Episode 7: Finding the Love of your Life

What’s up, everyone? Welcome back to the Cafe Tayo podcast! It’s me, Elisa Camara. And in this episode, we will be talking about love! How to find the love of your life! Usapang paghahanap ng pag-ibig ng iyong buhay! 

Music Interlude: I Finally Found Someone

Wow! Have you finally found someone? Since this is a love month, magandang simulan ang pasok ng linggong ito sa topic na Finding the Love of your Life, para maihanda ka sa paghahanap ng tamang babae o lalaking mapapangasawa na umaayon sa kalooban ng Diyos. 

Narito ang ilan sa mga nakalap ko sa pag-aaral para magamit ko sa pagtuturo para sa aking mga anak at apo at sayo na nakikinig ngayon. Magkukuwento ako ng kaunti tungkol sa aking mga karanasan at gagamitin ko ang sermon ng isang kilalang Pastor na si Rick Warren in finding the right person to marry. Ginamit Niya ang Proverbs 12:26, kung kailangan nating maingat sa pagpili ng ating mga kaibigan, lalong kailangan nating maging maingat sa pagpili ng makakasama sa buhay. Remember, it's a choice. God does not do this and no one teaches us how to do it. Walang subject na ganito sa school. Bilang magulang ay nagkukulang tayo sa pagtuturo sa ating mga anak na pumili ng tamang mapapangasawa. At dahil dito, marami ang nauuwi sa maling pag-aasawa sa maling dahilan. Ako, bilang asawa ng pastor, ayaw kong mangyari ito at ayokong humantong sa ganito ang aking mga anak.

I have at least three children who are not married, one already has a fiancée, and I care so much about them. I want to teach them how to look for the right person and how to change their view about marriage. This can save a lot of pain. I have two questions that require serious decisions to make the right choice in your life. First, when are you getting married? That's a choice. And the second is, if you marry, Who's going to be? The Bible says a lot about this.

Kaya titingnan natin ngayon kung ano ang sinasabi ng Biblia, Here are some selected checklist for us to choose the right person. Pero bago yun, nabanggit ni Pastor Rick Warren ang ilan sa mga myths o paniniwala na kailangan munang icorrect sa ating isipan.

1. God doesn’t choose my mate for me. It’s your decisions, your choice. He didn’t choose for you. He places the responsibility 100% on your shoulder. For example, Hindi ako makikipagdate, maghihintay lang ako na darating siya. Tama ba? Mali. Hindi darating yun, kailangan may gawin ka. Kapag nagsisimula ka pa lang na maghanap, alam ng mga babae kapag may gusto sa kanila ang isang lalaki kahit hindi ito nagsasabi, at nagpaparamdam lang. Hindi na dapat pang magpakipot, kilalanin mo siya,at nang makita mo ang tunay na hangarin niya sayo. Marami kasi sa mga kalalakihan na kung alam nila na mabubusted lang sila, ded ma na lang sila sayo.
2. There isn’t only one right person for me. Alam mo totoo yun. Kasi kung hindi totoo, isang tao lang ang magkamali ng desisyon parang domino ito na mali na ang mga susunod na saling lahi. Kaya ang daming maling asawa sa mga maling marriages. Okay lang makipag-date sa mga ilan na dumarating sa buhay mo para mas makilala mo sila, at pumili ng taong tama para sa iyo.
3. Love is not enough to marry. That’s because you love someone doesn’t mean you should marry him or her. Pwedeng ang daming babae na dumating sa buhay mo na minahal mo bago ka nag-asawa. Love is not enough, it takes a lot of other things.

God doesn’t tell you who to marry but He does give you a description of the kind of person He desires for you to marry. If you want God’s blessing on your marriage, you want God’s protection, or you want God’s success in your marriage, then listen to what God has to say about the kind of person you should marry. 

Listen to Philippians 2:1-5, ‘Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.’

