This breathtaking cloud and sun ray picture was taken from my gardenMay 9, 2010 at 5:30 p.m.
in Bacolod City
...remembering without ceasing
your work of faith,
labor of love,
and patience of hope
in our Lord Jesus Christ...
- 1 Thessalonians 1:3
Patience is necessary,
and one cannot reap immediately where one has sown.
- Soren Kierkegaard
Hope is patience with the lamp lit.
- Tertullian
in Bacolod City
...remembering without ceasing
your work of faith,
labor of love,
and patience of hope
in our Lord Jesus Christ...
- 1 Thessalonians 1:3
Patience is necessary,
and one cannot reap immediately where one has sown.
- Soren Kierkegaard
Hope is patience with the lamp lit.
- Tertullian
Choosing a New Leader
On Monday, May 10, 2010, our country went to the polls to choose the fifteenth president of our republic.
Out of nine presidential candidates, Benigno Aquino III, emerged as the sure winner.
Election day of 2010 will go down in history as the first time that an automated polling process was used in our country.
Despite the grim predictions of doomsday prophets and naysayers, trumpeting fears of inevitable failure of elections and the certainty of electronic malfunction, the day turned out to be a brilliant success.
The automation critics conceded they were "absolutely thrilled to be wrong" about their forecast that the automated election system used in the polls would surely bog down.
Intercessors for this nation have been on their knees storming heavens for clean and honest elections. And I believe that God heard our prayers.
I believe that our nation is on the verge of a spiritual breakthrough.
Alejandro R. Roces, one of our country's veteran editorial writers, had this to say in his column on May 13, 2010:
The success of the recent elections is a milestone for our national life. This event was hardly noticed by the global news agencies, so we deeply appreciate the kind congratulatory statements given us by such democracies as the United States, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Read these beautiful words written by our Foreign Secretary Alberto G. Romulo:
Renewing Hope
As I write these bloglines, I am back in Manila. I arrived here on Monday, election day, and was an eyewitness to how peacefully the electoral process was conducted in our nation's capital.
As the term of our incumbent president is about to end in a few weeks' time, we have renewed hopes that the next president will do better than his predecessor. We hope that he will do all he can to lift up our nation from the seemingly hopeless mire of poverty and corruption that we are in.
Where there is an opportunity to turn things around, at the dawn of a new day, hope springs back to life.
Hope is the one thing that we as a nation need to hold on to.
The latest statistics put our current population at a galloping ninety-five million. With the many economic issues confronting us, the picture ahead of us isn't so rosy.
This explains why:
...thousands of Filipinos leave for abroad everyday, in hopes of greener pastures overseas;
...thousands of our educated working class opt to work as domestic helpers in Singapore, Hong Kong, the Middle East, Italy, Canada, and other western countries, leaving behind young children and aging parents hoping to earn more money to better their family's future;
...hordes of our promising young men and women have chosen to live as citizens of another nation, turning their backs on the land of their birth, embracing a new culture, pledging allegiance to a new country.
They have one thing in common... they all have lost hope in this nation.
But I, together with countless others, have not given up.
Lighting the Lamp
Unbelief is the opposite of faith, and despair is the opposite of hope. And on any given day, I will still choose hope over despair.
Tertullian, a lay theologian and Catholic writer of the second and third centuries, said that "Hope is patience with the lamp lit."
For me, this simply means that hope is the fire that fuels our patience. Because of hope, we can endure, persevere, and hold on.
When the race is long, a runner will need more than swiftness of foot, or strength, or even stamina. One needs determination, and staying power.
I have nothing against my countrymen who have chosen to leave. It is a personal choice they have made, and for some of them, that path may have been ordained of God.
What saddens me is the fact that many of them are probably missing out on the destiny that God had planned for us as a nation. Many gifts and talents that are in these Filipinos were meant to be used in this country, for nation building, to be history makers and change agents, and for fulfilling the purposes of God in this part of the globe.
And I find myself asking these questions:
Would things have turned out differently if people were willing to wait a little longer?
Would things have changed if only they were patient enough to give God time to act?
Would there have been another perspective, if only they had given hope a chance?
Growing the Fruit
Patience is one of the nine-fold fruit of the Spirit. Yesterday morning, my daughter Obedient One and I were having a conversation about this.
"Cultivating the ground on which the Spirit can grow His fruit is up to us," I told her.
