His Words--the Scriptures, through the power of His Spirit--the Holy Spirit, through His anointed people and through supernatural intervention. Do you need comfort today? Approach God and open your heart and spirit to Him. Let Him speak to you and embrace you.

Attend an adult bible study and visit Christian bookstore to assist you in finding the comfort you so desperately need.

STRENGTH WITHIN

2009-10-01T23:50:00.000-07:00

“It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights.” Psalm 18.32-33

During the times of crisis, tragedy, and affliction, people oftentimes become frail—losing necessary strength to go on. More often than not, we hold on to our crutches in the form of family, friends, mentors or even resources to support our ailing body, soul, and spirit.

For the past thirty (30) years of my existence, I have traversed a road replete with challenges and obstacles. I grew up in lack, want, and need because of the financial situations in the family. During my teenage years and adulthood, I have struggled with severe depression and utter hopelessness that almost cost my life. I thank God for healing me now but the family business we established for a couple of years faced insurmountable odds. Presently, I am left with my mom and younger brother because my parents separated while my two (2) sisters built their own families. Narrating these things seemed so easy but going through them in reality is painstaking.

If given another chance to re-live my life, I would still have chosen to pass through the same situations. However, I always catch myself wondering what could and might have been if circumstances are way much different. Despite that, I praise God for creating me this way, for putting me in the said circumstances, and enabling me to go through them gracefully. Yesterday, one of my co-workers in ministry and close friend called me to say she is so proud of me because I am so strong now in all areas of my life—that I do not need someone to carry me and support me in whatever situations I am in.

I believe that because of the gravity of my experiences, God has molded my character to withstand every pressure and adversity besetting me. He gave me the inner strength---that strength within that comes from Him to confront life’s challenges. I no longer wallow in misery and soak my pillow in tears every time I have a serious problem. Yes, I shed tears only when I cry out to God in prayer but afterwards, God sustains me with the much needed strength. I know that whatever comes my way, with God’s help I can make it.

Visit Christian bookstore for available Bible study curriculum about the strength that comes from the above.

BEING GRATEFUL

2009-10-01T23:40:00.000-07:00

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5.16-18

“The LORD is good to me and so I thank the LORD for giving me the things I need . . . the sun and the rain and the apple seed. The LORD is good to me.” There goes a Scouting song we sing every time we remember God’s provision for the day in the outdoor life as we gaze in the stars, climb trees, build fire, trek the mountains and bathe in the rain.

Saying ‘thank you’ is probably one of the most important things my parents taught me early in life. It is such a simple two-word expression but it makes an indelible impact to one’s life. Gratefulness is a reflection of a humble heart. According to Merriam-Webster Online, its origin is from the Latin, gratus - more at grace. Answers.com defines it as “Appreciative of benefits received; thankful, expressing gratitude, affording pleasure or comfort; agreeable.

WikiAnswers tallied the number of times THANK and its different renditions were mentioned in the King James Bible. It totaled to 139 times while Bible Gateway tallied 134 times which simply follows that God wants us to be thankful about everything in all situations.

The patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) along with David in his Psalms and the New Testament writers have reasons to be grateful to God. Old Testament people thanked God for keeping His covenants, leading them to Canaan, subduing all their enemies, and giving them hope for salvation. On the other hand, the New Testament characters thanked God for fulfilling the prophecy about the coming Savior, empowering them with the Holy Spirit to work the works of God, and revealing to them in a vision the future that awaits mankind.

Two thousand years afterward s, God still deserves all our gratitude for giving us life; saving us from sin, sickness, hell, and eternal death; providing for our daily needs; healing our afflictions; restoring our relationships; and keeping us safe and secure. Above all, we ought to thank God for being a loving Father who is faithful to all His children though at times we are unfaithful and ungrateful.

Read through the Celebrate Recovery kit available in Christian bookstore to supplement your understanding on gratitude.

MENTORING PART 2

2009-10-01T23:30:00.000-07:00

Last week, I have shared to you about the meaning of mentor, mentee, and mentoring relationship, its illustrations in the Scriptures, and my personal experience as a mentee before converting to Christianity.

Today, I would like to focus on Christian mentoring. John Mallison defines it as “a dynamic, intentional relationship of trust in which one person enables another to maximize the grace of God in their life and service. True Christian mentoring is about enabling a person to develop a growing relationship with God through all he has done for us in Christ so they can live, serve and lead like Christ. (www.johnmallison.com)

For the past ten (10) years of being a Christian, I have attended quite a handful of churches in different denominations and have been used by God in a number of ministries in Sunday school, prison, youth and young adults, feeding/street children outreaches, teaching, preaching, counseling, missions, and in prayer/inner healing ministries. I have been mentored by several pastors, teachers, missionaries, professors, and prayer ministers in separate occasions.

But, I only would like to share just a few of the significant mentoring relationships I have had. The first one is Dr. Ayuk who is a Nigerian Doctor of Education in my seminary. He mentored me academically after he discovered my love/pursuit for learning. He challenged me intellectually and encouraged me to pursue writing for God’s glory. Next is Mom Marcia who is an American missionary educator granting me scholarships? She believed in my capabilities and calling even helping me towards my healing. Eventually, she referred me to Mom Denie, a Canadian pastor’s wife who helped me in my deliverance from bondages.

After some time, I was introduced to Sister Fely, a UN economist, ex- Catholic nun, former Undersecretary of Dep’t. of Social Welfare and Development-Philippines. God used her ministry in Elijah House, Healing Rooms and Wholeness Ministries Int’l. to completely heal me and deliver me from 12 years of depression. I can vividly remember the first time I met her in a coffee shop as my former Christian clinical psychotherapist, Dra. Cleo introduced us. I was so desperate, hopeless, helpless and so messed up in my body, mind, emotions, heart and spirit. Because of ministry and prayers, I was delivered and God called me and placed me in the same ministries as a prayer minister and intern. My online mentor from Japan, Cecil still ministers to me on a regular basis. Imagine how a remote mentoring relationship is still as effective and spirit-filled as the hands-on ones. Nathan, our former Healing Rooms intercessory head, still mentors me in Bible interpretation and application. Sister Gay will always be a source of joy and comfort to me especially in hard times. Sister Virmi, Resie, Rogel, Lucy, and all the people behind the above ministries mentor me in one way or the other. I will always be thankful to all these people.

You may want to read Christian books and resources like Faith Lessons to point you to the True Mentor.

PERSEVERING IN PRAYER

2009-10-01T23:21:00.000-07:00

Prayer is the two-way communication between God and man. Through prayers, battles are won, sicknesses are healed, lives are restored, finances are blessed, and problems are solved. Prayer also deepens one’s relationship with his Maker. It sets the stage for an intimacy with God that will never be attained without doing so.

All throughout Scriptures, we can see examples of people whose requests were answered because of their perseverance in prayer. Let us first define the term. Perseverance means "persisting in or remaining constant to a purpose, idea or task in spite of obstacles” (ezinearticles.com). MSN Encarta defines it as “to persist steadily in an action or belief, usually over a long period and especially despite problems or difficulties. It is perseverare in Latin meaning, "follow strictly" < perseverus "very strict" < severus "serious"].”

In the Bible, Jacob persevered and wrestled with an angel of God in Genesis 32.24-28. Though his thigh became out of joint, he did not stop wrestling until God blessed him. As a result of his perseverance, God changed his name Jacob (meaning cheater) to Israel which means a prince who prevailed with God and man. Not only did God change his name but also his destiny. He became the father of Israel which then became a great nation.

In Mark 10.46-52, Bartimaeus received his sight as he kept on persevering in calling out to Jesus and shouting all the more after being pacified by the crowd. The woman of Canaan in Matthew 15.22-28 also received her prayers though Jesus informed her that He was sent to the lost sheep of Israel but the said woman persisted so that her daughter will be delivered.

Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel 1-2 will always be one of my favorite Bible stories. She prayed for many years to bear a child but all prayers seemed futile. Until one day, God answered her and she called her son, Samuel which means “because I have asked him of the Lord.” She dedicated him to God’s service and then he became a prophet of God anointing the first two (2) kings of Israel, Saul and David.

Do you want your prayers to be answered? Learn from these people who persevered in prayer. You can also attend an adult bible study using a bible study curriculum dealing with this topic.

BEING CONTENT

2009-10-01T23:06:00.000-07:00

I (Paul) am not saying this because I am in need. For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. Philippians 4.11

Are you contented with your life? What does it mean to be contented? What is true contentment?

MSN Encarta defines CONTENT as being “peacefully happy and satisfied with the way things are or with what has been done”. Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “a feeling manifesting satisfaction with one’s possession, status, or situation.” Jeremiah Burroughs defines Christian contentment as “that sweet inward quiet, that gracious frame of spirit which freely submits to and delights in God’s wise and fatherly disposal in every condition.”

My very first preaching in the seminary is on Philippians 4.10-19 about Paul’s contentment. It was exactly my birthday week and I have shared my discontentment on my birthday food plus having skin allergies that aggravated my dissatisfaction. Weeks prior to that preaching, I was so nervous to speak the word of God because I am just a baby Christian being surrounded by veteran pastors, preachers, ministers, and missionaries. I kept on crying the night before my preaching because I have no idea on what to preach on the day after. Then, suddenly God gave me an impression that I should preach on the verse that I always put at the bottom of my examination papers—Philippians 4.13—I can do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me.

As I do an exegetical study of the verse, I have discovered that its context is on Paul’s contentment in every situation. ALL THINGS refer to Paul’s living in want or in plenty. We need not depend on our own self-sufficiency be it in our time, talent, treasure but we ought to depend on God’s sufficiency in Jesus Christ. Simply put, we can do ALL THINGS means that we can be contented with both little and much in life. We should be satisfied with everything God provides for us---life, family / relationships, finances, resources, career, education, ministry, calling, anointing, gifting, and destiny.

Let us take some examples from famous people. John D. Rockefeller said, “I have made millions, but they have brought me no happiness.” Cornelius Vanderbilt said, “The care of millions is too great a load. There is no great pleasure in it.” Multiple millionaire John Jacob Astor said, “I am the most miserable man on earth.” Though he owned a luxurious estate, Henry Ford said at the end of his life, “I was happier as a boy working in a mechanic’s shop, though we had nothing.”

Our resources like Faith Lessons and Celebrate Recovery can help you find true contentment in life.

THE FLOOD

2009-10-01T22:58:00.000-07:00

Last September 26, 2009, the National Capital and Central Luzon Regions of the Philippines were hit by Tropical Storm Ondoy (International Codename: Ketsana). A months’ worth of rainfall was packed into twelve hours of non-stop rains and flooding. Death toll reached 200 while 200,000 people were seriously devastated and displaced by this deluge. Houses are destroyed then marooned, properties were distraught, lives were endangered, and people were traumatized. Ondoy set an all-time high record beating the flood the country experienced four decades ago. Another storm, Peping, has been eyed and expected to hit the islands of Luzon and Visayas as of this writing.

In this deep tragedy, the entire Filipino race in concerted efforts reached out to the typhoon victims. The military, police, social welfare, government, NGO, business, communications and media, school institutions, religious and internet community and other civic/youth organizations extended help via information dissemination, financial donations and by kind, volunteering in the rescue and relief operations and more importantly, through prayers.

Perhaps in this great tumult and turbulence, we have been wondering where God is in this situation. Why did He allow a storm and flood to devastate a nation? We do not have any ready answers for it. However, let me assure you that God knew about it and allowed it for a purpose. Definitely, He is in control. Because of the situation, the entire nation has been praying, interceding, standing in behalf of the victims and beseeching God to supernaturally intervene once-and-for-all. Filipinos became united in addressing the needs of their countrymen even in little ways. I have read a story in Facebook how an 18 year old construction worker saved 30 people trapped in the flood but eventually losing his own life in the end. He is just one of the myriad, nameless, faceless heroes today risking their lives to rescue another.

The Flood might have destroyed properties even lives but it did not destroy God’s plan for our nation. It even ushered the country towards her God-given destiny. We are a people of sacrifice, heroism, kindheartedness, strength of character, and holy fear of God. This is a good opportunity to exercise that. God desires that whether in calamity or security, in poverty or abundance, and in sickness or in health, we remain a people of untarnished faith in Him. Having that kind of faith can withstand even the most beating of the wind and the rising waters.

To learn more about God and His ways, read Christian books available in Christian bookstore.

Love, Hope and Security

2009-09-24T20:21:00.000-07:00

Everyone needs love, everybody looks for hope and all of us want security. However, not many were able to say that they really found what they needed, looked for or wanted. We have to admit it, our world is sick. It has so many things that destroy itself.

Is there hope for this chaotic world where we live in? Do you ever wonder what our future now holds? Is there a secret to having a happy life?

What if I tell you that the answer to all these are yes, will you believe me?

Everything that you needed, looked for and wanted is found in the Bible. You might not know this but try attending an adult Bible study where you can encounter different faith lessons through the Bible study curriculum. You will know that everything is prepared by God for you.

The love you need is found in the unfathomable love that God proved many times in the Bible. If you are feeling unloved, read the Bible and then you will know that God has never left your side no matter how great or small your sin is. Keep in mind that even when the world turns their back on you, God is always there to be with you. You may not feel His presence during your lowest point, but it does not mean He has left you. He simply wants you to learn something.

God continues to give hope to His people. There was this famous saying that when God closes the door, He simply opens the window for you. This saying had been scrutinized by those who have lost their hope; they said why God would open the window for them when the door is the right way to get in. What these people failed to realize is that God wanted to keep our faith on Him.

God gives us security. Prisoners who have returned to God find security in Him rather than finding it from evil things. God promised us that as long as we follow His laws, we will never be wrong.

Remember Jesus

2009-09-24T20:10:00.000-07:00

There are people like Rob Bell and Ray Vander Laan who are doing their best in bringing back Christians to God. They have done everything from making videos on faith lessons to writing books that can help inspire others. But why are these kinds of people wasting time? There are only very few people who does not know Jesus. In fact, He is probably the most popular person in the world. But why do we need to be reminded about His presence?

All these are done because we have to remember Jesus Christ in everything we do in our life. We must take a moment to consider the greatest Man who ever lived. He lived and worked with us. His life divided history into two, BC and AD which are time before and after His birth.

