"You can pray for anything,

and if you have faith,

you will receive it."

Matthew 21:22

If your husband is worried about something, pray with him about it. Stay by his side, reminding him that he can count on you - and God - to be there for him.

Just in case.......

Dear Friend,

Just in case you're wondering why the long silence of encouragements and devotionals. We wanted to let you know we're still here and that, we will be posting the articles and hope to deliver them to your inbox soon.

Thanks for your patience and prayers as we seek to bring God's encouragement and hope to our subscribers, readers, and visitors around the world. We treasure you!

Blessings,
BCCB Women Devotional Team

Jacob's Ladder

by Crown of Glory

“Early the next morning, Jacob took the stone

he had placed under his head and

set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it.

He called that place Bethel…”
Genesis 28:18-19

Bible Passage: Genesis 28

Jacob’s name literally means, “heel-grabber.” In our modern-day language, it means, “Cheat, Trickster, Swindler.” Instinct tells us to stay away from people like him.

But God thought differently. Jacob is the third in line where God’s covenant relationship is concerned, and it is after him that God chooses to name the nation of Israel.

I have many favorites in the Bible. Abraham is one, Isaac is another. But Jacob is my “most favorite” of them all. I never get tired of reading the story of his life.

One evening many years ago, Ernie came into our living room and found me in tears. “What’s wrong,” he asked me. “Jacob died,” I told him. “Jacob who?” he asked. “Is it anyone I know?” “Yes, it’s Jacob the patriarch, he died…” At that, my husband just quietly left me. He understood that I was again being moved by the dealings of God in this man’s life.

Even now as I write these lines, I am misty-eyed. How difficult Jacob’s life journey had been. And what he went through to be transformed into the noble patriarch that he was at the end of his life!

It’s a long story. And while many may have an idea about the story of his life, I have gone through the chapters of Jacob’s life over and over again, that I feel like I know him as a close friend. This is the reason that I sometimes find myself crying when I reach the part in Genesis 49 where Jacob, after blessing his sons and giving them specific instructions about his burial, draws up his feet up into the bed, breaths his last, and is gathered to his people. Even the way his death is described is so beautiful. What a meaningful way to die!

But let me not be carried away and get ahead of myself in what I really want to say.

The story of Jacob actually begins long before he is born. God reveals to Rebekah at the time of her pregnancy that two nations were in her womb, but that one people will be stronger than the other, and that the older will serve the younger (Genesis 25:23).

Jacob is the younger one. And for sure his mother must have told him all about these things. He was impulsive, and impatient. He didn’t know how to wait for God’s appointed time. He literally lives up to his name. Surely he would have received the said blessings at the right time. But he manipulates his brother Esau into selling him the first-born birthright for a measly bowl of soup. And several years later, he tricks his father Isaac into giving him the blessing reserved for the first born son.

Esau, realizing that he has been cheated twice, vows to kill him. It is in this context that we read Genesis 28. Under the pretext of finding a wife for himself, Jacob leaves Beersheba and embarks on a journey to his uncle Laban’s house. He is actually fleeing from the wrath of his elder twin brother.

Before Jacob leaves home, however, in addition to the blessing that he had already received through trickery, he is given a going-away blessing by his father. Isaac probably realizes that this son of his will need all the blessing he can have. In Genesis 28:3-4, we read:

“May God almighty bless you and make you fruitful and increase your numbers until you become a community of peoples. May he give you and your descendants the blessing of Abraham, so that you may take possession of the land where you now live as an alien, the land God gave to Abraham.”

The “blessing of Abraham” is the aspect of the birthright that Esau gave up, but in his place, Jacob will benefit. We all think that Jacob is just as unworthy to receive this generational blessing, but well, we are not in the place of God. In God’s sovereign plan, Jacob is somehow the one chosen to carry on His promise to Abraham.

On the way to Paddan Aram, Jacob decides to spend the night in a place called Luz. He lies down to sleep, using one of the stones there as a pillow for his head. Jacob, weary, confused, and running for his life, dreams.

He sees a ladder on earth, “with its top reaching to heaven, and the angels of God…ascending and descending on it.” Above the ladder stood the Lord. In this dream, Jacob is given the terms of the covenant that God had previously given to Abraham and Isaac. Now it was his turn to personally receive the promises of God.

God introduces himself by his covenant name, the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac. And God reiterates the terms of His covenant with Abraham. Jacob, in essence, is promised a land, a nation, and a blessing. But there is more. God speaks to Jacob what he needs to hear at that very moment. “I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I promised you.”

And this is what amazes me about God. Is Jacob worthy of these covenant promises? At this point in time, definitely not. But a covenant is a covenant, and God is no covenant breaker. He is the ultimate Promise Keeper. God enters into a covenant with a Trickster and a Cheapskate to honor His covenant with Abraham.

Jacob’s audacity is appalling. Instead of humbly receiving the covenant terms, he bargains with God, adopting a wait and see attitude. In effect he tells God, “Be with me, protect me, provide for my needs, and bring me back safely to my father’s house. Then, and only then, will I honor you as my covenant God.”

Notice that God doesn’t even lay down any conditions. His “terms” were not actually terms in the real sense of the word, they were one-sided unconditional promises. “I will do this for you.” Period.

With such a response from Jacob, you’d think that God would change his mind and call the whole deal off. Yet, God is not ashamed to call himself the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob (Exodus 3:6).

Jacob nevertheless realizes that he was standing on holy ground. He gets the stone that he used for a pillow, pours oil on it, sets it up as a pillar, and renames the place “Bethel,” meaning “house of God.” Even in his worldly condition he had sense enough to recognize that there was indeed a ladder, a heavenly connection in that place where God had somehow reached him, and revealed Himself to him.

Jacob’s story is actually a story about the making of a man after whom the promised land will eventually be named. Therefore, it was necessary for Jacob to go through the crucible, and traverse the painful road from being Heel-grabber to becoming Israel, Prince With God.

REAL LIFE:

In my college years, a close friend once told me: “Lidj, how I envy you. You have such a “well-oiled existence.” She had a drunkard for a father, and her mother was a schoolteacher who had to take in washing on weekends to make ends meet and earn enough to put her and her siblings through school. There were times when she would come to school with puffy eyes, for her father had again beaten her mother up the night before. I would cry with her, but I never could relate. I came from a good home, had loving responsible parents, and was well-provided for. Secretly, I considered her remark a compliment.

But a few years after I got married, I realized that there is really no such thing as a well oiled existence, unless one is willing to go through the process. I have awakened nights asking God if He is for real, asking Him to show me a connection to heaven from where I was.

I can’t say that I’m a literal Jacob… but we all are like him in many ways. My story is also the story of a woman in the making, going through the crucible of joy and sorrow. But I have no regrets. God has graciously shown me heaven-to-earth connections in the Bethels of my life.

When I reach heaven’s shores, I will kneel at the feet of my God, my King… and then I will put my arms around Jacob and thank him for having been such an instrument for the shaping of my character.

