beauty

don't stop

“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”  -- Confucius

read: http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/245767

together, not alone

...always ...without ceasing ...in everything

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV

The Squeaky Wheel

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. -James 5:16 NIV

“The squeaky wheel gets the oil” is a popular proverb. As a child I rode my bicycle for long distances between home and school, and the squeaky sounds of the wheels drew my attention to the need to lubricate them.

In Luke 18, the widow’s persistent request to the judge for justice against her adversary made her sound like a “squeaky wheel” until she got the result she needed. Luke explains that Jesus told this story to teach us the need to pray continually and not to give up, even if it appears that the answer to our prayer is delayed (vv.1-5).

source: http://odb.org/?p=53332

~*~*~*~

having a hard time right now fixing a performance issue using ExecutorService for parallel processing on an existing application using hibernate.

at the same time, feeling tired and burn out of work in the office but have to suck it up because i have to provide my family's needs.  also missing my dad.

i need to confess and talk to my partner how i'm having a hard time with my finances affecting my tithes.  that i worry about a lot of things lately.

i'm at a dead end, prayed to God for wisdom and help.  i hope he hears me... in Jesus name, amen.

hopeless

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:12 NIV

motivation

Go with what you've got

wisdom and understanding

Say to wisdom, "You are my sister," & call understanding your intimate friend; -Proverbs 7:4

6 traits successful entrepreneurs share

They're persistent
They're adaptive
They're risk takers
They're imaginative doers
They're confident
They're trustworthy

source: http://edition.cnn.com/2015/03/11/tech/traits-successful-entrepreneurs/index.html

are you lost and confused?

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Luke 19:10 NIV

pressure @ work

studying a new framework + catching up with deliverable tasks = stress

O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. —Matthew 26:39

Despite the fact that the crucifixion of Jesus was part of the divine plan for the restoration of humanity, Jesus was still apprehensive about the physical suffering He was about to endure. This fear is one of the strongest evidences of His humanity.  With this, Jesus can relate and sympathize with us.

~*~*~*~

Father, I feel vulnerable and weak. I know You are my refuge and strength, my help in trouble. I call upon Your name, Lord. Hold on to me.

don't worry!

John 11:22 (NIV)
But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.”

pray first

David inquired of the Lord. —1 Samuel 23:2



Does prayer guide our lives, or is it our last resort when trouble strikes? We sometimes fall into the habit of making plans and then asking God to bless them, or praying only in moments of desperation. God does want us to turn to Him in moments of need. But He also wants us to remember that we need Him all the time (Prov. 3:5-6).

Proverbs 3:5-6New International Version (NIV)

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.[a]

Fragrant Living

I am full, having received . . . the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma . . . well pleasing to God. —Philippians 4:18



I’m grateful that God has given us the sense of smell so we can enjoy the many fragrances of life. I think of how much I enjoy something as simple as the fresh and inviting aroma of after-shave lotion in the morning. Or the mellow smell of fresh-cut grass in the spring. I especially enjoy sitting in the backyard when the delicate scent of my favorite roses fills the air. And then there are the savory aromas of delicious food.

So it catches my attention when the apostle Paul says that our generous acts of love toward others are like a “sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God” (Phil. 4:18). When we think of helping those in need, we usually think of it as the right thing to do—or even the Christlike thing to do. But Paul says that our intentional act of reaching out to meet someone’s need actually fills the throne room of God with a fragrance that brings pleasure to Him.

We can please God with the aromas that rise from being a blessing to others! What an added incentive this is for us to perform deeds of kindness in His name.

Who might need your act of kindness today? Ask God to lead you to someone. Be a blessing. It’s a fragrant thing to do!

INSIGHT: Paul says, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content . . . . I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (4:11,13). Paul’s contentment came from the sufficiency of knowing Christ, not from the gifts he received from the Philippian believers (vv. 14-17). However, these sacrificial gifts were a “sweet-smelling aroma” to God (v. 18; see Lev. 7:12-15).

Jesus is the best foundation upon which to build a solid life.

Whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock. —Matthew 7:24

Where there is no challenge, there is no change.

We do not feel challenged when we stay in our comfort zone. And no challenge means no change … and no change means no growth.

Staying addicted to comfort is the most efficient way to maintain the status quo. Don't be that person.

Go make that phone call.

how to connect...

How To Connect With Anyone

4 minutes. Uninterrupted staring. That’s tough, especially when you’ve got a lot of things on your to-do list.

The old lady said, “In 55 years of marriage, we’ve never really looked into each other’s eyes like that.” Her husband said, “When I look at you really closely, I realize how much I need you and what you mean to me, because that’s the truth. I couldn’t imagine being with anybody else.”

source: http://www.wifelysteps.com/look-into-each-others-eyes-for-4-minutes/

don't you know who i am?!

When [Jesus] had come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, “Who is this?”— Matthew 21:10

From time to time, we read of people who are offended at not being treated with what they consider due respect and deference. “Do you know who I am?” they shout indignantly. And we are reminded of the statement, “If you have to tell people who you are, you probably really aren’t who you think you are.” The polar opposite of this arrogance and self-importance is seen in Jesus, even as His life on earth was nearing its end.

