The Blamed

Judging people is the easiest reaction to do. We always look for someone to blame, condemn and judge. Why? Because we always want to be better than others. Inferiority is something unacceptable to the society. We always want to be on top of everything and submission is "showing weakness". Until when will this superiority complex stop? Well, from the society's point of view, it's a non-stop cycle. As long as someone wants to be better, then, it will never stop.

I myself understood how it felt like to be inferior. I always get blamed whenever something is wrong in the house. Or if something bad happened, I get accused. To be honest, I am really really sick and tired of it. Even if my hands were clean, I am still the point person....literally "point person". I often can't see the point why I am always being blamed about the wrong things as if I'm the jinx in the family....even to the most insignificant events. Upon contemplating, I was reminded of John 8:2-11...the exact verse that was discussed during our Christmas Party. I felt I was like the woman, being shamed and accused. No one will ever understand what I am going through but ONLY Jesus can. So, everytime I get blamed again, I hear His voice saying..."He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first" and "Neither do I condemn you. Go and sin no more" It does comfort me. Thank you Jesus for being there for me!

God Never Makes Mistakes

While watching the third episode of Glee, I was struck by the words of Sue's sister..."God never makes mistakes." It's true. How can a God who created the whole universe makes mistakes? In fact, He said that everything He created was good. I don't think God is a liar. But how come things became bad? It's because, sin entered the world. Sin, ruined everything including the GOOD creation of God. And, sin, separates us from God that's why there's such thing as death. And death, is the payment for our sin (Romans 3:23a). But, the GOOD NEWS is God so loved us that He gave His ONE and ONLY SON, Jesus Christ to save us from the bondage of sin. Jesus didn't have to die in our place but because He loves you and me so much that HE did it. All we have to do is to be humble, confess that we are sinners and believe in Him and what HE did at the cross. Ask Him to be the LORD and SAVIOR of your life and you will be transformed. Life transformation is a process. I myself is also a working progress of God. Walking with Him allows me to know Him more and compells me to love Him more that leads me to do what pleases Him. For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, not of works lest anyone should boast (Eph. 2:8-9).

In life, we don't always get what we want. We experience pain, trials, discomfort etc. These negative events will make us doubt if God really exists or if He really cares. When we don't have a relationship with Jesus, we always see everything in the negative perspective. However, according to Romans 8:28, "all things work together for good to those who LOVE God and to those who are called according to His purpose." I highlighted the word LOVE because that's the basis of it all. If you love God, then you will do as He commands and it will not be burdensome. The negative things will now become positive. Life is still tough but with Christ in me, it will be easier because He is the one who is leading me.

God's Fingerprint: Mt. Mayon

If you will be asked to show God, how will you do it? God is invisible however, we can see Him through Mayon Volcano. He revealed Himself to me.

He is perfect. He stands majestically and can be seen whether you're on land or sea. If you patiently seek Him, He will show Himself to you. You may not see Him when clouds surround Him but mind you, He is always there and never leaves. When He gets angry, He pours out burning lavas and can ruin a whole community. But when He quiets down, His majesty still overrides His cruelty.

Mayon may be just one of God's fingerprints. And through His creation, His fingerprints are all over the world. It's just a matter of looking into the details and seeing things from His perspective.

When God Breaks Your Pride...

The most hurtful thing I ever experience in my life is when God breaks my ego. However, it is also the best thing because it has been a bondage breaking experience. God has been teaching me to lower my pride but I kept on ignoring that lesson until I get hurt. Eventhough I was hurt, He still embraced me and whispered to me that He did it because He loves me. Then when I submit, liberation filled my heart.

One instance was when I was out of town for a vacation, I was not feeling well. I played a "hero" that afternoon that made me feel worse in the evening. I was chilling and flu came to my system. At first, I thought I can make it through the night because my ego would tell me that I didn't need any help and I have to be tough. But God reminded me to lower my pride and seek for help. So, to make the long story short, I woke my friend up and she assisted me to feel better. And, true enough, I had a good night sleep.

Lesson learned...pride breaks people and humility liberates people. I would never forget that incident because God has used my physical weakness to learn that hard lesson. I'm just glad that even though He breaks me, He still continues to care for me. Praise God!