ACTION STEP:

Are you confused, tired, and wondering where your life is leading? Ask God: Where is the vital connection between where you are and where He is? Have you somehow missed on this and just went on your journey, and therefore missed hearing Him speak to you the unconditional promises that He has been longing to reveal to you? Have you been like Jacob, bargaining with the Father, insisting on your own terms, striving to run your life your way, instead of just humbly allowing him to work in your life? Go back now to your Bethel, pour oil on that rock and set it up as an altar of promise. And there, hear what God wants to say to you.

PRAYER:

"Dear Father, I humbly kneel now at the foot of that heavenly ladder, and know that You are there, reaching out to me, and saying to me, “I am with you, my child. I will watch over you, I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” I acknowledge you as my covenant God. I put my trust in You.”

The Woman in Proverbs 31.... Is she for real?

$aMsUng

“A good wife is hard to find, she is worth more than rubies. Her husband trusts her completely. She likes to work with her hands, looks for wool and flax and brings food from far away. While still dark she prepares food for her family and servant girls. She inspects and buys a field and plants a vineyard. She works with energy, her arms are strong. Her lamps burns late into the night. She makes thread with her hands and weaves her own cloth, keeping her family warm in winter nights. She helps the poor and the needy. She is respected by the people. She looks forward to the future with joy. Her children speak well of her and her husband praises her.”

"We’re all living in the shadow of that infamous icon, The Proverbs 31 Woman, whose life is so busy I wonder, does she have time for friendships, for taking walks, reading good books? Her light never goes out at night? When does she have sex? Somehow she has sanctified the shame most women live under, biblical proof that yet again we don’t measure up. Is that supposed to be godly – that sense that you are a failure as a woman." An excerpt taken from the book, Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge

I may not be the epitome of a Proverbs 31 Woman pictured in the Bible, but I believe I am worth more than rubies too! My husband trusts me…completely! I don’t do hard labor with my hands, don’t even like to garden, but hey! Buying wool from Australia and flax from Egypt or Turkey would cost him an arm and a leg. So I just buy clothing from the rack. It’s cheaper, practical and saves him tons of money indeed!

Our servant girls (doesn’t that just sound a lot better than merely saying cook?) prepare our meals but I make sure they also eat well. I help the poor and the needy, as much as my budget would allow. My light definitely burns late into the night. It’s 2 am and I cannot just go to bed without defending my admirable and not so admirable traits. But who says it has to be dark? Tsk, tsk, John and Stasi, you have much to learn.

I look forward to my silver belle years with joy now, yet still in the process of learning how to age gracefully. I have time for my friends, time to read a good book and watch a movie every now and then. My daughter describes me as “barbaric” (actually, she means cruel). But she's young... and what does she know??? (justifying..... :)

Hmmm…my husband? As long as I exercise regularly, take my vitamins, eat my veggies, stay away from Babes…I’m good! That’s as much compliment I’d get from him nowadays. I don’t consider myself a failure. Just being there for my dear family and having found my niche in my beloved Children’s Ministry, I must say, I live a fulfilling life, serving the Lord in the best capacity I can.

Har-har! I’m taking this too literally. I may not be the archetype of a good steward, but I simply refuse to feel guilty...

So to all women out there, whatever you’re going through… be it for bitter or worst, in joy or in sorrow, or simply stressed out from holding up as models of femininity in our community, just remember, God created us differently. Our essence and purpose in life are distinct from each other. We can’t all be the Bible's Proverbs 31 Woman… so let’s just do the best we can, enjoy the role God has given us and be wonderfully blessed!!!

Would You Like To WIN this?

YES! We are serious alright!

It’s Christmas Day here at Day by Day website and we would like to bless our readers and subscribers with some interesting action! We are raffling off “Sinamak Bisaya” from Jenny’s Kitchen. But here’s the condition. You’ll have to leave a comment on this post as your raffle entry (for those who doesn’t know how to leave a comment, you’ll just have to ask somebody to do it for you… who knows, this lovely jar of sinamak might just be for you).

To post, just click on the word, "comment" found at the bottom of this article. Then, watch out for a small box that pops out on the screen which is the message box. Type in your entry details and click on "Anonymous" unless you have a URL address. The rest should just be easy.

Please specify the following:

1. USERNAME (for your privacy--- then leave your email address)
2. When did you first start reading Day by Day and how did it reach you?
3. How do you find the blog and the articles written?
4. How would you enjoy the sinamak?

Sample Answer:
1. SUNFLOWER - sunflower@yahoo.com.ph
2. I started reading Day by Day late of January when my friend forwarded one of your articles. Since then, I was hooked.
3. I find your posts very encouraging, very inspiring
4. I would like to enjoy the sinamak with some grilled tilapia and squid, some warm pork chicharon with a mound of rice and some lato (seaweed). Yum!

That’s it! That’s how simple it is. All entries, by the way will be screened. For every comment, your details will be written on paper and will be kept in a small box until the raffle time (you’ll know the date soon!). We will ask Pastor Joe to pick up the winner. By the way, the contest will only commence if and when we have enough participants…. this means, we need you to post your comment here!

All readers and subscribers can join…. HOWEVER (here’s the catch), the winner will have to pick up the bottle (or send someone else to pick it up) at IKTHUS CENTER at a date to be announced after the raffle is over.

So, are you ready to join? You can start now!!!

Blessings!
Day by Day Devotional Team

Revelations VIII

by P31

The Power of Blessing in our Tongues

"But those who rebuke the wicked will have delight,
and a good blessing will come upon them.
He who gives a right answer kisses the lips."

(Proverbs 24:25)

Bible Passage: Genesis 24

Real Life:

I was so angry and frustrated about how the exams were put together by the examiners. Right after I took the June 2007 tests, I heard myself shout a loud cry, ‘ I hate BON! I hate BON! [BON- Board of Nursing]. I screamed in my room’s bathroom to my heart’s delight since nobody could hear me anyway. It was a complicated exam! And much to my dismay, I swore to myself that BON will never succeed in their efforts in uplifting the integrity of professionalizing nurses in the country.

You have journeyed with me as I recount my REVELATIONS experiences. I recalled very vividly God’s leading for me to consecrate myself [v.10,14] before I met up with HIM in my spiritual holy mountain. [At the time of Moses, Mt. Sinai was a place irreverent to touch. The mountain was to be constituted “holy” due to the fact that God would manifest Himself to Moses and to the Israelites there. Thus, just as the ground around the burning bush was holy (Exod. 3:5), so the mountain was holy as well. This is the reason why the mountain was to be “consecrated” by placing boundaries around it (v. 23).] But then again, this is another story to tell that I will share with you in my next Revelations series].

There in the holy mountain [Mt. Sinai experience], was the word BLESSING.

We often miss the supernatural significance of this word, blessing. Sometimes we become so familiar with the concept that we lose its concrete meaning. Think about it. We often use the word "bless" in familiar speech. I hear many people say, "God Bless you!" The other day I sneezed and my 5-year-old daughter said, " Bless you!" What do we know about what it really means?

