The Manna

"And when the children of Israel saw a small, round thing...as the hoar frost they said.."it is manna...the bread which the Lord hath given to it." Exodus 16:15

In the Old Testament, the manna was Jesus Christ "the bread of life" who came down from heaven pictured as our Lord. The manna was not the baked bread product of this world. It was not made by men but it came down from heaven as a miraculous gift from God. The manna was a small, round and white thing which symbolizes our God. (Exodus 16:14,31).

The manna was the Word of God made by the Holy Spirit and became flesh in order to save us from sins. In Exodus 16:13-14, the manna came right where the people were right into the camp. It was right hand and readily accessible. Like Jesus, He is always readily accessible, waiting and willing to save us, to forgive and cleanse us. "I stand at the door of your heart."(Revelation 3:20).

The manna was small which symbolizes Jesus' humility. "He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death." (Philippians 2:8). The manna was also round which symbolizes eternality. "I am the beginning and the end." (Revelation 1:8). The manna was white which symbolizes purity. "But was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin"(Romans 6:23).

The manna was a free gift from God. "The gift of God was eternal life."(Ephesians 2:8). "Not of works lest any man should boast, for by grace are ye saved through faith and not of yourselves, it is the gift of God."

Each of us should personally gather our own manna. We will never be hungry if we eat the "bread of life."

The Message Of Christmas

"Jesus was born to give us a second birth." 1 John 12:13

I - "Christmas Is Jesus Hanged On A Tree - not Christmas tree." (Acts 5:30). Christmas is Jesus saying to us "Ye are the light of the world" not Christmas Lights. Christ has chosen us to reflect His light from His followers to an unbelieving world. The word witness indicates our role as reflectors of Christ's light.

II - Christmas Is Not Meat And Drink. "For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness, peace and joy in Holy Ghost. (Romans 14:17). God reminds us to stay healthy during Christmas by avoiding salty, sweet, and saturated fat diet and alcohol.

III - Christmas Is Humility - If we say we follow Christ, we must also say we want to live as He lives. We should develop the attitude of humble service even when we are not likely to get recognition for our efforts.

IV - Christmas Is Being A Good Model - We must set as a good example. "Christ also suffered for us leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." (1 Peter 2:21 ).

V - Christmas Is To Be Born Again - "Jesus was born to give us a second birth." (1 John 12:13).
Being born makes us physically alive and places us in our parent's family. Being reborn makes us spiritually alive and places us in God's family.

VI - Christmas Is Being Understanding To Everyone - God knows our joy and sorrow.

Consider this story:

A woman walking in a city park noticed a boy sitting on a bench with bird in his hand. She went to him and discovered that one bird's wing was broken. She offered to take it home but the boy declined and said "I'd rather do it my self." As the woman turned away from him, she saw under the bench something - A crutch and on one of the boy's leg a heavy brace.

The lesson of the story is, God is an all knowing God. He understands our situation. Whatever infirmities we have God knows how to heal us.. physically and emotionally. May we always think of Jesus as the center of Christmas celebration this year and onwards. Have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The Christ

"Casting all your care upon Him, for he careth for you." 1 Peter 5:7

The word Christ is not a name but a title. It is the Greek word "Christos" which means "Messiah" the Anointed One. In the Bible only the Prophet, the Priest and the King are anointed with oil. The Prophetic , the Priestly and the Kingly offices are all the works of Jesus.

I - He Is The Christ Who Walks With Men - Jesus' mission is to redeem, not to condemn. He always asks "where art thou?" especially to those who have gone astray. God always walks with us. Like Peter when Jesus walked with him during the storm. We too sometimes have storms in life. God may allow His people to be tried with season and to be tossed to and fro by storms of trouble but never let them forget that winds, waves and storms are all Christ's servant. They cannot move without permission.

II - He Is The Christ Who Cares For The Problems Of Men - A certain woman was sick for 12 years with a blood disease was physically, financially and spiritually burdened, but because of her faith, she was healed by Jesus. The woman is a picture of all people. Physically we move toward death, financially money cannot buy what one needs and spiritually sin separates us from God. In 1 Peter 5:7, God is asking us to cast all our care upon Him, for He careth to all of us. As the famous song has this to impart us: "There is no problem too big He cannot solve it, If He'll carry the weight of the world upon His shoulders, I know my brother the He will carry you." "He said come unto Me all who are weary and I will give you rest."

III - He Is the Christ Who Sets The Hearts Of Men On Fire - God commissions us to get moving especially if we are defeated by fear, facing temptation, weary of financial woes, family conflicts, etc. Jesus will give us strength and burning passion like an eagle soaring high so that we will not be tired and weary of doing good. We must always set our hearts on fire by fixing our eyes on Him.

The Warnings Of God

"And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod." (Matthew 2:12)


God warns us to stay away from dangerous actions. Just as we warn children to stay away from stoves and busy streets. God's warning are to change the direction of our lives, to deliver us from Satan's temptations, and to direct us into the design of His Word.

Our sins do not appear ugly to us, and the "lovely" sins are hardest to avoid. They come to us in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are like ravening wolves. We must beware of false prophets. Sin's temptations are real and is trying us always to get us to do things his way rather than God's way.

Smoking and alcohol and other vices are the ones destroying our bodies. Sometimes, having diagnosed with catastrophic diseases like liver and lung cancer are the result of man's disobedience to the warnings of God. In the book of Galatians God warns us this : "what you sow you shall reap." It is a great sin if we do not take good care of our bodies especially if we are ill yet we don't go for a check up with a doctor, but it is more of greater sin if we destroy our body by smoking and drinking alcohol and taking drugs. We may not be aware but it may be just the same as suicide or self-kill!

Where will you spend your eternity: In a smoking or nonsmoking area? Sin will find one out of eternity. God is calling out His people out of this world. "Love not the world neither the things that are in this world." (1 John 2:15). Families were broken and children were left orphan due to loss of parents. It's not yet late...never late to ignore God's warnings.

Dreaming Of A Right Christmas

"Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be for all people." (Luke 2:10-11)

I - Right Gift - The right gift for this Christmas is to believe in God by accepting His eternal gift of life and salvation. "...For whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16). Material gifts and worldly possessions are temporary gifts. Priceless jewels, bulging resume, fashionable clothes, accumulated wealth will one day disintegrate into eternal nothingness.

