With all that’s happening in the world today (earthquakes, El Nino, political instability, moral downward spiral, etc), this is a timely reminder. Our text says, “Be still….” Other versions translate it as, “Cease striving…” It literally means “relax”, “to let go, to let your arms down to your side.” What? Is it possible to relax when you are in trouble? Yes! God’s Word says so! Of course this is not our normal response to troubles; so this advice doesn’t seem to make much sense. Any time I have been involved in a struggle I have wanted to do something.

Is it possible to relax when you are in trouble?

Think how vulnerable you feel when you drop your arms, let go, cease striving, and relax! Yet, this is what God instructs us to do in this Psalm. But God doesn’t just tell us what to do here….He doesn’t just tell us to “relax”….He also tells us how to relax. He says “Be still………AND KNOW that I am God.” In other words, there is something we can KNOW to help us cease our striving in the midst of the battles of life. There is something we can KNOW that will help us to relax when things get rough. Often we respond to problems in life emotionally…based on feelings of fear and insecurity and panic….but here, God challenges us to respond…not emotionally but on the basis of something we KNOW….instead of something we feel. So what? What is that we can know in the midst of our battles?

KNOW THAT HE IS GOD! That He is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble(Psa.46:1); that He is the River of Life, the Fountain within us, the source of everything that we need (vs. 4-5); that He is the Lord Almighty (vs.7); the Victorious One who defeats His enemies (vs.8&9); He is the Ever-present One, who never leaves us nor forsakes us (vs.11 - The Lord Almighty is WITH us)! Know that God is sovereign and absolutely perfect in His dealings with us. It means that there is nothing which escapes His notice, and there is nothing which is beyond His ability!

He is the River of Life, the Fountain within us, the source of everything that we need…

Another thing that we can KNOW when we face the battles of life – We know that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28Rom. 8:28
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  

WP-Bible plugin).” There is a story about a fisherman who, with his two sons, went out fishing. The catch was good; but by mid-afternoon a sudden storm blotted out the shoreline, leaving the men groping for the direction home. Meanwhile, a fire broke out in the kitchen of their cottage. Before it could be extinguished, the fire had destroyed the family’s earthly possessions.

Finally, the father and sons were able to row their boat ashore. The man’s wife was waiting to tell him the tragic news of the fire. “Honey, fire has destroyed everything,” she said tearfully. “We have nothing left.” But the husband was unmoved by the news. Didn’t you hear me?” she asked. “The house is gone!” “Yes, I hear you,” he replied. “But a few hours ago were lost at sea. For hours I thought we would perish. Then something happened: I saw a yellow dim glow in the distance. It grew larger and larger. We turned our boat toward the light. The same blaze which destroyed our home was the light that saved our lives!”

The same blaze which destroyed our home was the light that saved our lives!

So when we face the struggles and battles of life we may not KNOW how things are going to work out presently, but we can be still…we can cease striving…we can relax….because even though we don’t know how things are going to work out, we do know Who is going to work things out – and when He does things, He does it for our good! Life is not always good, often the battle turns against us…we do WIN some and LOSE SOME….life is fickle…good for some and bad for others…but God is always good! And beloved, this God is for us, not against us!

In one sense this was the “cry” or the motto of the recent celebration of People Power 1 Revolution anniversary last Thursday. Never again that dictatorship would rule the country. Never again that the nation will suffer in the hands of a dictator. Never again that democracy will be silenced and never again that tyranny would open its iron hands and spreads its claws. What it’s saying is simply: “Be vigilant, protect our freedom for blood had been shed to gain what we have today!”

I remember Paul the apostle’s battle cry - but it was a different battle: - “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery (Gal.5:1).” Paul wrote this to the Galatians to defend the truth of the Gospel. Some false teachers had invaded the churches of Galatia — churches Paul had founded — - and were teaching a different message from that which Paul had taught. They were spreading a “false gospel” which is a mixture of Law and Grace. They say that for a gentile (or non-Jew) to be found righteous and acceptable before God, they are to add to their faith in Christ the rituals and practices of Judaism. They add “something” to the finished work of Christ. Paul fought against this and maintained that man is not justified by observing the Law, but by faith in Jesus Christ…because by observing the law (trying to earn your way to heaven by your own efforts or trying to establish your own righteousness by following the 10 commandments,etc..) no one will be justified (Gal.2:16).”

…Never again for Jesus, our “freedom fighter” has set you free. And if the Son has set you free, you are free indeed (John 8:36John 8:36
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.  

WP-Bible plugin)!…



In fact, Paul added, “You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace (Gal.5:4).” Now, as this was a great concern to Paul, it is still to us today. For many will tell you that trusting in Jesus Christ alone for your salvation is not enough; you are to “do” something also by performing good deeds. Good deeds are good if it’s the fruit of our faith in Christ, but if we present this “good deeds” to God as a basis for righteousness (or having a right standing before God), it’s like filthy rags to Him (Isa.64:6).”

You don’t have to make yourself nice, nor lovable for God to save you, for while you are yet a sinner He died for you (Rom.5:8)! You don’t have to do something to make God accept you - You are already accepted in Christ when you believe. And because of what Jesus has done for us - setting us free from the penalty and the power of sin, don’t let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey it’s evil desires (read Rom.6:11-14).

Never again go back to “religion of works” that makes you a slave to sin. Never again that sin becomes your master which leads to death. Never again go back to the old fleshly ways which you are now ashamed of. Never again turn back to that path filled with emptiness, despair and hopelessness. Never again for Jesus, our “freedom fighter” has set you free. And if the Son has set you free, you are free indeed (John 8:36John 8:36
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.  

WP-Bible plugin)!”

Already some parts of the country are affected by the El Nino phenomenon. The dry spell has reduced water supplies and caused sporadic electricity blackouts in some parts of Luzon. Newspaper reports said many farmers have been forced to stop planting because of a lack of water. Indeed lack of water causes things to dry and die. But there’s another kind of dry spell that all people experience – even Christians – the dryness of the soul!

David, experiencing the same wrote, “ As the deer pants for streams of water, my soul thirst for You, oh God (Psa.42:1).” I read something about some characteristics of a deer particularly when he is thirsty. When a deer is thirsty, he will run full speed until he finds some water. When he finally finds it, he will stick his face into the cool stream, forgetting everything else around him. This is unusual for deer because they are normally very alert and cautious. But, when they’re panting, they’ll do almost anything to quench their thirst.

