A gift is a gift

Post-Christmas post: Have you ever given gifts that were barely appreciated? Not even opened? Did the receiver even thank you at all?

That happens to me. Yes, in the present tense because it's a regular occurrence. Especially this one person who was joking about someone else not opening my gift for a year, and it turns out the one joking was the one who has not yet opened their gift from me. 

Four days and counting.

Sigh. If that person only knew how expensive that gift was!

If that person knew how much *I* wanted that gift for myself!

Would the person even notice if I took back the gift? I might as well enjoy it for myself...

But I am suddenly reminded (by guess Who):

For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.

(Romans 11:29)

Irrevocable. If God won't take back His gifts, who am I to do otherwise? 

I was convicted and chastised about the times I ignored the gifts He gave me... and the times I misused them (such as for personal gain, or to hurt others). 

Yet God never took back His gifts and His calling. They're still there, waiting for me. And God does not just wait for me to figure out my way to them -- He gently restores and reminds:

• by His Holy Spirit;
• by His written Word;
• by the God-centered people around me;
• and by circumstances (failures teach more effectively than successes!).

Now I remember why I gave that gift to that person. It was a deliberate act of love and goodwill. It was my choice --- independent of the receiver's response.

So without further ado, I left the gift where I found it. Unopened, unacknowledged, unappreciated.

A few hours later, I got this text:

"Teci, I started reading the book ----- that you gave me. It's great! I love it. Uumpisahan ko sa January 1 ulit, hehe! Thank you very much!"

Whoa. (Whoa to the infinity, since this comes from a non-expressive person.) Thank God I didn't take that gift back! The joy and blessing is now greatly multiplied. 

And now to make more use of God's gifts and calling for me.  :)

God's perfect will in an imperfect world

Some people expect God to bless their choice.
Others ask God for His choice, and expect to be blessed.

But first, a disclaimer!
There is no perfect person to marry,
no perfect job to take,
no perfect friend to hang out with.

To prove this, let's look at some examples of "perfection" and think of how unrealistic they are :)  (On the off-chance that you have all of these, congratulations! But I'd bet you still have a flaw, even just one...)



Wanted: Perfect Life

The Perfect Female Face 
according to Men (top) and Women (bottom)

 

http://fashionbombdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/escentuals-perfect-woman.jpg

 http://www.ivillage.com/womans-idea-perfect-man-cause-girl-can-dream/4-a-508962

 

http://thegreysfan01.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/snoopy-the-perfect-friend.gif

The Perfect Day

 http://youqueen.com/life/personal-development/how-to-find-a-new-career-you-are-truly-passionate-about/

If perfection is impossible, why bother looking around?

Because... we have a perfect God.
And He is calling us to be more like Him. 

Because He has a Spirit of wisdom and revelation,
and this is available to anyone and everyone who asks for it.

Because He reminds us to listen to Him instead of the foolish, self-serving norms of this world.

Because I'm not perfect,
but He is, and so is His will for me.



Marriage

I am not perfect, and nobody else is. But I'm not going to marry the first Y-chromosome-carrier I see. Of all the billions of people in the world, not everyone would share my goals and my dreams. My future husband and I cannot build a life together if we cannot even agree. Yes, we can always decide and commit together as a couple. But it's much easier to live for what God is calling me to do, as a single, before embarking on a journey and a shared calling with a life partner. This way, I'm sure that I am living for God, first and foremost. 

And if I do get married, will it be because I want to, or because God wants to? There are many men (!) that I wanted for myself, but thank God He didn't answer my prayers. (Or, He answered with a resounding "No!")  I am NOT talking about somebody being superior or inferior... just a bad combination. Somebody could be a "really great girl", or "a man after God's own heart", but the union could still be a hindrance to one or both of them.

Love and marriage do not conquer all, but God does. I've seen friends who live for God yet cross continents to join their spouses, and that's great. I know others who, in living for God, decide to end their romantic relationship. I can say that's great too --- because they pursued God, regardless of where He would lead them, regardless if their hearts are broken.

And I know that His will is always good, pleasing and perfect. No man is perfect, no woman is perfect, but God will bless and purify the union of those who seek His blessing. But I do not have to wait for marriage to seek His blessing --- I can ask for His guidance now, and even His will in who to date and to marry :)

Recommended read:
"When God Writes Your Love Story" by Eric and Leslie Ludy


Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
--  Paul to the Romans



Career

Unlike marriage, which is a lifelong commitment, looking for a job might be a little easier:

http://www.people-results.com/wp-content/uploads/The-Perfect-Job.jpg

But if I am living for God, how will my priorities change? Specifically, what job should I look for, how well should I do that job, and what will I do with my spare time and extra income from that job?

