tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-617907059025161722024-02-18T23:23:25.698-08:00Off The Beaten TrekOff The Beaten Trek - A Correctional Nurse's Journey (Retired)RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.comBlogger872125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-79847593987570077612022-10-01T09:25:00.001-07:002022-10-01T09:25:43.851-07:00The Table Top Deco And The Tic-Tac-Toe Game<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoLeQZZR9wCOHNIZvjFxfeu8iY8w5Ce-ea-mpXO4xpvqIxHRMduS5cfEu-nPlhNCoExXR2m18Q4vea4IOKfjVfNxyRQ3075vTanlq0DrwobyF1wCqwpHcvR4XzysiW4es43c9G28Rc0yXwpTRMbGd7uiFTM85IhPGRHIOQQwekOq2hxYgBD-j6xk/s4080/20221001_083133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3060" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoLeQZZR9wCOHNIZvjFxfeu8iY8w5Ce-ea-mpXO4xpvqIxHRMduS5cfEu-nPlhNCoExXR2m18Q4vea4IOKfjVfNxyRQ3075vTanlq0DrwobyF1wCqwpHcvR4XzysiW4es43c9G28Rc0yXwpTRMbGd7uiFTM85IhPGRHIOQQwekOq2hxYgBD-j6xk/w240-h320/20221001_083133.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CR: offthebeatentrek.blogspot.com</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>A friend gave my son a gift of a tic-tac-toe game many years ago when my son was still in elementary. The "X's" and the "O's" were made of blue and red glass against the wooden base. I never wanted to hide it and just to re-arrange, I set it on the corner table and paired it with a table top decoration that serves as a reminder for me to be grateful each day.</p><p>I like to start my day to always be thankful, especially at these trying times when nothing is constant. Plans change. People do, too. Peace can become conflicts. Joy can turn to sorrows. Faith is being constantly pummeled and being knocked out with blows of worries. Days where hope is in a tug of war with doubts, fears, disbelief, distrust, dislike, and despair.</p><p>But there's my reminder. In a corner. To start my day with a grateful heart. As I do, my heart and mind is strengthened each day, knowing that God's grace always sustains me in all of my weaknesses. I look each time now at the "tic-tac-toe". It doesn't appear like a table top game anymore to me. They serve as a reminder also of God's invisible hugs and kisses. I feel His reassurance that no matter what occurs in a day, He is faithful and His promises are true! As I thank Him, I feel that His blessings aren't always given. Sometimes, He doesn't give what we ask for but instead, takes something away that will expose our vulnerabilities that we think we can manage to tackle on our own. That is also a blessing. If the Gardener prunes what is not productive in our grafted vine, the process is painful, but the removal is a blessing in order for a branch to yield fruits. </p><p>He takes away my fears, my loneliness, my pride. How can I not be thankful each day when He died on the cross so I can live? So can you! Or anyone who trusts and believe in Jesus. </p><p>So, there goes the table top deco and the tic-tac-toe game serving its purpose of helping me focus on the One Who never disappoints! Each day! Here I am thinking that love is shaped like a heart. But when I surrendered my life to Jesus, I know now, that love is shaped like a cross and formed by pierced Hands. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol"; font-size: 17px;">“When I lay these questions before God I get no answer. But a rather special sort of 'No answer.' It is not the locked door. It is more like a silent, certainly not uncompassionate, gaze. As though He shook His head not in refusal but waiving the question. Like, 'Peace, child; you don't understand.” ~ C.S. Lewis</span></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-17972458601340600212022-08-11T04:59:00.002-07:002022-08-11T08:54:04.823-07:00Growing Old<p>The aging process is kind of a "wake up slap of time on one's face". A period to re-evaluate what truly matters the most in a person's life's journey. Time that doesn't seem to bother a younger, goal- oriented life has become a reflective moment that runs so fast each day, like sands slipping through the fingers.</p><p>It is a sudden pause to make a choice to let go of temporal things and value those things that aren't seen. Things that have eternal weight. </p><p><br /></p><p>Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:13, NLT)</p><p><br /></p><p>4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7, NLT)</p><p><br /></p><p>Growing old is an opportunity to realize that life fades like a flower. Each sunrise that greets and reminds one about a new day and a step closer to face the end of a temporary journey and step one day in an unknown territory of eternity. Unknown if that heart isn't willing to surrender to what's obvious from the beginning that there is a Creator Who loved a rebellious humanity unconditionally. Each sunset sets the time to reflect even more as life's busyness halts that day and can be an opportunity to address a hovering thought of doubts of existence and life's purpose.</p><p><br /></p><p>"3 What do people get for all their hard work under the sun? 4 Generations come and generations go, but the earth never changes. 5 The sun rises and the sun sets, then hurries around to rise again. 6 The wind blows south, and then turns north. Around and around it goes, blowing in circles. 7 Rivers run into the sea, but the sea is never full. Then the water returns again to the rivers and flows out again to the sea. 8 Everything is wearisome beyond description. No matter how much we see, we are never satisfied. No matter how much we hear, we are not content.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhUsxWg70G8MUuyEuBEx-CJ5bUn9zToDpmYxa8Rja0XO4n1I_779rzT5zfQZ0UHNUlverHpaDnUZCGXPji1AQK3sOyzBEHEcCkRt0KFm2cpD2CMx_eTwzFrJ_vfGrzYy5nFAy5CgLUk-BrIV2d4G-HGhhgdIlR42QPYYzbLOP8v8YxdsUFkmghm4/s4018/20220809_090506~2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2019" data-original-width="4018" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFhUsxWg70G8MUuyEuBEx-CJ5bUn9zToDpmYxa8Rja0XO4n1I_779rzT5zfQZ0UHNUlverHpaDnUZCGXPji1AQK3sOyzBEHEcCkRt0KFm2cpD2CMx_eTwzFrJ_vfGrzYy5nFAy5CgLUk-BrIV2d4G-HGhhgdIlR42QPYYzbLOP8v8YxdsUFkmghm4/s320/20220809_090506~2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CR: offthebeatentrek. blogspot.com</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p> 9History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new. 10 Sometimes people say, “Here is something new!” But actually it is old; nothing is ever truly new. 11 We don’t remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now." - Ecclesiastes 1:3-11 ((NLT)</p><p><br /></p><p>13 That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: <b>Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. </b>14 God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad. - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 (NLT) (emphasis is mine)</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-41200673201195281492022-07-24T07:04:00.000-07:002022-07-24T07:04:45.017-07:00The Change<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xUO0X7QuRthFx4hqm5cc3LU6Nz3ePABIxrIjHoNEC3nWCvW13VfB-4eBCYCTZcOahbQ1afD2rUWzx6mAdrPdjtutvUjPatSHfIgPNgsCu8wtf3_Np7RDkk8jN4FVpgmMgdjQfjRgVSBZ-iOX7p4lSIm-Yut-aSSYrIz8r4lT_VHpV8uRX9WP8Ww/s4080/20220723_110943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3060" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xUO0X7QuRthFx4hqm5cc3LU6Nz3ePABIxrIjHoNEC3nWCvW13VfB-4eBCYCTZcOahbQ1afD2rUWzx6mAdrPdjtutvUjPatSHfIgPNgsCu8wtf3_Np7RDkk8jN4FVpgmMgdjQfjRgVSBZ-iOX7p4lSIm-Yut-aSSYrIz8r4lT_VHpV8uRX9WP8Ww/w264-h352/20220723_110943.jpg" width="264" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hot fries on my lap</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>My son advised for me to take a break from cooking. He wanted me to just rest. Him and my husband wanted to pick up something for lunch yesterday. My husband suggested the old diner where we always went for burgers and fries.</p><p>After running an errand, we proceeded to drive toward that diner we frequented pre-pandemic. Post- pandemic, we still went but always through the drive-thru. Not because we were afraid of being with people but because it was more comfortable eating at home to savor the labor less meals.</p><p>Paying at the window, my son handed a $50 whole bill for $28 we owe. The familiar guy, despite the mask donned on his face, who usually happened to take our orders each time, cheerfully gave a change of $22 which my son quickly gave to his dad, sitting on the passenger side, as my son prepared his hands to receive, anticipating for our bagged lunch be handed over to him through that window. I saw my husband looking at the dollar bills intently as my son paid attention also, wondering why his dad was holding the paper bills longer than he used to. No wonder! As my husband counted the change, an extra $20 bill was hidden behind one which that guy gave.</p><p>There were <b>no second thoughts</b> between the three of us. We knew surrendering that extra $20 bill was the right thing to do.</p><p>"<i>Excuse me</i>!", my son uttered as he softly raised his right hand to get the guy's attention.</p><p>"I gave you a $50 bill and I'm supposed to pay $28," he added, as the guy now was closer to the square window, the whiff of freshly-fried potato fries spilling toward our car.</p><p>I could see a little annoyance through his eyes even with the dark blue mask he wore. I felt he might be a little offended that my son, waving all the paper bills change he gave in front of him, was challenging his accuracy regarding the money exchange. </p><p>With a sure, slightly arrogant tone, he replied, "<i>Yeah! But I gave you $22 dollars</i>!!!" </p><p><br /></p><p>"<i>No</i>!," my son replied.</p><p><br /></p><p>"<i>You gave me $42, so here's the other $20 back</i>!" </p><p>Those hurt look kind of gaze was immediately replaced with a grateful kind as his voice cracked and didn't know how to thank my son. How to thank all of us.</p><p>As someone else handed him our order, I heard "Thank you guys" many times from him and ended with a wish for us to have a nice day.</p><p>Moving out of the drive-thru, my husband started a prayer. We all thanked the Lord Who deserved to be praised first for giving us strength to always do the right thing in what would always be pleasing to Him. Secondly, for the bagged lunch He blessed us with.</p><p>It was a good teaching moment for our son, and also to my husband and I, that we must continue to walk in integrity despite these evil times. I could only hope that the guy learned something, too that assessing the whole scenario first would be helpful than jumping to conclusion that he didn't make a mistake. I prayed that it softened his heart to know that there was nothing wrong about being corrected if it would improve towards some kind of growth on his part in dealing with their customers. </p><p>I didn't want to write about this. I wanted to keep it between me and my family. But this morning, I felt the need to do so as the Lord made me feel that we all fall into traps of temptations. There are many kinds. </p><p><b>It's not our own strength that will help us get out of them. It is His.</b></p><p><b>It's not the change (money) that was a big deal. It's our hearts, (especially if calloused) that need to change and be softened by His grace. </b></p><p><br /></p><p>8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you. - Philippians 4:8-9 (NLT)</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>10 “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11 And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven? 12 And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own?" - Luke 16:10-12 (NLT)</p><p><br /></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-14284388644444291852022-07-21T07:41:00.004-07:002022-07-21T08:41:12.026-07:00When Life Give Lemons<p>How quickly any life's journey can be turned upside down! I know. I have been there. My family has been there these past few months. Or years... Well, since the pandemic hit the whole globe!