Friends and Bubbles

2 Samuel 9:18

“Don’t be afraid”, David said to him, “for I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.”

When God graced me with a bubbly personality, He also blessed with me a lot of friends - - in sets. My gradeschool classmates, especially those sharing six-years loyalty with me,  are my considered honorary siblings; my high school barkadas (yes, with ‘S’) are still my best gimmick, out-of-the-box buds; my college bunch are my ever reliable, burden bearers; and my 21^st century friends (haha!), are my all-season partners in life. I have to mention there are also those variedly-categorized few and they too are treasured much. I wouldn’t be a happy bubble without them. They are the air that blows me away, stretches me to form different shapes. They are the soap that keeps me from evaporating fast, supporting my thin wall instead of popping me up. And when our reflections interfere constructively, we produce bands of color! Never thought I'd be poetic for those guys, hahaha!! Oh I so miss them all now…. :<

Like David, most of us have a thousand and one stuff to attend to and couldn’t easily afford sometime off for some memory lane. You have your desks full and deadlines to meet, I have kids to homeschool and a curriculum project to complete, and David has a kingdom to build from ruins. It took him more than a decade to finally sit down and check his friendship log. Better late than later :> Jonathan was first in mind. They promised to show unfailing kindness to each other and to their descendants. I wonder if it’s the same idea we have to see our kids being best friends with our best friends’ kids :> He inquired a broad search for Saul’s household and found one last member, the crippled Mephibosheth. As he was honored with a robe and a sword by the lad’s father when he was still little known, David now returns the favor and honored the son with a seat on his table and the inheritance due him as grandson of the late king Saul.  He gave much because he loved Jonathan much. Truly, a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

While writing this, a message popped on my screen and it was a message from my honorary sister. She was asking for yaya-referrals for my inaanak. I was smiling at how God readily prepared an action point for me. She has been an all-time friend. Her home was our playhouse and a soundboard when we’re singing Head Over Heels at the top of our lungs. We had many crying sessions over the phone and shared each other’s love stories too. She need not ask twice for me to lend a hand - - because she asked, and because God sent her to me. But today’s message is beyond helping out an asking friend in need. God wants us to make that initiative to know how are friends are and be all-there, as before, to be His comfort when they're burdened, or hopefully they're better so we could share their joys.  Care to join my bubble journey today? Our friends might just be already popped out if we delay another year. Do you know that when one bubble meets with another, the smaller one will bulge into the larger bubble? You’d be surprised how WE will come out bigger after today :>

The Rich and Famous

2 Samuel 8:4,11

“David captured a thousand of his chariots, seven thousand charioteers and twenty thousand foot soldiers. He hamstrung all but a hundred of the chariot horses; King David dedicated these articles to the Lord, as he had done with the silver and the gold from all the nations he had subdued.”

The World’s Richest Man to date is Symeon Davors Carnegie Freemanstein, or 'The Shadow’. Only two years older than me, this $82.2 billionaire has major share holdings in all of the fifty top ranked businesses in the world. It is believed he makes over $1,200 per second! His farm-owner father was the man behind the catchy phrase ‘a cup for a buck’, but he gave in to an early buy out, lucrative offer for his Steinbucks Coffee (now Starbucks). It did give them though a vast amount of investment capital to play with. Now their assets include the world’s largest private jet - - the Jumbo Airbus 380 nicknamed ‘the Camel’ which is equipped with a heated swimming pool and a garage for his 2009 Rolls Royce. He owns the world’s largest luxury yacht - - the ‘Bodminium II’ which features 3 helipads and a cinema. His homes are across the world including a chateuax in France. Add 4 more hotels, 6 golf clubs, and a health resort in Hawaii. He owns the biggest and most valuable collection in the world which includes the original Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Michelangelo's sculture Pieta. Did he ever give to charities? Yes. Record shows his estimated lifetime donation is $750 million.  We’re glad to hear that.

God gave David victory wherever he went. Every battle won meant vast plunder, and every land conquered equals more tribute. Being so famous during his time, he too could top the Forbes’ annual list. But as a public servant, especially as king, he knew it was not for him to bag it all home. It was clearly itemized in God’s mandate for kings: ‘must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself, must not accumulate large amount of silver and gold.’ And he did just that. Only a hundred horses and all articles straight for the Lord’s use. Does it mean David lived plain and simple? In 1 Chronicles 29, when it was time to provide for the building of the temple, out of his own pocket he shelled out his personal treasures of three thousand talents of gold and seven thousand talents of refined silver. Corruption was out of the question. Everybody knew he did what was just and right for all his people. It is no doubt God’s abundant blessing.

Little is known about Mr. Freemanstein except his assets and his determination to stay on top. But we know for sure it was God who allowed him to have a lot. All material wealth comes from the Lord. Everything in heaven and earth are His. But we have to note that it is not only from Him but also for Him. We do not need to wait until we’re billionaires to serve God’s purposes. Biblical stewardship stems from our personal relationship with Him. Will you give beyond the ten percent to church? When will you give to charities? How often will you give a treat your family? I hope we all know that God also delights when we enjoy His resources. How about savings? If David did not discipline his finances, will he be able to give so much when it was time-appropriate? I pray we’d all be just and right in our financial handling - - billionaire or not. May we always honor Him with His riches, and make Him famous with our praises!

Who’s Who?

2 Samuel 7:18-19

“Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said: ‘Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family that you have brought me this far? And as if this were not enough in your sight, O Sovereign Lord, you have also spoken about the future of the house of your servant. Is this your usual way of dealing with man, O Sovereign Lord?’

Centuries ago, man believed that the earth is the center of the solar system. We are the reference point and all else revolves around us. Also true with all firstborns. We cry and our parents rush to attend to us. We smile and they’d babble with us. We get sick and everyone stays in the house. All works in harmony with the reference point. Until Copernicus dethroned our world and pointed to the sun. Until our brother was born and took centerstage.

In the second half of this chapter, God wowed David with His  overwhelming blessings. He reminded this once-shepherd his awesome journey from sheep pen to cedar palace - - a cast out turned crowned king. God made him look around and see peace in the land and favors from heaven. Now who would ever think there’s more to most, or higher than highest?  Only in God’s dictionary! He promised David his lineage will occupy the throne forever. No insurance could beat that. David was understandably humbled and dumbfounded. His first words were, ‘Who Am I?’. He was way before Copernicus so let’s be more considerate :> He saw himself as the reference point and knowing his flaws and failures, he couldn’t understand why grace is coming his way. ‘It is just too much!’ was his receiving speech. But because he was in the praying posture, God’s glory so shine he couldn’t help but put his gaze off himself. Then it hit him: not who I am, but because He is I AM! ‘How Great You are, O Sovereign Lord!’

