Sigurado (January 2024)
Guaranteed Realities in the Midst of Uncertainties
Proof of Life
January 28, 2024 • Rev. Bong Baylon • Romans 8:31–39
Are you sure? There are many promises of God but how can we be sure? Doubts are common even for those who have been Christians for a long time. During periods of doubt and uncertainty, we ask ourselves, "How can I be sure that all these are true? What if I am just trying to convince myself? What if it is just a hoax?" Such doubts can occur temporarily or they can linger on for a long time. The results are the same. We become immobilized by fear, worry, and consequently spiritual defeat. Are there proofs that can help us find our security in our walk of faith? Yes, there are. There are three indisputable proofs that we can trust.
Future Glory of Believers
January 21, 2024 • Gina Baylon • Romans 8:18–30
If there is anything that is certain in this life, suffering is one of them. No one is exempted – including Christians. It is difficult to endure suffering especially when you don’t know the ending. It breaks our hearts to see evil around us, endure the pain of chronic or terminal sickness, or witness the death of loved ones. Why is this happening to me? Why do evil people prosper and succeed in their ways? Has God forgotten me? When will this end? The big question is this: How can we persevere and live a life of peace and purpose in the midst of present sufferings? It is by having the right perspective!
Our Secure Identity
January 14, 2024 • Rev. Bong Baylon • Romans 8:12–17
Many individuals are currently going through an identity crisis without even realizing it. They are experimenting with various identities, such as altering their physical appearances, exploring different gender preferences, adopting new roles, pursuing alternative career paths, getting into relationships, modifying their behaviors, and accomplishing successes in life. They embark on these quests to discover their true selves and find their place in the world. However, these endeavors often result in more confusion, uncertainty, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and feelings of being excluded or isolated because of shifting expectations in the world. In contrast, those who follow Christ can be certain of their true identity through the work of the Holy Spirit in and through them. He does this in three ways.
No More Condemnation
January 7, 2024 • Rev. Bong Baylon • Romans 8:1–11
People have a natural fear of unknown future tragedies that may affect them or their loved ones. The uncertainty and unpredictability of life can create fear and unease as individuals think about the possible difficulties and challenges they may encounter. This fear stems from our innate need for stability and security, as we strive to protect ourselves and ensure our future well-being. The anticipation of potential tragedies can be overwhelming, causing anxiety and worry about what lies ahead. However, the greatest tragedy of all is the judgment of God both now and in the future. Through Christ, we can be certain that this will not happen to us anymore. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, and we can be certain that we are completely safe in God's great universe, even though there are many uncertainties in the future. There are three reasons why we can be certain that we are safe now and into the future.