</p><p>As soon as my husband was to retire, we had our plan to downsize. We even bought a new house in Florida. But before the ground was even dug and its foundation prepped, my husband had a change of mind and we decided to cancel the plan. Unable to visit his aging parents and family back in our country, he had a mixed feeling of wanting to move there and be settled when our original plan was to retire here where we've been residing for so many, many years. </p><p><br /></p><p>I get it. A sudden change of life's routine can be stressful and overwhelming. Like him. From being a busybody to all of a sudden, merely has no work to do like he used to. Except to eat, sleep or fix whatever needs to be done in our house. My husband is the type who loves to do something and make useful of each passing minute. Slowly, that period has been subtly stealing my husband's joyful heart. At the same time, his mind is being filled with worries of life. All the worrying and all the unknowns manifested with lesser appetite, broken sleep at nights, and having no interest anymore with the things our family used to enjoy. It became a cycle. Happy in one day. Sad for more. It took a toll on me and our son also. My son and I felt helpless seeing a stranger we used to know as my husband, his Dad.</p><p><br /></p><p>How true of that phrase... "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!" But how do we make lemonade? What is the proper way to make lemonade that will overcome the sours of this ever changing life's journey?</p><p><br /></p><p>Happy conversations, enjoying each other's companies, laughters always saturating each corner in our home, strength from our triple binded cord, our shared daily petitions morning and night... They all suffered.</p><p><br /></p><p>We still pray. We know that is the vital lifeline we hold on to, to make our purposes still work.</p><p><br /></p><p>I know the <b>way</b> that no matter where we go, our ultimate destination is never in any place of this earth. I know the <b>truth</b> that no matter what we plan or what step we take, God is the One Who directs that. I know the <b>life</b> that in this dark valley we're walking on, His Light will guide us and will never leave us alone in the dark.</p><p><br /></p><p>So... When life gives us lemons...No!!! We don't make lemonade. We seek God first! The One Who promised to those who love Him that He would never leave us nor forsake us and would be with us up to the end of age...</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8SJ7XYChoiOiFZwxp9_OIbOQejRmL5XXiJDZj6Qy57M0MyrWWqidlfD22G-wH4F_wRfdJox9eQrmDQSeu0Zx8UqMzarfbCi5DsNoIp4_TDdfhi7zRTHHeqqcTcEcUgU4hx9rq9N8zFE94GJztQhpsZ4dFZJWbJgxQ-VYnU7yF06KFRrWewfEhI-g/s300/crop.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8SJ7XYChoiOiFZwxp9_OIbOQejRmL5XXiJDZj6Qy57M0MyrWWqidlfD22G-wH4F_wRfdJox9eQrmDQSeu0Zx8UqMzarfbCi5DsNoIp4_TDdfhi7zRTHHeqqcTcEcUgU4hx9rq9N8zFE94GJztQhpsZ4dFZJWbJgxQ-VYnU7yF06KFRrWewfEhI-g/s1600/crop.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p>Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.</p><p><br /></p><p>5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 6 But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. 7 Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. - James 1:2-8 (NLT)</p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-80080098956730080642022-07-14T20:18:00.003-07:002022-07-14T20:20:40.609-07:00Like God And Like My Mother<p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>" <span class="text Eph-5-1" id="en-NIV-29306"><sup class="versenum mid-paragraph">1 </sup>Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children</span> </b><span class="text Eph-5-2" id="en-NIV-29307"><b><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." - Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)</b><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">I remember my mother as I prepare meals for my
family now. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: Loma;">I
don’t know how to cook and I wish grandma taught me because she
cooked well,” I often tell my son whenever he likes something I
have cooked. Opening cook books and with the availability of many
cooking blogs nowadays, I try to recreate and somehow, manage to copy
a particular meal.</span></span></p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">Taking
a pause from sewing a masterpiece for a particular client, the dressmaker’s (my mother) breaks consisted of scouring through her pots and knives,
after going to the market with her bamboo woven basket she filled
with what she would make for that day for us. Day. After. Day. She
chose this huge “kawa” (big wok), I would say her favorite among
her pots. I knew when she selected that, she would be concocting a
huge dish, not just for us, her children, but some to be given away
to relatives, neighbors, and some friends, far or near our house.
That was how she was. She labored in front of a hot fire under that
“kawa” as she started sauteing, then adding ingredients one after
another until the good aroma arose from that huge wok and got carried
all over by the wind. She never demanded for me to help her. She
would just ask for me to cut some vegetables or prepped other things
when she needed an extra hand. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: Loma;">Do
and finish your homework,” she would often say. Innocently, I never
knew at that moment how much I was missing when reading or solving
math problems than assisting her in the “kitchen” or standing,
ogling at her “kawa” being used in the backyard because it needed
an open space. Those were the days when she would tell me to add a
handful of potatoes or other vegetables, or a pinch of salt or sugar
or pepper. There were no exact measurements. But her cooked meals were
always great and people would often ask her how she made them.</span></span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;"></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikwc6_ayTj1uWrbNFQlGK6VSJuXVXZE9Ce9sr3UqkFMNwAyMzaOpdCvhZqXbh-WUbRAhz7rt-ah2QJRFT1mQXXF0XGjMux-oLoFjjrUoiuRXO-kaUZQavKr19dYxa-O6AyIt9sJ6FZUeVg0lEZZYZfMXfRlktGMCY_v_uASyOArQ1Tgkwyce-Do30/s736/kawa.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="736" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikwc6_ayTj1uWrbNFQlGK6VSJuXVXZE9Ce9sr3UqkFMNwAyMzaOpdCvhZqXbh-WUbRAhz7rt-ah2QJRFT1mQXXF0XGjMux-oLoFjjrUoiuRXO-kaUZQavKr19dYxa-O6AyIt9sJ6FZUeVg0lEZZYZfMXfRlktGMCY_v_uASyOArQ1Tgkwyce-Do30/s320/kawa.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.lazada.com.ph/tag/kawa-cooking-pan/">kawa</a><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;"><br /> </span><p></p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">I
left the country and finished school. Until one day, I had a
rendezvous with my parents and remembered to ask my mother about a
particular recipe she used to make and I missed. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: Loma;">Just
grate the papaya. Add a little bit of vinegar and sugar. Then, put
some raisins and carrots. Taste it. If it’s still sour, add a
little bit more sugar…” </span></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: Loma;">Mom!
It seems hard with no measurement.”</span></span></p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">She
laughed. I couldn’t oppose her infectious laughter as she was the
expert in home- tested and many good recipes.</span></p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">My
mother has been gone for almost 22 years now. As I prepare daily
meals, I taste her hardship of preparing what to make for my family
as she did for us. It isn’t easy. Especially now that the prices of
commodities are a lot higher, I try to make nutritious but budget
conscious meals. In between my chopping I try to master now and re
purposing leftovers, I now know that my mother’s talents of sewing
beautiful dresses and her great cooking which she often shared to
welcome guests, loved ones and friends, and to bless sick ones who
couldn’t get up to make a meal was her God given ministry. She
always created and cooked things with love. She was the aroma that
people missed when she passed away.</span></p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: Loma;">This
is good, mom,” my son uttered as he tasted the kung pao tofu I
made. </span></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">I
know I don’t have that talent before. But God has shown me that
there is nothing impossible when we ask and when He grants anyone to
have a particular talent and becomes a ministry, then, nothing is
ever too late to learn and bless others in return. </span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</p><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">I
want to imitate my mother… And I want to imitate God...</span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;"> </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: large;">“Don’t pray that God would teach you how to love like He loves; pray
that He would fill you with Himself and that He would love in and
through you. Don’t pray that He would teach you to have joy; pray that
the living God full of joy would enter into you. Don’t pray that He
would teach you how to be peaceful; ask for the God of peace, the Prince
of peace to infill you. Because if you try to imitate in your own
strength, you will be a miserable replica. But if you allow the
impartation of Jesus Christ to overtake you, suddenly it all works
because it is Him imitating Himself, and He is very good at being God.” </span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Loma; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /> ―
<span class="authorOrTitle">
Eric Ludy </span></span><br /></span></p>
<p><style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 115%; background: transparent }</style></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-4650085406518828332022-07-06T13:37:00.009-07:002022-07-06T13:54:49.149-07:00The Shield<p>
</p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
“<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><b>The Lord doesn’t
take us to another or new place if we’re not ready…”</b></span></p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">Those words were spoken
clearly in a soft hush to my mind and heart as the more tolerable
heat from my morning coffee touched my mouth. I haven’t blogged in
a very long time. The season of drought came to my life for the past
months and years. No! I didn’t stray away from my Savior! </span>
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">The ever bold, daring
manifestations of all kinds of evil swept over all the nations. It
destroyed livelihoods, death stole many lives not prepared to depart
from this world, and the broom of lies kept sweeping all truths
under the rug of darkness. History was being changed to conform to
what would fit to the evildoers’ narratives, as idols of many kinds
were formed and created while the One, true God was being deleted.</span></p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">My energy was sapped as my
family and I also transitioned to a life of being done with school
and retirement from work. We wanted to downsize but all of a sudden
had confusion where to go. What to do. Constant darts of
misunderstanding, worries of differing degrees, anxieties and issues
that threatened our stable union were thrown daily to weaken the
strong bond we shared as a family.</span></p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">I learned so much though
since that day I died and surrendered to Christ. He gave me life. In
my spiritual battles, He taught me His weapons one by one over the
span of years. He made me feel His protection that surrounded me
wherever I was. He never failed supplementing for our needs even
during hopeless cases that He proved time in time again that He would
always be the Greatest Provider of all things. I knew that I wouldn’t
need anything else because He was my All in all.</span></p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Despite
the hurt we all experienced and arguments we never had before, we knew by
the end of the day that we couldn’t and shouldn’t give up in
folding our hands and let</span></span><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><span style="font-weight: normal;">ting</span></span><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><span style="font-weight: normal;">
out our petitions in unison to reach the ever, always merciful throne
of God. Healing and restoration always came through flood of tears
that often washed away the pain in our broken and battered hearts. His love
was always the healing balm that soothed our wounded hearts. He always came to lift
up and lighten up the unseen weight on our shoulders. He wiped away
every drop of tears that hours before were blinding our visions all
the more. We were facing battles daily and often, our choices were the
first to be attacked. Clear at the breaking of dawn, only to end up
in confusion once more by the end of the day. </span></span><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><span style="font-weight: normal;">But
