“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. 10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:1-3; 10

Life guards tell us that if you are caught in a rip current, the key to survival is to swim out of it, not against it. The way this is accomplished is by simply swimming parallel to shore. The real danger lies in how you react when caught in one. Most swimmers tend to panic, lose their strength, and eventually go under.

We can learn much from such a lesson. In this life, we will experience turmoil, tribulation, and trials. However, the key to surviving such storms is how we react in the midst of them. The Lord tells us in Psalm 46:10 to “Be still, and know that I am God…” We can gain strength during these times if we would only allow Him to be our strength and our refuge, our help in times of trouble. How is this accomplished? By trusting Him that He will see you through! Do not panic or you will lose your strength. Swim parallel towards His loving arms and He will see you safely to the shore!

Combined Service This Sunday

A reminder that this coming Sunday, August 2nd is our combined service at 11:00am. Our Youth Sunday School, Ignite, and adult Sunday School, is at 10:00am.

You do not want to miss this Sunday as the Youth will be testifying of how the hand of God moved during the Mission’s trip!

Filed under: Reminders, Scriptures by Yvetter Gallinar
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“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18

Do you have 20/20 vision? If you do, continue eating those carrots! Unfortunately however there are many that do not have good vision. It is quite common in today’s day and age to hear of friends, family members and coworkers needing glasses or contact lenses. In the last two decades, there have also been significant advances made in corrective eye surgery.

With Lasik eye surgery for example, the procedure is done in the doctor’s office within a couple of hours. In the majority of cases, some time after the surgery patients are able to see clearly without the use of corrective eyewear. If you’ve ever known someone who has had the procedure done, they will tell you about the freedom they felt being able to see clearly without assistance.

Whether you wear eyeglasses/lenses or not, how are you seeing the things going on around you? How do you see others? When we encounter tribulations there is a tendency to lose focus, just like when we have poor vision. The Bible tells us that we are to fix our eyes not on what we see, but on what is not seen. That means that we have to direct our eyes to the Lord. He has to be the center of our attention. He should be our focus like we are the apple of His eye.

When we focus on what is "Temporary", we will become consumed and overwhelmed. Doubt and anxiety will lead to a lack of faith. We must see and understand that our tribulations are part of God’s great plan (See 1 Peter 1:6-7). Our tribulations are an opportunity for others to see how God shapes us into faithful Christians. Our focus must be on the goal of God’s plan and how we will become better for it. Remember, "…we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." Romans 5:3-5.

As children of the Most High God, we must see His plan and allow others to see us as well. Additionally, when we see others, we are to see them with the eyes of our Father. Otherwise, we open the door for criticism and judgment to come in. But when Jesus is our focal point, everything becomes crystal clear. For we know that no matter what happens, He is in control… He is going to work everything out for our good… and in Him we will have victory. If you want to experience total freedom, fix your eyes on Him. You will see everything in a different light.

Has your vision been obscured and now is transparent? Share your comments!

• We had a great service on Sunday! Congratulations once again to our graduates! We are all very proud of you!
• A special thanks once again to all of the Sunday School leaders for allowing the Lord to use you in this wonderful ministry as well as to Randy and Hilda for their awesome leadership in our youth department!

Filed under: Announcements, Commentary, Scriptures by Yani Avila
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“He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.” Isaiah 33:6

Have you ever noticed the detail in high rise buildings? The structures vary in size and shape, architectural features, number of floors, etc. but they usually display a sense of grandeur and strength. Do you ever wonder how much time and work is involved in constructing these buildings?

Architects and contractors must have a whole series of factors to consider when making plans to construct. Among the many factors, they need to determine what materials will be needed and whether or not the building will be able to withstand nature’s forces. The foundation is an integral part in the process as it establishes the success of the project.

In our lives we encounter many trials and tribulations, some more difficult than others. Nevertheless, in order to endure and overcome those moments, we too must have a solid foundation. Below are four steps to help you build that foundation:

1.Spend time alone with the Lord daily. The mornings are especially best because we are giving Him our first fruits of the day. There are no opportunities for any disruptions. This should be a time of praise and worship. Show Him how much you love and need Him. The more you do it, the more you will long to be with Him. This will set the platform for a special bond with your Heavenly Father. You can also join us at church in the mornings.

2. Read His Word Daily. The Bible is food for our souls. It provides us with knowledge and wisdom. The Bible gives us guidance and understanding. His Word is our weapon to fight the enemy and his attacks. It also brings us comfort and strength in time of need. See the Word for the day on our website.

3.Be an active participant in your Church Body. Being actively involved with your Church body is a vital part of our Christian walk. Fellowship with other Christians creates unity and accountability. This is essential when we need prayer and others to lift us up.

4.Walk in faith. We cannot live with doubt, worry or anxiety. We have to stand firm and continuously claim His promises over our lives. Regardless of your circumstances, He is in control. Be bold and walk knowing that you are victorious in Him.

Our structures may be shaken from time to time but if we follow these steps we will stand strong. The Bible tells us “If you work the words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who dug deep and laid the foundation of his house on bedrock. When the river burst its banks and crashed against the house, nothing could shake it; it was built to last.” Luke 6:48

What other steps have helped you build a strong foundation?
We want to hear your suggestions!

Filed under: Commentary, Scriptures by Yani Avila
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