CHRISTMAS

This beautiful unique creation has been made by Jeanne Winters. To know how to make this, just click on the image or her name. Credits to © Jeanne Winters.


~~~For some religions, they do not celebrate Christmas.

Since I am not in a religion, I celebrate everyday. I have a personal relationship with GOD and I can only boast of the grace which was given to me by my Creator.

Of course, my family celebrates with me. One of my favorite holidays must be Christmas. There's a certain breeze in the air. Love everywhere. Everyday is holiday. We celebrate everyday with our Savior, JESUS.

Esther 9:28
"So these days were to be remembered and celebrated throughout every generation, every family..."

Whether or not JESUS was born on December 25, I still do believe that Christmas exists. Christmas is in the hearts of everyone. Christmas is about the way of life.

I am very blessed that I have a beautiful family grounded on JESUS CHRIST. The past Christmases we've had, well, my mom spent for all of it. hehehe! Even if we came from a poor family, my parents believed in being a complete family. All our Christmases were spent together as a complete family. No one has been absent. hehehe! Next year must be a struggle as their first daughter (first born) might get married soon if the LORD wills. Okay...must divert before I cry. hahaha! Anyway, I've thought of doing something different this Christmas. To make my mom happy. hehehe! We've thought of doing 'exchange gifts' meaning we'll have 'draw lots' so whoever we've drawn out of the names of the members of our family, we'll give that certain person a gift. I've drawn out my youngest sister so I'm supposed to give her a gift on Christmas. Second idea, since my mom has been spending and cooking all of our past Christmases, my sister and I have thought of 'draw lots' for the meals, too. I've drawn out 'soup' so I'll take care of that financially. My mom was very relieved when we suggested it to her.

Of all our trials as a family, it was all worth it because we're stronger than ever. I am very grateful that we are still complete and that my parents never separated. I actually see them being affectionate even if their children are around (ewww hahaha jk). And of all our blessings individually and as a family, we are all united for GOD's beautiful glory! We owe it all to GOD. Apart from HIM, our family is nothing.

I want to thank GOD for providing for the family financially all throughout our lives. GOD has been faithful in my parents' school. GOD has been faithful in providing me decent jobs. GOD has been faithful in providing my sister an extravagant job. GOD has been faithful in providing my youngest sister her allowance from my parents and her stipend from her school. Without GOD, we will never have these financial provisions. We don't need to be rich. It is a reality that we all need money. And I glorify GOD that HE has provided financially everyday of our lives together as a family. We all need money to survive but we shouldn't be greedy about it. I am very glad that we are a simple family who lives for GOD's glory alone!

Malachi 3:10
Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.

GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ABUNDANTLY! GOD IS ALWAYS WITH YOU! CELEBRATE EVERYDAY!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Friendship Quotes

Here are two friendship quotes I've received from two Third Year students at school. I love them very much and I'm glad they are my friends. Two grateful souls and two souls I'm grateful to have as real friends. My little sisters in CHRIST.

A friend defines
the real meaning
of friendship.
It isn't based on
how many secrets
you share, it isn't
how well you get
along nor how
much you like each
other, it isn't how
people see you
together..

But

it appreciates the
differences, the
gaps, the
hindrances, the
trials, and still...
A friend looks at
you,
straight from the
heart...

without hatred,
without judgement,
without envy,
without prejudice
only
pure acceptance
and respect.

~Jerevy Sarmiento

..every
good friend

is an
image
of
GOD.
It is one
of life's
best
blessings.
A priceless
gift that can
never be
bought,
sold,
or
forgotten.

..i'm bless to have one.
That is you!

~Irene Quitlong

One of my greatest blessings are my friends. Thank you, my friend!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Wonderful Revelational Quotes

Wear your thinking caps today.

I am quite delayed for this coz these are my revelations yesterday. May it be revelations to you, too. Enjoy. Pray for GOD's Wisdom and discern like how GOD would want you to...according to HIS Will.

While I was listening to the emcee's yesterday at my sister's Card Giving Program at her school in Ilocos, I was moved by a remark said by one of the emcee's, "You'll never know how far you can go until you leave everything behind."

And after the program, my sister told me that she's a Christian. GOD gives revelations through anyone you meet. Do not ignore. If you ignore, you are ignoring GOD's beautiful blessings.

I was also moved by a comment my sister told me yesterday. She said that her friends get excited and happy whenever she tells them that I'm going there in Ilocos. It's very heartwarming for me.

I was deeply encouraged by one of my sister's friends. I was with her in the bus on the way home unintentionally. When she saw me, she said, "Ate, thank you for the messages." Simple comments like that really encourage me a lot. Because I was asked to do a simple text ministry, simple gratitude like that make me go a long way.

I feel the need of being faithful to GOD's ministry not because I get attention, but because I know GOD is encouraging others through me and I'm getting HIS Word out there without being able to be with others.

