Born to Save Sinners

The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. (1 Timothy 1:15)

Whenever I reflect on the Savior’s incarnation—the Word made flesh (John 1:14), God taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men, and being found in human form (Philippians 2:5-8)—I am filled with renewed gratitude for why Jesus, our Savior, came to us.

Jesus came into the world to save sinners, myself included. I don't have to commit the hideous sins that society considers severe to acknowledge that I've sinned greatly; I only need to look in the mirror with honesty and see my sin without partiality. All sins are offensive to God, and since we're all sinners, that makes us unworthy of Him.

The Bible says all of us have fallen short of the glory of God, all of us have sinned (Romans 3:23), deserving of God's wrath (Ephesians 2:3), and that the punishment for sin is death (Romans 6:23). Yet, in God's mercy, He demonstrated His love for us by sending Jesus to die in our place (Romans 5:8).

I have celebrated Christmas for many years, but I never truly appreciated its meaning until God's grace helped me understand. It's more than the love we have for our loved ones; it's about the love of God for us. It's more than receiving and giving gifts; it's about God giving us His Son. The notion that God gave us His only begotten Son may seem simple, yet we often overlook the depth of this gift. God gave us His Son knowing that He would have to turn His back on Him. Jesus’ birth was not for Him to experience the joyful aspects of life on earth, but rather the opposite — His life was filled with hardships.

Jesus came to die—not just to die, but to absorb the wrath of God that justly should have been poured out on me; on us. He was pierced for our transgressions; crushed for our iniquities (Isaiah 53:5).

Through Jesus' death, God's wrath was satisfied; making way for reconciliation, specifically for those who believe. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is to be received by faith (Romans 3:25), for without it, it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).

Jesus' sacrifice on the cross is enough. Trust Him; believe in Him! It is finished! The salvation of mankind is only through Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12; John 14:6). The Bible is clear: by grace we have been saved, through faith—and this is not from ourselves; it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). In Titus, it says that God saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy (Titus 3:5).

Jesus' coming into the world involves a sacrificial role; He was born to die on the cross to provide a way of reconciliation to God. This is how we're supposed to remember Christmas! We're meant to remember His gift—His greatest gift—the great exchange! Christ took the sins of the world and in return offers His righteousness to those who believe (2 Corinthians 5:21). Such a glorious gospel that makes us look to Christ alone! Indeed, apart from Christ, there is no hope.

"Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:10-11)

Photo retrieved from encouraging.com

Seek, Call, and Trust: A Thanksgiving Devotional

Thanksgiving Day is a harvest festival commonly observed in the USA on the fourth Thursday of November, and in some other countries like Canada, where it is celebrated on the second Monday in October—though not as widely as in the U.S. It is also observed in Liberia. I think this is a wonderful holiday, but regardless of whether a country celebrates it or not, we should always take time to give thanks, especially if we are believers.

Thanksgiving, by definition, is an expression of gratitude, especially for the blessings we receive and the prayers that are answered, which lead us to give thanks and praise to the Lord.

Of course, it’s easy to give thanks when things are going well, when life is smooth, and when things align with what we want or with our prayers. But what about when it’s the opposite? What if things don’t go as we expect? What if things go against what we wanted?

The Word of God says, "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

In this letter, written by the Apostle Paul to the Thessalonian believers, he provides practical instructions and encouragement for their Christian walk. The way he says, “Give thanks in all circumstances,” is not a suggestion but a clear command. This is an imperative in the Christian life—a duty, a command that we need to follow.

He didn’t say, "We should give thanks," or "As much as possible, try to give thanks." Instead, He said, "Give thanks." Give thanks in all circumstances, which includes giving thanks for both good and bad things, and everything in between: happy moments, sad moments, life’s hardships—whether in abundance or in scarcity and everything else. As Christians, we are called to give thanks. But how can we do that when things are not going well?

If you are a student, what if the dreams you’ve been working and praying for never materialize? As a young professional or working adult, what if you lost your job, were suddenly laid off, or the promotion you were expecting went to someone else? If you are a parent, what if you face huge problems, or something bad happens to your family or children? What if you, dear reader, face hardships, scarcity, or anything else that makes life difficult?

