3 Remarkable Attitudes Leading unto Complete Obedience

I think you would agree with me that for something that you love the most, you would spend most of your time for it, right?

You would think about it most of the time.
You would not let it slip away from your attention.
You would do things, sometimes weird things, to nurture it.
You would cherish every moment being with it.
You would wrap your arms around it as tight as possible, to ensure that it is safe.

But what if one day, God would ask you to give it up to Him, to surrender it unto His feet, would you obey?

Abraham encountered this same scenario. After 25 years of waiting for a son, finally he and Sarah had a son - Isaac! Abraham was already 100 years old by that time. Imagine how joyful his heart might have been! Imagine how Abraham did everything to nurture him, to make sure that he would grow up into a great man.

But one day, God asked Abraham to surrender up his son, Isaac, and that would mean losing his one and only son! Here is what we could learn from Abraham's reactions.

3 Remarkable Attitudes Leading unto Complete Obedience

1. Total Surrender: Does not withhold what he loves most
When asked by God to give up his long-awaited son, Abraham obeyed. Abraham surrendered unto God's will for his life by not holding too tightly on to who he loves the most - his son. He did not question God for His reasons. Abraham just obeyed.

"Then God said, 'Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.' 
Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac." - Genesis 22:2-3

What are you holding on so dearly, that has already taken up the place of God in your heart? Have you been in a situation already that it seems your life is already revolving around it?

A special someone?
Career?
Family?
Dreams and Aspirations?
Hunger for Success?
Devotions to friends?
Craving for acceptance from others?
Desire to be loved by someone?

Please don't get me wrong, most on the list are not bad at all. But, if it has already been your "god", then you will be utterly ruined if it has been taken away from you - either by natural death or taken by someone else!

Do you know why did God want you to make Him the center of your life? It is because He will not die at all, or He cannot be taken away from you by someone else, EXCEPT for SIN. It is the ONLY thing that could separate you from God. But if you have surrendered everything unto Him, including those SINFUL things that you do, and accept Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior of your life, He will come into your life and be with you!

"And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39

2. Confident Trust: Trusts that God will provide
Abraham did have a confidence in God trusting that when He asked for something, He will provide for it!

"Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, 'Father?' 'Yes, my son?' Abraham replied. 'The fire and wood are here,' Isaac said, 'but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?' Abraham answered, 'God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.' - Genesis 22:6-8

Has worry eaten you up already? Have you been dragged down already by life's hardships and trials?

Abraham confidently trusted God for provisions, showing his desire to constantly run unto God for all and his every need. And you can confidently trust Jesus Christ too!

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." - 2 Corinthians 12:9

3. Expectant Hope: Believes that God keeps His promises
When Abraham was about to strike his son, Isaac, as the offering sacrifice, God stopped him.

"The angel of the Lord called to Abraham from heaven a second time and said, 'I swear by myself, declares the Lord, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.'” - Genesis 22:15-18

Abraham believed that, NO MATTER WHAT WOULD HAPPEN, God will keep His promise when He said that his descendants will be as many as the stars, even if it means that his son, Isaac, will be offered up.

And he was not forsaken after all! Abraham DID BECOME the FATHER OF ALL NATIONS through ISAAC!

Renew your hope on Jesus Christ and His promises, His love never fails!

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,' says my soul, 'therefore I will hope in him.'' - Lamentations 3:22-24

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image found using Google Image Search: "cartoon Jesus girl with a teddy bear"

3 Reasons Why Not to be Overwhelmed by Life's Storms

It is very relaxing to just look at the ocean from the shore. It brings back my memories when I would just sit back, with my feet dug down in the sand, watch as the waves go back and forth, and listen to the gentle noise of the sea.

It is quite interesting that these tiny waves could turn into monstrous ones when a storm comes, and it is not relaxing to see at all - it is overwhelmingly terrifying!

How ironic that we, most of the times, find it "amusing" to watch over those monstrous killer waves. How? We have been like Peter in the Bible. Matthew 14:25-30a narrates:

"And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, “It is a ghost!” and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink..."

What are these "gigantic waves" that could easily distract us, and eventually sink us into anxiety, depression, or fear?

Those are anything or anyone that we regard higher than God in our life's priority!

• Career
• Love Life
• Family
• Money
• Success
• Friends

It is very heart-breaking when the time comes that these things would fall right before your very eyes. It seems to you that you've completely lost it all.

But there is good news! Peter's story does not end there, Matthew 14:30-32 completes the story:

"But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, 'Lord, save me.' Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?' And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased."

These are something that we could learn from Peter.

3 Reasons Why Not to be Overwhelmed by Life's Storms

1. Recognize that God owns you.

When you've seen how sinful you are and have turned back from your sinful lifestyle, surrendered your life unto Jesus and accepted Him as your Lord and Savior, you have been "adopted" as a child of God! It is not based on your good works, or anything that you could give but it is based entirely on what Jesus has done on the cross. Jesus died, was buried, and lived again after three days, to prove that anyone who would put his trust on Jesus Christ will be saved - saved from his sins! From this point forward, you are His child!

May this truth sink deep in your heart - you are God's child, by His grace through your faith in Jesus Christ! If you have not made this decision yet, Jesus Christ is knocking at the door of your heart. Surrender unto Him, and let Him be the Lord and Savior of your life.

"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

2. Acknowledge that God is in control.

Let's not forget that Peter is a fisherman. I think there is no fisherman who does not even know how to swim! But what did Peter do when he was starting to sink? He cried to Jesus for help!

