Romans 8:30 Those He predestined he likewise called; those He called He also justified; and those He justified He in turn glorified.
1 Corinthians 1:8 He will strengthen you to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus. 9 God is faithful, and it was He who called you to fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Ephesians 1:4 God chose us in Him before the world began, to be holy and blameless in His sight, to be full of love; 5 He likewise predestined us through Christ Jesus to be His adopted sons-such was His will and pleasure- 6 that all might praise the glorious favor He has bestowed on us in His beloved.
It is God's will for all of us to be like His Son, Jesus Christ...not just by the word of mouth but more so by our actions. He loves us so much that He redeemed us and forgave our sins thru the death and sufferings of His very own Son, Jesus.
Ephesians 1:9 God has given us the wisdom to understand fully the mystery, the plan He was pleased to decree in Christ, 10 to be carried out in the fullness of time: namely, to bring all things in the heavens and on earth into one under Christ's headship.
But God has given us a free will...He cannot force us to love and obey Him. If we don't there are consequences for our actions.
1 Chronicles 28:9 If you seek Him, He will let Himself be found by you; but if you abandon Him, He will cast you off forever.
Those who refuse to accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour are headed for destruction in the never ending lake of fire. On the contrary, those who love God and obey His will experience the fulfillment of a promise as it is written in 1 Corinthians 2:9 "Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love Him."
You may have seen the seven wonders of the world, have heard the most beautiful music composed by the most talented artists on earth or have tasted the most incredible food ever concocted by world famous chefs... but NOTHING compares to what is prepared by God to those who love Him.
What should we do now after the revelation of this wisdom to us which is hidden to the learned and the supposedly wise?
Colossians 3:1 Since you have been raised up in company with Christ, set your heart on what pertains to higher realms where Christ is seated at God's right hand. 2 Be intent on things above rather than on things of earth. 3 After all, you have died! Your life is hidden now with Christ in God. 4 When Christ our life appears, then you shall appear with Him in glory.
Loosen your hold on things of earth...they won't last. Marami ang nakikipagpatayan dahil lamang sa kapirasong lupa o sa pinakamamahal niyang kotse na nabangga. Why waste your time and efforts on material things that would either be damaged, destroyed, eaten by moths or rust, or forcibly taken by thieves. Rather set your heart on heavenly treasures that would last forever. Sow your seeds of good works, share the Word of God to everyone, feed the hungry, help those who are in need, pray unceasingly, and know God's will for your life so you can be attuned with what God wants you to do. You were dead and now you are alive. The old one has passed away and a new one has reborn. Old sinful habits died and were replaced with good deeds pleasing to God. When Jesus comes back, He will take us with Him in heaven and there awaits for us the never before seen or heard or entered into our minds what God prepared for those who love Him.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Secret to a good, healthy & long life. . .
Psalm 14:2 The Lord looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there be one who is wise and seeks God.
The very same message was repeated in Psalm 53:3 God looks down from heaven upon the children of men to see if there be one who is wise and seeks God. I cannot overemphasize the importance of this message.
God is always looking for someone who is searching Him. And when He sees one, He goes nearer to him and show him the road to salvation. Half of the way, He reaches out His mighty hand to care for that someone. . . letting His shadow cover him as he continues to search for God. In our vernacular, "yong naghahanap sa Diyos ay hinahanap din ng Diyos"; "malayo pa lang ay natatanaw na Niya ito at natutuwang sinasalubong."
Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.
It is not true that God is everywhere but His eyes are in every place and can see everything that we do. Although He is in heaven, His Spirit can go anywhere He pleases to commune with us that He loves so much.
Acts 17:24 For the God who made the world and all that is in it, the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in sanctuaries made by human hands.
Paul, a servant of God, sent as an apostle of Jesus Christ for the sake of the faith of those whom God has chosen, affirmed, "in the hope of that eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised in endless ages past."(Titus 1:2) One of the attributes of God is 'He cannot lie'. Whatever He has promised, He will fulfill because He is The God of Truth who cannot lie.
Matthew 7:7-11 "Ask, and you will receive. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened to you. For the one who asks, receives. The one who seeks, find. The one who knocks, enters. Would one of you hand his son a stone when he asks for a loaf, or a poisonous snake whe he asks for a fish? If you, with all your sins, know how to give your children what is good, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to anyone who asks Him!"
It is His will that we seek Him. Acts 15:16-17 'Hereafter I will return and rebuild the fallen hut of David: from its ruins I will rebuild it and set it up again, so that all the rest of mankind and all the nations that bear my name may seek out the Lord.'
Matthew 6:33-34 Seek first His kingship over you, His way of holiness, and all these things will be given you besides. Enough, then, of worrying about tomorrow. Let tomorrow take care of itself. Today has troubles enough of its own.
James 1:21 Strip away all that is filthy, every vicious excess. Humbly welcome the Word that has taken root in you, with its power to save you. Act on this Word. If all you do is listen to it, you are deceiving yourselves.