II - Right Invitation To Accept - Jesus' is inviting us always. But oftentimes we resist His invitation to His banquet because it's inconvenient. The time will come when God will stop inviting us, and it will be too late to get into the banquet. The Gospel always speaks of sinners as responsible and accountable beings, the Gospel places an open door before all mankind and no one is excluded from the range of its offers.

III - Right Spirit - Reconciliation and repentance are the lessons we can learn from the story of the Prodigal son. This means re-establishing relationship. Peace with God means we have been reconciled with Him. God whispers us in health and prosperity, but being hard of hearing, we fail to hear God's voice in both, whereupon God turns up the amplifier by means of suffering. Then His voice booms.

IV - Right Celebration - Focusing on God is the right celebration. We must not focus on our own achievements and success but rather focus more on Jesus our Giver of gifts, Creator of creation and Blesser of the blessings we received.

V - Right Response - "....And they said believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved." (Acts 16:31). Believing in God is our right Christmas response. When we say we believe....we say, we're not shouting we're clean living, we're whispering we were lost, now we were found and we were forgiven. We don't speak of this with pride, we were confessing that we stumble, and need Christ to be our guide. We're not trying to be strong, we are professing that we are weak, and need His strength to carry on. We're not holier than thou, we're just a simple sinner, who received God's grace somehow.

Until Then

Be thankful unto Him, [and] bless His name. For the LORD [is] good; His mercy [is] everlasting; and His truth [endureth] to all generations (Psalm 100:5-KJV).

Until Then

My heart can sing when I pause to remember
A heartache here is but a stepping stone
Along a trail that’s winding always upward
This troubled world is not my final home.

But until then my heart will go on singing
Until then, with joy I’ll carry on
Until the day my eyes behold that city
Until the day God calls me home.

The things of earth will dim and lose their value
If we recall it’s borrowed for a while
The things of earth that cause my heart to tremble
Remember they will only bring a smile.

This weary world with all its toil and struggle
May take its toll of misery and strife
The soul of man is like a waiting falcon
When it’s released, its destined for the skies.

The Work Of Faith

And Noah did according unto all that the LORD commanded him. (Genesis 7:5-KJV)


I – THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO HEAR THE VOICE OF GOD

1 Corinthians 14:10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them [is] without signification.(KJV). The work of faith is to catch God’s voice amid all the other voices from earth and hell.


II – THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO OBEY THE VOICE OF GOD

Genesis 2:5 And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for the LORD God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and [there was] not a man to till the ground.(KJV). The work of faith is to obey the voice of God however contrary to human reason it may seem to be.

The work of faith is to accept and to act upon the revelation which God has made, however contrary to human reason it may appear to be.
We are foolish to try to fit God into our mold – to make His plans and purposes conform to ours. Instead we must strive to fit into His plans.


III – THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO DO THE WILL OF GOD

Genesis 7:1 And the LORD said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before me in this generation.(KJV
The work of faith is to do the will of God even though you appear to be the only one doing it.
Are you the only Christian in your home, in your office, in your hospital ward, in your neighborhood? Remember, God’s people have always been in the minority.
Go on living and working for the Lord even though you are the only one in your sphere who is doing so.


IV – THE WORK OF FAITH IS TO GO ON WITH GOD’S WORK

Genesis 7:5 And Noah did according unto all that the LORD commanded him.(KJV)
The work of faith is to go on with God’s work in the face of every opposition and discouragement.
What a cruel taunts he would have borne from the godless crowd around him! “Surely you are mad” they would say.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 [We are] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;(KJV)
All our risks, humiliations and time are opportunities to demonstrate Christ’s power and presence in us. Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.(KJV) It is discouraging to continue to do right and receive no word of thanks or see no tangible results.

Rev. Samuel Morrison who after 25 years in Africa, was returning home to the U.S. to die. He travelled on the same ocean liner that brought President Teddy Roosevelt back from hunting expedition.

When the great ship pulled into New York Harbor, the dock where it was tie up was jammed with what looked like the entire population of New York City. Bands were playing, banners were waving, choirs of children were singing, multicoloured balloons were popping, and cameras were poised to record the return of the president.

Pres. Roosevelt stepped down the gang plank to themselves cheers and applause. At the same time, Rev. Morrison quietly walked off the boat. No one was there to greet him. He slipped alone through the crowd.

Inside his heart, he began to complain; “Lord, the president had been in Africa – for 3 weeks, killing animals, and the whole world turns out to welcome him home.”I’ve given 25 years for my life in Africa, serving you, and no one has greeted me or even knows I’m here.

In the quietness of his heart, a gentle, loving voice whispered, “But my dear child, YOU ARE NOT HOME YET!”

As we face great troubles, it is easy to focus on the pain rather than our ultimate goal. Just as athletes concentrate on the finish line and ignore their discomfort, we too must focus on the reward for our faith and the joy that lasts forever.

God's Requests

My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.(Proverbs 23:26)

You must not be satisfied or content to stay where you are. God cannot use you to fulfil His plan and purposes in this final hour as long as you remain “spiritual babies”. “Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional (left to personal choice).

A. GIVE ME YOUR TIME.
When earthly interests and occupations are more important to us than eternal ones.
When we would rather watch TV and read secular books and magazines and text messages than read the Bible and pray.
When we watch things on TV and movies that we would not show in church.
When you are tires, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week in church.

B. GIVE ME YOUR TALENT.
Mark 4:25 For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.(KJV)
We are responsible to use well what we have. It doesn’t matter how much we have but what we do with it.
The more talent we have the more responsible we are to use them effectively. We must not hesitate, refuse, or serve grudgingly.
God asks each of us: “What are you doing with that I have given you?

C. GIVE ME YOUR TREASURE
God won’t ask what kind of car you drove.
God won’t ask the square footage of your house.
God won’t ask about the clothes you had in your closet.
God won’t ask how much money do you have.
God will say: “Freely, freely you have received, freely give. Go in my name and because you believe; others may know that I live.”

D. GIVE ME “YOUR HEART”
The heart is what the great God requires.
We must not think to divide the heart between God and the world, He will have all or none.
If our hearts are right with God, if the vertical relationship between us and God has made right – then our horizontal relationship can be made right too.
The best gifts to God – YOUR HEART.

The Persistence of Joseph's Faith

I - A Persistent Faith Is Not Shaken By Fierce Adversity - Tears, sorrow, distress, homesickness, afflicted Joseph. He was even hated and planned to be killed by his brothers and became slave in Egypt, but God was with him. His faith in God was not shaken by these trials.