In my many years of working with Family Foundations, International, I have learned that Blessing in Greek means, “well spoken of, praised, to speak well of, to call down God’s gracious power, empower to prosper”. On the one hand, we learn the true meaning of the blessing from Jacob. Blessing in Hebrew is the word barak, "to kneel." And the word picture here describes a man who had his camel bend down on its knees so he could get on it (Genesis 24:11). In the Scriptures, when barak, "to bless," is used in association with God, it means, "to bow with bended knee to express awe and value." We're familiar with the concept of blessing when we encounter royalty. In history, and even today in countries with a royal family such as England, a person bows or curtsies to express to royalty their inherent honor and value. So when God blesses us, as He so often does, He says to you and to me, "I value you and I add value to your life."

As I took this concept from the heavenly realm, "to bless" simply means to recognize value in a person and to add value through a spoken word or a specific deed. So why did God point out to me the word, Blessing? Because it is important for me to understand that in my tongue, I have the power to speak a “blessing” or a “curse”.

In my case, I sinned for cursing BON and maligning their name, through my spoken words from my angry heart and frustration. I fully realize that I have to have a certain amount of thought life cleaned up to some degree in the Lord with the sanctifying help of the Holy Spirit, but if I can't make the next step and transmit the right words to others in my own personal dealings, then all of the sanctification that I went through to get my life cleaned up will have all been for naught.

I can either choose to learn how to speak and release positive words of blessing of love, blessing of encouragement and blessing of edification to other people, or I can choose to release negative words of condemnation, criticism, coldness and harshness.

I choose the former.

This is a very serious warning being given to us by our Lord - and how we talk and express ourselves to our children, our husband, our family and to other people in this life should never, ever be taken for granted. God has given each and everyone of us a certain amount of power with the words that we can speak out to other people - and those words can either bring life [blessing] or death to the person we are speaking to.

Here is this most solemn verse:

"But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew 12:36)

This is a grievous matter.

Not only will the kind of words we speak out to others in this life determine how many good friends we may end up making or how good those personal friendships will end up being, but our words are also going to be appropriately judged by the Lord Himself on our day of judgment with Him.

As for me, I may have been judged already, but God is always gracious! I know in my heart that I have been forgiven.

Prayer:
“My precious God, It’s easy for me to forget about how my tongue should operate. Thank you for teaching me to use it wisely. For whatever words come out, may it be to bless my spouse, my children, my family, and my friends. Help me to model a life that’s reflective of your Son, Jesus Christ and I pray, Lord, that I may be a blessing to those around me through the power of blessing with my tongue. In Your Name, Jesus, AMEN."

YES, WHY WORRY?

by $aMsUnG

One more week to go and it will be summer vacation. Sob… sob. Much as I love my daughter, I don’t relish being with her almost 24/7. She’s good for about one to two hours a day, we talk about school, how well she did or how badly she fared for the day, her friends, boys, school projects, her daily gripes about her teachers and the school system, boys (have I mentioned that yet?), what they cooked in homeroom…the new dance steps she learned… anything that crosses her mind!!! Recently she has added a new word to her vocabulary and very often injects it into our conversations. SHOPPING. She seems to be in the buying spree mode, so sorry my dear, but Mama is in the belt-tightening mode. Frequently asked questions now are “Are we going to the mall?” (always directed to me) and “Are we eating out tonight?” (ask Dad). That’s usually reserved for weekends only, but can you imagine hearing that almost everyday for the whole summer? Her reasons for those questions? I’m a teen-ager now, I need more clothes… I’m a growing girl, I need to eat. Yeah, like you need to have your zero cavity wisdom tooth extracted without anesthesia too. Now you know the kind of stress I’ll be facing come this summer? Not that I don’t enjoy shopping with her. It’s actually gratifying to find out your daughter has developed a good fashion sense rather than none at all, but that kind of sense is somewhat draining to the wallet, especially when done on a daily basis.

She is too old to be tagging along with me all the time and too young to be out with friends everyday. Besides, you never really know what they’re up to. Friendster and texting aren’t exactly the solutions I’m looking for. I like activities that involve leaving the house (otherwise she’d be glued to the computer all day long), learning something new, something that would enhance the personality as well. It was easy when she was younger, there were swimming lessons to be had, arts and crafts summer classes… that one worked for many dog days. I have to be innovative. Look for activities that would spark her interest, lay down all the choices and try to summon some enthusiasm out from her. Last year it was gymnastics and jazz. We could probably do it again this year, though I seriously doubt her gymnastics teacher could do the cartwheel with a huge abdominal bulge. Belly dancing??? Coupled with jazz lessons, that might just solve my problem, even if only for a couple of hours three afternoons a week. Throw in some cooking or baking lessons, voice, guitar and drum lessons and I’ll be de-stressed. Mornings are for sleeping in, late nights for watching television or dvds, reading together, fighting as to who gets to use the computer and midnight snacking - so that’s no problemo.

If February is the time I start worrying about unproductive summers it is also the time I start planning our vacation. I usually like to go end of May, just before school opens. I know it’s a long way off yet, but that way I can make as many plans as I want, and if one doesn’t push through, then I have my fallbacks. Even if nothing materializes, working out the details won’t cost us any. For now, my vacation plans and our financial resources are not in sync. So I’m looking for the lowest possible rate, with a reasonably good hotel to Vietnam or Malaysia . If you know of any good deals, please drop me a comment, I’d really appreciate it. I also hear that from Iraq you can fly to almost anywhere for as low as $20, via Scud missile. Breakfast, lodging and return ticket not included. If you’ve taken a crack at this and was able to come back, please confirm.

Another option would be to visit Cagayan de Oro, the Camiguin Island and Davao City . Plus a side trip to Bukidnon. I believe the catchy phrase for it is WOW Philippines ! Cagayan de Oro is known as the “Whitewater Rafting Capital of the Philippines ”. Right! Like we’d really go rafting, we’ll probably end up in the mall again!!! Camiguin’s unique attractions are the sunken cemetary, old church ruins, hot springs, cold springs, you name it, the island has it. Davao is endowed with a variety of picturesque landscapes, fruit plantations and orchid farms, virgin forests that nurture rare wildlife, the very famous pearl farm, among others. The main thing that would draw us to Bukidnon aside from the beautiful scenic view is to visit some old family friends who have drifted off to that part of the country. From Metro Manila to Bukidnon, we now call them the hillbillies.

But at the end of the day, unless the Lord blesses our plans and grants the desires of our hearts, we plan in vain. So why worry? God gives us everything we need, if He feels we need a vacation, then we’ll get one. If not, nobody has ever kicked the bucket from staying home for the whole summer break yet. We put all these possibilities and probabilities in His hands to do as He wants, for He knows what’s best for us. And maybe… we might just end up going to Zimbabwe . Dream on, $aM. It’s three in the morning, perfect time for dreaming… I’m off to bed. ZZzzz…

Thank you, Grace R!

by Proverbs 31 Woman

I got the surprise of my life just before we left home from office. FED-EX arrived late afternoon with a package for me just as I was about to step out of the Ikthus gate. I received a gift from someone I do not know [or I may have known her but just couldn't remember], thanking me for this blog and how it has inpired her. She sent for a CD of Josh Groban. I, and the rest of the devotional team, are blessed to be a blessing to our readers and that's our goal why this blog was created; to touch lives and to bring people to a spiritual solace and peace only Jesus can give.