We might not know it but every time we write a date, we are actually acknowledging Him. But that is not the reason why He lived and died for us. There is a greater reason. He lived to teach us and died to save us.

His life was exemplary and was the basis of all good virtues. People everywhere and from any generations agree to His greatness. However, most of the time we ignore Him, reject Him, and curse Him in our daily activities and conversations.

We do this because we refuse to remember what is right. We freely accepted the material temptations in the world because it is what that makes us feel great in the meantime. What we fail to realize is that sometimes these things causes our major problems.

Many of us remember Jesus every time we feel down or pressured, but when things can still be handled, we forget about Him. But Jesus is not a dead hero wherein we only remembers Him if something reminded us of Him. He is a living reality that continues to touch our hearts every time we feel His presence. We do not seek His presence, He is everywhere. We only need to remember that He is just around us.

Love Your Work

2009-09-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day, the night is coming when no one can work - John 9:4

Christ has given to all human beings their work, and we are to acknowledge the wisdom of the plan He has made for us by a hearty cooperation with Him. It is in a life of service only that true happiness is found. Those who live a useless, selfish life are miserable. They are dissatisfied with themselves and with everyone else.

The life application Bible tells us that true, unselfish, consecrated workers gladly use their highest gifts in the lowliest service. This is because true service means to see and to perform the duties that God points out. The teaching of the Bible study curriculum asks us to work faithfully and use our time wisely. As much as possible, we should not be idle.

There are many who are not satisfied with the work that God has given them. They are not satisfied to serve Him pleasantly in the place that He has marked out for them, or to do complainingly the work that He has placed in their hands.

It is right for us not to be satisfied with the way in which we perform our duty, but we are not to be dissatisfied with the duty itself we would rather do something else. We cannot complain if we have to love our enemies and serve our foes, Rob Bell once said that all of us is God’s priest and therefore everyone is responsible in bringing people to God. In His providence God places before human beings service that will be a medicine to their diseased minds. Thus He seeks to lead us to put aside selfish preferences.

The Lord disciplines His workers, so that they will be prepared to fill the places appointed them. He desires to mold their minds in accordance with His will.

What Teenagers Want to tell their Parents

2009-09-24T19:41:00.000-07:00

They say that raising teenagers is the greatest challenge a parent will be facing. They are the most misunderstood age group in the society. They are the most vulnerable and the most confused. Teenagers are both kids and adult. Teenagers pretend to be an adult but they are still kids that need the support of their parents. Sometimes parents mistook this as rebellion, so here are some things to help you understand what your teenager wants to tell you.

1. We are trying to be individuals.

In small group Bible study for teenagers, many of them speak about their identity. Teenagers basically wanted to know how far they can go. Notice that today’s generation is so self-centered and they felt that this is the thing that adults do not understand about them. You check their friendster or facebook, you will find numerous pictures mostly about themselves. Although sometimes we want to inject in them the teachings of the life application Bible, we have to remember that their age do not allow them to see other things but their own identity so if you want to teach them something, start on their values that will shape their identity.

2. We want to be with our friends

Friendship allows them to speak the same language. It is true that there are times when we fail to understand what they want but their friends understand them because they feel the same. We have to make sure we tell them we love and support them. As much as possible, get involve in decision making by not making the decision for them. Be involved by openly telling them the pros and cons. If they insist on what they think is right, always be there to show support but make sure to be ready in case they make a great fall. Get in to their lives. The generation today are so in to computers. Joining their social sites allows you to be more open to issues that teenagers are involved.

3. We have our own issues to deal with.

We may not know this; teenagers face so many pressures both from peers and from coping up on responsibilities given to them. They are also in between their hormones and the ideal in dealing with relationships. Sometimes our teenagers look mature but we have to be reminded that they are still our children. So we have to be their parents and not their friends. This may be difficult to do but you can get support and advices from your adult Bible study group.

Number One

2009-09-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

Do you not know that in a race all the runner run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.

- 1 Corinthians 9:24

Ray Vander Laan talks about winning a race in one of his faith lessons video. In his video, he talked about Christians as the runners in a race trying to compete against evil. He encourages his listeners to win for God.

Winning the race is what everyone wants every time there is a competition. Both trainers and participants aimed to be the first and not only second or third. Everyone wants to be number one. Even when we watch advertisements, everyone is saying that they are number one. No one will claim that they are number two. Nobody realize that in the counting numbers, number one is lesser than number two.

But what is the essence of winning something? What is the point of being number one? It is not actually how many times you win but it is on how you did your best. When Ray Vander Laan talked about winning the race, he said we should give all our best. He said that in the race for God, we cannot afford not to give our best.

In the life application Bible we are told that winning something is not about the trophy, even without it, the feelings of achieving something because you have done your best can give a genuine heart enough happiness.

It is just like our lives, it is not on how much success we have achieved, it is more on how much we have done to get the success. We cannot be contented with our success if we know that we got it not because we did our best but because we stepped on others or we depend on others effort.

Triumph after Tragedy

2009-09-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered how someone who has had a terrible personal tragedy can be happy? Do you remember the last time you felt you were so down in the dumps feeling sorry for yourself?

On May 27, 1995, actor Christopher Reeve who is known for his role Superman became a quadriplegic after being thrown from his horse in an Eventing competition in Culpeper, Virginia. He needed a wheelchair and breathing apparatus for the rest of his life.

Clark Reeve used his fame for good causes; he visited terminally-ill children through the Make-a-Wish foundation. He also became one of the directors of the worldwide charity Save the Children. But after his accident and considering his situation, he thought of committing a suicide but with the love shown by his wife to him, he decided not to consider suicide again. Robin Williams reprising his character from the film Nine Months visited Reeve which gave Reeve hope that everything will be okay.

Robin Williams and Christopher Reeve are just two people who gave Christians a view on the realities of life. Christopher Reeve kept his faith that everything will be fine while Robin Williams became God’s instrument in encouraging Reeve to move on.

Remember what Rob Bell said, we are all God’s priest, thus we have responsibilities over other Christians. We need to keep a lookout for people who need encouragement. Keep in mind that in this world, we have to run for God. This is what Ray Vander Laan has taught us in one of his Faith Lessons video. We should not allow any tragedy to overpower anyone, as the Olympians of God; we have to make a special point to be an inspiration to anyone feeling hopeless. With this, we might be the spark that helps someone else see that life can be worth living. Remember to always celebrate recovery because Jesus is always in you.

Heroes and Powers

2009-09-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

We all live in suspense from day to day; in other words, you are the hero of your own story

Mary McCarthy

I really do not understand why there are many people who want to be a hero when being a hero takes a lot of sacrifices. For instance, being a mayor of a certain city is not easy; however, many are willing to be in the position.

This is wonder if they really wanted to become heroes or they simply want power. The term power comes from the Latin word, “posse”, which means to be able, to change, to influence or effect. Al Gini once said that to have power is to possess the capacity to control or direct change. All forms of leadership must make use of power.

It is sad that many leaders lead by being served and not to serve. The case of the Philippine president who dines in a certain restaurant in US had become a great issue because her dinner costs almost one million Philippine money while her people in the Philippines could not even have a good meal three times in a day. This takes back to one of our lessons in Bible study curriculum that talks about how Jesus served his disciples during the last supper. He washed the feet of the disciples, humbling himself to them and showing an example that a leader is there to serve and not be served.

The life application Bible tries to remind us that we can be our own heroes. Modern heroes of today are not the ones who die because of small reasons. They are the people who tried to stand despite the pains; shows light despite the darkness and keep their faith in God despite hopeless situations.

And in order to keep the courage within us, we should always keep our faith in God. With this, we need to make sure that we continue to learn from Faith lessons in order to strengthen our trust in God which is our power over anything that tries to keep us down.

Most of all, always remember that heroes are not being chosen. They are people who do good things without expecting power in return.

Dealing With Postpartum Depression

2009-09-24T18:41:00.000-07:00

Postpartum depression is not a mental illness; however, severe postpartum depression can be harmful to both the mother and her baby. New mothers experiencing this need help from loved ones surrounding them.

Anxiety is re prominent among mothers experiencing this kind of depression. The new mother may worry too much about self-esteem, and about the well-being of her new baby. She becomes so suspicious about many things surrounding them and usually she cries about small things.

Our worry about postpartum depression is how it may affect the baby. Since this kind of depression interferes on the ability of the mother to care for her baby, the baby may have behavioral problems and delays in cognitive development. Children of mothers with postpartum depression also have difficulty establishing secure relationships and have lower self-esteem, are more anxious and fearful, are more passive and are less independent.

However, this does not mean that you are a bad mother; it simply means you need help and you have to be open to that. Untreated postpartum depression can last for a significant length of time. Therapy, medication and support groups can all be helpful.

Bringing the mother to a small group Bible study where she can meet new friends and other new mothers who are experiencing the same. This kind of Bible study should be carefully planned wherein Bible study curriculum are based on coping strategies that rids depression.

Sometimes postpartum depression is also caused by marital difficulties or a feeling of being unsupported at home. This means husbands also have a big role in this stage. They have to learn how to be more supportive to their wives. Marriage counseling could be very beneficial. Attending male group Bible study May also helpful where husbands may be able to get coping strategies from other husbands who are experiencing the same.

Most of all, find people who can help the mother care for the child or help do other errands in the house so the mother can get some needed rest. A daily diary of emotions may be helpful and reading helpful Christian Books that can comfort you may also be favorable.

Jesus and Death

2009-09-24T18:27:00.000-07:00

After the death of my father, I spent time trying to find comforting articles in the internet. I came across an article written by a man whose son’s death struck him. He mentioned Rob Bell’s poetic book, Drop like Stars. He said that this book had painted his pains in a poetic manner.

I tried to research on how I can get hold of the book. I suddenly became hungry for comforting words. I searched the You Tube on any NOOMA DVD of Rob Bell which probably include a little or some of the comforting words he had written in his book.

When I could not find it, I started searching for more articles that can help me overcome the pain I am currently experiencing. Through this, I realize that most if not all articles that talk about death are articles talking about overcoming it with Christ. I started wondering what it was about Jesus Christ that one can simply celebrate recovery after every loss, fall or pain.

The question continues to linger until I finally compiled some answers which I found in many of the articles I have read.

Everyone is afraid to die because of the uncertainties that come after it. Death is a mystery that no one except Jesus Christ has shown that there is a life after death. St. Paul in his message in the Corinthians said that if Christ had not died then we are still not forgiven for it is in Christ’s death that God has forgiven us. After the death of Jesus, he was buried and on the third day he rose again. Through this, Jesus Christ has proven to us that there is a life after death.
Death is not a robber that steals our family or love ones away; it is the gateway for us to go back to our Creator. Death is not destruction, it brings hope to those who died and lessons to those who lived.
Remember that Jesus Christ suffered the same pain or more pain than we suffer when we die. The sad thing is that people watched him die because they want to see him die but for us, we are around when our love one is dying because we want to be with him or her until his or her last breath. This simply means that our death is not the worst and our pains cannot equal the pain that our savior felt when He was brought to death.

Hope in Sadness

2009-09-24T18:15:00.000-07:00

We all expected this to happen but we never thought it would still hurt so badly. My father had been suffering from chronic renal disorder for the past two years. His dialysis has been bringing us financial burdens that the family needs to work double time for us to be able to pay for it. My father still hopes to live but the pain is too much for him to bear. We have asked him to let go, we told him to surrender everything to God. We had our last adult Bible study together, at this moment; I hope I have Ray Vander Laan’s Death and Resurrection video, which talked about the last days of Jesus.

When he took his last breath a few hours after we had our small group Bible study, we could not stop crying. We have asked him to let go but it is us who now wanted him to stay. The pain was so overwhelming that I could not even remember the exact things I said or did at that moment.

I wanted someone to comfort me but I realize that I would be too selfish to ask especially that I am not the only one in pain. I looked around and realize that someone needs to be strong in order to overcome this pain. Along with my husband, we arranged the funeral needs of my father. This is my first time so trying to learn all the process and doing everything by myself has somehow comforted me.

When everything was finally set, I went back to my computer, hoping that work can comfort me from pain. However, I realize that if I do, I am just running away from the pain but did not actually get rid of it. I then read an article in the internet that talk about death. It says that if we have faith, we should not fear death because it is only in dying that we can be free from the pains in the world and be one with our God.

MENTORING PART 1

2009-09-24T02:26:00.000-07:00

In education, career, and spirituality and even in personal life, we need someone who can help or guide us in order to grow.

A mentor is someone who has an experience concerning a particular aspect in your life. A men tee or a protege follows the directives of his mentor in order to realize his goals. He was being given wisdom, counseling and guidance in this relationship. (Paraphrase mine-eHow.com).

All throughout the Scriptures we can see examples of mentoring. Jethro mentored Moses for his responsibilities in his family then for his leadership in the Israelite community. Eli mentored Samuel to prepare him to be a prophet of God. Jesus mentored his disciples to work the works of God before he died and left them. Barnabas and Paul are also in a mentoring relationship.

Even before becoming a Christian, I have been a men tee to my professors, organizational heads, and spiritual directors. Not only have I learned the subjects they are teaching, the mission-vision they are imbibing, and beliefs they are embracing, I have adopted and adapted their disciplines which in turn, molded my character in every respect. I took pleasure in being reprimanded, rebuked, corrected, trained, encouraged, edified, and affirmed. If I were to recount to you my experiences with mentoring since childhood, I will be able to write a book.

From 1993-1997, I had a mentor in Girl Scouting whom I called Aunt Pearl. She trained me well in all the oohhs and ahhhs of scouting. Because of her, I was able to attain the highest position a girl my age can only aspire for. I have bested millions of Girl Scouts through elections in the school, city, district, region, and nation serving in the Senate of the movement where judges, political senators, broadcasters, doctors, and influential businesswomen regularly convene. It is such a privilege to sit in that board for three years making and implementing laws for the movement. It also allowed me to travel for free around the country, staying in hotels, and representing my organization in television and print. I also get to meet the First Lady in Malacanang as I served as an emcee in an activity. The thing that I enjoyed the most is the camping, outdoor life, directing conferences, and interaction with people of all ages.

I am grateful to God for all these experiences. I do not intend to brag but I just want to share to you how one mentor can help change the course of your life and attain your wildest dreams.

The Celebrate Recovery kit and an adult Bible study can help mentor you as you discover God’s plan for your life.

