Don't fix what's not broken but ...

"Don't fix what's not broken." A popular saying, and a good one. It advises against trying to fix or improve something that is already working fine. While it can be useful in certain situations, it can also hold us back from progress and innovation.

Finish what you start

We’ve all been there: a new hobby, a home project, a personal goal—we start with a burst of enthusiasm, only to see our initial excitement fizzle out. The half-finished painting gathers dust in the corner, the half-read book sits on the nightstand, and the half-completed online course lingers in our browser history.

While it’s easy to move on to the next shiny thing, there’s immense value in finishing what you start. This isn't about being a perfectionist. It's about building character, gaining clarity, and being reliable—to yourself and to others.

The power of small victories: How "Atomic Habits" can change your life

We all have goals, right? Whether it's to get fit, learn a new skill, write a book, or just be more organized, we set our sights high. But often, the journey to achieving those goals feels like an uphill battle. We start strong, then life happens, motivation wanes, and before we know it, we're back where we started.

If this sounds familiar, then James Clear's groundbreaking book, "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones," might just be the game-changer you need. It's not about radical transformations overnight; it's about the incredible power of small, consistent changes.

The myth of the self-made individual

Our culture celebrates the story of the "self-made man" or "self-made woman." 

It's the inspiring story of people who, through sheer grit, determination, and talent, pull themselves up by their bootstraps, overcome all obstacles, and achieve remarkable success without any apparent help from anyone.

God cares about your work

We come from different walks of life, with diverse experiences and aspirations, but are united by a common thread: work.

Whether you’re a surgeon wielding a scalpel with precision, a teacher patiently nurturing young minds, an artist breathing life onto a canvas, a parent juggling the myriad demands of family life, an entrepreneur building a business from the ground up, a scientist exploring the mysteries of the universe, or someone diligently working behind the scenes to keep the gears of our world turning – your work matters. And, perhaps more than you realize, your work matters to God.

Uncover your income sources here and now

 

We often look far and wide for opportunities, scrolling through endless job posts or dreaming of distant opportunities. But sometimes, the most accessible and fruitful income sources are right under our noses, within our very own community!

The Gift of Time

We usually think of gifts in terms of tangible things: a thoughtful present, a delicious meal, a helping hand. But there's a gift we receive every day that’s both precious and fleeting: time. From a Christian perspective, time isn't just a commodity to be spent; it's a sacred trust.

The power of asking

It's 12:21 in the morning, and maybe you're up late, scrolling, thinking about something you wish you had, or a problem you wish would just magically disappear. We all do it, right? That silent yearning, that hopeful wishing that things would just happen. But what if I told you there's a powerful, often overlooked key to unlocking what you need, both spiritually and practically? It's simply this: the power of asking.

You Are What You Feed Your Mind

    

We are constantly bombarded with stimuli vying for our attention. From the endless scroll of social media to the 24/7 news cycle, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content we consume. This has a great impact on your inner life, thoughts, and ultimately, your relationship with God.

You are what you feed your mind.

Finding God in the Mundane: How to See the Sacred in Your Daily Routine

                          


The alarm blares. You roll out of bed, still half-asleep, and begin the well-worn routine: coffee, a quick scroll through your phone, a hurried breakfast, and then you're off to the races. Whether it's the daily commute, the pile of laundry that never seems to shrink, or the endless stream of emails, our lives are filled with the mundane.

Spender or earner: which one are you?

                           

Spender vs. Earner?

I once had officemates who waited for payday so they could go to the bar and drink, then report to work the next day, almost broke and with a hangover. Or they spend a third of their income on clothes and end up borrowing money for their necessities a week later. For some, this was a pattern.

If you can't afford it, don't buy it. Wait. Be wise.

In a world saturated with advertising and the constant pressure to keep up with trends, it's easy to fall into the trap of instant gratification. We see something we want, and the urge to acquire it immediately can be incredibly strong, especially with easy credit options readily available. However, for those of us seeking to live a life aligned with Christian principles, there's wisdom in the simple adage: If you cannot afford it, don't buy it. Wait. Be wise.

Education matters to God

 

Education is important to God. 

Whether it's structured classroom learning or the lessons gained from experience, education is a sacred trust, a means of stewardship, and a vital path to glorifying God.

The Unyielding Truth: God Cannot Be Mocked

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." (Galatians 6:7)

This is a fundamental truth. It's a statement of divine order and justice, carrying deep implications for everyone, believers or not.

Who you are with is who you are next: choose your companions wisely

Who you are with is who you are next. You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. These are powerful truths.