Think about it. We usually cry for our rights, our well-deserved benefits, our long years of hard work. We feel we’re treated unfairly and ignored and uncared for. But if we want to push ourselves as the reference point for His blessings, do you think we’d even reach minimum? Not even our best efforts could outweigh our daily sins, make that per minute for ungodly thoughts. Praise God He is the point of grace. He gives because that’s who He is. Not even when He rewards us for faithfulness that it shifts to our share of work. It is still God who empowered us for service. Discontent says ‘It’s too little’. Pride says ‘it’s too much’. God says, ‘I AM. Is anything too hard for me?’

Good and Godly - - but not God’s?

2 Samuel 7:2-3

“He said to Nathan the prophet, ‘Here I am, living in a palace of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.’ Nathan replied to the king, ‘Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the Lord is with you.’

Who wouldn’t want to be rich? It’s a good thought. Although my husband and I weren’t mega lotto players nor supporters, we usually take time dreaming how to spend ‘our’ millions, hahaha! Our allocations weren’t bad either. We’d give beyond our usual ten percent tithes, we’ll give our parents their well-deserved, comfortable retirement years, we’ll secure our kids education, and we’ll save the rest for future needs. But I’m sure the rest of the country has better reasons like medication for their very sick loved ones, or as seed money for a small business to ensure three meals a day for their family, or to finally send their kids to school. Side by side with their needs, my wants will most likely be taken aside. Rich thoughts may be good thoughts, but maybe not for me…. yet, hahaha :>

After David was settled in his palace and the Lord has given him rest from all his enemies around him, a brilliant idea came across his mind: ‘I’ll make a house for God!’ Side by side with his place of cedar, with just a tent as dwelling, God’s ark looks... poor. ‘So unfitting for the King of kings’ could be his thought balloon. He backed up his good intentions with some godly advice and called in the prophet Nathan. Hearing the king’s noble heart and seeing no violation of any biblical principles, this man of God couldn’t agree more.  It was a good plan, but not God’s plan.. yet. God has purposed David to fight His people’s wars, extend their borders, and bring peace in the land. It was a good thought, but the task was not for him. His bloody hands wouldn’t fit the holy task. It’s just a different shoe. And although it was supported with godly counsel, it was never God-commanded. He never asked for it. It is not for man to initiate and attempt good things for God. All orders come from Him. Not even a prophet can take God’s place for the final go. David and Nathan weren’t reprimanded for their project proposal. For who but God could place it in their hearts?  No idea is man-original, you know. Still, it was shelved meantime, but with a promise - - that his own son will carry it through. He who thought he can build a better house for His Name was promised an established throne for his house forever. Should we settle for better when His  idea is best?

When God created us in His own image and likeness, it is with the intention of a relationship. Physically, so we could join in His work; socially, so we could grow in His character; emotionally, so we could feel His love; and mentally, so we could understand His ways. I believe the spiritual side is inclusive in each. Everything we are and do is for God. He has gifted us with His wisdom so we could best appreciate when He favors us to see His higher-than-the-earth thoughts unfold. He may not grant our rich thoughts, but maybe His is richer. Just don’t mistake good for go, nor godly as God’s. Do wait for His final say :>  

Crown or Crowd?

2 Samuel 6:21-22

“David said to Michal, ‘It was before the Lord, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from this house when he appointed me ruler over the Lord’s people Israel – I will celebrate before the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor’.”

I have a 34 year old brother with Down Syndrome. He is God’s wonderful gift to us. He loves music, especially the percussions, and we allow him to play with the worship team in church, guided of course. He sings in tune, although he mumbles the words, and almost everybody cries when he offers a song to God, usually during his birthday. I’m so proud of him. Although when I was in grade school, I was quite embarrassed to be seen with him. I’m just so sure the teasings would come and I’d be forever identified with his disability.  I wonder now if it’s to his disadvantage having us as sisters, haha :> But really, if there’s one in the family who has the purest joy and the sincerest love, that’s him. In God’s sight, he’s the norm :>

Michal was so embarrassed seeing his husband leaping and dancing before the Lord, even disrobing himself in the sight of the slave girls of his servants. She despised David for debasing himself by identifying with the crowd instead of making a distinction of having the crown. Being raised as a princess in the palace of King Saul, she has been accustomed to everything fine, regal and courtly. They are to be looked upon and everyone else looked down. Even David’s devotion to God is foolishness to her. And so when he came home to bless his household, his elation was greeted with a nagging negation. I remember my excitement sharing the full story of how I said ‘yes’ to Tris and some of the girls in the group gave me cold shoulders and proceeded with their personal concerns. I can so relate how David’s inmost being was boiling hot here. Michal did not just disapprove his actions, she despised his God. She prided herself so high she did not join the celebration and bow to heaven’s King. And so God justly returned her dishonor with barrenness. But to David who disregarded all princely clothing for His glory, who kept his shepherd’s heart for His leading, and who’d rather be a doorkeeper in His house for a day than a thousand elsewhere, God bestowed long life, wealth and honor. He may be unbecoming for a king, but in God’s sight, he sure is a beloved.

The world applauds coolness and charm and high-end careers, and it’s where everybody is moving. If you’re not IN, obviously you’re out. So much for Christianity, character and convictions. Who gets popular with those? The message of the cross is foolishness to many, but to us who are being saved know it is the very power of God. To be identified with Him nowadays is expecting name calls and yes, regarded out of the norm.  We don’t get invited to Sunday parties, they lower their voices when we arrive, and they keep secrets from us. And so we adapt to the culture and have a rush, wide-eyed prayer in the cafeteria, bring the smallest, pocket-fit bibles to church, and give a carefully-no-mention-of-God, but moral enough advice to a friend in need. What’s wrong with us that we wouldn’t want to be associated with the King of kings? Followers of Jesus may be outnumbered but it doesn’t make the rest of the world the norm. Would you exchange your crown by being one with the crowd? Both meaning applies.

Lesson Learned

2 Samuel 6:7

“The Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down and he died there beside the ark of God.”

Last Tuesday, a friend was sharing how her nine year old daughter walked out on her and banged the door to her face. What triggered their conflict was the simple choosing of which clothes to wear. I told her I too had my share of heartbreak the day before when my four year old boy snarled an irritated, loud ‘yes’ at me, publicly, when I was just asking him to prepare because we’re nearing the jeepney stop. Our kids cried hard, but the moms were heartbroken too. It was painful enough to receive their insults and disrespect. Top that with seeing them willfully sin and suffer the rod. Her daughter missed the party, and my boy, our funtime. Sure hope they learned their lessons.

