When you're waiting on God, it's a good time to sit alone, be quiet, think about God, pray, read your Bible, and listen. Use that time for meditation.
Take a look at the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk for example. Habakkuk was fed up and tired of waiting. So he complained to God by saying, "How long O Lord must I cry out for help but you don't listen?" (Habakkuk 1:2 NLT) Habakkuk kept going, "Why do You tolerate wrong? Why are You silent when the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves?" (Habakkuk 1:3,13 NLT)
After Habakkuk presented his case to God, he waited for the answer in meditation. "I'll climb my watchtower now and wait to see what answer God will give me about my complaint." (Habakkuk 2:1 NLT)
"The Lord said to me Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, don't be in despair for these things surely come to pass. Just be patient. They'll come and they will not be overdue a single day." (Habakkuk 2:2-3 NLT)
God is never late. He said, "It'll come just at the right time. You did the right thing, Habakkuk, by getting alone and being quiet and waiting for an answer.'
God wants you to know Him. Deep relationships are built, not in the noise of a big party, but in the quietness of a one-on-one relationship -- in a quiet time. So just be quiet and wait for God so you can get to know Him better.
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Tuesday, 28 January 2014
Monday, 27 January 2014
Waiting is a Time for Preparation
You have to be patient to be a farmer. There's no such thing as an overnight crop. You plant and then you wait.
After a farmer plants a seed in the ground, does he go and sit on his hands for six months and watch TV? No. The whole time that he's waiting, he's getting ready for the harvest. After he's planted, he's cultivating, watering, weeding, fertilizing, and preparing for the harvest.
The point is this: If you find yourself waiting on God, use the time to get ready for his answer. Patience is not passivity. Waiting is a time for preparation.
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After a farmer plants a seed in the ground, does he go and sit on his hands for six months and watch TV? No. The whole time that he's waiting, he's getting ready for the harvest. After he's planted, he's cultivating, watering, weeding, fertilizing, and preparing for the harvest.
The point is this: If you find yourself waiting on God, use the time to get ready for his answer. Patience is not passivity. Waiting is a time for preparation.
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Let God Answer His Way
We have a two-fold problem with God. We ask too little and we want it too quick. Instead of letting God work in His time and in His way to do something big, we get impatient for a response, and we aim too low for an answer.
In Ephesians 3:20, the Apostle Paul says, "But God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think." (NKJV) You think of the greatest thing in your imagination, and God can do bigger. That's amazing!
But there is a caveat with this approach to prayer. If God really gave you all the requests you asked for, it would overwhelm you. In the same way, when God led the Israelites into the Promised Land, he didn't let them take it over completely right away; they took it over little by little - overcoming one enemy at a time.
I'm thankful that God hasn't answered all my prayers exactly the way I asked for them. Some of them would have been a disaster! Sometimes the worst thing in the world for us is to get our requests answered.
What about you? Maybe you're praying about a situation. It looks like everything is going according to plan -- when all of the sudden -- it doesn't work out. Don't worry; instead, let God answer in His time and His way.
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In Ephesians 3:20, the Apostle Paul says, "But God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think." (NKJV) You think of the greatest thing in your imagination, and God can do bigger. That's amazing!
But there is a caveat with this approach to prayer. If God really gave you all the requests you asked for, it would overwhelm you. In the same way, when God led the Israelites into the Promised Land, he didn't let them take it over completely right away; they took it over little by little - overcoming one enemy at a time.
I'm thankful that God hasn't answered all my prayers exactly the way I asked for them. Some of them would have been a disaster! Sometimes the worst thing in the world for us is to get our requests answered.
What about you? Maybe you're praying about a situation. It looks like everything is going according to plan -- when all of the sudden -- it doesn't work out. Don't worry; instead, let God answer in His time and His way.
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Chito Relampagos, Network+, Security+, ITIL SO's invitation is awaiting your response
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Saturday, 25 January 2014
God's Provision: Maintain Integrity
God promises to meet all your financial needs, if you (1) ask him for help; (2) learn to be content; (3) practice giving in faith; and (4) maintain your integrity --
God doesn't bless dishonesty. Proverbs 16:11 (NLT) says, "The Lord demands fairness in every business deal." That includes wages, sales and taxes.
If you want God's blessing on your finances, you've got to be honest. You can't rip people off. Profit made dishonestly always brings trouble. Always.
"The blessing of the Lord brings wealth and he adds no trouble to it." (Proverbs 10:22 NIV) Have you ever known anybody who made money, and it just brought trouble? You will always reap what you sow. If you are dishonest with others, it will be returned to you. If you think you haven't been caught, understand that the clock is still ticking. You cannot mock God and get away with it.
Be honest. Be honest with your finances: "It is the Lord's blessing that makes you wealthy." (Proverbs 10:22 TEV)
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God doesn't bless dishonesty. Proverbs 16:11 (NLT) says, "The Lord demands fairness in every business deal." That includes wages, sales and taxes.
If you want God's blessing on your finances, you've got to be honest. You can't rip people off. Profit made dishonestly always brings trouble. Always.
"The blessing of the Lord brings wealth and he adds no trouble to it." (Proverbs 10:22 NIV) Have you ever known anybody who made money, and it just brought trouble? You will always reap what you sow. If you are dishonest with others, it will be returned to you. If you think you haven't been caught, understand that the clock is still ticking. You cannot mock God and get away with it.
Be honest. Be honest with your finances: "It is the Lord's blessing that makes you wealthy." (Proverbs 10:22 TEV)
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Thursday, 23 January 2014
God's Provision: Faithful Giving
There is a universal law called the principle of sowing and reaping. If I sow generosity, it's going to come back to me, and I'm going to reap generosity.
Every farmer knows this. A farmer has four sacks of seed in his barn and he looks at his empty field. He doesn't complain, "There's no crop! I wish there was a crop!" He just goes out and starts planting seed. When you have a need, plant a seed.
