life momento

Overcoming Temptation-The Christian Way

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:30:00 +0000

Temptation is a desire or craving to do something which you think is wrong. Temptation in a loose sense may indicate a lack of self control. Every human being living on earth is vulnerable to temptation. Satan is the schemer of temptation. He is always on man’s path scheming ways he can trick and ruin him. Since the time of creation he is in paradise with Adam and Eve. Even Jesus Christ when he was in the flesh was not exempted from being tempted but he did not succumb to temptation. Christians should learn from our Lord how to resist temptation. Although temptation is common to all man God will not allow his people to be tempted beyond what he can bear and he will provide a way to escape. That is if we surrender ourselves to Him and resist the devil, the devil will flee from us. In some instances it is our own decision to succumb to temptation, more especially in a time when we are caught in a crossroad and are given the option to accept or resist a tempting offer. Temptation measures the strength of our faith to hold to our conviction to do the right thing. The decision of Joseph, the son of Jacob to resist the invitation of his master’s wife to lie in bed with her ( Genesis 39:1-23), is one good example of a man with a strong conviction that could able to resist temptation. Overcoming temptation requires the strength of our mind, the power of our will and the resistance of our body to run away from the point of temptation.

Temptation start with our curiosity; the curiosity to try something that are illegal or prohibited or something branded as bad or malicious. A thrill seeker person would always want to antagonize. The same with a men’s pleaser, he is easily enticed and be pressured by his peer group. He lacks the will to resist because he has no faith in God nor confidence in himself. Once we feed our curiosity and develop the satisfaction to do it once again, we develop our indulgence to stay with it. The next thing is, we found ourselves being hooked into it, then the habitual indulgence become a vicious cycle. Until such a time when a tiny smoke develop into a big fire and we are to pay for the consequences.

Temptation is a normal thing happens in our life if we succumb to it, we could always ask for forgiveness to God and bounce back never to do it again. Then our merciful God will find a way for us to escape if there would have another attempt by Satan to tempt us.

By being born again, God has renewed our spirit to follow our Savior’s example when He was on earth. But it doesn’t mean that we would never fall to temptation just like our Lord Jesus. We are still on our flesh, the Bible says, “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is wiling but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41). We need to be attuned with the words of God in able to strengthen our conviction to please God and resist temptation. When we know God’s words and live by it, we will develop a strong vigilance to identify the alluring temptation and before it clouts us we could readily pray for them to get away from our path.

My Travel Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Fri, 29 May 2009 18:38:00 +0000

It was month of April when the travel agency has called me up to confirm my passport ready. I was sponsored by my son-in-law to visit their first baby. My daughter has just given birth to a healthy baby girl in Saudi Arabia where the couple has been working for the past two years. It's their first baby after three years of marriage. Though their were excited to have a baby they would be saddled with the burden of caring for her and this saddened my daughter because this would mean she might stop working. It's the reason also why I was asked to speed-up the processing of my passport. I'm doubly excited to tackle the task of being a nanny to my grandchild and to travel abroad for the first time. I arrived here in Saudi last May anxious to find out how the procedure is going and how I should adapt to their culture. My lady co-passengers mostly Filipinos are already putting on their abayas when the plane has touchdown and we were advised to be alighting from the plane sooner. My daughter has called me up on my mobile phone, they were already on the arrival area to fetch me. I was still on the ground waiting for my baggage to pass the x-ray machine. After I got hold of my baggage I was finally relieved. I know I have nothing to worry about I have not brought anything illegal or banned materials but still my being first time traveler to totally different culture like us ,it make me shrink.

Contrary to the negative picture of how Saudi's strict culture has been projected in my mind, I was met with group of smiling and contented Filipino workers upon my arrival to the rented house of my daughter. Some of them have stayed in Saudi for more than ten years with their family and children renting on one big mansion sharing together with other Filipino families with each occupying a big room space with common kitchen and comfort room. A room space is as big as or a little bigger than the row house being sold for a low-income earner in the Philippines. All rooms are air-conditioned and all families are enjoying a comfortable lifestyle owning necessary automatic electrical appliances and cars. Electric bills are very minimal almost negligible to the budget compare to the Philippines. The temperature outside is hot dry above 40 degrees centigrade and there is an occassional sand storm. With contrasting temperature of hot dry outside the room and cold dry inside, we all experience dryness of the skin and everybody are applying the petroleum jelly to moisturize the skin and our sweat gland remains intact.

So far the places I have visited is the mall and hospital. We went shopping at the Riyadh gallery last Friday. The week end days here are Thursday and Friday so my daughter have to plan all the necessary outing and shopping during those days. The mall is superb big and full of lights. Friday is the day for family. Women are not allowed to go out without their abayas on and also to walk alone without their husband or children. Single women have separate days of malling allowed only during Monday. Supermarket occupies a very large space and grocery items have a very low cost with plenty of promo items and they are usually be bought in bulk.

My daughter has a work during Saturday. It's a vaccine day for my grandbaby I was with my son-in-law to take their baby to the hospital. We already have a contact Filipino nurse in the hospital so we can well be accommodated. We were welcome by our smiling Filipino nurses. It's a private hospital and most nurses are Filipinos. I take pride for them they are smart and friendly.

Spiritual gifts - exploring one's gifts.

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 04:09:00 +0000

I began to explore myself when I attended a seminar on Spiritual gifts that God has given us. It's a new discovery to myself, though I have indulged so much on self-reflection and introspection since I was converted to Lord Jesus and became a member of Christian church nevertheless, I've never been aware of such gifts, if ever I have it. That's how I downgrade myself and at times doubted my own abilities. I have been limiting myself to the thought that there are only chosen few who are gifted with talents and that exclude me. Though I refuse to be taken aside, once in a while I join the group where the action is. I accept challenges for my ability and this I'm sure of myself because I never shun from responsibilities delegated to me. Though I'm the passive type who just waited for the project that comes.

When I found my new home church, my concept of myself has given a new shape. I have attended a number of seminars that focus on ministry. "Ministry in the church" means using whatever God has given us to serve Him. That's where I explore my other "abilities" or describe in the Bible as "Spiritual gifts"

I Peter 4:10

"As every man receive the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."

