The Leader

Recently, I have witnessed a presidentiable leader of our nation who has shown a great sacrifice of his personal ambition to become the next president of the Philippines. I reckon that he has spent enough resources of preparation for his ultimate dream of becoming the president of the Philippine republic. Because of his love of his countrymen and that of his political group , the Liberal Party, Senator Rojas opted to withdraw his presidential candidacy and openly support his colleague , Senator Noynoy Aquino. Truly, Senator Mar is a breed of statesman who is sensitive to the call of times. He eventually heed the voices of the people for genuine change which they believe Senator Noynoy could better address when elected as President. To my mind, this political circus is an indication that just as Christmas is ringing its bells, the election fever is also approaching. Another presidentiable that I am also watching closely is Senator Villar. No wonder among presidential surveys, He topped them all. His life story is challenging yet very inspiring. From being a fish vendor, Senator Villar stand stall above the rest of his colleagues in the political arena. In 2009 he is considered one of the 40 wealthiest man in the Philippines with various business undertakings of real property and the like. Since he has brought his business into an empire of success, I am just curious if he can do the same if he gets the people nod to the Malacanang. According to Dr. Maxwell, the rise and fall of any organization lies on leadership. In the same manner, the rise and fall of our beloved Philippines will depend much with the leaders whom the filipino people have trusted to lead. On this regard, let us just hope and pray, that the filipino people will be more discerning in selecting the leaders of our land .

Open Letter to God

Dear God,

All this time, I realize one thing that keeps me believing and trusting in you. Though I may have a number of questions underlying my mind with respect to the various challenges I am facing this moment, yet it can’t be compared with the realization that I learned from you. This realization makes me confident that inspite of the different concerns of this world, my God is able to help me realize my dreams and aspirations. Although my dreams seem so big than me but God’s Spirit bears witness in my spirit that in His Time all things are made beautiful. Certainly, God destined everything in his purpose; however, he still respects my will to accomplish his stuff. In other words, God is still dependent on man’s will to choose His purposes rather than man’s personal preferences. In my case , as I continually align myself in his ways, I am making myself closer to the completion of the dreams He has planted in my heart. Thank you Lord for making my life a journey to enjoy; an opportunity to explore and a battle to overcome. In you I trust everything. In you I hope unswerving. In You I live loving.

your loving son,

Rick

Morning Devotion - 26 August 2009

Text : Joel 2
A. Message
1. God's invading army is courageous and beyond compare. Their enemies tremble as they see them in full gear for battle.
2. God calls for his people to return to him in full repentance from their wickedness.
3.God promises his people a full bunch of blessings and favor as they repent sincerely from their wickedness. Surely he satisfies, protects and performs great things for them.
4. God sends autumn and spring rains to his people which signifies his awesome concern for them. In addition, he restores the things that were stolen from them. They are assured of being full at all times in contrast of having suffered from lackness because of their sinfulness.
5. God pours out His Spirit upon all people that will help them in various situations of life.
6. God warns his people with signs and wonders prior to his second coming in the days to come.

B. Application
1. Keeping myself connected with God enables His abundant blessings to overflow in my lifetime.
2. Being sensitive to God's dealings helps me to be prepared always from any form of eventualities.

The Passing Away of a Great Leader

There has been argument in the past whether leaders are merely born or even made. In the ancient times, the former argument seemed only to be logical since leadership in those times were handed from generation to generation. However, in these recent centuries, there had been a belief and actual incidents that leaders can also be made. The case of late President Cory Aquino is a perfect example to this effect. Previously, when her husband NINOY AQUINO was still alive, she used to be her buddy in all her husband's life's endeavors more particularly in politics. The late Senator NINOY described his wife as the person he loved three times. These was during the time late CORY was young; became a mother of their children; and when he got prison during Martial Law for seven long years. There was even a poem written by latE NINOY on this regard which in 1987 was given melody by popular Filipino composer and singer Jose Mari Chan.