Jesus entered Jerusalem to shouts of praise from the people (Matt. 21:7-9). When others throughout the city asked, “Who is this?” the crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee” (vv.10-11). He didn’t come claiming special privileges, but in humility He came to give His life in obedience to His Father’s will.

The words Jesus said and the things He did commanded respect. Unlike insecure rulers, He never demanded that others respect Him. His greatest hours of suffering appeared to be His lowest point of weakness and failure. Yet, the strength of His identity and mission carried Jesus through the darkest hours as He died for our sins so that we might live in His love.

He is worthy of our lives and our devotion today. Do we recognize who He is?

suffering

For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, -Philippians 1:29 NIV

~*~*~*~

it's odd when i'm going through tough times, it's at these moment i find myself clinging and praying more to God for guidance, help, and comfort.  but when everything's doing good, it's at these times where i find myself slacking off with my relationship with God.

maybe, just maybe, when we follow God, it comes with the awareness that we would also go through suffering so in turn would allow us to be dependent and to trust in God and persevere in our challenges and enjoy the victory with God when we overcome.

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance -Romans 5:3

i miss you

was going through my work journal in the office and suddenly got emotional when i read this...

============================= Oct 15, 2013 ============================
HOLIDAY!!! dudong's birthday!
============================= Oct 16, 2013 ============================
finalise fix for JIRA 207
send GC testing updates for workaround/fix for the BCL project

~*~*~*~

i miss you de, you are one of the most important reasons and my inspiration why i struggle and survive everyday's challenges.

Jesus is the hope that calms life’s storms

Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. —Psalm 56:3



Lord, help me to see beyond my circumstances and put my hope in You. All authority and power are Yours. Remind me of Your goodness, and let me rest in Your love.

~*~*~*~

madalas inuuna ko ang pagbabasa ng bible bago ako magsimulang magtrabaho.  ngayong araw na 'to, na alala ko lang ang scripture na:

Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. -Colossians 3:22-24

bilang isang empleyado, kelangan ko gawin ng may puso at isipin na para sa Diyos ang ginagawa ko.  ngayong oras na 'to, binasa ko muna kung meron akong email na importante at kelangan kong aksyonan bago ako nagsimulang mag quiet time.

desires of my heart

Psalm 37:4

the scripture says if I delight myself in the Lord, he will give me not only one desire but the desires of my heart.  God is truly gracious and compassionate to those who love Him.

~*~*~*~

delight
dɪˈlʌɪt/

verb
1. please (someone) greatly.
"an experience guaranteed to delight both young and old"
synonyms: please greatly, charm, enchant, captivate, entrance, bewitch, thrill, excite, take someone's breath away; gladden, gratify, appeal to, do someone's heart good, entertain, amuse, divert; informalsend, tickle, give someone a buzz, give someone a kick, tickle pink, bowl over
antonyms: dismay, displease, disgust
take great pleasure in.
"they delight in playing tricks"
synonyms: take great pleasure, find great pleasure, glory, revel, luxuriate, wallow; More

noun
1. great pleasure.
"she took great delight in telling your story"
synonyms: pleasure, happiness, joy, joyfulness, glee, gladness, gratification, relish, excitement, amusement; bliss, rapture, ecstasy, elation, euphoria; transports of delight; humorousdelectation; rarejouissance

life and doctrine

[Jesus said,] “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4

~*~*~*~

the importance of having time for reading God's word to provide spiritual nourishment and strength in spirit and heart is critical in our lives.  it is not only by working hard and being busy with worldly plans to provide for our food to eat that is important.  both are important for us to live healthy and balanced lives.

after a thousand generations

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.
Deuteronomy 7:9 NIV
~*~*~*~

God keeps his covenant of love and is faithful to those who love him and keep his commandments, even after a thousand generations come and go

Forgive my hidden faults

7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
    refreshing the soul.
The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
    making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the Lord are right,
    giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant,
    giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is pure,
    enduring forever.
The decrees of the Lord are firm,
    and all of them are righteous.
10 They are more precious than gold,
    than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
    than honey from the honeycomb.
11 By them your servant is warned;
    in keeping them there is great reward.
12 But who can discern their own errors?
    Forgive my hidden faults.
13 Keep your servant also from willful sins;
    may they not rule over me.
Then I will be blameless,
    innocent of great transgression.
14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart
    be pleasing in your sight,
    Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
- Psalm 19:7-14

~*~*~*~
I need God's words to have joy in my heart, to be wise, and serve as light for my path and eyes.

saved by grace, spirit, son of a loving Father God

through Jesus we have access to our sovereign God and Father.

He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, - 2 Timothy 1:9 NIV

“Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” - Mark 14:36

How do we call or address our dads? <>

God may be the sovereign Lord of the universe, but through His Son, God became as approachable as any loving human father.

In Romans 8, Paul brings the image of intimacy even closer. God’s Spirit lives inside us, he says, and when we do not know what we ought to pray “the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered” (v.26).