The CD is simply entitled, 'Josh Groban'. It's an album of classics in Italian. His mesmeric voice brings you to another place..... like in a dream.... full of life and passion.... mysteriously beautiful!

The video below is a duet of Celine Dion and Josh, 'The Prayer'. The first time I heard of this song was in a friend's wedding some 5 years ago and since then, it has become one of my favorites. Enjoy and be truly blessed!

And to Grace R., thank you. Your encouragement warms my heart. I am praying for you and I bless you and your family with much peace, love and joy. May the work of your hands prosper and may you be used mightily by Him, for His glory alone.

With much love,

P31 [JSL]

REVELATIONS VII

by Proverbs 31 Woman

KNOWING GOD’S WILL BY GODLY COUNSEL

“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously

to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt,

because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea,

blown and tossed by the wind.

That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord;

he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.”

James 1:5-8 (NIV)

Bible Passage: Exodus 18

Real Life:
The day when I sought God’s face at my own Mt. Sinai experience, one among many vital instructions was to seek for godly counsel.

The book of Exodus, in chapter 18 reiterates Moses’ experiences with his father-in-law, who gave him wisdom with his affairs for he was submerged beneath the numerous needs of the Israelites that his burden grew to such proportions “laboring himself from morning until the evening”, everyday (Ex. 18:13).

I have to admit, I was enslaving myself to work hard so I could fulfill my goals and dreams! With good intentions, I was doing it well. Aside from being a full time mother and wife, I was likewise a full time nursing student and a volunteer church worker, juggling myself in between. There was very little room to seek God for directions. By the time the alarm strikes in the morning, I was on my feet ready to face the day’s battle. And by the time I was to lay my head down to sleep, I was just too tired to even think of praying.

After reading the chapter, I was just prompted to see my father-in-law. I really don’t have that kind of a relationship with him but that day was marked by God for our meeting. When I arrived at his home, he looked at me, didn’t say much yet he knew why I was there. All I did was cry. He stood there, didn’t know what to do for he is not much of an affectionate person but his encouragment was more than words can say. I remember him saying, “Move on. If you have to take the exams all over again, or even a hundred times, just go and do it.” He wrapped his arm around my shoulder and felt his blessing. That was all I wanted to hear… his blessing of encouragement.

Why did God instruct me to seek advise from others? The Holy Spirit uses godly counsel from godly people to help us discern God’s will. Godly counsel means, godly counsel, not good opinions from nice people! Godly counsel comes from God which means that a godly counselor is one who knows the Word of God, is spending quality time with God in prayer, and is living a godly life. I have learned three things from this lesson:

1. Godly counsel helps us learn from the mistakes of others.

I am so blessed to be surrounded by godly people in my church. During my lowest point, they were there when I exhausted my heart with my story. My pastor never failed to give me bits and pieces of encouragement and wisdom at the time I needed the most. My mentors, Mizpah and Crown of Glory. Their lives are living examples of God’s faithfulness and my small group of moms and wives, they listened…. and they imparted godly counsel.

“If you find that you need specific counsel, seek out a godly person who is an expert in that area or who has experience in the very circumstances in which you find yourself. Follow the suggestions that are based upon God’s Word. None of us do well in walking through life alone. We need to be in close communication and association with other people who believe in Christ Jesus, are studying God’s Word, and are seeking to follow Christ daily. We need to spend some time with people who have been through experiences that we are facing. We also need to spend time with people who have succeeded in an area of life in which we would also like to succeed. We need to talk things over with them, learn from them, and receive their wise counsel.” -Walking Wisely: Charles Stanley, 103.

2. Godly counsel gives us a godly perspective.

“Nearly every king mentioned in Scripture relied on advisers to share their wisdom in difficult situations. Moses spoke with his father-in-law. David and Solomon turned to their trusted counselors when in need. In the early church the believers looked to the disciples for counsel. Even Paul had those he could turn to for wisdom. First it was Barnabas, and Paul was also willing to listen to the leadership of the church in Acts 21:20-25.” -Dr. Bruce Waltke: Finding The Will Of God, 112.

3. Godly counsel helps reveal our hidden motives.

“Plans go wrong with too few counselors; many counselors bring success.” Proverbs 15:22

We often cannot see God when we are just too busy doing our own agenda. Godly counsel points out our hidden motives by exposing it gently for correction to take place leading us to the right path. They can see things we cannot see and discern God’s guidance we often cannot fathom.

The book of Proverbs has a rich collection of verses regarding seeking godly counsel:

“Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.”

Proverbs 1:5

“For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.”
Proverbs 11:14

“Get all the advice you can and be wise the rest of your life.”
Proverbs 19:20 (LB)

“The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.”
Proverbs 12:15

“Wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
Proverbs 13:10

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”
Proverbs 15:22

“Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise.”
Proverbs 19:20

“Make plans by seeking advice…”

Proverbs 20:18

“The pleasantness of one’s friend springs from his earnest counsel.”

Proverbs 27:9

Prayer:
“Lord, I thank you for Your advise through these godly people in my life! Their words bring encouragment and life. I know in my heart that they are not there by mistake. Bless these people Lord. I pray that You will increase their ministry so they can bless others more, just as I was ministered by You through them. In Your name Jesus, Amen.”

CAN A MOTHER’S HEART REALLY LET GO?

by Mizpah

(lyrics of the song here)

“Then her heart becomes an altar, which holds each burden & care;
AND, nothing moves the heart of God, more than a mother's prayer.”
Mary Carter Mizrany

I became a mother at 19 years old. Young as I was, I had nothing on my sleeves about motherhood except that I was one. Despite my lack of knowledge, by God’s grace, I can say, I have been a good mother albeit I was working ever since I did my best to keep up with my mothering responsibilities.

Allow me to quote a line from a song I so love, “For all that I’ve done wrong, I must have done something right, to deserve…” Yes, to deserve our children. I am a mother of two. God willing, my son, John is turning twenty eight this April and my daughter, Sandi will be twenty this coming November.

Loving them is my life. Taking care of them and their needs are my priority. Literally, I live and breathe for my children. I will sacrifice anything where they are concerned. Since they were born until today, what comes their way, big or small, tears or laughter, failures or victories, significant or insignificant, I am there.

Who can tell me when should mothering stop? Who can tell me it’s easy to let go?

I can just look back at time how worried I was when they got their first vaccination and ran a slight fever; how my heart thumped as I extended my arms waiting for them as they took their first two steps; how excited I was when they attended their first day in school and the pride I donned was when they handed in their first test paper marked with “VG” (Very Good) or 100%; how I grinned from ear to ear as I watched their first calisthenics program in school and how I wanted to smack the face of that little guy who teased him!