we all knew as a family, losing everything even with our plans
wouldn’t matter compared to losing Christ if we chose to not listen
or replace Him with something else in our midst. </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I know we were going through such testing for the dross in our lives to be removed.<br /></span></span></p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b>“</b><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><b>Polish and maintain your
Shield…” </b>was another reminder that ensued. </span></p><p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"> </span></p><p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQZ8rL7Pt4I890i3ThrX41tLgUt6Kk-Gca1WD8hXDw_InSGf1YjQrTJSU5KNCrArFbOhE8GxEZHB-0EJjEpC7rbrBhS09-J7WN9XD4nVzbs0kLa9uhxBdLvRVdpmKJDzwvi3pdIY0yDQfckA76R3MlemfxzCTTQuFs41XLGdpvqI8QBhH8FqwJpM/s1200/shield.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEQZ8rL7Pt4I890i3ThrX41tLgUt6Kk-Gca1WD8hXDw_InSGf1YjQrTJSU5KNCrArFbOhE8GxEZHB-0EJjEpC7rbrBhS09-J7WN9XD4nVzbs0kLa9uhxBdLvRVdpmKJDzwvi3pdIY0yDQfckA76R3MlemfxzCTTQuFs41XLGdpvqI8QBhH8FqwJpM/s320/shield.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif"><br /> </span>
<p></p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">Shield of faith…</span></b></p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">The very part of His Armor
that guards us against all unseen darts that will always try its best
to penetrate and corrupt believers in Christ, along with the other target which is the breastplate of righteousness. We need to guard it
with all we got especially at these trying times. How can one go to
another place or take a new task if one isn’t ready and weak even
before starting? How can one emerge as a victor in every trial if one
easily drowns in worries, anxieties or confusion? Those darts that
will always attempt to destroy His gift of faith. </span>
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</p>
<p style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span face="Liberation Sans, sans-serif">Let us be careful in how we
live our daily lives. For believers today, if not careful and reliant
on the Lord could become the unbelievers tomorrow...Some already are in that state today! Let us stay strong in the Lord’s mighty power!</span></p>
<p><style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 115%; background: transparent }</style></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-8232306191748099022021-05-23T07:17:00.003-07:002021-05-23T07:31:55.737-07:00Sing A New Song<div class="separator"><p style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> <img alt="Illustration of the Bible Verse Psalm 98:1" height="437" src="https://img.heartlight.org/crop.php?w=375&q=80&f=overlazy/creations/5442.jpg" width="670" />
</p></div><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">
My attention while reading this morning’s news was interrupted by a
subtle sound of chirping coming from a tiny bird outside the window,
with its blinds still hiding the sleepiness in the household. The
constant chirping became louder until its highest pitch was reached,
alerting my ears at that moment. I paused reading a particular news
which wasn’t always good news lately. Well, for many years,
starting a few years back. I haven’t heard those chirping for a
while. Quiet in cold winters, then seemed to come alive as spring
season blooms to cast joy over the dead of the winters.</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">The loud chirping
brought those familiar tunes I heard whenever I was going through a
trial. Those what seemed to be monotonous sounds were actually
bringing me pulsating hums of joy as if raining down from up above.
They would always cheer me up as I was about to wake up or in the
middle of the morning as I sipped my cup of coffee. The notes
reaching my ears were no different than from what it did to my either
low or battled spirit in the past. Chirp...Chirp… Chirp…</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Suddenly, words
formed in my deepest thoughts as if each “chirp” was being
decoded at that moment…</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>“Sing a new song…”</b></p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">“Sing a new song,”
was the news I heard coming from a tiny creature, busy greeting the
early dawn before the sun busted out of the Eastern skies and cast
its warm rays and brighten up the slowly fading darkness from the
long night before.</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">It was not just
“chirping.” Those notes were a reminder to my “feeling sick for
many months now.”</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Life has been really
tough for most of us during this pandemic. I had been sick. Not from
Covid-19 but from the evilness I had seen and heard and discerned
from the hidden parts. I had been sick of evil plans subtly erasing
God in any event and history, and to have contorted ideas be accepted
as the norm.
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">Day in, day out,
where thousands were quick to rush to judgments, or to commit evil as
if they were the good things. Even self-professed Christians became
blind and deaf, fooled by the spiritual enemies’ lies that they
couldn’t hear the Shepherd’s Voice anymore and His Truth.</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>“Sing a new song…”</b></p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;">God’s perfect
reminder for me this morning, as I was still curled up in bed, weary
and sick from spiritual battles around me. His reminder to let me
know that despite this turmoil you and I have been in, we must not be
weary worshipping and singing a new song from our hearts. As we sing
Him a song, He rejuvenates our bodies, minds, souls, and hearts. He
irons out confusions for they’re not from Him. He bandages the
unseen wounds we carry with His love. He makes a way for those areas
we think have no way out.He gives refreshments with His love and grace in battered bodies and souls as we always wear His Armor.</p><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>“Sing a new song…”
</b>A reminder for us to never give up standing for and doing what’s right
in His eyes. To not go with the flow of evilness. To not read
devastating and depressing news but to persist in sharing the Good
News to those who come across our paths.</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>“Sing a new song…”</b></p><b>
</b><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><br /></b>
</p><b>
</b><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>“Sing our Song!!!”</b></p><b>
</b><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b><br /></b>
</p><b>
</b><p style="line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>“Sing the Song of
Refuge, our Power, and our Might!!!”</b></p>
<p><style type="text/css">p { margin-bottom: 0.1in; line-height: 115%; background: transparent }</style></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-1304077207063182392020-11-14T07:44:00.000-08:002020-11-14T07:44:34.560-08:00I Am Sad<p> "God overlooked people’s ignorance about these things in earlier times,
but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn
to him."<span class="p"> - Acts 17:30 (NLT)</span></p><p><span class="p">"</span><span class="p">Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good; haste makes mistakes." - Proverbs 19:2 (NLT)</span></p><p><span class="p">"</span><span class="p">If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking." - James 1:5 (NLT)</span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p">"You simple people, use good judgment. You foolish people, show some understanding." - Proverbs 8:5 (NLT)</span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p"><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">This is a sad time. That there is really not a clear winner in our Presidential election. It hasn't happened before. The counting of votes that should have been done by Tuesday night was... well, extended to many days by some states. What appeared to be a leading contender well ahead that night was surprisingly overtaken by the opponent the following day. In a matter of a few hours in the middle of the night when everyone or most people were asleep, were awaken by what was a visibly total loss of the current leader.</span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">I am sad like you. Perhaps, I am angry like you. Why is it taking a long time for the declared winner to start working since the media endlessly reported about the failures of the current leader's handling of the so called pandemic known as "COVID 19?"When so many people, they said, died and were infected by it? </span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">Yes, I'm tired like you. I'm tired of wearing masks and putting myself in confinement of my home when sometimes, all I want is to go get a few grocery items, sans my mask and be able to clear my throat without people nearby looking at me like I'm causing death to those who surround me.</span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">Yes, I don't feel good like you. Of seeing "peaceful protests" continue and in a peaceful way, burn buildings, physically assault people who happen to be in those gatherings, peacefully confront quiet diners, who perhaps, are so excited to go out finally and enjoy a quiet dinner, people who are wanting a much needed rest, only to be awaken by peaceful yells of profanities and hateful statements.</span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">But...<a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/114/PHP.4.4-9.NKJV"> I still rejoice...</a></span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">I know that what I see is unseen. <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.10.10.NIV">I know that the true enemies like to roar like lions! </a></span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p"><span class="p">I know that there are <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/pro.6.18">so many working in the dark </a>and many people are quick to believe what they see, what they hear. <br /></span></span></span></p><p><span class="p"><span class="p">Yes... I am sad... I am angry... Knowing that this election was stolen. <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/pro.16.9">But God's plan will prevail! </a>And as for us believers, <a href="https://www.bible.com/bible/111/jos.24.15">who do you choose to serve?</a><br /></span></span></p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-10070911885602749612020-11-04T09:07:00.002-08:002020-11-04T09:14:32.717-08:00Don't Be Deceived!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWufzcKfbMbMoliKpVQL5EJzMlLgRxSql4WiQ68LQMkgQxDqZ1YlbNW_6daIp1TZv1lRWRXiLMx0M7dEnN7v-2VbS4o1Wxg1E3DrgbD1WWD9GjyC3WV73kOCWxeYReQU4pMnzCbyq3g/s375/crop.php.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="375" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWufzcKfbMbMoliKpVQL5EJzMlLgRxSql4WiQ68LQMkgQxDqZ1YlbNW_6daIp1TZv1lRWRXiLMx0M7dEnN7v-2VbS4o1Wxg1E3DrgbD1WWD9GjyC3WV73kOCWxeYReQU4pMnzCbyq3g/w400-h300/crop.php.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p> </p><p>"Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant." -Galatians 6:7 (NLT)<span class="p"></span></p><p><span class="p"><br /></span> </p><p>"As I have observed, those who plow iniquity, and those who sow trouble, reap the same." -Job 4:8 (NLT)</p><p><br /></p><p><span class="p"></span></p><p><span class="p">"</span><span class="p">If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves." -Galatians 6:3 (NIV)<span class="p"><br /></span></span> </p>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-11019658352580698602020-10-09T07:34:00.002-07:002020-10-09T08:50:36.303-07:00The Strawberries<p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal">“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper
than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between
joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” – Hebrews 4:12
(NLT)</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="red">“Look beneath the surface so you can judge
correctly.” – John 7:24 (NLT)</span></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all
the meetings of God’s holy people.” –1 Corinthians 14:33 (NLT)</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who
gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” –
James 1:5 (NLT)</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by
