FT Chronicle

Many people believe that whatever happens to them, good or bad, has been decided by a force greater than them. For example, the 16^th-century reformer John Calvin wrote: “We define predestination as the eternal design of God, whereby He determined what He wanted to do with each man.”

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven…” – Ecclesiastes 3: 1-9

Does God really ordain ahead of time what our actions and our destination are going to be? Some who believe in predestination reason basically as follows: God is omniscient (Isaiah 46: 10). He knows everything, even what is going to happen in the future. He knows what each person is going to do with his life. So, according to their thinking, when the time comes for an individual to make a decision, his choice cannot be other than the way God has foreseen and foreordained it; otherwise God would not be all-knowing.

God can not only foreknow but also foreordain events whenever he chooses to do so. However, does God foreordain the destiny of every human or even the total number who will gain salvation? Not according to the Bible.

If some force has already determined your actions, then trying to take care of yourself is useless. If God chooses to foreknow everything, then even before He made Adam and Eve, He would have known that they would disobey Him. Did He know that their wonderful prospect of life in a paradise was doomed to failure? Would He promise everything good in sight if He knows that they are only bound to fail? That will be hypocritical.

The Bible teaches that God is selective when it comes to foreordaining the future. For example, God foretold that “a great crowd” of righteous humans would survive the destruction of the wicked at the end of the present system of things. (Revelation 7:9, 14) Note, though, that God did not give a specific number for that great crowd. The reason? He does not predestinate individuals.

Taken to its logical conclusion, the idea that God foreknows all decisions would mean that He is responsible for all that happens – including wars, injustices and suffering. Is that possible? No! For “God is love” and “a lover of justice” (1 John 4: 8; Psalms 37: 28).

Did God establish ahead of time the choice that those individuals would make? Evidently not. Going back to what Ecclesiastes 3: 1-9 says, it’s right that everything has its time but it does not mean a specific time but rather an appropriate time like the ebb and tide of the waves in the ocean. And He made us know that “no man knows when his hour will come…, so men are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them.”(Ecclesiastes 9: 11-12)

Our future is not written before us but it is being molded by the present. Life is a gift from God, He created us in His own Image (Genesis 1: 27). He gave us freedom to decide and made us superior than animals, having the ability to think. God does not say for us to believe something inevitable but instead He said “whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might” (Ecclesiastes 9: 10). He also said that we “also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands” (1 Thessalonians 4: 11). He also wants us to choose and urges us to “therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” (Deutoronomy 30: 19).

“You will also declare a thing,
And it will be established for you;
So light will shine on your ways.” – Job 22: 28

No, your future is not planned out before you, and your own decisions determine what your life will be. However, though it is not entirely God’s Will whatever you are doing right now, we must do everything for His Will.

“In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.” - Proverbs 3: 6

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” – Romans 12: 2

God only has one great plan for us… (Isaiah 65: 17-24)

God is greater than our hearts,

And He knows everything.

1 John 3:20

Are changing moods are possibly one of the most difficult obstacles we have to overcome in maturing and growing as human beings, especially when it comes to faith. Our mercurial emotions constantly war with our reason. Kicking into faith mode when our emotions or the gravity of a situation leaves us struggling is tough. Like an army preparing for battle, we have to make sure our reason has plenty of backing. We can fortify with prayer and scripture, and consult good strategies. We can read about other people who had great faith, like the patriarch, Abraham, or Corrie ten Boom. For most, faith doesn’t come easy. But we can find comfort in knowing that even when we are wavering, God is greater than our changeable hearts, and He knows everything.

Browsing the bookstore, I found that there are so many books about guidance. Most of them claim they are the answers to those who seek or they are the ways to success. But where we can really find guidance to have true success? It is the guidance with a solid moral foundation without things which solely depends on fame, fortune or power. It is the success not in pursuing a career but a success in ourselves, our life.

“…although the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth…” – Genesis 8:21

Let’s us admit, because of being impure, we may be lost in our own desires which can lead us to a wrong way. Even the bestseller books don’t lead people to real success but only of a dream which will mostly end to nothing. That’s why many still turn to the most trustworthy book: God’s Word, the Bible.

