COMPLETE DELIVERENCE. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not drive it out?" And He said to them, "Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."
Matthew 17:19-21

Observation:
The disciples were frustrated at their inefficiency in healing the boy. They were curious to know why they couldn’t bring complete deliverance to him and asked Jesus about it. The Lord’s response was brutally honest, “because of the littleness of your faith.” Then Jesus was certain to affirm that if we have faith we will be able to do the impossible. And to the issue of faith, Jesus added the need to fast and pray.
The Lord Jesus is able to perform all kinds of miracles, but he also suggests that we can do it too. There is no reason for the enemy to have a hold in our lives and in those around us. Maybe what the Lord is implying in this passage is that the best way to grow our faith is by praying and fasting.

Application:
Prayer combined with fasting is one of the many spiritual disciplines that will help us to increase in our faith. The more we pray and fast, our entire being mind, soul and body becomes less dependent in our own abilities and strength and more dependent in God’s power. It makes sense that we practice these two disciplines in a combined effort if we want to se an increase in our faith. We know it, but we don’t do it often.

We all know that regular exercise combined with a balanced diet will increase our health. Nobody denies those facts. But very few people put them into practice. The same is with fasting and prayer. Nobody denies the fact they are beneficial for our spiritual health but very few practice them in a regular basis. Many of us do not need to be convinced of their value, but motivated to put them into consistent practice. If we want to see our faith increasing and the miraculous happening more often, we must pray and fast.

In my personal life I encounter the same struggles and sinful influence in my life. I tried my best in being completely delivered from the same issues. I get frustrated every time I hit the same wall over and over again. I have asked God why I cannot overcome that situation. I must recognize that I have little faith to see the power of God bringing complete deliverance in my life. And the reason why I have little faith is because my spiritual lifestyle is not enhanced with prayer and fast. I starve my spirit when I do not pray and fast. I must recalibrate my daily, weakly and monthly regimen to make prayer and fast a common practice in my life.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, please forgive me for knowing what will increase my faith and for not practicing it. You do not want hearers but doers of the word. Please make me a doer when it comes to prayer and fasting. Do not let me keep going without recalibrating my regimen. Please grant me diligence and passion to seek your face in such a way that my spirit is strengthened by the way I starve the flesh. Help me to love you to the point of sacrificing time and food in order to increase my spiritual faith. I don’t want to keep the enemy possessing what belongs to your kingdom. You alone are my Lord. Help me to bring all the areas in my life under your submission. AMEN!

THE NEXT LEVEL. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
And David became more and more powerful, because the Lord God Almighty was with him... And David realized that the Lord had made him king over Israel and had made his kingdom great for the sake of his people.
2 Samuel 5:10, 15

Observation:
Saul is dead and David wants to conquer the fortified city of Jerusalem. The Jebusites built a magnificent fortress there, ideal to set the headquarters for David’s kingdom and central location to unify the tribes of Israel. David wants it! So he goes after it. The walls of the city are high and strong. The Jebusites are confident that no one can climb the wall and conquer the city. Yet David found a hole in the wall, the water tunnel. This could have been the sewer system of the city. Nobody dared to go though that filthy and smelly tunnel. Only David’s special forces of mighty men were able to handle the tunnel and came in into the city to conquer it. This conquest took David to a whole another level in his leadership. David’s influence increased because God was with Him in all his dealings.

Application:
This morning I find myself doing devotions for the very first time in the fortress of Kahala Mall. This is an strategic place for ministry and we all agree that we are going into a whole another level of service to our community. It took several months to get here. Our patience was tested and our resources were challenged. But by the grace of God, we find ourselves here ready to launch a historical outreach in our community. God will be glorified because He always fights for us. This is not our doing. this is God’s favor over our church.

The great victory over Jerusalem also brings a warning. Once they settled, David’s character was tested and he failed many tests. He married more wives that he could handle and became more comfortable in the midst of the luxury of his brand new palace. He neglected many basics and drifted away from the Lord. That’s why it’s important that we never forget our humble origins and that we remain dependent in God’s favor. We cannot assume that we have it all. We need to rely on him to be able to steward well what He has given us. God gives us all this blessings for the sake of His people. We need to honor Him by trusting more and more in Him, not in our abilities or experience. The resource center is not the end goal for our church. There are another fortresses to be conquered in the years to come. There are many people to be brought closer to God. We cannot put the guard down and get comfortable. We must keep moving forward because the gates of hell shall not prevail against the Lord’s church.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you so much for the privilege of having our church’s resource center at Kahala Mall. We don’t deserve your favor, but because of your love, we are worthy of this and much more. Please help us to see holes in our adversity to be able to conquer our opponents. Please keep our hearts humble and dependent in you. Help us to see beyond the four walls of our comfort zone and teach us how to take over other fortresses. Use our church to impact this community with the Gospel. Amen!

KEEPER OF MY HEART... MY MOUTH. By Renee Takahashi

Scripture:
You offspring of vipers! How can you speak good things when you are evil? For out of the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks. But I tell you, on the day of judgment men will have to give account for every ‘idle word they speak.
Matt 12:34, 36

Observation:
Verse 36 reminds me to choose words carefully because I will have to account for the thoughtless, non productive things I say. Verse 34 tells me the source of the words. If I want to say encouraging things, words that speak life, then I need to guard my heart of what goes into it. The words I use can tell a person my belief system, my perspective on life, my character.

Application:
The Bible clearly tells us what our mouths are for. It is to speak life not death. Our words are so powerful. It reaches far beyond that moment in time which it was used… it lingers for days, weeks, perhaps even years in the heart of the person spoken to. What kind of action are my words promoting/inspiring in others? Are my words a well of encouragement even through discipline or is it machetti that cuts someone down? And to be constantly choosing words that bring life, I need to really guard my heart. If I have bitterness in there, even if not aimed at that person, it will come up. If I have fear, I will speak words of judgment, envy, worry. If I have disbelief, I will speak words that are faithless. I must be on my toes as the sharpest sentinel of my heart!
How will I be different today because of what I have just read?
I will ask a few close and trusted people to share with me their observation. People of different relationships with me: my spouse, my children, mentors, mentees, co workers, superiors, etc.

Prayer:
Father God, thank you for the ability to express myself through the spoken word. Please help me to guard my heart to that out of the overflow would be words that glorify you. Please help me to carefully choose words that are appropriate for the situation. Please help me to choose words of life. I ask that you would direct me to those who will give me a clear observation of the words I speak and if it brings life or death. I love you Jesus… I surrender my mouth to you. May it be a humble servant to spread your goodness! In the mighty name of Jesus I pray… amen

ONE TEAM. By Kim Matsukawa

SCRIPTURE:
But all the evil men and troublemakers among David's followers said, "Because they did not go out with us, we will not share with them the plunder we recovered. However, each man may take his wife and children and go." David replied, "No, my brothers, you must not do that with what the LORD has given us. He has protected us and handed over to us the forces that came against us. Who will listen to what you say? The share of the man who stayed with the supplies is to be the same as that of him who went down to the battle. All will share alike."

