Ana Menez

November 16, 2018November 16, 2018

Things You Should Know about the Love of God

In Jeremiah 9:24, God Himself tells us what counts for Him as an accomplishment. He says, “Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.” God is love, He is all love, but He is not solely love alone. There is more to the person of God other than that He is love and the very essence of it.

God desires that we know Him for all that He is. In Psalm 46:10, He tells us to stop striving and know that He is God. He is ever revealing Himself to man and it is sad that on many occasions, man only processes truths about God that He deems convenient for His situation and personal motivations.

Knowing God does not stop at the point of salvation. The pursuit of Christianity is not just to know God as Creator God and Christ the Messiah for our salvation. (John 17:3). Colossians 1:10 teaches us that as God’s children we are to increase in the knowledge of God. Discovering more about God, His character, what He desires to accomplish, what pleases Him; all these things about Him should be the interest and curiosity of every one who calls himself a child of God.

Acts 17:27 reveals the heart of God in all that He does. It says, “God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us.” That God would be so mindful of us should drive us to our knees in amazement and gratitude. He will be gracious on whom He desires to show grace and, praise God! For He has chosen us to be recipients of that grace.

How much do we love Him really? How interested are we in Him? Indeed, God’s love keeps drawing us to Himself. But Christian, your love for Him should keep you drawing close to Him, ever desiring to really know more about Him. And to truly love God is to actually make the effort to open the pages of the Scriptures, where He reveals Himself.

As you ponder on the thoughts shared in this article, may the worship song, “To my knees”, penned by Hillsong Worship be a helpful meditation song to listen to. Here are the lyrics:

In the Saviour’s love,

I find joy beyond compare;

Endless peace covers all of me.

When You breathe within,

You turn winter into spring;

Grace dissolves every fear in me.

In my vacant heart,

Lord You came and made a home;

You bring light to the dark in me.

When I lose my way,

I am beckoned into grace;

You alone are my everything.

Your Love brings me to my knees,

Brings me to my knees;

My King forever.

You are all my heart desires,

Until the end of time;

My soul surrendered.

November 16, 2018November 16, 2018

3 Ways to Shine for Christ

The Lord Jesus tells us that we are the light of the world. We are a light meant for people to see and benefit from. To drive home the point, He even said that people do not “light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” (Matthew 5:14,15) We are light. We are to shed light for Christ. We are to bring the light of Christ to the people He puts us in contact with.

There are many ways to shine for Christ. Hee are three ways:

Do Good.

In Matthew 5:16 Jesus tells us to “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” To shine for Christ is to do good to others. This day and age has brought forth an abundance of scammers and deceivers in society. It seems no one sees good Samaritans anymore and even if you genuinely want to do good, cautious people will be suspicious. But we are to do good anyway. Indeed, we may be the only Christ people will ever see. In doing good, we introduce Christ to people. We forge openings for people to get curious about Christ because of the difference they see in our lives.

Life is busy. It is filled with preoccupations and responsibilities. Christians must make time for doing good. God’s children must save energy for doing good for others. Christ followers must keep an eye out for simple day to day opportunities of brightening someone’s day. It may be by helping an old lady get an item way up on a grocery shelf. It may be by retrieving a fallen object for someone who dropped it. It may be by opening or closing a door for somebody.

Give often.

Resources are hard to come by. We need to work hard for the things we need. We need to save up for necessities. But Christians are to be known for generosity. All throughout Acts we can see an overflowing generosity among believers. They gave to God’s work; they gave to others; and people recognized their giving and glorified God in the process. Back then, they were unafraid to give all they had and they were blessed to see God work in miraculous ways to sustain their household.

Today, we may practice responsible and wise giving, but we give all the same. Don’t just spend all you earn on yourself and your family. Purpose in your heart to set aside a definite amount you will spend for the benefit of others outside your home. You may buy a book to help inspire and encourage someone at work. You may get some useful items for a neighbor next door. You may personally bless a regular visitor in church with some treats. You may keep some pre-paid coffee or food vouchers to give away to people you come across with.

Love indiscriminately.

Scriptures tell us to love. In Matthew 5:43,44 Jesus reminds us to love not just our friends but even our enemies. We all have our ideas about love but the kind of love that Jesus talks about here is one that “desires the highest good of another.” All people need to feel the love of God and we can help with that. True, humanly speaking, it will be hard to afford an enemy or offender the same intensity of love we have for someone very dear to us but we must practice Christian love all the same. And we can do that in many ways. We can show patience and mercy instead of lashing out in criticism and rebuke. We can suspend punishment and consequence and allow a wrongdoer the opportunity to amend his ways or make up for the error he has committed. We can choose to speak kindly even if the other person is harsh. We can choose to maintain our cool even if another person is very irritating. We can grant second chances. We can love the lovely and “abrasive” by being good-natured towards them both. We can choose to forfeit opportunities of retaliation or “vindication” and remain “discerningly” accommodating and kind towards those who rub us the wrong way.

November 16, 2018November 16, 2018

Can You Be Trusted?