I was happily moved again by a friend yesterday. When I signed in to my old account in yahoo to check my emails, I saw a friend with the status message beside his name and I knew then that GOD's influence through me is indescribably amazing. GOD is amazing! I messaged him and told him that I am glad he was moved by that quote. He said he was deeply moved. I am glad GOD uses me as HIS instrument. Be willingly used by GOD.

GOD created us. GOD works in us.

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD IS ALWAYS WITH YOU!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Bus Incidents

Image from mellophones


Very unusual rides I had today.

I had to go to Ilocos very early around 12am because it was my sister's Card day. Card day is when they give the grades of the students quarterly and post the Dean's/Director's List.

I had to make 3 rides this midnight. One jeepney and two buses (back and fourth so you can just double that up).

I waited patiently for the 2nd bus along the side of the streets. Three buses have passed going to my destination but they're all full. The fourth bus took me and the driver's assistant gave me his seat. The little 'popping' seat beside the driver at the top of the steps just right at the door. After an hour, some passengers unloaded so I was able to sit in a normal, more relaxing seat. As I was sleeping, my guy seatmate kept on nudging at my left arm. I was disturbed greatly. When I looked at him, he asked where I was from. I was irritated since I was trying to sleep around 3am coz I haven't slept much yet. I was tired from walking and standing too long. Without looking at him, I answered him thinking he would stop talking to me. BUT he didn't. He asked where I was going. I answered. The next question was even more irritating. He asked for my number. Oh wow! Honestly, when he was nudging me, I already got scared. We still guard our hearts. He asked if he could get my number and I said no. I don't think it's healthy to give a stranger who doesn't even know anything about me to get my number. And to think, he is around my father's age. I was scared by then coz his arm kept on sticking to my arm which he started doing after he saw me by his side coz he was sleeping when I transferred beside him. There was no other empty seat that I could transfer to. I really got scared. I tried to pretend I was sleeping by just covering my face with my hair just so he will never talk to me again. I just calmed down and pray. Good thing, he never talked to me again.

Second incident was in my ride home. There was this guy sitting behind me who was the only one talking out loud because he was talking to someone on his cellphone. I didn't care at first coz there was a movie playing at the bus' tv. BUT then it was awful to hear him instruct his guy friend on how to seduce/convince his friend's girlfriend to commit premarital sex with his friend. I was really in pain. First because perversion is increasing nowadays. Second because girls deserve respect sexually and as a person.

I know how it feels. I'm a girl. Everyone deserves to be respected. I've been there, undergone that. It was difficult.

I had a phobia (I already get scared when guys look at me or stick their arms to me) today because of the seatmate then I was in pain because of the busmate.

Perversion is growing. Do not contribute anything to it. As what is written...

2 Timothy 3:1-5

Godlessness in the Last Days

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.

I am still human. I admit that I still feel upset. But they are forgiven. I just asked our Father to forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.

I was deeply troubled. Deeply burdened. Perversion is widely spread nowadays and it's not getting any better. Economy, unemployment, crimes, terrorists, natural disasters, prostitution and perversion (all aspects) everywhere in the globe. It is difficult to not only see but also to experience them. If there's nothing we can do to help in an extravagant way, the simplest way to help is to pray. Intercede. All of us should pray for our world. For all of the people in the world.

Forgive. Forget. Intercede.

And I assure you that GOD's inner healing and deliverance will be upon you.

It made me realize how I am so blessed that I have Cody, my partner, who respects me so much. I can honestly say that he really do respects me sexually and as an individual. He never tried to take advantage of me. In fact, even if I get naked in front of him, he might just kick my butt literally. hehehe! Not that I'm not desirable but because he loves GOD, me and our relationship. He cares for and respects GOD, me and our relationship. This is one thing I could ever boast of as one of GOD's blessings to me. Cody has many pet peeves and one is getting to know the other person more before getting her number. hahaha! I like his pet peeves though because they're rational and you'll know that he spends a lot of wise thinking for it. I am very much thankful for all these trials, as well as my beautiful blessings, in my life. GOD IS MY REWARDER, ROCK AND FORTRESS!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD IS ALWAYS WITH YOU!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Pictures, anyone?

We went to Vigan, Ilocos Sur in Baluarte. I love the animals there. Although, I was saddened by how they are in those cages and chains but then I just pondered on how amazing and beautiful GOD's creations are.

We are blessed that we are free. Free to decide and choose what kind of life we want to live. The question is: how do you live your life?




The colorful birds that Cody liked taking pictures of and with.


Oh dear I forgot the names of these birds. hahaha!
The ostrich smiled at the camera. Fun fun fun. I thought it was gonna come run after us. hahaha!
They can freely move somehow but they're still caged. It was nice to see them move around.

These tigers have names but I forgot them already. Sigh.
And I forgot the name of this chicken. hahaha! Chicken. hahaha! It's at the tip of my tongue though.
I love greenhouses where there are butterflies flying around in them. I was so determined to get a picture of this butterfly that flew around me. I finally took one and here it is.