It seems illogical that when I have a need, I should give.
Why did God set it up that way? Because God is a giver. He is the most generous giver in the universe, and God wants you to learn to be like him. He wants to build character in you.
The Bible says, "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce." (Proverbs 3:9 NLT) This is the principle of tithing. It's the principle that says every time I make $100 -- the first $10 goes back to God.
Tithing is an act of worship. We're giving to God. We're saying, "All of it came from you anyway." God says, "Put me first in your life and watch what I do." You may think you can't afford to tithe, but the reality is, you can't afford not to.
Source: Rick Warren Daily Devotional 24 January 2014
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Every farmer knows this. A farmer has four sacks of seed in his barn and he looks at his empty field. He doesn't complain, "There's no crop! I wish there was a crop!" He just goes out and starts planting seed. When you have a need, plant a seed.
It seems illogical that when I have a need, I should give.
Why did God set it up that way? Because God is a giver. He is the most generous giver in the universe, and God wants you to learn to be like him. He wants to build character in you.
The Bible says, "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce." (Proverbs 3:9 NLT) This is the principle of tithing. It's the principle that says every time I make $100 -- the first $10 goes back to God.
Tithing is an act of worship. We're giving to God. We're saying, "All of it came from you anyway." God says, "Put me first in your life and watch what I do." You may think you can't afford to tithe, but the reality is, you can't afford not to.
Source: Rick Warren Daily Devotional 24 January 2014
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Sunday, 19 January 2014
Saturday, 18 January 2014
Lesson 3 Laying on of Hands
Introduction
The fourth foundational doctrine in Heb. 6:1-2 is the laying on of hands. At first glance, this may seem an unusual choice to be placed among the foundational doctrines. It may not even as essential as other doctrines in the list. However, we know that God does place tremendous importance on the laying on of hands, and it is thus imperative for us to study and practice it.
The laying on of hands is the practice where one believer lays his hand on another, as a physical sign that God is imparting something spiritual to the person. It was practiced throughout both the old and new testament. It is a natural sign of the spiritual work that God is doing.
There is nothing magical about the laying on of hands; the person putting his or her hand upon you does not have some kind of mystical power. The blessing does not come from the hand of the man touching you but comes instead from the presence of God. The laying on of hands can be a contact point between man and God.
Purposes for the Laying on of Hands
There are many circumstances where the practice of the laying on of hands took place in Scripture. In this section, we will look at four of the primary reasons:
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Blessing – The laying on of hands was used throughout Scripture as a means of blessing others. It is generally the right hand that is used in order to impart the blessing. Israel blessed Joseph's two sons by placing his hand on their head, saving the greater blessing (the right hand) for the younger son Ephraim – Gen. 48:14.
Jesus also laid His hands upon people to bless them. Mat. 19:13-15.
The little children were blessed when Jesus laid His hands upon them; Jesus desired to bring blessing to the people.
The laying on of hands still brings tremendous blessing today. Parents should lay hands on their children often, praying for the blessing of God to be upon them. Often times, when a congregation is praying for someone and it is impossible for everyone to lay hands on the person, the people will stretch forth their right hand towards the one being prayed for. This is another form of blessing through the laying on of hands.
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Commissioned for Service and Ministry
Moses laid his hands on Joshua in front of the whole congregation of Israel. Joshua received he delegated authority to lead Israel as commanded by God. The laying on of hands by Moses cemented Joshua into his position- Num. 17:22-23.
When the first seven deacons of the Early Church were chosen, hands were laid upon them as they were set into position. Hands were laid on those called to leadership roles, even in the practical aspects of the church life – Acts 6:5-6.
Also, when Barnabas and Saul were sent out as missionaries, the other church leaders laid their hands upon them – Acts 13:2-3.
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Impartation – The baptism, anointing, and gifts of the Holy Spirit imparted through the laying on of hands. A spiritual "transfer" can take place where God imparts spiritual things to the one who has laid upon him or her.
Other Scriptures: Acts 8:17, 1 Tim. 4:14, 2 Tim. 1:6
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Healing – Physical healing is often released through the laying on of hands. As part of the Great Commission, Jesus promised His followers that they could heal the sick through laying on hands.
Scriptures:Mark 16:18, Mark 6:5, Luke 4:40, Luke 13:13, Acts 28:8
Thus, we should lay hands on those who are sick in our churches today. Physical healing will come if we are faithful to keep in to pressing in to God in this matter.
Who Should Practice Laying On of Hands?
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Church leaders – Leaders in the church should be active in the ministry of laying on of hands. Most instances of laying on of hands in the New Testament were done by leaders in the church.
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All Believers – "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover" – Mark 16:17-18.
Although the laying on of hands is primarily practiced by church leadership, it is not exclusively that way. Jesus promised that all believers could lay hands on the sick and see them recover. Therefore, all believers should be engaged in the laying on of hands at one time or another.
Care Should be Taken
1 Tim 5:22 – "Do not lay hands hastily, nor share in other people's sins; keep yourself pure."
Although all believers may lay hands on others, however, care should be taken before this is performed. We should not be quick to lay hands on others. This is particularly true in the context of placing people into leadership positions, as the above Scripture is primarily referring to.
Those with unrepentant sin their lives should not practice laying on of hands to others. The laying on of hands comes with impartation, and sin can be imparted as well. Thus, make sure there is no unrepentant sin in your life before laying hands on others.
Moreover, you should also beware of who you allow to place their hands on you. You should not allow backsliders or those with serious sin to impart their sin into your life.
That is why churches often limit the laying on of hands during a church service to pastors and leaders. This is wisdom and a safety measure, and ensures the congregation that only known and proven men and women will be engaged in the ministry. This does not mean those who are not leaders can ever lay their hands on others, but rather that they should only do so if they have the approval of the church authority.