II - A Persistent Faith Is Not Spoiled By Success Or Prosperity - Our faith is more likely to suffer a relapse in times of prosperity than in times of adversity. When everything is going well, that is a dangerous time for a child of God. Joseph though succeeded in life did not forget God. He did not forget God in times of abundance. This is a warning to all: God will take away our valuables if we forget Him.

III - A Persistent Faith Is Not Moved By The Most Subtle Temptation - Joseph was tempted by Potiphar's wife. Joseph did not say "I'd be hurting you." Joseph said: "It would be a great sin against God." The lesson is: The anger of man may be hard but God's anger is harder.

What disturbs you most?

1. A soul in hell.......or scratch in your appliances?
2. You're missing the worship service.......or missing a day's work?
3. Spiritual life not growing.......or your garden not growing?
4. Your Bible unopened........or your newspaper or text messages unread?
5. Church worship being neglected......or house work neglected?
6. Missing a good Bible study.......or your favorite TV program?
7. Your children late for Sunday School and Church.....or late for public and private school?
8. What really disturbs you most?

Engraved Blessings

"We write our blessings in the sand, and we engrave our complaints in the marble." - Charles Spurgeon

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits." (Psalm 103:1-12). True blessings are engraved blessings:

I - Illustrated Blessings - Blessings are not only material things.
1. Blessing of Forgiveness - "Jesus forgave all our iniquities." (Psalm 103:3).
2. Blessing of Redemption - Jesus redeemed our life from destruction. He lifted us from slavery to sovereignty.
3. Blessing of Satisfaction - We can only get true satisfaction, contentment and fulfillment from Jesus. We deceive ourselves when we measure our happiness or contentment in life by the amount of wealth we possess. "The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not want." (Psalm 23).

II - Balanced Blessings - "The wise should understand the loving kindness of the Lord." (Psalm 107:43)
1. Start looking to the BLESSER instead of the blessing.
2. Don't just enjoy the gifts and forget the GIVER.
3. Don't just look at His hand and forget His HEART.

III - Discoveries In Thanksgiving
1. Be thankful for God's presence.
2. Be thankful for we have the grasp of His hand.
3. Be thankful for the guidance of His Word.
4. Be thankful for we will have the glory of His Heaven.

Christianity Is Not Membership In Some Red Carpet Club

"I shall come for as Gold." Job 23:10

Red Carpet - a strip of red carpeting laid down for dignitaries to walk on.

One of the misconceptions held by many is that being a Christian means that all life's difficulties will disappear. But being a Christian means problems may even intensify!

We are afflicted in every way. Job suffered a lot: physical and mental pain. He lost 7 sons and 3 daughters, 7,000 sheeps, 1,000 oxen and 500 donkeys. Lost household and even lost the loyalty of his wife and got sick of boils. The lesson here is affliction can bring a dynamic quality of life.

Just as drought drives the roots of a tree to find water, so affliction can drive us beyond acceptance of suffering. Perplexities and uncertainties always come our way but there is a saying "we may be at the end of the rope but we are never at the end of hope." For with God nothing shall be impossible. When catastrophy comes we may ask "what else is worth living for?"

But we must not forget that although God loves us, faith and obedience to Him do not shelter us from life's calamities. God is telling us and expecting to us to withstand. How do you respond to your troubles? Do you ask "why me"? Or do you say "use me!" Adversity destroys counterfeit faith. Adversity strengthens real faith!

True believers dig their roots deeper into God in order to withstand the storm. Job lost his possessions and family but he responded POSITIVELY and RIGHTLY. There are sayings: "when the Lord is to lead a soul to great faith, He leaves its prayers unheard," "to be miserable, look within, to be distracted, look around, to be happy look up."

Abraham's Faith

"So Abraham departed, as the Lord had spoken." Genesis 12:4

1. Abraham's Obedience Was Prompt - The reason for obeying God is that He tells us so and that must be reason enough without delay.

2. Abraham's Obedience Was Practical - Faith brings us salvation but active obedience demonstrates that our faith is genuine. Godly conduct is a verification of our faith in Christ.

3. Abraham's Obedience Was Progressive - You can't make progress with God as long as you are holding onto pieces of your old life. "No man can serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24). when you are discouraged, remember that God won't give up on you. He will finish the work. The more closely we relate to Him, the more we will like Him.

4. Abraham's Obedience Was Productive - All Abraham's enemies were ultimately conquered. Don't let the comfort and security of your present condition make you miss God's plan for you. God promises great blessings to His people but many of these are conditional. "If my people which are called by my name shall humble themselves and turn away from their wicked ways...then I will forgive their sins and heal their land..."

Inferiority (Part II)

"Six days thou shalt labor" Exodus 34:21

II - Economic Inferiority - a feeling of instant subordination by the poor to the rich or by the poorer to the less poor.

Causes of Economic inferiority are:
1. By depending on the Person's Gifts or Help and
2. Misguided Values

Solutions of Economic Inferiority are:
1. Don't Be Dependent, Work With Dignity - Work with your own hands within 6 days. "6 days thou shalt labor" (Exodus 34:21). No Work No Eat. "That if any would not work, neither should he eat" (2 Thessalonians 3:10). There is always a time for leisure and laziness.
2. Be Contented and Happy With What You Have - Realize that you really don't need much. "But Godliness with contentment is great gain" (1 Timothy 6:6). Sleep in simple bed, take a bath in simple bathroom, eat simple foods. Bear in mind that "all of these will pass away too."
3. Don't Treat Poverty As A Reason For Inferiority - "A dry crust eaten in piece is better than steak every day with argument" (Proverbs 17:1).

III - Mental Inferiority - is caused by actual mental deficiency or handicap like over dose of drug resulting to memory loss, malnutrition and conditioned brain.

Solutions for Mental Inferiority are:
1. "If any of you lack wisdom, let Him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; it shall be given him. " (James 1:15).
2. Nothing is impossible when you trust God because God is a God of impossibility. God is not interested in our ability but in our availability.

Inferiority (Part I)

"I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." Psalm 139:13-16

Inferiority - is a burdensome master that enslaves us all. This means situated lower or of lower rank or degree, less importance, value or merit, weakness and inhibition of person's productivity. There 3 types of inferiority: 1. Physical Inferiority . Economic Inferiority and 3. Mental Inferiority.

