The Chosen Devotional Day 33: Perceive

"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness. -" Matthew 6:22-23

• Describe when you first realized you could see and perceive clearly.

It's the time where I didn't hold bitterness inside me anymore. The guilt and condemnation of the sins I did are gone.

• How have your healthy eyes affected your whole body? In other words, how has your healthy perception of Christ affected your life in general?

My relationship (any kind) are so much better. I treat myself well instead of beating myself. My physical health has been tremendously affected.

• In what circumstance have you rejected the "ranger's flashlight," and what can you do to ensure that happens less frequently?

Some instances are in the financial and health/healing aspects. Every lesson is learned.

The Chosen Devotional Day 32: Believe

For God so love the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16

• It is sometimes difficult for you to believe the new covenant has replaced the old? Or do you still sometimes think following rules is more important?

By the grace of God, I do not have difficulty believing that a new covenant has replaced the new. When one knows how loved he is by the Father, doubts melt. My obedience is not because I think it's importance to follow the rule, but because the goodness of God towards me makes me do so.

• In what ways can you identify with Nicodemus?

Like Nicodemus, there were times in my life where I had a hard time understanding the essence of the Gospel. But thanks to anointed preachers who explained it well that helped me understand the simple, yet profound meaning of it.

• Describe the moment you knew there was a choice about Jesus to be made.

The Chosen Devotional Day 31: Power

[Christ is] far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. - Ephesians 1:21

• Write down a time when you felt better than someone else because of your religious status or choices, or their lack thereof.

I remember talking to a friend and telling her I felt bad for those who really don't know Jesus personally, because me who has a personal relationship (as I thought) with Him, goes through rough times, how much more those who don't? How do they deal with trials? I was too arrogant on that.

• What's a rule of lifestyle choice you've stressed as important, perhaps at the expense of a more direct or pure connection with Jesus?

My personal relationship with God is the most important of all. I know deep inside me that if I disconnect myself from Him, I am a total mess.

• We rarely have to risk a lot to follow Jesus. But what are some things you'd have a hard time risking to follow Jesus?

Rejection. I have a hard time opening up a conversation about Jesus to people who I know don't believe in Him or those who do not have personal relationship with Him. I fear that the relationship gets broken.

The Chosen Devotional Day 30: Light

"Whoever believes in [Jesus] is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already because, he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, but people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.-" John 3:18-19

• What have you risk to follow Jesus, and what price have you paid?

My selfless self. Following Jesus is a choice to deny my selfishness and the calls of my flesh.

• In what ways is Christ like light? In what ways are people asleep?

Anything we do that we feel ashamed of are the ways that make as asleep. When we accept and let Jesus enter into our lives, His light shines in those dark areas and gives us freedom from those bondage.

• What in your life and heart are still keeping in the dark, away from the sifting, transforming light of Jesus?

The Chosen Devotional Day 29: Presence, Part 2

"In the days of Abiathar the high priest, [David] entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions." Then [Jesus] said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.-" Mark 2:25-28

• What do you prioritize over spending time in God's presence?

Distractions. Chores. Unimportant things.

• In what area of your life are you rejecting Christ's Lordship?

In many areas. When I don't ask His intervention on things, that means I am rejecting His Lordship.

• What is your favorite thing about spending time with God, and what do you need to change to be able to spend more time with Him?

Deep joy and peace inside that the world cannot give. The sense of overwhelming love from the Father who loves me so much. 

Being mindful and intentional of my time spending with Him.

The Chosen Devotional Day 28: Presence, Part 1

One Sabbath, [Jesus] was going through the grain fields, and as they made their way, His disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees were saying to Him, "Look, why are they doing what is not lawful [to do] on the Sabbath?-" Mark 2:23-24

• With all its pomp and circumstance, do you find talk of the tabernacle interesting or boring, and why?

The talk of the tabernacle is interesting to me. Why? Because everything inside, every item placed, every corner where they are specifically placed have meaning and reasons which depicts the work of Jesus on the Cross.

