By Michelle Lou V. Samson
It was 9 a.m. when my mother woke me up. She told me to prepare early because we would go shopping at the National Bookstore. I felt like I didn’t want to go with her because the night before that day, I have set my plans to finish my assignments and to surf the net, but I had to go because there were things I also wanted to buy. That was September 14, 2008.
To my dismay, it was already 2 p.m. yet we hadn’t walked out of our house. For five hours, I didn’t do anything but to wait for my mother and my two younger sisters to prepare themselves. I decided not to do my assignments yet because I didn’t want my momentum to be distracted. I thought we could leave after lunch but they moved like worms. I was irritated because they intended to take their time while I wasted mine.
It was more or less 3 p.m. when we brought my two sisters to UNTV studio for their taping in KNC Show. But before my mother and I left them, she had to assist the kids with their make-up and food. My mother told me that I should not be eager. She felt like she didn’t want to go yet. At that time I didn’t want to talk anymore.
It was already 5 p.m. when we finally arrived at the Gateway Mall. (At last!) However, when we were about to walk inside the National Bookstore, the guards stopped us. They said it was already CLOSED.
In my disbelief, I looked inside the store. I saw many customers together with the cashiers and staff of the bookstore. It was so strange. How could they close if there were still customers inside the store who could not get out?
I wanted to ask the guards again but I tried to read between the lines instead. The cashiers should be on their seats assisting the paying customers but they were not. The glass doors were really closed. It seemed like something weird was happening in there.
The other customers who were not able to go inside also wondered why the bookstore closed earlier than usual. I was so upset, but when I looked at my right side, I found a lot of policemen waiting outside the bookstore. I got nervous.
Until now I don’t know exactly what happened inside the bookstore. When I saw the policemen, I just told myself that I was lucky that my mother and I didn’t arrive earlier. We shopped at the other branch of the bookstore and, despite the delay, I was able to finish my assignments after I got home and was able to accomplish my plan—without any traumatic experience I might have had.
Although other people might think that these things are just coincidences, and that I was just lucky, as a believer, a Christian, I believe it is something more. I believe that it was God at work there to save me and my mother from any harm.
Yes, God works in mysterious ways. Thanks be to God!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Bro. Eli Soriano: Leading by Example
By Ana Zialcita
I was playing with my friends this afternoon inside the premises of the Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) Convention Center when a brother interrupted us saying that instead of playing around we might as well help in the kitchen. He said other brethren were already there assisting in packing relief goods intended for the victims of typhoon Ondoy. At first I was not willing because of how he interrupted us, but then I thought that it was my chance to help.
When I went to the kitchen, a lot of young people like me were there assisting in any way they could. At first, I didn’t know what to do, so I observed. Some were packing can goods and rice in plastic bags; others help in putting them in the sacks. The boys then carry the sacks to the delivery truck downstairs. I thought to myself, if I were to help I have to act now.
I really felt happy after being able to help again in the kitchen. I remember that day a few years ago when Bro. Eli Soriano was still here in the Philippines, that was during an International Thanksgiving to God held for two days, and we were called to help in the kitchen. I wasn’t expecting to see Bro. Eli there because it was still dark; maybe it was five in the morning. But there he was cooking and supervising.
In the kitchen, especially on thanksgiving days, there are so many things to do that you wouldn’t have to wait for someone to give you orders. But of course there are works there which you should not get yourself involved with. Only the full timers are allowed. Still, there are plenty of works to do. That day, working just from 5 in the morning to 12 noon, I already felt exhausted; so exhausted that when I leaned my head on the table, just for a couple of seconds, I fell asleep for a couple of seconds too!
When I woke up, I heard Bro. Eli’s voice. He was already onstage welcoming the brethren to the international thanksgiving. He was in his full attire. I told myself, “How come? He was just with us in the kitchen!” I thought that he should at least rest, but he didn’t. He was serving the brethren as if he had rested the whole day. No trace of tiredness. Considering that I was at the prime of my youth then, I couldn’t believe how tired I was, when in fact Bro. Eli was with us the whole time, and I didn’t even have to mix that huge cooking pot that he mixed with all his strength! I just packed burgers!
That is why, that day, I really saw and felt that serving people, especially the brethren, is Bro. Eli’s joy. Even now that he is outside the country, he is still able to extend help to the needy, like the victims of typhoon Ondoy. Regardless of his very, very hectic schedule of conducting Bible Expositions in various points of the globe, nothing seems to effectively hinder him from helping people and from teaching the brethren to help others.
I must say, this preacher truly leads by example, as a true preacher of God should.
I was playing with my friends this afternoon inside the premises of the Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) Convention Center when a brother interrupted us saying that instead of playing around we might as well help in the kitchen. He said other brethren were already there assisting in packing relief goods intended for the victims of typhoon Ondoy. At first I was not willing because of how he interrupted us, but then I thought that it was my chance to help.
When I went to the kitchen, a lot of young people like me were there assisting in any way they could. At first, I didn’t know what to do, so I observed. Some were packing can goods and rice in plastic bags; others help in putting them in the sacks. The boys then carry the sacks to the delivery truck downstairs. I thought to myself, if I were to help I have to act now.
I really felt happy after being able to help again in the kitchen. I remember that day a few years ago when Bro. Eli Soriano was still here in the Philippines, that was during an International Thanksgiving to God held for two days, and we were called to help in the kitchen. I wasn’t expecting to see Bro. Eli there because it was still dark; maybe it was five in the morning. But there he was cooking and supervising.
In the kitchen, especially on thanksgiving days, there are so many things to do that you wouldn’t have to wait for someone to give you orders. But of course there are works there which you should not get yourself involved with. Only the full timers are allowed. Still, there are plenty of works to do. That day, working just from 5 in the morning to 12 noon, I already felt exhausted; so exhausted that when I leaned my head on the table, just for a couple of seconds, I fell asleep for a couple of seconds too!
When I woke up, I heard Bro. Eli’s voice. He was already onstage welcoming the brethren to the international thanksgiving. He was in his full attire. I told myself, “How come? He was just with us in the kitchen!” I thought that he should at least rest, but he didn’t. He was serving the brethren as if he had rested the whole day. No trace of tiredness. Considering that I was at the prime of my youth then, I couldn’t believe how tired I was, when in fact Bro. Eli was with us the whole time, and I didn’t even have to mix that huge cooking pot that he mixed with all his strength! I just packed burgers!