I - Physical Inferiority - is caused by beauty standards that society or individuals believe or impose upon themselves. Society decides the standards of physical characteristic of an individual. The Bible tells us this solutions for physical inferiority:

a.) Don't Be Slave of Worldly Standards - "and be not conformed to this world" (Romans 12:2).

b.) Don't Pay Exaggerated Attention to the Human Body - cosmetics are nothing because the Bible said "we will return to dust." We feel inferior because we always measure ourselves against the measurement of the world. Don't follow the song of Madonna "because I'm living in a material world, and I am a material girl." The truth is the human body grows old everyday.

c.) Thank God and Appreciate Your Body - Don't you dare call yourself ugly because God doesn't make any ugly creation. No matter what beauty company you have, God perfectly made you. God does not create rubbish. Accept yourself for what you are.

d.) Improve Your Looks in a Right Place - This means not only beautifying your self but your spirit. "Present your bodies a living sacrifice." Always be clean, fragrant and always smile. Wear a modest apparel in Church.

e.) Excel in Other Areas of Life Rather Than Physical Looks - Former UN Secretary General Carlos P. Romulo said "A man's height is not always measured by inches." Develop and nourish your skills and talents.

f.) Draw Inspirations From Great Men Who Were Not Exactly Beautiful - Apostle Paul was a short rugged man and full of scars but in his weakness his body was offered to God. "Jesus Christ was of no beauty that we should desire Him." (Isaiah 53:2) Jesus was not attractive in the eyes of the Lord. This made Jesus easily blend with the crowd because he looked very ordinary. God uses ordinary people and ordinary things.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church)

Moses You And Me

"His grace is sufficient for all our needs" (2 Corinthians 12:9)

I - God Called Moses When His Schedule Was Busy - Moses was tending a great flock when He heard God's call. Does your schedule seem too full? God calls us when we are busy. Peter was also called while fishing. The lesson here is no appointment, no business activity, no program, no dignitary or emissary is more important than the time spent in the presence of the creator of the universe. How we spend our time is a reflection of what is important to us. If Jesus is our all-consuming passion, job security and achievement will come second. We are pulled away from devotion to Jesus by many pressures in our performance-oriented, action-packed world. Life is filled with pressures: work, school, kids, shopping, clubs, outings - when the day comes to an end and we feel spiritually empty, we know that our priorities are out of alignment.

Who rules your life? Putting God first is not a one time event but a way of life. We must walk in the fear of the Lord. This means that we must hate, what God hates. Satan calls when we are idle. But God is calling us from wasted years. God is calling you.

II - God Calls Moses When The Situation Was Bleak - "I have seen the affliction of my people" (Exodus 3:7). The lesson here is on the darkest days, God makes a way. Dark days in our home, marriage, children, business, job, no peace, tears are our affliction...but God knows all of these! God said "come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). Jesus understands and cares. He offers strength! "They should run and not be weary like an eagle" (Isaiah 40:31). This is an invitation to emotional rest. Emotion drains our strength. Worry makes us tired. "Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you" (1 Peter 5:7). "Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:27). Our souls never rest until we find rest with Jesus.

III - God Called Moses When His Previous Efforts Had Been Barren - Moses previously tried but he failed. The lesson here is, it is easy to dwell on yesterday's failures. The lessons we learned from failures should make us better able to handle the same situation the second time around. Our lessons from failures are: confess our sins, refocus on God, deal with the problem and move on!

(From Rev. Pastor Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church)

Regret

"......forgetting those things which are behind." Philippians 3:13

Regret is to be sorry for something, for anything. It is a sorrow caused by circumstances beyond one's control or power to repair.

I - Examples of Regret - Losing a loved one, losing good opportunities, trusting wrong person, physical injuries, are examples. How many of us are suddenly possessed by regret for what could have been but did not? Whenever we look back especially those of us who are already advanced in years, we fantasize about what could have been but weren't able to because of negligence, laziness, or careless mistakes on our part.

II - Freedom From Regret - Recognize sin in our lives. "I acknowledge my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid, I said , I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord" (Psalm 32:3-5). Repent. God will remove the heaviness from our hearts in forgiveness. Only those who repented are forgiven. Confess to the person we have wronged. Ask forgiveness to those whom you have hurt. "Confess your faults to one another...and pray one for another, that ye may be healed" (James 5:16). We must change what could still be changed. Accept your present condition as an inevitable consequence of your past and resolve to improve from there. Make the most of out of present and future opportunities. Stop from looking backward. Look forward. Lost opportunities are lost. "Stop crying over spilled milk" as the saying goes. Stop using two deadly words "If Only." Replace them with these two beautiful words "Next Time."

It is the work of Satan to always remind us about our terrible past. But no matter how terrible the past is, it was already washed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Look backward only to be reminded of what should not be repeated. Whatever it is that you have regretting and crying, give it to the Lord. Let the blood of Christ cover the past and all its sad memories. Ask God to give you a heart full of spirit and anticipation for the good things to come.

(From Rev. Pastor Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church)

The Marks Of The Winner

"In this world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world" John 16:33

Satan wants people to be losers. Who are losers? Losers are persons who allow Satan to steal what God has given to them. They allow Satan to destroy what they have built, and what they can still build. They allow Satan to kill their potential for greatness.

But the Lord is a winner. That is why it is expected that His children should be winner. How could we be winners?

I - Winners Know Their Right Place - The Lord set all things into right places. Our place should be in Christ otherwise God will be far from us. We must operate according to our giftedness and our natural talent so that we will shine in our area of specialty and become winner. But if we are in a wrong place, we will always be on an uphill struggle.

II - Winners Plan - God should manifest in our plans. We should give the plan to the Lord. According to His Masterplan- the Bible. "May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed" (Psalm 20:4). All our plans should be moral and legal. We must seek Godly counsel not worldly counsel. Ask for Bible-based advisers. Fortune telling, feng shui, spiritism, card reading are worldly advisers. Let God be the final say. We fail when we fail to let the Lord determine our steps. "A man's heart deviseth his way; but the Lord directeth his steps" (Proverbs 16:9).

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church)

What Do You Mean When You Say "My God?"

"But I trusted in thee, O Lord: I said, thou art my God" Psalm 31:14

For David, "My God" meant one great enough to cover his entire life. For Paul, for me to live is Christ and to die is gain."

I - God Will Never Leave Us - Troubles will still come our way, but God will supply the strength and resources we need (Philippians 4:19). Christianity is not how to escape from life difficulty but how to face it. Nothing can happen to us that God cannot handle. "I have not seen the righteous forsaken." (Psalm 37:25).

