Christmas Message 2009

The Christmas season is an important holiday to celebrate especially to all Bible-believing Christians. It is the proof of God’s promised of a Messiah fulfilled in the birth of Jesus. It is essential to remember that God took the time to make this event significant to humanity as a whole. The plan for the salvation of humanity was a top priority for God. Thus, the characters that God chose were central to it. Each one of them responded to God’s calling and became recipient of His purpose. And after more than 2000 years, the whole world celebrates with us of this glorious event filled with supernatural signs and miracles: the virgin birth; the star of Bethlehem; the concert for the shepherds. They were ordained to prove God’s mighty power that no one can deny.

This Christmas, we must reflect on all of these supernatural things in order for us to remove our eyes off the commercialism, stress and many others towards the real reason for the season i.e., Jesus Christ. Let us continue to use this opportunity to bring back our focus to the Son of God from God’s perspective. We must make sure that the Christ of Christmas must be highlighted first and foremost. There are two things that must not be forgotten this Christmas, “Unto us a Child is born” and “Unto us a Son is given” (Isaiah 9:6). The birth of Jesus Christ was the turning point for humanity’s history. God came in human flesh as a proof of His love to us. Praise the Lord!

Our family extends our heartfelt greetings to all the JIL people in Canada - to every Pastor and their family, every leader and their family, every worker and their family, and every JIL congregation across Canada. May this Christmas provide all of you with God’s blessings of love, peace, joy and hope, today until He comes!  Our prayers are always with you all.  Continue to make a SIGNIFICANT IMPACT in the city where you live and lift high the banner of Jesus Christ!

To all the JIL family, HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS AND A FRUITFUL NEW YEAR!!!

With Love & Prayers,

Pastor Aldrin, Pastor Monette, Jappy & Alyss

"Eddie Ako" MTV

This is cool MTV....

Coping with Pressures

The daily challenges we face will either increase our dependence on God or decrease it. But the most important point of it all is to see our reactions to it no matter what. It is where we expose ourselves of who we are and our leaning towards our “faith” in God and His promises to us. That is why; we must become aware of how challenges trigger our reactions. John 16:33 states what Jesus declared, “…in this world you will have trouble…” (NIV) What are the “troubles” of life that we will face? The word trouble was taken from the Greek word “thlipsis” which means “pressure” (literally or figuratively). In other words, Jesus Himself declared that pressures will come upon us we live in this world in many shapes and forms. However, He specifically leaves us with enough ammunition to hold onto as these “pressures” that build up around us and in us. Here’s the complete declaration in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart I have overcome the world.“ (NIV) Two specific reactions we need to have when faced with pressures of life: find peace in Him and to have courage in His power. Therefore, we need to apply His word and prescription against all pressures from all sides and stand by it. In doing so, we will not go against it head-on but just let it pass by as part of life. And this is where we stand out as disciples of Jesus because we always heed the Master’s advice.

Allow me to share this simple story that I came across to put everything in perspective: “A daughter complained to her father about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed that as one problem was solved, a new one arose. Her father, a chef, took her to the kitchen. He filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In one he placed carrots, in the second he placed eggs, and the last he placed ground coffee beans. He let them sit and boil, without saying a word. The daughter sucked her teeth and waited impatiently, wondering what he was doing. In about 20 minutes he turned off the burners. He fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. He pulled the eggs out and placed them in another bowl. Then he ladled the coffee out and placed it in a mug. Turning to her he asked, "Darling, what do you see?" "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied. He brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. He then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, he asked her to sip the coffee. She smiled as she tasted its rich aroma. She humbly asked, "What does it mean Father?" He explained that each of them had faced the same adversity: Boiling water but each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. But after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water. "Which are you," he asked his daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"

How about us, my countrymen? Are we the carrot that seems hard, but with pain and adversity do we wilt and become soft, lose your strength? Are we like the egg, which starts off with a malleable heart? Are we fluid spirits, but after a death, a breakup, business bankruptcy, or a layoff have we become hardened and stiff? The shell looks the same, but have we become bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and heart? Or are we like the coffee bean? The bean changes the hot water, the thing that is bringing the pain, to its peak flavor when it reaches 212 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water gets the hottest, it just tastes better. If we are like the bean, when things are at their worst, we get better and make things better around us.

How do we handle adversity? Are we a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?

Let’s talk again!

Why Go To Church?

A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday.. "I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."

This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column,
much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote
this clincher:

"I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked
some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu
for a single one of those meals But I do know this. They all nourished me
and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me
these meals, I would be physically dead today.

Genuine Humility

Here is a true story of an immigrant family on a ship from Europe to America: They were poor, so poor that they had to spend almost all of their money on the ticket. What they had left over for food was only enough to buy bread and cheese. All they ate were cheese sandwiches. The young boy, Hans, said to his father, "Dad, please, give me some money for an ice cream cone. I hate cheese sandwiches!" His father said, "Son, we are poor. Cheese sandwiches will keep you alive until we reach New York; the streets are made of gold, and we will eat whatever we want." Not satisfied, Hans continued to beg for money so his father gave him some change for an ice cream cone. The boy disappeared and didn't come back for two hours. When he did come back he sported a big fat tummy and a huge smile on his face. "Hans, did you get your ice cream cone?" "You bet, Dad. And then another one, then a steak, and then apple pie." "What? You bought all that with the money I gave you" "Oh no, Dad. It is free! It comes with the ticket!"

If we analyze this true story, we can reach various conclusions. Obviously, this immigrant family did not realize that the food comes with the ticket. Perhaps they were misinformed or they had trouble speaking the language. Were they quiet and shy, not wishing to mix with the other passengers? Whatever the case, they missed out on some great food! I believe that this is a story that many could relate to. Unfortunately, this is a story that is repeated many times over many individuals and families around us. It is just very sad to know that due to their ignorance and false humility that they almost missed the benefits that came with their tickets.

Remember that each and every human being has been given somewhat a ticket to live life to its fullest potential. While many may argue that not all of us were born into the same standard and status of life and they have used this excuse over and over to whine through life filled with despair and discouragement. Others simply have opted to be quiet and content when they can become courageous in seeking the better life. The statement, "Life is unfair!" has become a slogan of many to be bitter about life and others around them.