Because of the tremendous blessings that the Philippians have received in Christ, Paul urges them to be united in harmony. Paul calls for this unity in four ways: he wants the Philippians to have the same mind or the same thinking, to have the same love, to be joined together in spirit, and be of one mind. The best description of a person God has intended for you to marry is for both of you to become like Christ.

• We must have spiritual unity. Kung Hindi iisa ang inyong pananampalataya parang mahirap magkaroon ng physical, emotional, and sexual intimacy that God intended for your marriage. The No.1 area of your life is your relationship with God. 

In 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 (God’s Word), Stop forming inappropriate relationships with unbelievers. Can right and wrong be partners? Can light have anything in common with darkness? 15 Can Christ agree with the devil? Can a believer share life with an unbeliever?

Noong panahong magboyfriend pa lang kami ni Pastor Rainier, maraming nagsasabi na ang ganda ng mga qualities namin, marrying age, parehong may stable jobs, we love each other, ok naman ang aming family background, and yet there is only one problem, I am not a believer of Jesus Christ. As he is a new believer, he decided to get rid of all those ugly pasts in his life at sinama Niya pati ako. So, sa madaling salita, nag break kami Kasi Hindi Niya alam kung paano at ano ang dapat gawin, minabuti Niya na tapusin ang lahat ng pwedeng maging temptations na pwedeng kasama ako doon. Kahit mahirap kong tinanggap, naging daan din yun para hanapin ko si Jesus. And after two months, God in all His mysterious intervention made a way to brought us back together. Today, kung Hindi dahil sa intervention ng Lord, we will never have a physical, emotional, and sexual intimacy the way God intended us to be. Kung di ako naging Cristiano, Pwedeng hindi ko maintidihan ang faith niya. 

Don’t commit to somebody who is not committed to Jesus Christ. Don’t gamble your life if you have an unbeliever boyfriend or girlfriend. Please, if this is offensive, I’m sorry. But, if you are married to an unbeliever, show them your love and pray that they find Christ.

• We must have life purpose compatibility. You must be both headed in the same direction, with the same purpose in life. 

Amos 3:3 (NLT) ‘Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?’

Kung hindi pareho ang inyong direksyon, hindi kayo magtatagal. Hindi pa kayo handang magpakasal hangga't hindi mo nalalaman ang purpose ninyo. What is your mission, your purpose, your calling, or vocation? Ang marriage ninyo ay mabubuo sa ganitong mga paraan.

Kapag namatay ang isang tao, hindi naman tatanungin ng Diyos kung sino ang pinakasalan mo. Maaaring itanong ng Diyos sayo, did you fulfill your purpose? Marriage is a partnership to fulfill your purpose. You both are partners in God’s calling, gifted and called for His purpose. Hindi ko alam na kami ay magiging isang pamilya ng pastor. The only thing I know we have the same purpose in life, we are all called by God. Pastor Rick Warren said a bad marriage is a thousand times worst than staying single for the rest of your life. A bad marriage is a thousand times worse than staying single for the rest of your life. Kaya shout out sa mga singles pa! You’re much better than those falling marriages! Huwag kang maghanap ng batong ipupukpok mo sa ulo mo. So do not settle for 2nd best who didn’t share the same value. Don’t make that mistake.

• We must both be emotionally healthy.

Hindi naman sinabing perfect because we are all broken. But that’s ok because God still loves us. Kung sinuman ang pakakasalan mo, you married a sinner. Everybody’s broken. Pero may mas broken pa sayo, so you need to avoid them even how well he is, you have to figure out the emotional health of the person before you go too far in your relationship. Emotionally healthy individuals express appropriate emotions, which can help them to avoid danger, relieve stress, and communicate with others.

So if you spot an emotionally immature, deficient, unhealthy person you are marrying, you're asking for trouble. Why? 

