Second Home, 27 years.

Last February 17 we celebrated the 27 years of God's faithfulness to our dear Church, Cornerstone Bible  Christian Fellowship. CBCF was originally established on January 11, 1986, however, we traditionally celebrate the Anniversary on the month of Feb. 

   

 So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed." Isaiah 28:16

This is my second home and this where i belong. This is where i found my true family in Christ. The place where i learned to love, encourage, respect, to be a leader, a follower, a teacher, and a servant. Serving the Lord in this Church is really an eternal joy for me and my love for this family is for life. 

This year and in the years to come, i know surely God will continue to show us His great faithfulness. 

Happy 27 years CBCF Family.

THANK YOU JESUS. 

We love because HE first loved us

Today, we are in a world where most people define themselves whether they have a partner or they have romantic relationships. Some people depends on their partner and when that special someone was gone their whole world seems to fall apart. There are also young people who rush into love not knowing the real purpose of having a romantic relationship with the opposite sex. That is the reality nowadays. 

In my journey in life I realized that people have different cultures, perspectives, beliefs, plans, goals, ideas, wants and needs but the very one thing we all have in common is we all wanted to love and to be loved. We want to be in a romantic relationship simply because we want to receive love and care from someone and vice versa. But do we ever wonder why we know how to love others? We can surely answer that question when we seek the One who first loved us. He's no other than, the Lord Jesus Christ. All the love comes from Him and Him alone. He's the One who first loved us since before we were born on this planet. He's the reason why we know how to love because He loved us first (1 John 4:19).

We will never know what real love is, if we don't want to receive the love God is giving us. We will not be satisfied with a partner until we are satisfied, fulfilled and content with being loved by God alone. We have to give ourselves totally unreserved to the Lord because in Him satisfaction is to be found. When we learned to commit ourselves to Him, only then is the right time for us to be capable of a wonderful human relationship. We will never be united with another until we are united with Him. We will never learn to speak and understand the true language of love until we hear Him speak it. We will never learn how it is to truly love and be loved until we feel the tender touch of His Extravagant Love. 

To all the young teens and young adults who are in a relationship who doesn't know about these things or don't know the real purpose of having a relationship/commitment, these words, is for you. Many of us today hurry up to be in a romantic relationship. Don't hurry. We should know that God's idea of relationships is a lifetime commitment which is Marriage. Remember, entering into a commitment calls for maturity in all aspects. It's not too late to think about why you're in a relationship now or what's the purpose of your relationship with your partner. Is it just for fun because the world told you to do so? or it is just because you'll be out of the circle of friends because you don't have a boyfriend or girlfriend? or because you already accepted God's love and you want your relationship to be God-centered and last for a lifetime? If we don't know the real purpose of courting, dating or having a relationships and commitments, then, we are only wasting our time. Think about it carefully, because bigger percent of our happiness depends on it and on the decisions we are going to make. 

On the other side, to all the Singles out there, these words is also for you. Don't be bitter because we are single for years now, we receive nothing and we don't have a date on Valentine's day. That's normal, don't be bitter instead we should feel better because Singleness is a gift from God. Why? because this is the stage where He wants us to know Him, seek Him, focus on Him, and grow in our faith, thus making us mature enough to handle true love. We have to established first a relationship with God before we can truly enter a relationship and commitment as i mentioned above. 

Don't look at things we want. They may not be the things God wants for us. Don't base our idea of love on what we see on media or with other people. We are all different. Remember, our Creator is the most creative, He is writing different love stories for us (if we will allow Him). We should look up straight to God because we might miss what He want to show us. When the time comes when we are ready, He'll surprise us with a lover far more wonderful than what we could dreamed of. But He won't let us have it until we are ready and the one he prepared for us is also ready. Until we are both satisfied exclusively with Him and the life he has prepared for us and for that special someone. That's why He wants us to remain single until we're ready to be permanently joined with the person He has chosen for us. Remember, the fruit ripened in the wrong time is bitter or sour (Song of songs 8:4). Furthermore, don't just wait, because true love doesn't just wait it requires effort and hard-work. Then, while waiting we should make ourselves worthy before God and worthy for the person He has prepared for us.  