Panting for breath, I would run to Lopue’s Department Store after office to get them their lead and mechanical pencils, art papers and glue so they will be marked “complete” for their project requirement; I recall the day I walked liked Mrs. Hillary Clinton when the names of my children were called to receive awards in school; my ears grew like Dumbo the Elephant when I overheard they’ve got a “crush”; I got so excited preparing for their outfits for their prom night and made sure they smelled “good”; Giving them their own cell phones was a sight to behold! I remember those nights I waited until dawn to make sure they got home safe and that was not funny!; attending their graduation was like being in the “Red Carpet”; and finding out that they were in a relationship was a thrill!

Soon after, it was preparing résumés for the first work application. The first time my son was called for a job interview, I was at home imagining what questions will be asked. “Will he make it?” inquired my anxious heart. Not before long, my son got his first job! A most memorable time for me was bringing him to Robinsons to get his complete set of wardrobe. “Hey world, my son is a professional!” That was more than five years ago.

These beautiful memoirs are too many to recount yet when I do, they never fail to lift my heart. The Lord has been good! Next month, John is moving to his own home. His future plans…his wedding? Oh, haven’t reached there yet. And my daughter? Well, it’s a joy to dream of our shopping spree when she gets to receive her first pay. However, she just made clear to her Pap and me that she will be claiming her full independence the day right after her college graduation next year.

They may be both adult persons in their own right, both assertive and secure to take their place in this tough world yet, they would still answer to our call of “My baby!” If they’re free, weekends would mean the four of us feasting over our special Sunday lunch after church and watching DVD movies for our night together, munching on our favorite midnight snack. A real treat for us is still being able to stay in bed, snuggle close and tickle each other ‘til we scream with glee to our hearts delight.

Now, who can tell me what “letting go” means? Can a mother really “let go” of her children? When can she start letting them go?

I know, I must. I know I should.

On my own, I can’t.

With Jesus, I can. With Jesus, I am.

“A MOTHER HOLDS HER CHILDREN’S HANDS FOR AWHILE – THEIR HEARTS FOREVER.”

"Crossroads" - Change my heart, Oh God

by Proverbs 31 Woman

Late afternoon yesterday, as I was about to disembark from a cab to get to my IELTS class, there was this fat lady on her motorcycle, who impulsively uttered a “nasty” word at me. I thought at first she was just talking to herself. When I got off the cab, with a tempestuous look, she raged at me and said, “You could have stayed longer in the cab!” “Whoa! Was she talking to me?” As I walked passed her, she started her motorbike and sped away. “What did I do?” I later realized that the cab stopped in front of her preventing her from getting out to the main street. “Hey, it’s not my fault,” mutely, I reasoned with crossed brows.

As I was walking towards the escalator, I mused to myself, “There are just bitter, angry, and nasty people in this world.” Then it hit me, just as I was climbing up the last set of stairs to the third floor of the building, God impressed in my heart that I am like that too.

I stopped for a moment and pondered on the impression into my heart. I whispered, “That’s so ugly, Lord! What are you trying to tell me?”

I realized that I can be despicable in my words, in my actions and in my thoughts. Oftentimes, I can be harsh with my words to others without me knowing it. When I’m in a hurry and stressed out, I can be impatient and my actions will show it. When I see people’s mistakes, I think of their weaknesses as stupidity. All these are ugly manifestations contained in me! I’m no different from that fat woman I met earlier.

Before I walked in the room, I uttered a short prayer, “Lord God, forgive me. Forgive my bitter heart. Change my heart, Oh God. I ask you to take away bitterness and anger from me. I ask you to teach me to be forgiving, to be forbearing, and to honor others so I can bless them with kindness, patience and love. In Your precious name, Jesus. Amen.”

This was a blog entry dated February 8, 2008 at Proverbs 31 Journal.
Series on Revelations will resume next week.

Blessings!

“Just Before I Sleep”

by Mizpah

Pap, is it all right if I ask these funny questions?

Why did you choose to give Jesus Christ poor

parents like Mary and Joseph?

If I were you, I’d have picked the richest family,

say, a Roman official at par with King Herod, if not,

at least his equal.

Why did you choose a stable of barn animals

for Jesus Christ’s delivery room?

If I were you, I’d have chosen the best and most modern

hospital for him. Was there one that time?

Why did you choose the acrid stench of animal

dung to welcome his birth?

If I were you, I would not have allowed him to inhale

any unsanitized air around him

Why did you choose a feeding trough to make do

for a crib and hay for his mattress?

If I were you, I’d have the most beautiful baby’s room

waiting for him with the most expensive crib and bolts

of linen cloth ready for his diapers and blankets.

Why did you choose obscurity rather than

renown regarding his birth?

If I were you, I’d have posted his birth announcement in every newspaper.

I’d have the most influential people invited when

I present and dedicate him at the temple.

Why did you choose poverty over affluence?

If I were you, I’ll bring him up with all the comfort and ease.

I’d have him ride a chariot rather than a donkey.

After all, I can afford.

Why did you choose suffering as his destiny?

Why the hard way over the easy one?

If I were you, I’d have planned for him a life with all its pomp and gaiety.

The accomplishment, wealth, and fame this world can give him.

Oh, Father, why are you so different from us?

Why are your thoughts not our thoughts?

Your ways not our ways?

“What is man that you are mindful of him,

the son of man that you care for him?”

“My beloved daughter, do you really want to know why?”

Because I love you very much.

Thus, in the little town of Bethlehem...that one silent night…

the royal birth of God’s Son tiptoed quietly by…

as the world slept.*

Intently looking at his eyes filled with love, I am pacified.

My questions answered.

My heart hushed.

I’ve fallen asleep.

“But I have stilled and quieted my soul;

like a weaned child with its mother,

like a weaned child is my soul within me.”

Psalm 131:2

*Moments with the Savior by Ken Gire

Long-Winding LIMERICKS

by $aMsUng

In the beginning, God started creating and saw it was good
He finished it in a week because He was in the mood.
But Adam and Eve sinned so we are all out of glory
Which makes it a real, real, real sad story.
Cast out of Eden, hungry and nude,

what do you think did they do for food?

Quino and Jenny, we are so very proud of you
Passing the exam was not an easy thing to do.
Still you persevered until you did
Along with Gil and Janine, indeed.
I’m posting a limerick for all to view
I kid you not,
We’re so happy we’ll shout until we’re blue.

(Is there such a thing such a seven line limerick?

Hey, it’s not everyday we have 4 PRC nursing board

passers so what’s 2 more lines?)

Forgot my own false teeth to my horror
Aghast at myself as I looked in the mirror.
With gums grinning back at me
I look much like a banshee.
Which caused me to back away in terror.

I love traipsing down the beach in my teeny-weeny bikini
Much to the surprise of sunbathers on the shores of Kahili.
They stare at my beefiness and tattooed arm
Back away from me as if I mean them harm.
How would they know I have the charm of a very sweet tortini?