1. First, if that person has uncontrolled anger. Minsan may narinig akong babae, gusto ko ng lalaking bastos, yun bang dating, bad boy? Naku, mali ka, iha mia! Kapag ganun, lumayo ka na! 
2. Second, if that person has addictions. Iba’t iba ang klase ng addictions ng tao. Kung makakakita ka ng babaeng sobrang hilig magshopping, ay boys, layuan mo na! O lalaking addicted sa alak, sa sugal, sa babae, sa video games? Layuan mo na rin! Hindi yan mababago kapag mag-asawa na kayo. Obvious naman lalo na kapag drug addict. Lalong layuan mo na… kahit pogi pa yan.
3. Third, if that person has bitterness - ito yung poison that eats you alive! Pastor Rick Warren said, Whatever you resent, you resemble. So stop resenting. You have to release it. If you start dating a bitter person, that bitterness will turn to you. How do they treat their parents? You marry a family. Ganito no, halimbawa, matindi ang resentment mo sa parents mo dahil lumaki ka sa mga abusive parents. I’m sorry. They’re your parents, regardless kung terible sila, nasa yo ang DNA nila, sila ang lumikha sayo kaya ka nabuo. I am not saying na ok lang kung abusive sila. Bigay sila ng Diyos sayo, without them you are not here. You need to pray for them, pray also for you to heal, and ask for help in the process of healing.
4. Fourth, if that person is selfish. The No. 1 cause of conflict in marriage is selfishness. Nauuna pang maglakad sayo. Hindi man lang buhatin ang mga pinamili mo. Or palaging naaawa sa sarili niya kasi walang nakikita kundi sarili niya. Don’t be selfish.
5. Fifth, if that person is greedy. Kapag may spouse kang greedy, malulubog ka sa utang, they are only interested in themselves. Don’t try to impress others. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others.

So the three among four checklists are done. We must have spiritual unity,  life purpose compatibility, and emotionally healthy,

• We must be generous and kind.

An emotionally healthy person tells the truth. Love is based on trust. Trust is based on truth. He can say, I am doing this to protect you. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

Palaging ibinibigay ng Diyos ang kanyang best sa mga taong namumuhay sa pagpili sa Kanya. Say, I want God’s best in my life, and I got it. 

Do you notice in these entire lists there is not one word about appearance or how they look? The world has this mindset na kailangan natin iwasan. 

To have a good marriage, my husband must meet these needs: Sexual attraction, The feeling of being noticed, The fear of loneliness, Wanting to be loved, We have many things in common, and We are having fun.

In the end, kung walang patutunguhan ang inyong relasyon, huwag mo nang ituloy. Dahil habang tumatagal ang relasyon niyo, mas lalong hindi ka na makakalabas. 

If you want to get married, God will bless you. Be spiritually connected to God. Your challenge is to commit yourself to God's standards. Just tell yourself, I'm not going to let the ocean of emotions overwhelm me to make that stupid decision.

Don't date until your emotional hurts are healed or at least in the healing process, just find a mentor or a counselor for your healing process. Do this, and close that door. Get rid of that bitterness, that anger. Don't carry that in your marriage.

Marriage does not create problems, it reveals them. The problem is already there with you or your boyfriend or girlfriend. And the more you deal with it before you get married, the happier your marriage will be. The more that meets the deep intimacy of the soul that is personal, sexual, relational, and spiritual. 

It is the oneness that comes from being unified in our relationship with God, and our purpose. Discover your mission first. Get involved in a small group, and find a ministry in the church. Expose yourself in lots of Christian men and women. You won't find it just sitting in the house. If you have a fiancée, get premarital counseling.

Let’s bow our heads and join me in prayer. 

Almighty Father, we have problems. We are a broken people. We need most to turn to you, Jesus. I ask you to bring healing to my family and to the family who listens to this podcast who are hurting. Bring hope to those who are hopeless right now. You are a miracle-working God. To those who need to end their relationship that is going nowhere, have them speak the truth in love. If we are insecure, we have heartaches, and you know we are here to heal and change for our future. Please clarify my purpose and connect me with other believers. Help us build spiritual oneness with our spouses. And for the singles, let them do it Your way. In Jesus's name, I pray, amen.

I hope you walk away from this episode feeling encouraged and inspired to indeed find the love of your life. Please check and assess your current relationship and be the first person to answer these reflective questions.