Do you know that there are around 500 to 700 "abilities" that an average person has? One believer may have a kind of ability which the other person does not have.

I Corinthian 7:7

"For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man has his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that."

Before one discover his spiritual gifts he should know first the donor of the gifts.

Exodus 31: 3

"I (Lord)... have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship. "

Once the person becomes a believer of Christ he should find a home church where he could make use of gifts that he has and serve God as well.

You should be willing to work or be an active member of the church by accepting responsibilities. As your work progress, you will discover several other abilities or "gifts" that God has given you.

The value of not giving up

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 05:16:00 +0000

This is a forwarded message. I posted it for others to read and encourage people to continue living for God. If there is one last hope that is God.

Don't ever ever give up......
One day I decided to quit...I quit my job, my relationship, my spirituality... in fact I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.
"God", I asked, "Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"

His answer surprised me...
"Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them.
I gave them light.
I gave them water.
The fern quickly grew from the earth.
Its brilliant green covered the floor.

Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.
In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo. He said.
"In year three there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.

But I would not quit.
In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed. I would
not quit." He said.
"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant. ..But just 6
months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.
I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."
He asked me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling, you have actually been growing roots".

"I would not quit on the bamboo.
I will never quit on you."
"Don't compare yourself to others."
He said.
"The bamboo had a different Purpose than the fern.
Yet they both make the forest beautiful."
"Your time will come", God said to me.
"You will rise high"
"How high should I rise?"
I asked.

"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.
"As high as it can?" I questioned.
"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."
I left the forest and brought back this story.
I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you.
Never, Never, Never Give up.

Don't tell God how big the problem is,
tell the problem how Great God is!
Heavens door opened this morning, God asked me... My CHILD...
what can I do for you?" and I said "Protect and bless the one reading this message.
God smiled and answered ... "request granted ............

This message is now in your hands.
What will YOU do with it?
send this to at least 10 people so they too will have their
lives in God's hands
You never know when GOD is going to bless you!! Good things happen when you least expect them to !!!!!!!!
If You Value Someone, Give them Your TIME. Nothing Else Matters AS Much >>> Never ever give up till the last moment, May be that moment can change your life <<<

Marriage Encounter- Scrutinizing its essence and value

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:16:00 +0000

(Photo by smoothdude from flickr)

Why a lot of marriage fail? Let's have a marriage encounter -scrutinizing the essence and value of marriage as we try to picture a married couple. But first let me have this important reminder:

"Marriage is one sacred union between man and woman tied by a common vow to cleave to each other till death separate them." Whether you agree with me or not, marriage is instituted by God. He is the author of marriage, thus, He alone has the power to snatch one partner from the other. Or let them stay in love with each other for as long as they live. The common situation nowadays, is nothing else than a temporal union. There are lot of young couple today separate as early as three years of marriage or even lower. It's very unfortunate that marriage is no longer consider as sacred but something a couple (wants to experiment and undone after a whirlwind romance.

In contrast, I witness a couple as old as 80 years of age, married for about 50 years but their bond had grown stronger in time. There is no special secret, like other young couple today, these old folks had also gone through lots of quarrels, disagreements and incompatibilities as common to others. Their marriage had also been swayed for sometime, but managed to stick together. They had of course, undergone the test of time. And this test of time is one factor that many couples agree in fulfilling a lasting relationship.

Old couples who have been married for more than 50 years belong to the era when they experienced, hard manual labor, scarcity of foods, post war damages, emotional depression and spritual struggle. These things made the couple cleave to each other even more for comfort and solace.

When Adam and Eve were banished from Eden, they had no one to turn to , thus clinging to each others arms, they accepted God's punishment quietly. They have stopped blaming each other but took their responsibility to each other as husband and wife also as parents to their children.

In parallel situation, the financial hardship a couple is experiencing may drive them closely together as they eager to solve problems on their own. As they perform their task together they discover the significance of each one. Compare to the affluent who have their rich independent jobs and almost tied down to each jobs that they have no time for each other anymore. Where you spend most of your time is where your passion develops and too much of it can blow your head off-balance that can be absorbs by your partner. Such negatives traits as greediness, selfishness, insecurities, jealousy, may come to the picture and ruin the couples' relationship. Sad to say, most of the separated women I talked to were the active, independent type who were left to handle the responsibility of being a single parent.

I read a book on "A Biblical Portrait of Marriage" by Dr. Bruch H. Wilkinson This is a kind of workbook that is being used in course on establishing a God-controlled marriage. The teaching were all based on the Bible on its portrait of Marriage. I just one to take the brief discussions on the course with some pointers to follow:

1). The Role of the Couple - to leave the parents domain and live as one flesh.

Genesis 2:18, 23-24

"And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet for him. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife; and they shall be one flesh

Matthew 19:4-6

"And He answered and said to them, Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning 'made them male and female." and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate."

2. The responsibility of the Couple - To cleave to each other

Hebrews 13: 4

"Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge"
I Corinthians 7:3

"Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband"

3. The role of the husband as the head

Ephesians 5:23

"For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the bod. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her"

I Corinthian 11:3, 8-9

"But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. For man is not from woman, but woman from man. Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man"

I Peter 3:7

" Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered"

4. The role of the wife as helper

Titus 2:4-5

"That they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed."

5. The responsibility of the husband to love his wife

Colossians 3:19

"Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them"

Ephesians 5:28-33

"So husbands ought to love their own wive as their own bodies; he who loves is wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church, Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband"

6. The responsibility of the wife is to submit to her husband

Ephesians 5:24,33

"Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.

I Peter 3:1-3

"Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear."

The couple may not achieve the ideal or the perfect marriage but abiding on God's Word would guide them towards achieving a lasting relationship.

God isTesting your Faith

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:29:00 +0000

The hard days maybe the time God is testing your faith With a lot a discouraging news on work condition and downturn of economy, the thought of it might have a depressing impact on your future planning. Some may have already felt agitated especially those who have been directly hit by the recession. But lucky enough the recession was not like a sudden bomb that exploded without any warning at all. Perhaps, we could just be going through a testing of time and start tightening our belt a little bit. I was in one government office waiting for my papers to release. A man in microphone who is calling out the names of those released papers made his overture, "you know we, who already experiencing poverty will no longer affected by the recession, because we have been used to it, unlike those who are in an affluent status, they could be badly stricken if ever." I chuckled, in approval, as he looked at me. I was sitting in front of him. I'm sure this man knows the way to endurance and patience, I told myself.