the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is
the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” – Romans 12:2 (NLT)</p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGaLLCjsXSFc3Km0Wo_LzqkjpR80ITLUaNgOoEgb7Ql9sWrNEdvNHalZ2pHC54UUyVKHtZHqtQ2n8FKra6GlkugKk9ZeC5gBbHbA3p7UK7m52OL_x1VZx3F9ReMZkRjK0UdOnGrlWmw/s375/crop.php.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="375" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGaLLCjsXSFc3Km0Wo_LzqkjpR80ITLUaNgOoEgb7Ql9sWrNEdvNHalZ2pHC54UUyVKHtZHqtQ2n8FKra6GlkugKk9ZeC5gBbHbA3p7UK7m52OL_x1VZx3F9ReMZkRjK0UdOnGrlWmw/w523-h393/crop.php.jpg" width="523" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Not everything that appears good is beneficial. I can attest to that after sorting out the strawberries my husband brought home from the store. Oh! The clear tub that housed the 2 pounds worth of craved fruits smelled heavenly! The fruits I was staring at were so red and its leaves attached on top were green. Until... I opened the tub to wash each fruit. I usually wash them and remove impurities, drying them completely before storing in the refrigerator. After picking up six of them, there were a few in the middle hidden from the transparent tub with mold. I tossed them out to the trash where they belong. </p><p class="MsoNormal"> In this trying times in our nation, be careful not to be deceived. I pray for discernment and God's wisdom for His ways and thoughts are higher than ours. Not everything that you hear is beneficial. May God guide you as you make decisions where it's called for. Remember, we are to please God not men. God bless. <br /></p>
RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-37466052448932711302020-09-25T07:47:00.001-07:002020-09-25T08:11:16.977-07:00My Prayer This Morning (For This Nation)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbe3WWTgo3trrp1g_l2GYFjNGFcsKoogRH7vPtFni7yl_lcxxquldJMYsZnulBobHUaI0NVjDB_IrKJWko36LzEFOGNA8aveUoVUEYYknzXsa1c4k4fMXJCJg2g2vpcclKcprhy2gV5g/s375/crop.php.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="375" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbe3WWTgo3trrp1g_l2GYFjNGFcsKoogRH7vPtFni7yl_lcxxquldJMYsZnulBobHUaI0NVjDB_IrKJWko36LzEFOGNA8aveUoVUEYYknzXsa1c4k4fMXJCJg2g2vpcclKcprhy2gV5g/w461-h382/crop.php.jpeg" width="461" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div class="poetry top-1"><p class="line"><span class="text Ps-5-1"><sup class="versenum">1 </sup>O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, hear me as I pray;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-1">pay attention to my groaning.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-2" id="en-NLT-13952"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-2">for I pray to no one but you.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-3" id="en-NLT-13953"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>Listen to my voice in the morning, <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-3">Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.</span></span></p></div> <div class="poetry top-1"><p class="line"><span class="text Ps-5-4" id="en-NLT-13954"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-4">you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-5" id="en-NLT-13955"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-5">for you hate all who do evil.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-6" id="en-NLT-13956"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>You will destroy those who tell lies.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-6">The <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> detests murderers and deceivers.</span></span></p></div> <div class="poetry top-1"><p class="line"><span class="text Ps-5-7" id="en-NLT-13957"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-7">I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-8" id="en-NLT-13958"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>Lead me in the right path, O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-8">or my enemies will conquer me.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-8">Make your way plain for me to follow.</span></p></div> <div class="poetry top-1"><p class="line"><span class="text Ps-5-9" id="en-NLT-13959"><sup class="versenum">9 </sup>My enemies cannot speak a truthful word.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-9">Their deepest desire is to destroy others.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-9">Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-9">Their tongues are filled with flattery.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-10" id="en-NLT-13960"><sup class="versenum">10 </sup>O God, declare them guilty.</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-10">Let them be caught in their own traps.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-10">Drive them away because of their many sins,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-10">for they have rebelled against you.</span></span></p></div> <div class="poetry top-1"><p class="line"><span class="text Ps-5-11" id="en-NLT-13961"><sup class="versenum">11 </sup>But let all who take refuge in you rejoice;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-11">let them sing joyful praises forever.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-11">Spread your protection over them,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-11">that all who love your name may be filled with joy.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-5-12" id="en-NLT-13962"><sup class="versenum">12 </sup>For you bless the godly, O <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>;</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-5-12">you surround them with your shield of love. Psalm 5 (NLT)</span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12"><br /></span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12">I have a deep longing to go back to my old posts and through the past written words, they become my daily devotions and prayers. This morning, my eyes stopped at Psalm 5. My prayer today. There is no amount of lockdown that will ever stop God's work in each person He chooses for His plan and that person, who in return, chooses to obey God.The true lockdown isn't about stopping the COVID. It is a deceiving plan to <b>mask </b>freedom and faith in God. The unseen slavery is if one allows sins to be his/her master.<br /></span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12"><br /></span></span></p><p class="line"><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12">"For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." - 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)</span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12"> </span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12">"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things
there is no law. " - Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)</span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12"><br /></span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12">"The heart of man plans his way, but the <span class="sc">Lord</span> establishes his steps." - Proverbs 16:9 (ESV) </span></span></p><p class="line"><span class="indent-1"><span class="text Ps-5-12"><br /></span></span></p></div>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-90562986630787795772020-09-07T07:58:00.002-07:002020-09-07T08:10:08.524-07:00I Don't Want To Forget To Say "Thank You"<p> (I have written this back in July 4, 2014 and I feel that this is still timely in what's going on in our country. I trust the Lord wants me to re post)...</p><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLledj5K2yHNWZ8SZyamvKBxRLmZBhC4tCQCf-_rn28AkOFnhfETgqwfFXbuiZs2Ih2Vla-IDggP_sg_wKnl6RY61mZ7StANDd4zlQ7ZhJ18zzdzb-f4t78IDzaw9Uc2G8zCzCMyustg/s800/god_bless_america.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLledj5K2yHNWZ8SZyamvKBxRLmZBhC4tCQCf-_rn28AkOFnhfETgqwfFXbuiZs2Ih2Vla-IDggP_sg_wKnl6RY61mZ7StANDd4zlQ7ZhJ18zzdzb-f4t78IDzaw9Uc2G8zCzCMyustg/w500-h375/god_bless_america.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The bright, already hot rays of the
sun greeted my barely-opened eyes. I hugged my husband briefly, still asleep, and whispered for him to go back to sleep. As I started to wake up more to
reality of facing another day to more depressing news. Day. By. Day.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">My heart felt sad as I realized how
the news about illegal immigration (and now, countless rioting of what was supposed to be "peaceful protests") had been constantly overpowering the other
“what-should-be” news like celebrating the freedom we enjoy this very day. Like
remembering those countless lives who willingly sacrificed, not only them
serving in the military, but also the families behind them, to preserve the <b>freedom</b>
this nation enjoyed. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">My mind was clouded by then trying
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the freedom it had and knowing that it was a land full of opportunities to
those of us who were not born here. A land truly blessed by God and as far as I
knew, was founded on Christian principles. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“Good morning,” a soft greeting cut
through my busy mind as my husband’s weary and rough hands tried to envelope me
as I slowly got up, not forgetting for a minute where my mind was going. My
heart becoming more sad. As I touched his hands, rough now from years of
experiences. Of being in Iraq war. And other destinations wherever the military
assigned him. And as we welcomed our child, he got out of the military to be
more with his family and to fulfill a higher dream. If I had to write about each of our journeys, this space
would not be enough. I just knew. We both came here, following the due process
or law that this great nation had established. It was not an easy trek. But
what great tastes of victory to be handed that “citizenship” that many aspired
for.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">And what even more joy to be able to
profess your faith without risking your life in this place! </span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This morning, as I remember the
white-haired veterans and those who might have lost a limb or more and the ones
who died. All of those serving in the military, near and far. The families that
also had to sacrifice. Facing each day, not knowing if their loved ones would
be able to return. Those foreigners, like my husband and I, who came here the
long way, but through the legal process. The Christians who still believe in
God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus being One. I’m tired of hearing the laws. I’m
tired of hearing God’s Word being thrown to those who try to oppose and show
their courage to stand up for what was right. I’m tired of all the
irresponsible actions the government and people must and must not be doing.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">For as an American and as a
Christian, I know we all have that duty to obey God first. I very well know His
commandment to love Him first, then love others. But my question is…</span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><i><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">“Are we loving others in the right
way?”</span></span></i></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We can all argue. But this place is
becoming more tolerant of sins while yelling God’s commandment to love on my
face. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As Christians, you and I know this
is not our home. But as we are still living down here, we have responsibilities
to obey God first and the government. Its laws. For God was the One Who put it
there. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This morning, I would probably still
turn on my t.v. though I already know what news to expect. But I want to shout
“Hurray!” for those who are willing to stand up for what is RIGHT. And no! I
don’t want to forget to say “Thank You” to those veterans who never get the
treatments and respect they all deserve. “Thank You” to all of your families
who sacrificed like you did. “Thank You” to all the military and law
enforcement who give their all to preserve the freedom we enjoy and to protect
this land against oppressors. </span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Most of all,<b> “Thank You, God!”