Isn't this over-spiritualizing (or over-thinking)? After all, the Bible says:

 
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do,
do it all for the glory of God.
 -- Paul to the Corinthians


Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, 
as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 
since you know that you will receive 
an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. 
It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
-- Paul to the Colossians


Serve wholeheartedly,
as if you were serving the Lord, not people,
because you know that the Lord will reward each one
for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.
-- Paul to the Ephesians


Okay, so do whatever, right? As long as it's for God.

That's just it. Not all things honor, glorify and please Him. If I work in a company that regularly engages in fraud and corruption, or if my work environment encourages or even requires immorality, should I continue working there?

Some people choose to stay and fight the good fight, to be that one little candle in that dark corner, to challenge, revolutionize and reform their place. Others leave for better pastures, that will help them help others better. Still, others make their own company, build them up from scratch with God as their cornerstone. I think all these actions glorify God, but it is up to each person to determine God's specific action plan for himself.

Of course, we work to buy the "basics": food, clothing, and shelter. Yet Jesus reminded us of our priorities: 


So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’
or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
For the pagans run after all these things,
and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.
-- Jesus (The Gospel of Matthew)


The main driving force in my life, including my career, should be the spread of God's Kingdom -- His righteousness, truth, love, grace, peace, justice. He will provide the "basics". But He is calling us to work (literally) for more than that.


Recommended read:
"Lifework: A Biblical Theology for What You Do Every Day" by Darrow Miller    
**This is a shorter version for free 


"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name,
Your kingdom come, Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread."
-- Jesus (The Gospel of Matthew)



Friendships

Think of your best friend. The bestest friend you have ever had. Did you have at least one fight? Or at least one issue you disagreed on? Was there something that left you disappointed or even betrayed?

Thank God that He is our Perfect and Best Friend, our Rock, Rescuer, and Defender. 
Thank God because: 

• He loved me in spite of my faults;
• He forgave me before I asked;
• He died in my place so justice would be served;
• His Spirit is always available to transform me, to cleanse those faults, and to empower me to rise above them.

But God's commands boil down to these:

 

http://blog.jennimullinix.com/love-god-love-others-scripture-printable/ 

Our life with God does not end with God. He should always be first and foremost, but loving Him means also loving the people He created --- including the least lovable people we know ;)

God loved us without waiting for us to be perfect. He calls us to do the same (and interestingly, He calls this "being perfect"):


“You have heard that it was said,
‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I tell you, love your enemies
and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your Father in heaven.
He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good,
and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
... Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
 -- Jesus (The Gospel of Matthew)


But, like marriage and career, we need to choose wisely if we're looking for mutual, life-giving, healthy friendships.


Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said:
     “I will live with them and walk among them,
     and I will be their God and they will be my people.”
Therefore,
     “Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord.
     Touch no unclean thing and I will receive you.”
-- Paul to the Corinthians


This might seem confusing. Let's backtrack: 

God created everyone and loves everyone, 
so we should love everyone too.
(If that's hard to do, think of your worst sin,
and how God already loved and forgave you for that. ♥ )

But when it comes to seeking advice, guidance, inspiration, responsibility and accountability, who will we go to? Shouldn't we go to the people who would encourage us to do right, and not wrong? Even (especially) when we are weak? 


And let us consider
how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,
but encouraging one another —
and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
-- Letter to the Hebrews


Again, this is not looking down on (fellow) imperfect people, but just doing what is wise. If I am tempted to do drugs, should I get advice from a drug addict or a drug pusher? Of course not! I should get advice from (a) someone who has never struggled with that issue, or better yet, (b) someone who has struggled and overcome. How inspiring is that, and directly applicable to my own present issue!

Again, nobody is perfect, in our lives and relationships. We are called to love imperfect people perfectly. But if I know that someone is walking with God, then I have more confidence that I can walk with him too: same Way, same goal.

Recommended read:
"What's So Amazing About Grace?" by Philip Yancey
** This is a related study guide for free


  
Stop Looking Around

How easy it is for us to use "I'm not perfect" as an excuse to continue doing wrong. Being an imperfect, flawed sinner is an explanation but never an excuse. Instead of wallowing in the mud of our faults, or slinging that mud to others, we can simply ask the one and only perfect God for help. He will never disappoint.
 
I have a challenge for you: to stop looking around for perfection; and to seek God, the only One who is perfect. We become who we follow. When we seek God, we become more like Him --- still with human flaws and no divine powers, but we can mirror His character and be His agents of blessing, power, grace, love and truth in this world.

