Daily devotional, December 8, 2023 Bite the bullet

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." 
Isaiah 41:10

The phrase “biting the bullet” is often usedd in situations where a person has no choice but to go through something dangerous, unsafe, or painful either physically or emotionally. The term was coined during the war period when injured soldiers had to go through surgery in the battlefield without anaesthetic. During those times, field doctors had to give their patients a bullet to bite so that they could clench their teeth on it amid bullet removal, wound care, suturing, and even amputations.

Going through pain is something every person is familiar with. Whether it is physical pain, emotional pain, or personal struggle, each person has a story to tell. As Christians, we are not immune to problems and personal crises. But like those brave, injured soldiers, we can hold on to something that could help us go through all of it — our faith.

The famous and often claimed bible passage in King David’s Psalm 23 speaks of the dark valleys people may see themselves in. But as the Psalm says, as long as we are with the Good Shepherd, we can rest assure that we will be free from the fear of evil, and we will get through the perilous journey in one-piece:

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff,they comfort me." 
(Psalm 23:4)

The Lord promises that as long as we abide in Him, we can hold on to him tight as we traverse dangerous twists and turns in our life journey:

"But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield." 
Psalm 33:18-20

A stark opposite of biting the bullet in writhing pain is numbness while going through life’s battles. The enemy offers numbing alternatives to the pain of suffering: drugs, alcohol, immorality, consumerism, gambling, and other forms of addiction and escape. In worst cases, the enemy even presents suicide as the solution to the pain and trouble. These however are all counterintuitive, and will result in more problems in the long run. To this, St. Peter reminds us:

"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world." 
1 Peter 5:8-9

When going through difficult times, we should know whom to turn to. We should anchor our faith on the one true God who promises to never leave us nor forsake us.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." 
Joshua 1:9

When undergoing personal challenges, we should stop comparing ourselves to others. By doing so we will just dig our hole deeper. We should refrain from focusing on superficial things curated by worldly personalities and peddled through social media. When we are led by the Good Shepherd, dark valleys will never be our final destination, it will just be one of those inevitable paths in our life journey. 

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on 1 Peter 5:6-10 and Psalm 23 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Are you going through dark valleys right now? Where do you anchor your soul so you will not get lost?

Conversation with the Lord:  Heavenly Father, thank you for being my anchor at times of distress. Allow me to hold on to you always, and help me claim your promise that you will never leave me nor forsake me. Amen.

The post Daily devotional: Biting the bullet appeared first on Happy Pinay Mommy.

Daily devotional, Dec 5, 2023 Impossible dream

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:6

The song “Impossible Dream” has spanned more than five decades in the airwaves. From being originally composed for a Broadway Musical, it has been performed by great singers from different generations. From Jack Jones, Frank Sinatra, Andy Williams, and Matt Monro in the 1960s,  Elvis Presley and Tom Jones in the 70s, Luther Vandross in the 1990s, and some three years ago, by contemporary artist Josh Groban among many others. The song’s message appealed even to top politicians from various countries. And why not, it spoke of hope amid the toughest challenges in life.

As Christians, we have an eternal hope that drives us to survive unimaginable heartbreaks and crises that will come our way in our life journey. Our Lord Jesus Christ reminds us that by faith and prayer to our one, true God, we can continue to aspire that we will get past the dark valleys in our life.  

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us-whatever we ask-we know that we have what we asked of him." 1 John 5:14-15

Moses is one bible character who knew how it is to wholeheartedly pray. As he interceded for the Israelites, back when the Lord wanted to punish them for rebelling, Moses appealed to God through the Lord’s glory, power, and promises.

“Now may the Lord’s strength be displayed, just as you have declared: ‘The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.’In accordance with your great love, forgive the sin of these people, just as you have pardoned them from the time they left Egypt until now.” Numbers 14:17-19

Moses’ prayer certainly gives us Christians a good example on how we present our prayers to our God. It should represent our disposition and how we view our Savior in our lives. Ask yourself these questions:

• Am I aware of the vastness of God’s power? Do I believe in my heart that the challenges I face are big but my God is much bigger, and being the owner of the world He can deliver me and quiet my soul? Do I still remember the many times he has saved me from trouble?
• Do I know God’s promises? Do I spend time reading His words enough for me to know about His promises to me, and do I carry out the premises of these promises so I could claim it as I pray? Do I even spend time to reflect, meditate, write down and memorize scripture so that I could be reminded of His love?
• Do I worship God’s glory? Do I revere His name and power above all else?

