Psalm 95:1-7

A CALL TO WORSHIP AND OBEDIENCE 
 PSALM 95:1-7
New International Version (NIV)

 ¹ Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD;
   let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
² Let us come before him with thanksgiving
   and extol him with music and song.
 ³ For the LORD is the great God,
   the great King above all gods.
⁴ In his hand are the depths of the earth,
   and the mountain peaks belong to him.
⁵ The sea is his, for he made it,
   and his hands formed the dry land.
 ⁶ Come, let us bow down in worship,
   let us kneel before the LORD our Maker;
⁷ for he is our God
   and we are the people of his pasture,
   the flock under his care.
   Today, if only you would hear his voice,

Rich Thoughts For The Week

10. Never let success go to your head or failure to your heart.
9. If someone betrays your confidence...don’t give up on people...ask your Heavenly Father to give you a Godly friend who won't.
8. Don’t buy on Black Friday what you can’t pay off until Good Friday. . .next year or the year after.
7. If you are content with what you have done…you will never accomplish what you could have done.
6. Your attitude, speech and behavior are all directly affected by the people you spend a lot of time with.
5. TRUTH ALERT!!! Your giving can create multiple streams of income for you.
4. Quit thinking about what might have been and get hold of what can be as you allow God to empower your life at this very moment.
3. Invest your time in acquiring knowledge that will encourage, empower, enable and enrich you in the things of God.
2. If you’re feeling confused and don’t know what to do...you've talking to the wrong people. Try God...He never creates confusion.
And the number one Rich Thought of the week is. . . .DRUM ROLL. . .
1. Why give a full financial statement to a banker you don’t know but yet never discuss your finances with God who knows it all anyway?

Rich Thoughts - by H. Herring

Coupons

For those who have yet to finish their Christmas gift list and is looking for great deals or discounts or free shipping or sales, you might need these banana republic coupons. I know most moms are frugal (like me!) and are always on the look out for sale. I wanted to give good gifts but I don't want to be over spending too that's why I always look for the red tag SALE :)

I have yet to finish my list and I know It's kinda late but even so, still, that won't stop me from looking for discounted items.

Kids Christmas Party

Last Saturday was our first Christmas party for the kids that we minister to. And it was a special Christmas party because we doubled the fun by giving them also our Praisin' Kids Town event (mini-carnival fair) and it is very evident in each glowng face how the kids enjoyed it. Thank you everyone for supporting us and two more kids parties to go!

enjoy the pictures :)

Rich Thoughts For The Week

10. Some people say: "I'll believe it when I see it." God says: "When you believe it, you will see it."
9. Money allows you the opportunity to live your life the way you want whereas a lack of money forces you to live your life the way others want.
8. Your future is in front of you…unless you decide to live in the past.
7. Never allow your dreams to be reduced or eliminated by a lack of money.
6. Too many people complain about what they don't have. . .without ever creating a plan to get it.
5. “Will all your worries add a single moment to your life?” (Matt 6:27 TLB)
4. Renewing your thinking is an exchange of what you think with what He thinks.
3. Your success in life is frequently determined by who you listen to and the advice you act on.
2. Never let what your eyes see...determine what your heart believes or your hands find to do.
1. Stop reliving your setbacks because you're headed for a major comeback."

Rich Thoughts - H. Herring
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Good thing, I am receiving mails like this, it helps a lot. Like this very moment that I am worrying (that's why I put emphasis on no. 5) -I was reminded that worrying will not add a single moment in my life. Now, I got to stop worrying and enjoy the gift of life :) and enjoy looking at the beautiful latex mattress from the internet just to sway away all the worries in my mind.

Anyways, I hope you get something from this kind of post too. Have a good day everyone!

The Newlywed

Ramon is my brother in law, younger than my husband. I am so proud of him! he's so close to me because he has pure heart, from the time I met him even before I married his brother he's been special to a lot of people because of his godly character, very kind hearted and so humble.

Yesterday, he married the woman that was chosen by God for him :) and I love them both!

Don't you agree that they're beautiful couple? Who would have imagine Ramon the street kid, the one sniffing rugby to fill an empty stomach? collecting garbages just so he can have something to eat? is now the man wearing tuxedo suit and holding the hands of this beautiful lady :) So many have been blessed by his life and by their love and in return they were blessed also yesterday, different gifts for her and for him abounds :)

Even their wedding is a story of faith and trust in God, being a full time worker in a small church, he may have nothing financially speaking but he proved to us once again that if he has God he has everything!

Congratulations again and WE LOVE YOU BOTH! keep making us proud :)

Proverbs 3:1-12

learn the secrets to abundant and prosperous  life :)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

¹ My son, do not forget my teaching,
   but keep my commands in your heart,
² for they will prolong your life many years
   and bring you peace and prosperity. 

 ³ Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
   bind them around your neck,
   write them on the tablet of your heart.
⁴ Then you will win favor and a good name
   in the sight of God and man.

 ⁵ Trust in the LORD with all your heart
   and lean not on your own understanding;
⁶ in all your ways submit to him,
   and he will make your paths straight.


 ⁷ Do not be wise in your own eyes;
   fear the LORD and shun evil.
⁸ This will bring health to your body
   and nourishment to your bones.

 ⁹ Honor the LORD with your wealth,
   with the first fruits of all your crops;
¹⁰ then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
   and your vats will brim over with new wine. 

 ¹¹ My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline,
   and do not resent his rebuke,
¹² because the LORD disciplines those he loves,
   as a father the son he delights in.

NIV-emphasis mine.