Nowadays, trust is like a precious commodity people carefully bestow on others. It is a blessing to be given one’s trust on the onset for in today’s system of affairs, you need to gain one’s trust. You need to earn the right to be trusted with responsibilities and privileges. To lose the trust of your boss or loved one would be a big, big blunder because trust lost is often rarely and most difficultly regained. Lose someone’s trust and your integrity may instantly crumble before that person’s eyes.

Trust defined is a “firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something.” In this context, can you, a child of the King, be trusted? Indeed, those who live the faith life must be so for it is an essential mark of godliness. Remember that strength and intellect are not most crucial to obtaining and keeping the trust of others. Trust is less about capabilities and more about character.

Never Overcommit.

It happens. In our eagerness to help, we can offer more than what we can deliver; we can try to do things we aren’t equip to do. Understand that there are better ways to be of assistance. Do what you can and where you are limited, just help direct people to right avenues that will provide solutions to their needs.

Be honest about your failings and learn from them.

It happens. We make mistakes. Often, it is not the mistakes that turn people away from us but the way we handle those mistakes that cause others to trust and regard us less or more. Take responsibility for wrong choices. It is not the excuses or rationalizations that count in people’s ears. Proverbs 24 talks about how the righteous can fall seven times but rise again. So, it is your maturity in accepting your failings and being honest about your limitations that say a lot about your character and trustworthiness.

Speak of what you know and only when you need to.

People like having chats with bubbly, talkative folks. They are entertaining. They are fun to be with. But when it comes to deep, sensitive, and personal issues, people are selective about what they share and with whom they share their personal affairs with. People who look for meaningful conversations gravitate away from potential gossipers and nonsense talkers. Avoid being identified with any of them. Proverbs 10:8 says that a chattering fool comes to ruin. So, be discerning about what you say and who you say your words to. Talk about matters you have knowledge of and never pass suppositions as facts. Be a wise talker and be a wise listener.

You don’t need to be well-endowed with skills and resources to be capable of trust. At any stage and level of life you are in, you can be trusted. And if you are a child of God, walking in the light of His Word, the people that matter will naturally trust you. Know who you are in Christ; be available; be honest about your capabilities and lacking; and always, speak what is true and helpful.

September 24, 2018November 17, 2018

2 Truths About Christian Parenting

A September 24, 2018 article by *Newsweek covered the story of one teenager lost at sea for 49 days. The article begins by saying, “Reading the Bible and remembering the advice of his parents gave a teenager cast adrift on the Pacific the motivation to keep fighting for his life.” Scared, tearful, fearful of death, Aldi Adilang (the teenager talked about) remembered his parents telling him to pray during times of distress. And that he did. More news coverage shared that he remembered his parent’s faith and that Aldi turned to the Bible he had with him during the difficult ordeal. He also sang Christian songs. And he managed to apply survival skills to battle hunger and thirst.

Real life stories like this testify to a lot of truths when it comes to Christian parenting, such as:

Modeling authentic faith before your children is the best thing you can do for your kids.

Authentic faith is never perfect but it’s always true. Living your faith authentically happens by submitting and applying to Scriptural truths you learn as you learn them. Mistakes will happen, yes. Sin will be committed, yes. But genuine faith will move you to grow past those mistakes and to grow stronger as you handle the struggles of sin and its temptations.

To live in all honesty and sincerity before your children, transparent with them even when you fail, and showing them your dependence on the grace of God for victorious Christian living is the best thing you can do for your kids. Why? Because thru your life you show them that living for Christ and pleasing Him is all that possible even when you fail and make mistakes. You also show them that God will support and bless a life lived for Him.

All the efforts you invest into Christian parenting will bear fruit.

Christian parenting is called that way because the way you parent will be different from the norms of society and its worldly, humanly culture. It may be a bit difficult at times because you are rearing a child in a way that both you and your child are “going against the grain” in so many ways. Biblical values differ, attitudes differ, actions and motivations differ; these all differ from the world’s viewpoints. That is Christian parenting.

Proverbs 22:6 says we are to train up a child in the way that he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Provide solid, biblical training to your children and when they grow, those values you’ve instilled in their hearts and minds will come back to them in time of need. The verse does not guarantee that your child will be perfect in all his ways, but it does guarantee that truths will be present to guide him back to rightness. Seek and apply God’s wisdom. Bathe your life and that of your child in prayer. Then, allow the Holy Spirit to work everything out.

Persevere and enjoy Christian parenting. And remember that the call to discipleship starts with yourself, then to your family. You can only lead them to the point where you are spiritually at.

https://www.newsweek.com/teenager-drifts-pacific-ocean-7-weeks-wooden-hut-1135117

August 8, 2018August 8, 2018

3 Ways To Better Communication and Relationships

The author of the book of James (credited to be Jesus’ half-brother) pens for us three ways towards better communication and relationships. In one simple and straightforward verse, Scriptures enlighten us on how to nurture fruitful communication and relationships. James chapter 1 verse 19 says, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”

1. Quick to Hear.

Here, we pose ourselves to listen first and allow the other person to air out his sentiments. In being quick to hear, the intent is to understand first and to form judgments last. In being quick to hear, one becomes open to the possibility that he might be wrong and sees the benefit in listening to what others have to say.