In my younger years, patience was not my strongest point. I was demanding, often expecting the circumstances of my life to go exactly the way I planned it.
But after I turned my life over to Jesus as the Lord of my life, gradually things changed as I realized that the way to be truly Christlike was to give Him room to work out His purposes in me.
And often, although my plans would not turn out the way I wanted them to, the end result would be something far better.
In the waiting rooms of life, my God chiseled off the rough edges of my character. A painful process, but I knew it was for my own good.
I learned to stop complaining, and grumbling when things went wrong.
A few years ago, I made the choice that my priority is to make my heart a conducive place, a fertile ground for the fruit of the Spirit to grow and mature.
Out of nine presidential candidates, Benigno Aquino III, emerged as the sure winner.
Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III
Fifteenth president of the Republic of the Philippines
(read BBC profile on Noynoy here)
Election day of 2010 will go down in history as the first time that an automated polling process was used in our country.
Despite the grim predictions of doomsday prophets and naysayers, trumpeting fears of inevitable failure of elections and the certainty of electronic malfunction, the day turned out to be a brilliant success.
The automation critics conceded they were "absolutely thrilled to be wrong" about their forecast that the automated election system used in the polls would surely bog down.
Intercessors for this nation have been on their knees storming heavens for clean and honest elections. And I believe that God heard our prayers.
I believe that our nation is on the verge of a spiritual breakthrough.
Alejandro R. Roces, one of our country's veteran editorial writers, had this to say in his column on May 13, 2010:
We are surprised at how quickly results were being reported. So quickly in fact, the speed has helped stymie cheating, ballot box switching and result manipulation. We have taken another step forward in our maturation as a democratic nation....
One of the clearest signs of the success of the automated elections came via the Philippine Stock Exchange, which jumped up 3.9 percent on Tuesday....
We are proud of those who worked tirelessly through day and beyond. It was their unremarked hard work, effort and patience that resulted in praise from domestic and international sources alike for our elections....
The Filipino people performed brilliantly. As strange as it is to say, only ten reported deaths is the lowest election death toll in memory. Over 75 percent of registered voters turned out to cast their ballots, an incredible number. The patience they showed in tackling a new system of voting, slogging through heat and long lines was inspiring. From the volunteers to the voters there is much to be proud of today.
The graciousness with which the presidential candidates who were well behind in the polls conceded were honorable acts of statesmanship. Statesmanship, lacking for many years, reappeared. The calls of Richard Gordon and Manuel Villar to rally behind and support the administration of President-elect Benigno Aquino III are worthy responses, and examples of leadership.
The Filipino people have spoken. Our hope is that all involved can set aside campaign differences and work together. It may sound cliche, but fixing the country requires cooperation from all parties. Graciousness in defeat and victory, by all candidates and supporters, will help ameliorate the charged post-campaign political and social atmosphere.
- Roses & Thorns, Opinion, The Philippine Star, May 13, 2010
The success of the recent elections is a milestone for our national life. This event was hardly noticed by the global news agencies, so we deeply appreciate the kind congratulatory statements given us by such democracies as the United States, the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Read these beautiful words written by our Foreign Secretary Alberto G. Romulo:
...the Philippines is and has been a practicing democracy for decades.
The exemplary conduct of our people during the elections, especially in quietly queuing for their turn to vote and the statesman-like concession speeches of aspirants for public office, are sterling reaffirmations of people’s deep-seated faith in and commitment to free, fair and participatory democracy, and on elections as the better way to garner mandate to govern.
- from Election 2010 Updates
Renewing Hope
As I write these bloglines, I am back in Manila. I arrived here on Monday, election day, and was an eyewitness to how peacefully the electoral process was conducted in our nation's capital.
As the term of our incumbent president is about to end in a few weeks' time, we have renewed hopes that the next president will do better than his predecessor. We hope that he will do all he can to lift up our nation from the seemingly hopeless mire of poverty and corruption that we are in.
Where there is an opportunity to turn things around, at the dawn of a new day, hope springs back to life.
Hope is the one thing that we as a nation need to hold on to.
The latest statistics put our current population at a galloping ninety-five million. With the many economic issues confronting us, the picture ahead of us isn't so rosy.