The cocoons where the beautiful butterflies came from. Pretty interesting to watch.
Catterpillars. Itchy yet? hahaha!
Oh this hedgehog of mine is adorable. Yes she's mine. hahaha! I wanted to bring her home.

Oooooohhhh...lizards!


Snakes. I like snakes but I won't make them my pet. hehehe! Just nice to look at (at least for me). hahaha!
I forgot the name of this rat monkey whatever. hahaha! He's cute though. Cody took a pic with him. Can't show you though. hahaha!
Alpaca's. Cody told me a lot about them before he visited and when I saw them, I was so thrilled. hehehe! Like a little kiddie. And they rarely move. They were stagnant. hahaha! Posing for the camera I guess. Very showbiz. hahaha!
I admire camels for their ability to store water in their humps for quite some time in the desert. Amazing creation. GOD is wise!
And the deers. I think they're very simple but simplicity is beauty. They look clean except in this place. hahaha!

Yes. Oh yes. hahaha! Nahhhhhh...they're fake. hahaha! Sorry to inform you but no dinosaurs. hehehe!

Hope you had fun with the trip coz we had fun as well. But do have lots of water when you visit there especially when it's too sunny. Bring some towels, too. You don't want to be all wet with sweat. hehehe!

One of the ways to have a beautiful life is to appreciate everything around you.

YOU ARE BLESSED. YOU ARE FREE. LIVE YOUR FREEDOM FOR GOD'S GLORY.

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Look Around

I love nature.

How about you?

If you are sad and weak, look around.

I want to share 2 awesome buildings in Manila that Cody and I saw while we were strolling the streets.

If these buildings can glorify GOD, what more for us, human beings, whom GOD created above these things?

And to think, that humans are even the ones who build these buildings.



I took a picture of a tree in Baguio. I'm not sure if it was a willow tree or what. I've just realized now that its leaves are bowing down (sort of my interpretation hehehe) which speaks of humility.

If trees can show humility, what more for us, human beings, who were given the heart to do so?

And to think, that humans are even the ones who plant these trees.



Oh how I love beaches! I took a pic of one of the nicest beaches I've seen personally in Subic. Its beauty is priceless.

If beaches can exude GOD's beauty, what more for us, human beings, who were created in the image of HIS glory and beauty?

And to think, that humans are even the ones who preserve these natural resources.



Cody and I love clouds. When we take pictures, we always seem to take pictures of clouds. White clouds spread across the sky are so beautiful. They speak of peace to me. I'll share 2 pictures I took when we were on our way to Subic (in the bus) and in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

If clouds can be in confidence that they are in total peace, what more for us, human beings, who are offered daily by GOD with HIS eternal peace?

And to think, that we humans are even the most important of all creation.




I loved how those clouds hovered (in a collective manner) over the mountains. Why? As I was making this post, thoughts just kept on flowing in my head. It's overwhelming as I was asking for revelations from GOD deep down inside me. This certain picture speaks of GOD's everlasting peace hovering over the mountains (problems, struggles, trials and even temptations) in our lives. GOD is a GOD of ABUNDANCE! GOD can do the most impossible things! Dare to believe. ONLY BELIEVE. HE's waiting for you to surrender your worries to HIM. Trust HIM. Act on your faith.

How do we act on our faith? I will give an example. A total surrender. A girl trusted GOD that HE will provide financially for her (she still strives in working for herself). She acted on her faith by not borrowing money from others (even if she was tempted to do so). GOD provided money at the very exact time she needed it (right on her deadline). This is based on a true story. GOD NEVER BREAKS HIS PROMISES IN HIS WORD!

We don't even have to speak to glorify GOD, our loving actions can show JESUS to everyone. We don't even have to speak to show humility, our humble acts towards others can show JESUS. We don't even have to speak and enhance our physical appearance to exude GOD's beauty, our pure hearts can show JESUS to anyone. We don't even have to speak to show GOD's peace, our smiles and joy can show JESUS to all HIS creation.

I admire how it was quoted by Jase Campbell (one of the preachers in Billings Church of Christ), "show JESUS!" We are not asked to show a picture of JESUS but because the Holy Spirit lives in us when we accepted JESUS CHRIST as our personal Savior and Lord, we are created to serve GOD and show JESUS to everyone. Ways to show JESUS? Read GOD's Word--->"HOLY BIBLE"

Here's an insightful article I'd love to share with you: SELAH

Faith, Hope and Love be upon all of you!

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD IS ALWAYS WITH YOU!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Unbelievably Amazing

Earlier at service, the sermon was about 'Amazing Grace.'

Then my memory brought me back to the time when I was in sin. After I backslid, sins came running to me, demons rejoicing and world's problems came tumbling over me.

My memory also brought me back to men who abused me. Men who tried to control me. Men who just wanted my body. Men who verbally and mentally abused me. Men who used me financially. Men who just didn't respect me as a precious daughter of GOD.