  

http://golikejesus.com/sites/default/files/inshort-golikejesus.png

First, first, first, our focus should be on God. Oh, how perfect!

But as we live in this fallen world, we join God on His quest to redeem and restore this world, one good deed at a time. Perhaps we do seek perfection, impossible though it may be. But we have God as our Author and our Finisher, and with Him, all things are possible.

God's will is good, pleasing and perfect. The more we seek HIS will to be done, the more we will encounter His Kingdom --- on earth, as in Heaven.

Recommended read:

"The Bible" by God :) 


As for God, His way is perfect:
The Lord’s word is flawless;
He shields all who take refuge in Him. 
-- Psalm 18 


Not my will but Yours be done.
-- Jesus to God the Father


The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

-- Proverbs

http://wallpaperstock.net/perfect-me_wallpapers_35926_1366x768_1.html

I can't change ---> The point exactly

I can't change
Even if I tried
Even if I wanted to
   --- "Same Love" by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, ft. Mary Lambert
(More lyrics from the song appear in purple italics below)


So goes the chorus from a beautifully haunting song, which is also a strongly-worded crusade on one of today's most controversial issues: homosexuality.

This seems like the next revolution, after the abolition of slavery, women's liberation, and the civil rights movement for African Americans. But in today's issue, the bad guys are (again?) the Christians: 


It's the same hate that's caused wars from religion
Gender to skin color, the complexion of your pigment
The same fight that led people to walk-outs and sit-ins
It's human rights for everybody, there is no difference!
Live on and be yourself
When I was at church they taught me something else 


I love your Christ,
but I dislike your Christianity.
   - Mahatma Gandhi


How many people have been rejected, oppressed, even killed in the name of Jesus? It is so grievous to see the hate in action perpetrated by the followers of "God is Love". (Here's a healthy reminder.) These days, it's Christians vs. Homosexuals.


When everyone else is more comfortable remaining voiceless
Rather than fighting for humans that have had their rights stolen
I might not be the same, but that's not important
No freedom till we're equal, damn right I support it


Damn right I support that too: freedom and human rights for everyone.

I've often thought of what I would have done in William Wilberforce's time, when he fought for the freedom of slaves because of his faith in Jesus Christ. I could have easily ignored Wilberforce, saw a culture built on slaves as a blessing, and even cite the Bible ("submit to your masters") as a stand for slavery. Of course, centuries later, we thank Wilberforce, King, Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and other freedom fighters who did what they did because Jesus did what He did. 


Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that.
Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.
   --- Martin Luther King, Jr.


The right wing conservatives think it's a decision
And you can be cured with some treatment and religion
Man-made rewiring of a predisposition
Playing God, aw nah here we go
America the brave still fears what we don't know
And God loves all his children, is somehow forgotten
But we paraphrase a book written thirty-five-hundred years ago 


One says homosexuality is a choice; another says it's hard-wired. One says it's immoral; another says it's no big deal. How can we reach a resolution when our starting definitions are already conflicting?

We can start with mutual respect, and a willingness to listen to the other side of the issue. (As a firm believer of "One Truth" and the goodness of every person, I believe we can reach a resolution.)

Like the song says, yes, the Same Love is available to all of us (God loves all His children). But it's the Same Truth that convicts us all (we are all sinners who deserve hell) and it's the Same Power that can save us (to bring us back towards Him).

When it comes to marriage, the full realization of Jesus as the Heavenly Bridegroom and His Church as His Bride would only make sense with the union of a man and a woman. The anatomy and psychology of the human male and female would attest to this. Jesus is always the Initiator and the Giver; the Church is always the Responder and the Recipient. 

So, now what? 

As a Christian, I need to regularly check if I am practicing what I am preaching: If God is really Love, does it show in my life? Does it show in my relationships to everyone: Christians and non-Christians, homosexuals and heterosexuals and bisexuals?

As a Christian, I will also uphold the original Biblical definition of marriage as a union between one man and one woman.

BUT... Also because I am a Christian, I will:
   - value the dignity of every person;
   - uphold everyone's rights; and
   - respect other points of view.


I disapprove of what you say,
but I will defend to the death your right to say it. 
   - Evelyn Beatrice Hall


And a certificate on paper isn't gonna solve it all
But it's a damn good place to start
No law is gonna change us
We have to change us
Whatever God you believe in
We come from the same one
Strip away the fear
Underneath it's all the same love


"I can't change." 
That's the point exactly. 
It is God who can change us.
If we wanted to. 