All Israel was anticipating the great celebration that day. After a long time resting in Abinadab’s house, the ark of the covenant, the symbol of God presence, will finally be brought to the City of David. Jewish are known for their colorful and festive songs and dances and with the king leading them, there’s sure no holding back. On the way to Zion, the oxen carrying the ark stumbled and Uzzah readily took hold of the ark. Right there and then, to everyone’s shock, he fell dead. His family housed the ark for a long time, maybe grew familiar with its presence, he thought he’s the best man to protect it. But even if his intentions were pure, God was specific in His orders that no one is to touch the Ark for penalty of death. In the first place, it wouldn’t have tripped if it was carried with the poles on the Levites shoulders, as prescribed. God was merciful in not striking David for disobedience, but He wouldn’t tolerate irreverence. It was an important lesson to learn.

Try to observe Sunday worship services nowadays. Latecomers. Mall-clothings. Slouch sitting. Loud children. Heads turning. Some whispering. Clock checking. Arms crossed. Text messaging. If that’s our posture on the Lord’s day, imagine our irreverence the rest of the week. Cold shoulders. Ungratefulfulness. Insubordination. Lustful thoughts. Foul words. Thank God for His mercy we’re not yet dead. David had reasons to fear. We should too. Here’s the lyrics of a song from Point of Grace to help us ponder on this lesson.


GOD FORBID
Words & music by Kyle Matthews & Tony Wood

The more I know your power, Lord
The more I'm mindful
How casually we speak and sing Your name
How often we have come to You
With no fear or wonder
And called upon You only for what we stand to gain

(chorus)
God forbid, that I find You so familiar
That I think of You as less than who You are
God forbid, that I should speak of You at all
Without a humble reverence in my heart
God forbid

Lord, I often talk about Your love and mercy
How it seems to me Your goodness has no end
It frightens me to think that I could take You for granted
Though You're closer than a brother
You're more than just a friend

(repeat chorus)

You are Father, God almighty
Lord of lords, You're King of kings
Beyond my understanding
No less than everything

Sequel Success

2 Samuel 5:22-23

“Once more the Philistines came up and spread out in the Valley of Rephaim; so David inquired of the Lord, and he answered, ‘Do not go straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly because that will mean the Lord has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army’.”

In movies, sequels have been quite a fad. Creators bank on an already popular and established material with high hopes to overshoot the original, box-office reception. Some did justice to our expectations, while others... didn’t. According to MSN’s list of how to avoid franchise meltdown, one major don’t is to simply remake the first film. It’s a nagging feeling to hear the same lines and see similar plots, like I guess what they did to Legally Blonde 2.  Another don’t is not to keep the primary cast. I remember my uneasiness not seeing Rachel Weisz alongside Brendan Fraser in The Mummy 3. I hope they’ll not regret excluding Keira Knightly and Orlando Bloom on the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean. Well at least they know better than pull out Johnny Depp as well. Ever heard a pirate film without THE pirate?

When the Philistines dared a sequel attack to their failed, first try, it was a full remake. They did the same spread out position and chose the same location, Rephaim Valley. We’re they hoping for an alternate ending? Seriously?! As recipient of the challenge, David could have easily asked for the recently filed report folder and order a replay. Or at the most, say the first one was a great dry run and just pick up some loose crumbs for a perfect finish. But David chose a clean sheet of paper for his square one orders. Logic tells him to not to expect a new call. But logic too, plus obedience, spells new and now differently. He who gave God the freehand can expect far more cursives and strokes unimaginable to one submissive pencil. This sequel may have the same opening lines and same closing credits, but who’d expect a superb, surprising plot! Who would ever think the Lord of hosts will bring in His whole army to march frontline while David circle around behind the enemy? It’s not an everyday thing to fight alongside the heavenly armies, and David would have missed it if he succumbed to the idea of plain remake. I’m sure after that, he was hoping for a third installment, or perhaps a series :>

When days are as predictable as the morning sunrise and our lives manageable as usual, do we still pray for guidance and direction? When we’ve mastered our workloads and can do well even with our eyes closed, will help be unnecessary and God needless? No wonder some of us produce flop sequels. Our story is not moving because we’re stuck with our old, only memorized scripts, and worse, we thought we could do away without the Main Character. Let us not forget that life is a hit only because of God. Watch Him once and you’ll sure be hooked to the nth season. Never forgo one episode for a Friday night out or you might miss a pivotal highlight. Stay tuned. His series just keeps getting better :>

I For U

2 Samuel 5:12

“And David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel.”

Last night, God answered our prayers to finally be part of a group here in Cebu. Having no family and friends in this city is lonesome and we’ve been hungering to meet people to relate to and be accountable with. Praise God for opening a new bible study group for couples, complete with baby sitters to attend to our kids :> Our first session last night was from Andy Stanley’s iMarriage. What struck me was the sad scenario of being  usually committed to a marriage rather than be committed to my partner. The former’s focus is ‘I’, the latter is ‘U’, meaning my spouse. All the while I thought achieving peace in marriage is good enough. It was a realization that my pursuit of a win-win goal, especially in a conflict, still boils down to ‘I’ because I want MY marriage to work out. How true. So me.

David waited seven years after Saul’s death for Israel to finally acknowledge and anoint him king over the land. Add to that the length of time since Samuel first poured oil over his head and told him he’ll be the next king. He waited long, endured much, went through a lot - - from stature to experience to wisdom, he sure is now more than fit to lead and has the right too. Amidst the glitters and glory of the throne, David did not forget why he’s there. Not because of his credentials. Neither for his comfort. He knew better than claim he earned or deserved it all. ‘By God and for the People’ was his script. No ‘I’, all ‘U’.

iMarriage seeks to address the ‘I’ of almost always having our expectations work for us. But never in God’s kingdom can we find God calling an individual for his own name. Instead He promotes the ‘I’ on the premise of serving the ‘U’. Why do you think you got that raise, and the promotions? Why do you have such influences, why that position? Just for 'I' and 'I's' family's sake? Not even Jesus Christ promoted Himself when He came to be with us. He always mention that He was sent to do His Father’s work - - that is, to serve His people and bring Him glory. No 'I', all 'U'!

Men of War

2 Samuel 3:38

“Then the king said to his men, ‘Do you not realize that a prince and a great man has fallen in Israel this day’?”