GOD’S DESTINY FOR YOUR LIFE

2009-09-24T02:17:00.000-07:00

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29.11)

Billions of people have walked the face of the earth from creation to the present time. People are born every single second and people die at the exact fracture of the time. There have been thousands of nations, cultures, languages, and spiritual beliefs but one thing is certain—God has a specific destiny for each individual. No two persons have the exact fingerprints, eye color, and physique. Even identical twins have a significant difference in habits, expressions, and character. Just as each leaf of a tree and each particle of snow are distinct in itself, each person is designed by God differently.

Every person on the earth from the past, present and in the future is created specially by God. He never made any mistake about you. In Psalm 139,

He formed your body, cell and frame wonderfully. He knows you’re every move whether you sit, stand up or lie down. Before any word will come out of your mouth, He knows it perfectly well. You cannot escape from His eyes whether you hide in the land, seas or skies. All your days are written in His book. God ordained a specific destiny for your life.

How will one know God’s particular destiny for himself? Before I answer that, I want to firmly establish that God’s plan for your life is all good or for your benefit. He promised in His Word, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29.11) If that is His promise, therefore, His destiny for your life is so fantastic.

You can now quiet yourself and pray to God what He destined you to be. Allow God to search your heart and spirit. He might give you pictures in your mind about your experiences and about the secret desires and petitions of your heart. Definitely, the thing you love most and enjoy doing provided it lines up with the instructions of God is your destiny. The people who edify, build up, encourage and draw you closer to God are the same people destined by God to help you accomplish His call for your life. Even the people who need your help, ministry, prayers, and comfort are your assignment from God.

Your destiny does not necessarily have to be a full-time ministry work in God’s vineyard. There are countless individuals who are serving their families, doing secular jobs, and having no involvement in the ministry who have walked into their God-given destiny. When God gave you a vision for your life and you discover His perfect will and obey them at His divinely appointed time, then be assured that such is your destiny. A destined life does not mean a life free from chaos or problems, but it is a life that is able to withstand all trials.

Attend an adult Bible study and read through Christian books about this subject. Doing so will help you discern your destiny.

THE GOD WHO HEALS

2009-09-24T02:04:00.000-07:00

He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction's. Psalm 107:20

One cannot fully recognize and appreciate God’s healing attribute if he has never been sick all his life. But, is there anyone who did not experience any form of disease whether serious or otherwise? Ask people who have HIV, lupus, cancer, mental problem, fibromyalgia, paralysis or multiple sclerosis about their one desire in this life. Most likely, their immediate response would be healing.

Initially, God created man to be perfect meaning free from disease and unrighteousness. After their disobedience, man and this world become fallen. He became susceptible to sin, sickness, and death. However, God made a solution to these problems confronting man. He sent His own beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to pay the penalty of man’s sins. Since the Old and New Testament times until the present era, He proves Himself as the Greatest Physician. The Scriptures is replete with healing and miracle stories on how God completely healed the sick and even those oppressed by the devil. In the Gospels, Jesus Christ healed EVERYONE who desperately approached Him for healing. There is not a single record of Jesus rejecting the sick or being powerlessly unable to heal any one. Jesus healed everyone who believed in His name and authority.

God also gave power and authority to ordinary men and women of God in the Bible in order to heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and raise the dead. Until now, God is calling the Body of Christ to exercise her God-given authority to do the same. Jesus, after His crucifixion, triumphed over death once-for-all and resurrected. To those who have received this gift of salvation, God promises salvation from the second death (hell) and an eternal life with Him. In heaven, there will be no trace of sickness, pain, and sorrow.

In our healing ministry, we encounter sick people week after week. Some have minor problems while others have very serious ones. We prayed for one family experiencing damaging bouts of illness. The husband works for his dad in a construction business. Because of so much stress and pressure, he incurred so much sickness. His heart became very weak to the point that he needs to control even his laughter and sadness which can affect it adversely. He had acid reflux and esophagus problems. His liver, kidney, eyes, and even mobility are so much affected. He needs to rest for a year from work to recover. He has some other physiological difficulties that I cannot remember at this point. One of his children is autistic. While we are praying for and ministering to him, I was asking God that it takes a miracle to heal him.

After some time, I saw them in the church parking lot. The last thing I have heard is that the husband is now doing well. I am certain that God healed him.What does it take for God to do it? It takes some faith to move the hand of God and a holy desperation to be healed. Faith lessons and some bible study curriculum can help you activate your faith in the Healing God.

THE GOD OF PROVISION

2009-09-24T01:47:00.000-07:00

My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches and glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4.19

Our Heavenly Father is much better than our earthly father who provides for us. Our biological dad works to earn enough resources to supply our food, shelter, clothes, education, health needs, security, and safety. God designed men to hunt game so that they can feed their young. However, there will be moments when our dad cannot fully respond to our needs no matter how hard they try. But, do not lose heart for there is a Father above who can see us through.

I have heard an audio preaching about God’s provision. The pastor shared that God in advance sees through your needs and in advance has His provision made ready at your exact point of need. I am a witness to this characteristic of God as a Good Provider. Since childhood, my family has lived a life of poverty not because my parents are irresponsible or sluggish but merely because of difficult situations beyond their control. Even though my siblings and I were consistent topnotchers in school, examination days almost always put us in a pressure cooker because of failing to take the necessary exams due to unpaid accounts. My family was in serious debts as we are growing up.

Looking back made me realize that in all those years we have lived in lack, want, discomfort, and inconvenience, there was never a time that we begged for food, nor was there any time that we lacked clothes to wear, never was a time we died in sickness, and never a point that we laid our backs on the streets.

Though times are so difficult, in the end, God always provides for all of our needs. I am grateful for the desperate situations my family went through in the past. I have learned that God is only molding our character, stretching our faith/trust, and teaching us how to depend on Him alone. Presently, God is now healing the family business He entrusted to us, healed our diseases, enabled us to have good education and gave my siblings families of their own. I believe that when we quit striving and struggling and totally entrust all our problems to God, He will provide for everything we need. He promised in His Word that He will supply, He will provide, He will care for us and He will never leave us nor forsake us. Let us take Him at His Word.

Learn more from your adult bible study and visit Christian bookstore for resources.

Another day is about to elapse as I am writing this. Today, God provided for me and my family for our every need. I am full, I am happy, I am contented, I am alive, and I am breathing. God, you saw me through.

TRUSTING HIM

2009-09-24T01:32:00.000-07:00

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not in your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3.5-6

In my first year in high school, I attended a Christian Leadership Training where the participants were instructed to find a partner for the said object lesson. Your partner will stand a few feet behind your back and you will do a death fall TRUSTING that he will catch you. The same principle applies with a group of people preparing to catch you as you fall voluntarily.

The lesson here is TRUST. Just like in sitting on a chair. There is an element of trust as you put your weight on it knowing that it can carry you. If we can trust a person or a chair to catch our fall or our weight, can we do the same with God? What does it mean in putting our trust in Him?

According to keyway.com, “the English words trust and true originated from the same old Anglo-Saxon word, trow. Trust means to rely on the integrity of someone who is being true to you.” Elijah House defines basic trust as “the capacity to hold the self open, to give and receive affection.”

In effect, TRUST means having a true and honest relationship with someone that you can depend on. The most qualified being who deserves your trust is not your spouse, parents, or your spiritual authority, but God. He created you so that you can come into being or existence. Because of His omniscience, He knows exactly your frame—your composition, situation, problems, plans, dreams. Because of His omnipotence, He has the power to help you. Because of His omnipresence, He is always there wherever you are, wherever you go at whatever time.

If God is all that, why is it always difficult to put our trust in Him? Because early in life, we have experienced trauma, shock, terror, grief, pain, shame, and disappointments from our own family especially parents. Trusting in their word, promises, capabilities and care is almost next to impossibility since they have failed us in one way or the other. If we cannot trust our parents completely, how can we trust our real Father in Heaven?

Let us forgive our parents even ourselves from all the offenses in the past and learn to trust in them. Doing so will aid us in trusting God more easily. Trust God with all that you are and have then you will see He will never fail you.

Visit any Christian bookstore and search for a Bible study curriculum suitable for your needs.

POWER OF THE TONGUE

2009-09-23T03:51:00.000-07:00

The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18.21

God created the entire universe with words coming out of His mouth. Whatever He says becomes the law. When He fashioned man, He deposited into his spirit, soul, and body His own image and engraved into his heart the natural law or God’s commandment. God commissioned man to be the steward of all His creation. He gave him the authority to be His spokesman or mouthpiece. In the Old Testament, kings are anointed and prophets are called to speak God’s message and rule for man. However, not all the called ones lived up to their call. Some even use their authority to pervert God’s laws and trample down the poor.

Because we are created in God’s image, our words also have power. We can either proclaim life or extinguish it. In James 3, the tongue is elaborately compared to a horse’s bridle, ship’s rudder, forest’s fire spark, fire, a world of evil, and a restless evil full of deadly poison. Though the tongue is so tiny yet its impact is so powerful. It can dictate the course of a person, life, object or circumstance.

With this knowledge in mind, we ought to be very careful in uttering words from our mouths. Anything that contradicts God’s words expressed in the Scriptures should not be found in our tongue because they are death in Toto. We need to train our tongue to reflect and conform to the prescribed biblical principles and precepts set forth before us. As a rule, before speaking any word, ponder one moment if it will please God. Otherwise, we better not let it slip off our mouths.

The best way to speak positive, life-giving words is to allow God to cleanse our hearts first. It is written, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12.34b). Having a clean heart will result to a clean tongue. It is not enough to avoid evil words but we have to replace them with wholesome words. Better yet, start speaking, confessing, declaring, and believing God’s words. Doing so will change every situation that is besetting you.

God’s words are life itself. When you make a decision to choose life over death, I assure you that you will definitely walk into God’s destiny for your life. Read the Celebrate Recovery curriculum kit which is available in Christian bookstore.

THE GOD OF RESTORATION

2009-09-23T03:37:00.000-07:00

Also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before. Job 42.10b

God gives and He takes away. God allows afflictions and He heals. God destroys and He restores. Our God is a God of restoration. To restore means to bring back into existence or use; to reestablish (thefreedictionary.com). Word Net defines it as “return to life, get new life or energy”.

In my heart of hearts, I believe that God is still in the restoration business. I am a witness to marriages/relationships broken but were redeemed, health endangered yet healed, businesses/finances bankrupt then reestablished, and bondage's given release. Week after week, in our healing and inner healing ministries, we marvel and wonder at God’s power to create and re-create life. What once was so hopeless suddenly becomes full of hope. What once was dark immediately shines into light. What once was decaying and dead was given a new life.

In Job’s classic story in Scriptures, God permitted Satan to steal, kill, and destroy Job’s family and business. The Bible makes it clear that the thief (Satan) comes only to steal, kill and destroy (John 10.10). Amidst all the tragedy that befell Job, he did not curse God to His face but praised His name ungrudgingly. He held on to his blamelessness believing that God knows what He is doing. Out of the entire 42 chapters of this story, only in the last seven (7) verses in the epilogue will you find a joyful tone. Perhaps the ordeal stretched for weeks but afterward s God made it all up to Job.

After praying for his friends, God restored double for his every trouble. God doubled his wealth and business, blessed him with new sons and daughters more beautiful than the previous ones, and prolonged his life (plus 140 years). The last verse encapsulates it all—“And so he died, old and full of years.”

When God restores, He makes your years and your life full. I would like to finish the above John 10.10 verse in the Amplified version--. . . I (Jesus) came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

Our Faith Lessons resources and other Christian books can point you back to a life of restoration. Seize it.

HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER

2009-09-23T03:19:00.000-07:00

Regard (treat with honor, due obedience, and courtesy) your father and mother that your days may be long in the land the LORD your God gives you. Exodus 20.12 Amplified

One of the universal laws set in motion in the universe is as real as the law of gravity. This is honoring one’s parents. During the sojourn of the Old Testament Israelite s in the desert after their escape from Egypt, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments with His very own tablet stone handwriting (Exodus 20). One of them is giving due honor to your father and mother. In those days, violating this law demands the death penalty like throwing stones at you until you are killed.

This fifth commandment is the first directive with a promise—that you may live long in the land. True enough, I have seen sons and daughters who curse, disrespect, and malign their parents then becoming unsuccessful in their lives—school, career, business, finances, relationships, and life in general. On the other hand, early in their lives, there are children who honored, obeyed, and loved their father and mother. In effect, life went well for them in every respect.

John and Paula Sanford teach about this concept of sowing honor or dishonor/judgments against one’s parents. As a little child, we harbor bitterness and judgments against them. Left confessed, we will reap eventually the very thing that we hated the most and judged our parents for. Like what the Scriptures say, “You sow to the wind. You will reap the whirlwind.” (Hosea 8.7a).

Since childhood, I have judged my parents for being proud and unable to manage money. I have blamed them for having disharmonious relationships with relatives, neighbors, and workers because of pride. Moreover, I condemned them for our financial difficulties since time immemorial because they cannot handle resources. Consequently, I have reaped all my judgments against them. Before becoming a Christian, I have been so boastful about my achievements, capabilities, qualities and status. But, God allowed an affliction to remove everything that I have been proud of. When it comes to money, I also reaped from my judgments against my parents. Whether I have a large amount or a small one, I just do not know how to handle it well.

But, thank God that He revealed to me last year that I needed to repent from all my dishonor and judgments against my parents. God is now teaching me humility and money management after being forgiven and released from all those judgments. He has healed me from my affliction and is now restoring everything that I have lost.

We encourage you to attend an adult bible study with the bible study curriculum dealing with this subject.

WITH ALL YOUR HEART

2009-09-23T03:13:00.000-07:00

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment.” Matthew 22.37

Have you ever wondered what Jesus meant by loving God with all your heart? First, let us define the term, heart. According to Gary Johnson’s Leadership Training Institute manual, the HEART is “the source of the attitudes, motivations, and character traits of a person.” It is also the “thoughts or feelings” of a person.

So, loving God with all your heart means loving Him with all your mind, emotions, will, and character. Simply put, loving Him with everything about you . . . with everything in your being and with the very essence of your character.