Busy days are coming

December is one of the busiest month in our church. Several Christmas parties are being held per age group, like there is a separate party for the young people, for the singles, for the housewives and for the husbands. But this year, it will be very different, as we will only have one big Christmas party on the 18th of December and we tagged it as our "Thanksgiving Day". For sure, there will be presentations,games and gifts and it will be one great day for everyone!

But before that, on the 10th of December, we will have Christmas party for the kids in our feeding ministry in Makati and I'm working on that too. There will be another two parties for the feeding ministry in two provinces on the 21st.

I hope that with all the chaos going on during this season people does not end up tired and unhappy, after all though the busiest, this is the month where one can be happiest too.

I'll see how me and my husband will fare with this season,now that he is already working but having the same activities and commitments at church, I can only pray for us to do just fine.

Anyways, are you done with your Christmas shopping yet? I just started with my list and hopefully will finish before the thanksgiving day. Some gifts I'm buying online which is great for me, talk about time saving :) And there are really great gift ideas out there like these rfid blocking wallets for women. I wish I could buy one for a friend but having it shipped just in time for Christmas will be a problem as we are on the other part of the world.

It's 33 days before Christmas! Are you ready for all the activities coming up?

Rich Thoughts For The Week

10. When you know that you’ve done the best job possible. . .there is no need to compare yourself to anybody else.

9. If you worry about money...then you're not trusting God or obeying His Word.

8. While others are complaining about a lack of opportunity...you create your own.

7. Never allow your circumstances to cloud your thinking; destroy your dreams or make you settle for less than His best for your life.

6. While others are making excuses you can make a difference.

5. If you had a business partner who wanted you to keep 90% of all the money received...you'd be foolish not to accept. You have that kind of partner. Mal 3:8-10

4. Lack is one four-letter word you want to keep out of your vocabulary and your life.

3. If you’re inconsistent in tithing, the windows of heaven will be opening and closing over your life.

2. One of the enemy’s greatest weapons is to create doubt in our minds about the inevitability of our harvest. Don't listen.

1. Wanting the blessings of God without a relationship with Him is both foolish and wishful thinking. Matthew 6:33


Rich Thoughts - by H. Herring

No videos for now

It's been a while since I posted a video song that spoke to me and blessed me because of our internet connection. My husband is actually trying to view a song a while ago but we just can't. Our broadband prepaid internet is so slow that makes video download from youtube a painful task.

But we have to deal with that and be happy for what we have now. I contemplated for having postpaid internet at home but we figure  we can still bear this one now as long as I can post regularly to my three blogs.

So that explains why there are no videos for now maybe someday soon.

Psalm 139 : 1-16

This morning, I am reminded again of how the Lord loves me.

" Whether or not I always feel significant, I am deeply loved by the Father" -ODB
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Pslam 139
For the director of music. Of David. A psalm.

1  You have searched me, LORD,
and you know me.
2  You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3  You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4  Before a word is on my tongue
you, LORD, know it completely.
5  You hem me in behind and before,
and you lay your hand upon me.
6  Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.

7  Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8  If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9  If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11  If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,”
12  even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.

13  For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14  I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15  My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place,
when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16  Your eyes saw my unformed body;
all the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.

Carnival Fair & Christmas party for the kids!!

After the event for the scholarship program, here comes one major event for the kids in our ministry. It's their Christmas Party! and this time, it will be double fun because it's Praisin' Kid's Town also :) So it's like having a Christmas party on a carnival fair :)

I am so happy that as early as now, our regular supporters for this specific event have already affirmed their donations :) We will be giving toys and stuff for the kids! Praise God!! Indeed our God is good. He will bless these less fortunate kids through His many hands and that's all of us :)And I'm sure those who will extend their blessings will be blessed too!!

Rich Thoughts of the Week

I get this once a week in my email and I just thought it's good to share...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
10. Disappointment is the day...the person you became meets the person you could have been. It's too late to change...the results of that meeting.

9. Your response to adversity is directly proportional to the amount of time you spend in the Word.

8. TNT can have explosive results in your life when you do things TODAY NOT TOMORROW.

7. A “hot” investment tip will get you burned! If the deal seems too good to be true, believe me, it is.

6. Withholding your seed from God is not only unprofitable. It’s foolish. You're keeping what doesn't even belong to you (Haggai 2:8).

5. God's got your back...in every step you take (Deuteronomy 31:8)...He's watching over you (Psalm 32:8). Don't allow the enemy to make you think otherwise.

4. If you don’t like the way your world is at the moment, change it. God has given you the ability to change your direction and your destiny.

3. Today, we can follow God’s instructions and reap the benefits, or we can ignore God’s instructions and suffer the consequences.

2. If you’re afraid of what’s going to happen. . .you’re not listening to the One who makes things happen.

1. Excuses about why you can't do something...won't impress God or anybody else for that matter.

Rich Thoughts - by H. Herring

We are beautiful!

On times that I am doing nothing and just looking at the mirror (which is very seldom) I take notice of everything that's on my face like " I need to shave my eyebrows" What if I buy eyelash growth products or have an eyelash extension? "How would I look if my nose is bit smaller"..you know stuff like that..And I make all the faces I can make. Crazy me!

There are times though that I get quite sad specially when I see an "old" and "tired" and "stressed" woman at the mirror. Don't you feel that sometimes? I guess we all do have that moments.

But of course, my God is always there to cheer me up, saying He loves me no matter how I look. I will always be beautiful in HIS eyes. God created us in His image I guess that is more than enough reason for us to rejoice and say that yes we are beautiful!

So next time, you look into that mirror..say it boldly..I am God's creation and I am beautiful!! Amen?