When it seems everything is falling apart, be comforted in the truth that God is still in control.
Joseph, the Dreamer, said this unto his brothers (the ones who sold him to Egypt as a slave), even after experiencing so many evil and painful things. Joseph kept in his mind that despite every hurt and pain, God is in control!

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” - Genesis 50:20

3. Remind yourself that God knows best!

Instead of swimming away from Jesus and towards the boat, Peter cried out to Jesus to save him. Peter knew that Jesus knows best and only He can save him, especially at that moment.

It may seem unclear today, but always keep in mind that God knows the best! In the end, His great plan will prevail. So, do not lose heart!

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

With special thanks to Pastor Willie Basilio, head pastor of Marikina Christian Fellowship, for the 3 points he shared with me. God bless you, Pastor!

Image found using Google Image Search: "overwhelmed by waves"

Brightness Amidst the Darkness

Who didn't love the evening sky, the round shining Moon, and those bright little stars? But while you were gazing at those glitters across the sky, have you noticed one or two "unnaturally-bright stars"? You might have wondered what these super bright objects are, and these might be quasars!

Have you heard of the term "quasar"? It was first discovered in the early 1960's, and due to lack of modern technology at that time, a Chinese-born U. S. astrophysicist Hong-Yee Chiu just coined the name "quasar", and he described it as:

"So far, the clumsily long name 'quasi-stellar radio sources' is used to describe these objects. Because the nature of these objects is entirely unknown, it is hard to prepare a short, appropriate nomenclature for them so that their essential properties are obvious from their name. For convenience, the abbreviated form 'quasar' will be used throughout this paper."

Wikipedia described these as:

"Quasars (/ˈkweɪzɑr/) or quasi-stellar radio sources are the most energetic and distant members of a class of objects called active galactic nuclei (AGN). Quasars are extremely luminous... Their luminosity can be 100 times greater than that of the Milky Way."

However, there had been a controversial scientific discovery in the early 1980's. Didn't you know that this super radiant object is actually not bright all by itself? And what was so shocking is that what had been causing its brightness was, in fact, a super dark material (actually the darkest existing matter) - a blackhole!

It might be so hard to accept that at first, but didn't you know that in life, the darkest of moments could bring out the most radiant character in you? That is, once your life had been surrendered to Jesus Christ. All by ourselves, we only tend to make selfish, stubborn, and destructive decisions. We were inclined to make sinful decisions due to our sinful nature. As Romans 3:11-12 says:

"None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside;  together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.”

But by God's great mercy and grace, Jesus Christ made a way for our reconciliation with God when He died on the cross, was buried, and was risen again after three days! And everyone who believes on Jesus, surrenders his life, and turns away from his sinful ways, is reconciled with God! God's light will shine upon him in such a way that others will be seeing the positive changes in his life. As 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 says:

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation."

My friend, you might have been experiencing the darkest nights in your life: heartbreaking relationships, frustrating failures, discouraging disappointments, shattered dreams, or ruined plans. But please know that even during these times, God's light never dims out. His grace is still sufficient no matter how hurting and painful your situation might be. He knows you more than you know yourself, and He longs for you to seek Him with all of your heart.

Friend, remember, the stars shine the brightest in the darkest night! Look unto Jesus, the ultimate source of this light.

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://www.boomsbeat.com/articles/482/20140219/look-up-night-sky-enjoy-stars-photos.htm

Give Me My Chocolates

"Sometimes God removes things from our lives for our own protection." - Unknown 

Do you still remember the time when you were young, and you really enjoyed munching on candies and chocolates? It was as if there was no tomorrow, and it would only take 2 minutes to consume one pack of M&Ms (hmm.. if you were well off), or Goya (if your budget was less than P10)!

And... what would mother usually say? "Hey! You stop that!"

During those times, I really could not understand why such a delightful thing be banned from my meals! But as I grew up, I realized that too much of this thing was not healthy at all, plus this might have caused the decay of most of my teeth!

As a young adult, I have lots of "chocolates" in my life that, little by little, God has been removing. Some of these, I might have understood already why were they being taken out; but some, at the moment I really could not comprehend yet.

But thinking about it, too much of anything really is not healthy at all. And even if we are taking it in moderation, some things really are not meant to be in our system.

How about in your life, is there any "unhealthy" thing that has already crept into your system? Is there a sin in your life that keeps on clinging onto your shoulders? Is there something that God wants you to surrender? My friend, if Jesus Christ has been your Savior and your Lord, the Bible says:

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1

You are already free by the grace of God! Through faith then, surrender everything unto Jesus' feet - including these "chocolates" that you love the most.

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

For the Love of my Life

Since we are in the month when predominantly the "love is in the air", let me share to you my poem for my sweet inspiration - the Love of my life!

Actually, I have written this way back 2011 in my past post about the 6 Types of Love. (And if you would like to know what type of love is dominant in you, please do check it out.)

For the Love of my Life

© 2011 Erickson Ibana

That when everything else around me seems to fail,

And when my faith seems to falter,

When all I hold on to seems to be gone,

And all my hopes and dreams  seem to vanish.

When things are not going as I first expected,

And frustrations seem to eat away my flickering faith…

Whenever I look at your love for me,

And focus on your unconditional love,

Everything around me starts to dim,

Giving me another reason to strive,

And run this race called “life”,

For You and only You, my God, my Friend.

I might consider myself a failure in this "area" (one reason might be my extreme introversion, most especially towards the person that I like, and other "valid" reasons), but there is one thing that I have proven to be true all along - Jesus Christ, with His unconditional love, did not leave me even at those times when my faith on Him was weak and rather chose to please myself.

I might not know the future yet (and that includes my future wife), but I am sure He will never leave me (because He promised it, and I believe He will keep His promise).