“Thank You, Lord”</b>.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: verdana;">
</span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">God Bless America! </span></span></b></p>
RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-63158892391986559182020-05-17T16:14:00.001-07:002020-05-17T16:14:45.440-07:00Faith, The New Refrigerator and Covid 19 Haircut<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_M-0arwJA5c3yt49YMl9AbTUACPuQyuc-Qdeawqau8PnNUHA0Q1veqpsbbV1jQiNTrVCBtcxoALXjhVfLxQNnNr8Oj3BpNHuAJi06me0KJGieeuXQOB1kVdmvA911thg424eWX9Jr2w/s1600/2873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_M-0arwJA5c3yt49YMl9AbTUACPuQyuc-Qdeawqau8PnNUHA0Q1veqpsbbV1jQiNTrVCBtcxoALXjhVfLxQNnNr8Oj3BpNHuAJi06me0KJGieeuXQOB1kVdmvA911thg424eWX9Jr2w/s400/2873.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
"For we live by believing and not by seeing.<span class="p">" - 2 Cor. 5:7 (NLT)</span><br />
<span class="p"><br /></span>
<br />
<span class="p">"I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy
and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with
confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13 (NLT)</span><br />
<span class="p"><span class="p"><br /></span></span>
"<span class="p"><span class="p">Jesus responded, “Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believe?”" - John 11:40 (NLT)<span class="p"><br /></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
Working nights for many years, sometimes, I find myself waking up in the middle of the night. If not, way early at dawn. Trying to be quiet as not to wake up my family, I would often grab my cell phone nearby and read His Word and share a prayer ready to be texted to my family to remind them to start their day, too, with the Lord in the morning when they arise.<br />
<br />
This morning was different. As my eyelids opened, I saw the time at 4 o'clock in the morning. After reading my morning devotion, I decided to browse at my previous posts in my blog. I felt something telling me that I needed to review some of my old posts from way past. My index finger pointed at the year 2008 when I first started blogging. The first thing that caught my eye was during the month of November when I visited my sister-in-law who just had her second baby. I remembered my husband and I visiting them at the hospital and at the same time, we were waiting for the refrigerator to be delivered to our home. <br />
<br />
<i>"My God!" I thought to myself, "That's almost 12 years already!!!"</i><br />
<br />
After breakfast, I had asked my husband if he could fix my short bob at the back that needed to be polished. I didn't expect it to be perfect as we had been giving each other haircuts. Considering we seemed to not have the talent to use the clipper, scissors and comb, I would say our "do's" could be doable!<br />
<br />
"By the way...," I shouted at my husband who was upstairs at that moment, "Our refrigerator is almost 12 years old! I can't believe that!"<br />
<br />
No response. I thought maybe because I said that out of the blue. If not, I knew him well. If he was busy doing something, then, more likely, what I shouted were not audible enough with his busy hands and mind.<br />
<br />
After washing the dishes, he did fix my hair. I was getting frustrated because I wasn't sure what we were doing wrong, I didn't like the way it was forming on the back. I wanted a little undercut yet still maintain my bob cut without becoming a pixie cut. Maybe I was a little picky, too this morning. I knew he was being patient with me and tried his best. I told him I wasn't upset with him. I was more frustrated with my hair that had weird waves and corners and angles. After a few snip using a comb and texturizing scissor, it started to look better. <br />
<br />
"Thank you so much! I'm sorry you had to try many times." <br />
<br />
"I'll take a shower and then make the lunch."<br />
<br />
Sauteeing after prepping some onions and other things, I started like a "Fritos' pie". I decided to put the cheese on the last few minutes while baking it. Getting the bag of three blend cheese from the clear bin, it felt weird from the refrigerator side. It didn't feel as colder. But I wasn't sure. I thought maybe it was just my warm hands as I liked to wash the used knives, colander, chopping boards with either warm or hot water.<br />
<br />
"Smells good!" yelled the boys as they came running down the stairs when I told them it was time to eat. I asked them to feel the refrigerator as it didn't feel that cold for me. They both agreed.<br />
<br />
Recalling at that time, why out of the blue I shared with my husband that our refrigerator was almost 12 years old, I then knew that it was a hint from the Lord. <br />
<br />
That He told me to look at my old post, specifically, referred to that time where I would remember when we were waiting for the refrigerator to be delivered. <br />
<br />
That there was something wrong with that ref and needed to be replaced.<br />
<br />
You would think I'm crazy for saying things like that. But this is where my faith comes and my belief. I believe there is no coincidence and the God of yesterday is still very much alive today. That He talks to His children whether through dreams or circumstances or people that cross my path. Sometimes, it just takes me a few minutes, hours, day and even years to process. That He has always been there for me and my family. No doubt, He is always present in our lives. <br />
<br />
There was still time to get a new one. Yet, He provided, too. <b>Only one refrigerator</b> that we chose that would fit in our kitchen was left. My husband was able to buy it. Before anything had spoiled or needed to be thrown away from our old ref. I was able to put the perishables in the freezer. I thank Him that the freezer part was working still. Enough for the cold to last until the new one arrives tomorrow. <br />
<br />
"Is this enough styrofoam coolers?," my husband texted me from a store to ready them so we can transfer the food tomorrow as we wait for the new refrigerator.<br />
<br />
"I'm only <b>worried</b> on the foods that will spoil inside the ref," I was about to text then decided my heart was strongly disagreeing with the word <b>"worry"</b> and erased it. <br />
<br />
"I'm only <b>thinking</b> about the foods inside the ref," I finally texted with relief that I used the right statement.<br />
<br />
Why worry? No worries. Knowing that there is nothing impossible with God. As long as I trust and believe in Him. That's what matters. The Jesus of yesterday is very much alive today and tomorrow.<br />
<br />
As for my weird pixie on the back, bob on the top and sides haircut, I am <strike>worried</strike> <b>not worried</b> anymore whenever I need to go run errands or step out. I'll just wear a mask and I thank God that I can do that still if I want to.<br />
<br />
<i><b>Thank You Lord!</b></i>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-62689853305434652462020-05-08T08:47:00.000-07:002020-05-08T09:24:03.942-07:00The Bag Of Corn Chips<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDaCUhFUnKpEUbq747a6IslSBV3B4FQMRx5_2WPlvfItNIWC_atLiUHeim3O2-niyixqBVBnX_grTQRyKmk-EIxGsPyc2pcgqLXnEnxUtO2q1rKZ7ECVpCv1ST1zctkSpsDjqCoVDTYg/s1600/cornchips.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1152" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDaCUhFUnKpEUbq747a6IslSBV3B4FQMRx5_2WPlvfItNIWC_atLiUHeim3O2-niyixqBVBnX_grTQRyKmk-EIxGsPyc2pcgqLXnEnxUtO2q1rKZ7ECVpCv1ST1zctkSpsDjqCoVDTYg/s320/cornchips.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: RW Garcia </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Since this pandemic, I have decided to make my runs to the grocery store every 3 weeks or when I'm running low on some pantry items I need to replenish. One thing isn't forgotten at the top of my list... My family and I love this organic corn chips. Not only the taste but it's a healthier option whenever we're craving for something crispy like potato chips. Not only it's lower in salt but counts as a whole grain. Of course, portion control still is a must. I know myself that this munching thing... It can be addicting!<br />
<br />
There I was finding myself getting ready after my shower, contemplating whether I should go or not before the weather became hotter. I didn't like going out on hot weathers because I get itchy and the heat bothers me, along with the pollen, cause my sinus pain to act up. But! Glancing at the container that held the organic chips in the pantry, there was only a bag left! <br />
<br />
"Oh no! Only one!" I thought. <br />
<br />
"I gotta' go!"<br />
<br />
From the last grocery run I did three weeks ago, I remember the cashier meticulously scanning item per item that I had put out on the running conveyor belt. This time, there was no head poking over my shoulder as the next shopper seemed a mile farther away. The plastic, transparent partition between us aided in much lesser conversation aside from the masks that covered both of our faces. Despite my lack of vision of her smile, I could see her willingness to help me in any way, bagging each item carefully and making sure she was getting the price right each time she made a pass on the scanner.<br />
<br />
Seeing she was looking at the last bag of the organic corn chips from the pile I bought, stretching the bar code so the scanner could sense, I asked,<br />
<br />
"Have you had those before?"<br />
<br />
Surprised and with a few seconds of silence, she finally recovered from me initiating a conversation, she replied, "No! But they surely look good!"<br />
<br />
"Get it! That's yours now!"<br />
<br />
She looked at me. Only our eyes were conversing as we struggle to talk through the masks.<br />
<br />
"No! Are you sure?"<br />
<br />
"Of course, I'm sure. It's just a little thing to thank you for what you do," I promised.<br />
<br />
Her what appeared to be tired eyes wrinkled on its corners. I couldn't see well but I knew she wore a big smile. <br />
<br />
"Oh my God!," she exclaimed...<br />
<br />
"No one had ever done that to me here! Thank you so much Ma'am and have a nice day," she continued as she handed a long, white receipt she carefully put on my right hand without touching it.<br />
<br />
I told her to have a nice day, too and I hoped that she would enjoy those chips.<br />
<br />
It was no exception with my grocery run yesterday. Getting the usual items I had written on my list. Including a few bags of the same organic corn chips. Getting surprised with more supplies of items, frozen things, dairy products, meat, poultry and even bread.<br />
<br />
Still, there were less number of shoppers. I could count all of us with the fingers of both of my hands that were inside the store.<br />
<br />
There I went again pushing my cart to the empty line seeing the young lady cashier and her help, a young man bagging the items at the end of the register. Opening the bags ready for the items purchased. They said "Hello" then succumbed to deep silence only this pandemic caused. No! The so-called experts had caused. To keep distance of six feet. Wear mask at all times when in places with other people. To close the businesses and every gathering you could think of.<br />
<br />
"Thank you!" I told them both as they patiently bagged my items, the cashier always careful with the way she scanned each item and the young man, without complaining, patiently loaded each item into each bag he opened. Making sure nothing would be crushed. Including the bags of corn chips he put on top of the last bag.<br />
<br />
"Will it ever be normal for us?" I asked.<br />
<br />
No one answered. They both looked at me. Just their eyes talking. But with silence.<br />
<br />
I wasn't planning to give out my corn chips yesterday. But I felt a tug in my heart. That it was an opportunity to bless two hardworking young people who probably were afraid to even be there. Yet... They needed to work to sustain their needs.<br />
<br />
"Have you had those before?" I queried. The young man looked up, making sure I was asking him.<br />
<br />
"No!" was the short reply, his right hand holding the last bag of corn chips, reading some descriptions from the noisy bag.<br />
<br />
"Have it!" I told him. "But please halve it with her!" as I pointed to the cashier who was working with him.<br />
<br />
"Really?" he asked.<br />
<br />
"Yes!" <br />
<br />
"Oh my God!" the female cashier exclaimed.<br />
<br />
"That is so nice of you! Thank you soooo much Ma'am," she added.<br />
<br />
I pushed my cart with my goodies as they both waved at me. I could see the twinkling of their eyes. I could sense their gratitude that somehow, one person acknowledged them both that morning. It wasn't about the corn chips that made them happy. I knew they could buy that at any moment. But it was the act of unexpected kindness that threw them into awe! <br />
<br />
But they didn't know, I was praying as I was pushing my cart toward the exit. For the Lord to bless them and the other workers. For the sacrifices they, too, made to keep the food supply going for hurting families. For alleviating the fears of shoppers to avoid being close with each other. For finding items when they weren't found. <br />
<br />
As God's children, we must not let this virus quench the fire in our hearts. We must not let His light be buried in darkness but instead, when we have that opportunity to help out, we must let His Light shine in this darkness that swept all over the world. This is only one virus. There are hundreds more.<br />
<br />
I know that as His child, I need to increase my faith whenever I step out at the comfort and protection from my home. "Shield of faith" is one of the pieces of God's Armor. No matter how others stop the gathering in churches, God's love and grace can't be contained. The church is "us". <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i> Too Kind!<br /><br /> I have wept in the night<br /> For the shortness of sight<br /> That to somebody's need made me blind.<br /> But I have never yet<br /> Felt a tinge of regret<br /> For being a little too kind!<br /><br /> - Author Unknown</i><br />
<br />
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<br />RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-16065506799919817762020-05-01T08:19:00.001-07:002020-05-01T08:23:36.026-07:00Live By Faith<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 13.5pt;">Psalm
23</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
psalm of David.</span></b></div>
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<sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">1 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">The <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is my
shepherd;<br />
I have all that I need.<br />
<sup>2 </sup>He lets me rest in green meadows;<br />
he leads me beside peaceful streams.<br />
<sup>3 </sup> He renews my strength.<br />
He guides me along right paths,<br />
bringing honor to his name.<br />
<sup>4 </sup>Even when I walk<br />
through the darkest valley,<br />
I will not be afraid,<br />
for you are close beside me.<br />
Your rod and your staff<br />
protect and comfort me.<br />
<sup>5 </sup>You prepare a feast for me<br />
in the presence of my enemies.<br />
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.<br />
My cup overflows with blessings.<br />
<sup>6 </sup>Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me<br />
all the days of my life,<br />
and I will live in the house of the <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span><br />
forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(NLT)</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I went back to my home country back
in 2003. That had only been 3 years after working in the correctional facility.