This explains why:
...thousands of Filipinos leave for abroad everyday, in hopes of greener pastures overseas;
...thousands of our educated working class opt to work as domestic helpers in Singapore, Hong Kong, the Middle East, Italy, Canada, and other western countries, leaving behind young children and aging parents hoping to earn more money to better their family's future;
...hordes of our promising young men and women have chosen to live as citizens of another nation, turning their backs on the land of their birth, embracing a new culture, pledging allegiance to a new country.
They have one thing in common... they all have lost hope in this nation.
But I, together with countless others, have not given up.
Lighting the Lamp
Unbelief is the opposite of faith, and despair is the opposite of hope. And on any given day, I will still choose hope over despair.
Tertullian, a lay theologian and Catholic writer of the second and third centuries, said that "Hope is patience with the lamp lit."
For me, this simply means that hope is the fire that fuels our patience. Because of hope, we can endure, persevere, and hold on.
When the race is long, a runner will need more than swiftness of foot, or strength, or even stamina. One needs determination, and staying power.
I have nothing against my countrymen who have chosen to leave. It is a personal choice they have made, and for some of them, that path may have been ordained of God.
What saddens me is the fact that many of them are probably missing out on the destiny that God had planned for us as a nation. Many gifts and talents that are in these Filipinos were meant to be used in this country, for nation building, to be history makers and change agents, and for fulfilling the purposes of God in this part of the globe.
And I find myself asking these questions:
Would things have turned out differently if people were willing to wait a little longer?
Would things have changed if only they were patient enough to give God time to act?
Would there have been another perspective, if only they had given hope a chance?
Growing the Fruit
Patience is one of the nine-fold fruit of the Spirit. Yesterday morning, my daughter Obedient One and I were having a conversation about this.
"Cultivating the ground on which the Spirit can grow His fruit is up to us," I told her.
In my younger years, patience was not my strongest point. I was demanding, often expecting the circumstances of my life to go exactly the way I planned it.
But after I turned my life over to Jesus as the Lord of my life, gradually things changed as I realized that the way to be truly Christlike was to give Him room to work out His purposes in me.
And often, although my plans would not turn out the way I wanted them to, the end result would be something far better.
In the waiting rooms of life, my God chiseled off the rough edges of my character. A painful process, but I knew it was for my own good.
I learned to stop complaining, and grumbling when things went wrong.
A few years ago, I made the choice that my priority is to make my heart a conducive place, a fertile ground for the fruit of the Spirit to grow and mature.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Against such things there is no law.
- Galatians 5:22-23
patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Against such things there is no law.
- Galatians 5:22-23
It was not easy, of course.
It still isn't. Because these do not come naturally, nor do they happen overnight.
It is a process, and above all...it is a choice.
No, I told my daughter, it is definitely not easy. But having a goal certainly helps.
God Himself is the model of patience for us. Our God does not give up easily.
He sits as a refiner of silver, He is the prodigal Father who waits for His wayward son or daughter to return home. He waits to grow the fruit.
One of my favorite verses about God's patience is found in 2 Peter 3:8-9
Taking Time, Going Deeper
Several ingredients are needed to grow the fruit called patience, but time definitely plays a major role.
It can't be argued. Patience grows in the dark, behind the scenes, away from the limelight. We all know how a fruit that has been forced to ripen before its time ends up losing its sweetness, juiciness, and nutritional value.
In the same way, time holds a prominent position in the shaping of our inner lives.
These past two years I have had many opportunities to visit countless blogs. There is a wonderful blog world out there, men and women with great things to say, people with amazing gifts and abilities to paint pictures with the words they write.
But this I have also observed: many blog writers are in a hurry...
In a hurry to write a blog entry...
In a hurry to read other people's posts....
Now, when one is in a hurry, it is next to impossible to have a meaningful relationship.
But then again, I understand. Maybe that is how most people want it. Maybe in this day and age, the meaning of relationships has been re-defined.
Don't come too near.
And for many people, saying hello and goodbye on Facebook and Twitter works just fine.
I hope I won't be misunderstood. Written words tend to mean different things to different people. Only seven percent of communication is verbal, the ninety-three percent make up the non verbal components - the relational message behind the words, the voice intonation, the body language, to name some of them.
For God, relationship is everything.
That's why God takes time. He does not take short cuts to a destination. God takes us by the winding roads and the scenic routes of life. In this world of microwaves, instant messages, fast foods, and electronic calculators, there are still some things that are best done slowly.
He makes all things beautiful...in His time.