How can we give thanks in such situations? In such circumstances? It’s difficult, right? It’s painful and frustrating. So, how do we give thanks? Because in reality, life is not always smooth. Not all dreams are realized. There are failures, disappointments, and trials—things that we can truly say are not good. So, how can we give thanks?

Well, let us note that the Apostle Paul didn’t say to give thanks for all circumstances, but in all circumstances. We are not to thank God by saying, "Lord, thank You for letting me fail my exam," or "Lord, thank You for letting me lose my job." We don’t say things like that. As human beings, we acknowledge the sadness and hardship in our lives. We don’t dismiss or belittle the pain and struggles we face. We recognize them. But what the Apostle Paul is saying is that, "in spite of that... despite all those things... despite those struggles," we should still give thanks.

For what should we be thankful? That God is sovereign. That despite those bad things happening, He is there to provide for our needs. That the things we consider bad—whether personal problems or conflicts—can help refine and shape our characters.

As it says in Romans 5:3-4, "…but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope." Most importantly, we thank the Lord for first forgiving us, so that we too can forgive others. The question here is, how do we extend God’s grace to others? How do we practice thankfulness, and how do we respond when we are going through difficult times?

I’ve listed three things here to help cultivate thankfulness in all circumstances, at all times:

1) SEEK. Seek the Lord and His Kingdom.

Matthew 6:33 says, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Our focus should be on seeking God’s kingdom, and He promised to provide for our needs.

So, what is God’s will for us as His children? That we live according to His Word and grow in holiness—to become like Christ in terms of His character and actions. Through this, we will cultivate a heart of gratitude, realizing that everything in this world is temporary... and every good thing is truly a gift from God. As we seek God’s kingdom, we will learn to embrace His will in our pursuits, in our goals, especially for students and young adults.

As Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established," and Psalm 37:4 says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." These are wonderful promises of God, but it’s important to remember that the Bible’s definition of "success" is different from the world’s. It is not measured by wealth or fame, but by fulfilling God’s will in our lives, especially if you profess to be a Christian. When we truly delight in Him, it means we are surrendering to His will.

Our desires will align with His will, and whatever happens—whether we face success or failure, strength or weakness—we can rest in the fact that God’s will will always prevail, which ultimately leads to thanksgiving for His wisdom and plans that will never fail.

So, whatever God gives us, we can genuinely give thanks as we submit our plans and lives to Him and His will. No matter what happens—whether there’s sadness, failure, or confusion—we know that God is sovereign and in control of everything. So, let’s not be anxious if things don’t go according to our plans. Let us remember that the Lord reigns over this world and give thanks always because He has promised to provide for us.

2) CALL. Call upon the Lord.

Another way to cultivate thankfulness is to call upon the Lord. In verse 17 of 1 Thessalonians 5, it says, "Pray without ceasing." We should pray and call upon the name of the Lord always—not just to make requests, not just to thank God for His blessings and provisions, but to thank Him for who He is.

And who is He? Who is the Lord? Jesus Christ—our Savior. Our good God.

Let us thank the Lord for the gospel. Despite our sins, God made a way for us to be saved, even though we didn’t deserve it. Jesus Christ died to pay for our sins so that those who believe in Him, repent, and follow Him will be saved—from what? From eternal damnation. From the wrath of God.

As Romans 6:23 says, "The wages of sin is death.," but because of the Lord, those of us who believe in His saving work on the cross are given eternal life with Him, who is and must be the ultimate source of our thankfulness. That even when challenges or trials come, we know we will never be separated from Him.

Let the gospel motivate us to give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for us. As we call upon the Lord, let us also remember that our prayers do not change God’s will. So whenever we pray, our prayers should align with His will.

As 1 John 5:14 says, "This is the confidence we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." Again, it says "...according to His will." So whenever we feel that our prayers are not being answered, we can trust God for a better plan.

3) TRUST. Trust in the Lord.

Trust in the Lord who knows what is best for us. God is pleased with our thankfulness because it is His will for us. In all circumstances, including those we don’t understand, trust that He will be with us.