Indeed, life is unfair and never has become fair due to the human nature of selfishness, a by-product of sin. How did it start? No one can argue that God Himself provided the first couple, Adam and Eve a Garden called Eden. A little paradise! The only basic instruction was the prohibition to partake the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Everything was theirs for their reach except for this one tree. But God never mentioned about a talking serpent that will tempt Eve. We all know what happened after the serpent's temptation: the fall of man and eviction from the Garden of Eden. Who was to blame?

From this episode of human history, we were made aware of our own demise. Even after being caught by God of their sin Adam and Eve never took the blame but pointed it at one another and Adam even blamed God. Knowing what I know about God that He is a gracious, forgiving God, if only these two have humbled when they were caught and admitted their sin, who knows what could have transpired next. Regrettably, they did not and this is the main reason we are in this situation. That is why until we put the blame squarely on our own doing, we will not learn that the basic rule of life is humility before God. There is no other way but up when you have stooped down touching the ground. Thus, the Scripture states in James 4:10, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." (NIV)

What a promise to uphold in our daily life. Let God be God and see what He will do when we genuinely humble ourselves before Him.

Let's talk again!

 

 

 

 

A.R.K. (Act of Random Kindness)

I have heard that this acronym stands for Acts of Random Kindness after watching the movie “Evan Almighty.” It was a simple revelation of a very old biblical story made relevant by a Hollywood movie. It is something that I have seen with a very significant value for myself. Although the real story of Noah’s ark is not about an act of random kindness but of judgment of humanity’s utter depravity of sin as described in Genesis 6: 5-8 “The Lord saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time. 6 The Lord was grieved that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was filled with pain. 7 So the Lord said, "I will wipe mankind, whom I have created, from the face of the earth — men and animals, and creatures that move along the ground, and birds of the air — for I am grieved that I have made them." 8 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” (NIV)

Keep in mind that Noah found grace with God and this was the reason why he was saved together with his family, all eight of them with his sons and daughter-in-laws. Bearing in mind that kindness is an act of grace. Being kind is to be gracious that extends beyond our capability and comfort. It is what Jesus mentioned as doing the extra mile for another person that asks.

Kindness is a character that God has when He sent His one and only Son Jesus to die for our sins. It was a deliberate act of selflessness towards those that are otherwise hostile. God’s kindness is evident as Jesus spoke of it that God gives rain to both believers and unbelievers alike. Isn’t this something to consider about God’s kindness?

One might say, “But He is God, that’s why He can do it!” This statement might be a true but we need to remember that we are also capable of kindness in having it also. Just notice how we take care of others  especially our own family and loved ones. We go the extra and many more miles to do what is necessary to provide them the best that we can above and beyond our ability. When it comes to our family’s concerns, it is not just acts of random kindness but intentional kindness because of love and care. Need I say more?

I found a story of a British statesman and financier Cecil Rhodes, whose fortune was used to endow the world-famous Rhodes Scholarships, was a stickler for correct dress--but apparently not at the expense of someone else's feelings. A young man invited to dine with Rhodes arrived by train and had to go directly to Rhodes's home in his travel-stained clothes. Once there he was appalled to find the other guests already assembled, wearing full evening dress. After what seemed a long time Rhodes appeared, in a shabby old blue suit. Later the young man learned that his host had been dressed in evening clothes, but put on the old suit when he heard of his young guest's dilemma.

It should not matter what status of life anyone has to show kindness to those in need as seen in the above example. A simple sensitivity to those in need will trigger this important character in all of us. Stirring it up is a must for everyone to make another person’s life wonderful. It has a mutual effect and it is a great feeling to have after each act.

How do we apply kindness on a regular basis and not just acts of random kindness? Let us follow the Scripture’s admonition clearly stated in Col 3:12 “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (NIV) In doing so, the whole atmosphere of where you are and the person around you will change by a character already embedded within you as it is released naturally and supernaturally with God’s help. Therefore, never lose an opportunity to show God’s character in every moment possible for your family and strangers alike. Let others experience kindness as we received kindness from others as well!

Let’s talk again!

Judge Correctly

Author and Minister Terry Cole Whitaker told the following story from Dan Millman, which demonstrates that we cannot judge things as being good or bad because we do not have access to all the information. "One day a man bought a stallion, and all of his friends said, "That's good." The next day the stallion ran away, and all of his friends said, "That's bad." Two weeks later the stallion returned with a herd of mares. His friends said, "That's good." The next day his son broke his shoulders when the stallion threw him off. The friends said, "That's bad." The next month war broke out. Because the boy was injured, he could not go to war. The friends said, "That's good."

The story could go on and on with people judging events as being good or bad when actually all the events are connected and have an impact on each other. How are we to react to any events that come our way? Looking at two Scriptures, we will observe how objectively we must see things and learn to judge any events occurring from a biblical standpoint:

• Psalms 139:16, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. NIV
  
• Romans 8:28, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. NIV
  

With this perspective fully understood, we can then begin to allow a relaxed atmosphere to settle in our life. The key reason why stress is prevalent among many is due to an immediate reaction unnecessarily that leads to panic. Life always throws a curve ball and never a straight arrow. When we analyze the whole process of decision making and judgment of situations we are currently involved in, it is most likely that we tried very hard to assess the next course of action. Sad to say, but the expected result yields a different fruit.

There are three things that must be learned if you desire for God to be involved in every situation of your life i.e., His Word, His Way and His Will. I call this the three W's of Christian life. By familiarizing yourself with God's pattern set in the Scriptures, you will begin to discover your own situation and realize that God does not change His style in dealing with humanity as a whole. He has a set pattern but the most profound is this: He has a plan for you! Jeremiah 29:11 states, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (NIV)

It is of great comfort to know that the Creator God has a very special concern for every individual person in this planet. If you have watched Bruce Almighty, there was a scene where Bruce received the power to deal with people as he saw fit and one of those was answering prayers. He heard a lot of voices and tried very hard to develop a system to handle them but failed. Until he just decided to answer them all for them to stop. It was funny but I've realized how God is able to hear more than 6 billion in this planet with their prayers and answer them as see fit in accordance with His 3 W's.

He is the only one that could judge what is good, seems better and the best in our lives. Though bad things occur as we judge from our perspective is allowed but under God's wisdom, it is providential for the person's benefit. For people that trust God, we just need to allow Him full access to let His will be done and not our will. Remember that when we are at the end of our rope, God is always there. His enduring promise that we need to fall back when times are tough is this: "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5, NIV)

Let's talk again!