I’m happy to be married to a homebody. In our six years of marriage, I never had to worry of his whereabouts and who-abouts, haha :> We both love movie nights and long walks and eat outs. It has always been shared experiences. Until he discovered ‘Wings of Prey’ - - a flight simulator. There was nothing in my blood that ticks interest to it. After weeks of sort outs and cry-ola sessions, I decided to be understanding, haha :> Because I love movies, my orientation phase was Pearl Harbor and Top Gun.  His new passion opened my world to flight terms and fight tactics. I still don’t like it but I can see why he’s hooked. At least now he got my respect and his peace :>

There was nothing in Abner that should have moved David to honor him at his death. He was Saul’s commander of the army - - a wing man in pursuit of David’s life; He was responsible for making Ish-Bosheth, Saul’s son, king over the rest of Israel - - a head-on attack that delayed David’s full ascension to the throne; He dared Joab’s men to a play fight, killing Asahel the brother - - shouldn’t David favor the Zeruiah’s instead? I think David still didn’t like him when he mourned for him. At his death, all the more he can’t prove Abner’s turned allegiance to him, but still ‘he himself walked behind the bier, wept aloud at the tomb, and sang a lament for him’. It seems men of war have such unspoken lifelines that beat respect for each other. Terms where discipline, loyalty and honor are shared experiences and most upheld. David saw this man’s value to Saul and his family and he acknowledged that. Same reason why he rewarded the men of Jabesh Gilead last time. He valued the man for his contributions, even if it paid him no interest.

Loyalty is a good thing. Preference is understandable. But it doesn’t mean that those great men not fighting alongside us, or sharing opinions and convictions with us, are undeserving of merits. Jesus himself acknowledged a man driving out demons even if he’s not part of the twelve. ‘Whoever is not against us is for us.’ It is still God who is glorified whenever excellence is pursued, order is achieved and when breakthroughs happen. Content and morality is another issue of course. But at least give credit to the ingenuity of your competition. Or be fair in evaluating the work performance of your backstabber. It may not be for your interest, but it will sure pay you back with respect. We do can learn from these men of war :>

Reward Routines

2 Samuel 2:6

“May the Lord now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this.”

Kids need routines. They will become more confident, secure and happy when expectations are clear and roles are defined.  Inclusive to our set rules are my necessary response. It delights them to hear a ‘good job’ complete with a hug. It not only merits them for a work well done, it also motivates them to earn more mileages. Even without being prompted, they sometimes call me in, ‘Mom, look, we returned the toys in the box!’ Knowing I have to raise God-pleasers, I usually remind them God is most happy to see them complying. And I have to remind myself to reflect He is their Rewarder too.

When David was told that it was the men of Jabesh Gilead who had buried Saul, he sent for them and commended them. He prays for God to bless them for it. For who could best bless but our faithful Rewarder? And so David sent them home to wait for showers from heaven. Is that what happened? No. David said, ‘God will show kindness to you.. and I also’. It does not excuse him that God is already giving. It is exactly BECAUSE He is the Rewarder that moves him to work alongside that nature.This man after God’s own heart need not wait or delay an act of kindness. He knew His God and in light of His gracious character, David chose generosity too.

The Bible is filled with promises of His great reward. As our Creator, it was He who fashioned us to be inclined and motivated by rewards. It was His idea for us to delight in hearing ‘Well done, good and faithful servant!’  As kingdom-builders, we are stewards to His house rules and should know better how His routine works. Let our kids know God is pleased with their merits. Make our people enjoy those mileages. It is His pleasure to give good and perfect gifts. Let us not keep what He intends to give away :>

Justice and Japan

2 Samuel 1:11-12

“Then David and all the men with him took hold of their clothes and tore them. They mourned and wept and fasted till evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the army of the Lord and the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.”

Yesterday, March 16, a group of South Korean women organized a silent demonstration to commemorate victims of last week’s earthquake. Let me just copy-paste the article from Xinhuanet:

“The group, composed of the ‘comfort women’ forced into prostitution for Japanese troops in World War II, gathered outside of the Japanese Embassy in Seoul, despite cold weather. They have been protesting at the same location every Wednesday for 19 years, demanding an apology and compensation from the Japanese government for the war crime. However, instead of their usual demonstrations, they stood in silent tribute to the victims of the earthquake in Japan. ‘Hate the sin but not the people,’ said Lee Yong-su, a former comfort woman in attendance.’ They also called off demonstration in 1995 after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake hit Kobe, western Japan, killing more than 6,000 people.”

Anyone else asking if Japan deserves this disaster? These women have all the reasons to throw the first stones. But they didn’t. Hearing the report of Saul’s death, David could have rejoiced and sighed relief. But he didn’t. He instead threw off all politics and personal vendetta and ‘mourned and wept and fasted till evening for him. His song was not ‘Beh Buti Nga’ (serves you right). He did not even patronized the revived version. He wrote a lament and ordered that it should be taught to the people of Judah. The lyrics say nothing of Saul’s ill-character or imprudent choices. On the contrary, David urges the ‘daughters of Israel’ to remember him for how he clothed them ‘in scarlet and finery and adorned their garments with ornaments of gold’. If for an enemy, sad posture and funeral songs were alien to us, it was not enough for David. He further honored God’s anointed by making sure justice is served. And so the babbling Amalekite who thought he’ll be rewarded for offering the crown at David’s feet was struck down. I’m sure he was caught by surprise to see David behave otherwise. So were the six hundred. And it moved them to do likewise.

Proverbs 24:17 says, ‘Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice.’ This was written by the wise Solomon. We need not guess where he got this virtue firsthand. The Father in heaven causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. We need not wonder why His Son died for all. And we say we’re children of the Father? The Koreans knew better that justice is not just about correcting a sin. More than that, it is conformity to the principles of righteousness. It’s still justice that moved them to cry with the rest of the world: God help Japan.

And God bless these women.

Now Trending

1 Samuel 31:12b-13

“They took down the bodies of Saul and his sons from the wall of Beth Shan and went to Jabesh, where they burned them. Then they took their bones and buried them under a tamarisk tree at Jabesh, and they fasted seven days.”

The whole world is still grieving for the many lives lost in the 8.9 magnitude earthquake and 10-meter high tsunami that hit Japan. As of yesterday, Wikinews’ death toll is nearing 1,900 while officials say that it is all but certain the final toll will be at least 10,000 dead. In Manila over the weekend, death news was left and right too. My two friends lost their grandmothers, another his father, and in our family - - a well-loved cousin. Even a five-year old cute puppy was not spared. Now guess my reading this morning: Saul and his sons and his armor-bearer and all his men died together in one day. Trending? We all hope not.

