Last night was one of the happiest moments in my life because I got to experience the unlimited cakes and coffee promo! *Yey* While eating, we also celebrated the birthday of my friend who's turning 18 this Saturday~ So yeah.. There's no actually purpose for this blog entry.. I just want to share the yummy cakes we ate that I suddenly craved for again today. :))
The 5 of us ate in Shangri-La Mall, at Coffee Beanery. I think it's below the floor with the movie theaters and Happy Lemon. So yeah.. The unlimited cakes and coffee costs P200, but you have around only 5 cakes (i think?) to choose from and the unlimited coffee they serve is just latte. If you want to have more cake choices, you'll have to add P100 for an upgrade and you get to choose from around 5 more different cakes.
My favorite were the cheesecakes. It was soooo good. :"> So, if you're the type of person who looooves to eat, especially sweets, this is the place for you! ^^
If there's one thing that could hinder us from doing greater things, it's FEAR. We all have fears and we can all feel fear. It may be small things like fear of spiders, fear of falling, fear of crowded places, etc. Or the more serious ones like fear of insignificance, fear of failure, fear of being an outcast, and the like.
Sometimes, there are even opportunities that we fail to grab because of fear. There are so many "What if.." or "This/that might happen.." statements in our mind that it causes us to be paralyzed.
Now, it's normal to feel fear, but it's what we do despite our feeling that counts. Recently, I've listened to a few podcasts by Elevation Church's Pastor Steve Furtick and the part which struck me the most was this verse:
"...Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper." - 1 Kings 19:11-12 (NIV)
The Lord chose not to show His power in the form of a mighty wind, an earthquake, or in fire. He made His presence felt through a gentle whisper. He whispers, because He's CLOSE. He is with us all the time.
Why are we afraid when we have our most loving Father holding us and never letting go? Why are we running from certain situations that we need to face? We may feel fear, but if we know that God is always with us, there's no need to be afraid.
This is kind of a late blog entry about the news but anyway... HEHE. ^^;;
There was this news about a girl from UST who got raped and killed by a tricycle and another guy. I'm not so sure about how it all happened but yeah, you get the point (You can read the article above). Since I wasn't really watching television, I wasn't able to get the whole picture of the incident. All I heard was the cry of the mother on TV, telling the people that she would never forgive the men who killed her daughter. On the other hand, the two guys who killed the girl were crying endlessly and apologizing.
Upon hearing that, our househelper reacted by saying, "Dapat yung mga ganyan pinuputulan ng kamay para matuto." (English: "They should have cut the hands of those guys so that they'll learn.").
In my mind, I thought of the idea as "harsh".
But then, that comment made by our househelper kind of made me think more of God's grace. If cutting of people's sinful hands was already harsh for me, what more if it's God's wrath that'll be poured out on us because of what we did?
"..For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." - Romans 3:23-24 (NIV)
A lot of people just don't realize the consequences of their actions. NO ONE in this world is good. No one is right with God. We're all supposed to go to hell. That is the bad news a lot of people don't understand. They think that if they do good generally, they would go to heaven. And if they do really bad deeds (the major one's like stealing, killing, committing adultery, etc.), they'll go to hell.
That's not how things work. And again, quoting from the youth pastors in our church: "You will never appreciate the good news until you understand the bad news". Well, I already told you the bad news about hell, the good news is Jesus Christ!
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 6:23 (NIV)
I'm thankful for God's mercy, grace and for Jesus Christ who died on the cross for us. I'm thankful that He adopted me as His lovely daughter to spend eternity with Him in Heaven. I'm thankful for His great and indescribable love for me! ^^
"Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
I was browsing through my personal notebook and saw my notes on wisdom and romance from the book, "Boy Meets Girl" by Joshua Harris. Just thought it would be nice to share this to others. ^^ ------------------------------ "Wisdom: the art of living skillfully in whatever actual condition we find ourselves." - Eugene Peterson - A premature romantic relationship would only distract them (the girl and boy) from preparing for their future. - Romance with wisdom = skillful romance "Romantic love is the kite that catches the wind and tenaciously heads for the sky; wisdom is the string that tugs downward, holding it back." - Joshua Harris - Long-lasting romance needs practical, common-sense wisdom that knows when to let the wind of feelings carry us higher and when to pull it back. The Art of Skillful Romance: 1) Romance says, "I want it now!"; Wisdom urges patience.
"A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense." - Proverbs 19:11 (NIV)
- Wisdom calls us to slow down. - We can be patient because we know that God is sovereign and that He is faithful. (Psalm 38:15) - Patience is an expression of trust that God, the Master Chef, can serve up an exquisite relationship. - Time is God's way of keeping everything from happening all at once. 2) Romance says, "This is what I want and it's good for me."; Wisdom leads us to consider what's best for the other person.