II - God Will Never Allow Anybody To Break His Rules - "The law of the Lord is perfect" (Psalm 19:7). The law of gravitation has not yet been repealed. If man breaks God's law, trials will follow because men destroyed the rules of God. Sometimes, we don't want to be bound by the laws of God. Instead of living up to God, we reduce God to the level of our living. We push Him aside and make our own laws and choose our own paths. But God is like a loving father. God keeps control over us though we break His rules. To every sorrow there is a reason. There is no education like adversary. "In studying, we know the word of God; in suffering we know the God of the word."

In agriculture, "pruning is not pleasant, but it is productive." In our lives, God punishes us of many things. A believer can never be the same after passing through suffering. This is the reason why we have problems. God afflicts us purposely. There is no such thing as "good weather" and "bad weather". There are just different kinds of good weather. We need sunshine as well as rain! According to an Arabic proverb: "All sunshine and no rain makes a desert." God will never permit any trouble to come unless he has something better for us. God afflicts us compassionately. "The Lord pitieth His children" (Psalm 103:13). Pain and suffering are not necessarily signs of God's anger; they may exactly be the opposite. "The Lord separates the sin that He hates from the sinner whom He loves." "Life is not a series of accidents, it is a series of appointments." Appointments created by God! "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." God turns MESS to MESSAGE, TEST to TESTIMONY, TRIALS to TRIUMPH, VICTIM to VICTORY. God will always hold our hand.

(From Rev. Pastor Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

The Great Day

" It is He which ordained of God to judge the quick and the dead." Acts 10:42

I - When Will It Be? - Because He hath appointed a day, in which He will judge the world. (acts 17:31).

II - Who Will Be The Judge? - Jesus Christ will come to judge the living and the dead (John 5:22).

III - What Is The Purpose? - To show God's majestic authority in such a way that the whole universe will acknowledge Him. God will also show His wrath, anger, justice and holiness. God will also show His amazing love.

IV - Who Will Be Judged? - All humanity and even "fallen angels" will be judged. Each of us will give an account for himself and receive sentence from God.

V - What Will Be Taken Into Account? - Our words, our deeds, our thoughts, the good we fail to do, our character, and all the things we have hidden.

VI - Verdicts - There will be no postponement, no adjustment, righteous children will be heirs of kingdom, unrighteous will go eternal punishment. In one moment executions will be done, no appeal, no motion for reconsideration, no temporary restraining order.

The lesson here is we must prepare to meet thy God (Amos 4:12).

(From Deacon Harry Fetalsana's Mid-Week Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

Can You Sleep Through The Storm?

"Even the wind and the sea obey Him?" Mark 4:35

I - The Storms In Our Lives - Difficulties, inconveniences, accidents, death of loved ones, sickness are storms in our lives. Like a typhoon, these may suddenly develop without warning or reason.

II - Our Boats - What are our boats? These may be our profession, studies, love life, emotions, which is being shaken by sickness and problems or storms in our lives, and you have no one to turn to. But while we are riding in our boats, Jesus is sleeping on a pillow! Why is Jesus sleeping? The lesson here is many people has many problems because they go near the problem. Jesus during the storm was sleeping at the safe place of the boat. The disciples are riding on the unsafe place of the boat. We must go away to getting the problem.

III - Security and Safety - The Lord's assurance is "we will reach to the other side". Jesus did not say that we will go to the bottom of the lake of Galilee. But the problem is the disciples were not listening! The disciples did not hear God's message. Like us, we are sometimes not listening to God's message. We tend to listen to our "boats." But God assured us that "He will never leave us." We together with Jesus will reach the safe and secured "side" of our lives so stop worrying. Like Jesus, sleep on your own pillow and claim God's promise .

The Importance of Prayer

"Whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." Matthew 21:21

I - The Sin of Prayerlessness - Prayerlessness is sinful. "God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray." ( 1 Samuel 11:23). "That men ought always ought to pray, and not faint." (Luke 18:1). It is practical atheism. Atheist don't believe in God. The only way to talk with God is through prayer. Prayerlessness robs us of many blessings. "Ye have not, because ye ask not." (James 4:2). Jesus always invites us to pray. An imperative command for us to pray. "Ask and it shall be given. Seek and you shall find. Knock and the door will be opened." (Matthew 7:7-8).

II - The Joy of Answered Prayer - There is power in confession. Our attitude in life should be one of confession and obedience. "I cried unto Him with my mouth, and He was extolled with my tongue, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." (Romans 10:10). Sin creates a roadblock to answered prayer. Sin offends our Holy God. Because God is Holy, He cannot ignore, excuse or tolerate sin as though it didn't matter. Sin cuts people off from Him. We must confess our sins, because He is faithful and just.

III - God's Answer Proved This Prayer Had Been Heard - Answers to prayer prove the importance of prayer. Answers to prayer prove God hears our prayer. Answers to prayer prove God's mercy toward us.

IV - God's Invitation to Prayer - "Call unto me." (Jeremiah 33:3). It is a privilege to pray directly to God. The promise of prayer is that God will answer our prayer. The power of prayer has great and mighty things. Prayer moves mountain. "Nothing shall be impossible to you." (Matthew 17:20).

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Message at Odiongan Baptist Church, Odiongan,Romblon)

Unlearned And Ignorant Men Who Changed The World

"We ought to obey God rather than men." Acts 5:29

Peter and John were "unlettered" men and "commoners" who changed the world through evangelism. They were uneducated and possess no official positions or special abilities yet loved and valued by many. But priests do clearly note that these men have their boldness and power.

1. These men had been with Jesus - They were "different" and righteous in a sinful world. If any one should be a disciple, he should not be adulterer, effeminate, abuser, thief, extortionist, fornicators because followers of Jesus are new creatures. They were also "daring" in the sense that they dare to take the right stand and dare to preach the Gospel. They were also "dedicated" because they "maintain their own ways before God."

2. These men knew the Holy Book - "Every christian should continuously be steadfast in the apostle's doctrine." (Acts 2:42). Many knows about science - but ignorant about God. Many knows about mathematics - but ignorant about the master. Many knows about politics - but ignorant about God's plan. Many knows about space (heavenly bodies) - but ignorant about grace (heavenly ways).