The life story of the late PRESIDENT CORY AQUINO is a life worth considering since she sacrificed most of her life for others. She served as NINOY's wife and her children's mother even during the most crucial part of their lives. She remained firm and dedicated to her roles as circumstantial events occurred in her life. She was even more determined when assumed the presidency of the Philippine Republic in 1986 which paved way for the restoration of democracy which was purchased by the blood of many filipinos in the past from the nation's colonizers. Today , when the nation needs her most especially during the political crisis of our nation, she is gone and nowhere to be consulted which was her consistent role after her presidency. Nevertheless her legacy of dedication, sacrifice and service could be regarded as inspiration for every Filipino who seeks for total liberation from corruption, poverty and disunity.

Each Filipino deserves a good life even in the midst of global crises. By May 2010, every filipino voter will elect another bunch of leaders that will lead our land. It is my hope and prayer therefore that every filipino will elect someone who possess similar qualifications of the late CORY AQUINO which is described as selfless, sacrificial and service. I hope that in the days to come we get more replica of CORY's trademark of sensible filipino traits. Truly she is not merely an ordinary FILIPINO but a great one that seeks FREEDOM beyond measure. God bless our beloved PHILIPPINES !

No WORRIES

NO WORRIES is one of Aussie's expression which means "no problem", "it's alright", "you're welcome", "everything is under control", "It's OK", and " I don't mind". These are just perhaps few of the meanings I could think of while staying in this country for more than a year now. This phrase is timely to consider with since people today are worried much of the life's various circumstances. People today are worried about their future, food, clothing, shelter, health , physical well being, finances, education , business, relationships, death, debts , failures and the like. However, the bible encourages everyone to be worry free and leave worries of its own. Certainly , worrying doesn't help solve the problem instead creates more problems. A colleague in the workplace once said that worries make life stressful. In Australia alone, a recent survey reveals that 9 out 10 adults are experiencing stress in their daily living. Moreover, worries create sickness; break relationship; steal happiness; enhance negative outlook and affect physical, emotional and mental well being. Thus , why worry if confronted with various lapses in life. Why don't you just be happy and make the best of what the day brings. Instead of being worried, why don't you just be HAPPY :)

Challenging Days

The days went by were challenging; however, the days coming are more challenging yet inspiring since new things will come. Keeping oneself excited on daily basis requires an optimistic perspective of life. Otherwise, one will be drifted away into the river of disappointments. Everyday, I suppose is a new day. Whatever lapses of yesterdays, one has to leave it behind or else it will haunt him all his days with regrets and sorrows. Thus, we need to wake up each morning with an end view of our mind that something good will happen within the day even to the extent of turning challenges into opportunities and opportunities into fulfilling our dreams. Have a blessed day to everyone :)

Image Source http://www.faludi.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/5in5day5.jpg

The Falling Down

The incident in Hosea 8 portrays the apostasy of Israel against the will of their God. They reject what appears to be good thus their enemies have the opportunity to pursue and destroy them eventually. They set up their own kings rather than acknowledging the his kingship. As a result , God has dealt his people in a way that they realize that above all things, He is in control of everything. All their efforts turn to be futile as they reap nothing from what they have sown. If ever there is produce, their enemies swallow them easily. Clearly, this is an indication of God’s wrath against his people who opted to live renegade lives.

How many of you are locked up in a situation like this ? That whatever you do, life seems to be hard and unfavorable to you. You feel disgusted and ultimately disappointed of what life brings. Thus , you may be thinking that this is the way that your life should be. If that so, then can you not question yourself about God’s promises of joy, peace and abundance?

I reckon that one’s life would really be miserable if God is not Lord in it. Unless the Lord builds the house, the labor is in vain. Life is meaningless and without form if Jesus is not the king and lord of it. Just like the Israelites who opted to live in their own even to the point of rejecting the commandments of God. As a result, they ended up miserable. But is it too late now to avail God’s privileges in your life? Do you still have the chance to enjoy the fullness of God’s goodness? Certainly, I would say a big YESSSSSSSSS. God is a god of many second chances. As you approach HIM in full humility and allows him to dwell in your heart, God surely brings you up from Falling Down. Indeed HE is a great restorer.

