Morning Devotion (9.19.2011)

My morning devotion for today is Psalm 118 and reading the whole chapter reminded me of these songs. 


Verse 1: "Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever."
Forever
By: Michael W. Smith
Worship Album




Verse 6: "The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?"
Our God
By: Chris Tomlin
And If Our God Is For Us Album



Verse 24: "This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."
Today Is The Day
By: Lincoln Brewster
Today Is The Day Album



Verse 28: "You are my God, and I will praise you! You are my God, and I will exalt you!"
Step By Step
By: Michael W. Smith
Worship Again Album




Psalm 118
New Living Translation
(taken from: www.BibleGateway.com )

 ¹ Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
      His faithful love endures forever.
 ² Let all Israel repeat:
      “His faithful love endures forever.”
 ³ Let Aaron’s descendants, the priests, repeat:
      “His faithful love endures forever.”
 ⁴ Let all who fear the Lord repeat:
      “His faithful love endures forever.”
 ⁵ In my distress I prayed to the Lord,
      and the Lord answered me and set me free.
 ⁶ The Lord is for me, so I will have no fear.
      What can mere people do to me?
 ⁷ Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me.
      I will look in triumph at those who hate me.
 ⁸ It is better to take refuge in the Lord
      than to trust in people.
 ⁹ It is better to take refuge in the Lord
      than to trust in princes.
 ¹⁰ Though hostile nations surrounded me,
      I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord.
 ¹¹ Yes, they surrounded and attacked me,
      but I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord.
 ¹² They swarmed around me like bees;
      they blazed against me like a crackling fire.
      But I destroyed them all with the authority of the Lord.
 ¹³ My enemies did their best to kill me,
      but the Lord rescued me.
 ¹⁴ The Lord is my strength and my song;
      he has given me victory.
 ¹⁵ Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly.
      The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things!
 ¹⁶ The strong right arm of the Lord is raised in triumph.
      The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things!
 ¹⁷ I will not die; instead, I will live
      to tell what the Lord has done.
 ¹⁸ The Lord has punished me severely,
      but he did not let me die.
 ¹⁹ Open for me the gates where the righteous enter,
      and I will go in and thank the Lord.
 ²⁰ These gates lead to the presence of the Lord,
      and the godly enter there.
 ²¹ I thank you for answering my prayer
      and giving me victory!
 ²² The stone that the builders rejected
      has now become the cornerstone.
 ²³ This is the Lord’s doing,
      and it is wonderful to see.
 ²⁴ This is the day the Lord has made.
      We will rejoice and be glad in it.
 ²⁵ Please, Lord, please save us.
      Please, Lord, please give us success.
 ²⁶ Bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
      We bless you from the house of the Lord.
 ²⁷ The Lord is God, shining upon us.
      Take the sacrifice and bind it with cords on the altar.
 ²⁸ You are my God, and I will praise you!
      You are my God, and I will exalt you!
 ²⁹ Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
      His faithful love endures forever.



I encourage you to read Psalm 118 and tell me what song(s) you were reminded of. :)

Sunday School Love

♪♫This is the day! (This is the day!)

That the Lord has made (That the Lord has made)

We will rejoice (We will rejoice)

And be glad in it (and be glad in it) ♪♫

♪♫I love to go to Sunday School, I love to go to Sunday School

I never want to miss such blessed times like these

I love to go to Sunday School♪♫

♪♫God’s not dead He’s alive. God’s not dead He’s alive.

I can feel Him all over me

I can feel Him in my hands.

I can feel Him in my feet.

I can feel Him in the air.

I can feel Him everywhere.

I can feel Him in the church.

I can feel Him on the street.

I can feel all over me!

Is God dead?!

No! No! No! ♪♫

These are just some of the many songs we learned from Sunday School. I remember that Sunday School service starts exactly at 9am with praise and worship, where most students wouldn’t dare to be late or they’ll get a dreaded “L” mark on the little boxes of their teacher’s green notebook. For us who studied in CEMI Academy (formerly CEMI Learning Center), we try not to miss a class because 3 absences means your parents will be called into Bishop Jesse’s office and they’ll have some explaining to do;) Praise and worship is then followed by the giving of our love offering and story telling time shortly afterwards. Who wouldn’t forget the drawing cut outs of the featured Bible story character that the teacher sticks on a blue board or the chalk talk of Pstr. Angelito Yutuc. Everyone stretches out their necks just to have a good view of the very colorful and cool drawing of Pstr. Yutuc.