During drought conditions deer will alter their daily routine to make sure they can find water. Whenever a deer senses danger, it will run to a stream. Most hunters think the deer is trying to avoid leaving a scent. The deer, however, seeks water for a different reason. When a deer is retreating from an enemy, it develops a tremendous thirst. Fear and the physical strain of running create a strong desire for water. The Psalmist is picturing himself like a deer that is on the run in desperate search of refreshment.

…Everyone who drinks of this water shall thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life (Jn.4:13-14)…..

Beloved, when we are down and despairing of hope, needing of refreshment, the only place to go to is God. As thirst draws a deer to streams, so thirst in our hearts is designed to draw us to God. When all else fail, God satisfies. Our longing for God cannot be satisfied by anything else.

What about money? Christina Onassis, the daughter of wealthy Aristotle Onassis said, “Happiness is not based on money, and the greatest proof of that is my family.” What about success? Pop-star Madonna, when asked the question, “are you a happy person?” Replied, “I’m a tormented person. I have a lot of demons I’m wrestling with. But I want to be happy.” Comedian Eddie Murphy said, “I feel something’s missing… No matter how much money you make, or how many cars or houses you have, or how many people you make happy, life isn’t perfect for anybody.”

Jesus said, “Everyone who drinks of this water shall thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life (Jn.4:13-14).” Jesus is saying to many people today, “Your thirst has been misplaced, the answer to your soul’s thirst is Me. One drink and you’ll never thirst again.” His water is the water of eternal life. You may be here this morning and you’ve drunk from many wells (religion, career, relationships, things) and remained thirsty. Take your thirst to Jesus today and ask for His living water! It is free, it is refreshing, it’s rejuvenating, it is yours! Simply ask Him and He will fill you!

It’s the Day of Love they say. Sad that many people mistake love with lust. And if love is discussed with God in the equation, still, the definition is inaccurate. We have a picture of love — and of God’s love in particular — that is shallow and sloppy. We assume that God is nothing but love, and we assume that love is nothing but niceness. We’d like to think God won’t condemn anything that makes us happy, and we’d also like to think God would never deliberately send any problems and pains into our lives that would make us unhappy. But according to the Bible, God does condemn many things that we might enjoy, and God does allow sorrow and suffering. So either God is not very loving, or else His love isn’t the way we often picture it.

…God’s love is unconditional in the sense that it’s not based on what we do to earn it….

Sometimes God’s love is said to be unconditional. In one sense that’s true, but it can also be misunderstood. God’s love is unconditional in the sense that it’s not based on what we do to earn it. When we come to Jesus for salvation, the Lord will forgive any sin, even the worst, and receive us as we are, for the sake of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. But sometimes we talk about “unconditional love” not as a love which can forgive our evil, but a love which doesn’t care about our evil, not as a love that receives us as we are but a love that leaves us as we are.

That’s not how God’s love works. God’s love has a goal. God may love you in spite of your evil, but He will not approve of your evil or allow it to go unchallenged or unchanged. When God gets hold of you, He changes you. The Lord receives you as you are, but He loves you so much that He will not leave you as you are! If Jesus loved you enough to die for you, then He loves you enough to work on you and move you toward His goal for you. The Bible says, “Our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ … gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good” (Titus 2:14Titus 2:14
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.  

WP-Bible plugin).

Love’s goal is that we be pure and eager to do good. And love will do whatever it takes to achieve that goal. Jesus left the perfect happiness of heaven and endured the most horrible suffering to bring us back to Him. So don’t be shocked if the Lord allows you to be unhappy at times, if He command some things you don’t enjoy or puts you through experiences that hurt. The love of Jesus is not a sloppy sentiment that says, “I just want for you whatever makes you happy, sweetie pie.” No. Jesus’ love is gentle yet strong.

In the long run, God does intend to make His people happy — but He intends to make us happy in being holy. So until we are as pure as God wants us to be, until we delight in the things that delight God, God doesn’t necessarily want us to be happy. Holiness comes before happiness on God’s agenda for you and me. This is the holy love of God for His chosen ones. A love springing from the depths of eternity, a love displayed in the death of Jesus Christ, a love which has paid the ultimate price to have us. A love which will do whatever it takes, to transform and purify us so that we are, in the words of Paul in Ephesians 5:27Ephesians 5:27
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.  

WP-Bible plugin, “radiant… without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.”

A week ago my Computer desktop broke. It’s an unpleasant reminder that things do break. No matter how you take good care of it…eventually it will break. Everything is broken. Broken bottles, broken switches, broken gates, broken parts. Streets are filled with broken hearts. Broken words, never meant to be spoken. Broken bodies, broken bones, broken voices on broken phones. Everything is broken. Broken treaties, broken vows, broken hands on broken plows. Broken pipes, broken tools, people bending broken rules. Everything is broken.

Broken is not a pleasant word for us, because the images are repulsive and makes us feel uncomfortable. Because it is no good, it is damaged, it is worthless. You don’t value broken toys or cars. You want something that works. There are many causes for brokenness like failing health, forced change, broken relationships, job loss, death of a loved one, unforgiveness, war, divorce, fears, addictions, bankruptcy, suffering, clinical depression, violence and loss of self-esteem. We indeed live in a broken world – broken, due to man’s breaking of his relationship to God. It’s called sin! The Bible says sin separates us from God; sin breaks man’s relationship with God. And so everything becomes broken.

What’s the solution? His Son Jesus had to be broken…to make us whole again! There at the cross, held by nails, a crown of thorns on His head, and blood oozing from His beaten down body, the Son of God broken for us. By His brokenness we have been made complete! Complete in Him (Col.2:10). What does that mean?

It means that He is Sufficient for our Salvation and for life. He is the only one who could supply the perfect life that was needed. He is the only one who could supply the perfect righteousness (or right living) that would be applied to our account. Jesus is the only one who’s life and position is valuable enough to secure the salvation of anyone who would believe in Him. Jesus took our place. He took the penalty that we deserved. Many of you may be here today because you are trying to live a better life. You are hoping that by doing some good things you might be able to squeeze into Heaven by the skin of your teeth. You see involvement in the church or going to church as the key to eternity.
No. We need nothing more than Christ! The work is accomplished. He did what we could not. He did not do the job part way. His sacrifice is sufficient for your salvation! Yes, no matter what you have done in the past, no matter what your feelings tell you, no matter what your family and friends say, what Jesus did for you is enough. It is sufficient for you to be saved, and for you to know His fullness in your life. He offers you eternal life. What you must do is trust Him. It’s more than reciting the truth or saying a prayer. It’s more than having an experience. It is a matter of placing all your confidence for eternity on what Christ has done for you. It’s saying, “Lord, I cannot be good enough. I know that on my own I can never be “saved”. Today I believe, cling to, and rely on your promise that if I would believe, I would be saved.” The key question is this: Do you believe the promise? He has done enough. His sacrifice is sufficient. Will you trust Him?