"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." - James 3:17 (NIV)
- Matthew 25:40, Luke 6:31, 1 John 3:16 - Sincere, Christlike love for the man or woman you're in a relationship with is the natural growth of love for God.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." - Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)
- John 13:35 - We glorify God in our relationships when we put our needs aside and base our decisions on what serves the interests of the other person. 3) Romance says, "Enjoy the fantasy."; Wisdom calls us to base emotions and perceptions in reality.
"Desire without knowledge is not good— how much more will hasty feet miss the way!" - Proverbs 19:2 (NIV)
- "Emotion is a physical expression of how we perceive the status of something we value." - Wisdom calls us to base feelings on accurate information, not on distortions. - We want the true character of someone to win our hearts. "The right time and age to start pursuing marriage will be different for each of us. But the one thing we should all have in common is waiting until romance can be guided by wisdom. Then we can experience the season of courtship at the RIGHT TIME and the RIGHT PACE with a CLEAR PURPOSE and a CLEAR HEAD. This is romance at its best." - Joshua Harris
Everything is instant now-a-days. Instant access to information, instant food, instant internet, instant payments, instant messaging, etc etc. Even instant girlfriend or boyfriend for some people. In just one click, what they want or what they need is already there. All thanks to technology.
But because of this fast-paced world, a lot of people grow impatient.
We struggle for things to get done quickly, in our way and in our time. Well, not everything good is done in a snap of a finger.
There's this saying that "God helps those who help themselves". That is not true at all. It does not boil down to us doing something to make things better and relying on our own willpower. Some people just have that "Hey God, since you're not doing anything, I'll already help you." attitude. Well, guess what? It shouldn't be up to us, but up to God.
"Just because you don't see anything happening doesn't mean God is not working."
God wants to help us in everything, all we have to do is to trust inHim. Not in ourselves, but in Him. Trust in His perfect timing, His will, His plans for you and every area of our lives.
Trusting in Him doesn't mean that we don't do anything, but we anticipate that He will do something great. If we have faith that He will help us in our studies, then study as much as we can still leaning on His grace and getting strength from Him. Faith and good deeds go hand in hand. (James 2:17)
We should stop struggling to do things our way and wait on Him.
Be STILL, and know HE is God.
"He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”" - Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
If you clicked on the link going to this blog, you're probably either one of those people who are stressed with school, and decided to stop and read this entry. (Not all, but you get the point) Haha.
Anyway, this month has been so hectic for a lot of students like me. It's the middle of the semester and everyone's soooo busy passing requirements, typing papers, doing homeworks, taking midterm exams and complaining about their "minor subjects na feeling MAJOR". (lol) At one point, I felt tired physically, mentally and emotionally. Sometimes I would wake up and still feel tired... Even one of my friends said that I look really tired even if I tried my best not to show to other people my weariness.
A while ago during lunch time, I met with my Lifegroup. They're a group of girls who I meet with every Thursday to have Bible study or just simply hang out. ^^ I told our leader, a 5th year student, how tired I was especially because of my 3 major subjects. At that moment, I realized how I was relying on my own strength to continue having good grades. I simply forgot that I couldn't actually do everything on my own... I kept on trying my best and stressing myself. Main point: Rest and let God carry your burdens. Rest. That was what I needed.Our leader even mentioned a verse from Matthew,
"29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:29-30 (NIV)
I have to learn how to let go, and let God be the one to carry my work for me. I can't do it all alone for I'm nothing but just a person who has limitations. I have to trust God who is infinitely powerful that I'll get good grades through His grace. Yes, it's good to do our best as we still should, but not to the point that we'll "die" for it or risk our health. God created rest, and we should honor it. I really thank God for these people He gave me to remind me of His Word. ^^
"I've seen dreams that move the mountain. Hope that doesn't ever end, even when the sky is falling. I've seen miracles just happen. Silent prayers get answered, broken hearts become brand new... That's what faith can do."
❤ - What Faith Can Do (Kutless)
I'm really loving this song that a friend of mine introduced to me last last week, and it was kind of like a "theme song" for what has been happening to me for the past few weeks.
I couldn't write everything down here of what happened to me, because it would be a bit long.. To make the story short: The impossible was made possible through Christ!
All of us have our hardships, difficulties, weaknesses and struggles in life. But, if we just stop looking at our circumstances/problems and fix our eyes on JESUS, He will do the impossible! Just HAVE FAITH, for it is what pleases Him. (Hebrews 11:6)
Faith says my God is bigger than my problems. God is willing, and He is able!