I wish all deaths could be like that of my grandmother’s. That afternoon, she asked for a soda and some bread, took a nap then breathed her last. How peaceful! Unlike the helpless cries of those trapped in their rooftops while the raging waters continue to rise. Unlike Saul, whose head was cut off and his body fastened to a wall, along with his sons. But the three were killed before this savagery. They fought ‘til the end. But Saul lost all hope when he got critically wounded. He took his life as if it left him with no choice. What he dreaded was not death but life itself. For him, to die is better than living without his sons and scepter, and worse, be ill-treated by his enemies. For most suicide cases nowadays, it’s relational breakdown and work failure, or when diagnosed terminally-ill.  Sad trend :<

If what we’re living for can strip us empty when it leaves us, then it’s not worth living for! If all we care is our careers, what will become of us in times of recession? If all we love is our family, where do find comfort when they’re gone?  If we rely on our own strength, how about when we grow old?
Job established himself so well but when it was time to let go, though his body was sore and his heart grieving, he knew his Redeemer still lives. Soon, the Lord made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before. Nowhere in all the land were there found women as beautiful as his ‘new’ daughters. Israel lost their king but guess who’s next in line: the greatest to ever rule their land. I never thought Saul's suicide will be my blog-ender, but thank God, there's still II Samuel to look forward to. Death news may be all over, but so is life anew. Three friends just got pregnant, two gave birth last week, plus a handful of birthday celebrants today. The Lord has taken away, but the Lord also gave. That’s trending too!  Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Reese’s For You

1 Samuel 30:24

“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.”

Googling to find the meaning of share, I found the following words: apportion equally. I chuckled remembering how we shared the Hershey’s Reese’s Selecta Ice Cream last weekend. It was MY discovery when we went to do groceries. In my mind, I was greeding MINE! hahaha! But of course, I had to share it with my family. Tristan knew how much I loved Reese’s and so whenever my turn comes to have a spoonful, he made sure mine’s with a big chunk. It was a superb delight, but I guess our share definition missed the mark.

When David and his men returned from overtaking the Amalek raiders, they were not just able to recover their wives and children, but also a great amount of plunder. I’m sure the four hundred were already calculating their portion and the comforts they can acquire with it. Crossing that ravine again, they were greeted by the two hundred who were left behind. Filled with greed and pride, they readily defended their rightful share and debased their weaker brothers as unworthy of any slice. Imagine coming out alive in a tragedy and while everybody else was just praising God to still have their family with them, you’ll hear some people keeping stocks to themselves. Blood-boil right? David rebuked his men not in raging impatience, as some of us might do, but in truth. These were his exact words, ‘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.’ Grace tells us that no one deserves favor from God. Not the naughty, not the nice. The four hundred were not the rescuers. It was not even David. It was all God’s work. He is the Landowner who has the right to apportion. Are we envious because He’s generous?

When we see the wicked prospering, why are we downhearted? Because we’re  more deserving? When we’ve been working to death and a co-worker gets promoted, do we cry unfair? Are we saying God is unjust? When we’re up there, we may see our compensation equal to our task. Serves us right, we say. But when we’re down there and favored with a lot, aren’t we more inclined to call it a blessing? If we’re to apportion according to gratefulness, who will you choose? I don’t say that is how God operates. Of course He rewards us accordingly. But He gives not according to our merits, but because He is Grace. Now He’s calling us to share - - to apportion equally. Not from our spare, not in favor of friends, but according to His grace. I guess that’s a chunk of Reese’s for all of us! Cheers to Grace!

Stop or Go

1 Samuel 30:10-11

‘…two hundred men were too exhausted to cross the ravine. But David and four hundred men continued the pursuit. They found an Egyptian in a field and brought him to David. They gave him water to drink and food to eat.’

Red light is for stop, green is to go. No questions, plain standard. Now let’s run some questions. Scenario one is morning rain and comfy bed. Today is Monday so I’m sure it’s a green flag for most of you. But will you a hail a red one if your mom asks you to accompany her for an errand? Would you think twice when you’re teammate wouldn’t show up for your report anyway? Would Sunday be any different? Scenario two is dedicated to us moms. When do we pursue green flag to attend to our kids? Usually it’s a glad yes when they say please or add a hug or wear a smile, then a firm no when it’s a brat cry mixed with tantrums. How about when they just ask us to sit beside them to watch that  Disney movie again or be their extra hand in their play dough world? Is it a time-waster compared to our weightier workload? Will our tired bodies and tried hearts excuse us from taking time?

David here had his share of red and green lights too. But where we would normally stop, he kept going, and when there’s no stopping us, he gave a halt. After the Amalekites took their wives and children, God gave them a go for an overtake. But at a ravine cross, one-third of his men were too exhausted to further move. If this is not discouragement to you, how about logic? Tired and less-numbered, what were their chances? But David still flashed green. On their way, they found a helpless nobody in a field. Compared to the urgency of rescuing your wife and kids, this poor man stands second in line. ‘Wait ‘til we get back’ could be a good answer. But not for David. He took time to give him water and food to eat. Mind you, fig and raisin cakes. That’s special. And why not just leave the goods at his feet and let him attend to himself? Why take time to help him up? But David’s kindness paid him well. Like a fairy in disguise in Grimm tales, this slave was God-sent to lead them to the raiding party. A few minutes stop spared them from hours of wandering around. Helping one slave brought back their all. Sharing a few cake brought home a plunder. Fair exchange?

What’s our stop and go standard?

Is it mood dependent? Call us in when we’re blessed, understand us when we’re not?

Is it schedule oriented? Do we have that ‘don’t call me I’ll call you’ mindset?   

Is it relationally connected? A hundred for my friends, spare change to strangers?

How did David choose? What would Jesus do? What's yours?

Faint-Painted

1 Samuel 30:6

‘David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his own sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God.’

What can turn us fade and make us faint? It’s lunchtime and so first in mind is hunger. Survival sites say being underfed for even just one day can already cause disorientation, poor judgment and confusion. I can’t imagine how the political prisoners in Ireland endured 73 days :<  Extreme physical activity can also be draining. One man in Minnesota celebrated his 30^th birthday by logging a 24-hour treadmill session. World record has 48 hours. I can’t even run in four. Severe stress due to work pressure and family demands can be damaging too.  In Tokyo, one man killed himself a day after completing a 17-month, no-day-off project. Now that’s a scary thought for all unpaid and unappreciated mothers who work 24/7.  