Let us trust in Him, and let our focus be on God and His character: He is good, He loves us, He is faithful, merciful, all-knowing... and so many other good things. And of course, let us remember His promises that He will never leave us and He will provide for our needs.

As Philippians 4:19 says, "God will supply all our needs according to His riches," which is ultimately for His glory. As we trust in the Lord, we can be confident that "everything works together for good", just as Romans 8:28 says. We don’t give thanks because life is always easy or light, because we know it’s not. But we give thanks because we know that God is always good.

Let us continue to trust in the Lord and rejoice always, as we are commanded in 1 Thessalonians 5:16, "Rejoice always," and give thanks (v.18). As we rejoice in the Lord, we will see that He is the ultimate source of our joy—not our circumstances. As believers, we have all the reasons to give thanks because we are in the Lord.

Let us hold fast to His Word, to His promises for us, His children who believe in Him.

Three Decades!

Three decades, and here I stand,
With a life crafted by God's own hand.
Through all events and the times I see,
Each is ordained by His wise decree.

The people He placed along my way,
Brought with a purpose, come what may.
No chance in encounter, no luck in design,
But all is orchestrated by His plan divine.

Three decades of God's faithfulness,
His mercy shown, granting me forgiveness.
In every step, His grace I see,
His loving kindness keeps me faithfully.

My ever-helping, my ever-redeeming,
My ever-hearing God whenever I'm calling.
His gentle presence, it’s always near,
My guide and comfort in doubt and fear.

Three decades, a milestone true!
My God, my Savior, keep me ever in You.
Make me ever rejoicing, ever praising,
Even in the set time of my dying.

My Sovereign Lord, faithful and true,
Your grace abounds, always renew.
In every season, Your might displayed,
My time's in Your hands, I trust Your way!

By Grace Alone, Through Faith Alone

What makes Christianity different from other religions is that it teaches salvation is by grace alone, and that makes it beautiful. It elevates Christ and highlights His work of redemption on the cross, humbling humanity, for we have no part in it except for our sins that made His sacrifice necessary.

Ephesians 2:8-9 says: "[8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, [9] not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

Yet others teach that faith plus works is necessary for salvation. But Romans 11:6 clarifies that, "...if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise, grace would no longer be grace."

History tells us that, for the sake of beliefs and traditions, some were even willing to kill others. The burning of the martyrs in the 16th century serves as evidence. Imagine being burned alive for translating the Bible into English so that common people could understand it. This was prohibited because it would lessen the church's power over the people, which is why reading the Bible during that time was done only in Latin.

Moreover, they even burned alive those who stood firm in their belief that justification is by faith alone, labeling them heretics because it didn't align with their doctrine that teaches both faith and works are necessary for salvation, along with the administration of the sacraments. But if these were true, that salvation requires both faith and works, then Christ died in vain, and we would all have the right to boast about our salvation because we have a part in it.

However, Romans 3:27-28 states otherwise: "[27] Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By one of works? No! On the contrary, by a law of faith. [28] For we conclude that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law."

I am fully convinced that salvation is by grace alone through faith. Sola Fide (faith alone) is a key theological principle of the Protestant Reformation, contrasting Fides et Opera (faith plus works).

Justification is by grace alone through faith alone. Faith alone, yes, but even this faith is a gift from God. Ultimately, all of this boils down to God's mercy, which is itself grace. Titus 3:5 states: "He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy..."

Had God not shown mercy on me, had He not lavished His grace upon me, I would still be without Christ, who will be my answer, my justification, and my righteousness when judgment time comes after my death. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says: "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

Because of Christ's sacrifice on the cross, believing sinners are no longer judged guilty because their sins are imputed to Christ. Jesus suffered the judgment and wrath of God on the cross for our sake.

Sure, James 2:26 states that "faith apart from works is dead." But this does not mean that works are necessary for salvation. It means that true and genuine faith in the Lord will produce good works.

In our culture, many believe that everyone who dies goes to heaven, often ignoring the reality of hell. But how can an unrepentant sinner believe they will enter heaven after living a life here on earth that clearly dishonors God? Just because someone prayed for their souls after they died?