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Hebrews 13:5

You might have found your "better half" already or still in the progress of meeting that person, but still, know that it is Jesus Christ who is the only Person who can love you unconditionally - but you have to let Him love you first by surrendering your life and turning away from your sinful ways.

I hope and pray that God would open your heart and your eyes, by His grace, for you to see how you really need Jesus Christ in your life. And to fully experience a lasting satisfaction from this "Love Month" on!

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://www.saidaonline.com/en/news.php?go=fullnews&newsid=34982

Leadership Level 2: Permission or Relationship

Most of the times, this level is being skipped out. After getting the "position" as the leader, most of the aspiring starters jump straight through Level 3. They start to give out orders and commands, not being aware that they are dealing with humans (and not robots).

As a recap, we learned that in the First Level, your title or your position is the only influence you have. Furthermore, climbing in this level, the "relationship" level, you are trying to get people to work for you even if they are not obliged. 

Does it sound as if this only exists on a "perfect" or "ideal" system? Isn't it? How can you make someone work for you beyond his work schedule, that is, it's like working for charity? This might sound weird, but yes, if you excel in this level people naturally allow themselves to follow you, even if it might cause "some inconveniences" on their part.

John C. Maxwell gave an illustration from the story of Henry Ford (in Amitai Etzioni's book "Modern Organizations"):

He made a perfect car, the Model T, that ended the need for any other car. He was totally product-oriented. He wanted to fill the world with Model T cars. But when people started coming to him and saying, "Mr. Ford, we'd like a different color car," he remarked, "You can have any color you want as long as it's black." And that's when the decline started.

The "permission" level is where you work out your inter-relationship skills. You need to build solid and lasting foundation of relationship with your followers in order to sustain a long and effective kind of leadership.

As John C. Maxwell puts it in words:

"You can love people without leading them, but you cannot lead people without loving them."

To excel in the "relationship" level of leadership, most of the times, you would need to invest your time, your patience, and your finances - it is more of investing "yourself" for them. There would come a time when it seems you are not seeing the results yet, but still, be persistent on building up on this level. Remember, one of the most difficult tasks in constructing a skyscraper is laying out its foundations. But once the foundations are all set up, it is not impossible to erect a giant building, even if it is the mighty Burj Khalifa - the tallest man-made structure in the world!

If you aim to proceed to the next level, these are the qualities John Maxwell listed in his book "Developing the Leader Within You" that you must exhibit first, with excellence.

Leadership Level 2: PERMISSION or RELATIONSHIP

• Possess a genuine love for people.
• Make those who work with you more successful.
• See through other people's eyes.
• Love people more than procedures.
• Do "win-win" or don't do it.
• Include others in your journey.
• Deal wisely with difficult people.

Now, if you see yourself excelling in this level, you need to climb to the next level of leadership.

And we will be talking about that on the next post about Leadership.

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found http://greatleadersserve.org/servant-leadership-works/

Second image can be found in John Maxwell's book "Developing the Leader Within You"

Ignite 365: Do Not Be Anxious (20 of 365)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

It is interesting that the Word of God is compared to a lamp. It is quite obvious that even a small flame shines the brightest in the darkest time of the night. It is living and active as well!

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." -Hebrews 4:12

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 19

The Law of the Lord is Perfect
Once again, David was so graphic in his descriptions on the glory and greatness of God. I imagine myself in the same spot where David was while looking at the sun. He likened the rising of the sun to a groom who prepares to leave his chamber and runs its course with joy.

Then, David focused on God's Word. He described how valuable the Word of God is - perfect, sure, right, pure, clean, true, to be desired more than gold, and sweeter than honey. He also mentioned the benefits of obeying God through His Word - he is warned, and a great reward is waiting for him.

Lastly, David uttered these words unto the Lord:

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight,O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."

Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 19

God Rescues Lot | God Destroys Sodom
This described both the greatness of the goodness of God, and the severity of the wrath of God at the same time. We saw in the story how great is God's grace for the righteous (His child). Before God poured out His wrath on a very wicked nation, He waited for Lot to settle first and be safe. In the story, we could not compare the severity of His wrath to any other else. The whole region was destroyed by fire and brimstone, to the extent of pulverizing it so that nothing else was left from it - up to this date. This story also reminded us not to look back into our sinfulness when God has already given you the grace for freedom from sin, as to what had happened to Lot's wife who became a pillar of salt after looking back into Sodom with an unrepentant heart.

Lot and His Daughters
Lot had committed a sin of incest with his two daughters, that was when he was made drunk by them. Later, these two gave birth to Moab (which means "from father") who became the father of the Moabites, and Ben-ammi (which means "son of my people") who became the father of the Ammonites. It must be noticed that there were times that these nations, the Moabites and the Ammonites, were hostile against the Israelites later on.


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 21:18–22:19

David Builds an Altar | David Prepares for Temple Building | Solomon Charged to Build the Temple
Remember when 70,000 men died because of a pestilence that God sent to Israel? It was because of the sin of David when he made a census of the whole nation - a sin of pride in his heart. Yet, it is after he repented (and the calamity was stopped) that David said these words when ordered to build an altar in a field where Ornan the Jebusite owned:

"No, but I will buy them for the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, nor offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.”

It is also interesting that at this same site will the Temple of the Lord be built by Solomon. David instructed Solomon to be faithful to the Lord. At the same time, David prepared the materials needed for the Temple of the Lord.