Taming Your To-Do List: A Christian Approach to Productivity

The to-do list: it's a staple of modern life. We write them, we update them, we stare at them with a mixture of determination and dread. But for many of us, the list isn't a tool for productivity; it's a relentless taskmaster, a source of stress and a constant reminder that we're never "doing enough."

Leaders are learners

Our world constantly demands growth, innovation, and adaptability, and calls for leaders who are learners.

The principle that leaders are learners is important in Christian leadership. From the humble shepherd boy who became king to the apostles who turned the world upside down, God consistently raises leaders who are marked by a teachable spirit.

The wisdom of delegating tasks

                        

Whether you're managing demanding schedules or nurturing your family, it's easy to fall into the trap of self-reliance. Some people wear exhaustion as a badge of honor, convinced that true dedication means doing everything themselves. "If you want it done right," the adage goes, "you have to do it yourself."

But what if this very attitude hinders your ability to fulfill God's calling? What if the path to greater impact, deeper peace, and becoming a more effective steward of your time and talents is not in persistent self-sufficiency, but in the Christ-like act of delegating tasks?

The Paradox of Planning: Why Plan When We Can't Control Tomorrow? (James 4)

                                 

We're constantly encouraged to plan. Strategic plans, five-year plans, retirement plans, career plans, even daily schedules – we thrive on the illusion of control. We map out our futures with precision, believing that careful foresight guarantees desired outcomes.

Yet, the Apostle James, in his powerful and practical letter, delivers a stark and sobering reminder that challenges this very notion:

God's timing: why rushing doesn't serve us

The pressure to achieve, acquire, and advance can be overwhelming. We're constantly bombarded with messages that tell us to hustle, to grind, to "make it happen," and never stop striving. What gets lost in the noise is the truth that there is a perfect time for everything.

What it means to step out in faith: Action creates clarity

Action creates clarity.

We often find ourselves stuck in a cycle of contemplation, meticulously planning and overthinking, when what we truly need is to do. This powerful principle resonates deeply with our Christian faith. The Bible calls us to bold action, reminding us that clarity often emerges from faithful obedience. Why is this so true, especially for believers?

Active faith: What does it look like?

In our fast-paced life, it's easy to live on autopilot, even in our spiritual walk. We may agree with biblical truths, sermons, and the existence of God, but is that enough? The Bible introduces us to a concept far more dynamic than passive acceptance: active faith. 

Why Problems Keep Recurring Until We Learn

Have you ever felt like you're stuck in a loop, facing the same kind of problem over and over again? Maybe it's a recurring issue in your relationships, a persistent struggle with finances, or a pattern of career setbacks. From a Christian perspective, these recurring problems aren't bad luck; they're often divine opportunities for growth, lessons that God patiently allows us to encounter until we truly learn what He's trying to teach us.

Our most powerful prayers are shown by how we actually live

                       

We often think of prayer as a dedicated time of kneeling, hands clasped, uttering specific words. And yes, those moments are vital for our spiritual health and connection with God. But the truest, most powerful form of prayer extends far beyond the words we speak; it is in how we actually live. Our thoughts, intentions, and daily actions are messages to God, and must be consistent with our verbalized prayers.

Discover Your Kingdom Purpose In Work

We spend a significant portion of our lives working – whether it's building a business, serving in a profession, or dedicating ourselves to a vocation. For many, the primary drivers are income, security, or even personal achievement. But for the Christian, there's a deeper call, a higher purpose that transcends the immediate returns: a Kingdom purpose.

What does it mean to have a Kingdom purpose in your work? It means recognizing that your business, profession, or vocation is not just a means to an end for you, but a powerful tool in the hands of God to advance His Kingdom here on Earth. It's about seeing your daily tasks, interactions, decisions, and impact through the lens of eternity. Your work becomes an act of worship, an expression of your faith, and a vehicle for God's redemptive plan in the world.

The Importance of Having a Quiet Time with God

                               

In our noisy world where so many voices seek our attention, carving out moments of stillness can feel like a luxury. Yet, for those seeking a deeper connection with God, prioritizing a quiet time isn't just beneficial—it's essential. It's the spiritual oxygen we need to manage life's demands, gain perspective, and hear His voice amidst the noise.
 
It is a spiritual reset button, a space where we can step away from worldly distractions and sit in God's presence.