Are you contented in just reading the word of God? Act on it, put it into practice and day by day be more like Him in words and in action. Saturate yourself in His word, let your whole being get wet in His transforming word, and joy will come naturally, the deepest joy you can never imagine you will have. "Blest will this man be in whatever he does."(James 1:25)
Proverbs 8:8 Sincere are all the words of my mouth, no one of them is wily or crooked; 9 All of them are plain to the man of intelligence, and right to those who attain knowledge. 10 Receive my instruction in preference to silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold.
Proverbs 1:22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love inanity, how long will you turn away at my reproof? Lo! I will pour out to you my spirit, I will acquaint you with my words. 24 Because I called and you refused, I extended my hand and no one took notice; 25 Because you disdained all my counsel, and my reproof you ignored - 26 I, in my turn will laugh at your doom;. . ."
Proverbs 2:4 If you seek her like silver, and like hidden treasures search her out: 5 Then will you understand the fear of the Lord; the knowledge of God you will find; 6 For the Lord gives wisdom, from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He has counsel in store for the upright, He is the shield of those who walk honestly, 8 Guarding the paths of of justice, protecting the way of his pious ones.
If you are young and have lots of ambitions in life, it would do you good if you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Be under His kingship so you will be blessed in everything that you do and will have peace of mind for as long as you live. Proverbs 1:33 "But he who obeys me dwells in security, in peace, without fear of harm."
In conclusion, this is the secret to good health and long life. Proverbs 3:1 My son, forget not my teaching, keep in mind my commands; 2 For many days and years of life, and peace, will they bring you. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and turn away from evil; 8 This will mean health for your flesh and vigor for your bones.
Read your Bible everyday. . . Matthew 4:4 Jesus replied, "Scripture has it: 'Not on bread alone is man to live but on every utterance that comes from the mouth of God.'" Our body needs food for sustenance but our spirit is strengthened day by day by the word of God. Remember that we are just pilgrims here on earth and our citizenship is in heaven with God, our Creator.
The very same message was repeated in Psalm 53:3 God looks down from heaven upon the children of men to see if there be one who is wise and seeks God. I cannot overemphasize the importance of this message.
God is always looking for someone who is searching Him. And when He sees one, He goes nearer to him and show him the road to salvation. Half of the way, He reaches out His mighty hand to care for that someone. . . letting His shadow cover him as he continues to search for God. In our vernacular, "yong naghahanap sa Diyos ay hinahanap din ng Diyos"; "malayo pa lang ay natatanaw na Niya ito at natutuwang sinasalubong."
Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.
It is not true that God is everywhere but His eyes are in every place and can see everything that we do. Although He is in heaven, His Spirit can go anywhere He pleases to commune with us that He loves so much.
Acts 17:24 For the God who made the world and all that is in it, the Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in sanctuaries made by human hands.
Matthew 6:9 This is how you are to pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name...' He definitely is in heaven so when we pray we think of Him as He is in His throne in heaven.
Acts 17:27-28 They were to seek God, yes to grope for Him and perhaps eventually to find Him-though He is not really far from any one of us. 'In Him we live and move and have our being,' as some of our own poets have put it, 'for we too are His offspring'.Paul, a servant of God, sent as an apostle of Jesus Christ for the sake of the faith of those whom God has chosen, affirmed, "in the hope of that eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised in endless ages past."(Titus 1:2) One of the attributes of God is 'He cannot lie'. Whatever He has promised, He will fulfill because He is The God of Truth who cannot lie.
Matthew 7:7-11 "Ask, and you will receive. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened to you. For the one who asks, receives. The one who seeks, find. The one who knocks, enters. Would one of you hand his son a stone when he asks for a loaf, or a poisonous snake whe he asks for a fish? If you, with all your sins, know how to give your children what is good, how much more will your heavenly Father give good things to anyone who asks Him!"
It is His will that we seek Him. Acts 15:16-17 'Hereafter I will return and rebuild the fallen hut of David: from its ruins I will rebuild it and set it up again, so that all the rest of mankind and all the nations that bear my name may seek out the Lord.'
Matthew 6:33-34 Seek first His kingship over you, His way of holiness, and all these things will be given you besides. Enough, then, of worrying about tomorrow. Let tomorrow take care of itself. Today has troubles enough of its own.
James 1:21 Strip away all that is filthy, every vicious excess. Humbly welcome the Word that has taken root in you, with its power to save you. Act on this Word. If all you do is listen to it, you are deceiving yourselves.
Are you contented in just reading the word of God? Act on it, put it into practice and day by day be more like Him in words and in action. Saturate yourself in His word, let your whole being get wet in His transforming word, and joy will come naturally, the deepest joy you can never imagine you will have. "Blest will this man be in whatever he does."(James 1:25)
Proverbs 8:8 Sincere are all the words of my mouth, no one of them is wily or crooked; 9 All of them are plain to the man of intelligence, and right to those who attain knowledge. 10 Receive my instruction in preference to silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold.