Just Got Back..(JIL Australia and JIL New Zealand)

The past two weeks were spent in Australia and New Zealand to attend the JIL International Summit in Sydney and to minister to the JIL Auckland congregations. Both were successful events with God’s mighty blessings and favor abounding. There were more or less 150 delegates outside of Sydney coming from 11 countries including the Philippines who’ve attended the Summit. And everyone was excited to be in Sydney for the first time. It was a three jam-packed days of Word, worship and fellowship. Truly an exciting event to see many JIL people gathered in one place for one purpose and that is to have a “Significant Impact.”

A big thanks to the JIL Australia family for their efforts and sacrifices to make this event a successful one. Your labor will never be in vain. Keep it up!!

We were at JIL Auckland with 39 delegates from JIL Canada and JIL USA after Sydney to meet the JIL people as well. And it was a four day tour with a Sunday fellowship also.

A big thanks to JIL Auckland especially to Ptr Nilo and the leadership for their time and effort to provide a personalized tour for all of us who came…

It was such a great time to be in another country. The warmth of the JIL people in both countries are exemplified by their care and concern for their family members who’ve come to visit them. God will bless you indeed!!

The next two major events announced will be an Educational tour in Israel in 2010 and another JIL International event in Vancouver, Canada on 2011. Don’t miss this two exciting events and make your preparations now…Until next time…I’ll try to post some pictures next time..

JIL BC 19th Anniversary Promo Clip

God is good! The JIL BC will celebrate 19 years of God's blessing and favor. Here's a clip:

BE PATIENT

Patience is one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (NIV) In one of my research, I found that "patience" implies suffering, enduring or waiting, as a determination of the will and not simply under necessity. It needs to be produced not by our own means but only through the Holy Spirit, who is the source of it.

Seeing the plain truth of this verse, one could notice that this fruit consists of nine ingredients necessary to maintain the unity of this fruit. Thus, logic dictates that if you lose one, you lose them all. That’s why, it is imperative to maintain a constant connection to the source of this fruit, i.e., the Holy Spirit. In doing so, we may avoid the same situation which happened in the States: A man came out of his home to admire his new truck. To his puzzlement, his three-year-old son was happily hammering dents into the shiny paint of the truck. The man ran to his son, knocked him away, hammered the little boy's hands into pulp as punishment. When the father calmed down, he rushed his son to the hospital. Although the doctor tried desperately to save the crushed bones, he finally had to amputate the fingers from both the boy's hands. When the boy woke  up from the surgery & saw his bandaged stubs, he innocently said, " Daddy,I'm sorry about your truck." Then he asked, "but when are my fingers going to grow back?" The father went home & committed suicide.

Think about this story the next time someone steps on your feet or you wish to take revenge. Think first before you lose your patience with someone you love. Trucks can be repaired. Broken bones & hurt feelings often can't. Too often we fail to recognize the difference between the person and the performance. We forget that forgiveness is greater than revenge. When we begin to harbor grievances, we need to learn not to take God’s right to defend us because Paul emphatically stated in Rom 12:19-21”Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (NIV)

People make mistakes. We are allowed to make mistakes. But the actions we take while in a rage will haunt us forever. If there is one person who will be justified to take action was Jesus Christ. He was crucified for our sins that He did not owe yet He suffered that He was likened to a lamb led to the slaughterhouse but uttered the most sobering statement of all that drove to the heart of His persecutor, “Father forgive them for they do not what they do.” Thus, to consider oneself as a Christian is to imbibe the same attitude as that of Jesus Christ; without which will be considered only as an empty rhetoric. Stephen, the first martyr uttered the same words of Jesus while he was being stoned to death by his enemies. And this was a man wholly submitted to the attitude of Jesus and exemplified what Jesus taught by His actions not just by His words.

Let us be reminded that patience can only be exemplified in the toughest and hardest situations of our life. One can only prove that you have patience at work is when you are faced with situations that will prove its existence. The Apostle James provided an important truth to remember on how to apply patience as stated in James 1:19-20, “My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.” (NIV)I believe that when we heed God’s word in all that I’ve shared here, any stress due to impatience will be relieved immediately. C’mon, give it a shot!

Let’s talk again!

Just Got Back….

After two weeks of ministry in Milan and Rome, Italy, we are back in BC just in time to speak on two major occasions: JIL Vancouver 1 Church Anniversary and JIL Surrey 3 Church opening this coming Sunday. This Saturday, two Child Dedication is also scheduled. I just posted the latest article for those who have missed  it. Arriving yesterday, it is time to get back to ministry work in BC and other pending assignments.

There were many activities done in this recent trip. Over-all, it was a very fruitful and successful ministry assignment. What makes it worthwhile will be the results and effects of the things accomplished during these two week trip.

Let me thank our JIL Pastors and the JIL people in Italy for their warm reception and acceptance of the new challenges given to them for the next years. God bless!

This is all of it and until next time!!!

Prescription for Success

The meaning of success to many people has many facets. That’s why, the majority of people tries so very hard to achieve it in their own ways and means. The simple saying, “Try and try until you succeed” becomes the mantra of many to overcome any obstacle along their way. In other words, failure is not an option but an opportunity. True enough, it has become the perennial companion of many successful entrepreneurs and inventors. But at what price did they pay to achieve such success? Is there any other way?

Mark Hatfield, is an American politician and educator from the state of Oregon tells of touring Calcutta with Mother Teresa and visiting the so-called "House of Dying," where sick children are cared for in their last days, and the dispensary, where the poor line up by the hundreds to receive medical attention. Watching Mother Teresa minister to these people, feeding and nursing those left by others to die, Hatfield was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the suffering she and her co-workers face daily. "How can you bear the load without being crushed by it?" he asked. Mother Teresa replied, "My dear Senator, I am not called to be successful, I am called to be faithful."