God knows why He gave life to us, what we must be in life. God also knows what we need and what we feel. God, being the greatest love personified, wants us to find success and joy (1 John 4:8). Where wan we find His great advice? Of course, in the Bible!

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:16, 17

God-given knowledge leads us to true success and everlasting joy while man’s knowledge contrary to God will only lead to failure and frustrations.

“The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken.
Behold, they have rejected the word of the LORD; so what wisdom do they have?”

- Jeremiah 8:9

Not like man’s philosophy, knowledge from the Bible is proven useful for always. Read and pray. God is always there for us.

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.”

- Isaiah 40:8

Fathers around the world play a big part in their family. Having a father (and of course, a mother) is a treasure a child should have. A father also brings light to lead his children to the right path. The Bible always attributes Father to God.

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.” – Matthew 6:9

But, what kind of father God is?

We can say a thing or two about a father by the way he treats or talks to his sons. Let us consider the moment when Jesus went to Jordan river to be baptized.

“When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” – Matthew 3:16, 17

Through these words, we can see what kind of father God is. Notice such three points.

First, the words “this is my Son” shows God is proud of His Son. One of a child’s needs is to feel important and to be given attention by their parents. Even though Jesus is old enough that time, it is sure that He felt glad hearing His Father esteems Him.

God also showed His Fatherly Love when He referred Jesus as His “beloved” Son. It’s just like saying, “I love you, Son”. Fathers should express their love and support tp their children in order to help them in their development.

Lastly, the words “in whom I am well pleased” expressed God’s approval and support in everything Jesus will do. Jesus surely felt elated hearing such words from our Heavenly Father.

Yes, God is an incomparable Father indeed! Would you like to have such father? If so, you will be glad to know that you can also be close to God! The Bible says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). It is great to know that we can establish a close connection with God, the greatest Father of all.

Studies show that these past 50 years, there is an increasing demand for food, water, raw materials and energy supply. Such huge demand causes great change in the Earth’s ecosystem and also diminishes the Earth’s capacity to afford the next generations. Earth loses its ability to renew or regenerate. More and more fauna and flora species are endangered. And of course, there are dangers that climate change may bring.

People have contributed great in Earth’s gradual erosion. Pollution is rampant everywhere. Avaricious exploitations still continue in every land. But, people can reverse such things through one great step to help our dying planet.

“The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s;
But the earth He has given to the children of men.” – Psalms 115:16

But can Earth face salvation? We can surely say yes! As God’s appointed protectors of all species, we must do all our best to save the environment.

Bear in mind that only God possesses the ability to restore Earth’s glory.

“You visit the earth and water it,
You greatly enrich it;
The river of God is full of water;
You provide their grain,
For so You have prepared it.
You water its ridges abundantly,
You settle its furrows;
You make it soft with showers,
You bless its growth.

You crown the year with Your goodness,
And Your paths drip with abundance.
They drop on the pastures of the wilderness,
And the little hills rejoice on every side.
The pastures are clothed with flocks;
The valleys also are covered with grain;
They shout for joy, they also sing.” – Psalms 65:9-13

“The sea is His, for He made it;
And His hands formed the dry land.”

- Psalms 95:5

“O LORD, how manifold are Your works!
In wisdom You have made them all.
The earth is full of Your possessions—
This great and wide sea,
In which are innumerable teeming things,
Living things both small and great.
There the ships sail about;
There is that Leviathan
Which You have made to play there.

These all wait for You,
That You may give them their food in due season.
What You give them they gather in;
You open Your hand, they are filled with good.
You hide Your face, they are troubled;
You take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.
You send forth Your Spirit, they are created;
And You renew the face of the earth.

May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
May the LORD rejoice in His works.”

- Psalms 104:24-31

Nice thing it is to know that Earth can support the generations to come. Let us see a Paradise to come.

“Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:39-43)

When you ask what students worry, the answer is grades. Just thinking of it triggers their stress for grades may mean chance for a good-paying job or good compliment from their parents.

