features
columns
Encounter Seminar 16 Marriage to Renewal of Marriage Vows
is Powerful 3 Prayer Editor’s Note
Health Secrets for 18 Six Staying Young
4 In the News
Relationship too 20 No broken for God
by His Word 23 Revived Pastor’s Corner
Hope in the 22 Finding Midst of Failure
Employment Offer 24 God’s Elder’s Desk
cover story Through Prayer 14 Revival MINISTRY MAGAZINE SERIES
Church in Prophecy 25 The SOP Corner
26 Revive Yourself
about the cover
The cover depicts an individual who reads the Bible, prays earnestly and eventually revived with unpeakable joy.
2HARBINGER| EXCELSUS |2013 APRIL22013
Photo credit: Arwenn Dellosa Berago
EDITOR’S NOTE
Prayer is Powerful P
rayer is power! In order to be revived spiritually, we must never neglect praying without ceasing. This is the only way we can have communication with our Lord and Creator. He is always there ready to listen to all our woes and joys in this earthly life. Let us put this into our memory the text in Matt. 7:7 – 8. “Ask and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you: For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”(KJV). However, let us remember in Psalms 66:18, it says that “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” Family worship must always be observd daily in order to gain peace and harmony for this earth to be a little heaven. We are living in an era where everything seems to fascinate and perplex us especially with the climate change and global warming. Life is never easy since we have to make ourselves comfortable at homes and in the offices by purchasing air-conditioning units thereby increasing overhead expenses on the power consumption. If we try to equate with food expenses, the budget for electric bill is almost more or less comparable to that for food consumption. This sounds ironical. For those who cannot afford this luxury simply have to buy big fan to cool their bodies. This sounds enjoyable and beneficial since the hands are given good exercises forming big muscles to make us strong. On the other hand, if it rains again, floods occur in various places and even tornadoes are formed due to the interaction of hot and cool air. Everyone knows what happened during the Sendong devastation in the cities of Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro and other calamities which happened in Japan, Oklahoma, New York and various places. Not only these, peace and order conditions in various places are also unpredictable.
We live in a borrowed time, so be more prayerful that we will be able
to reach our destination that is, HEAVEN. In all our prayers, we should pray for the salvation of our love ones, our neighbors and friends. Let us never grow weary doing our missionary services to God. May His love be our constant inspiration to keep going and think all is well with Him. Let us forget self and think of what God can do for us all. Be happy always and praise God all the way.
carolina B. BAGUIO
HARBINGER ADVISER
HARBINGER | 2013 3
Integrated Evangelism
Primarily, IEL approach takes cognizance of the family units and other family group of making their homes centers of Hope and Health to carry out “Love-in-Action” activities in the church as part of the gospel. This is a “family to family” approach and is meant to be a lifestyle to all Adventists that also involves the youth and children in witnessing. The Care Groups compositions include the Intercessors Family (IF) and the Cared Family (CF) of which the Care Group highlights intercessory prayer. The IF to be considered are all SDA family unit/s, other SDA “family groups” to include: single professionals, students and lone family member while the Cared Family includes nonSDA families i.e., neighbors and friends, relatives, elites, professionals, students, religious leader, government employees and former SDA members. As Pastor Alberto C. Gulfan, Jr., President of Southern Asia- Pacific Division puts it that the Seventh-Day Adventist Church believes she is God’s remnant people. As such, she
4 EXCELSUS |2013 APRIL42013 HARBINGER|
carries a special message for this world. This message is to be studied and practiced by the professed believer before he could honestly and seriously share it with the world. The old saying that says, “You cannot give what you do not have” especially holds true with this message. The Seventh- Day Adventist Church is blessed by God with the message of Health reform.
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Adventist are blessed with the revelation from God.
While the world is going crazy with the issues of health and marriage, Adventists are blessed with a revelation from God. We have this precious truth in us. The world is confused as to which truth is regarding health and family. All Seventh-Day Adventist around the Southern Asia-Pacific Division territory are enjoined to prayerfully and intelligently study, learn and practice the pronciples exemplified in the WIN WELLNESS program of the Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle. Pastor Gulfan concludes that then we are ready to share it as indeed, a “caring” group of loving Christians.
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s part of the evangelistic endeavors of the Southern Asia Pacific Division for the remainder of the quinquennium, the Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle (IEL) has been conceived. It is a program of all the departments in the church that integrates revival and reformation in the life experiences of church members as they actively involved in evangelism. IEL adheres to the method of Jesus which alone will give men true success in reaching out the people. The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, “Follow Me” (MH 143). It is an evangelistic approach which will be owned, committed and participated by all SDA members in SSD Territory, with the hope and prayer that by doing so, REVIVAL AND REFORMATION be the life experience of church members as they actively involved in care group ministries.
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Lifestyle
... we are ready to share it as indeed, a “caring” group of loving Christians.
faith O. MIGUEL
Single Mingle
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Truly, it is more fun to be a Seventh-day Adventist.
Things become lively again when participants rushed to the most waited moment of the evening – eating. Dinner was extra special because of the live music played by our musician friends from Adventist Medical Center College. While the participants were having their dinner, the election of officers for the Adventist Singles Organization in MACFA was conducted. The group unanimously selected Serven Caballero, one of the nursing staff of Adventist Medical Center, to lead the group. The program ended successfully, thanks to two dynamic hosts, Nova Guerrero and Christian Apsay. It was indeed tiring for the organizers and program coordinators, but the result of touching the hearts of individuals is worth fulfilling. The weather cooperated with the events. It would have been a different story if it was the opposite. Rain could have spoiled the fun. But God did spare that single night from rain for the singles to enjoy. Truly, it is more fun to be a Seventh-day Adventist. PHOTO BY: KIETH BANDIOLA
The occasion was designed to be a formal post-valentine event. The venue was set to meet the motif of love. Red carpet was rolled over the aisle with lovely flowers on the side. The stage was artistically arranged with signage, hearts, flowers and balloons, courtesy of the decoration committee. The table adds ambiance of love to those sitting around it. That night was set to be extra special for every singles. The program started with the promenade of randomly selected couples. The scene was transformed into excitement and applause as couples passed through the aisle. It was a rare occasion to witness single matched with another single march together. Indeed, the ladies and gentlemen really meet the expectation on how they dress and behave formally on such special occasions. To add more fun, participants were occupied with mini-acquaintance games. It was then followed by the main event of the evening, which is a lecture from two distinguished speakers. Pastor Eliezer M. Bacus and his wife, Mrs. Shirley M. Bacus inspired the audience with a lecture on dealing oneself as a single Christian in relation to the theme of the event “Inspired by God’s love”. Blessed by the lecture, the participants shared a gift of appreciation to the speakers. The program was sealed with a commitment service. Individuals light their candles signifying their true intention of being a true Adventist Single committed to live the highest standard expected from them. Participants raised their hands as Pastor Roger T.
Lopez leads the reading of the commitment pledge. The hall becomes solemn as Pastor Lopez prayed in behalf of and for the Adventist Singles.