OBSERVATION:
The troublemakers who were a part of the 400 didn’t want to share the plunder with those the 200 that stayed back. They suggested that they only get their wives and children back, not anything else. However, David knew that this plunder was not theirs to decide who got what, it was from the Lord. The Lord had given them the means to overtake the Amalekites and make sure that nothing was missing. David saw the 200 as still part of the team, even though all they did was stay back and watch the supplies. He saw them as one team, not divided.

APPLICATION:
In paddling, we are learning a few things like you are only as strong as you’re weakest link. You are only as strong as the person sitting next to you, so if you need to, you have to come down to their level. Everyone is a part of the victory even if you didn’t race because when you practiced together, there were those in the boat that helped to make you stronger. Sometimes I feel like I’m one of the 200, the one that stayed back. The reason is that I feel like I’m the weakest link, that I tire out so quickly, I’m the one who isn’t reaching far enough or twisting enough. My brain then becomes the evil ones of the 400 telling me that I’m not good enough and that I don’t deserve the victory because they were the ones that pulled the boat, not me, the weak one. I am learning that I need to get in better shape for the team so that I don’t become either injured or disappointed in myself for not doing better. I want to be able to be a part of both sides, so when a new person comes in, who hasn’t paddled before, I can give them the encouragement they need to paddle with their not only their strength, however with their heart also.

PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, forgive me for not having the faith that You have given me to know that I can do all things through You. I pray that every time, all through the race, yet I doubt myself because of the tiredness and soreness. However You are faithful, You bring me through it and even take away the minor aches and pains that day. Through You, I have become successful at my level. I thank you for being beside me through the whole race, just gently pushing me to go further, reach farther, and twist more. I pray that You stick with me through this season of learning and growing. Please be with me as I learn more about You and more about myself with You as my guide. Amen.

YOR YOKE, NOT MINE. By Renne Takahashi

Scripture:
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is wholesome and My burden is light and easy to be borne.
Matt 11: 28-30

Observation:
Jesus knows that we are broken people. We take on things that are not God led, but flesh led. When we do things to satisfy ourselves, or to prove ourselves or to please others, over a course of time, it becomes a burden. When we are called to do something by God, He equips us for it. Jesus is reminding us that as His followers, we can trust that His ways are good, not harsh or cause for weariness. And He also comforts us by saying that when we become aware that we are off the path, we can exchange the yoke we have put on ourselves, for His.

Application:
Serving God is an overflow of our relationship with Him. I “serve” Him in every area of my life; at home, work, amongst friends. Yet in my brokenness, my motives may get skewed from time to time. I always have to heart check myself. When I am in the Lord’s will, He truly does supply all that I need and things fall in place, even if I am juggling 20 projects at once. If I am not in His will, getting one project done zaps a whole lot of energy from me.
The highlight that I get from this scripture is that Jesus not only wants me to take His yoke, but He wants me to learn of Him. To know who He is. To know His character, so I can rest in him.
How will I be different today because of what I have just read?
I will spend some time today sitting at His feet asking God to reveal more of Him to me and to reveal His will for me.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for loving me. Thank you for the truths you make so available to me in your word. Please help me to not only read it, but to hide it in my heart and to live by it. I come before you today and ask that you will reveal your will to me. I exchange the load I have put upon myself for your yoke. I receive your rest! Thank you for allowing me to witness the miracles you are doing in my family. May I continue to surrender us all to you. As I was in prayer you directed me back to the scripture and what you highlighted for me was to learn of you. I smile because you are so true dear Jesus… when all is said and done, it’s all about our relationship isn’t it. Thank you Lord. I love you! In your mighty name I ask that you will reveal more of you to me. The more I know you, the more I love you.

ABIGAIL'S HUMILITY. By Renee Takahashi.

Scripture:
One of the servants told Nabal’s wife Abigail; “David sent messengers from the desert to give our master his greetings, but he hurled insults at them. Now think it over and see what you can do, because disaster is hanging over our master and his whole household. He is such a wicked man."
1 Samuel 25: 14,17

Observation:
There are so many great things I learn from Abigail; her sensibility, her call to quick action, her capability to do great things, her wisdom. I believe all these things and more prepared her for this moment. She would be challenged to save her household which was the pivotal moment that brought change to her life. Although the culture of the times had women less valued, Abigail’s character must have been known to the servants. Her life, her deeds must have bred hope and loyalty from them. Even if her husband was such a wicked man, this servant recognized that he could talk to her. He trusted her to make things right.

Application:
I am inspired by Abigail’s many qualities. She is a role model for me. This morning, the Lord highlights for me her character of humility. It was her humility that opened the door to hear the words of her servant that started the course of action that would change her life. It was her humility to know there was something more than just her own situation as she pleaded with David not to avenge himself for someone else’s foolishness. It was her humility that had her prepare sustenance for David’s men. It was her humility that she took responsibility upon herself not blaming anyone. I wonder, do I live my life with humility that those I lead can trust me to make things right?
How will I be different today because of what I have just read?
I will ask the Holy Spirit to reveal I me any pride that keeps me from hearing the words, caution, counsel of others.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, good morning. Thank you for this time to be with you, hearing from you, learning from others. Thank you for such a wonderful role model in Abigail. Teach me how to develop the great character she had and to seek the opportunities to glorify your name. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray.. amen

CHILDLIKE. By Pastor Fernando.

Scripture:
Then Jesus prayed this prayer: “O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding the truth from those who think themselves so wise and clever, and for revealing it top the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way!
Matthew 11:25-26

Observation:
Jesus reveals to us that The Father loves to reveal his most intimate secrets and strategies not to those who think themselves as wise and clever but to the childlike. It pleases the Father to exalt the humble and to humble the the proud. When we come with a childlike character before the Lord, we come as an empty container for God to fill it up with His rich wisdom and grace. But when we come to him thinking that we know a lot, then our container doesn’t have too much room for His wisdom and grace. A childlike character will keep us always dependent of Abba and in his power and wisdom. It will also help us to trust in God’s ways better than in our own ways.

Application:
My son Daniel is learning how to tie his shoelaces. He is getting there, but still has some trouble with it. Yesterday before going to school Karen asked him to tie his shoes, but he wasn’t able and was getting frustrated. I told him to keep trying! He couldn’t do it. So finally I went down and tied his shoes. He was so excited that I came to his help. Daniel teaches me how to be childlike before the Lord. First of all, he is not self-concsious about recognizing his weakness. He asked for help. Sometimes as we get older and more independent, we think that asking for help is a sign of weakness and we try to do things on our own, as if we were trying to prove how capable we are. Bt with God we don’t need to prove anything. We must simply need to humble ourselves and recognize that we need Him. We need to rejoice that we have a loving Father willing to come to our aid at any moment we cry out to Him.

