Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

Money is part of our lives now a days. We can't buy food, etc. if we don't have money. The reason why we work hard or engage in business it's because we want to have a comfortable life and have money. However, this verse tells us that God doesn't want us to love money and go to the point in our lives that we would not do our Christian obligations just because of money. For instance, instead of going to church on Sabbath day, we would go to the office to work or stay home and do business. God is a great provider. He will always supply our needs. We should be content with the things we have. I'm very much grateful to Jesus because He provides me with everything because I have my five senses, i.e. sense of sight, hear, smell, touch and taste. It's great to wake up everyday that you feel refreshed and no pain in your body. I have my family, relatives and friends whom I love dearly. I think those are great blessings for me. God also provides me with good things in life and I'm most grateful to Him. So, why love money when you have Jesus in your life who is the great provider of all?

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Isaiah 43:11 (NIV)

I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior. Isaiah 43:11 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

I think this verse is very simple to understand. It is telling us that there is no other savior for us except our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. No one can save us from the fires of hell unless we accepts Jesus as our savior. Many knows that Jesus has died for our sins but still they don't believe Him. I have talked with some people and most of them believe that they are saved by their good deeds. Well, we can't be saved by doing good alone but by confessing our sins to God and accepting Jesus as Lord and savior will save us. This reminds me of another verse in the bible which says "Jesus answered: I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me [JOHN 14:6 NIV]." With this verse together with our verse of the day, it's obvious that the ONLY way to salvation is through Jesus. Hence, everybody must accept Jesus as their savior, so, they can be save.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV)

But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul. Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

It's not hard to find God if we truly seek for Him. God is always there every time we need Him . However, due to our sinful ways it maybe difficult to see Him or hear His call. I think when we look for Him we must sincerely ask Him to enter into our lives and renew ourselves to be worthy of Him. Further, this verse is a reminder for those who want to find Him and it says that God is always available anytime but we must have a sincere heart to find Him.

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Psalm 119:9 (NIV)

How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. Psalm 119:9 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

We can say that this verse is simple, well, it is. But maybe difficult for most of us to follow. We live in a complicated world and most of us struggle living. Many are tempted to do things that are not pleasing to God. I think this verse is telling us that we should read the bible constantly because it will guide us in our daily lives. In all of our ways we should live based on God's word in order for us to be holy and pure.

Friday, April 25, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV)

"In your anger do not sin" : Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

The verse says that we should not allow ourselves to be angry at someone for a long time, otherwise, we will sin. If we have a misunderstanding with someone it should be settled before the sun comes down. I think the rationale behind this is that it would be difficult to patch up when we don't talk things over immediately and God's adversary will use it against us. Therefore, we should not be carried away with our anger and try to make peace with the people we had problems with before the end of the day.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Bible verse of the day...James 3:9-10 (NIV)

With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. James 3:9-10 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

This verse is a reminder to us about how we should watch the words that come out from our mouth. We maybe praising and worshiping God, however, we may also say bad things about others or toward others. So, we should control our speech and refrain from cursing or saying improper words to others.

Monday, April 21, 2008

Bible verse of the day...1 John 4:21 (NIV)

And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. 1 John 4:21 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

If we truly love God we should also love our brother. When we say brother it means not only our siblings but also our neighbors, friends, strangers we meet along the way and even our adversaries. We should try to love them just like we love ourselves. I'm reminded of a verse on the bible about God's two greatest commandments, (1.) love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and with all your mind; and (2.) love your neighbor as yourself [Matthew 22:36-39]. So, it's important that we love our fellow beings because we are all created by God.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Luke 6:27-28 (NIV)

But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Luke 6:27-28 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

It's quite hard to follow this particular law. Many of us find it difficult to love the person we hate or who have hurt us. Sometimes it's also hard to forgive what they did. There are instances that we would want to get even or hurt them as well. But God tells us that we should do the opposite. This reminds me of another verse in the bible ROMANS 12:21 which says "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." We Christians should be like Jesus who was able to forgive those who mocked Him or crucified Him. Although His crucifixion was part of God the Father's plan but still Jesus has taught us to forgive and love those who sin against us. It is also important to pray for those who persecute us because I believe that prayer is a very powerful weapon. Hence, we should be loving, forgiving and prayerful Christians because our God has command us to obey this law.