David in today’s chapter was all painted with faint. He who is most wanted in Israel is also unwanted even by the Philistines. Coming home from the pull out, still exhausted from their three-day trip, he found the city burned and all their wives, children and goods taken by the Amalekites. It’s why working moms sigh when they see their homes messy and the kids smelly and there’s still dinner to prepare and husband to attend to. Multiply that weight and we’ll understand why David and his six hundred mighty warriors wept aloud until they had no strength left to weep. Now here’s the unexpected blow: ‘In their distress, his men talked about stoning him’. Oh please! Not now! But David kept his calm. He did not defend himself or gave a snappy backtalk. Verse six says ‘He found his strength in the Lord his God.’ A friend posted a John Piper quote the other day which may help us draw David’s thought balloon here: ‘The song of everyone who comes to Christ: I will never live alone again. Never.’ He chose meekness in the midst of madness, and trusted God for this trial.

There will be times we don’t have the luxury of explaining to everyone what we’re going through. That today is just not the best time for an added insult or an unkind word or a cold face. I wish I can make my kids stop asking their endless whys when I’m working. Or not return a call and hear another burden when we’re too loaded ourselves. As a leader, David did not give in to that excuse. He needs to be strong for them and finding none within, he went up to the Source. No wonder he became an inspiration not just to his men, but to great prophets as well. Isaiah and Habakkuk painted God’s strength as soaring like eagles and having hind’s feet - - the same words used by our psalmist here. We will sure grow tired and faint, again. But in Christ, we will not just be refreshed, but renewed. Not just repaired, but restored. His paint never runs dry :>

Safety Signs

1 Samuel 29:9

“I know that you have been as pleasing in my eyes as an angel of God; nevertheless, the Philistine commanders have said ‘He must not go up with us in this battle’.

In the third season of our favorite TV series Fringe, the female lead Olivia Dunham is trapped in the parallel universe while her alternate, they’ll call her Fauxlivia, took on her shoes as instructed by her superiors. In a conversation with another from-there-based-here, one who supplies her with the intel she needed to thwart, she was warned that her cover may be intact for the moment, but if she’s isn’t committed, if she’s not willing to give up her integrity and self-respect for her mission, she will fail. Being a driven woman, she gave in to his ill-counsel. The compromise did preserve her cover long enough. But it did poke her wedding engagement to break up.

David put it upon himself to cross pagan lines. It was not his first time to play pretense in Achish land. His first character role was a madman. Now he’s on his military rear. In chapter 27, he tried to sneak around this king by concealing his continued pursuit against Israel’s enemies. David conducted himself well as proven by the commendations ‘reliable and faultless’. His plan seems working. But moving there meant he stripped his homeland the advantage of having an asset. The Philistines may have felt Israel’s vulnerability and so they decided for war again. David was tapped and trapped. Either way, he will lose everything. Such is the course of those who stand in the way of sinners, or thought they’re strong enough for a fall. But God is faithful. What is impossible now for David, He made passable. God hardened the hearts of the Philistine commanders against David that they demanded for his pull out from their ranks. Unknowingly, they were pulling him out of this snare as well. I can almost hear David’s ‘Whew!’ when he left their camp the next morning.

Whew! How many times have we implanted ourselves to a fiery situation, caught surprised by the heat up, and then cry a desperate pull out? Didn’t the sign say ‘Hot Surface. Do Not Touch’? Why were we in the No Passing Zone in the first place?  When is cure better than prevention? Shall we go on sinning knowing grace abounds more? By no means, said the Apostle Paul. God’s love will always stretch out His hand for our rescue. But don’t think we can fool His justice and be free of the consequences. One may be forgiven for a lie, but it can’t keep the wife from hurting. You may be accepted regardless of your past, but you can’t bring your virginity back. Praise God for His finished work at the cross! We’re free from sin, but ey, not free to sin. And please, let’s mind those safety signs: Stop Ahead. Do Not Cross. Caution. Warning. Danger. Watch You Step. Better safe than sorry!  :>

Still Thinking?

1 Samuel 27:5-7

“He inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him by dreams or urim or prophets. Saul said to his attendants, ‘Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her.”

Who thinks he might harvest from a farm of radish some delicious fruits?

Who thinks he can hear fresh news when he’s tuned in to a different frequency?

Who thinks he'll have a hundred percent commitment from an extra marital affair?

Who thinks honorary credits for a work medially accomplished?

Saul has been sowing bad seeds of murder and malice and now he’s crying for a miracle to lift him from this war. He really thinks so?

Truth is, he wasn’t striving for God’s mercy. He just wanted a way out.

Saul has been snubbing God’s message and messengers and now he consulted a medium for God’s list of what to do. What was he thinking?

Tell me, was he really seeking God’s will, or was he more waiting for an alternate answer?

God allows suffering, but that doesn’t mean He likes us hanging for our lives.

Think again. We may have crossed the line of sin. What we need is not an easy fix, but His forgiveness.

God may be silent, but that doesn’t mean He left us hanging without a clue.

Think again. We always have His revealed word. Don't give the excuse of waiting when obedience is next in line.

Still thinking?

Science 101

1 Samuel 27:1

“But David thought to himself, ‘One of these days I will be destroyed by the hands of Saul. The best thing I can do is to escape to the land of the Philistines. Then Saul will give up searching for me anywhere in Israel, and I will slip out of his hand.”

 The scientific method is a process of experimentation that is used to explore observations and answer questions. It is a body of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge. To be termed scientific, according to Wikipedia, the method of inquiry must be based on gathering observable, empirical, measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning. To be objective as possible, scientists archive and share all data and methodology so they are available for careful scrutiny by other scientists. This allows statistical measures of the reliability of the data to be established.

After the seeming déjà vu of sparing Saul’s life and receiving a promised return favor, David still never went home. His king has the reputation of not keeping his word and so he might as well maintain their distance. After a long, stressful day, in the stillness of the night, he did some self-talk. In a nutshell, his line of thought was, ‘Saul can kill me here. Here is fatal. Out there is my only chance.’ The problem with this intrapersonal relationship is that the process of message exchange, sending-receiving-feedback, revolves around one person alone. He may have done well in data gathering to its analysis, but how could he make a decision based on a drawn conclusion that is unsifted thereby unreliable?  How could he expose his six hundred men and their families to pagan danger by calling it a solution when in fact it was not even tested yet? And how dare he use logical thinking as answer to faith questions? God has given man the ability to think and lo! We were able to discover processes to recreate great things. But it was not intended for us to work independently from Him. A scientific process without His hand in every step can never be the best process. Apart from His will, it will always be wanting and sadly, end up in waste.

Decision making begins and ends with God. We get our concepts and cues from Him, be daily guided by His Word, empowered by His Spirit, and bring all glory to Him. Trouble comes when we self-talk, instead of God-talk. When we run instead of just resting. When we try instead of fully trusting. His methodology may be unobservable, immeasurable, and beyond human reasoning, but statistics show a hundred percent reliability. Any more questions?