That is why, that day, I really saw and felt that serving people, especially the brethren, is Bro. Eli’s joy. Even now that he is outside the country, he is still able to extend help to the needy, like the victims of typhoon Ondoy. Regardless of his very, very hectic schedule of conducting Bible Expositions in various points of the globe, nothing seems to effectively hinder him from helping people and from teaching the brethren to help others.
I must say, this preacher truly leads by example, as a true preacher of God should.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Joy Unspeakable
By Ana Zialcita
It was an unexplainable feeling I had last Saturday, which I believe I shared with most everyone in the Members Church of God International as we watched the two American sisters sang “Awit ng Pag-ibig” (Song of Love). They sang it in Tagalog as they thanked God, and tears almost fell from my eyes. If only anomalies in heartbeats could paint the colors of feelings, right then and there I would’ve painted a rainbow.
The extra-large plasma TV put up on the stage where the video of the sisters singing in duet was played was not large enough to contain my happiness. It was joy unspeakable. My heart could only silently thank God as my hands clapped to add to the resounding noise inside the Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga. Our new sisters were in America, we in the Philippines; but our hearts are now bound by a common faith.
In the video of their presentation, as the camera panned to the American audience who were trying to catch up to the lyrics, it was like my thoughts were also being moved from mere imaginations to realizations. Humble as we may think a race Filipino is, from it God once again started calling people into His Church. And now, the Americans too have heard the undefiled teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ, and it is through a humble Filipino we dearly call Bro. Eli Soriano.
With more and more souls turning back to God, how can one possibly deny the sincerity of this man who lives day by day lighting up candles of hope, of salvation? As a preacher sent by God, how can he better demonstrate his obedience if not to open the eyes of the blind that they may see the truth, regardless if he has to spend his last breath for their sake? Yesterday, seeing all skin colors and tongues praise the God of Israel was only a matter of hope; now, through Bro. Eli's perseverance and with God's help, it is only a matter of time.
To those who have come to know Bro. Eli well, there is nothing more that needs to be lettered for we know the difficulty of his obligations. If we are to see more Americans, more Africans, more Germans, more Chinese, more Indians and more Filipinos giving thanks to God, whether it be in their native tongue, in English, or in Tagalog, may we all give our best to fulfill our duties, and translate that unspeakable joy to more souls turning back to God. May we share the same shadow with our preachers as we walk the old path.
It was an unexplainable feeling I had last Saturday, which I believe I shared with most everyone in the Members Church of God International as we watched the two American sisters sang “Awit ng Pag-ibig” (Song of Love). They sang it in Tagalog as they thanked God, and tears almost fell from my eyes. If only anomalies in heartbeats could paint the colors of feelings, right then and there I would’ve painted a rainbow.
The extra-large plasma TV put up on the stage where the video of the sisters singing in duet was played was not large enough to contain my happiness. It was joy unspeakable. My heart could only silently thank God as my hands clapped to add to the resounding noise inside the Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga. Our new sisters were in America, we in the Philippines; but our hearts are now bound by a common faith.
In the video of their presentation, as the camera panned to the American audience who were trying to catch up to the lyrics, it was like my thoughts were also being moved from mere imaginations to realizations. Humble as we may think a race Filipino is, from it God once again started calling people into His Church. And now, the Americans too have heard the undefiled teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ, and it is through a humble Filipino we dearly call Bro. Eli Soriano.
With more and more souls turning back to God, how can one possibly deny the sincerity of this man who lives day by day lighting up candles of hope, of salvation? As a preacher sent by God, how can he better demonstrate his obedience if not to open the eyes of the blind that they may see the truth, regardless if he has to spend his last breath for their sake? Yesterday, seeing all skin colors and tongues praise the God of Israel was only a matter of hope; now, through Bro. Eli's perseverance and with God's help, it is only a matter of time.
To those who have come to know Bro. Eli well, there is nothing more that needs to be lettered for we know the difficulty of his obligations. If we are to see more Americans, more Africans, more Germans, more Chinese, more Indians and more Filipinos giving thanks to God, whether it be in their native tongue, in English, or in Tagalog, may we all give our best to fulfill our duties, and translate that unspeakable joy to more souls turning back to God. May we share the same shadow with our preachers as we walk the old path.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
A Gift from God
By Natalie Sara Vasquez
I can’t remember how it started. All I know is that Sis. Luz Cruz, principal of La Verdad Christian College, announced onstage in the Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga about the full college scholarship grant being provided by the Church. That was during a Thanksgiving Day sometime in April this year. I was curious about it so I asked one of our brethren where the orientation was taking place and where LVCC is located.
After a while, however, I ignored my interest in the scholarship grant thinking that I may not be able to concentrate in my studies if I pursue it. My fear was that I might become inactive in LKD (Lingap Kapatid Department) and at the same time, I may have to give up my work as a call center agent in Ortigas, Pasig City. I felt so frustrated. I was thinking that it would be difficult for me if I include schooling in my priorities, and that I needed to stay focused on one field.
Going back to school is one of my major dreams because I failed to finish my course, BS Criminology and Accountancy. There were times when I thought that I was such a loser. I admit that I’m so envious with my high school friends and classmates because they are now reviewing for the board exam (LET, Nursing, Engineering, etc.). Still, if I pursue my dream to finish a degree course and set aside my responsibilities, I felt that I was selfish because I think of myself only.
My dad and I talked about it. He is already a member of the Church, and he pushed me to go back to school so that I may help our preachers and our Church more than I was able to before. I decided to take his advice. At first I thought I’d be a student of University of Caloocan City (UCC), which is near to our house, where I was planning to take BS Psychology. I failed to complete my requirements.
My dad believes that good gifts come from God. He has always been encouraging me to take the opportunity when it comes, and now it is indeed a great gift for me to become a scholar of LVCC instead of UCC. I realize that I was able to take the examination and was interviewed during my free time or after office hours. No hassle at all; until at last I received the contract from LVCC College Directress, Mrs. Carolinne Laguinto. I cried a lot! It’s like I’ve filled up a bucket of tears.
I thank God for His good gift. I’ll cherish it. I need to remember that everything comes from God even our wisdom. I need to be patient though because taking up AB Broadcasting is a degree course, a four year course. I also need to sacrifice a lot of things, for, as a scholar, my top priority is to finish my studies, with God’s help and mercy.
I can’t remember how it started. All I know is that Sis. Luz Cruz, principal of La Verdad Christian College, announced onstage in the Ang Dating Daan (The Old Path) Convention Center in Apalit, Pampanga about the full college scholarship grant being provided by the Church. That was during a Thanksgiving Day sometime in April this year. I was curious about it so I asked one of our brethren where the orientation was taking place and where LVCC is located.