Saturday, April 19, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Romans 12:3-5 (NIV)

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. Romans 12:3-5 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

As God's children we should not think that we are more better than others. Some of us maybe affluent or more intelligent or talented, etc. We should not think higher than those who may have different blessings or gifts given by God. But instead, we should be humble with what we have. I think we are created equal and we have our unique qualities. Each of us were born for a purpose and have a mission to fulfill. What we contribute or share with others is part of God's plan. Whatever we do or decide would affect others. Small things make a lot of difference in the world we live in. Further, this verse makes me think of a puzzle. Without one piece of the puzzle we won't be able to get the entire picture or see the whole concept. Therefore, we should encourage each other to do what we were designed to do because we all belong to God's master plan.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Bible verse of day...Psalm 27:7,9-10 (NIV)

Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be merciful to me and answer me. ... Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior. Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. Psalm 27:7,9-10 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

If we sin and make something not acceptable to God and to man, there are instances that our fellow being reject us. But this verse is asking God not to turn away from us in times that we commit sin. Rather asking Him to be there despite our imperfections. We don't expect other individual to understand and accept us when we do something bad because man is an imperfect being. However, God is the perfect creator who will always love us no matter what.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Bible verse of the day...James 4:17 (NIV)

Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. James 4:17 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

The bible has taught us many good things about God and the commandments we need to follow. However, many instances in our lives that we ignore these laws or deliberately disobey God's laws. In this verse, it says that if we do not do what we need to do as Christians we commit sin. Hence, we should try our very best to obey and do what is required of us to do to refrain from sinning against God.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Psalm 56:3-4 (NIV)

When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me? Psalm 56:3-4 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

It's normal for a man to be afraid. Many of us are afraid to die or afraid to face problems we encounter. But I think we should not be afraid because Jesus is always there with us. No matter how big or small our problems are, we have to trust God that He will not forsake us. I think no man could hurt us if our faith is strong and believe that help is always on the way in times we need it. I had an experience with a subordinate at work who was suffering from mental illness. As the head of the institution I had to protect everybody, so, I talked with this person until help arrives. It was very difficult because I knew every minute that I stayed with that person I could die or get hurt. But I prayed to Jesus not to leave me and keep me safe. I was so grateful to Him because He was there and I could feel His presence during that trying moment. It was amazing because that person had stayed calm for several hours while inside my office. I knew Jesus had been my shield all along and the Holy Spirit had gave me the wisdom to say the right words while making conversation. Therefore, we should not be afraid because our living God protects His children always.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Bible verse of the day...1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV)

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

I think this is a very inspiring verse for me today because I'm going through a lot of health problems. There are many Christians around the world who are suffering from all sorts of pain or trials in life. But then, God is telling us that we should not despair because it's part of life. These things makes us stronger and we are able to share the pain or suffering we have with Jesus. We rely on Him and depend on Him for us to get through with it. God is always there to assist us and show us how wonderful or great He is.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Bible verse of the day...1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)

Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life , in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

Young Christians can be models or examples in our churches or in the society. They can teach older believers of Christ some lessons . For instance, they could use decent speech during normal conversation with peers or do what God commands us to do. Many of them do great things and have sincere hearts in praising and worshiping God. It's really amazing to see these wonderful children of God serving in churches or using their skills for God's glory. So, being young gives more opportunity to help others in knowing and serving God.