Proverbs 1:22 "How long, you simple ones, will you love inanity, how long will you turn away at my reproof? Lo! I will pour out to you my spirit, I will acquaint you with my words. 24 Because I called and you refused, I extended my hand and no one took notice; 25 Because you disdained all my counsel, and my reproof you ignored - 26 I, in my turn will laugh at your doom;. . ."
Proverbs 2:4 If you seek her like silver, and like hidden treasures search her out: 5 Then will you understand the fear of the Lord; the knowledge of God you will find; 6 For the Lord gives wisdom, from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He has counsel in store for the upright, He is the shield of those who walk honestly, 8 Guarding the paths of of justice, protecting the way of his pious ones.
If you are young and have lots of ambitions in life, it would do you good if you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Be under His kingship so you will be blessed in everything that you do and will have peace of mind for as long as you live. Proverbs 1:33 "But he who obeys me dwells in security, in peace, without fear of harm."
In conclusion, this is the secret to good health and long life. Proverbs 3:1 My son, forget not my teaching, keep in mind my commands; 2 For many days and years of life, and peace, will they bring you. 7 Be not wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and turn away from evil; 8 This will mean health for your flesh and vigor for your bones.
Read your Bible everyday. . . Matthew 4:4 Jesus replied, "Scripture has it: 'Not on bread alone is man to live but on every utterance that comes from the mouth of God.'" Our body needs food for sustenance but our spirit is strengthened day by day by the word of God. Remember that we are just pilgrims here on earth and our citizenship is in heaven with God, our Creator.
Monday, June 16, 2008
What's next. . . after retirement
Here in the Philippines and, I guess, elsewhere around the world, 60 is the retirement age. When one is approaching 60, preparation has to be made to ensure financial security and good health despite old age. Some are saving for the future, investing in banks or 5-year double your money insurance packages while others are paying hefty health insurance premiums so by the time they get sick, they won't have to worry about paying hospital bills. Are these enough to ensure our future? What about the day to day needs such as food and medicines? The rising cost of fuel has to be taken into consideration also. When oil is up, everything goes up...transportation, food, medicines, clothing, rental, tuition, entertainment, just about anything we need to stay alive, happy, and comfortable here on earth.
A banner across the front of the balcony to the rear of the Paul Gerhardt Museum in Germany proclaims to those who enter, "Befiehl du deine Wege", meaning entrust your days and burdens. . .to whom? . . . to God who controls everything. One of Gerhardt's hymns, "Holy Spirit, Source of Gladness", contains this verse:
A banner across the front of the balcony to the rear of the Paul Gerhardt Museum in Germany proclaims to those who enter, "Befiehl du deine Wege", meaning entrust your days and burdens. . .to whom? . . . to God who controls everything. One of Gerhardt's hymns, "Holy Spirit, Source of Gladness", contains this verse:
"Let that love which knows no measure
Now in quickening showers descend,
Bringing us the richest treasures
Man can wish or God can send;
Hear our earnest supplications,
Every struggling heart release;
Rest upon this congregation,
Spirit of untroubled peace."
Mental energy is powerful in your 20's and 30's when you haven't lost many neurons yet, and then, thereafter, generally you are on a gradual slope down both mentally and physically. This is reality and no one can escape from it. It is important to get hold of all the knowledge and wisdom you acquire as you grow older, write them if you must...learning does not stop when you grow old, it is a continuing process. Life, too, is a constant process of adjustment. Human being is a social animal - he needs stimuli, he needs to meet people, friends who he can interact with and learn from. Withdrawing and isolating yourself from your friends can be the biggest mistake of your life. It is so depressing which would make anyone ill from psychosomatic diseases. The constant interaction with people will keep you aware of what's going on around you and keep you alive and adjusted to the present world. You also must exercise and have a passion or interest in life that you can pursue and develop. If not, leading a sedentary life could be . . . fatal. You will die quickly and that's for certain.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 We do not lose heart, because our inner being is renewed each day even though our body is being destroyed at the same time. The present burden of our trial is light enough, and earns for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. We do not fix our gaze on what is seen but on what is unseen. What is seen is transitory; what is unseen lasts forever.
2 Corinthians 5:1 Indeed, we know that when the earthly tent in which we dwell is destroyed we have a dwelling provided for us by God, a dwelling in the heavens, not made by hands but to last forever.
The body where our spirit lives right now is just temporary. As we grow old, the eyes grow dim, the ears could no longer hear as they used to, the bones are not as strong as when you were younger and the whole body weakens day by day. We also become forgetful and the hands are trembling already. These are the very signs that our earthly body is slowly dying but never lose heart. Although our body is weakening, our spirit, on the other hand, is becoming stronger. We are being renewed each passing day. Didn't you notice that those who are already old are becoming more and more interested in spiritual matters? Aging and weakening of the body push people to focus more on God. They learn to concentrate more on things that are unseen rather than on things visible to the naked eye. They also able to differentiate things that are fleeting from things eternal. And moved by the love of God, they tend to care more for heavenly treasures rather than material things.