I am writing and sharing these words because I've been there, done that, had mistakes in the past, etc.. But because of God's sufficient Grace i was able to overcome those mistakes. Another reason of sharing these with you, is because i have this hope that somehow, somewhere, it encourage you in any way. It is my great joy to share with you what I've learned and what God has taught me. I'm also striving to fulfill these things with God's help and grace. 

Hope you have the sweetest Valentine's day with your loved ones. More than anything else, God loves you so much. 

Happy Heart's Day friend!

 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

1 John 4:7-12

an early Valentine's date

Last Saturday i attended a Seminar "Love for a Lifetime", i was invited by a good friend of mine, Jonah. The seminar was definitely about Love (since it's Love Month). The lecture and the speaker was totally amazing. I'm really inspired and learned a lot about the importance of love, family, relationships, commitment, God being the center of all relationships, and of course being a woman of worth and love. I always enjoyed attending this kind of event and be with the people whom i can relate and share my thoughts in life and love. 

   

us, single ladies with the very good looking Pastor Joseph. 

  

Then after the seminar, Jonah and I had a hearty dinner. I enjoyed what we ate and of course I enjoyed much spending the whole hours with her. The night was full of talks since we haven't catch up with each other in a while. It's also an early Valentine's date for us and for me it's more fun and unique.   

My weekend was as busy as always but i love everything that happened. I definitely love this month because God once again remind me of His extravagant Love. To wait patiently on His wonderful plans 'cause He's busy writing the best love story for me. I don't need to rush in love or to find someone who will complete me but all i need to do is to make myself complete first in the Love of Christ. Who, in the first place love me unconditionally. And when God saw that I'm ready He'll send out the "One" he prepares for me. So now, I'll just savor each day being single and making myself worthy when that special day comes. I'm excited, who wouldn't be? 

Happy Heart's Day. 
(in advance) 

UNASHAMED

for I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes... Romans 1:16

 

We had a wonderful night introducing the Youth Ministry Theme for year 2013 "I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL". Starting this year CBCF Youth Ministry's goal is to Share the Gospel to our loved ones, family, friends, and others. It is a big challenge and another step of Faith to each one of us. We believe it's the Power of God that will work within us and with the people we are about to share. 

you see in the pictures, the young people were writing the names of their loved ones whom they want to share the Gospel starting this year. We will keep these lists, we'll remember each names in our personal prayers and start sharing the Gospel to them. then, at the end of this year we will check if we meet our goals. I'm pretty excited about this idea, surely, it will encourage everyone to Shout and Share JESUS in their loved ones. 

May it also encourage you friend, to spread, shout, and share the Gospel to the non-believers starting this year. If you already started doing these things, then i pray that God will continue to use you in doing mighty things for His Name. 

God bless you all :) 

2thousand12 Thankfulness

Where did 2012 go? It's quite hard to believe that it passed by so fast. But before anything else, let me look back on the most significant and memorable things, experiences and people from last year. Indeed, year 2012 was  a colorful year and there's a lot pretty good things for keeps. I know it's kind of late to share about what my 2012 was since it's the 8th day of 2013, but my heart pushed me to do this. I think, all i need is just your little patience because this might be a long post (hahaha). 

In random order (my 12 Thankfulness for 2thousand12).. 

Let me start with, Graduation Day. Earlier last year, my most awaited time of my life happened. To finish and graduate in college. Until now, I'm in tears because of so much joy i felt during that day. I thank my good Lord for his saving grace and great provision during my schooldays. I know that He's the One behind all the success and victory.

Secondly. Last year i celebrated my 21st birthday. Each year I'm thankful because God never fails to bless and amaze me as He adds another year in my life. I received gifts beyond my expectations, one of which was my first job ever. I think it took me 2 months looking for a job that will suite me. 2 months was never a joke and it was really stressful waiting and looking for a job for that long. But, the Lord didn't allow me to be even more stressful, so right after my birthday, i was hired and got my first job. See, it's the faithfulness and favor of the Lord that worked in me. I don't deserve but His love made me deserving. Now, I'm currently hired in that job and still waiting for God's next plan on my career. 