• Imagine the room where God's presence dwelt. Imagine approaching the cloud or pillar of fire. How would standing in His presence, in that warm and quiet place affect the way you view the requirements of the Law?

That would be very scary if I based the requirements of the Law as I entered into His presence. Obviously I don't pass the requirements and that means death.

• Now imagine walking with Jesus. Imagine the unrestricted access, the casual conversation, and the warmth of His personality. That's all... just imagine.

*Overwhelms my heart*

The Chosen Devotional Day 27: Poor

The people all tried to touch Him, because power was coming from Him and healing them all. Looking at His disciples, He said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.-" Luke 6:19-20

• Put yourself in the disciples' shoes. Would it be difficult for you to minister to the desperate crowds? Why or why not?

No it wouldn't because they are the ones who were humble enough to ask for God's help.

• Is there someone you know who fits the "poor in spirit" category especially well? What attributes come to mind?
  
  
• What are ways you can pursue being "poor in spirit?

Reminding myself that there is no one who can help me perfectly, but Jesus in anything.

The Chosen Devotional Day 26: Blind Eye

On another Sabbath, [Jesus] entered the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and the Pharisees watched [Jesus], to see whether He would heal on the Sabbath, so that they might find a reason to accuse Him. - Luke 6:6-7

• Obviously we can't respond to every need, but think of a time you have but didn't. Why did you turn away? How would you handle it now if you got a second chance?

It was for a family member. I did't provide their need because I felt like they're taking advantage of me by asking so many times. I felt like they're not doing what they can to provide for their family because I was there, willing to help. So I stopped.

• Why did Jesus respond to needy people the way He did? What do you think He saw when He looked at them?

Jesus knew their need. Jesus was moved. Jesus was compassionate. He still is. All of my needs.

• List some ways you could react to obvious need in the future, in addition to giving money. That answer is too easy.

I will weigh things and see if it is really an obvious need instead of "just because I can provide." I need discernment on things like this. Giving to obvious needs to people I do not know is actually much easier for me to do than to family members. I don't know why.

The Chosen Devotional Day 25: Rise

When [Jesus] returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that He was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And He was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to Him the paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near Him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven.-" Mark 2:1-5

• In order to take such extreme measures, what must the four men carrying their friend have believed about Jesus?

They most probably witnessed the healing works of Jesus to sick people. Because they saw it with their own eyes, the believed and didn't waste time to take their paralytic friend to Jesus for healing.

• What keeps you from pursuing Jesus with that kind of passion?

• If you struggle to value spiritual growth over material, list three to five reasons spiritual growth matters the more.

1. Spiritual growth keeps my feet grounded.
2. Spiritual growth keeps me dependent on God.
3. Spiritual growth gives me the peace that this world cannot.
4. Spiritual growth keeps me kingdom focused.
5. Spiritual growth reminds me that I am nothing and cannot do anything good without Jesus.

The Chosen Devotional Day 24: Clean

While He was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, "Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.-" Luke 5:12

• What part of your soul needs Jesus' healing touch?

My selfish flesh needs Jesus' healing touch, always. It's so easy to listen to the flesh and forget to ask Jesus to help you with it.

• What's holding you back from the kind of bold faith the leper had?

As far as I know, I asked Jesus big things to happen. I don't remember if there is anything I want that I didn't ask.

• How can you connect with people in your life who aren't part of the "in" crowd, as Jesus did?

The Chosen Devotional Day 23: Relationship

Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs that He was doing. But Jesus on His part did not entrust Himself to them, because He knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man; for He Himself knew what was in man. - John 2:23-25

• Can you think of a time in your relationship with Jesus lagged? Is it now?

A lot of times. It's all because of distractions that are surrounding me.

• What miraculous changes has Jesus made in your heart since you started following Him?

My dependence on Him is the most miraculous thing that happens. I realized I cannot do anything good and I am nothing without Him.

• Moving forward, how can you embrace heart changes over physical ones?

The Chosen Devotional Day 22: All 'Y'All

And the Pharisees and their scribes grumbled at his disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" And Jesus answered them, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." Luke 5:30-32

• What are the areas of your life where you need a "physician?"
  