After a while, however, I ignored my interest in the scholarship grant thinking that I may not be able to concentrate in my studies if I pursue it. My fear was that I might become inactive in LKD (Lingap Kapatid Department) and at the same time, I may have to give up my work as a call center agent in Ortigas, Pasig City. I felt so frustrated. I was thinking that it would be difficult for me if I include schooling in my priorities, and that I needed to stay focused on one field.
Going back to school is one of my major dreams because I failed to finish my course, BS Criminology and Accountancy. There were times when I thought that I was such a loser. I admit that I’m so envious with my high school friends and classmates because they are now reviewing for the board exam (LET, Nursing, Engineering, etc.). Still, if I pursue my dream to finish a degree course and set aside my responsibilities, I felt that I was selfish because I think of myself only.
My dad and I talked about it. He is already a member of the Church, and he pushed me to go back to school so that I may help our preachers and our Church more than I was able to before. I decided to take his advice. At first I thought I’d be a student of University of Caloocan City (UCC), which is near to our house, where I was planning to take BS Psychology. I failed to complete my requirements.
My dad believes that good gifts come from God. He has always been encouraging me to take the opportunity when it comes, and now it is indeed a great gift for me to become a scholar of LVCC instead of UCC. I realize that I was able to take the examination and was interviewed during my free time or after office hours. No hassle at all; until at last I received the contract from LVCC College Directress, Mrs. Carolinne Laguinto. I cried a lot! It’s like I’ve filled up a bucket of tears.
I thank God for His good gift. I’ll cherish it. I need to remember that everything comes from God even our wisdom. I need to be patient though because taking up AB Broadcasting is a degree course, a four year course. I also need to sacrifice a lot of things, for, as a scholar, my top priority is to finish my studies, with God’s help and mercy.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
LVCC Holds ‘Meeting de Avance’
By Gerry Yabes
APALIT, PAMPANGA – La Verdad Christian College (LVCC) held its Meeting de Avance, 29 July, at the Ang Dating Daan Convention Center Lobby. It was a meeting of the college students, college administrators and parties running for different positions in the student organization.
The program started at 1:00 pm. Mr. Albert Soriano, the College Registrar, stood as emcee of the presentation. Invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem signaled the start of the program, followed by the opening remarks of College Directress, Ms. Carolinne Laguinto.
K.U.Y.A. (Keeping Unity and Youth Alliance), Scholar A.I.M.S (Academic, Interpersonal, Morale, and Spiritual) and SOIGNE (pronounced swanjéi) were the parties given 30 minutes each for presentation of platforms, plans and other related activities.
After the presentation, there was an open forum. Questions were raised to Ms. Laguinto. English Instructor, Mr. Ricky Gelido, and other students were selected to give questions. Rey Tamayo of Magandang Balita was also given the privilege to ask questions for the Governors of the three parties.
The meeting ended at 4:30 pm with picture taking from photographers and reporters. LVCC was established in 2005 to form part of the public service of Kuya Daniel Razon, broadcast media personality, and Bro. Eli Soriano, host of the religious program Ang Dating Daan, for the free education of the youth.
APALIT, PAMPANGA – La Verdad Christian College (LVCC) held its Meeting de Avance, 29 July, at the Ang Dating Daan Convention Center Lobby. It was a meeting of the college students, college administrators and parties running for different positions in the student organization.
The program started at 1:00 pm. Mr. Albert Soriano, the College Registrar, stood as emcee of the presentation. Invocation and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem signaled the start of the program, followed by the opening remarks of College Directress, Ms. Carolinne Laguinto.
K.U.Y.A. (Keeping Unity and Youth Alliance), Scholar A.I.M.S (Academic, Interpersonal, Morale, and Spiritual) and SOIGNE (pronounced swanjéi) were the parties given 30 minutes each for presentation of platforms, plans and other related activities.
After the presentation, there was an open forum. Questions were raised to Ms. Laguinto. English Instructor, Mr. Ricky Gelido, and other students were selected to give questions. Rey Tamayo of Magandang Balita was also given the privilege to ask questions for the Governors of the three parties.
The meeting ended at 4:30 pm with picture taking from photographers and reporters. LVCC was established in 2005 to form part of the public service of Kuya Daniel Razon, broadcast media personality, and Bro. Eli Soriano, host of the religious program Ang Dating Daan, for the free education of the youth.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Action Speaks Louder Than Placards
By Jacquelene Bobila
Forty-five years of unwavering service to His Majesty, and still going strong.
April 7, 2009 was another red-letter day to all of us. It was Bro. Eli’s birthday once again, our dear Ingkong, our preacher. After so many years of dedication, sacrifice, hard work, and a bunch of cases and defamation filed against him, he still stands firm with God’s help. The organization that he ministers, whose humble beginning started from small Bible studies in remote places of greater Pampanga propelled by the famous “Lumpia story”, is now known worldwide. Our program, The Old Path, is now heard in various places abroad 24/7.
Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel untiringly utilize all their resources to propagate the words of God using everything the modern technology can offer. Television, radio, print media, you name it, we’re there. People from different countries, different cultures and beliefs are now realizing the truthfulness of the doctrines of our Lord Jesus Christ that our leaders preach. We are now heard worldwide. We are getting bigger and bigger. We are growing in number, but…
When I was new in the Church, I heard Bro. Eli asking for help. His tears flowed like river down his face. I was so surprised then. I couldn’t explain what I felt inside. I never thought that our preacher, who is the nemesis of false prophets in our time, carries a seemingly unbearable burden on his back. He is one of my inspirations and also my source of strength. I always see him smiling and most of the time shouting the truth to all men that’s why I never imagined that such a burden was on his back. A burden that should be carried by all of us.
Now, seven years had passed and nothing has changed. After so many years of continuous preaching of the gospel and after countless souls were added in the flock year after year, our preacher’s burden seemed to have become much heavier. Why? Maybe you know the answer. If only we will unite our efforts. If only we can acquire their faith and trust in God. If only we will feel the urgency of winning souls against satan. If only we will be willing to give more than what we can give. If only all those if's would materialize, our preachers wouldn’t have suffered that much.
A regular employee deserves a retirement at sixty. Now, Bro. Eli at sixty-two is still preaching and working to fill in the financial deficits of our Church expenditures. He deserves more than our help, because he is God’s instrument which brought us our lives. His face seems to get older and older. The strong voice that I once heard seems to get fainter and fainter. Still, I can feel the same faith, determination, and love in him for all men. Are our placards saying “We love you”, “We support you”, enough or we can do something more? Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel have given more than what they have. Are we willing to do the same?
