The Library of Inspirations: Poems by Emelyn G. Togonon

NO PAIN IS WASTED

No pain is wasted! It’s a time to learn, relearn and unlearn.

It’s a time when your heart becomes softer, tender and gentler.

It’s a time when you come to be more patient and understanding.

It’s a time when instead of being judgmental you become a sympathizer.

It’s a time when you realize how God is hurt when we don’t pay Him attention;

When we don’t reciprocate for His loyalty, love and devotion.

Pain time can be the sweetest and most meaningful of all,

‘coz it’s a time when God is leveling up the depth of our relationship with Him.

No pain is ever wasted if we learned from it.

GOD CAN USE US

God can use us for Him if we will only allow Him.

In poverty or in wealth;

In sickness or in health;

In perfect emotion or deepest depression;

In being known or being unknown;

In influence or lack of it;

In education or limitation;

In beauty or ugliness.

God, whatever our situation, use us for your glory!

ONLY JESUS SAVES

It’s not your church;

It’s not your pastor;

It’s not your membership in a certain congregation;

But only Jesus Saves!

It’s not your goodness;

It’s not your charity;

It’s not even your personality;

Only Jesus saves!

It’s not your education nor lack of it;

It’s not your money nor poverty;

But only Jesus,

Only Jesus saves!

It’s not your sacrifices

Nor your compromises;

Not your wisdom;

Only Jesus saves!

Only He died for our sins;

And after three days woke up and rose.

All you need is have faith and believe –

Accept Him as your Savior and Lord.

SHAKY, SHADY

Shaky, shady life could be.

Shaky, shady full of uncertainty.

Don’t know what will happen to you and me.

No one knows for sure what tomorrow will be.

What do we do in times like these?

When times are shaky, shady o shaky, shady.

We ask the Lord, why He allows all these?

We ask for reasons, some explanations.

We pray, and read, and remember The Promises.

We try to be positive and move on in the process.

We try not to focus on what’s negative.

We try to focus on Lord and the goodness He gives.

O shaky, shady, life could be shaky, shady.

But my attitude should not be shaky, shady.

‘Though I don’t have to demean the honesty of my feelings.

There’s only a certain period of time I can allow all these.

After a time of mourning and grieving.

After a time of asking and questioning.

Comes a time of rising and remembering.

Remembering God’s goodness from previous living.

When was those good and bountiful times?

When was those happy and joyous times?

When was those fun and productive times?

When was those light and easy going times?

Those were not shaky, shady times.

Those were certain and okay times.

Those were times full of hopes and happiness.

Those were oh good old times.

So it’s not always shaky, shady times.

This life is always of two sides.

Good and bad, enough and lack.

Remember that! Remember that.

We just have to continue trusting, believing and hoping.

We can’t afford to be living with our hearts dying.

We have to continue fighting and fighting and fighting!

Defeat that shaky, shady stinking thinking.

Yeah, it’s real – those times of shaky, shady.

But it’s not permanent we have to remember.

What’s more important is our eternal future,

In Jesus – my secure Anchor, it’s sure, not shaky, shady.

LIFE CAN BE LONELY, SO WHAT DO WE DO?

Life can be lonely and boring.

It’s inevitable, it happens.

Life is not perfect, we know it.

So, what do we do about it?

We listen to music, gay or sad?

You watch a movie or telenovela.

A TV series, or reality show.

Whatever you like, it’s your choice.

You read a book, or reread a favorite one.

Or something that you’re not yet done.

You write something like a poem.

Or to the musical, write a song.

Eat something you crave.

You binge, or simply have coffee break.

You go malling and buy something.

Or you do some window shopping.

You embrace your pet, or talk to a friend.

You do some artwork, and be creative.

You attend to something and do some serving.

You do some analyzing and meditating.

While all these can help, they don’t suffice.

It is still God who can make you alive.

Bring to Him your worries and cares.

Through prayer, through prayer.

Nothing is more comforting than the thought

That there is a great, good Creator who is also a friend.

You can tell Him everything without reserve.

Isn’t that what we need - a confidant?

An earthly friend cannot bear

All our sorrows, concerns and cares.

But the good Father is big and great.

He is unlimited, yes, He is unlimited.

He listens, He loves, He cares

Though we may be unsure or unaware.

He is there, and will always be there.

To be with us and help us with all He can.

Thank you dear Creator, Father and Friend

For being our consoler, comforter and helper.

The giver of hope, joy and strength

To this lonely soul in this lonely planet.

DON’T RELY ON ME

Don’t rely on me for your strength; I am not strong all the time.

Don’t rely on me for your happiness; I also get discouraged at times.

Don’t rely on me for your security; I also get insecure.

Don’t rely on me for everything; I can’t provide them all.

Don’t be shocked when you see me not happy or frowning sometimes.

Don’t you forget I am human; I am not okay all the time.

When I feel like being alone and quiet, please don’t think I’m mad at you.

There’s a season for everything, didn’t Ecclesiastes 3 told us so?

If there’s something we constantly need is prayer for each other.

I pray that the Spirit will always remind us to pray for one another.

We need God’s grace all the time, without it we couldn’t make it.

Our total reliance should be on the Father, our Maker, our Lover.

GOD’S GREAT, GREAT LOVE

God loves us.

We are not accidents.

God planned for our coming out of this world.

He intentionally created us for a purpose – to be our best, to love Him, and glorify Him.

But we are sinners and went our own ways - apart from the ways of God.

Yes He loves us, persues us, guides us, no matter who are and whatever we have become.

He continued pursuing until we finally gave Him our yes – until we finally gave Him our lives.

And we have become His.

And though we are already His, we still go astray, and enjoy another’s company.

We become unfaithful, and we make Him jealous.

And yet His love for us never fades.

Our infidelity does not make Him love us any less.

He keeps on pursuing, and will continue pursuing us until we become His again.

He will never lose interest in us.

Even if we pain His heart, we – you and me will always be the apple of His eyes;

The joy in His heart;

The objects of His love.

And a time will come when we will be His forever – in His safety – in His care.

That is if we respond to Him, His love, before it is too late.

I will always be forever grateful to the One who unceasingly love me and care for me.

A love that is ever truthful, reliable, sweet – ever assuring – ever securing.

A love that can be trusted even though several times I have doubted.

A love so true. Amazing love. A love that is so willing to give.

A love that gave everything, even His precious One.

Thank you Lord for Your great, great love.

OKEY LANG ANG UMULAN KUNG…

Okey lang ang umulan para ang naiinitan ay maginhawaan.

Okey lang ang umulan kung nasa bahay ka lang.

Okey lang ang umulan kapag sa byahe ay hindi mahihirapan.

Okey lang ang umulan pag walang tulo ang inyong bubungan.

Okey lang rin ang umulan kapag walang damit sa inyong sampayan.

Okey lang rin ang umulan kung walang nakababad na dapat mong banlawan.

Okay lang rin ang umulan kung walang baha doon at diyan.

At lalung okey lang ang umulan kung walang masasaktan.

SCHEMING, SCHEMERS

Scheming, schemers, that’s what others are.

Scheming, schemers, by hook or by crook they’ll get what they want.

Scheming, schemers, they forgot the difference between this and that.

Scheming, schemers, oh so secular!

MISSED OUT

I missed out on a lot of things, a lot of things in life.

I missed out on those dolls and toys when I was still a child.

I missed out on a lot of books – how I wish I have read.

I missed out on a lot of gadgets - from game and watch to ipad.

I missed out on a lot of concerts, musicales and events.

I missed out on a lot of tours, travel and what else?

But there are more to life than missing out on all those treasures on earth.

My God still gave me many blessings, and I am grateful for all of them.

God did not miss out that day when He came here to earth.

He did not miss out that date when for you and me on the cross He bled.

He did not miss out on that hour when He breathed his last breath.

Most of all, He did not miss out on that moment when He rose again from the dead.

My God did not miss out on me when He decided to give me life.

He did not miss out on me, when in Grade 3, He revealed to me himself.

And I know He will not miss out that day when for you and me He will come back.

Because all who accepted His Son Jesus, will not be missed but will be remembered instead.

They will not miss out the life that He promised, which is eternal and perfect.

UNTITLED TRUTH

God is so FULL OF LOVE that is why He created us.

He created us to have a RELATIONSHIP with Him.

He wants to have a relationship with us - the reason why HE SENT HIS SON, JESUS, to die on the cross for our sins.

Jesus died but on the third day ROSE AGAIN, so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.

And now a PLACE IS BEING PREPARED for all who believed and received.

HAPPY RESURRECTION SUNDAY!

IT’S EASY TO SING

It’s easy to sing,

Sing these songs of praise and worship.

You feel it while you’re singing it.

You mean it while it’s ringing in your ears.

But it’s a different thing

When in our actual lives

Trials and temptations come by.

It’s easy to forget the songs that we’re singing;

Did we mean it then,

Can we follow through them.

Then you feel the pain,

You feel sorry for yourself.

You asked God for forgiveness;

You prayed for God give to give you strength.

You say I want to mean the songs I sing

And apply it in my living.

It’s easy to sing,

Sing these songs of praise and worship.

You feel it while you’re singing it.

You mean it while it’s ringing in your ears.

So we may feel ashamed of your shortcoming;

And You feel like not anymore singing.

Then you’re reminded of God’s grace overflowing;

Just continue singing, continue praising Him

Because the songs that you’re singing

Is not about you, but about Him.

WE LIVE IN THIS TIME

We live in a time of broken relationships;

Of broken marriages, broken family and broken friendships.

We live in a time of materialism, individualism and relativism;

Less and less are fighting for what is right; More and more do what they think is right.

We live in a life of weak foundations, lack of convictions and moral degradations;

Everybody is doing what everybody else is doing.

We live in a life of lack of commitment, lack of communications and lack of deep relations;

Of feeling alone in this crowded world, of feeling we do not belong.

We live in a time when we need clearer minds, deeper convictions, and clearer directions.

We live in this time when we need God more, His presence and His instructions to guide.

We live in this time when we need to communicate more, to be more sincere, and be more honest;

To develop deeper relationships, join good company, and be involved in causes that are worthy.

We live in this time when we need not lose hope;

And put our hope to its One True Source.

We live in a time when we really need to know the truth from false.

We live in a time when we need a savior, Jesus Christ alone.

THAT IS LIFE

Life is beginning, life is end.

Life is growth, life is death.

Life is joy, life is pain.

Life is knowledge, life is ignorance.

Life is laughter, life is cry.

Life is who, what, when, where, how and why.

Life is giving, life is taking.

Life is showing, life is keeping.

Life is hope, life is hopelessness.

Life is dreams and ideals.

Life is reality and practicality.

Life is fame and greatness.

Life is humbling experiences.

Life is all, some and more.

Life is exciting, but sometimes a bore.

Love is seeing, feeling, hearing and tasting.

Life is loving and sometimes hating.

Life is working, life is resting.

Life is sleeping, life is waking.

Life is morning, noon and evening.

Life is walking, jumping, and running.

Life is sickness, life is health.

Life is poverty, and life is wealth.

Life is doing something, life is doing nothing.

Life is buying, life is selling.

Life is fighting and life is retreating.

Life is going forward and going backward.

Life is staying, life is going.

Life is black, life is white.

Life is sure and life is uncertain.

Life is God, us and others.

Life is long and life is short.

Life is hot, fair weather and cold.

Life is sunny, rainy, windy or cloudy.

Life is peace and war.

Life is everything around us.

Things that make us feel, act and grow somehow.

Simple and complicated.

That is life.

GOD IS NOT FAIR

God is not fair!

You heard it right, are you shocked?

I’ll tell you why,

I’ll tell you what….