Perhaps, it will help if we understand loving a person with all your heart. For example, if you love your spouse or lover, you will make him your priority. You will persevere in pleasing him, bringing him joy, and guarding yourself from breaking his heart. Loving him also means making a commitment, being faithful, giving you to him and making sacrifices. When things are tough, it also means standing by his side, forgiving, and not giving up on him. The Scriptures make it clear, “. . . laying down one’s life for his friend.” (cf. John 15.13). This is the ultimate expression of love.

God is God but He is also a Person which means He has a personality. God appreciates putting Him first in every aspect of our lives. He is pleased not only because of our sacrifices but more so of our obedience. He demands our undivided love and attention. Loving him means worshipfully fearing His name. Loving Him means glorifying Him in whatever we do. Loving Him means being willing to yield ourselves and our very lives to His will. It also means being willing to sacrifice our lives for His sake and the gospel’s.

It is a wonderful journey of love and life as we learn how to love him with all our heart. Let our Faith Lessons and Celebrate Recovery resources take you into this love-filled story with Papa God.

BEING STILL

2009-09-23T03:09:00.000-07:00

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46.10

Life has been so full of challenges, disorder, and confusion. People have so many preoccupations be it in their family, work, and ministry. In most days, we wake up, prepare for appointments, complete work assignments, care for family, and get exhausted the entire day failing to pause, say a prayer, and enter into the presence of God.

Personally, for about two weeks, I have been so preoccupied with my job that I spent so little time doing my own devotion and quiet time with God. I have exerted all possible efforts to work and earn that I failed to acknowledge the One who gives work and enables me to make wealth. For the many days of sleeping in the wee hours of the night, I have observed that my strength was sapped thereby needing a refreshing touch from heaven.

Today upon waking up, I remained in bed beside my mom and returned to my neglected soaking time. With Patricia King’s Spiritual Cleansing as my background music, I poured out my heart to God and asked Him to put my spirit, soul, and body to rest. Immediately, the heaviness in my chest, fatigue in my body, strain in my mind, and over-all weakness left me. More than all those benefits of revival and rejuvenation, being still enables one to connect with His Maker spirit-to-Spirit. Because we are a spiritual being, we relate to God in the spirit level.

God desires that His children will intentionally make time for Him day by day despite their busyness. We are created as a human BEING, not a human DOING. Our ultimate identity in God is to BE—to be His child, to be intimate with Him by resting in His presence. Doing activities albeit for our family and ministry are important but not our reason for BEING. God created us for a deep INTIMACY with Him. God is our Bridegroom. We are His bride.

To know more about being still before God, visit any Christian bookstore for Christian books.

DEAR DIARY

2009-09-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

Kids in the elementary or even in high school are very much familiar with writing a diary. Documenting an event, insight, experience, and secrets is an exciting thing to do. During my early years in grade school, I have this notebook called DEAR GOD where I pour out all my dreams, desires, disillusionment and fears to God. Although this has not been consistent until high school, I revived this diary stuff in college years. I have collected around 7 notebooks filled with my life history. However, at some point in my life when I got disappointed and frustrated, I abruptly disposed all my diaries much to my regret eventually.

When I became a Christian ten (10) years ago, I began writing about my life again. This time it became different. Initially, I used to record all the jealousy, envy, hatred, ungodly passions, motive or hidden agenda in my teenage diary but God changed the theme, scope, topic, tone and focus of my journals. Though nobody taught me about Christian journaling, I think I have been following it unaware.

In Habakkuk 2.2, it is written, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” God spoke to Habakkuk to put into writing the revelation He has given him. God’s command still holds true today. He wants us to journal His specific words, visions, dreams, impressions, and revelations so that we will be reminded of His wonderful works and testimonies in our life. If we neglect recording His specific instructions, we might miss out on His plan and will for us. Journaling also helps in learning from our wrong choices and past mistakes. It also becomes an outlet or a pipeline for a release of pains, burdens, worries, anxieties, fears and any negative/adverse emotions. Our minds and hearts are also set right with God as we express the things that are building up inside us.

God is not only a speaking God but He is also the God who loves to write. Imagine writing the Ten Commandments in tablets of stone (Exodus 20), writing on the wall to warn King Belshazzar of his demise (Daniel 5), Jesus writing on the ground with His finger while an adulterous woman was about to be stoned (John 8.6) and lastly, God wrote the Scriptures to be our manual for living and to give us life.

Journaling can help you celebrate recovery from hurts, pains, and distress. Attend an adult bible study to expedite your healing and restoration.

THE BREAD OF LIFE

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From all points of history and in all cultures, the bread has become man’s staple food. It is a symbol for nourishment and the sustenance of life itself. During the sojourn of the Israelites in the wilderness, right after their release from the bondage of Egypt, they insatiably craved for the spices, fish, meat, onions and melons of Egypt. They questioned God for leading them out of bondage only to starve them to death in the desert.

God, with all His compassion and grace, rained down manna or bread from heaven as their divine provision for their entire wilderness experience. This bread nourished, strengthened, and kept them going. No Israelite incurred sickness, nor did their clothes or sandals wear out for forty (40) years. (Deuteronomy 29.5)

Beginning in the New Testament times, another bread was given to mankind. This time, this bread does not rot nor spoil. The Israelites who fed on manna all died. But, this true bread from heaven gives eternal life (John 6.33, 54). Jesus is the Son of God coming from heaven to earth, offering His body selflessly and voluntarily. His body was offered as an ultimate sacrifice for man’s sins retroactively-past, present, and future.

To all those who will receive this bread that gives life, their sins will be forgiven and will be assured of everlasting fellowship with God. Before Jesus’ death on the Cross, He taught His disciples the sacrament of communion to be a commemoration and a memorial of His flesh and blood being shed to give life to man (Luke 22.14-20). Until now, Christians remember Jesus’ passion by taking communion with the brethren in church.

Jesus is not only the bread of life. He is also the LOGOS, the written Word of God (John 1). As you read, meditate, eat, devour, and feed on this bread (Scriptures), you will also be nourished, strengthened, and revived into life by it. God’s Words bring and give life for they are life in itself.

Along with reading the Scriptures, attend an adult Bible study and read Christian books. Doing these things will point you back to the real bread of life.

PERFORMANCE ORIENTATION

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Since childhood, the drive to be valued, accepted and loved is but normal. Parents in oblivion trained and reared their children to please them and to perform in order to receive affirmation. As a result, children grew up molded into this so-called performance orientation.

Couple John and Paula Sandford of the Elijah House School for Prayer Ministry teach on this subject comprehensively. Last year, I have attended their Basic 1 program in my country and also TACF soaking school. Becoming aware of this stronghold and applying it personally set me free. Let me share some of the things I have learned and adapted.

Performance orientation is not only confined to certain individuals. The society, nation, and even the church are so preoccupied with performing to achieve perfect results. So many mission works, conferences, evangelistic crusades and ministry programs become like Martha—working and working then forgetting something that is far more important which is intimacy with God as chosen by Mary.

The main issue here is the ulterior motive behind the performance. We are mainly doing the right things for the wrong reasons. It can be rooted from fear of being rejected, of not belonging or of not measuring up. It is like saying, “If I will not do this thing right, my parents will not love me.”

Jesus at a time never performed to be loved by Father God. His ministry duration is during his 30-33 years of age. Prior to that, he has done no miracle and ministry. Yet, during Baptism (Mark 9.11), Father God is pleased with Him.

God will not love you because of your works. He loves you because you are His beloved son or daughter. Isn’t it amazing how it removes the sting of performing and achieving to be valued by God? Just be in the position of BEING— His prince, princess, child and stop DOING, PERFORMING to gain, attain, or retain God’s pleasure. Out of this position, we can win the world.

Faith lessons can supplement this subject along with a good bible study curriculum.

HONESTY IN PRAYER

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God is not an ordinary being. He is supreme, majestic, gigantic, and magnanimous. His distinct attributes are being holy, loving, kind, forgiving, and just. If God is so big and so perfect, will He take the time to listen to us when we communicate to Him? How should we approach God?

We speak with God through prayer. It is a two-way communication with Him. It bridges the natural to the supernatural. We ought to be confidently bold yet humble every time we come to Him. In the Bible, we are commanded to pray unceasingly which does not mean that we mumble memorized prayers and do it repeatedly. Prayers should be from our spirit to God’s Spirit. There has been certain formulas in praying like the ACTS—ADORATION-CONTRITION-THANKSGIVING-SUPPLICATION. There is nothing wrong with it. In fact, in my first few years of walking with God, I patterned my prayers to that.

We begin our prayers by setting our hearts rightly before God. Though prayers can be said even while doing your work, taking care of your family or during your travel to an appointment, it is still best to be in a posture for prayer. In the Gospels (Matthew-John), Jesus teaches that you need not be like the Pharisees uttering prayers in public to everyone’s sight. But, when you pray, go to your room and close the door. God desires your undivided love and attention. Approach Him as one being repentant of your sins. True repentance means confessing your sins to God then turning away from them henceforth.

Two years ago, I have heard a young pastor shared to our Young Adults midweek service that you need not utter the formally correct words to God when you pray. You can tell God what is in your heart. It is like a no holds barred communication. Tell Him things exactly how you will tell a confidante or your best friend or your spouse. But, do not curse Him nor blaspheme Him. Just be openly honest to Him about every issue in your life.

God is pleased with an honest and sincere heart. Even if you will not be honest to Him, He will still know it, anyway. So, you might as well get honest with Him. Then, praise and worship Him. In Psalm 22.3, God inhabits the praises of His people. Sing songs to Him. Strum your guitar, play your keyboard or beat your drums. God loves a worship coming from a pure and honest heart.

Attend an adult bible study in your church or area or visit Christian bookstores for books teaching on this subject.

THE BLOOD COVENANT

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Since the creation of man, the blood represents and signifies life and the sustenance of it. In the economy of God, blood has to be shed to cover sin. When Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, God provided animal’s skin by shedding its blood to cover their nakedness.

All throughout the history of Israel, God initiates agreements with his people through a covenant. A covenant (Diatheke in Greek, Berith in Hebrew) is a special promise between two people i. e. God and man. The highest form of covenant is the blood covenant or covenant of friendship and should not be broken. In the Bible, God made a blood covenant with Abraham promising Him that a son will be born to Him and Sarah and he will be a father of many nations. God will bless his descendants and will keep His vow to the entire Jewish race. In a vision, God commanded Abraham to bring animals and birds then there appeared a smoking firepot and a blazing torch that passed between the pieces to seal this covenant.

Jonathan and David’s friendship is also through a blood covenant (cf. 1 Samuel 18.1-3). Marriage between a husband and wife is a practical example of blood covenant. The Greek word for marriage is HYMEN which is a fold of mucous membrane which surrounds or partially covers the external vaginal opening (Wikipedia) which is broken during the consummation of marriage, and blood flows.

The ultimate Blood Covenant is the shedding of Jesus’ blood on the Cross of Calvary. Since Old Testament times, God provided a way for the Israelite people to atone for and cover their sins through animal sacrifices. This temporarily covers sins. Through Jesus’ final sacrifice once and for all, man’s sin was transferred to Him and sins are no longer covered but permanently cleansed as one repents and receives this gift of salvation.

A bible study curriculum about the blood is available in Christian bookstores.

THE SHEPHERD

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The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul. Psalm 23.1-3a

In the Old Testament Middle Eastern culture, shepherding is an important form of labor. The sheep is valuable because of its wool. Almost the majority of Bible characters are shepherds like Abraham, Rebekah, Moses, and David. More often than not, God trains these men and women of God to leadership while pasturing their sheep.

To this day, the sheep could be considered as a dumb animal because of their lack of a sense of direction. A sheep can easily go astray from the paths the shepherd is trodding. So, the shepherd has to bring a staff to lead and tangle the head of the lost sheep to direct it back to its original place. He also brings a rod to protect the flock and beat ravenous animals threatening them.

A sheep also cannot cross over running waters so the shepherd has to find a placid river or pond. The sheep also knows the familiar voice of its shepherd as he calls them to enjoy the grazing land or to move about to and from their pen.

Watching over a herd of sheep entails responsibility. For the mob of sheep to be nourished in green pastures and to drink clean water, the shepherd has to find the perfect place for them taking into consideration the safety of the drove. In David’s experience, he killed a bear and a lion in separate occasions just to preserve the lives of his beloved sheep. It is like laying down one’s life for them.

There is a Good Shepherd watching over us. We are like sheep who have gone astray, each of us turned to our own way (Isaiah 53.6). Like ordinary sheep, we are directionless, we need a Shepherd to direct our paths and protect us from the evil one with His rod and staff. When rising waters of problems are over our heads, He takes us to a peaceful stream of His living waters to sustain us and give us life. The Shepherd’s voice is only familiar to His true children. To those who do not receive Him as their personal Lord and Savior, they will easily be led astray by the voice of a stranger (Satan). Being the Shepherd, Jesus laid down His life for our salvation.

If you want to be cared for by God, the Good Shepherd, accept Him to your life. Celebrate recovery with Him as He rescues you from the hands of the evil one. Visit Christian bookstores to avail of resources that will help you to learn more about God.

THE CROSS

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But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. The chastisement for our peace was upon Him and by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53.5

The Cross of Jesus sums up the entire Christian faith. Since the fall of man during Adam and Eve’s disobedience, God has already provided a way for man to be reconciled back to a relationship with God. In Noah’s time, there is a foreshadowing of the Cross through a tree fashioned into an ark to save Noah’s family and pairs of animals for the coming deluge.

During the Passover when the Israelites are about to escape from the tyranny of Egypt, God commanded them to slaughter an unblemished lamb and put its blood on the wooden door posts (Exodus 12.22) signifying the Cross so that the angel of death will “pass over” their house and not kill the firstborn in the said family.

In the book of Prophet Isaiah, it has been prophesied that the Savior of the world will be born through an immaculate conception and soon after will suffer in the hands of the religious leaders and crucified on a tree . . . the Cross.

The gravity of the suffering of Jesus cannot be captured by merely reading about it and watching Jesus’ Passion films. It is much brutal and horrendous than that. Being crucified on the Cross is the worst imaginable form of punishment to criminals and sinners but He yieldingly obeyed the will of His Father.

The Cross signifies God’s love for us, sinners. It bridged mankind and God imputing all our sins to Jesus so that in a divine exchange He will carry all the sins, shame, and blame of all the people from the beginning of time until the end. In effect, sinners will receive Jesus’ righteousness and holiness.