Six E's of a RELATIONSHIP

While walking across the road towards the train station, my mind travels into contemplating the concerns on RELATIONSHIP. What is relationship? How does it affect one's life? In this blog, relationship is referred to a boy-girl thing. Others perceive that relationship can either build or break you. In the positive side, it creates an atmosphere of ENCOURAGEMENT as the couple shares views on life and enjoys them in the intimacy of togetherness. As days go by, relationship enhances life's EXPERIENCE. Certainly this aspect enables one to be more resilient to life's situations considering the various experiences encountered. This relationship thing also makes the couple EVOLVE in various aspects of life. As person changes from worst to better , it is one thing worth living for especially so that each one seeks sensible improvement in his/her life. At the outset of this stuff are the impending immediate concerns which depicts relationship as EMOTIONAL, EROTIC and EXPENSIVE. When the boy or girl is too emotional in their relationship to the point that feelings supersede reasoning, certainly problems occur. One has to mix properly the ingredients of relationship to end up a good one. Needless to say, relationship is also EROTIC. Erotic love is a type of love towards opposite sex. Unfortunately, nowadays most couples are trapped into the so called "pre-marital" sex which is obviously pioneered by a western culture. In Australia alone, teenagers reaching 18 can live independently with the support of the government thus most of them ended up an intimate erotic relationship with their partners under a "live in" lifestyle mode. As a result it becomes a usual thing then to have a kind of life like this. This, I strongly disagree since moral issues are at stake in this practice which obviously defies God's sanctity of sex and marriage. Lastly , a relationship requires money thus it becomes EXPENSIVE. Nothing in this world is free, thus a considerable amount is spent for upholding a relationship. For those who have meager income or even no job at all, they will surely be in trouble on this regard :)

Citing the pros and cons of a RELATIONSHIP is for one to regard considerably in his view of living. As each one is given by God the ability to think and feel , it is just a challenging task for all concern to weigh things in accordance to his convictions or standards of living. But one thing is sure that personal convictions are oftentimes biased thus there is a need to hinge one's perspectives with a certain norm believed to be the truth.

Argument or Agreement ?

Argument is defined as a discourse intended to persuade ( Merriam - Webster dictionary). An argument could be constructive and destructive in nature. If the discussion leads to a mutual understanding then it could be constructive; however , if it leads to misunderstanding , eventually it could be destructive. Say for instance , in a boy-girl relationship where the man insists his own opinion while the woman does otherwise. Initially, a discussion occurs that leads into a healthy conversation. Nevertheless, if one or both are impatient during the process of exchanging ideas, the argument will certainly lead to building up walls instead of creating more bridges. But in the event that they are both open minded and willing to be wounded in worst cases , then most probably the argument would wind up a sensible argument. As such , agreement emerges. This process could be hurting but essential for the real issue of reason to emerge undeprived.

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God is our great help

Because of Israel’s insistence of living a life of defiance against God, they suffered impending judgment of their wickedness (Hosea 6) . As a result , they sought help from other nations which resulted to be futile ultimately. However , as days went by, God made himself available for his people to seek his face in their moments of miseries. The biblical scenario could be compared typically with anybody’s situation in our current times. As people seek their own way of ungodly living corresponding miseries pop out ; nevertheless , God makes himself accessible by his people to seek his face with humility. It is only through acknowledging God’s help and mercy that one could achieve real peace in his heart and mind. How about you my dearest friend? Are you confronted with situation where no one seems to help you? Are you in a certain mode of crisis that you seem to give up because the pressure is so much to tackle? If so, be like David who faced Goliath with courage and confidence. With a bold declaration of faith and action he defeated Goliath which is considered by many as giant and undefeated so long. He gained victory since he completely trusted his God who is able to do exceedingly and abundantly in his life. I believe as well that if you simply put your confidence in the Lord, you will emerge a winner instead of being a loser. You come out a victor instead of being a victim. You appear a conqueror instead of being defeated. Indeed God is our great help especially in times of trouble.