CONCLUSION
The laying on of hands is an invaluable foundation that needs to be in every Christian life and every church. It brings great strength and blessing to the body. We should seek God to give us ever – increasing wisdom in this area, so that we may practice this activity on a continual basis, in His Word.
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Thursday, 16 January 2014
Building People Requires Unselfishness
Being a people-builder requires unselfishness.
I want to give you an objective -- be a people-builder for the rest of your life. Begin by writing down the name of one person you want to help build up, then stop and pray.
Ask God to show you that person's strengths. We always build on our strengths, not on our weaknesses. Write down whatever strengths you've seen in him or her in the past.
Then tell that person, "I've been thinking about you because I really care about you. I wanted to share with you - from my viewpoint - the strengths I see in your life because those strengths determine what God wants us to do in our lives."
Imagine the impact you could have if you would commit yourself to being a people-builder; if you determined to bring out the best in everyone you know; to help people grow and to become what God made them to be.
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I want to give you an objective -- be a people-builder for the rest of your life. Begin by writing down the name of one person you want to help build up, then stop and pray.
Ask God to show you that person's strengths. We always build on our strengths, not on our weaknesses. Write down whatever strengths you've seen in him or her in the past.
Then tell that person, "I've been thinking about you because I really care about you. I wanted to share with you - from my viewpoint - the strengths I see in your life because those strengths determine what God wants us to do in our lives."
Imagine the impact you could have if you would commit yourself to being a people-builder; if you determined to bring out the best in everyone you know; to help people grow and to become what God made them to be.
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Wednesday, 15 January 2014
Jesus Gives Honest Counsel
Jesus shows us that real friends care enough to confront. Even when it's painful, they'll tell you the truth. They won't let you waste your life in silence.
I've found that correcting another person in a loving way is powerful. Done the right way, it builds people up. The difference between the right and the wrong way is your attitude.
If all you're doing is pointing out faults, then stop. The purpose has to be to correct, not to condemn. You need to ask, "What's my motive in this? Am I correcting him for my benefit or for his benefit?"
A lot of times we want to correct people just because they're being jerks and they're hassling us. We think, "If they would stop being such a jerk, my life would be easier."
That's the wrong motive.
Instead, follow Ephesians 4:15, which says, "Speak the truth in love." So the key to proper correction: Affirm the person; then correct the behavior.
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I've found that correcting another person in a loving way is powerful. Done the right way, it builds people up. The difference between the right and the wrong way is your attitude.
If all you're doing is pointing out faults, then stop. The purpose has to be to correct, not to condemn. You need to ask, "What's my motive in this? Am I correcting him for my benefit or for his benefit?"
A lot of times we want to correct people just because they're being jerks and they're hassling us. We think, "If they would stop being such a jerk, my life would be easier."
That's the wrong motive.
Instead, follow Ephesians 4:15, which says, "Speak the truth in love." So the key to proper correction: Affirm the person; then correct the behavior.
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Monday, 13 January 2014
Jesus Challenged People
I want to encourage you to become a people-builder. It is a gift you can give someone that will last forever.
The key to building up people is kindness -- giving them what they need and not what they deserve. Jesus did three things to build up people; he challenged, encouraged, and spoke honestly. He challenged people to be all God made them to be. God doesn't want you to waste your life!
Challenge your family and friends to live beyond themselves and to discover their strengths and abilities. God has given each of us some special abilities, and he wants us to use them to help each other. We're to pass on to others God's many kinds of blessings.
We all need somebody who will help us discover our gifts and who will challenge us to develop, strengthen, and use them. You can play a critical role in this way by helping the ones you love to discover their strengths and abilities, and then challenging them to use them.
And, help them understand how special their gifts are - that we will all miss out on a blessing if they don't use the gifts God has given them. It's like a singer who never sings; we miss out on the blessing that would come from hearing the voice. We are meant to be a blessing to others.
Source: Rick Warren Daily Devotional 14 Jan 2014
Sunday, 12 January 2014
5 Steps to deal with frustration
Here are five simple steps for dealing with frustrations in your life.
Ask yourself, "Did I cause it?" The Bible says, "A man reaps what he sows." (Galatians 6:7 NIV) We are frustrated by many things in life because we bring them on ourselves.
Ask yourself, "What can I learn from it?" Romans 8:28 says, "All things work together for good." (NIV) There are many bad things in the world, but all things work together. God can even take the negative and turn it into a positive if we will let Him. Use irritation as an opportunity to become more like Christ.
Thank God in the situation. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In everything give thanks." (NIV) You don't have to be thankful for a bad situation. But you can be thankful in a bad situation. Frustration may be a blessing in disguise.
Turn the frustration into a funny, a humorous event. The Bible says, "A cheerful heart is good medicine." (Proverbs 17:22 NIV) A sense of humor is God's antidote for anger and frustration.
Ask God to fill you with His love. Why? Because 1 Corinthians 13:5 says, "Love is not easily angered." (NIV) Love is self-giving, not self-serving. We get irritated, because we think everyone and everything has to revolve around us. Love concentrates on the other person.
Jesus faced constant frustrations, but He never got irritated. He always made time for people. We get so preoccupied with our own things that we forget that people are the priority in life.
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Ask yourself, "Did I cause it?" The Bible says, "A man reaps what he sows." (Galatians 6:7 NIV) We are frustrated by many things in life because we bring them on ourselves.
Ask yourself, "What can I learn from it?" Romans 8:28 says, "All things work together for good." (NIV) There are many bad things in the world, but all things work together. God can even take the negative and turn it into a positive if we will let Him. Use irritation as an opportunity to become more like Christ.
Thank God in the situation. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In everything give thanks." (NIV) You don't have to be thankful for a bad situation. But you can be thankful in a bad situation. Frustration may be a blessing in disguise.