In my relationship with people, myself.

• When have you been guilty of the Pharisees' judgment here?

When I am bias with my opinion/view on things.

• Who do you know who wouldn't be considered "healthy" by church leaders, and how can you treat them as Jesus treated the "sick?"

The obvious social outcasts are viewed by Pharisee-like-mentality preachers. Pass no judgment to people. We all sin. Big or small, sin is sin.

The Chosen Devotional Day 21: Useful

Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. - 2 Timothy 2:21

• In what ways do you tend to focus more on what you can do than on the one whose Spirit you contain?

In a lot of ways. As a human being, I listen more often to the flesh than the Holy Spirit. It's an area of my life I need help the most.

• Can you think of anyone you value more because of what they do than who they are in Christ?

• How can you make yourself more available?

Through intentional living. It's a habit that needs to be developed.

The Chosen Devotional Day 20: Trust

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6

• In what areas of your life do you trust in your own cleverness?

I totally do not know. What I know is that, I cannot do anything good without God.

• If you're brutally honest, do you identify more with pre-Jesus Matthew or disciple Matthew?

I say 50/50. There are times I do things all by myself and times I ask for God's guidance.

• What have been some of the dramatic plot twist the Lord has orchestrated in your life?

The Chosen Devotional Day 19: Worry

"But see first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.-" Matthew 6:33-34

• Do you struggle with anxiety? What things do you tend to worry about the most and why?

The things I tend to worry the most are my family's health, safety, and finances because these things are scary when out of control.

• Jesus used an everyday occasion to reveal His glory. Describe a common event in your life through which He revealed His glory and increased your faith.

There are a lot of instances that Jesus showed His miracles over the ordinary circumstances where I needed Him. These issues are usually financial provisions and healing.

• Do you ask Jesus' help with the seemingly small stuff? Why or why not?

Sometimes I do, sometimes not. When I do not ask for help, it's usually because I tend to focus more on the problem that I forget to ask for help. I have been training myself lately (with the help and reminder of the Holy Spirit) to ask for divine help in very petty problems I encounter.

The Chosen Devotional Day 18: Emmanuel

Now there were six stone water jars there for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty galloons. Jesus said to the servants, "Fill the jars with water." And they filled them up to the brim. And He said to them, "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast." So they took it. When the master of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom and said to him, "Everyone serves the good wine first, and when people have drunk freely, then the poor wine. But you have kept the good wine until now." This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested His glory. And His disciples believed in Him. - John 2:6-11

• At this moment, what circumstances are most difficult for you?

Not being able to go out and about because of the "pandemic."

• How should knowing that God is with you affect the way you respond to your circumstances?

Gives me the confidence and assurance deep inside that I will be taken cared of in every situation I am in.

• Just as the servants at the wedding had to draw water before they actually saw the water turn into wine, what are ways you can step out in faith as a result of His promise to be with you?

It's really important for me to pray first before I step out in faith to do something that I normally don't. Prayer gives me confidence. Prayer makes me recognize that it's not about me (what I can do or what I have to give), but it's about Him and how He will manifest Himself in my circumstance.

The Chosen Devotional Day 17: Come and See

The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." ...Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see.-" John 1:43, 45-46

• Write out your come-to-see Jesus. How did you meet Him? How did He change your mind about who He is and what's true?
  

My come-to-see Jesus moment was when I was watching a Christian channel (TBN) and the pastor on the program looked different that most that I've typically seen. He's Asian with an accent, and the words he said were ones I have not heard before. Out of curiosity, I searched him online and found out that his name is Joseph Prince. From then on, my journey with knowing who really Jesus is started.

• Since Jesus is no longer walking and talking on earth, what does "come and see" mean now?

"Come and see" nowadays would mean people like me would become the bridge between unbelievers and Jesus. As a witness to God's goodness, I am given the opportunity and privilege to introduce someone into the goodness and love of God.

• Who is someone in your life who needs to "come" and "see" Jesus? Pray for that person then go make the introduction . Trust Jesus to do the convincing.