Therefore, our eyes should focus on things that are unseen. Never look at the weaknesses of old age but fix your eyes on who and what you are at the sight of God who loves you, what you believe in and what you can do about it. "For our sakes, God made him who did not know sin, to be sin, so that in him we might become the very holiness of God." (2 Corinthians 5:21) In running, aim for the gold prize which is being with Jesus in Heaven.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
God's Model for Fatherhood
Today, Sunday, June 15, 2008 is Father's Day but it is not a big deal as compared to Mother's Day. Restaurants are not as full as during Mother's Day. Why? Are fathers less important than mothers? Fathers are not sentimental as mothers but they, more often than not, rise up to the occasion when needed, to lead his family in righteousness and unity.
Read Luke 15:11-13. This is the story of the prodigal son who asked his father to give him in advance the share of the estate that would belong to him should his father die of any cause. He squandered all his money in dissolute living and a famine broke out in that distant land where he lived and he was in dire need.
WHAT BREAKS A DADDY'S HEART?
1. withdrawal from the father's love and presence. . . the father was hurt when the prodigal son asked for his inheritance and left for a distant land with the intention of severing the ties with his father . . . not anymore depending on his provisions and caring attention.
2. wastage of what his father gave him. . . he squandered all his money on dissolute living. The father must have earned that money using his sweat, blood and tears but the prodigal son wasted everything that was given to him. Sometimes, fathers would like their kids to experience a better life than what they had experienced and so they break their backs trying to earn more so the kids would live an affluent life but forgot that quality time with the kids, teaching them what they should learn, is far more important than material things.
3. violation of his dad's moral values. . . the prodigal son had a dissolute or immoral life, hurting his father all the more if he had known what his life was. In 2 Samuel 19:1, David was shaken and wept over the death of his son, Absalom, who tried to dethrone and kill him saying as he wept, "My son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you, Absalom, my son, my son!" When we do immoral or even depart from our father's teachings, we not only hurt ourselves but more so our fathers.
These are exactly what would also break the heart of God, our heavenly Father. Do you realize how much he is hurt when you stop praying? . . .the very reason is you are too busy with your work? Or when you feel bored reading the Bible because you don't understand His word? Or you don't want to listen to Him because His every word restricts your freedom to do the things you want? He has given you the fruits of the Spirit, the wisdom and knowledge to guide you in your travel here on earth but you never pass it on to others. You kept it to yourself afraid that your friends might think that you are weird to believe in such things. You do not want to be humiliated infront of others but taking the risk of earning the ire of God for disowning Him like Peter did. And finally, crossing overboard, doing the very things that God told you not to do because your flesh is weak and you were tempted to do it. Does God have feelings? O yes! He does! He is hurt everytime you commit a sin. . . that means you are severing your ties with him. . . going somewhere distant and very far from Him. Why is He hurt? Jeremiah 31:3 God said, 'I haved loved you with an everlasting love; with tender kindness I have drawn you.' He loves you so much that He gave His only Son to pay for all your sins. What more will He not give to you?
HOW DO WE BUILD UP DAD?
1. seek out his fellowship one more time. . .
These are the words that hold a family together: "I was wrong. . ., I am sorry. . ., Please forgive me. . ., I love you!"
Take your dad to dinner, go with him to a place where he wants to go, do things together with him. . . talk to him, or maybe sing with him. That would make him glad.
Like what the prodigal son did in Luke 15:18, he went back to his father and asked forgiveness from him and from God thereby putting himself again under his loving care.
2. respect his authority as a father. . .
In Luke 15:19, the prodigal son told his father to just treat him as a hired servant. . . humbling himself and giving his father control over him, not abusively but restraining his actions for his own benefit.
3. carry a positive attitude. . .
In Luke 15:22, the prodigal son accepted the grace his father gave him and they went on to celebrate his return. His father was full of joy because his "son was dead and has come back to life"; "he was lost and is found".
4. love our brothers and sisters. . .
It would be a different scenario, if the elder son looked for his younger sibling and brought him back to his father. The father would be so much delighted to see them together hand in hand walking towards him.
The same is true with God. . . He is delighted when we seek our lost brothers and sisters and bring them to God. He is delighted when we joyfully share His word to them. He is delighted when we sing praises together and honor His Name. He is so much delighted when we commune with Him together in prayer and read His word with so much passion and love.
Father's Day is not only an opportunity for families to honor dads, it's also a chance for dads to reflect on what it means to be a good father. What your kids would remember are not the big material things. . .but what you do day in and day out consistently for them. Are you forgiving of their faults? Do you love them unconditionally? Like the good father of the prodigal son, would you joyfully accept them back if they return to you? Would you draw nearer to them when they go near to you? Our God is the best model for fatherhood, be like Him and forgive your prodigal son or daughter. Welcome him or her back to your fold with lovings arms and compassion.
Read Luke 15:11-13. This is the story of the prodigal son who asked his father to give him in advance the share of the estate that would belong to him should his father die of any cause. He squandered all his money in dissolute living and a famine broke out in that distant land where he lived and he was in dire need.