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he MACFA-AYS conducted a special social occasion for Adventist Singles entitled Single Mingles. Invitations were sent to individuals. Though some were not able to join due to work-related reasons, it was positively responded by 50 singles coming from different churches around Iligan City. This was done at Marlyn’s Garden, Barangay San Miguel, Iligan City on the evening of February 23, 2013.
arvel L. HUILAR EXCELSUS | APRIL 2013 5 HARBINGER | 2013 5
Youth Day Global
ings on health, gave tracks, and offered a prayer before leaving.
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The youth had never displayed such enthusiasm...
PHOTO BY: STEPH HAIM
There are many ways to tell others about Jesus… and Global Youth Day is just one. Let us not grow weary in sharing God’s love through our kind acts and words; by spreading God’s word to this love-starved world.
Investiture
xerxel ysabel ARAT
Program
uman sa sulod sa usa ka tuig nga pagpaningkamot nga makumpleto ang klase ug mga gikinahanglan aron mahimong invested Masterguides ug Pathfinders, niadtong Marso 30, 2013, gipahigayon ang ikaduhang MACFA-Wide Investiture dinhi sa Iligan City Seventh-day Adventist church, Tibanga, Iligan City. Kini gitambungan sa mga kabatan-onan nga sakup sa MACFA nga adunay kaikag nga magpainvest ingon nga Masterguides ug Pathfinders,. Mitambong usab niadtong panahona ang atong NCMC Youth Director nga si Pastor Porferio Lagunday, kauban sa atong NCMC Youth President nga si Bro. Mark Cajegas ug sa atong NCMC Masterguide President nga si Bro. Farouk John Kalaw.
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nagahandum na usab sa lain nga malampuson nga tuig...
{
Adunay 12 kabuok batan-on ang nainvest sa Friend class, 7 sa Companion class, 7 usab sa Explorer class, ug 6 usab sa Master-
6 EXCELSUS2013 | APRIL HARBINGER| 6 2013
guide class. Sa Advance nga klase, adunay 2 ka batan-on ang nainvest sa Trail Friend class ug 2 usab sa Pathfinder Leadership Award. Sa Special Award adunay 6 kabuok ang natagaan ingon nga Area Coordinator. Ang programa uban sa tabang ug grasya sa Dios nahimong nagmalampuson ug nga natapos sa alas 5:30 sa hapon. Niining tuiga, ang Maria Cristina Masterguide Club kauban sa MACFA-AYS nga departamento nagahandum na usab sa lain nga malampuson nga tuig alang sa Masterguide ug Pathfinder Club. PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
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April 2013 – the Adventist world celebrated the Global Youth Day. The youth had never displayed such enthusiasm in preparing for this event as ever before. Most churches around Iligan City focused their efforts on barangay and hospital visits, giving of health teachings, as well as tracts, blood pressure checking, and feeding program and storytelling for the children. Meanwhile, two groups from ICSDACC, the Adventist single professionals and MAS-AMICUS alumni fused their resources together and visited Barangay Bayug. The locals greeted the group warmly with their big smiles, charm and hospitality who even prepared a shaded area near the river, to accommodate them. The group was divided into teams. So while one team was teaching the children songs and telling them bible stories, other teams visited homes – took the peoples blood pressure, imparted appropriate teach-
ritchie jane BRION
IBMPC
General Assembly T
he 8th (midyear) general assembly meeting of Iligan was held at the Multi-Purpose of Iligan City SDA Elementary School last April 28, 2013 with the theme: “Kooperatiba ay pagyamanin, mga kasapi ay paramihin”. The Guest speaker was Kag. Roy Openiano, a re-elected councilor in-charge of the cooperative and livelihood projects of the City of Iligan. He commended the IBMPC for its growth in membership and its plan to branch out in compliance with the theme. More than 200 members attended this assembly meeting. The hall was beautifully decorated from the flowers donated by the Central church Family Life department utilized during the mass wedding on the renewal of vows of 21 couples. The first 156 members who registered were given little tokens like handkerchiefs, hand towels, food plastic boxes, and hair combs. There were also 14 prizes given to lucky winners like liquid soap, powder laundry soap, toilet liquid cleansers, and 2 packs of 10 kilos rice.
The 2012 surplus dividends were released to those who have no outstanding overdue loan accounts deposited against their savings account. Dividends and patronage refunds were released to the coop members. It was emphasized by the General Manager, Dr. Carolina B. Baguio, that every member should patronize the products of the cooperative in order to increase the surplus by next year. Moreover, she encouraged all borrowers to pay diligently their monthly loan payments. The BOD Chair, Ms. Evia P. Ong, commended all the staff who worked very hard on the financial report as well as on the preparation of all logistics needed for the assembly meeting. The tithes (10%) and evangelism (10%) funds as well as the statutory reserve (10%), education (10%), welfare (7%) and community (3%)
PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
“Kooperatiba ay pagyamanin, mga kasapi ay paramihin”
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funds were set aside serve their purpose. The new set of Board of Directors (BOD) elected and inducted to office last January 2013, were Ms. Evia P. Ong (Chair), Mr. Elpidio Salvador (Vice-Chair), Dr. Jeanie Generato, Dr. Faith O. Miguel, Ms. Roselyn Gomez, Ms. Candida Alavanza and Mr. Jay Mar B. Baguio. For the administrative positions: Dr. Carolina B. Baguio as the General Manager, Mr. Marcelino Poblador Jr. as the Administration and Human Resource Head, Pastor Donato Generato Jr., Finance Department head, Mr. Candelario Miguel as the Credit and Financial analyst, Dr. Nicasio H. Baguio, the internal auditor and Atty. Marcelo Rara as the legal retainer. The members of the staff are Myrna Benenoso, Cashier and Assistant Treasurer, Ms. Brenda J. raro, the Bookkeeper, and Mr. Edgar S. Castor the Office Clerk. The student assistants are Ms. Hazel Rameri, Mr. Roger Sasil. Mabuhay and long live IBMPC with God’s grace!
carolina B. BAGUIO EXCELSUS | APRIL| 2013 7 HARBINGER
Seminar Revelation
HARBINGER| 8 EXCELSUS 2013 | APRIL 82013
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As Christians, we need to be careful not to confuse things.
Brethren, if you are confused, please join the monthly “Revelation Seminar” held at our conference room. The love of God can fill our hearts with hope, strengthen our relationship with Him, transforms our heart and prepares ourselves for the final events of this world.
PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
The Music Department together with the Deacons and Deaconesses sponsored “Revelation Seminar” last April 11 to April 24 held at the Seventh-Day Adventist Central Church Iligan City Conference room. The topics were so interesting it can awake us from the traumatic experiences of our life. The evangelistic series conducted by Pastor Jerry Campomanes mentioned the twenty eight doctrines of our fundamental belief such as; Back in the Beginning, How sin began, A pattern of deceit, A mystery of sin, The principles of both must be fully revealed, A Lesson to the Universe, The choice brought to mankind, Calvary revealed God’s character, Satan’s Character revealed, The Law of God vindicated, The Final Judgment, The moral standard, The pathway to better health, What Heaven will be like, The Plan of Redemption, Obedience by Faith, Precious Bible Truth, Our Beloved Dead, The first Resurrection, The Second Coming, The Second Resurrection, When the end comes, Spiritualism, How can I remain true to God, How can I come to God. By the power of the Holy Spirit there were seventeen souls accepted Christ. As Christians, we need to be careful not to confuse things. The fact that we see such natural disasters does not mean that God is causing them. Jesus said “There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting
from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. (Luke 21: 25, 26)
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acing the reality, the earth is now deteriorating, becoming warmer, the nature seemingly unpredictable, people are heartless, engaging their natural function for that which is unnatural, money dominates today’s culture. Yet, people think that if they only had more money they would had been happier, therefore they spare no effort or time to get it. These are the warnings to us regarding the glorious coming of Christ.
lorelie CABALUNA
Kamatuoran Lamdag sa
A
ng Lamdag sa Kamatuoran kanunay nga nagapasantop sa public mahitungod sa pagtuboy sa moralidad o kaligdong sa tanang butang labina diha sa kaminyoon. Kini gipalanog alang sa kasayuran sa katawhan nga andam motabang ang kasamtangang programa sa mga naghigwa-osog nasamok nga relasyon sa pag-ipon-ipon nga wala makasal.
balaang kasulatan. Sa maong unom kamagtiayon nga nahiusa, adunay kaparintihan ug mismo ginikanan nga nalipay ug nagpasalamat tungod sa pagtabang nga napaabot ngadto kanila. Gani bisan sa mga pagkaon kini nagahinubra tungod sa grasya ug panabang sa Diyos pinaagi sa pagsuporta ug pagpailalum ni Sister Letty Lindah D. Sy uban sa iyang mga katawhan. Uban sa mga talagsaong talent usab ni Sir Busa adunay unom(6) kaparisan nga Azur Saguinhon ug igsoong Nonie Anhaw sa minghimo sa pagpaabot sa ilang kinasing- pagluto sa maong kan-on. kasing nga paghiusa sa kaminyoon ug napaAng lamdag sa kamatuoran team naghigayon niadtong April 26, 2013 ang maong pagkasal pinaagi ni Maghuhukom Fe Gemino paabot sa pagpasalamat sa musunod: Dajao didto sa Delos Santos beach, Dalipuga, 1. Mga kaigsoonan nga nagasuporta sa paghatag sa paninapi matag sabado. Iligan City. Kini nga programa sa Lamdag sa Ka- 2. Mga kaigsoonan nga nagasuporta sa pamatuoran nagasuporta sa “Moral Recovery ghatag sa paninapi binulan. Program” sa atong nasud sa Pilipinas. Ug ang 3. Mga kaigsoonan nga nagasuporta sa patema niini mao, “Kaminyoon Hiusahon, Balaan ghatag paninapi tinuig. nga Panulondon”. Kini gipahigayon sa Lamdag 4. Mga kaigsoonan nga nagasuporta sa pasa Kamatuoran alang sa paghatag ug kaga- ghatag ug higayon dha sa ilang mga pag-amwasan niadtong na nga biktima sa panagti- po. pon ug panagpuyo, nahimong walay kalipay 5. Mga kaigsoonan nga nagasuporta sa patungod sa pagkawalay panalangin gikan sa ghatag sa ilang kusog, ug salakyanan sa panaMakagagahum ug Magbubuhat sa tibook hon sa mga caravan nga gihimo. 6. Ug sa maong hunta sa iglesia (Church uniberso. Board) nga nagapadagan sa maong palanog sa duha na karon kaistasyon sa DXMC 100.1 “Kaminyoon Hiusahon, Balaan FM ug DXRJ 1476 AM sa pagdumala sa atong nga Panulondon” Church Pastor, Melnaire V. Cagas. Sa maong kasal nga gipahigayon, si Elder Jose Lacuna mao ang nagbukas niini sa Sa katapusan salamat kaninyong tanan. Lamiyang pahayag sa mga daghang katuigan, dag igsuon lamdag gyud! napulo ka tuig nakapin sa pagpalanog sa maayong balita nga kini gisuportahan sa mga mainitong kaigsuonan sa atong Iligan City Seventh-Day Adventist Central Church, ning atong dakbayan. Ug ang maong tinguha sa maong programa mao ang pagtabang sa mga katawhan sa pagbaton ug malipayon nga panimalay mauswagon nga pagkinabuhi, masustansyadong mga pagkaon, mahimsug ug likay sa balatian, ug may pagpakigsanjerry CAMPOMANES durot ngadto sa makagagahum pinaagi sa PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
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EXCELSUS HARBINGER| | APRIL 2013 9
SULADS
ALIVE and on
Teachers from the local government dared not come near the area and have sought safer areas to carry out their employment. Even the mere mention of these two barangays shivers down anybody’s spine as fear permeates in one’s mind recalling bloodshed seen in most here and there. Sultan Kamlon Moner, a local leader realized that if the awful sight of war prevailed and his own town folks will be permanently stagnated to grow mentally and socially then there was nothing to hope for the better. With his own initiative, he dared to open up his apprehensions to former Vice-Mayor, Ernesto “Boy” Agawin and expressed his long burning desire to “liberate his people from the bondage of ignorance”. In his simple assessment, he believes the basic reason for war is the inadequate and lack of prospects for a brighter future. Addressing to this utmost and sincere appeal of Sultan Moner, the Seventh-day Adventist braved the seemingly impassable inroads to these two remote barangays at first at Tamparan and eventually years later, at Tapurog. With God as their only source of safety and protection, the great desire of their residents to be formally schooled was finally made possible by the SDA volunteers to reopen the once dormant schools. Sultan Moner attested that his people do not have the foresight to look beyond
HARBINGER| 10 EXCELSUS 2013 | APRIL 10 2013
what they have today and are incapable of understanding that if his people are given the right opportunity, there is hope for a brighter future. The bottom line is the LACK OF EDUCATION. All these had paved the way for Bro. Boy Agawin to keep in touch with Bro. Ranny de Vera, Supervisor of the SULADS (Socio-Economic Uplift Literacy and Anthropological Development Services) an institution under the South Philippine Union Conference (SPUC). The SULADS’ effort and mission is to provide FREE education to cultural minority groups of people in every remote areas where transportation is nil and virtually absent. Their only means of subsistence rest much on donations from generous and benevolent givers according to Ranny de Vera. By God’s constant leadings, leadership shifted in such a powerful organization known as MACFA (Movement of Accredited Christian Federation of Adventists) based in Iligan City. MACFA has been spearheaded for several years now by Eve P. Ong whose unending and burning desire to carry on God’s work has always been a part and parcel of her commitment and dedication to God. Formalities were exchanged and two volunteer SULADS were introduced to everyone’s surprise because they were there to stay and live with them. This was by far, unheard for the residents know that every local teacher from the governments, who teaches in nearby villages always come to their respective village schools at 10:00 a.m. and leaves at 3:00 p.m. to PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
B
the GO!
elieve it or not, but there’s nothing to doubt about it considering that things have been going on in full swing at Tamparan and Tapurog, Lanao del Norte Literacy programs. Muslim kids and adults alike have felt the once in a lifetime experience of discovering the world around them now that they have finally acquired the basic literacy skills- reading, writing, speaking and listening. While for the last twenty years or so, these two hinterland barangays, as residents put it, the elementary schools were forcefully closed down due to dreaded war between AFP and MILF rebel forces.