“INHERITANCE”

by Mizpah

“The LORD is the portion of my inheritance and my cup;

You support my lot.
The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places;
Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me.”
Psalm 16:5-6

Real Life:

While most of the people were excitedly looking forward to their evening rendezvous last February 14, I found myself attending two burials that day. With our two children off to their own escapades, my husband and I decided to enjoy a quiet evening at home instead over a yummy Calea chocolate cake and a “mestizo” chili con carne.

I woke up early the next morning. As I was spending time with the Lord, He brought back to my mind the words spoken during the eulogy. It was from the youngest daughter of “Lola Pat” as April, my friend would fondly call her grandmother. Fighting her tears, she said, “Mom, I will surely miss you but I will always have you with me wherever I am, even as I work. I will always smell you every time I bake the delicious apple pie you taught me to make…” I really don’t know what exactly made those words touch my heart. It must have been my desire to emulate the quality of life that Lola Pat left behind her family and the people who surrounded her. Sad yet beautiful! Though she may be gone, her legacy will live on forever. Oh, I wish I can be like her!

That surely got me thinking. What about me? What if the Lord calls me “home” today, what legacy am I leaving behind? What have I prepared for my children?

As mother to two wonderful, precious children, I know I should, but what in the world could I possibly leave behind? What am I working on that will be made ready for their use in case I die? What inheritance will my husband and I give them to afford security and stability for their future? What do I have in my hands? Helplessly, I said, “nothing, Lord…nothing!”

Then, the Holy Spirit gently tapped my heart and said, “OF COURSE, YOU HAVE! Remember the promise the Lord gave you in Numbers 18:20, ‘You shall have no inheritance in the land [of the Israelites], neither shall you have any part among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the Israelites.’? The Lord Himself is your portion. The Lord Himself is your inheritance! How could you have easily forgotten ?”

Lifting my head out of my sullen mood, I said, “Yes, Oh, Yes! I remembered!”

Indeed, I have an inheritance to leave behind for my children and they don’t have to wait for my death for them to start enjoying what I have allotted for them.

Each morning as I bring myself before God, I pray, “Lord, may my life be the “inheritance” my children will live on today. I leave them…

…the joy of loving you with all their heart, soul, and strength;
…the fear of you, Lord which will protect them and give them wisdom;
…the gratefulness to have been forgiven; the graciousness to give the same;
…the generosity and compassion that will extend love to those in need;
…the value of building authentic and deep relationships that will keep them;
…the power of prayer that will bring them through any test and trial;
…the love for your Word that will teach them to hold on to every

promise you’ve made;
…the choice to remain honest and not to let go and compromise even when the whole world taunts and jibes at them;
…the contaminating laughter that wipes the doldrums and stress of their day;
…the courage to cry when they feel like giving up and abandon themselves in realization that it is only in you that their soul can rest;
and…

…the faith that confidently declares, You, Oh, God are my portion, my inheritance and my reward!

WHAT AN AWESOME PRIVILEGE TO LEAVE THE FOOTPRINTS OF MY LIFE TO YOU, MY CHILDREN, AS GOD BRINGS YOU THROUGH TODAY UNTIL ETERNITY. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

To Ponder Upon:

Your life is the best legacy you can ever, ever leave. What are you working on today? What’s top on your list? Your career? Your business? Your ambition?

PRAYER:

I know, Father, that my life will continue to heap more and more blessings as I receive from you each day. Empty me, Lord that I will always have my hands open to receive from you. I thank you for giving me the Lord Jesus Christ, the best inheritance ever! What more can I ask? I will never be able to thank you enough. I love you. In Jesus Name, I pray…Amen.

Isaac: Redigging Old Wells

by Crown of Beauty

“Isaac reopened the wells that had been dug
in the time of his father Abraham,
which the Philistines had stopped up after Abraham died,
and he gave them the same names his father had given them.”
Genesis 26:18

Bible Passage: Genesis 26

Genesis 26 opens with a famine in the land and Isaac on his way to Egypt. God tells him not to go down to Egypt, but to remain in Gerar. In that place God promises to bless him.

Isaac obeys, and indeed, the promised blessing begins to manifest.

With the increase of flocks and herds, having a steady water supply becomes Isaac’s priority. For some reason, all the wells that Abraham had dug were filled with earth by the Philistines. Isaac therefore instructs his servants to look for these old wells, and to dig them again.

The servants initially discover two of the wells, but upon being reopened, the wells become a cause of strife between Isaac’s men and the herdsmen of Gerar. Thus Isaac names the wells Esek, meaning Contention, and Sitnah, or Enmity.

A third well is re-discovered, and this time no one quarrels over it. Isaac calls the well Rehoboth, saying “Now the Lord has given us room and we will flourish in the land.” Rehoboth literally means “Spaciousness, or Broad Places.”

Shortly after Rehoboth is re-dug, Isaac goes up to Beersheba.

What is so special about Beersheba?

In this passage we see how history repeats itself in the lives of Abraham and Isaac. Years earlier, the men of Gerar had also disputed with Abraham regarding his wells. In this place, King Abimelech and Abraham made a covenant, or an oath, to live in peace with each other (Genesis 21:31). The place is called Beersheba, meaning The Well of the Oath, or the Well of Seven, “seven” being an ancient word that also means “oath.” Here in Beersheba Abraham planted a tamarisk tree and called on the name of the Lord as “The Eternal, or Everlasting, God.” In Gen 22:19 we read that after Abraham encounters God on Mt. Moriah, he and the boy Isaac set off together for Beersheba where they both remain for a time.

Apparently this place holds a special meaning for both Abraham and Isaac. After digging Rehoboth, or the “Well of Broad Places”, Isaac revisits Beersheba.

It’s as if the Lord was just waiting for him to get there. That very night, the Lord appears again to Isaac, saying “I am the God of your father Abraham. Do not be afraid for I am with you, I will bless you and will increase the number of your descendants for the sake of my servant Abraham.”

In those days, whenever one of the persons in a covenant agreement died, the terms of the covenant was again made clear to the next of kin, to ensure that the covenant remains in force. Abraham having died, it was Isaac’s turn to personally receive the words of the covenant promise. God honors his covenant with Abraham, and speaks to Isaac about it. God is so clear with his words to Isaac in Gen. 26:3: “I will be with you and I will bless you…I will confirm the oath I swore to your father Abraham….”

And there, after God appears to him, Isaac builds an altar and calls on the name of the Lord, just as Abraham his father did. His servants also reopen a fourth well, and Isaac calls it by the same name that Abraham called it: Sheba, or Oath.

Real Life:

These past weeks I have sensed that God has a special message for me from Genesis 26. Almost everyday, I have kept going back to this chapter, as if there was a magnet pulling me to keep reading, and re-reading, the verses. I have also begun thinking deeply about its personal application in my own life.

The account, so beautiful, is beyond words to describe. It’s like finding myself in a cave full of hidden treasures. I choose one, a multi-faceted gem, and I am speechless as I hold it up to the light. In the light I see its unique design and colors. And I want to keep going back for more. It is one of those Bible passages with characters, places and events that cannot be adequately explained…only experienced.