=========================================

Full disclosure: 
I am a sinner. I sin in desiring people I am not married to. This is lust and adultery, even if it's "only" in my thoughts, even if it's heterosexual. Sin is sin. God already loved me in my sins, but He also loved me enough to rescue me from them.

Even though homosexuality was not really an issue for me, I know of people who have acknowledged this issue before God, and have been truly and completely changed. They now honor their Creator as they live according to the gender He ordained for them.

Strength is for service

Edited from: http://www.finishingstrong.info/give-me-your-hand/

There's a song that empowers even the smallest and weakest of us. We have the power of choice and the power of God working in and through us:

My hands are small, I know
But they're not yours, they are my own
And I am never broken...
We are God's eyes, God's hands, God's mind
We are God's eyes, God's hands, God's heart
       - Jewel, "Hands"

(See also lyrics video here)

 

     "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: 'The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.'

      - Paul to the Romans, 15:1-3

http://www.health4thinkers.com/2011/06/09/tackling-mental-health-reveals-spiritual-health-needs/

http://www.godsaxle.com/2012/02/the-strong-hand-of-the-lord/

http://blog.surveymonkey.com/blog/2013/04/08/contribute-update-surveymonkey/

http://www.grace2help.com/2012/11/24/week-twentythe-hand-of-god/

  

     "For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

      - Paul to the Romans, 15:4-6

 http://shinebrightlyforjesus.blogspot.com/2011/08/courage-it-is-i.html

Rejecting rejection ♥

Have you ever gotten this?

blog.hillsbiblechurch.org/2012/11/16/refusing-sin/refuse/

Let's break this cycle:

Edited from: www.momentumnation.com/i-have-been-rejected-from-motherhood-for-the-age-of-my-kids/



I reject the spirit of rejection.
Enough is enough.
Love one another as God loves us. ♥

http://inspirationaldaily.wordpress.com/2012/02/14/always-love-you/

http://www.wallcg.com/lve-love-184130/

http://hdwallpapercollection.com/love-free-dekstop-hd-wallpaper.html

http://www.wikihow.com/Love

http://www.marcandangel.com/2010/09/06/how-to-love/

Gentle reminders

But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.
-- Jesus (Matthew 5:44-45)

  

http://www.crossfitbrea.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/sun-rising-good-morning.jpg

A churchmate texted me this week: "A gentle reminder" that our team will serve in kids' church this Sunday.

Gentle reminders. Reminders to be gentle.

How timely. At the time of that text, I just used the Bible to publicly lambast (!) some fellow Christians who I believe have wronged (?) me. And as I'm posting this, I just answered another churchmate in the same harsh tone that she used on me.

I'm posting this to preach to myself. Please feel free to preach to me more. It would be more effective though, to demonstrate gentleness toward me. That would doth heap burning coals on my head (there's a verse on that below). 


A gentle answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
(Proverbs 15:1) 


A person’s wisdom yields patience;
it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.
(Proverbs 19:11) 


Who is a God like you,
    who pardons sin and forgives the transgression
    of the remnant of his inheritance?
You do not stay angry forever
    but delight to show mercy.
-- Micah (7:18) 


Above all, love each other deeply, 
because love covers over a multitude of sins.
-- Peter (1 Peter 4:8) 


"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
-- Jesus (Luke 6:37-38) 

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20peter%204:12-19&version=NIV

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%206:27-36&version=NIV

www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans 12:9-21&version=NIV

Here are some other gentle reminders to be gentle. ♥

 
tumblr.com

http://www.gcc.qld.edu.au/Pages/Admin/Quotes.html

http://thebeststatusmessages.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Learn-to-respect-all-kind-of-people..jpg

 

http://www.upliftingwordsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/

Quote-Kindness-Frederick-William-Faber-Theologian-31-Days.jpg

Being gentle does not mean forsaking my rights and letting people abuse me. It does mean considering other people's rights and feelings. As in every good attribute, we get our example from God Himself.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=philippians%202:3-8&version=NIV

May God bless and be with us more! ♥

On Respect (Do not impose)

http://jeffmcleod.ca/day-18-disrespecting-parent/ 

 "When you enter a home, greet the family, ‘Peace.’ If your greeting is received, then it’s a good place to stay. But if it’s not received, take it back and get out. Don’t impose yourself."
  -  Jesus (Luke 10:5-6)


Such wise yet remarkably simple advice. This clarified a life decision for me and released me from an unnecessary burden. Thank You Lord for the freedom to live and let live, the freedom to choose, and the freedom to breathe. 