And this is why, at this point in my life, relationships are among the things I value most. I am looking for beauty and depth in my relationships.
It is not easy, especially because the internet age has given relationships a make over... a new face, a new name.
Early enough in my blog experience, I have realized that I cannot survive on the fast track mode of cyberspace. Switching channels by remote control to watch multiple shows on television used to displace me. Surfing the web is worse! I get information overload...and I think my neurons will burn out very quickly this way.
That is why when I visit other people's blogs, I try to stay long enough to read that person's heart. Or go back to visit, and re-read.
And whenever possible, I will leave a comment, praying it will make the blog owner feel valued and honored...and giving glory to the work of the Creator in that man or woman's life.
Doing this will allow me to read only so many blogs a week, but that's fine with me.
It means that more time will be required for me to write a blog post, as there are things on my heart that need to gel and take root before I could even express them in words.
It also means that even if I wanted to, I won't be able to write about too many things, because of limited time. A lot of words will have to be left unsaid, and I have to be content with that.
There will also be less readers visiting my place, because my blog posts always end up being longer than most blogs, and many blog readers often don't have time to stay long.
I certainly have nothing against people with short blog posts. It has been a delight visiting poetry or photography or arts and crafts blogs where not much is written or said.
Different strokes for different folks.
I'm only sharing what I honestly feel to illustrate the point of what I was saying to my daughter.
Everything in life is a choice.
The choices I make will determine the kind of fruit that grows in my heart's garden.
My choices define what I can do, and what I can't.
And one day I strike gold, when I meet another person on the blogosphere who thinks and feels the way I do.
And I wake up to a new day when I hear God telling me new things about Himself.
That He is not in a hurry to give me the things I want, because He's more concerned about building my heart.
He's after the relationship...and as I said before, things as valuable as these don't happen overnight.
And I am convinced more than ever that keeping close to God's heart is the thing I need most.
And I realize that all the praying that we have done for our nation is not in vain.
And God speaks some important truths to our hearts.
He begins to say that it won't be long now. That our nation is on the verge of a spiritual breakthrough.
He speaks hope to my heart that the physical healing I have hoped for all these years is about to become a reality.
The promise I have been hoping for is about to be fulfilled.
Be patient in hope...for I know the plans I have for you...God reminds me.
He ignites my waiting heart with hope that my patience will be rewarded in the end.
God's calling me to go up another level.
When all is said and done, I realize that God is calling me to put my hope
not in a person,
not in a nation,
not in what my human eyes can see,
not in my human strength and abilities and strategies...
but in One through whom He has chosen to reveal ...
God is calling you and me to come up higher.
A song that has really ministered to my heart these past four years is one written and sung by Israel Houghton, entitled Another Breakthrough.
I share it here as a reminder to my blog readers that all is not lost, that hope will pay off in the end.
It still isn't. Because these do not come naturally, nor do they happen overnight.
It is a process, and above all...it is a choice.
No, I told my daughter, it is definitely not easy. But having a goal certainly helps.
God Himself is the model of patience for us. Our God does not give up easily.
He sits as a refiner of silver, He is the prodigal Father who waits for His wayward son or daughter to return home. He waits to grow the fruit.
One of my favorite verses about God's patience is found in 2 Peter 3:8-9
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends:
With the Lord a day is like a thousand years,
and a thousand years are like a day.
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise,
as some understand slowness.
He is patient with you,
not wanting anyone to perish,
but everyone to come to repentance.
With the Lord a day is like a thousand years,
and a thousand years are like a day.
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise,
as some understand slowness.
He is patient with you,
not wanting anyone to perish,
but everyone to come to repentance.
Taking Time, Going Deeper
Several ingredients are needed to grow the fruit called patience, but time definitely plays a major role.
It can't be argued. Patience grows in the dark, behind the scenes, away from the limelight. We all know how a fruit that has been forced to ripen before its time ends up losing its sweetness, juiciness, and nutritional value.
In the same way, time holds a prominent position in the shaping of our inner lives.
These past two years I have had many opportunities to visit countless blogs. There is a wonderful blog world out there, men and women with great things to say, people with amazing gifts and abilities to paint pictures with the words they write.
But this I have also observed: many blog writers are in a hurry...
In a hurry to write a blog entry...
In a hurry to read other people's posts....
Now, when one is in a hurry, it is next to impossible to have a meaningful relationship.