Galatians 6:7-8 says: "[7] Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. [8] For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life."

If we profess belief in God, shouldn’t we adhere to His Word? Otherwise, we risk creating a self-serving faith that borrows from Scripture to satisfy our desires. 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us: "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness."

Christ Jesus came to save us, sinners. Turn away from traditions and self-righteous decrees, and look to Jesus. Believe in Him and follow Him—He is worthy.

Hope Dear Souls!

Hope, anxious soul,

For God is in control,
Over all calamities
That bring anxieties.

Hope, weary soul,
Let not your fear control,
For even in uncertainties,
God's sovereignty never ceases.

Hope, troubled soul,

Let your worries roll.

For our God sees all,

His plans will never fall.

Hope, restless soul,
To our mighty God, call.
In Him, take refuge,
For His love's immense and huge.

Hope, hope dear souls!
Trust in God, y’all!
To His great name ever call,
He’s with us through it all.

Photo retrieved from embroiderymonkey.com

( 1 Thessalonians 5:17 "pray without ceasing" )

Biblical Success: Embracing God's Will in Our Pursuits

I’ve been reflecting on my experience taking a board exam held in Manila few days ago for a possible career shift, if the Lord wills. It’s not actually related to my college degree, but I was able to finish another course last year, qualifying me to take this examination. Of course, there are uncertainties. As I navigate through these, I was reminded of the promise in Proverbs 16:3: "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established," which resonates with me.

This is a beautiful promise, but it’s important to remember that biblical success isn’t measured by worldly standards like fame, wealth, or achievements in this life, but by fulfilling God's purposes in our lives. The same goes for Psalm 37:4, which says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart."

These passages remind me that committing our work to the Lord and delighting ourselves in Him involves surrendering to His will. And since God's will never changes, our prayers are meant to align with His will, much like Jesus demonstrated in Matthew 26:39 when He prayed, "My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will."

Even though Jesus expressed His desire for the cup to pass from Him, He did not demand it; instead, He submitted to the Father's will. While we are encouraged to bring our requests to God (as seen in Philippians 4:6), we must recognize the importance of submitting to His greater plan.

When we truly commit our ways to God and find joy in Him, our desires become align with His. If we measure success by worldly standards, we set ourselves up for disappointment and even depression, because not everyone achieves what they want—failures are a natural part of life.

So, "what is the biblical remedy for dejection at apparent failure in our labors?" As A.W. Pink wisely stated, "This—the assurance that God's plan cannot fail, that God's plans cannot miscarry, that God's will must be done. Our labors are not intended to bring about that which God has not decreed."

True success is found in submitting our plans to our all-knowing God, acknowledging His control over everything.

A once-notable preacher said, "Prayer does not change the will of God. Prayer submits to the will of God." This highlights an ultimate truth: God's will is sovereign and unchanging. Scriptures like Isaiah 46:10, which says, "My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose," and Malachi 3:6, which states, "I, the Lord, do not change," emphasize this point.

In James 4:3, it says, "You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions." Thus, a rightful and acceptable prayer seeks God's will above our own. 1 John 5:14 assures us of this: "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." Notice the emphasis on asking "according to His will."

By praying in submission to God’s will, we express our trust in His sovereignty, knowing that whatever happens—whether we face success or failure, strength or weakness—God's plan will always prevail, ultimately for our good and His glory.

Only when we understand this we can we honestly say, "Thy will be done."

Photo by Carvermade via etsy.com

Update: 12/13/2024 — The results are out, and I passed the exam. To God be the glory!

Gratitude in Every Task: Remember Our Main Goal!

I was sitting in the corner sometime in May 2024 at a beach resort. It was already night, and swimming at the beach was no longer permitted. Some chose to swim in the pool, others feasted, and some gathered to talk. After all, it had been a long time since they had seen each other.