"Cultivate your own relationship with God, but don’t impose it on others. You’re fortunate if your behavior and your belief are coherent. But if you’re not sure, if you notice that you are acting in ways inconsistent with what you believe — some days trying to impose your opinions on others, other days just trying to please them — then you know that you’re out of line. If the way you live isn’t consistent with what you believe, then it’s wrong."
  -  Paul (Romans 14:22-23) 


For Christ-followers: Could sharing the gospel be considered as "imposing your belief on others"? Yes, if the sharer expects the listener to immediately and completely agree. But that rarely happens, right? Just be patient and hopeful and keep praying --- it is God whose Word we are sharing, and it is God who will make it grow in people's hearts. (Practical tip: Think of a time when it was so hard for you to see the light yourself!) As someone who knows the Good News, your choice is to share or not. Those who hear you have a different choice: to accept God or not. 


For everyone: Jesus tells us to love others as we love ourselves (Mark 12:31, Matthew 22:39). While we distinguish between love and respect, ultimately God is calling us to treat ourselves and each other in the same (good) way.


It's amazing how something I've heard since childhood is still fresh to me; I still have a long way to go. Below are some practical tips for treating others (and ourselves) with respect --- not because any one of us deserves it, but because of God, who respects us enough to give us our freedom.  :)

http://www2.kumc.edu/son/respect/index.html

http://www.udayton.edu/studev/commitment_to_community/habits.php

http://www.chooserespect.org.au/code_of_behaviour.html

 

http://www.bacchusnetworkstore.org/respect-yourself

 

May our relationships be filled with respect. Remember that it goes both ways --- giving and receiving --- and we can take our cue from God Himself.

Quotes: Nick Vujicic in Manila

Born without arms and legs, God is using Nick Vujicic to touch people otherwise crippled by fear and hopelessness. Two days ago I was blessed to hear this amazing man live in Smart Araneta Coliseum.

http://instagram.com/p/ZkmidWD7Na/

Here are the snippets I managed to write down. May you be inspired and encouraged as I am. :)

• Put your faith in action.
• Courage means doing something even if you fail.
• You don't need courage to win, you need courage to fail.
• F.E.A.R. --- False Evidence Apparently Real
• F.A.I.T.H. --- Full Assurance In The Heart (of the Truth)
• Courage starts with purpose.
• You can have arms and legs and not know what to do with them.
• Try again.
• Failure = Education. (Teci: In direct contrast to today's mainstream educational system)
• Never give up!
• Don't believe you're a failure:
• Thomas Edison invented the light bulb after 10,000 tries. He didn't see himself fail 9,999 times. Instead, he just learned 9,999 ways to not make a light bulb.
• Nick himself contacted 52 schools and got rejected before being accepted to his first speaking engagement. Now he has to say "No" to 28,000 speaking invitations.
• The bigger the dream, the bigger the opposition.
• Was that a failure? Yes. Was I a failure? No. Try again.
• Obstacles = Opportunities.
• We have storms and clouds but it's always sunny above the clouds.
• Sometimes you may have a dream that has to die, but don't let it kill you.
• Take steps, no matter how small, towards the right direction.
• Be thankful: See what you've been blessed with!
• My circumstances didn't change; my heart did.
• If you're not happy single, you won't be happy married!
• I'm happy today because I'm thankful for the things I do have.
• Fame, fortune, sex, drugs, gangs, being in the cool group... Happiness is not in those things. Love is what you're looking for.
• Life is not just about success. At the top of the mountain it could get very lonely. Build each other up in love.
• When Nick was a boy, he wanted to see someone who was like him, with no arms and legs. Sadly, that wish was never fulfilled. But now as a speaker he once met a child with the same condition as him. The boy looked at him and knew that he himself can be happy and okay.
• You can be a miracle to someone right now.
• Australians helping Australians... Filipinos helping Filipinos.
• What are the three greatest/dearest things in your life right now?
• Who have you not forgiven yet?
• At 19, Nick had his first speaking engagement: the first time he had compassion on a group of complete strangers, 300 teenagers.
• A teenager asked if she could interrupt Nick's talk because she wanted to hug him. She whispered, "Nobody has ever told me that they love me. Nobody has ever told me I'm beautiful."
• Nick got home, realizing what he wanted to do for the rest of his life: He wanted to be a speaker.
• My parents constantly planted seeds of love and hope and truth. If parents don't do that to their children, who will?
• You are beautiful just the way you are.
• Life without limits... Unstoppable... Limitless
• Unconditional love
• Don't take any day for granted.
• Dream big.
• You can't buy hope.
• Faith as first. Faith as last.