faith O. MIGUEL
T {
BSS Teacher’s TRAINING
he training for MACFA wide BSS teachers was held at Kaluknayan Church last June 16, 2013 . This was conducted by Ms. Shirley M. Bacus assisted by some staff from the Adventist Medical Center.
five lessons about nature to be presented as terrains 1 to 5. In all of these lessons, it has to be emphasized that the Lord is God and our Redeemer. The seventh session will be for the graduation. A permit from the Barangay captain must be secured so that they are ...to be emphasized that the involved in this activity . If there are parents who are interested to let their children, join Lord is God and our Redeemer this class. It is encouraged that they can have She introduced to us some of the songs separate Bible study. which can be used for the BSS sessions with some modifications in the tempo. The BSS kits were purchased by the Surfers’ Paradise Church in Australlia which are being facilitated locally by Brother Menard Baldonado. The sponsor also provides PhP 3,000.00 cash for the purchase of the pencils, crayola and snacks.The team consists of five persons headed by the director. The kits contains of the teachers’ manual, workbook for the kids to sketch some figures and to color them, the director’s manual, identification card and beads for the attendance. The duration of this activity is seven Sabbaths or Sundays which will start on June 22 or 23, 2013.. The first meeting is for the carolina B. BAGUIO registration and introduction of the kits. The next five Sabbaths or Sundays will be for the PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
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cont. SULADS ALIVE AND ON THE GO
catch the local ride home. But the SULADS teachers were going to live with them! Really? Yes, indeed, they have been living there for years now. Time has drifted so fast and while at the start only kinder I and II, now it includes Grades I, II, and III and an Adult Literacy class have been offered. However, eventually the populace earnestly pleaded for the added grade levels to complete the elementary grades. And once again, as a gesture of the true measure of loving our fellowmen, MACFA conceded to answer the call if only to prove our love without
measure. To add meaning to their learning experiences, the pupils were given the chance to explore the world around them by participating in the recently held Youth Congress at Mountain View College where they exhibited a variety of talents from reciting memory verses, singing religious songs translated in Maranao, doing action songs, etc. It is hoped that the dreadful sight of war will forever be replaced by the unending love of God where peace, love and unity prevail, all for His glory and honor!
EXCELSUS | APRIL 2013 HARBINGER| 201311 11
Joint
BSS
t was indeed a memorable day on August 3, 2013 to most kids who had their first experience of taking part in the Branch Sabbath School graduation. Tagging along their proud parents, the program was graced by not less than the Barangay Captain of Barangay Bagong Silang, Engr. Rodel V. Ocana. He expressed his laudable appreciation for the initiative of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church to give its share in the moral recovery program particularly in nurturing the kids to become matured and responsible constituents of the society eventually. In a span of seven Sabbath or Sunday afternoon classes, the children had fun-filled chances of rediscovering and appreciating the wonders of the natural world with its befitting theme, “The Great outdoors, Exploring Nature, Experiencing God”. And with each enjoyable and meaningful experience, children learned to know and glorify the One who created and Whose awesome works are all around us. Participating kids totalling to almost 150, were all provided with learning colorful materials, name tags, supplies and certificates under the tutelage of trained mentors who underwent the BSS Teachers’ Training conducted by Mrs. Shirley M. Bacus last June 16, 2013 at Kaluknayan Church.
{
{
...for the worthwhile lessons and experiences their children got from the BSS
The Brach Sabbath School kits were sponsored by the benevolent brethren of the Surfers’ Paradise Church of Queensland, Australia who have extended their untiring support for years now for the BSS programs. The Surfers’ Paradise church has been represented by Bro. Menard Baldonado who personally facilitated the entire program to be culminat-
12 EXCELSUS HARBINGER| 2013| APRIL 12 2013
ed on August 17, 2013 at the Iligan City Seventh-day Adventist Church. The said graduation program was a joint activity of the Branch Sabbath School at Barangay Bagong Silang facilitated by the Alpha and Omega Small Group of the ICSDACC as well as the Hinaplanon BSS Group undertaken by the Iligan Bay Multi-Purpose Cooperative team composed of Sis. Myrna Benenoso, Sis. Brenda Raro, Dr. Carol B. Baguio, Bro Edgar S. Castor, and Sis. Hazel J. Ramire. The impressions aired by selected nonSDA parents stressed much of their appreciations and gratefulness for the worthwhile lessons and experiences their children got from the Branch Sabbath School. The Barangay Captain, together with the parents, hopes to have a continuing program of similar sorts in their barangay. Barangay Captain Ocana assured the BSS facilitators of his unending support particularly in extending a convenient venue and facilities for the kids.
PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
I
Graduation
brenda J. RARO candelario M. MIGUEL
MAS-AMiCUS ICD
goesGLOBAL
{
... to reach out the poor children by telling them that Jesus loves them
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The said event was a whole- day activity where the youth spent their Sabbath outside the church doing ministry to those who needed the Savior’s care through singing, and tracts-giving. The theme “One in Compassion” was grounded on the parable of the Good Samaritan, “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:25-37). This program was initiated by the General Conference Youth Ministries in
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...to be the hands and feet of Jesus through acts of kindness on that day
MAS-AMiCUS ICD members were among the eight million Adventist youth around the world who were mobilized on the streets, towns, and cities around the world to be the hands and feet of Jesus through acts of kindness on that day.
PHOTO BY: MG GERMIE
The purpose of such endeavor was to reach out the poor children by telling them that Jesus loves them through Bible stories, finger plays and action songs. The program was composed of three parts: the singing and Bible storytelling, the feeding program and the sharing of relief goods. Other auxiliaries of the ICSDACC Youth Department such as Youth Choir and MAS-AMiCUS Alumni had done also their ministry to other places within Iligan City.
order to (i) recapture the reality of the Seventh-day Adventist Youth as a Global Movement; (ii) lead our youth to rediscover the sense of belonging to a global army; (iii) reaffirm mission at the heart of Global Youth Ministry; and (iv) provide a much needed positive and constructive response to perceived fragmentation.
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he Movement of Adventist Students—Adventist Ministry to College and University Students Iligan City District (MAS-AMiCUS ICD) participated in the Global Youth Day of the General Conference with the theme: “One In Compassion” on March 16, 2013 by conducting a Branch Sabbath School to Sendong victims at their relocation site at Del Carmen, Iligan City.
marck jason TAGAPAN HARBINGER| 201313 13 EXCELSUS | APRIL 2013
The ROLEof epentance in
R
evival and Reformation
O
by: Daniel Jiao MINISTRY MAGAZINE JUNE 2012 ISSUE
https://www.ministrymagazine.org/archive/2012/06/the-role-of-repentance-in-revival-and-reformation
ften we find it hard to see our own condition when we are hiding in our comfort zone. King Zedekiah wanted to heed the counsel of Jeremiah, but he was too concerned with how his officials looked at him to make any change in his life (see Jer. 38; 39). Change is inevitable. The world we live in changes rapidly, and the same can be said about our lives. The problem for most of us is realizing that we need change and finding the power to make that change.