The world now is teeming with false religions that will surely bring people to damnation, which may include our loved ones. Their only hope is Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel. Let’s make their voices heard. The Church needs workers who know and are willing to learn foreign languages, and brethren who are willing to convert their earthly resources into heavenly treasures.
Bro. Eli is now abroad, persecuted and hunted with crimes he is innocent of. Bro. Daniel suffers the same fate, maligned and defamed. However, they are not asking for themselves like the greedy dogs preaching in black suits and barong. They are asking for the sake of the lost souls that await and seek the truth. Let’s feel the urgency! Let’s get involved! Let’s synergize!
I’m sure our preachers will be much happier seeing the people with whom they have devoted all their lives walking faithfully on the Lord’s doctrines, and working in one spirit to help save more souls out of the bondage of evil and sins.
I know we love our preachers and I know how to say it. But let it be more than words. Our contribution, be it financial, talents, or prayers, can save souls, even our own. Let’s do something. God be with us all.
Forty-five years of unwavering service to His Majesty, and still going strong.
April 7, 2009 was another red-letter day to all of us. It was Bro. Eli’s birthday once again, our dear Ingkong, our preacher. After so many years of dedication, sacrifice, hard work, and a bunch of cases and defamation filed against him, he still stands firm with God’s help. The organization that he ministers, whose humble beginning started from small Bible studies in remote places of greater Pampanga propelled by the famous “Lumpia story”, is now known worldwide. Our program, The Old Path, is now heard in various places abroad 24/7.
Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel untiringly utilize all their resources to propagate the words of God using everything the modern technology can offer. Television, radio, print media, you name it, we’re there. People from different countries, different cultures and beliefs are now realizing the truthfulness of the doctrines of our Lord Jesus Christ that our leaders preach. We are now heard worldwide. We are getting bigger and bigger. We are growing in number, but…
When I was new in the Church, I heard Bro. Eli asking for help. His tears flowed like river down his face. I was so surprised then. I couldn’t explain what I felt inside. I never thought that our preacher, who is the nemesis of false prophets in our time, carries a seemingly unbearable burden on his back. He is one of my inspirations and also my source of strength. I always see him smiling and most of the time shouting the truth to all men that’s why I never imagined that such a burden was on his back. A burden that should be carried by all of us.
Now, seven years had passed and nothing has changed. After so many years of continuous preaching of the gospel and after countless souls were added in the flock year after year, our preacher’s burden seemed to have become much heavier. Why? Maybe you know the answer. If only we will unite our efforts. If only we can acquire their faith and trust in God. If only we will feel the urgency of winning souls against satan. If only we will be willing to give more than what we can give. If only all those if's would materialize, our preachers wouldn’t have suffered that much.
A regular employee deserves a retirement at sixty. Now, Bro. Eli at sixty-two is still preaching and working to fill in the financial deficits of our Church expenditures. He deserves more than our help, because he is God’s instrument which brought us our lives. His face seems to get older and older. The strong voice that I once heard seems to get fainter and fainter. Still, I can feel the same faith, determination, and love in him for all men. Are our placards saying “We love you”, “We support you”, enough or we can do something more? Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel have given more than what they have. Are we willing to do the same?
The world now is teeming with false religions that will surely bring people to damnation, which may include our loved ones. Their only hope is Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel. Let’s make their voices heard. The Church needs workers who know and are willing to learn foreign languages, and brethren who are willing to convert their earthly resources into heavenly treasures.
Bro. Eli is now abroad, persecuted and hunted with crimes he is innocent of. Bro. Daniel suffers the same fate, maligned and defamed. However, they are not asking for themselves like the greedy dogs preaching in black suits and barong. They are asking for the sake of the lost souls that await and seek the truth. Let’s feel the urgency! Let’s get involved! Let’s synergize!
I’m sure our preachers will be much happier seeing the people with whom they have devoted all their lives walking faithfully on the Lord’s doctrines, and working in one spirit to help save more souls out of the bondage of evil and sins.
I know we love our preachers and I know how to say it. But let it be more than words. Our contribution, be it financial, talents, or prayers, can save souls, even our own. Let’s do something. God be with us all.
Monday, August 10, 2009
After a Year of Facing the Struggle Within
By Charmie Endita
It’s seems like yesterday when I experienced one of the things that I thought I would never overcome. The memory is still fresh and continues to linger in my mind.
It was one year ago when that struggle came. I knew it was a minute thing for others but for me experiencing it was of gargantuan proportions. I am not saying that I have totally overcome it and have already moved on. No. Perhaps, I can say that I am still in the process of moving on and facing this struggle, one of the struggles that I must face. After one year, I am still here, continuing in the Ministry. And I am very much grateful.
I am still here clinging and holding on not because of my own ability. I could not stand on my own, I know that. I am weak. Most of the time, I find myself so helpless in every struggle I face, especially in this one I am talking about. That is why if you can still see me going on up to this moment, it’s not because I am strong. It’s because I am weak and there is Someone who helps me get through this. He is our Creator, our God.
Knowing that there is God keeps me holding on. And I know that the very reason why I can still fulfill my duty is because of His bountiful grace and mercy. He still allows me to continue despite the fact that I am not worthy, that I almost found myself defeated on that struggle that started a year ago.
I remember when that struggle came I didn’t know what to do. I saw myself almost killed in the battlefield. But I thank God and I will always be thankful because He helped me to still breathe, stand and continue to fight in the war. I know it’s not yet over.
The struggle I faced a year ago is just one of the many struggles that I must face, and there are still plenty to come, much harder, in the future. Honestly speaking, I don’t know if I can still fight, if I can manage to get up and be a brave warrior. But my trust and faith is that there is Someone who can help me to win and, if I may say, I must struggle for existence. Now, I can feel that a struggle is not just found against anybody. But the greatest war I have to fight is within me. And I know that there is God who is always there to lead us and care for us.
At the end of the day I know one thing, no matter what I am facing, no matter how hard it is or no matter how weak I am, I will always be grateful. I will always be grateful because I know I am nothing. I will always be grateful because I know I am weak and the God I believe in is a strong foundation and my strength.
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (II Corinthians 12:9-10)
Thanks be to God for everything!!!
It’s seems like yesterday when I experienced one of the things that I thought I would never overcome. The memory is still fresh and continues to linger in my mind.
It was one year ago when that struggle came. I knew it was a minute thing for others but for me experiencing it was of gargantuan proportions. I am not saying that I have totally overcome it and have already moved on. No. Perhaps, I can say that I am still in the process of moving on and facing this struggle, one of the struggles that I must face. After one year, I am still here, continuing in the Ministry. And I am very much grateful.