I was reminded of the Jews during their 40 days in the wilderness. There were lots of complaints along the way as they experienced fatigue, hunger and thirst. Yet, the ever faithful God, never abandoned them. They were fed and given water to drink. God sent them pillar of fire during the night and pillar of cloud during the day, to make them feel comfortable. But the people don't realize God's blessing to them and continue to bicker among them and yearn for those days they were in Egypt, where foods are visible and material things are within reach.

I would like to think, that there would be two things which may possibly happen if the recession continue to persist; it's either the people would seek God more or stray from God even more. At any rate, God is not asleep. He knows that everything would have its own time and season... and for his own people God will make it pass

Hebrews 11:1-3

1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

2 For by it the elders obtained a good testimony.

3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.

Teaching Bible Truth to Children

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 15:04:00 +0000

Bible truth should be taught to children at an early age. I was given the chance to teach Sunday school to children of school age. This coming Sunday will be my 4th Sunday teaching. The teaching comprises; children gospel song, Bible story-telling, memory verse and a a dash of fun activities like coloring, drawing, paper cut-outs and Bible games.

Reminiscing my college days when I had my first encountered with Christian missionary group, I was readily introduced to God's gift of salvation which then was a strange knowledge to me. Though I had been a regular church goer during my early school days my knowledge of Christ were nothing more than a skimpy story of Bethlehem and crucifixion. The bulk of activities we had in my daily church attendance was the recital of rosary in chorus, the prime Catholic teaching. As I walked in Christ for my renewed faith, I totally felt a different person. I was the youngest and first born-again Christian at home, being so, I knew God had in-stored for me a special task of opening the gospel to my family. Since we have a loose Catholic faith, it worked well to easily win my parent's heart to Christ. I was not met with blatant indignation from any member of my family as could had happened if I have a strict and conservative religious root.

I set my own mission of teaching the gospel truth to my nephews and nieces, that was my enjoyable days in my life. Then I volunteered to teach in Vacation Bible School of the Baptist Church. I lost contact with the family of my brother when I established my own family and settled a few miles apart from my brother's residence which means I couldn't follow-up his children from their faith. I knew I failed to win my brother and his wife to Christ and so I thought there wouldn't have the chance for their children to live up to Christian faith. But am I missing the lines that says "some planted, the other waters and some others reap.." When the children had grown-up I was informed that they were all active in the Christian Church service though, my brother and her wife remained in their old faith.

Filipino families' quarrel over inheritance

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:02:00 +0000

The common dispute among Filipino families is the partition of inheritance among siblings. A quarrel over a piece of property surface when one sibling outstretch his occupied boundary or else deem it as his already acquired portion disregarding the rest of the siblings. When couple have acquired a small property under the name of the dead spouse and the living spouse wanted to dispatch the property or decided to divide it among her children, a dispute would somehow be expected.

I have witnessed a number of such situation, mainly the causes of disagreement is the squabble over the property division. Take this one case I know very well. Since the rest of the siblings have already a house of their own, the less fortunate one then decided to stay on the parent's compound and built his own house and do business. While enjoying his business, he stretched further disregarding his mother's disapproval. He presumed that his other affluent siblings would not be interested with the property, so when the time comes he could finally take it as his own.

The fate came to mother's weakening health, medical expenses has reached to staggering high prices and the support coming from other fortunate children can no longer suffice. The only solution of the sick parent is to sell half of her property and that refer to the portion occupied by the sibling. As expected, there was this long argument on the disgruntled occupant. He even challenge his other siblings about the legality of his right to property and demanded a payback from what he had spent on the structured and placed the value of his house to the present price of the house he is going to buy when he transfer. Considering the almost dilapidated structured of his house while the amount he demanded is equal to the value of an expensive newly-built house around the city, it sounds absurd. The other siblings then recognized greediness which then decided to summon a lawyer and a municipal assessor to interfere so the dumb sibling would understand his boundary and his claimed right.

From the words of the lawyer the law explains that in case where a couple acquired a property under the name of the dead spouse and they have children, the living spouse maintain her right to the property, she can have the right to dispose the half of the property and the other half would be divided equally among her and the children so the right of the children to the property of the parents becomes slimmer while there still one parent that lives.

After the lawyer's disclosure of the sibling's legal right to the property, the disgruntled child admitted that it was against his will not actually what he knows about legality. The lawyer advised him to talk with the mother and make amends from his hostility and seek the console of other siblings.

After the conference with the lawyer, came the municipal assessor and made his rounds of assessment. The assessor placed the value of the house way below the present value. Though the sibling pointed out those newly- built structured attached to the wall which is inside the house, the assessor maintains that it can't be meted out to the value of the whole structure as per the price of the house.

The pride was still there, the haughty child remained obstinate, not heeding the advice. He even remained aloof to the rest of the siblings . Since he can't anymore insist his will, he accepted the fact that he has to go. While awaiting for the buyer, he just instructed his wife to talk with his mother about his displacement and beg for the piece of lot where he can build the dwelling for his family. He wants to clarify if his mother would still allow him to stay in the compound since there was this heated argument at one time between them, when the mother thrown a bitter word on him, shooing him away from her vicinity. Yet, the mother has this soft heart for the son that he was allowed to stay in the compound but with a certain limit in space.

The other siblings hope that disgruntled brother would approach them with low-profile and swallow his pride, so that they could design an appropriate step to help him. But so far it remains something to be hoped for since the proud sibling continue to serve as a pain in their neck.

Proverbs 16:18
18 Pride goes before destruction. And a haughty spirit before a fall.
19 Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Loving Care for Retarded Woman

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:22:00 +0000

I wasn't able to update my blog for the past weeks, the reason; I was confined to give a loving care for a retarded woman, Ellen, a 41 years old, the youngest sister of my husband. Also the only girl in 7 brood. This will be my longest time to pitch in the work of a care giver while the contracted care giver was out for vacation with her own family. It was December, 2008 when I was asked by my in-laws to do the job. At first, I was hesitant but after realizing that I'm the most eligible and available to do it, I gave in to their request.