Amazing week, amazing God! :>
Here's 2 different versions of the song if ever you want to hear it. It's really an encouraging song! ^^
Today, my family and I went to the church launch of Victory City of San Fernando, Pampanga. My dad was invited by Pastor Luther Mancao since he knows that Pampanga is our province. I was really blessed to hear the preaching of Pastor Juray Mora about the church and at the same time happy for those who will be attending that new church. ^^ I just wish I took a few photos a while ago~
After the service, my dad told me a story about an encounter he had in the past with Jerome Gutierrez (not sure about the last name), the main/leading pastor of Victory City of San Fernando. During the time my dad was preaching on the streets with other believers, Jerome was part of those who laughed at my dad. And now, Jerome's a pastor! :> It's really amazing how God can work at the lives of people! ^^
My dad told me that when we take our time sharing the Word of God, it will not go to waste. (not the exact words) Sometimes, when we share to other people about God's Word, we may feel like there's no progress. People may persecute us, they may not listen at first, but at least a seed is being planted in their hearts. Let God be the one to make it grow. ^^ Never give up on reaching out to people, just as Christ never gave up on you.
We exist for two reasons: Honor God. Make disciples.
When people talk about religion, I would often hear the same line: "It's not about the religion, but the relationship with God." The statement is basically correct, but there's actually more than just saying that religion doesn't really matter.
The world defines the word "religion" simply as a set of spiritual beliefs. Usually, it is when a person belongs to a certain group of people who share and practice the same beliefs. Sometimes, we even get to ask a person, "What's your religion?" But instead of "religion", I believe the correct term for it is "denomination".
According to my dad (a 63-year old preacher/pastor), and from a source I found on the net, the word "religion" comes from the Latin word "ligare" which means "to bind, connect, or link together a human and a divine". Assuming that "re" is a prefix which means "again", we can conclude that the real meaning of religion is "to bind or link AGAIN".
So, what does this mean? What are we connecting or linking together again?
In the beginning, God once had a good relationship with man and woman; until one day, man sinned by disobeying God. The fall of man started when Adam and Eve ate the fruit from the forbidden tree (Genesis 3). Since then, God became distant to man.
During the Old Testament days, man has to give offerings in order to please God. Some books like Exodus and Leviticus contained instructions on how the sacred offerings should be delivered, such as: animals offered to God must be done by priests, grain offerings, and many more. This is used for the atonement of the people's sins.
But in the New Testament, God sent Jesus Christ to die on the cross for the atonement of our sins. He was declared the Lamb of God because He was the sacred offering or sacrifice in order for man to be reconciled with God again.
"The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" - John 1:29 (NIV)
Jesus Christ was the one who connected us to God. He is the way to the Father. Religion is to bind again to God. There is only one religion and that is JESUS CHRIST.
"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" - John 14:6 (NIV)
"Worthy is the Lamb seated on the throne! You are God in the Highest~"
Today wasn't a very pleasant day for me. After class, I left school and went to the mall to help a friend of mine buy something. The mall was just 5 mins away if we choose to walk. We left at around 5pm in school, and I was hoping to arrive at my dorm by 6pm since I have a curfew and my parents keep on checking up on me. When we got to the mall, I told my dad that I'm at the mall and I'll be back at around 6pm (He wants me to update him all the time where I am). But my friend and I lost track of the time and I was able to go back to my dorm at 7pm.
Of course, like any other parent, when they found out that it's late and I passed my dorm curfew, they got furious. I also blame myself for not being responsible. When I got back at the dorm, my dad reprimanded me on the phone. I got a bit disappointed with myself and apologized to my parents. All I could say was "Sorry" and *"Opo" the whole time. *"Opo": Filipino word for "yes", in a respectful way. Used for older people.
I got upset for a while, but I told myself that it was also my fault. I got a bit teary-eyed, but after that I chose to still smile. Not because I want to hide the pain I felt, but because I realized that there are still a lot of things to be thankful for.
Thank God for my dormmates who still made me laugh, and for my friend who prayed for me before I talked to my dad on the phone. I thank God for the fellowship I had with my friends today and for always being there to comfort me. He is the reason why we should still rejoice despite our not-so-pleasant days, for God is God and God is good. ^^
All of the bad things happening to us is nothing compared to what Jesus Christ went through for us.
It could have been an irritable situation for me that my parents got mad. But, I chose not to let it ruin my day.