According to U.S. Prseident Abraham Lincoln: "Better to have a knowledge of Bible than other books." Here is an illustration:

One day a rich Dad took his son to a trip. He wanted to show how poor someone can be. They spent time on the farm of a poor family. On way home, Dad asked his son. "Did you see how poor they are?" "What did you see?" The son replied: "We have 1 dog, they have 4 dogs. We have pools, they have rivers. We have lantern, they have stars at night. We buy foods, they grow theirs. We have fence and walls to protect us, they have friends. We have encyclopedia, they have Bible." Then the boy added: " Thank you for showing me how poor we are."

3. These men were saved - "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12). These men could tell people how to get to heaven. These men could get rid of your sins. They will change your life.

(From Rev. Pastor Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Message at Odiongan Baptist Church, Odiongan, Romblon)

The God of Impossible

"With God nothing shall be impossible." Luke 1:37

Impossible means -cannot be done. But with God all things are possible. " There is nothing too hard for God." ( Jeremiah 32:7).

1. We Must Be Confident - In Psalm 19:1 " the heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handywork." One look at a star-filled sky is enough to convince us of God's convincing power, making impossible-possible. God is taking good care of us, His power, His love, and His care.
The Lord reigns...relax! - The strongest and safest protection we have is the name Jesus. The Lord will not forsake us. He is a saving name, a comforting name, a powerful name and and exalted name. "If God be for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31). When you're feeling down or afraid,consider Jesus, commit all to the Lord and stop worrying.
2. All Things Are Not Hard For Jesus - Jesus asked a question to all of us: "Is there any thing too hard for me?" (Jeremiah 32:27). Jesus also answered this question: " With God nothing shall be impossible." (Luke 1:37). Therefore we must rely on Him because God's power is greater than our problems. God is stronger than our adversaries. God's power is greater than our sins. (Isaiah 1:18). The problem with people is....all his problems are brought to God's attention for help but not his SIN!!! The true miracle is "when a person's life is changed for the glory of God." When we surrender our life to God.

3. God Calls Us To Call Upon Him - "Call unto me and I will answer thee." (Jeremiah 33:3). God is extending His helping hand. The Lord's hand was not shortened. (Isaiah 59:1-2). God's power was not diminished. The problem wasn't with God but with people. If you continue your sins and iniquities...God will not hear you! If God seems so far away, guess who moved? People had moved to the place of unanswered prayer. Don't accuse God when you are the problem. If you don't surrender to Christ, you surrender to chaos. It is not the load that breaks you down, it's the way you carry it. God speaks to those who take time to listen, and God listen to those who take time to pray. God's favorite word is "COME!" Our heavenly Father never takes anything from His children, unless He means to give them something better.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Message at Odiongan Baptist Church, Odiongan, Romblon, Philippines)

"I Am Alpha and Omega"

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8

The title "I am the Alpha and Omega" teaches us some great truth about Jesus. Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and Omega is the last letter of the Greek alphabet:

1. The Preexistence of Jesus Christ - Before Abraham had a beginning, Jesus was eternal. "Before Abraham was, I am." (John 8:58). "I am" - Greek word "eigo eimi" meaning eternal. This means God had been existing even before the creation of the universe. One of the most powerful words that Jesus said unto Moses is: "I am that I am." (Exodus 3:14). This word declares the Divinity of Jesus Christ. "And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist." (Colossians 1:17).
The lesson that we can get here is "All is nothing without Jesus in our lives." Creation, civilization and time had a beginning. Jesus had no beginning . He is the alpha, the beginning. That means we should start with Jesus because He is the fresh start! If you start with Jesus, you will end with Jesus! Your life begins in Jesus Christ.

2. The Preeminence of Jesus Christ - "In all things he might have the preeminence." (Colossians 1:16-18). He is you and I needs. Christ is the A to Z. He is everything. The Lord is number 1 in our life. St. Matthew told us to seek first His kingdom and all things shall be added unto us. A child cannot read without learning the ABCs. Jesus is the word that builds life. "In the beginning was the word and the word was God."

3. The Perpetualness of Christ - "I the Lord, the first, and with the last, I am He." (Isaiah 41:4). He is the only one who sees as clearly a hundred years from now as He saw a hundred years ago. When you are concerned about the future and the past, talk with God. "Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever." This means that without God - there will be no salvation.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Sunday Worship Message at Odiongan Baptist Church, Odiongan, Romblon, Philippines)

Psalm 23 and You and Me

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." (Psalm 23:1)


A. The "Lord" - Lordship means we should take our place at the feet of Jesus Christ in absolute surrender by "sanctifying" the Lord God in our hearts. This means full submission to His authority, unquestioning obedience, and recognition of ownership.

B. Is "My" - Faith is a matter of personal salvation. Salvation is having a personal relation with God. It is your personal choice to be His child. It is your personal choice to be with Him.

C. "Shepherd" - We are like sheeps that have gone astray (Isaiah 53:6) . We are astray. But God is a good shepherd who died for us. He is the Great Shepherd who is risen for us. He is the Chief Shepherd who is coming for us. (1 Peter 5:4).

D. "I Shall Not Want" - God is enough. People cannot be satisfied. There is always seeking for new one. Seeking is a stirring absolute want. Jesus is the One thing for which we have been looking all over for me. As the song says:

There is a river, and it flows from deep within.
There is a fountain, that frees the soul from sin.
Come to this water, there is a vast supply.
There is a river, that never shall run dry.


(Rev. Teofilito Arevalo Rufon's Message during Sunday Worship Service at Odiongan Baptist Church Inc., Odiongan, Romblon, Philippines)

Prepare To Meet Thy God

"Behold I am coming as a thief, Blessed is he who watches......" (Revelation 16:15)

A warning for all people: One day each of us will meet God face to face to account for what we have done. This is the most important appointment of life!

I-We must meet God - God does not give empty warning! After death, judgment! We must give an account. No one will escape the final encounter with God. Jesus will look at how we have handled gifts, opportunities, and responsibilities. God will determine whether or not we have been faithful to His instructions. We must all appear before the judgment seat.

II-We must prepare to meet God - Some mistakenly feel they're ready. It is wrong to say that I am prepared because I am born of Christian nation, and Christian family. God teaches us these preparations:

1. PREPARE BY CONFESSING YOUR SINS. Repentance must come before a person can have true faith in Jesus Christ.

2. WE MUST DENOUNCE WORLD'S ATTRACTIVE SINFUL TEMPTATIONS AND HARMFUL ATTITUDES!

3. WE MUST NOT BE AFRAID TO TELL ABOUT CHRIST.

4.WE MUST ENDURE WITH OUR FAITH AND NOT BE SURPRISED BY PERSECUTUIONS.