Turn the frustration into a funny, a humorous event. The Bible says, "A cheerful heart is good medicine." (Proverbs 17:22 NIV) A sense of humor is God's antidote for anger and frustration.
Ask God to fill you with His love. Why? Because 1 Corinthians 13:5 says, "Love is not easily angered." (NIV) Love is self-giving, not self-serving. We get irritated, because we think everyone and everything has to revolve around us. Love concentrates on the other person.
Jesus faced constant frustrations, but He never got irritated. He always made time for people. We get so preoccupied with our own things that we forget that people are the priority in life.
Source: Rick Warren Daily Devotional 13 Jan 2014
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Wednesday, 8 January 2014
Giving 17 March 2013
Giving 17 March 2013
So the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with great terror and with miraculous signs and wonders. He brought us to this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey; and now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, O LORD, have given me."
- Deut 26: 8-10
Nation of Israel began to give offering to the Lord a, part of that was to bring their firstfruits…
The israelites were thankful to the Lord when they offer their offerings.
When we offer what would be the right attitude and motivation?
So whats in your heart when you give your offerring? Are you expecting something in return?
the idea of giving to the Lord should come from a heart that worships God, not a heart that's looking for something in return.
Point - giving is always an act of worship and thanksgiving, not just a business proposition.
But how can a person truly worship God in giving?
Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.
-Romans 13:7-8
Eg: when we receive our salaries and blessings? What do we do? Are we separating right away what is for the Lord or we pay the bills muna such as gadget bills, credit card, bayad sa bahay, top up, allowance then kong ano yong matira yun nalang para kay Lord? :)
Or is it a good thing to do other way around? Segregate na natin yong para ka Lord then we distribute what is remaining
So para po walang hindrance sa ating generous offerings - let no debt remain outstanding except the continuing debt to love one another.
Amen po ba?
Prayer
Father in heaven, we give back to you in thankfulness on what you have given to us in kindness.
We acknowledge that the world and its resources are not ours but yours, and that you have put us in charge on these things.
Help us to exercise responsibly the authority on what you have provided us.
Let Jesus Christ be the pattern for all our dealings with one another as we live our lives.
Bless the church and the whole congregation and make everyone become a cheerful giver.
Bless the offering we now present back to you, so that they may be used in the work and glory of your Kingdom .
This is our prayer. . . In Jesus name . . . Amen
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So the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with great terror and with miraculous signs and wonders. He brought us to this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey; and now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, O LORD, have given me."
- Deut 26: 8-10
Nation of Israel began to give offering to the Lord a, part of that was to bring their firstfruits…
The israelites were thankful to the Lord when they offer their offerings.
When we offer what would be the right attitude and motivation?
So whats in your heart when you give your offerring? Are you expecting something in return?
the idea of giving to the Lord should come from a heart that worships God, not a heart that's looking for something in return.
Point - giving is always an act of worship and thanksgiving, not just a business proposition.
But how can a person truly worship God in giving?
Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law.
-Romans 13:7-8
Eg: when we receive our salaries and blessings? What do we do? Are we separating right away what is for the Lord or we pay the bills muna such as gadget bills, credit card, bayad sa bahay, top up, allowance then kong ano yong matira yun nalang para kay Lord? :)
Or is it a good thing to do other way around? Segregate na natin yong para ka Lord then we distribute what is remaining
So para po walang hindrance sa ating generous offerings - let no debt remain outstanding except the continuing debt to love one another.
Amen po ba?
Prayer
Father in heaven, we give back to you in thankfulness on what you have given to us in kindness.
We acknowledge that the world and its resources are not ours but yours, and that you have put us in charge on these things.
Help us to exercise responsibly the authority on what you have provided us.
Let Jesus Christ be the pattern for all our dealings with one another as we live our lives.
Bless the church and the whole congregation and make everyone become a cheerful giver.
Bless the offering we now present back to you, so that they may be used in the work and glory of your Kingdom .
This is our prayer. . . In Jesus name . . . Amen
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Mother's day 2013
Mother's day 2013
The love of a mother is beyond compare
One who dearly loves and is always there
From scraped knees
To falls from trees
A mother cares for all
From "I told you so"
To "That's a no-no! "
A mother answers the call
Mothers cook, mothers clean, some even work a job
Even with all their strength, a mother still knows how to sob
Mothers should be honored for all they have done
Every day of the year, not just one
There is nothing better than a mother's love
For her time on this earth thank God above
A mother's love endures forever
No matter how much I have grown
My mother's love is always shown
She has become a mentor and a guide
Within her always I am able to confide
No better payment for her I can find
Then to love her with heart, and with mind
To the one who bore me; I share my emotion
To the one who raised me; Absolute devotion
To this woman I express my joy
You will always be our "mama"
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The love of a mother is beyond compare
One who dearly loves and is always there
From scraped knees
To falls from trees
A mother cares for all
From "I told you so"
To "That's a no-no! "
A mother answers the call
Mothers cook, mothers clean, some even work a job
Even with all their strength, a mother still knows how to sob
Mothers should be honored for all they have done
Every day of the year, not just one
There is nothing better than a mother's love
For her time on this earth thank God above
A mother's love endures forever
No matter how much I have grown
My mother's love is always shown
She has become a mentor and a guide
Within her always I am able to confide
No better payment for her I can find
Then to love her with heart, and with mind
To the one who bore me; I share my emotion
To the one who raised me; Absolute devotion
To this woman I express my joy
You will always be our "mama"
Sent from my iPad
The persistent widow
The persistent widow
Luke 18:1-8 The Parable of the persistent widow
Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, saying: "There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man.
Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, 'Get justice for me from my adversary.'
And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, 'Though I do not fear God nor regard man, yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.' "
Then the Lord said, "Hear what the unjust judge said. And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them?