Repentance comes from the realization that no matter who we are and what wedo, without a deep relationship with our Creator, we are no better than an unbeliever. When we humbly come before God, we will be moved to open ourselves to Him and allow Him to see One change we all desperately need comes our innermost thoughts. When we are willing as a result of repentance. Ministers can do all to surrender and invite Him to change us, rethe right things and run successful church pentance will occur. programs, yet deep down in their hearts, they know they lack spiritual vitality, and they long We must realize, however, that repentance to be revived. is a painful process, especially if we have not had a genuine spirit of repentance for a while. But isn’t that what revival and reformation is re... a changed heart and a ally about—a changed heart and changed life?
S
R
urrender,
but, Never Give Up by: Derek Morris MINISTRY MAGAZINE EDITOR’S BLOG
https://www.ministrymagazine.org/blog/2013/03/20/surrender-but-never-give-up/
ecently, I had the privilege of conducting an interview with Dr. Delbert Baker on the theme of dealing with unexpected crises. One principle he shared has stuck in my mind: surrender, but never give up. As human beings, we like to be in control. We imagine ourselves as masters of our own destiny. But the abrupt arrival of an unexpected crisis jars us back to reality. We live in a broken and pain-filled world. A colleague in ministry was just diagnosed with a tumor on her spine. What are her options? She could curse God and die. She could become bitter and blame God for His failure to care for her. Or she could surrender her life once again into His loving care. I am happy to report that she has chosen the third option. Surrendering our lives into God’s loving
14 EXCELSUS2013 HARBINGER| | APRIL 142013
care brings a peace that surpasses human explanation or fabrication. “Be anxious for nothing,” the apostle Paul reminds us, “but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6-7, NKJV).
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Hold on to the One who has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”
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change life?
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When you face an unexpected crisis, when your cherished dreams vanish like the morning mist, surrender, but never give up. Hold on to the One who has promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Heb. 13:5). Then we can boldly declare in the midst of an unexpected crisis, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me? (Heb. 13:6).
Rto witness evived
T
by: Robert Costa MINISTRY MAGAZINE MAY 2013 ISSUE
https://www.ministrymagazine.org/archive/2013/05/revived-to-witness
he words of Jesus, “You shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth,” were a major challenge the disciples faced in the first century (Acts 1:8, NKJV). We face the same challenge in the twenty-first century. The New Testament church was seemingly confronted with an impossible task, but, empowered by the Holy Spirit, the church exploded in growth (Acts 2:41; 4:4; 6:7). These early Christians shared their faith everywhere (Acts 5:42). Currently, the world waits to hear the message God has for mankindthe present truth. God is gathering His people around the world for a final movement at the climactic close of earth’s history. He will pour out His Spirit on them as they use their gifts to proclaim the good news. The most glorious chapters of the book of Acts are soon to be written.
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The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost during the early rain was only a prelude of what is to come. God has promised to pour out His Holy Spirit in abundance in the last days (Joel 2:23; Zech. 10:1). The earth will be illuminated with his glory. The work of God on earth will be finished rapidly (Matt. 24:14; Rom. 9:28).
Members of the early Christian church God wants every believer to be were charged with a sacred trust. They were to be the executors of the will by which Christ an executor of the will of the gave the world the treasure of eternal life. BeSavior. lievers of all ages share the legacy given to the first disciples. God wants every believer to be an executor of the will of the Savior. We are — Robert Costa serves as an associate revived to witness—and by witnessing we are ministerial secretary, General Conference of Sevrevived. enth-Day Adventists, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States.
EXCELSUS HARBINGER| | APRIL 2013 15
HARBINGER
T
Renewed!
wenty two (22) precious couples from the Iligan City Seventh-Day Adventist Central Church have participated in the Marriage Encounter Seminar held last April 26 and 27, 2013 which culminated in the Renewal of Marriage Vows on April 28, 2013. Headed by the church Pastor, Melnaire V. Cagas, the couples attended the very informative, practical and truth-inspired lectures from the Northern Mindanao Conference Family Life Director, Mrs. Shirley C. Aguinaldo partnered by her husband, Pastor Wilson M. Aguinaldo. The activity culminated in the renewal of marriage vows which was officiated by the Communications Director of the South Philippine Union Conference, Pastor Nelson D. Paolo.
With the theme “With God Our Love Can Last Forever” and with the theme song “I’ll Never Find Another You”, the marriage encounter experience was conducted to strengthen the relationships between husbands and wives. It was a beautiful journey of the couples because it offered new dimensions in their relationship. During the encounter, the couples worked together to unfold personal and spiritual discovery and it awakened their deepest feelings and commitments; Furthermore, the lectures and the activities opened their hearts to a more intimate affection and renewed their love for each other. Moreover, the couples have experienced intimacies because on Friday evening they were checked-in at Famous Pensionne House for self-expression of love. On the whole Sabbath day, the couples have listened to the lectures and experiences of the speakers. There were immediate applications of the concepts learned as the couples were made to express their love, appreciation and sentiments to their spouses through their love letters. It was indeed very pleasant because it did not provoke negative emotions since the approach was done in a loving manner. The lectures/topics delivered in the encounter were the following: 1. How To Make A Marriage Last Forever. In this topic, the couples were made to understand that there is no such thing as perfect marriage.
16 EXCELSUS | APRIL HARBINGER| 2013 162013
That husband and wife must work hard together for a happy marriage and make God as the center of their relationship. They are to be intimate and best of friends through open communication. 2. Becoming One When We Are Different. In this topic, the couples were informed that every human being is a unique creation. While there are many people who have many things in common, no two individuals are exactly alike. The indifferences can only be dealt with, by making Jesus Christ as the center of the couples’ relationship, thus, respect, friendship, affirmation, appreciation and forgiveness should be manifested in the relationship. 3. Basic Needs of Husbands and Wives. In this topic, the couples were admonished to remember and manifest the five languages of love, namely: words of affirmation, act of service, gift giving, quality time and physical touch. Further, they are to be sensitive to each other’s needs because while the husband needs to be a hero, the wife wants to be loved. Furthermore, while the husband wants to be a lover who has the authority in the home, the wife wants to have financial security and domestic fulfillment in the home. 4. Common Faults of Husbands and Wives. In this topic, the common faults of husbands and wives were discuss as follows: HUSBANDS a. The “you do your job” and “I’ll do mine” husbands. b. Money pinching husband. c. I need outside recreation and you don’t. d. The husband who is married first to his business and last to his wife. e. Mama’s boy husband. f. Unreasonable and unchristian with regards to sex. g. Lazy and Irresponsible husband. h. Jealous husband. i. “I don’t care” husband. j. Husband who does not show his love to his wife.
WIVES
...husband and wife must work hard together... and make God as the center of their relationship
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newal of Vows is truly a once-in-a lifetime exa. The lazy and therefore untidy wife. perience. It was worth the teamwork of the b. Nagging wife. church, particularly the church board c. Petulant and tearful wife. headed by the Chair, Pastor Melnaire V. Cagas, d. Domineering wife. the participating couples, the sponsors, the e. Extravagant wife. organizers and the working committees. f. Economically dissatisfied wife. g.The wife who has wrong attitude towards Being one of the participating couples, sex. our experience was enriching and memorah. Jealous wife. ble. Our relationships now renewed and see i.Escapist wife. more loving years together. In conclusion, the j. Irresponsible wife. activity should be encouraged to help couples in the church be more happier in their marriage. 5. Forgiveness and Intimacy Restoration. In this topic, the couples have expressed their As a sort of an encouraged direction, sentiments, fears, negative emotions toward the Family Life & Women’s Ministry Deeach other in writing so that bitterness will partments and the other sponsoring denot continue to increase, disagreements will partments, will have a repeat activity next not multiply and despair will not become year so more couples could experience our deep rooted. Jesus Christ was made the ulti- experiences. If you are interested to join, mate model of forgiveness so that intimacy please contact the author at cell phone no. among couples will be restored. 09177237361.