Mother Theresa of Calcutta summarized the most important prescription for success, i.e., faithfulness. It is what was given to Joshua before he took the leadership after Moses passed away as stated in Joshua 1:8, “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” (NIV)

Prosperity and success was guaranteed by God Himself when God’s word becomes their constant companion and guide to everyday living. In addition, by following with intent to obey what was written in the Holy Scriptures yields great gain. As the book of Proverbs 3:3-4 reiterates, “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” (NIV)

When we speak of success, it should be by having “favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” Unfortunately, many only are successful in the eyes of man but unsuccessful in God’s sight. But when God is on your side, even failures become a success. When we adopt such perspective, we will begin to change our view of success and follow God’s prescription for genuine success and prosperity.

Without such attitude we could end up like these men at the height of their success yet failed miserably: Alexander the Great was not satisfied, even when he had completely subdued the nations. He wept because there were no more worlds to conquer, and he died at an early age in a state of debauchery. Hannibal, who filled three bushels with the gold rings taken from the knights he had slaughtered, committed suicide by swallowing poison. Few noted his passing, and he left this earth completely unmourned. Julius Caesar, 'staining his garments in the blood of one million of his foes,' conquered 800 cities, only to be stabbed by his best friends at the scene of his greatest triumph. Napoleon, the feared conqueror, after being the scourge of Europe, spent his last years in banishment.

These men were successful but why did they fell in such despair. The simple reason is this: God was not included in their success. What is success? Joshua followed God’s prescription and gained success in the process. The question is this: who will you follow that has the greatest success rate to date? Looking closely at the Scriptures, one will find that everything God spoke and prophesied was fulfilled to the last detail. Therefore, the choice is between God’s formula for success and man’s formula. I believe the debate is over because God has the obvious secret for success. And if you ask my opinion on the matter, I know that it works because I always experience it first-hand. Remember, God never lies and he does not intend to or He ceases to become God.

Let’s talk again!

Ministry Update: JIL BC

The 17th batch of JIL BC Encounter Retreat just recently concluded this day. Another weekend passed with more or less 5o delegates from the JIL BC Churches. It was a wonderful time of fellowship, God’s word and ministering under God’s presence. Altogether, lives were changed and transformed towards fulfilling their destiny under God’s plan and purpose. Praise the Lord!

Congratulations to all our Pastors and Coordinators including all leaders, workers and the delegates for being where the Lord wants them to be this weekend. Seeing and hearing them testify of what God has done only prove one thing, that is, God is the same yesterday, today and forever! Great is the Lord and His wonderful acts to His people.

Until next time!!!

Ministry Update: Meeting Days

These upcoming two weeks will filled with meetings with JIL USA and Canada Pastors using the facility of the JIL Prayer House and Retreat Center in Mission, BC. It will be days spent for strategizing and cascading of the direction and goals for 2009-2010 or even beyond. Simply put, a time well spent to fulfill the JIL MVV for USA and Canada.

I am looking forward in meeting the Pastors for a very fruitful time of exchanging ideas, providing inputs and outputs for the common desire of saturating cities for Jesus. I believe that it will be an important meeting to set the tone for the next move towards church-planting and leadership development for these countries. It is a great time to be seeing what will unfold after these meeting days…..Great things are ahead for sure!!!!

Better Things

As the world totter in crisis nowadays, we can only hope for better things in the horizon. Everything that goes down and touches bottom has only one direction but to go up. Have we touched bottom yet? How can it be when we still hear news about companies like GM considering filing for bankruptcy and many others experiencing the squeeze as well in their own businesses? Should we be concern and begin to panic? We can glean from biblical principles to find solace and encouragement in these times of crisis. One of the many popular verses comes from Matthew 6:25-34:

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV)

Read it carefully and one will find specific instruction that deals with the daily concerns of life’s basic needs. It has provided simple but workable solutions to what ails humanity at its core, i.e., worry and fear. Jesus described it as unjustified and unnecessary when we reflect carefully on some simple illustrations of care that God has done to other created beings in our planet. We will lose sight of what God has done in the past and what He will do today and tomorrow when we surround fill ourselves with unbelief and doubt. The outlook of better things is hindered by our “little faith.” Thus, we see worst things and hopelessness rather than holding on to God’s promises of better things.

One very clear reminder is to stop worrying about tomorrow when today is already full. Here’s something to consider as written by Reynolds Dodson in Reader's Digest, June, 1992 as the rules for crisis management:

1. Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.
2. Look first, and then act.
3. When you do act, act aggressively.
4. Seek help.
5. Don't get locked on a detail.
6. No matter how bad things get, be truthful.
7. Look for the silver lining.

The silver lining can never be found on our own ways and means. When we have exhausted all means possible and still nothing happened favoring our way. Then it is time to apply the biblical principle stated above, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” Let it become a proven principle when applied deliberately and consistently in our daily life.

Remember that crises are part of our life and they are here to stay whether we like it or not. However, we have a choice in dealing with them that includes God in the equation or to depend on our own ways and know-how. God guarantees His words and promises with complete success especially when we obey His will completely and faithfully at all times. Otherwise, we will be left with uncertainties without any guarantees but more anxieties. Being anchored in God’s promises might be the best option at this time of crisis, pandemics, political upheavals and many other related events. Trust God more than anything else in his world and you are in a very good hands. If you remember the Sunday school song that says, “He’s got the whole world in His hands” then everything will always be better ahead.

Let’s talk again!

CHANGE

Change is a word that majority of people does not want to hear or experience. Why not? It is because change will either bring favorable or unfavorable consequence to the person concerned. How are we to respond to change whenever it comes our way? I want to propose this simple solution: Get ready for it! Change is an inevitable fact of life. It is what defines every situation both small and huge. Many have used it as their slogan and still many desires it to occur in their lifetime. Many aspire for change and it cannot be stopped from happening when the right time comes. It will be like an unstoppable flood that will sweep away everything in its path.

Let me share the story of Mercedes Benz to give us a glimpse of how mode of transportation changed because of a vision of one man: “In 1886, Karl Benz drove his first automobile through the streets of Munich, Germany. He named his car the Mercedes Benz, after his daughter, Mercedes. The machine angered the citizens, because it was noisy and scared the children and horses. Pressured by the citizens, the local officials immediately established a speed limit for "horseless carriages" of 3.5 miles an hour in the city limits and 7 miles an hour outside. Benz knew he could never develop a market for his car and compete against horses if he had to creep along at those speeds, so he invited the mayor of the town for a ride. The mayor accepted. Benz then arranged for a milkman to park his horse and wagon on a certain street and, as Benz and the mayor drove by, to whip up his old horse and pass them--and as he did so to give the German equivalent of the Bronx cheer. The plan worked. The mayor was furious and demanded that Benz overtake the milk wagon. Benz apologized but said that because of the ridiculous speed law he was not permitted to go any faster.” Very soon after that the law was changed. 