Abraham is the prototype man of faith, obedience and prayer,
who always built an altar at significant stops in his journey,
who always called on the name of the Lord,
who dug the wells for the next generation.

Isaac is the man who knew how to go back in time, to the revisit the past, and reopen the life sources that his father had tapped into in his lifetime. Isaac knew that there were secrets to his father’s spiritual strength; ancient wells that he needed to rediscover and personally drink from.

I need to be like Isaac. I need to review my life story, and rediscover waterholes that have nourished me in earlier years but have somehow been stopped, filled with earth, through neglect, complacency, or wrong priorities. Many areas in my life that I have taken for granted. Valuable lessons that I have simply forgotten. Unwatered portions in the garden of my heart where the soil has become hard and overtaken by weeds.

This is interesting. Gerar, where Isaac dwelt, means “to bring up the cud.” To meditate. Literally, to ruminate.

We hardly use that word these days – to ruminate. To chew, to swallow, and to chew again. To roll something around in your mouth. I need to find my own Valley of Rumination, like Gerar where both Abraham and Isaac dwelt for a time.

And while I need to dig new wells, this time God was clearly telling me, “Revisit your past. Rediscover, re-dig the ancient wells of revival in your life. There is fresh water in those wells.”

Many people tend to look at time as a straight line. But actually, time is circular. I didn’t know this before. But it made much sense when someone explained it to me so clearly. Our life history is not linear. It is a circle, or more accurately, a spiral. It starts with a point, and then we go around, the circle getting bigger as we go back to past lessons and learn something new. We often think the past is past and that there’s no use crying over spilled milk. But God is always giving us a fresh perspective, and His correct re-interpretation of the past events of our life. I’m not saying that we live in the past, but that we must not just fill up our past with sand. We can choose to discover the clear blue waters at its bottom, waiting to be re-visited and re-discovered, and drank from!

ACTION STEPS:
Set one day aside to prayerfully read and re-read Genesis 21 and 26. Think about your own life story. Listen to the questions that arise.

Are there wells you need to re-dig, places you need to re-visit? Relationships that need to heal? Maybe a friendship you have neglected? An insult you need to forgive, an offense you need to let go of?

Is your life like a dimly burning lamp whose wick needs to be trimmed, and re-filled with oil?
Is there a painful area in your life that you have simply shoved under the rug and forgotten about? Is there a past event, a buried family heritage that you need to re-connect with? Where are your spiritual roots?

Do you need to re-kindle your First Love and let passion for Jesus beat once more in your heart?
Whatever it is, face it this time. Maybe it is an old lesson that needs to be re-learned, or unlearned. Ask God to speak to you about it. Ask him about your Esek, your Sitnah, and your Rehoboth.

Re-visit your Beersheba. Build an altar. Call upon the name of the Lord.

PRAYER:
“My Father, the covenant God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, re-open in my life the ancient well of Broad Places, the well of Abundance. Bring me to a place of enlargement, where there is enough room be fruitful, to know You in a deeper way. You desire to show and reveal to me the unfathomable, unsearchable things of Your heart. Oh, dear God, help me to know which old wells I need to re-dig. Light my fire again, dear Lord. I need Your fresh water to seep through the parched places in my garden.”

Poem

by $aMsUng

Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn wrote this wonderful poem
when asked to share her "beauty tips."
It was read at her funeral years later.

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness...
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone...

I once said to a friend, “If you have nothing nice to say to me, then don’t say anything.” Only to be told, “Then I’ll have nothing to say to you for the rest of my life.” She had the most unattractive lips I’ve ever seen…

My cousin Janet wrote me, “You are a vivacious young woman-- a kindred spirit full of laughter and fun, a heart as unpretentious and sincere.”
Loveliest eyes and very discerning…

Slim figure? That would be Jing Ram, eats like a bird and shares the rest to other people in need. Her generosity knows no bounds. Of course, there are a lot more givers in our church but they eat like a horse…

Beautiful hair… hhmmm… I’d say April, I have no idea if she lets her children run their fingers through her hair but she always looks it, but still manage to come across beautiful inside and out…

JSL truly exemplifies the Proverbs 31 Woman and she puts us all to shame. Her bearing shows the walk she has with her God.
She has poise…

These are some of the women of BCCB, except for the lone individual with unattractive lips. Their stories are the ones that inspire and empower us. In times when their hearts are vulnerable, they carry on with utmost grace and dignity. And they go inward to find God and a sense of inner peace.

SHALOM!!!

The Dash

From Warrior Princess (LF)



I hope you enjoy this as much as I did, and maybe it will help you take life a little slower and with more meaning.

In July 2006, a short 3-minute movie was launched on the Internet called The Dash. Since then, over 40 million people from around the world have watched it; and over 20,000 a day continue to watch it as a result of people passing it along.

The movie has been more successful than we could have ever imagined. More importantly, however, it has inspired many, many people to reflect on their lives and ask that all important question, 'Are my priorities where they should be?'

I hope you enjoy this movie and share it with those who are close to you.

Live the Life You Have Imagined!

Revelations VI

by Proverbs 31 Woman

Sell the Oil and Give!

“She went and told the man of God, and he said,

"Go, sell the oil and pay your debts.
You and your sons can live on what is left."
2 Kings 4:17

Bible Passage: 2 Kings 4: 1-7

Real Life:
Through the years, I have this weakness for hoarding things. I have accumulated quite a treasure in clothes, shoes, household gadgets, and bolts of cloth materials for my quilts that would probably sum up to more than a thousand yards, among others!. Most often, I would buy on credit which would set me off quickly to some rigid income-generating activities to pay off my debts. Obviously, the motive was for the wrong reasons. Since I quit working, my husband and I had no other means but to live on a very tight budget. Needless to say, there was not any extra to support myself and my “wants”.

On the other hand, my husband is the complete opposite, thank God! He is gifted with a generous heart even if it meant giving our last food to feed the hungry. Sometimes I wonder if it hadn’t been for his giving heart and faith in God, maybe my family would probably not experience miracles of provision from the Lord. I prayed and asked God to give me a heart like my husband’s so I could also give freely with a cheerful heart. Often, my hubby reminds me to weed out my closet and give my old things to the less fortunate. One day, I did. In fact, I was able to yield four extra large boxes of old clothes, and two large boxes full of shoes and used curtains and sheets, all from one closet! Regrettably, I found myself labeling prices on them thinking I could earn a handsome return if I so decide to sell at a rummage sale.