The Chosen Devotional Day 16: Repent

After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news.-" Mark 1:14-15

• What do you focus on more: Jesus' command to love others... or to repent and believe?

Focusing to love others before repentance is not going to be successful. Repentance is not a feeling. It's not about feeling bad and guilty of the  wrong things I've done. Repentance is about the mind (from the Greek word "metanoia" which means change one's mind), that is why after Jesus said "repent" the word believe came next. We believe through the mind (first), then the heart follows. It's changing my mind from how I view God before as a distant God, to a loving, personal God (and so on).

• What incident in your life incited radical inward transformation? Would you regard it as a miracle?

Listening to sermons that focuses on Jesus and God's love for me were the things that incited radical inward transformation in me. Yes, they are miracles. Otherwise, I will remain to believe the wrong things about God and inner transformation will not be possible.

• Repentance fosters humility and surrender, so what can you repent of?

The Chosen Devotional Day 15: Rock

"And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven.-" Matthew 16:18-19

• What are your primary weaknesses?

My emotions are my primary weaknesses. Like Peter, I sometimes have a hard time controlling my negative emotions.

• In what ways have you seen God transform your heart and mind?

The way He has shown me His goodness and love towards me. It makes me not want to reciprocate it with who I am not created to be.

• Write down a weakness you want to turn into  a strength and commit to praying for help and working on it.

The Chosen Devotional Day 14: Boldness

"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.-" Luke 11:9

• Describe a time you felt bold in approaching Jesus. What did you ask for?

In many instances, I boldly asked for healing. The last two ones was when my daughter had a bad allergic reaction, and the other one was when I had a terrible stomach upset, I thought I'd passed out.

• How did He answer you?

As always, His faithfulness never fails. Healing was ours.

• How would you answer Jesus' question: What do you want?

I want Him to be always with me, all the time. Never leave me, not a single moment.

The Chosen Devotional Day 13: Authority

And [Jesus] went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And He was teaching them on the Sabbath, and they were astonished at His teaching, for this words possessed authority.-" Luke 4:31-32

• Is there an area in your life where you're denying Christ's authority?

I cannot thin of anything. Although I know that there are several instances where I forget to ask for guidance.

• In what ways does His authority bring peace and comfort to your circumstance?

In ways I know how big, how powerful He is and how much He loves me.

• What's your plan for how to submit more fully to Christ's authority?

Listen more on what He has to say. 

The Chosen Devotional Day 11: Proclaim

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to proclaim the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.-" Luke 4:18-19

• Which of Jesus' character qualities most stand out to you in this story?

The character quality that stands out the most to me is His role as the bearer of the Good News. Unless men hear and understand the Good News of God's kingdom, it is hard to be free from bondage (spiritual).

• Why do you think Jesus began His three years of ministry with this particular public display in His hometown?

After Jesus read the Scripture that contains the prophecy concerning Himself, He spoke a few words to the people who were present, and they were not happy. In fact, they drove Him out of the synagogue and even tried to throw Him off the cliff. The place where this particular scenario will happen was already ordained. But I also believe, that the town of Nazareth where Jesus grew up, metaphorically represents the Jews. The Good News was meant for them to hear. Yet, His brethren rejected Him as the Messiah. Because of that, the Good News was preached to the gentiles and was received.

• What are ways you can display the same love for those Jesus came for as the prophecies indicate?

Love hard. Love those who persecute me. Love those who don't like me. I cannot do this by myself. I need the Holy Spirit to help me. When these people will see how love they are even after what they did, their hearts will change.

The Chosen Day 10: Tested

"He is the image of the invisible God, the first born of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.-" Colossians 1:15-17

• Do you believe God has designed all the elements composing your tests? Explain why or why not?

I have a hard time understanding this concept. I know He allows tests, but design them? Does it mean that because He designed them, even before my birth, He already planned for me to be living from one family to another at a very tender age, and go through a lot of sufferings? Honestly, my experiences in life ever since I was small have made me who I am today because God was with me all throughout. However, I also know people who have similar experience, but haven't change their outlook in life. They are still mad at the world. That brings me to think that personal relationship with God is the most vital of all, regardless of our life's experiences. Because I chose to listen to the Holy Spirit, because I chose to reach out to God, my life and my beliefs were radically changed.