“My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.” (Psa.62:1). If you are of average weight and height, here is what you will go through in an average 24-hour period: Your heart will beat 103,689 times. Your blood will travel 168 million miles, as your heart pumps approximately 4 ounces per beat. You will breathe 23,040he 23,040
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
Izbrano poglavje ne obstaja!

WP-Bible plugin times, inhaling 438 cubit feet of air. Your stomach will take in 3.5 pounds of food and 2.9 quarts of liquid. You will lose 7-8 pounds of waste. If you are a man, you will speak 4,800 words. If you are a woman, you will speak close to 7,000 words. You will move 750 muscles, and exercise 7 million brain cells. No wonder we’re tired!

“How long would this continue…how long should I hold on…would this ever end?”

But there is weariness much more draining than physical fatigue. It’s the kind of weariness you feel when you just don’t know if you can go on another day. It’s the weariness a father feels when his child is doing wrong. It’s the weariness a friend feels who has been abandoned or misunderstood. It’s the weariness a wife feels whose husband has rejected her. It’s the weariness which can take a toll on even the most seemingly successful individual – even a child of God, a servant of God.

Have you ever become so weary, so tired of life’s battles? And worse, all your resources – material, emotional and mental are already depleted that you have nothing left so you just want to give up? If anyone was ever weary, David was (read Psa.62). He had grown weary from the constant assaults of his enemies! He is so worn out and tired that he is about to fall down and collapse. David asked what we also ask when we are in the midst of troubles, “How long?” “How long would this continue…how long should I hold on…would this ever end?” Yet in the midst of his weariness he is able to find rest – where? In a Liquor Bar? In Drugs? In Entertainment? No. In God alone (read vs.1) –

Beloved, there is place of rest for the weary – and it is in God alone. Jeremiah 6:16Jeremiah 6:16
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.  

WP-Bible plugin – “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.” When we are in the weary times of life, it is as if we have reached a crossroads and we must now choose which way we will go. In this passage God is telling us that we must choose the good way because that is the only way to “find rest for your souls.”

He listens. He cares…. simply REST in Him!

The opposite is there is no rest for the weary when they will not listen to God and choose to go their own way rather than “the good way.” What is “the good way” that Jeremiah wrote about? It is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “I am the way” (John 14:6John 14:6
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.  

WP-Bible plugin). He also said, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28Matthew 11:28
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  

WP-Bible plugin). Truly, Jesus is the good way — the only way — that provides rest for our souls. Call on Him. Pour all your heart out. Let go. Let Him fill you with love and grace. He listens. He cares….and simply REST in Him!

As I was watching a basketball game the other day a thought came to my mind, as if the Spirit of God gently reminding me – that Life in general is not a game! Oh we wish it is! But not so! Most of the time it’s a battle, it’s a struggle; a lot of tears and pain, heartaches and hurts. Beyond the smile and the laughter is a hurting and weeping heart – crying out for love, pleading for help, begging for relief! We live not in a fantasy world nor in video game world, but in a real world of sin and trouble! What do we do when life turns to the worst? When the battle rages and we’re in the thick of the fight? When our enemy is gaining ground and we’re losing our grip? Psalm 46:1-3Psalm 46:1-3
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
46 To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. for: or, of ¹ God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. ² Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; midst…: Heb. heart of the seas ³ Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.  

WP-Bible plugin - God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

When life presses in upon us, when trouble comes, then we can know that we have a place to run to. God is our refuge and strength. It does not matter what form the trouble takes, or how it is delivered, or how long it stays. God alone is our accessible, protected place of refuge and retreat. We can hide there and know that nothing can get through to us unless it goes through Him first. In any battle you need a safe place…a fortress where you can go to rest and recoup and think. One of the most beautiful pictures of spiritual refuge is found in Psalm 91:4Psalm 91:4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.  

WP-Bible plugin where it says, “God will shield you with His wings.”

Have you ever seen little chicks hop around, chirping, pecking, doing “little chick stuff”? If the mother hen becomes aware of a predator or a threat to her offspring, she responds by lifting her wings and within seconds, all the baby chicks disappear underneath them. Now, the predator sees nothing but one mean-looking mama who just dares the enemy to take a step forward! She is a refuge for her children…..she is their protection. Now eventually, the chicks will have to crawl out and face the real world again. But for a season, there is nothing quite like the soft shelter of those wings — -the downy feathers caressing their heads; the mother’s warmth stilling their shakes; her heart’s steady beating gradually calming their fears.

And God delights in spreading His protective wings and enfolding His frightened, battle-weary children. God is our refuge! And one way that we let God be a refuge for us is to simply talk to Him about our struggles. Psalm 62:8Psalm 62:8
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
8 Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.  

WP-Bible plugin says, “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” So the passwords that open the gates into the refuge of God are the soul - wrenching words that flow out of our hearts, when we finally decide to trust God enough to tell Him about our struggles. Somewhere in the middle of taking that step of faith, the gates open, and God’s wings extend.

God delights in spreading His protective wings …enfolding His frightened, battle-weary children…

Jesus is our refuge even when what seems permanent and unchangeable changes. When the world seems to crash in around us, He is still there. When the world does not make sense, He is still there. When the problems overwhelm us, when we are afraid, when we are hurting, God is still there. He’s an ever-present help! Thank You Lord!

More than 100,000 people were feared dead Wednesday after a cataclysmic earthquake with 7.0 magnitude in the Richter scale struck Haiti, filling the streets with corpses and burying thousands under razed schools, hotels and hospitals. Parliament has collapsed. The tax office has collapsed. Schools have collapsed. Hospitals have collapsed. What a devastation! As many people are, my heart breaks and go out to the victims and to the survivors. Pray that God would use whatever happened there to turn hearts to Jesus Christ!