I was involved in a spiritual battle literally fighting against unseen enemies.
I was only a baby Christian then. Not aware of how to fight back. I knew I had
no option but to consult the Mighty Warrior Jesus. With tears, I asked Him I
was afraid and that I didn’t know how to face the weird things the enemies were
hurling with my own loved ones to cause division among us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reflecting back on the
Lord’s response, I know now that most of the time, though mighty and awesome He
is, He answered me in the quietest way I sensed. I opened the Bible and the
first verse I saw was<a href="https://biblehub.com/ephesians/6-10.htm"> Ephesians 6:10</a> That night, He made me remember my mother’s
favorite psalm. Psalm 23. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peace and courage flooded my heart. I understood at
that moment. The battle was His and in order for me to be successful in dealing
with the enemies, I had to fully trust and depend on Him. Fast forward, I’m
very grateful the Lord had trained me in that arena. With inevitable trials
that come into my life, I am choosing to live <b>by faith </b>and not fear. To always
fold my hands and bend my knees in constant prayer with anything that comes my
way, be it trials or successes. He deserves all the glory. He deserves my
thanks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I’m nothing without Him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif";"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/saA8Azkgi2U" width="560"></iframe></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As we face this pandemic and all the
restrictions placed on people all over the world, let us go to the foot of the
cross. I pray God gives us the spiritual discernment, to see what truly is the
truth vs. the lies. May your fears be buried in the grounds of His love and grace. I feel
all this political circus taking advantage of this pandemic to instill fear,
to put out lies to people. But trust in God. Jesus after all, had overcome the world! God
bless you all.</span></div>
RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-37089937973443451142020-03-17T13:24:00.003-07:002020-03-17T15:51:14.718-07:00Panic Buying<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">"</span><span class="text Phil-4-6" id="en-NIV-29449">Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.</span> </b></span><span class="text Phil-4-7" id="en-NIV-29450"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><sup class="versenum"> </sup>And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:6,7 (NIV)</b></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I’ve only seen the panic buying online from posted videos
or heard it from the news. The fear of being confined to homes for a long time
somehow drives everyone to go to their stores and buy more than what they need.
I have never experienced the chaos until this morning when I needed to get my
usual needs.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The streets leading to Sam’s Club were eerily quiet with
only very few cars I could count with only the fingers of one hand. Compared to
pre-Coronavirus scare when I always needed <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to plan way ahead and try to beat the traffic
on the freeways, but even on side streets were no exemption.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The hours were changed. Two hours later than what it would
have been opened for those who paid extra for club memberships in order to get in
early and avoid the rush of shoppers. I liked it only because on summertime
when the heat was unbearable, I could manage to go way early and not get
bothered by the hot sun. I was shocked to see many cars already parked six minutes after the club was just opened. It was easy for me to find a
spot but at the corner of my eyes, I thought I saw a very long line of what
looked like miles long. There was a policeman watching, standing in between the doors
while a sales associate was guarding the opening tightly and not letting in
anyone until he gave the cue. Everyone was calm and patient despite the ordeal.
But I didn’t want to wait in line and get sick doing so.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I headed to the other grocery store, Sprouts, six miles
away to check and see what I could get since I might need to also replenish my
food stock. I was fooled to see how well stocked it was still when only I saw
the first shelf of cosmetics. Going aisle to aisle while assessing what I could
use “instead” than the “usual” which was already gone, I was like in the movie I
had seen long time ago of people panicking and hoarding goods. Sadly, even
fighting over items. The pastas were gone. Tomato sauce, frozen pizza, no
chickens, no bread… I could go on and on… There I was picking what remained
which was okay than not to be able to eat anything. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I found myself exchanging texts with my husband and son about the scarcity of foods but somehow, our spirits remained joyful. Now wouldn’t be the right
time to be picky whether that bread has a lot of salt or sugar. I grabbed a
well wrapped Irish Soda Bread and thought how good it would be with butter.
There was still hope, I texted my hubby and son with a smiley face. I grabbed
the last pad thai noodles that I was thinking of subbing for other soup that
needed noodles. "No chickens!!!" I told my hubby to which he texted, "Get the beef ribs. That's still good!" It was a private joke of eating the foods we were trying to avoid to try to eat healthier then. Now??? No time to think about cholesterol and saturated fats!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I was aware of some people trying to distance themselves from
others. Or from me. But the process was still smooth despite…</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFxlmZb2sUd-7cSP-yge5WBTlHxy0NL-Gn9jyGJ-PY9VEV33gyGoik9mUHUuVvD77ET3e54xxkI5njD6WC_3FbGkgtkJWs4jbKEh1PqcwWiawyHEJEMAbXXG3tJZnUOEplXDDNaG-Fg/s1600/empty+shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFxlmZb2sUd-7cSP-yge5WBTlHxy0NL-Gn9jyGJ-PY9VEV33gyGoik9mUHUuVvD77ET3e54xxkI5njD6WC_3FbGkgtkJWs4jbKEh1PqcwWiawyHEJEMAbXXG3tJZnUOEplXDDNaG-Fg/s320/empty+shelf.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">no bread</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4M9eTbBGvl6Qh-DRZCtxZTOUDKJiPeLQPIQaKOT4o2jYTg5wJ-9TRfh6E8ZFY23stkvgdhfjM-Im-DdgFoIHVtbMzJTZnfLHQz86UNqq70JZ73GNzW9bXAWu3i9K1XprJUVcVP3gaA/s1600/no+goods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt4M9eTbBGvl6Qh-DRZCtxZTOUDKJiPeLQPIQaKOT4o2jYTg5wJ-9TRfh6E8ZFY23stkvgdhfjM-Im-DdgFoIHVtbMzJTZnfLHQz86UNqq70JZ73GNzW9bXAWu3i9K1XprJUVcVP3gaA/s320/no+goods.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">another empty shelf</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7Nb4kHJ-nd8LWT6SKWsAmjHuZCzegNhbUWwDNqQjgN-jmJipVAUaT_jSwTLhkGvxZPzvVOObnYhn4agw6lYlobfMMahciCiHq9Im2G8EZhsMyOKx3DJZ1jqP5Eg55_n-XxKAjRhCsw/s1600/no+chickens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR7Nb4kHJ-nd8LWT6SKWsAmjHuZCzegNhbUWwDNqQjgN-jmJipVAUaT_jSwTLhkGvxZPzvVOObnYhn4agw6lYlobfMMahciCiHq9Im2G8EZhsMyOKx3DJZ1jqP5Eg55_n-XxKAjRhCsw/s320/no+chickens.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">no chicken left</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I got it!!” the
lady in front of me told me when I attempted to hold her stuff on the conveyor
belt stucked, seemingly a bit annoyed.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Okay,” I replied without adding an apology with my
desire to help her out. I was thinking I wasn't sick but the paranoia was starting to get intense among some!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">On my way out, all I could think of was to thank God.
This was only a glimpse of what would come. Of worse scenarios yet... still wouldn’t
be the apocalypse. There are still a lot not known about coronavirus being new.
But people forget that many also get sick from flu or other viruses. Nothing
beats the old way of having short fingernails and a proper handwashing with
soap. Back of my mind? I was thinking more of the spiritual battle and what was not seen regarding this matter. But I know all I need is to remain trusting in God alone and stay strong with the power He gives.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I know that in these trying times, I must not let kindness, compassion, love and understanding
be washed away from this wave of confusion, fear and a lot of “unknowns”. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-78442277608911247632020-03-10T07:11:00.004-07:002020-03-10T07:13:18.349-07:00Look Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvo2BHdSc5mktSjmd553ZXvpV2f18OgPYybtNaAY8hzm1vUAnIxDasGSJUAAWSOZuVTKR337y8qgTK1Sw_MRhpo7LwxBlA9UHwa9wxXUf4WV0GBhW2aRkAPCVsWLfG27-ECnN6FHw7Q/s1600/isaiah51_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="500" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvo2BHdSc5mktSjmd553ZXvpV2f18OgPYybtNaAY8hzm1vUAnIxDasGSJUAAWSOZuVTKR337y8qgTK1Sw_MRhpo7LwxBlA9UHwa9wxXUf4WV0GBhW2aRkAPCVsWLfG27-ECnN6FHw7Q/s320/isaiah51_6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Don't look into the past because it's gone. Don't look far ahead since no one truly knows what tomorrow brings except God. Let us look up into the heavens each day. He is waiting. Always waiting with acceptance, love and forgiveness. God is indeed faithful. For many generations.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-8551742985375486572019-08-20T07:31:00.001-07:002019-08-20T07:31:37.346-07:00Hello From Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezjBsNw_dBJ8qgmW_sOoaEnMrYNoh6f9-nMruqD0IoYJKhFsB3RRllHSFt4zcCKN1_Lq8X-5SClZS74W7Kkrwdwg4wSdpkbla90cU_i18pM3pr77gVFokp9rLgMqgMrkNp0AYdv8-6A/s1600/hebrews4_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezjBsNw_dBJ8qgmW_sOoaEnMrYNoh6f9-nMruqD0IoYJKhFsB3RRllHSFt4zcCKN1_Lq8X-5SClZS74W7Kkrwdwg4wSdpkbla90cU_i18pM3pr77gVFokp9rLgMqgMrkNp0AYdv8-6A/s400/hebrews4_12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Browsing through my old saved emails or messages, I had come upon this particular saved mail that I wrote (on May 20, 2007) from His Own Word during one of my quiet times with the Lord. I felt it would be a great reminder not only to myself but to those who would happen to drop by here because I know the Lord always speaks. We are the ones who always don't give time for Him. May this serve as an encouragement, guidance and would replenish the hope He pours into the hearts of those who trust and believe in Jesus. At these trying times, may we be reminded of what and Who is true, Who is the only Way, the Truth and the Life! Blessings my friends... (emphasized ones were mine)...<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span id="yiv8647559385role_document" style="color: black; font-family: Arial;"></span></i></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span id="yiv8647559385role_document" style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">Hello My Child,</span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span id="yiv8647559385role_document" style="color: black; font-family: Arial;">
<div>
</div>
<div>
Oh how deaf & blind you are toward Me! Why won't you listen? Why do you
refuse to see? Who in all the world is as blind as My own people, My servant?