I'm also Thankful for the gift of friendship. I think 2012 would not be complete without these lovely girls on my side. I'm also thankful for last year's newly found friends. I'm always grateful to have girlfriends and sisters in Christ. Seriously missing those I'm not seeing in a while (you know who you are) :)

Concerts and Conferences are part of what i enjoyed last year. I'm Thankful for all these events and looking forward for more this year.

Next on list, the Children's Ministry. Last year, God poured out so much blessings and joyfulness in the heart of each kid in CBCF. These pictures was taken last December during the Christmas Party and Gift-giving day. I thank the Lord for using other people and organizations (specifically MEANS-USA and CBCF Congregation) to make all these things possible. This year I'm enthusiastic to continue in serving the Lord through this Ministry. I know that He will surely do amazing things again.  

In line with above topic, I also thank the Lord for this bunch of Servant leaders. They're the ones who put countless efforts, heartfelt services, and true commitments to works of the Lord. I'm blessed to be with them and have them part of the team, Team JESUS. My prayer is that we all continue to serve the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Thank you, Team. Love you all. 

I will not go far from the topic, 'cause I'm beyond blessed and thankful for God's moving power in CBCF (my home Church). Last year, we celebrated the 26 years of God's faithfulness. How God moves in our lives  and families was truly amazing. This year (and in the years to come) we will continue to serve, to love, to encourage, to build, to strengthen one another and to share the Gospel with the hope of seeing Him (JESUS CHRIST) face to face one day. And He will say to each one of us, "well done my faithful servant". 

Fun outdoor experiences is also part of my thankfulness. I thank the Lord for allowing me to experience some outdoor activities last year. It is always my dream and passion to travel, hike, explore diff. beaches, be involved in sports and fitness activities. More outdoor activities this year!!!!

God knows how thankful I am for my "Ate" (sister). I love all our hang-outs, travel moments, laugh-out-loud bonding, and endless stories. I can't imagine life without having a sister on your side. Thanks to my Ate for all the support, care, love, time, and gifts hehe. You rock, sistah!!!! 

Of course, 2012 would not be complete without my Family. I'm thankful for all the experiences we had last year. I cherish all the things we've shared. Our Family is far from perfect, but one thing I'm thankful for is that God has always been so faithful, loving, and great provider of our family. 

And yes, what a colorful 2012. I thank my good Lord for each little experiences i had last year. I'm thankful for all the blessings, answered prayers, encouragements, better changes, and favor He has poured out to me. I can't hide those heartfelt smiles because of what the Lord has done in my life. 

Last but not the least (in other words, the Best in the list) is JESUS CHRIST. I'm forever in awe of my Savior and Lord. He's been faithful to me throughout the year 2012 and i know this year 2013 He will remain the same. He's the reason why i have all those pretty good experiences and people in my life. He's my Savior, my King, my Teacher, my Strength when I'm weak, my Hope and my Lord. 

And I believe this year will be even more wonderful and colorful. So much Thanks to my Loving Father in Heaven for all that He has done. 

Have great and wonderful 2013 folks! 

saying Hello to my favorite month, December

I'm so pretty excited about this month, i think everyone is feeling the same. I have to say goodbye to November, it has been a difficult month for me, but THANK GOD i survived it. So now, I'm saying HELLO to December, this is really my favorite month of the year, definitely! I just can't imagine how time really flies, my memories from last year's Christmas Holiday are still gleaming. But i love the fact that it's already December 1 and few days left it's CHRISTMAS time again. Christmas songs, Christmas lights, Holiday gifts,  Parties, etc. are everywhere, i can't help but smile every time i see and hear those things.  I'm looking forward for the awesome happenings this Yuletide season. And of course the main reason of this season is JESUS CHRIST, without Him there would be no joy and celebration like this. 

How about you dear friend, are you excited for this month? 

Happy December! 

p.s. wanna know how many days 'til Christmas? click here

Go Girls!

 

They are my Sisters, sister in Christ. I love spending time with them but more than that it is my great joy to see them serving and seeking the Lord in their lives especially the young ones. I'm really thankful to God for having them as my sisters and I'm looking forward to see each one of us growing more beautifully in God. 

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." Proverbs 31:30