He wants to tear down the scaffolding and reveal the unshakable realities that are eternal…

GOD TODAY IS SHAKING THINGS. He wants to tear down the scaffolding and reveal the unshakable realities that are eternal. Too many people are building their lives on things that can shake. But a Christian can be confident, for we shall receive an unshakable kingdom. In fact, we are part of God’s kingdom today! Now what shall we do as we live in a shaking world? Listen to God speak and obey Him. Receive grace day by day to serve Him with reverence and awe. Do not be distracted or frightened by the tremendous changes going on around us. Keep looking to Jesus Christ and run with perseverance. While others are being frightened we can be confident!

ESTABLISH YOUR PRIORITIES. When you begin to establish priorities, you have to decide just where God stands in your life. So ask yourself, “Who or what is most important in my life?” And I’m hoping that your answer will be, “My relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, is most important to me.” If so, then put that at the top of your list of priorities, & say, “This will affect my decisions, my scheduling, my relationship with others, & my whole outlook on life.” The next in the list is your family. If you’re married – Your wife; if you have small kids – Your kids. They’re growing up ever so fast. These are precious moments. Don’t let them get away. Make sure that you spend quality time with your children. Make sure that your family is very high on the list.

And if you are single, listen to Paul’s advice: “I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man/woman is concerned about the Lord’s affairs – how he/she can please the Lord. Her/His aim is to be devoted tot he Lord in both body and spirit (1 Cor. 7:32-341 Cor. 7:32-34
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
32 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: that belong…: Gr. of the Lord ³³ But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. ³⁴ There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.  

WP-Bible plugin).” And for the church as a whole – let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and the harvest field – for they are ripe for harvest; and let’s continue to be faithful to His Word and to help others know the Word – to disciple them – for this is Christ’s mandate for the church!

See to it that we do not refuse Him who speak (Heb.12:25). God still do speak through His Word…

See to it that we do not refuse Him who speak (Heb.12:25). God still do speak through His Word and His creation today. Is anybody listening? Are we listening, church? We have this ever shining hope in our hearts, are we sharing it? Do we tell others of this hope we have in Christ? Why not when God wants to use you to be a messenger of hope in this ever darkening times! Jesus’ return is near. Is anybody listening?

“Lord, grant us ears to hear, eyes to see, hearts that are yielded to You only. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.”

Two weeks into the New Year, already many people’s hopes of a better future on earth are dashed to pieces. The world remains the same, no change for the better. Same condition. Same situation. It’s still a hard life. Tomorrow is another day to worry about. Not to a child of God! Would it not be better to leave tomorrow with God? Didn’t Jesus say that we should not worry about our life, what we will eat or drink; or about our body, what we will wear (Matt.6:25)? That the birds of the air do not sow or reap and yet our Father feeds them? That we are more valuable than they (Matt.6:26).

Would it not be better to leave tomorrow with God?

Instead of worrying about tomorrow we’re taught to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” What does it mean when we pray this prayer? First, it means we are saying that we trust God as the source to supply all the physical needs of our lives. In Deuteronomy we’re reminded, “It is God who gives you power to get wealth” (8:18). All the resources at our disposal are gifts from Above, James 1:17James 1:17
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.  

WP-Bible plugin, says.

Second, notice that this trust in God for these needs is for each day. In the first century, bread had to be made on a daily basis. They couldn’t just buy a couple loaves and put them in the freezer. It was baked fresh every day and was an essential part of life. Jesus was instructing His disciples to ask God for what they needed to live for the day. Like manna that comes once a day, God provides one day at a time. So when we pray “Give us this day our daily bread” we’re showing that we’re depending on God a day at a time. It doesn’t say, “Give us next week our weekly bread.” Jesus urges us, “Don’t worry about having enough food or drink or clothing….Do not worry about tomorrow” (Mt 6:31, 34Mt 6:31, 34
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ³⁴ Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.  

WP-Bible plugin). Instead trust Him each day at a time!

How much is enough, Lord? How much is too much? What can I live without?

And this prayer, thirdly, means Contentment - Some people are never satisfied with what they have. Beloved, God gives us that which is necessary, not always the wants of life; He provides for our needs, not our “greeds”. It’s when we insist our “wants” that lead us to troubles and debts! Listen to this prayer of a fellow-believer that I know also expresses our own –

“Lord, sometimes I fear the things I have. They steal my best time and energy by crying for my attention: ’Buy me! Eat me! Wear me! Upgrade me!’ And so I am hungry, because I am feeding my greed and not my soul. How much is enough, Lord? How much is too much? What can I live without? I don’t want too little, for fear of becoming bitter and anxious. Nor do I need too much, lest I turn complacent and blind to the needs of others.

Give us this day our daily bread….I need bread to stay alive, but without the Bread of Life I will never truly live. Teach me contentment, Jesus. Show me a way of true delight in the things of this earth, without mad cravings to own or control. Increase my hunger for You and for the things of Your Spirit. May I never desire anything - a tasty meal, a beautiful dress, even a cozy home - unless You are in the desire, helping me to be grateful and generous.” Amen.

This was what we heard over the airport P.A. system as we sat there in the waiting room. Our flight home was cancelled due to zero visibility here in Dumaguete last Thursday afternoon. Excited to get home but God had another plan – an extended time with my family in Manila. We were able to spend the new year with them and it was indeed a blessing in disguise. This reminds me of another kind of cancellation that I always rejoice in - “He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.” (Col.2:13b-14)

Jesus paid in full what you and I cannot pay…

We were completely forgiven! What wonderful words these are. Look at the scope of forgiveness: “He forgave us all our sins.” How many of our sins? ALL. Not just the past sins, not just the present sins, not just the big sins, not just the little sins but ALL of them. Do you get it? It means those times in your past that plague you with guilt … He forgave those sins. That means every single one, even those that you have a hard time forgiving yourself of. And those times when you let others down and hurt them, He forgave those sins too. And all those times you promised you did something for the last time … and then you fell again … God forgave those in Christ too. He forgives the hidden sins and the public sins.

How is this possible? Paul tells us that God canceled the written code that was against us. This is the Law. The Law is holy and good but we are not, so we are condemned because we cannot fulfill the Law. The Law was against us and stood opposed to us because all it could ever do was point out our sinfulness. But the condemnation this Law brings Jesus has removed from us. It’s not that the Law He removed but the condemnation it brings to us due to our sins. He died in your place. His goodness was applied to your account. Your debt was canceled. That’s what it means when He shouted, “IT IS FINISHED!” The debt is paid. Jesus paid in full what you and I cannot pay. The debt of our sins is gone forever because of His blood shed once and for all!