“Now, my son, the Lord be with you, so that you may succeed in building the house of the Lord your God, as he has spoken concerning you. Only, may the Lord grant you discretion and understanding, that when he gives you charge over Israel you may keep the law of the Lord your God. Then you will prosper if you are careful to observe the statutes and the rules that the Lord commanded Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Fear not; do not be dismayed."

Gospels and Epistles: Luke 12:13–48

The Parable of the Rich Fool | Do Not Be Anxious | You Must Be Ready
Jesus was teaching us to focus on Him and His Kingdom more than the earthly pleasures and riches. From the Parable of the Rich Fool to the teachings about how God blessed the birds with food and the grass with "clothes" (and not even Solomon had worn such beauty), Jesus was teaching to look onto the life in eternity. Lastly, we were being instructed to be ready when that day comes when Jesus would come back again.

"Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

"Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more."

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://caffeinatedthoughts.com/2010/07/do-not-be-anxious-matthew-625-34/

Ignite 365: A You A Pharisee? (19 of 365)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

It is interesting that the Word of God is compared to a lamp. It is quite obvious that even a small flame shines the brightest in the darkest time of the night. It is living and active as well!

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." -Hebrews 4:12

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 18

The Lord is My Rock and My Fortress
This is a song of victory made by David when he was rescued from his numerous enemies and from Saul as well. It is interesting that David was so graphic when he described how the Lord showed His might and power. The vivid descriptions of mountains were trembling, great lightning appeared, and hailstorms and fires fell down. After all these, David once again acknowledged that God was the One who saved him, who gave him strength.


Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 18:16–33

Abraham Intercedes for Sodom
It is interesting that just a few moments after God promised Abraham that he and Sarah will be having a son a year from that time, God revealed unto Abraham what He was about to do - He will go down unto Sodom and Gomorrah and see if they have done altogether according to the outcry against the gravity and wickedness of their sins. Lot, Abraham's nephew, was living there with his family. The moment Abraham heard this, notice how he intercedes for Sodom for the sake of his nephew, Lot.

"Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city. Will you then sweep away the place and not spare it for the fifty righteous who are in it?"

From 50, it became 45. From 45, Abraham made his request into 40. Then from 40, he asked if God would still destroy the city if 30 righteous were found there. From 30, he lowered it to 20 righteous people. Lastly, from 20 righteous people, Abraham inquired if he would still annihilate the whole city if 10 righteous people are found there. It is interesting that on all of the requests Abraham made until the last one, God said:

“For the sake of ten I will not destroy it.” 

Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 21:1–17

David's Census Brings Pestilence
Here King David made a terrible sin. He ordered Joab and the commanders of his army to number Israel so that he might know it. This might seem to be too trivial to be a reason of the destruction of the whole Israel, but God saw what man could not. At a time when everything seems alright and there seems to be no problems at all, David acquired pride in his heart. As Matthew Henry commented, the census was not needed at all:

"(1.) It was a needless thing. there was not occasion at all for it. God had promised to multiply them, and he needed not question the accomplishment of that promise. They were all his servants, and he needed not doubt of their loyalty and affection to him. Their number was as much his strength as he could desire. (2.) It was a dangerous thing. In doing it he might be a cause of trespass to Israel, and might provoke God against them."

Because of David's sin, a pestilence was sent (that was after David chose it from the 3 options God gave him: 3 years of famine, 3 months of war, or 3 days of pestilence) into Israel that 70,000 men died. Then God saw it and relented from the calamity, and ordered the angel to stop the pestilence. And David realized his grave sin, and cried out:

“Was it not I who gave command to number the people? It is I who have sinned and done great evil. But these sheep, what have they done? Please let your hand, O Lord my God, be against me and against my father's house. But do not let the plague be on your people.”

Gospels and Epistles: Luke 11:37–12:12

Woes to the Pharisees and Lawyers | Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees 
Jesus was teaching us not to be like the Pharisees who was so critical with the Law, that they even criticized Jesus for not washing His hands before dinner as the Law says, but full of greed and wickedness in their hearts. It was also with the lawyers who loaded burdens to people with lots of laws but even they, themselves, would not obey those laws. Jesus was teaching not to follow their ways of hypocrisy.

Now, are you a Pharisee?


Have No Fear | Acknowledge Christ Before Men
 Here, Jesus was teaching to fear God more than to fear men. He even said:

 “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows."

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://pjmedia.com/lifestyle/2013/07/page/3/

Ignite 365: A True Christian? (18 of 365)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

It is interesting that the Word of God is compared to a lamp. It is quite obvious that even a small flame shines the brightest in the darkest time of the night. It is living and active as well!

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." -Hebrews 4:12

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 17

In the Shadow of Your Wings
This was an another cry prayed by David. Just like the other psalms composed by David, he first poured out his emotions regarding a concern he was experiencing, the problem - his enemies surround him and would like to ambush him. He cried out that he remained holding fast on God's ways and did not wander from it. He pleaded his petition that God would hide him in the shadow of His wings. At the end of the day, he eventually praised God and renewed his faith on God.


Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 18:1–15

Isaac's Birth Promised
We could remember that God already promised that a son will come out from Sarah. But since Abraham laughed when he first heard this, their son should be called Isaac (which means "he laughs"). Then at this part, Sarah heard the news again and she laughed too.

At that time, Abraham was already 99 years old, and Sarah was 90 years old. The promise was that a year from that time, a son will be born from Sarah. How many times have we been like them? The circumstances say that it is impossible, and no other human way can make it happen; and we easily lose faith. God showed in this story that in Him, nothing is impossible!


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 18-20
This recorded the great victories David and his men had. It must be noticed that every time David was successful in war, he would give thanks to the Lord immediately afterwards. The spoils of war was dedicated unto the Lord. And the result?