The bible tells us that the Lord listened to Moses’ prayer. He heeded his supplication not just because he appealed to His strength, capabilities, words, and glory. The Lord listened to Him foremost because of his sincere heart to pray for His people.

"The Lord replied, “I have forgiven them, as you asked. Nevertheless, as surely as I live and as surely as the glory of the Lord fills the whole earth, not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors. No one who has treated me with contempt will ever see it." Numbers 14:20-23

A lot of times, we are troubled not by our own problems, but because of the challenges and situations being faced by our loved ones. We pray for them, and ask for God’s help on their behalf. The Lord promises to hear our prayers if only we will truly have faith and believe.

In the Gospel of Mark, he featured the story of a boy possessed by a demon. The father went to the disciples to ask them to cast it out but the spirit does not leave the boy. They then went to Jesus to ask for His help, and Jesus said: 

"Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” 
Mark 9:21-24

After Jesus cast out the unclean spirit on the boy and he recovered, the disciples asked Jesus why they could drive it out of his body. To this question Jesus said that the kind of spirit that possessed the boy only leaves through prayer:

“This kind can come out only by prayer." 
Mark 9:29

Prayer indeed works, and it should be backed by strong faith in the power of the Lord. If you are in a place where you feel hopeless about what and who you are praying for, revere the Lord and patiently wait for His response:

"From of old no one has heard or perceived by the ear, no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.” 
Isaiah 64:4

Someone once said, God never wastes our tears, and He indeed does not. Everything that happens to us happens for God’s good reason, in accordance to His best plans. If we will just truly be patient for the answers, abide by Him in the whole process, and live in His light, He will respond.

"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." 
Romans 8:28

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Numbers 14:11-23, Mark 9:14-29 and Psalm 29:1-3 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Are you praying for someone who desperately needs God’s help today? How can your faith help him more apart from praying for him?

Conversation with the Lord:  Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me access to you through your son Jesus Christ. Help me strengthen my faith more so I could bring more people closer to you through prayers, and by sharing with them the good news of your salvation. Amen.

The post Daily devotional: Impossible dream appeared first on Happy Pinay Mommy.

Daily devotional, December 4, 2023 Push and Pull

"What you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." 
2 Timothy 2:2

One of the basic lessons Science teachers give to young students the opposing forces of “push” and “pull.” This lesson is easy to demonstrate, and easier understood when the kids are given practical lessons that allow them to experience these movements.

In our Christian life, we constantly meet people that push us towards God. The presence of such persons is constant in our life as we intentionally follow our Lord Jesus Christ, and try our best to obey His commands.

Those that deliberately push us towards God are a bit easier to distinguish given that these people usually work in the church, or volunteer there. Apart from those in the religious vocation whom we personally know, lay people like our bible study leaders, push us closer to God.

Other people in our life who bring us closer to God are our parents or relatives who are in Christ. Friends who try their best to convince us to go to their church, or share the gospel with us, or those who give us biblical advice are other people who push us towards Jesus. These people are usually recipients of God’s mercy and took the Great Commission to heart in the hopes of saving more people who need redemption.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20

But do you know that there are people who unconsciously push others towards Jesus? These are people whom we love, and are suffering from their illnesses or present circumstances, that we seek God and plead for help.

Usually though, people who unknowingly push us towards our Savior are people who can be likened to thorns in our life journey. For instance, those who may have inflicted grave emotional pain or trauma to us that led us to seek the Lord’s comfort. These could be difficult people who are placed in our lives to help sanctify us. In these instances, the bible encourages us to continue doing good for God’s glory and also for our own sake:

"Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing." 
1 Peter 3:9

One of the best Old Testament personalities who blessed those who hurt them is Moses. His own siblings criticized him because of his wife, and even questioned why he acts as God’s spokesman. Instead of taking things personally and exacting vengeance, Moses did nothing to his siblings and just continued doing what God has called him to do. The Lord saw through Moses’ humility as He upheld Moses’ honor when he scolded Moses’ siblings.