Are you still struggling with sin and unrighteousness and being unable to break free from it? Why not yield your life to Jesus, repent of your sins, accept His wonderful gift of salvation and live anew?

There are various resources in Christian bookstores like the faith lessons that you can utilize to know more about the Cross.

KNOWING THE WILL OF GOD

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Living inside the perfect will of God assures a life of wisdom, abundance, peace, rest, and joy. Living outside of it spells confusion, lack, disorder, unrest, and misery. By God’s design comes man’s free will which He will not override nor violate. However, God has a plan and a perfect will for everyone regarding everything in life. If you carefully adhere to it and obey it, life will go well with you (Deuteronomy 4.40).

On the other hand, God has a permissive will where He allows certain things to happen to certain people to honor their free will. But, this is not God’s best. God desires for us to live in harmony and in accordance to His perfect will. How do we know this perfect will? Well, for starters, all His expressed will can be traced in His written Word.

The way you know His will is to know Him first and foremost. As you meditate His Word on a daily basis, you will be introduced to the real God who created you and the world around you. Such knowledge of God will draw you and cause you to have an intimate and personal relationship with God through the Holy Spirit which is the Spirit of God Himself. As the Words are inculcated and deposited in your spirit, heart, and mind, God’s laws, precepts, statutes, ordinances and commandments will be written in your heart. Consequently, your tripartite being-spirit, soul, and body will be soaked, marinated, and immersed in the very Words of God which are life.

Being alive in God through the Word will progressively yet automatically teach you His character, His way, and finally, His will. The Scriptures is God’s expressed will for man. You will then discover that lining up your thoughts, emotions, actions, plans, agenda, wants, needs, dreams, desires, and free will according to the Word of God implanted in you will synchronize with God’s perfect will for your life. Only then and then that you will have the wisdom to know what to do and make the right decisions every time.

Attend an adult bible study and inquire about the bible study curriculum that pertains to knowing the will of God.

THE FATHER HEART OF GOD

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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. John 3.16

Jesus’ death on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s love to us. It compels us to respond to that love from the Father, to love Him back and love others as well.

People tend to look for love to satisfy this insatiable hunger for acceptance and love. Our biological fathers are not perfect. They fail us in one way or the other. We long for this love and acceptance from them but they did not live up to their responsibility as a father. More often than not, they become so strict, demanding, and difficult to please. Some children are hurt, abused, abandoned, traumatized, neglected, deprived, or taken for granted that they cannot believe that the Heavenly Father is different. Out of their negative experiences, they created a picture that Father God will exactly be like their fathers.

How can we know Father God’s true heart and character? According to Matthew 11.25, it is only through revelation. A person desperately wanting and needing a father will be the person who will search for, pursue and long for the Father.

It is the truth and the Word of God teaches that Father God unceasingly search for, pursue, and long for His people. Even before the foundations of the world, God has you in His mind. He created the earth, even you, and provided The Way for you to be reconciled back to Him through Jesus. How can you not respond to him with your wholehearted love and acceptance in return?

God is Father and will always be Father (Ephesians 3.14-15). Though your earthly dad failed, forsook and abandoned you, you can always go to your real Papa God. He has loved you with an everlasting love; He has drawn you with loving-kindness (Jeremiah 31.3).

Faith lessons like this will help you celebrate recovery from a wounded spirit and emotion. Allow the Father Heart of God to heal and restore you.

LISTENING TO GOD

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GOD always speaks. He communicates with us through His written Word (Bible), creation, His prophets, His Son Jesus Christ confirmed by the apostles, supernatural experiences, angelic visitations, dreams, visions, events / circumstances, conscience, and His still, small voice (1 Kings 19.12). There was even a time that God opened the mouth of a donkey to talk to a wicked prophet (Numbers 22.28).

Because GOD always speaks, we ought to listen to Him all the time. There are times when we become so preoccupied with our daily activities and responsibilities that we neglect giving him enough time to commune and fellowship with Him. And, that should not be the case. Every time you wake up in the morning, before doing anything else, make it a point to spend an hour to praise His wonderful works, to thank Him for all the blessings, to worship Him in the beauty of His holiness, to soak in His presence, to pray, to meditate on His Word, and then finally, to listen to His voice.

You will not hear the voice of God if you are exhausted or busy. In order to hear Him speak, you have to be in a position of rest. The mind and heart should be at rest. You can rest because the things you worry about are in God’s heart. Draw joy from God and the same will give you strength (Nehemiah 8.10).

As you practice this quiet time or devotion everyday, God will reveal things to you that you would not have known had you not heard from Him. You will be given supernatural wisdom and revelation (Ephesians 1.17) that you can use in every aspect of your life however simple issues are. Out of this relationship with God come revelation then intimacy then transformation. It only takes perseverance in quietly listening to God.

Visit a Christian bookstore to find Christian books teaching on the art of listening to God.

KNOWING GOD

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Looking up in the sky and seeing the sun, moon, stars, and clouds will make you wonder who created all these. The mountains, hills, seas, trees, animals, seasons, wind, rain, storm, and mankind—all are the intricate imprint that beyond all these things was a Supreme Being. Outside the earth is a vast multitude of galaxies and universes that will astound you and take your breath away. Imagine the One who holds creation with the palm of His hands. He is in full control of everything and with such harmony, rhythm, and balance all things great and small are at His command.

If you can ask God one question, what will it be? Perhaps, what made him treat man with such love and care despite his disobedience and rebellion? A drive thru history will tell you that since the Old Testament times. God has been in pursuit of man. No matter how obstinate or unbelieving His people, God will relentlessly call them back to him. Like for instance, the Israelite race, they are considered God’s chosen people because of God’s covenant-relationship with the patriarchs or their forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Because Jacob prevailed in wrestling with God (cf. Genesis 32.23-34), God changed His name that means ‘cheater’ into Israel, meaning ‘prevailing prince with God’ (All About The Truth website). Because of Joseph’s (one of Jacob’s sons) ordeal from the pit, Potiphar, prison and palace, the entire Israelite race became in bondage in Egypt for approximately 300-400 years. But, God raised up Moses to lead them back to their promised land. However, for forty (40) years, they sojourned in the wilderness what could have been an eleven (11)-day journey. God gave them the Law and the Prophets to draw them back to Him. Fast forward now, after 400 years of God’s silence from Malachi (Old Testament) to Matthew (New Testament), God sent His promised Son, Jesus Christ, who will be born to a virgin and die for the sins of mankind. Every prophecy in the Old Testament has been fulfilled in the Gospels and Epistles.

Through a bible study using bible study books and guidelines, we can learn the history of God and His creation. Bible study topics like this Jewish history will be interesting for a new believer in God.

How do we know God? By knowing Him through His word and sitting under the feet of people close to him through mentoring and discipleship. By thanking Him and appreciating the sacrifice He has done just to prove His love for us. As one tagline says, “Know God and be known by Him”.

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PROVERBS 31 WOMAN

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During the time of King Lemuel, his mother gave him an advice regarding women. In this famous chapter of Proverbs, the woman referred to is described as virtuous, capable, excellent or in short, a wife of noble character. It is intriguing to discover how concerned a mother is to her son so as to give him a guideline in choosing a wife. Most probably, she has observed the waywardness of wives which advertently or otherwise destroyed the king and his kingdom.

Is this so-called virtuous wife can still be found in the modern day and age? My belief is that there are still women who personify what is written in the Scriptures. However, such a woman is very rare to find just like a precious jewel (31.10). It was mentioned that the said wife surpasses rubies. If a jewel is precious, how much more is a wife?

Her first responsibility on the human level is her husband. Her ways (11-12) are a reflection of her obedience to God’s command to be a suitable helpmate (cf. Gen 2.18). The exact term is CO-EQUAL to her man. This is a very important concept to tackle. Nowadays, the wife tries to work in and outside the home to make both ends meet. There is nothing wrong with helping support the family financially but it is clear that the wife should first function as a WIFE. What does it mean to be a wife? The New Living Translation Bible is very emphatic---she will greatly enrich his life (husband). She should be someone whom the husband’s heart trusts and will not hinder but HELP him ALL HER LIFE

In the ending of the chapter, King Lemuel’s mother counseled him this way: “Charm and grace are deceptive, and beauty is vain (because it is not lasting), but a woman who reverently and worshipfully fears the LORD, she shall be praised.” (Verse 30, Amplified Version).

Every woman’s battle nowadays is to emulate such woman. There is a compelling need to saving your marriage before it starts. The entire passage can be thoroughly explained through a bible study topics in your church.

To the women, experience the Holy Spirit’s fresh wind, fresh fire to anoint you to be the kind of wife God designed you to be. To the men, treat your wives with honor and respect and in so doing they will make your hearts glad and praise the Heavenly Father who appointed your partnership.

NEED. . . WANT HEALING???

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It is God’s perfect will to heal. Anyone who is willing to come to the Lord and receive his healing touch will not be cast out nor rejected. If it is God’s will to heal, why are there people not receiving healing and full restoration in their body, soul and spirit?

First, let us establish the truth in God’s word. Since ages past, God healed and up to this day, He is still into the healing business. The Bible clearly says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-- Who forgives ALL your sins and heals you from ALL diseases.” In Isaiah 53.5b, 1 Peter 2.24, “. . . by His stripes (Jesus Christ), you were healed and made whole” and in Acts 3.6, Peter and John said to the lame beggar, “Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I thee. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Rise up and walk!”

God is more than willing to heal you from your physical sickness, emotional wounds, mental problems, and spiritual bondages. At times, our prayers for healing are hindered because of an un-confessed sin in our lives. “If I cherish sin in my heart, the Lord will not hear.” (Psalm 66.18). When we fail to confess and repent from even an iota of sin, we open a door for the enemy (Satan) to come inside our lives be it in our health, wealth, relationships, career, and ministry. Confessing one’s sins to God through sincere prayer and confessing to the brethren in the faith will do great wonders. Confess your sins one to another and pray for one another that you may be healed. (James 5.16)

The second point is your measure of faith. In the Scriptures, the first thing that Jesus noticed on the people asking for healing is their faith. “Receive your sight, your faith has healed you!” (Luke 18.42). “And Jesus said to him, Go your way; your faith has healed you. . .” (Mark 10.52). And He said to her, Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go into peace. (Luke 8.48). If you have enough faith to be healed, you will be healed.

The third point is commanding the healing to flow instead of praying for healing. Do not misunderstand me, it is alright to pray for healing but Jesus’ model in the account of the gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) is commanding healing. Instead of saying, “Lord, I pray that this man will be healed.” say, “In the name of Jesus Christ, I rebuke this sickness to go from this body and I command healing to flow.” Then, have him check his body out. It is in these few seconds of command and testing the healing that has taken place that one’s faith will work.

Healing is a choice for people who desperately seek for it while for those who accepted their debilitating plight, it is not an option. Do you need. . . want healing? Come to the Healer Himself, read the Scriptures and try to find a good Old Testament Commentary and New Testament Commentary to easily facilitate you in your private devotion and small group bible study.

READING THE BIBLE

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As Christians, we ought to arm ourselves with the Word of God not only to know God but also to fight all the attacks of the wicked one. The Scripture is authored and inspired by God but he used people to accomplish the same. Reading the bible is like a drive thru history where you will encounter different kinds of people obeying and disobeying God, loving and hating God, blessing and cursing God, among others.

For newbies in Bible reading, it is advisable to use New Living Translation version of the Bible although any version will do. Begin with a prayer to invite the Holy Spirit for Him to illuminate and enlighten you as you read and meditate this spiritual food. Allow God’s Spirit to teach you and explain spiritual truths to you. It is not enough to merely understand it with your mind though comprehension is of utmost importance. But, we need to open our hearts and our spirits to digest the Word like a cow chewing the cud.

For starters, begin with five chapters of the Book of Psalm, reading it out loud so that your ear can hear them to build up faith in you. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Romans 10.17). The Jews and even Christians for thousands of years developed this ‘Praying the Scriptures’ where they not only read and accept the Scriptures but they pray them by recitation. Personally, I have learned this method and it really ushered in much prayerfulness and solid belief in my life that when I confess and declare God’s word and promises in the Bible, things begin to change in the supernatural. As preachers say, “What you confess, you possess!” Some others teach that God’s word in our mouth has the same power and anointing as the word in His mouth.

In Joshua 1.8, Joshua encourages us not to let the Book of the Law (Scriptures) to depart from our mouths but we need to meditate on them day and night so that we will be successful in everything we do. Meditation is pondering, thinking, re-thinking, munching, and devouring God’s word. It has to be taken into our spirits and hearts for it to be deposited in us then when it comes out of our mouths and in our ways/actions, it will have power in our lives. Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. (Matthew 12.34)

We will also suggest that you consult an Old Testament Commentary and a New Testament Commentary so that you will be guided on the interpretations and explanations of the Bible as you do your personal devotion or bible study. You can also see interesting bible study topics in the said commentaries available in your church or Christian bookstore.

GOD’S VISION FOR YOUR LIFE

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Before you were born, God has already appointed and ordained a plan for your life. It only depends on you if you will walk into the said original plan. Rest assured, God has a wonderful plan for you for it is written in Jeremiah 29.11, “For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future.

Along with this blueprint for your life, God has created a vision for you. A vision is something that God will place in your spirit, heart and mind about His purpose for your life. It can be a dream, a revelation or simply a strong desire to do something for your life or for the kingdom of God here on earth. However, not all Christians discover such vision thereby unable to discern who God calls them to be. In Proverbs 29.18, “People perish for lack of vision.” Without a clear vision for your life, you will not have a compass or a manual to guide you therefore you will be prone to make wrong choices and possibly step out of the perfect will of God.

Chazown is vision in the Hebrew language. It is also the title of the book written by Craig Groeschel which tackles the step-by-step guidance on how to direct your life in the areas of relationships, finances, health, to name a few. Chazown: Relationship with God, Chazown: A Different Way To See Your Life, Chazown: Physical Life, Chazown: Relationships with People and Chazown: Work Life, Chazown: Financial Life. These books will tell you God’s purpose for creating you on earth.