Can't wait for Christmas

Christmas Countdown

You can definitely feel the Christmas air here now. Shopping malls are adorned with beautiful decors and you can hear Christmas songs everywhere. Most television advertisement are also about Christmas. Yes, Christmas season starts as early as September here and lasts till January.

In other parts of the world, it's winter season and people are getting ready for the cold weather. And while a lot of them are not liking it (as snow can get worse at times) most of us Filipinos are dreaming of it. A white Christmas they say. Proof is the many white Christmas decors around, snowflakes, fake snow and a lot more. I guess we all wonder how it is to have that lot of whites in your yard. How it feels to make snow man, snow angels, play in the snow, use snow chains and many other snow stuff.

I myself actually dream of that and I pray someday me and my husband will have that experience.

But for the meantime, we will enjoy Christmas here. Though this is the busiest season for both of us it is still my favorite month. Parties here and there and good food everywhere, happy faces and most of all family gatherings.

Can't wait for Christmas :)

Fundraising event pictures

The S.A.A.D (Sayaw, Awit at Dula) which means Dance, Song and Drama in English ( a fund raising event for our scholarship program went well last Friday. I was more than happy with the outcome. a lot of young people came and we got good reviews. Praise God!! Here are some pictures;

The street movers ( very good dancers!)

 One of our scholars rendering a song

 Ethnic dance

Now, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported us with this event. May the Lord bless you in return!!

Drug Rehab and Treatment Centers in Metro Manila

Just in case anyone needs a reference of drug rehab treatment centers here in Manila, got the list from my yahoo group and posted it here because I know a lot are looking for information regarding this. It might help also those who do ministry to street kids who sniff rugby and is need of treatment centers.

 Life Management Foundation Inc.
Address : 2/f Yupangco Bldg. 2320 Pasong Tamo Ext. Makati
Tel. # : 892-97-19 to 20 / 812- 12-67
Services : Halfway housing to recover and Group therapy

 Life Change Counseling Center & Psychiatry Clinic
Address : #105 Scout Rallos Street, cor. Timog Avenue,
Brgy. Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City
(near Quattro Grill and Bar REstaurant, turn left at the first corner)
Tel. #: 415-6529 / 415-7964
E-mail : lifechangerecovery@...
Service : Professional Counseling, Psychotherapy, Rehabilitation of Drug Dependents, Provide interventions for substance-related cases, Attitude and Behavioral Management
Schedule : Monday to Sunday 24 Hours
Psychologist/Psychiatrist : Randy S. Dellosa, M.D., C-Psy.D.
Violeta Bautista, Ph.D.


 National Capital Region
Address : Ground Flr. Champ Bldg. Anda Circle Port Area, Manila
Tel. # : 527-32-13
Services : Treatment and Rehabilitation
Fee for Testing P 300
Evaluation for free
Contact : Dr. Lilia R. Mabanag or Dr. Sualog
Schedule : Monday - Friday ( 7:00 - 4:00 PM )

NARCOM Treatment & Rehabilitation Center
Address : Camp Bagong Diwa ,Bicutan, Taguig , Metro Manila
Tel. # : 722-12-77 / 837-24-71 loc 753, 745
Contact : Supt. Baltazar Balanguan

New Beginnings - Treatment &  Rehabilitation Center
Address : #40 Cairo St., Phase 3 BF Homes Paranaque Mla.
Tel. # : 827-57-77
Fax # : 827-51-40
Contact : Mr. Jaime del Rosario
Fee : P 75,000


Sagip Foundation
Address : 943 J. Escoda St., San Marcelino, Malate Mla.
Tel. # : 521-41-98


YOUTH Renewal Center
Address : c/o Caritas Manila, Gen. Trias, Cavite
Tel. # : 522-03-61

QUEZON CITY DRUG TREATMENT AND REHAB CENTER
Address: City Hall Compound, Quezon City Hall
Tel. # 9269535
Scedule: Open from Monday to Friday; 8:00am to 5:00pm
Services: Provide Free Counseling and Drug Test, Referral for Medical Examination, Referral for Rehabilitation of Drug Dependents
Client: 12 yr. and above; male and female, priority are residents of Quezon City

 Sheperd Drug Rehabilitation Center (A private rehabilitation center for drug dependents, alcoholics, depressed individuals and teenage mothers. It is being managed by Christ the Living God fellowship.)
Open from : Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Address : #3 Scout Albano Street, Quezon City
Telephone Numbers: 414 1544 / 410 5698
Services : A complete rehab program for 7 months, Counseling, Rehabilitation, After care, Psychotherapy, Attitude and behavioral management
Service Fee : P17,500/month
Contact Person/s : Ms. Rose Benitez, Administrator
Requirements for Referral: Phone call, walk-in

Share your food with the hungry

Isaiah 58:6-12
New International Version (NIV)

6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?

7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness[a] will go before you,
and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.

9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer;
you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.
“If you do away with the yoke of oppression,
with the pointing finger and malicious talk,

10 and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness,
and your night will become like the noonday.

11 The LORD will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.

12 Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins
and will raise up the age-old foundations;
you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls,
Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

I dream

I dream of living on a big house with many rooms and facilities someday. A library with lots of children books to read and a kitchen where healthy foods are always ready. A pedestal bathtub is not necessary but I would love a wide lawn and play area where kids will enjoy playing under the trees and the sun.

I don't dream that for myself though. I dream for children out there in the street. Children like "jay-jay". For the kids I have met ever since I got involved with the childrens' ministry.

I dream for that girl who sells sampaguita (flowers) in a busy hi-way. I dream for that little boy walking and running  without slippers not minding the danger of his own playground. I dream for that teenage girl I once met sniffing rugby and sleeping in front of establishments together with some boys (their age ranges from 7-16 years old). Oh how my hearts bleeds for her.