"And the Lord gave victory to David wherever he went."

Gospels and Epistles: Luke 11:1–36

The Lord's Prayer
It is interesting that Luke, the writer of this book, pointed the readers to this call after Jesus taught his disciples how to pray:

“Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves, for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed. I cannot get up and give you anything’? I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his impudence he will rise and give him whatever he needs. And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

It must be noticed that the attitude in being persistent in prayer is being taught by Jesus as well. How many times have we asked God for something, prayed earnestly and sought God's guidance through His Word and the counsel of godly men, and suddenly stopped praying when we sensed that God is not answering at all? Like the friend, and the son who asked for food in the above text, let us not stop in seeking God through prayer.

Jesus and Beelzebul | Return of an Unclean Spirit | True Blessedness | The Sign of Jonah
These are series of teachings of Jesus where He emphasized that the true blessed and the true followers of God are the ones who hear the Word of God and obey it.

"Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"

It can be noticed on His statement below:

"When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and finding none it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when it comes, it finds the house swept and put in order. Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and dwell there. And the last state of that person is worse than the first.”

It is interesting that the person described here had never seen the Light in the first place. There are signs of "righteousness", but the heart was never surrendered to the Lord, along with all of its wickedness (of which should have been forsaken and repented of). As Matthew Henry commented,

"The house is garnished with common gifts and graces. It is not furnished with any true grace, but garnished with the pictures of all graces. Simon Magus was garnished with faith, Balaam with good desires, Herod with a respect for John, the Pharisees with many external performances. It is garnished, but it is like a potsherd covered with silver dross, it is all paint and varnish, not real, not lasting. The house is garnished, but the property is not altered; it was never surrendered to Christ, nor inhabited by the Spirit."

The Light in You
This is the description made by Jesus of a true follower, the mark of a true Christian that is. That a life completely surrendered unto Jesus Christ is a life of complete obedience to His Word. The Word, which is the Light, shines so bright in his life that it manifests in every thing that he does.


© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://provoketive.com/2012/01/18/hope-for-hypocrites/

Ignite 365: Don't Be Like the Priest (17 of 365)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

It is interesting that the Word of God is compared to a lamp. It is very obvious that even a small flame shines the brightest in the darkest time of the night. It is living and active as well!

"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." -Hebrews 4:12

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 16

You Will Not Abandon My Soul
Have you ever felt that it seems everything you do is a failure? Does it seem that all of your great plans are ruined, and your life is a total mess? It is comforting to read this musical piece by David. It was a song of desperation unto the Lord. David declared that apart from God, he was nothing. It is also interesting that David did not hesitate to pour out his emotions unto the Lord. He expressed his heart's concerns unto God, and at the end of this psalm, David found his joy unto God alone.

Let us learn this attitude from David. He knew who his God was - and is also the same today, a living God who listens, that is why he unhesitatingly poured out what he was feeling at that moment. And after expressing his desperation, David sought to find his hope and joy from the Lord. Oh, what a great faith David had!


Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 17

Abraham and the Covenant of Circumcision
God changed his name from Abram (which means "exalted father") to Abraham (which means "father of a multitude"). This was also the time when Sarai's name was changed to Sarah (which both means "princess"). God made a covenant with Abraham and his offspring as well at this time - the covenant of circumcision. Every male 8 days old and up should be circumcised, as part of God's covenant to Abraham, and Abraham to God, likewise.

Isaac's Birth Promised
God also promised the birth of Abraham's son, Isaac. Once again, God renewed his promise to Abraham that he would be a father to many nations through his son from Sarah.


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 17

The Lord's Covenant with David
After David was established in his house, he thought of building a house for the Lord. However, through prophet Nathan, God informed David that it will be one of his sons who shall build the house of the Lord. Moreover, God made a covenant with David:

‘Thus says the Lord of hosts, I took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, to be prince over my people Israel, and I have been with you wherever you have gone and have cut off all your enemies from before you. And I will make for you a name, like the name of the great ones of the earth. And I will appoint a place for my people Israel and will plant them, that they may dwell in their own place and be disturbed no more. And violent men shall waste them no more, as formerly, from the time that I appointed judges over my people Israel. And I will subdue all your enemies. Moreover, I declare to you that the Lord will build you a house. When your days are fulfilled to walk with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, one of your own sons, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for me, and I will establish his throne forever. I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son. I will not take my steadfast love from him, as I took it from him who was before you, but I will confirm him in my house and in my kingdom forever, and his throne shall be established forever.’

God made a covenant with David that one day God will establish a kingdom from one of his own, forever. This was a foreshadow of the coming Messiah, the Savior, the Christ, of whom will be coming from David's lineage - his name is Jesus Christ!

David's Prayer
Once again, David showed his great faith, hope, and love for God. This was his prayer of thanksgiving for God's great blessings on him and his family. Several times the word "servant" came out of David's mouth. He considered himself a "servant" in front of the Lord, though his position was as high as the king.


Gospels and Epistles: Luke 10:25–42

The Parable of the Good Samaritan
This was the famous "Parable of the Good Samaritan". It must be noticed that Jesus used the priest, the Levite, and the Samaritan as the characters of this parable. Both the priest (Teacher of the Law) and the Levite (Worship Leader) did not even care to help the dying "man from Jerusalem" (a Jew). Both of these people were men designated to work at the house of the Lord, and yet they did not practice what they are teaching!