Nick Vujicic is the author of Your Life Without Limits, Unstoppable: The Incredible Power of Faith in Action, and Limitless: Devotions for a Ridiculously Good Life. He also encourages Christians to never miss an opportunity to share the Good News in this article.

Think Different: Do the Same to All

What treatment do we give?

 http://ivysays.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/biatch.jpg; edited by Teci :) 

Do we treat people differently when they're facing us and when their backs are turned?

Do we act extra nice toward our boss, and extra mean toward our *rival*?

Why the difference?

God is good to the good and evil.




What about the treatment we get?

 http://images.clipartof.com/small/227147-Royalty-Free-RF-Clipart-Illustration-Of-A-

Grumpy-Toon-Guy-Getting-Rained-On-And-Walking-Under-An-Umbrella.jpg

Do we feel that good things only happen to good people (and complain)...?

Or do we feel that good things only happen to bad people (and complain)...?


Why the difference?


God is good to the good and evil.



May we be more consistent--- in being kind, gracious and loving --- to everyone around us.



I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous...  
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
--- Jesus (Matthew 5:45,48)

Honor God with your body

Let's talk about sex, marriage, and food. Because it's February :)  From Paul's first letter to the Corinthians (3:16-17, 6:9-7:11):

 

http://www.diabetes.co.uk/images/body/body2.jpg

"You realize, don't you, that you are the temple of God, and God Himself is present in you? No one will get by with vandalizing God's temple, you can be sure of that. God's temple is sacred --- and you, remember, are the temple...

"Don't you realize that this is not the way to live? Unjust people who don't care about God will not be joining in His kingdom. Those who use and abuse each other, use and abuse sex, use and abuse the earth and everything in it, don't qualify as citizens in God's kingdom. A number of you know from experience what I'm talking about, for not so long ago you were on that list. Since then, you've been cleaned up and given a fresh start by Jesus, our Master, our Messiah, and by our God present in us, the Spirit.

"Just because something is technically legal doesn't mean that it's spiritually appropriate. If I went around doing whatever I thought I could get by with, I'd be a slave to my whims.

http://us.123rf.com/400wm/400/400/logos/logos1206/logos120600468/

14092973-catering-buffet-food-in-luxury-restaurant-with-dessert-and-fresh-fruits.jpg 

"You know the old saying, 'First you eat to live, then you live to eat'? Well, it may be true that the body is only a temporary thing, but that's no excuse for stuffing your body with food, or indulging it with sex. Since the Master honors you with a body, honor Him with your body!

"God honored the Master's body by raising it from the grave. He'll treat yours with the same resurrection power. Until that time, remember that your bodies are created with the same dignity as the Master's body. You wouldn't take the Master's body off to a whorehouse, would you? I should hope not.

 

http://www.godsownholidays.com/graphics/images/honeymoon1.jpg

"There's more to sex than mere skin on skin. Sex is as much spiritual mystery as physical fact. As written in Scripture, 'The two become one.' Since we want to become spiritually one with the Master, we must not pursue the kind of sex that avoids commitment and intimacy, leaving us more lonely than ever --- the kind of sex that can never 'become one.' There is a sense in which sexual sins are different from all others. In sexual sin we violate the sacredness of our own bodies, these bodies that were made for God-given and God-modeled love, for 'becoming one' with another. Or didn't you realize that your body is a sacred place, the place of the Holy Spirit? Don't you realize that you can't live however you please, squandering what God paid such a high price for? The physical part of you is not some piece of property belonging to the spiritual part of you. God owns the whole works. So let people see God in and through your body. 

"Now, getting down to the questions you asked in your letter to me. First, is it a good thing to have sexual relations?

http://images03.olx.com.ph/ui/1/57/11/6965611_1.jpg 

"Certainly --- but only within a certain context. It's good for a man to have a wife, and for a woman to have a husband. Sexual drives are strong, but marriage is strong enough to contain them and provide for a balanced and fulfilling sexual life in a world of sexual disorder. The marriage bed must be a place of mutuality --- the husband seeking to satisfy his wife, the wife seeking to satisfy her husband. Marriage is not a place to 'stand up for your rights.' Marriage is a decision to serve the other, whether in bed or out. Abstaining from sex is permissible for a period of time if you both agree to it, and if it's for the purposes of prayer and fasting --- but only for such times. Then come back together again. Satan has an ingenious way of tempting us when we least expect it. I’m not, understand, commanding these periods of abstinence --- only providing my best counsel if you should choose them.

"Sometimes I wish everyone were single like me --- a simpler life in many ways! But celibacy is not for everyone any more than marriage is. God gives the gift of the single life to some, the gift of the married life to others.