I am still here clinging and holding on not because of my own ability. I could not stand on my own, I know that. I am weak. Most of the time, I find myself so helpless in every struggle I face, especially in this one I am talking about. That is why if you can still see me going on up to this moment, it’s not because I am strong. It’s because I am weak and there is Someone who helps me get through this. He is our Creator, our God.
Knowing that there is God keeps me holding on. And I know that the very reason why I can still fulfill my duty is because of His bountiful grace and mercy. He still allows me to continue despite the fact that I am not worthy, that I almost found myself defeated on that struggle that started a year ago.
I remember when that struggle came I didn’t know what to do. I saw myself almost killed in the battlefield. But I thank God and I will always be thankful because He helped me to still breathe, stand and continue to fight in the war. I know it’s not yet over.
The struggle I faced a year ago is just one of the many struggles that I must face, and there are still plenty to come, much harder, in the future. Honestly speaking, I don’t know if I can still fight, if I can manage to get up and be a brave warrior. But my trust and faith is that there is Someone who can help me to win and, if I may say, I must struggle for existence. Now, I can feel that a struggle is not just found against anybody. But the greatest war I have to fight is within me. And I know that there is God who is always there to lead us and care for us.
At the end of the day I know one thing, no matter what I am facing, no matter how hard it is or no matter how weak I am, I will always be grateful. I will always be grateful because I know I am nothing. I will always be grateful because I know I am weak and the God I believe in is a strong foundation and my strength.
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” (II Corinthians 12:9-10)
Thanks be to God for everything!!!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
In the Depth of One's Innocence (Part 2)
Continuation:
He said, "Hindi na ako kailangang kumbisihin na totoo ang diyos nila, o mas malakas ang diyos nila sa ibang diyos. Dahil sa tingin ko para lang silang mga bata na nagtatalo kung sino ang mas magaling na superhero, si Superman o si Son Gokou. At kahit sinong adult na makikipag-away dahil sa relihiyon nya, would still look like, at least to me, an immature child playing childish games using wicked weapons. Ipilit nya mang totoo at magaling ang kanyang tagapagligtas, I would be dumb to believe that his superhero really existed, unless he has sufficient empirical evidence."
Let me reiterate this: Isn't your existence a sufficient empirical evidence of God's existence? This man has much to learn about God. The Almighty and most powerful God cannot be compared to others gods; it's not worth it. Do they have any point of comparison? Nothing. The power of God is always right before our faces in our daily living, the matter is that there are people who don't notice it, nor do they mind to feel and acknowledge it. So, with all ignorance they say, "There is no God."
Take note of this: he said, "But it is also written, to seek the kingdom of God. At ang main word doon ay SEEK, hindi maniwala sa unang taong magsasabi ng kung ano. Totoong mas madaling maniwala sa iba, sa nakakatanda, sa isang tao with authority, o kaya sa isang ancient book. But to close my eyes and leap blindly, hindi ko yon magagawa."
You are doing it now, man, you don't just know it. To cling on your own understanding is jumping into a deep hole blindly. You know, other people believe that it is rightful to kill and they find pleasure doing it, while others say, "Hell no! That's bad!" Whom will you believe if both of them are clinging into their own belief and understanding? Can we lay down a path made out of our own folly when we don't even know what tomorrow may bring? When we were just born yesterday? How broad can a man understand in his whole lifetime? Will that be enough for him to believe, "Oh! What I have discovered is true, reliable, and incontestable." Geniuses believed that as well, yet science keeps on changing up to now because of recent discoveries.
Did you notice him quote a verse in the Bible? So, at least He sees the Bible reliable enough to believe. But the problem is he interpreted it, in his own small understanding. He must have known what is written in Isa. 34:16
"Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them."
And it was also promised, in Matthew 7:7-8
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."
Now, I take note of these words from him:
"Meron bang Diyos?
Hindi ko alam.
Imortal ba ang Tao?
Hindi ko alam.
Ito lang ang alam ko, hindi ako dapat humusga ng ibang tao kung sa langit o impierno sila mapupunta ayon sa aking pamantayan. Alam ko na ang pagpatay ay labag sa batas. Alam ko na ang ritwal ng pagsawsaw ng daliri sa “banal na tubig” kung saan maaring maraming mikrobyo na magdudulot ng sakit ay hindi makakapagpasigurado sa akin ng kaligtasan.
Alam ko na hindi dapat maging dahilan ang kaibahan ng paniniwala pagdating sa pagtulong sa kapwa o pagbigay at pagtanggap ng pag-ibig.
Marami akong hindi alam. At siguradong hindi ko malalaman ang lahat-lahat. Pero ang relihiyon ko na Mikology ay laging nagpapaalala sa akin na patuloy na mag-aral at sumuri, at panatilihing bukas ang isipan."
So, I think he is at least giving himself the benefit of the doubt. I wish he will soon find the authentic answers for his questions. He did not find a reliable source yet, so he keeps on believing to his religion – Mikology (which is derived from his name Miko). Now some may had confirmed who I am tackling about. Perhaps they know him.
It's true; a person cannot be saved by this so-called "holy water". It's true; the variation of religion must not serve as a boundary nor be a reason for us to decide whether to do good or to do bad to a person.
Did you hear him say? "Marami akong hindi alam. At siguradong hindi ko malalaman ang lahat-lahat." These words are so sweet to my ears, for I hold this belief to myself as well, for me to be an open-minded person. But being an open-minded doesn't mean being neutral. What do I mean? When you found the truth, lock yourself into it and don't let folly enter your world. But if you doubt your belief, open your mind and find for an accurate answer for your queries. It is better to ask, doubt and gain knowledge than always thinking that we had known enough and block our minds for additional wisdom, and later find out that we are severely wrong. Isn't that a great shame?
Prov. 3:5 – Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Prov. 11: 2 - When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
Prov. 4:7 - Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
...pinklady0122 (October 17, 2006)
He said, "Hindi na ako kailangang kumbisihin na totoo ang diyos nila, o mas malakas ang diyos nila sa ibang diyos. Dahil sa tingin ko para lang silang mga bata na nagtatalo kung sino ang mas magaling na superhero, si Superman o si Son Gokou. At kahit sinong adult na makikipag-away dahil sa relihiyon nya, would still look like, at least to me, an immature child playing childish games using wicked weapons. Ipilit nya mang totoo at magaling ang kanyang tagapagligtas, I would be dumb to believe that his superhero really existed, unless he has sufficient empirical evidence."