Ironically, a Samaritan (a race with a conflict with the Jews) was the one who extended:

• his strength (carried him unto his donkey) 
• his time (even cared to take him into an inn which might be out of his original plan) 
• his finances (2 denarii which is equal to 2 days' wage for a laborer)

Martha and Mary
This was another lesson that we can learn from. We can choose to serve the Lord through ministries in His church, but if we neglect the "Lord of the ministries", we tend to be irritable and the tasks might be done out of mere compliance - as manifested in Martha. We should focus on God, the One we are serving "through the ministries", and not be distracted on the "ministries alone".


© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://loudcry.org/the-good-samaritan/

Ignite 365: Compassion for the Lost (16 of 365)

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 15

Who Shall Dwell on Your Holy Hill?
This is the question David asked on this Psalm. So, who really can dwell or live on God's holy place? As the Bible says in Hebrews 11:6, "And without faith it is impossible to please him..."

David then listed several acts of faith:

• walks blamelessly and does what is right
• speaks truth in his heart
• does not slander with his tongue
• does no evil to his neighbor
• does not take up a reproach against his friend
• in whose eyes a vile person is despised (angry with the wickedness)
• honors those who fear the Lord
• swears to his own hurt and does not change (even if his oath means it will hurt him, he sticks to his oath)
• does not put out his money at interest
• does not take a bribe against the innocent

And the result? They shall never be moved. As Matthew Henry commented,

"The grace of God shall always be sufficient for him, to preserve him safe and blameless to the heavenly kingdom. Temptations shall not overcome him, troubles shall not overwhelm him, nothing shall rob him of his present peace nor his future bliss."

Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 16

Sarai and Hagar
Impatience in Sarai and Abram was manifested during these times. They tried to do it on their own because they felt God would not be giving unto them what He had promised long ago. This resulted to Hagar, Sarai's Egyptian servant, having a son from Abram, named Ishmael. Ishmael later became the ancestor of the Arab people.

How many times did we become like Abram and Sarai, where we feel that God has abandoned us already and would not grant us what He has promised? Focus on Him, He remains faithful, that is even in times when we are the ones who are unfaithful.


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 16:4–43

David's Song of Thanks and Worship Before the Ark
David assigned some Levites for worship before the Lord. Also David composed a song to be sung by the Levites.


Gospels and Epistles: Luke 9:51–10:24

This described a person who has so much "Passion" for the Lord, but does not have "Compassion" for the lost. When they were rejected by the village, James and John said to Jesus:

“Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?”

Jesus rebuked them, and some manuscripts add:

and he said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of; for the Son of Man came not to destroy people's lives but to save them”

May "passion" for the Lord and "compassion" for the lost be both found in us.

The next verses talked about the cost of following Christ. Also, when the 72 disciples came back to Jesus to report their great victories, Jesus said:

“I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

It must be noticed that Jesus shifted their focus on the greater reward that they have, rather than the momentary little victories at that time.


© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://www.centerdigitaled.com/workforce/Compassion-The-Lost-Leadership-Quality.html

Ignite 365: 15 of 365

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 14

The Fool Says, There Is No God
The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." As Matthew Henry commented on it,

"If we apply our hearts as Solomon did (Ecclesiastes 7:25) to search out the wickedness of folly, even of foolishness and madness, these verses will assist us in the search and will show us that sin is exceedingly sinful. Sin is the disease of mankind, and it appears here to be malignant and epidemic."

It must be noticed that the fool tries so hard to convince himself that there is no God. Furthermore, it says of man's corruption in his core.

"They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none who does good.

The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God.
 
They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one."

David further cries out the consequences of the wickedness of man,

"...all the evildoers who eat up my people as they eat bread and do not call upon the Lord?"

But in the end, David still hopes in the salvation that comes from the Lord.

"Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When the Lord restores the fortunes of his people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad."

This is a foreshadow of the coming Savior that would grant salvation, Jesus Christ!


Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 15

God's Covenant with Abram
God fist made his promise to Abram when Abram was called by God in Genesis 12:1-3. In this chapter, God made it clear that the great nation will be coming from Abram's own son, though at that time Abram and Sarai were childless. Abram believed God's words and it is interesting that God counted that as Abram's righteousness; indeed, righteousness is by faith on the living God!

"And he believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness."

God promised not just a son, but also the land unto where his generations would live.


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 15:1–16:3

The Ark Brought to Jerusalem and Placed in a Tent
Here King David commanded that the Ark be brought back to Jerusalem. It must be noticed that during the time of Saul, the Ark was not even sought. This means that in the reign of David, he made it sure to seek God first in everything and anything.

Also, this chapter described how David assigned back the proper designated works to the proper people (like assigning the work for the Ark to the Levites, etc.) He made sure that the proper order was brought back, for the Lord is a God of order. (1 Corinthians 14:33)
 

Gospels and Epistles: Luke 9:1–50


This is where Jesus performed a great miracle. After giving thanks to the Lord, Jesus fed 5,000 men from the initial 5 loaves and 2 fish. At the end of the day, 12 baskets full of food were left. How great is the Lord, indeed!



© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://www.hopewellonline.org/templates/System/details.asp?id=57420&mast=Events&PG=Events&CID=1328159

Leadership Level 1: Position or Rights

If you would be given the chance to choose who to follow among the two, who would that be. Would you choose to follow a boss or a leader?

This question might seem to be tricky to some. They would ask, "Wait, aren't these two, a boss and a leader, just the same?" Are they?

John C. Maxwell differentiated these two in his book "Developing the Leader Within You".

• The boss drives his workers; the leader coaches them.
• The boss depends on authority; the leader on good will.
• The boss inspires fear; the leader inspires enthusiasm.
• The boss says "I"; the leader, "we".
• The boss fixes the blame for the breakdown; the leader fixes the breakdown.
• The boss knows how it is done; the leader shows how.
• The boss says, "Go"; the leader says, "Let's go!"