1. What qualities does Paul encourage in relationships (2:3-4)? And speaking of marriage, how does it compare to your relationship with your spouse?
2. How does this episode of finding the love of your life help you?

If you answer those questions, you can write them down below. Be sure to follow me on Spotify and on YouTube. If this episode was helpful to you or you want to add some of your checklist or experiences you have encountered while dating, please leave a comment on any of my social media platforms. If you think someone else would enjoy it and it could help them improve their relationship with Jesus and their loved ones, please share it with them! And if you share on Facebook, the hashtag CafeTayowithElisaCamara would be greatly appreciated! 

Thanks and God bless us all!

(Link: https://margmowczko.com/philippians-2_1-5/)

Episode 6: God's Part and My Part in Changing Me

 What’s exactly God’s part and our part in changing our lives? Alam mo ba? Rick Warren originally wrote God’s Part and My Part in Changing Me, in his series about how to enjoy the rest of your life, where he mentioned how spiritual growth happens. God uses the Bible, the Holy Spirit, and circumstances so we can grow naturally over time. So faith matters in how we live. I found the key to knowing this I need to focus on happiness, holiness, and humility. 

By the way, this is Elisa Camara. Welcome to Cafe Tayo Podcast where I can talk about my story while having coffee. So today, let’s pause, make coffee and take a few minutes to listen and let the Holy Spirit speaks to you.

Music Interlude

Last October 16, 1988, I met Jesus Christ for the first time. Our relationship began, which completely changed my life. But how did God change my life? How am I living to be what God made me to be? Ako ba lahat, o lahat ay sa Diyos, o pinaghalong sa Diyos at sa akin? Kailangan alam ko ito para tuluyan akong magbago tungo sa pagkakadisenyo sa akin ng Diyos.

Listen to Philippians 2:12-13, "continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."

Here, Paul says, when it comes to our spiritual growth, God has a part, and we have a part. Gumamit siya ng dalawang phrases to explain this cooperation: work out and work in. Work out is my part and work in is God's part.

This passage has something to do with our salvation. Pero ang salvation ay religious jargon sa mga makakarinig. Kaya mas magandang alternative na gamitin ko ang word na "freedom." To be saved by Jesus is to be set free from guilt or from destructive behavior, and set free to know God more, to love others, and be what God made me to be.

Dito sa passage na ito, mga Cristiano na ang kausap ni Paul kung kaya’t ang ibig sabihin nito ay idevelop natin ang kung ano ang mayroon tayo na ginagawa ng Diyos sa buhay natin. Work out the implications. If we call ourselves Christians, disciples or followers of Christ, (there is no difference in those words) we should start growing.

Now, there are three things that you and I need to keep an eye on as we allow this change to happen. It is our job to work out what God is working in. How do we work out what God is working into our lives?

First, focus on being happy no matter what.

Where is your level of happiness? Are you desperate enough looking for happiness even with no particular reason? But most often we define happiness in different meaning. Sa tingin natin, ang pera, possessions o success ang mga sagot sa kaligayahan ng tao. D man natin aminin pero minsan ito yung nagtutulak sa atin na maging masaya. Pero ito ay mga delusions at idolatry. Ang tunay na kaligayahan at kapayapaan, ay matatagpuan lamang sa isang relasyon sa Diyos. 

Hindi naman tayo pinangakuan ng buhay na walang problema. Kailangan nating lumapit sa Diyos at sabihin ang ating mga saloobin. Humingi tayo ng kapanatagan sa Diyos na tayo ay kaawaan Niya at magtiwala na diringgin ang ating mga taos-pusong panalangin dahil nakikinig Siya sa saglit na tumawag tayo sa kanya. Yan ang sabi ni David sa Psalm 4:3, ‘He listens the split second I call to him.’

