Have Faith

This is an article I wrote for fHM...for HIM Ministries, The official Newsletter of Pasay Youth Ministries, Pasay Adventist Church (PAC):

It is really amazing how God works in our lives. We may not be aware of it, but He continues to provide us with blessings especially in our time of need. The past months have been quite tough for me since I was not able to go to church here at PAC because of our community experience in Nagcarlan, Laguna. When I got back, things are far from being easy. There were deadlines to be met, reports to be discussed, and a review class to be attended to. Work seems endless but thank God for Sabbaths because we are able to rest and worship Him on His holy day.

Last April 8, I was inspired by God's word through His servant, Pastor Rilloma. He was the guest speaker during the Baccalaureate service of the graduates of Manila Adventist Medical Center - School of Medical Arts (MAMC-SMA). Here are the things I learned from the sermon:

1. Focus on the objective, not the obstacles. As human beings, we are often disheartened by the trials we face everyday of our lives. If we are to climb the top of a mountain, we will not reach our destination if we let obstacles weaken us along the way. Instead, we must use these difficulties as stepping stones to make us stronger individuals who are able to achieve their goals and become successful in life.

2. Refuse to compare. It was advised that in any circumstance, we should not compare what we lack especially with those who possess great gifts because comparison paralyzes. Why mope over what you don't have, if you can mold what you already have? We were created as unique individuals and each of us has his/her own God-given talents and skills. Hone them and see the results in no time!

3. Trust revelation over emotion. Sometimes we tend to get distracted by how we feel at the moment without thinking of our decisions in life. In the end, realization comes into the picture and we regret the choices we made. As Christians, it is essential for us to always pray to God so that we will know His will for us. By this, we avoid mistakes because it is God's hands working in our lives, and not our own.

4. Lastly, Choose character over comfort. We must be reminded that this world is temporary and money would only give short-term happiness. It is more important to develop a Christ-like character rather than store riches here on earth. We must build our character for it is the only thing we can bring with us in heaven.

Pastor Rilloma ended the worship service saying, 'Even when we can't see all that lies ahead, we must trust God's promises. Afterall, He is Yahweh, He always does what He says He will do.' So let us not fret about the future because God has planned it all for us...we just have to have faith.

"He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform." Romans 4: 20, 21.