In His Time

"In His time, in His time. He makes all things beautiful in His time." God answers our prayers in His time. Often times, we are very impatient. It is our nature that we want things done right away. We hate delays and we don't want our plans to shatter. However, God taught me a lot of things about having faith in Him and waiting for His timing. Holding on to Him has never been easy because worry has filled my heart. Logic played a big role but it was not what God wanted me to practice. It is clear in the Bible that I have to work out my faith and not my logic. And, it's amazing to see God's hand move in my life when I surrender everything to Him. I learned to look at situations from different perspectives and God will always impress on me the positive perspective.


I just want to praise Him today because God's hand is on every situation I'm in. Also, I can see Him move in my two friends' lives too. I may have a different situation but God is now fulfilling His promises one by one and in His time.

Promises: Protection, Provision and Peace...

For the past few days, I was so worried about what will happen in my life. I'll be losing my job in a few days and I am not quite sure how my next job will be. I am having limited monetary funds and I need to pay up so much debts. Also, I am so busy that my time with God is quite limited. I just don't know what I should do. It seems like my life is a "storm" in the heat of the summer!

However, God kept on reminding me to trust Him and with His still small voice, He was telling me that He is with me. Finally, I was given a time to spend time with Him in Soularium yesterday. He prompted me to read Psalms 125-135 and it was so amazing that He spoke to me through those verses. He assured me that I need not worry about what will happen to me and gave me three promises: Protection, Provision and Peace. But the condition is, I need to fear Him and wait on Him. He also gave me an example through the story of Saul and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 13-14:23 that I should wait on the Lord in everything I do.

I know that waiting could be a problem for me but since this is His command to me, I have to be still and know that HE IS GOD! He will be the one to fight my battles and I will get through this storm in my life.

Remembering Mom

She was supposed to be 53 years old today but God took her away 13 years ago due to her sickness. I never had the chance to say goodbye to her properly nor thanked her for what she did. The only time and the last time I felt her hug was 3 months before she passed away. I never appreciated all her hard work during the first 14 years of my life and I regretted it. However, it all turned out that God has greater plans for me that's why He allowed this thing to happen. And, looking back, if it didn't happen, I will never appreciate my life like I do today. I will never learn how to achieve and strive hard for success. Also, I will never know how to take care of myself and also others.

My mom has always been a good mom. She makes sure that me and my brother's welfare are taken care of. And when we're sick, she would always sing "God Will Take Care of You" (Chinese Version) and monitor our condition. I also missed the Friday Pizza Night at Pizza Hut with All-Cheese Pizza or Meat Lovers Pizza. To her friends, she has always been the most loyal friend in the planet. She is a very down to earth woman who does not consider her social status. And as a Christian, she is the role model. She has touched the lives of many people and she was a blessing to most of them up until now. She has always been remembered as the mother and a friend to all. On this special day, this blog is dedicated to her. I know that she won't be able to read this anymore, but this is my way of saying that I am very proud do be born and raised by Rosalina Bendicion-Fung!

Ordinary for Extraordinary

I was given the privilege to meet someone in the showbiz industry not only from the local scene, but also the international. Yes, you guessed it right, she's none other than the International Singing Sensation, Charice. Her life was like a roller coaster and she has been an inspiration to many, including myself. It has been more than a year since I met her and her family and every time I'm with them, I really felt at home because they are the most down to earth people I ever met.  And, they are really nice people...what you see is what you get. She's one ordinary girl who has an ordinary dream and I believe that God's hand is upon her to do extraordinary things in life for His glory.


Her life inspires me so much and the priceless meetings with her, Tita Raquel and her family has always been remarkable! After all these gatherings, I was reminded of my own life. I am just an ordinary person who has dreams to go beyond my capability. However, I always thought that I am not worthy to do anything for God's kingdom because I have not been a good and true Christian. I have my "black spots" and I know that I won't be a good testimony to others. But the amazing thing is that every time I feel that way, God is using me the more. In my inadequacy, God's power is manifested and in my weakness, I became strong. Although, sometimes it's frustrating to be helpless, but He is very patient in using an ordinary person, like me, to expand His kingdom. I just have to be still, know that He is God and I have to always keep my feet on the ground. I may have not yet fulfilled His plans but I am excited to see what He will do in my life next. Indeed, God is using ordinary people for His extraordinary plans.