I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?" (Luke 18:1-8 NKJV)
INTRODUCTION
Gaano ba tayo ka persistent? (Sigasig)
- never give up
- dont quit
- never surrender
1. Evidently the element of persistence in prayer was very important to
Jesus...
b. As the first verse reads: "Then He spoke a parable to them, that
men always ought to pray and not lose heart..."
Example: life in Singapore is so busy and cannot find time for God
[Are we persistent in our prayers? Do we appreciate the value of such
persistence? Or have we lost heart and don't pray as we ought? Let's
see what we can glean from the parable of "The Persistent Widow"...]
what is our attitude towards prayer?
- do we just pray when we need something from God?
- do we pray even in good times and bad times?
- do we have doubts in our prayers
- prayes with doubt is faithless
I. THE PARABLE ITSELF
A. THE CHARACTER OF THE JUDGE - Lk 18:2
1. One who did not fear God nor regard man
2. An unjust judge, for which this parable is sometimes known as
"The Unjust Judge"
B. THE DISTRESS OF THE WIDOW - Lk 18:3
1. She has some adversary who has wronged her
2. She seeks the aid of the judge to avenge her (katarungan)
C. THE DIFFICULTY SHE FACED - Lk 18:4a
1. The judge would not help her at first (dead ma)
2. Repeated attempts seem to fall on deaf ears
D. AT LAST THE JUDGE HEEDS HER COMPLAINT - Lk 18:4b-5
1. Not out of any sense for what was right in the sight of God or
man
2. But only to avoid being wearied by her constant appeals
[Unlike many of the parables, we are not left on our own to determine
the point of this parable. Jesus Himself makes it clear as we
consider...]
II. THE PARABLE APPLIED
A. HEAR WHAT THE UNJUST JUDGE SAID...
1. He was moved by the persistence of the widow
2. Even when he was not moved by reverence for God or regard for
man
B. SHALL NOT GOD AVENGE HIS OWN ELECT?
1. This is an argument from the lesser to the greater
a. If an unjust judge will heed a persistence widow...
b. ...how much more will a Just God heed His chosen people!
2. Our assurance is even stronger when we note the following
contrasts:
The Widow God's People
a. A stranger a. His elect, 1 Pe 2:9-10
b. Only one b. We are many
c. At a distance c. We can come boldly, He 4:15-16
d. An unjust judge d. A righteous Father
e. On her own e. God is for us, Ro 8:31-32
f. Pleads her own case f. We have an Advocate, Ro 8:34
g. No promise of an answer g. Promise given, Lk 18:8a
h. Access limited h. Access unlimited (can pray to God anytime)
i. Asking provoked judge i. Asking delights God
3. If persistence paid off for the widow, how much more for God's
elect who pray?
C. GOD WILL AVENGE HIS ELECT!
1. He may bear long with the prayers of His persecuted people...
- Lk 18:7b
a. For example, cf. Re 6:9-10
b. His longsuffering may be to give the persecutors time to
repent - 2 Pe 3:9
2. But when His vengeance comes, it will come swiftly!
a. There is a Day coming in which God will take vengeance
- cf. 2 Th 1:7-9
b. And when it comes, there will be "sudden destruction" with
no way of escape - cf. 1 Th 5:1-3
D. BUT WILL THERE BE FAITH ON THE EARTH WHEN HE COMES?
1. The Lord will come, avenging His elect
2. But His delay may prompt some to lose faith (implying lack of
prayer is indicative of a lack of faith!)
3. The Lord's concern over this matter is what prompts this
parable!
a. That men always ought to pray
b. That men not lose heart
CONCLUSION :
1. Have you begun to lose heart? Has your faith weakened?
a. The state of your "prayer life" reveals the true condition of
your faith!
b. If you do not pray "always" (cf. "without ceasing" 1 Th 5:17),
your faith is waning!
2. But the Lord has given us reason to believe in the power of prayer
in this parable...
a. Especially when we are persecuted for the cause of Christ
b. For we do not serve an unjust judge, but a God who has made us
His elect people!
Prayer is simply talking to God our Father. Persist in talking to God until this life comes to an end, when we will all stand before the Judge and there will be justice. This life is like a marathon and to be a Christian is to run through to the end. Persistence plus patience equals perseverance.
May this parable of "The Persistent Widow", along with "The Friend At
Midnight", encourage us never to lose heart and stop praying!
Sent from my iPad
Giving 10 November 2013
Giving 10 November 2013
Happy holidays po sa inyong lahat its december!
Hopefully our families and relatives back home were able to survive Yolanda's visit
Some of my relatives in bohol are still staying on tents outside their houses due to earthquake the last 2 weeks and here comes Yolanda so excited to visit.
I would like to share about our attitude towards giving or even extending help to the needy specially these days na a lot of people would really need some financial assistance back home.
Illustration
A son in law being ask for a gift by his mother in law (the 2 doesnt get along well)
One november morning the mother in law asked his son in law on what gift would she be receiving on christmas. The son in law replied I will think about it.
The son in law really had a hard time finding a gift for his mother in law
So the son in law decided to give his mother in law a memorial plan as a gift.
On christmas day he presented his gift to his mother in law and was quite happy about it.
Then come november on the following year the mother in law asked again the son in law on what would she be receiving as a gift on christmas. The son in law annoyed by his mother in law replied "you haven't use yet my gift for you last year and now you were asking for another gift?"
So what's the moral lesson of the story?
In our own lives if we give something to God it should be coming from our heart and its should be sincere.
maybe there is a point in our lives that we are not at peace with God and giving something to the Lord becomes a burden instead of doing it wholeheartedly.