5. WE MUST BE MORALLY ALERT!

6. WE MUST BE OBEDIENT TO GOD IN ALL AREAS OF LIFE.

7. WE SHOULD ALWAYS BE MOTIVATED TO SERVE GOD.

8. WE SHOULD STUDY GOD'S WORD.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church Incorporated Sunday Worship Service)

The Trials Of Life

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials." James 1:2

When troubles come, don't resent them as intruder but welcome them as friends. We should view trouble as joy.

Four Kinds of Trials:

1. Trials of Place and Race - our world is a fallen place and we are fallen race that's why death and sickness plague many. Horrific accidents are all part of planet damaged by sin. In order to overcome this we must remember to accept trial without bitternes or blaming God. We must instead be strong. "When I am weak then I am strong." (1 Corinthians 12:7). If we recognize our weaknesses and limitations, then we will turn to God to seek ways to become strong and effective.

2. Trials of Temptations - It is the pull of man's evil thoughts and wishes. In order to resist, the answer is "worship only the Lord thy God and in Him only we shall serve." "Read the Bible because the power of God's Word is an indespensable ally. "Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

3. Trials of Identification - The world will hate you if you are identified as Christian. In order to overcome this trial, we should apply Biblical standards of righteousness wherever we are! We should commit righteousness and remain strong and have perseverance.

4. Trials of Discipline - If we commit sin God will discipline us. "Our Lord God disciplines us. He also punishes us." "My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, nor detest His correction: for whom the Lord loves He corrects." (Proverbs 3:11). But God's discipline is corrective. It comes with pain to alert us to get back on right track. Sickness and trials are God's discipline to return back to Him.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church Sunday Worship Service)

When Crisis Hits You

"In Him was life,and the life was the light of men." John 1:4

What the Bible says about Suicide and Euthanasia.

The Bible teaches preservation of life, not taking life. The sixth commandment tells us "thou shall not kill." The Bible prohibits planned, deliberate and intentional killing. There is no such thing in the Bible as "the right to die." Only God can decide life that is why abortion is prohibited. God's power should not be placed on our hands.

We don't have the right to take our lives when life becomes intolerable. Suicide and Euthanasia are not options for Christians..even in extreme pain and sickness which may seem impossible to bear. (Euthanasia means "good death.").Depressed people tend to commit suicide. Depression is a feeling of hopelessness and helplessness. Depressed people thinks that no one loves them anymore.

But God has a solution for this. God tells us to "Go and Worship Him" (Psalm 43:4) "I will go to the altar of God." We must not withdraw from Church because doing so will cut our lifeline with God. This is where the presence of encouraging Christian is crucial in order to help depressed people. Being a Christian, we must show our support by being present to the discouraged and depressed brother.

Touch The Father's Heart

What touches God's heart?

1. Obedience - Number one factor that touches God's heart is obedience. Half-way obedience won't do.

2. Repentance - While everybody sins, only those who confess gets forgiveness. Jesus said "return to me and I will return to you." God's reaction to confession is always forgiveness.

3. Wisdom - like King Solomon we must be wise in everything that God commanded us to do. In all our ways, we must acknowledge God and He will direct our paths.

4. Humility - Jesus showed us humility when He let John the baptist baptize Him.

5. Stewardship - We must be good and faithful stewards and servants of time, talent, our bodies, occupation and our faith. Time and talent even our bodies are not ours. Life is short therefore we must not waste it. Our bodies should be clean because we came out of this world clean therefore we return it to Him clean.

6. Worship - We must worship God in spirit and in truth. Put God first in everything we do.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Worship Messages at Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

Be Generous

"That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate." 1 Timothy 6:18

If you give, God will give you blessings or fruits. Here are the fruits of generosity:

1. Generosity results in prosperity - "the law of sowing and reaping is true." In Christ, the giver receives and reaps abundantly. "He will give back more than what we gave." "Wealth is not measured by how much you have but by how much you enjoy what you have."

2. Generosity reaps blessings even to our children - to those who give freely, their children will be blessed. Children will reap what the father has planted.

3. Generosity stores heavenly treasures - "It is only on earth where we can lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven." This is eternal treasure. Generosity to people, to the Lord, and to the Lord's work means eternal treasure. Giving is a wonderful experience. Generous people aren't necessarily faithful to God but faithful people are always generous. As you bless others, you yourself are blessed. Give to God first, give Him the honor of having first claim on your time and your talents.

4. Generosity reaps goodness - If you do good, you reap good. You will get what you give away. You will get kindness if you give kindness.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages @ Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

Uproot Worry (Part II)

" Love not the world, neither the things in the world." John 2:15-17

The sources of worry are:

4. Men pleasers- Whom are you trying to please? We worry too much in pleasing other people. Don't spend your time devising ways to please others in order to become accepted in the public eye. We don't have to please people at the expense of sacrificing relationship with God. We end up worrying because we will always run short of their expectations. It's beautiful if we please God and we also please people.

5. Excessive love for the world-Makes you worry. Why? Because you get too attached to things, to people, and to status and the fear of not having or losing them cause great worry! Yes, we love our dear ones: wife, children, but don't love anybody more than God.

6. Planting bad seeds- Drinking alcohol, practicing sexual immorality, and all evil-doings are bad seeds being planted in our lives. These are wrong which brings worry. If you have planted bad seeds your "conscience" will bother you! "What you sow, ye shall reap."

7. Playing God - Do not act like God. Do not assume the role of God. Do your best to protect yourself and your loved ones and leave the rest to God! Our needs are provided by God. We should not worry beyond what you can't do. We act like God by playing like healer, life-giver etc. Stop managing the planet and relax a little. We are not the Messiah. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto thine own understanding." Do not worry even about Living or Dying. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages @ Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

Uproot Worry (Part I)

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God." Philippians 4:6-7

One of the things that make us miserable and rob us of happiness is worry. We should get rid of worry because the Lord does not want us to be worriers.

The sources of worries are:

1. Lies and the exposure of lies - Liars are big worriers. They worry because they fear their lies will be exposed. Telling and propagating lies brings worry. Those who have more than one husband are worriers. Those who have more than one wife are worriers. The Lord wants us to live in truth. Truth shall set us free.