"And he said, “Hear my words: If there is a prophet among you, I the Lord make myself known to him in a vision; I speak with him in a dream.Not so with my servant Moses. He is faithful in all my house.With him I speak mouth to mouth, clearly, and not in riddles, and he beholds the form of the Lord. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?” And the anger of the Lord was kindled against them, and he departed." Numbers 12:6-9

God vindicated Moses by inflicting skin disease on his sister Miriam, as she started the whole trouble. But instead of being happy about what happened to his sister, Moses asked God to heal her. We can take a cue from Moses and pray for those who hurt us with self-motivated criticisms, and hurt us with their actions. Moreover, let us not get distracted from our own mission to lead people towards God:

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love Him." James 1:12 

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Numbers 12:1-16 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Are there people in your life who push you to hold on closer to Jesus? How do you deal with them?

Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for being my safe place whenever I experience undue suffering because of others. Hold me closer to you as I press on towards my sanctification, and the goal of bringing more people closer to you. Amen. 

The post Daily devotional: Push and pull appeared first on Happy Pinay Mommy.

Daily devotional, Nov 18, 2023 Not a genie

"When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." James 4:3

Every person familiar with the story Aladdin and the Magic Lamp has probably dreamt of being granted three wishes. It is not uncommon for the young to talk among friends and excitedly think of what those three wishes would be if the genie suddenly asked you.

Unfortunately, some of us have yet to outgrow our fantasy to free a genie from an old lamp someday, and be granted three of our biggest desires in life. One of the reasons why some people lose hope and stop attending church is when they fail to get what they have been praying for. Thinking that God is like a genie that will hear their wishes if they pray fervently, they plead to the Lord day in and day out waiting for their wishes to come true. When they haven’t gotten what they have been praying for they start resenting the Lord.  

But the Book of Ecclesiastes says we should not lose heart. In Chapter 3:11, King Solomon encouraged people to wait for God’s timing:

"He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end." Ecclesiastes 3:11

Sometimes, what we ask for may not be good for us in the long run hence the Lord is withholding it. If we just trust in His sovereignty, we will be patient enough to wait for His response.

"And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us." 1 John 5:14

Sin is one of the biggest reasons why our prayers remain unanswered. It could seem like we never get the peace and contentment that we have been praying for, or the blessing we have been longing for. But we should examine ourselves and ask if we deserve all the spiritual and material blessings we have been asking the Lord. Here are two of the many passages that correlate sin with ungranted prayers:

"When you spread out your hands, I will hide my eyes from you; even though you make many prayers, I will not listen; your hands are full of blood. Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil," Isaiah 1:15-16

and

"We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him." John 9:31

It is also possible that our prayers are not answered because it is not aligned to God’s will, and not according to His design. In his Epistle, James the brother of Jesus reminded the church in Jerusalem that they do not receive what they ask for because they are motivated by the wrong things:

"When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." James 4:3

Some people even claim bible promises, and become totally inconsolable when they fail to receive what was promised. What they fail to realise though is that every promise comes with a premise. You cannot receive a blessing unless you abide, you cannot be restored unless you repent.

The Gospel of St. John quoted Jesus saying: “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you,” (John 15:7). Unfortunately for some, they only caught the promise stated in this verse and not the whole passage. This is why it is important to intentionally spend time reading the scriptures. So that we know both the promise and its premises and live it out.  

But how about those who are trying hard to live in Christlikeness, yet still get sick, have problems, and unanswered prayers? Well, let us take a cue from the Apostle Paul who said that his ungranted supplication serves a purpose in his life and makes him totally reliant on our Lord and Savior:

"So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:7-9

We should remind ourselves that God is sovereign and omniscient. He knows what is best for us, and he knows all our intentions. He longs to be gracious to us. So if our supplications have yet to materialize then we just keep the faith. We should continue seeking the Lord, nurture our personal relationship with Him, and trust that whether He grants our prayer or not, what is important for us is He is in the front and center of our lives. 

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on 1 John 5:14-15; John 14:12-14 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question:  Do you treat the Lord as a Genie? How do you react when your prayers remain unanswered?