You see, if there was no change, we will not experience all of this sophisticated technology and breakthroughs in the past century. Yet changes are still happening with breakneck speed. Just begin to browse through any scientific magazine and you will discover new things being invented and introduced. One of which if not the greatest change is the mode of communication that people are enjoying through email, text, phone and the internet with many possible ways of communication. Every aspect of life is experiencing changes and many are not coping up well with it. One reason that I can think of is their fear of change. No matter what our apprehensions might be, changes are here to take place, sooner or later.

What needs to be maintained even in the midst of all these changes is our relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. Hebrews 13:8 states that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (NIV) It is a truth that will stand the test of time. Furthermore, Hebrews 13:5 provides an everlasting truth of God’s never-ending presence "…Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (NIV) We can hold on to this truth even if everything around us changes. Our family members may change but God will not towards us and especially to those that are faithful to Him.

Here is another basis of God’s never-ending love for His people as Lamentations 3:21-22 states, “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.“(NIV) We can rest on these words spoken thousands of years ago for today and tomorrow. The rapid change of our society will only continue no matter what but God will remain the same. Therefore, our faith in His word and promise must never be affected by the changes we experience externally. Remain steadfast and unmovable in our commitment and faith in God’s ability to bring us to our destiny and His will for our lives. As one Sunday school song declares, “Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so.” Never lose sight of this fact and no matter what changes arise, God never change!

Let’s talk again!

RIGHT WORDS

There is a Chinese saying which carries the meaning that "A speech will either prosper or ruin a nation." Many relationships break off because of wrong speech. When a couple is too close with each other, we always forget mutual respect and courtesy. We may say anything without considering if it would hurt the other party. Here's a simple story to illustrate such a situation: A friend and her millionaire husband visited their construction site. A worker who wore a helmet saw her and shouted," Hi, Emily! Remember me? We used to date in the secondary school." On the way home, her millionaire husband teased her, "Luckily you married me. Otherwise you will be the wife of a construction worker." She answered ,"You should appreciate that you married me. Otherwise, he will be the millionaire and not you." Frequently exchanging these remarks plants the seed for a bad relationship. It will only yield endless arguments and hurt feelings. It's like a broken egg - cannot be reversed. In order to learn the proper application of right words, we must hold fast to the biblical principles in regards to it:

• Proverbs 10:19, When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.
• Proverbs 12:18, Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
• Proverbs 16:21 The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.
• Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
• Proverbs 17:27 A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered.
  

Let us keep in mind that words cannot be taken back, even if desired to. Therefore, if you do not have anything good to say, stay quiet until you do. Furthermore, the best way to make sure that the words spoken are appropriate is to think hard and long before speaking. Rights words must be formed in order to build up people most of the time. It is by using constructive criticisms with an intention to promote the development and growth of the person involved. Words were designed to express the thoughts and intents of the person. Without it, there will never be relationships and ideas developed. Just think that dreams and visions need to be articulated by the right words to inspire people. Revolutions and movements were started by charismatic leaders with eloquent speeches; and the rise and fall of a leader were determined by its great rhetoric during rallies. Many more have been indirectly and directly affected by words spoken. But most importantly, belief systems like Christianity were started by the words of Jesus when He spoke of the Kingdom of God and His words were written by many to provide timeless education for our betterment in our relationship with God and others.

As much as speaking the right words reverberates across history, speaking the wrong words has the same effect with an opposite consequence that has plunge the world into wars and destruction. Thus, one can choose the right or wrong words to say to receive a right or wrong response and a right or wrong action. Here's an important reminder: control your tongue and never be controlled by it! Failure to do so will always bring unnecessary troubles. Guaranteed!

What I have shared to you in this article are words that I want to contribute to your success with your very important other and others in your life including your boss, children, teachers, government employees, police officers, pastors and priests to name a few. We all know how saying the right words deliver favors and blessing but the wrong words have the opposite outcome.

Now that I have given you some things to think about, make a firm decision to use the right words wisely to benefit others primarily and to secure some for yourself in the process. You will like what you will hear from people in response to your right words. Do not forget the biblical saying, 'what you sow is what you reap." Speak great things and expect great things; speak bad things and they will come as fast as they can!

Let's talk again!

Missed Opportunities

The story is told by Peter Kreeft of an immigrant family on a ship from Europe to America. They were poor, so poor that they had to spend almost all of their money on the ticket. What they had left over for food was only enough to buy bread and cheese. All they ate were cheese sandwiches. The young boy, Hans, said to his father, "Dad, please, give me some money for an ice cream cone. I hate cheese sandwiches!" His father said, "Son, we are poor. Cheese sandwiches will keep you alive until we reach New York; the streets are made of gold, and we will eat whatever we want." Not satisfied, Hans continued to beg for money so his father gave him some change for an ice cream cone. The boy disappeared and didn't come back for two hours. When he did come back he sported a big fat tummy and a huge smile on his face. "Hans, did you get your ice cream cone?" "You bet, Dad. And then another one, then a steak, and then apple pie." "What? You bought all that with the money I gave you" "Oh no, Dad. It is free! It comes with the ticket!"

If we analyze this true story, we can reach various conclusions. Obviously, this immigrant family did not realize that the food comes with the ticket. Perhaps they were misinformed or they had trouble speaking the language. Were they quiet and shy, not wishing to mix with the other passengers? Whatever the case, they missed out on some great food.

Somebody said, "Four things come not back, — the spoken word, the sped arrow, the past life, and the neglected opportunity." Many have missed obvious opportunities because they were simply not aware that it was what they were waiting for. Looking far ahead when it is clearly staring us in the face is a common occurrence among many people. But the majority just give up altogether and surrendered to "que sera, sera" mentality. They would argue that it is useless and wishful thinking. That's why, many have been overtaken by others' keen aggressiveness and unyielding determination to pursue opportunities and open doors.