Once you have discovered God’s vision for your life, do what God instructed to Habakkuk: “Write down the vision and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” (Habakkuk 2.2) You can practically write it down on paper and then, in the table of your heart. Last November 30, 2004, God spoke to me and gave me a vision to publish his testimonies and his wonderful works to the nations. (cf. Jeremiah 50.1-2 & Psalm 96.3) True enough, today God made that come true through this writing. He also implanted in my heart that he will restore me for service (Jeremiah 15.19) and after I have been healed, He will use me in a healing center to reach out to the hurting, sick people, Christian or otherwise. Last October 2007, God called me to be a prayer minister in a healing ministry in my country and currently I am doing internships under two inner healing ministries recognized internationally.

How did it happen? It is because of God’s vision that I was able to capture in my heart at the right time. Let God teach you more about it in church or in a small group bible study with the bible study topics using your Thompson bible.

REDEEMING MARRIAGES

2009-09-16T04:32:00.000-07:00

Living in a dysfunctional family where adultery is a norm will compel you to be wary in taking the plunge towards marriage. My paternal and maternal lineage has a serious history of fornication, sexual intimacy, infidelity, adultery, illegitimacy of children, second marriages, marital separation, and the like. It does not take an expert to analyze why certain things like this happen even to Christian families.

The decay of moral fiber and the deficiency in Biblical foundations in the family, community, church, and the nation contribute to this plague of unfaithfulness and sexual immorality. However, God has a solution to these problems. Divorce, legal separation, and annulment are not the solution. In fact, the Bible clearly states that God hates divorce (Malachi 2.16).

God desires the restoration of marriages especially to Christian families. He teaches forgiveness, mercy, compassion and love. There will always be a life after a break-up or a separation. God can mend relationships inasmuch as He can heal sicknesses. There are resources like “Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts”, and “Every Man’s Marriage” to help you in your marital struggles. You can also read “Healing is a Choice” to give you an idea that God heals the physical, emotional and relational aspects of man.

I yearn for the time that my parents’ and my eldest sister’s marriages will be redeemed. God will honor my desires if I will persevere in faith and obey Him. As early as now, I have been praying for my marriage to my future husband. I have been asking God to give me to the right and suitable man for me who will also be my partner in ministry. For as long as both of us will fear God and love Him, there will be no reason for marital misunderstanding and separation. A marriage conforming to the truths expressed in the Scriptures is a marriage that will stand the test of time.

For crumbling marriages, God will still be the God of restoration. Pray for a divine order in your own family. Allow Him to heal you.

THE RAINBOW

2009-09-16T04:26:00.000-07:00

As early as four years old, I am mesmerized by this colorful arch in the skies. I always wait for the rain to stop and gaze at these spectacular rays of colors. Time and again, I will ask my dad about the rainbow and everything under the sun and he almost always has an answer for everything through his made-up stories. However, his story of the rainbow holds true in the Bible.

During the time of Noah, the world became so depraved and lawless that God regretted having created man. Man became so lustful in his desires and motives that God decided to put an end to it. However, Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD for his blamelessness and righteousness. God desired to preserve him along with his family while the rest of the human race and all flesh—the birds, creeping things, sea creatures, and mammals will be utterly destroyed without remedy.

God commanded Noah to build an ark to accommodate his family and pairs of animals for the impending flood. God gave Noah the specifications of this ark and Noah built the same on top of a mountain. After one hundred eighty (120) years, the great flood came killing all men and animals while preserving those inside the ark. It has been forty (40) days of rain and almost a year for the land to dry up. Then, God called Noah to come out of the ark along with his family and all the animals inside it.

He offered burnt sacrifices to the LORD and it pleased Him. Then, God made a covenant with Noah and every living creature of all flesh that He will never again cause floodwaters to destroy flesh. As a sign of this covenant, He put a rainbow in the sky that every time He sees it, He will be reminded of this covenant He made with Noah and the rest of the world.

Take a look at the sky and look for the rainbow. Thank God for keeping His promise thousands of years later. Praise Him for His steadfast love and faithfulness.

Bible stories like this can be explained using an Old Testament Commentary and a New Testament Commentary. Attend a small group bible study and learn from the bible study topics.

DAVID, A MAN AFTER GOD’S OWN HEART

2009-09-16T04:16:00.000-07:00

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering, and steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51.10

While reading your Thompson Bible, you will discover that the man who composed majority of the songs and poems in the Psalms, who killed in his youth a lion, bear and even the gigantic Goliath with a slingshot, who replaced Saul as king over Israel and Judah is not without flaws or weaknesses.

During the time of war where kings and the army should be into battle, David chose rather to stay in the palace. Not being in the right place at the right time, he caught a glimpse of a beautiful woman bathing on top of her house. Immediately, he called for this woman named Bathsheba, and committed adultery with her. As a result, she was impregnated and David exerted all possible efforts to force her husband, Uriah the Hittite to sleep with her but all things come to naught. David finally ordered his general to post Uriah in front of the heated battle and then leave him there for dead.

Consequently, the child also died because God was displeased of this sin of David. It took about a year before David repented of his offenses as he was confronted and rebuked by Nathan the Prophet. Psalm 51 was the exact song David composed as he confessed this sin to God wholeheartedly.

In Acts 13.22, God acknowledged David as a man after His own heart. You might wonder why God referred to him as such after all his adultery and murder. When you meditate on all the Psalms of David, you will recognize his character, ways, thoughts, feelings, and heart. There will be moments when David will sink deep into depression and loneliness because of all the enemies conspiring and threatening to kill him but in the end, he will always break into a song of thanksgiving and hope on God’s redeeming love and power.

Through his harp and his compositions, he is giving all the glory due to God’s name. He constantly seeks for the face of God and desires His presence (Psalm 27.4-10). In all his shortcomings, David knows how to repent honestly and wholeheartedly. And I believe this is what God wants us to emulate in the character of David—being able to approach God humbly and confidently knowing that God will continually be there to hear us.

Married couples can also learn from David’s mistakes. By being faithful to your spouse until lifetime and by repenting after committing any sin, you too can also be a man or woman after God’s own heart. There are Christian books like “Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts” and ‘Every Man’s Marriage” available in Christian bookstore.

GOD’S LOVE LETTER

2009-09-16T04:09:00.000-07:00

Oftentimes, we perceive God as a force floating in the air keeping watch on every person’s activity on earth. We view Him as being distant, much like a watchmaker leaving His creation to run its own course oblivious of his situation and destiny. Some even treat God as an ATM machine or a magician providing all the perks in life but devoid of a relationship with Him.

However, our God is a personal God. Before creation, He already has a perfect plan and design for everything, great and small. Man was created essentially for an interaction with God and existentially for stewardship over God’s dominion on earth.

Our God is a God of words. When He speaks, things are created ex nihilo (out of nothing). The creation story in Genesis 1 is a perfect illustration of God calling to things and then, immediately coming into being. He said “Let there be light!” Then, light came bursting from His mouth faster than your single thought. The sun, moon, earth, waters, land, vegetation, and animals were created through his command of words. Lastly, he fashioned man out of the ground and breathed into his nostrils His breath of life.

A drive thru history will tell you that God has been pursuing man. He did not leave man on his own. He has written a manual collaborating certain men centuries or millennia apart, inspiring them to record history, culture, characters, commandments, success, failures, wisdom, revelations, visions, prophecies and its fulfillment. Imagine the unity and harmony of these authors who certainly have not met each other due to the disparity of time.

A closer look at the Thompson Bible will give you an idea how intricate yet marvelous is God’s plan for man. The Scriptures is not written only to inform and create a fascinating story. It is more than that. It is written by a Lover (GOD) so passionately engrossed and spellbound by His beloved (man). It is as thrilling and exciting as receiving a love letter from your romantic lover be it your spouse or your sweetheart.

Since the beginning of time until the present age, God never ceased showing love to His children. In the Old Testament, God manifested His love to His chosen people by giving them the Promised Land, the Law, and the Prophets amidst the struggles of the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) and the entire Israelite race. In the New Testament, God showed His love by fulfilling His promise of a Savior in the person of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He sacrificed His Son so that the world will be saved from sin, sickness, death, and hell. There are still remaining prophecies in the Bible to be fulfilled perhaps in our lifetime. But, the bottom line is that God never failed to show His love for us through His Words. Begin to take some time to read, meditate, eat, digest and devour His Words. It can still save, redeem, restore, reproof, train, and free you. More than that, it can affirm you of God’s love since eternity past.

Read bible study books covering various bible study topics. Pray. Go to church. Read God’s love letter.

HINDRANCES TO HEALING

2009-09-16T03:56:00.000-07:00

This world is replete with statistics and stories of people who are sick--Christians or otherwise. In our ministry week after week, we are being visited by people who are seriously needing medical attention, mental patients who lost hope on shrinks and medications, financially bankrupt people not knowing what else to do in life, families and relations going on the rocks, ministers even pastors and missionaries who are burnt-out in ministry and needing revival in their inner man. And every time, we will witness these same people getting healed, delivered, freed, and being restored to wholeness and wellness in every area of their life.

However, not all receive their desired healing. Some visit us regularly and when nothing happens, decided to just live with the sickness and give up on their healing. But, one thing holds true . . . God, with all His compassion and wisdom, desire to heal everyone who comes to Him in faith. Then, what blocks healing?

Being in the healing ministry for nearly three years taught me the following hindrances. Firstly, it is because of believing that God doesn’t want to heal everyone. We need to reject the teachings in churches propagating for many years now that it is not God’s will to heal, that God is glorified because of our sickness and that we can learn lessons by being sick. We need to believe what God’s Word says that He heals. The healing revivalists like Smith Wigglesworth and John G. Lake believe that all sicknesses like cancer are spiritual. As Christians, we are given all authority and power to rebuke any form of sicknesses in body and soul. It is up to us appropriate that authority in our lives.

Unforgiveness, fear, anger and untamed tongue (James 3) not only affects the physical, mental, and emotional make-up of the body but it also blocks the healing process. God wants us to release forgiveness to all those people who hurt us not only to heal us but to set us in right standing with God. Operating in fear and anger opens a legal entry for the devil to harass and oppress us. We also need to read books like Healing is a Choice available in Christian bookstore.

Lastly, personal and family sins in one’s generational line also are major factors why the sick fail to receive healing. We need to confess and repent in behalf of our ancestry lines for all the violations in the commandments of God so as to remove all the curses in the present and coming generation.

You can make use of an Old Testament Commentary and a New Testament Commentary to give you insights and interpretations on some of the healing stories in the Scriptures.

ZOE: THE GOD-KIND OF LIFE

2009-09-16T02:43:00.000-07:00

All of us dream. Dreams come and go. Perhaps forgotten, for a while cherished. But if a people dream that same dream for centuries even transcending their lifetime . . . that is a different story. That is the story of a group of people in the Old Testament particularly the nation of

Israel

A drive thru history will tell you that God gave them a Chazown (Hebrew) or a vision. He promised the ancestors of the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, that He will deliver them from the hands of the Egyptians after being in bondage for roughly three hundred years. It came true after Moses led them out of Egypt into the wilderness. However, because of their stubbornness and disobedience, God allowed the Israelites to sojourn and wander aimlessly in the desert to develop their character and to prepare them to inhabit the Promised Land, Canaan. Time and again, God showed them His faithfulness but Israel remained stiff-necked, leaving God and practicing idolatry as their heathen neighbors do. God’s promise was fulfilled when Moses died in the Mt. of Nebo and when Moses’ assistants led them to the Promised Land. These two courageous warriors are the only people who entered Canaan alive. The rest of the Israelites died in the desert.

Everything that transpired in the Old Testament is a foreshadowing of the things to come in the New Testament. The promise of a Savior has been fulfilled in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. Throughout the gospels, Jesus has been teaching that there is this kind of life that God wants us to live and enjoy. A friend of mine named Dan untiringly taught me this ZOE principle that follows.

To the Christians, we have received Jesus and He wants us to experience life as He intended it to be. Jesus came to the world not only to save us from hell, but also to give us this “ZOE” or God-kind of life in profusion. This ZOE life can be experienced not only in heaven but also here in our spirits. The key to having this ZOE life is by losing your natural life and discovering this supernatural life.

Jesus said that if you want to come after him, deny yourself, take up your cross then follow him. (Matthew 16.24). Losing your life means denying any thoughts, emotions, actions that are contrary to the word of God, which is life. When you start lining your thoughts, emotions, and actions up with the instructions of God’s Word, then you will find this ZOE life manifest in your body, soul and entire life.

There are many Christian books covering this bible study topic. Always ask for the Holy Spirit’s fresh wind, fresh fire to explain things to you as you read.

INTIMACY WITH GOD

2009-09-16T02:19:00.000-07:00

God providentially allows sexual intimacy to a man and woman within the confines of marriage. However, because of man’s sexual perversion, bondage to lust and his disobedience to God’s law, man voluntarily succumb to temptations making him prone to sin and repercussions resulting from it.

It is every man’s battle to remain pure before and during marriage. It is every woman’s battle as well to safeguard such purity at all times at all costs. The young are not exempted from this issue. Co-authors Fred Stoeker, Stephen Arterburn, Mike Yorkey and Shannon Ethridge wrote “Every Young Man’s Battle”, “Every Young Womans Battle” and “Every Man’s Battle Workbook” to address problems arising prior to, during and after marriage.

Throughout these years, God taught me the secret to sexual purity. It is not enough to shun outside elements/agents contributing to sexual promiscuity nor is it enough to only expose you to a godly environment (although doing these things can certainly help). I believe the key towards purity is being intimate not to any one but to God.

What does intimacy with God mean? It means going deeper in your relationship with God. It means being in a loving communion with God. It means knowing Him though His written Word and taking Him at His Word. It means talking to Him not only using your mind but your heart and your spirit. It means giving Him your time, treasure and talent to glorify His name. It means considering His feelings every time you think, speak and act and not committing anything that will break His heart. It means obeying all his statutes, precepts and laws joyfully without being too legalistic or formal. It means making Him your best friend, your intimate lover or even your husband.

When you pursue this intimacy with God little by little, all your sexual perversions, promiscuous tendencies, and ungodly exploits/relationships will be replaced with deep cleanliness, sexual purity, and freedom from all defilement's. It is because as you become intimate with God, you will certainly give up all the passions and lusts and will want more and more of God’s love. Such love is better than and beyond what fleshly pursuits can give you. Such love can make you free. . . . Free to move and act according to God’s original design.