On the following day, Sunday, was the Renewal of Vows. All couples on their white wedding garments marched along the aisle to show their commitment to the sacrament of their marriage.
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To experience forgiveness and intimacy restoration, Foot Washing was held in the Sabbath afternoon before the closing program.
It was worth the teamwork of the church...
After the wedding ceremony, all the couples were shuttled for the reception at Marlyn’s Gardens in style. In cooperation with Barangay San Miguel, Trisikad Association, they rode in the trisikads to the venue. Family members joined the celebration along with the primary & secondary sponsors. Doves were released by the first couple of the church Pastor & Mrs. Melnaire V. Cagas, then cake slicing and grape wine drinking followed to symbolize sweetness, oneness and prosperity. The Marriage Encounter and Re
corazon T. BIONG EXCELSUS | APRIL 2013 17 HARBINGER|
6 health Secrets for E
staying YOUNG
very day we shape our destiny by what we think and do. We are living in a time where the impossible can become the possible at any moment. Our bio-medical knowledge is doubling approximately every 3.5 years. This means that at our current rate of advancement, within twenty years we will know 64 times as much as we know at this moment. And yet, even with all this expanding knowledge, chronic, degenerative diseases are on the increase. Today, the risk of dying of anything before you are 40 is really very small. But starting at 40, you enter the zone of the 7 deadly diseases. How deadly are they? According to the World Health Organization 2012: • By 2030, almost 23.6 million people will die from cardiovascular disease, mainly from heart disease and stroke. These are projected to remain the single leading causes of death. • Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 7.6 million deaths (around 13% of all deaths) in 2008
stroke; diabetes; arthritis; osteoporosis; and azheimer’s will send millions of people to an early grave this year. Not thousands, but millions! Obviously, something has gone terribly wrong in our lifetime. But, we’re acting as if all of these diseases are just a part of the normal aging process. Not so! There is nothing normal about degenerative disease. Many of these deaths are totally unnecessary; that’s the tragedy. Consider this...we’re living on average until our mid eighties. And they say as time goes on we’re going to be living until we’re a hundred. We weren’t really designed to last that long. If we are going to live to a hundred, then we’ve got to do the second half of the century in really good shape. What’s the point if you’ve got osteoporosis or diabetes or you’re so obese you can’t get out of the chair? You’ve got to be able to get up everyday and have zest for life and think, “how am I going to make the most use of today”. How long do you plan on living? What if you could live to 100 and beyond without the pain and disease that most people think comes with old age? Is this possible?
It is possible! The body is an amazing self-maintaining and self-correcting organism. This is true as long as we keep it healthy and in balance. Unfortunately, we frequently fail to either recognise this importance or simply lack the necessary • Worldwide obesity has more than dou- information on how to achieve health and balance naturally. Natural strategies that bled since 1980. are easy to follow, highly effective, and • 65% of the world’s population live in affordable, are the answer to restoring, countries where overweight and obesity maintaining and enhancing health. kills more people than underweight “ There are six fundamental, natural • Worldwide, 35.6 million people have de- strategies to maintaining that balance. mentia and there are 7.7 million new cas- I call them health secrets because they have been lost to a society that relies on es every year. fast food, miracle potions, and instant We could go on listing statistics all day, weight loss for healthy living.” but you can research it yourself at WHO 2012. The point is, heart disease; cancer; • About 30% of cancer deaths are due to the five leading behavioral and dietary risks: high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, alcohol use
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Health Secret 1: Build and maintain your muscles lifelong. This has to be one of the most important, and often overlooked, considerations in maintaining good health as you age. Muscle is the powerhouse of the body where almost all your energy is created by burning fat, carbohydrates and protein. Healthy, lean muscle mass is also vital to the immune system as well as reducing the risk of diabetes and osteoporosis. Exercise your muscles with resistance training 5 days per week for a minimum of 30 minutes to stay lean for life. Health Secret 2: Drink plenty of clear, filtered water daily. The human body is 50-80% water. According to Dr Michael Colgan, we’re “just big hairy bags of water.” Every life giving and healing process that happens inside your body... happens with water. Dehydration of as little as 2% loss of body weight results in impaired physiological responses and performance. 75-80% of people suffer energy loss due to minor dehydration…a common cause of daytime fatigue. The Australian NHMRC recommends adult males should drink a minimum of 2.6 litres, and adult women 2.1 litres per day. Health Secret 3: Eat a variety of whole food antioxidants everyday. The science behind the health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables is exploding greater than ever before. There is no denying the research…fruits and vegetables prevent and even reverse disease. Nutritional supplements can not replace the hundreds of health giving phytonutrients found in a single piece of fruit or vegetable. Current thinking emphasizes 5 to 9 serves per day depending on your age and activity level. Health Secret 4: Supplement your diet with Essential Fatty Acids. Low-fat foods are common nowadays, and for very good reasons…but eliminat-
ing all fat is not a good idea. Your body needs two essential fatty acids to function properly. Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats in the correct ratio are vital for good health…especially the brain. One of the best balanced sources of these fats is cold pressed flaxseed oil. Supplement your diet with two teaspoons (10gm) of quality flaxseed oil, daily. Health Secret 5: Maintain an alkaline diet. Nothing will age you quicker than acidic diet. Human blood pH should be slightly alkaline (7.35 - 7.45). Below or above this range means symptoms and disease. An acidic pH can occur from an acid forming diet. The body will try to compensate for acidic pH by using alkaline minerals. If your diet does not contain enough minerals to compensate, calcium and magnesium will be drawn from your bones to buffer the acidity. Aim for a diet containing 60% alkaline foods and 40% acid foods. Health Secret 6: Reduce stress and release negative emotions. The idea there are interactions between the mind and the immune system has been proved by research called Psychoneuroimmunology. It’s true…the mind and emotions play a role in many diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal problems, and autoimmune disease. Realistically, there will be always be times when you fall prey to negative emotions. You can train yourself to recognize these feelings and address them, before they “hijack” you and take you prisoner. Meditate or simply take some time out to deal with stress. Treat yourself to some energy healing or seek the help of an NLP practitioner to release any negative emotions that are impacting your life. These could be classed as health secrets too.
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There’s a lot of misinformation about what it takes to be healthy. For example, we all know about reducing fats in the diet and the importance of exercise. However, some fats in the diet are essential and resistance exercise is more beneficial than aerobic exercise alone. If you want to live a long and healthy life, start now, and follow the “Six health secrets to staying young and disease free”.