I dream for the many children living in the streets left on their own, abandoned,astray, hungry and alone.

I pray I can have that house someday soon. For the meantime, I'll keep on being friends with them, they don't have much friends either and sometimes all they need is just a listening heart.

And I'm excited, my husband and I thought of a new way to get to them and hopefully we'll gain more kids friends with this. Can't wait!

Gifts for the Kids

Christmas party is one of the most awaited event by the kids in our ministry. They know they are in for a sure treat on this day so they really look forward to it. This year our Christmas Party will be on the first Saturday of December and as early as now we are already accepting gifts for the kids.

I have friends and office mates that gives regularly for this occasion and I am thankful that they already have given me their word that they will give again this year. Praise the Lord!

However, we plan to extend the gift-giving to one of our church outreach in the nearby province and that means we need more toys and gifts thus we need more donors.

If you want to share your blessings, if you find it in your heart the desire to give, please let us know. Toys, clothes, school supplies or food will be greatly appreciated. These kids don't ask for lavish gifts such as ProFlowers gift basket and the like but one toy can make them really happy and excited.

For more information on how you can give , you may contact the following;

International Teams Philippines
FISHNETS MINISTRY
3741 Bautista St., Makati City, Philippines
Tel: (63-2) 832 5142 to 43
or at
LJBC Global Ministry
4627 Arellano St. Palanan,Makati City
Tel: (63-2) 556-4239

God bless everyone!!!

"Jay-Jay"

Hindi sinasadyang nakito kong muli si "jay-jay" kanina. Hindi ko agad naalala ang pangalan nya pero hindi ko maaring makalimutan ang mukha nya. Malaki na siya at isa ng teen-ager ngunti laman pa rin siya ng kalye, nakayapak at nagugutom.

Isa si "jay-jay" sa mga batang tinuturuan at pinapakain namin noon tuwing Sabado.At isa rin siya sa pina ka aktibo, madaldal, magaspang at pinaka madungis. Sa tuwina kong pakikipag usap sa kanya, napag alaman ko na nakatira siya sa kaniyang mga tiyahin noon at hindi nag aaral, sabi nya naghihingi siya ng limos sa isang kalapit na supermarket at kadalasn ay isinusugal sa kara y krus.

Hindi na kami nagpupunta sa lugar na dati niyang tinitirhan, natapos na ang aming feeding program sa kanilang lugar kaya hindi ko na rin siya nakita....hanggang kanina...sa labas ng mercury drug..habang nagpapatila kami ng ulan..

Nakangiti ako sa kanya pero umiiyak ang puso ko na laman pa rin siya ng kalye, nakayapak at nagugutom. Sabi niya nagpaparking daw siya para may pangbili ng pagkain,umalis na daw siya sa kaniyang tiyahin dahil ayaw sa kaniya. Naalala ko ang isa sa mga "batang hamog" na kamakailan lang ay naaksidente at namatay.

Hindi siya humingi ng pera sa akin bagkus ang sinabi nya kung pwede ko siya pakainin. Itinuro niya sa akin ang katabing tindahan ng pares at nag order ng pagkain niya habang pinagsasabihan ko siya na malaki pa ang pag-asang mabago ang buhay niya dahil bata pa siya, pwede pang maiba ang direksiyon at gumanda ang estado ng buhay niya.

Labinlimang taon na si "jay-jay" at ngayon daw siya ay nasa grade 2 at hindi ko alam kung matatapos niya ito.

Napaisip tuloy ako, may magagawa ba ako? kami? sapat na nga ba na naturuan namin sila noon at napakain? Nabahaginan ng salita ng Diyos?

Pwede pang sagipin si "jay-jay" sa kalye at totoo na pwede pang gumanda ang buhay niya...KUNG

....kung meron siyang maayos na pamilyang uuwian

..kung meron siyang magulang na gagabay sa kaniya

..kung merong mga taong magmamalasakit..ng totoo

Sana makumbinsi ko siya na pumasok na lang sa isa sa mga foundations o organisasyon na kumakalinga sa mga batang kalye.

Sana hindi siya matulad sa naging kapalaran ng isa sa mga "batang hamog".

Relax..

* Grasping for control only stirs up more distress, but trusting in the Lord brings PEACE
* Tranquility and inner calm blossom when you depend upon God to care for you and your loved ones

I trust in You, O Lord; I say, "You are my God" My time is in your hands. Psalm 31:14-15 NIV


Image source : Jesus is the way to heaven facebook page
Text : Simple Living for Women

Leave of Absence or REST?

How does one take a leave of absence in ministry work?

I know the rules very well in a non-ministry job, let's say when you are a teacher, or a nurse, a computer programmer or people who have Dietetic Technician Jobs or any kind of job for that matter. You just file a leave of absence and someone will take charge and when you get back you resume the work you are handling.

But I figured, it's entirely different when you are doing ministry. Besides of the fact that you are not being paid regularly, it's God who chose you and appointed you to do such and only HIM should tell you when to stop. I really don't think leave of absence is applicable in this but of course we are allowed to take a rest. It's very important to rest in a while, you need to replenish your energy, to be filled again, to renew and be healed and be strong again.

So REST we will. My husband and I are taking rest for a while. I do not know how long but for sure God knows how long it will last. Our prayer is that while we are on rest, our passion will be renewed, our hearts will be filled and we will be even more strengthened and we'll be ready for the next assignment He will be giving us.