As I sat there, I overheard a mother talking about her son, who was complaining about the hardships of his chosen career. What she said to her son (in Tagalog) caught my attention: "Alam mo anak, matalino talaga ang Diyos. Hindi Niya ginawang ganito lahat. Isipin mo kung businessman lahat na nagpapayaman, sino na gagawa nito?" ("You know, my child, God is truly wise. He didn’t make everyone the same. Imagine if everyone were a businessman trying to get rich—who would do all the other work?") and so on.

Each time I remember this, as I do today, I thank and praise God for His great and infinite wisdom, which cannot even be described as simply 'far better' than ours.

I often hear people complain about many things—whether at work, school, or in life, feeling they deserve better. And, well, there have been times when I have complained too, even if I didn’t voice it out. I’d be a hypocrite if I said I had never complained in my whole life.

Looking back, I realize that most of my complaints were the result of ungratefulness. Yes, life often feels unfair—work can be challenging, chores can be exhausting, and people may treat us unjustly and even talk behind our back. But what can we expect from a fallen world? What can we expect when, by nature, we chose to do evil, as demonstrated by Adam and Eve (Gen. 3)? While it is okay and normal to feel challenged and face moments of hardship that lead to disappointments, frustrations, and a sense of unfairness, we must always remember that all of life is but mercy and grace.

This truth should remind us to embrace our tasks and difficulties with a heart of gratitude, trusting in God’s plan. Ecclesiastes 3:9 and the following verses remind us of the universal truth that each of us has a God-given task that we must take pleasure in. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, we are asked to do all things for God's glory. To emphasize, especially if you are a professing Christian, we are called to work out our salvation by all means—by every faculty and aspect of our lives, such as doing our jobs faithfully and submitting to authority and earthly masters, as long as what they ask of us doesn’t go against God's Word. We are to endure all things, to do everything without grumbling or complaining—not to contribute to our salvation, for it is all by grace (Eph. 2:8)—but so that others may see the light and hope that is in us, . . . in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation (Phil. 2, Eph. 6).

What comfort and peace there is when we learn to fully trust Him, whose thoughts and ways are far higher and infinitely greater than ours (Isa. 55:8-9), with everything; and entrust to Him our everything.

Give it all to Him. As Colossians 3:17 says, “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Our main goal is to make Jesus shine in all that we do and give glory to Him. Everything else is secondary and should still fulfill the main goal.

Finally, "Remember this: Had any other condition been better for you…", the Lord, in His mercy, would have placed you there. 

Photo retrieved from pinterest.com

A Morning Thought

Once again, I found myself experiencing sleep paralysis. Lying in bed, I felt an overwhelming sense of suffocation, as if someone were trying to take my life. I couldn't move, despite my desperate desire to escape. It was a restless night. As morning arrived, I prayed and reflected on my experience—a morning thought:

Yesterday could have been my last,

Yet by grace, this present day I see.

New mercies because of Christ—

Grant, Lord, that I may draw nearer to Thee.

*** (Ps. 118:24, Lam. 3) 💝 

Photo by Think Positive Power via facebook.com

Thank you, Lord.

Memory of a Friend: A Reflection on Life

About a week ago, I learned that a friend of mine, whom I had connected with since college, had passed away. Although we were only connected online, I was truly saddened. She was around my age. Despite being active and staying positive, her body was too weak to overcome the disease.

For privacy’s sake, I can’t share her face,
But this rubber duck of hers captures our friendship’s pace.

Her passing reminded me of the inevitability of our lives—that at any moment, it could also be taken from us. We never know when our time will be over. Ecclesiastes 9 says that death comes to all, and Hebrews9:27 tells us that it is appointed for us to die once, and after that comes judgment.

While a disease like cancer is seen by many as a dreadful affliction, to die apart from Christ is the greatest misery of all.

However, those in Christ have nothing to fear as Jesus said (John 11:25-26), "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die."

Ameerah, you will be missed!

 To the beautiful dog
Whose name is so feminine,
Named after 'Princess',
Ameerah is her name.

From Arabic roots, her name does spring,
Yet a Japanese breed, a lovely thing.
Though a dog, God's gift she truly is,
Her smile, her noise, will surely be missed!

*** Remembering Hakko and Cooper too at this moment. They must be having fun somewhere!