I was reading the book of 2 Kings while I continued on heeding God’s instructions. The passage talked about a widow who became the recipient of another’s wealth. But the riches she received came from the hand of God. The woman had known great heartache. She had lost her husband, who was of the men from the “company of the prophets.” Soon she would lose her sons as well, since they were about to become slaves. It was not a happy prospect, and the prophet Elisha, who knew her husband’s devotion to the Lord, wanted to help this desperate widow. When he learned that she had nothing in her house but a small flask of oil, he told her to collect from her neighbors as many empty jars as she could—leaving the number of jars, and the size of her faith, up to her. The woman was to shut herself and her sons inside the house and pour from her flask until all of the jars were full. Nobody else was to see or know about the miracle. Nobody needed to know about it, except Elisha. The woman did as Elisha instructed, and had enough oil to pay her debts and live off the rest. We read that God’s prophets were not only messengers of His judgment, but instruments of His miraculous provision for His people.

Then, He led me to the following verses:

Jesus said, “Ask and it will be given to you” (Matthew 7:7).

The Lord has promised to answer when we lay our needs before him. Jesus also promised, “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38).

"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' (Matthew 25: 35-40)

From the verses, I knew I only had three ways to raise money: pray, obey and give.

I prayed and decided to obey God and desired the kind of faith of the widow. But surely, it didn’t come overnight. I had to go through the process of pain to let go of what I considered “precious things”. It took me a while to give out my old clothes, shoes, and house things to the poor and to friends without having to sell them at rummage sales. I also made myself more available for the Lord’s work. I gave it all and do you know what? It felt really good! I was freed of the bondage of materialism (spirit of mammon). The more I gave of my time and resources, the more was given back to me! My prayer was answered!

To this day, I still wonder how we can ever live the best way possible with just a meager income. But I know one thing. God provides (and even much more) and will always do!

And yes, miracles do happen! I see them everyday.

Prayer:
How wonderful it is to know that my needs are supplied before I even receive them. I thank you, dearest Lord! You are indeed my Jehovah Jireh, my God that provides! Father, You told us in Your Word, that if we would seek first Your Kingdom and all of Your righteousness, all of this will be added unto us. In your Word, You said that if we delight ourselves in You, You would give us the desires of our hearts. Father, I pray that may I always be reminded to always seek You and Your righteousness first and foremost in my life and find my delight in You and as I do so, I thank You for supplying all of my needs according to Your riches and glory through Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

"Make peace with the awareness that
you can't have everything you need.
Contentment comes when our
essential needs are met."
Sarah Ban Breathnach

Poem written:
Everyday, I see Your glory (October 27, 2007)

Related article:
Just Give

Cancer Update

Special Article

Cancer Update from Johns Hopkins

It is easier to remember this than it is to treat cancer.

1. No plastic containers in micro.
2. No water bottles in freezer.
3. No plastic wrap in microwave.

Johns Hopkins has recently sent this out in its newsletters. This information is being circulated at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

Dioxin chemicals causes cancer, especially breast cancer. Dioxins are highly poisonous to the cells of our bodies. Don't freeze your plastic bottles with water in them as this releases dioxins from the plastic. Recently, Dr.. Edward Fujimoto, Wellness Program Manager at Castle Hospital, was on a TV program to explain this health hazard. He talked about dioxins and how bad they are for us. He said that we should not be heating our food in the microwave using plastic containers.

This applies to foods that contain fat. He said that the combination of fat, high heat, and plastics releases dioxin into the food and ultimately into the cells of the body. Instead, he recommends using glass, Corning Ware or ceramic containers for heating food. You get the same results, only without the dioxin. So such things as TV dinners, instant ramen and soups, etc., should be removed from the container and heated in something else. Paper isn't bad but you don't know what is in the paper. It's just safer to use tempered glass, Corning Ware, etc.

He reminded us that a while ago some of the fast food restaurants moved away from the foam containers to paper. The dioxin problem is one of the reasons. Also, he pointed out that Saran wrap is just as dangerous when placed over foods to be cooked in the microwave. As the food is nuked, the high heat causes poisonous toxins to actually melt out of the plastic wrap and drip into the food. Cover food with a paper towel instead. This is an article I believe you should forward to your family and friends.

Celebrating Midlife - III

by Proverbs 31 Woman

(the image above was drawn in my devotional journal during the retreat)

We read Hitting the Wall as a jargon amongst marathoners and ultra runners. They describe the three little words as such as:

“Hitting the Wall is basically about running out of energy,” says Dave Martin, Ph.D., Emeritus Regent’s Professor of Health Sciences at Georgia State University in Atlanta—"chemical energy, that is, stored in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and obtained from the breakdown, or metabolism, of energy-containing fuel".

"It felt like an elephant had jumped out of a tree onto my shoulders and was making me carry it the rest of the way in.”—Dick Beardsley, speaking of hitting "The Wall" at the second marathon of his career, the 1977 City of Lakes Marathon.

“I wasn’t wanting to talk much. And when I’m not talking, you know I’m hurting.”—Don Frichtl, a runner who encountered "The Wall" somewhere after mile 21 of the 2002 Chicago Marathon.

“At around mile 23, I was beginning to feel like the anchor was out.”—George Ringler, speaking of his 1991 Lake County Marathon.

“The Wall.” It evades easy definition, but to borrow from Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart’s famous definition of obscenity, you know it when you see it—or rather, hit it. “It usually happens around mile 20, give or take a couple of miles. Your pace slows, sometimes considerably. Some runners say that it feels as though their legs had been filled with lead quail shot, like the stomach of Mark Twain’s unfortunate jumping frog of Calaveras County. Others can’t feel their feet at all. Thought processes become a little fuzzy. (“Mile 22, again? I thought I just passed mile 22!”) Muscle coordination goes out the window, and self-doubt casts a deep shadow over the soul”.

I just hit the wall! I’m turning forty (40) this year and I think I have reached there, believe it or not. I call it my “Crossroads”.

From the retreat (Celebrating Midlife) material, “Hitting the Wall” of All My Days (A Personal Life Review) by Richard P. Johnson, he describes such as a developmental "bridge" between the first and the second half of our lives. It is the time when we are embraced with “growth pangs” of development that reverberates the rest of our lives. What are these “growth pangs”, you may ask?

According to Johnson, firstly, there is the loss of youth when we realize we have less time to live than we have already lived. Secondly, brokenness. We may perhaps have developed a level of maturity that enables us to view ourselves as fallible or weak. Thirdly, we tend to shift our awareness of time by setting up limits and boundaries. Fourthly, we take an inventory of ourselves and begin to look back at our history: a review of our past achievements and failures. Fifth, we develop a new attitude toward God. We begin to take more time with God and view Him better than before. Sixth, disillusionment. Our midlife may bring us painful self-reflection and make us ask for more meaning from life than simply worldly success. And lastly, a new definition of self: a new and hauntingly vague uneasiness creeping into our lives when we reach this stage of our lives.

All these that Johnson reiterated had become “head-on” to me. During the retreat, I realized that I am in this stage where I am vulnerable to the “growing pangs”. Honestly? I like it. Or better yet, I love every minute of it! Why? My time with the Lord has never been more intimate. My waistline may have started to increase and some gray hairs have become more evident. Even so, I have become secure in my place. I have come home and have rest in my soul.

I thank God for midlife! I thank God for my “Crossroads”.

Poems written:

The Martha Role

The Mary Role

Crossroads