Conversations mostly lead to arguments and shouting matches when no one wants to listen and when both parties keep judging and reacting to statements rather than purposing to understand the cause and context of what’s being said. In being quick to hear, the goal is to discover what is true or to reach a compromise on something that is right and fair to both parties. Conversations fail when no one wants to consider the needs and wishes of another. Conversations never work when one simply wants his own way or when one is closed to other people‘s views. Needless to say, in order to be quick to hear, we must allow the Holy Spirit to rid us of pride and self-centeredness. To be quick to hear, we need to learn humility and to be more considerate and patient with others.

2. Slow to Speak.

Here, we pose ourselves to remain objective and tackle issues with our mind reigning over our emotions. It can be difficult to hold our tongue when there are hurtful or untrue words against us. But, it is more beneficial to delay speaking back until our mind gets a full hold and understanding of what is being communicated to us. In the heat of arguments, a lot of details get lost. Emotions overwhelm both parties and conversations often lead to blaming and rehashing old hurts. More rift is created and things end up farther from resolution.

In being slow to speak, the goal is to respond with words that bring understanding and clarity to the issues being tackled. To be slow to speak is to take account of the words we choose to use in order to deal with the matter at hand. To be slow to speak is to avoid sharing thoughts that have no relevance to the present matter. To be slow to speak is to maintain awareness and care that we don’t just react with hurtful and retaliatory words. To be slow to speak is to desire understanding to hopefully take place.

3. Slow to Become Angry.

Even with great care, consideration, and patience, not all discussions end well. Not all relational conflicts resolve in an instant, hence, the need to be slow to anger. Declare your views, explain your side. Make an effort to bring clarity. Seek to right any wrong on your part. What’s important is you’ve done what you could to communicate and resolve conflicts. Rightness needs no constant explaining or convincing. Let the matter go and choose to allow the other person to maintain his own view. Choose “not” to resent. In time, what is right and true will be made plain. And even if they don’t, at least you know then which relationships are good to keep and which are best to let go.

Also, there are times when it’s okay to end with opposing views. Not all people think alike and it’s okay. Don’t desire people to agree with you all the time. Don’t desire your own way all the time. Understand that you can’t always be right. Know that your ways are not always the best ways. Be mindful of this and you will experience growth in your communication and relationship skills.

July 30, 2018January 15, 2024

3 Christian-Themed Films To Consider This 2018

While Hollywood has produced a good share of well-made movies that are clearly Christian through-and-through (A Man For All Seasons, The Passion of the Christ), it has also produced countless other gems that are deeply Christian at their core despite not looking so on the surface.

After a long week of school, corporate office, or church ministry duties, you may favor watching films to unload the stress or just relieve your body of tiredness. Here are some Christian-themed titles for you to consider:

The Riot And The Dance

It’s also popularly known as Planet Earth. This is a nature documentary shared with us by Biologist, Dr. Gordon Wilson. Enjoy a variety of awe-striking nature and wildlife footage. This cinematic exploration may cause you to stop and pause in adoration of our great Creator God. Part 1 came out on March 19 with Part 2 set for a 2019 release. Get more info and watch the official trailer here.

Here are some notable feedbacks on the film:

John Piper, the founder of DesiringGod.org, said, “My wife and I loved it.”

Timothy G. Standish, a Ph.D. Senior Scientist Geoscience Research Institute, commented, “If your world has faded to black and white, The Riot and the Dance is the cure for colorblindness.”

Ken Ham, Founder and President of Answers in Genesis, said, “The stunning cinematography and explanations of God’s design will leave you giving our awesome Creator the praise He deserves.”

Paul, Apostle of Christ

The film retells the story of Luke the physician and the Apostle Paul, whom he visits in Rome during the latter’s imprisonment. The time is set during the reign of Nero who was then determined towards getting rid of Christians everywhere. Basing content from Scriptures, you will see Paul and Luke’s struggle depicted including the persecution of the Christian Church. Expect some deviations of course, as embellishments and extra-biblical rendering is often the norm when Christian accounts are turned into a film.

The cast includes Jim Caviezel (The Passion of The Christ), James Faulkner (Downton Abbey), Olivier Martinez (S.W.A.T.), Joanne Whalley (A.D. The Bible Continues), and John Lynch (The Secret Garden).

The film came out on March 23 with digital viewing for release on June 12. A Blu-ray and DVD release is also scheduled for June 19. Get more info and watch the official trailer here.

I Can Only Imagine

“I Can Only Imagine” is a beloved worship song that has impacted church people all over the globe. Matt Ballard, lead singer of MercyMe crafted the song in a matter of minutes but it took a lifetime of God’s crafting on his heart for it to reach a place of wondering about God and pursuit of Him. The film retells the lesson-filled life of Bart from a young age, touching on his broken relationship with an abusive father. It tells how he was encouraged and guided towards a musical pathway.

Here are some notable feedbacks on the film:

Jim Ward of USA Today found it “both beautiful and emotionally powerful.”

MovieGuide believes “Directors Andrew and Jon Erwin ”¦ deliver their most resonant, effective movie yet.”

Amy Grant said, “In the amazing new movie I CAN ONLY IMAGINE, there is an overarching story of redemption. And the beauty of the story of God’s redemption is: everybody can be included!”