No grudges though. Forgiven and forgotten.

GOD's undying love, neverending faithfulness and amazing grace led me back HOME.

Ok that was my introduction. hahaha! Now, here's my climax. hahaha!

CLIMAX: My past life can be defined in one word: boys. It revolved around boys. I had plenty of crushes like a normal highschool girl has. I had plenty of boyfriends. Some serious, some weren't. Because of the certain desire of having the 'love of my life', I drowned myself into sin. I even had a boyfriend who always wanted me to drink alcohol with him and his friends. When I compare my life now and back then, I would say it was a battle of good and evil. Sin got me by using a 'boy' but GOD got me by using a 'guy.' I got tired. I was depressed and because of the faith instilled by my parents in me when I was a youngster, I turned to GOD. I sought HIM with all my heart. I changed for HIM. GOD is the love of my life.

That's another introduction. hahaha!

The desire of having a lifetime partner still remained in my heart. I knew I was going to meet him in GOD's Perfect Timing. While I was waiting anxiously (hahaha), I decided to just surrender it to GOD and told HIM that even if HE doesn't give me a husband, I will still love HIM with all of me. I told HIM that I will glorify HIM with my relationship if ever HE gives me my helper.

Months after that, GOD gave me a friend. This friend helped me grow spiritually and emotionally as an individual. This friend helped me grow in character. As I was growing, this friend was growing with me, too. Until now, this friend continues to grow with me. Our strong foundation is CHRIST. This friend became my best friend. He, then, became my special someone, my boyfriend...my fiance´. His beautiful name is Cody Lee Howe (pronounced as how).

Cody never left me. Not even once. He was a very faithful friend. He desires for my spiritual and emotional growth. I can say now that after 11 months, we definitely grew and still growing together as a couple. It became all clear to me now that he is GOD's Perfect Choice for me. Well, I've already known that last April. hehehe! It's just amazing to look back and say, "Wow I've really grown with him. Now I know why GOD gave him to me." After 11 months of being friends and after 7 months of being a couple, I am still deeply in love with him every second of my breathing life. Actually, my love for him grows stronger each day. It's a cliche I know but it is really what I feel. I am in love with him like the very first day I realized that I love him unconditionally 7 months ago. But more than that day, of course. Infinity plus one. hehehe!

I am just so amazed at how Cody treats me with so much love and respect. He tells and shows me things that no other guy in my past had told and shown me. Earlier this afternoon, he made me love him more deeply. How? Well, here's a peek at how our conversation went...

me: you know i'm very excited to marry you for so many reasons but the number one reason would be because of love
cody: me too. because i feel you're the only one for me. you're made for me and i just desire you
me: i love you and you are made for me
cody: not because i had a dream of marriage. it's because of YOU. i love YOU, my blessing.
me: awww that's so sweet of you to say
cody: only you have invoked these feelings in me. i've never talked like this before. and i don't feel like i need to impress you. rather, i desire to satisfy you. not because you demand it, but because you appreciate it. i see the real and unique beauty in you and i want that in my life. we'll be happy in God's grace.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails..."

FYI, I am Cody's first love and he is mine as well. Of course, next to GOD. That should be a given. hehehe!

One of my heart's desires is to glorify GOD alone in my relationship with Cody. I desire to encourage the singles out there to wait and be patient for GOD knows what's best for everyone. I also desire to inspire married couples to always communicate, as what Cody believes. Humility is an effective ingredient in life. Love GOD first, love others second. Then everything else will follow.

Matthew 22:37-39
Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! BE ALL-OUT PATIENT! GOD WILL NEVER DISAPPOINT YOU! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

I'm so late!

Oh jeez...I am so late for this! I still want to do it since it will be Thanksgiving next week. And, it's my first time to do this. Also, I was going to put it up before Friday ends but I was very busy so hope this could catch up with Friday Funnies. Hope you enjoy coz I didn't...hehehe! Of course that was just a corny joke! hehehe!



~~~I got this from CyberSalt

TRUE STORIES FROM THE BUTTERBALL Turkey Hotline, where people call to get advice on how to cook a Turkey from the experts

* Thanksgiving Dinner on the run. A woman called to find out how long it would take to roast her turkey. To answer the question, the Talk-Line home economist asked how much the bird weighed. The woman responded, "I don't know, it's still running around outside."

* Tofu turkey? No matter how you slice it, Thanksgiving just isn't Thanksgiving without turkey. A restaurant owner in California wanted to know how to roast a turkey for a vegetarian menu

* Then there's the time a lady was picking through the frozen turkeys at the grocery store, but couldn't find one big enough for her family. She asked a stock boy, "Do these turkeys get any bigger?" The stock boy replied, "No ma'am, they're dead."

~~~I got this from CyberSalt

Christians should NEVER be boring! Plus, we live to be happy, too. Joy joy joy.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

My Thanksgiving List

We do not really celebrate 'Thanksgiving' in the Philippines. We can always declare a certain day as Thanksgiving day for us. Everyday is Thanksgiving day.