My mother in-law, the only living parent of my husband is being treated of cancer that means she would not be capable to give her full support for Ellen. God may have a purpose for this unfortunate things

As I learned about caring for retarded person there were no common methods of caring. In the case of Ellen, the cause of her retardation was a neurological disorder which is classified as profound mental retardation. She was detected of having a post meningitis during her 11 months old after succumbing to high fever for almost a week. The profound mentally retarded person needs a pervasive support which calls for daily supervision and hands on support for most adaptive areas, like spoon-feeding, personal hygiene and nursing for her waste elimination.

With well-pampered life under the care of my mother-in-law, she has grown into a full-sized woman, too heavy to carry herself giving problem to her care giver in guiding her walk. She used to stumble every time she step backward during her tantrums. So her space has to be cleared from hard furniture and sharp objects. She sleeps in a wide soft bed and provided with low soft couch. Her toys and stuff were all made of plastic and cotton. Her sort of pastime is listening to radio and watching television program. She cries and shouts in reaction to the scene of drama or violence in the tv program. Then follows the tantrums which usually hard to stop. So I have to cajole her by making funny faces so she could switch mood.

Also as an after effect of meningitis she has a long life of epilepsy disease, which causes a seizure attack most of the time. So she is given a daily dose of dilantin to prevent her from the said attack. She has a speech impairment. She can only utter single word. She has a weak right hand and feet thus she has difficulty lifting her feet and holding a thing. She is not capable of wearing any flat slippers. So the flooring is covered with vinyl to prevent her feet from touching the cold cemented ground.

I was advised to limit her intake of carbohydrate by the family doctor to prevent the rise of her blood pressure and also to minimize the seizure attack. Caring for her requires a sacrifice for all of us. It was not an easy task. I was just fortunate to be a part of a family that utilize a concerted effort, when every sibling shares for the good of everyone.

Holding a Family Reunion as Filipino Tradition

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 11:21:00 +0000

The good thing about having an extended family is the fun of holding a family reunion. It is one Filipino tradition where a great number of family members hold a one day family togetherness. Infusing a lot of fun activities during the celebration; first there is the introduction of kid’s name to elderly member, welcoming the newly-born to the family clan and acknowledging the eldest living member of the clan, then followed with parlor games, singing contest, dances and gift-giving. These are things that make the reunion an exciting event to remember. There is this spirit of bonding that kindle family relationship. Most reunion are held during Christmas vacation where there is long period of vacation from school and work.

Characteristic of Filipino Family

Filipinos has a closely-knit family ties. The member will try to search for his family root and find ways to meet a distant relative, introduce himself to create familiarity and invited the newly-known relative to his home to meet other member of his family. When I was a kid my father used to bring us to his hometown to meet my cousins and we were introduced to them. We would take a vacation for one month to familiarize ourselves to our uncles and aunts and to the rest of the relatives. In one occasion, I remember that one customer in our store happened to be my mother’s distant relative. Upon knowing it, he invited my mother’s family to have dinner with them. It seems that there is this leap of joy when somebody discovered that he has distant relative on a certain place.

The spirit of “bayanihan” or cooperation within a Filipino family is one exemplary value and tradition that enable them to surpass any crises that may befall on them. An office mate of mine unluckily has his house burned down with nothing left on them., but his brother’s family came to his rescue and temporarily housed them in one of their guest room, until he can afford to separate his family from his brother’s home. Other relatives also extended help by providing his family of their necessities.

The family-first mindset is a strong Filipino value that embodied in his heart and mind. The saying that “blood is thicker than water” is very much true to Filipino tradition, that is the practice of giving the first priority and favor to the member of his family than the rest of individuals who are also in the same queue

Get the Message of Christmas- the Love Gift from God

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 05:49:00 +0000

(photo from flickr by Brungrrl)

I don’t know if lots of people understand the message of Christmas which is the Love gift from God.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world that He sent His begotten son that whosever believe on Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Though December 25, remains un-established fact, it is a universal truth that once upon a time God lived among the people in physical terms. The angels of God announced to God’s chosen people the birth of the Messiah and the joy of His coming was exuberantly felt by those who have witnessed His birth.

During the onset of Christmas season Christians around the world culminate the birth of Christ, there is this feeling of love that seems to kindle in us. Every time we hear the Christmas carols or see those Christmas symbols that gleefully hang on every street and in most homes, the spirit of joy somehow, leaps in our heart. The spirit of Christmas encourages giving among the people not only materially but it also stir in us the joy of love, bonding and reunion, It is during Christmas that we tend to remember those departed loved ones and sometimes we get surprised for the unexpected visit of the long lost loved one. These are only few of the countless incidents that we all wish to happen during Christmas. Remembering the good memories and dispelling those hatreds we have kept in our hearts for so long, are two things that we should do if we want to receive the abundance of God’s blessings this Christmas.

It is the will of God that everybody should come to Him for repentance and be saved from our sins. It is by receiving the gift of God, which is the forgiveness of our sins through the spirit of Lord Jesus that one experience the renewing of mind and restoring the joy of salvation in our hearts. If you have not taken the step to ask forgiveness from all your sins and receive Christ to come to your heart and ask Him to renew your mind and make you a new person, this is your day now. If you have been tired of solving problems by yourself or been overloaded with burden of this world, you may not know that God is calling you right now.

II Corithians 6:2

For He says “In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.

Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29”Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

30”For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

You only receive Christ once and expect the joy of salvation throughout your life. Though how much sins you have or if you perceive yourself as somebody who is hopeless and unforgivable. You have a great hope in the Lord.

Isaiah 1:18

“Come now, and let us reason together.” Says the Lord, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

Help in Receiving Christ

You can receive Christ right now by faith through prayer. God knows your heart and is not as concerned with your words as He is with the attitude of your heart. The following is the suggested prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I want to know You personally. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make me the kind of person You want me to be.”

If this prayer expresses the desire of your heart, the Spirit of Christ will come to your right now
Accept the gift of love and message of God this Christmas.