Using Your God-Given Gifts: A Path to His Pleasure

We all possess something unique – a blend of gifts and talents that sets us apart. Perhaps you're a gifted communicator, a meticulous organizer, a creative artist, a compassionate caregiver, or a natural problem-solver. These aren't random quirks of personality; they are divine endowments, carefully placed within you by a loving Creator. And here's a beautiful truth that can transform how you view your abilities: using the gifts and talents God gave you is deeply pleasing to Him.

The unbreakable law of sowing and reaping

The law of sowing and reaping is as old as creation itself. It's a spiritual, relational, and practical law that governs our lives. For Christians, understanding and intentionally living by this principle is fundamental to walking in wisdom, experiencing God's blessings, and bearing fruit for His kingdom.

A Foundational Biblical Truth

The most direct biblical expression of this principle comes from Galatians 6:7-9 (NIV): "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

"Let Nothing Be Wasted": Christ’s Command for Modern Living

Our world often celebrates abundance, and sometimes, even excess. Yet, tucked away in the Gospels is a profound and practical command from Jesus that speaks directly to our consumption, resources, and stewardship: "Let nothing be wasted" (John 6:12).

This is a timeless principle that applies to every aspect of our lives, calling us to a deeper level of intentionality, gratitude, and responsibility.

The Liberating Power of Forgiveness: Healing Hearts and Health, God's Way

As Christians, we are called to forgive, just as Christ forgave us (Colossians 3:13). It's a foundational command, woven into the fabric of our faith. Yet, in a world where hurt and injustice are common, truly extending forgiveness can feel like an impossible task. We might cling to anger, resentment, or a desire for retribution, believing that holding onto these emotions somehow protects us or punishes those who wronged us.

But what if the act of forgiveness, far from being a weakness, is a profound strength that unlocks surprising benefits for our own heart and physical health? The Bible's wisdom, supported by modern science, reveals that letting go of bitterness isn't just good for our spiritual walk – it's transformative for our entire well-being.

When Money Troubles Point to Deeper Spiritual Struggles

Financial problems are a common challenge many people face. Whether it's debt, overspending, or simply an inability to manage resources, these issues can cause immense stress and difficulty. But from a Christian perspective, are some financial struggles, especially those involving the misuse of entrusted money, actually symptoms of a deeper, spiritual problem?

When "What Didn't Work Out" Actually Worked Out For You: A Christian Perspective

We’ve all been there. We prayed, we planned, we worked hard, and we genuinely believed we were following God’s leading. Yet, in the end, the outcome was… well, not what we expected. The door slammed shut. The opportunity vanished. The relationship dissolved. The project failed. And in those moments, it's easy to conclude: "It didn't work."

From a human perspective, these can feel like outright failures, disappointments, or even signs that we misheard God. But what if, from a divine perspective, those very "failures" were actually successes? What if the things that "didn't work" were precisely what needed to happen for God's greater plan to unfold?

Hindsight is 20/20 : Lessons from the past, vision for the future

Hindsight is 20/20.

This timeless truth captures a deep human experience – situations get clearer after they have unfolded. The "20/20" refers to perfect vision, meaning that when we look back, our understanding becomes clear.

Beyond the Books: How a Christian Law Student Can Make Wise Use of Time

 

Law school. The very words conjure images of towering stacks of books, late-night study sessions fueled by caffeine, and an ever-present sense of urgency. For a Christian law student, this demanding environment presents a unique challenge: how do you not only survive, but thrive, while also prioritizing your faith and making wise use of every precious moment God has given you?

Juggling Books and Bills: A working law student's balancing act

For many aspiring lawyers in the Philippines, the path to the bar is often a winding road, paved with early morning commutes to work, late-night classes, and weekend study sessions. 

If you're a working law student, you know the grind. And if you're a Christian working law student, you carry an additional responsibility: how do you honor God with your time, maintain your spiritual life, and still excel in your demanding studies and career?

Serving God: A Life Mission

In a world that often counts down the days to retirement, dreaming of endless leisure and detachment from the daily grind, I find myself marching to a different drumbeat. As a follower of Christ, my perspective on the "golden years" isn't about stepping back; it's about stepping up. My conviction is simple, yet profound: I will serve God until He takes me home; I don't intend to retire.

From Mustard Seeds to Mountains: Why Small Beginnings Matter in Your Christian Walk

 

Our world often celebrates the big, the bold, and the immediate. We scroll through highlight reels of success, witness overnight sensations, and sometimes, subconsciously, we begin to feel like our journey needs to start with a bang to truly count. But for us Christians, the narrative is wonderfully, refreshingly different. Some of the most profound truths in our faith emphasize the power and importance of small beginnings.