We are living in a time where the impossible can become the possible at any moment. compiled by: sanegen SALADAGA EXCELSUS | APRIL 2013 19 HARBINGER|
No Relationship too broken for God F
our years after God let me recover from a devastating disease of my kidneys; I was again living the life of my dreams- I have a very supportive family, have finished academic requirements in my graduate studies, picking for a nice job, going travels, and along with this nice life was a very loving sweetheart. My sweetheart was with us for more than a year through those difficult times when I was fighting for life, he never left us physically and emotionally. After almost 4 years of relationship (3 more months to go before our 4th anniversary), we looked forward for more wonderful years. Then my world collapsed when one day I received a text message from an unknown person indirectly telling me that my boyfriend had a secret affair with another woman and even impregnated her. Born in a culture of conservatives, I struggled to just heal my wound privately. Thankfully God was still a stark presence in the disaster I believed my life had become. Having Him and my family in my life kept me afloat until I had the strength to find my feet again. My family stayed calm and kept reminding me to see God’s wonderful plans on the other side. I read the Bible feverishly daily, desperately grasping for every word of solace, which I received. Though it didn’t numb the pain in my heart, it did make me feel loved and reminded that I wasn’t alone. I find the situation very intimidating. No one in his family cared to inform me about my boyfriend’s whereabouts and simply the story until we endeavored to call after receiving the message. That time when I knew, the girl was almost to give birth. The pain drove me to question God, Why? Two days after I received the news, their wedding happened. Days after, the girl wasn’t even contented of what they did; she kept sending awful messages to me which I’ve thought would be so embarrassing to do if I would be on her position. I just let her actions passed by.
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Ever since, I had the full trust over him and the family who surrounded him. My boyfriend worked and stayed in a very reputable religious family. More than that, I was just told by a family member to just forget him since in heaven there is no marriage anymore. I thought it was that easy, as told, but after all, I felt being betrayed by everybody. When you are betrayed, either by your family, relative, friend or special someone, you can’t see your way out of it. No matter where you turn, things just seem to get worse. More interesting is the fact that during these times, the people that you think care about you the most turns out to be your worst enemies. The hardest thing in the world is to believe that everything that happened happens for a reason. It’s hard to believe what He has promised that He will definitely be there. People who try to encourage us can’t seem to say the right thing. Like a deep wound, a broken heart will not heal overnight. But the thing is: You can choose to let the situation defeat you, or use the situation as a lesson to improve and forge ahead. It is a wonder what God can do with a broken heart, if He gets all the pieces. -Samuel Chadwick In the face of pain and heart brokenness, I didn’t choose to be discouraged. Though, we’re like wanting to have it all when we really don’t. Instead, I gave God the pieces. I opened my hands and gave away what I cannot fix and what I cannot change. He’s the Master Designer, and He can build out of the most shattered heart a thing of beauty, if we will only let Him do it.
Don’t put your hopes just resting in as Psalm 126:5 promises, “Those who sow man rather than in the Lord. in tears shall reap in joy.” If you stop focusing on your misery and learn to help/see folks out of theirs, you figure out very quickly that your problems are not so large after all. We must remember that God is Omnipotent! What does that mean??? It means one having unlimited power or authority’. No one can tear you down, destroy you or touch you unless God lets them (and he won’t let you go through more than you can bear). Plus, how you handle difficult times prepares you to deal with difficult situations with wisdom and maturity. Keep in mind that God sometimes allows people to experience troubling emotions to motivate them to change their thoughts, which lead to their actions and shape the course of their lives. By going through our hurts, we are a part of the human race—millions of people who are going through similar pains. We realize how frail we are and see our great need for God. It is a time to reflect on the true meaning of life and the greatest opportunity of all to draw close to God. It may take weeks. For many of us it will take years, perhaps even a lifetime to close the wounds of our hearts completely. God will spend as much time and as many years as necessary to help you through it. When Hezekiah was stricken with sickness, he poured out his heart to God. God heard him and saw his tears. God was moved with compassion. “Return and tell Hezekiah the leader of My people, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of David your father: “I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will heal you”’” (2 Kings 20:5 ). God saw Hezekiah’s tears. Understand that God can be closer to us when the pain is so great than at any other times in our life.
Keep in mind that your security is truly based in your relationship with God, who loves you completely and unconditionally. I’ve learned to develop a habit of noticing the blessings God brings into my life and thanking Him for them. The more you express your gratitude, the more you’ll become aware of abundant blessings in your life. Now, I’m still the woman who can smile, laugh and enjoy life as it is. I know that someday... Looking back, we will see that even this broken road will lead us to Him. “God is working all things together in a way that is far more marvelous than anything we could have planned on our own. God has your back. He has carried you to heights that nobody thought you could reach. Your pain will go away, but the lessons learnt will inspire others. Over time, God will heal you completely from your heartache. You can rejoice in the knowledge that what you’re going through now will eventually produce godly character that will be valuable to you both in this life and in heaven.
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” wrote David. (Psalm 34:18, NIV) This will come to pass when Christ returns. There will be no more tears; no more pain, no more sorrow and no more holes to fill in an empty heart—for all our hearts will be filled with God’s Spirit. For
sanegen SALADAGA EXCELSUS HARBINGER| | APRIL 2013 201321 21
Finding
Hope in the midst
of FAILURE
E
ach of us have different stories to tell whether it be sad or not. We all have hidden pains, sadness and even the loss of hope to oneself. On the other hand, we have the choice whether we will let ourselves go deep down the pit or we will not allow all these failures to control over us. We forget that God is above all things and He even knows and understands everything what we’ve been through and even feel what we felt inside, that even the closest person of your life cannot fathom.
I’d like to share keys on how to grow well positively and how to find hope amidst of failures. These keys were based on my experiences in life and the lessons I’ve learned from all the books I have read. The first key to growing through failure is realizing that God is greater than your trials, mistakes, and pains. Second, failure and negative happenings in life is a universal part of being human. God wants us to learn from our own experiences. We especially need to learn how not to make mistakes and avoid those things that can harm us personally inside again. We need to face our weaknesses. Whatever can changedneeds to be changed; wherever we can have the chance to improve, we need to improve. If you cannot succeed in a certain area of life, and you’ve done all your best
HARBINGER| 22 EXCELSUS 2013| APRIL 22 2013
of it, it may very well be that it’s not the will of God for you to pursue that area. Like for example, you might love to play football, but if the door does not pave the way for you to play professionally, then most likely that’s not God’s calling for your life. If you aren’t achieving the goals you’d like to reach, that doesn’t mean you need to feel like a failure. It just means that God intends for you to succeed elsewhere. Don’t let some initial failures and pains cause you to go away discouraged, angry, and upset, or you will never accomplish what you could have, had you only persisted after all! Remember, that God wants always the best for us and He will always have plans that can prosper us. Do what you can as long as you’re not going against God’s perfect way for your life. I believed it pays to “obey all things that can do well for you and me”. In that, God will be so pleased and would continue to shower His great blessings for everyone.