If God was fair, listen to this:

For our sins we should have died;

And not His Son

Who lived a sinless life.

If God was fair, we should have not received

many good things that we don’t deserve.

If God was fair,

He should have not been faithful to us,

giving us all our needs;

When we are unfaithful in our minds and deeds.

Yes, God is not fair.

He gives us more, when we give Him less.

He is not fair,

Yet He is the best.

COMMANDS

In all ways acknowledge God;

Let Him be the center of your life.

Make Him always the first;

And trust Him with your whole life.

Lean not on your own understanding;

Know God, His ways, and obey Him.

Undoubtedly believe in Him

For He knows everything.

He is sovereign. He is in control.

He knows what He is doing.

In Him there is a purpose, and

A reason for all things.

In Him there is peace,

There is hope, there is joy.

And rewards await to those

These commands he will employ.

These instructions are not easy,

Almost impossible to obey.

But help me Lord for Your glory

To willingly carry Your way.

DO I MEAN IT?

The children of God are so blessed

with many beautiful songs;

Songs that we can listen to, and

songs that we can also sing along.

Songs that talk about who God is:

His wisdom, goodness and might.

Songs that tell of our devotion to Him

no matter what befalls our life.

But do I mean it when I sing:

Everyday it’s You I live for

Everyday I’ll follow after You

Everyday I’ll walk with You my Lord

Or will I only disappoint You, Lord?

And do I mean it when I sing:

‘On the road marked with suffering

‘Though there’s pain in the offering

Blessed be Your name

Or will my questionings pop again and again?

And do I mean it when I sing:

Whatever my lot

‘Thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well with my soul

Or will my grumbling and murmuring go full blown?

And do I mean it when I sing:

All to Jesus I surrender, all to Him I freely give

I will ever love and trust Him

In His presence daily live.

Or are there still things I’d like to keep?

And do I mean it when I sing:

Forever I’ll love You, Forever I’ll stand

Nothing compares

To the promise I have in You

Or will my faith just prove so untrue?

But then again, I remember,

It’s not about me, and it’s about Him.

I sing not because of myself;

I sing because of who God is.

We sing because He’s worthy of praise.

We sing because He’s worthy of honor.

We sing because He’s worthy of worship.

We sing because He’s worthy of our songs.

GOD LOVES US

God loves us…

He created us in His own image.

For His pleasure we were made.

God loves us…

His Only Begotten Son He sent,

So we will not go to hell.

God loves us…

He gave us His Holy Spirit

So we will be guided by His own perfect will.

God loves us…

He gave us His Holy Word

So we will know Him more.

God loves us…

Jesus intercedes for us with the Father,

So our needs will be met.

God loves us…

He guides, provides and protects;

In His love we are covered.

God loves us…

He allows us trials to experience,

So in them we’ll become stronger.

God loves us…

He disciplines and punishes,

So we’ll not fall deep in sin.

God loves us…

He is now in heaven,

Preparing a place for all of His children.

MAHAL TAYO NG DIYOS

Matindi man ang sikat ng araw,

Nakakasilaw man sa paningin,

Masakit man ito sa balat natin,

Pag-ibig ng Diyos ay sumasaatin.

Bagyo ma’t malakas ang ulan,

Nakakatakot man ang hampas ng hangin,

Bumabaha man sa paligid,

Pag-ibig ng Diyos ang pairalin.

Mahal tayo ng Diyos,

Laging nating tandaan.

Mahal tayo ng Diyos,

H’wag kalilimutan.

Mahal tayo ng Diyos,

Lagi Siyang nandyan.

Mahal tayo ng Diyos

Pag-ibig Niya’y laging laan.

Mahirap man ang buhay minsan,

May mga dagok mang nararanasan,

May mga pasakit mang nadarama,

Pag-ibig ng Diyos ay nandyan lang.

LOVE, NOTHING ELSE

What is man that you are mindful of him?

We are but small and have nothing to give.

Why did You have to leave heaven for us?

Healed the sick and washed the disciples dirty feet?

Endured man’s hatred and on the cross submit

That those who come to You will be saved from sin?

You provide for our every need.

Grace and blessings, You daily give.

You put up with our shortcomings.

You forgive us from sins the moment we sincerely ask for it.

Directs and guides us how to live.

Prepares eternity for those who have let You in their hearts come in.

Why the interest and the attention You give?

Will You in anyway benefit from all the goodness You furnish?

And profit from the unconditional love You lavish?

What could be the reason for all these?

There’s only one that my simple mind can think,

It’s love, yes LOVE, nothing else!

GOD IS GOOD

God is good, I know that.

To me and my family, He has proven that.

He can’t afford to be not,

‘Coz we can only accept and understand

A God who is good, a God who is love.

He is in the business of proving us

His best intentions,

His perfect will and plan,

His sufficient provisions,

His unfailing love and devotion.

He asks us to challenge His promises;

Our hearts desires if we delight ourselves;

Overflowing abundance for faithful giving;

Peace and joy for righteous living;

Rewards for obedient undertakings.

But take note He is not in the business

Of politicking and producing spoiled brats.

Sincere hearts we got to have.

Remember, it’s not about us;

It’s all about God.

God is good no matter what;

It does not depend on our situation;

It does not depend on our emotion;

It depends on Him alone.

God is good; God is good!

MUSIC

Music is a miracle,

Wonderful indeed.

It’s a divine providence

To all who are in need of it.

It speaks to hearts

And also through hearts.

It touches many lives

From all walks of life.

It breaks through souls,

Confident and stands tall.

Crosses all barriers

From here and everywhere.

It makes you smile;

It makes you teary-eyed

It also makes you dance,

And have some good fun.

It makes you think awhile,

And do some wondering why.

It assists you in the fight,

And helps you in the try.

It’s there when you are in love.

Also, when you’re out of love.

It accompanies you at night,

And greets you at daylight.

It brings you to a place

Where you have never been -

To another world

Where you’ve always wanted to be.

Music O music,

How can we live without it?

O God will you please

Keep this blessing coming.

Life will be dull

And absolutely boring

Without this precious gift

We simply call music.

HELP ME WITH MY FEELINGS LORD

Help me with my feelings Lord;

It’s a strong and stubborn force.

My life it wants to hold;

To its wheel it wants control.

Contrary to what the world believes

That we be guided by our feelings,

Feelings are unreliable, always shaky;

Undependable, never steady.

It has really no use during the night;

It is not in the business of giving light.

Most often it confuses and does not help.

Pulls you down, brings you low instead.

Help me with my feelings Lord;

Help me trust in You alone.

Believe only in Your word;

Rely on my feelings no more.

Your word is the only guiding light.

Its wisdom is our great ally.

It leads us to what is right.

To a better and brighter life.

BONDING MOMENTS, BONDING TIMES

We bond with friends over donuts and coffee.

We bond with them through common activities.

We bond with them through long chats on the phone;

And, of course, through an internet connection.

We bond with our families over foodies.

We bond with them through church activities.

We bond with them while malling and strolling.

And also while we’re grocerying.

We bond with a pet at feeding time.

We bond with it also at bath time.

We bond with it as we put it to sleep.

Not to forget as we play with it.

Cherish these moments, cherish these times;

Plant them in the pockets of your mind.

So that when times are hard and times are tough

These little good things will help us not fall apart.

Bonding moments, bonding times,

Maybe simple yet sweet and memorable times.

How fast really time flies;

But thank God we have some of these in our lives.

AMAZING, AMAZING!

There are just so many things amazing;

So amazing I cannot fully comprehend.

They to me are mind boggling.

I know or hope you understand.

Tall, tall, big, big buildings;

Deep, deep elevator-ridden African minings.

Panama Canal, Philippine Rice Terraces, and what else?

Dubai’s own version of Venice in the desert.

Newer and newer medical interventions;

Lots and lots of scientific or technological inventions.

Digital, virtual, and various other confusing terms;

Hope things are really becoming easier and easier.

Songs new and old, and in different chants,

With music and lyrics that speak to hearts;

With messages that touches peoples’ lives,

And, accompanies them throughout their life.

Changes in people, young and old.

From bad to good and to their best;

Only God can do these amazing miracles

Through people who, in everything, do their best.

GOD’S LOVE REMAINS

God’s love continues;

It never fades.

It remains unfailing;

It does not change.

He stays faithful

‘Though we are unfaithful.

His is steadfast passion

‘Though we lose our devotion.

God remains trustworthy

‘Though we are unworthy.

He retains His favor

‘Though we lose our fervor.

His plans keep on going

In spite of our shortcomings.

His power keeps on working

In spite of our failings.

God’s love remains

Full of mercy, full of grace.

It is forever our hope

Even to the end of days.

IN MY ROOM

Thank you for the TV, cassette and all.

Thank you for my cell phone, games and mp3 songs.

Thank you for they keep me company in my little room.

Where I was able to, in my notebook, write all along.

Thank you for my bed that keeps me warm.

Thank you for my pet cat Gray for all the love.

Thank you for the electric fan that keeps me cool.

And for the light and lamp that illuminates my room.

Thank you for the Korean novela that tickles.

For the national events that pickles.

For all the inspirational materials that mingles.

For the pillows and blankets that serve as comforters.

Thank you for all the thank yous that I can think of.

Thank yous don’t have to be big before you let it go.

They may be small or ordinary kinds;

What matters is the heart that cries it out and binds.

Thank you for the computer in the other room,

Where I was able to sneak in and make good use.

Also for the bark of dogs and some human voice I hear around,

For it reminds me, I’m not alone in my room.

MUSIC O MUSIC

Music O music

How can we live without it?

O God you have blessed us

With such beautiful magic.

It accompanies us when we’re sad.

It joins us when we’re glad.

It shares with us lots and lots of love.

It sings along with us.

Music O music

How can we live without it?

O God you have blessed us

With such great bequest.

It lifts us up when we are down;

Energizes us and makes us warm.

Makes us happy and becomes our clown.

A faithful friend, anywhere, anyhow.

Music O music

How can we live without it?

O God you have blessed us

With such marvelous gift.

RELAX KA LANG

Ang problema sa buhay ay normal lang.

Mayaman o mahirap ay mayroon ka niyan.

May pinag-aralan o wala, walang pinipili ‘yan.

Parang sakit kahit sino puwedeng dapuan.

Ang lahat ng pagsubok ay may katapusan,

Kung paanong ang lahat ay may pinagmulan.

Alam mo ‘yan, hindi ba, kaibigan?

Kaya relax ka lang at hinay-hinay lang.

Tuloy lang ang buhay ‘pagkat ito’y paikot-ikot lang.

Minsan nasa ilalim ka, minsan nasa ibabaw naman.

Ngayon masaya ka, tapos malungkot na naman.

Kahapon masagana, ngayon naman kulang-kulang.

Ang pagsubok sa buhay ay ating kailangan.

Dahil kung wala nito ay mababaw ka lang.

Wala kang lalim na pag-huhugutan;

Ang buhay mo’y kulang sa kabuluhan.

Kaya’t sa problema’y huwag mong kalilimutan,

Huwag kang bibigay kahit anong mangyari man.

Kahit anong pasakit, sa pag-asay kumapit lang.

Baka bukas ay kasaganaan at kaligayahan naman.

LET HIM SING!

Let him who sing, sing!

And use his talents for Him.

Don’t kill by suppressing him

Of the joy that comes from singing.

Would you want him to be a tourist guide

When he has a poor sense of direction?

Or when he is afraid of blood

Would you want him to be a doctor?

Would you want him to be an accountant

When he is not good in math?

Or would you want him to be a pilot

When he is afraid of heights?

Wasn’t it God who gave him the voice,

And put in him the passion for music?

Wasn’t it God who wanted him to use his talent,

And bring to Him the glory?