Learn from Thanksgiving Day Story

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 11:26:00 +0000

Thanksgiving Day in U.S. is observed every fourth Thursday of November This was first proclaimed by President George Washington in 1777 and later renewed by James Madison during the war of 1812. Since then, Thanksgiving Day has been a significant feast day for every American home. If we dig deeper in the history of the pilgrims and the story behind the Thanksgiving Day we can learn so much from their experiences. I got this beautiful story of the writer;

By Barbara Curtis

I'd stuffed many a turkey before I really understood Thanksgiving. Oh sure, I knew we were supposed to be thankful, and once I became a Christian I knew who we were thanking. But it wasn't 'til I taught my children at home that I really got the whole story.

Unfortunately, these days that story keeps getting harder to find.
For years, many public schools have left God out of Thanksgiving, teaching instead that the Pilgrims gave a party to thank the Native Americans or Mother Earth. Even more current are claims that the first Thanksgiving was a copy of European harvest festivals or a stolen Native American custom, or just a repeat of thanksgivings by other explorers.

But the Pilgrims' own writings, and the historical events leading to the first Thanksgiving show the traditional accounts (available in pre-1960 books and encyclopedias) to be authentic. Thanksgiving was not as an isolated event, or an imitation, but a uniquely inspired Christian celebration -- the culmination of a long journey of faith in which the Pilgrims had relied on God and trusted him through many adversities.

If the story is not to be forgotten, it is today's Christian parents who must pass it on.

This year, make sure your celebration of Thanksgiving includes this portrait of God's hand in history bringing people together to accomplish specific purposes -- as well as the lesson of 1Thessalonian 5:18:
Be joyful always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.

Tell It

In the early 1600's the Wampanoag (Wam pa NO ag) Indians covered the coast of what we now call New England. They raised crops, living close to the ocean in summer for seafood, moving inland in winter to set up hunting camps. Their encounters with Europeans over the years were mostly friendly.

One exception: In 1614 Captain Thomas Hunt captured several Wampanoag, along with a Patuxet named Squanto, to be sold into slavery in Spain. A Spanish monk purchased Squanto's freedom, taught him English, and introduced him to Jesus Christ. In 1619 Squanto returned to his native land, only to find his tribe wiped out by an epidemic. Thereafter he made his home with the Wampanoag.

Meanwhile, in 1608, a British group called the Separatists fled to Leyden, Holland. There they found religious freedom, but also poverty, grueling work hours, and a secular culture that threatened to undo the values they had carefully instilled into their children. In 1620, they sold everything and indentured themselves for seven years to finance their journey to America.

On the Mayflower, the Separatists were joined by those seeking the new land for other reasons; these they called the Strangers. The two groups, 102 altogether, were called the Pilgrims.

Their journey lasted nine weeks. In one of those "accidents" which change the course of history, the ship lost its course and landed far north of its destination at what we now call Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Once outside the territory covered by the King's Charter, the Pilgrims became responsible for their own government, and so they wrote a set of laws called The Mayflower Compact.
On December 21, 1620, they began their new life at the place they named Plymouth.
It was a devastating winter -- whipped with wind and sleet and snow. Half the Pilgrims died. Still the Separatists clung to their faith; not one chose to return to England with the Mayflower that spring.

But spring brought unexpected relief with the help of a noble and generous Christian brother -- Squanto. He taught them how to grow corn, use fertilizer, stalk deer, and catch fish. William Bradford, the governor of Plymouth, wrote of Squanto that he was "a special instrument sent of God for good beyond their expectations."
And so their first harvest was good. Governor Bradford proclaimed a day of thanksgiving to God and the Pilgrims invited their Indian friends. Chief Massasoit and ninety members of his tribe came, along with Squanto, bearing venison and wild turkeys for all to share. Together in harmony w the Pilgrims and the Indians feasted, played games, ran races, and showed their prowess with bow and arrow and musket.

How thankful were the Pilgrims? The first Thanksgiving took three whole days!

Jobs for Christians

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:48:00 +0000

Analysis says that recession is just starting to be felt nowadays and worst is yet to come. In America there are thousands of workers who are lay-offs almost everyday.

Fortunately, there are also some companies which are on hiring. I have posted one of them in my other blog, twitter you can check the site for updates on jobs opening.

Here is a good news to Christian workers who are looking for job. The Christian job site has a list of jobs opening. I subscribed for their newsletter and I regularly receiving their newsletter describing the new jobs opening on various field. If you feel working in Christian organization you can check the site. If you are Christian American you are most welcome.

God's Words on Favoritism

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:12:00 +0000

(photo courtesy of Webshots)

I was raised in a big family. I’m the youngest in the brood of 9, but though I’m the youngest, I never been treated as special nor had the feeling of being favored more than the rest of my siblings. It was our parent’s way of fair treatment that nobody of us could pinpoint who’s the favorite one among us. If my mother would be asked who’s her favorite child. She easily retorted, “I treat my children fairly because they all came from me and they are all part of me,” a good piece of wisdom from a beloved mother.

On the other hand, my mother-in-law is so vocal in declaring to her children about her favorite son, a second to the eldest among her seven all boys children. Unfortunately it’s not my husband. Everybody knows even the relatives about her favorite son, oh ye, even the in-laws know it and I just feel sorry for my husband, but he doesn’t mind at all. My husband happens to be the third to the youngest. He would just say, “it’s her choice.” But there is every reason why my mother-in-law had picked the second to the eldest as her favorite. He has brought honor to the family, a consistent honor student, a very dignified man, humble and has mellowed and tender voice, I never see him blowing his temper which is common attitude in other siblings like my husband. But I would say either, that it’s not a valid reason to be impartial in dealing with others much more with your children.

I came to understand that every child that though, they belong to same parents have distinct personality which is unique with each other. Each one has its own gift and talent given from above and it is every duty of the parents to inspire their children, to harness and use the talent for his success with no impartiality dealings and favoritism.

But the favored one will always lost from the parent’s sight as base from my viewpoint with reference to some of the story in the Bible

Rebecca made a way for her favorite son, Jacob to run from his brother, Esau’s anger and sent him to her brother, Laban in far land for his temporary dwelling, From then on Rebecca never see her favorite son again.

Jacob’s favorite son, Joseph was separated from him for almost ten years when he was sold by his envious brothers to be a slave and brought to Egypt.

My brother-in-law, the favorite son likewise has bore a family in distant place where they permanently stayed for more than 25 years and seldom come home to visit his ailing mother.