The book of Revelation shares an important insight, "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open." (Revelation 3:7, NIV) This verse provides us a timely reminder of how we should view the events and opportunities that come our way. When we begin to think about it, it is either we force our way into every opportunity with a "hit and miss" experience or look at every situation whether positive or negative as an opportunity and see results. However, if we will allow and trust in God's ability to open the opportunities for us, I believe we will go through life without any struggles whatsoever. But bear in mind that I am not endorsing a laid back mindset like the story of Juan Tamad and the guava fruit. While he was able to reach easily and pluck the fruit but because he was lazy, he decided to just wait patiently for the fruit to fall right into his waiting open mouth.

You might find this a funny story but believe it or not, there are many that have adopted this kind of attitude. They patiently wait for an opportunity to come at their door when in fact; every aspect of life has one already waiting for us to grab it. The ability to distinguish what is a right opportunity from a wrong one is clearly marked. Yet many have opted to go the wrong way due to narrow-mindedness and utter desperation. Remember that a gloomy perspective dulls the ability to see great opportunities. Therefore, aim to change the way you see things that nothing is impossible to those who believe in God because with God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). And this is optimism at the highest level. What are you waiting for? Never look at you circumstance but look towards God instead.

Let's talk again!

Worship Service as Angels See it!

Hmnnnnn.....

After the ministry trip from Europe, it's time to get back to ministry work in British Columbia, Canada. The recent Encounter Retreat 2 weeks ago was a huge success with more or less 65 delegates from JIL BC Churches. Right after was the Area Pastor's Meeting of JIL Canada in Mission, BC for a week. There were many new things discussed and reviewed past discussions as well. The JIL BC Prayer Gathering was held last Friday. Unfortunately, we were not able to attend due to the Pastors' Meeting. Just last Saturday, a water baptism was held with 45 candidates that publicly declared their commitment to the Lordship of Jesus Christ over their lives. Most of them were Encounter attendees.

Altogether, it was an immensely exciting time to see these things happening with the JIL people and churches. The ministry continues to grow as we fulfill the tasks we have received. One key component of doing ministry is the accompanying joy in seeing God's favor and blessing manifesting as we faithfully do His work.

This year, we have just begun to see great and mighty things that will overflow in all aspects of our lives. Let's continue to believe this year as an overflowing year of God's blessings!

God bless us all!!!

Just got back..

Finally arrived from the misson trip last Wednesday...Feeling a bit tired and trying to rest for a while before going back to ministry in BC, Canada.

Side note: This weekend is the 1st JIL 12 Encounter of JIL BC for this year and we have 66 delegates. Praise the Lord!

In the past three days, I just laid back and were adjusting from the jet lag. The mission trip in Europe was a huge sucess and I will share some of the updates next time.....Bye for now....

Ministry Updates -Mission Trip JIL France

For more updates on this trip, please click this link: www.jilbc.blogspot.com/2009/03/ministry-updates-mission-trip-jil.html

God bless!

Mission Trip Update- JIL France

Please click the title or this link: www.jilbc.blogspot.com/2009/03/mission-trip-update-jil-france.html

Until next update......God bless!

JIL BC Singles Gala Night

Please click the title or this link to go to the update of this activity last night:
www.jilbc.blogspot.com/2009/03/singles-gala.html

God bless!!!

JIL BC Prayer Gathering

If you want to know what happened in this event last night.... just click the title and it will bring you there...Have fun and God bless!!!!

AGM -JIL BC Leadership

Last Saturday, a special meeting was held to present the 2008 JIL BC status to the JIL BC Leadership from the different churches from 1:00-5:00pm at the JIL Vancouver Church. Pastors and Church Coordinators were there as well.

During this time, important updates were presented and everyone was provided the needed information to fulfill their respective tasks given for the year 2009. Having this kind of gathering allows the whole organization to focus on the future by looking back at what happened in the past and improved from it.

Like many other organization, it needs a direction to pursue its given mandate. People will become more productive when given the opportunity to see what needs to be done. It is this kind of perspective that makes it work towards desired success.

Thanks for all those who accepted the challenge for this year to serve with us and become partners in doing God's work. Your contribution makes it easy for all of us. Let us continue to do so with excitement for the fruit of our labors is waiting.

You are God's blesssing to the JIL Church!

The Wonder of God’s Love

John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (NIV)

Here’s the evidence of God’s love manifested towards humanity, He sent Jesus Christ when he should not have. Just because we were created does not mean we can obligate God as the Creator to do everything for us. Looking back, He placed Adam and Eve in a Garden and provided everything they need to live. But they disobeyed Him. While God provided everything for them they returned the favor the opposite way. But in spite of their disobedience, our Creator did everything in order to provide humanity an opportunity to return to Him. Ever since that fateful day in the Garden of Eden, God has been waiting for the right moment to fulfill His promise he gave to Adam and Eve. Thus, when the right time came, the greatest love story ever told was fulfilled not just in words but in Jesus’ coming on earth from heaven. It was the fulfillment of what God foretold after Adam and Eve sinned through disobeying God’s command not to eat of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil at the Garden of Eden. God patiently waited for the right time and generation to send Jesus to fulfill His promise to Adam and Eve. Why? It was because God could not bear to lose the crown jewel of His creation; fashioned by His own hands while others were created only through His words. And though He could have forsaken man because of its offense against Him and leave them to its consequences, He could not. But instead, He continuously provided many ways and means for man to reach Him using willing vessels to speak His heart. Sin has destroyed the relationship between God and man but God did not give up while man continued its destructive sinful path. Yet, there were those who called on God and received His grace and mercy but the majority just ignored God and went their own way.

This is the wonder of God’s love: just as any parent would do everything for their child, God goes beyond and exerted over and above to prove man’s eternal value. Each and every day, God’s faithfulness is revealed as the sun rises and sets consistently. God’s love towards humanity never ceased. As Lamentations 3:22-23 states, “Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (NIV) What more should God do to prove His love towards humanity when He sent His only Son Jesus to die in our behalf. Moreover, he died while we were yet sinners because we cannot come to the ideal place of being righteous thus God did what He can to open the door of opportunity for us to experience first-hand the wonder of God’s love in our lives.