We stand on the verge of a new spiritual venture… a new calling to serve the Lord in the new year.

So, beloved, you who believe in Jesus, as we are now into the New Year receive afresh His forgiveness and acceptance. If you’ve been holding on to the past, it’s time to accept the hurts and losses of our pasts in such a way as they no longer influence or control us, where they no longer have power in our lives. Don’t be a prisoner of your past. Past blunders, mistakes, failures and hurts need not have a stranglehold on your life.

We stand on the verge of a new spiritual venture; a new calling to serve the Lord in the new year. In a sense, the challenge of a new year is like standing on the edge of the fresh sand of a wave swept beach. Or, holding a clean sheet of paper or a clean slate. And that once again, we are given an opportunity to trust God, to walk with Him and show us great and mighty things He wants to and will do in and through us for His greater glory. HOPE IN HIM, FOR ONLY IN HIM IS HOPE!

Automobile drivers know that the rear view mirror is an important part of a vehicle…but they don’t fix their eyes on it, always looking at what’s behind. It’s going to be disaster if they do! And do you notice that it’s so small compared to the windshield in front of you? What is it saying? That we’re to look ahead more than we look back! As we enter into the new year, I have a Word from the Lord for all of us: THE LORD SAYS, `Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I’m doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18Isaiah 43:18
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
18 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.  

WP-Bible plugin) –



God is saying, …”don’t think about the past. It’s over. If you can learn from it, learn well, but the book’s closed on it.”



Listen to what God is saying in this verse. Forget about what’s happened before. He says don’t think about the past. It’s over. If you can learn from it, learn well, but the book’s closed on it. We need to understand that God is far more interested in our future than He is in our past. Some people think that God is stuck on their past. That all He wants to do is remind them of the things that they have done wrong. God is more interested in your future than He is with your past. That’s where you’re going to spend the rest of your life. He says, “Forget about your past. Forget about the former things. Don’t think about it. Look at the new thing I’m going to do.”

Israel was being punished for their sins and rebellion against God. God wanted to give hope and encouragement to His people. He wanted them to know that even though they were being punished they were not being forsaken. God wanted His people to understand that the punishment that they were experiencing would not be the end of them. The fact is that God want to give them a fresh start in life, a new Beginning in life. Israel no doubt was discouraged because they thought this was the end of them. They had gone too far, they had sinned and rebelled against God to the point that He would no longer be their God. Maybe they thought ‘God would not deliver us again, it’s over’. They could remember the former things, but they couldn’t see their future. That is why God said; “ I am going to do something new.



Every new day His mercies are fresh and every day is an invitation to receive afresh His mercy, His forgiveness.

Maybe that is where you are this morning! You feel that you have made so many mistakes, you have failed God so many times and you have sinned it all away. That God doesn’t want anything to do with you. You feel and believe that you have no future with God. The good news is, God is saying, “ It’s not over, I have plans for your life. I am about to do something new for you. ” And you don’t have to wait for a new year to do that. Every new day His mercies are fresh and every day is an invitation to receive afresh His mercy, His forgiveness. God wants to do a new thing in your life. Come to Him with humility and repentance today, with heart wide open to receive His healing grace and with your mouth ready to declare His goodness and faithfulness!

A SPIRIT-FILLED, CHRIST GLORIFYING NEW YEAR TO ALL!



This day the whole world focuses on one event — Christmas. Everything will become secondary for one 24-hour period while we celebrate Christmas. But what is so special about Christmas?  It is the centerpiece of our history. Even our calendar is dated from



God split history with the event of Christmas. Everything is either A.D. or B.C.

the reference point of Jesus Christ. God split history with the event of Christmas. Everything is either A.D. or B.C. What is so special about Christmas? Read Philippians 2 and you’ll know. There is the greatest explanation in the Bible of who Jesus Christ is and what He came to do. This is the bedrock, the foundation of all that we believe. I want to give you the 4 R’s of Christmas — 

1.THE RELEVANCE OF CHRISTMAS: GOD CAME TO EARTH - When Gen. Douglas MacArthur landed at the Island of Leyte on Oct.20, 1944, fulfilling his promise to return, that was big news. That is nothing compared to the news when God invaded earth. It was big news when man landed on the moon and walked there. It’s bigger news when God landed on the earth. Jesus Christ is God Himself. It was God that came to earth!

God invaded earth. That is the relevance of Christmas. Over and over the Bible repeats and Jesus proclaims that He is God. We must remind ourselves that Jesus did not begin His existence in the manger at Bethlehem. He was without beginning. Jesus even declared in John 8:58John 8:58
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.  

WP-Bible plugin – “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was born, I am!”

II. THE REALITY OF CHRISTMAS: GOD BECAME A MAN - This is even more difficult to understand. If you were God and were going to come to earth, of all the ways you could choose to reveal yourself, would you come as a baby? As a human being? The reality of Christmas was that Jesus Christ was a real man, flesh and blood, bones, hair. He was a real person, not a myth, fable, a nice story. Our God has not remained remote and unapproachable. He has come to us in person. He did not just write us a letter. He did not just send us a representative. He did not just speak His laws from a mountain. He came to us as one of us. The Infinite became an infant. The Eternal One became a little one.



Jesus didn’t stay in a crib in a manger. He grew up went to a cross and… laid down His life for us.

III. THE REASON FOR CHRISTMAS: JESUS CAME TO DIE- Jesus didn’t stay in a crib in a manger. He grew up went to a cross and voluntarily laid down His life for us. The Bible says He did it for two reasons: 1) To demonstrate God’s love (Romans 5:8Romans 5:8
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  

WP-Bible plugin); and to 2) To die for our sins - (I Peter 2:24r 2:24
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.  

WP-Bible plugin). Somehow what He did 2000 years ago can make a difference in my life right now. I can be completely forgiven for everything I’ve ever done wrong or will ever do. That’s the reason for Christmas. The angels said, “For unto you this day is born a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”

IV. THE RESULT OF CHRISTMAS: JESUS IS LORD – He did not remain dead. He rose again! And the Father has given Him the place of top honor in the universe. He’s honored above all else – the highest place. Is He your Lord today? Celebrate Christmas worshiping, adoring, loving the Lord of all!