God's Provision Involves His Instruments

It's hard to have no money to spend especially in my career where in there are a lot of social activities. There's no such thing as FREE these days. It is really a test of faith on my part, holding on to His promises that He will provide for my needs. But one thing I realized is that God is teaching me some other things. He is molding my personality as He wants me to be. He wants me to rely on His provisions by involving people and/or institutions around me. In short He wants me to learn that I also needed help.

I am the eldest in our family and I am the provider. Also, I make sure that I will be the one to help and not being helped. I always have this thought that they need me more than I need them. For the past years, I always have enough money to spend and most of the time, I have more than enough. But this time around, it seems like all my monetary resources are easily gone. While contemplating last night, God spoke to me through the verse Romans 8:35 which says,

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" 

Also, in Matthew 6:25-27, 

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" 

He assured me that He will provide for my needs and I need not worry. However, He will use people and/or institutions around me for His provisions. It is hard for me to borrow money from anyone but if that is what God is teaching me, to allow people or institutions to help me and that I also needed help, then, by faith and humility, I will follow. God is my Jehovah Jireh!

Faith + Anticipation = Hope

Feeling hopeless can be really frustrating especially when life seems not going right. Hopeless people are most of the time pessimist about life because that is their perspective. They see the problem not the solution. Life is beautiful. Though hardships and trials come, it's a matter of how you look at things. Remember the success story of Adidas? The sales man saw the need of shoes in Africa that's why he was able to sell those shoes.

As a Christian, God wants me to enjoy life but not to enjoy too much that I will become so comfortable here on earth. He promised me a better place to live in and, by faith, I have to hold on to it with anticipation. To put it in layman's term, it's like leaving your old job and moving on to a new company with better opportunities. Your last thirty days may seem very long because you can't wait to leave and start a fresh career. In the middle of the thirty days, you may experience a whole lot of problems, trials and bigger responsibilities that you may not understand but the anticipation for your new job will keep you going.

Just like in life, you may experience hurts, temptations and waiting may become a frustration but having that hope God gave you, these things will not be as bad anymore. Because, you know that there will always be a light at the end of the tunnel.

Ants: Stewards of God

They are always in a queue going up and down the edge of my doorpost. It's annoying to have them around. And when they bite, I just can't ignore the itchiness. Yes, they're ants. Although for me, they're annoying little creatures, I had fun watching them. And, I learned a lot from them.

These creepy crawlers of red and black may be one of the smallest creatures, but they are the most responsible creation of God. As I was observing them, it seems like they are doing nothing but just queuing along my room. While following the queue, I realized that they're gathering food from the crumbs of the bread I ate. Of course, annoyed, I tortured them by pouring water on them and cleaned up that part of the room. I was glad that they're no longer there. However, the next day, I saw them queuing again but in my bathroom floor. I didn't see any bread crumbs around but their home is at the corner of the bathroom. Once again, I poured water on them and many died. But after the floor dries out, they again filed in their queue. Not contented, I blocked their homes with a little bit of conditioner. Then lo and behold, they looked for another exit and continued what they are doing. I just can't stop them.

Then it struck me that as a Christian, I am like these ants. The difference is they know how to persevere and though hardships and trials come their way, they still continue to move on with their lives. They save for the rainy days by the continuous search for food and storing up in their homes. It's such a shame because as a person, and a special creation of God, I should know better than those ants. I should know how to be a good steward of my life and my resources. God entrusted me this life but what did I do? For most of my life, I abused it with temporary pleasures... be it physical, emotional, mental and even spiritual. Well, these ants have taught me a lot. And I guess, this is God's way of telling me that I have to start over and be a responsible steward God wants me to be.

Double Life

We all wear different masks everyday. Masks that would make people laugh and masks that would make them cry. It's easy to play a role wearing a mask because people won't know who you really are. We live our lives according to what the society dictates but when you start to remove your mask and try to live your life according to who you really are, then, society will slowly depart from you.

Living a double life could become very tiring. On one hand, this is who I am but on the other, this is what the society wants. Then, as a Christian, society's pressure has more weight. It's easy to just go with the flow and "kiss" society's dictates but being a Christian, I have a higher standard. I know of a lot of Christians who are "righteous" in front of a lot of people but in their own personal lives, they are not. Hypocrites! I am also guilty as charged. After much contemplating, I was reminded that I am shaming no one but God. I have to practice what I preach and be real for a change.