Unconditional Love

Inspite of Hosea’s wife unfaithfulness by being with men for pleasure and money, he is told to accept his wife with love and care ( Hosea 3). Without defiance, Hosea meekly buys presents for his wife and loves her again unreservedly. This scenario portrays the unconditional love of God towards his people who lives unfaithfully to him by serving other gods and living their lives uncontrollably. In your life, how many times have you hurt God in various ways? How many times have you prioritized things in this world rather than the things of above? Most probably you would argue that this is how the world is going; thus, you are adapting what the world is demanding. Yet , you know in your inner most being that something is lacking inside of you as you sway yourself away from the things of God and opted to live according to the desires of your body. That vacuum inside of you begins to tinkle in your being and asks numerous puzzling questions. If that happens to you now, undoubtedly you are about to return to the arm fold of your loving God. As you humbly seek him with all your heart, God is going to restore you and gives you inner peace that the world couldn’t offer. Just allow him to dwell in your heart and you be assured that his unconditional love will help you make through.

Image source : http://www.havewhatyouwish.com/photos/Soul/unconditional-love.jpg

God is Merciful

One thing that I am grateful and appreciative to our God is that after the ordeal of the unfaithfulness of his people like Israel, he restores them in his great mercy. Fueled by the sinfulness of Israel through the life of Gomer who lives in harlotry in her lifetime, she gets punished and ultimately destroyed for her shameful actions. She gets naked and nowhere to run into during the period of punishment. This I believe is true upon those people who defy God’s commandments and insist to live in wickedness. Gomer has been reminded by Hosea , her husband, to stay away from seeking other men and instead be focused to him and their children. Yet she lives her own way. However, this does not deter Hosea to accept and love her wife especially every time she returns to his arm fold. In the same manner, this could be the attitude of people who refuse to live in God’s way. Consequently, in the course of time God restores Israel because of his loving mercy. The restoration is not inspired by the remorse of his people but by his nature of being so forgiving and merciful. As such he promises to cherish them in love and care and assures them of his protection from imminent danger.

It is wonderful to contemplate the goodness of God . He is incomparable. Inspite of man’s cyclical mistakes, he forgives them readily because of his abundant mercy. His very nature is coated with much love, care and mercy. In times of moment that you feel low , will it be a moment then to come to God in humility? He is there to accept as your friend and even more intimately as your lover. He loves you that much that He gave his life on the cross for you to be saved from eternal death. Accept him today in your heart and undoubtedly your life will never be the same aga

God's Agenda Prevails

Over the course of history, it’s always God’s agenda that prevails against the human desires of his creation. Although, he gives them complete freedom to live after their own convictions yet God finds ways that he could bring them into his attention. The life of Prophet Hosea is a perfect example to ponder on as God instructed the prophet to marry Gomer , a harlot ( Hosea 1) . Just as a prostitute like Gomer is unfaithful by having a great number of men to please with, God’s people , the Israel have been also unfaithful to God by serving other gods and living in wickedness. Inspite of the shame and ridicule that Hosea receives from marrying and even having children with Gomer, still he remains focus to obeying God’s commandments. In many of life’s instances, a leader has to give up his personal comfort and desires just to serve the purposes of God. It may be shameful and quite humiliating yet it gives glory and honor to God who navigates the journey of life. With this, a question could be thrown to you … Can you do what Hosea have done? Are you willing to give up personal concerns in lieu of God’s purposes? Will you be tough like Hosea who overcomes all criticisms

GOD Works in mysterious ways

Being grateful to God in whatever circumstances is what I learned in this so called "life" over these years. This has been proven again by my desire to attend to Hillsong Conference 2009 with Guest Speakers like Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen on July 7 - 10 , 2009 at Acer Arena, Sydney Olympic Pary, Sydney , Australia. When I checked the conference web site, the conference was already in full capacity . I tried to negotiate with the conference staff through phone yet it was unsuccessful due to the inavailability of tickets. Thus , I reflected for a while and decided to email Joel Osteen and even the Hillsong Senior Pastor, Brian Houston on this regard. Deep in my heart, I believe that God will intervene in mysterious ways. Until this time no reply is sent to my request. But along the way, something happened which is orchestrated by the hands of God. The other Sunday , a friend at Sydney Hope Church approached me and inquired if I've got interest of joining the conference. Without a second thought I nod and got the ticket right away and thanking God for his immeasurable miraculous ways. I reckon that this conference is once in a lifetime experience since attending such global gathering requires much financial resources. But thank God, his favor has extended in my life not only finishing my masters degree at UTS under the Ausaid scholarship program for one year but to avail the opportunity of experiencing God's special presence in this Hillsong Conference. I am indeed excited of what God will be doing in his CHURCH. Certainly it brings him much glory and honor :)