More than prayers

If you're not from my country, probably all you've been reading from the news about us are the typhoons that comes one after another. And the flood.

image source : chinapost

yes, the whole of Central Luzon is submerged in water and people lost millions of pesos in their business and agricultures, but my readers from other countries should also know that amidst these calamities, there are inspiring stories worth telling a thousand times.

Last night, I was inspired with stories of ordinary people trying to help and give whatever they are able to give to victims of this calamity.

A man (I believe he's a fisherman) in that area who was able to caught a lot of shrimps (due to overflow of fish cages) didn't think of keeping it all for him self or for his family. He gave his neighbor a handful each so they can have something to eat. When food and relief is scarce, there is this man who thinks not only of himself but of others too.

When evacuation centers are not enough, a lady opened her property for people she doesn't know and accommodated them, she initiated to give them food and organized a relief good distribution for those people. She even said that no one is too poor to help because even one peso you give can be of big help. And I couldn't agree more. If you can't give money, you can even give your time. A big foundation is calling for volunteers who will pack relief goods to be given to evacuees. and a lot of ordinary people are responding.

Sometimes, I think me praying for them is not enough, not when you know you can give them more..more than your prayers.

Pslam 43:5

image from motivationalquotes.com

Typhoon.Storm.Pray

Our country once again was hit by a typhoon yesterday and if you think that we ever get used to it, no we don't.

Typhoon "Pedring" battered almost the whole of Luzon with strong winds and rains that filled the dams, thus flooded many provinces and towns including Metro Manila. The ever famous Manila Bay was not spared and establishments nearby (hotels, US Embassy, Museum and restaurants) were flooded.

Praise God.. we were spared. We had no electricity the whole day yesterday and that was it. But my heart goes out to those who suffered much, to those whose houses weren't spared and to those whose source of income were damaged and mostly to mothers who lost their children because of the typhoon. I know moms tend to be protective (some even use portable baby monitors) but how can you stop a ravaging water? how can you protect someone when you can't even protect your own life?

Please keep on praying for us because there is another storm coming and it will hit again the Northern part of Luzon which is still flooded until now. Pray it will not bring damage and will claim no more lives.

Images sourced from all over the net.

Coffee break ministry.

Where two or three people gather for a cup of coffee at least once or twice a month and talk about God. His faithfulness, his goodness and and His love. Or talk about life, circumstances and whatever it is that they would like to talk to.

I would love to have this kind of ministry. I love coffee ( instant coffee, brewed, black & mild or sweet and mild, brown, hot, cold or iced ) and I would certainly love to have it while sharing with someone and then at the same time ministering or being ministered.

I will pray about it and hopefully this will push through.

Benefit Show for the Scholars

do you WORRY?

 Image source : us.fotolia.com

because right now, I DO.

my hands are cold..it's like anytime soon I'll be torn. I made a mistake and I discovered it only now and I knew very well, MISTAKES ARE NOT FREE.

I am worried that if they learn about it I'll be screwed. So I'm praying, begging that there will be no major effect on whatever/wherever we have used it.

I hope the Lord will listen and spare me.

What do you do when you worry?

I know I can put it into God's hands and leave it to HIM but I can't help it eh.

I'm such a worrier. I wish I can do something about it.

Working too hard?

Work has been crazy for two days in a row now. I'm expecting another crazy day tomorrow. I just wish it wouldn't last until Friday or else I'll have no more energy come weekend. :( But as I have said in my daily blog, I am not complaining. I'm thankful instead that I have a job.

People close to me often say I work too hard and often joke about me having a lot of kids that's why I have to work too hard. I don't know though, sometimes I am wondering if I am working too hard then why can't I afford little pleasures in life? a big plasma tv with plasma tv mounts? or a trip to beauty parlor at least once a month? Not that it would make me happier because I know very well that I can't find happiness in such. Just wondering.

How about you my dear readers? do you think you are working too hard?

Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young.

My oldest nephew Ryan is already in third year high school, one more year and he’ll graduate and will be in college, as early as now he knows what he’ll study, he’ll not be into a mechanical engineering career career but he plans to take other Engineering course. Electronic Communications Engineer, that’s what he wants. And I can only pray for God’s guidance for him to achieve his dream.

Ryan, young as he is but is already serving the Lord. He worship leads in a small church where his mom is the Pastor. He loves music ever since he was a kid like 5 or 6 years old and even then when you ask him what he will be when he grows up, he would always say a Pastor. So I want to think he’ll be an Engineer Pastor :) someday.
This proves that no matter what your age is, God can use you as long as you are willing. So don’t you ever think you are too young for any kind of ministry, remember what Paul said to Timothy.

"Don't let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." 1 Timothy 4: 12

Weight problem

I know when it comes to loosing weight, I am a failure, I tried enrolling myself in the gym (twice), did low carb-high protein diet, no rice diet but none worked for me basically because I lacked the discipline and determination. The last time I seriously lost some weight was when I was about to get married and that was 5 years ago.
I don’t know if it’s the motivation that helped me because if it was, don’t you think trying to conceive for almost 4 years now would be enough and better motivation for me to loose weight?
I can blame the age and some syndrome
but I know I can still do something about it.
I can lose weight. All I need is S.E.L.F. D.I.S.C.I.P.L.I.N.E
And maybe a little help from the aquatic exercise machine, a swim spa where you can run, jog, walk or row. But since I don’t have that underwater gym I will have to find other ways.
Maybe I’ll have to continue the evening exercise my husband and I started last month. (I wonder why do we have this bad habit of starting and stopping after few weeks . Sigh.
I hope this time I am dead serious or else it will be dead me sooner that everyone expected due to weight problem. And I don’t want that to happen.