2 Corinthians 9:7 (#4 of 15 Bible Verses about Giving)
7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Our service is our gift to the Lord
Let us pray
References
Sent from my iPad
Driven by love - PA 8 Dec 2013
Driven by love - PA 8 Dec 2013
Rev 2:4
God measures our love on how we love our neighbor
as a church we have to take care and be responsible with each other
an act of true love can melt a frozen heart -frozen
love quote
work like you dont need the money
dance like nobody's watching you
love like you've never been hurt
Sent from my iPad
Rev 2:4
God measures our love on how we love our neighbor
as a church we have to take care and be responsible with each other
an act of true love can melt a frozen heart -frozen
love quote
work like you dont need the money
dance like nobody's watching you
love like you've never been hurt
Sent from my iPad
Giving 22 Sep 2013
Giving 22 Sep 2013
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. (Proverbs 19:17 NIV)
home for the aged when we visited them way back last August
As we know that the building is 90 percent complete
As I see there situation parang sa ating govt na nag karoon ng question sa puso ko ganon nalang ba talaga pag matanda na tapos abandoned?
Lets continue to support the mission and pray for our leaders. In doing this we are storing our treasures in heaven and our father in heaven will continue to reward us.
Team work
Its not about you or me but all of us working together
But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you —see that you also excel in this grace of giving. (2 Corinthians 8:7 NIV)
If we have to revisit again
Sent from my iPad
Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done. (Proverbs 19:17 NIV)
home for the aged when we visited them way back last August
As we know that the building is 90 percent complete
As I see there situation parang sa ating govt na nag karoon ng question sa puso ko ganon nalang ba talaga pag matanda na tapos abandoned?
Lets continue to support the mission and pray for our leaders. In doing this we are storing our treasures in heaven and our father in heaven will continue to reward us.
Team work
Its not about you or me but all of us working together
But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you —see that you also excel in this grace of giving. (2 Corinthians 8:7 NIV)
If we have to revisit again
Sent from my iPad
Elementary Truths - Lesson 2
A. Faith toward God
B. The Doctrine of Baptisms
A. Faith toward God
Faith toward God is a natural progression from "repentance from dead works." Whereas our focus of
attention had been self, now our focus of attention is God. Dead works always interfere with faith
towards God. We have to "turn from" dead works to enable us to "turn to" God.
What is faith?
The word "faith" comes from the Greek word, "pistis," which means "firm persuasion, strong and
welcome belief; the conviction of the truth of anything."
Heb. 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."
Faith is not the same as believing. Believing is a verb and it is an attitude, a condition of our heart.
Whereas, faith is a noun, it is a substance, and it is something which is purely divine and given to us
by God.
B. Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:8"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be
witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
1.The baptism in the Holy Spirit is the key to power in the Christian life.
It is an essential experience if we are going to forward in the Christian life and fulfill the call and work
of God for our lives.
When we are baptized in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit comes and fills us completely. Remember,
"Baptism" comes from the Greek word "baptizo", which means total immersion (like a ship being
sunk). So being baptized in the Holy Spirit means we become completely filled, completely drenched
by the Spirit.
One helpful analogy to help us see what the baptism of the Holy Spirit accomplishes in our lives is
the following. Before we are saved, we are like a man, drowning in the ocean. Our doom is certain
and we are headed for destruction. At salvation, it is like we are rescued and placed in a lifeboat. We
are no longer drowning in sin and are no longer subject to imminent death. However, if we only sat
in a lifeboat in the ocean, we would not be accomplishing anything. The baptism in the Holy Spirit
then is like being given a motor for our lifeboat. No longer are we simply safe from death; we now
can go forward with a purpose and accomplish God's will for our lives.
This power enables us to witness. The Early Church was transformed when the Holy Spirit fell upon
them. Just a few weeks previous, all the disciples had fled from Jesus when He was about to be
arrested; Peter had denied Him; Thomas had doubted if He was really risen. After receiving the
baptism in the Holy Spirit, however, they truly did go into the entire world, preaching the
resurrection of Christ. Three thousand people were saved on the day the Holy Spirit fell (Acts 2:41).
It is the same for us today. The baptism in the Holy Spirit gives us great boldness and ability to
witness.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit also comes in the form of fire.
Mat. 3:11 "I indeed baptized you with water unto repentance, but He who is coming after me is
mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and
John the Baptist declared that Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Fire is
intricately connected to the baptism of the Holy Spirit. He imparts a burning passion in our hearts to
spread the Gospel and to do His will. The fire of the Holy Spirit is the consuming passion for God's
presence and zeal to win the lost that overtakes and envelops us. It is God-given, God-breathed,
God-inspired, and it is comes with the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
If we are not filled with the Holy Spirit, we will lead a powerless, fireless Christianity. God calls us
instead to a powerful life in the Spirit, and the baptism in the Holy Spirit is the first step to getting
there.
2.The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a Promise from Christ and the Father
Luke 24:49 "Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until
you are endued with power from on high."
Jesus promised His followers they would receive the promise of the Father, the baptism in the Holy
Spirit. He instructed them to wait in Jerusalem until they received this power. This promise was to all
of Christ's followers for all time.
Acts 2:39 "For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the
Lord our God will call."
Where in the Scriptures did the Father make this promise?
Isa. 44:3 – "For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, and floods on the dry ground; I will pour My
Spirit on your descendants, and My blessing on your offspring."
The Father is speaking prophetically to Christ in this verse. He promised to pour out His Spirit on
Christ's descendants. Who are those descendants? The church! We are all to receive this promise
from the Father.
Therefore, we see that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is for all believers, in all time. It was not
decided by man, but is based on the promise of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Therefore we know
without any doubt that the baptism of the Holy Spirit and/or the accompanying gifts was only for a
limited time, but there is not a single shared of evidence for this position in Scripture. Rather, the
constant testimony of the Scripture is that the miraculous gifts of the Holy spirit are for all the
Church, for all time.
3. How to Receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Like everything in God's Kingdom, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit comes through faith. God desires to
pour out His Spirit on all His followers, but we must have a receptive heart.