2. Greed or covetousness - Greedy people worry because they might not get what they want. We must not permit these things to happen because this will stain our dignity besides wants and luxuries in our life will not last forever. In having and always having and once you have it, then you keep and keep it until you worry. "Travel light and be happier."

3. Pride -High social status makes you worry. You cannot live well by guarding your honor and status symbol. Do not pretend that you are well off if you are not. We must be real because life is like a weather which is not the same yesterday, sometimes good sometimes bad. Our fortunes change like "shifting shadow." We must be practical in living. If you have none show that you have nothing! If we have borrowed small amount of comfort and glory, Praise God! As the song says:

"The things on earth will dim and lose their value
If we recall it's borrowed for a while
And the things of earth that cause my heart to tremble
Remember they will only bring a smile."

"This weary world with all its toil and struggle
May take its toil of misery and strife
The soul of man is like a waiting falcon
When it's released, its destined for the skies."

"But until then my heart will go on singing
Until then with joy I'll carry on
Until the day my eyes behold that city
Until the day God calls me home."

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages @ Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

How To Overcome Sin

"He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, but he who refuses correction goes astray." Proverbs 10:17

Here are some tips in order to overcome sin:

1. Know and depend completely on God's Word-Search the Bible daily. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse. By knowing and depending completely on God's Word, we avoid the sin of ignorance and self-reliance. Sin is transgression of God's law-knowingly or unknowingly. It is sinful to pronounce independence from God-completely or partly.

2. Believe God's goodness and generosity- people who break God's Word do not believe enough in God's goodness. Many people "partially" obey God. They obey God only in areas they agree. There is no such thing as 1/2 Christianity. A 1/2 Christian is a "non-sense christian." A partial obedience is still disobedience.

3. Trust God's commands as expressions of utmost love- God's commandments and laws are beautiful. We avoid sin by trusting God's command.

4. Do not experiment with sin-Do not experiment sin because before you know the damage have been done. Do not jump from the tallest building to prove the law of gravity. Do not touch the fire to know if it's hot!

5. Focus your desires on what is Godly and acceptable-whatsoever things are true and honest, think of these things. Ask if it is Godly or Ungodly. Is it the truth or not the truth? You cannot stop the birds from flying over your head-but you can stop them from nesting your hair. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.

6. Follow God's warning- The Bible is a book full of warning. We must not neglect God's warning in order to be free from danger of falling into sin.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages @ Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

When God Seems Late

"Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died." John 11:21

The story of Martha, Mary and Lazarus in the book of John tells us that God is never late! Martha, Mary and Lazarus are brothers and sisters. Jesus is very close to them and they consider Him as their personal friend.

When Lazarus was sick, Martha and Mary informed Jesus. But Jesus was not able to come on time to heal Lazarus, instead Lazarus died. This made Martha blamed Jesus for being late.

Did God really abandoned Lazarus? Did he fail to come in Martha's hour of need? Or He was simply late? Sometimes in our lives, we asked God why we were abused, astray, etc. Did God let us down? Did He fail to come in our hour of need? Or His delay has a specific purpose?

One of the reasons for this is that we all live on schedules. We govern our lives by the clock...and we expect God to synchronize His watch with ours! God is not bound by time!

Then Jesus said to Martha- "Thy brother shall rise again." In this case, Martha's blaming was temporary or temporal comfort. When Jesus resurrected Lazarus, Jesus was thinking of eternal comfort. We are interested in benefits which are temporary. God may have forgotten our pain but it isn't so! Jesus told us "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." God is never late.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages @ Odiongan Baptist Church Inc.)

Fitted Into The Creator's Original Design

"Let us make man in our image, after our likeness." Genesis 1:26

Only human beings were created according to the image and likeness of God. We are reflections of God's glory. Reflectors of His character in our love, patience, forgiveness, kindness and faithfulness. Man was created for a distinct purpose. Like a bulb fitted into its lamp receptacle, we are the source of light. If the bulb is not fitted into its lamp receptacle or placed on table or desk, it is useless and meaningless. Apart from God, you and I are useless, meaningless. We need to "fit into the Creator's design".

Our life is also shaped by God. Our physical body is only formed from the dust of the ground. Adam and Eve were created without soul. Our bodies became meaningful and priceless when God breath His life into our (Adam and Eve's) nostril. We became the "living soul". Therefore we define Death-as "the departing of soul from the body". So we must learn to value our life because it is a "Mysterious Gift" that God gave us. God is our vine and we are the branches. Without Him we can do nothing.

Our life is also sacred because it came directly from God. Body and soul are inseparable. If our body commit sin, soul also sins. Therefore our doings should be committed to serve God. We should satisfy Him. What task has God assigned you? Establish a home? Strengthen a marriage? Lead a family? Support a ministry? Serve a church? Check your attitude toward your assignment. Do you complain? Ignore? Reject or do you enjoy? The more difficult the task, the greater the joy because it enables us to see the power of God. Thanks to God!! He gave us joy...a lasting joy...in spite of troubles...not just temporary happiness...if only we fit ourselves and follow His original design.

(From Rev. Teofilito A. Rufon's Messages @ Odiongan Baptist Church Inc. )

The Visitation Team

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:19

Truly, God is "Jehovah Jireh." He provides all our needs. Everything we need. Even in our Church, God's provision is overflowing. Thanks to God, He gave us a "Visitation Team." Every Saturday, our deacons, brothers Crispulo Fontamillas , Restler Fetalvero, Nilo Fosana with wife Janilyn, sister Cel Selosa, Arthur Cabatu, and Harry Fetalsana and others, visit almost all houses and places in the entire community of Odiongan for one brave purpose-TO WIN SOULS!

Lost souls, sick souls, convicted souls, and many kinds of unsaved souls are the main target of the team to bring them back to Jesus' wonderful love and care. Carrying with them as their weapon, is the Bible. Rain or shine, far or near, mountain or hill, like wounded soldiers, the team never surrendered, nor fainted. There were times they were discouraged, but with the intercession of the Holy Spirit, they were able to overcome difficulty. Until now they are visiting and are more aggresive than before. I myself was inspired by the team because they simply live what they preach.

I sincerely pray to God to give them good health in order to continue their mission and I know God will always make miracle for them. Always a miracle! For me the visiting team are the Soldiers of Christ who have put on the Mighty Armor of God carrying with them their weapon-The Double-edged Sword. They are truly "Soul-Winners in the Lord's Vineyard". They gave light to the world..they gave hope to every man and salvation to all souls. Amen.