We also have snack time but most don’t bring their baons, students find delight in buying food at the Camaya Store or at Kate’s (sari-sari stores located near the church). And ofcourse, there’s the street food buffet! Fishballs, kikiam, squidball, green mangoes, singkamas, ice cream, ice snowball (scramble) and the pink cotton candy with milk powder! :)

  

But “Sunday School Sunday” is extra special, this happens once a year and all levels of class get to perform at the Main Auditorium (Sanctuary). Complete with costumes and for some makeup, everyone should be on their performance level. After performing, teachers give out a plastic bag full of goodies to the students—LOTSA CANDIES FOR EVERYONE!!!

My daughter is 3 years old now and she’s been attending Sunday School for over a year. I still go with her to class every Sunday and I won’t mind doing it until she can attend school by herself. Why? Because I want her to have a good foundation. I know there will come countless times, that she will be more interested in snack time, doing artworks or seeing her friends but I also know that a seed of God’s Word will be planted in her by just being inside her Sunday School class.

At a young age, we didn’t know how blessed we were to be attending a Sunday School class. We didn’t know how those Bible stories would impact our lives as we get older. That sometimes simple songs like: I Love You Lord, Make Me A Servant and I Cast All My Cares Upon You, would come to you unexpectedly, making you sing it over and over again until you realize how you just needed that song to remind you of God’s power and sovereignty, and then peace suddenly floods your mind and heart.

I am grateful that I have attended Sunday School, I know many people out there feels the same way.

So, what are your fondest memories during your Sunday School years and how did it make an impact in your life?:)

Welcome, Princess!

"Welcome, Princess!" is how I was greeted at Etude House located in SM Pampanga Ground Floor Annex 3. I grinned and told my husband "Oh my gosh, they know me!"

I wasn't planning to buy anything, I just wanted to check out their products because they seemed to have good make-ups plus the store itself is simply cute. On my way out, I saw this tint called Dear Darling, I was intrigued and decided to buy one (01 Berry Red), the other shades are: 02 Real Red and 03 Orange Red. It reminded me of The Body Shop Lip & Cheek Stain which I am a fan of since college, I remember having the cream in a round container that slides and the other one that is liquid in a glass container with a roller ball. I already tried several cheek tints like Beauty Bar's Aqa and Bench (both are cream in a tube container), Avon's Simply Pretty, and a liquid tint with a brush applicator similar to that of Benetint of Benefits or that is what I exactly had--I vaguely remember. I am just fond of cheek tints because I love how it gives my skin a natural looking blushed glow to my cheeks.

The reason why I bought Etude House Dear Darling Tint because I find it very similar to Body Shop's Lip & Cheek Tint but in a very reasonable price P198php plus it smells good compared to the other cheek tints that I've tried previously--yes it even smells better than of the Body Shop's.

So yeah, Etude House Dear Darling Tint is a good buy but just like the rest of the products I've used, though it is made as lip and cheek tint I don't use it for both my lips and cheeks for hygienic purposes ;)

Momma's Day

This year's Mother's day my husband surprised me with a sweet slideshow. We were watching it together and as the video started playing, I kept on asking him what soundtrack he used because I could barely hear it. When the music became familiar, I had to hit the pause button just to give him the "No you can't make me go teary eyed but yeah Im about to give in" look. And so I was ballin' the whole time we we're watching it. Why? First, I love Stuff We Did by Michael Giacchino (UP Soundtrack), and some other songs from the album. Its one of those songs I listen to when I'm stressed out and sometimes Bok would even play it on the piano just to relieve me from my stress.


Second, seeing those photos made me think back on all my mommyhood moments. From pregnancy, which I had to say I am still not ready to experience again (ugh the nausea, cramps, over the top mood swings--my family said I went kukoo when I was preggos haha!) to Kady's first day with us; those sleepless nights,tiring days, etc. And of course, those happy moments: our playtime, Kady's milestones (which makes me one-proud-momma); our moments when we understood each other without saying a word. Oh there are lots of things to share and they are countless.