So let him who sing, sing!

Make his joy complete within.

Let him continue to live.

Let him sing, sing, sing!!!

If we have everything we desire and want,

We wouldn’t have learned how to call on to God.

If all our situations are happy and gay,

In shallowness of character we would have stayed.

If all around us is perfectly okay,

We wouldn’t have needed God’s goodness and grace.

If we’ve never tasted pains and problems,

We wouldn’t have learned how to work on them.

If things surrounding us are all just great,

Good and bad we wouldn’t have learned to differentiate.

If we’re never punished when we commit mistakes,

Our morals would be greatly at stake.

If we’re not showered with grace and goodness,

We wouldn’t have realized our blessedness.

If we have not been given our own free will,

We wouldn’t have known what’s wrong and known God’s will.

If Jesus, our Savior, did not die and live for you and me,

We will not have a place in eternity.

CATS ARE AMAZING

Cats are amazing!

They’re such wonderful beings.

From their furs to their tails,

From their eyes to their ears,

From their paws to their claws,

You can’t keep but wondering,

How God loves us for giving such a thing.

Cats are amazing!

Their nice to hug…

Nice to play with…

Nice to have as a family member…

They’re clean,

Little or no bath is what they need.

Leaking, grooming is their constant thing.

Cats are amazing!

Have you ever wondered

How blessed we are

For such miniature lions and tigers are not afar?

These graceful beings and dignified ones

Are yours for a pet

To care for and caress.

Cats are amazing!

They vary in colors:

Gray, Black, Orange and White.

Some are multi-colored to please our sight.

Their furs are smooth.

Their paws shine.

Their eyes are like crystals especially at night.

Cats are amazing!

Do you feel lonely,

You want somebody by your side

To love and care for in your life?

Why don’t you get a pet?

There’s nothing to lose my friend.

Some love from it you might get.

JESUS, YOU ARE MY BEST FRIEND

I have quite some friends

From here and there.

Some are close and not so close friends

But, Jesus, You are my best friend.

Jesus, You are my best friend,

You’re my No.1 confidant.

You always have a ready ear,

I can tell you everything.

I am secure in Your loyalty;

You are always there for me.

Just one call and there I see

You sitting beside me.

Jesus, You are my best friend.

You will never leave me nor forsake.

You are nothing but great;

No one can take your place.

You, my best friend?

Kind’a hard to comprehend.

You exceed my expectations,

Can we be forever friends?

‘Coz Jesus, You are my best friend!

VICTORY IS YOUR STORY

Still unsure of the many things in life.

Everything didn’t become perfect when salvation came by.

Burdens are still very clear in sight.

Struggles didn’t just go and left my side.

There’s still fear I feel inside.

Good things, bad things come side by side.

Sometimes I wan’na give up and say goodbye.

I’m shaken by what’s happening with life.

All I know is that, You’ll never leave me no matter what.

You’ll see me through this life whether I’m down or up.

‘Coz You’re not the One who will give up.

Your Spirit will always be there to push and lift me up.

You will never leave me nor forsake me.

You’ll carry me through all the things that still troubles me.

You will lead me to glory, someday I will see

‘Coz victory, yes victory is Your story!

Victory, victory, victory is Your story!

You’ll bring us to glory, someday I will see!

You are the great, good God Almighty!

Victory, victory, victory is Your story!

I WOULDN’T HAVE LONGED FOR HEAVEN

If everything I want are effortlessly gotten or received,

I wouldn’t have longed for heaven.

If all of my questions and doubts are easily answered or cleared,

I wouldn’t have longed for heaven.

If problems, troubles and struggles are immediately solved and vanished,

I wouldn’t have longed for heaven.

If sorrows, aches or pains are strange and never experienced,

I wouldn’t have longed for heaven.

I thank God I don’t have only good things on earth,

For if I do, I wouldn’t have longed for heaven.

THANK GOD, HE IS GOOD!

This life is not about us. It’s about God!

It’s about His pleasure and glory, not about our desires and wants

If we don’t get what we want, what is that to us?

But thank God, He is a good God!

He can do to us whatever He so desires.

But chose to give us free-will, so for ourselves we can decide

to choose Him and do what is right -

to fulfill His calling for our lives.

He was pleased to create us, love us and take care of us.

The very best, He chose to give us.

Although at times, we fail this life’s test,

God’s forgiveness, love and chances are always there.

ANG BIYAYA NG KAHIRAPAN

Paghihirap, pagtitiis, pagdurusa,

sa ating bayan ay nadarama.

Gutom, kawalan ng trabaho,

katiwalian, doon at dito.

Tayo’y kinukutya….

Tayo pa naman daw ay isang Kristiyanong bansa!

Ngunit, kung titingnan mo, ‘di mo ba nababata

Ang kahirapan nati’y may kalakip ding biyaya?

Sa kabuuan ang ating pagpapahalaga

sa mga importanteng bagay ay hindi nawawala.

Lalo pa itong tumitibay

sa kahirapang ating tinatamasa.

Pagpapahalaga sa kaibigan at mga mahal sa buhay.

Pagpapahalaga sa Diyos na sa atin ay nagbibigay buhay.

Tayo nga’y patuloy na tatanghaling isang Kristiyanong bansa

sapagkat, sa pagdurusa’y lumalalim ang pagkilala sa Diyos na Dakila!

At sa paglabas natin ng bansa

upang humanap ng mas malaking grasya,

hindi ba naibabahagi natin sa iba

itong ating pananampalataya.

Sa palagay mo ba’y kikilalanin natin ang Manlilikha,

kung tayo ay walang problema?

Tingnan na lang ang mauunlad na bansa

Sa kanilang mga simbaha’y kakaunti ang taong nakikita!

Kaya’t kung titingnan ang kahirapan sa pananaw na positibo,

may maganda ring dulot ito sa akin at sa’yo.

Lalo tayong nilalapit nito kay Kristo.

Tayo ay mas napapabuting tao.

LIKE A WEANED CHILD

Like a weaned child,

trust in the Lord!

Stop murmuring and complaining;

Rely on His Word!

Like a weaned child,

simply ask and fret no more!

Learn to be content,

And, wait on Him.

Like a weaned child,

Be still and quiet your soul….

Put your hope in God,

both now and forevermore!

NO MATTER WHAT!

‘Though none of my big desires have yet been met,

And none of my dreams have come true yet,

And ‘though I’m not an achiever, a fame or success,

In myself, I have it resolved that no matter what, God is good!

‘Though my family is perfectly imperfect,

And that my mother has long been suffering from a sickness,

And ‘though I’m not yet mature as I should be, I guess!

In myself, I have it resolved that no matter what, God is good!

‘Though the future seem to be uncertain,

And my faith is always being shaken,

By God’s grace, I will continue to believe in His promises.

‘Coz in myself, I have it resolved, that no matter what

God is good!

MABUTI ANG DIYOS KO!

Castle, shoe house, tree house,

At maraming laruan.

Malaking bahay sa isang subdivision,

At hele-helerang apartments na malapit dito.

Isang condo unit sa Ortigas.

Mga bahay bakasyunan sa iba’t-ibang probinsiya.

Further studies and travels abroad.

Time and budget for my artistic inclinations.

Mas magagandang sapatos, damit at accessories.

Big time achievements, success and, of course, fame.

Ang lahat ng ito’y wala ako!

Pero masasabi ko pa ring mabuti ang Diyos ko!

Siya’y hindi nagkukulang at laging totoo.

Laging tapat sa Kanyang mga pangako.

Ang sagot Niya lang nama’y ang aking mga pangangailangan.

At hindi lahat ng aking gusto’t maibigan.

Kaya’t kahit wala ako ng lahat ng ito,

Sasabihin ko pa ring mabuti ang Diyos ko!

I – ENJOY!

O bakit ba hindi na lang natin i-enjoy ang buhay?

Bakit ba kailangang malugmok sa pag-aalala at malumbay?

Oo nga’t ang problema ay totoo at ating kakambal na,

Pero ang pag-aalalala ba’y may magandang magagawa?

Makakatulong ba ito para maibsan mga kabigatang dala-dala?

O mga suliranin natin ay lalo lang pinalalala?

Kung tayo lamang ay tititig sa mga positibong aspeto ng buhay,

Mapapansin nating ang buhay ay punung-puno ng kulay.

Patuloy na matuto, gumawa at magmahal!

Ang mga hamon ng buhay ay bigyang kabuluhan.

Huwag panghinaan at magmukmok na lang.

Mabunyi at ang buhay ay i-enjoy ng lubusan.

YOU ARE ALWAYS THERE

When I’m down and discouraged,

When I’m disappointed and depressed,

When weak and don’t have the strength,

You are always there!

When I’m mad and crazy,

When I feel confused and dizzy,

When life becomes too heavy,

You are always there!

In all my concerns and cares,

In all my needs, troubles, worries, and pray’rs,

In all the tears that I’ve shed,

You are always there!

BABALIK AT BABALIK

Kahit anong mangyari, ako ay babalik.

Babalik at babalik sa Iyong pag-ibig.

Sa kabila ng pagtatampo at paghihinagpis.

Sa Iyong bisig ako ay babalik.

Kahit anong tinding nadaramang sakit,

At sa maraming tanong na sumasagi sa isip.

Sa Iyo, O Diyos, ako ay babalik.

Babalik at babalik sa Iyong pag-ibig.

Kahit na nga magkasalang labis,

At nahihiya ng muling lumapit.

Ewan ko ba at bakit?

Sa Iyo ako ay babalik at babalik!

NORMAL FEELINGS

Once in a while, for some reasons,

We get to have some feelings of insecurity.

To certain places, groups, or systems

Unsure of ourselves, and with no confidence.

A friend, a group, or gadget

We got so used to having,

When gone temporarily or permanently,

In some ways, make us a bit crazy.

Unknown future, unfamiliar territory,

Troubles us and makes us worry.

The loss of a friend or a family member

Is something we don’t desire to happen.

But these are normal feelings.

What’s abnormal is if we don’t care a thing.

For the loss of someone or something,

Somehow, disorients us from within.

We just shouldn’t let said feelings

Overwhelm our whole being.

And we have to constantly remind ourselves

That only in Him is our security and confidence.

LOCKED!

You feel dry, you feel tired

In a world that seems so dry.

You do not know, don’t understand

What’s happening around.

Can’t see clearly as you try to look

In the blurry clouds up in the space.

You feel dizzy, as though you’re tossed

In a frantic, hysteric air.

The pull is strong, there’s something wrong,

You can’t get out of bed.

The sky is dark, and it’s as if

Everything is lying dead.

You want to move but you cannot

‘Coz as you try, you feel a bump.

It’s as if you are in a box –

A box with a LOCK!

You try to shake that locked box,

On its four sides you try to thump!

But you feel helpless, then hopeless.

You do not have any strength.

“What shall I do?” you asked yourself.

I’m overpowered by a weakness.

But then I cried and managed to wail,

Asked for help from nowhere.

I talked and talked, ‘though I’m alone,

As if somebody’s there.

Then I just fainted, exhausted

From my long cry for help.

Then I woke up from a sleep

That has never been so deep.

I feel a strength I never felt

And such a great relief.

And there beside I see some bread,

And plenty of water beside.

I took them all and had my fill

I feel so satisfied.

Now I see light peeping up there!

I wonder what had just happened.

And wonder what will take place

After such incident.

‘Then I heard some soft, slow movements

It’s like somebody’s coming.

I hear some jingling, tinkling, jingling

What could be I’m hearing?

I heard a grab, I heard a snap

After a swift twist and twirl.

Then the box from where I’m in

Suddenly went very wide open.

I felt the air so cool and fresh,

Such light joy lingers in the air.