Psalm 32 :8

Praying for instructions..which way Lord?

Image source : mybusministry

Benefit show

We are doing a benefit show next month, all the proceeds will go to the scholarship program of our church. I watch the youth last Sunday while they were rehearsing and I know it will be a good show. I pray we can gather enough funds because we are planning to accept more young people in the program.

Besides the main purpose of fundraising, through this show we also wanted to impart the audience how ones life can be destroyed by making wrong decisions and that you are responsible for your actions.

This will be held in our church on October 28 at 6:00 PM.

I am so happy that the church is buying a new set of microphones just in time for the show. And though our sound system is not as good as the TVee Model 25 sound system from Boston acoustics, I know it will still be better because of the new microphones. I pray too that we can borrow some lights for the show.

Birthday today

Rudolf, our worship leader, our music ministry head and my dear husband turns 30 today. God knows I've wish for a grand celebration for him, a party with close friends and family, a dinner or a getaway for the two of us but sad to say none of that materialized.

Should I be sad? I guess If I see him unhappy I will be too, but I am blessed with a husband who have a good good heart. In spite that this day will be just an ordinary day he is thankful and happy. I didn't hear any complain or bitterness for not having something special happening today but instead saw him smiling and excited to go to work. He even said last night, I know God has better surprises for me. God bless him indeed.

Last Sunday, I was expecting the church will greet him as the usual thing we do every Sunday (greet those who celebrate their birthday for the coming week) but there was none, no one remembered I guess and that's fine. I'm bit disappointed but it's okay.

I bought him the 2nd hand Ipod dock/charger/speaker he's been wanting to get as my gift to him and he's very happy with that. I wish I could buy him all the cables, wire covers, usb hub, external drive and gadgets he wants because I know he would be happy with that but I am thankful that even if I don't he is still a happy man.

I am blessed and I am thankful

For more thankful entries visit Iris of Grace alone.

Psalm 46

¹ God is our refuge and strength,
   an ever-present help in trouble.
² Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
   and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
³ though its waters roar and foam
   and the mountains quake with their surging.^{[c]  4} There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
   the holy place where the Most High dwells.
⁵ God is within her, she will not fall;
   God will help her at break of day.
⁶ Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
   he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
 ⁷ The LORD Almighty is with us;
   the God of Jacob is our fortress.
 ⁸ Come and see what the LORD has done,
   the desolations he has brought on the earth.
⁹ He makes wars cease
   to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
   he burns the shields with fire.
¹⁰ He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
   I will be exalted among the nations,
   I will be exalted in the earth.”
 ¹¹ The LORD Almighty is with us;
   the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Thankful Thursday- Sushi and others

This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it!

This is the day when I think of all the recent blessings the Father has bestowed upon me and write it in a post :) Thank you Lord for Thankful Thursday.

So here's my list for this week;

* Thank God for the gastronomic Sunday afternoon with friends. Thank you for the discount voucher. If not with that we could have not afford this Japanese restaurant that offers Sushi all you can!

* Thank you Lord for my Father's good health, he was able to travel alone and is now back home safe and sound.

* Again, thank you dear God for your GRACE- I am living day by day under your endless grace and mercy.

* Thank you Lord for all the provisions, for providing for our every need. You are such a great God!!

Join us over Iris blog for more Thankful entries.

Personalized

Don't you just love it when you receive gifts that are personalized for you? I love it! When I was a newly married, I received a note pad with my new name on it and I was so happy, as a matter of fact I didn't use all the pages and left some for keeps.

I also love giving gifts that are personally chosen or made for the recipient. Sometimes I use Personal Creations, I love their designs and I love how they personalized everything!

We do sell some personal creations too :) remember our t-shirts?

This Christmas, consider personalizing your gifts, I'm sure your love ones will appreciate it much!

Thankful Thursday - Parents

This week I have so much to thank for,

1. Seeing my parents and seeing them happy- priceless.

2. Being together, all of us siblings, my parents and nephews and nieces. Oh how I missed them all so much!

(see how they're all trying to squeeze themselves in one bed?plus us )

3. Enjoying the food prepared by my mother. She is a great cook and I love how she painstakingly prepare our favorite meal when we are with them.

4. Family- this week I kept thanking God how blessed am I that I have a close family and that we might not be as rich as others but our family is still intact and love each other.

5. I am also thankful for my nails done :) I do get pedicure and manicure very very seldom so I'm thankful i had it this week :)

God is good indeed and my heart is overflowing because of His goodness!!!

This week, Iris is hosting the Thankful Thursday meme, please join us there.

I had a happy weekend

My husband and I finally had the time and resources to visit my parents last weekend. My other siblings and all my nephews and nieces went home too because of the long holiday so we had a blast! My parents were truly happy to see us.

The company I am working for is a blessing (now, I realized that) I was able to borrow a car that would fit us all and we only shouldered the gas expenses. It's not a luxury car with mercury custom floor mats but it is a nice car and we traveled in comfort.

I am very thankful I chose to go home instead of the couples retreat. The happiness from my parents eyes were priceless.

And I've got to hear my sister who preach again. Last Sunday, she spoke in the church where we grew up as Christians. It was old and small but it was there where I met the Lord and we were called, all of us siblings.

It was a happy rainy weekend.

Thankful Thursday-Grace

Today on Thankful Thursday, Laurie of Women Taking A Stand talked about God's grace and love. And I can not agree more. I am so thankful that we  have a gracious God and that His grace is beyond human understanding.

He can love me even when most of the time I am not lovable at all.I walk each day and I sin and I stumble and fall but at the end of the day, He's there, waiting for me and welcoming me with His two big hands. Even now as I write this, I can feel him and hear him say, "it's alright my child"...