Let me reiterate this: Isn't your existence a sufficient empirical evidence of God's existence? This man has much to learn about God. The Almighty and most powerful God cannot be compared to others gods; it's not worth it. Do they have any point of comparison? Nothing. The power of God is always right before our faces in our daily living, the matter is that there are people who don't notice it, nor do they mind to feel and acknowledge it. So, with all ignorance they say, "There is no God."
Take note of this: he said, "But it is also written, to seek the kingdom of God. At ang main word doon ay SEEK, hindi maniwala sa unang taong magsasabi ng kung ano. Totoong mas madaling maniwala sa iba, sa nakakatanda, sa isang tao with authority, o kaya sa isang ancient book. But to close my eyes and leap blindly, hindi ko yon magagawa."
You are doing it now, man, you don't just know it. To cling on your own understanding is jumping into a deep hole blindly. You know, other people believe that it is rightful to kill and they find pleasure doing it, while others say, "Hell no! That's bad!" Whom will you believe if both of them are clinging into their own belief and understanding? Can we lay down a path made out of our own folly when we don't even know what tomorrow may bring? When we were just born yesterday? How broad can a man understand in his whole lifetime? Will that be enough for him to believe, "Oh! What I have discovered is true, reliable, and incontestable." Geniuses believed that as well, yet science keeps on changing up to now because of recent discoveries.
Did you notice him quote a verse in the Bible? So, at least He sees the Bible reliable enough to believe. But the problem is he interpreted it, in his own small understanding. He must have known what is written in Isa. 34:16
"Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them."
And it was also promised, in Matthew 7:7-8
"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."
Now, I take note of these words from him:
"Meron bang Diyos?
Hindi ko alam.
Imortal ba ang Tao?
Hindi ko alam.
Ito lang ang alam ko, hindi ako dapat humusga ng ibang tao kung sa langit o impierno sila mapupunta ayon sa aking pamantayan. Alam ko na ang pagpatay ay labag sa batas. Alam ko na ang ritwal ng pagsawsaw ng daliri sa “banal na tubig” kung saan maaring maraming mikrobyo na magdudulot ng sakit ay hindi makakapagpasigurado sa akin ng kaligtasan.
Alam ko na hindi dapat maging dahilan ang kaibahan ng paniniwala pagdating sa pagtulong sa kapwa o pagbigay at pagtanggap ng pag-ibig.
Marami akong hindi alam. At siguradong hindi ko malalaman ang lahat-lahat. Pero ang relihiyon ko na Mikology ay laging nagpapaalala sa akin na patuloy na mag-aral at sumuri, at panatilihing bukas ang isipan."
So, I think he is at least giving himself the benefit of the doubt. I wish he will soon find the authentic answers for his questions. He did not find a reliable source yet, so he keeps on believing to his religion – Mikology (which is derived from his name Miko). Now some may had confirmed who I am tackling about. Perhaps they know him.
It's true; a person cannot be saved by this so-called "holy water". It's true; the variation of religion must not serve as a boundary nor be a reason for us to decide whether to do good or to do bad to a person.
Did you hear him say? "Marami akong hindi alam. At siguradong hindi ko malalaman ang lahat-lahat." These words are so sweet to my ears, for I hold this belief to myself as well, for me to be an open-minded person. But being an open-minded doesn't mean being neutral. What do I mean? When you found the truth, lock yourself into it and don't let folly enter your world. But if you doubt your belief, open your mind and find for an accurate answer for your queries. It is better to ask, doubt and gain knowledge than always thinking that we had known enough and block our minds for additional wisdom, and later find out that we are severely wrong. Isn't that a great shame?
Prov. 3:5 – Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Prov. 11: 2 - When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.
Prov. 4:7 - Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
...pinklady0122 (October 17, 2006)
In the Depth of One's Innocence (Part 1)
I heard Bro. Eli say yesterday, "Equip yourselves, workers". Perhaps we have to realize the deepest sense of these words for us to comprehend them, for us to absorb them, for us to obey them. I believe Bro. Eli will NOT and will NEVER say nonsense matters.
Then just now, I have read a blog. Just now that I understood further, if not entirely, the words spoken to us by Bro. Eli. Just now that I'm coming to realize how greatly misled people had been, because of their own perceptions, own understandings, own generated beliefs, in which they greatly revere because of their intense folly and innocence.
"What a pity", I told myself. I believe I'm not a genius, not even intelligent enough to understand all knowledge that known geniuses had embedded to human intelligence; but at least, I am not FOOL enough to cling on my own understanding and small intelligence to judge the existence of my Mighty Creator, the owner of my life, like how some of those so-called geniuses have done.
The owner of that blog, in my own perception, is not a genius, neither a fool according to the measurement of human standards. He likes to read (he's good in grammar), observant, artistic, a good citizen I believe, an educated man. Other than those, I don't know more about him.
I won't mention his name here, but I ask for his forgiveness, for I will quote here some of his words that I know must be put into further analysis and deeper investigation.
If I will be given the chance to talk to him, I want to tell him, "Don't worry, I won't claim your words as mine, so you can't accuse me of plagiarism. I believe it may not also be pleasing for you to have your name posted here, so let's just keep it confidential. I just want to use your words as a perfect example and reliable basis to discuss a sensible subject to readers."
Now, let me start. He quoted, "God's your prankster, my boy. Think of it. He gives man instincts. He gives you this extraordinary gift and then, I swear to you -- for his own amusement -- his own private, cosmic gag reel -- he sets the rules in opposition. It's the goof of all time. Look but don't touch. Touch but don't taste. Taste but don't swallow. And while you're jumping from one foot to the other he's laughing his sick fucking ass off! He's a tight-ass. He's a sadist. He's an absentee landlord! Worship that? Never."-------------Milton, Devil's Advocate
Words of an advocate of the devil INDEED, I can say. I hate to quote these devilish words on this holy website, but necessity compels me to do so. Sorry, brethren. It took me some time to analyze these words and as I come into enlightenment of what each word and sentence mean, the more it darkens my brain, for I feel extreme fury.
I don't hate Milton, he's just a silly character from a movie. I don’t hate that guy who quoted that either, or those who believe on that quotation; rather, I feel sorry for them. What I hate are those words, which are against my God.