Society may persecute me but I love God more than them. I know that in the end, I will be left alone. But, being alone with God...I'd long for that more than being with the society without God.

In Love Not Brainwashed

A friend of mine made a comment that Christianity is a religion that is brainwashing people. I wasn't prepared to answer back to that comment so, I tried to defend Christianity but wasn't successful because my answer was compromising the truth. I regretted it. But thinking about it, is Christianity really a brain washer religion?

Growing up in a Christian family made me think that I am already a Christian because I thought that I can inherit religion. But as I grew up, I was told that I have to accept Jesus Christ in my heart so that I could go to heaven and not hell. So, I accepted Him when I was in grade 3 because I definitely don't want to go to hell. I involved myself with a lot of ministries and followed all the rules. I honestly, got frustrated with all the rules because deep inside me, I know that I will never be that "goody two shoes" person everyone expected me to be. I slowly faded through all the ministry involvement. Until one day, I get burned out and stopped everything. I tried to find some answers but the only answer I had was to be still and return to God. Then, I recommitted my life to Him and seek for His healing. I'm so glad that with open arms, He just took me back.

I've always thought that Christianity was brainwashing people. But I realized that it is not. It's simply God stirring the hearts of those who seek Him. Christianity is not a religion but rather, it is having a relationship with God and letting Him rule my life. Though I sometimes fall, but it's now easier for me to run to Him and confess all my sins because I don't want to hurt Him. Also, I often remind myself of His love for me and what He did on the cross. For some, I may be brainwashed but for me, I'm just simply in love with Someone who first loved me.

What's Next?

"Do you love me?...Feed my sheep." I was struck this morning by this statement. Yes, it is Jesus' words in John 21. Probably, I've been ignoring this verse for a very long time and today, it just popped up on my face! Then last weekend, I was reminded to surrender to God and to give. He's speaking to me loud and clear that I need to trust Him all my needs and giving should not become a hindrance. Easier said than done. That's why by faith and by His grace, I will follow Him and do as He commands.

Honestly, I still don't know where He will lead me but what I know is that I have to start being responsible with my God given resources and learn how to share them with others whom God will appoint to me. Not because of the blessing that I will get in return but because I love God. I am excited to see where my life would be after June. Though I will lose something, but I know that I will gain more. So, what's next? I really don't know but I just have to be still and know that He is MY God! Guys, please pray for me that I may persevere and endure all the things that will happen in my life.

Surrender and Slowly Recover

Walking with God means surrendering your life to Him but taking things one step at a time. Which is easier? Surrendering or taking things slowly? Honestly, for me, the taking things one step at a time is harder than surrendering. It's because I am having a hard time to be still since time runs so fast that I need to get things done right away. Also, I'm the kind of person who makes a solution out of every situation. I always thought that I need to save everybody...the superman syndrome. But, God taught me a lot of things of becoming still. It's a matter of focusing on Him and ONLY HIM.

In this world, there will always be a lot of distractions because Satan does not want us to be close to Jesus. The battle is usually in the mind. When I start thinking of the things I need to do today, I will be overwhelmed and then, become anxious then get frustrated of not being able to do the things I need to do. The cycle goes on and on. That's why, I need to shift my thinking from worldly perspective to God's perspective. This is a hard thing to do since it's not a natural thing for human beings to look at things at a bigger picture.


When I went to Vigan last 2007, I was given a chance to experience how to mold a clay pot. It was really hard because since I have no training for molding pots, I was not able to mold the clay into what I desired it to be and one wrong hand movement, everything must be molded again from scratch. But when that same clay was molded by the professional, it turned out to become a beautiful vase. And to finish it off, the molded clay needs to go through fire so that it will be sturdy and will be used for different functions. Experiencing this situation, I realized that the clay is my life. If I will be the one to mold it, the "shape" won't be perfect. However, if I let God mold my life, an amazing masterpiece will be the result. But, in order for God to use me, I must go through the "fire". Then, when I become the finished product, I can function well.