During the last year of His life, Jesus Himself gave us an outline of qualities we should have in order
to receive the faith for the baptism in the Holy Spirit. He was speaking of the Holy Spirit as a river of
life which would flow out of His people.
Read: John 7:37 – 39
There are three steps in receiving the Holy Spirit in this passage:
1. Thirst – we must have a desire for the Holy Spirit. If we hunger and thirst for righteousness,
we will be filled (Mat. 5:6)
2. Come – we need to come to God in our prayers and ask Him for His spirit.
3. Drink – when the Holy Spirit begins to be poured out to us, we must accept Him. If we reject
and refuse to drink, we will not receive
4. The Initial Evidence of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit
The first evidence that we are baptized in the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues. Speaking in
tongues is the experience where we begin speaking a language that we do not know by human
means. It can be either a heavenly language, or an earthly language that we do not know. Speaking
in tongues does not come from us, but comes from the Holy Spirit. Our mouth and words are yielded
to His control.
I Cor. 14:2-4 "For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one
understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. But he who prophesies speaks
edification and exhortation and comfort to men. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he
who prophesies edifies the church."
When the Holy Spirit filled the 120 in the upper room, they immediately began speaking in other
tongues. When they went into the streets, people from all over the nations heard the disciples
speaking in their own languages. The disciples were speaking of God in languages they themselves
did not understand. Speaking in tongues was the first outward sign that the 120 had been filled.
Read: Acts 2:4-12, Acts 10:44-46, Acts 19:6
Thus, speaking in tongues should always accompany the baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is the outward
sign that God has completed inward reality of baptism in our lives.
I Cor. 14:18 – "I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all."
The Apostle Paul practices speaking in tongues on a continual basis. In fact, he declared he spoke in
tongues more than all the others in the church. His encouragement to believers was that we should
continue to practice praying in tongues. Paul teaches us more about this in the book of Romans.
Read: Romans 8:26
Praying in the Spirit, in unknown tongues, is a way through which the Holy Spirit is able to guide our
prayers.
5. Gifts of the Holy Spirit
After we have filled with the Holy Spirit, from speaking in tongues, we are now open to moving on in
the other gifts of the Holy Spirit.
I Cor. 14:5 – " I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied, for he who
prophesies Is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church
may receive edification."
I Cor. 12:7-10 – "But the manifestation of the Holy Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: for
to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the
same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the same Spirit, to
another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another
different kinds of tongues, to another, the interpretation of tongues."
6. Ongoing Experience
Eph. 5:18 – "And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but filled with the Spirit."
The baptism in the Holy Spirit is both instantaneous and progressive. In other words, there is a
moment in time where we are first filled with the Spirit (a one – time experience), but then we
should we should live a lifestyle of continually being filled. In Ephesians 5:18, the verb translated "be
filled" actually has the thought of "be being filled continually."
As we progress in our Christian life, we should always seek God for deeper experiences in the Holy
Spirit. Although, being baptized in the Holy Spirit means we are filled with the Spirit, we can receive
more as our spiritual capacity is enlarged. We should thus always be filled with more and more of
the Spirit.
Elementary Truths Lesson 1
A. The Importance of Foundation
B. Repentance from Dead Works
"Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: "He is
like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid foundation on the rock. And when the flood
arose, the stream beat vehemently against the house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on
the rock. "But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a
foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that
Scripture speaks of two kinds of foundations:
ROCK – Scripture tells us who is our Rock – "For they drank of that spiritual Rock that
followed them, and that Rock was Christ" (1 Corinthians 10:4)
SAND – Sand represents many things in life that people build the rest of their lives on. Things
such as wealth, education, ambition, philosophy, games, sports, humanism, etc.
"Will you keep to the old way which wicked men have trod, Who were cut down before their time,
Whose foundations were swept away by a flood?" (Job 22:15-16)
B. Repentance from Dead Works
"Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection,
not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the
doctrine of baptisms, of laying of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And
this we will do if God permits." (Hebrews 6:1-3)
The first foundation truth in our Christian teaching is that of repentance from dead works. It is both
the first and also a continuing part of the Christian walk. When we first come to Christ, we come in
repentance of our sins and acknowledging that we need a Savior. Then as Christians we begin our
Christian foundation with a continuing attitude of repentance from "dead works".
Romans 5:12 – "Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin,
and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned –"
Romans 3:9-10 – "…. Both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin." As it is written: there is none
Romans 3:23 – "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
Repentance comes from God. It is a gift. God initiates repentance in us. On our own initiative, we
would never repent. We should never take it lightly when God comes with conviction and the spirit
of repentance in our lives. It is His goodness to us that leads to repentance. Repentance is a process
whereby God changes the way we think about Him, ourselves, others and circumstances of life.
Romans 2:4 "….. the goodness of God leads you to repentance."
The word "repent" means to think differently or to reverse a decision. Repentance is a process
whereby God changes the way we think about Him, ourselves, others and circumstances of life. True
transformation takes place by changing the way a person thinks.
Isaiah 55:7-9 – "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return
to the lord, and He will have mercy on him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. For My
thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. For as the heavens are
higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts."
Repentance is a divine act whereby someone walking on a pathway of sin changes his mind, turns
around 180 degrees, and walks in the opposite direction. It is total change in direction and attitude.
Repentance causes one to walk away from sin and then stay as far away from sin as possible.
The following are some aspects that are seen in true repentance:
Godly sorrow – 2 Corinthians 7:10, Psalms 38:18
Confession of sin – Psalms 32:5, I John 1:9
Forsaking of sin – Proverbs 28:13
Restitution – Luke 19:8, Lev 6:2-5
Hatred of sin – Ezekiel 20:43-44, Psalm 97:10
There is a worldly repentance, which results from "being caught with your hand in the
cookie jar". What does this sorrow accomplish? 2 Corinthians 7:10
Worldly repentance is often an emotional, tearful experience. Did Esau's shedding of tears
bring repentance? Hebrews 12:16-17
Worldly or false repentance is also being sorry for something, which we have done, which
cannot be changed or undone. It is not enough to be sorry; we have to change our mind and
life. We see an example of this with Judas in Matthew 27:3-4.