The passage, "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil," has made me thinking. Jesus didn't just randomly get lost in the wilderness to get tempted. He was led by the Spirit to be tempted. I therefore believe that God leads me to the paths of testing. Not because He wants me suffer, but because He wants to build and strengthen my character.

• What's the most difficult test you've ever had to surrender to?

Losing a relationship.

• Whether you're in a test now or one is coming, what are some ways you can better with it?

Keep myself in confidence with the help of the Holy Spirit that the test has a reason and it is for my own good.

The Chosen Day 9: Reset

John answered them, "I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.-" John 1:26-27

• Describe a time in your life when you experienced the wilderness. How did God meet you there?

It was when I was heartbroken from a relationship. God then, was only second in my life. Not even second probably. But I knew, He wasn't my first. When I lost that relationship with a person who put on a pedestal, my life was totally devastated. I thought I lost everything. But in those moments of despair, I clung to God. He was the only one I can turn to. There was no human being who can console my wrecked heart—only God. That moment of wilderness led me to know Him deeper, to ask questions I've never asked before. He was there with me all throughout while I lived in the dark. I never left me. He stayed with me. He gently ushered me to the light, out of the wilderness.

• How do the words "from among you" impact the way you see Jesus?

I am not sure what the question exactly means.

• What new thing is God doing in your life and heart right now?

With the current social issues going on, God has been teaching me to be more observant, to listen with intention, to think deeply, and to only speak when needed. And if I open my mouth to speak, it must only be words that do not condemn people, but words that will help open the eyes and soften callous hearts.

The Chosen Day 8: Hope

"And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. -" Romans 5:2-5

• What suffering have you experienced that has produced perseverance, character, and hope?

Hopping and living from one family/relative to another when I was at a very young age (because of a broken family). Having to experience such plight at a tender age taught me so many things about life. 

• What was the evidence of your spiritual growth?

Searching answers about my questions that led me to the arms of the loving Father. Fully trusting that God holds my future. 

• Have you ever been brought to tears over God's goodness and favor? Describe the circumstances.

Several times. A lot of those times were I watched a sermon about God's goodness and love. My heart got so overwhelmed with how huge His love is for me that my puny heart cannot contain it, I burst into tears. Some other times, I just felt His goodness out of nowhere. Same thing happens—that feeling of being overwhelmed.

The Chosen Day 7: Doubt

"Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born.-" Luke 1:11-15

• What is something you've repeatedly petitioned God for?

To have a business of my own. A business that grows and flourishes. A business that employs hundreds of people. A business that looks after the welfare of its people and the community both local, national, and international. A business that contributes to the betterment of the world. Most of all, a business that is a testimony of God's goodness and love.

• Do you struggle to believe God hears your prayers?

I don't know. Most of the time, when my prayers are not answered, especially my prayers for the future, I accept it as something that I am not prepared for, that is why it is still not answered. But when it comes to immediate or practical prayers, like healing or financial provisions, God has always intervened.

• What are some audicious things you can ask God to do in your life?

I will continue to ask for that business. I will ask Him to help me pursue my love for writing the deep issues of the human heart, of life. 

(Done in Strawberry, Arizona)

The Chosen Day 6: Redemption

"The law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, He has made Him known.-" John 1:17-18

• What was the point of God's 1-2-3 pattern in the Old Testament?

I believe the point of such pattern is for people to see how loved they are no matter how they messed up. It's God's way of saying that no mankind sin can take away His mercy and love from them.

• What does His sacrifice on the cross revealed to you about God the Father.

The message of love from Him to me.

• How can you live out gratitude for the grace you've already been given for your rebellion?

By sharing my testimony of His sacrifice, His unconditional love, His everlasting grace to the people around me. Sharing the Good News to all and tell them, what God did to me, He will do it to them if they let Him.