Conversation with the Lord:Lord Jesus Christ, grant me the confidence to fully trust you with my heart’s greatest desires. I know that you only have my best interest in mind, and that I should commend everything to your wisdom and timing. Amen.

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Daily Devotional, Nov 17, 2023 Swimming Frogs

"If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." Matthew 18:6

It is common to assume that if we put a live frog in a big pot of boiling water, it would immediately leap out. However, if you let the frogs swim in a big pot with tap water and gradually heat it to boiling point, the frog will not notice the slow change in water temperature and will just swim in the big pot. When the time comes that the water becomes too hot for his comfort, it will be too late for him and he will not have the energy to jump and save himself.

It is the same thing with us, as we get embroiled in this fast-paced world bombarded with influencers, and ever-shifting changes in society, culture, and values. If we are not careful, we, along with our children could get brainwashed with these new world values that clearly contradict the gospel teachings we should be upholding in our homes.   

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

As moms, we should be careful not just about what media content we personally consume, but what each of our children watch, read, and follow. We should be on top of these things and continue to re-calibrate their minds back to the one truth that will keep them grounded — the truth about Jesus.

"We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might,and the wonders that he has done." Psalm 78:4

We should remind them that it is not normal to go against God’s design for an individual, a family, and an organization. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27).

No one else will intentionally teach our children about Gospel values but us. We need to act now because they might already be in the simmering pot of worldly values since these information are at the palms of their hands. These influence peddlers are even welcomed in the comforts of our own houses through our televisions. The voice of truth should resound in our homes and lived out by our whole family not just every Sunday worship or every nightly prayer, but all throughout our daily lives.

"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Interweaving conversations with bible truths is important, and our children are never too young, or too mature for this. We can discuss these as families in passing, and of course we should discuss bible truths intentionally. We cannot delegate this task to our children’s teachers, or even to the church and Sunday School.

More importantly we have to set a good example by making them see and feel that Jesus is at the center of our lives. Remember, the Lord has commanded us to train our children, and this we should take to heart:

"Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." Ephesians 6:4

As for us adults, we should see the moral of the frog story as catching ourselves early on in the bait of sin. For example, what we see as random unplanned credit card purchases due to covetousness can suddenly land as deep into debt, and swimming in the sin of idolatry. What could be a casual exchange of text messages, and then invitations for coffee could turn into an adulterous relationship that will destroy our families. We must know when to jump out and flee from a situation before it gets too late, and before we self-destruct. Let’s take the courage to get out of the sinful situation and hold on to God’s promise:

"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13

More importantly, we should not allow sin to rule over our lives, and the only way to do that is by nurturing a personal relationship with the Lord. When we are living in His presence, we will continuously hear his voice encouraging us to do the right thing.     

"Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." Hebrews 12:1-2

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Psalm 78:2-4 and 1 Timothy 6: 11-12 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Are you aware of the various influences surrounding you and your children? How do you make sure that these influences will not lead you and your family astray?

Conversation with the Lord: Lord Jesus Christ, we praise and thank you for loving us, and ensuring that the Holy Scriptures will guide us into leading our children to the right path. Empower me as a parent to keep our family centered to you, so that I can be a good example to the children. Amen.

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Daily Devotional, Nov 16, 2023 The Mouthpiece

"But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." James 3:8

The mouthpiece of communication devices are getting smaller and smaller, yet it still carries the same functionality which is to transmit messages. The mobile phone for instance works like a mic that transforms the caller’s voice into electrical signals that would in turn be conveyed to the other party.

As Christians, we are expected to become the mouthpiece that transmits the good news to people who have yet to learn and accept the Gospel. However, there is also that existential threat that we could be used as a mouthpiece of the enemy.

"And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell." (James 3:6)

In his first epistle the Apostle Peter warned believers that the enemy is just around the corner waiting for his next victim. Let us be conscious that apart from not getting victimized by worldly schemes, we should not allow ourselves to be used as a mouthpiece.