Then, I called out, “Who is there?”

Who is it my Rescuer?

Then my Savior came up to me

With such wonderful face.

He pulled me up out of the box

Then, showed me an opened LOCK.

I’m free!!! I’m free again,

From the lock that immobilized.

‘Coz in the embrace of His powerful love.

Now, my life is firmly LOCKED!

GOD’S RIVER

When sorrow comes

And despair enters,

Come to God’s river

Full of fresh water.

It will quench your thirst,

Renew you strength.

Give you life

All over again.

Come to God’s river

Full of clear water,

So that your loneliness

Will be found nowhere.

God’s river is clean

It will ease your pain,

Lighten your load,

And make you whole again.

So stand up now

From your bed of pain.

Come to God’s river

And drink from its water.

COME TO JESUS

Are you hungry and thirsty,

Depleted and in need?

Feast on God’s love,

And be satisfied, indeed.

Don’t know what to do

With life’s many testing?

Come to Jesus

And rest in His sweet dwelling.

Come to Jesus, Come to Jesus

Whoever you are!

God is calling us

In His gentle, loving arms.

Keep aside all your troubles.

Drown first in His love.

And you will have restored strength

To keep you going again.

BE HAPPY

Be happy, and worry not.

Be happy, and do not pout.

Be happy, and smile a lot.

Be happy, ‘though it’s hard.

Be happy, for it’s what the Lord commands.

Be happy, and give it your best shot!

Be happy, enjoy all out.

Be happy, and have a healthy heart.

Be happy, and laugh out loud!

VICTORIOUS

We want to live victorious lives!

No matter what, finish and win the fight!

But don’t forget, instill in your minds;

The ending of our lives is bright as His light;

For the battle has been won by the God of all might!

So do not worry about our plight.

Just fight, fight, fight! Triumph is in sight!

Ours, in Christ, is a victorious life!

ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN

Anything bad can happen to anybody.

We’re not exempted from adversities.

But still we pray to the God of Mercy

For His protection for you and me.

We will do our best to take care of ourselves.

But, prayer still is the best defense.

For God in His loving care and sovereignty,

Can shield us from catastrophes.

To God, we pray, He will spare us,

From the calamities that may befall us.

For nobody wants heart breaking punches

For ourselves, family and friends.

PROBLEMA

Problema, problema, problema,

Parte ng buhay ang problema.

Ito’y ating kakambal na.

Magtaka ka kung wala kang problema.

Kung hindi ka nakakatikim ng problema,

Anong buhay kaya meron ka?

Buhay na matabang o walang lasa,

Puro kababawan lang kaya?

Sana nga lang ang natanggap na problema

Ay hindi sariling kagagawan, ‘di ba?

Dahil ‘pagka ganyan ay walang dapat sisihin,

Kundi ikaw lang walang iba!

Kung ang problema ay pagsubok lang,

May aral na sa iyo’y nakalaan.

May mahalagang dapat matutunan

Na dapat mong tandaan at ingatan.

Problema, problema, problema,

Tuloy ang buhay kahit may problema.

Huwag mawalan ng pag-asa.

Sa Diyos lang ay kumapit ka.

CRYING

Crying has always been a part of life –

A consistent companion almost anytime.

You cry when you’re happy, sad or mad.

Also, when filled with joy or in painful toil.

Crying has become so ordinary,

‘Though you don’t get used to it.

You aren’t normal

If you don’t give it some treat.

Crying is our rebuker-friend –

A reminder not to do the wrong again.

It’s also our nostalgic-friend –

When we reminisce the good things we’ve gained.

And after you cry for a long

Or just a short while,

There is such wonderful relief

After every cry!

So, Father God, thank you

For the tears that come out of our eyes –

For such mysterious gift that blurs our eyes –

For this ally that’s always by our side.

IN AND OUT

In and out of doubts and faith,

In and out of fear and courage,

In and out of belief and disbelief,

In and out chaos and quiet.

In and out of strength and weakness,

In and out of sin and righteousness,

In and out grumbling and thankfulness,

In and out of sadness and happiness.

In and out of discouragements and hopes,

In and out of victory and loss,

In and out, that’s what we are, in and out!

But God’s grace and goodness is always there,

Never in and out!

WE ARE GOD’S WONDROUS CREATIONS

We are God’s wondrous creations,

Created for His purpose and pleasure.

We are His cherished possessions,

And very much adorned treasures.

Yet we failed, but He didn’t.

We have sinned, but He willn’t.

And He will not want us wasted.

So His Precious Son He provided.

We are God’s wondrous creations,

‘Though we failed with our limitations.

He does and will do everything for us

To make us truly His own.

In spite of our hard-stoned hearts,

He continued pursuing us.

O what a goooooood loving God,

With such importance He gives us.

We are God’s wondrous creations

Even with our senseless actuations.

He redeems, beautifies and perfects

All those who will respond and accept.

SA HULI

Kanya-kanya lang tayo.

Kanya-kanyang buhay.

Kanya-kanyang kulay.

Kanya-kanyang saysay.

May mahirap, may mayaman.

May magaling sa ganito,

May magaling sa ganyan.

Meron namang walang alam.

May kumpleto, may kulang.

May sobra-sobra, may walang-wala.

Minsan nasa ibabaw.

Minsan nasa ilalim ka.

Minsan malungkot,

Minsan masaya.

Ganyan lang talaga ang buhay,

Hindi pare-pareho, iba-iba!

May buhay pa, may patay na.

Merong buhay pa

Pero parang patay na.

Nakakalungkot naman, kuya!

May nagtatagumpay.

Merong hindi pa.

Merong masagana.

Merong kulang talaga.

Kaya anuman ang iyong sitwasyon.

Talagang ganyan, kanya-kanya’t, iba-iba.

Sa kahuli-hulihan dapat lang malaman

Saan patutungo’y dapat sigurado ka.

Iba-iba nga, dahil ‘di p’wedeng pare-pareho.

Pero sa huli, sana sa Diyos tayo’y

Haharap ng walang alinlangan,

Dahil tayo’y naging tapat kahit sa kaibahan.

I WANT TO PRAISE YOUR NAME

In the midst of troubles,

In the midst of cares,

In the midst of chores,

I want to praise Your name.

In the midst of hardships,

In the midst of pains,

In the midst of chaos,

I want to praise Your name.

O God of mercy, O God of grace,

My praise to You please accept.

Whatever I’m into, I want to praise You;

I want to praise Your Holy Name.

Whether I am happy,

Whether I am sad,

Whatever my case,

I want to praise Your name.

O God of mercy, O God of grace,

I want to praise You, Your Holy Name.

IF WE ARE DISCOURAGED

If we are discouraged,

What is there to do?

Well, let’s do something worthwhile to combat the woe!

If we are discouraged,

Have the time to encourage others.

Don’t focus only on yourself.

If we are discouraged,

Don’t linger on your cares

‘Coz that’s the way to a heart’s that’s depressed.

If we are discouraged,

Sad thoughts we forget.

Think of happy thoughts instead.

If we are discouraged,

Listen to some good music.

And sing along if need be my friend.

If we are discouraged,

Do something positive.

Maybe we can help somebody in need.

If we are discouraged,

Go back to God’s promises.

And let’s remind ourselves of God’s goodness.

KUNTENTO

Ba’t ba napakarami kong gusto sa mundong ito?

Mabuti nga sana kung sila’y magkakatotoo.

Gusto ko noon, gusto ko nito!

Kaya naman minsan ako’y litung-lito.

Sa mga hangad at nais ay para bang

Hindi ko iiwan itong mundo.

Eh kahit kalian naman, kahit kalian…

Ay puwede akong kunin ng Manlilikha ko.

Ang nais ng tao’y walang katapusan.

Mayroon na nga nito, ang gusto’y iba na naman.

Mabuti na lang sa buhay na walang hanggan,

Doon ay tunay nang may kakuntentuhan.

Pero nga sana ngayon pa lang ay makuntento na.

Sa lahat ng naisin ay huwag magpadala.

At ang kapayapaan ay iyong makakamtan,

Hindi sa lahat ng hangarin, kundi sa Diyos lamang.

PUTTING US IN BALANCE

You have your way of balancing us

On how to view ourselves.

You sometimes make us the head,

And sometimes the tail.

You put us up, You put us down,

Whatever is necessary.

You allow us to experience

Plenty, enough and scarcity.

You make us good in some things.

In some things, we know nothing.

Making us level-headed people

With nothing to boast, oh nothing….

So help us, Lord, indeed

To think and act properly –

When to act with authority,

And when to act submissively.

When to assert ourselves,

And when to keep quiet;

When to fight for what we think is right,

And when to give in to another’s mind.

Thank you for being our wise God.

Not allowing us to be weaklings nor haughty.

Always putting us in balance.

Thus, becoming individuals who bring You glory.

IKAW LANG TALAGA

Ikaw lang talaga,

‘Di ka nagkukulang;

Kahit na nga minsa’y

Wala aking katapatan.

Ikaw lang talaga,

Katapatan Mo’y walang hanggan;

Hindi nagbabago

Kahit na kalian man.

Ikaw lang talaga,

Ang palaging nandyan;

‘Di ka nang-iiwan

Kahit saan pa man.

Ikaw lang talaga,

‘Di ako pinababayaan;

Hirap man o ligaya,

Laging sinusubaybayan.

Ikaw lang talaga,

‘Di ako kinalilimutan;

Palagi akong

Nasa Iyong isipan.

ON LIFE’S POSITIVES

If only we will focus on the positive side of life,

How blessed we are, we will realize!

We have more than enough – food, shelter and clothing.

When other’s almost have nothing.

We’re blessed, we’re blessed!

But we always forget.

‘Though we don’t always have what we want,

We have more than enough.

Don’t we eat more than three times a day,

When others are hungry from day to day.

We even need to control our diet.

‘Coz we’re all getting too fat, have you not observed it?

We’re also, in a way, comfortably sheltered.

When others are uneasy when they gather together.

For a needed decent rest

They don’t have enough space to spare.

Our clothes may not be the expensive ones –

the signature ones.

But it doesn’t matter at all

As long as they are comfortable.

For even in the simple things in life,

We can experience the good life.

Only if we don’t dwell on the negatives.

But only on life’s positives.

BALANSENG BUHAY

Sana ang buhay ay laging masaya.

At hindi nawawalan ng tawa.

Sapagkat masaya ang tumatawa.

Parang napakagaan ng buhay, ‘di ba?

Pero ang buhay kailangan ding may drama.

Sakit at lungkot ay dapat ding madama.

Kailangang makatikim ng problema.

Kailangan ding umiyak ka.

Kailangan ng balanseng buhay;

Nang buhay na may kulay.

Nang sa gayon, pagkatao’y lumalim at lumago;

Maging matatag sa pagharap sa mundo.

Kaya tumawa’t umiyak ay okey lang.

Maging malungkot o maging masaya man.

Mayroon mang problema o wala.

Balanseng buhay ay siyang tama.

TOMORROW WE’LL DIE, SO WHY WORRY?

Tomorrow we’ll die, so why worry?

We’d rather enjoy life and be happy.

What good will worry do to me?

And why worry when God’s blessings are in bounty.

Have God at anytime been unfaithful,

To provide for our needs and all?

And have He not, at times, granted us our wants.

‘Though we don’t deserve His grace abundant?

Worry makes us sorry.

We miss life’s goodness when we worry.

Instead, in the Lord, let’s be happy.

Tomorrow we’ll be with Him.

So relax,

And don’t worry!

OUR REAL SECURITY

Life today can be so insecure.

Nothing we can fully hold on.

One thing’s here, now disappeared.

Once a fortress, now turned ashes.