When I had my quiet time after a long day, the Lord gave me words of encouragement:
"4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! .... 6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:4, 6-7 (NLT)
Thank God for inner peace and joy. It's only in God where we could find true and everlasting joy. GOD IS GOOD! ^^
I hope this will serve as an inspiration for teenagers with regards to their relationship with their parents. ^^ It's a bit long, but I hope you guys will get something from it. ^^ Today, we celebrated my mom's birthday at SM Megamall with my dad and other two friends in UA&P during lunch time. It was fun, and I get to spend time with my parents even for just a short while because I'm already living in a dorm. I won't be seeing them that often now. As I reminisce about the past few years I was with my mom, all I can say is: It's amazing how God worked things between my mom and I. Here's how it all worked: While growing up, I couldn't always say that my relationship with my mom was good. There were feelings of bitterness and resentment that hindered me from loving and caring for her. Her desire to control me led me to silent rebellion and low self esteem. Whenever I would get hurt, my friends are the ones who would listen to me rant and I would always tell them how I disliked my mom. I wasn't really open to my mom and never dared to talk to her about my thoughts, emotions, happenings in school, or any other things that she could be concerned of as a mother. I didn't like the discipline she imposed on me. Sometimes her words hurt so much that I thought of committing suicide or running away from home. Even as a young kid in elementary school, specifically when I was around 13 years old, I thought of those things. But, of course, I couldn't do it. For 17 years, I endured her. There came a time when one of my friends invited me to a camp held by Victory Ortigas in Bataan last April 2010. It was the turning point of my life and slowly, I fully understood God's love for me. I was able to forgive my mother as Christ has forgiven me of my sins. Even though she didn't apologize to me directly, I decided to forgive her and prayed to God for a better relationship with my mom. I felt peace and joy inside of me that I couldn't describe. Even if she throw insults at me again and again, I would still forgive her, turn to God and pray unceasingly. Every time I get hurt, my fellowship with God becomes more intimate. There wasn't any drastic change between the relationship of my mom and I immediately after the camp I mentioned previously. It was only after 2 years that I realized that there was a subtle change between us. God made me realize how vast and glorious a mother's heart is that sometimes we tend to misunderstand it. My mom just cares for me so much that even though it would make me dislike her, she would still persevere and do whatever it takes for me to have a good life. It was just my pride and selfishness that got in the way of seeing my mother as a gift from God. I know that through the years we've been together, I've only expressed my love and appreciation for her only a few times... And I thought, "Maybe that's what she needed more from me?". The question is not "What can she do for me?" but, "What can I do for her?".
Now, I spend more time with my mom compared before. We would go together to their Victory group every Thursday (whenever I get the chance to join), do chores, bake, cook, go shopping and talk more comfortably. Sometimes I would even be the one to help her get her nails done or go with her wherever she needs to go even if know that I won't really be doing anything but to follow her around. Time was probably one of the things I wasn't able to give her back then which explains her anger towards me. Recently, I also noticed that she's becoming more even-tempered. Instead of having dinner with my mom nagging in front of us every night (as she does before), our dinner time conversations improved. Sometimes we would laugh at each other, or talk about serious matters more calmly. At first I hesitated spend quality time with her, but by God's grace, I was able to express my love for her more. ^^ It was a decision I made to love her despite the past painful emotions I had. We are more open to each other now. And this clearly shows that restoration between parent/s and child is possible through Jesus Christ. I thank God for my mother and for all the things that happened between us, both good and bad. I thank my mom for the discipline she instilled in me, for forcing me to play the violin, and for taking care of me everyday. I know my mom cares and loves me deeply. I was just stubborn and didn't understand it at first. Thank you, Lord~! ^^
I love my mom! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to her. :3
"What is your mother? A lioness among the lions! She lay down among the young lions and reared her cubs." - Ezekiel 19:2
Recently, I finished listening to an audio book this summer about the 5 love languages by Gary Chapman. :3 I couldn't find any copy of the book in bookstores so I had to download an audio book. HEHE.
Anyway, Chapman discussed about the concept of people having "emotional love tanks" which are to be filled by others. I think it's kind of like a psychological thing. It's interesting though. :>
It was quite interesting that I also tried to research online if they have any quizzes just to find out my own love language. ^^ You can also try it for yourself. Click here.
So, here are the 5 love languages:
1) Words of Affirmation
"Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important—hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten."
2) Quality Time
"In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there—with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby—makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful."
3) Receiving Gifts
"Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures."
4) Acts of Service
"Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter."
5) Physical Touch
"This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face—they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive."
To find out more about the 5 love languages, click here.