What my mom said was true, being a mom is a tough job but it is indeed fulfilling. I know I have more years ahead to gain experience in being a mom, most of the time I feel discouraged and not confident in doing my role but I always lift everything to God to help me in making the right calls in my wifey-mommy duties. I continually remind myself that I am weak and I must become dependent on God ALWAYS.


Never have I imagined that I would love doing household chores and enjoy taking care of my husband and daughter, it's such JOY and it has become my passion:) Allow me to share what I've read in Pam Farrel's book, Woman of Influence: "The seed of passion is planted in our lives by God. Passion is not something we have to go in search of. We need to search for God. When we seek to be intimately connected with Him, He will use the desires of our heart, the circumstances of our life, and His confirming Word to solidify and reveal the passion...Passion is something you can't walk away from, because it is a part of you. I believe God places a calling on each of our lives."

I remember posting this on Twitter.

With all of these, I was reminded of Proverbs 31:10-31 and how I wanted to make this as my goal:

^10-31 A good woman is hard to find, 
and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve, 
and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously 
all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, 
and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places 
and brings back exotic surprises.
She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast 
for her family and organizing her day.
She looks over a field and buys it, 
then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.
First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, 
rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.
She senses the worth of her work, 
is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, 
diligent in homemaking.
She's quick to assist anyone in need, 
reaches out to help the poor.
She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; 
their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing, 
and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
Her husband is greatly respected 
when he deliberates with the city fathers.
She designs gowns and sells them, 
brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.
Her clothes are well-made and elegant, 
and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, 
and she always says it kindly.
She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, 
and keeps them all busy and productive.
Her children respect and bless her; 
her husband joins in with words of praise:
"Many women have done wonderful things, 
but you've outclassed them all!"
Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades. 
The woman to be admired and praised 
is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God (meaning one who honors God).
Give her everything she deserves! 
Festoon her life with praises!

(The Message)

December in January

Just when I thought that December was over, God has been so good to make my December complete in January, here's why:

First, Christmas season here in the Philippines is the time of fireworks. I love watching fireworks:) watching 'em makes me feel happy inside. Now that was an understatement, fireworks makes me THRILLED, EXCITED, OVERJOYED!!! Here's what fireworks does to me...

 

(taken 6years ago during our stay in Baguio for a Regional Meeting with AXA).

But last New Year's Eve was different, I wasn't able to scream my lungs out when the whole exploding of the pyrotechnics started because my daughter was afraid of fireworks, the sound of it makes her terrified. As she gets comfort from me, I stayed with her inside the house while the whole family watch the fireworks display. 

This is my daughter keeping herself busy with the games on her Uncle Blue's iPad as the clock struck 12.

But came January 16, 2011 me and my husband were volunteer assists for a wedding and the special day of the couple was ended with a grand fireworks display, awesomeness! At that moment, I had to stop taking pictures, let my husband take over the photoshoot and I just savored every bit of the colored flames and sparks of the display.

Next, I've always wanted to try Starbucks' Christmas drinks but the holiday season came by so fast that I wasn't able to grab a drink in their Christmas designed cups. Not until my friend, Crystal, told me that Starbucks extended its Christmas drinks promo. Later that night after our wedding photoshoot, Crystal dropped by and bought me and my hubby a Praline Mocha! Now that was completing a December in a day of January.

not the actual drink given but photo taken by Crystal Te:)

It is simple joys that makes me feel blessed and loved by my God. To God: thank You for putting a smile on my face and joy in my heart with these simple things...I ♥ You!

Ms Faith

One Sunday church service, a lady in front of me caught my attention. She was sitting beside her two sons. Throughout the praise and worship, she was holding hands with one of her two boys while singing, maybe if her other son sat on her other side, I think she would also hold hands with him. When the offering time came, she discreetly gave her boys money to give as the love offering bag passed by them. And during the preaching, although paying well attention to the sermon, she made sure her boys were sitted behavely.