One, you think, will remain forever.

But now, how come, you see never.

A pillar now you can cling on.

Tomorrow it might have just tumbled.

Once full of strength, now a weakness.

Yesterday’s friend, now in the enemies camp.

Once one who had control.

But now the one being controlled.

Once love was easier to find.

Now has become harder and harder to find.

Order was being seen at hand.

But chaos has now come.

Security is becoming more scarce at present.

Once sleek and clean, now with a dent.

But God’s love is ever present.

You’ll find it everywhere.

And, though, things changed in every corner.

God will never change, never!

‘Though a lot can be a source for insecurity,

God’s faithfulness is for all eternity.

We may feel shaky with life’s frenzy,

But His trustworthiness is always steady.

Now we cling the hardest to Thee,

For the Father is our real security.

MAY KAPAHINGAHAN

Matatapos din ang araw,

Huwag kang mag-alala.

Pagkatapos ng lahat,

Magpapahinga ka na.

Sa pagod ma’t problema’y

May gabing nakahimlay.

Para sa kapahingahang

Pinakahihintay-hintay.

Anumang pasanin,

Ilapit mo sa Kaniya.

Hayaan mong tulungan ka Niya.

Huwag akuin ang lahat mong problema.

At pagkagising sa umaga’t

Lakas na’y dala-dala,

Patuloy ang laban

Anumang pagsubok ang dumaan.

At pagkatapos ng maghapon

At napagod ka na naman,

Huwag kalilimutan

Sa gabi’y may kapahingahan.

IN THINE HOLY LIGHT

We’ll not have everything we want in this present life.

So help us, God our Father, to see everything in Thine holy light.

Help us to focus constantly on the brighter side of life.

To always think positive and in grateful hearts abide.

PATULOY ANG LABAN

Patuloy ang laban sa dagok ng buhay.

Patuloy ang laban h’wag kang bibigay.

Patuloy ang laban walang humpay-humpay.

Patuloy ang laban hanggang magtagumpay.

Kapag ‘kay nadapa ay bumangon agad.

Kung madudulas, sikaping humawak.

Kapag malulunod, saklolo’y iyong isigaw.

H’wag hahayaang matabunan ikaw.

Patuloy ang laban sa dagok ng buhay.

Patuloy ang laban h’wag kang bibigay.

Patuloy ang laban walang humpay-humpay.

Patuloy ang laban hanggang sa magtagumpay.

Kung nagkasala ay magpakumbaba.

At sikaping h’wag nang ulitin, nang ‘di na lumala.

Kung nalulungkot h’wag lang magmukmok.

Sa pagtawag sa Diyos ay h’wag kang makalimot.

Patuloy ang laban sa dagok ng buhay.

Patuloy ang laban h’wag kang bibigay.

Patuloy ang laban walang humpay-humpay.

Patuloy ang laban hanggang sa magtagumpay.

MY FRIEND

You are my friend, my confidant,

My best of best friends.

But how I wish, sometimes, You’re here,

Here beside me, physically present.

‘Coz sometimes I want some bear hugs,

Or just some soothing stroke on my back.

A gentle squeeze on my shoulders,

And a loving kiss on my forehead.

Do You laugh, as in audibly laugh?

Do You really have a sense of humor?

Can You be goofy sometimes?

Or are You always dignified?

But thank you so much,

Still, I know, You’re always there.

Accepting, loving and always listening

To this unworthy friend.

Indeed, thank you for being my best friend.

With You in my life I can make it to the end.

I will see You someday in Your heaven.

Then I will be satisfied forever.

FAITH IS NOT EASY

You want us to believe and exercise faith.

It’s your ordained precept that need be obeyed.

But You also know, it’s only by Your grace

That this humble creature is able to have faith.

Faith understands, accepts and believes.

It’s more than mere human logic.

It goes beyond what one sees.

It goes beyond what one feels.

Faith is not an easy thing.

It needs courage, and lots and lots of it.

We’ll do our best to keep on believing.

But it is Your power that will do the sustaining.

NASAAN ANG PAGPAPALA?

May isang kaibigan ang nagsabi sa’kin,

Nasusuklam daw siya sa Diyos.

Nakakabigla nang sinabi niya sa akin,

Para sa kanya, Ito raw ay sinungaling.

Akala raw niya siya ay pagpapalain

Kapag lumapit sa Diyos na mahabagin.

Pero bakit daw ganon, hindi naman pala.

Imbis na pagpalain, biyaya pa ay babawiin.

Buti pa nga raw ang iba niyang kakilala,

Kahit di kumikilala sa Kanya ay masagana pa.

Puro raw sakripisyo ang nais ng Diyos.

Tulad nang hiningi nitong ang anak ni Abraham ay ihandog.

Mabuti pa nga raw ang lumihis na lang ng landas,

At ikaw ay patatawarin din naman.

Kaysa sa lumakad ng matuwid,

Wala namang pagpapalang kapalit.

Sabi ko naman dito sa’king kaibigan,

Huwag kalimutang tayo’y Kanyang mga nilalang lamang.

Ang buhay natin ay hiram lang,

At wala tayong karapatan .

Nangatwiran itong aking kaibigan,

At sinabing, “Sino ba’ng nagsabing ako’y Kanyang ilalang?”

Tapos gagawa Siya ng mga batas,

Na ‘pag ‘di ko natupad ako ay todas!

Nakakainis, nakakalungkot ang kanyang mga tinuran.

Hindi ba siya ay Kristiyano na at laging nakikita sa simbahan?

Bakit ganito mag-isip ang taong ito?

Ang utak ko ay lubhang nalito.

Pero sa kabila nito siya’y akin ding naiintindihan,

May mga panahon din dati na ako’y nakapag-isip na ng ganyan.

Isa pa hindi ko siya masisisi,

Siya’y batang kristiyano pa rin kasi.

At kung ikaw rin ay taong maisipin,

P’wede talagang sumagi ang mga ganitong damdamin.

Kahit matagal na ngang kristiyano ay nagkakaroon pa rin ng duda.

Sa totoo lang, ang pananampalataya ay grasya lamang ng Ama.

Pero sa kabilang banda kung atin ding paglililay-lilayin,

May mabuti bang magagawa ang kawalan ng pananampalataya natin?

Kung talagang gusto nating tayo ay pagpalain.

Magtiwala sa kabutihan ng Diyos na lumikha sa atin.

Ang anumang kaharian ay may naghaharing hari.

At mga mamamayan nito’y nagpapasakop kahit anong mangyari.

Dahil kung hindi, sila ay mayayari.

Ang pabor ng hari sa kanila ay ‘di magagawi.

Kung talagang gusto nating tayo ay pagpalain,

Ng Diyos na mabuti at lumikha sa atin.

Siya’y pagtiwalaan, sundin at paligayahin.

At ang pagpapalang nais ay makakamit din.

WE’D RATHER OBEY

We always pray for God’s will for our lives.

But if we do know, will we in it abide?

Or do we already have in our minds

Something else that we think is best for our lives.

We’d rather obey, that’s what we’re supposed to.

Especially, if we claim to be His children too.

We’re not on the winning side if we go our own way.

But we’ll be blessed if we go His ways.

We’d rather obey, it’s the easiest way.

We’d rather obey, it is the best way.

We’d rather obey, and He will lead the way.

To a life beautiful and meaningful we’ll stay.

EVERYBODY’S BEST FRIEND

Indeed, God is good all the time.

Because He has friends for us, anytime.

Some are long-time and some are short-lived friends.

But God just knows we needed them.

One is within reach when you needed one.

And if he or she is not available, He sends another one.

Life is not complete without a friend.

God even created dogs (and cats) to be our friend.

But there are times when you think friends are not there.

Don’t you forget, you got one very, very good friend.

He’s always there for us, ‘though sometimes He’s forgotten.

Oh, I tell you, He can be everybody’s best friend.

MY DAD IS NOT LIKE ME

Yes, I’m inconsistent in my walk as His child.

‘Coz I’m a mixture of good and bad all the time.

But one thing I have to realize

My Dad, up above, is perfectly a consistent kind’a guy.

He’s always there for this child of His.

Ready to give and ready to forgive.

He cares for me like no other does.

He’s there to listen and, most of all, understand.

He’s not only a Father, He’s also a friend.

Whom you can lean on depend.

He embraces and hugs me, and my arms He squeezes.

Not only that, He has a kiss on my forehead.

This Dad of mine I can’t wait to see.

When can I meet Him, and His face see?

FOCUS ON OUR BLESSINGS

Some things I see around me,

Makes me feel envious, I admit.

I’m not a perfect Christian,

Sinfulness, at times, sets in.

But in God’s goodness, I’m always reminded,

Will it do me any good?

Will longing for what others have,

Will complete me for good?

Why, do I illusion to be perfect?

That, I know, I can’t be.

‘Coz only God is perfect.

I’m only human, don’t I forget it.

Any sinful envy or jealousy

I should give up to the Lord.

Instead, I should always be grateful

For His blessings that are full.

I have lots of things to be thankful for.

First and greatest is His salvation.

Isn’t it so…humbling

That He allowed me to be one with Him.

He gave me friends and family,

And some adorable pets too.

I live in a descent house,

‘Though it’s not that big, I know.

In front of our house is a small garden.

Oh God, I’m really grateful for them.

I also have a small room I can call my own.

And for that I really thank the Lord.

God gave me some talents too,

Which I’m able to use for Him.

‘Though I know, and I’m guilty of it.

That I’m not using them to the fullest.

And ‘though we don’t have everything,

God provides for my family and me.

We have enough and sometimes what we want.

We always have what we need.

In all of these, and at the end of it all,

God will always be good.

So let’s just focus on our blessings,

Always thankful for what He’s bestowed.

REALITY, DREAMING AND THANKFULNESS

We should keep on hoping and dreaming.

It’s just good and joyous to dream.

Be we shouldn’t let our dreaming and hoping

Make us unhappy with the reality we’re in.

Our dreaming should just keep us going,

And not make us discontented with the life we’re havin’.

Our dreaming should make us go for a life more exciting.

But should not make us ungrateful beings within.

I believe dreaming is healthy if pure.

It’s good for the heart and the soul.

Our hopelessness, it pacifies and cures.

It makes us optimistic, thankful foes.

LIFE’S MANY ENDINGS

Life will always have its many endings –

Good endings, bad endings, happy endings,

Relief endings, unexpected endings,

And so on and so forth countless endings.

There were endings you wished didn’t happen.

But in the end, you’re glad it did.

There are endings you always prayed to come soon,

Especially of struggles and affliction.

There are endings you are happy about,

Like the story with a happily-ever-after theme.

There are endings you don’t desire –

Happy moments, good relationships, and many others.

However, one day, this present world will end.

The Lord will come back for His precious dearest.

Then He will reign forever and ever.

And in His presence we will have peace and rest.

On one hand, there’s an end that will not occur.

And in this truth we can be rest assured.

God’s love and affection for all of His children.

Will never, never come to an end.

YOU REMAIN TO BE FAITHFUL

You remain to be faithful,

You cannot deny Yourself.

You remain to be faithful,

You’re true to Your promises.

You remain to be faithful,

That is what You always do.

You remain to be faithful

‘Coz that’s what makes up You

-FAITHFUL!!!

QUESTIONS

I will always have so many questions,

“Coz I am a thinking person.

Some of these questions are answered already.

And some of them are yet to be.

But I am certainly sure someday,

All of these questionings will go away.

‘Coz when we finally meet the Lord,

He will have the answers for us all.

So please, my Father, just allow me,

With all of these questions I have in me.

You’re not a God who’s insecure.

Don’t take it against this child of yours.

We are not matched my Daddy God,

You are all-knowing and I am not.