But then again, I understand. Maybe that is how most people want it. Maybe in this day and age, the meaning of relationships has been re-defined.
Don't come too near.
And for many people, saying hello and goodbye on Facebook and Twitter works just fine.
I hope I won't be misunderstood. Written words tend to mean different things to different people. Only seven percent of communication is verbal, the ninety-three percent make up the non verbal components - the relational message behind the words, the voice intonation, the body language, to name some of them.
For God, relationship is everything.
That's why God takes time. He does not take short cuts to a destination. God takes us by the winding roads and the scenic routes of life. In this world of microwaves, instant messages, fast foods, and electronic calculators, there are still some things that are best done slowly.
He makes all things beautiful...in His time.
And this is why, at this point in my life, relationships are among the things I value most. I am looking for beauty and depth in my relationships.
It is not easy, especially because the internet age has given relationships a make over... a new face, a new name.
Early enough in my blog experience, I have realized that I cannot survive on the fast track mode of cyberspace. Switching channels by remote control to watch multiple shows on television used to displace me. Surfing the web is worse! I get information overload...and I think my neurons will burn out very quickly this way.
That is why when I visit other people's blogs, I try to stay long enough to read that person's heart. Or go back to visit, and re-read.
And whenever possible, I will leave a comment, praying it will make the blog owner feel valued and honored...and giving glory to the work of the Creator in that man or woman's life.
Doing this will allow me to read only so many blogs a week, but that's fine with me.
It means that more time will be required for me to write a blog post, as there are things on my heart that need to gel and take root before I could even express them in words.
It also means that even if I wanted to, I won't be able to write about too many things, because of limited time. A lot of words will have to be left unsaid, and I have to be content with that.
There will also be less readers visiting my place, because my blog posts always end up being longer than most blogs, and many blog readers often don't have time to stay long.
I certainly have nothing against people with short blog posts. It has been a delight visiting poetry or photography or arts and crafts blogs where not much is written or said.
Different strokes for different folks.
I'm only sharing what I honestly feel to illustrate the point of what I was saying to my daughter.
Everything in life is a choice.
The choices I make will determine the kind of fruit that grows in my heart's garden.
My choices define what I can do, and what I can't.
And one day I strike gold, when I meet another person on the blogosphere who thinks and feels the way I do.
And I wake up to a new day when I hear God telling me new things about Himself.
That He is not in a hurry to give me the things I want, because He's more concerned about building my heart.
He's after the relationship...and as I said before, things as valuable as these don't happen overnight.
And I am convinced more than ever that keeping close to God's heart is the thing I need most.
And I realize that all the praying that we have done for our nation is not in vain.
And God speaks some important truths to our hearts.
He begins to say that it won't be long now. That our nation is on the verge of a spiritual breakthrough.
He speaks hope to my heart that the physical healing I have hoped for all these years is about to become a reality.
The promise I have been hoping for is about to be fulfilled.
Be patient in hope...for I know the plans I have for you...God reminds me.
He ignites my waiting heart with hope that my patience will be rewarded in the end.
But he that endures to the end will be saved...
Blessed is that servant whom his master,
when he comes, will find so doing.
Matthew 24:13, 46
Blessed is that servant whom his master,
when he comes, will find so doing.
Matthew 24:13, 46
God's calling me to go up another level.
When all is said and done, I realize that God is calling me to put my hope
not in a person,
not in a nation,
not in what my human eyes can see,
not in my human strength and abilities and strategies...
but in One through whom He has chosen to reveal ...
the glorious riches of this mystery,
which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
- Colosians 1:27
which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
- Colosians 1:27
God is calling you and me to come up higher.
A song that has really ministered to my heart these past four years is one written and sung by Israel Houghton, entitled Another Breakthrough.
I share it here as a reminder to my blog readers that all is not lost, that hope will pay off in the end.