Jesus came to demonstrate that a perfect and holy God welcomes pleas for help from a widow with two mites and a Roman centurion and a miserable publican and a thief on a cross. We need only call out “Abba” or, failing that, simply groan. God has come that close to us.

INSIGHT: The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives is the evidence that we are saved. The Holy Spirit is also called “the Spirit of God” and the “Spirit of Christ” (Rom. 8:9). Paul taught that the Spirit is the deposit that guarantees our salvation (Eph 1:13-14) and the source of our new life (Rom. 8:11). Assuring us that we are God’s children, the Holy Spirit enables us to affectionately call out to God, “Abba, Father” (v. 15). As “the Spirit of adoption” (v.15), the Spirit changes our status from slaves to sons (Gal. 4:6), giving us the full privileges of sonship—making us heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). The indwelling Spirit helps us to pray by interceding for us and with us (v. 26).

called and saved

He has saved us and called us to a holy life — not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, - 2 Timothy 1:9 NIV

When it comes to helping others, don’t stop at nothing.

The Lord repay your work, and a full reward be given you by the Lord God of Israel. —Ruth 2:12

comfort in times of trouble

[ Praise to the God of All Comfort ] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

take courage

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9 NIV

pana panahon

whatever you do, don't forget to...

1 Corinthians 10:31New International Version (NIV)
31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God


To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. —Ecclesiastes 3:1



~*~*~*~
it's been challenging at work the past 2 weeks.  i got sick and have to catch up with my tasks scheduled for release next week.  sometimes i complain why this thing sucks big time but i still have to do it.. grateful for the scripture i read today and reminded me that in whatever i do, eating, drinking, singing, giving, working, i should do it for the glory of God, even if i'm tired of doing it or i don't like it.

If you’re in a tunnel of discouragement, keep walking toward the Light.

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; . . . they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. —Isaiah 40:31

back

He knelt down on his knees . . . and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days. —Daniel 6:10



after getting a new set of G backup codes

future

Do not brag about tomorrow, because you do not know what another day may bring. -Proverbs 27:1

sledding and praying

Now it came to pass in those days that [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. —Luke 6:12

When the snow flies in Michigan, I like to get my grandkids, grab our plastic sleds, and go slipping and sliding down our backyard. We zoom down the hill for about 10 seconds, and then climb back up for more.

When I travel to Alaska with a bunch of teenagers, we also go sledding. We are hauled by bus nearly to the top of a mountain. We jump on our sleds and, for the next 10 to 20 minutes (depending on levels of bravery), we slide at breakneck speeds down the mountain, holding on for dear life.

Ten seconds in my backyard or 10 minutes down an Alaskan mountain. They’re both called sledding, but there is clearly a difference.

I’ve been thinking about this in regard to prayer. Sometimes we do the “10 seconds in the backyard” kind of praying—a quick, spur-of-the-moment prayer or a short thanks before eating. At other times, we’re drawn to “down the mountain” praying—extended, intense times that require concentration and passion in our relationship with Him. Both have their place and are vital to our lives.

Jesus prayed often, and sometimes for a long time (Luke 6:12; Mark 14:32-42). Either way, let us bring the desires of our heart to the God of the backyards and the mountains of our lives.

Lord, please challenge us to pray constantly—both in
short sessions and long. As we face the valleys, hills,
and mountains of our lives, may we lift our hearts
and minds to You in constant communication.

source: http://odb.org/2015/01/30/sledding-and-praying/

continue trusting God and don't get tired of doing what is right

Trust in the Lord, and do good. —Psalm 37:3

For the “Lord upholds the righteous” (v.17), takes delight in them (v.23), and will not forsake them (vv.28-29).

~*~*~*~
yesterday, Dionne fell from our double deck bed.  my wife wasn't able to see how it happened and she just saw him crying after falling.  we went to the hospital when i got home from the office and had him undergo ct-scan to know if there's a fracture or internal bleeding.  thank God that nothing bad was found after the procedure and thank God that the cost was covered by my HMO benefit from work.

thank you God for protecting and providing for our needs.  we praise and honor you.

A developer's guide to creating gorgeous UI: https://medium.com/@erikdkennedy/7-rules-for-creating-gorgeous-ui-part-1-559d4e805cda … https://medium.com/@erikdkennedy/7-rules-for-creating-gorgeous-ui-part-2-430de537ba96 … with lots of good tips.

our labor in the Lord is not in vain

Always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. —1 Corinthians 15:58

like farming, making disciples can be continuous, hard labor. You plow, you sow, you wait, you pray. You desire to see the fruits of your labor quickly, but growth takes time.

As we labor faithfully, we wait patiently on the Lord, who makes things grow (1 Cor. 3:7).

build light apps

So, what is an ideal app size, especially in markets like India with challenged infrastructure?
The ideal size is 10-15MB globally. Idea size for an app for tier 2/3 countries (like India) is below 5MB. 500MB+ is a non-starter. At 50MB+ the conversion rates fall off dramatically. On Android and iOS, conversion rates dip by 50% in tier 1 nations for non-game apps above 50MB. In tier 2 and tier 3 nations, conversion rates dip by 50% for games above 15MB

source:
Why the Internet’s Next Billion Users Will Be Mobile-Only

help

niche

Entrepreneurs choose to forego the security and familiarity of a 'regular job' to live an uncertain and insecure lifestyle. It takes a lot of bravery to make that tradeoff, but for icons like Walt Disney, the potential reward is worth it.