"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings." 1 Peter 4:8-9

So how can we become his mouthpiece? We can be used in the following situations:

1. When we get angry and fail to control our emotions. The Lord understands that anger is a human emotion, but he warns us not to sin and not to dwell much on it as it gives the devil a foothold in our lives. As St. Paul the Apostle reminds us: “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” Ephesians 4:26-27

Out of anger, sometimes we could say the meanest of things. Like the enemy we could start making accusations (Revelation 12:10), and we can magnify negative situations to the detriment of others. Let us not allow ourselves to be used in this way, and instead we should process our anger healthily by suspending judgment, clarifying information, and dealing with the situation calmly. Let us heed the Apostle Paul’s advice to Timothy:

"Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Opponents must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth." 2 Timothy 2:23-25

2.When we engage in gossiping and rumor mongering. For some people, gossiping about others seems like a harmless way of bonding with their friends. But the bible clearly commands us to not engage in these types of conversations. The letter of James, the brother of Jesus, clearly states: “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless,” (James 1:6).

Rumor mongering is equally unproductive, abrasive, and a blatant violation of the Lord’s commands “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen,” (Ephesians 4:29).

When we engage in gossiping and rumor mongering, we become a mouthpiece of the enemy because such activities cause divisiveness within communities, churches, and otherwise wholesome organizations. Romans 16:17 reminds us: “I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.” So moving forward, let us not engage in these types of conversations, and politely decline spending time with people who are fond of talking about other people’s private life and business.

3. When we lie. Since he is the father of lies, we become his mouthpiece whenever we say things that are not true. John 8:44 says: “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” Whether it is a white lie or a half-truth, a lie is still a lie, and we get used by the enemy by propagating such untruthful information that misleads other people. 

Now that we are more conscious about not allowing ourselves to be the mouthpiece of the enemy, we too should be sensitive enough to avoid people who are presently being used as one.

For instance, real-life people who seem to be so negative about the world, who do everything mentioned above, and are always instigating trouble. Online, we should be conscious about following influencers who just promote worldly values like materialism, immorality, envy, covetousness, idolatry, hate, disrespect to elders and the like. We can immediately catch this if we just take a bit more time to understand what they are saying or promoting. Let us ask ourselves, is what he or she is saying consistent with gospel values? Does she promote self-worship through beauty and fashion; covetousness by promoting materialism; immorality through her advocacies; or is she promoting wholesome content that has biblical undertones?

We should be conscious about what we watch, read and listen to because we are not immune to brainwashing. At the end of the day, nurturing a relationship with the Lord is key as He is our mighty shield that protects us from the snares of the enemy.
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on James 3:1-12 and 1 Timothy 5:13-14 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: What were the times when you could have been used as a mouthpiece of the enemy? How could you avoid similar instances in the future?

Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for affording me the protection of having a soulful relationship with you. Guard me from the enemy, and allow me to be conscious of the times that I could be unwittingly used to spread his darkness. I want to remain in your light, and walk with you always. Amen.

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Daily devotional, Nov 14, 2023 Air Purifiers

"Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry." Colossians 3:5

The recent pandemic has brought forth the importance of Air Purifiers and HEPA Filters that they have become a by-word in appliance stores, public places, and homes of those who can afford such an appliance. Air purifiers clean the air by removing air-borne impurities that cause illnesses and allergies, and absorb unwanted odors that affect the indoor environment.

Our Christian life is much like the air being purified by these state-of-the-art filtration equipment. After accepting Jesus Christ as our Personal Lord and Savior, we receive His salvation, and continue to undergo a sanctification process that purifies our mind, hearts and souls as we strive to live a life pleasing to the Lord.

"How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!" (Hebrews 9:14)

No matter how righteous we are, we can never achieve this level of purity without the help of Jesus. We fall back into sin, backslide, or suddenly slow down (or even totally stop) in our walk with Christ given the distractions of this world. We give in to worldliness, covetousness, materialism, haughtiness, anger and vengeance, idolatry, and selfishness. Even long time Christians can fall into the temptation to judge others. But since it is part of God’s plan to sanctify us to set us apart for His purpose, He promises to help us:

"Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work." 2 Timothy 2:21

So how do we sanctify ourselves? Well, being confident that we have a Heavenly Father who leads us to paths of righteousness is the key. Each time we sin or displease the Lord, we should confess it to Him through prayers, promise Him that we will try our best to improve our character, repent on the behavior, and once again align oneself to God’s will.