Who is as deaf as My messengers? Who is as blind as My chosen people, the
servant of the Lord? You see & understand what is right but <strong>refuse
to act on it</strong>. <strong>You hear but you don't really listen</strong>. -
Isa.42:18-20</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
You are among those who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ. I love
you dearly & I called you to be My very own people. - Romans 1:6</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
My unchanging plan has always been to adopt you into My own family by
bringing you to Me through Jesus Christ. It gave Me great pleasure. - Ephesians
1:5</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
My purpose was that you, who were the first to trust in Christ should
praise Me. And now you also have heard the truth, the Good News that I save you.
- Eph.1:12,13</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Once you were dead, doomed forever because of your many sins. You used to
live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty
prince of the power of the air. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those
who refuse to obey Me. - Eph.2:1,2</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
But I'm rich in mercy. And I love you so very much. - Eph.2:4</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
From My glorious, unlimited resources, I will give you mighty inner
strength through My Holy Spirit. Christ will be more and more at home in your
heart as you trust in Him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of My
marvelous love. And may you have the power to understand, as all My people
should, how wide, how long, how high and how deep My love really is. -
Eph.3:16-18</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Live no longer as the ungodly do, for they are hopelessly confused. Their
closed minds are full of darkness; they are far away from My life because they
have shut their minds & hardened their hearts against Me. They don't care
anymore about right & wrong & they have given themselves over to immoral
ways. Their lives are filled with all kinds of impurity & greed.
-Eph.4:17-19</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
That isn't what you were taught when you learned about Christ. Since you
have heard all about Him. And have learned the truth that is in Jesus,
<strong>throw off your old evil nature & your former way of life, which is
rotten through & through, full of lust & deception</strong>. -
Eph.4:20-22</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Instead, <strong>there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts &
attitudes. You must display a new nature because you are a new person,
created in My likeness---righteous, holy & true</strong>. - Eph.4:23</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Do not bring sorrow to My Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, I'm
the One Who has identified you as My own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on
the day of redemption. - Eph.4:30</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Follow My example in everything you do because you are one of My dear
children. - Eph.5:1</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Let there be <strong>no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among
you</strong>. Such sins have no place among My people. - Eph.5:3</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for My terrible
anger comes upon all those who disobey Me. - Eph. 5:6</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Though your heart was once full of darkness, now you are full of light from
Me and your behavior should show it. This light within you produces only what is
good and right and true. - Eph. 5:8-9</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil & darkness; instead, rebuke
& expose them. - Eph.5:11</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Be careful how you live, not as fools but as those who are wise. Don't act
thoughtlessly, but try to understand what I want you to do. Instead, let the
Holy Spirit fill & control you.- Eph. 5:15, 17, 18</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
You must love your wife with the same love Christ showed the church. - Eph.
5:25</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Don't make your children angry by the way you treat them. Rather, bring
them up with the discipline and instruction approved by Me. - Eph. 6:4</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
You must listen very carefully to the truth you have heard or you may drift
away from it. - Hebrews 2:1</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The message I delivered through angels has always proved true, and the
people were punished for every violation of the law and every act of
disobedience. - Hebrews 2:2</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
What makes you think that you can escape if you are indifferent to this
great salvation that was announced by your Lord Jesus Himself? - Hebrews
2:3</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Become mature in your understanding. You don't need to start all over again
with the importance of turning away from evil deeds and placing your faith in
Me. - Hebrews 6:1</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
My child, don't ignore it when I discipline you, don't be discouraged when
I correct you. For I discipline those I love and I punish those I accept as My
children. - Hebrews 12:5,6</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
See to it that you obey Me, the One Who is speaking to you. -Hebrews
12:25</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Give honor to your marriage and remain faithful to one another in marriage.
I will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery. -
Hebrews 13:4</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
I am the same yesterday, today and forever. - Hebrews 13:8</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
So think clearly and exercise self-control. Obey Me because you are My
child. Don't slip back into your old ways of doing evil; you didn't
know any better then. But now, you must be holy in everything you do for I
am holy. - 1Peter 1:13,14,15,16.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
See, I am coming soon and My reward is with Me, to repay all according to
their deeds. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning
and the End. - Rev. 22:12-13</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Yes, I am coming soon, [Rev.22:20]</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
love,</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Jesus Christ</div>
</span></i></span>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-36830235982059668162019-04-01T06:33:00.001-07:002019-04-01T07:38:55.787-07:00Trust and Believe<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9zzuQouIqtfqP9vbbNUoCB-wQo0Vo5TxWUlMSo_U0cJJFmph7U4x6Rg2uzYS4rcAq83YHMJpeyQiuR9jiAIW0wsxmnR8NZER-RDyHHQjtxTbmU-_9ir8cdSoyvI31Ujvz7ODtfyx9Bg/s1600/mark6_49-50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="587" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9zzuQouIqtfqP9vbbNUoCB-wQo0Vo5TxWUlMSo_U0cJJFmph7U4x6Rg2uzYS4rcAq83YHMJpeyQiuR9jiAIW0wsxmnR8NZER-RDyHHQjtxTbmU-_9ir8cdSoyvI31Ujvz7ODtfyx9Bg/s400/mark6_49-50.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">heartlight.org</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif"; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">I read the<a href="https://offthebeatentrek.blogspot.com/2017/01/leaning-on-shoulder.html"> familiar lines I wrote two years ago</a>. My
heart scarred with pain for my son’s own heartache at that time was not feeling
anymore hurt but instead, of gratitude and joy. As we walked in that valley two
years ago, I remained trusting in the Lord. I had no words to part with him to
lighten the load he carried except:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">“Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Do not depend
on your own understanding…”</span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif"; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">I knew then Who to go to knowing that He had rescued me
many times with my own failures, His right Hand always quick to save me from
drowning from the seas of trials as He did Peter when he stepped out of that
boat being battered by gusty winds. I knew… It was only the Lord Jesus Who
would never let go of His hold of my son’s hand during that moment when he was being hit by the winds of confusion, doubts, and fears.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif"; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">After that winds of confusion to stop him from using his
love of Graphic Design, His gift of love for art evident even since he was
little, he worked even harder and remained trusting in the Lord, despite the
uncertainties around him. My son with <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3%3A5&version=NIV">Proverbs 3:5 </a>etched in his heart since he
was of a young mind, was beginning to understand as he stepped out into
adulthood the importance of having faith and living it out in his own journey.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif"; font-size: large; line-height: 115%;">My family and I weathered that storm. He finished his
degree few months ago. It wasn’t easy. But we all knew, we needed to have
faith, even little. Even as small as a mustard seed than none. </span></div>
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<i><b><span class="text"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";">“Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if
it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.”</span></span></span></b></i><br />
<br />
<i><b>
</b></i><i><b><span id="en-NLT-23603"><span class="text"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><sup><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";"> </span></sup></span></span><span class="woj"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";">“Yes,
come,”</span></span></span><span class="text"><span style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";"> Jesus said.</span>” (Matthew
14:28-29, NLT)</span></span></span></b></i><br />
<br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";">My son is
about to step out of his boat of life. I know that the winds will not come only
once but a life of duty for Christ will continue to weather many storms.
However, I also know that not all storms are there to batter our boats of
lives. Some in that scary appearances are there to expose what’s weak, to deal
with them, to be able to surrender them all to Jesus as we step out of our
comfort zones in order for us to serve the Master. Sometimes, in the process of sinking, one is being cleansed by the Living Water. Truly, in our weaknesses
Jesus is our strength. He alone is the source of true Power. He hears our
prayers no matter how strong the winds are or how bad the waves are crushing
against the boat of life. He is always faithful. He doesn’t let us sink under
the water when we have faith. When we trust…</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";">In stormy events of life, Jesus is quick to reach out to save anyone who calls on Him. </span></span><br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";"><br /></span></span>
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";">The question is... "Are you willing to reach out to His hold and be saved?" <b>Trust. Believe.</b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "candara" , "sans-serif";"><i>Lord, thank You for everything. For saving not only my son but also my husband and I. Thank You that You have provided all the means in order for him to continue to serve You with the talent You had given him. Lord, increase his faith as he steps out and use him as Your instrument for Your glory. May many people who will come his way be able to see Your light that he reflects. Protect him and guide him and give him discernment. Increase his faith at times of gusty winds and may he keep in his heart that You will never leave him nor forsake him. Thank You Lord for Who You are. Thank You for Your love and mercy. Lord, please bless those who are afflicted with severe storms. May they be able to see You in the waters and be able to trust and believe in You. You alone are our Savior. To those who are doubting, make their unbelief to belief. To those who are in confusion, give them order. To those who don't have faith, make their hearts see. To those who are afraid, give them courage. In Jesus' Name. Amen.</i><b> </b></span></span>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-27627295414751913442019-03-22T07:58:00.001-07:002019-03-22T07:58:58.413-07:00The Gift of Rainy Days<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Winter said its “goodbyes” but what lasting impression it
left to the drought-stricken land! It brought many days of much needed rain,
even exceeding the amount needed to recover from drought. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I have never seen our trees yield so many flowers and what a
beautiful sight to gaze at! I am anticipating a greater harvest of plums and
nectarines this year!</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Along with this awesome result comes the down side. With
many different flowers popping up on roadways, hills, valleys and mountaintops,
surely people with allergy are prone to being affected by these pollens and
other kinds of allergens in the air. I am one of those people and already armed
myself with nasal sprays and a tablet I can take each day if I need to
counter such effects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I dread it
sometimes because I don’t like the sinus pain that may come with other
symptoms. Like itchy eyes or runny nose or just feeling tired sometimes. </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">But I choose to concentrate on the positive side which is to