Yes! He set rules for people to obey, but have we ever asked ourselves "WHY"? Remember, God's thinking is not as limited, as nonsense, as foolish, as other people think He is. Bro. Eli said, "By prohibitions, we are being taught of what is right and what is good." We may think that we are doing a rightful thing, but it may not be right for God. Does He have all the rights to set rules for us His creations? Why not? He owns us! He gave us our lives. We breathe because of Him. Can you imagine life without God, people? If you can, then explain to me your existence. Where did you emanate? Then you will explain to me science. Wow! Science is an advocate of God. Discoveries of science prove the authenticity of God's existence. If you further understand science, as you intelligent people always rant of, then you must also believe that God really exists; for all your marvelous discoveries are made out of God's power and extreme intelligence.
He created us out of His love, and yet some don't want to obey His will, and yet some call Him a sadist. Look at yourself in the mirror. How perfectly He molded you in your mother's womb, gave you intelligence higher than all animals, and yet you call Him a sadist. I can say it is you who is a sadist, and not God.
Whew! Can you imagine how God endures the folly of humanity, brethren? Now, let's continue. He said, "Pero ang konsepto ng eternal punishment serves no other purpose than simply to punish, for eternity, period. Ewan ko sa iba, pero para sa akin, that’s barbarism. To think that a just, merciful, and loving Being created this set-up… I’m not buying it."
Yes, He promised an eternal punishment for immoral, disobedient, and disrespectful people. He is just, merciful, and loving so He promised for eternal damnation. You may ask why. Because God is fair, He will let humanity reap for what they have sown. Be happy today, do all the pleasures of your heart - blaspheme, disobey Him, fornicate, be an adulterer - and someday you will reap according to your deeds.
He is merciful so He promised eternal punishment to give hope for those who are being oppressed. For them to endure and do what is good, instead of thinking for revenge and becoming evil. Eternal punishment is not out of barbarism, it's out of God's intense passion for people who practice goodwill. Is that unfair? What is fair for you? Seeing those killers, drug lords, and rapists in heaven?
He said, "Kung papipiliin ako, Konsepto ng Heaven at Eternal Punishment o Konsepto ng Reincarnation, I would always choose the latter. Dahil sa eastern philosophy na to, mamatay tayo, tapos mabubuhay muli. Kailangang nating magsumikap to attain the enlightenment, saka mamatay uli."
This line is extremely ridiculous for me. You think man will strive to attain enlightenment if he knows that he still has endless chance to live repeatedly? And what does the word "enlightenment" mean to you anyway? I believe being enlightened is to know what to believe in, to know your place here on earth as a creation of God, to know whom to believe and to listen to, and to learn to acknowledge your Mighty Creator. And these I don't see in you.
Will a man exert much effort to do what is good if he knows he still has endless chance to live on earth after his death? Isn't it that doing iniquity is easier than doing righteousness? Isn't it that righteous people endure the oppressions of the doers of iniquity? So, if those evil doers will live again, as what the principle of reincarnation says, why the heck will they waste time enduring pains to do what is good? If that is so, then let us do all iniquities, people!
But NO! God set boundaries to discipline people in the form of His commandments; commandments that were perfectly laid down even before He created us (Phil 2:10).
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
Do His will for your own good and benefit. If you want to ruin yourself, then you are free to disobey Him. That is your own freewill. But remember, He had set freewill for He is just and fair. He does not force you to obey, but He suggests you to choose what is best (Deut. 30:19).
"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:"
He said, "Mabuti pa ang aso, kakahol, kakain, iihi sa mga poste, at matapos ang oras nya, mamatay. Yun na yon. Pero ang tao, kailangang matuto ng maraming bagay, magtrabaho, mamuhay ng mapayapa, at matapos ang oras nya, mamatay…"
Man, can you hear yourself? Are the animals ever been better than us human beings? Never. Look how limited their thinking is. Can you compare yourself to them? And yes, men MUST learn many things for we are given the highest intelligence among all creations. Can you expect animals to do better than we do? Of course not. Then can you imagine human beings doing what animals are doing? Sad to say, I have seen some. Perhaps because they think it better to align themselves to animals and behave like beasts than to conform to the ordinary promptings of man.
To be continued...
...pinklady0122 (October 17, 2006)
Then just now, I have read a blog. Just now that I understood further, if not entirely, the words spoken to us by Bro. Eli. Just now that I'm coming to realize how greatly misled people had been, because of their own perceptions, own understandings, own generated beliefs, in which they greatly revere because of their intense folly and innocence.
"What a pity", I told myself. I believe I'm not a genius, not even intelligent enough to understand all knowledge that known geniuses had embedded to human intelligence; but at least, I am not FOOL enough to cling on my own understanding and small intelligence to judge the existence of my Mighty Creator, the owner of my life, like how some of those so-called geniuses have done.
The owner of that blog, in my own perception, is not a genius, neither a fool according to the measurement of human standards. He likes to read (he's good in grammar), observant, artistic, a good citizen I believe, an educated man. Other than those, I don't know more about him.
I won't mention his name here, but I ask for his forgiveness, for I will quote here some of his words that I know must be put into further analysis and deeper investigation.
If I will be given the chance to talk to him, I want to tell him, "Don't worry, I won't claim your words as mine, so you can't accuse me of plagiarism. I believe it may not also be pleasing for you to have your name posted here, so let's just keep it confidential. I just want to use your words as a perfect example and reliable basis to discuss a sensible subject to readers."
Now, let me start. He quoted, "God's your prankster, my boy. Think of it. He gives man instincts. He gives you this extraordinary gift and then, I swear to you -- for his own amusement -- his own private, cosmic gag reel -- he sets the rules in opposition. It's the goof of all time. Look but don't touch. Touch but don't taste. Taste but don't swallow. And while you're jumping from one foot to the other he's laughing his sick fucking ass off! He's a tight-ass. He's a sadist. He's an absentee landlord! Worship that? Never."-------------Milton, Devil's Advocate
Words of an advocate of the devil INDEED, I can say. I hate to quote these devilish words on this holy website, but necessity compels me to do so. Sorry, brethren. It took me some time to analyze these words and as I come into enlightenment of what each word and sentence mean, the more it darkens my brain, for I feel extreme fury.
I don't hate Milton, he's just a silly character from a movie. I don’t hate that guy who quoted that either, or those who believe on that quotation; rather, I feel sorry for them. What I hate are those words, which are against my God.
Yes! He set rules for people to obey, but have we ever asked ourselves "WHY"? Remember, God's thinking is not as limited, as nonsense, as foolish, as other people think He is. Bro. Eli said, "By prohibitions, we are being taught of what is right and what is good." We may think that we are doing a rightful thing, but it may not be right for God. Does He have all the rights to set rules for us His creations? Why not? He owns us! He gave us our lives. We breathe because of Him. Can you imagine life without God, people? If you can, then explain to me your existence. Where did you emanate? Then you will explain to me science. Wow! Science is an advocate of God. Discoveries of science prove the authenticity of God's existence. If you further understand science, as you intelligent people always rant of, then you must also believe that God really exists; for all your marvelous discoveries are made out of God's power and extreme intelligence.