Do God intentionally remove from somebody the one she adored, to let her suffered the pain and enabled her to let go of the impartiality, obsession, idolatry and favoritism. God wants us to direct our hope and inspiration to His son, Jesus Christ alone. When you chose to give much of your love to your favored child you’re blocking God’s blessing which is intended for other children?

Acts 2:34
34 Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality

Malachi 2:9
9 “Therefore, I have made you a contemptible in the eyes of all the people, for you have not obeyed Me, but you let your favorite break the law without rebuke.”

Experiencing the Joy of Teaching in Sunday School to Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:37:00 +0000

Sunday school are non-academic schooling that teaches Bible truths in every Christian Churches. It is usually held every Sunday morning inside the church. Mostly catering to children from pre-school age to juniors, the teaching hour goes simultaneously with the adult during worship service. The Sunday schools are provided with separate room so they would not destruct the ongoing church service for the adults. Children learned on their own way the basic Bible truths. Teaching them at an early age the custom of worshipping the Savior is something I really miss and pondering on taking the ministry once again.

I have experienced teaching in Sunday School during my college years and I can’t explain the joy of teaching the kids on basic bible truths, story telling about popular Bible stories and letting them learned some creative activities like coloring, drawing and games,

Mark 10:13

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.

Mark 10:14

When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.

Life Momento - my first baby

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:03:00 +0000

When I was creating what the title of my blog should be, it readily came to my mind the word life, since I would be touching topics about Christian life which is a broad subject. Every moment I would think of good title and it took me really one whole day to come up with a nice one, so here is my blog Life Momento, which was my first baby.

Momento is a Spanish word for moment. Also it is momento in Brazil and Italian. I could preferably use moment to be better understood. But Spanish language is my choice to sound more romantic and lovable. Spaniards has been known for their romanticist and since Filipino has Spanish influence, it somehow dig the tinge of romanticism in me.

Since I surrendered my life to Christ, I could feel how the spirit of Lord Jesus Christ have been alive in every momento of my life.

Forming Women Ministry group of the Church

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:23:00 +0000

Right now I’m thinking of the name to submit for the women ministry group. Last Sunday all married women were convened by the woman elder of our church and announced about the plan to form Women Ministry group. It’s not new to me anymore, I have been an active member of the women ministry in my former church and there are lots of things to miss about; the fellowship of other Christian women, the camaraderie, the Bible teaching, the activities, the fun and the joy of being in one Spirit encouraging and praying for each other.

The Christian church I’m serving now is on the infancy stage. We have just celebrated our 2nd anniversary last September 7, and there are still many activities on the way. As the number of member grows so is the multitude of responsibilities. Women have been doing an important role in the church. If there is festivity and celebration being held in the church, the women are the busy bodies in the kitchen, table preparation, the attendance and others. Teaching in Sunday School and mothering the children are usually attended by women. Given these vital responsibilities the women should be equipped with wisdom and knowledge of the Biblical truth This is one purpose of forming the Women Ministry. Where women converge to talk about activities their camaraderie and spiritual love for each other are enhanced since they are working together for the common spiritual goal.

Experience the life-changing miracle by Christ

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 04:49:00 +0000

There could be one precious miracle that anyone would ever experience and this is the life-changing miracle by Christ. Nowadays people are anxious to witness a miracle, the reason why some people are led to believe a hoax miracle, a deceit of some sort like a statute of Mary which was said to shed tears of blood or water; when in fact it was done craftily by sculptor to deceive the people. Another thing is the blotted paint, shadows or clouds that has formed to an image of Christ, or a corpse which failed to decompose for over a month then the barrio folks started treating the corpse as miraculous and regarded the owner of the body as saint, which they believe the liquid coming out of the corpse could heal them. Yes, these are only few of devil’s tactics to deceive the people of their faith.

The Lord Jesus Christ has been performing miracles during His ministry on earth. Such miracles have been witnessed by multitudes of people during those time and was recorded by His disciples; Matthew, Mark, Luke and John which were known as four gospels in the New Testament. The Lord performs miracles to prove His authorship as the Son of God. His detractors who oppose His deity would have no chance to receive miracles. Faith is an important element to receive miracles from the Lord Jesus by believing alone in your heart that Jesus is the true Son of God and desire Him to transform you into a man of love and wisdom, everything else would He performed in you and will keep you in awed and wonder. The Bible says that multitudes of people came to Him in various needs. Many asked for healing of their sicknesses and disability, some for release from devil’s possession and few for the assurance of heaven. The story of Christ miracles in the Bible were not just a recorded history, the miracles of Christ still continue until today as He promise

Hebrews 13:8

Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever.

If He has done miracles during His time on earth, He can do miracle at this present times. His spirit is alive forevermore. Try His spirit and be transformed to a kind of person that pleases God.

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Message of the church of Philadelphia - Revelation 3:7

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 17:10:00 +0000

In the book of Revelation there are 7 churches that is being mention. Among the seven churches, only the church of Philadelphia is found to be worthy of emulation. God has regarded this church as pleasing to Him because it has remained faithful, have not disobeyed nor deny His name.

Revelation 3:7-13

7 And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, "These things says He who is holy, He who is true, He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens”,

8 “I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept my word, and have not denied my name.

9”Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie- indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you.

10 “Because you have kept my command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial, which shall come upon the whole, world, to test those who dwell on the earth.

11 “Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.

12”He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, And I will write on him My new name.

13”He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Tracing back to its root, the church of Philadelphia mentioned in the book of Revelation is nowhere to be found, if we are to locate its exact place dating back to the ancient city; it is located in Asia Minor which is now the Republic of Turkey. I presumed God has purposely banished all those ancient locations so that we would not be idolizing nor worshiping any physical edifice. But instead, we should look at the symbolism, the message and spirit which embodies in every verses of the Bible.

All churches or member of the body of Christ will experience trial and persecutions in varying degree at the end times, but blessed are those who persevere and remain faithful to Him for their reward will be great in heaven.