(Done in Strawberry, Arizona)

The Chosen Devotional Day 5: Renegade

"The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, yet the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him. But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.-" John 1:9-13

• What is the most striking to you about the way Jesus began His ministry years?

The most striking to me was the power that comes out in every word that He utters. No word of His was wasted. Every word had a purpose, and it's for the good and glory of the kingdom of God. I am also amazed how He showed His deep and close relationship to His Father.

• Jesus repeatedly extended His hand to all types of people. In what ways do you need to be more like Him? Who do you struggle to welcome?

I struggle to be around the company of conceited people—people who think of themselves highly, who brag so much about themselves. It has been a struggle ever since. However, it doesn't mean that because I personally have a hard time around them, that I'd be indifferent to them. My old self will probably be, but I am a new creation. I did not have to be around them all the time. And while I am away from them, I have to work on myself regarding this struggle through the help of the Holy Spirit.

• In what ways are you a renegade for Jesus? In what ways do you need to become more of one?

The issue of prejudice and injustice makes me a renegade for Jesus. It's something I cannot stand with people, and I stand for what I believe in by expressing my thoughts and my heart.

The Chosen Devotional Day 4: Words

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.-" John 1:1-5

• Describe your first—"Follow me" moment with Jesus.

I don't specifically remember when and how it happened. My journey of knowing who Jesus really is, was gradual. He had to change my heart and the thinking of my mind first. From then, my walk has been to feed on the truth, the Word, even now.

• Which words of Jesus do you cherish the most?

"Look at the birds. They don’t plant, harvest, or save food in barns, but your heavenly Father feeds them. Don’t you know you are worth much more than they are? You cannot add any time to your life by worrying about it.-" Matthew 6:26-27

• How can you make your own words (particularly on social media) more like Christ's words?

So many times I've been tempted to just rant my feelings and opinions on issues flooding the social media. But thanks to the Holy Spirit who gently reminds me of who I am now, "the old is gone, the new has come." When my emotions are high because of comments I read, instead of responding immediately, I step back, take a break, think, pray. When everything boiling inside me settles down, that's when I respond to comments, or sometimes, I chose not to comment. I have learned that the words I use to express my mind and feelings are powerful. Therefore, I need to be careful how I use them. God used the Word to come everything into being. And because I am made in His own image and likeness, every word that I utter is powerful. It can make or break.

The Chosen Devotional Day 3: Represent

"If anyone would come after me, let [her] deny [herself] and take up [her] cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save [her] life will lose it, but whoever loses [her] life for my sake will save it.-" Luke 9:23-24

• Do you find it difficult your testimony? Why or why not?

Depends on the setting. If I am in a group of people talking about our faith, sharing my testimony is very easy for me. Or if I am talking to someone about faith, I normally find a way in to share the goodness of God for me. I find it difficult to "open up" the topic out of nowhere. If I just met a person and we talked for a bit, I normally don't share my testimony about Jesus, unless asked, or the opportunity is open.

• Be real: Who or what do your words most represent?

After coming into the full knowledge of who I am in Christ and how loved I am by my Father in heaven, I have been more mindful of the words that come out of my mouth. I am more careful of what words to use, especially my posts on social media because I am a representation of who I follow and who I believe which is Jesus. However, there was one incident that just happened lately that I posted a comment on the social media that made a few people react negatively. I admit it was a mistake on my part. I didn't convey my words nicely that made people uncomfortable and defensive.  The topic was about wearing masks on public during this pandemic. I wrote on the comment, "For those who don't want to wear mask, stay home." People don't want to be told what to do. I don't. But the saddest thing about what happened was, one person got so irritated that she went and checked my personal profile, looked at my pictures, and commenting unkind words.

• Moving forward, what can you say that focuses more on the "after Christ" portion of your testimony than the "before Christ" portion?

I focus more on reminding myself who I am in Christ especially the times I messed up. It's easy to be astray from God's love and presence when things are rough and tough. My flesh would tell to put a wall between me and people and God. But I have learned to do the opposite now. It's a work in progress.