He created us out of His love, and yet some don't want to obey His will, and yet some call Him a sadist. Look at yourself in the mirror. How perfectly He molded you in your mother's womb, gave you intelligence higher than all animals, and yet you call Him a sadist. I can say it is you who is a sadist, and not God.
Whew! Can you imagine how God endures the folly of humanity, brethren? Now, let's continue. He said, "Pero ang konsepto ng eternal punishment serves no other purpose than simply to punish, for eternity, period. Ewan ko sa iba, pero para sa akin, that’s barbarism. To think that a just, merciful, and loving Being created this set-up… I’m not buying it."
Yes, He promised an eternal punishment for immoral, disobedient, and disrespectful people. He is just, merciful, and loving so He promised for eternal damnation. You may ask why. Because God is fair, He will let humanity reap for what they have sown. Be happy today, do all the pleasures of your heart - blaspheme, disobey Him, fornicate, be an adulterer - and someday you will reap according to your deeds.
He is merciful so He promised eternal punishment to give hope for those who are being oppressed. For them to endure and do what is good, instead of thinking for revenge and becoming evil. Eternal punishment is not out of barbarism, it's out of God's intense passion for people who practice goodwill. Is that unfair? What is fair for you? Seeing those killers, drug lords, and rapists in heaven?
He said, "Kung papipiliin ako, Konsepto ng Heaven at Eternal Punishment o Konsepto ng Reincarnation, I would always choose the latter. Dahil sa eastern philosophy na to, mamatay tayo, tapos mabubuhay muli. Kailangang nating magsumikap to attain the enlightenment, saka mamatay uli."
This line is extremely ridiculous for me. You think man will strive to attain enlightenment if he knows that he still has endless chance to live repeatedly? And what does the word "enlightenment" mean to you anyway? I believe being enlightened is to know what to believe in, to know your place here on earth as a creation of God, to know whom to believe and to listen to, and to learn to acknowledge your Mighty Creator. And these I don't see in you.
Will a man exert much effort to do what is good if he knows he still has endless chance to live on earth after his death? Isn't it that doing iniquity is easier than doing righteousness? Isn't it that righteous people endure the oppressions of the doers of iniquity? So, if those evil doers will live again, as what the principle of reincarnation says, why the heck will they waste time enduring pains to do what is good? If that is so, then let us do all iniquities, people!
But NO! God set boundaries to discipline people in the form of His commandments; commandments that were perfectly laid down even before He created us (Phil 2:10).
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
Do His will for your own good and benefit. If you want to ruin yourself, then you are free to disobey Him. That is your own freewill. But remember, He had set freewill for He is just and fair. He does not force you to obey, but He suggests you to choose what is best (Deut. 30:19).
"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:"
He said, "Mabuti pa ang aso, kakahol, kakain, iihi sa mga poste, at matapos ang oras nya, mamatay. Yun na yon. Pero ang tao, kailangang matuto ng maraming bagay, magtrabaho, mamuhay ng mapayapa, at matapos ang oras nya, mamatay…"
Man, can you hear yourself? Are the animals ever been better than us human beings? Never. Look how limited their thinking is. Can you compare yourself to them? And yes, men MUST learn many things for we are given the highest intelligence among all creations. Can you expect animals to do better than we do? Of course not. Then can you imagine human beings doing what animals are doing? Sad to say, I have seen some. Perhaps because they think it better to align themselves to animals and behave like beasts than to conform to the ordinary promptings of man.
To be continued...
...pinklady0122 (October 17, 2006)
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
A Shout of Thanksgiving Amidst All Persecutions
Once again, we, the Members of the Church of God International had proven to the world our unconquerable victory against all the persecutions, defamations, and fabricated lies being thrown to our congregation. With our charming smiles, echoing laughs, and merry cheers, who would say that we are under the suffocating persecutions of our enemies?
September 1, 2006, another highlighting event was witnessed here in United Arab Emirates as our chapter in Deira, Dubai offers their sacrifice of Thanksgiving before God. As expected, brethren from other parts of UAE such as Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Satwa, and Sharjah arrived to be a part of this memorable occasion.
The venue was filled with people yelling in unity, "To God be the glory!" Upon entering the Thanksgiving's rendezvous, warm smiles of brethren welcomed everybody with a heartfelt message indescribable by word. The exchanging of "How are you's" was in every corner that brought a sound relief to every soul knowing that each of us is in good condition.
Songs of praises sang harmoniously accompanied by snappy choreographies danced merrily would surely mend a wrenched soul. In the deepest core of our hearts may be found an engraved pain and sorrow for the unlawful retorts that we reap in our battle against wrong doctrines; fact still remains that no one could ever hinder us from offering this shout of Thanksgiving for the enumerable goodness that we receive from God.
For this, we will continuously offer Him the sacrifice of Thanksgivings as long as He lends us breath. We are faithful while waiting for that appointed time when He would announce our final victory for this spiritual battle. No amount of persecution would be equal to stop us from being grateful.
...pinklady0122 (September 2, 2006)
September 1, 2006, another highlighting event was witnessed here in United Arab Emirates as our chapter in Deira, Dubai offers their sacrifice of Thanksgiving before God. As expected, brethren from other parts of UAE such as Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Satwa, and Sharjah arrived to be a part of this memorable occasion.
The venue was filled with people yelling in unity, "To God be the glory!" Upon entering the Thanksgiving's rendezvous, warm smiles of brethren welcomed everybody with a heartfelt message indescribable by word. The exchanging of "How are you's" was in every corner that brought a sound relief to every soul knowing that each of us is in good condition.
Songs of praises sang harmoniously accompanied by snappy choreographies danced merrily would surely mend a wrenched soul. In the deepest core of our hearts may be found an engraved pain and sorrow for the unlawful retorts that we reap in our battle against wrong doctrines; fact still remains that no one could ever hinder us from offering this shout of Thanksgiving for the enumerable goodness that we receive from God.
For this, we will continuously offer Him the sacrifice of Thanksgivings as long as He lends us breath. We are faithful while waiting for that appointed time when He would announce our final victory for this spiritual battle. No amount of persecution would be equal to stop us from being grateful.
...pinklady0122 (September 2, 2006)
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