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Remember, that God wants always the best for us and He will always have plans that can prosper us.
sanegen SALADAGA
{
Oftentimes when I was in the down moment, I detoured myself and found a difference. I took the reversed psychology procedure, in which I rewarded myself like buying books in the bookstores, went for a grocery store and cooked for my family, went for a little shop to buy some clothes and shoes, or called up a friend and watched movies that were so funny. I always saw to it that such will not affect me because I chose to take care of everything what God has blessed me so much, in the past and even up to the present. God will never leave me no matter what life I will be facing now and even days forward. As long as God is with us, who can be against us..? So, ... hope will always prevail at the end of the story.
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Revived by His Word M
editations on the Excellences of Read the Bible! Preach the Word of God the Word of God have Great Ben- to our congregation, who are spiritually efits! dead or spiritually in hunger.Preach the Word of God to make the church alive by the power of the Spirit. The Church members of Iligan City Seventh-day Adventist Central Church 3. The benefit of Strength must harness the word of God so as to Ps 119:28 My soul melts from heaviness; experience the revival and reformation. Avail the great and wonderful benefits of Strengthen me according to Your word. the Word of God as declared in the book NKJV of Psalm 119. The benefit of strength from the Word of God will help us to stand against moral lapses, sexual indiscretion, materi1. The benefits of Revelation Ps 119:18Open my eyes, that I may see alism, greediness, the love of money and various kind of vices. We must be true to Wondrous things from Your law. NKJV The first benefit is the benefit of revela- our devotional life by sparing time to get tion. This will unfold the wonderful plan into the Word. There’s strength and power of God for your future. It reveals the great in the WORD OF GOD! coming events, the signs of the times, but above all, the greatest revelation is the 4. The benefit of Wisdom hope in Jesus and the greatest assurance Ps 119:99 I have more understanding than all my teachers, For Your testimonies of His salvation. are my meditation. NKJV The benefit of wisdom from the Word of 2. The benefit of Revival Ps 119:25 My soul clings to the dust; Re- God is quite different wisdom from the world. The wisdom to discern from right vive me according to Your word. NKJV There is reviving power in the Word of and wrong, the good and sound judgment, the decision to refrain our feet from God. evil ways, and the decision to serve the Lord wholeheartedly are the things will ...must harness the word of make you wise.
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God so as to experience the revival and reformation.
5. And the final and the greatest benefit in the Word of God is that, you can find JESUS and be blessed with eternal life. Don’t miss these greatest benefits.
melnaire V. CAGAS EXCELSUS HARBINGER| | APRIL 2013 201323 23
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God’s Employment Offer A
fter all efforts are exerted to finish college, a graduate student hopes to find a job immediately to earn money for himself and to his family. But mostly that is not always case. With 7.1% unemployment rate, finding the right job is not an easy endeavor. To increase their chance of finding one, they resort to sending many application to any employer hoping someone replies. However, in most cases, some has to undergo some grueling months and even years waiting. Born in a culture of conservatives, I struggled to just heal my wound privately. Thankfully God was still a stark presence in the disaster I believed my life had become. Having Him and my family in my life kept me afloat until I had the strength to find my feet again. My family stayed calm and kept reminding me to see God’s wonderful plans on the other side. I read the Bible feverishly daily, desperately grasping for every word of solace, which I received. Though it didn’t numb the pain in my heart, it did make me feel loved and reminded that I wasn’t alone
their seatmates. Some are gifted with adolescence, yet our young people, our sons and daughters, do not involve themselves in youth ministries. Some are gifted with experience and maturity, yet others deny themselves to become church officers. Some are gifted with musical capabilities, yet sometimes nobody plays the piano or renders songs to our unfortunate neighbors. Some are gifted with charisma and intellect, yet few involve themselves in soul winning. Indeed the Lord needs workers and He expects all to apply. Each one has its own share in God’s work. It is just a matter of making yourself available and finding where you belong. The work starts from where you are setting now. Our employer does not offer a good payslip. In fact, it does not have monetary value. But He guarantees You with blessing more than money can buy. A happy family life, supportive friends, answered prayers, healthy body and mind, and a vibrant life, are just among the few. Not to mention the crown that awaits for those who labor earnestly. Why not join now Unlike government low employment among the others? Why not try? Why not rate, God has a big room for employment. get involve? It is your free will to become In fact, only few applied for this job offer- a volunteer. Be one of God’s workers. ing. According to Matthew 9:37, the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Job hunting should be the attitude of every Christians. If you not in God’s serHe guarantees you with vice, if you are not actively involved in the blessing more than money church, if you do not know what ministry you belong, apply and ask God His accepcan buy. tance. Whatever your abilities are, God needs you in His business.
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{
God has equipped the church with many talents and skills for the members to be ready for service. Some are gifted with beautiful smiles, yet few offer it to
arvel L. HUILAR
HARBINGER
TheinChurch Prophecy T
he Seventh-Day Adventist Church is a church in prophecy even in the beginning of its existence when it laid the foundation of truth to mankind. This group of people hold on the important truth they perceived in a humble beginning to uphold the great commission given by the almighty God through His son Jesus Christ who died at the cross of Calvary. This church came on time of what the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 foretold. “For 2, 300 evenings and mornings; then the holy place will be properly restored” NAS. The fulfilment of their prophetic computation enhanced by the almighty call of God His prophet of this last day church- Ellen Gould Harmon White. They were shaken by disappointment, discouragement of the unfulfilled prophecy of William Miller regarding the second coming of Jesus which will give total end of this world. Yet, what a great appointment of Ellen Gould Harmon White to start the prophetic call of encouraging the people in the handful few believers who were desperately crushed of the shameful, mournful experiences of their faith. They were shaken of unwholesome attitude, theological flaws, emotional hurt and poverty. God’s love abound to guide their weary souls grow in grace. Ellen Gould Harmon White used to lift up their faith. She received the explanation of the meaning of 2, 300 days-years in prophecy. Jesus did not come but he entered the holy place in heaven to be our advocate. He intercedes for us to obtain salvation. Ellen G. White said, “The minds of believers were to be directed to the heavenly sanctuary, where Christ had entered to make atonement for His people.” P.67, Book, Selected Messages. In these last days, we
are admonished to have a correct understanding of God’s ministry in the heavenly sanctuary. It is the foundation of our faith knowing how Jesus pleads to the Father on our behalf. It is the pillar of getting closer to God everyday moment by moment. It is the strong hold of our salvation against trials and temptations in this world of sin. In facing crisis of our time-the crisis of spiritual growth against high-tech development allure us to remain dwarf and not participative in the great work of preparing souls to God’s kingdom. This is very clear in the book Christ in His sanctuary, page 5 that says, in a crisis in 1906, in which certain of the basic teachings of Seventh-day Adventist were threatened, she wrote; the correct understanding of the ministration in the heavenly sanctuary is the foundation of our faith. (Evangelism, 221) In this, it shows to us that our church – the last day church, even in the past are shaken by different teachings and theories from different website in the internet nowadays which need to be judged and tested in the scripture and the spirit of prophecy. Especially in our time, we are nearing in the closing end of eparth’s history; a prayerful life in studying his word and a thorough understanding of the Spirit of prophecy should be given total importance thus our life will be nurtured spiritually towards maturity in the faith. The firm foundation of our faith is in the context of correct understanding of the heavenly sanctuary. Our church the Seventh-day Adventist is a church in prophecy that points us to be always ready at all time.
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The church came on time of what the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 foretold.
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