You know everything, everything…

I know not so many things.

Besides, aren’t you my no. 1 confidant?

And that I talk to you about everything a lot.

You also said to give You all my cares.

So my questions, to You,

I now share.

I CHOOSE TO BELIEVE

I choose to believe,

‘Though sometimes I don’t understand.

I choose to believe,

‘Though there are questions in my mind.

I choose to believe,

That God is good and He is love.

I choose to believe,

That He cares for us a lot.

I choose to believe,

That He will never, never leave me.

I choose to believe,

That He is there for eternity.

I’D RATHER HAVE JESUS

I’d rather have Jesus

Than have my dream prince charming.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than go around the world touring.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than have my ideal house built.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than have pension plans and time deposits.

‘Coz Jesus fills and completes me,

‘Though I don’t have everything I want.

‘Coz when I have Him and He has me,

I am safe and secure in His love.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than be rich, powerful and famous.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than explore all my artistic inclinations.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than get all that I want.

I’d rather have Jesus

Than lose His ever-securing love.

HOPE, HERE AND THERE

Little hope from here and there

Goes a long, long way.

They may not be real and lasting hope,

But they help anyway.

Not all things from this world

Are bad at all

Because, remember, it’s God

Who is the creator of all.

Real and lasting hope

Comes only from the Lord

But sometimes He uses some things of this world

To give us hope.

MORE THAN A CINDERELLA

Who doesn’t want to be another Cinderella?

Girl, don’t you deny ‘coz you dream about it, huh…

To be with your prince charming kind’a guy,

Saved in a knight in shining armor kind.

To be sought after, loved and cherished.

And be taken cared for by one who will not perish.

To end with, what else, but with:

“And they lived happily ever after thing!”

‘Hey, wake up girl, my friend!”

We’re more than a fairy tale character.

A more than a prince charming sought for us.

Saved and cherishes us more than the angels above.

His name is Jesus, “The Prince of Peace.”

Not only that, He’s also “The King of Kings.”

He lived and died, and lives again,

So that we’ll have a happily-ever-after end.

MABUTI NA LANG

Mabuti na lang ang mga bagay-bagay,

Sa pagdating ng panahon, ay lumilipas din.

Dahil kung hindi ay talaga namang,

Magkakapatong-patong itong mga pasanin.

Mga kabigatan dati ay gumagaan.

Mga takot at pangamba ay napapawi na lang.

Sari-saring problema ay naaayos naman.

Kung anu-anong pagsubok ay nalalampasan.

Kaya’t maraming salamat sa grasya ng Ama.

Sadyang tunay na napakabuti Niya.

Hindi Siya nagpapabaya sa lahat ng panahon.

Siya’y nandyan sa lahat ng panahon.

APPROVED WORSHIP

It’s not in the closing of the hands,

Or in its waving or spreading.

It’s not in the standing of the feet,

Or in the position of kneeling.

God’s not concerned in the style,

Form, type or structure.

What He is concerned about

Is in the heart’s posture.

It’s not in your standing still,

Or in your dance or moves.

Because what matters to God

Is that, In Him, your heart

Is approved.

OUR PLACE

We long to have a place,

A place on this earth.

A place to shine our stars,

To shine our brightest.

But this earth is not permanent,

‘Though for now on it we stay.

But someday soon we’ll have to leave it,

And in God’s place we will lay.

We’ll all have a place,

A place not on this earth.

A place where Jesus shines,

And shines His brightest.

PAG-ASA’Y SA’YO LAMANG

Marami kang pag-asang sa amin ay hatid.

Ngunit magkaminsan ‘di namin nababatid.

Ito’y walang humpay, ito’y kabit-kabit.

Pag-asang Iyong laa’y walang kapatid-patid.

Maliliit at malalaking pag-asa’y Iyong ‘binibingay.

Matatagpuan sa maraming sulok nitong aming buhay.

Kaya naman kami’y patuloy na nabubuhay.

Patuloy na lumalaban hanggang sa magtagumpay.

Mabuhay ka Ama, papuri’y Sa’yo lamang.

Kahit kailan nga Ika’y hindi nagkukulang.

Iyong kabutiha’y pag-asa ng sinuman.

Itaas ang ‘Yong pangalan ng lahat Mong nilalang.

ENJOY LIFE NOW

Life will never be perfect

on this flawed present earth.

But still it has some good things to offer,

and we better enjoy the life it shares.

Enjoy the journey,

Enjoy the trail.

Enjoy the drive,

Even the swift slide.

We have a good and loving God.

He has something great in store for us.

That’s the hope we’re clinging on.

Enough to make us go along.

Enjoy the itinerary,

Enjoy the sail.

Enjoy the occasional swamps,

And the sudden bumps.

So now enjoy, enjoy your life

‘Coz we’re headin’ for a better future, right?

Everything now is temporal

But tomorrow will have our big approval.

GOD’S SOVEREIGN PLAN

‘Though we should pray hard and work a lot,

But if what we’re doing does not fit His plan,

You’ll not enjoy life the way we want,

‘Coz everything falls under the grace of God.

We should, therefore, know and realize

God’s very sovereign plan for our lives.

Work on it with God’s guidance and help.

And you will see how you’re privileged.

On the other hand, if what you wanted

Is similar with what God desired,

Thank Him for His great, great goodness,

‘Coz He’s doubly good to you my friend.

THE DIVINE PRE-REQUISITE

You ask, “when will God give me my heart’s desire?”

You have long been waiting and already tired.

God is a good God you got to remember.

He loves giving good gifts to all of his children.

In His time, when He sees that you are ready,

Your desires will be granted you will see.

But in the meantime, in this time of precious waiting,

You know the divine pre-requisite:

“Delight yourself in Him.”

UNDER GOD’S SOVEREIGN LIGHT

Someone said, “maybe you didn’t pray,

Or you prayed but lacked in faith,

Or you had faith but not great faith,

That’s why your prayers were not answered.”

Someone also said, “maybe you’ve sinned,

Your unrighteousness became a block that hindered,

Or you’re not that sinful but still not enough clean,

That’s why, again, your prayers were not answered.

Maybe they’re right but not quite right,

‘Coz everything falls under God’s sovereign light.

You maybe clean and in faith did fight,

But God knows the big picture in full sight.

KAPIT SA PANGINOON

Mahirap talaga ang buhay ngayon,

Kaya kapit ng husto sa Panginoon.

Sa Kaniya ay lagi kang sumamo at dumulog.

Sa panalangin, ikaw ay yumuko at lumuhod.

Huwag sayangin ang pagkakataon,

Gawin ang tama at mabuti nang makaahon.

Hindi ka pababayaan ng Panginoon.

Siya ay tapat mula noon hanggang ngayon.

Sa Kaniya lang ialay ang iyong buhay.

Siya ay mabuti at mahal kang tunay.

Sa iyo’y may mabuti at maganda Siyang plano,

Balang araw ito ay makakamtan mo.

GOD ANSWERS PRAYERS

God will always answer prayers,

‘Though it will not always be yes.

It’s sometimes “no” and sometimes “wait”,

But be assured it’s for your best.

God, in his sovereignty, knows everything.

He will not give you just anything.

He sees to it that you will benefit

From what He allows, sends and gives.

So don’t you think God does not answer,

When in our prayers, He does not say yes.

Because the “no” and the “wait” answers

Are still from the One who wants our best.

BE ALERT!

My sheep be alert!

Don’t stray from your Shepherd.

Always be on code red,

In battle prepared.

War has been declared.

The enemy don’t underestimate.

‘Coz like a roaring lion.

He’s waiting to devour.

The battle is in the mind.

Don’t believe Satan’s lies.

Fight him with the Truth –

In prayer reprove.

THE MESSAGE IS THE SAME

Methods may change,

And styles may too,

To cope up with the newer things

That we are into.

Printed books, PowerPoint,

Internet and all.

But the message of God’s love

Should never change at all.

He loves us so much.

His precious only Son died.

Then rose and live again,

So we will have life.

If we accept such gift –

So free and sublime.

We will receive

Secure eternal life.

So our times may change,

And there’s nothing we can do.

Just don’t forget the Lord Jesus.

Who died for me and you.

GO FOR THE CROWN

Go for the crown!

Don’t just survive.

Triumphantly end well.

Finish the fight.

Stop living in the past.

And don’t carry the burden yourself.

Our God really cares.

Give to Him your load instead.

He is our sin-bearer,

Our burden-bearer too.

Soldiers keep on fighting –

The battle for the winning.

SALAMAT SA ULAN

Salamat sa ulan,

H’wag lang sa bagyo’t baha.

Salamat sa ulan,

H’wag lang sa paninirang kasama.

Salamat sa ulan,

Sapagkat ito’y biyaya.

Mainit na pakiramdam

Kanyang pinalalamigan.

Mabigat na nararamdaman

Sadyang pinagagaan.

Lupang tigang

Biglang nabubuhayan.

Pusong may kalungkutan

Kanyang dinadamayan.

Mga puno’t bulaklak

Lubhang naliligayahan.

Uhaw na kalagayan

Pinapawi nitong ulan.

Salamat sa ulan

Sa magandang dulot niyang laan.

Salamat sa ulan,

Ito’y biyaya ng Maykapal.

Salamat sa ulan

Sa pag-asang kanyang tangan-tangan.

GIVE UP EVERYTHING

As early as now, we have to learn

To give up everything

To You in your mighty hands,

For you own everything.

Nothing we have are truly ours

That You have not given.

So help us please to loosen up

And free us from the caring.

It’s You who own, It’s You who give;

You may also take away.

But if You do, my God I plead.

Our hearts will You prepare.

THE BEST IS YET TO COME

Life before us is unfolding.

The best is yet to come.

Continue praying and believing.

Don’t stop from living and waiting.

The story within a story,

May take different twists and turns.

But the Lord who writes the story,

Will someday bring us to His glory.

The testing, trials, and the pains,

Will someday prove worthy,

When He comes back to us again,

And in His rightful throne reigns.

SOMETHING GOOD,

SOMETHING BAD

People will always have

Something bad to say about us.

‘Coz we are fallen-sinners,

Don’t you forget that.

But people will also have

Some good things to say about us.

Remember, we are created

In the very image of God.

Something good, something bad

That’s what’s all of us.

And ‘though we are like that,

The Father loves us very much.

KNOWLEDGE IS NOT ENOUGH

Knowledge is not enough,

We got to obey the word of God.

Knowledge shouldn’t stop,

Our experience of God.

We press on toward the goal,

Try to give it our all.

Suffer if need be,

To reach for victory.

HELP US NOT FORGET

Help us not forget

Your great, great goodness.

This mind easily strays

And goes back to its old ways.

Help us not forget

Your unending faithfulness.

This heart often betrays

And swiftly slips away.

Help us not forget

Your unending love for us.

This memory is impaired

Many times it does not remember.

LIVE YOUR LIFE’S JOURNEY

Live your life’s journey

whatever it may be,

with all its beauty,

suffering and mystery.

Continue desiring,

continue believing,

continue longing,

continue fulfilling;

Live your life’s journey

wherever you may be,

with all its twist and turns

in your itinerary.

Continue seeking,

continue dreaming,

continue trying,

continue surviving;

Live your life’s journey

however it may be,

with all its gaiety,

frenzy and despondency.

Continue giving,

continue receiving,

continue forgiving,

continue crying.

Live your life’s journey

Whoever you may be,

With all its peculiarities,

Variety and bigotry.

Continue singing,

continue dancing,

continue walking,

continue living...

TRUE AND GREAT LOVER

I Am your man, the Man anybody could dream of.

I am full of glory and full of splendor.

All power is Mine, from Me, and no other.