Anyway, I want to join in with the excitement of everyone in the USA so here is my list of what I'm thankful for...

1.) I thank GOD for being who HE is to me and to everyone.
2.) I thank GOD for HIS Beloved Son, Jesus, for dying for our sins and pains.
3.) I thank GOD for the gift of the Holy Spirit to all of us.
4.) I thank GOD for my beautiful blessing, my best friend, my soul mate, my partner, my helper, my equal, my heart's desire, my dream-come-true, my future husband, my goodlooking and sexy boyfriend, Cody (the complete package). I thank GOD for our future together as a Godly married couple and the beautiful children HE will bestow upon us.
5.) I thank GOD for my ever-loving parents (and godparents) who have never forsaken me and for bringing me up in a Godly way.
6.) I thank GOD for my beautiful sisters who are growing in CHRIST.
7.) I thank GOD for my relatives who always stuck together even if there are times that they have complicated lives but will be won by GOD very soon (I declare so).
8.) I thank GOD for my friends who have been very loyal to me and who are gradually won by GOD. I thank GOD for my friends in Blogger because they offer real friendship.
9.) I thank GOD for my youths who never stop striving in having a strong faith and a Godly life.
10.) I thank GOD for my text ministry, my youth ministry, my cell group ministry and my calling to serve GOD by all possible means.
11.) I thank GOD for all the people who have hurt me in the past for in my weaknesses, GOD's Power has been made perfect.
12.) I thank GOD for all the material blessings that are unexpectedly but bountifully given to me.
13.) I thank GOD for all the trials that were showered upon me for if not for those, GOD's strength wouldn't have been manifested, character hadn't been brought forth, perseverance and patience haven't been instilled and GOD's glory shouldn't have been shown.
14.) I thank GOD for everything that I am not because HE loves me perfectly.
15.) I thank GOD for HIS love, HIS grace, HIS faithfulness, HIS mercy, HIS favor, HIS wisdom, and HIS discernment & for my life, my heart, my soul, my body, my mind and my spirit that HE entrusted to me. I thank GOD for my past, my present and my future.

I thank GOD for every day that I could thank HIM freely.

These are just few of the things I could be thankful for in my entire existence til eternity.

How about you? What do you need to thank for? Make a list of your own and please GOD by doing so. I thank GOD for you, dear child of GOD!

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! IN EVERYTHING, GIVE THANKS!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Leaders in the Church

Years ago, my sister held a cell meeting for us. Before she started her topic, she asked, "If you were given a chance to be an animal, what would you like to be?"

Well, I forgot what was my answer. hehehe!

So everyone answered differently...lion, bird, dog, cat..how about you?

After everyone answered, my sister said she would like to be an eagle. Why? Because an eagle has leadership characteristics.

Let's tackle each one of those characteristics...

1.) Vision - Eagles have amazing vision. They can see things in a great distance. Same as leaders, we must have visions in life. A certain goal. A main purpose. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail, as they say.

2 Corinthians 12:1
"I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to be gained, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord."

2.) Faithful - Eagles are very faithful to their mates. When a male eagle gets attracted to a certain female eagle, he will court the female eagle through a 'flying test' that the female eagle will give him. If the female eagle liked him, they will both be faithful for the rest of their eagle lives. Same as leaders, we must be faithful to the partners given to us by GOD. We must be faithful to our chosen congregations. We must be faithful to our ministry. We must be faithful to our GOD.

1 Samuel 26:23
The LORD rewards every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. The LORD delivered you into my hands today, but I would not lay a hand on the LORD's anointed.

2 Chronicles 19:9
He gave them these orders: "You must serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in the fear of the LORD.

Psalm 31:23
Love the LORD, all his saints! The LORD preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full.

Proverbs 3:3
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.

Proverbs 28:20
A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.

3.) Never eat dead meat - Eagles never eat meat that they did not kill. An eagle is not a scavenger. It hunts and kills its own food. Same as leaders, we must be industrious in winning souls. We must go to them. We should never be lazy in anything we do. Also, leaders never settle for anything less. A leader must always want the best and the excellent.

Matthew 28:19
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,

Proverbs 10:4
Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

1 Timothy 3:13
Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

Titus 3:8
This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

4.) Storm Attacker - When storms come, other birds find ways to cover themselves, but the eagle spreads its wings and lets the storm soar him to greater heights. Same as leaders, we must use the storms in our lives as a challenge for us to grow in GOD's glory. We don't run from them. We use the storms in our lives to develop us in our character.

"Rather than escaping, the better plan is to meet hardship head on." ~Charles R. Swindoll

"The reason is that hardship, not comfort, tempers strong character." ~Charles R. Swindoll

"A talent is formed in stillness, a character in the world's torrent." ~ Goethe

"One can acquire everything in solitude - except character." ~ Stendhal

1 Thessalonians 3:3
so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. You know quite well that we were destined for them.