WHAT BREAKS A DADDY'S HEART?
1. withdrawal from the father's love and presence. . . the father was hurt when the prodigal son asked for his inheritance and left for a distant land with the intention of severing the ties with his father . . . not anymore depending on his provisions and caring attention.
2. wastage of what his father gave him. . . he squandered all his money on dissolute living. The father must have earned that money using his sweat, blood and tears but the prodigal son wasted everything that was given to him. Sometimes, fathers would like their kids to experience a better life than what they had experienced and so they break their backs trying to earn more so the kids would live an affluent life but forgot that quality time with the kids, teaching them what they should learn, is far more important than material things.
3. violation of his dad's moral values. . . the prodigal son had a dissolute or immoral life, hurting his father all the more if he had known what his life was. In 2 Samuel 19:1, David was shaken and wept over the death of his son, Absalom, who tried to dethrone and kill him saying as he wept, "My son Absalom! My son, my son Absalom! If only I had died instead of you, Absalom, my son, my son!" When we do immoral or even depart from our father's teachings, we not only hurt ourselves but more so our fathers.
These are exactly what would also break the heart of God, our heavenly Father. Do you realize how much he is hurt when you stop praying? . . .the very reason is you are too busy with your work? Or when you feel bored reading the Bible because you don't understand His word? Or you don't want to listen to Him because His every word restricts your freedom to do the things you want? He has given you the fruits of the Spirit, the wisdom and knowledge to guide you in your travel here on earth but you never pass it on to others. You kept it to yourself afraid that your friends might think that you are weird to believe in such things. You do not want to be humiliated infront of others but taking the risk of earning the ire of God for disowning Him like Peter did. And finally, crossing overboard, doing the very things that God told you not to do because your flesh is weak and you were tempted to do it. Does God have feelings? O yes! He does! He is hurt everytime you commit a sin. . . that means you are severing your ties with him. . . going somewhere distant and very far from Him. Why is He hurt? Jeremiah 31:3 God said, 'I haved loved you with an everlasting love; with tender kindness I have drawn you.' He loves you so much that He gave His only Son to pay for all your sins. What more will He not give to you?
HOW DO WE BUILD UP DAD?
1. seek out his fellowship one more time. . .
These are the words that hold a family together: "I was wrong. . ., I am sorry. . ., Please forgive me. . ., I love you!"
Take your dad to dinner, go with him to a place where he wants to go, do things together with him. . . talk to him, or maybe sing with him. That would make him glad.
Like what the prodigal son did in Luke 15:18, he went back to his father and asked forgiveness from him and from God thereby putting himself again under his loving care.
2. respect his authority as a father. . .
In Luke 15:19, the prodigal son told his father to just treat him as a hired servant. . . humbling himself and giving his father control over him, not abusively but restraining his actions for his own benefit.
3. carry a positive attitude. . .
In Luke 15:22, the prodigal son accepted the grace his father gave him and they went on to celebrate his return. His father was full of joy because his "son was dead and has come back to life"; "he was lost and is found".
4. love our brothers and sisters. . .
It would be a different scenario, if the elder son looked for his younger sibling and brought him back to his father. The father would be so much delighted to see them together hand in hand walking towards him.
The same is true with God. . . He is delighted when we seek our lost brothers and sisters and bring them to God. He is delighted when we joyfully share His word to them. He is delighted when we sing praises together and honor His Name. He is so much delighted when we commune with Him together in prayer and read His word with so much passion and love.
Father's Day is not only an opportunity for families to honor dads, it's also a chance for dads to reflect on what it means to be a good father. What your kids would remember are not the big material things. . .but what you do day in and day out consistently for them. Are you forgiving of their faults? Do you love them unconditionally? Like the good father of the prodigal son, would you joyfully accept them back if they return to you? Would you draw nearer to them when they go near to you? Our God is the best model for fatherhood, be like Him and forgive your prodigal son or daughter. Welcome him or her back to your fold with lovings arms and compassion.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Prayer for Full Restoration
Isaiah 51:11 Those whom the Lord has ransomed will return and enter Zion singing, crowned with everlasting joy; They will meet with joy and gladness, sorrow and mourning will flee.
Psalm 126:2 Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad indeed.
4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the torrents in the southern
desert.
5 Those that sow in tears shall reap rejoicing
6 Although they go forth weeping, carrying the seed to be sown,
They shall come back rejoicing, carrying their sheaves.
In life, there are seasons of plenty and seasons of drought, seasons of joy and seasons of problems, weeping and groaning. Like typhoon, the seasons of problems will pass and the morning after will be adorned with rainbow and the warmth of sunshine. All sufferings, all pain, all emptiness, all disappointments is a SEED. Sow it in God and He will bring a crop of joy from it. Those who went off with heavy hearts, carrying the seed to be sown, shall come back with joy and gladness in their hearts. Whatever problem you have or devastating experience in your life, sow it in God’s kingdom on your knees and expect a double portion of rejoicing, blessing after blessing as promised by God. Not just a blessing but streams of blessings just like torrents in the southern desert.