Everything is subject to Me and even trembles.

Yet my heart overflows with love, so generous and grandeur.

My arms can protect you with much ardor.

Then My omniscience made Me question

“To whom shall I pour out My power, love and devotion?”

So in wisdom, I created you and fashioned,

to be the object of My gentlest care and affection.

I dressed you lavishly and made you so beautiful.

Costly adorned you and made you very desirable.

But then, what is this you have done to me?

Instead of loving Me, you rejected and shamed Me.

Where is your gratitude, where is your respect?

This great pain you caused Me is hard to digest.

Why did you betray My trust and adulterated yourself?

Prostituted your soul and left it wasted.

Has My heart, even once, turned to another?

Is My love for you lacking in passion somewhere?

My anger burns, My jealousy rails, My fury rages!!!

I want to destroy you and turn you to many pieces.

Instead, I made your ugly-shameful-wicked ways turn to disaster.

So you’ll come back to Me, your True and Great Lover.

Then My compassion turns to you, my precious beloved,

when, I saw you so weak, desolated and almost dead.

In sorrow and repentance, you asked for forgiveness.

My eyes wept blood, you made Me so broken-hearted.

“Come, come to Me, my beloved.

My love for you I have never discarded.

Even if you break My heart over and over,

My love burns for you, forever and ever.”

TO GOD GIVE THEM ALL

Nothing too big,

nothing too small,

To God we can give

our burdens all.

His Son, He gave,

what else can’t He give?

When He has given,

this one and only Gift.

Give Him you concerns.

Ask Him your requests.

Go to His embrace.

And in His peace rest.

LEARN FROM THE PAST

Experience is not always

the best teacher we can have.

Many lessons have been learned

by those who’ve gone before us.

We don’t always have to learn

things the hard way.

And discover for ourselves

that we’re really on the wrong way.

Their stories should tell

and lead us to the right path,

as we take heed of the lessons

learned from the past.

WINTER

It’s not always cold winter.

The world goes round in circles.

Again it will be spring time.

An occasion for good times.

Don’t settle to a life of surrender.

Life will not be gray and dull forever.

Tomorrow will be green and bright,

after this lonely winter time.

Then after spring is summer.

And we will have adventures together.

A time of restoration.

after what seems like a winter of resignation.

JESUS MY ALL

Jesus, my salvation,

My intimate relation,

A treasured possession,

My life’s devotion.

Jesus, my passion,

My consideration,

My life’s provision,

My being’s reason.

Jesus, my protection,

My ultimate completion,

A sure direction,

My final destination.

WHEN THE UNTHINKABLE HAPPENS

When the unthinkable happens,

God is still in control.

He is still the Lord.

When the unthinkable happens,

God will see your way through.

He will walk step by step with you.

When the unthinkable happens,

God will carry you all the way.

He will lead the way.

When the unthinkable happens,

God will bring out the good in the situation.

He will lead you to the destination.

When the unthinkable happens,

God’s ways becomes clearer.

He, to you, becomes dearer.

OUR FAITHFUL STRONGHOLD

Our security is in the Lord

And not in the world.

Our hearts, He can hold

Securely in His fold.

Some things stay

But some go away.

And no matter how we want to keep

Still others slip away.

That’s part of life

And we know the reason why.

Nothing in this present world

Can give us full life.

Embrace me, God, my Father

With your securing arms.

Comfort me with your big

And comforting hands.

Your grip is like no other

As it firmly holds,

You alone is forever -

Our faithful stronghold.

LET’S THANK THE ALMIGHTY

Let’s thank the Almighty

Whatever our condition may be,

In plenty or scarcity,

In poverty or prosperity.

Let’s thank the Almighty

Whatever our circumstances may be,

Whether satisfied or needy,

Whether full or hungry.

Let’s thank the Almighty

Whatever our feelings may be,

‘Though sad or happy,

‘Though healthy or sickly.

Let’s thank the Almighty

Whatever our situation may be,

With or without money,

With or without honey.

Let’s thank the Almighty

Shout aloud your praises to Thee,

Because God in His sovereignty,

Is our all sufficiency.

IT’S AMAZING

It’s amazing how one can sing

With melodies that ring.

It’s amazing how one can dance

To a beautiful musical chant.

It’s amazing how one can act

And make you teary-eyed.

More amazing how one can perform

And leave you mesmerized.

It’s amazing how one can assemble

Gadgets big and small.

Also amazing how one can make

Objects short and tall.

It’s amazing how one can cure

A patient in bed and sick.

Awesomely amazing are the medicines

That make recovery quick.

It’s amazing how one is good in numbers

While words is the forte of the other.

Amazing too is how one is constructive

While the other one is creative.

It’s amazing how one would enlist himself

To be in dangerous battles.

To fight for one’s country

Preserve and save no matter.

It’s amazing how God distributed

Precious gifts and wonderful talents.

It’s amazing how he dispensed

Unique and diverse passions.

PERFECT IS GOD’S FAITHFULNESS

Perfect is God’s faithfulness.

It never ceases, never perishes.

He is never and will never be ruthless.

Always a refuge to the distressed.

Perfect is God’s faithfulness.

He’s a shelter even to the foreigners.

Our food and drink He prepares

Our sorrows and joys He shares.

Perfect is God’s faithfulness.

He wipes away tears from our faces.

He removes His people’s disgraces.

We just trust Him and then He saves.

WORRYING

Worrying will not help a thing,

Not give you anything,

No any good thing;

Worrying will lead you to doing,

Doing some bad things,

Like selfish manipulating;

Worrying hinders you from experiencing,

Experiencing the peace God is giving,

Your mind is kept bothering;

Worrying, to God is not glorifying.

It shows you’re not believing

That He can do something;

Worrying, give it to the King.

We shouldn’t stop remembering,

He has hands always helping.

NOT YET IN HEAVEN

Christianity is not mere pleasantries.

Not at all fantasies, nor ecstasies.

There are given responsibilities.

Testing, trials and difficulties.

But then, my friend, don’t you worry.

God is there to help you carry.

Those whose faith and trust is in Thee

Will someday soon see His full victory.

So if you think, you’re not fully happy,

Inspite of the wonderful promises of Christianity.

Don’t you remember, have you forgotten,

We’re still on earth, not yet in heaven.

ENABLE US TO BELIEVE

Enable us to believe,

Take away the disbelief.

Help us not to succumb to it,

To the devils tactics.

Enable us to believe,

And fight the doubting spirit.

Faith is what we need,

When we are spiritually weak.

Enable us to believe,

For it is the road to peace.

Believe in Your characteristics,

And don’t give a limit.

Enable us to believe.

In faith, walk by it.

In yourself, don’t carry it.

To the Lord, bring it.

Enable us to believe,

‘Though we don’t feel like it.

For if we do it,

We’ve already accomplished.

IKAW ANG KASAGUTAN

Ikaw lang ang kasagutan

Sa aking kalungkutan.

Pusong nakalimutan,

Iyong pupunuan.

Ikaw lang ang kasagutan

Sa aking kabiguan.

Pusong nagdaramdam,

Iyong dadamayan.

Ikaw lang ang kasagutan,

Jesus, tunay na kaibigan.

Ako’y iyong gagabayan

Sa’king mga dinaraanan.

SOME THINGS I SEE ON TV

Some things I see on TV

Create feelings of envy –

Those grandiose dream houses,

Those luscious secret gardens.

Some things I see on TV

Give feelings of jealousy –

Those gorgeous sexy bodies,

Those fancy fashion dresses.

Some things I see on TV

Produce feelings of agony –

Those unbelievable vacation places,

Those unreachable destination traces.

Some things I see on TV

Allow feelings of negativity –

Those discontentment on a lot of things,

Those shortness of possibilities.

Some things I see on TV

Tells nothing on earth is real heavenly –

Those are temporary ecstasies,

Those are nothing but junkies.

CHANGE TO MEND

You can’t afford to always be yourself,

Or else, you’ll have more to hurt;

If you think you’re only fighting for what’s right,

You double time by being kind.

Sometimes we do need to change,

Can’t afford to stay the same;

We’ve got to improve from our selfish ways,

And think about why they’ve gone away.

Oh it hurts, it really hurts!

But it’s better than not at all change;

In this way, you’ll help to mend,

Broken hearts – yours, God’s and theirs.

MORE OF CLOUDS, MORE OF GOD?

There is God in the clouds,

During your times of doubts.

During your sufferings and fears,

Troubles, pains and tears.

The clouds are not coincidence,

They could be God’s providence;

Telling, revealing us something,

Helping and teaching us to learn.

The Holy Word often tells,

Where there are clouds, God is there.

Can I therefore conclude that ---

More of clouds, more of God?

THANK YOU FOR THE FEARS

Thank you for the fears

That I’m feeling inside,

For if not for them

I would be full of pride.

If I’m always secure

And comfortable,

My heart will not be pure

But will be boastful.

In everything we have

Reasons to give thanks,

Even for the seem negatives

That in our lives happen.

So Father God, thank you

Thank you for everything,

Even for the fears

That I am now having.

TRUST HIM WHO MADE THE CLOUDS

When blinded by the clouds,

Trust Him who made the clouds;

Him who rides them,

Him who summons them.

Without clouds, there’ll be no rain.

Without rain, there’ll be no gain.

The clouds should lighten the pain,

Because in them God reigns.

Entrust Him all your doubts,

So that your eyes will be cleared out.

Trust Him who made the clouds.

MEET THE LORD IN THE CLOUDS

Let’s meet the Lord in the clouds,

When the future seems so bleak,

When gloomy days surround,

When faith becomes so weak;

Let’s meet the Lord in the clouds,

When vision becomes obscure,

When threatening things arouse,

When hearts are so confused;

Let’s meet the Lord in the clouds.

The clouds are just the dust of His feet.

When life seems dark of clouds,

He’s there in the clouds to meet.

THE LOVE OF GOD

We don’t deserve the love of God,

And yet He gives it abundantly;

This limitless, miraculous love

Will make us conquer anything.

I AM SO BECAUSE OF GOD

I am special because

God intentionally made me special;

I am saved because

God worked for my salvation;

I am a person of value because

God chose to value me;

I am loved because

God, himself, is love;

I am so because of God!

HUMILITY AND REPENTANCE

Not health and prosperity,

Nor power and glory,

But repentance and humility,

Should be desired by thee.

Love, joy, peace and kindness,

Patience, goodness and faithfulness,

Self control and gentleness,

Results from humility and repentance.

Humility and repentance,

God will forgive us.

From destruction will spare us.

Most of all, will bless us.

IN EVERYTHING, THE KEY IS FAITH

In everything, the key is faith,

Faith that through Jesus we’re saved,

Faith to live from day to day,

Faith that we will see God one day;

Faith that everything will be good,

Faith that the Father understood,

Faith to strengthen our belief,

To eradicate all our disbelief;

Faith to carry on with this life,

To still see the steady bright light,

To have peace as we wait,

In everything the key is faith.

WHOLENESS

Is everything in life meaningless,

Vanity and nothingness?

No!, the faithful ones will profess,

“If only we hold on to God’s faithfulness,

And cling on to His goodness,

In life you will have wholeness.”

TALENTS ARE GOD GIVEN

Talents are God given,

We shouldn’t boast of them;

Instead they be used

For God’s glory and praise;

Talents are God given,

They shouldn’t be forgotten;

Instead they be treasured

Like a possession that’s precious;

Talents are God given,

We should take care of them;

We should develop them

And use them to the fullest.

IKAW LANG AT AKO

Panginoon, sino ang makakapareha ko?

Sino kaya ang inilaan Mong ito?

Kung meron man, salamat Sa’yo.

Kung wala naman, okey lang ako.