2 Thessalonians 1:4
Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.

James 1:2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

5.) Gentle and Attentive - The eagle is ferocious but there is no other bird that is more gentle and attentive to its young than the eagle. The eagle teaches its eaglets to fly by gathering them one at a time onto her back. She flies into the air with the eaglet on her back. Then she swoops out from under the eaglet and let it learn to use its wings then catches it again on her wings. The process goes on until the eaglet learns how to fly. If the eaglet is slow to learn or a coward, she brings it back to the nest and tears the nest apart until the eaglet has nothing to hold onto. Then she nudges the eaglet off a cliff. Same as leaders, we must disciple our young ones. We must be strong for them when they are weak. We must be patient until they learn. We must persevere until they grow in character. We must be there when they need us. We must be helpful and willing to attend to every need.

Ephesians 4:2
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Philippians 4:5
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

1 Peter 3:4
Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.

1 Peter 3:14-16
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened."But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

"True love dares to confront." ~Our Daily Bread (November 21, 2008)

To know more about eagles, I found a very interesting webpage Eagle Christian. A must-read article. I was in awe. It is very educational. Don't hesitate. Click it. hehehe!

After hearing my sister's sermon, I've never stopped admiring an eagle since then and whenever someone asks me what animal would I like to be if given a chance, I'd always say, "EAGLE."

Our GOD is the KING of kings. LORD of lords. GOD of gods. EAGLE of eagles. I would never doubt that for a second. So who else will you desire to worship?

GOD'S WISDOM AND DISCERNMENT BE UPON YOU! GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

i was totally tagged!

When I saw in my dashboard that my new friend Kim of Homesteaders Heart had a new blogpost, it was already showing a little part of it then I saw I had 2 comments so I looked into that first. Comments from Kim saying she tagged me. I was clueless but excited. hahaha! I've never been tagged before so I was like, "What's tagged?" hahaha! This is new and fun. Still I was nervous and ecstatic while reading her new post.

Here are the rules first:

1) Link to the person who tagged you.
2) Post the rules on your blog (copy and paste 1-6).
3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below).
4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them.
5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.
6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

Ok here goes random, boring things about me...hahaha!

1.) I have OCD with almost everything around me. I should always wash my feet before going to sleep. I have a certain way of stacking dishes (manual dishwashing anyway) and no one should mix it up or else...hahaha! I should always wash my face before brushing my teeth. I wash my hands a LOT. I am a nailcutter nuts! (And no one should lose my personal nailcutter when borrowed) I should always trim my nails because I hate dirt in it. ewwww! hahaha!

2.) I love reading books! I love reading articles online. I love reading blogs. I love reading while listening to music! But, of course, I love Christian materials that will edify the soul with good insights.

3.) I love playing pool. I am so good at it! I am kind of boasting, but really, I am good at it! hahaha! There was a year when I just went to the pool hall to play almost everyday for 6 straight months. No absences. hahaha!

4.) I am a very loyal friend. When a friend sends me a text and tells me that she has a problem (depends on the problems sometimes), I wouldn't hesitate to go right where she is (mostly for girls only). Unless she is thousands miles away ok? hahaha!

5.) I love beaches! I love sunsets at the beach. I can just hang out at a beach for a week doing nothing (of course, I need to eat and sleep). hehehe!

6.) I love my boyfriend. Who doesn't know that? hahaha! I even made a blog for him. I love our GOD who created him. I even made a blog for HIM. This is the blog. hehehe!

These are the people I've tagged. Great, beautiful people that I would love to know more about. Yes, I am interested to know more about you since I check out your blogs everyday. I can sound like a stalker but then, I desire real friendship.
1. Inevitable
2. C. Beth Blog.
3. the art of heart
4. Butterfly Gardener
5. Matter of Fact
6. The Perfect Walk

Okay this took me like forever..I'm such a first-timer hahaha!

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY, miss tagger of mine! hahaha!

I had fun. Hope you all will, too.

CHRISTIANS ARE NEVER BORING!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

i am not afraid

I am not afraid to confess I was a backslider.

I am not afraid to admit that I did not learn life from Bible school but from my experiences.

I am not afraid to testify GOD's goodness and faithfulness to me to anyone.

I am not afraid to share the Gospel to anyone I meet.

I am not afraid to be ignored.

I am not afraid to be persecuted.

I am not afraid. Why?

Because everyone might leave me but my GOD will NEVER.

Because in due time, GOD is my only Judge.

After the end of it all, GOD is my forever.

GOD is my eternity.

This is confirmed by a text message sent to me by Nonie Calimlim:

"Your value in GOD's
eyes never
changes..
no matter how
many times you fail
HIM..
how many
mistakes you make..
Your value in HIS
eyes remains,
EXACTLY THE
SAME CHILD HE
MADE!

..nothing you do will
ever cause GOD to
love you less..
You are greatly
blessed, highly
favored and deeply
loved forever.."