Another Breakthrough
by Israel Houghton
Another level, another harvest
Another day for You to manifest Your promises
Another moment, another season for a
Breakthrough, breakthrough
A greater level, a greater harvest
A greater day for You to manifest Your promises
A greater moment, a greater season for a
Breakthrough, breakthrough
This is the level, this is a harvest
This is the day that You will manifest Your promises
This is the moment, this is the season for a
Breakthrough, breakthrough
Breakthrough, breakthrough
Breakthrough, breakthrough
A picture of patience:
Banaue Rice Terraces
Mountain Province, Philippines
by Israel Houghton
Another level, another harvest
Another day for You to manifest Your promises
Another moment, another season for a
Breakthrough, breakthrough
A greater level, a greater harvest
A greater day for You to manifest Your promises
A greater moment, a greater season for a
Breakthrough, breakthrough
This is the level, this is a harvest
This is the day that You will manifest Your promises
This is the moment, this is the season for a
Breakthrough, breakthrough
Breakthrough, breakthrough
Breakthrough, breakthrough
A picture of patience:
Banaue Rice TerracesMountain Province, Philippines
Hailed as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World,’ this ‘Stairway to Heaven’ was built by hand by the ancestors of the Ifugao tribe. The magnificent rice terraces are farms built on structurally layered mountainsides. They provide food for the mountain locals, as much as breathtaking scenery for visitors. (photo and info taken from here)
Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart,
and try to love the questions themselves.
Do not seek the answers,
which cannot be given you
because you would not be able to live them.
And the point is to live everything.
Live the questions.
- Rainer Maria Rilke
Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart,
and try to love the questions themselves.
Do not seek the answers,
which cannot be given you
because you would not be able to live them.
And the point is to live everything.
Live the questions.
- Rainer Maria Rilke
25 comments:
Your post is very insightful. I too only read a few blogs but I read them in their entirety. May God continue to bless you and keep you in His loving arms today and always. Have a great week, dear friend.
"The choices I make will determine the kind of fruit that grows in my heart's garden."
I love your heart! To me, that is what Heart Choices is all about.
I am so glad you were recommended to me by Felisol of On the Far Side of the Sea. I know this isn't the first time I've been on your blog but after reading this post, I want to return again and again. Such truth you shared in this post.
I am so glad to read your account of the Presidential election in the Philippines. I've not read much in the newspapers and so I'm glad to read it from a personal who lives there and knows. There is always hope and I'm so glad you've not given up on your native land. I will join in praying for this nation. Thank you for sharing what's going on.
Thank you most of all for sharing so honestly from your heart of love. I can see it even online.
Blessings,
Debbie
I am praising GOD for working in and through the election process. HE is awesome!
Thank you for your sweet comment on arise 2 write. I have missed you. Praying GOD continues to use you in mighty ways, sweet friend.
Hugs, prayers, and blessings, andrea
Hi Lidj, Thank you for your kind visits and such sweet encouraging comments. Yes to "to live everything" is so true and something that we should do everyday . . . how insightful. My nest is almost empty and it's the memories and moments with my kids that I seem to share the most on my blog and that's where my heart is for now . . I don't regret it a bit. Our children are assignments from God and it's where God speaks to me the most. Love visiting your blog Lidj, always an inspiration to me, Sandy:O)
That is so great about the election process going so well! What a testimony of God's hand in it all! It is so true that Hope will pay off in the end!! And your post reminds me of that today! :) Hope you have a great week Lidj!!
Thank you for sharing these wonderful things about your nation! I am not Filipino, and I have never been there...yet it fills my heart with joy to see God moving in your nation!
I also couldn't helps smiling to read what you said about fertile ground for the fruit of the Spirit, since I just posted about earthworm miracles. Not quite the same lesson, but related.
Have a wonderful week, Lidj!
Lidj,
I too agree with you regarding visiting blogs, writing posts and leaving comments. In my personal opinion if I agreed to follow you I should visit, not just merely to stop by and show you my support but to share what I found profound about what you wrote today and how it impacted me personally. Like you said, in today's world, people are simply too busy trying to do too much. Priorities work well because once you establish those you can fill it the extra time with things you truly enjoy.
For me, since my blog is my online ministry it's been important to encourage and inspire bloggers through the words I share with them in doing God's will, not mine.
These is so inspiring for me to read those very same words and I am truly uplifted whenever you stop by and share your insights with me.
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
I'm so happy to hear of your election results, and your feeling that your nation is on the verge of a spiritual breakthough. It's so wonderful to think of all those intercessors storming heaven on behalf of your country!
The picture of the Rice terraces is beautiful. It would take much patience to do this!