I praise God because through Glorious Hope Recovery Program, God is slowly shifting my mind-set to Him. He continued to speak to me by taking things little by little. No need to rush because healing is a process. Although the world dictates that everything should be fast paced, God dictates me to be still. I must surrender to Him all my life 100% and see Him work on my life. I must let Him BE my Potter. And since I am His creation, only He knows how my outcome should be and He'd be able to use me according to how he molded me.

God's Perfect Timing for His Perfect Blessings

"In His time, in His time, He makes all things beautiful in His time." This is a common children's hymn but is also very applicable even for adults. When we were kids, we were often excited when our birthdays and Christmas comes because we know that during these days, we will receive lots of gifts. Or, sometimes, when our parents promised us something, we often look forward to that day when we will receive it. But often times, growing up, we get broken promises from our human relationships. That's why most of the time, we see God as someone who will also break His promises. We are doubtful if He will truly provide or not because as adults, we hate waiting and anticipating. The excitement when we were kids has already gone.

But when we read the bible, God's promises were never broken...from the old to the new testament. He just knows the right timing and He knows that what we're asking for is something we can handle. He just wants to make sure that we are already responsible enough to get what we are asking for. God wants to bless us and He has promised to provide for all our needs. The condition: we must follow His will for us.

For example, when I was a kid, my mom would tell me to achieve a perfect grade then she will reward me. Since I love pizza, that's the reward I will ask from her and I will be motivated to do my best to please her and perform well in school. Then when the test papers came and I made it, we will have Friday Night Pizza at Pizza Hut. Then, I will be satisfied. However, there are times when I asked my mom if I can go out with my friends, she just refused. Back then, I was 12 and didn't know why she won't allow me. I was so disappointed and really get mad at her. Though she would explain to me the reason, I just won't buy it. So, I disobeyed and just go out with my friends. On my second year in college, my cellphone was snatched in the jeepney. Then I realized that she was just protecting me from the bad guys in the metro. Unfortunately, she already passed away when I learned that lesson.

Looking at my walk with God, it's pretty much the same with a parent-child relationship. God knows what's best for me and I must hold on to His promises. I have to keep on anticipating because I know that if I'm on the right track, everything will be perfect and I'd be able to see His blessings shower. I didn't say that everything will be smooth sailing because even when a situation seems wrong, it will become right after I have gone through it. Patience is also a key factor. Just wait on the Lord because He has the best plan in my life and yours too!

God's Provision

The other day, I realized that I no longer have enough money until the next pay day. That's like about 6 days. So I just prayed and asked God to open my eyes that I may see where I could get some cash. Then he impressed on me that I have a friend who owes me some cash. And, that cash would be more than enough until the next pay day. I was able to get it last Saturday.

However, I left my wallet today at home. It's kinda hard but I saw God's hand moving today. It was a test of faith for me even with the simple things. God allowed this to happen to me so that I could learn how to trust Him. And, amazingly, He did provide for me. He didn't allow me to starve today and gave me enough money to go to the office and home. You may wonder how I can manage to survive a day without my wallet but it's just simple. When I left home, I only have P40 in my pocket. When I reached the office, God impressed on me that I have a meal allowance for last week that I didn't get until I asked today...that's P160. Since today is Monday, our lunch was covered by the company. Then in the afternoon, we had a meeting then the company provided some snacks. I hitched a ride wit our sales manager then got off at a mall near our house. I was still able to buy some bread then go home.

God is truly amazing! Even in this small way, He provided...what more on greater things? It is very clear in Matthew 6 that we should not worry about the things that we need because God will provide. Just like how He feeds the sparrow and other wild animals, He will likewise do it to us. I know I will be facing a lot of giants and lackness in my life but by faith, I know God will provide. He is my Jehovah Jireh!

Going Through the Storm

My million dollar question these days is where do I go from here? I honestly don't know how to answer that question but I guess it will always be my question for the next 2 and a half months. God has been telling me to wait patiently and be still. It's hard to be still especially if people keeps on asking how am I and what are my career plans.

This year would be a rocking year for me and my family. It's going to be a test of faith for all of us. I know God will provide and He will be there for us. But I must confess that doubt sometimes would creep in my mind. I just hope that I would persevere and be focused on Him. Just like what a friend of mine told us, that we have to be God-dependent. Trusting completely in Him that He will see us through the storm. Now I understand why my devotions are mostly about destruction and trials. To be honest, I am scared. I need to hold on to His promises just like Abraham did. The best way to describe what I am feeling right now is like seeing a tornado in front of me, coming my way hoping that it would divert its way. I don't know what kind of destruction will take place but I pray that I will look at them as blessing in disguise.