That’s why, if and when somebody asked how God loves us so, just show them that Jesus Christ stretched out His two hands and aligned His feet and was nailed to the cross to prove His love for us. Many have died as a martyr for their country but would not willingly die for a sinner. Jesus did not die for good people but for sinners like us. And this is the wonder of God’s love towards us. It is unfathomable and mind-boggling to think that Jesus would do such a thing. Yet again, this is the wonder of God’s love.
In all of these things, we need to reflect our way of showing our love for God in how we live our life daily. God’s love produces forgiveness, regeneration of life, sanctification and many others that causes us to reproduce the effect of His love towards others we meet. Bear in mind that the manifestation of God’s love was not without any sacrifice and Jesus became the reality of God’s love. Therefore when we receive Jesus in our life as our Lord and Savior, we unconditionally accept God’s love through His one and only begotten Son.

Let’s talk again!

Hmnnnnn.....

When we choose to ignore the pleas of those that cannot speak for themselves, their blood will cry out to God like Abel of old. Here's a 12 year old girl speaking out for the unborn who were not born because of abortion:

Singles' Summit

This past weekend, the JIL British Columbia Churches gathered to attend the first Singles' Summit. It was a whole day last Saturady from 9;00am-6:00pm complete with topics that provided them guidelines for Christian Love and Courtship, Dating and Marriage and Sexual Purity. The assigned speakers for that day were, Ptr Monette Navo, Ptr Loiue Figueroa, Ptr Ronnie Colocado and myself. If you are interested in what happened, please visit: http://www.jilbc.blogspot.com/ and scroll down February 21 with 5 part entry of Genis Misola. Altogether, it was great! I have inserted these nice pictures as well.....

Ministry Update: JIL LA

Hello!

Just came from a one-week trip from JIL Los Angeles and met with our brethren there weeknights from Monday to Friday. It was a very fruitful time sharing the vision and challenging them to see the huge potential of where they are. Truly, it was such an important trip to be at. The harvest is truly plentiful and we thank the Lord for the JIL people that responds with faith in their hearts to see the vision fulfilled in their local community. Just imagine the potential of 88 cities in LA County alone. That's a huge opportunity to see JIL Churches, Outreaches and Bible Study groups planted in each of them. Therefore, let us keep praying for God's open door as we begin to conquer these cities for Jesus and declare that Jesus Is Lord over Los Angeles!

A Love Story

One day, I woke early in the morning to watch the sunrise. Ah the beauty of God's creation is beyond description. As I watched, I praised God for His beautiful work. As I sat there, I felt the Lord's presence with me.

He asked me, "Do you love me?" I answered, "Of course, God! You are my Lord and Saviour!" Then He asked, "If you were physically handicapped, would you still love me?"

I was perplexed. I looked down upon my arms, legs and the rest of my body and wondered how many things I wouldn't; be able to do, the things that I took for granted.

And I answered, "It would be tough Lord, but I would still love You."Then the Lord said, "If you were blind, would you still love my creation?"

How could I love something without being able to see it? Then I thought of all the blind people in the world and how many of them still loved God and His creation.

So I answered, "Its hard to think of it, but I would still love you." The Lord then asked me, "If you were deaf, would you still listen to my word?"

How could I listen to anything being deaf? Then I understood. Listening to God's Word is not merely using our ears, but our hearts. I answered, "It would be tough, but I would still listen to Your word."

The Lord then asked, "If you were mute, would you still praise My Name?"

How could I praise without a voice? Then it occurred to me: God wants us to sing from our very heart and soul. It never matters what we sound like. And praising God is not always with a song, but when we are persecuted, we give God praise with our words of thanks.
So I answered, "Though I could not physically sing, I would still praise Your Name.

And the Lord asked, "Do you really love Me?"

With courage and a strong conviction, I answered boldly,"Yes Lord! I love You because You are the one and true God!"
I thought I had answered well, but... God asked, "THEN WHY DO YOU SIN?"

I answered, "Because I am only human. I am not perfect." "THEN WHY IN TIMES OF PEACE DO YOU STRAY THE FURTHEST? WHY ONLY IN TIMES OF TROUBLE DO YOU PRAY THE EARNEST?"

No answers. Only tears. The Lord continued:

"Why only sing at fellowships and retreats? Why seek Me only in times of worship? Why ask things so selfishly? Why ask things so unfaithfully?"

The tears continued to roll down my cheeks.

"Why are you ashamed of Me? Why are you not spreading the good news? Why in times of persecution, you cry to others when I offer My shoulder to cry on? Why make excuses when I give you opportunities to serve in My Name?"

I tried to answer, but there was no answer to give.

"You are blessed with life. I made you not to throw this gift away. I have blessed you with talents to serve Me, but you continue to turn away. I have revealed My Word to you, but you do not gain in knowledge. I have spoken to you but your ears were closed. I have shown My blessings to you, but your eyes were turned away. I have sent you servants, but you sat idly by as they were pushed away. I have heard your prayers and I have answered them all."
"DO YOU TRULY LOVE ME ?"

I could not answer. How could I? I was embarrassed beyond belief. I had no excuse. What could I say to this? When my heart had cried out and the tears had flowed, I said, " Please forgive me Lord. I am unworthy to be Your child."

The Lord answered, " That is My Grace, My child."

I asked, " Then why do you continue to forgive me? Why do You love me so?"
The Lord answered, " Because you are My creation. You are my child. I will never abandon you.
When you cry, I will have compassion and cry with you. When you shout with joy, I will laugh with you. When you are down, I will encourage you. When you fall, I will raise you up. When you are tired, I will carry you. I will be with you till the end of days, and I will love you forever."

Never had I cried so hard before. How could I have been so cold? How could I have hurt God as I had done? I asked God, "How much do You love me?"

The Lord stretched out His arms, and I saw His nail-pierced hands. I bowed down at the feet of Christ, my Savior. And for the first time, I truly prayed.

Author Unknown.

Hmnnnnn.....

The latest buzz around the religious or non religious as the case may be was the 800 London bus advertisement of the Atheist/Freethinkers movement as seen here stating "There is probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy life." When I've watched the video of how it started, it was from reading some scripture verses posted in a website about "Jesus died for our sin and about hell. "They were encouraged to to do the same thing and presented their view in a way that will surely be noticed. It did. And many reacted negatively about it. Through this, Christianity needs to beef up its own presentation of the Scripture and study to defend its belief. Let it awaken us to the fact that there are many movement out to defeat Christianity at its core. By inserting "probably" at the middle of "There is no God" provokes any reader with something to think about. This is a good way to spark a healthy debate if we will focus on the probability of God's existence. Although as the Atheist/Freethinker is concern, the probability is at the lowest percentage. Nonetheless, let us use it to evaluate our own belief as well. Would anyone out there accept the challenge of proving in the highest probability that there is God?