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Proverbs 8:13 (NIV)

To fear the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech. Proverbs 8:13 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

If we noticed now a days that there are so many words that are used by most people (young and old) that are inappropriate and not good to hear. Some curse others or God. Some find it common on this generation but if we fear the Lord we should refrain from doing evil or using perverted languages. We should try to humble ourselves in the eyes of God and we should not act arrogantly as if we are invincible. We are only human beings that our lives depend on God's mercy and grace. Therefore, we should do our best to take God's side and work hard to be worthy of eternal life.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Bible verse of the day... Revelation 3:20 (NIV)

Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me. Revelation 3:20 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

Our Almighty God and Savior Jesus Christ is a patient God. He is always ready to receive anyone who is willing to accept Him as his savior. There are many people around the planet who doesn't know Him or reject Him. But this verse is telling us that He will reach out for them and if anyone who will open his heart to Him, then, Jesus will be with him from the moment he receives Him. I hope everybody will accept God when they hear His voice because it is an honor to know Him and serve Him.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Deuteronomy 30:16 (NIV)

For I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. Deuteronomy 30:16 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

Many bible verses tell us about loving our Lord God Almighty. I think that is the first thing we should do because by loving God we are able to obey His laws, commandments and decrees. When we follow Him, we become blessed. He showers us with abundant blessings, i.e. prosperous life, good health and long life. Wherever we go His blessings stay with us as long as we remain faithful to Him.




Monday, April 7, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV)

Heal me, O LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise. Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

This verse reminds me how God can heal our sickness and how He can save us from harm. Last Monday, I visited one of my aunts at the ICU and when I saw her I felt helpless. She was on respirator but conscious. I talked with her a bit and I told her that I wanted us to pray. We prayed to Jesus to heal her and asking Him to provide what is needed for her.
Then, few days(Friday) later she died. I would cherish the moment spent with her even for just few minutes. But I know God has healed her and now she is resting. I know that there are many people around the world who are sick and suffering but they should not lose hope. This verse is telling us that all we need to do is call on God and He will heal us in times of sickness / save us from harm. We just have to believe.

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Luke 12:31 (NIV)

But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. Luke 12:31 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

I think all of us should seek God first. In whatever we do it's important that God is our first priority. It means that from the moment we wake up and before sleeping we should think about God. We should do what we need to do as followers of Christ. Then, after doing that I think God will provide us with our needs in life.

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Exodus 20:12 (NIV)

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you. Exodus 20:12 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

My parents may not be the perfect parents in the world but despite their shortcomings I love them and respect them. I don't think there is such a thing as perfect parents too. They are also human beings like us who commit mistakes just like everybody else. But God is telling us that we should honor them. We may wonder how do we honor our parents? Well, there are many ways to honor them. I think one way to honor them is by doing our best to live a decent and righteous life. We should not let them worry about us (children). God is also telling us that for those who honor their parents, He will give us a long life. Well, I think it's good to know that we will be bless with a long life by honoring them.

Friday, April 4, 2008

Bible verse of the day...3 John 1:11 (NIV)

Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is from God. Anyone who does what is evil has not seen God. 3 John 1:11 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

Many people find it very easy to follow what is evil than doing what is good. We may see that a lot of us would rather imitate others who devote their time in worldly desires. For instance, not following the law on Sabbath but would rather spend time with something else. With this verse God is telling us that we should avoid doing evil but instead we should do what is pleasing in the eyes of our Almighty God. It is explicitly stated in this verse that those who do good belong to God while those who are doing evil have not seen Him or refuse to be His. Hence, I think man should chose to do what God commands us to do.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Proverbs 15:16 (NIV)

Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil. Proverbs 15:16 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

I think it is wise for a man to fear the Lord because the bible also says that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. We may have all the richness in the world, however, we may not be at peace with ourselves or with others. When we fear our God Almighty, we are able to do what is right because He gives us the wisdom in making decisions and as to how we should live our lives.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Bible verse of the day...Mark 8:38 (NIV)

If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels." Mark 8:38 (NIV)

My reflection of the verse

This verse is telling us that we should not be ashamed of telling others about Jesus and the commandments of God. In the world we live in there are many people who don't believe in God and some of them even ridicule God. But we Christians have the duty of spreading the good news to others who doesn't know anything about God or those who ignore the existence of God. Otherwise, if we are ashamed in sharing about our experiences with God to others and proclaiming that Jesus Christ is our savior, Jesus will also be ashamed of us. Therefore, we should obey this commandment before Jesus deny us in heaven.