To my friends who are reading this, I need your prayers that I may live by faith and not by sight. Looking only to Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith.

Day 1 of Year 27

Today, as the 1st day of my 27th year, I learned that life is just simple. No need for big celebrations or anything grand. I am happy that God gave me another year and another chance to serve Him. It's also God's way of telling me that I can always start a new life and make things right. I confess that I have somehow lived a lie in my past life but God gave me another chance and I am not gonna waste it. I believe that I am His working progress and I want Him to use me to touch the lives of the people around me. I may not be perfect but I have a perfect God who will guide me to the perfect path.

To all my friends and families, I thank you for your support during the past 26 years and as I start my 27th year, I hope that you would continue to be part of my life as I take this journey. If I have sinned against you, I am truly and deeply sorry and hoping for your forgiveness. If I have not thanked you, you are all appreciated because all of you made me who I am today. As you all know, I'm not a person who expresses my emotions in public but in this blog, I can assure all of you that I do care and love you all. Thank you again for all your greetings! May God continue to bless you on this special day.

Integrity: A Tool for Evangelism

Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." Matthew 5:37

Integrity is a virtue we often have over looked. We always make promises and break them. A person without integrity makes him/her a liar. I am guilty of not having integrity towards others and God. All my life I have made a lot of promises I could not keep. And it's very shameful. I want to change that attitude and with God's help, I know I can change. From now on, I will see to it that whatever comes out from my mouth, I make sure I have to follow through with my actions. Else, this would be the easiest way to loose friendships and other important relationships.

I also believe that integrity is one core characteristic that attracts people to Christ. If I share the gospel and not live according to it, then, I am no different from the world. The Bible says that as a Christian, I have to be set apart from the world (Romans 12:1-2). I don't need to have a dramatic testimony to tell. I only need to be a person who keeps her promises and this can be the greatest tool to share the gospel to others.

My Letter to God

Since today is Resurrection Sunday, I will make my blog a bit different to commemorate His sacrifice for all of us...

Dear God,

I don't know how to start this blog for this special day. But I pray that through this simple letter to You, I'd be able to touch the lives of the people. Looking back at my life, I grew up in the midst of the church. I received you as my personal Lord and Savior when I was in grade 3. All my family member and relatives are Your children. I memorized a lot of Bible Verses and know almost all Bible stories. I've had ministries left and right and go to missions and retreats during summer. I thought I have done all the right thing to please You already, but I was wrong. I still felt empty and don't know what to do. I filled my life with a lot of relationships thinking that they would satisfy me but people just come and go. Until one day, You spoke to me that You want a real relationship with me. Then I realized that You have been speaking to me but I won't listen.

When I recommitted my life to You, You quickly embraced me. I felt excited and at peace. I would never exchange that moment to any other thing in this world! Though there are times when I tried to run away from You, I can feel that You won't let go of me. I was mad at You and gave You a lot of "whys?" But I thank You because if You had let me go, my life will be ruined. You were just protecting me. There are times, You just allowed me to go my way because You want me to learn a few things and You know that I will always come running back to You. And, You still accepted me. Thank You for loving me though I have not loved You whole heartedly. You are the best Dad, Friend and Lover I ever had.

On this day, as I remember what You have done to save me, I am truly grateful! Words can't explain the overwhelming love that You have shown me! There's no greater love than this! Death's sting is gone because You have the victory! Thank You Jesus! I love You!

Your child,
Sheryl Fung

Taking the Big Leap

You want to be better? Move out from your comfort zone and file a resignation. Most successful people have one common characteristic...they have non-stop learning capabilities and is not afraid to take risks. Imagine seeing the beautiful horizon, the green grass and a different lifestyle that makes you happy...but before you can reach the other side, you need to leap from one cliff to another and you'll never know how deep it is and what's down there. Scary but exciting! I was able to meet two people during this Holy Week that inspired me to be better and take a big leap.