"I do, though, tell the unmarried and widows that singleness might well be the best thing for them, as it has been for me. But if they can’t manage their desires and emotions, they should by all means go ahead and get married. The difficulties of marriage are preferable by far to a sexually tortured life as a single. And if you are married, stay married. This is the Master’s command, not mine. If a wife should leave her husband, she must either remain single or else come back and make things right with him. And a husband has no right to get rid of his wife."

Forgiveness and Reconciliation

 

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From the book "Boundaries" by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend:


"Many people have a problem determining the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation...

"The Bible is clear about two principles: (1) We always need to forgive, but (2) we don't always achieve reconciliation. Forgiveness is something that we do in our hearts; we release someone from a debt that they owe us. We write off the person's debt, and she no longer owes us. We no longer condemn her. She is clean. Only one party is needed for forgiveness: me. The person who owes me a debt does not have to ask my forgiveness. It is a work of grace in my heart. 

 

https://iheartinspiration.com/quotes/to-be-a-christian-means-to-forgive-the-inexcusable-because-god-has-forgiven-the-inexcusable-in-you/ 

"This brings us to the second principle: we do not always achieve reconciliation. God forgave the world, but the whole world is not reconciled to Him. Although He may have forgiven all people, all people have not owned their sin and appropriated His forgiveness. That would be reconciliation. Forgiveness takes one; reconciliation takes two.

"We do not open ourselves up to the other party until we have seen that she has truly owned her part of the problem. So many times Scripture talks about keeping boundaries with someone until she owns what she has done and produces "fruit in keeping with repentance" (Matthew 3:8). True repentance is much more than saying "I'm sorry"; it is changing direction.

http://watchusplaygames.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/first-to-apologize-is-bravest-first-to-forgive-is-strongest-first-to-forget-is-happiest.jpg

"You need to clearly communicate that, while you have forgiven her, you do not trust her yet, for she has not proven herself trustworthy. There has not been enough time to see if she really is going to change.

"Remember, God is your model. He did not wait for people to change their behavior before He stopped condemning them. He is finished condemning, but that does not mean that He has a relationship with all people. People must choose to own up to their sin and repent, then God will open Himself to them. Reconciliation involves two. Do not think that because you have forgiven that you have to reconcile. You can offer reconciliation, but it must be contingent upon the other person owning her behavior and bringing forth trustworthy fruits."

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"God has done all this. 

He has restored our relationship with him through Christ, 

and has given us this ministry of restoring relationships."

--- Paul, 2 Corinthians 5:18

Gracious Living

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There was this time when I didn't help this person. Well, I'd like to think I gave the minimum acceptable answers to his queries, I just didn't go out of my way to make sure he got what he needed.

Do it yourself, I thought, you'll thank me for it one day. Besides, you deserve it for being such a --------.

 
Nah.

Have you ever felt that God is "pleased" with you? This time it was the opposite.


For You give us better than what we deserve,
we must do the same.


Jesus says,

Greater love has no one than this,

than to lay down his life for his friends.

A new command I give you: Love one another. 

As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. 

This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.

Gracious living. My life and the blessings within it --- I deserve none of these.

I've been a recipient of God's grace for so long. Let me be an agent of grace now :)

Self-critical much?

 

http://spicklebee.blogspot.com/2010/03/i-heart-thursdays-hands-and-hearts.html

1 John 3:18-24:


My dear children, let's not just talk about love; let's practice real love.

This is the only way we'll know we're living truly, living in God's reality.

It's also the way to shut down debilitating self-criticism,
even when there's something to it.

For God is greater than our worried hearts
and knows more about us than we do ourselves.

And friends, once that's taken care of 

and we're no longer accusing or condemning ourselves,

we're bold and free before God!

We're able to stretch our hands out and receive what we asked for

because we're doing what He said, doing what pleases Him.

Again, this is God's command:

to believe in His personally named Son, Jesus Christ.

He told us to love each other, in line with the original command.

As we keep His commands, we live deeply and surely in Him, and He lives in us.

And this is how we experience His deep and abiding presence in us:

by the Spirit He gave us.

Put your hearts UP!

"If we give a little love maybe we can change the world..."


This is such a cheerfully cheesy song+video, even for me! But Ms. Grande pulled it off --- even redeeming the very "emo" track "What's Up?" by the Four Non-Blondes. Yup, the world does need more love and more hope-filled songs like this. The Philippines especially, beset with strong winds and rain to the point of calamity, needs a lot more sunshine than usual (literally and figuratively).