We need to guard ourselves from loosing our childlike character. When God starts helping us, we will grow more confident in him, but also in the wisdom He has bestowed upon us. If we are not careful, we will forget where the wisdom comes from and we are going to think that we are so wise and clever. We cannot start right and finish wrong. We need to stay humble, dependent on God, and trusting that His ways are always better than mine. The wisdom that he revealed yesterday should prepare my heart for more of his wisdom for tomorrow.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I want to remain childlike and dependent on you. Let me to put aside my shame and my tendency to try to impress others. let me recognize my failures and weaknesses before you. Let me please you with a childlike heart. Pour out to me your wisdom and your grace. As long as I stay childlike, I will remain secure in the shadow of your wings. Amen!

CONSECRATION BRINGS GOD'S PROTECTION. By Pastor Fernando.

Scripture:

May my prayer by counted as incense before Thee;
The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering.
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth;
Keep watch over the door of my lips.
Do not incline my heart to any evil thing,
To practice deeds of wickedness
With men who do iniquity;
And do not let me eat of their delicacies.
Psalm 141:2-4

Observation:
This psalm was an evening prayer for sanctification and protection. David found an important relationship between consecration and protection. The more sanctified, the more protected by God. He knew that the Angel of the Lord camps around those who fear Him. Therefore he was very intentional in praying for his consecration. David consecrated his words, the desires of his heart (thoughts), and his actions. He asked with sincerity in his heart that God would take his prayer as a pleasing request. He knew that a simple prayer of consecration was the beginning. He needed God’s intervention in his life in order to keep his words wholesome, his thoughts pure, and his actions righteous. He even prays that God will stop him from eating the delicacies of iniquity. Some evil things taste good, like delicacies. But they have an ingredient of death and separation from God hidden in its recipe. They are sweet to the mouth but deadly to the entire body.

The result of consecration in David’s life was protection. The Lord guarded him from himself (his own sinful nature), from powerful enemies, and from the normal tear and wear of life. David knew that a sanctified person is a protected person. And that process starts with diligent and consistent prayers of consecration in our daily regimen.

Application:
The prayer of our consecration is an important discipline in our daily lives. It’s true that we must pray for other people’s needs but if there is a request for ourselves, that should be our sanctification. Every day we must dedicate our words, our thoughts, and our actions to the glory of God. We need to consecrate those who we love and serve. Many times we pray for their protection instead of their sanctification, but in order to be truly protected by the Angel of the Lord, we must pray that we will be people that fear Him and that walk consecrated to Him.
Lately the Lord has been reminding me about some of the disciplines I must return to. This is a very important one. I need to go back to the practice of going to my knees as soon as I get up and to consecrate my life, my family and my church in prayer. If I want to be protected from my own sin, and from the work of the enemy in my own life, then I need to consecrate myself in prayer and to walk consecrated the rest of the day. It makes a difference in our daily routine when we have prayed over our words, thoughts, and deeds. God truly hears this kind of prayer and helps us through the Holy Spirit to say the right things, to have pure thoughts, and to do the wisest things. This is the best way to live under the shadow of His wings and secure in His protection. He is our refuge when we dedicate our entire life to Him.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, please forgive me for neglecting my daily prayers of consecration for my family, my church, and me. Help me to go back to the godly regimen in order to seek your protection. Please grant me a desire to consecrate everything around me and to dedicate it to your service. My words are for you to speak to others, my thoughts are for you to advance your kingdom, and my actions are for you to show your love to others. I dedicate every single endeavor of our church to your purpose in our community. Please help us to be the church you want us to be and that will effectively bring people closer to God. Remind me every morning as soon as I get up to go on me knees immediately, first thing in the day, to consecrate everything to you. Please protect me from my sinful nature, from the work of the enemy, and from those who seek my destruction. You are my refuge. I love you Lord more than life. AMEN!

THIRSTY FOR GOD. By Pastor Fernando.

Scripture:
O God, Thou art my God; I shall seek Thee earnestly;
My soul thirsts for Thee, my flesh yearns for Thee,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Thus I have beheld Thee in the sanctuary,
To see Thy power and Thy glory.
Psalm 63:1-2

Observation:
David experienced the extreme conditions of the desert. While in exile, he had to be subject to the precarious lifestyle of the wilderness. He and his companions suffered lack of food and water to the point of going and ask charity from others like Nabal in 1 Samuel 25. For David, the struggle for water had parallels in his desire for intimacy with God.

The diligence required to survive in the wilderness demanded constant searching for water, especially early in the morning before the sun got stronger. Desperation and frustration increased when their search was unfortunate, but joy and satisfaction arrived when they found something to drink. The same diligence is required for those who seek closeness with God. Their desire to survive in this world has to be so intense that it will cause them to do whatever it takes to find the source of water for their soul. Diligence was not an option but a non-negotiable in order to make it through the season. David knew deep in his heart that seeking God was the priority above literal water. He felt the weakness of his soul and the deprivation of his spirit when away from God’s presence. He was diligent to seek God and to depend in His nourishment in order to make it through the day.

Application:
We cannot take breaks from God, or even worse, go through the scorching sun of daily routine without the provision He has prepared for our soul. David knew very well that physical starvation would not affect his relationship with God the way busyness, laziness, or indifference would. Demoting intimacy with God to a minor priority would result not only in spiritual weakness, but also in relational distance with God. David lived for God and couldn’t be away from Him. The same way should be for me. I have to seek him diligently by defeating my own emotions (when I feel that my devotion is neither deep nor fruitful), my own physical limitations (when I’m tired and drained), and my busy schedule (when I have too much stuff to do).

Besides doing daily devotions, there is plethora of spiritual disciplines that keep me diligent in my search for God’s presence. Lately I’ve been neglecting and ignoring some of these disciplines and I must go back fully devoted to them. I cannot allow my soul become dry. There are hundreds of people depending on my spiritual condition. They are distressed and downcast like sheep without shepherd. My compassion for them and my service must be a result of having my spirit soaked with the presence of God. This is the best way I can love them.
Today the Lord is calling me back to intensify my disciplines or prayer, fasting, solitude, and silence. I need to keep my prophetic edge sharp and ready to bless others. I cannot bring people closer to God if I’m not closer to Him.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, please forgive me for neglecting some spiritual disciplines and for demoting my intimacy with you to give room to my own desire and busy schedule. I cannot live without you. I cannot serve you away from you. I’m not designed to love people without your love. I need you more than I need water, or bread, or affection, or recognition, or security, or welfare. Please arise my passion for you and bring me closer to your heart so I can bring others closer to you. AMEN!

Receiving Good Things From A Good Father. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!
Matthew 7:11

Observation:
Jesus boldly declares that God is good and willing to bring the best blessings in our lives. He is the best Father and He will always provide the very best for those who are His children. This passage comes between a request and a warning. First, the request is summarized in verses 7 and 8. Jesus reminds us to ask, seek and knock in order to receive, find, and open. These results do not come by default. They are the product of a consistent, spirit minded prayer life. Second, the warning is evident in the verses that follow. Jesus is very clear revealing that fruitfulness is the proof of our relationship with God. Without such fruit, there is no relationship with God.