The film came out on March 16. The DVD, Blu-ray, and Digital release are on June 12. Get more info and watch the official trailer here.

July 2, 2018August 9, 2018

The Significance of the Wild Boars Thai Soccer Team Rescue to Believers Today

Thailand Cave Rescue The Science Behind Thailand's Unstable Caves

Like other after-soccer practice times, the 12 kids of Wild Boars Thai soccer team entered the Tham Luang Cave together with the team’s assistant coach. The Tham Luang cave is deemed “one of the longest caves in Thailand. It cuts into a mountainside near the border with Myanmar.” An outside signage warns visitors not to enter between July to November (the monsoon or flooding season).

It was June 23, 2018, a full week away from the rains. The group planned to stay for just an hour. One of the team members was about to celebrate a birthday. Some thought they might have planned to keep up with local tradition in which boys etched their names on the cave wall as a rite of passage. The sudden rain caught them by surprise. It was unexpected. That the rainwaters rapidly filled and flooded the cave was even more surprising. The group had to go farther into the cave to find a safe, dry ground. They would stay there until the “D-Day” came upon them on July 9.

An international rescue effort achieved the impossible. The challenge was to extract a group located 4 kilometers deep into the cave through hours of deep diving in pitch black, muddy water. One spot had only reportedly about 15 inches of crawling space. The deep dive out will take hours and most of the team members didn’t know how to swim. Over an hour of walking over a steep slope would follow and it was highly doubtful the kids could accomplish that.

Local authorities invited skilled and professional British and Australian divers and one doctor for collaborative efforts. This was considered an impossible feat. The odds were highly against them. The danger and requirements were so great. Even with great expertise, a Thai Navy Seal lost his life in the early stages of the rescue. Everyone on the force looks back with utmost relief and surprise that all 12 children and the 25-year old assistant coach were rescued out of the cave.

The world kept close watch as the 18 days of ordeal unfolded into an extraordinary success. Some who didn’t believe in prayer tweeted about “adopting a God and prayed just to help better the odds for the team.” Some locals and authorities reportedly prayed to the Hindu God of Rain to withhold waters so that rescuers desperately pumping out water from the cave wouldn’t have to deal with further complications. On the third and final day of rescue, the official Facebook page of the Thai Navy SEALs said: “We are not sure if this is a miracle, a science, or what. All the 13 Wild Boars are now out of the cave. Everyone is safe”.

This extraordinary tale is an encouragement to Christians everywhere. A reading on an online synopsis of this miraculous account is recommended. Read and realize once more that God is still in the business of doing miracles. Anyone, anywhere can be an instrument of His miraculous, divine workings, whether they believe and perceive Him or not.

This extraordinary tale is also an eye opener to Christians everywhere. The world remains lost. Hopes are misplaced on people and false Gods. Somewhere out there, someone needs to have his eyes opened to the identity of the One True God.

Hopefully, those Christians who knew about this incident joined in prayer for the rescue of the Wild Boars team. It’s a sad indication of indifference if a believer’s heart was not touched enough to pause from their personal affairs and make intercession for them. Not praying could also be a sad indication of one’s unbelief in the miraculous workings of God. God is not dead. True faith in Him is not in vain. Only in Him is enduring hope that bears fruit in this life and in the next.

June 17, 2018November 17, 2018

Loving the Life You Are Living

Man can overlook the preciousness of life. Minutes that turn to hours, hours that turn to days; one can easily spend them on trivial pursuits and activities. The young and distracted may feel he has loads of time and strength. The old and burned out may feel he has little strength and lose interest in doing anything more. But whatever season of life we are in, as long as there is breath, there is precious time being lavished upon us. And however we spend our time, that is the composition of our life. Time spent is the life we are living. Are we loving it? Are we loving the life we are living now?

Ptr. Chuck Swindoll shared, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” Ptr. Mike MeÃƒ±ez shared, “If you don’t like the life you are living then it’s time to start making changes.” True. We decide on the kind of life we want to have and if it’s something we don’t love, we are ultimately responsible for that. We can’t keep looking back and putting blame on the past and on the people who messed up our lives. Aaron Lauritsen was right in saying, “At some point, you just gotta forgive the past, your happiness hinges on it.” We can’t keep allowing past circumstances and offenses to inflict consequences upon us when we have the capacity to break free from them. In Romans 8, Paul reminds us that in all troubles and setbacks, we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us; and nothing will separate us from that love. We are secure in God’s love. Our future is secure in Him. Our joy and satisfaction is secure in Him. Therefore, we can love the life we are living right now.

Seeing opportunities in struggles

Hardships can easily bring us down; it’s normal. However, we are called to the spiritual. And from a spiritual perspective, struggles can very well lift our spirits and strengthen our faith. Through all the difficulties, there are opportunities God presents our way: moments of learning, moments of realizing He is real and at work, moments of discovering true friendships and deeper family ties, moments of realizing that it is the struggles that strengthen our character and forges more meaningful relationships. Seeing opportunities in struggles cause us to love and value this life more and more.