First, bear in mind that learning does not mean only of getting high grades. Learning means development which King Solomon said “to give prudence to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion” (Proverbs 1:4). Does a youth who passes exams because of just guessing or cheating really learn a thing? What’s the use of high grades he you don’t know a thing when you apply it someday?
You may ask, how can I improve my grades?

It is in YOU, the responsibility to learn! The Bible says “The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.”(Proverbs 13:4). Yes, it’s true that idleness is mostly the reason behind low marks. But on the other hand, students with high grades move themselves to learn.

One may say, “but I am already studying.” Students with low grades may also say such lines but compared with their classmates, they are left behind. Apostle Paul once said that “I discipline my body and bring it into subjection…” (1 Corinthians 9:27). Let see, how can you study well if the TV is turned on or you tend to procrastinate things? One good advice is to try to set a time and place for studying and if done regularly, you cannot find yourself bored or lazy. Just like what Paul said “Nevertheless, to the degree that we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.” (Philippians 3:16)

How about homework? Try to sort them from the easiest to the hardest or even by category. How about tests? Listen attentively to your teacher in every lesson. Check your materials. Try to make questions and later, read to find the answers. “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17). Try to discuss with friends and you’ll find reviewing easy and fun.

Though grades are significant, it does not make what a person is. But, enjoy every moment in school and learn all you can.

“A scoffer seeks wisdom and does not find it,
But knowledge is easy to him who understands.” – Proverbs 14:6

Ever find school as a boring place or a stressful pit? You may find yourself losing interest or developing hate about school. It is true that there grave issues that involve the education system around the globe. But is it enough reason to just quit? Is there any reason why you should stay in school until you graduate?

“The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:
To know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding,
To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity;
To give prudence to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion”

- Proverbs 1:1-4

That’s what King Solomon said hundreds of years from now about school. Youth is synonymous with innocence and inexperience that is why schools are there to shape you up. Yes it’s true that solving mathematical problems or memorizing historical events are not significant in your life. But what you do not know is school teaches us how to think and to decide which play a great part in our lives.

“Do you see a man who excels in his work?
He will stand before kings; he will not stand before unknown men.” – Proverbs 22:29

King Solomon once set the future of a skilled worker as read in Proverbs 22:29. It is still applicable in our times. Notably, if one lacks education, the possibility to get a great job is measly.

The most important of all does not lie in books. Through the years of education, you will learn to know your strengths and weaknesses. Solomon also encouraged the youth to “know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding” (Proverbs 1:2).
The Bible, of course, does not prohibit one to achieve education. In fact, God the greatest Teacher, encourages His Nation to read well and express themselves. (Isaiah 30:20; Psalms 1:2; Hebrews 5:12)

But there is a fact that we cannot escape. What is the use of years spent inside the academe or a great career if 1 Corinthians 7:29 says “But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none.”

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” – 2 Timothy 3:16

Studying or reading the Bible is the best education one will ever have, with God’s Word to teach us. Bible is blessed by God’s wisdom; it is a book of advice, promises, prophesies fulfillments and many more.

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” – Hebrew 4:12

“Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer,
The Holy One of Israel:  I am the LORD your God,

Who teaches you to profit, who leads you by the way you should go.” – Isaiah 48:17

Knowledge of God’s love and His coming Kingdom is the education we all must have. And through it, we can really look for a bright future ahead of us.

The most popular these days is the 2012 doomsday scenario which has infected the wide stream. Fear has overcome many people while others find themselves skeptical about the thought of it. Now, the talk of the town is the final days! Should we be afraid of the Last Days? Or should we be glad waiting for it?

“I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.” – Luke 4:43

Jesus Christ once said of the Kingdom of God that will eliminate all evil and change the World to be a Paradise. But what are the signs of the Last Days? You may ask.

Unlike the obscurities of the Mayans and Nostradamus, God clearly stated in the Bible the signs of the last days.

“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.” – Matthew 24:7

“And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven.” – Luke 21:11

“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.” – Matthew 24:12

Millions of lives were claimed by ruthless wars that came in history. A huge number experiences hunger and food became scarce because of lack of space to plant. Major earthquakes happened recently, like the Samoa quake. Pestilence rises even though medical technology progresses, just recently Influenza A H1N1 strain shook the whole globe. Also, crime is rampant everywhere!

