Tests are an essential part of our journey, refining and preparing us for God's work. They act as a purification process, enhancing our character and faith. Tests confirm the genuineness of our faith and build perseverance, patience, and spiritual maturity in us. Additionally, they prepare us for future challenges so that we can fulfill God's purpose for our lives. Tests are God's invitation for us to grow deeper in our faith in Him.
Faith Switchers
June 16, 2024 • Rev. Bong Baylon • James 1:2–18
We didn't have electricity at the Real Life Center for almost three weeks! It's hard to do anything without electrical power. So, we were stuck. We had to find an alternative venue where we could meet. But, finally and thankfully, Meralco came and helped us out. They restored the power from their side. Now, it’s up to us to turn on our switchers.
When we are undergoing trials, it seems that we are also stuck in helplessness and despair. We need God’s help. But we also have a role to play. We need to turn on our faith switchers, so to speak, to receive God’s help. James, the brother of Jesus, teaches us how to do this in James 1:2-18.
Trials can easily pin us down. But it doesn't have to be a stumbling block to our faith. It can be a stepping stone instead toward deeper spiritual growth and maturity. The key is to turn on three faith switchers to receive God’s help in our time of need.
Gladness In Weakness
June 23, 2024 • Rev. Bong Baylon
Nowadays, trial by publicity has become a norm most especially in social media. Whenever something is posted, it is easy for the public to make comments and sometimes, even bash people. Now, put yourself in the situation of those who are being bashed. Never mind if the accusations are true or not. How would you feel? When people are accusing you, insulting you, looking down at you, and doing all sorts of evil against you… well, how would you feel?
If you are in their situation, you probably will feel mad, bad, and sad. In other words, your weakness will show! You will not feel glad. But that’s what exactly Paul is saying in 2 Corinthians 12:6-10. How can you be glad when you are in the midst of a “thorn in the flesh”? (He is referring to a person who was probably giving him such a hard time.)
We can easily relate to this. Sometimes we encounter people in our lives who do not wish us well. It seems that they are out to hurt us. How do we respond? Paul says, “Be glad!” But why? He gives us three reasons.