Seeing blessings in times of need

In this world, it seems that needs will always be greater. Focusing on all the things we lack can bring us down; it is normal. However, we are called to trust and contentment. God will never withhold what is good for us. He will come to our aid in His perfect time. We must learn trustful contentment in a God who never fails. Like Job, we need to remember that this life is all by grace. God has given us much more than we deserve, much more than we can hope for. And He will continue to give in the same way. In times of need, remember and appreciate all that He is putting at your disposal and trust Him to come through for the things you require.

God assures us in Jeremiah 29:11 that all the plans He has for us are always for good. Romans 8 says He is always working out our life for our good. Involve Him in every moment of your life. He will always be the key to loving the life you are living now.

June 9, 2018

Biblical Principles on How To Reclaim Your Life

Are you low-spirited? Is your mind and heart bogged down by a multitude of issues? Failures, regretful words spoken, deeds you wish you could scrap from your history, wrong decisions you wish you could rethink over again? These are some of the culprits that make you lose out in life. When these take over, you lose joy and zest for facing your now and your future. The child of God shouldn’t live in such an unfortunate way. Following are some principles that will help you reclaim your life.

Learn from the past but don’t live in it.

From 1 Corinthians 10:11 we understand that past occurrences serve as examples and warnings of what we need to imitate and what we need to avoid following after. From both the good and the bad there are learnings to mark and treasure. Successes and failures should never be inflated. Let them serve their purpose to affirm or to warn, then put them to rest.

Romans 12:3 warns us saying, “Let no man think of himself more highly than he ought to think.” Over-dwelling on accomplishments tends to lead to that. It lifts the successful man to a plane he may find difficult to come down from.

Proverbs 24:16 encourages us saying, “Though the righteous man falls seven times, he WILL rise again.” There is never a pit God won’t be able to lift us from. In every downfall, there will always be a rising for the beloved one of God.

Life is filled with seasons. In every season, take courage and maintain joy and drive in all that lies before you. Ecc 6:11 says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all you’ve got.” Be excited of the fact that whatever unfolds, God is ever at your side. He will never leave nor abandon you.

Stop using wrong measures.

2 Corinthians 10:12 says, “Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.” Further, verse 17-18 say, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord. For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” Lastly, Romans 14:8 reminds us, “Whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.”

From the passages we gather that it is wrong for man to use fellow man as a standard for performance and worth. God who is impartial, always loving, always good; His standards are just right, always within perfect reason and purpose. It is His standard and precepts we should consider. It is His approval that matters. It is His approval we should long for.

Yes, Seek God’s approval first and desire His approval most.

1 Corinthians 10:31 reminds us of the proper perspective to all things. In everything we do, God’s pleasure and honor is to be our purpose and goal. It’s normal to pursue achievement and success because these make us feel good and proud of ourselves. Achievements are an affirmation and appreciation of all the hard work we put into something. But that shouldn’t be our only motivation. God’s pleasure and testimony should be the top reason why we want to do well in school, in work, in life and relationships.

We have a Father who is never unreasonable nor overly expecting. We know that anything done rightfully and sincerely will be accepted of Him and will receive praise from Him. In the Old Testament God has made clear from the beginning that if we do right we will be accepted. (Genesis 4:7) In the New, we know that God pays attention to the motives of man’s hearts and basing from that, each man will receive due praise from God. (1 Corinthians 4:5)

June 6, 2018

What Does The Bible Say About Fathers?

In many countries, Father’s Day is celebrated every third Sunday of June. There are many ideas about fatherhood. Fathers everywhere have endless words of advice to share with fathers-to-be. The Bible has some words to share about fathers. Here are some insights:

1. Fathers are not to exasperate their children.
Ephesians 6:4 (NIV) says, “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” In another version, it says, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord”. (ESV)

From the verse, we gather that “exasperate” and “provoke” is the opposite of nurture and admonition. Fathers should not have the habit of infuriating or intensely irritating their children. Instead, they should be nurturing and admonishing towards them thru the guidance of God’s Word.

To nurture is to care. Fathers must show care and to show it in a way that their children understand. Hard love is sometimes necessary. But at all times, a father must ensure that there is indeed love in how he deals with his children.

To admonish is to advise and to warn. Fathers must not hesitate giving advice to their children. Guided by the Word, he must ever be ready to give insight when it is needed and to give rebuke when it is warranted.

2. Fathers are to discipline their children in love.

Proverbs 3:12 says, “For whom the Lord loves He reproves, even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.”

From the verse, we gather that love is the foundation and the reason for rebuke and discipline. Fathers and yes, mothers, are not to discipline out of anger. For those who believe (as the Bible does) in a physical form of discipline, it must never be done as a reactive response. A reactive response is” we hurt somebody because that somebody hurt us; we shout because somebody else shouted at us. Discipline is not like that. It is a proactive response. Fathers (parents) discipline their children in order to reinforce teaching and so that the error hopefully will not be repeated again.

3. Fathers are to show compassion on their children.

Psalm 103:13 says, “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him.”

From the verse, we gather that fatherhood should be marked by compassion. This means that there is no need to instill great fear in one’s children. This means that a father may be bare and open before his child and not be perceived as weak but rather, honest and compassionate.
The compassionate father will learn not to overly or unreasonably expect beyond what his children are capable of at the moment. The compassionate father will learn to extend patience while his children learn the basics and equip themselves for independence later on. The compassionate father will rebuke but not reject a wayward child. The compassionate father will not be happy with a child’s failures but will always be encouraging his child towards betterment.