In this passage, Jesus discloses how to receive the good gifts from the Lord. We must ask, seek and knock for the good things of God. This is more than asking for a better job, or for a cute spouse, or for a raise, or for a bigger house and a nicer car. These requests are centered in the will of God and are focused in becoming fruitful developing a godly character. When we pray for our spiritual fruit to come forth, we can be assured that God is fully committed to respond to those prayers because He is a good Father that gives what is good to those who ask Him. If we don’t receive what is good, is because we either ask for the wrong things, or we don’t ask at all.

Application:
One of the statements I hear the most against the existence of God is that “if God is real and good, why we allows the world to suffer?” They argument is based in the concept that if the world is in chaos therefore God is either unable to fix it, or completely disinterested in it, or unreal. Those who ascribe to such statements relate the condition of the world as a reflection of what happens in the personal lives. They suffer and prayers do not take their pain away. If God hears, then he doesn’t care because He does not fix what is wrong.

Even among believers there is a mistaken view about the way God answers our prayers. We pray for good things but they don’t happen. We quickly assume that the reason for denial is either our lack of faith, or hidden sin somewhere. The light of Jesus comes into this common situation revealing that even if God doesn’t give me what I want for me, God will continue being the best Father. When we pray seeking the kingdom of God in our hearts and the evident fruit of our relationship with Him, God will always hear that kind of prayer. He is always ready to give good gifts to us, His children. Our problem is that we are either impatient to trust the best timing to receive the gift, or that we do not ask, seek, and knock the way God wants us to.

There are some areas in my life where the fruit of the spirit is not evident. I’ve prayed for strength in times of weakness and for self-control in times of trials. These are good prayers according to the will of God, but for some reason I fell and hit the ground hard, as if God didn’t care. Is at this times that we need to trust in the goodness of God. I must change my mind and be completely sure that God has given my the good gifts I request and that if I fail is not because God’s lack of attention, but because my sinful nature. In moments like this I need to remember that His grace is enough. I cannot give up in my prayers for the spiritual growth and maturity of my soul and of those who are under my care. I must continue asking, seeking, and knocking until I find the good gifts that God has reserved for me.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, please increase my awareness of praying according to your will. Please help me to trust more in your goodness and to be more consistent in my prayer life. Grant me the desires of my heart that relate with fruitfulness in character. Please let your Holy Spirit take control over my mind and my heart when it comes to the issues I struggle often and that destroy the fruit of my relationship with You. Please give me more victories in the areas of weakness. Let your my love for you become evident by the way I live for you. Don’t let me be slaved to sin and give me the freedom and determination to do your will above anything else. Today I receive all the good that you have for me. AMEN!

TAKES TWO TO CLAP. By Renee Takahashi

Scripture:
But when you give to charity, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.
Matt 6:3

Observation:
Like so many scriptures in the Bible, this one is simple, yet so profound. It gives me such a clear picture of doing good deeds with the right motive. When we do things, it is the work of our “hands”. We use our hands to serve others. We use our hands to help cook, clean, drive, give, carry... the list goes on an on. The visual that Matthew uses in this scripture is brilliant. He tells that when you are in the act of service, your right hand be independent of your left. I love it! Matthew reminds me in this visual not to do things for applause. To clap, I use two hands. But if each hand is “independent” of the other, there will be no clapping going on; only serving!

Application:
For some reason, this scripture was one that stuck in my memory from early on. I reflect today and heart check my motives for serving others and doing good deeds. If I am motivated by the approval of man, how much am I cutting myself short of God’s best in me? When I do good deeds to be recognized for it, then like Matthew says in verse 1, I will not get the reward with and from my Father in heaven. I don’t want to miss out on that. If I obey Him and give Him all the glory, then how much more can be done! Are my hands working together to bring me applause, taking the glory away from our Father?

How will I be different today because of what I have just read? I will do in secret what the Lord calls me to. I will obey what, when and how He commands me.

Prayer:
Father God, I repent of the times I have stolen the glory and cut myself short of the blessings I could have received had I not had the applause of man. I want your approval, and your praise. I want to be your humble servant. Use me in ways no one has to know about and let me be filled with your presence. I commit my flesh of wanting approval and applause from others unto the cross. In faith, I thank you for the blood of Jesus to cover me and wash me clean so that my hands work independently for your glory! In your mighty name I pray.. amen

FORCED FEAR. By Alika Kalauli

Scripture:
The Philistine came out morning and evening, presenting himself for forty days.
1 Samuel 17:16

Observation:
I've always liked reading the stories about David. I love the courage and the faith that David had as he went from person to person asking," Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" We all read that Goliath was a very big person and he was very strong and stuff, but, I wanted to know why Goliath chose to come out and confront Israel in the morning and the evening. Why not at mid day. Was it just by happen chance, or was it a strategic move. I believe that it was Goliath's strategy. He wanted to instilled fear into the Israelites. And for forty days, he did exactly that. He presented himself at those specific times so that he would be the first thing they see and hear as they started there day and the last thing that they saw and heard right before they went to bed. Fear gripped the Israelites so bad that it paralyzed them. All they could do was talk about tough Goliath looked or how big he was. All day. Fear! Fear! Fear!

Application:
I know that fear can be a huge negative strong hold in our lives. Fear of not making rent, not having enough food for my 'ohana, or even the fear of death. These fears can hold us down, keep us under, cause us to forget who we are in Christ, however, when we begin to identify these fears and start to face them by faith, we realize that things aren't really as bad as it seemed. God is still in control. He has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and of sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).

Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for always helping me to identify my fears and to give me the courage to confront them. It is in You that I put my trust and in You I am an over comer. For You have not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and of sound mind. I love You my Father. I give You all the honor and all the glory with thanksgiving...in Jesus name I pray. Amen

HINDERED BY THE SAME TEST. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil…
then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and began to minister to Him.
Matthew 4:1,11

Observation:
The moment was familiar for Jesus as he felt how He was being led in to a place of temptation. He went trough the same tests many times before, and He was going to go be in the same situation in the future. His dependence in God’s Word and His obedience to it helped Him to pass any test. Interestingly the angels didn’t come to His aid until the test was over. Sometimes we want God’s intervention to either cancel the test or assist us while in the test. But Jesus knew that the victory over each tempting moment was preparing His heart for the greatest tests of all. He wasn’t going to be hindered in any occasion to fulfill His goal to go to the cross. He was waiting for God’s promotion that comes after every successful test.

This particular tempting moment occurred in the beginning of the Lord’s ministry on earth. He passed the tests of self-control, pride, and devotion to God, all very necessary to fulfill His mission from this moment until the moment of His death in Calvary. It’s like when in video games you need to pass the tests of the first level in order to be a good player in the second level, and so on until you beat up the game. Tests are not meant to destruct us but to train us in obedience and in the character traits necessary to accomplish God’s calling in our lives.

Application:
There are all kinds of tests that the Lord will guides us into in order to train us and teach us how to develop our new nature as children of God. Many tests will be easier according to our strengths. Many other will be difficult because they will deal with areas of weakness. These particular tests frustrate us because over and over again we hit the wall in the same situation. We become discouraged and beat up ourselves for our stupidity. These failed tests will send us back to the training grounds in the same level we have been for a while and will hinder us to move to the next level of responsibility and growth. Is this fare? Well, I guess it is. I know that God is faithful to test me in such a way that I can win. If I fail the test is not because the test is too hard, but because I did not use the correct strategy, steps, and attitude. He loves me so much that he will never put me in a level where the tests are going to be unbearable. He will always take me into places to set me up for success, not for failure.