Entrepreneurs want to do more than indulge their own interests -- they want to solve a problem or create a product that satisfies a need.

Some started businesses because of frustration with an inefficient or defective system. Others were moved by a personal encounter with poverty or misfortune.



Entrepreneurs execute when for many others, an idea simply fades into the past. They are masters of turning the abstract into the concrete. This seemingly simple action is one of the great challenges of life and in the end, it's what defines an entrepreneur.

source:
8 Things Entrepreneurial People Do Differently

press on

Philippians 3:13-14

...one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

still

move forward and take action

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. -James 2:17

in time.. the pain of losing you would heal

He has made everything beautiful in its time...

Ecclesiastes 3:11

adversaries

it is true that difficult people are like sandpaper..they may scratch you and hurt you but eventually you end up smooth and the sandpaper worn out.

a different new year, starting with this year

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. -Philippians 4:13

grace... almost there...

For by grace you have been saved through faith. —Ephesians 2:8

#NoSQL #AngularJS #REST #Spring #ProjectFreedom

trust

Let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them. —Psalm 5:11

it's been a while

evernote's been blocked by our company's proxy.  so i'll be sharing my QT's here from here on wards.

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.

Hebrews 10:35-36 NIV


He who restrains his lips is wise. —Proverbs 10:19

Years ago an anonymous writer penned a short poem about the merits of measuring our words.

A wise old owl sat in an oak;

The more he saw the less he spoke;

The less he spoke the more he heard;

Why can’t we all be like that wise old bird?

There is a connection between wisdom and limiting what we say. Proverbs 10:19 says, “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.”

We are wise to be careful about what we say or how much we say in certain situations. It makes sense to guard our words when we are angry. James urged his fellow believers, “Be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19). Restraining our words can also show reverence for God. Solomon said, “God is in heaven, and you on earth; therefore let your words be few” (Eccl. 5:2). When others are grieving, our silent presence may help more than abundant expressions of sympathy: “No one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his grief was very great” (Job 2:13).

Although there is a time to be quiet and a time to speak (Eccl. 3:7), choosing to speak less allows us to hear more.

worth it...

to:	Edwin Q.
cc:	David T., Paul V.
from:	Roderick Y.
subject:	Thanks for going the extra mile!
delivery date:	Jan 9, 2013
message:	Hi Doods, Edwin and Marlon, Thank you so much for putting those extra hours to get all the messages from the File Stores resent last month and working diligently with EM and your fellow team mates to complete these task. Those messages are quite important to the downstream systems particularly the agents commission and, working long hours never mind the busy holiday season is greatly appreciated. The spirited team work and passion that you've demonstrated is greatly appreciated. Regards, Rick

Naaalala ko pa yung batang nakasabay ko sa jeep nung ako'y binata pa.
nagtitinda sya ng chicharon at kung anu ano pa sa dis oras ng gabi at mukhang antok at pagod na.
Meron akong nakita, isang buong pamilya. Nagpapahinga at naghahanda nang tumulog sa tabing
kalsada, meron pa silang kasamang sanggol na katabi rin nila sa kalsadang matulog.
Ano pa ba ang dapat kong hilingin sa Diyos? Biniyayaan nya ako ng maayos na trabaho, hindi ko
kailangan mahirapan gaya ng iba.  Binigyan nya ako ng maayos na bahay at sasakyan para magamit
ng pamilya ko.  Meron akong mga anak na malulusog, asawang mapagmahal.

Ito ang kailangan ko maintindihan at maisapuso kapag may mga oras na hindi ako ma udyok at mag pursigi
sa aking buhay at trabaho.

happy new year pala...

the Lord's pain

5 The LORD saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time. 6 The LORD was grieved that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was filled with pain. - Genesis 6:5-6

who Jesus is...

5Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. - 1 john 5:5

boasting of what you have and done

15Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. - 1 John 2:15-17

~*~*~*~

i've accomplished some stuff at work, technical stuffs that i have never done before.
this gave way for me to boast about these things. it's a good thing that i read this
passage and reminded me that everything will pass away, including the things that
i have accomplished.

do first, feel later

making one's calling and election sure...

5For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. 8For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.

10Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, 11and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

2 Peter 1: 5-10.

~*~*~*~

how do we make sure we don't lose our salvation?

what does it mean to have faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control,
perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love?

each of this deserves an individual sermon to really understand and
emphasize it's meaning and deserves a special time for meditation.
i'm hoping to have a deeper understand of each of the traits mentioned
in my quiet times soon.

be humble and cast all anxiety

5Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
"God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble."[a] 6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 Peter 5:5

~*~*~*~*

i've been seing myself being competetive latey, specifically at work.
i think God is reminding me to consider others better and i just need
to entrust all my plans, goals, aspirations to God.

one who is able to symphatize

17For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for[f]the sins of the people. 18Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. - Heb. 2:17

passion and pleasure vs kindness and love (mercy)

3At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. - titus 3:3-7

~*~*~*~

we cannot earn salvation by our own effort and by doing good things. we are saved because of God's mercy.

peace of mind and heart

4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Phil. 4:4-7

~*~*~*~

caught up in the middle part of project development, i've been anxious about not being able to deliver. another thing is my last pay which i haven't received till now and which adds up to my concerns. Lord help me not to be anxious but to remember you who provides me with everything i need. help me to be joyful and to be grateful always.

aesthetics

“But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”- 1 Samuel 16:7

lending money

2Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

9Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. - gal 6:2, 9-10

~*~*~*~

lately, some disciples were asking favors from us, that we lend them money.
i had bad experiences over lending money that makes me struggle or refuse to lend.
what i do now is evaluate my heart and consult my wife whenever i'm faced with
this kind of situation. an advise was given to me that the amount i lend, i should be resolved and be able to accept that it will never be returned.

this helps me to be wise in managing my worldly blessings but at the same continue to do good to all people, especially to my family in the church.

sowing and reaping

7Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature[a]will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. - gal. 6:7

need + generosity = equality

1And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. 5And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will. 6So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. 7But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us[a]—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

8I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.

10And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. 11Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. 12For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.

13Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. 14At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, 15as it is written: "He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little."[b] - 2 cor. 8:1-15

obedience

The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. 3But the man who loves God is known by God. - 1 Cor. 8:2-3

~*~*~*~

obedience is better than sacrifice and to obey what God commands is loving Him.

wisdom and foolishness

5For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.

26Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. 27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."

Romans 1:5, 26-31

~*~*~*~

some people's impression about Christians or those who depend on God are weak. they say that Christians have Jesus as their tourniquet just to go through life day by day. personally, i sometimes feel the same way when i look at the brothers and sisters in our own church and it makes me feel sad to have thoughts that i'm with people who are weaklings, losers, poor, etc. after reading this scripture in romans, i felt humbled and asked myself who am i to think that i'm better than the brothers and sisters in our church? i won't be where i am today if not for the help, support, encouragement and Guidance that God and the church has given me. to this, i will boast of the foolishness of God for it is wiser than man's wisdom.

MMDA public urinals

yes, i've just used one of 'em this morning @ MIA road on my way to work =P

reconciled by death and saved by life

9Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! 10For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. -romans 5:9-11

God reconciled with us through the death of His Son and saved us through His Son's ressurection.

This is twice the love that God gives to all of us to turn and repent from our sinful lives.

adversity from difficult people

it is true that difficult people are like sandpaper..they may scratch you and hurt you but eventually you end up smooth and the sandpaper worn out.

studying, pondering, missing

i'm caught up with three things right now: work, life, home

work:
i've so much to learn, OSGi, Parlay and Parlay X, and CORBA.
i have plans of developing a web application for managing agile projects that would use OSGi for dynamic module management, Spring for DI, and an MVC framework (not decided yet on using Struts2, ICEFaces, or Wicket). anyway, i have created an initial skeleton for the project and i'm using maven for project and build management. hoping and praying to get this done this year! so help me God.

life:
i try and do my best to live a balanced life, and playing this game
in the kind of career that i have ain't easy. it always cross my mind,
what can i do to make an impact to other people using the gift and
the blessings that comes with it. i am always slumped in my small little
desk in a corporate world having a project that is using bleeding edge
technology that nobody cares about, or at least outside of the industry
that i'm into. there's so much more to life than these things, are you
feelin' me??? oh well.

home:
i miss home, we should be heading back on the 18th of this month but
we got extended for a week (i'm in ireland btw). at least it's just
for a week, i dreaded it would be for a month or more whew! i miss my wife, i miss our dates, i miss having lunch with the family, i miss summer
outings (heading off to boracay this time!), i miss playing nintendo wii with my wife, i miss hanging out with my true friends, i miss my pamangkings,
i miss bragging with my bro and sisters. i'm glad there's God.. he always
reminds me that i'm not alone and He's there watching, listening, guiding me. thank you God for blessing me with a wonderful family, although not
perfect, but we do our best not to be a disfunctional one.

tv or the net?

don't have much time to watch television recently, i think because it consumes a lot of time in one day when you get hooked to it and you don't get to watch what really interests you. i prefer watching videos, screencasts, and presentations on the net on my terms, my time, when i want, randomly or on what really interests me as of the moment. i'm loving www.ted.com right now =) sharing some of the video presentations to friends and family.. done venting, back to my quest on OSGi and JMX.

R.I.P Man from Manila

out of the many people who felt deep sorrow for the death of Francis Magalona, it wouldn't be equalled by the people who are close to him most... his family.

life is indeed short.

Highly Valuable and Detestable

"What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight"

~*~*~*~

"No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money."

The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus. He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight.

Luke 16:13-15

nostalgia

jamming sessions like this reminds me of my good old college days... i suddenly missed my guitar!

New Toy!

SWEET!

私は帰る!!!

i'm going home yey!!!