The Bible has more to say. In many points, the seeking father will learn that he should pattern his fatherhood after the Great Father- the Loving One, the Forgiving One, and the Strengthening One; from whom he will get strength and guidance in order to be better at fatherhood, one day at a time.

May 29, 2018

How to Find Strength in Tough Times: A Biblical Approach for Conquering Life’s Hardships

Reading through Job 19, we get a glimpse of the hardship Job went through. The chapter details just how difficult life was for him at that time. People around him had nothing good nor helpful to say. He met no comfort. Instead, all he kept hearing were tormenting and crushing words that sank his spirits even deeper. People were condemning him; suspicious that he was in great sin because of the great trials and sufferings he was going through. People thought themselves better than him and looked on him with contempt without any effort to hide what they felt.

In prayers, Job cried for help and for justice, but God didn’t seem to answer. He felt God had closed all doors and left him in the dark. He was stripped of decency. His friends and relatives forsook him. His workers wouldn’t beckon to his call. Even his very wife was repulsed with him. To top it off, his body was wearing out because of a disease.

In all these, he decides to still set his mind on God. He says, “I know that my Redeemer lives and that in the end, he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh, I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

Now we must remember that Job was a real person. He was just like us. He wasn’t perfect. He wasn’t supernaturally endowed with resolve or spirituality. He was like us in every way and the book of Job shows how human Job was like we are. The account of Job is to be thanked because it shows us that the child of God can weather the storms and setbacks of life. You and I can respond right even when things are going so wrong. Through the life of Job, we can find encouragement to stay the path even when the flesh wants what Job’s wife wanted in chapter 2 verse 9, “to curse God and just die.”

When the wind is against us and when we can’t make sense of what to do, Scripture points us to how we can respond right.

1. When life is troublesome, keep trusting.

Even impending death should not be a cause for a Christian to forsake God. Job 13:15 says, “Though He slays me, yet will I trust Him”.

2. When life is bad, keep loving God.

We may not understand the situation but God has proven Himself over and again that He is good. Think of Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.”

3. When nights are sleepless, keep staying your mind on God.

Isaiah 26:3 says, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You because he trusts in You.” Philippians 4:7 says, “Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” There’s one blessing the child of God can enjoy, to have peace even when everything is in chaos. This cannot be achieved by human methods, not by yoga, not by any potion. But when you’re at your wit’s end, when your back is against the wall and you have nowhere to go, the Spirit of God in you comes to calm you and bring you to stillness. In perfect release, surrender, and trust, you find God. You find peace.

May 25, 2018

How to Give Advice so That People Will Listen?

Some people think helpful advice is all about knowing things and saying a lot. To the contrary, you can know little yet give solid advice and with sparing words you can help a person greatly.

Here are 4 ways to give helpful advice.

Wait to be asked.

Most of the time, unsolicited advice is not helpful. It is ineffective especially when a person is not ready to hear what you have to say. To some, you may be viewed as a meddler who knows nothing better to do. For example, stories are told of those who try to mediate a conflict they have no business involving themselves with. Proverbs 26:17 has this to say about that: “Like one who takes a dog by the ears Is he who passes by and meddles with strife not belonging to him.”

Have the connection.

Sometimes, you can perceive things other people can’t. In a church setting, this can both be an asset and a liability. If you feel burdened to give advice or correction to someone who is not close to you, a direct approach may be unhelpful. That brother or sister may get discouraged or offended. Find someone connected with that person whom you can talk with to handle the matter or to give clearer insight. Or better, have that person introduce and connect you to this individual you want to give advice or correction to. Pray while you establish a connection. Pray and watch for the soonest opportunity to bring the matter up.

Have the qualification or experience.

Has it ever happened to you? To have someone giving you advice about something they have no experience or qualification for? People with no children advising a mother about raising her kids properly; people who’ve had an easy life teaching those in hardship about perseverance. Indeed, with supernatural enablement, God can teach us things through just about anyone. However, most of the time, God chooses to use those who’ve undergone the same things as we are undergoing to get us through the humps and bumps of life. 2 Corinthians 1:4 talks about how God “comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

You may have ideas that can help and you may present them to the person in need of advice. But better yet, understand your limitations and find someone with experience who can help the individual better than you can.

Focus more on remedies, not faults and failures.

It may have happened to you. You’ve come to a friend for comfort and clarity only to leave the conversation heartbroken and more shaken. When you are invested in the person, it may be hard to keep your emotions in control but you need to. While it may be right to say, “I told you so.” and blame the person for his failings, what’s helpful is to redirect the person towards taking steps to resolve his problems.

For instance, instead of rubbing it in by saying, “You are such a spendthrift. You really don’t value money at all.” Scrap those two sentences and get your friend to take out a paper and pen and visually determine what are necessities and luxuries based on the limited funds that he or she has.

May 25, 2018May 25, 2018

What Does the Bible Say About Our Top Worries?

Historians will probably call our era “the age of anxiety” as most people live their lives “crucified between two thieves — the regrets of yesterday and the anxieties of tomorrow.”