But still, when failing a test, the first thing that comes to mind is that we are not able to pass the same test. That’s a lie whispered by the devil and echoed by our own flesh. We cannot allow the devil, who is the tempter, to hinder our growth and maturity by making us complaisant and comfortable with the tests we fail often. We must stand up, learn again the lessons that we applied poorly, and when the Lord guides again to the test, think, talk, and behave the way God has been preparing us to pass the test. The Holy Spirit is a good teacher. He will never test us in a subject He hasn’t taught us before. And if we forget the lesson and fail the test again, we have to repent and prepare again to pass the same test sometime in the future. Even if it takes us several years to pass the same test that hinder us, we must have the attitude of a winner. We are more than conquerors in the name of the Lord.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, please forgive me for failing the same tests over and over again. More than anything, forgive me for reasoning my defeat with lame excuses and complacency. I truly want to pass this test that always pushes me back to start things all over again. Please help me to learn the lessons again, but this time help me to put into practice the strategy that will take me to pass the test and graduate to the next level of growth and maturity. Thank you so much for your patience, lovingkindness, and mercy over my life. Please let me be a conqueror in these areas of struggle. Wash my sin completely and let me be more like you. I love you Jesus. AMEN!

THE POSTURE OF A LEADER. By Renee Takahashi

Scripture:
"...and David went out wherever Saul sent him, and he prospered and behaved himself wisely; and Saul set him over the men of war. And it was satisfactory both to the people and to Saul’s servants... David acted wisely in all his ways and succeeded, and the Lord was with him."
1 Sam 18:5, 14

Observation:
David was anointed to be king. His position, status, future was already set. However, he used all the situations, conditions, and challenges before him as opportunities to groom himself for the throne. A leader needs to be groomed. From the scriptures above, I see some important traits that prepared him to be the great king that he was. He was obedient and loyal. He went wherever Saul sent him. He followed instruction and honored his authority. He prospered. He made good choices, was a good steward, was respected. He behaved wisely in all areas of his life. He knew how to carry himself properly, how to conduct himself. Both his contemporaries as well as the servants respected him. He must have been very respectful, trustworthy and honoring in his ways. And most importantly, he allowed God to be with him.

Application:
As a leader of myself, of my children, in my community, how much am I allowing God to be with me? How often am I at His feet listening to His counsel and direction? How often are my thoughts, plans, words focused on Him? Am I honoring others, being a good steward, behaving wisely in all that I do? God is grooming me, for I am His daughter and I want to posture myself as a woman of the court… careful of what I input so the output will be of truth, am I conducting myself in ways that honor God, and I obedient, am I using the opportunities for grooming to bring glory to God?

Prayer:
Father God, I come with heavy heart. Please forgive me for the many times I have attended to task and pushed back time with you. Forgive me that I have missed many appointments with you. I regret that you can’t use me fully because I have not made myself available to you consistently and purposefully. Thank you for your grace.
In Jesus’ mighty name I pray… amen

PREPARING FOR THE KING'S ARRIVAL. By Pastor Fernando.

Scripture:
Isaiah has spoken of John when he said, “He is a voice shouting in the wilderness: prepare a pathway for the Lord’s coming! make a straight road fro him! Matthew 3:3

Observation:
John the baptist was the forerunner of Jesus’ ministry. Before the coming of the King there is a preparation that must take place. John was the one preparing the hearts of people for the arrival of Jesus. He called people to repentance and fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy that reveals the process of preparation God wants in our lives before the coming of Jesus can be fully experienced. John called people to make a road straight for the coming of the King. People had to put aside their sinful behavior and their religiosity. People had to prove by the way they live that they had really turned from their their sins and turn to God. John’s message came in the wilderness, not in the temple. Why? Maybe because in the wilderness we realize who we truly are and what we truly need.

Application:
Sometimes God will take us to the wilderness to realize what really matters to us. While in the wilderness water takes a more significant value. Shelter from the scorching sun becomes not a commodity but a necessity. In the wilderness we realize our weaknesses and our true colors. Under pressure we can see our level of commitment and endurance as our faith is tested. When God takes our comfort away we can be more honest and our masks start to crack from the inside out. In the wilderness God speaks to us. He says, ”Prepare the way for my arrival.“ God is encouraging us to deal with the issues we will see in the mirror, to repent if we find sin, to endure if we are tested, and to improve if we are lacking. Our preparation is what secures the arrival of the King in our lives. We cannot expect the King setting His throne in our hearts without such preparation. If we need the King of Glory in our lives, we need to prepare our hearts, we need to make the pathways straight, we need to humble ourselves, we need to trust in His ways, and we need to believe that His ways are better than our ways.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding me about the importance of being prepared for your arrival in my life. There are so many areas where I need your wise ruling, direction, and majestic power. Please show me how to prepare my heart for your arrival and how to help people to prepare their lives for your arrival. Let us hear your voice in the wilderness times, let us see our hidden sin so we can repent, let us be aware of our weaknesses so we can trust in your grace, and let us see our quitting points so we learn to trust in you and endure until the end. Thank you for being so faithful to me. Let my life be always prepared for your arrival. Amen!

RESOLVING CONFLICT. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
But when David's oldest brother, Eliab, heard David talking to the men, he was angry. "What are you doing around here anyway?" he demanded. "What about those few sheep you're supposed to be taking care of? I know about your pride and dishonesty. You just want to see the battle!" "What have I done now?" David replied. "I was only asking a question!" He walked over to some others and asked them the same thing and received the same answer.
1 Samuel 17:28-30

Observation:
David’s older brother, Eliab, was angry when listening to David’s comments about the challenge of Goliath. In his anger, Eliab accused David of being motivated by pride and dishonesty. David’s response was defensive but very wise. He didn't say much, but he said enough, and walked away. He was careful in picking his battles carefully. He wasn’t going to spend energy arguing with his brother—his fight was going to be against a giant enemy. He walked away from conflict with his brother and run into the right battlefield. However, David was firm when confronting Eliab. Walking away before he said something stupid to his brother was the wisest thing David could do at that moment.

Application:
We are not told what was Eliab’s motivation to accuse David. He was possibly insecure and threatened by David’s comments about Goliath. As the firstborn, he could be envious of David’s courageous words and wished to be the one who had that attitude. The younger brother was acting as the older brother. Perhaps he was annoyed by the way God always favored David. Whatever was motivating Eliab for the accusations, it caused a tense situation between the two brothers. Eliab wants to display his courage by picking a fight with his younger brother, but David displayed real courage when picking a battle with a giant.