Both left their families to seek for better lives. They both have the courage to leave their comfortable lives just to follow what they wanted to do. They don't need to leave because their families are well off people. Have their own family businesses but they chose to start life from scratch. Both took the lowest job position in their field of profession but they don't mind. Although there are a lot of times when they're having a hard time, they strive and make way to find their resources. And amazingly, they were blessed to be provided for anything they need.

I've always wanted to be better. I only don't have the courage to leave my comfort zone because I don't have any savings yet. I always tell myself that when I have enough money, I will leave my life here and go to the province. But, come to think of it, when will that happen? What's holding me back? The urban life has made me enjoy life too much with a high cost of living and chasing after the wind. Letting go of relationships also make it harder for me to step up. If I want to live a new life, I have to take a BIG LEAP to move out and start anew. But when? I want to do it now. However, I need to have enough courage to do it. Maybe, after three years. We'll see...as they say, "let's cross the bridge when we get there."

Success According to Psalm 37

I always want an answer when I ask. However, the answer has to be specific and direct to the point. I hate it when I have to wait for an answer because time is running out. Before I attended the prayer and fasting last weekend, I have a lot of questions about my life on what I should do to be successful. My personality also affects my decision making in life. I've always needed affirmation from people that I'm doing the right thing. However, most of the time, I encountered negative responses. That's why, I don't know whether I'm doing the right thing or not. Because when I do something right, it seems wrong and when I'm doing the wrong thing, I will be shamed. It's hard for me because I wanted to do the right thing but most people around me never knew how to appreciate the things that I do. I honestly am confused.

During the prayer and fasting weekend, God spoke to me loud and clear through Psalm 37. Hanged on my bathroom door is the verse 4. I never saw its significance until I studied that Psalm. He simply gave me direct answers to all my questions by just following His commands. They are:

• Don't fret and don't be envious of the evil men (v. 1, 27)
• Trust and commit my ways to Him (v. 3, 5, 40)
• Delight myself in Him (v. 4)
• Be still and wait for Him (v. 7, 34)
• Do good and keep His way (v. 3, 27, 34)
• Refrain from anger and wrath (v. 8)
• Hope in the Lord (v. 9)

It looks easy but it's not especially when I'm aggravated or sense of doubt creeps in my mind. That's why He also tied His commands with overwhelming promises:

• He will give me the desires of my heart (v. 4)
• I will inherit the land (vs. 9, 11, 22, 29, 34)
• My enemies will soon wither (v. 2)
• He will make my righteousness shine and uphold me (v. 6, 17, 24)
• I will enjoy great peace (v. 11, 37)
• Power of the wicked will be broken (v. 17)
• He will remember my days and my inheritance will endure forever (v. 18)
• I will not wither in times of disaster and my days of famine, I will be plenty (v. 19)
• He makes my steps firm (v. 23)
• I will not be forgotten to the next generations
• I will be not be forsaken and will be protected forever (v. 28)
• He will help me and deliver me from the evil one (v. 40)

It's comforting to know that His promises are beyond my expectation. The bottom line is, just do what pleases Him regardless of what others will say. I know I will be successful one day as long as I follow His commands and I will live it up one day at a time. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! (Philippians 4:13) And His grace is sufficient for me and His power is made perfect in my weakness! (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Speical Date with My Lover

Last weekend, I was being asked out on a date by Someone special in my life. Prior to that, He kept on asking me out but since I was so busy, I couldn't find time to be with Him. It was a good thing that He's very patient with me. But He made sure that our date last weekend should push through because He told me that He prepared something special for me. At first, I declined because I have an important work-related activity during that day but He made sure that our date will not be postponed. He allowed our stocks not to arrive on time so, I have no choice but to cancel the activity. And, I was not so happy about it but eventually, I gave in and told Him, "Ok, I will go."

Days before that special day, as usual, I was so busy with work but I was excited on what will happen during our date. In fact, I'm looking forward more on the surprise that He had prepared. I kept on telling Him about my problems in the workplace and my life but all He said was to wait for our special day. Finally, March 27 came and mixed feelings came upon me. I was excited, scared, worried etc. But everything turned out well...I became inspired by Him. He just wanted to be with me so that I could know Him better. I've always thought that I know Him already but I was wrong. I dicovered that He's more than what I expected because my perspective of Him was that He should please me that whatever I ask, He should grant if for me and He should make things better for me.