Isaiah 61: 7 Since their shame was double and disgrace and spittle were their portion,
They shall have a double inheritance in their land, everlasting joy shall be theirs.
8 For I, the Lord, love what is right.
Joshua 3:5 Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will perform wonders among you.
Now is the season to plant seed so that in due time, it will double in quantity, you will have double portions from the Lord, with your precious name on them. Consecrate yourself to Christ and the Lord will do amazing things in your life. He has not changed and will not change. . . He has done great miracles in the past and will do them again for your sake.
Psalm 107:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His kindness endures forever!”
2 Thus let the redeemed of the Lord say, those whom He has redeemed from the hand of the
foe
3 And gathered from the lands, from the east and the west, from the north and the south.
8 Let them give thanks to the Lord for His kindness and His wondrous deeds to the children of
men,
9 Because He satisfied the longing soul and filled the hungry soul with good things.
If you seek earthly treasure, it will last only for a moment but if you seek heavenly treasure, it will last you to the 4th generation until the Lord comes back.
What have you lost recently?
1. Financial Abundance. Let those tears be the seed so you can harvest double portion.
2. Health. Pray to God to restore your health, it is His will to heal you of whatever illness you may have.
3. Relationship. Down on your knees and ask God to restore the sweetness of your relationship with your spouse, children, parents and friends.
4. Passion for Serving. Rekindle your passion for working in ministries that the Lord has assigned to you. Pray each day for passion to fulfill your purpose in life and to give you the strength to do it joyfully for the Lord. Romans 8:26 The Spirit too helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought; but the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in speech. 27 He who searches hearts knows what the Spirit means, for the Spirit intercedes for the saints as God himself wills. You are never too young or too old to serve God.
5. Joy of Living. Psalm 18:7 In my distress I called upon the Lord and cried out to my God; From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears. If you only let God take the wheel of your life, He will give you unparalleled joy and abundant blessings all the days of your life.
Today can be the beginning of the season of restoration; each one has a portion and a timetable that only God gives. He said, “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full.” Claim your promise of restoration and be glad from hereon.
Isaiah 46:10 At the beginning I foretell the outcome; in advance, things not yet done. I say that my plan shall stand, I accomplished my every purpose.
Psalm 46:2 God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress.
3 Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and mountains plunge into the depths of
the sea;
4 Though its waters rage and foam and the mountains quake at its surging. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.
5 There is a stream whose runlets gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High.
6 God is in its midst; it shall not be disturbed; God will help it at the break of dawn.
Psalm 18:31 God’s way is unerring, the promise of the Lord is firetried; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.
Psalm 126:2 Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad indeed.
4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the torrents in the southern
desert.
5 Those that sow in tears shall reap rejoicing
6 Although they go forth weeping, carrying the seed to be sown,
They shall come back rejoicing, carrying their sheaves.
In life, there are seasons of plenty and seasons of drought, seasons of joy and seasons of problems, weeping and groaning. Like typhoon, the seasons of problems will pass and the morning after will be adorned with rainbow and the warmth of sunshine. All sufferings, all pain, all emptiness, all disappointments is a SEED. Sow it in God and He will bring a crop of joy from it. Those who went off with heavy hearts, carrying the seed to be sown, shall come back with joy and gladness in their hearts. Whatever problem you have or devastating experience in your life, sow it in God’s kingdom on your knees and expect a double portion of rejoicing, blessing after blessing as promised by God. Not just a blessing but streams of blessings just like torrents in the southern desert.
Isaiah 61: 7 Since their shame was double and disgrace and spittle were their portion,
They shall have a double inheritance in their land, everlasting joy shall be theirs.
8 For I, the Lord, love what is right.
Joshua 3:5 Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will perform wonders among you.
Now is the season to plant seed so that in due time, it will double in quantity, you will have double portions from the Lord, with your precious name on them. Consecrate yourself to Christ and the Lord will do amazing things in your life. He has not changed and will not change. . . He has done great miracles in the past and will do them again for your sake.
Psalm 107:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His kindness endures forever!”
2 Thus let the redeemed of the Lord say, those whom He has redeemed from the hand of the
foe
3 And gathered from the lands, from the east and the west, from the north and the south.
8 Let them give thanks to the Lord for His kindness and His wondrous deeds to the children of
men,
9 Because He satisfied the longing soul and filled the hungry soul with good things.
If you seek earthly treasure, it will last only for a moment but if you seek heavenly treasure, it will last you to the 4th generation until the Lord comes back.
What have you lost recently?
1. Financial Abundance. Let those tears be the seed so you can harvest double portion.
2. Health. Pray to God to restore your health, it is His will to heal you of whatever illness you may have.
3. Relationship. Down on your knees and ask God to restore the sweetness of your relationship with your spouse, children, parents and friends.