Lidj,
You post today...deeply stirred my heart. Tears mixed with a Godly laughter welled up within. I read your words...and in a strange way, I knew I was reading my own words. The things God is doing in you as an individual...and as part of a nation are praiseworthy. God loves Philippines and as you said...you believe your country is at the end of a spiritual breakthrough. And I say Amen. I also say Amen to the fact that patience is building character in all those who are yielded to him...hoping for his salvation...and the harvest of our labour of love. I am waiting...to see the manifestation of the sons of God...in these end time.
Thank you for calling us to linger on with God...and growing in our relationship with him. I loved the fact He does not hand me things as I would like...but He is keeping me close...and teaching me relationship!
What a faithful God we have. May the Lord keep you and grant you His peace, now and always!
Love, Gladwell
Lidj,
You said, "He is not in a hurry to give me the things I want, because He's more concerned about building my heart." The patience required to watch and wait. He is not limited by time like we are. That thought alone helps me look up and ask for help to endure and let him chisel away.
The way you blog affirms my blogging. I don't post anything unless it is really something that I'm growing in and really understanding. As a result of my infrequent posting, the hurry of the blogging world passes me by. But, I'm okay with that. I blog for my own processing and growth. You are an encouragement as you do the same.
You also mentioned the hurry way people go about relationships. Content to just facebook and twitter...but they aren't content because relationships don't go deep and we were made for deeper connections. I believe this is one of the main reasons there lies the complaint in the church that we don't connect well. How do I, the pastor's wife, even approach such a subject? For now, I'm praying. Your faithful prayers for your nation inspires me here. It takes faith to pray for what feels like a miracle is needed. I do pray with you that your nation will see change in the government, a healthy change in leadership.
Love to you!
Amy
I saw you posted yesterday. Like you, I don't want to rush reading a post. But specially knowing you, how you always spill these words and wonderful reminders from your heart, I didn't want to visit you yesterday and be rushed.
So now, I came and I'm glad that the election went well. I had been praying for the Lord to install a godly man and the corruption we have in our government be replaced with doing what is right. May that change be there now and this be an answered prayer!
There are so much to chew in this post. Like learning patience. And in everything that happens in our journey, I know that the Lord wants us to learn how to be patient. Perhaps, it's a way of preparing for what's coming that is bound for eternity.
Relationships...like even with cell phones. More people use text messages than talk [there, it's understandable as it's more costly to talk than text]. Everything is a rush. Relationships becoming superficial.
I pray for the Lord to bring revival in all of our hearts and in all of the nations. Because He is the only One Who can surely bring the change in everything. For the better. God bless you sister Lidj. Thank you for this wonderful heartfelt post. May you be strong in the Lord's mighty power.
Hi sister Lidj. Yes, I'm your "kababayan" :). I had a pic before and decided to take it down for 2 reasons. One because of my work and the other, I wanted my blog to truly reflect the Lord's work in me. It's all about Him and yes to God be the glory! God bless.
Lidj,
I'm glad you can see the optimism in the Philippines. Too many American Christians have been wringing their collective hands in anxiety over our nation becoming increasingly secular. Sadly this only produces fear, trepidation, and shrillness - not the stuff of a positive witness! And not evidence that we truly have our hearts set on an eternal kingdom where righteousness dwells (I too love that passage from Peter). Thanks for being a good model for me in this way; though I know that's not your intent, that's how God used your perspective to make me think today.
Be blessed my friend
I know so many of my blogger friends are not blessed with the gift of time that I have in my life at this time and that it is difficult to leave a comment each time they visit, especially when they have a lot of their own followers. I myself get lax because of busyness. I agree that relationships are very important in our life and with our blogger friends we glean so much from each other. Each of my blog friends are encouraging and have a special place in my day and week right along with my in the flesh friends. When I visit your blog I always come away with a new nugget of gold about our Lord and I am inspired by your grace and love for him. :) I am glad your elections are going well and that you are hanging in with the country you love. Your sky photo is beautiful and what a treat for us you had your camera handy. HUGS from Dee
Sweet Lidj:
So many good things here...
Choices... how much in our lives depend on those, from the daily to the life long.
and the word 'hurry'... so describes the world we live in. I really enjoy the conveniences, but I wonder if the constant messaging and fragmented conversations on all this new 'stuff' is going to mean less depth in lives... going deeper involves so much more, and the attention span of this culture is short.
As I say that, it reminds me that I have my own choices to make, and always... He must be first.
Again, so many good promptings here Lidj... thank you.
Hugs & love...