Apostle Paul also described what people will be those days. He said “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

Jesus said that in the last of days “this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”(Matthew 24:14). Observe your surroundings. Isn’t God’s Word everywhere? What great scenery!

Yes, the Last Days will be full of burden to mankind but there’s a lot of things we should be excited about. Why, you may ask. The Last Days does not mean the last days of Earth but instead the last days of Satan and his disciples (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9).

There’s a great tomorrow waiting for us!

“God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” – Revelations 21:4

“But the wicked will be cut off from the earth,
And the unfaithful will be uprooted from it.” – Proverbs 2:22

“Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
And the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then the lame shall leap like a deer,
And the tongue of the dumb sing.
For waters shall burst forth in the wilderness,
And streams in the desert.” – Isaiah 35:5,6

“And the inhabitant will not say, “I am sick”;
The people who dwell in it will be forgiven their iniquity.” – Isaiah 33:24

“There will be an abundance of grain in the earth,
On the top of the mountains;
Its fruit shall wave like Lebanon;
And those of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.” – Psalms 72:16

“They shall neither hunger anymore nor thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat” – Revelations 7:16

The Last Days will come rushing like a man who left his shoes. We never know when it will come, maybe tomorrow, maybe this day. Why worry about 2012?

In times where life become hectic due to a lot of duties and responsibilities in school, work or in your peers and family, it seems like we forget the One who we should prioritize – God.

“Pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17

“… Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer…” – Romans 12:12

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” – Philippians 4:6

We know that prayers are the most wonderful means of communication for we talk to God through it. But when it seems like the busy bee stung you and the going gets rough, we may feel it hard to find time to pray.

Praying is like a door that we can open anytime for we have the key to open it.

“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:15, 16

With tons of loaded work, we forget to pay a while and ample time to pray. A good suggestion is to make a schedule or to allot time for praying but we must not take it just as a routine.

“For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” – Matthew 12:34

If we cannot think clear of what we should pray, try to pray things you really want to ask. Prayer is a way to unleash all emotions and let loose everything to God.

“I will also meditate on all Your work, and talk of Your deeds.”- Psalms 77:12

One may say, why bother praying if God does not pay attention to it? A very wrong notion! 1 John 5:14 says, “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.”

“O You who hear prayer, to You all flesh will come.” –  (Psalms 65:2)
One thing is clear: God really entertains our prayers. You may think that God does not get rid of your problems but come to think of it, He already provided you strength to face it and to overcome all of it.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

“Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7

God did not appoint angels to hear our solemn wishes. God Himself listens to our prayers because He truly cares and loves us.

Music can move our heart and stir someone’s emotions. It can soothe us, excites us and cheer us. It helps us express our gladness and even our sorrow. Every now and then, music plays a great vital role in one’s health and serves as a language that speaks in our hearts.

“He was the father of all those who play the harp and flute.” – Genesis 4:21

Truly it is, music is a God-given gift. And the Bible agrees with it.

“The LORD is my strength and song; I will sing praise to the LORD God of Israel”
Early Israelites celebrate festivity with songs of praise (Exodus 15:1-21; Judges 5:1-31). God’s prophet Moses also composed a song of Israel’s history and legacy (Deuteronomy 32:1-43)

Do you know that one-tenth of the Bible are books of songs? Examples are the book of Psalms, Songs of Solomon and Lamentations. It is not surprising that most of the songs are related to God’s worship. King David of Israel, a great musician and composer of songs, said “My heart greatly rejoices, and with my song I will praise Him” (Psalms 28:7).

King David also put 4000 men of Levi’s clan to serve as musicians and singers in Jerusalem. Most of them, about 288, are “trained to ring for the Lord and all are great”(1 Chronicles 23:4,5; 25,7).

The night before Jesus died; He and His apostles sing songs of praise for the Lord. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!

With the help of the great music, we can exhibit all our sentiments and calm our heart, mind, body and soul. Truly, music is one of the greatest gifts of God.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” – James 1:17