SOAKING IN HIS PRESENCE

2009-09-16T02:12:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves to soak. It is such a relaxing activity after a tiresome and pressuring day at work or in the home. Soaking allows you to just lie down in the tub and let the warm water and bubbly soap cleanse you and detoxify your body including your mind for longer minutes at a time. Soaking not only cleanses but also revives one’s body to enable it to function normally amidst the stresses of life.

We can also soak spiritually in the presence of God. Soaking has been a term coined by current Christian revivalists like Randy Clark and Heidi Baker denoting “the practice of expectantly waiting and resting in God’s love, rather than striving in prayer”. I have attended a soaking school organized by the Toronto Airport Christian Fellowship small group bible study leaders in my country and we were taught the succeeding insights particularly on resting in the presence of God.

The first step is to find a quiet place where you can lie down undisturbed with a soft worship, soaking music in the background. Then, have a spiritual cleansing where you confess all your sins to God honestly and humbly. Ask God to forgive you from any thoughts, words, actions, habits, activities, and demonic agreements in the past or in your recent past. Allow Him to cleanse you from all defilements in body, soul and spirit.

Then, pray a prayer of protection for yourself, immediate and extended families, work, school, ministry, business, health, relationships, callings, anointing, gifting, and destinies. Then, open your heart to God and allow the Holy Spirit, His fresh wind, fresh fire to overshadow you and search your heart. Set your mind on Jesus giving to Him all your concerns, worries, fears, anxieties, doubts, unbelief, faithlessness and distrust. Only RECEIVE LOVE from God. You need not struggle and go on spiritual warfare prayers, just be in a position of resting, basking, marinating, and soaking in Him.

Adam is the very first soaker in the Bible. He just soaked and dozed off to sleep and when He awoke, God gave him a suitable helpmate for a wife. Oftentimes, God gives Chazown or vision (Hebrew) during or after soaking. God may show you mental pictures or images related to your concerns. Be sure to write these down and continue to pray for a clearer vision. Soaking can also (1) revitalize dry spirits, (2) attune your ears to hear God’s voice and direction for your situations, (3) emotionally heal your wounded emotions, (3) energize you for a new start in your life, (4) help you find the answers to your problems, (5) strengthen you in your responsibilities and relationships, (6) free you from habitual bondages and sins and above all, pave the way for your deeper intimacy with God.

You can learn more from the bible characters in the Bible who learned soaking. Try reading the Thompson Bible for additional tools and resources.

DELIGHTING IN GOD

2009-09-16T01:24:00.000-07:00

Delight yourself in the LORD and HE will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37.4

To delight on something means to be happy, excited or enthusiastic about it. When you search delight online, it will yield “something that gives great pleasure, enjoyment or satisfaction”.

When you delight on an object, you always stare at it and always put it by your side. If it is a hobby or activity, you make time for it daily despite your busyness. To delight on someone means spending time getting to know that person, orienting yourself on his likes/dislikes, giving your undivided love and attention. Over time, you will learn how that person thinks, speaks, moves and feels. You will be acquainted on his life, history, desires, dreams, and even failures and frustrations. Eventually, you will be like that person in his ways, you will learn how to like what he likes and learn to dislike what he dislikes and finally, love that person unconditionally.

That is how to delight on a person. How about delighting in God? It is somewhat similar to delighting on a person. It means spending quality time communing with Him, basking in His presence, praying to Him, listening to Him, knowing Him through His written Word. It means putting Him first everyday in our life, praising, worshipping Him in the beauty of His holiness. It also means meditating on Him and His Word day by day because God and His Word are the same. It cannot be separated. It means fellowshipping with Him which the very essence why He created mankind in the first place.

If you spend your days getting to know God, you will be acquainted with His ways, laws, statutes, promises and the things He has planned for you in advance. You will revel on His beautiful attributes and qualities like His loving-kindness, holiness, forgiving heart, mercy and justice. Soon after, you will learn how to love what He loves and hate what He hates. You would want to make God happy and pleased by obeying Him and His commands. As you consistently delight in God, you will look like Him spiritually and physically. The glory and the presence of the Lord will be manifested in your countenance, expressions, speech, actions, and activities.

When you learn how to delight on God, He promises to give you the desires of your heart. The Amplified version says, “ . . . desires and the secret petitions of your heart”. This is so because during the process of delighting in Him, all our heart’s desires suddenly became aligned with His desires, it is no longer our desires but His desires for us. Consequently, we are right in the center of His perfect will. So, the verse composed by David proves true.

To learn more about this, read Christian books available in Christian bookstore. Attend a small group bible study in your area where various bible study topics were tackled.

Converted sinners a New Life

2009-09-13T09:40:00.000-07:00

Many speak about the need of a new heart. Rob Bell is trying to reach is audience through his NOOMA while Ray Vanderlaan through his videos on faith lessons. However, there are still many of us who stumble over this phrase, “a new heart” and do not know what it means. Satan led people to think that because they have felt a rapture of feeling, they are converted. However their experience does not change. Their actions are the same as before. Their lives show no good fruit.

The pray often and long and are constantly referring to the feelings they had at such and such a time. But they do not live a new life. They are deceived because they do not know how to celebrate recovery. Their experience goes no deeper than feeling. They build upon the sand, and when adverse winds come, their house is swept away. Many of these poor souls are groping in darkness, looking for the feelings which others say they have had in their experience.

Some make a great mistake by supposing that a high profession will compensate for real service. But true conversion makes us strictly honest in our dealings with our fellow beings. It makes us faithful in our everyday work. All sincere followers of Christ will show that the religion of the Bible qualifies them to use their talents in service to our master.

Celebrating recovery after repenting for our sin is the noble principle which is brought into the work that makes it wholly acceptable in the Lord’s sight. This means repenting does not only mean asking for forgiveness, we have to live a new life and to maintain it in order to really celebrate our recovery. True service links the lowliest of God’s servants on earth with the highest of His servants in our courts above.

God’s Law Is Perfect

2009-09-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

The Law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul, the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple, the statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the hearts, the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes

-Psalm 19:7

People like Rob Bell and Ray Vanderlaan tells us that God’s law is perfect. The whole world will be judged by this law. It reaches even the intents and purpose of the heart, and demands purity in the most secret thoughts, desires, and temperaments. It requires us to love God supremely, and our neighbour as us.

Without the exercise of love, the highest profession of faith is mere hypocrisy. God claims, from every soul of the human family, perfect obedience to His law. The law of God is very clear in all the discussion of the Bible study curriculum. It allows us to receive the blessings of obedience.

The least deviation from that law, by neglect, or wayward transgression, is sin, and every sin exposes the sinner to the wrath of God. The unrenewed heart will hate the restrictions of the law of God, and will strive to throw off its holy claims. Our eternal welfare depends upon a proper understanding of the law of God, a deep conviction of its holy character, and a ready obedience to its requirements.

Men and women must be convicted of sin before they will feel their need of Christ. Those who trample under their feet the law of God have rejected the only means to define to the transgressor what sin is. They are doing the work of the great deceiver. That is why it is very important that Christians should make sure that we do not join the deceiver, instead keep our faith.

Soul Makeover

2009-09-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

Every day, we spent hours trying to figure out on how to makeover a lot of things in our lives. At one point, we like to have a facial makeover. Sometimes we also thought of hair makeover. There were also days that we want to house makeover or office makeover. We have probably tried all kinds of makeover in our life except for soul makeover.

The truth is, we make it a point to take care of how we look. We are conscious about fashion, getting wrinkles, and losing weight. But what is important is the real you. It has been probably a constant struggle for us Christians to think first of our soul and of our faith on God. But how do we do soul makeover? Read below to find ways to makeover your soul.

1. Small group Bible study. The small group Bible study will help replenish our soul. It reminds us of all the lessons we learn about faith lessons from the Bible study curriculum. That means attending these kinds of groups will help in the process of our soul makeover.

2. Share. You do not end on simply attending these Bible study meetings. We have to learn how to share our thoughts and our feelings. What we may utter may be the best advice a person in the group. Sharing how we feel will also add spice to the small group Bible study. In this way, we may be able to do tasks that we should do. Remember that Rob Bell said that we are all priests of God.

Remember that when we die, we can never take with us anything that we have in this physical world. That is very important that keep our souls refreshed so as Christians, we may also be able to represent God.

The Ideal

2009-09-13T09:08:00.000-07:00

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image.

- 2 Corinthians 3:18

Children today looks up to an ideal doll named “Barbie”. The doll has lots of clothes, a car, a boyfriend, and her own phone, typewriter, and television. This doll found its way into many homes, with the young owners wishing that they might be the real-life counterparts of Barbie.

Other than the doll named “Barbie”, young adults of today have loved and admired many popular singers such as Britney Spears or Avril Lavigne. It is just so sad that sometimes these people whom young adults admired cannot really be the ideal person whom people should not only admire but also whom people will set their ideals.

It is natural for young people to have heroes and heroines. They do this to find someone good as a pattern for their lives. However, this should be alarming that a mere doll that has everything would hold much attraction for young Christians.

Actually, the Bible through the life application Bible tells us that the only safe example to follow in planning a successful life is Jesus Christ. In Him, indeed, we find the picture of the ideal Christian.
In one of the faith lessons of Ray Vanderlaan, we learn that it is not impossible for a young Christian to develop in the same way Jesus did. Remember that Jesus was born as one of us and was prophesized as someone who will save us from our sins.

Becoming like Jesus does not depend on what you have, where you live, or how you are treated. It depends on how you relate yourself to the true Ideal. He is the only perfect Hero for young people to follow.

Understanding the Teenagers

2009-09-13T08:58:00.000-07:00

One of the most difficult times of a parent is when he or she starts to raise his or her own teenage child. This is the time when we the teenagers felt they are not being understood while the parents felt they need to protect and guide their children.

Teenagers wanted to tell their parents that they are just trying to be individuals while parents are also tempted to controlling the lives of their children. But what do these teenagers really wanted to do? The life application Bible made us realize that generation today is always self-centred.

You may notice this when you check their Friendster profile and Facebook profile, almost all of their photos are pictures of themselves. Teenagers also want to be with their friends. Although they are tall and look like an adult, we need to remember that they are still young and there are still things that need to be understood.

As parents, it is important that we join adult Bible study groups where we get a chance to meet people who may have the same dilemma of misunderstanding their children. We may learn from other parents how they cope up and do about this difficulty of life. We must also understand that teenagers have major pressures. They are pressured by their peers while they are also pressured with the expectations we set on them.

With all these pressures, they feel responsible and sometimes mistook responsibility with independence. As learned in the Bible study curriculum, parents should be involved in the activities of their teenagers. It will help them cope up easily. It is also best that parents should talk to their teenagers. Studies show that parents who talk about high-case behaviour and talk about its consequences have kids who are good. Lastly, be a parent and not merely a teenager’s parent.

Daily Family Worship Yields Precious Results

2009-09-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

For some reasons many parents dislike to give their children religious instruction and they leave them to pick up in small group Bible study the knowledge which it is their privilege and duty to impart. Such parent fail to fulfill the responsibility lay upon them, to give their children an all-around education. God commands His people to bring up their children in the nurture and reproach of the Lord. Parents, let the instruction you give your children be simple, and be sure that it is clearly understood.

Read the life application Bible to give you an idea on what this means. The lessons that you learn from the Word of God through the Bible study curriculum you were able to attend must also be presented to your children. By simple lessons drawn from the faith lessons and from the Word of God and experiences you had may teach your children how to conform their lives to the highest standard.

Even in childhood and youth they may learn to, live thoughtful, earnest lives that will yield a rich harvest of good. The home should be a small church for the children. It should be a place where they learn to pray and trust in God. Teach them to repeat God’s law. Come in humility, with a heart full of tenderness, and with a sense of the temptations and dangers before you and your children, by faith bind them to the altar, entreating for them the care of the Lord.

Train the children to offer their simple words of prayer. Tell them that God delights to have them call upon Him. Will the Lord of heaven pass by such homes and leave no blessings? The answer is no. Ministering angels will guard the children and by ministering a sanctuary for God, God does not leave this sanctuary but live in it.

Christ is the Way

2009-09-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

There are times when we want to do our own way. During these times we only thought of ourselves and no one else. For instance, we know that God does not want us to murder our neighbors, but when one becomes pregnant unwontedly, instead of following God, we do our own way. This should not be. We live in our faith and it is our faith that keeps us alive.

Christ is the not only the way but He is the way. Ray Vanderlaan explains Acts 4:12 in one of his faith lessons that there is no other name given under heaven whereby we are being saved than only through Jesus Christ. “The Way”, as used in the Bible and as fondly named by Rob Bell, has a variety of meanings. It can be used refer as the early Christian movement as described by Luke. Luke described the teachings of “the way” in the form of a travel narrative in two stages, first from Galilee to Jerusalem and then from Jerusalem to the end of the earth.

It is amazing that in our search for the Diving and in our journey to Paradise. God is good; He does not leave us wandering. As the father of us all, He has showed us the way, the only way and the best way to find Him and reach Heaven. He always wanted us to be with Him in heaven. He is never selfish on showing us how we can be with Him. When we remember our Saviour, Jesus Christ, as the Way also means remembering our heavenly Father’s watchful care and concern for us. God has provided us The Way through His son, Jesus Christ.

Looking Up to Angelina Jolie

2009-09-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

Angelina Jolie is an American actress and Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Refugee Agency. She promoted humanitarian causes throughout the world and is noted for her word with refugee through the United Nations Commissioner for Refugees. The aim is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees.

Angelina Jolie is a living example of whom Ray Vanderlaan said as people who raced for God. Although it was not clearly stated that Angelina Jolie is a religious Christian, she had set an example for Christians. Her life has reminded the Christians that we are all here to do a mission of God. Her actions had reminded us of what Rob Bell had told us about Christians being the priests of God. Angelina Jolie is not a saint. In fact she had been through so many difficult times in her childhood. She grew up in a broken family.

Angelina lived with her mother who had given up acting to raise children. Driven with depression when her classmates teased her for being so thin and for wearing glasses and braces, and then later for not being successful in her initial modelling attempt, Angelina Jolie had collected knives to hurt herself. She said that for some reason, the ritual of having cut herself and feeling pain, maybe feeling alive and feeling some kind of release was somehow therapeutic.