4. Passion for Serving. Rekindle your passion for working in ministries that the Lord has assigned to you. Pray each day for passion to fulfill your purpose in life and to give you the strength to do it joyfully for the Lord. Romans 8:26 The Spirit too helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as we ought; but the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in speech. 27 He who searches hearts knows what the Spirit means, for the Spirit intercedes for the saints as God himself wills. You are never too young or too old to serve God.
5. Joy of Living. Psalm 18:7 In my distress I called upon the Lord and cried out to my God; From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears. If you only let God take the wheel of your life, He will give you unparalleled joy and abundant blessings all the days of your life.
Today can be the beginning of the season of restoration; each one has a portion and a timetable that only God gives. He said, “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full.” Claim your promise of restoration and be glad from hereon.
Isaiah 46:10 At the beginning I foretell the outcome; in advance, things not yet done. I say that my plan shall stand, I accomplished my every purpose.
Psalm 46:2 God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress.
3 Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and mountains plunge into the depths of
the sea;
4 Though its waters rage and foam and the mountains quake at its surging. The Lord of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.
5 There is a stream whose runlets gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High.
6 God is in its midst; it shall not be disturbed; God will help it at the break of dawn.
Psalm 18:31 God’s way is unerring, the promise of the Lord is firetried; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.
Friday, June 6, 2008
How To Forgive
Everyone of us has experienced being hurt usually by someone we love or used to love. Then, the love turned to hatred or apathy as days and years went by. What a waste! How can we rekindle that love? Or is it gone forever?
Forgiveness is a decision to let go of grudges, resentments, bitterness and thoughts of revenge. It is an act of untying yourself from the negative effects of unforgiveness in your heart because the other person is not hurt by the grudge; only the grudgeholder is hurt. A lack of forgiveness hurts the person who is not forgiving. It is not condoning the offense but freeing your heart from hatred, anger, and resentment that has turned it cold and hard, almost unfazed by just about anything in this world. An unforgiving heart is contaminated and therefore not capable of giving pure and acceptable love to anyone including children, parents and friends. If growing within your heart is the cancer of hatred, anger, and resentment, then that is the only love that you can give.
Colossians 3:13 Bear with one another; forgive whatever grievances you have against one another. Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you.
Matthew 5:22 Everyone who grows angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment.
Remember the Lord's prayer: "Give us today our daily bread and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sinned against us." (Matthew 6:11-12)
How can God forgive our sins if we cannot forgive those who sinned against us? We need to learn how to forgive before we can start asking God for forgiveness because He cannot hear us if we hold grudges in our hearts.
Matthew 6:14-15 If you forgive the faults of others, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours. If you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive you.
Romans 3:23 All men have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God.
But if you still insist on "being right" with respect to your own anger or it is very difficult for you to forgive, pray to God to help you learn how to forgive...take baby steps towards forgiving the person that has hurt you. Accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour and follow His words in the Bible. John 1:12 Any who did accept Him, He empowered to become children of God. If you are a child of God, then the Holy Spirit is within you and you now have the power to forgive...you will be able to forgive no matter how big the offense is. Build bridges instead of walls so that you can receive blessings from God. Deal with others as you would like God to deal with you.
In life, you can give only what you have. Luke 6:36 Be compassionate, as your Father is compassionate 37 Pardon, and you shall be pardoned. 38 Give, and it shall be given to you. Good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over, will they pour into the fold of your garment. For the measure you measure with will be measured back to you.
Be compassionate and give love even to the unlovable...the ones who hurt you in the past. The Lord sees the desires of your heart and will honor it. If you are generous and forgiving, the Lord will be generous and forgiving to you, too.
Read Matthew 18:21-35. Peter is seeking a rule or a way to put a limit on forgiveness. He figures seven times was a lot - possibly more than Jesus would require. Jesus responded "not seven times; I say, seventy times seven times." Mathematically, that would mean 490 times...but the number 7 is a perfect number and Jesus meant that the call to forgiveness is not limited. It is actually the cancelling of all debts. The last verse says, "My heavenly Father will treat you in exactly the same way unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart."
"When anger lingers in our heart, it poisons all we think and do. When faith seeks ways to show God's love, it keeps our spirit strong and true." - D. De Haan
Resentment comes from looking at others; contentment comes from looking at God. Look at the person who has hurt you with the eyes of God and you will be able to forgive. Do to others as you would like God to do unto you. Be merciful and forgive, and God will forgive you, too.
Forgiveness is a decision to let go of grudges, resentments, bitterness and thoughts of revenge. It is an act of untying yourself from the negative effects of unforgiveness in your heart because the other person is not hurt by the grudge; only the grudgeholder is hurt. A lack of forgiveness hurts the person who is not forgiving. It is not condoning the offense but freeing your heart from hatred, anger, and resentment that has turned it cold and hard, almost unfazed by just about anything in this world. An unforgiving heart is contaminated and therefore not capable of giving pure and acceptable love to anyone including children, parents and friends. If growing within your heart is the cancer of hatred, anger, and resentment, then that is the only love that you can give.
Colossians 3:13 Bear with one another; forgive whatever grievances you have against one another. Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you.