The lady reminded me of my mom, she diligently brought me and my siblings to church every Sunday and wanted us to love going to church. We know (even my late dad too) that our mom doesn't like being late, she doesn't want to see us crabby getting ready for church--we must clean up our act before going out of the house. Any negativity is a No No for her. On our way to church she gives us our baons then our love offering. We know Sundays make her excited, she prepares the clothes that we will wear the night before then she wakes up early--you can just tell that going to church makes her happy. It is like she's being recharged after a very action-packed week.

Recently, she became my seat mate at church. We worship together, take down notes, share insights during preaching and even giggle when one of us can relate to the examples given by our pastor.

Let me tell you my mom's admirable traits:

We are familiar with "mother's intuition" but with my mom, her discernment is remarkable. She would know if any of us--her children are going through something and even if we don't tell her yet she knows what it is. But no matter what happens she always responds in love and gentleness.  Yes she is a gentle woman--you won't hear her nag or raise her voice. I know she thinks a lot before reacting to situations that's why in most instances she remains quiet and collected.


She is a giver, she is an example of being a channel of blessings. When she is blessed materially/financially, that blessing doesn't stay long in her hands. It is her joy to share it with others even if nothing is left for her. She always put others before herself--she is never selfish. And we have witnessed how God has provided for her.

Another admirable trait of her is that when asked for an advice she always gives the wisest ever. She will give words of comfort and encouragement but her bottom line will always be: pray, find quiet time or spend more quiet time, search God's will, do not take matters in your own hands, be still and wait patiently for God's answers, soak yourself in God's presence.

I believe her faith in God is unshakeable. She went (and is still going) through a lot, but boy you won't see her complain about anything. You won't hear any negativity coming out of her mouth, when tempted she would remain quiet or just cry. Not sobbing cry but crying out to God in prayer.

Another admirable trait of her is that she is very PRAYERFUL. Her day starts and ends with a prayer. When faced with a problem, she will just be calm and soak herself in God's presence through prayer. If asked what is her favorite verse, she would answer Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God" this became her life verse. That's why I think she really deserved the title Ms FAITH. 

Happy Birthday to my Angel:)

Through her, I've learned that in everything I do, God is my foremost priority. That God is faithful, His timing is always perfect, and He is good all the time.

Nay, thanks for being my best friend, for being there for me no matter what. Thank you for always reminding me that life is not about me but it is how I should love and obey God with all of my heart.  Mom, I always tell you this but I really think you're an angel--you are heaven sent! I am blessed to have you as my mommy. I love you sooo much!♥

Little Pilgrim's Progress

Last week, my student had a book report assignment and I was able to read few chapters of it, it is entitled Little Pilgrim's Progress, a Christian allegory for kids which was written by Helen L. Taylor. It is an adaptation of John Bunyan's classic work, Pilgrim's Progress.


The story is about a boy named Little Christian, he is from the City of Destruction who wants to reach Celestial City. He is a tired and unhappy boy for he has a heavy burden on his back. At the beginning of his journey he meets Evangelist, who gave him directions to the Wicket Gate for the deliverance from the heavy burden he was bearing. But before they parted, Evangelist gave Little Christian a note from the King of Celestial City. It wrote : "I love them that love me, and those that seek me early shall find me" Evangelist said that what was written is the king's promise to all His little children. Hearing all these, Little Christian was compelled to bring along his friends with him. But only one friend went with him, his name is Pliable. Their journey together is cut short when the two of them fall into the Slough of Despond. Both of them discouraged, tried to escape from their fall. Pliable, now infuriated, managed to pull himself but left Little Christian because he didn't expect their journey to be tough. Then came Help, he rescued Little Christian from the Slough of Despond. Not knowing where Help came from, Little Christian thanked him and asked how he knew that he was in trouble. Help answered that he is always sent by the King because the King knows when His children are in need.


I wasn't able to finish the book but it spoke to me clearly. God knows every details of our lives. He is not shocked nor surprised on what we are going through. His goodness is amazing that He saves, protects and blesses us. His love is crazy that no matter how many times we fall He forgives and forgets. What does He wants from us? He wants us to surrender fully, declare our full dependence on Him, place our hope and trust in Him through faith. He wants our wholeness.