Once we figure out other people's love languages, it'll also be easier to show love to them because we know what to do. And by showing them love, we need to act. It is not just doing it because we feel like it, but by the decision to love. Remember, love is a choice. Feelings are just the result of it. ^^ To love is to give in expense of one's self.
"Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony." - Colossians 3:14 (NLT)
It's funny how some people don't believe the Bible. It's like saying that they don't believe in algebra or history books. Throughout the history, the Bible has been banned or burned in some places, but it has survived up until now. And it's funny how the book that some people don't believe in has always been the best selling book ever since it was made. The best selling novels like "Harry Potter", "Narnia", or "The Hunger Games" cannot even compare to the sales of the Bible.
I bet those people who don't believe in the Bible haven't even tried reading it on a daily basis. They haven't witnessed the power of this book which has transformed the lives of many. I can even testify to that. ^^
The Bible is one of the tools God uses to talk to us. It contains the truth (John 17:17) and I also believe that it is a love letter from God. The Bible is a tale about a Father's love for His children; A humble King who sacrificed Himself for His beautiful princesses and His noble princes. And the best part of it is that, it's not a fairytale. It's all real. :">
"He (Jesus) came to deliver us. When you understand that, reading the Bible becomes a delight." - Joshua Harris (Dug Down Deep)
Reading the Bible is not boring. Once a person understands what God has done for them, how heavy their sins are and how great God's love is, that person will have the habit of reading this book and meditate on it.
"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful." - Joshua 1:8 (NIV)
Random song! \m/ HAHA. #nowplaying - This Love (Planetshakers)
There was this season in my life when I felt anxious and paranoid about my future. I don't know why, but I kept thinking about it since I'll be turning into an official adult next year. And pretty soon, I'll also be working.
Then, God spoke to me through His Word just this week. He reminded me that He is in control and He will continue to guide me on the right path. Even if I'm not sure of what will happen in the future, I know that God has plans for me and He will guide, protect and bless me.
Psalm 23:
"1 The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need."
God is being characterized here as a shepherd and us as His sheep. In life, if we don't have Christ in us, we will be like a sheep without a shepherd. We'd be lost and feel empty inside. We won't have someone to lead us in the right path and love us unconditionally just as Christ loves us. He is everything we would ever need. It is only in Him that we are satisfied.
"2He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peacefulstreams. 3 He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths bringing honor to his name."
God is our provider. He wants to bless us, but sometimes sin gets in the way. When we fail to follow Him because of sin, He makes something good out of the mess we have done and continues to lead us. Bad things may happen to us, but God is still God and God is still good. He is a faithful God. He does this all for our good and all His glory!
"4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid,for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect andcomfort me."
We may feel fear, but God calls us to lean on Him. We may be troubled, but God calls us to trust in Him. At times, we may be upset or feel abandoned, but God is ALWAYS WITH US. People may not understand what we feel or think inside, but God does. He is a God whose love never fails, protects us and whips our tears away.
"5 You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings."
God will bless us abundantly as He has promised. And I believe the greatest gift He has given us was when He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to die on the cross for us. Without Him, we will die because the consequences of sin is death (Romans 6:23). We are not saved because of the good deeds we have done, but through faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9) alone. We are saved when we confess with our mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in our heart that God raised him from the dead (Romans 10:9-10).
No words can describe how awesome God's love is for us! ❤
"6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever."
God is a good shepherd and He will never abandon us. He is an AMAZING GOD! Believe God for great things because we have a great God! Trust and look forward to God on what He will do! ^^
We always hear the saying, "Let go, and let God," but sometimes we just can't help but try to take control over things especially when we're overwhelmed with our situations. We fear failure. We fear defeat. The more we try to control our situation, the more it becomes a mess. We have so many "what if" questions in our mind that we couldn't stop worrying and trying to figure things out on our own.
It's normal to feel fear, but Jesus asks us to step out in faith and TRUST in Him. And only in Him.
Even if we don't get our questions answered, we should still have faith in Him and in His sovereignty. When I read the book "Dug Down Deep" by Joshua Harris for the second time, I was reminded of God's sovereignty...
...over the universe (Hebrews 1:3),
...over every kingdom and earthly authority (Psalm 47:8),
...over the human heart (Proverbs 21:1), and
...in salvation (Romans 8:30).
He knew us ever since the beginning of time and He has plans for us which are good, pleasing and perfect. So why try to take control? God owns the universe. He created it. He holds the entire world in His hands. He's bigger than anything else and is infinite. No human mind can ever comprehend to what He has in mind. So why not hand Him your problems?
"To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue. All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. The Lord works out everything to its proper end — even the wicked for a day of disaster." - Proverbs 16:1-4 (NIV)
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