(this month)

Employment Status

Hi Edwin,

I hope you are doing well.

Attached is your regular appointment paper and a summary of our benefits for your reference.

Since you are now officially a regular employee, you will be able to enjoy the following benefits:

(a) Health / Medical Insurance
(b) Eye Care Benefits (RCG IT)
(c) Group Life Insurance / Personal Accident
(d) Meal and Transportation Allowance
(e) Rice Subsidy
(g) Timebank

To start you medical enrollment process, please email me details of your dependent: (for single employees, you can enroll 1 parent below 64 years old; for married employees, you can enroll your legal spouse and kids up to 4 below 21 years old))

a. complete name (first name, middle name and surname)
b. date of birth
c. relationship
d. gender

Please take note that there will be an employee share of Php 150.00 /month/dependent.

Do not hesitate to email me if you have questions po.


Thanks so much.


Ena :o)

~*~*~*~

dear God,

being an ungrateful employee that i am, one who's always complaining how some projects get so complicated when it should've been designed simpler, i just find myself unworthy of all the material blessing you pour down on me right now. being able to experience working in the US and being able to save ample amount of money, i felt i've been more focused in my work and ambitions instead of doing what truly pleases you... all i can say is i'm sorry, please forgive me and lead me to follow what your will is for my life.

love,
edwin

a day at gelncoe beach (or lake rather)

we went for a swim last sunday afternoon at a manmade beach along michigan lake. 'twas a nice day, lots of sunshine. what i loved most about the place is that since it's a lake, the water didn't taste salty =)

our neighborhood

Wii Rocks!!!

no more wiimote... just brainwaves... need i say more???

will it blend???

seems like people are going crazier nowadays.. i found this site of a guy who blends all sorts of stuff he can put in his blender... wow?!?!

www.willitblend.com

click at your own risk ;-)

a new post... (finally!)

free time yey! i decided to blog while waiting for my laundry to finish.

we're spending our first night at our new apartment and there's no internet connection for now and so out of boredom, i decided to update my blog offline and have it posted tomorrow.

wow! it's been ages since i posted something here... for everyone's information i've been just a little bit busy with my personal and professional life. to summarize this chapter of my life, i'll have it listed down in bullets:

* got married at 31 on january 26 this year and 'twas also our 3rd year anniversary that day.
* we had our honeymoon @ bohol
* i left headstrong and moved to rcg.
* my wife donna got pregnant but unfortunately, it wasn't meant to be
* i got an on shore assignment here in chicago IL
* moved to a new apartment for the third time and hopefully it's final

i had some of realizations during my engagement with donna. i realized that getting married is not just something you do, it something that you really have to plan for and execute as scheduled. not to mention you have to be concious of the budget set for the wedding. it was a test of patience and determination as well. a lot of times you'll be faced to come up with decisions regarding every minor detail of the wedding and you'll really find yourself stressed out in the end.

ok, nose bleed nako sa english break muna...

masarap na mahirap pag nasa abroad ka. masarap kasi madali kumita ng pera, mahirap kasi malayo ka sa asawa, pamilya, at mga kaibigan.

with regards to work, i'm learning a lot of new stuffs: struts2, spring, maven2, web services, and portlets. i'm lovin' opensource!

time to vent, bakit ang ibang tao masyadong determinadong yumaman at masyadong materialistic? di ko alam, pero ako ayoko ng ganung ugali tsk tsk... we need to be grateful and content of what God has blessed us with.

antok nako, tapos na yung nilalabhan ko... good night folks and God bless!

p.s.
pics to follow... =)

my twin's friendster account???

was surfing the net today, when i googled for my brother's name and i was surprised to find out that he had a friendster account (i didn't expect him to have one, it's not his trip). out of curiosity, i clicked on the link...

Friendster - erwin quita
Friendster: erwin quita; location: Philippines, PH;
www.friendster.com/30145247 - Mga katulad na webpage


~*~*~*~

ang pogeh!!! hehehe =P just to clarify, that's not really my twin bro, i don't know him either. just so happen he had the same name as that of my twin bro. i like the background sound of his profile page though... whoooaaa amber is the color of your energy lalala =P

long and overdue posts

a bad dream 8.7.2007-06:16am

i just woke up from a bad dream. i found out that my fiance was seeing someone and was unfaithful to me. the dream was so real that i woke up so angry and i wanted to burst out in tears. the feeling was horrible, painful like you want to gouge your heart out just to get rid of the pain. i'll try to recall the details and write down what happened, here it goes... we just finished having lunch with my twin brother erwin when donna and i had an argument about something. we were quarelling out loud until i got mad and walked out of the house. i was outside for like 30 minutes and then i got back to the house. my fiance wasn't there, only my twin brother waited for me. he talked to me and said that i should have listened to what my fiance was saying to me earlier and that sometimes i should be humble to listen to her suggestions. i realized that i was wrong and i wanted to apologize to my fiance immediately. she wasn't inside the house when i looked for her so i went outside eager to apologize only to find out that she was making out with her cousin just near our house. i was shocked for a moment, i just couldn't believe what i saw in front of me. i suddenly felt like cold water was poured down my whole body. and then questions rushed in my mind WHY??? WHY IS THIS HAPPENING??? WHAT ARE YOU DOING??? and then it came out and i shouted the words. then my fiance's cousin ran, and i chased him. i was so angry i wanted to beat him up. he was getting farther so i shouted that he's a wimp and a sissy. he got provoked and ran back towards me. we fought, i got hurt, and then i woke up from my horrible dream. i felt sooooo bad and sooooo angry when i woke up and felt like crying at the same time. i still felt bad even though i realized that it was just a dream. i decided to write it down so i won't forget about the details and share it to my fiance. have to take a shower now and go to work.