Also, he sent me another text message last November 17, 2008...

"If you stand for a reason, be prepared to stand alone. If you fight for a cause, fight even if there's no hope. If you fall on the ground, fall as a seed that grows back to fight again."

I was given a spiritual insight on this from GOD.

When we decide to love and serve GOD, we will never please everyone. Even some of our friends will stop talking to us because of our new life (based on my experience). BUT, we must pursue GOD, pursue our new life and pursue them. Pursue everyone you see. Pursue everyone you love. If you stand and fight for something or better yet, in our situation, for Someone, be prepared to be ignored and persecuted. There's a good news though. You are not standing alone. You are not fighting alone. GOD IS ALWAYS WITH YOU! GOD IS OUR VICTOR!

Think about it.

Which side are you?

Are you on GOD's side?

GOD IS WITH YOU UNTIL THE END OF AGE!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Unexpected

Regular day.

Pretty sad.

Normal.

It was funny though. I was sad today because of something but that shouldn't take away the joy that GOD has instilled in my heart.

I just decided to read a book today. I've learned so much again. Thank you Charles R. Swindoll!

While I was reading the book, a girl named Trisha came up to me and handed out a black bag and said, "Ate, someone is giving this to you. Get what's inside the bag and just return the bag to the owner."

I was scared, surprised and laughing.

What do you expect? What if it's a bomb? hahaha! Of course, I'm exaggerating.

Honestly, I was hesitant at first because I wasn't sure if it was really FOR ME.

When I opened the bag (sling bag), I knew it was a frame even if it was wrapped. Then I was ecstatic since I wanted a frame so much for the pictures of Cody and I together. I showed it to my mom and she also knew it was a frame. Pretty obvious. hahaha!

So then we're all left wondering who gave it, huh? hahaha! Funny...there was a clue in the bag. hahaha! I saw a little, orange Bible and I already knew who it was from. The owner of the bag and the Bible is Justine.

After selling food, I opened the gift. There was a card. It was beautiful. You'll notice how so much effort was put into making it. Very unique.



Of course, you're anticipating for the frame, huh? hahaha! Well, I thought it was just a regular frame and as I pulled it out, it was a framed rose (cross-stitched).


Why pink? I love pink! hahaha! Well, not only that. Justine and I were trying to think of a name for our cell group. I was reading a book entitled 'Little PINK book on Girlfriends' by Cathy Bartel so I told her PINK. hahaha! But I wanted to be unique of course so that could be just one of our many names. hehehe! So anyway, I was very touched as it was unexpected and very special. I really appreciate the effort! I love the thoughtfulness! And I was even asking her to give it to me, while she was still doing it, as a gift for my wedding. hahaha! It was a school project. She said that it was a 'late' gift because she had to buy the frame first. A good-hearted girl. The gift is priceless.

I saw how Justine grew and still growing in GOD. It is very rewarding for my part. I love to see youths grow in CHRIST. It is one of my missions as GOD's servant.

BE A BLESSING!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Being a Balanced Woman of GOD by Charles R. Swindoll

I love reading and I admire the author of this book. He has so many insights from the wisdom given to him by GOD. I will share some of things I've learned from his book 'Building Blocks of Biblical Character.'

These excerpts are from Charles R. Swindoll's book but I won't be posting everything written in there. You'll just have to buy the book and be blessed.

...We'll begin by highlighting two unbiblical extremes women should avoid.

Two Extremes:

As we've stated, some women react to the confusion of roles by being overly aggressive, dominant, or militant. Unwilling to be led, especially by a man, they become defensive, angry, and sometimes even paranoid that men are trying to hurt them or deny their rights...

The other extreme is a blind, traditional mentality. These women choose an inordinately passive role, which they believe is biblical. Living behind a veil of fear, they lack the confidence to state their opinions or make independent decisions. To them, submission means bowing to the whims of their husbands while sacrificing their own dignity...

We can track these extremes to four poisoned springs.

First, we discover a misunderstanding and misapplication of "submission."

Second, we find a failure on the part of men to do three things: think clearly, lead fairly, and release unselfishly.

A third source of extremism is a strong action from the world to "liberate" all women.

Finally, an equally strong resistance on the part of the church to keep any independence from happening.

Balance - A Scriptural Analysis

A balanced woman sees Scripture as vital, representing GOD's authoritative Word and Will for her life.

A balanced woman sees herself as valuable, gifted, and responsible for her own growth toward maturity.

A balanced woman of GOD sees the LORD as her refuge and buffer when things refuse to work out right.

Three Practical Suggestions

First, become a serious student of Scripture.

Second, guard against the extremes.

Third, commit yourself to working through conflicts rather than running from them.

Okay there goes your sneak preview...that's all I can post...there are so many more insights in the book and I'm really recommending it to you as it depended so much in Scriptures. We all need books that depends on Scriptures not from the outside. So many stories in it. So many insights. So many hidden characters from the Bible. A very profound and insightful book. I love it! But of course, we should read the Ultimate Book of all which is the Holy Bible.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS!