Pero kung meron nga, kelan kaya?

At anong katangian kaya meron siya?

Pwede ba iyong magiging kaibigan,

At iyong magiging masarap kakwentuhan?

Higit sa lahat, iyong iibigin ako,

Pangalawa sa pag-ibig niya Sa’yo;

Magiging kasama ko sa buhay na ito,

Sa hirap man o ginhawa nitong mundo.

Sana maging kapurihan Sa’yo,

Ang magiging relasyon naming ito;

Nawa ay pagpalain Mo,

Nang maging pagpapala rin sa ibang tao.

Pero kung wala ka naming ibibigay,

Hwag mag-alala, ‘di ako mag-iingay;

Dahil sa totoo lang, masaya naman ako,

Na Ikaw lang at ako.

SAVIOR AND LORD

You are my Savior, that’s for sure

Because myself I cannot save,

But as my Lord, it’s not that easy

To follow You all the way;

There are times I obey

But sometimes I don’t,

This heart of mine is weak

Don’t have the strength of its own.

Give me the courage to obey,

Strength to follow Your way,

Encouragement and motivation to submit,

100% trust and belief.

A HAPPY ENDING

There maybe a lot of things in my mind bogging,

Troubling my heart and also distressing;

But these things I don’t have to stop remembering,

There is a God who’s loving and caring.

Jesus, His son, died for me,

Then rose from the dead to set me free;

He has chosen me from among the many,

Such grace and mercy amazes me.

I thank God for all his blessings,

Especially, for the life I am now having;

I may not have a perfect living,

But with God’s victory, it’ll be a happy ending.

WHO AM I LORD?

Who am I Lord, who am I?

What is Your purpose for this life of mine?

Why did You choose and save me?

What is there to gain from me?

You don’t need me, You don’t need me.

I’m so unworthy that’s a reality.

If not for Your grace and mercy,

My life is a real mess and tragedy.

Please continue revealing to me Yourself.

I want to know more of You I confess.

Help me to know Your purpose and will.

And let Your wonderful plan be fulfilled.

THANK GOD FOR MOTHERS

Thank God for mothers,

Without them there will be no us;

They’re just wondrous blessing,

Given from above.

Like us, they may not be perfect,

But still they are the best;

They take joy and pleasure in us,

Secure and comfort us in their loving arms.

Hardships and pressure they endure,

To give us a life that’s full;

Their love you cannot measure,

For them, we are their treasure.

LEAVES

Leaves, what’s with leaves?

Oh colors, especially greens!

Shapes, that’s what’s with leaves.

Textures too, see how it feels…

Leaves, what else is with leaves?

Shades, when they’re attached to living branches.

Refreshment, when you go under the shades.

And don’t forget, they too have different smells.

Leaves, what about dead leaves?

Do they have anything, anything to give?

They have good use as fertilizer and also to kindle fire.

Most all, they indicate seasons, times and reasons.

Leaves and people are alike.

Once we’re alive and then we died.

But Jesus came to rescue our lives.

He came to die then rose back to life.

PRAISE YOU O LORD

(Inspired by Isaiah 12)

Praise You, O Lord,

For You are angry no more;

Your name be exalted,

For You are my comfort.

Praise You, O Lord,

I will not be afraid anymore;

You are my salvation,

My song forevermore.

Praise You, O Lord,

Your deed be made known;

My thanks to You alone,

I will shout it to the world.

SECURE MY LIFE

Secure my heart,

And also my mind,

Secure my life,

Take away the fears inside;

Secure my past,

Most of all my future;

Secure my life,

Help me see Your treasure;

Secure my being,

And all of these living;

Secure my life,

With Your arms protecting.

NOTHING PERMANENT

Nothing permanent is on this earth,

No lifelong security we can expect;

Only in God there’s a life that’s perfect,

Only in heaven is real happiness.

AMAZING DIVERSITY

It’s so amazing how You created diversity,

You’ve never ran out of creativity;

It’s so amazing how You created faces,

Varied through different races;

It’s so amazing how You created worlds,

That just one planet holds;

It’s so amazing how You created life,

Shared in different types;

It’s so amazing how one can write’

Write narrations that magically rhyme.

BEING POOR

No one wants to be poor,

We’ll that’s for sure;

God did not intend it for us,

Remember the plan when He created us?

But is it a sin to be so?

I don’t really think so;

Especially if you’re not the one,

Who caused it to be one.

Sometimes, it’s part of the plan,

Jesus came on earth like one;

‘Though He is king and rich,

For man’s salvation He chose to switch.

THE PAIN

Don’t minimize the pain,

The Lord understands them;

Even if others don’t bother,

Our God really cares.

Bring to Him the pain,

Cry out and He will hear them;

Our hearts He will soothe,

And give us peace that’s smooth.

Help ease the pain,

In the same manner you’ve gained;

From the warmth of God’s embrace,

Comfort they will face.

IT’S NOT ALWAYS LIKE THIS

It’s not always like this,

It’s not always like this.

There’s a new hope after this,

It’s not always like this.

When troubles and shakings come,

And you find that the smooth path is gone.

It will not always be rough roads,

Soon you’ll see bright tomorrows.

When pain and desperation sit,

And you can’t hang on, you think.

This is the truth you can hold on,

Joys and laughter will come along.

When paralysis strikes,

And you feel you can’t even bite.

One day you will realize,

Life will be your side.

It’s not always like this,

It’s not always loneliness.

In the same manner that

It’s not always happiness.

SATISFY

Lord, satisfy my thirst

And my empty soul,

Satisfy my hunger

And make me whole;

Please, satisfy my needs

And even my wants,

Satisfy my longing

And still my heart;

Will you satisfy the void

And make me alive,

Satisfy these desires

And give me life.

For You and You alone

Can satisfy.

INSPIRATIONS TO LIFE

My gratitude for the patches of stimulation,

For those little and simple inspirations

For the joy, happiness and hope they give,

Make us continue to live.

O KAY SARAP UMAWIT

O kay sarap umawit!

Para kang nasa langit

Kapag iyong naririnig

Ang magagandang himig.

Ito’y espesyal na regalo

Ng nagbigay ng talento;

Parang batong mamahalin

Iyong iingat-ingatin.

Puso’y sadyang sumasaya,

Nabibigyan ng pag-asa.

Pakiramdam ay napakaganda

Kapag umaawit na.

THE JOURNEY IS NOT EASY

The journey will not be easy.

There will be some difficulty.

Some days will be stormy,

With burdens you can’t carry.

The life we have is still earthly.

But someday soon we’ll all savvy,

When God receives his full glory,

Our destiny will be His wondrous eternity.

There, we will never anymore be lonely,

Because that place is nothing but heavenly.

So savor and enjoy the itinerary.

We pray to patiently arrive there safely.

So now, my friend don’t you worry.

Just wait, one day you’ll be perfectly happy.

The Father will say to you and me,

“Come home my children, let’s have a party!”

But then you say, “Oh I’m not worthy,

To enter His kingdom ‘coz I’m so dirty.”

Of course my dear you’re truly dirty.

Remember, the journey has not been easy.

OUR FAITH WILL BE TESTED

Our faith will be tested,

No matter how strong or frail,

Lasting or short-lived,

Small or big.

Our faith will be tested,

Pressed and crushed like olives,

To honor the God who lives,

Through the aroma and taste it gives.

Our faith will be tested,

Like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego,

Whose freedom they forego,

To prove that God they love you.

Our faith will be tested,

We can’t say “No trial please.”

This life will not be full of ease.

God’s promises – our only release.

Our faith will be tested,

‘Coz when it stood the test,

Others will be blessed,

And honor the God we serve.

TAKOT AKO

Mga kapatid, magpapakatotoo lang ako,

Sa kinabukasan, natatakot din ako.

Hindi alam magiging buhay ko,

Kung iisipin ay sadyang nakakaloko.

O Diyos na Dakila bahala na Kayo.

Sumasamo, humihingi ng tulong Mo.

Huwag pabayaan ang abang ito

Ngayong ngang natatakot ako.

Pagtibayin Mo nawa ang kalooban ko.

Turuang magtiwala Sa’yo ng totoo.

Bigyan ng kalakasang nagmumula Sa’yo.

Punuin ng pag-asa ang puso’t isipan ko.

ONLY HE CAN SATISFY

Nothing in this world can truly satisfy,

Even if you get all that you desire.

The happiness they bring will not last a lifetime.

Once their newness is gone, they soon loose their charm.

It’s not as though I’m not thankful for them.

If they came from the Lord, I have praises for Him.

It’s just that my friend, over and over again,

The pleasure they give immediately comes to an end.

One you get something, you want another one.

Our discontentment in life is never, never gone.

‘Coz when you think of it my dear, it’s only through the Son,

And the things of the Father real joy to you will come.

So when you’re sad ‘coz you don’t get all you want,

Your Daddy in Heaven knows what’s good for you and not.

He has a wonderful and a special plan,

Only, only for you even before you were born.

Help me God, my Father, to focus in you alone -

In the things of the Word, Eternity and Heaven.

Only in them real treasures are hidden.

Even after this life they will never be forgotten.

PURPOSE-DRIVEN PROBLEMS

Problems, sufferings, struggles,

Life’s greatest lessons come out of them.

God fulfilling in us his purposes,

Making us gain from every pain.

Every problem is purpose driven.

Life’s journey is not complete without them.

It forces us to redirect our focus.

In God to be always in chorus.

We become men and women of character,

Worthy to carry the Message to others.

Able and strong messengers,

Of God’s gracious love-offer.

STEADY LIGHT

Steady light,

Not on and off,

Not even blinking bright;

Steady light,

To guide our eyes,

To lead us through the night;

Steady light,

To clear our way,

No encumbrances in sight;

Steady light,

Is what we need,

To lead us to what’s right;

Steady light,

Can only be found,

In Jesus, who is the Christ.

HEY, WAKE UP!

They are harassed and helpless,

Perplexed and hopeless,

Living lives of quiet desperation,

Going in circles and to oblivion.

They’re without purpose and lifeless,

Full of confusion and fruitlessness,

Like a sheep without a shepherd,

Like trees without caress.

Won’t you have compassion my friend?

Won’t you put a hand outstretched?

Will you continue going on with your excuses?

Satisfied in your own comfort and rest?

God’s children when will you take heed?

Ordinary people is all that we need.

If you’re willing to be sent, power you will receive.

In the midst of inadequacy, sufficiency He will give.

Tell them the hope, and give them the direction.

Take them out of their lives of desperation.

Show them the power and their purpose.

That only in Jesus, they can be victorious!

I WONDER WHAT’S HEAVEN LIKE

I wonder what’s heaven like.

A place beyond compare,

A land with no despair,

A home with sweetest air.

I wonder what’s heaven like.

A place where laughter abounds,

A land echoing with joyous sounds,

A home where the dearest surrounds.

I wonder what’s heaven like.

A place with no more cries,

A land where there’s no goodbyes,

A home longed by you and I.

GOD LOVES US

Whether we believe it or not,

Whether we like it or not,

Whether we bother to think of it or not,

Undoubtedly, God loves us.

He died for us,

Shed His own precious blood,

His flesh torn apart,

To heal our wounded-broken hearts.

LET’S BE GRATEFUL

God, help me be a grateful person,

A person with a debt of gratitude,

Not comparing myself with others,

Whether lesser or better.

You promised to provide for our needs,

And You have never failed,

But even with our wants,

You allow us to have a taste.

Greatest of all, You have saved us,

Our souls going to heaven in Your presence,

What more can we ask for,

When Your Son for us died and rose.

LET YOUR WILL BE DONE

IN MY LIFE

I may not know where I’m headin’,

You maybe revealing something,