I have so enjoyed getting to know you here, Lidj. You have a beautiful heart. Often times I try to keep my posts short, because I know people are in a hurry, but I see now that there is no realness in that. God values our thoughts and words, and we should honor each other in this way.
Congrats on your new president. I don't know if you know what's going on here with our new president, but it's not good. Still...God is in control.
In the picture you took of the ray of sun - it looks like that cloud is in the shape of an angel!
Prayer for one's country and leaders is so important and scripture encourages us to do so. I will take a moment to pray for you country as I pray for my own.
Hi, Lidj! Your post is so rich in detail of the Lord's desire to work in us.
The pictures are very beautiful, and I especially love the first one with the light breaking through. It makes me think of hope.
I just read something last night about the fruits of the Spirit. As the writer spoke about patience, I realized my own need in contrast with the Father's deep, abiding patience. I am praying all fruits will find their way to the core of my soul.
I rejoice with you that the elections in your country went well. God has birthed in you such love for the Philippines, and I pray that more people will find such love and passion for your beautiful country.
And, about the power of choice - Wow! So many of the things you mention here have been on my heart as well, including choices. I pray that I will have the discipline and strength to make God-fearing choices in every facet of my being. Then, I will know He is pleased with me.
Much love to you, precious one,
Andrea
Lidj, this is so rich and beautiful.. words I needed to hear. I set aside time for reading your blog, not only for the length but the richness. I consider it very well-invested time and enjoy it very much!!! ;) Congratulations on the elections! I know my Filipino friends will be very happy, which makes me happy. YES to breakthrough and new life!! Just to say too that your blog (or God through it) spoke to me in a very personal way today.. the thing I am being patient for links with your photo of the rice terraces, which just happens to also be labelled 'patience,' ;) sorry to be a bit cryptic but just to say you have truly encouraged me today, thank you! :)
I just wanted to thank you for your recent comment on my blog.
Your comments are always welcome.
The next time you visit my blog you are more than welcome to become a follower if you want to.
I didn't see an email available on your profile or I would have thanked you by email?
God bless you
Ron
award for u to pick up at my blog...
Oh, Lidj! What a voice with a tender message so eloquently expressed for the future of your country. So many people do not want to become involved in "politics" because they do not recognize the thread of God's purpose and vision needed in policies that blanket a country. You strike a beautiful balance with a heart full of love for your country and love for your Father.
I agree, all good things take time and patience (which I too struggle with): faith,hope and love are not easy-bake items. They are seed-time and harvest items.
It is good to visit with you again. I have had many challenges to face recently and have been too emotionally exhausted to visit my friends. However, I want you to know that I was eager to visit with a fresh mind to hear what God has put on your heart. Your message never fails to give me sustenance and encouragement.
How encouraging to read of the success and safety of your election process! Challenging also to hear your comments about patience and hope. They are timely for ALL of us. I think this perspective develops as we age in years - physically and spiritually.
I'm thankful you are remaining true to your convictions about blogging. I'm never disappointed by the refreshment I find at the "springs" here. Length is neither obstacle or indication of depth, however; and some very short posts convey amazing truth and beauty.
Just as with His spiritual gifts, God gives/directs as HE wills and all are useful for building up the Body of Christ. Our only responsibility is faithfulness and commitment to the glory of God.
Praying for your nation and coveting YOUR prayers for ours, until He returns.
Dear Lidj,
As you know I have been the hostess of our apron. I chose to fulfill that task and catch up with my dear friends later.
Better to have time to do things properly, than to hurry; we're thinking alike.
The words from Roman 12 filled my soul as I was reading your post."12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."
Isn't that what it's all about.
It was never easy for me to wait for the Lord, but till this day he has never let me down.
About Filipino immigration; I think for many it has actually been a question of survival.
Many have come up here to the cold North, the for fun or to escape, but to create a life also for their parents and children.
Many have actually married lonely Norwegian men and become excellent housewives. I have had the honor to be a guest in such a home, and it was a sheer pleasure.
Because of you I followed the presidential election at the Philippines closely.
Everyone hopes you've got a good president and have high hopes for the future of your extraordinary beautiful country.
May God continue to go by your side, now and always.
Lidj,
Please help me spread the word of a sister in Christ who so desperately needs help with a limited amount of time left.
http://godsheart-heart2heart.blogspot.com/2010/05/urgent-prayer-request.html
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
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