Can’t Wait?

1 Samuel 26:10

“As surely as the Lord lives, he said, the Lord himself will strike him; either his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. But the Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed..”

Kids can’t wait. They’ll itch you to impatience just to get their wants. Now is their only known time zone. Not later. Not in five minutes. Running alongside their Now-mentality is the Me-factor. They still have no concept of consideration, priorities or schedule. Not even when you’re sick in bed or holding a boiling pot. Oh, did I tell you we’re watching a relay race? Third team member is called Next. That’s his cue. He easily forgets novelty and interestingly, his name too. He will convince you he’s the new Now. Confused? They’re not. And they won’t stop unless parents set the tracks, stamp some rules, and stick to it.

Saul can’t wait. One suggestion from the Ziphites, although far off, sent him to pursue David’s life. He once again brought along three thousand men to make sure he gets what he wants - - now. With no godly inquiries or family consideration, he left even his state duties to serve but one purpose - - his 'Me' factor. And why all these bother? Because he wanted a firm grip of this kingdom - - and the next. Which he forfeited for the same issue - - waiting. David, on the other hand, surrendered himself to God’s schedules and submitted to His set rules. Bringing just one man to a camp of thousand, he sure did not intend a kill. Abishai voluntarily suggested to do it for him, for Saul was so near them, lying asleep and defenseless. But David said not now - - God has His time. One look at Saul and David could easily list more harm than good done to him by his father-in-law. The latest? He gave his wife Michal to another man. Imagine that! Saul could easily be pinned to the ground in his own spear if David allowed his pride to overpower him. But he chose to serve not his wants - - but God’s. He who is anointed next to the throne could easily end his suffering now by taking that claim. David was wise enough to know what Next means, wiser still not to call it ‘now’.

‘When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.’ Now, Me, and Next are demand words understandable with kids. Understandable, but not right. Parents ought to help them outgrow it. Multiply that to our age now and what we expect to see are mature grown-ups: able to wait but ready to serve, looking ahead but content with today. When God stops us, it is not because we are not loved, or that He’s too busy for us. For my kids, it could be because such time is set for their nap or homeschooling. Ecclesiastes chapter three reads ‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven. He has made everything beautiful in its time’. Can’t wait? Would you trade His beautiful best for one half-baked? Nah!

Kids, what will you say?

1 Samuel 25:14, 15

“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. Yet these men were very good to us. They did not mistreat us, and the whole time we were out in the fields near them nothing was missing.’

Along with ‘please’ and ‘I’m sorry’, ‘thank you’ is one good manner our parents expect their grandchildren to learn, hahaha :> It is honestly one big pressure - - not because I am merely pleasing them- - but because it difficultly demands daily discipline for me and the kids.  One act should always run in full cycle: they ask something-I ask ‘what will you say?’-they say ‘please’-I give them their want- I ask again ‘what will you say?’, and until it ends with ‘thank you’, we wouldn’t leave that square lot despite their cry, or mine, hahaha :> And the list goes from cookie to toy, dvd then book, to pee or poo. It is endless and oftentimes annoying. But God is never just watching. He still moves stones. Once or twice in a day, when I’m almost at my last straw of sanity, they’ll run back with a hug and will say again ‘thank you mom’ - - unprompted! And I’m full tanked again!

Gratitude delights a giver. Not that our act of kindness is motivated by the need to be favored back but because there is worth in every gift given. Responding wrong, even responding not, although unaffecting to the true value of the gift, is a brag that aims to strip off its sparkle, thus insulting the giver. No one asked David and his men to protect Nabal’s sheep herd from loots. They did it in the pleasure of God. In desperate times, weighing their supplies and found nearly gone, we could imagine their leader exhausting all options to keep them alive. Nabal was top of the list. He was wealthy and in the luxurious mode. They did him some good, although voluntarily, but they could use it as a rapport plus factor. David conditioned his men to come to him in good manners and in all modesty, to never ask for wants, but to submit to whatever grace Nabal can find for them. It was a noble plan. But they were hurled with insults instead. He called David a nobody and his deeds nothing. Imagine yourself heir to the throne, a hero of your country. You did your duty faithfully, not retaliating although falsely accused, kept your faith and your men morally unimpaired, and now this. I could understand why David put on his sword. But God kept him from avenging himself. The fact that God struck Nabal to death meant it was a displeasure to Him as well.

When God sent us His Son to die in our stead, it was love unconditional. Regardless of our response, Jesus is a valuable gift. But not acknowledging His Son is an insult. It is trampling the grace of God underfoot. It’s like saying He’s a nobody and His deeds nothing! Everyday we experience His abundant blessings, personally and as a people. Should we thank God for the sun? for our every breath? for our families, friends, health, career? By not thanking God, we are implying those are insignificant gifts and Him a lame Giver. Ever had a recipient who frowned at your gift, or never said a word, not even a nod? You’d want to take it back right? Be grateful for God’s mercy. We’re undeserving but He still keeps on giving. So let me ask you, as I would with my kids: did God give you something today? Yes? So now what will you say?

Counterflow

1 Samuel 23:13

“May the Lord avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you. As the old saying goes, ‘From evildoers come evil deeds’, so my hand will not touch you.’

When Charice performed during NBC’s ‘Christmas in Rockefeller’ last November, I was one of the many Filipinos who took pride in her. Her rendition of ‘A Grown Up Christmas List’ was not just superb, it was sincere-felt. Drawn by her singing and the beautiful melodic lines, I had it looped while doing my day’s work. At one point I had to give in and check the lyrics, (I usually don’t to keep it sounding fresh), and found it more commendable.  Hear the chorus part: ‘No more lives torn apart. That wars will never start. And time will heal our hearts. And every man will have a friend. The right will always win. And love will never end...’  It was a wish intended for Santa. But since he’s not existing thus unable to grant us answers, I gave it to the One whose heart beats peace. His name is Jehovah Shalom.

Peace according to Wikipedia describes a society or a relationship that is operating harmoniously and without violent conflict. It is the perfect atmosphere in Eden but man broke it for a piece of fruit. King Saul was blessed with a mighty warrior, able to bring back peace in the land, but he scared his best asset off for one jealous eye. The same reason why Cain killed his righteous brother. Why should good be disregarded for evil? What’s wrong with us people? Evil for evil was more understandable, not moral of course. It was David’s men suggestion in this chapter. Saul was alone and helpless in that cave with them and it was an easy death blow for him. They even felt it was a God-given opportunity. Serve him right, we say. That’s why we pay mediocrity when were undercompensated. That’s why we play cold to our uncaring parents. That’s why we pray death to those bugging our lives. But David chose otherwise. Reflecting the righteousness of Christ, he made that counterflow. He overcame evil with good by loving this enemy, by calling him his master. It was definitely not because of Saul, but all because of God. ‘He is the Lord’s anointed’, David said.