A CHRIST-CENTERED AND SPIRIT-FILLED CHRISTMAS TO ALL!





My kids are very excited, counting down the days…to our Manila trip.



They long to be with their cousins, uncles, aunts, grandpa and grandma! My dad and mom can’t wait either. They’ll be surprised to see the kids grown up and tall! Whew! Time flies so fast indeed. But in every second that ticks, every minute that passes and every hour that turns to shadow, the closer we get to see our Savior Jesus! That, I can’t wait!

I don’t claim to know the exact date when He will return. Nobody knows – only the Father. Yet God has given us signs to sense where we are now in the fulfillment of His plan and program. And indeed, it’s very near. But how many of the world’s people today expect it? How many really long for it? Or how many dismiss it as a fable or as nonsense borne out of a fictitious tale? How about you who profess to be a Christian? Do you “still” believe it? Or we have been seduced by the world and caught up in the web of deception that our vision of His coming has been blurred so that our life-style show it?



“…have we been seduced by the world and caught up in the web of deception that our vision of His coming has been blurred so that our life-style show it?”

Jesus warned, “Be careful or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap…Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man (Lk.21:34,36).”

A little girl had been listening while her mother’s friends were speaking about the imminent return of the Lord. After some time she was missed, so her mother went in search of her. She found her looking out a window at the top of the house. Asked what she was doing she said, “Oh, Mother, I heard you say Jesus might come today, and I wanted to be the first to see Him. See, I washed myself and put on a clean dress.” 1 Jn.3:3 says, “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself just as He is pure.”

Beloved, before you really get stressed out and started pulling your hair this Christmas season, remember what it’s all about: Jesus was BORN TO DIE for our sins, DIED TO LIVE AGAIN for our justification, ASCENDED back to the Father to intercede for us and one day soon will be COMING AGAIN to take us where He is! In the meantime, we’re to be the Salt and Light of the world as we abide in Him who is faithful and true!





Many people have asked me this question. For some suggest that there are several reasons why a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas.

First, some say that a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas, because of the name of the holiday, Christmas. The very name Christmas is offensive to some because the name is derived from the combination of two words, “Christ” and “mass”. The word means “the mass of Christ.¨ Some, therefore, are offended by what they think is an association with the Catholic Church. But the root meaning does not in reality have anything to do with Catholicism it means “Christ is sent.” It would seem that name accurately presents what the holiday is all about. In fact Galatians 4:4Galatians 4:4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  

WP-Bible plugin says, “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son.”

Second, some say that a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas, because of the use of Christmas trees. Some quote Jeremiah 10:2-4Jeremiah 10:2-4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
2 Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. ³ For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. customs…: Heb. statutes, or, ordinances are vanity ⁴ They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.  

WP-Bible plugin as forbidding the use of Christmas trees (Go and read it). If indeed this passage referred to decorated Christmas trees it would most certainly be wrong to have them. But when we read this verse in the context of the whole chapter we find that what is being described is the practice of felling trees and carving idols from them.

I, personally, do not put up Christmas tree in our house not because it’s idolatry, no, simply because it’s something that you can live without. In our family we like to always keep things simple. Now it is true that some Christians are offended or stumbled by Christmas trees so for them it’s wrong. I respect that. But I don’t find it a sin to put up one. Why? Because just as we are redeemed people, we’re called to redeem our society and point them back to the cross. What do I mean? I can use a Christmas tree to tell people that God also has a tree, it’s called the Cross and explain to them how Jesus was hanged on a tree(1 Peter 2:241 Peter 2:24
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. on: or, to  

WP-Bible plugin).



“I can use a Christmas tree to tell people that God also has a tree…”

And Thirdly, some say that a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas, because December 25th is the wrong date. Jesus was probably not born on December 25th. This date was chosen because it was a pagan holiday already being celebrated. It seems Christian leaders endeavored to keep Christians from being a part of this pagan celebration by giving them a Christian festival on the same day, celebrating the birth of Christ.

Would the Lord be opposed to the celebration of a non-biblical holiday? We might find some guidance in what transpired in John 10. Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem at the beginning of an observance of a non- biblical holiday (non-biblical in the sense that it was not commanded in the word of God) called the Feast of Dedication or Feast of Lights (Channuka). How did Jesus respond? Did He stay at home and refuse to participate? Did He condemn those that did participate? NO!! He was right there in the temple in the middle of the celebrants using it as a teaching opportunity.

That’s what we’re to do. What is not an obvious sin we can use as a teaching tool about Jesus Christ. We should be right there among them looking for every opportunity to tell them about the reason for the season, the child who was born to save them from their sins. Let us approach this Christmas echoing the glory expressed by the angel in Luke 2:10-11Luke 2:10-11
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. ¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  

WP-Bible plugin, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord!”

You can’t help but feel angry, troubled, upset, and sad about the tragic massacre in Maguindanao. The brutal murder of 57 people has plunged our country into a state of sadness and utter disbelief: How could someone do such a thing? Is there anything that could have been done to prevent it? What is happening to our society? Why is there so much evil in this world? The inability of some to reconcile the existence of a loving God with that of an evil and depraved world is one of the primary reasons why many reject the message of the Bible. However while this tragedy will prompt some to question the existence of God, in truth, it is only by turning to God that any real answers can be found.

…When we trust God and choose to follow Him, our suffering is not in vain…

The Bible teaches that God created the whole universe. He created our world and everything in it, but the world He created was very different from the world we live in today. Genesis 1:31Genesis 1:31
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
31 And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. And the evening…: Heb. And the evening was, and the morning was etc.  

WP-Bible plugin says that “God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good.” However when Adam and Eve disobeyed God everything changed, sin and death entered into the world – and into the heart of man. God created man with a free will - the ability to make choices. He could have made us like robots, pre-programmed to love and obey Him. Instead He gave us a choice, because He wanted us to come to Him willingly. Mankind suffers because of its sin, and it is because of our sin that we are separated from God, who is perfect and holy. However there is hope.

The Bible says that everyone has sinned, that the punishment for sin is death (both physical and spiritual), and that our sin separates us from God. Furthermore, there is nothing we can do to obtain the holiness (or perfection) necessary to enter into God’s presence. Left to ourselves, without God’s intervention, we are hopeless. However because God loves us, He has graciously given us a way out of our predicament. He provided us with a substitute, Jesus Christ, who was perfect and blameless, to take our place and bear the punishment for our sins. Because He died for us, we can be forgiven.