Clearly, the boss has not gotten into the next level of leadership, yet. He remained in the first level, the entry level of leadership, called "Position". This level is also named as the "Rights" stage.

In this level, your title or your position is the only influence you have. Your security is based on your title, and not on your talent. In contrast with the other levels of leadership which are gained by ability, this level is often gained by appointment.

The negative part if you remain in this position and not thrive into the next level is that people only follow you because of your stated authority, and will not do so beyond that. Oftentimes, they will just do what they are required to do, and nothing more than that. They are usually characterized by an attitude of low morale. As John Maxwell said,

"When the leader lacks confidence, the followers lack commitment."

I remember a supervisor I had before. He was stuck in this level, and as a typical employee sensing his positional insecurity, I did what I had to do as his subordinate, his slave - and I did that only because I was needed to. It felt like I was just dragging my feet to work.


A real leader, however, is the person whom others would gladly and confidently follow. His mere presence gives inspiration and enthusiasm to his fellow workers. They enjoy working with him, which in turn, results to a more satisfied set of employees.

If you aim to proceed to the next level, these are the qualities John Maxwell listed that you must exhibit first, with excellence.

Leadership Level 1: POSITION or RIGHTS

• Know your job description thoroughly.
• Be aware of the history of the organization.
• Relate the organization's history to the people of the organization (or be a team player)
• Accept responsibility.
• Do your job with consistent excellence.
• Do more than expected.
• Offer creative ideas for change and improvement.

Leadership is not just about position after all. It is a good thing if you already are in this level, but it is entirely a different thing to be considered as an effective leader. You really need to climb to the next level of leadership.

And we will be talking about that on the next post.

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://blog.lamercanti.com/2013/11/07/sell-an-idea-to-your-boss/

Second image can be found in John Maxwell's book "Developing the Leader Within You"

Ignite 365: 14 of 365

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 13

How Long, O Lord?
This is another cry from David consisting of the problem, his petition, and his praise. In the first stanza, four times he repeated the phrase "How long..." showing his great emotions feeling that the Lord had been so distant to him. This must be the time when King Saul was pursuing David trying to kill him. From one cave to another, David hid himself and his troop, fearing for his life and his crew's.

It is quite interesting that the next part of this psalm was a petition, appealing unto the Lord for help. It must be noticed that David did not rely on his own strength and skills to endure those hardships. After pouring out his emotions unto the Lord, he then sought for God's answer.

It must be noticed now that the last part became a stanza of praises. David, after pouring it all out unto the Lord, sought the Lord, and praised God afterwards (that is even though he was still in danger hiding in various caves). How great David's faith must have been!

What we can learn from David is that though it seems God is so distant and silent, we can always cry unto Him for help.


Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 14

Abram Rescues Lot and Abram Blessed by Melchizedek
There was a time when the region where Lot lived were attacked. They were taken captive. When Abram learned about it, he immediately went with his "Rescue Team". The team was composed of 318 men. Imagine 318 men against numerous troops! But God was with Abram, and Abram succeeded. Then Melchizedek, King of Salem, blessed Abram. It must be noted that Melchizedek was priest of the Lord. Also, it was after this blessing that Abram gave a tenth of everything to Melchizedek.


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 14

David's Wives and Children
This is the list of David's sons, and it must be noted that Nathan and Solomon are in the list, from whom Mary and Joseph will come from.

Philistines Defeated
One thing that is so consistent with David is that he inquired of the Lord before he went to any war. He asked "What should I do, Lord?", and God would answer back. How sweet their conversation must have been!

I believe God is the same God from the past. Like David, we can talk to Him and pour out our hearts, and God is listening. Just like what David did in Psalm 13.


Gospels and Epistles: Luke 8:22–56

Jesus Calms a Storm
This is where the disciples were rebuked for being of little faith. They panicked and thought of even dying, not even thinking that Jesus was just right there with them.

Most of the times, we are like the disciples. When things don't go as we planned, we panic and worry. Jesus asks, "Where is your faith?", then calms the storm.

Jesus Heals a Man with a Demon
It is weird that the men of the village feared Jesus with the disciples to the point of casting them away from the village. That was after Jesus healed this man who used to be possessed by a "Legion". A man who was running around like crazy, was turned to a calm man. Instead of giving glory to God for the miracle that happened and putting their faith on Jesus, they made the exact opposite - turn away from Jesus.

Jesus Heals a Woman and Jairus's Daughter
On both accounts (a woman who had 12 years of bleeding and a 12-year-old daughter who was dying), healing came because of faith - faith on Jesus Christ alone.


© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://www.stevehackman.net/typhoon-usagi-calming-the-storms-in-our-lives-and-others/

Ignite 365: 13 of 365

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 12

The Faithful Have Vanished
This is a psalm of David that crying unto the Lord for help. Then the Lord aswered:

“Because the poor are plundered, because the needy groan, I will now arise,” says the Lord; “I will place him in the safety for which he longs.”

It must be noted as well that the description of the Word of God as pure is found here, being purified in an eternal sense (seven in Jewish culture means "unending").

"The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times." -Psalm 12:6

Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 13:2–18

Abram and Lot Separate
This is part where Abram and Lot part ways. Lot chose the location near Sodom (for he saw that the land was good). This is also the passage where God made the promise again to Abram:

“Lift up your eyes and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward, for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever. I will make your offspring as the dust of the earth, so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your offspring also can be counted. Arise, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.”

Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 13

The Ark Brought from Kiriath-Jearim
It must be noticed that it is only at this time that the Ark of the Covenant be brought back, as requested by David. During the reign of Saul, the Ark was not sought at all. This must be true in every leadership. The Lord must be sought first in every plan. and in every aspect of his kingdom. David really must be the "man after God's own heart"!

Uzzah and the Ark
Uzzah was smitten by God for touching the Ark. This must be because of proud presumption and irreverence in Uzzah's heart. Everyone knows that the Ark must not be touched, but only by the designated persons and after certain preparations (cleansing, etc.). God really sees the heart and even the deepest motives and desires. May our worship be acceptable to Him!


Gospels and Epistles: Luke 8:4–21

The Parable of the Sower
This was pertaining to the Kingdom of God. The seed is the Word of God. The good soil are the one who hear the Lord's Word and obey it. He is also compared to a lamp put on a stand. And he is also accepted by Jesus as a member of his family. But it must be noted that being part of God's Kingdom is only by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone.


© 2014 Erickson Ibana

Image can be found at http://sallysjourney.typepad.com/sallys_journey/2011/05/outrageous-generosity-revisiting-the-parable-of-the-sowermark-4.html

Ignite 365: 12 of 365

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 11

The Lord is in His Holy Temple
While reading through this chapter, I remember the Legolas from the movie "The Lord of the Rings". Legolas was a veteran archer with stunning skills! On the other hand, the passage describes the exact opposite of his character. The archer was compared to a wicked man who bends the bow, fits the arrow to the string, and shoots in the dark at the upright in heart. However, the Lord is in His temple watching every creature, even the desires of their hearts are not hidden.


Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 12–13:1

The Call of Abram

This is the part where God made the promise to Abram:

“Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”

Also, this is where God showed the place He will be giving to his descendants, Canaan.

Abram and Sarai in Egypt
Abram showed how selfish he was in this part. For his own sake, he even chose to give his wife, Sarai, to the Pharaoh, and he even wanted his wife to be regarded as his sister! It is by God's grace that He showed the Pharaoh the truth, and gave back Sarai eventually.

Abram and Lot Separate
This is the first part of their travel, Abram, Sarai, and Lot (Abram's nephew), from Egypt to Negeb.


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 12

The Mighty Men Join David
These were the great and mighty men who joined David's army. They were also the ones who helped him until he became the King of Israel.
 

Gospels and Epistles: Luke 7:36–8:3

A Sinful Woman Forgiven
This was a contrast of a Pharisee (a self-righteous person) to a repentant sinner. The woman even used her perfume, a luxury at that time, to wash Jesus' feet, while the Pharisee did not even wash His feet when He arrived in his home. This was also the part where Jesus taught about the two debtors: one with a greater amount of debt. Jesus asked:

"A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?”

And the answer, of course, was the one with the greater debt! It is also the same with the person who really knows his wretchedness and hopelessness before God, leading him to completely put his faith on God's grace through Jesus Christ.


© 2014 Erickson Ibana

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

Image can be found at http://jamestabor.com/2012/07/15/in-memory-of-her-marys-memorial/

Ignite 365: 11 of 365

Psalms and Wisdom Literature: Psalm 10

"Why do You hide Yourself?", this is the cry of the psalmist seeing the wicked and the evildoers prosper in all they do. It seems every wicked and evil plan in their hearts "succeed". It seems the poor, afflicted, persecuted, or tempted believer continues to be the victim of their wickedness. The latter part of the chapter (verses 12-18) proclaims that God is the King forever and ever who will see that justice is done. The psalmist further cries out:

"The Lord is king forever and ever; the nations perish from his land. O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart; you will incline your ear to do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man who is of the earth may strike terror no more."

Pentateuch and History of Israel: Genesis 11

The Tower of Babel
Because of "pride", man united to build a high tower to reach the heavens to make a name for themselves. During those times, man has one language. God confused man with multiple and different languages and from then on the place was called "Babel" (sounds like the Hebrew for "confused").

Shem's and Terah's Descendants
This is where the name of Abram (later named "Abraham") is first mentioned. Noah has 3 sons: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. From Shem's lineage, Terah is born, and Terah is the father of Abram. Abram later will become the "Father of all Nations".


Chronicles and Prophets: 1 Chronicles 11

David Anointed as King
This is where David was finally and officially anointed as king of the Israel after the death of Saul. It must be noticed that David was first anointed by Samuel when he was tending the sheep in the field, probably aged 12-15, found in 1 Samuel 16:11-13.

"Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.” And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward."

When he was anointed as king again, this time by the elders of Israel. He was 30 years old as found in 2 Samuel 5:3-4:

"So all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. David was thirty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned forty years."

Imagine waiting for almost 15 years before the promise from God was claimed! I believe during those waiting times, God was preparing David for a great responsibility.


Gospels and Epistles: Luke 7:1–35

Jesus Heals a Centurion's Servant
This is where the great faith of the Centurion was noticed by Jesus. Being a great leader himself, the Centurion regarded himself as unworthy even to be visited by Jesus. In addition to that, he believed that even through Jesus' command, his servant can be healed, and it was given to him - his servant was indeed healed!

Jesus Raises a Widow's Son
This is the first account in the book of Luke where Jesus raised a dead into life.

Messengers from John the Baptist
John the Baptist asked Jesus through his two messengers if He was the One they were waiting for, the Christ. Jesus answered them by stating all of the miracles and wonders He has been doing:

“Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.”

Furthermore, Jesus proclaimed John the Baptist as:

"Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you."

© 2014 Erickson Ibana

"Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path." -Psalm 119:105

Image can be found at http://misplacedperson.wordpress.com/2010/08/12/life-in-the-tower-of-babel/