Why Christians should be peacemakers

Christians are not merely called to be peace-lovers, but active, intentional peacemakers. The Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is full of verses that call believers to live in harmony, pursue reconciliation, and embody the love of God in a fractured world. The word “peace” is mentioned 429 times in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. It is that important to our Christian faith.

Beyond fairness: Seeking justice is at the heart of our faith

What does it truly mean for a Christian to seek justice? Is it merely about fairness, or is there a deeper, more profound mandate woven into the fabric of our faith?

For the follower of Christ, seeking justice is not an optional add-on to our discipleship; it is a fundamental outworking of our love for God and our neighbor. It is a reflection of God's very character, and a core component of what it means to live as His ambassadors on earth.

God's Living Water: Nourishing our kidneys, cleansing our souls

In a world full of quick fixes and trending "detoxes," it's easy to get caught up in complex solutions for our health. But sometimes, the most profound blessings are found in the simplest, most fundamental gifts from our Creator. As Christians, we believe that every good and perfect gift comes from above (James 1:17), and few gifts are as essential and miraculous as water.

Branches of faith: Why full dependence on Jesus is our only way to abide (John 15)

The lush, vibrant vineyards of the Holy Land paint a picture of life, growth, and abundance. It’s a powerful image that Jesus uses in John 15 to describe our relationship with Him, the True Vine. He tells us, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5 NIV)

This is a profound truth about our spiritual lives that underscores a vital need: our absolute and complete dependence on God.

If you don't schedule it, it won't get done: A Christian perspective on intentional living

 

We've all been there. A brilliant idea for ministry sparks, a crucial task for work looms, or a quiet whisper from the Spirit prompts us towards a personal goal. "I'll get to that," we tell ourselves. "Later." But then "later" becomes tomorrow, tomorrow becomes next week, and before you know it, that divine prompting is a faded memory, the crucial task is a missed deadline, and the personal growth remains a distant aspiration.

The Bible and the Bar: Law as a Christian calling

For many, the image of a lawyer often conjures up notions of intense arguments, complex contracts, and perhaps even a degree of cynicism. It's a demanding profession, often perceived as driven by ambition and material gain. But for those of us who follow Christ, the question arises: Can the legal profession truly be a calling, a place where we faithfully serve God and others? The resounding answer is yes.

Words have power!

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." – Proverbs 18:21

In a world saturated with information, where tweets fly and comments zing, it's easy to forget the profound weight of our words. Yet, as Christians, we are called to a higher awareness, for our Scriptures consistently remind us: words are not mere sounds or fleeting characters on a screen. They are potent, creative forces, capable of building up or tearing down, of bringing life or inflicting death.

"Lawyering is not really about you." - Justice Leonen

It's always good to be reminded that it's not really about us. And it is not a competition. It's also not about self-promotion (though I see some posts even from my former law students that show otherwise). It's not about writing a paper or dissertation, winning over a certain law office, having a certain title or position, or such.

Memories of Narra, a 50-year-old dining table

Narra, a rich dining table with sturdy legs and a gleaming surface, had always been the silent witness to the ebb and flow of life in the Reyes household. For fifty years, it stood as the unshakeable anchor in a sea of changing seasons, growing children, and countless shared meals, all under the watchful eye of a family deeply rooted in their Christian faith.

Your space is a mirror of your mind

Have you ever looked around your home or office and felt a sudden pang of stress or an inexplicable sense of peace? It's not just a coincidence. There's a fascinating and well-established connection between the state of your physical environment and your state of mind. Your surroundings often act as a reflection of what's going on inside your head – and the reverse is true too!

Your senior years might just be the best years of your life

For too long, society has presented aging as a process of decline, a winding down of our usefulness and vitality. But for those of us walking with Christ, our senior years are far from an ending; they're a glorious new chapter, potentially the most fulfilling, purposeful, and deeply joyful season of our lives.

Embracing imperfection: Why striving for perfection is a trap, and how to find peace in your flaws, through Christ

 

We are constantly bombarded with images of flawless beauty, effortless success, and lives lived without a single misstep. It's easy to fall into the trap of perfectionism. We scroll through curated social media feeds, admire seemingly perfect careers, and often feel immense pressure to measure up.

Turn problems into opportunites

Life's challenges often arrive unannounced, like uninvited guests at a party. We're wired to see them as disruptions, roadblocks, or even punishments. But what if we reframed our perspective? What if every problem held a hidden key – a key to an opportunity?