a poem 8.12.2007
right now i want you to know
you are deeply cared for
at times we're silent
you know i won't forget

when it's hard to keep in touch
and quality times aren't much
i know you'd understand
our love would forever stand

if an apology is needed,
a need for us to be bonded
wrote a poem for our love's sake
i'm sorry for my mistakes

a promotion 8.9.2007
Dear Kits,

We are pleased to inform you of your promotion to Consultant (C) effective July 1, 2007. With your promotion and your APPR rating of EE (exceeds expectation), your new monthly salary will amount to PHPXX,XXX, subject to taxes.

sweet! =)

thank you God for the blessings!

techie poll for the java man (pun intended)

wedding preps, technical stuffs, and others...

a quickie post.... here it goes... gasp!!!

>>> booked our wedding date, it's on January 26, 2008 (saturday).
why this date??? it's our 3rd year anniversary! sweet! =)

>>> found out subversion's way of handling file systems in unix/linux
and windows is different like in unix it's file:///repo/proj while
in windows it should be file:///X:/repo/proj, where X: is the drive =P

>>> got a card from donna... it has a photo magnet inside with a quote
from the bible "If you love someone, you will never do him wrong,
to love, then, is to obey the whole law." -Romans 13:10. and she wrote:

you are a miracle in my life
you fill my heart with beautiful dreams.
you are and always will be my LOVE...

awwwwwwwwwwww =)

that's all for now... whew!

some of this month's happenings

my proposal @ italiannis greenbelt 2, 05.16.2007


@ fontana resort, 05.26-27.2007

bummer =(

Yahoo to shut down Yahoo Photos service, push Flickr

~*~*~*~

now i have to start moving my photo albums from yahoo to
photobucket !@#$@#$!@#$

it's worth the wait

A Time for Everything
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:

2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,

3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,

5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,

7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

-Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

~*~*~*~
a status report that was applauded
a very long vacation ahead
a super special person in my life

as of the moment, i couldn't ask for more...

thank you God! :x

words to guide me...

An accurate understanding of the word covet is essential for this study. The Hebrew word is desire, which is not sin in itself; the key distinction is that when something owned by someone else is what I want, desiring becomes coveting or envying.
Do not envy others - it only leads to harm.
-Psalm 37: 8 (NLT)

Envy Leads to Other Sins
For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
-James 3: 16

It is well known today that when our minds are stressed less and more relaxed, it has positive physical health benefits. Envy creates stress and strain that not only eats away at our mental and physical health, but also at our spiritual health as well.
A relaxed attitude lengthens life; jealousy rots it away.
-Proverbs 14: 30 (NLT)

How can i overcome it?

Don't Compare
Do your own work well, and then you will have something to be proud of. But don't compare yourself with others.
-Galatians 6: 4 (Contemporary English)

Stop Complaining
God says: How much longer are these wicked people going to complain against me? I have heard enough of these complaints!
-Numbers 14:27 (TEV)

Learn to be Content
Enjoy what you have, rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless; it's like chasing the wind.
-Ecclesiastes 6:9 (NLT)

Focus on Pleasing God
Keep your minds fixed on things above, not on things here on earth.
-Colossians 3:2 (TEV)

coco grove beach resort laiya, batangas 03.10-11.2007

trampoline fun =)


a load of sunblock required!

dani's monster and zach's scare stints

spent last saturday night celebrating my sis' birthday with my family at manila. dani and zach were there, they have a bag of tricks with them like dani's monster and zach's scare. can't help but wonder what my baby would look like and what tricks he/she has instore for us *sigh*. i also bought a gallon of strawberry icecream with me that night.

the following day, me, my twin brother, his wife and zach left for our sunday service early in the morning. went to beni and neah's house, had our lunch there and spent some time with the married couples and their kids after the service. afterwards, we went to market market with wacks, his wife tina and his baby LJ (babies again!?!?! hehehe). anyways, my brother wanted to have a haircut so i accompanied him while the other folks went home already. we got to glorietta, played virtua racer and slam n jam before watching Jim Carrey's movie-Number 23. A movie packed with suspense and mystery. had a busy weekend and had a blast, but still at the end of the day, i went on my way home alone again doing my best to brush away the thought of missing someone... i guess i'll just see you in my dreams again. for now, goodnight to you my beloved *kisses*

last weekend's chat, performance appraisal, project team photos, and pungok's birthday

talked about stuff regarding love language and intimacy...

donna's love language (ordered by priority):

1. quality time
2. words of affirmation
3. touch
4. gifts
5. acts of service

intimacy pointers
1. be totally available
2. be carefree and focus/don't feel anxious
3. be attractive - physically/personal hygiene
4. be eager - always think positive of your partner
5. be creative - know your partner's wants
6. be ardent - you and i are one already (don't be shy)
7. be passionate - be excited and give your best!