So put your hearts up! Along with the cheese comes the sun ;)  ☼

Will we stand for the vision of love? :)

Just a little faith and the reminder that God already loves us... enable us to love the people around us. :)

 
 

Vision of Love
by Kris Allen

Wake up if you believe
Love is not a fading dream
Tell me I'm not the only one
Who feels this way right now

Lonely needs a friend
Ask him where he's been
You could be the light that comes
And turns his world around

I don't wanna run, I don't wanna hide
When someone needs somebody
I don't wanna say, I don't got the time
When someone needs somebody
With a little faith and a little soul
We can't go wrong

When a heart breaks
And the world shakes
Will we stand for the vision of love?
When a tear falls
And the fear crawls
Will we stand for the vision of love?

Wait till you read THIS!

Can a good tree bear bad fruit?

- Jesus

http://asksistermarymartha.blogspot.com/2009/03/gossip-girl.html

I'm sick of being gossiped about.

Especially by Christians.

You know, people who read passages like "Love one another," "Don't lie," "Whoever is sinless can cast the first stone," and of course, "God hates gossip."

Sister Mary Martha has a fine, practical article on how to identify and handle gossip.

Also, the Four-Way Test of our friendly neighborhood Rotary Club reads:

    1. Is it the TRUTH?
    2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
    3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
    4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Let's go back to the basics:

• Speak the truth. Is this a fact or just speculation?
• Love others. Assume the best, not the worst. Am I acting in concern and respect for others? Is it my business? Is it the business of the person I'm telling it to?
• First parties first. If there is a dispute, the first approach is to talk to the parties directly involved (Matthew 18:15-17). If the issue is not settled, take a few witnesses; if not, involve the entire church. Yes, in that particular order, not the other way around.
• Forgive as God has forgiven you. For most of my life I've been the gossiper, not the target, so it's easier to understand and (supposedly) forgive those who are now doing the same to me.

To be honest, I'd rather not see the people I think are gossiping about me, and I'd rather not hear them. But I don't want to assume anything. I can confront each one to get the facts straight, but that's too draining, physically, emotionally and socially. I'll just go ahead to the forgiveness part: Forgive them if my hunch is right, ask and claim God's forgiveness if I'm wrong. 

And ask and claim God's forgiveness for my own gossiping ways.

So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. 

For this is the will of God,

that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.

Live as people who are free,

not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil,

but living as servants of God.

Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God.

(1 Peter 2)

Truth hurts but...

"The slap of a friend can be trusted to help you, 

but the kisses of an enemy are nothing but lies."

- Proverbs 27:6

The truth often hurts.

The "proper" or "gracious" manner can only do so much.

Thankfully, the truth also sets us free.

The Memoirs of a Wedding Guest

 

http://www.casamadrona.com/sausalito-california-weddings.php 

Tonight caps  my "three-weddings-in-one-week" adventure. What have I learned?

* God will provide --- from money for a wedding (if it's His will), to someone to marry in the first place (again, if it's His will).

* I am honored to be invited to each friend's/relative's/co-worker's wedding: one of the most special days in their lives. To witness, to pray for, to share joy in. It is a privilege.

* Surprisingly, I feel no bitterness. I'm single and will be 30 in two months. Society dictates I should be panicking by now (and dating around instead of... *blogging*). But, it's OK. I'm walking with God and He's in control; He knows best.

* "There is no more condemnation for those in Christ."  No more manipulation, guilt tripping, emotional blackmail, playing on insecurities, and defrauding. No more abuse. "All good things come from the Father." God-centered relationships are not perfect, of course, but may we recognize (and take action) if we are in a relationship that does us more harm than good. I would rather be single than in a relationship that displeases God and people. Well, prayer answered / wish granted --> I'm single now.

* I love people! These three weddings enabled me to hang out with three different sets: churchmates, family, and co-teachers. In particular, I love what my married co-teachers said: It's not about age, background, status.. It's about God, and who He'll send. Just pray. Wow. Amen.

* May the guests not just partake of the wedding; may they support the marriage too, for better or worse.

* I love food. I've said before that my goal for this year (and how many years before?) was to develop "the Spirit of self-control". Hmm. Tomorrow I'll exercise na, promise. ;)

* I'm looking forward to my own wedding, God-willing. Our Lord Jesus tells us that if we ask according to His will, He hears and answers. It turns out I still have a lot to learn about God's will, but on the plus side, at least I'm learning.

* Lastly, I should look forward to each day, single or not, approaching my wedding or not. "This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." There is a command to rejoice; it is an act of faith for those who wish their lives could be different. But God is good and great. Let's remember, and trust, and live each day to the full. Attend a wedding even.