Our fight for world peace is far out of reach because all we’re running after is personal convenience, never God-compliance. Like the Pharisees, we tie up heavy loads on our enemies’ shoulders, praying lifechange and all, but we’re not willing to lift a finger to move the burden ourselves. Instead of initiating a handshake, we demand for proofs for them to earn our arm’s length friendship. How civil! When our relationship with God was marred because of OUR sins, He did not wait for us to come back on our knees, begging His repentance. He came to us first. He sought them in the Garden, He died on the cross. Our salvation was God-initiated. The Offended Himself provided peace to us offenders. Peace flows from Him for He is Peace. From evildoers we can expect evil deeds. What comes out of you implies who is inside you. Give that seat to God. He alone can overcome evil with good.  Far better than a counterflow, God makes new roads.  

God-Sent

1 Samuel 23:15-16

“While David was at Horesh in the Desert of Ziph, he learned that Saul had come to take his life. And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God.”

my clay birthday cake
from rilian

When the clocked ticked 12 midnight earlier, I was greeted with my fave chocolate drink and the warmest hug from my husband. Happy Birthday To Me! Today is the first time I will have to celebrate it so far from everyone else. I usually look forward to a full week eating out with friends, have all my favorites cooked by my mom, and have an exclusive date with Tris. I laid in bed feeling a big bit lonely for all those are out of the question now. Who’s to greet me here? And then I woke up wrestled by my kids. When they saw me open my eyes, I got hugs and kisses and ‘I love you mom’s’ - - enough to lift the shadow of the lonely night. ‘Life is so beautiful!’ I can’t help but say. An hour later, the water delivery boy came in for our refill and saw me baking blueberry muffins. I reasoned we’re having a special breakfast for my special day. He right away shifted to an upbeat tone and gave me a greeting. The sincerity warmed my heart and I was still smiling when he left. I’m sure he was God-sent. I may not be able to go and be with those I’m now missing, but who says God can’t send His people to me?

The last Psalm David wrote before coming to Keilah was the 142^nd.  He was in a cave, away from family and friends, and verse four sadly paints what greatly pains his heart: ‘Look to my right and see, no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge, no one cares for my life.’ This warrior became a child. As if adding to his heavy soul, these people whom he rescued from those looting Philistines will surrender him to Saul, thus the need to flee again. Day after day he was being searched by the jealous king, although God did not allow him to be found. But God’s kindness happened. Jonathan, his best friend, out of nowhere, came and helped him find strength in God. We can read the same scenario in Gethsemane. Jesus, being in anguish, His sweat like drops of blood falling to the ground, all-knowing of the cross that lies before Him, was visited by an angel from heaven to strengthen Him. Strongholds may fail, disciples may sleep, mountains may be shaken and the hills be removed, but God’s love remains. An ever-present help in time of trouble.

It’s my thirty-sixth year today and I’ve lost count of the many times God has sent people to secure me of His love. For lending a hand, listening to my cries, making me laugh-loud, for every needed push, and the necessary pulls, my dear friends, thank you. You we’re God-sent, and yes, I miss you all.  Allow me to return the favor, for God is sending me too. I may not know in detail all that you’re going through - -  loneliness, heartbreak, stagnation, persecution, sickness, lost of direction, failure - - but know that God is able to fill your empty cups. Find strength in Him for we can’t have it elsewhere. ‘Call upon Me’,  God says in Psam 91:15,  ‘..and I will answer. I will be with you in trouble. I will rescue you and honor you. With long life I will satisfy you.’ A blessed day ahead, my God-sent friends, and again, Happy Birthday to me :>

Constant Care

1 Samuel 23:2-4

“He inquired of the Lord, saying ‘shall I go and attack these Philistines?’ The Lord answered him, ‘Go attack the Philistines and save Keilah.’ But David’s men said to him, ‘Here in Judah we are afraid. How much more, then, if we go to Keilah against the Philistine forces!’  Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him, ‘Go down to Keilah, for I am going to give the Philistines into your hand.”

My son loves dinosaurs. He can effortlessly call out their –saurus and -raptor names as if he was just saying cat or dog. His dino-life includes twenty-plus toys in the crate, illustrated themed books, ice age & barney dvds, ipad puzzles and games, glow in the dark stickers and his latest craze, playdough! Weeks back, he just asks his dad to give it a Jurassic shape. It wows us to see him mindful of details for he’ll complain when the clay figure misses a claw or a spike or should have rounder tail. Last week was milestone for he started to sculpt by himself. But it did not stop him from interrupting our dvd nights. Every now and then he comes in when he can’t make the reptile stand or when an attached horn falls off. His dad will tell him the solution and let him try again on his own. I usually echo ‘You can do it Rilian!’ But when he comes in again, teary-eyed pleading for help, his dad will sure take over the molding. He need not ask twice.

I can’t help but admire David’s heart to readily go and save the people of Keilah from those looting Philistines. Upon hearing the news and given his run-for-life status, he could have just prayed ‘Lord, help them’. That’s Christian enough. But his inquiry was, ‘Shall I go?’ It was already in the stance of moving. He merely needed God’s confirming word. Unlike most of us who are already in the rest position when troubles invade us, even wide-eyed in disbelief when asked to report for duty. David was not in denial either. On the contrary, he considered his men’s concern for their safety. He acknowledged their fears as his own and inquired of God once more. If he was all-courageous and God-confident, he could have encouraged them with faith words. But his was failing now. God saw it and being a caring, considerate Father, He shifted His promise from ‘You can do it’ to ‘I will do it”.  He’s all-empowering when we’re strong and He’s ever-present in time of need.  That's thoughtful!

This life has been a roller-coaster ride for all of us. Our seasons of ups and downs are ever changing and even those mature in the faith can’t keep their hold to be God-passionate all the time. Elijah prayed that he might die just after the Mount Carmel face-off. Peter who declared ‘I will never disown you’ thrice denied Christ within the same chapter. But fathers do not cease to love their children when they grow weak. They won’t give a scold either. God does not respond based on our variables, but He acts according to His constant love.  That’s why we call Him unchanging. In just three verses, we see David  both in faith and in fear. But to One constant did he twice run to. You don’t need to think twice you know :>