Neither is true repentance to be associated with carrying out some special religious rite or
ordinance, "Doing Penance".
Saul, the first king of Israel, is a good example of false repentance. God sent Saul to completely
destroy the Amalekites. But, he did not obey God. When confronted by Samuel, he admitted his sin,
1 Samuel 15:30 – "Then he said, "I have sinned; yet honor me now, please, before the elders of my
people and before Israel, and return with me, that I may worship the LORD your God."
In short, false / worldly repentance is: -
Being sorry for being caught
Regretting having done something because of the outcome
Being emotionally distraught over the consequences of your actions
Doing something to make up for your wrong
Saying I was wrong but let's carry on like nothing happened.
Hebrews 6:1 describes our repentance as being from "dead works". Dead works are works not
initiated by God. They are devoid of life. Anything that is produced from the fleshly / carnal mind is
without the life that flows from Christ. When we are not walking in obedience and faith, then we are
In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve disobeyed God, an d it was through this that death entered
into the world. They did was what seemed right to them, but it brought death. For this reason, the
doctrine of repentance is called "repentance from dead works". Therefore, any works that spring
from our thinking, produced by the fleshly mind, produces death.
Galatians 5:19-21 – "Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are adultery, fornication,
uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish
ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell
you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not
Romans 14:23 – "But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith, for
The gift of repentance begins at new birth, but repentance must continue all the days of our life. As
we allow God to bring us to repentance, we are being transformed into the image of Christ.
* Diagram taken from "Changed from Glory to Glory" by Rev. Robert Tucker
Revelation. God takes the initiative to change us. He reveals Himself to us in some manner as He did
to the prophet Isaiah – Isaiah 6:1-5
Conviction. God uses circumstances to work in us and show us how our ways are contrary to His.
The conviction of the Holy Spirit comes and godly sorrow works in us. Emotionally, we may feel we
are at the lowest point of our lives.
Repentance. The goodness of God leads us to repentance. We confess and forsake our sin. As God
changes the way we thinks and act, our sin is blotted out. ( Sin is anything which causes us to miss
the mark, to come short and wander from the right path.)
Revival. God is able to refresh us in His presence. We are then able to walk in a greater level of
After a time, we are ready to return to point A, where the whole process is repeated in our lives by
God for the next revelation of the Lord that would lead us into a new process of repentance in
another area of our lives. Thus, we "are changed from glory to glory."
The Apostle Paul lists 7 fruits of repentance. These are the characteristics of a believer who has truly
repented and whose heart is on fire for the Lord.2 Corinthians 7:10-11
Diligence – the first fruit of repentance. True repentance will produce a diligence that
ensures that everything in our lives is well pleasing and well ordered before the Lord –
Hebrews 11:6, Romans 12:11
Clearing of yourselves – Ephesians 4:28, Example: Story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19
Indignation – Repentance will produce a hatred for sin.
Psalms 45:7. Many people love righteousness but they still do not hate sin and that is why
their anointing is weak. To see an increase in anointing in your life, you must hate sin.
Whatever you had a problem with, begin to have indignation against – that is a fruit of
Fear – Holiness is perfected in the fear of God. The fear of God is to hate the things that God
2 Corinthians 7:1 – "Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from
all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord.
Proverbs 8:13 – The fear of the Lord is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way and
the perverse mouth I hate.
One of the ways we know that we have truly repented is that we are very fearful of
displeasing the Lord. We are also very aware of the fact that He is watching us at all times.
You can just get an awareness that He is just standing there beholding you.
Vehement Desire – Repentance will produce a strong desire in your life for holiness. It will
produce a strong desire to pray. When we find our prayer life lifeless, the reason is that our
Zeal – The dictionary defines zeal as being eager or enthusiastic. The zeal that the Apostle
Paul is referring to in 2 Corinthians 7:10-11 is the zeal to want to please God, to make up for
all the hurt that we have caused Him. When you are truly repentant, you have such a zeal to
please God and you just want to be careful in your words, thoughts and actions etc.
Revelation 3:19 – "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent."
Vindication – The dictionary defines vindication as avenge. When you truly repent, there is
such a desire to vindicate yourself. However, we must not be mistaken, only God can truly
The will be such a zealousness to live right with God that any trace of sin in our lives has to be
removed or we are not going to be happy.
Monday, 6 January 2014
Un-stuff Your Schedule
Do you ever get to the end of your day and think, "Did I accomplish anything?"
Where does all the time go?
If you don't master your schedule, it will master you!
Here are three suggestions from the Bible for reducing the stress of your schedule and increasing the margin:
Line up your priorities -- Obviously, you don't have time to do everything, so you must make choices. You must decide what's really important and what isn't.
Take some time to consider the direction of your life. The Bible says, "An intelligent person aims at wise action, but a fool starts off in many directions" (Proverbs 17:24 GNT); "It is stupid to waste time on useless projects" (Proverbs 12:11 GNT); "We should make plans - counting on God to direct us" (Proverbs 16:9 LB).
Lighten up your attitude -- Do you really have to do everything on your to-do list? No one is forcing you; a lot of stress is self-imposed.
The Bible says, "Worry weighs us down . . ." (Proverbs 12:25 MSG); "A relaxed attitude lengthens a man's life" (Proverbs 14:30 LB); "Being cheerful keeps you healthy. It is slow death to be gloomy all the time" (Proverbs 17:22 GNT).
Look up to God -- Stress is always a warning light that you've taken your focus off God and are looking at your problems from your limited viewpoint.
I believe the single greatest cause of stress is this: We take ourselves too seriously and we don't take God seriously enough!
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