Without HIS grace, I am nothing. Thank you so much Lord!!!

And with that, I'm sharing one of my all time favorite song " GRACE ALONE"

Grace Alone
by Scott Wesley Brown, Jeff Nelson

Every promise we can make
Every prayer and step of faith
Every difference we can make
Is only by His grace.

Every mountain we will climb
Every ray of hope we shine
Every blessing left behind
Is only by His grace

Strength unknown He will provide
Christ in us, our cornerstone
We will go forth
in grace alone.

Every soul we long to reach
Every heart we hope to teach
Everywhere we share His peace
Is only by His grace.

Every loving word we say
Every tear we wipe away
Every sorrow turned to praise
Is only by His grace.

Have a blessed Thankful Thursday everyone!!

Retreat and going home

There will be a retreat for married couples in our church this coming Sunday spearheaded by the housewives ministry.  I was informed It will be somewhere south (Los Banos, Laguna.)

A lot has already confirmed their attendance and much as I want to come I am uncertain. Monday and Tuesday next week are holidays here and my initial plan was to go and visit my parents whom I haven't seen for 3 months now.

Now, I am torn because we know Rudolf as the worship leader needs to be there and part of me wants to go too. But family should come first. I strongly believe family should be our first ministry.

Sigh. I wish I can be at two places in one time.

Anyways, we are going home and we will see my parents and aside from that, a nephew will be celebrating his 2nd birthday there in the province, so I am excited as well :) Rudolf will design the tarp again and I hope to make some balloon decors too. I just have to make sure we bring all our stuff, box cutter included.

I guess Rudolf and I should have our own retreat in my home province  so when we get back we're fully charged to do ministries again!

LJBC's Water Baptism 2011

Our church (LJBC Global Ministry, Inc) conducted water baptism last Saturday, after months of water baptism seminar, 34 souls from three areas decided to obey and follow Christ. Rudolf and I weren't suppose to come but the last minute we changed our mind. I'm glad we did, I was able to hear testimonies and as always we were blessed to hear how God changed the lives of these people.

There is this one youth who testified that before, he used to snatch stuff from passerby, one youth also said he is like a beggar in the street but now they are all in Christ and becoming his disciples. God is so good indeed and ONLY HIM has the power to change us.

Here's some of the pictures from that big event :)

For more pictures visit our facebook page :)

Raising Funds for our Scholars

Two more months and the first semester will be over, on October our college scholars will be needing huge amount again for their tuition fees. And 2 of them have 2 more semesters to go and they'll soon graduate! (excited much!)

I don't want them to stop schooling because we can no longer help them with their school expenses, so please my dear friends, readers, co-bloggers and passerby, help us raise funds for them for the two remaining semesters.

I created a chip in widget for those who have paypal account (it's on the sidebar of this blog) for easy way of donating. If you can spare a dollar or whatever amount, that would be of big help for sure.

And if you have friends and acquaintances who would want to help too, please tell them about this cause. Below is the poster I previously made for everyone to see who are our scholars.

May the Lord bless you a hundredfold in return!

 other related post about this ministry : Marvin, education

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Guest Post by Mike Sims

Praying for a laptop

I've been wanting one since I started blogging but it's only now that I am seriously praying for it. I've been using an old desktop, which I think was bought from refurbished computers shop few years ago. It was ok for me then since it's almost brand new but it's been 4 years. I think it has already served its purpose.

A laptop or a notebook will be more reasonable for me and the ministry, there are two major event I am planning for next year but we are still praying for it. I'm sure it would be of big help for me and Rudolf.

Plus, the space this desktop occupying in our small house is quite big and if we have a laptop, I can use the space for other stuff.

Please help me pray for it.

Philippians 4:13

Do you sometimes think you can't do it? Oftentimes, I do..Praise God I am reminded of Philippians 4:13.

Image source : Dizzy Miss Lizzy

Ministry and personal updates

It has been quite a long time since I updated this blog about what’s happening to me and Rudolf and the ministry we are involve with, and I guess it's about time.
So, to start with;
Rudolf – there is a  BIG CHANGE  in Rudolf’s life now, he started working in the same company where I work for just this week. I feel both happy and apprehensive about it. Happy because I can see how he desired to help me financially thus he decided to apply for a work that would at least give him a regular income. I feel hesitant because I know he has been called to serve, but he assured me though that he will still serve even if he is working now in the secular company. His work requires him to be out I the street driving most of the day so please remember him in your prayers, pray for protection as he is exposed in his motorcycle most of the time. I'm thinking of getting him an insurance and a health card soon, don't know if joining a roadside assistance club would do him good too.

As of today, he is still the Music ministry leader of our church. And for few months now, he is burdened to serve with the youth ministry and I guess that is where he will be in the next months. Last Sunday he also gave a short talk in the youth fellowship.

Me- The Education ministry of Fishnets is my focus right now. As you all know, we currently have 5 scholars, three of them in college and two in high school. Next year, I am praying to accommodate more deserving students. Please pray for more sponsors that would be willing to help us with this ministry. If we have more sponsors, the more youth can benefit from this program.

And that would be all for now, thank you for being part of our ministry and for praying for us always. God bless everyone!

Say So!