It was amazing because He plainly revealed Himself to me through the surroundings of that place and also through His love letter to me. And, what's more amazing was I didn't give in to my physical satisfaction and this allowed my to feel His presence more. Just by being quiet and listening to Him speak, I was revived. I saw His light through the sun, moon and stars. I saw His life through the trees and grass that surrounded me. I saw His majesty through the mountains from the horizon. I heard Him sing to me His love songs through the chirpping of the birds. I felt His embrace through the wind that blows my hair. I smelled His sweet aroma through the flowers that blooms everywhere. I have tasted His supplement through the water that satisfied my thirst. After these two days of dating with Him, I hungered for Him more. I wanted to know Him more because by knowing Him, I could love Him more and the more that I want to do things for His glory. It's Him I want to please, not the other way around.

I know that He's just waiting for this day that I would surrender back my life to Him and let Him control my life. And, I'm glad that our date became a fruitful one and the more that I want to seek Him. All I can say is, He is so good and I thank Him that He never gets tired of pursuing me. From this day on, I will not ignore and let go of Him anymore. Jesus, lover of my soul, my best friend, my dad and everything.

Fruit of the Spirit: Joy

Are you happy with your life? If your answer is yes, how can you say that you are happy? Probably, it's easy for you to answer the first question, however, the second one seems like a million dollar question. True happiness is joy. It seems the same but it's not. I would define happiness as temporary but joy, it is something eternal and no one can take that away from you. For example, I am HAPPY because I ate my favorite food today but I am JOYFUL because I savoured every bite of it.

To be honest, it's really hard to find joy but joy is just around the corner. It's basically how you look at the things surrounding you. It is simply appreciating every detail of your life rather than complaining about it. It is being content of what you have and not what you want in your life. If riches or material things would make someone joyful, why are there a lot of rich people who are lonely? How about power? It still, won't make you joyful because a lot of those who have power are threatened to go out on their own. Intelligence? I don't think so, because most of these people have a hard time "surviving in the woods" and they get frustrated. Probably religion, if it is, why are there a lot of religious people still looking for pleasures in life?

What then makes people joyful? For me, it's having a simple lifestyle. Appreciating the air that we breathe, being able to see the sun rising and setting, being with our loved ones and most of all, having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Knowing that when Jesus is in my life, I know I don't have to worry about anything because He will provide for all my needs. And if I learn how to be content, joy will eventually fill my heart. As the Bible says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. And again I say REJOICE!" (Philippians 4:4) Imagine, Paul wrote this verse when he was in prison. Therefore, the bottom line is, joy means seeing something positive in a negative situation.

Fruit of the Spirit: Love

"All you need is love, all you need is love love, love is all you need." The Beatles were totally right. We all need love. It is someting we crave for but we don't know where to get it. That's why most of us have superficial understanding of what love is. We often define love as an emotion when we feel the chemistry and the spark towards another person. Or we also definde love as blind because we don't "see" the other person. Sometimes, we say that we love someone because we need them to supplicate us with our needs. Also, we define love as "you complete me."

The question now is, what really is love? We were taught that there are categories of love such as: phileo - friendship, eros - passionate or romantic, storge - affection or parental kind of love and agape - unconditional love. We have different arguments on how to define love but the Bible clearly states what it is. We don't need Merriam-Webster or Wiki to define it for us. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a, it says:

"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."

I think it is clearly stated what love is. Bottom line is, whatever relationships that we have, if we truly love them, all these traits must manifest. For example, I like the part "love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth", because it shows that when we truly love someone, we will not tolerate the wrong things he/she has done but rather, we should correct him/her in love. Although they will get hurt but when we love, we just want the right things for them. The best example is Jesus Christ. If you look at the verse again, He actually did manifest all those traits. To the point that He died on the cross for all of us, to save us from our sins. "Greater love has no one than this, that He lay down His life for His friends." (John 15:12). Also, Jesus commanded us to love one another...not just those who are lovable but also those who are not.

Well, since love is again a virtue, it's easier said than done. And, it's sad to know that the true meaning of love is now deteriorating. Let's remind ourselves what true love is by looking at the cross. So that, when we are with people, we can also manifest the traits of true love.