Chronic worrying (often referred to as anxiety) can affect your daily life so much that it interferes with your work, appetite, relationships, sleep and reduces your overall quality of life.

But chronic worrying and anxiety are mental habits that can be broken. Many have sought counsel from the word of God when faced with worry and anxiety, and for good reason. The Bible contains a great number of stories and quotes that remind and encourage us to trust in the love and power of God in order to find peace.

Here’s what the Bible has to say about our top worries and how to overcome them:

1. Regarding Finances

Deuteronomy 8:17-18 says, “You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth.”

How to sustain our needs and that of our family is a valid concern but this should not turn to worry. Scriptures here remind us to stay reliant on God, to hope in Him, and to acknowledge that provision comes from God and that He will continue to supply our need. There may be delays but trusting in the proven goodness of God assures me that He will come through for me.

2. Regarding the Future

Matthew 6:25-34 discusses our worries about the future: food, life, clothing, and the like. In the passage, Jesus reminds us that our Father values us. He knows our needs. He provides. Jesus reminds us that worrying never improves nor changes anything.

Ensuring a good future is a valid concern but this should not turn to worry. Scriptures here remind us to have confidence in our God, to have faith in His love and capability to take care of us. Furthermore, Scriptures here discourages us about over worrying. In verse 34, Jesus says, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” He means that we should not overburden ourselves with concerns way before their due time.

3. Regarding Life and Health

Acts 17:26-28 says, “From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being..”

Psalm 139:15-16 says, “My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”

Our health and wellbeing are valid concerns but these should not turn to worry. God has appointed us to a certain lifespan here on earth and for a good reason. When our purpose is accomplished, we will leave this world for a better place. We will trade the companionship of loved ones we must temporarily leave behind for the presence and companionship of our Father God. Should sickness be part of God’s plan, we must thru pain and suffering keep trusting that He has a purpose for everything. And, like Paul, may we desire to point everything to the glory and honor of God, even in the midst of great difficulties.

4. Safety

Psalm 32:7 says, “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.”

Deuteronomy 23:14 says, “For the Lord your God moves about in your camp to protect you and to deliver your enemies to you.”

Joshua 24:17 says, “He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled.”

Psalm 4:8 says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Safety is a valid concern but this should not turn to worry. God is our protector and deliverer. He keeps us from harm and evil. He actively safeguards the lives of His children. We should enjoy a peaceful sleep knowing that God stands awake keeping our homes safe. Even when perils come, may we keep the faith as Paul, Abraham, and other believers who have lived before we did. They trusted in a proven God. He is good. He has a purpose. He will work all things for our good. Even when death comes, we know it is part of God’s plan. Our exit from this world is our entrance into heaven, and God counts that moment precious because we will finally be with Him. (Psalm 116:15)

Did You Know?

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year.
Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only 36.9% of those suffering receive treatment.
People with an anxiety disorder are three to five times more likely to go to the doctor and six times more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric disorders than those who do not suffer from anxiety disorders.
Anxiety disorders develop from a complex set of risk factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events.

May 17, 2018November 17, 2018

2 Essential Traits of Maturity

What is maturity as a Christian? How do you know when you’re on the right track, growing in your faith and practice of Scriptural principles? Following are 2 essential traits:

Devotion to God and His Word

Did you know that you can be a lover of good works but not of God? You can love doing ministry more than you love the Father Himself. You can love people more than their maker. We can busy ourselves with doing good, doing ministry in church, spending time with people. We can devote so much time and affection on these and neglect the One by whom and for whom all things exist. That is why the Lord Jesus Christ took time to remind us of the greatest commandment there is: to love God with a whole heart, soul, and mind. (Matthew 22:37)

To be devoted is to be loyal to a person, thing, or cause. It is to be given over to someone or something. To love intensely is to love devotedly. To be devoted to God is to keep Him in your thoughts at all times. It is to converse with Him as your day unfolds. That is how we pray unceasingly, when we include Him in our day to day affairs and when we welcome His presence in the big and small happenings of our lives.

To be devoted to His Word is to discipline ourselves to the opening of Scriptures on a daily basis for that is how He can speak more clearly to us. It is quite impossible to love someone so dearly yet feel alright not talking to that person regularly especially when you have opportunity to do so. Indeed, God can and does reveal Himself in many miraculous ways. But He has given us the Written Word to be our constant and ready access to His plans and desires for our lives.

Peace with Others

A quarrelsome person cannot be mature; so is one who harbors resentment and bitterness in the heart. When offenses are heavy, it takes great maturity to forgive and to not hold anything against the offender. Victims of criminal offenses know this by experience. Though hard, it is doable. We’ve heard news of Christian parents forgiving criminals of murder and other crimes. The story of Mary Johnson is one of many that testify to how God can mature a yielded person, enabling him or her to rise above situations and defy the expectations of society. Mary Johnson’s only child, Laramiun was murdered at 20 years old. After a number of years, she decided to get in touch with her son’s murderer and nurture a reconciliatory relationship with him. When the killer left prison, she even arranged for the person to live next door to the place she was residing in. Changed by this act of goodness, the man has taken positive steps in life, putting himself to school while working at the same time.