Although Angelina Jolie, together with her present partner, Brad Pitt has inspired everyone for their dedication to raise three biological children along with three adopted children, Angelina Jolie also did not have smooth relationships before that. She was married twice and was divorced twice. Angelina was able to cope and learned a lot about living. This is probably the reason why her ideals and advocacy on giving humanitarian support to refugees has flourished. Learning from her life and seeing her success as well as her fame, Christians were reminded of the many faith lessons taught to us in order to survive our world today.

When Teenagers Becomes Parents Themselves

2009-09-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

In 2005, the number of teenage pregnancy in Ireland is about two thousand four hundred twenty seven (2,427). There were forty two (42) among these teenagers that were fifteen years old (15) or under. The rest of them have ages that range from eighteen to nineteen years old. What’s remarkable about this figure is that it has not changed over the three decades that comes before it.

A lot of these teenage pregnancies are results of premarital sex. Premarital sex is rampant nowadays. It is sad to note that premarital sex is actually a sex before marriage or outside marriage. From its definition, it simply means that it is a sin that represents adultery. As taught to us in our life application Bible, adultery is one of the sins that God emphasized in the Ten Commandments. However, Satan is working through the minds of Christians in different ages.

Young and vulnerable as they were, teenagers battle from the expectations set to them by the society and from their own emotions. Unfortunately, Satan attacks the poor judgement and vulnerability of our teenagers today. He played around pleasure over responsibility. That is why, though teenagers need to face the consequences of their action, they should not be alone to do it.

There is a definite link between teenage pregnancy and many of the society’s serious problems. Failure in school, child abuse, and drug abuse, poverty, poor health and crimes are just a few of the effects of teenage pregnancy. This is because when a teenage mother is left unguided, they would give in to the easiest way of solving their problems such as abortion, robbery and theft and other crimes.

As Christians we have to provide them help. One way is to organize a small group Bible study which will provide them support service. It will help them easily accept their faults and learn from them. This will also help them learn more about God and about God’s assurance that He will be with those who have faith in Him. Organizers of these groups will have to choose a special Bible study curriculum that will address the emotional and mental needs of those who joined the group. It is also noted that teenage mothers who are part of this group become better mothers than those who were left to discover motherhood by themselves.

HOLY SPIRIT, COME

2009-09-11T01:41:00.000-07:00

Holy Spirit, Rain Down, Rain Down

Oh Comforter and Friend

Come, we need Your touch again

Holy Spirit, Rain Down, Rain Down

Let Your power fall

Let Your voice be heard

Come, and change our hearts as we stand on Your Word

(song from Hillsongs Australia)

Are you physically tired from the daily rigors of life? Are you emotionally wounded from the pains and burdens life throw at you? Are you confused with God’s purpose for your life? Are you afraid of what the future holds for you? Or are you simply dry with your spiritually and in need of a fresh touch from God?

The Holy Spirit is God’s Spirit who can help you with the above problems prevailing in your life. He is present during creation (Genesis 1.2b), sent by God to empower the saints or believers during Pentecost (Acts 2) and teaches us things about God (John 14.26).

One preacher said that He is a gentleman. He does not force Himself to us. He guides us into all truth (John 16.13), comforts us (Acts 9.31), intercedes for our behalf (Romans 8.26), and sanctifies believers (Romans 15.16).

There are so many Christian books that you can avail of from any Christian bookstore to know about the Holy Spirit. We encourage you to look for a small group bible study in your church or in your own workplace to participate in so as to gain knowledge, share insights and develop your personal relationship with God.

In his book, “Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire”, Pastor Jim Cymbala shares the secret on how his 20-people congregation for the past thirty-five years multiplied into a ten-thousand congregation as the Holy Spirit revived their hearts and ignited their passion for prayer and the gospel.

The Holy Spirit is like a fresh wind that blows wherever it pleases (cf. John 3.8). It is the breath of God that blew on the dry bones that came into life in Ezekiel 37. Not only that, the Holy Spirit is a fresh fire like the tongues of fire on the heads of the believers anointing them with authority and power to share the gospel, cast out demons, heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and raise the dead.

After two thousand years, the Holy Spirit continues to move mightily and powerfully upon the lives of Christians enabling them to work the works of God. It is not just enough to be a Sunday-going believer or a Bible-reading Christian. We have to receive impartation of the anointing of God so that when we speak, God’s words will convict hearts and transform lives; when we pray, mountains are moved and the foundations are shaken; when we lay hands on the sick, they will completely recover and be made whole. Christianity is more than memorizing the Bible verses but in declaring, believing and obeying the Word of God.

Invite the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life and He will revolutionize the way you think, feel, speak, and move.

Pursuit of Purity

2009-09-11T01:34:00.000-07:00

Psalm 24.4: Who may ascend to the hill of the Lord, who may stand in his holy hill? He who has clean hands and a pure heart.

Since time immemorial, majority of women struggle with sexual impurity and immorality. Christian women also share the same plight with unbelievers. The statistics is very clear that almost half of marriages are destroyed because of infidelity and sexual immorality. I have heard an annulment lawyer observed that the common denominator of the annulment cases he handled is that one or both couple has committed fornication prior to their marriage.

Sexual purity is not only a man’s issue. It is also every womans battle, therefore, my battle as well. I struggled with fantasy lust as early as 6 years old being exposed to the sounds I hear downstairs when my male relatives will regularly watch pornographic videos in our living room. As I reached adolescence, my aunt left a couple of Mills and Boon romance novels in our house which further enflamed this lust building up on me. At 18, I was converted to Christianity but I still catch myself having escapism, fantasy lust and masturbation, though not an addiction. I tried looking for love in the internet but all efforts seemed futile. I entered a Christian seminary and had a Cambodian boyfriend who is formerly a Buddhist monk. We had physical intimacy but never ended in sexual intercourse. He tried asking me to go to bed with him but because of my commitment to God to remain a virgin before marriage, I did not give in.

Until now, that commitment still holds true. I have overcome fantasy lust and masturbation through self-control and discipline. Believe it or not, it has been 2.5 years that I am no longer watching TV/movies and listening to the radio, except for Christian web/podcasts, programs, movies. You may call it weird or boring but I am enjoying it. Instead of feeding the lusts, I nourished my spirit with spiritual things that consequently led to a deeper intimacy with God.

This is every young woman’s battle. . . the pursuit of purity. The best gift that a wife can give to her husband on their wedding day is her virginity. Marriage is a blood covenant between a husband and a wife where the woman’s hymen is destroyed on their first sexual contact. This is God’s original plan-- sex within the confines of marriage. However, for men and women who have made a mistake in the past, God can still redeem your sexual purity. Allow Him to cleanse you and forgive you from all sexual defilements. He can make all things new. Meditate on Psalm 24.4. Remember that in every man’s marriage, God should be the center. Develop a deeper relationship with God. . . grow in Him. Go to church, attend a small group bible study. Stay connected to God and with fellow believers.

OVERCOMING SEXUAL TEMPTATIONS

2009-09-11T01:17:00.000-07:00

Adam and Eve enjoyed great freedom and liberty prior to the fall. Adam was commissioned to be the steward of everything the Lord has created, be it the tress, animals, and the land. All his needs were met even the need for companionship. The first couple walked with God in the Garden of Eden and communed with their Creator day by day. However, because of the wrong choice they have made in touching and eating from the forbidden tree of the knowledge of good and evil, sin entered the human race and made this world a fallen one.

As soon as they sinned, the glory and presence of God that covered their bodies suddenly were removed and they have realized they were naked. Guilt and shame replaced their innocence and purity and soon after, a host of other sinful attitudes, behaviors, strongholds, bondages and wrong mindsets plagued mankind.

Thousands of years passed by and the same story still unfold with man. Because of the fast-paced trend of the world from the news, TV, radio, movies, books, internet, mobile communications, and other forms of special media like billboards, man was deeply influenced by sexual immorality, pornography, lasciviousness, abuse, and vices. Believers of the Lord Jesus Christ are not exempted from all of these. They, too, struggle in the areas of sexual immorality like masturbation, phone/chat sex, fornication, adultery and the like.

How do we overcome sexual temptations? On our own, we cannot. But, with the help of the God, it is possible. Allow the Holy Spirit to immerse you in His presence daily. Begin your day by being still and praying to God spirit-to-Spirit. Then, read a few chapters of the Bible and really meditate in His Word. Then, let Him speak to you. In the Scriptures, it says that we should pray unceasingly. (1 Thessalonians 5.17) Maintain this communication with God until the end of the day.

Then, for the practical side of it, screen everything that enters your gates or your senses, like the eyes and ears. Only read books that are spiritually healthy for you—avoid pornographic materials and literature that patronizes, sex violence, greed, witchcraft, occult. See movies and programs that are clean. Whatever you see with your eyes and listen with your ears will be deposited in your mind, heart and spirit. So, you need to be very careful.

There are good Christian books available in Christian bookstores online that you can read like Every Man’s Battle, Every Young Man’s Battle, Every Mans Battle Book. These will become good resource materials for you in your struggle with sexual temptations

WHEN LIFE SEEMS FALLING APART

2009-09-11T00:59:00.000-07:00

Most Christians can fully identify with the story of Job—his ordeal blow-by-blow. For the sick person, one’s health seems to be dwindling away with every day of searing pain. For the depressive, life seems to be without hope of relief as one goes deeper and deeper into the downward spiral. For the bankrupt, there has been unending lists of debts and depletion of financial resources. For the divorcee, there is an uncertainty of life after a marriage that has gone wrong. For the addict, insatiability of desires being fulfilled whether drugs, sex, pornography, alcohol, cigarettes, adverse mindsets and strongholds. For the unmarried, impatient waiting for the right one to come along and for the childless couple, insecurity if a child will really be born. And the list goes on.

Last Sunday, I heard a preacher shared about a woman who suffered so much tragedy in life. She belonged to an affluent family owning a myriad of businesses. Their mansion welcomes anyone wanting to eat because of her parents’ generosity. At 7 years old, her mother was hit by a truck dying on the spot which consequently led to his father’s deep depression. As a result, he left his 13 sons and daughters. Soon after, their house was destroyed by fire and when they were able to rebuild it after a few years, in her very eyes, it was bulldozed by the sheriff. At age 9, she was forced to work in Divisoria, a famous public market in my country. From 3 a.m. to 11 a.m., she will work then at 12noon until the evening she will go to school. That has been her life until she was able to graduate from college. Her two siblings soon passed away because of cancer. When she was able to get married, her first child died because of asthma. She was the wife of the said preacher. The sanctuary fell into a deep silence, crying with the preacher as he related this story.

What do you do when life seems falling apart? Do you brace yourself and hold on to your seat as everything transpires? Do you readily accept the same without doing something about it? Or do you struggle then finally surrender to it? Do you blame yourself, others, or even God? Or are you like Job, not sinning in his heart against God saying, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised." (Job 1.21).

It is not just enough to go to church Sundays. We need to attend a bible study for our personal spiritual growth and development. There are personal bible study books and bible study topics resources available in any Christian bookstore that can usher you into a deep understanding of God’s Word. My father has a vast collection of Bibles and Christian books in our library. One of them is the Thompson Bible New International Version, which is a study bible tailor-fitted to suit one’s needs. It has keys for studying each Bible book, chapter analysis, topical guide number, chain-reference, complete verse analysis, parallel passages, comprehensive informational databases, and so much more.

When all else fails, do not forget to bend down on your knees, close your eyes, and commune with God. Look at Job, he recovered his wealth and possessions, got healed from his skin disease, bore daughters far more beautiful than her previous ones, restored his joy and everything that the devil has stolen from him. God gave him double for every trouble.

MARRIAGE IN THE EYES OF A BACHELORETTE

2009-09-10T23:23:00.000-07:00

Every woman dreams to meet the love of her life, tie the knot and eventually live with her husband for the rest of her life. Since childhood, a little girl enjoys fairy tales where a poor damsel was being rescued by her Prince Charming and they live happily ever after. In her teenage years, she will explore and experiment entering into several relationships one after another as fast as her hormones change. In quarter life, since she is probably done with school and begins to build her own career, she will be a little picky with her dates eyeing a husband material. When she has found the suitable partner, another story will begin to unfold in her very eyes.

As a single woman, I also share the same sentiments when it comes to marriage. I am always fascinated with the story of Isaac and Rebekah because it is one of the few monogamous marriages in the Old Testament. Isaac’s father, Abraham, ordered his servant, Eliezer, to find Isaac a wife from his own people. God orchestrated the event for Rebekah to draw water from the well at the exact time and agree to water the servant’s camels as well. In the end, Rebekah married Isaac and it was like a match made in heaven. There has been no recorded instance that neither Isaac nor Rebekah committed adultery in their lifetimes, much to our surprise.

Like Rebekah, I desire to be in the right place at the right time doing the right things when I meet my future spouse. Since I became a Christian, I have been praying daily for my future husband that whoever he is, wherever he is, whatever he is doing, that the Almighty God will protect him, preserve him, deliver him from temptations and lead him to me. I pray that God will give me to a man who is holy, anointed, Spirit-filled and has a worshipful fear of the Lord. I remember reading a prayer from one of Elisabeth Elliot’s books, that God will give you to a husband who will love you and treat you differently than any other men and that God will lead him to you (paraphrase mine). An old parlance says “If you want find an ideal husband, first be an ideal wife.”

In their book and audio cds, ‘Saving Marriage Before It Starts’, co-authors Les & Leslie Parrott shares their ten (10) years of research, experience and views on marriage. Their book addresses specific concerns on marriage problems and directs readers on the tools on how to save their marriages. Aside from that, there are lots of Christian books in Christian bookstore dealing with this topic and it is strongly encouraged to attend a small group bible study in your church or in your area so as to be guided accordingly. Try it out. Perhaps, the one destined for you by God before the foundations of the world is there, too.

OVERCOMING SEXUAL TEMPTATIONS

2009-09-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

As soon as they sinned, the glory and presence of God that covered their bodies suddenly were removed and they have realized they were naked. Guilt and shame replaced their innocence and purity and soon after, a host of other sinful attitudes, behaviors, strongholds, bondages and wrong mindsets plagued mankind.

There are good Christian books available in Christian bookstores online that you can read like Every Man’s Battle, Every Young Man’s Battle, Every Man’s Battle Book. These will become good resource materials for you in your struggle with sexual temptations.