~*~*~*~

my performance appraisal result:



~*~*~*~

project team photos:



~*~*~*~

lastly... it's my sis' birthday, habertdey pungok!!! :P

hapi balentimes =P

In your light I learn how to love.
In your beauty, how to make poems.
You dance inside my chest,
where no one sees you,

but sometimes I do,
and that sight becomes this art.

~*~*~*~

had dinner at a nearby resto/bar from our office,
one of my office buds, trina, gave us a treat for
celebrating valetines =) while eating, i heard
kewl music where songs from the 80's were revived
and converted to sound like jazz. i thought it
would be kewl to have them play for my wedding's
reception hehehe =) (title of the cd: jazz and 80's)
happy valentines baby donna-vi ko!!! mishhhyuuu!!!

p.s.
lost my cellphone yesterday :( after shopping for
groceries, pauwi at pagbaba ng tricycle *sigh*

post anniversary post =P

"Before Your Love"

I wonder how I ever made it through a day
How did I settle for the world in shades of gray
When you go in circles all the scenery looks the same
And you don't know why
And I looked into your eyes
Where the road stretched out in front of me
And I realized

I'd never lived
Before your love
I'd never felt
Before your touch
And I'd never needed anyone
To make me feel alive
But then again,
I wasn't really livin'

I'd never lived...
Before your love

I wanted more than just an ordinary life
All of my dreams, seemed like castles in the sky
I stand before you and my heart is in your hands
And I don't know how
I'd survive without your kiss
Cuz you've given me
A reason to exist

I'd never lived
Before your love
I'd never felt
Before your touch
I'd never needed anyone
To make me feel alive
But then again,
I wasn't really livin'

I'd never lived... before your love
I'd never lived... Before your love

And I don't know why
Why the sun decides to shine
But you've breathed your love into me just in time
I'd never lived
Before your love
I'd never felt
Before your touch
I'd never needed anyone
To make me feel alive
But then again
I wasn't really livin'

I'd never lived
I'd never lived
Before!...
Your!!...
Love!!!...

~*~*~*~

just finished watching apocalypto at g4 today with my office buds, it was a breathtaking movie. a bit of gore and a lot of suspense scenes. played at timezone before going inside the cinema.

february na! valentines na! and then summer... can't wait for september to come!

a post before heading home

i realized today that it's hard for me to get over with my first impression about a person. scenario (break time @ the office pantry). i'll try to post some of the details later... i still have no time tsk tsk! =(

(went to FedEx today, hmmmmmmmmm???)

mitch's part

of my birthday sharing session, here it goes...

mitchfmendoza: ello ulet...
edquita: eii...
edquita: musta?
mitchfmendoza: hehe
mitchfmendoza: nag-iisip ako ng sharing sa yo eh!
edquita: hahaha :))
edquita: pwede mo ilagay technical support adviser hehehe ;))
mitchfmendoza: dito ko na nga lang ishare....
mitchfmendoza: ayos lang?
mitchfmendoza: hehhe
mitchfmendoza: haha
mitchfmendoza: unga
edquita: oks lang... kahit ano naman eh ;)
mitchfmendoza: hmmm
mitchfmendoza: dito na nga lang..
mitchfmendoza: gusto ko lang maipadating na....
edquita: hehehe sige :D
mitchfmendoza: i'm thankful for the following:
mitchfmendoza: 1. you weren't the kind of person i initially thought of based on the first-impression-rule
mitchfmendoza: 2. you return my morning ym greetings even if you're busy...
mitchfmendoza: 3. you share your sentiments likewise listens to mine...
edquita: wowwwwwwwww i'm touched!!! :">
mitchfmendoza: yun lang po...
mitchfmendoza: hehe
mitchfmendoza: 1 decade for each point
edquita: hahaha :))
mitchfmendoza: happy 30th bday! <:-P
edquita: thank you thank you thank you!!! :))
edquita: post ko na lang 'to sa blog ko para memorable! ;)

YM greeting

~*~*~*~

got this greeting from one of my bestfriends. i'm turning 3 decades... another ten and then i'm 40 already... it's the most powerful force on earth nobody can beat... TIME!

bluer than blue

~*~*~*~

gave donna a swatch watch ("fiocchi di stelle" winter collection 2006 model) for her upcoming birthday on january 12, and had it delivered through FedEx. was able to track it online through their website. also bought her a "me to you" tatty bear and named it "blue" and a book as my Christmas gifts.

spent the new year @ fti together with erwin and jona's family. had a great time listening to the band of jona's newphews who's ages were from 8 to 12 i think. the 'oldies' also got to play after the cute ones hehehe =) went to market market with zach and his parents on the first day of the new year.

links:
how tatty's nose became blue and had gray hair
FedEx Tracking Report Page