take each day at a time and enjoy the gift of rainy days winter dropped in the
season of my life.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRKi7bc_BzHF8i8jLZH23WKJLLJvl6vatu4PhsE-rBVjM4KTRlLApUkLehjZPAAO0In41eTHLzJQ4vR8W1ovVan_4snYNnU8tL_aV4s4lHdXeLvNjPdU_DTwSczJdwgpaxFjbB5XyDg/s1600/nectarine+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRKi7bc_BzHF8i8jLZH23WKJLLJvl6vatu4PhsE-rBVjM4KTRlLApUkLehjZPAAO0In41eTHLzJQ4vR8W1ovVan_4snYNnU8tL_aV4s4lHdXeLvNjPdU_DTwSczJdwgpaxFjbB5XyDg/s320/nectarine+tree.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nectarine tree; ©offthebeatentrek2019</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3zg5c_TQRRvCDiGo-kb5dpb-uG1QHKK1YZlbfIgF-V8fCAuAzf_iTFltbDeEvKQyftTdWddLlG1U9n8lfdrDVAfNW4kyWxp_owrKJ0PSPS3rSKPswxmB_Eeeg9aE5XtZWZHifCG1hRg/s1600/plum+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3zg5c_TQRRvCDiGo-kb5dpb-uG1QHKK1YZlbfIgF-V8fCAuAzf_iTFltbDeEvKQyftTdWddLlG1U9n8lfdrDVAfNW4kyWxp_owrKJ0PSPS3rSKPswxmB_Eeeg9aE5XtZWZHifCG1hRg/s320/plum+tree.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">plum tree; </span>©<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">offthebeatentrek2019</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I pray Paul’s prayer for me and for you:</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span>“When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to
the Father,<span class="nltfootnote"><sup> </sup></span>the Creator of everything
in heaven and on earth.<span class="nltfootnote"><sup> </sup></span>I pray that
from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength
through his Spirit. <span class="reftext"><b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span>Then Christ will make his home in
your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and
keep you strong. <span class="reftext"><b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></span>And
may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how
long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of
Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made
complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.” –
Ephesians 3:14-19 (NLT)<span style="font-family: "Tempus Sans ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span>
RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-90089728429768853812019-03-20T11:13:00.002-07:002019-03-20T11:13:15.498-07:00The Lion and the Lamb<b>"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil
comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done
everything, to stand.<span class="p">" - Ephesians 6:13 (NIV)</span></b><br />
<br />
<b> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBamSfMA-t4qHzI7fxBtBcF2Iw_axn9K214PIEdbqXXAilmJxk5ecIXYPe3gu2aOy_7cxaAdBYznZ5yiKHwjEgvLR-b8x9YmOvTUgou5fpLrG9-GAe6ch9AGZbr55aRmOP4zp5sgxaw/s1600/armor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBamSfMA-t4qHzI7fxBtBcF2Iw_axn9K214PIEdbqXXAilmJxk5ecIXYPe3gu2aOy_7cxaAdBYznZ5yiKHwjEgvLR-b8x9YmOvTUgou5fpLrG9-GAe6ch9AGZbr55aRmOP4zp5sgxaw/s400/armor.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</b><br />
<br />
<br />
I looked at the art hanging on the wall up on the loft again. The verse spoke out loud despite the silence all around me. This particular art with God's Armor reminds me each day that as my eyes open each morning, the battle is real. Each day. From sunrise 'til sunset. I chose this particular art after going through a spiritual battle back in 2003 when I was a baby Christian. God showed me that the unseen battle was real but through that, He would help me and guide me and that, He would never leave me alone like He promised to those who trusted and believed in Him. After a lot of weird "goose-bumps" producing occurrences, He showed me the sWord. His sWORD. I would never forget the first verse as I opened the Bible and asked Him what should I do at that moment when the spiritual enemy was throwing fear and confusion, not only to me, but to my family. It was:<br /><br /><b>"Stay strong with the Lord's mighty power..." (Ephesians 6:10)</b><br />
<br />
<b> </b><br /><br />I was a witness with my physical eyes how the unseen enemy fled like a rocket at the utterance of the Lord Jesus' Name. I knew, it wasn't my power. It was His. But I couldn't imagine what happened in the spiritual realm. My fear though was replaced with awe and courage from God's grace.<br /><br />As I went back to work after that short leave to the prison, the more I had witnessed that the Lord strengthened me through that brief battle as more unseen battles came in the prison, working as a Correctional Nurse at that time. <br /><br />Sometimes, there are many moments we are involved in that don't make sense. But if we put all events under His light, that's the only time we will recognize that the Lord uses each event for our advantage, even some may not seem pleasant and some that we don't like at all to occur or be in. No matter what circumstances we are in, I just know that God gives His Armor for His church not to be put down. As a Christian, I must be on guard in all of my ways, never letting any opportunity for the spiritual enemy to gain anything in my life. It isn't easy.<br />
<br />
So much evil around us. So much lies and spiritual deceptions. I pray that believers will wake up and draw nearer to God. To have His gift of discernment. <br />
<br />
God has given us the power and all the weapons to deflect anything hurled unto us by the one who roars like a lion. However, I know that the victory already belongs to the true Lion and the Lamb!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C9ujBoud26k" width="560"></iframe>RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-45055280325485246852019-02-20T06:53:00.002-08:002019-02-20T06:55:59.020-08:00Difficult People<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span class="text"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://offthebeatentrek.blogspot.com/2017/09/helping-each-other.html">This man who asked my friend why I was visiting at the hospital when I wasn’t a family member came rushing past towards me and my car I had just backed in</a>, into my friend’s driveway so we could unload the stuff I
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">How do you deal with
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RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-41300600836332012332019-01-01T05:40:00.000-08:002019-01-01T05:49:47.162-08:002019 Prayer <img alt="Illustration of the Bible Verse Psalm 143:8" height="479" src="https://img.heartlight.org/crop.php?w=375&q=80&f=ppt/psalm143_8.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
Lord, another year is here. Though there will be uncertainties, give us courage and increase our faith, knowing that with faith and trust in You, then, there's no room for fear and worries no matter what comes our way. I believe Your faithful and true promises to always be there with us up to the end of the age. Guide us Lord and give us Your discernment especially in these times where there are many spiritual deceptions. For Your ways and thoughts are higher than ours. Expose the lies in our lives under Your light and help us commit our ways to You, Lord. To live holy lives as You command for You are a Holy God!<br />
<br />
Thank You Lord for the hope You give us in this dark place. For shining Your Light to show us the narrow path that leads to salvation. For being the Way to eternal life. For being our Everything knowing that apart from You, we truly are nothing.<br />
<br />
Help us Lord this year to overcome any unseen obstacles that come our way in our journey. Thank You Lord for loving us first. Thank You for Your love, grace, and mercy. Help me Lord to reflect Your light in everything that I say or do. Remind me that the best New Year's resolution I can have is to love You first. To seek You first each day. I love You Lord. In Jesus' Name. Amen.RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-8284216959735767792018-12-25T06:37:00.000-08:002018-12-25T06:39:40.946-08:00Open Your Heart<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iUFSxt7qkNw" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
May you open your heart to a Savior constantly knocking at its door. Merry Christmas!RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61790705902516172.post-31618719120338476202018-12-20T06:09:00.000-08:002018-12-20T07:15:09.414-08:00The Season of Giving<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflEG-e1u98JF4YcQ7OP2xboUVlPSgk4EpEpPTxG7Y8VNTaulnlztUe3tdFL5kJfIosX1pSitvUI_3fmhpnFsnjo57x4kLIVXxVnJWQzmVPYHIPM32ul_T9JxPu01rSynB-360FpfEeQ/s1600/j316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflEG-e1u98JF4YcQ7OP2xboUVlPSgk4EpEpPTxG7Y8VNTaulnlztUe3tdFL5kJfIosX1pSitvUI_3fmhpnFsnjo57x4kLIVXxVnJWQzmVPYHIPM32ul_T9JxPu01rSynB-360FpfEeQ/s640/j316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My son and I scoured the aisles at a local Walmart to
find the shorter lines of customers about to pay. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Let’s count and make sure we only have 20 items so we
can just go to the Express lanes,” I uttered.There were only three people ahead
if we qualified.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Yes!,” my son exclained. “20!”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The last one was a lady wearing a vest with the Walmart
logo. She was probably getting something small and was taking her break.
Turning around, she talked to me and requested, “Would you please save my spot?
I just need to get a drink really quick!”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Sure! No problem!,” I responded, as I stood still
despite her leaving a big gap between me and the person ahead of her. Other
people were already curiously looking. Perhaps, not hearing her request,
wondering why I didn’t advance my cart.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Coming back, she proudly held a big can of a cold
coffee with extra shots.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Thank you so much! I just needed this!,” she said with
a big smile on her weary face.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Anticipating a few more minutes waiting time, the line
hardly moved despite it being the express lanes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Busy!,” I told the lady.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">She replied, “It’s hard to predict. Actually, this is
nothing. Sometimes, it’s slower, then late at night, that’s when it hits us
again.” Standing still while facing me, I was surprised when she kept talking
and told me that her daughter had passed away and that she left a granddaughter
that now she was taking care of.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“I love her to death! She looks exactly like my
daughter…”</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“I’m so sorry for your loss. But I’m glad you’re there
to look after your granddaughter.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Well, the dad sometimes doesn’t take full
responsibility. I’m not mean but I have to say something to him to take his
part and not just let others take care of her daughter. Sometimes, I feel I’ve
been taken advantage of…”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“I’m sure<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it’s
not easy for you to confront him. But you know what’s best for your
granddaughter. I’m sure it makes a difference if her father gets involved.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Sometimes, it hurts that my own family seems like
strangers to me than friends,” I continued. “So I have changed my point of
view. Being blood-related sometimes doesn’t mean a thing if we belong to God’s
family, doesn’t that count as families? That we can consider others our own
families because that’s what God wants anyway.. is for us to help each other
out if we are in His family…” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw her
nodding her head a few times in agreement. In the corner of my eyes, I saw
others’ reactions. Of wonderment why this stranger, a lady who worked at a
local Walmart and this paying customer, a middle-aged woman with just 20 items
in her cart could have possibly shared life’s stories in a little over 5
minutes in that line.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Happy Holidays, you guys!” she said loudly after
paying for her drink and other items.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“Merry Christmas!,” my son and I hollered as she
continued to walk away and savor that short break to enjoy the energy boosting
drink.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I told my son… I didn’t know the reason why we talked
that way. Many people, I knew might be wearing big smiles on their faces. But deep
inside, what was hidden was unbearable pain, unhealed wounds, hopelessness,
faithlessness, and feeling of being rejected.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This is the Season of giving. Many around us are truly
suffering. Shall we be limited only to helping out our families? Who around us
are truly in need, if not of physical things but much more those who have deep
voids in their hearts?” Sometimes, a simple acknowledgement of their existence
by saying a sincere “Hello” or “Thank You” might mean the world to them. People
worry about changing lifestyles to combat climate change when the real change
needed is the condition of the hearts. Many people easily get offended by words
and try to correct and mask them with words that might seem coated with peace,
love and kindness. But the very same people who are offended are the ones who
hurt others with actions and words. <b>True peace, love and kindness can only be
emitted from a heart changed by God’s grace.</b> It is a
gift from God.</span></div>
RCUBEshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03726426726039665564noreply@blogger.com3