Many brothers and sisters intentionally or unintentionally will try to pick up fights with each other. When accusations are thrown at me, my tendency is to fight back and defend myself. David teaches me that it’s important to remain firm but to quickly walk away and spent energy in the real conflicts that require all my mind and energy. Whatever motivation causes others to argue with me, weather is envy, or hurt, or revenge, or simply poor people skills, I must see the greater fight at all times. I need to learn how to pick my battles wisely without compromising my integrity or reputation. Walking away from an unnecessary conflict is one of the wisest yet hardest habits to learn. But it brings us to the right battlefields to face the right opponents. Many people do not experience victory or promotion because they are busy fighting in the wrong battlefields. I must have my eyes wide open to identify the real enemy and walk away from the situations and conversations that have volatile elements that will distract me from the real battle. Satan loves when God’s people start shooting at each other instead of using the ammunition against his forces of darkness.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, please forgive me for the many times I have picked the wrong battles and injured people that in reality are on my side. Please give me grace and discernment to see beyond their accusations, jokes, behavior, poor people skills, and wrong attitude. Give me the strength to walk away from those situations where conflict can be avoided. Give me wisdom and proper people skills to quickly and firmly confront with truth and grace and to move on into the correct battlefield were I will face the real enemy. Please make me humble and free from a desire to prove my innocence when accused wrongly. Let me trust in you and in your ability to handle my conflict with others. Cause all my relationships to flourish within the boundaries of truth spoken in love. At the same time, don’t let me be like Eliab throwing accusations motivated by insecurity, envy, revenge, or hurt. Help me to hold accountable those under my care the way you should and always seeking Your very best in their lives. I love you Lord. AMEN!

HOLD ON. By Renee Takahashi.

Scripture:
I thought, the Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication to the Lord. So I forced myself to offer a burnt offering.
1 Samuel 13:12

Observation:
It is amazing that we learn a lot about a person just by what he does. Saul was anointed king of Israel. He was chosen to lead God’s people and have a great future ahead of him. However, even with this position, we see that his character weakness of pleasing others was his downfall. When the situation with the Philistines was getting tough and Samuel hadn’t arrived yet, instead of leaning into the Lord in full obedience, he went with his own understanding and attempted to please man instead of God. Saul was given a certain instruction to follow, but when he started to feel threatened, he relied on himself to take control. He knew what he was doing was wrong, “I forced myself”, but as the king, he wanted the approval of the men. When they started scattering, instead of obeying God, he took matters into his own hand. This caused him to lose the future that was planned for him.

Application:
Offering a burnt offering wasn’t necessarily a sin but in Saul’s case, he was forbidden to offer the sacrifice. Still, he did to please the people. We can get caught up in the approval of man, to be accepted, to win their applause that we lose sight of the real reward of Jesus and settle for the temporary reward of man. Although we may know something is not right, we compromise and may do something to belong. Or we lean on our own understanding instead of God’s and go ahead and take the action anyway. When things that we expect to happen don’t happen, like when Samuel didn’t come when Saul expected him to, we must remember to stay faithful to the last instruction we were given. This is very profound because I am in a season where things are flying by me at mach speed. I can really get caught up in the happenings of the moment rather than the big picture of my life. I can easily get to thinking that I have to handle the situation now, rather than think of how it all relates to the direction and purpose of my life. I can brainlessly react to the situation rather than sit back and respond with the confidence of Jesus in my life
How will I be different today because of what I have just read?
I will remember to take things to Jesus so I am not reacting, but responding to what comes my way. I will remember to take a breath and take it to Jesus and not believe the lie that I have to do something about it immediately.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for your word today to hold on to you, and not to what is going on around me. To remember the last instruction you gave me and to be steadfast in your direction. Thank you Lord for helping me through my weakness of trying to make sense of what is happening right then and there without taking the time to sit at your feet. Forgive me Lord for trying to remedy situations and by doing so, sometimes missing the plan you have for me. Help me dear Lord to keep my eyes focused on you. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray… amen

BATTLEFIELD MIND. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture
For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
2 Corinthians 10:4-5

Observation:
The reasoning of our mind is crucial when getting closer to God. If our thoughts are wholesome, a sense of closeness and intimacy with the Lord will always increase. But if we are having X rated, selfish, sinful and polluted thoughts, a sense of distance will become more evident in our relationship with God. Our minds are the battleground in which the forces of evil clash with the Spirit of God. Our salvation starts and is maintained in our minds. We cannot experience victory over the sinful nature if our minds are not under the domain of the Spirit of God. Well-intended believers try to take over their sinful habits with positive techniques, alternative activities, and even religious traditions. However, if these practices are not tied up with an honest and diligent work of the mind, the efforts will be frustrating. Holiness in the body cannot be achieved without holiness in the mind. God took care of the holiness of our spirit in order to give us the weapons that will make our minds holy and our bodies holy. These weapons are not of the flesh but divinely powerful, meaning that they are effective to deal with the claws of sin in our life.

Application:
In order to walk in victory we must have the mind of Christ. We redeem our thoughts by staying closer to His word. However, remember that the devil has memorized the scripture and he still is the devil. We need to live out the teachings of the Bible and allow a transformation in our thinking. We cannot be saved and think the same way than before our encounter with Jesus.

We must become people that think the way God thinks. We must stay away from popular opinion and stay closer to God’s opinion. We must know the Scriptures but also the Scriptures must know us. We need to be teachable in our mindset towards God’s voice. At the same time, we must be stubborn and unmovable in our mindset towards the voices of this world.
We must use the weapons of our warfare in order to win the battles in our minds. As a leader I must put more into practice Samuel’s method of keeping his mind online with the Spirit of God:

"Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you; but I will instruct you in the good and right way."
1 Samuel 12:23

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for the weapons you have supplied for me to win the battles in my mind. Please help me to bring my thoughts captive under you ruling and help me to think more like you think. As a leader in the church, help me to represent you well by having my mind online with your Holy Spirit. Help me to pray more instead of trying to solve people’s problems on my own. Help me to pray in the way godly leaders pray. Also give me boldness and wisdom to preach the truth in such a way that people are compelled to obey you. I highly value the opportunity you have given me to speak into people’s lives. So please help me to be diligent as much as I can to communicate your life-giving messages to those you entrusted me under my care. I love you Lord. AMEN!

SEEING THE WARNING SIGNS. By Kamu Sing.

Scripture
'Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles." 1 Samuel 8:20

Observation
Israel in this passage is demanding for a King. Looking out at all the other nations and seeing that they have a King to lead them, Israel “needs” a king. So Samuel in disgust, appoints Saul as their new King.

Application
Looking at Israel, they had a genuine desire for a leader. They were getting nervous and afraid of Samuel getting older and them not having anyone to lead them on behalf of God. And so the only natural thing to do is to ask for one. They gave reasons for needing a King; they even compared to other nations about their success of having a King. Israel was getting desperate. And so, they did everything they could to get what they wanted. Samuel on the other hand, acquired God’s counsel. As God spoke, Samuel listened. God proposed that Israel did not need a physical King because God was their King, but Israel did not hear. Samuel even went to an extent of describing what a King, whom they are requesting, will be like. Israel still did not hear.