Watch below what they say:

Hmnnnnn.....

Time flies by so quickly. January is almost over in a few days. And this is the reality of life: that no one could be able to stop time from passing by whatever we might try to do. Doing nothing or doing many things does not matter when time is concern. It is constant. What should we do must be to make the most of every opportunity we have when we are given time. It comes to us fresh daily and we must plan to make the most of it. That's why, a decision must be made for its wise use. C'mon, let time be your greatest asset not liability. It was given to know that we are mere mortals. Whether we are ready or not, a time is coming when "our time is up!" Will you be ready then to face eternity?

MAKE YOUR MARK

Are you aware that every action and decision you make today contributes to your future history? If not, then begin to act and decide accordingly for future generations to remember you by. Although you may or may not become known worldwide yet the most important place of history is your family. How would your family remember you during reunions and special gatherings? Let me share a story to illustrate this point: “The children of a well-to-do family decided to give their father a book containing their family's history for a birthday present. They commissioned a professional biographer to write the book, carefully cautioning him about the family's "black sheep"--their Uncle George had been executed in the electric chair for murder, and they felt that it would be best if the biographer left Uncle George out of the book. "No need to do that," said the biographer. "I can report the situation in such a way that there will be no embarrassment to your father or to you. I'll merely write that Uncle George occupied a chair of applied electronics at an important government institution. He was attached to his position by the strongest ties, and his death came as a real shock."

How would a biographer write about your life? Would he have to disguise the truth? What do you think people might say about you after you die? Answering questions like these will help you recognize and evaluate the kind of life you're living right now. Life is too short to be wasted in frivolous things that do not quantify quality contributions to a wholesome life. One may say that life should be enjoyed to the fullest. That’s very true! But at what point of your life will you consider making serious and meaningful contribution to maximize your existence. Each individual must begin to see their purpose and fulfill it with utmost significance and unreserved devotion.

There is a time of reckoning and the Bible teaches us that when you die, there's nothing else you can do to get ready to meet God as Hebrews 9:27 states, “Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.” (NIV) This will be the place and time to know the significance of every action done and it won't matter what people write about you or say about you to make you look good (or look better than you actually were). An Italian proverb states, “Once the game is over, the king and the pawn go back into the same box.” God knows all about you, and you will be judged by him at the appointed time.

Thus, the measurement of one’s task and ability must not be compared with others. When we do, we will sure to experience frustration and disappointment. Do not even try compete with others. We have only ourselves to compete with. If you want to guarantee success, adopt godly principles to achieve what we desire to do and intend to become. God’s word is filled with instructions to guide us in accomplishing our destiny and to reach our full potential. On the other hand, the world’s principles are too selfish leaning towards self-satisfaction. Consider Jesus when He chose to follow His Father’s will; assumed human nature to become the Savior of humanity. And even after more than 2000 years He is followed by more than a billion people in the planet today. Think about this for a moment, Jesus did not even write a single book but books have been written about Him. He fully obeyed God’s will in His life and fulfilled His destiny. Somebody said, “Destiny is determined not by chances but by choices.”

Begin to evaluate your situation right now and consider your next move. Whoever you are now is an opportunity to make the choices that will last an eternity. King David of Israel was described in Acts 13:36 like this, "For when David had served God's purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep he was buried with his fathers and his body decayed.” (NIV) Will you serve God’s purpose in this life you have now, for this generation and the next?

Hmnnnnn.....

One thing is always sure when serving the Lord Jesus is the presence of unexpected things. No matter how hard you try to plan, there will be things that will come your way. The most important thing is to allow God's will to take precedence over all aspects of your life. Then you will be free from stress in doing so. The reason being is the constant struggle that we have in order to win over God's plan in our life. Things become difficult when we do. The moment you have decided to place your life in God's hands, just allow Him room to do His will. It is a choice that we need to make as we call Him Lord and Master of our life. Belief is an opportunity to see God at work. It is giving Him the ability to do what we believe Him to do. Thus, the level of faith you have in Him will be the level of revelation that we will see of Him. He does not go beyond. Consequently, the more you give is the same measurement of what you receive. I have decided to follow Jesus not blindly but with a deep sense of reality based on God's word and the overwhelming evidence of God's creation all around me. It is a sure evidence locked with God's imprint. I cannot live my life based on chance. Would you?

Hmmmnnnn......

Let me see....there is a sense of excitement that I feel for this year 2009. It is the "Year of Overflow" and I believe that it is so! This is the great thing about seeing with the eyes of faith what God has promised to do for those who believe Him. It is the ability to see things as God sees it. The world's principle is this: to see is to believe; but when you believe in God's word and His principles, you have already seen it! The Psalmist even declared it in Psalms 34:8b, "Taste and see that the Lord is good." The spiritual sense of taste is quickened that provides the tickle of excitement towards the future. I am just waiting for the manifestation in the physical what I've seen alreay in the spiritual. Keep declaring your overflow daily and see what will happen next. Just be ready!!!!!

Reflections…..

This New Year brings new things in all aspects. One of which is the start of the JIL Canada National Day of Prayer and Fasting every Friday. To which we have started it from 6pm Thursday until 6pm Friday. Altogether, it was great because I know that I was part of the network from across JIL Canada that made this appointment. That itself provided me an inspiration to become excited about it. It went well for me though I do not know about the others. Prayer and fasting is a spiritual discipline first and foremost. It is to connect to God through abstinence for a certain period of time from physical food. But the main benefit of it is to restrict your physical appetite to allow the spiritual appetite to be stirred to pray, worship and read God's word. This is necessary to retain our focus in our spiritual life. However, there are many who do this on a regular basis even for an extended period of time. JIL Canada has declared that this is the "Year of Overflow" and we need to fill ourselves with spiritual things through prayer and fasting for manifestations of overflow to occur. Nothing overflows with an empty cup! Keep being filled with God's things and you will sure to overflow to others around you and with you. Begin to make an decision to seek and you will find. Get started now!!!!