Matthew 5:22 Everyone who grows angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment.
Remember the Lord's prayer: "Give us today our daily bread and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sinned against us." (Matthew 6:11-12)
How can God forgive our sins if we cannot forgive those who sinned against us? We need to learn how to forgive before we can start asking God for forgiveness because He cannot hear us if we hold grudges in our hearts.
Matthew 6:14-15 If you forgive the faults of others, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours. If you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive you.
Romans 3:23 All men have sinned and are deprived of the glory of God.
But if you still insist on "being right" with respect to your own anger or it is very difficult for you to forgive, pray to God to help you learn how to forgive...take baby steps towards forgiving the person that has hurt you. Accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour and follow His words in the Bible. John 1:12 Any who did accept Him, He empowered to become children of God. If you are a child of God, then the Holy Spirit is within you and you now have the power to forgive...you will be able to forgive no matter how big the offense is. Build bridges instead of walls so that you can receive blessings from God. Deal with others as you would like God to deal with you.
In life, you can give only what you have. Luke 6:36 Be compassionate, as your Father is compassionate 37 Pardon, and you shall be pardoned. 38 Give, and it shall be given to you. Good measure pressed down, shaken together, running over, will they pour into the fold of your garment. For the measure you measure with will be measured back to you.
Be compassionate and give love even to the unlovable...the ones who hurt you in the past. The Lord sees the desires of your heart and will honor it. If you are generous and forgiving, the Lord will be generous and forgiving to you, too.
Read Matthew 18:21-35. Peter is seeking a rule or a way to put a limit on forgiveness. He figures seven times was a lot - possibly more than Jesus would require. Jesus responded "not seven times; I say, seventy times seven times." Mathematically, that would mean 490 times...but the number 7 is a perfect number and Jesus meant that the call to forgiveness is not limited. It is actually the cancelling of all debts. The last verse says, "My heavenly Father will treat you in exactly the same way unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart."
"When anger lingers in our heart, it poisons all we think and do. When faith seeks ways to show God's love, it keeps our spirit strong and true." - D. De Haan
Resentment comes from looking at others; contentment comes from looking at God. Look at the person who has hurt you with the eyes of God and you will be able to forgive. Do to others as you would like God to do unto you. Be merciful and forgive, and God will forgive you, too.
Blessings of Persecution
1 Peter 5:12-19 Do not be surprised, beloved, that a trial by fire is occurring in your midst. It is a test for you, but it should not catch you off guard. Rejoice instead, in the measure that you share Christ's sufferings. When His glory is revealed, you will rejoice exultantly. Happy are you when you are insulted for the sake of Christ, for then God's Spirit in its glory has come to rest on you. See to it that none of you suffers for being a murderer, a thief, a malefactor, or a destroyer of another's rights. If anyone suffers for being a Christian, however, he ought not to be ashamed. He should rather glorify God in virtue of that name. The season of judgment has begun, and begun with God's own household. If it begins this way with us, what must be the end for those who refuse obedience to the gospel of God? And if the just man is saved only with difficulty, what is to become of the godless and the sinner? Accordingly, let those who suffer as God's will requires continue in good deeds, and entrust their lives to a faithful Creator.
Life's challenges are not designed to break us but to bend us toward God.
Romans 5:5 And this hope will not leave us disappointed, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
As fellow workers, we are "sorrowful, though we are always rejoicing; poor, yet we enrich many. We seem to have nothing, yet everything is ours! (2 Corinthians 6:10)
"Pain and sorrow are inescapable facts of life. Yet the Holy Spirit is our source of gladness, bringing us the richest treasures man can wish or God can send." - David McCasland
Psalm 37:5-6 Commit to the Lord your way; trust in Him, and He will act. He will make justice dawn for you like the light; bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.
As the famous German song writer, Paul Gerhardt, proclaims, "Entrust your days and burdens to God." Leave it to the Lord, and wait for Him. (Psalm 37:7)
Lamentations 3:25-26 Good is the Lord to one who waits for him, to the soul that seeks Him; It is good to hope in silence for the saving help of the Lord.
Life's challenges are not designed to break us but to bend us toward God.
Romans 5:5 And this hope will not leave us disappointed, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
As fellow workers, we are "sorrowful, though we are always rejoicing; poor, yet we enrich many. We seem to have nothing, yet everything is ours! (2 Corinthians 6:10)
"Pain and sorrow are inescapable facts of life. Yet the Holy Spirit is our source of gladness, bringing us the richest treasures man can wish or God can send." - David McCasland
Psalm 37:5-6 Commit to the Lord your way; trust in Him, and He will act. He will make justice dawn for you like the light; bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.
As the famous German song writer, Paul Gerhardt, proclaims, "Entrust your days and burdens to God." Leave it to the Lord, and wait for Him. (Psalm 37:7)
Lamentations 3:25-26 Good is the Lord to one who waits for him, to the soul that seeks Him; It is good to hope in silence for the saving help of the Lord.
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