Kung magiging malalim lang sayo ang ibig sabihin nito, ’there is more joy when you are in God's will than material prosperity and luxury.’ Ang Prosperity kasi, kahit kasing liwanag pa sa sikat ng araw ang security na makukuha mo dito, hindi ito dahilan para maging mapayapa ang pagtulog mo sa gabi-gabi, tama ba? Ang lumakad sa kalooban ng Diyos ang tanging dahilan para tayo ay siguradong magiging malaya sa takot at pag-aalala.

God has a role in the life-change process. We partner with God. God is always at work in us.

Use the Bible as His Words for us today. Listen to Psalm 37:4 in Tagalog version, ‘Sa Panginoon mo hanapin ang kaligayahan, at ibibigay niya sa iyo ang ninanais mo.’

Ano ba ang mga naisin mo sa buhay? May pangangailangan ka ba? Listen to Matthew 6:33, "Kaya unahin ninyo ang mapabilang sa kaharian ng Dios at ang pagsunod sa kanyang kalooban, at ibibigay niya ang lahat ng pangangailangan ninyo."

Second, Focus on being holy. Your heart is where the Holy Spirit dwells. He teaches us how to be holy.

The Holy Spirit provides the power, the conviction, and the direction for life change.  Siya ay kumikilos na para bang isang warning device inside of us kapag nagsisimula na tayong gumawa ng mga maling hakbang. At para namang cheering crowd kapag tayo ay gumagawa ng mga tamang hakbang patungo sa kabanalan.

Ang Holy Spirit ay nakatira sa ating mga puso. He grieves when we do the wrong thing. He is pleased when do the right thing. He challenge, encourages and supports you with other believers. Kaya dapat tayo ay nasa isang small community o small group. Ang paggugol ng oras sa ibang mga mananampalataya ay nangangahulugan ng pagdadala ng mga pasanin ng isa't isa, pinapatibay ang loob ng bawat isa, at pagtulong sa atin na palakasin ang ating pananampalataya. Kapag kumonekta tayo, bumubuo tayo ng confidence, nakakakuha tayo ng feedback, nagiging responsable tayo at nagbabago tayo para mangalaga din ang iba.

Kasama rin dito ang pakikisalamuha sa kapwa. Encourage natin ang ating pamilya na magmano sa mga nakakatanda at ang paggamit ng po at opo bilang paggalang na kinaugalian ng Pilipino. Pakita natin na huwag itong mawala kahit mapunta pa ang ating mga anak o apo sa ibang bansa. Let us go beyond reproach and that is holiness. 

Take this as an important key to holiness: Depend on the Holy Spirit in every moment. How do you know that you depend on the Holy Spirit? Review your prayer life. The things you pray for are the things you depend on God for. The things you don't pray for are the things you don't fully depend on God for.

Third, Focus on humility because God wants us to realize that everything we need is on the ground. 

I like the song by one of Black Pink's members, Rose, On the Ground. The meaning of the song is about the reputations and achievements we have made will one day disappear. We need to know where to stop, change direction, and move toward the goal of becoming a better person.

Ano ang dapat nating tugon sa lahat ng ito? Wala sa atin na may gusto ng half-hearted na paghingi ng tawad - ni ang Diyos. Siya ay naghahanap ng tunay na repentance. Kaya ito na ang pagkakataong magsimulang muli. Sabihin sa Diyos ang iyong saloobin. Ano ang gusto mong baguhin? Ano ang gusto mong gawin ni Jesus para sa iyo? Ang pagbabalik-loob ay pagpapakumbaba sa Diyos. 

Keep your feet on the ground. Meaning huwag tayong makalimot sa nakaraan kung paano ka nagsimula as your humble beginnings upang patuloy na makibagay sa kapwa ng may pag-ibig at pang-unawa.

In summary, We have a part to work out. Seriously focus on happiness, holiness, and humility, and move in the direction where God made you be. 

But don’t be too hard on yourself. Trust God. He has a part to keep you on. Gradually look up. He has the power to cultivate gratitude and a thankful spirit. Forgive even when you don’t feel it. Be happy no matter what. Be holy for God is holy. Be humble like Christ. Because before you know it, you will be where God made you be.