OVERWHELMED

Overwhelmed by the goodness of God in my life , I am almost bursting my tears as we sing the Australian anthem in our Graduation Ceremony. The affair is dignifying and humbling as I received my diploma on Master of Education in Adult Education at University of Technology, Sydney. The emotions behind the affair is indescribable considering the sweet victory attained from a year long learning journey of hardwork, determination, struggles and challenges. Nevertheless, I find the experience worth sacrificing for because it unlocks doors of further realizations in my life as a servant leader, educator and entrepreneur. These realizations bring me to appreciate profoundly my existence as one of God’s masterpiece. Certainly, God has stored immeasurable resources in every human being that needs to be harnessed for his greater glory and service for mankind.

Confronted with the realities of life back home , I am more equipped to tackle them as I traverse the next phase of my life. Life in my home country after a year of postgraduate study in Australia might be another leap of adjustment since I am attuned to Aussie lifestyle and culture; however, I feel thrilled and upbeat as I think of reforms that I will be bringing to my workplace. I maybe considered a small voice shouting in the desert by that time but certainly that voice will bring resounding positive impact to my sphere of influence. All these remarkable insights would indeed be tested as I put my feet on Philippine soil on 15 August 2009. By that time, I could then say that the real battle of the next chapter has just begun

God punishes and restores his people

By Enrique Guevarra
3 May 2009

Under certain degree of circumstances , living a life of disobedience poses a danger in the days ahead of the concerned individual. I just realize how God punishes Israel for their complete refusal to God’s statutes and opted to live in their wickedness. As a result , God’s glory has departed from them ( Ezekiel 10 ). Being left by God’s presence is something inconceivable. I said it so because just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, one can’t live productively and sensibly without God in his life ( John 15:5). What Israel has experienced is indeed a lesson for every one to learn. Their detestable attitude must serve a warning to all concerned pertaining to its possible consequences if one opted to live a life along this manner. Certainly , God is as forgiving as he is , if one simply repent from his rebellious ways and come to Him in complete humility.

God’s intention to restore Israel from their predicament has inspired me in a way. Inspite of their sinfulness, God intends to give his people a new heart and spirit that will guide them to walk in God’s ways. This portrays God’s amazing love beyond measure. Undoubtedly, God’s desire for his people is good and just. Nothing less.

CAPTIVITY TURNS OUT TO BE A BLESSING

CAPTIVITY TURNS OUT TO BE A BLESSING
By Enrique Guevarra
4 May 2009


Because of Israel’s life of disobedience , God has allowed his people to get captives by their enemies. However, such predicament brings a reminder to God’s people that He is still the Lord over their lives ( Ezekiel 12:20). This truth makes me realize how important it is to live in God’s ways in the midst of life’s challenges. Indeed life nowadays is portrayed with various ups and downs yet when viewed under God’s perspective, life becomes more exciting and inspiring as it should be. This is where I get my strength when confronted with different concerns in life. I get to my soul and spirit reckoning the large picture of life. While it may be true that the life’s battle is not an easy way to triumph; nevertheless, I am assured that at the end I am victorious.

Having a winning attitude is essential to a joyful living. In this manner, I am embracing the versatile mind of God instead of using my own limited way of thinking. As such , I am exploring the fullest of God’s potential in my life regardless of the boundaries threatening to prevent it. With this in view I am enjoying life and not merely enduring it. I am turning circumstances of captivity in whatever form to trust and believe that God is able to bring the best of me as I go through this challenging journey. Let us therefore be willing to face whatever God has set us along the way. Just as Ezekiel is willing to go through God’s directions, we ought to live as well according to God’s way.

THE BEST THINGS ARE STILLTO COME

Confronted with various challenges of life, one could say that life nowadays is exciting that stimulates him to press on whatever things lie ahead. Confusing as it may be, the reality speaks of itself. However, if one is imbued with optimism and determination, I see no reason that he could not overcome every struggle along the way. It's simply a matter of believing God's abilities to work in our behalf. Afterall , a day of God's favor is equivalent to man's lifetime labor. Apparently, we need therefore to be expectant of the best things that are still to come !