When we trust God and choose to follow Him, our suffering is not in vain. The Bible says that God uses trials and obstacles to teach us and draw us closer to Him. Yes, closer and closer…until we finally see Him face to face and leave this world of sin. But in the meantime we’re here to represent the Lord – to love and to care, and to preach the gospel in an uncompromising boldness. When I see tragedy like this, more and more I’m reminded that man’s heart is indeed evil and the only solution isn’t a social program, isn’t a political reform, not even a higher education – but Jesus Christ. When the love of Jesus invades and permeates any one’s heart, that life will never be the same again! I know…for He did it to me!

Let the love of God in Christ fill your whole being today. Let Him touch you again…so that you can be His hand to touch others throughout this week until He returns!

Not as a façade, not a pretension, nor a “Sunday smile” mask I wear, it’s real. Let me tell you why. As I hear people begin their countdown to Christmas, and indeed it is near, I wonder if it still matter to many – if it still brings joy. Would carolers sing “Joy to the world” with real joy flooding their hearts? Is joy supposed to be once a year experience? With all the different things going on in the world today (mostly bad news), can people experience true joy? And the answer is Yes!

…Our joy increases in direct proportion to our intimacy with Christ…

Joy—it makes people wonder at your secret. Yet joy is no secret to the trusting Christian. When we choose to grow closer to God, resting in His character and provision, joy spills over into our lives so that others can’t help but notice. Do you want to be a person of joy? Silly question, isn’t it? We would love to live above our circumstances. Or have a great attitude. Or laugh a lot. But joy goes beyond all these things. Let’s learn from God’s Word the lovely facets of joy:

1. Joy is the fruit of God’s Spirit. More than a great attitude or an unconquerable spirit, joy comes from God (Galatians 5:22Galatians 5:22
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,  

WP-Bible plugin). Our joy increases in direct proportion to our intimacy with Christ. And when sin keeps us from that relationship, it also robs us of our joy (Psalm 51:8, 12Psalm 51:8, 12
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice. ¹² Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.  

WP-Bible plugin).

2. Joy doesn’t depend on circumstances. Paul wrote Philippians—often called “the book of joy”—from a jail cell. He was criticized, tired, and misunderstood. But instead of allowing his horrible circumstances to choke out God’s Word and God’s Spirit (as Mark 4:19Mark 4:19
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. lusts: or, inordinate desires  

WP-Bible plugin describes they often can), Paul chose to concentrate on the joy of knowing Christ (Philippians 2:17Philippians 2:17
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. offered: Gr. poured forth  

WP-Bible plugin). Next time you read Philippians, picture Paul’s jail cell … and his face.

3. Joy is a choice. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials” (James 1:2James 1:2
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; temptation: or, trials  

WP-Bible plugin). Here’s the reality—read it carefully. Life’s painful trials are not joyous in themselves, but when we walk through them, we should be filled with joy. Why? Because of the good God is developing in us and in the situation. We can know real joy while in the scariest storm when we fill our minds and hearts with truth about God.

Joy becomes a transaction between you and God that others can’t help but notice. It’s God’s life spilling over the brim of your life and into others’ lives. When you trust Christ with the details of your life, you experience His life in wonderful excess, and it can’t help but give you reason to smile.

The streets will be quiet, some stores may even be close, and the crime rate go way down and the Filipino people will be united again. Is that possible? Yes. Every time Manny Pacquaio steps on the ring! I’m very sure most Filipinos will be glued again to their television or radio today - just to watch and hear the fight of Pacman against Cotto. He’s fight is always a must-see because of the excitement, the skill and the pride that he brings into the boxing ring for the Filipino people. Both said in an interview that they had never trained like how they trained for this fight. And all the months of training, the hours of preparation, and the amount of discipline and determination to win will be decided today.

…to be strong in the Lord is to surrender and fully submit our heart, mind and will to Him…

But do we ever spend the same energy, having the same enthusiasm, the same discipline and determination to our spiritual life? As you know, we are also in a “ring.” It’s a different kind of a “ring” – it’s the “ring of life” wherein we do battle, we do struggle – not with flesh and blood, but with the spiritual forces in heavenly realms. And this ring we are in isn’t once or twice a year fight– but it is everyday! Here is the real picture of life. Many believers seem to live as if there were no spiritual battles at all. They see Christianity not as an entrance into warfare but as an exit from it. But we are called, in the Christian life, to a battle, not to a life of ease; to a battle, to a warfare, to a wrestle, to a struggle.

Beloved, life is not a playground, but a battleground. When one becomes a Christian it doesn’t mean that the battle is over, no, we just change sides! Oh we wish we would have vacation from that, that we would have a very long break from life’s battles, that we could declare a ceasefire – but no, not in this life. Every time I go out of town for a short break, yes, it’s a break from my duties and responsibilities here, but it’s no break from the temptations and seductions of the world, the flesh and the Devil. I cannot put my guard down. I need to be in constant look out in prayer of the fiery darts that the enemy throws at me and to my family.

So what is the Bible’s command? “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power (Eph.6:1).” The good news is it is not our strength that equips us to stand, it is God’s strength invested in us when we submit to God. To be strong in the Lord is to surrender and fully submit our heart, mind and will to Him. We stand in the power of His might! Our strength is not in ourselves. Our strength is in Him. Paul said, when I am weak, then I am strong. For His strength is made perfect in my weakness.

So be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power!” This phrase could be very loosely translated, “In the grip of His hand.” We don’t have a hold on God. He has a hold on us. In John 10:29John 10:29
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.  

WP-Bible plugin, Jesus said, “ My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” Beloved, as we fight the battles of life, yield to Him by faith, and as we surrender our will to Him and submit our heart to Him, this is the assurance, whatever happens, HE WILL NEVER LET YOU GO! We have a love that never lets us go…and a love that fights for you!

There were some American soldiers stationed on a small island in the South Pacific during WWII. Monkey meat was a real delicacy on this island, and the islanders showed the Americans how they captured monkeys — 1. Put an apple in a wide-mouth jar. 2. Tie a rope around the jar. 3. Tie the other end of the rope around a tree. 4. Wait patiently.