I wonder how many times am I like Israel. My heart could be in the right place but my focus is just a little off. A lot of times, I’ll think of what is best for my life, my ministry, and the direction that I feel God is leading. I most likely will use the experience I have from the past as well as looking around at others and observing their success. While sometimes that is beneficial, I wonder if I miss the warning signs that God is putting right in front of my face. I wonder if I’m so set on what “I” feel God wants, when it actually is what “I” feel “I” want. Whether it’s out of fear or pride, experience or past failures, I would rather be comfortable on the outcome that I know rather than the blessing that God knows.

And so the question isn’t so much as, “what do I do?” or “where is this all going?” I should be asking myself, “Is this what God wants me to do or what I want me to do?”

Prayer
Lord, forgive me of the many times I rely on me for direction and discernment. Forgive me of looking in and out first, instead of looking up. I desire to be a Samuel that hears you and obeys. Help me to recognize the warning signs that you put before me and obey your direction even when no one else is doing it. I want you to be my King. I love You. In Jesus name, Amen.

FOLLOW THROUGH. By Renee Takahashi

Scripture:
Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means.
2 Corinthians 8:11

Observation:
This scripture refers to giving, but today, I see it as a general principle for follow through. I am advised to finish up what I say I am going to do so integrity is reflected in me. Follow through is something that is sometimes considered a burden. It’s not the creativity of planning, or the excitement of executing, it’s the “chore” of following through. However, this is the one piece that makes or breaks credibility.

Application:
Trust is built on the follow through. If I consistently follow through with what I say I am going to do, then people can follow me without knowing all the information up front. I can sell my idea because I am eager and willing to do something, but if I don’t complete it, then I lose credibility and people can’t depend on me. I may have the greatest intentions, but they are only intentions until I actually complete them. I stop to wonder… what areas in my life am I eager to do something, but it is not matched by my actions. Will people be able to follow me because they know I will follow through with them? That they won’t be left holding the bag?
How will I be different today because of what I have just read?
I will pay attention to dotting my i’s and crossing my t’s in all situations.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for your words of wisdom and truth. Forgive me for the times I haven’t followed through in any area of my life, especially the times that it resulted in causing others to stumble. Help me Lord to glorify your name in all that I do by completing even the smallest works you have set before me. I love you Lord. Thank you for helping me to use follow through to build relationships of trust. In your mighty name… amen

CONFIRMED PROPHETS. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him, and everything Samuel said was wise and helpful. All the people of Israel from one end of the land to the other knew That Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the Lord. 1 Samuel 3:19-20

Observation:
In the Scripture we find a pattern for the establishment and conformation of prophets. The most important requirement of a prophet is God’s presence and favor always with them. The Lord was always with Samuel, and therefore, Samuel’s words became wise and helpful. When Samuel spoke, he did not only inspired people. His words were wise because brought revelation and new insight. His words were helpful because they were practical and relevant. As many years went by and Samuel grew, people form all over Israel confirmed the role of Samuel as a prophet. He did not had to put on conferences, or make marketing campaigns to show people how gifted of a prophet he was. The Lord did that for him and people recognized the hand of God over him.

Application:
Many sincere believers that have the gift of prophecy are not false prophets, but immature prophets. Like any other gift, prophecy needs to be developed and confirmed. I don’t need to speak things so people are impressed. I simply need to obey what God puts in my heart and speak forth. If it’s from the Lord, God himself will touch people’s hearts and the gift will be confirmed. There are others that want to be confirmed as prophets right away. It took many years for Samuel to be conformed a prophet of the Lord, so we shouldn’t expect different. We need to embrace a process of growth as prophets that doesn’t come with age, but it comes with submission and with effectiveness. We don’t need to advertise that God is in our midst. People are not dumb and they can recognize who is speaking on behalf of God!

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for being so patient with me and for teaching me how to grow form an immature prophet into a mature one. You are an amazing God, willing to trust your Word to people like me. Please help me to avoid the temptation of having my own PR strategy. I want you to be the one planting seeds in people’s hearts and confirm my prophetic ministry. As a leader in my church, let me guide other prophets in the same path. Let me reproduce what I’ve learned from you and your Word when it comes to prophetic ministry. I love you Jesus! Amen!

HEARTS POURED OUT IN PRAYER. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
Hannah was in deep anguish, crying bitterly as she prayed to the Lord. And she made this vow: “O Lord of Heaven’s Armies, if you will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will give him back to you. He will be yours for his entire lifetime, and as a sign that he has been dedicated to the Lord, his hair will never be cut.” As she was praying to the Lord, Eli watched her. Seeing her lips moving but hearing no sound, he thought she had been drinking. “Must you come here drunk?” he demanded. “Throw away your wine!” “Oh no, sir!” she replied. “I haven’t been drinking wine or anything stronger. But I am very discouraged, and I was pouring out my heart to the Lord.”
1 Samuel 1:10-15

Observation:
Eli’s lack of discernment causes him to misjudge Hannah’s devotion to God. He thinks she’s drunk. But she’s is in deep anguish. She is discouraged and desperate for God’s answer to her prayers so she moves her lips without making sounds. Obviously, she is not aware of who is around her. She doesn’t want to distract others, so she prays quietly. She is simply pouring her heart to the Lord.

Application:
Amazing the way sometimes we become self-conscious of our own devotion to Christ. Hannah simply poured her heart in prayer. she kept a good balance between being sensitive to others and being genuine in her devotion to Christ. I’m always bothered by sincere believers that lack sensitivity in their devotion to God. But also I’m bothered by those of us who become self-conscious and withhold our hearts being poured out.

Lately the Lord has been echoing in my heart about the importance of pouring my heart in prayer. This spiritual exercise has become dull and needs to be rekindled. I need to seek God in the same way Hannah search Him. Much blessings are waiting for my partnership with God in passionate prayer. I need to come before the Lord with an open heart, ready to pour everything before Him, willing to be transformed by the power of His glory, and ready to receive an answer to my pleas.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding me of the importance of pouring my heart in prayer. Please forgive me for the many times my prayers are simply words without passion. Let me pour out my heart before you in a spirit of sincere faith. Let me seek you first in all my dealings and grant me the opportunity to see my prayers answered according to your will. Amen!

FROM BITTER TO BETTER. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
“Don’t call me Naomi,” she told them. “Instead, call me Mara, for the Almighty has made life very bitter for me. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me home empty. Why should you call me Naomi when the Lord has caused me to suffer and the Almighty has sent such tragedy?”
Ruth 1:20-21

Observation:
Naomi’s life is an illustration of what happens to many of us. We may have a good start, but sooner or later, we experience setbacks, disappointments, and even pain. She lost everything, even her hope for the future. Her name, which means “pleasant” felt ridiculous for a woman that lived in bitterness. So she asks people to call her Mara, which means “bitter.” The amazing thing is that God’s Word continues referring to her as Naomi. God’s Word remains encouraging even when our circumstances are very discouraging. The book of Ruth to me is not just about Ruth, but also about Naomi. Both ladies experienced the restoring power of God working through a redeemer. Naomi had a last chapter in her life full of joy and redemption that made the past chapters pale. God is like that! He will always take us from bitter to better.