Sa tuwing dumadaan ka sa mga matitinding pagsubok sa buhay, kahit na gusto mong gumawa ng mali at pinili mo pa rin na gumawa ng tama, lumalago ka sa spiritual maturity, wisdom, character and faithfulness.

Sabi nga, untested faith cannot be trusted. Sooner or later lahat tayo ay dadaan sa mga panahon ng pagsubok. Sa mga panahong ito, the challenge is to be faithful  – Hindi para patigasin ang mga puso natin kundi maging soft and tender to God – na patuloy na magtiwala kahit dumadaan tayo at sinusubok ang ating pananampalataya.

Last Sunday morning, I was in church and worshiping the Lord. I wonder what we will do in heaven. Apart from worship, we will no longer experience pain, tears, fear, shame, or disgraced. We have a lot to do in heaven. There is a business in heaven. Everything we do on Earth will do in the new heaven and Earth. The difference is that satan is locked up in a bottomless pit. We have glorified bodies, free from sickness and death. We live forever in the unity and fellowship of the Holy Trinity. Then we will be tested again. Whatever the reason is, Christ is seated at the right hand of God. He is victorious, and so do we.

Lord Jesus, thank you that through your sacrifices we can approach the throne of your grace with confidence, receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. We come to you humbly. We are sorry for everything we have done wrong and we want to start over. Thank you, Jesus, for Your love.

Music Interlude

I hope you walk away from this episode feeling encouraged and inspired to work out what God is working into your life. Be sure to follow me on Spotify, and if this episode was helpful to you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. If someone else would enjoy it and it could help them improve their relationship with Jesus, please share it with them! And if you share on social media, the hashtag #CafeTayowithElisaCamara would be greatly appreciated!  

Thank you and God bless us all!

Episode 5: What's So Special About Christmas

What's so special about Christmas? Maybe many of us will say that this is the season for the whole family to get together. We enjoy the Christmas vacation because it is also a holiday. We enjoy eating, visiting, and going for a walk to see the beauty of the sparkling Christmas lights and decorations in the parks and malls and the fireworks. It's fun! That's all nice. God wants us to understand the depth of this special day.

Today's episode, originally a sermon of Pastor Rick Warren, will highlight some significant facts about Christmas to give you deeper insights into how to enjoy this season meaningfully. 

I'm Elisa and welcome to Cafe Tayo with Elisa Camara where I share my thoughts and family life so that I can leave something for my children and grandchildren one day and for you to take on today. So grab your favorite coffee, hands ready to take notes of insights, and join me with this conversation today!

Paano nagsimula ang Pasko. God Came to Earth

Natatandaan mo ba kung kelan napunta ang tao sa buwan? Malaking news iyon. Parang huminto ang buong mundo para panoorin ang small step na ginawa ni Neil Armstrong, na naging isang giant step in our history. Pero kung tutuusin hindi ito macocompare sa news na ang Diyos ay naparito sa lupa. Si Jesus Christ ay God, at ang kanyang kapanganakan ay nang pumarito ang Diyos sa lupa.

Maaaring nahihirapan tayong makipag-ugnayan sa isang hindi maliwanag na katauhan na nasa langit, pero si Hesus ay naging Diyos sa laman. Sabi sa Bible kung nakita mo si Hesus nakita mo na ang Diyos (John 1).

Jesus “being in the very nature of God …” (Philippians 2:6) Jesus was God, and he came to live among us for a while (John 1).

Hindi nagsimula si Jesus sa Sabsaban. Narito na Siya bago pa ang mundo. The distinction of Christ in the book of Colossians, where he is the exact likeness of the unseen God, narito na Siya bago pa and lahat, and, ang katotohanan, he is the Creator who made everything in Heaven and on Earth (Colossians 1:15-16).

Ang Katotohanan tungkol sa Pasko? God Became Man

Jesus Christ was a real man, flesh and blood. He was a real person — hindi Siya alamat, hindi parable, at hindi rin Siya isang magandang kwento lang. The Bible says about Jesus, “he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” (Philippians 2:7).