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!

Rainy Days and Clear Blue Skies

Image © Cody Lee Howe

GOD is after our character. We may be able to run away from HIS Perfect Will but it will be done still. We may choose to act on our own desires but GOD's Will will prevail in the end.

What great lessons have I learned yesterday and today!

There was a sad incident that happened between me and my mom yesterday before I went to work. I had to cancel my work attendance because we almost had an argument. She is my boss, by the way. GOD is very faithful though because one of my devotions that morning from 'Our Daily Bread' is...

A man of understanding is of a calm spirit. —Proverbs 17:27

A Christian I know was angry with someone at his workplace over a perceived injustice. A colleague listened to his grievance and sensed that his temper still ran high. He gave him this wise advice to consider before confronting those involved: “Cooler heads prevail.”

As we interact with others, disagreements are inevitable. The discerning believer understands his own heart and takes steps to deal with conflict diplomatically. The best time to stop an argument is before it starts.

I chose to not argue/fight back. I glorify GOD for the patience HE gave me. I pondered on the Fifth commandment.

Deutoronomy 5:16
"Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you."

But then, I should be at work yesterday because I have paperworks due tomorrow (registrar job). I didn't go and chose to let the situation and my mom cool down. We never talked yesterday. I slept all throughout the night and I even skipped dinner. I chose to pray.

Yesterday afternoon, Cody and I had a wonderful talk. He shared a lot of things. GOD definitely used him to convict me. He had gone through parents' conflicts so he knows what to do and he gave me wise counsels. I meditated on it until this morning.

This morning, whether it was my fault or not, I have firmly decided to apologize to my mom. GOD confirmed it through a text message sent to me by a young girl named Joy at the age of 11.

"Mornings are reminders that GOD loves you! You're not just given another day to enjoy but a chance to right the wrong of yesterday."

Also, I had an amazing gift given to me when I was in the toilet pooping (again) hahaha! As I was meditating in there, all I can think about is GOD's goodness in my life. So all I can do is thank GOD for everything. Upon thanking, I was suddenly singing my thanksgiving. I've only done the chorus part. I'll wait for the other lyrics still that will come from GOD.

"Lord, I thank You for the heart You've given me. Lord, I thank You for the grace You've showered me. Lord, I thank You for the life of growth in character that never dies. Lord, I thank You...for Your wonderful love!"

I've recorded it but I won't post it for now. hahaha!

I was absent from work for 2 days (yesterday and today). When my mom came home from work, I apologized and told her I am willing to compromise and change whatever made her upset. I am willing to submit myself to her and obey her rules as my boss. Then, I asked her who took care of the paperworks due tomorrow. She said, "No one. The meeting has been postponed to December 3." Not only that! Unexpectedly, my dad handed me my salary for 1 week.

Can you imagine my happiness? hahaha! GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME! GOD's favor is awesomely great! A promise is a promise and a promise from GOD will never be broken. So, I will be doing my part as HIS willing servant. I will finish my paperworks tomorrow. I am also excited to conduct our youth cell meeting tomorrow since the problem with 2 of my youths has been resolved yesterday. Justine was so excited to inform me through a text message. GOD made a way for that, too. PRAISE HIS GOOD NAME ABOVE THE EARTH!

As I was watching a certain anime earlier, one of the girls said, "In order for you to get a high rank, you must stop complaining and be serious with your duty."

I don't know I just love revelations. Not only for me, but for you also.

Also, being punctual is to gain respect from others. Funny how one of the teachers in that anime was late for their practice. Two of his students disrespected him and told him that he will never change anymore. The teacher realized that he lost their respect for him because of his tardiness.

I consider a lot of good things around me as revelations and lessons that we can learn from. Hope that you do, too.

Another confirmation I received through a text message again from my friend named Jong.

"When GOD is in your heart, it is the most fulfilling life you can live.. walk in HIS ways and you will truly appreciate all the day HE gives you!"

Let go of the hard heart. Let go of the stubborn spirit. Accept the gift of humility and GOD will lift you up.

Psalm 1:1-2
"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night.”

~~~Verse for the day in Biblegateway.com

These are my revelations and lessons for yesterday and today. How about you? Do you have anything to share that will give glory to our GOD? That is our main purpose anyway...to glorify our BEAUTIFUL FATHER!

If you're wondering about my post title, rainy days speaks of trials and clear blue skies speaks of blessings. We will always have clear blue skies after rainy days and to confirm it, there's a rainbow (no multi-color hahaha) which speaks of GOD's promises to us.

Make an impact. Make a difference. Make a ripple. Tip the scale.

GOD BLESS YOU ABUNDANTLY! GOD BE WITH YOU ALWAYS! GOD IS A GOD OF ABUNDANCE!

ALL THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD ALONE!!!

P.U.S.H.

When you feel GOD's love, OVERFLOW!