Eventually a monkey will come along, look curiously in the jar, see the apple, reach in and grab it. The monkey’s hand easily compressed to fit into the jar but his fist, holding the apple, was too large to pull out. The monkey, however, would predictably refuse to let go of the apple. The monkey was in effect, tied to the tree by the rope, the jar and the apple. Very soon…monkey adobo! Now think about this for a moment… Was the monkey too stubborn or too stupid to let go of the apple? You know what? It really doesn’t matter. It is the same result: one dead monkey.

Now for the real question…Did the monkey have the apple or did the apple have the monkey?

It is only by letting go that we become free…

There are things that bind us. As long as we hold on to them, their power over us continues. It is only by letting go that we become free. It’s only by surrendering everything to Christ that we experience true freedom.

Now, true freedom is NOT having the freedom to do whatever you want, however you want to do it. We are free in Christ indeed. That means we have the freedom to obey God and live fruitful lives or we have the freedom not to obey Him and choose sin. If we are sincere in our faith we must not willingly abuse our freedom. Paul writes, “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature” (Galatians 5:13Galatians 5:13
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.  

WP-Bible plugin). Jesus didn’t set us free to give us an excuse for sinning. He set us free from sin so we could enjoy a relationship with the Father. He set us free so we might choose to obey and serve Him with sincerity of heart.

We are free to choose the best…

You see freedom has boundaries in order to keep us safe. In Christ we have freedom – within the boundaries of God’s Word. We are free from the punishment of sin, from eternal death, from the past, from fear of the future, but we are not autonomous. We are not free to do our own thing. We are not free from responsibility. We are not free to sin. In fact the Bible says that we are not our own we were bought with a price. That means we belong to Jesus! So it’s not me who is in-charge anymore – it’s Him!

So when Jesus sets us free… We are free to rise above our sin. We are free to live a holy life. We are free to finally CHOOSE what is right. We are free to choose the best. We are free to keep growing. We are free to reach the potential for which God has designed us! Live free!

Today the whole nation commemorates the dead. Cemeteries are filled with people remembering their loved ones who passed away. Death. A very unpopular, not-part-of-daily-conversation kind of a word. We avoid going to funerals if possible and we never just drop by a funeral home to have a cup of coffee. We work out and lose weight and lower our cholesterol and we try to be careful so that death won’t come too close to us. But sometimes death comes and knocks at our door. Other times death breaks the door down and comes barging into the living room whether we like it or not.

Sometimes death stares us in the face and we don’t know what to do or how to respond…

Death is never easy to deal with. Most of the time we can avoid it or try to postpone it or keep it far away from us. But sometimes death stares us in the face and we don’t know what to do or how to respond. In fact, the longest walk you’ll ever take is the walk away from the grave of someone you love. If you have never done that, you can’t imagine how difficult it is. To walk away and feel as if the world has come to an end. It is the longest walk and the saddest day. Every step takes you away from the tombstone of a broken dream. And what is worst is: hell awaits those who do not have Jesus! But there’s good news. Imagine this conversation between a Christian and Death –

CHRISTIAN: Hello, Death, my old enemy. My old slave-master. Have you come to talk to me again? To frighten me? I am not the person you think I am. I am not the one you used to talk to. Something has happened. Let me ask you a question, Death. Where is your sting?

DEATH, sneeringly: My sting is your sin.

CHRISTIAN: I know that, Death. But that’s not what I asked you. I asked, where is your sting? I know what it is. But tell me where it is. Why are you fidgeting, Death? Why are you looking away? Why are you turning to go? Wait, Death, you have not answered my question. Where is your sting? Where is, my sin? What? You have no answer? But, Death, why do you have no answer? How will you terrify me, if you have no answer? O Death, I will tell you the answer. Where is your sting? Where is my sin? It is hanging on that cross. God made Christ to be sin—my sin. When He died, the penalty of my sin was paid. The power of it was broken. I bear it no more. Farewell, Death. You need not show up here again to frighten me. God will tell you when to come next time. And when you come, you will be His servant. For me, you will have no sting.

Where is my sin? It is hanging on that cross.

If you are a believer of Christ, Death need hold no more terror in your life. For Christ “Tasted Death” for us, and triumphed over it on that First Easter Morning. That first Easter morning will ever be known as THE DAY DEATH DIED! So rejoice this morning that through Christ we have eternal life!

This is the theme of our just concluded Calvary Chapel Regional Conference. It was indeed a time of refreshing, encouragement, and instruction. We were reminded to live, work and serve in the light of Jesus’ return. In the parable, the king gave one mina to ten of his servants and told them to ‘Put this money to work until I come back.’ Or, as the KJV puts it, “occupy until I come.” That they were to be engaged in business with this money, to use for the benefit of the kingdom.

Have you been reluctant to use God’s gifts for God because you think you don’t have enough time?

How true also with us. God expects us to put into practice, to use the gifts He has given us for the benefit of God’s kingdom. He has given each one of His servants valuable gifts. He has commanded us to “do business”, to occupy until He returns – for whose benefit? Ourselves? No, His kingdom! Now we all have different amounts of money, and spiritual abilities, but what are some of the things all of us have been given equally by God? I can think of at least three gifts we’ve all been given in equal amounts — 

(1) Time - I’m not talking about the length of your life, because that varies. But each of us has the same amount of time each day–24 hours. Even though we have the same amount, wouldn’t you agree some servants do a better job managing those 24 hours in terms of doing business for God? Have you been reluctant to use God’s gifts for God because you think you don’t have enough time? Do you need more time? Here’s what you do. Start using the time you have to do business for God. Soon you’ll find you have more time. You won’t get 25 hours a day, or eight days a week, it will just seem like you have more time! If you don’t believe it, try this. Starting tomorrow, get up 30 minutes earlier and give that time to God in prayer and personal Bible Study. If you do that regularly, you’ll find you seem to have more time instead of less time.

(2) Truth - As servants of God, we all have the same instruction manual, the truth found in God’s Word, the Bible. God hasn’t given me any more truth than what is available to you. What do you do with the truth you know?

All of us have opportunities to serve our Master…

(3) Opportunities to serve God - All of us have opportunities to serve our Master. Some servants just do a better job of taking advantage of those opportunities. The faithful servants in the parable didn’t play it safe. They risked their lives in doing business for the Master. God honors that kind of bold faith. When you risk it all on serving God, even though you may be afraid, you’ll find that God gives you more and more opportunities!

The undeniable truth is we will be judged by how we manage His gifts. God is looking for a few good spiritual entrepreneurs who are willing to risk their lives doing His business because they love Him. Will you be one? I pray so.