Application:
God is not done with us! This is important to know when we find ourselves surrounded by discouragement and bitterness. When we walk with God, failure is destined to fade and give room to redemption. This is the only way we can get through difficult moments. This is the only way to move from bitter to better. We need to endure in our hardships, persevere in our faith, and keep our trust in the power of God to bring a solution into our bitter seasons. Our last chapters haven’t been written. God’s Word doesn’t call us “failures” not “bitter ones.” God’s Word call us “more than conquerors, blessed people, and the redeemed.” I want God’s Word to tell me who I am, not my circumstances.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for being so faithful to me. In spite of my disappointments, I trust that you will bring redemption sooner or later. No matter how the world calls me or how I call myself, your Word calls me “blessed.” Let me live according to your Word’s expectations and help me to see the power of the Redeemer touching the areas where bitterness wants to settle in. Move me from bitter to better in all the areas of my life where there’s setbacks. I trust in you and in the power of your love for me. Amen!

STEWARDING POWER AND SUCCESS. By Pastor Fernando.

Scripture:
We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God. He is the one who has enable us to represent His new covenant. 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

Observation:
Paul and his companions have been experiencing an amazing amount of success in their ministry. He writes to the Corinthians to reveal the power of the promise of God in the new covenant. This power, which is effective to change people’s lives, is available only because God has granted it to him. Paul trusted God and in His promises through Christ. He knows that even though they have a great pool of resources, they cannot build God’s kingdom on their own. God is the source, they are simply His instruments. Paul developed in his character a great sense of humility and dependency in God. That’s why he was able to steward power and success properly!

Application:
In the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, Frodo Baggins is entrusted to take the “ring of power” to be destroyed in the fires of Mordor. The task is not easy. The journey is long and dangerous. But worse of all, it’s the seduction of the ring of power. Power has a way to isolate people, to make them think as better than everybody else, as if they were the only ones deserving to have it. “My preciousssss!” Everybody thinks that they can carry the ring, and that they will never abuse its power. But even Frodo struggled with the burden and with the control that power usually feeds in people’s hearts.

The illustration of this fantasy reflects the struggle in the human heart to steward power and success well. Many leaders, including those leading in the church, think that they can carry the ring and that they are not vulnerable to its effects. But the seduction of power cannot be underestimated. We need to learn how to steward power and success well by looking at the example of Jesus, just like Paul did. Otherwise, our human nature will default to follow Lucifer’s example, who thought his power and success came from himself, not from God.

During this season I’ve been experiencing lots of success that needs to be stewarded well. At the same time, the Lord has bestowed much favor upon me with more power and influence in people’s lives. It’s very easy to start thinking how good and faithful I am, and how much I deserve all this success. But the truth is that the ring of power has a seductive force that needs to be avoided with a sincere passion for humility.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to steward the success you give me in a way that gives you all the glory. I don’t want to steal your glory for myself. As my authority grows and my power of influence increases, please let me share it more with others, let my trust in You and in your promises, and let me walk in sincere humility before You and men. Forgive me for the times when I feel I’m better than others, or when I think that I deserve your favor. Let me depend on you for everything, and let me be content if my power and success don’t grow anymore. Amen!

STRONG MUSCLES, WEAK CHARACTER. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
One day when Samson was in Timnah, he noticed a certain Philistine woman. When he returned home, he told his father and mother, “I want to marry a young Philistine woman I saw in Timnah.”
Judges 14:1-2

Observation:
Samson, the man with legendary strength, had a weakness--beautiful foreign woman. When he noticed them with his eyes, he wanted them. In spite of his supernatural announcement of conception and the rigorous moral upbringing in his youth, Samson never learned how to control his eyes, and consequently, his character became vulnerable. He saw a pretty Philistine woman and marry her, compromising the teaching of the law of never marrying foreign woman. He went to Gaza to spend the night with a prostitute. And finally, he gave his heart away to another foreigner babe named Delilah. Strong armies could not stop Samson, but the beauty of one woman was able to disarm and distract him easily. His weakness materialized when in both occasions the women in his life nagged him about revealing secrets, he complied to their requests, and he was betrayed each time. What a knuckle-head! His weak and wondering eyes got him into so much trouble. This passage makes me wonder if getting his eyes gouged out was a blessing. I don’t know! Maybe!

Application:
I was very surprised when discovering that Ray Charles, the talented blind musician, had a weakness for woman. He was incredibly talented, yet his heart was immoral and unfaithful to his wife. Having no sight, Charles found a way to weaken his character and morals. The root of all moral problems is in the heart, not in the eyes. However, our eyes are simply one vehicle that builds our character. Our eyes need to be trained to look beauty without lust and to build character, not to weaken it. We can become strong men and have lots of accomplishments under our belt. But if our character has become vulnerable because our wondering eyes, all our potential will be seriously compromised. Samson did great things for God’s people, but can we imagine what would happen if he was able to keep his hormones under control?

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for including Samson’s story in your Word. He is a reminder for my own life about using my eyes to build character and to develop a heart of integrity and purity. Let me keep a covenant with my eyes for as long as I live. Let me look at beauty without sinful lust. Help me to build a pure heart by keeping my eyes from wondering. Grant me self-control to stay away from places where my eyes have a hard time focusing in righteousness. Give me strength to do great things for you, but also the strength to train my eyes to look away from temptation. Let me honor you with pure eyes and a clean heart. Amen!

COSTLY FULFILLMENT OF VOWS. By Pastor Fernando

Scripture:
And she said, “Father, if you have made a vow to the Lord, you must do to me what you have vowed, for the Lord has given you a great victory over your enemies, the Ammonites.
Judges 11:36

Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High.
Psalm 50:14

Observation:
Jephthah’s only daughter is one of my favorite teenagers in the Scripture. She is willing to die in order to see her father’s vows to the Lord fulfilled. She doesn’t try to get away from it, but she faces death with courage and devotion. Where does she gets this kind of character from? Her father was a godly man and he passed that godliness to his only daughter. Jephthah, even though he was the son of a prostitute, he knew the law of Moses, he was a man of integrity, and fulfilled his vows to the Lord. In this situation, he made a rushed vow that cost him his only daughter. But this family was made up of people of honor and integrity. They could have place the whole thing under the carpet, but they didn’t. They could have even plead to the Lord and I think God would have understand their plea and maybe grant her a pardon. They didn’t! They went through this sacrifice with amazing courage!

Application:
Rush vows are unnecessary, but once they are made, they need to be fulfilled. Sometimes we just get used to put our broken promises under the rug. We take for granted that God is merciful and we continue through life violating our own vows. This is one of the vicious cycles that we need to stop in our lives. We need to be people of integrity that will do what we say, especially if we promised it to God. I need to inspect my heart and look under the rug. What kind of broken promises do I find there? I need to be courageous, face the consequences of my promises, and trust the Lord to help me become a promise keeper, even if it cost me my reputation and my life.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, the greatest vow of all is the promise of obedience to the leadings of your Holy Spirit. I believe that I must look under my rug and fulfill broken vows from the past. Let me be a man of integrity that always fulfills his promises to you and to others, even if it cost me much! Amen!