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

It is important for us Christians to know what God commands us, what is pleasing to Him, and what is His will. We should live our lives according to these. However, we will only be aware of these if we have a personal relationship with the Lord. That personal relationship involves daily conversations with the Lord, daily bible reading and reflection, resolve to apply the word of God in one’s own life, and of course weekly worship, and regular God-centered fellowship with other believers.

"Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6

Unlike the invention of purifiers and HEPA Filters, the purification of our hearts needs no rocket science. What it needs is a firm resolve to follow Jesus in every way, come to Him when we fail (or when we are about to), and seek His help so we can remain righteous in His eyes.

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Acts 26:14-18 and 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: How are you in your sanctification process? Have you realized that the Lord will power you through your efforts?

Conversation with the Lord:Heavenly Father, thank you for leading me to paths of righteousness as I try to sanctify myself for you. I want to live your will for my life, because I know you only have the best plans for me. I love you my Lord Jesus! Amen

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Daily devotional, Nov 13, 2023 11.11 Deliveries

"Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress." 
Psalm 107:6

In a couple of days, most consumers who availed of the recent 11.11 online shopping promo will soon receive their package deliveries. Some bought something that they have been wanting to buy, some have already started shopping for Christmas presents for their family and friends, and then some bought something new for the sake of availing the huge discounts.

Anticipating package deliveries is one thing that surely brings joy to anyone. It is like getting a gift you choose for yourself at a time that you least expect it. But there is a more important delivery that we need. Something that we have to pray for every day of our lives, and we are assured of it as long as we abide to our one true King — Jesus Christ. 

As Christians, God promises to deliver us from the evil one — that is the attacks from the enemy that causes us to keep on sinning and falling back into waywardness. His deliverance is something we can truly count on. In 2 Samuel 22:2-3 King David praised the Lord and recounted the many times he delivered him from both his enemies and his own sinfulness:

"He said: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior— from violent people you save me." 
(2 Samuel 22:2-3)

We are all familiar with this line in the Lord’s prayer: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil,” (Matthew 6:13) and we ask the Lord to carry us through the enemy’s scheme and our own sinfulness, by leading us to paths of righteousness. By redirecting our focus and attention to Jesus, our Good Shepherd could keep us from falling back into sin, addictions, idolatry, deep-seated anger plans of vengeance, as well as other strongholds of the enemy. As Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans said:

"But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness." 
Romans 6:17-18

God’s deliverance can also be counted on when we face troubles for doing what is God’s will. In Psalm 34:4 King David testified to the Lord’s faithfulness as he carried him through and eased his worries as he escaped King Saul and faced the Philistines: “I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”

As we approach the season of shopping, gifting, and anticipating, let us not forget the one true reason why we celebrate. We celebrate because a Redeemer came to wash away our sins, and to deliver us from every spiritual attack as we try our best to walk in the paths of righteousness towards our eternal life with Him — the one and only Christ Jesus!

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Psalm 34 and 1 Peter 5:8-9 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Can you think of the times that the Lord has delivered you from trouble? What have you done to thank Him?

Conversation with the Lord:Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for leading us to paths of righteousness, and for promising to deliver us from the enemy and all our troubles. Please keep me close to you as you keep me from falling back into sin. Amen.

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Daily Devotional, Nov 11, 2023 Battle of the Brains

"For whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything." 
1 John 3:20

One of the more popular Quiz shows in the 1990s is the Battle of the Brains. There, students representing their schools battle it out to be named most knowledgeable of all.

But who is the most knowledgeable of all? When it comes to omniscience, even the brain powers of all the smartest scientists, combined with those of the brightest historians cannot ever equal the all-knowing power of our Lord God Almighty. He knows everything, He sees everything, and we cannot hide anything from Him:

“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!” (Romans 11:33)

For those that abide with the Lord, His being omniscient is a source of comfort. In Psalm 139, King David wrote his amazement over this quality of the Lord:

“O LORD, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O LORD, you know it altogether.” Psalm 139:1-4

How can we not rejoice over His knowledge about us, our thoughts, and our ways? He knows even the deepest desires of our hearts and He longs to prosper us. And so for him who abides, he can rest assure that if his longings are in His will, and stands to glorify His name and power, He will provide:

“In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” John 16:23-24

But how can we have the confidence to ask? Like children, we know we can ask for a new toy or a treat when we have been obedient and good. It is the same with us Christians. Although we cannot do it through righteousness because we can never pass heaven’s standards without Jesus’ sacrifice, we will have the confidence to go the Lord if we are fellowshipping with Him:

“Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” (John 14:21)

As for those who have yet to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, there is still hope. Know that He knows everything that is in your heart, and that He longs to bless you. As long as you seek His forgiveness and start abiding by Him, he can wash away all that guilt and renew you. In 1 Chronicles 28:9 He promises to reveal Himself to those who seek Him:

“And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever.”

Let us take heart in the Lord’s wisdom. That He knows what we need even before we ask Him. That He knows both our strengths and weaknesses, and He longs to comfort us and forgive us if we only ask Him. Let us trust His plans and surrender ours to Him so that we could live in the peace and contentment that only our Sovereign King can give. We may never know what the future has in store for us, but if we trust the author of our story, we can rest assured that the best plans are laid for us and all will be well.

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Psalm 139 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Are you comforted at the thought that God knows everything? How can His omniscience help ease your fears and worries today?

Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you for being the omniscient God that you are. For knowing everything about me, and how my life will unfold. Help me to fully trust in You so that I can finally rest my life in Your power and have the confidence to live my life according to your will and purpose. Amen. 

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Daily Devotional, November 8, 2023 Rescue 911

"And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all." (1 Thessalonians 5:14)

One of the most watched shows in the 1990s was “Rescue 911” which was basically a documentary-drama television series that featured re-enactments of emergencies and corresponding responses of frontliners. It established 911 as a helpline especially for life-threatening emergencies.

As Christians, we can establish ourselves as a personal helpline to others. We can be someone else’s safe space where they could talk about their feelings without fear of being judged. In these times when depression is almost an epidemic, and suicide rates are skyrocketing, lending an ear to someone is tantamount to rescuing them from desperation. In his second letter to the Corinthian church the Apostle Paul reminded believers that just as they received comfort from the Lord, they too should extend the same to the weak and the ailing:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 
(2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Listening is the best gift one can give to someone who is facing challenges, extreme sadness, and mourning. Allowing the person to speak his mind, and validating his hurts, is a huge help as he gets to unburden his feelings. Besides, no amount of assurance or advice can calm the heart of a grief-stricken person, so just staying with them to listen or simply just to provide company is enough. Romans 12:15 says: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”

In the Old Testament, Job’s friends sat with him quietly after he lost everything including all his children, and all his possessions:  

"And they sat with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his suffering was very great." (Job 2:13)

In our daily lives, we encounter hurting people. Some due to unforeseen circumstances such as death in their family, a medical diagnosis, financial challenges, and relationship issues. We should be quick to assure these people in our lives that they can lean on someone, and that above all, there is a God that will deliver them from everything that they are facing. Psalm 34:18 says:

And in this busy world, where face to face connection is starting to become a less preferred way of connecting with others, we struggle to provide someone the emotional rescue he or she needs. What usually prevents us from being a helpline to others include:
1. Lack of time to spend with the grieving person because we too are busy with our own life and pursuits.
2. Degree of closeness with the depressed person.
3. Inability to notice the other person’s affliction either because the person is masking his troubles, or we are too preoccupied with our own lives.

When it comes to lack of time, we should realize that we can always make time. If someone would tell you that there is a great reward for spending a couple of hours of your day in a certain location, wouldn’t you make time for it? If your answer is yes, then indeed you have the time to spend with a grieving or depressed person. It is just that you have not considered such an endeavor to be worthy of a spot in your schedule. Let us remember that the Lord commands us to help one another with our troubles: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2)

Next, the degree of closeness that we have with a grieving person should not be a reason to not make ourselves available to hear him out or at least be there for him. Yes, we may just see them in church every Sunday, or he may not open up too much details of his sadness to you because you are not close friends, but assuring that person that you are ready to listen anytime, and that you are available to help out in whatever way you can is enough.