Colossians 3:13 tells us to bear with one another and to forgive others, understanding how greatly God has forgiven us. Romans 12:18 tells us to fulfill our part in living at peace with others. We have no control over the actions and attitudes of others but we have full control over our thoughts and responses. Scriptures assure us that the greater blessing lies in forgiving and blessing others. This of course does not ever mean consenting to wrong nor allowing yourself to be deceived over and over again for the Bible specifically teaches us to withdraw ourselves from evildoers and constant offenders.

May 15, 2018May 19, 2018

Two Principles for Motherhood

For Maria Shriver, motherhood is quite a serious and heavy responsibility.

She said, “Having kids—the responsibility of rearing good, kind, ethical, responsible human beings—is the biggest job anyone can embark on.”

For Gilda Radner, motherhood seems to be a great risk.

She said, “Motherhood is the biggest gamble in the world. It is the glorious life force. It’s huge and scary—it’s an act of infinite optimism.”

From these two viewpoints, a mother may find motherhood to be a daunting task. You never know what the outcome of your efforts will be. Not even your best will guarantee that your child will turn out well in the end. Other mothers may feel doomed and trapped for it will require one’s whole life and being to fulfill this kind of responsibility.

These kinds of perception are just a few of the reasons that discourage females from desiring and pursuing motherhood. Statistics show that voluntary childlessness among women is on the rise. One past study among Canadian women showed that among childless women aged 40 and up, half were intentionally childless. One US study showed the number of childless women aged 30 and over have increased from 2007.

Scriptures, however, always bring insight and optimism. Not all will be mothers. Not all can be mothers. God’s Word says that children are a heritage from the Lord and that the fruit of the womb is a reward. Remembering this through all seasons of motherhood will make the “task” more enjoyable. Women who experience God’s love, who journey towards sharing His love with others will find this to be true. In experiencing God’s love and imparting it to others, a woman will find herself loving motherhood with each passing day. She will also understand key principles of motherhood and focus on those.

Raise a child who loves God above all.

It is a better desire to raise a child who not only loves and desires to please you but who loves and desires to please God above all. In godliness is spiritual success. Spiritual success is key to a thriving life because your child will grow committed and dependent on God whether times are good or evil. Lay the foundations and allow your child to grow, rooted in them. Proverbs 22:6 says that when we direct our children onto the right path when they are older, they will not leave it. It means that whatever happens, our child will always have the right foundations to go back to.

Explain the whys.

When children are young, it is essential that we direct them to do what needs to be done. Kids depend on us to teach them the basics: right values, right conduct. As children get older, weaning should take place. We are to train them to exercise their own senses, to develop discernment, to formulate their own convictions and priorities. The parent needs to be there to instill right biblical values that make sense to the children. Then, the parent needs to step back and allow the power of the Word to take effect in the hearts and minds of their children. With age, motherhood evolves from dictating the “to-dos” and “not-to-dos” to explaining the “whys and “why not’s”.

Lay the foundation. Rear a lover of God. Train your child for independence. Do these. Then, trust God for the results. Be an absolute lover of your child, even when he makes mistakes. And always, be a continual teacher and mentor.

May 11, 2018May 11, 2018

The Church: The Bad and The Ugly

In Matthew 16, Christ talked about building His church and not even the forces of darkness could conquer it. All through the book of Acts, the days of the early local church, we see Christ’s protection and empowerment over it. It is the redeemed collected, enabled, and commissioned to become God’s agent for life change. When the church fulfills its purpose, there is fruit and profitability. But, when it diverts from the right pursuit, there is chaos and more problems than solutions arise. When there is health, the good and the beautiful reign. When there is an imbalance, the bad and the ugly prevail.

Legalism Over the Bible

Legalism puts conditions above the Gospel. It adds requirements for salvation beyond genuine faith in Christ’s finished work. It wearies believers with rules that wrongfully make Christian living a burden instead of a joy. Where there is legalism, conformity is the goal, not transformation. Where there is legalism, the local church breeds a congregation that lives for human standards and not God’s principles for righteousness. Where there is legalism, the authoritative voice is no longer the Holy Spirit but human leaders.

The church must remember to keep life simple. Our pursuits must be Agape love and true worship. James 1:27 says,

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

Love Over Holiness

Lifeway Research came out with new survey results this April 2018. Data showed that churches nowadays rarely reprimand members and few discipline members for misconducts. Eight out of ten senior pastors have not disciplined a member in 2017. Half say they are not aware of any disciplinary actions taking place in 2017. From 1,000 phone calls made to senior pastors, only eight percent reported taking disciplinary measures on members for 2017. Half of the respondents also agree that there is no formal disciplinary process and policy in place.

The church must remember that church discipline, when done right, benefits the erring believer. The principles set forth in Matthew 18 must always apply. The focus is never to shame nor punish but always to restore the sinning Christian to rightness with God and man and to remind the congregation to pursue a life of holiness. Galatians 6:1 says,

“If someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”

Shallow and Impractical Teachings

It could be a sin for a preacher to bore God’s people with the preaching of the Word. It is certainly a sin for a Christian to sit through the preaching of God’s Word without receptivity. Hebrews 4:12 says, “God’s Word is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” 2 Timothy 3:16,17 say,

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, ¹⁷so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”