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Mark Schultz of Reaching Out for Jesus through Music and Song

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 11:52:00 +0000

There are various ways where we can share our God gifts to reach out to millions lost souls for Jesus. Mark Schultz, a contemporary Christian music singer/song writer uses his talents to reach out for Jesus. Born September 16, 1970. He grew up in Colby, Kansas and graduated from Kansas State University where he finished his degree in marketing. He delved in sports such as track and football during his high school but music tend to be more appealing to him. When He moved to Nashville he became a youth leader at First Presbyterian Church where he was inspired to write songs about people in the congregation. He held weekly concerts that drew more crowds Those numerous concerts has led to his signing a contract with Myrrh Records which released his self-titled debut album in 2000 He has been nominated to several Dove Awards then finally won his first Dove Awards in 2006 when his CD/DVD Mark Schultz Live: A Night of Stories and Song was named Long Form Music Video of the Year.

This singer/song writer has a special love for the orphans being an adopted boy himself at age two weeks, he is actively participating in the ministry of reaching out for the needs of the orphans by providing support to the James fund –a non-profit organization founded by Family Christians Stores to meet the needs of orphans and widows who are in distress.

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Focusing on the last Signs of Jesus Christ Second Coming

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 10:16:00 +0000

Many religious people have written about the signs of Jesus Christ Second Coming, touching about the signs and wonders, which the Lord Jesus Christ spoken during His ministry on earth; the emerging of false prophets, rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, increase of wickedness, persecutions of Christians but as what Jesus Christ said, these are only the beginning of sorrows, the end is not yet. I would like to focus on the last signs of Jesus Christ second coming.

Matthew 24:4-14

4 Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you.

5 For many will come in my name, claiming, “I am the Christ, and will deceive many.

6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must

happen, but the end is still to come

7 Nations will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.

8 All these are the beginning of birth pains

9 “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.

10 At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other.

11 and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people

12 because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold

13 but he who stands firm to the end will be saved

14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.

Notice that the last signs Jesus Christ mentioned is the spread of the gospel throughout the world. The gospel will be preached to all nations, this thing must be fulfilled that no one would give an alibi that they have not heard the gospel.

It was 1973 when I converted to Christianity, as a new believer I was so zealous to join in the street evangelization, giving tracts to those people frolicking in national park near our school. The word “born-again” was so unfamiliar, so it makes nice opening words when I start sharing the gospel with somebody, repeating the very words of Jesus Christ John 3:3 “…. unless one is born-again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

During that time our favorite topic was Christ Second Coming, we would be warning our friends, family relatives and those people I’ve met and shared with the gospel. We were that anxious for the coming of the Lord. That time communication was so obscure, there were scarcity of telephone, television and most office works were done manually so data were so slow to attain. With those things I wonder how prophecies in the Bible would take place. Let say, the mark of the beast, Revelation 13:17 – And that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. I was wondering how can this thing be made possible. Now with the rapid growth of technology, this thing will no longer be impossible. Advance computer technology will do the work. Electronic chips embedded in the body could collect data from the person himself; his whereabouts would be known and his movements could easily be detected.

Revelation 11:3-9

“And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth.”

7 When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them.

8 And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

9 Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves.

Note that seeing their bodies by all people of the world would be impossible to accomplish in just three and a half days during our time. But you see, with the presence of cable tv and satellites nowadays there is nothing impossible.

Now, how close are we in the end times and the coming of the Lord? We are very close in fact, the time is so ripe that spreading of the gospel throughout the world have not been so easy and attainable than these present generation.

Growth of Christianity in forbidden countries.

When communist ideals has loosened grip on its followers, people inside the communist countries could very well experience the saving grace of Christ.

In communist country like China, who boasts of their 1.3 billion people it is now growing to its roughly 30,000 Christian converts a day. The estimates accounts to those Christians who live their faith underground.

In Cuba, the evangelical movement is growing at a pace of 6.5% outsmarting population growth which is only 0.7 percent annually. Sufferings and persecution inside Cuba have refined the works of Christian evangelists. They were gifted evangelists and were doing well in Cuba.

People in North Korea were made to believe that there is no God that after death all is finished. Their god is their leader, Kim II Sung, The concept of trinity, which is Juche philosophy is indoctrinated to all North Koreans from birth which has similarity with Holy trinity; Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This is Kim II Sung, his mother Kim Jung Sook and his son Kim Jong II. There are official two state-own churches in Pyongyang, set-up by government but these are only for a show. Those that go there are state-ordered believers. There are minimal knowledge of underground churches in North Korea those Christians who were found practicing their faith are immediately faced execution.

Missionaries’ Work

The Gospel of Christ is definitely not for those people who already have the knowledge of salvation but reject Christ, Aside from those countries where Christianity and Bible are strictly unwelcome, there are still part of the earth whose inhabitants have no concrete knowledge of God, heaven and salvation. In developing countries like Philippines, which is vastly covered with forested mountains and clustered islands, there were tribes of people who remained untouched by civilization; These are people who thrive in the deepest part of the jungle in mountain caves and remotest islands.

I was listening to the testimony and presentation of information in a seminar conducted by Philippine Christian missionaries and I was astonished by the boldness of the two young ladies who started the missionary work in remote island in the country and was able to break through the tribe’s cultural beliefs and norms. They taught the islanders to write using an obscure knife, practical knowledge on sanitation, herbal and alternative medicine and of course the gospel of Christ. .

Today with more than twenty uncivilized tribes there are already more than half of the number which were administered and presented the gospel of Christ. Bible were distributed translated in their own tongues

Christians throughout the world are faced with challenge of spreading the gospel if we want to hasten Christ coming let’s do our work; sharing the gospel with our friends, neighbors, family and relatives.

Matthew 9:37-38

37 Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the workers are few.

38 “Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His harvest.”

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How can Philippians 4:13 of New Testament be significant in your life?

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 06:21:00 +0000

The book of Philippians of New Testament contains the letter written by Paul and Timotheus, to all believers in Christ in Philippi. This place is located about 10 miles north of Mediterranean Sea and Neapolis founded by Philip II of Macedon, the father of Alexander the Great. Philippi is the first European city where Paul preached the gospel

In his letter Paul encourages the believers to preach the gospel with more boldness and reminded them to make intense their love for each other as they keep themselves in dwelt in the Spirit of Christ.