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has delivered from the hand of the adversary” (Psalm 107:2, AMP)

TODAY’S WORD from Joel and Victoria

Notice that scripture doesn’t say “Let the redeemed of the Lord think so. Let the redeemed believe so.” Of course it’s important to think right, and it’s important to believe right, but something supernatural happens when we declare something out loud. And, you don’t even have to say it to anyone else; you can just say it to yourself — driving to work or in the shower. You can say, “The economy may be low, but I am blessed. I am prosperous. I will lend and not borrow.” “I may have had some setbacks, but I know those setbacks are a setup for a comeback! This is still going to be my best year so far. The favor of God is turning things around.” You are prophesying your future. When you say what the Lord has done for you, when you declare that you are redeemed, you are opening the door for God to move on your behalf. The scripture tells us that He watches over His Word to perform it. When you declare His Word, when you speak His promises, He is faithful to fulfill them and lead you into victory all the days of your life!

A PRAYER FOR TODAY

Father in heaven, thank You for delivering me and setting me free. I will declare Your goodness. I will declare Your promises. I will declare Your favor so that I can live the good life You have prepared for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

— Joel & Victoria Osteen

Earthquake in Manila

Around 1:31 AM
July 26,2011
6.2 Magnitude
Intensity 4 in Manila, Quezon City and Clark Pampanga,
Intensity 3 in Pasig and Makati CIty

source : PHIVOLCS

~~~~~~~~~~
I was awake and I felt it and  as of this time, I'm still bit scared and shaken. Suddenly  ugly memories from the July 1990 major earthquake floods my memory and I've become more scared.

I wish I slept early..but then I knew I would be awaken.

Phivolcs said we should expect aftershocks and honestly I feel like I'm feeling them but obviously I'm just a nervous wreck.

Please pray for everyone's safety here. 

Education

I'm speaking in a youth gathering of our church on Sunday afternoon and was asked to talk about the importance of Education, the people in our church knows that education for all is my advocacy thus our group (young professionals) few years ago organized a scholarship program for less fortunate but deserving youth, the aim is to help them finish school and get a better chance of having a good job and a good life. Getting an education is like having trophies or medals and plaques and no one can snatch that from you.

This has been my ministry since then, and God has put this in my heart in remembrance and in gratefulness because I was once a recipient of some kind of educational assistance to from a Christian missionary when I was still in high school. If not of that assistance I may not even finish high school.

I've posted a poster of our current scholars on my previous blog entry and I'm encouraging you to please take a look at it.

I'm thankful God can use us all as the extension of his hands here on earth.

For more Thankful Thursday entry, please head on to Lynn's site.

Twenty Five Pesos (25.00)

Thankful Thursday

Today, Dineen is taking over in place of Lynn who is on vacation. She talks about turning point in your life, you know those times that you had it planned and then God had another and a much better plan for bigger purpose.

My turning point would be when I left my home province and moved here in Manila. (Philippines'Capital City. I was broken hearted,on my late twenties, no job and depressed. My first weeks were spent sleeping the whole day and staying awake the whole night ( I lived in my sister's house then)just so I won't be able to talk to anyone. I did not want to leave province because all my good friends were there but God has planned something better for me.


Eventually, God laid out His plan and I found a job, found a church to which I was restored into God's hand and found God's best for me. Had I not leave my job in the province and decided to stay there, I'd probably be forever a backslider and married to an irresponsible man. Thank you so much Lord for orchestrating events in my life.

My other thankful list for the week would be;

1. I was sick Monday & Tuesday- Thanks so much for the healing and rest
2. My brother's problem has been settled and me and my family were relieved.
3. My brother in law is going home from the hospital today, his hernia operation went smooth and well.

What are you thankful for this week? Please do share it with us at Lynn's site.

And just before I go, let me share you also RoyalImaging.com document imaging, document scanning and document management solution is what they offer, they can scan all kinds of documents from A to E size paper.

Hope you all have a good day!! and Happy weekend everyone :) God is good ALL THE TIME!

Home ALone

for the first time, it's very rare that you'll find me home during the day more so alone.But I have no choice, I am still resting and recovering and the husband has to go to hospital to accompany his brother for an out patient minor operation.

Now, what do you usually do when you are home and alone?

I've been in front of the PC for few hours now (three hours I guess?)and I'm getting bored. I've read all about barcode scanners and visited all my friends blog, stalked some of facebook accounts of people I have absolutely no idea who they are :) and played some games.

It's quite hard for someone who is so use to be working all the time and suddenly find so much time in her hands she doesn't even know what to do with it.

Now, i guess I'll just have to go back to bed ans sleep.

God works in ways we cannot see...

Thank you Lord.

After pouring our hearts in prayer and crying for help (desperately) last night..

Finally today, the one thing that been worrying me since last week has been settled. My sister was able to talk to them and they agreed of something that will be beneficial for both families.

Now, we only have to wait for the insurance payment and hopefully it will come sooner so we can have everything settled and move on from this test.

This one made me realize how important insurance is. You never know when you need it and although it doesn't give any assurance that you'll be safe at all, it is still better to have one. Will look at whole life insurance later to just have a glimpse of what can we avail someday.

if you think sometimes that God has forgotten your needs, think again..He works in ways we cannot see :) And He never sleeps, he never slumber, he never tires of hearing our prayer.

Have a good day everyone!

Friends | Max's | Guitar Hero|

I know I've already mentioned many times here but I would like to say it again that I am blessed with friends. I cherished my friends in our church for we are bonded not only with common interests but with the love of the Lord.

It was weeks ago when we went out again after such a long time and decided to try the chicken all you can promo at Max's restaurant, and you can tell by the picture below that we enjoyed the chicken a lot!

After devouring many chickens at Max's, we went straight to a friend's house where we enjoyed being rock star for a moment. They have Nintendo Wii Guitar Hero and I super enjoyed playing the bass. Good stress reliever :)

Praising God for F.R.I.E.N.D.S!