The last reason, which is inability to see through a person’s grief, is the saddest reason of all. How many times have we heard stories about people being in shock after learning that their loved one, or close friend, or acquaintance has committed suicide? Failing to see and act on the red flags of extreme depression can be traumatic, and so if we are more observant, and we focus less on ourselves, we will be more sensitive to others and their sufferings.

Lending an ear to someone in need of a shoulder to cry on is one way of bearing another person’s burden. It is one way of showing Christ-like love, and a golden opportunity to share the good news and peace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us open our ears and heart, and share our precious time with others, so that we can comfort them as they face their sorrows.

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: How can you be a helpline to others? Is there anyone in your circle or community that needs a listening ear?

Conversation with the Lord:  Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for allowing me tohelp out others weather their emotional storms. Empower me with a listening ear, and a sound mind so that I could provide a comforting presence to others, and mirror Your love to them. Amen.

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Daily devotional, November 6, 2023 White elephant

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." James 1:17

November is here and we are now approaching the season of giving. We will have Christmas parties here and there, and gifting galore. Experience tells us though that not every gift we give will be liked by the recipient, and vice versa. Hence, after the holiday season, groups of friends, office mates, and even relatives get together for a “white elephant’ gift exchange where every attendee is asked to bring a gift she received which she sees no use for, and exchange it with others.

As Christians, we are more than blessed to receive gifts from the Lord. Apart from the everyday blessings that sustain us, and the happy ones that surprise us, we have all received a “gift” from the Lord that allows us to be a blessing to others.

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 4:10-11

But unlike your usual holiday gifts which can be used in a white elephant gift exchange or be replaced in the store with a gift receipt, gifts from above are irrevocable. “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable,” Romans 11:29.

What God has given us and called us to do will never be taken from us. These includes the gifts and promises that He has for us since we were born “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully” (Romans 12:6-8). We can be sure that when he calls us to a specific ministry, that calling remains to be there regardless if we responded to it and did as He instructed, or not.

One of the best examples is Moses responding to God’s call to take the Israelites out of Egypt, and receiving at the same time God’s promise to be with Him on this mission: “And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain,” (Exodus 3:12). God did not renege on all his promises to Moses, and He did not revoke His calling.

One of the best preachers I know explained that responding to God’s calling does not automatically mean entering religious life such as priesthood, nunnery, or pastorhood. He said, it means using the gifts you have been given by the Lord to carry out the mission He has entrusted to us which is to preach the good news and make disciples of all nations.

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” Matthew 28:19-20.

We can achieve this mission depending on our gifts and calling. For instance if we are a student, then we can be active in Church and youth ministries. If we are a mom and we like to teach, then we can volunteer to teach on Sunday School. If we are musically inclined then why not join the choir or the worship team? If we have a knack for scheduling, organizing and administrative tasks then we can volunteer in church work and charitable missions. If we love helping out others who are struggling then we can join various ministries in relation to our existing profession or salvation experiences (drug addiction, women in crisis, prison ministry, elderly and hospice care, orphanage, etc). In the workplace, we can organize bible studies. Other simple yet impactful ways are if we have gifts in relation to the arts. For instance if you are gifted in photography, then why not take pictures of God’s creation and write wonderful reflections based from bible passages as its caption — so that your social media posts can help disseminate the Good News about Jesus? Same goes with painting, calligraphy, media arts, creative writing, and the like. We can all reach the unreached!

Now discerning one’s calling is something that we all have to find out ourselves. Our parents, teachers, and even church leaders cannot decipher that for us. By establishing and nurturing a personal relationship with the Lord, we get to be more perceptible in terms of hearing His voice, and realizing the truths He wants to reveal to us: “Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God” John 8:47.

By praying to Him everyday and spending time reading the bible, and learning about His words and life, we get to discover God’s messages to us, appreciate His gifts, and ultimately realize His calling. Let us abide by Him and carry out His mission for us.

Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to ponder on Romans 11:29-36 to dig deeper on today’s topic.

Reflection Question: Are you aware of God’s special gift to you? Have you heard his calling so you could use these gifts?  

Conversation with the Lord:  Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for equipping me with special gifts so that I could carry out your calling, will and purpose for my life. Please allow me to discern what you have called me to do and guide me through its fruition. I love you Lord. Amen.    

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