Paul who was once a great persecutor of Christians was transformed to become the defender of the gospel. He had suffered persecutions the same sufferings he inflicted to the believers before yet, he remained humble and accepted with gladness those sufferings because he strongly believe in the power of Christ.

Philippians 4:13 –

I can do all things through Christ which strengthen me.

If Paul can do all things through Christ you can make this verse significant in your life too. The Spirit of Christ is alive even today. He is near to those who call on His name. He is just waiting for our invitation so he could come into our heart and let our life be transformed with a renewed mind of Christ.

Knowing the Good News of New Testament

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 23:28:00 +0000

The good news always carries an uplifting story that would bring happiness and excitement to the recipient. The good news of New Testament likewise brings hope and inspiration to those who would accept the message.

The Bible is composed of two books, the old and new testament. The Old Testament comprise various stories of God’s own people and His chosen leaders; their ascension and fall, their deviation and remorse, their slavery and sought for freedom. God’s promise of messiah or the one who would free them from bondage is given in the Old Testament, hence the fulfillment of the promise in the New Testament.

Old Testament- the promise of God was given
Isaiah 7:14
Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God. The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

New Testament – Fulfillment of God’s promise

Matthew 1:23
Behold a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

The New Testament revolves around the life of Jesus Christ on earth, His birth, His ministry, His death on the cross, His disciples, His commandment and His second coming. This signifies that the promise of God to send a messiah on earth was fulfilled on the Lord Jesus Christ. It is just frustrating on the part of the chosen people of God, the Israel who rejected the ministry of Jesus Christ. They didn’t understand that the savior they are waiting for is Jesus Christ Himself. They presumed that the messiah is one who would champion their cause and who would liberate them from the rule of Roman Empire, thus, when Jesus Christ presented himself to them; as a meek, humble servant of the masses, friends of the criminals, seeker of the lost ones, the stumbling block to the hypocrites and obedient to death hence, Christ crucifixion on the cross.

The death of Christ on the cross, His risen from the dead and His ascension to heaven is the good news of the New Testament. Through His death we were able to receive salvation from our sins that is what his being a Savior implies. Accepting this free gift is what God wants us to do. If we don’t accept it, we are rejecting the gift just like the Israel did. To accept the gift is to confess our sins:

Romans 10:9-10
That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and shall believe in your heart that God has raised him from the dead, you shall be saved.

10 – For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

God wants every believer to spread the good news of salvation to all the people of the earth. The good news of salvation through Jesus Christ brings us peace, joy, love and prosperity.

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Feel the Spirit and Message of Amazing Grace

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 06:44:00 +0000

My husband once brought home a CD, a collection of Classic folk song by Judy Collins, included in it is the song Amazing Grace, and he repeatedly played the song. I remember the first time I heard the tune of Amazing Grace, I was already a born-again Christian, the message of the song really seeped into my heart, the song has got spirit and causes my goose hair to stand. Having Christ Spirit alive in my heart and knowing Jesus Christ personally I can feel the power of the song. I can understand every meaning of the words. The first stanza says: I once was lost, but now I’m found . Was blind but now I see. Yes, before my friend has shared to me the Words of God, I was lost in the world, I felt my life was empty, no meaning at all. Christ has found me and answers all my needs and questions in life. His graces are really amazing and wonderful.

Can you sing the song?

Amazing Grace

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.

***

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.

***

Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
'Twas grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.

***

The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

***

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

***

The world shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun refuse to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Shall be forever mine.

***

When we've been there ten thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we'd first begun.

Warning on the Sin of Idolatry

noreply@blogger.com (Ehmma) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 07:37:00 +0000

It has been an ancient issue. If there is one thing that God hated most, it is the sin of idolatry. Didn’t God writes it in the tablet as the number one commandment given to Moses? The sin of idolatry has caused the people of Israel to be in bondage for 400 years in the land of Egypt. They were forced to make bricks and works with bare hands in building pyramids. Even if there were few people of God who intervene for their freedom, God made them suffer as long as they keep their idols, God won’t listen. When at last it’s time for them to move, the Israelites abandoned their idols and move where Moses leads them. In the wilderness God shows His mighty powers, providing them with pillar of clouds by day and pillar of fire by night. The greatest miracle performed in their very own eyes is dividing the red sea giving them the passage through to escape the pursuing chariots of Egypt, Did they forget their idols? During the time that Moses was communing with God in Mount Sinai for 40 days, the Israelites returned back to their idols, blaspheming God by performing all sorts of sins. This angered God and put to death those guilty of idolatry.

In this modern day, idolatry continues with more sophistication, hiding them in lieu of arts appreciation, memorabilia, souvenirs and traditions. To understand better, we should define the extent of idolatry and how God hated this sin.

Idolatry- is worshipping of an image, whether it is an image of an animal, man or non-living things as long as you kneel down , pray or lay your offering to it. It is an act of embracing an idea, concept and person whom you revered and putting him in pedestal whom you look up to, trust, serve and follow blindly.

Deuteronomy 29:18 (NIV) Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the Lord our God to go and worship the gods of those nations; make sure there is no root among you that produces such bitter poison.

2 King17:40-41 (NIV) They would not listen, however, but persisted in their former practices. Even while these people were worshipping the Lord, they were serving their idols. To this day their children and grandchildren continue to do as their fathers did.

Ezekiel 6:4-6 (NIV) "... I will slay your people in front of your idols. I will lay the dead bodies of the Israelites in front of their idols, and I will scatter your bones around your altars... your idols smashed and ruined, your incense altars broken down, and what you have made wiped out."

Nations who are guilty of idolatry are still in the state of poverty and curse

Ephesians 5:5 (NIV) For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a man is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Jonah 2:8 (NIV) "Those who cling to worthless idols forfeit the grace that could be

1 Peter 4:3 (NIV) For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do--living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry."

James 4:7-10 (Phi) Be humble then before God... You are sinners: get your hands clean again. Your loyalty is divided: get your hearts made true once more. You should be deeply sorry, you should be grieved, you should even be in tears. Your laughter will have to become mourning, your high spirits will have to become dejection. You must humble yourself in the sight of the Lord before he will lift you up.

Ezekiel 36:25 (NIV) "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols."

1 Corinthians 10:14 (NIV) Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry.

God wants us to worship Him in spirit and in truth without the aid of graven images.

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