Now, how is Jesus like us?

1. He was born like us. Ibinigay niya ang lahat ng mayroon siya at dumating sa lupa tulad ng bilyun-bilyong iba pang mga babies sa buong mundo. However, ang buong history of the world depends on this fragile baby. Jesus came in the middle of the night in a stable in Bethlehem. Jesus was God in human form, born like us (Luke 2:5-7).
2. He grew like us. Lumaki siya tulad natin. Si Jesus ay lumaki at lumago bilang tao (Lucas 2:52). Naiisip mo ba kung ano ang magiging pakiramdam kapag nasa school ka kasama si Jesus? Malalaman mo na medyo kakaiba Siya, pero maniniwala ka ba na Siya ang Diyos? Hindi niya pinagmalaki ang katotohanan na Siya ay Diyos. kamukha ng mga Hudyo na lumaki mula sa Palestine. Nagtrabaho siya bilang karpintero.
3. He was tempted like us. Sabi sa Bible Jesus was tempted, like us, but he was without sin (Hebreo 4:14-16). Naranasan ni Jesus ang mga paghihirap na nararanasan natin, parehong mga struggles and temptations, pero hindi siya kailanman bumigay sa mga iyon. Dito mo mauunawaan na pwede talagang makarelate si Jesus sa mga temptations and struggles nga na nararanasan natin.
4. He suffered like us. Si Jesus ay nasaktan at nakadama ng frustrations. Napagod din Siya at nakaramdam ng pag-iisa. May panahon na nalungkot at umiyak Siya. Sa Getsemani, sinabi ni Jesus, "“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death." (Matthew 26:38). Alam ni Jesus kung paano masaktan at ma-pressure. Si Jesus ay naging kung ano tayo, upang tayo ay maging kung ano Siya.

Ano ang dahilan bakit may Pasko? Jesus Came to Die

Hindi nanatili si Jesus sa sabsaban. Napako siya sa krus at kusang-loob na nag-alay ng kanyang buhay para sa atin. Sabi sa Bible, "He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:8). Walang naglagay sa kanya doon nang walang pahintulot Niya. 

Bakit naman hinayaan ni Jesus na mapako Siya sa krus?

The Bible says he did it for two reasons.

First, to demonstrate God’s love. The Bible says, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8). Ang motivation Ni Jesus ay love. Kung gusto mong malaman kung gaano ka kamahal ni Jesus, tumingin ka sa kanyang krus. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." (John 15:13).

Second, to pay for our sins. Kapag lumabag ka sa batas, kailangan mong magbayad ng multa. Kapag nilabag mo ang mga batas ng Diyos, babayaran mo ang mga parusa ng Diyos. Sinasabi sa atin ng Bible na ang kabayaran ng kasalanan ay kamatayan, pero ang kaloob ng Diyos ay buhay na walang hanggan. Ang ginawa ni Jesus more than 2,000 years ago ay maaaring magkaroon ng pagbabago sa ating buhay ngayon. Maaari tayong lubusang mapatawad sa lahat ng ating nagawang kamalian o gagawin pang mga kamalian. Iyon ang dahilan ng Pasko.

The angels said, “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:11 NIV) 

Jesus came to be the Savior of the world

If you didn’t need a Savior, God wouldn’t have wasted all the effort to send one. Ang mismong katotohanan na si Jesu Cristo ay naparito sa Lupa, ibinigay ang lahat ng kaluwalhatian ng Langit, naging isang tao, ipinanganak bilang isang baby, lumaki bilang isang tao na may mga struggles and temptations na katulad ng sa atin, at pagkatapos namatay sa krus at nabuhay muli ay nangangahulugan na kailangan mo talaga kung ano ang inaalok ng Diyos. Hindi Niya sasayangin ang lahat ng iyon.

Ang kaligtasan sa pamamagitan ni Hesus ay nangangahulugan ng kalayaan - kalayaan mula sa pagkakasala, pag-aalala, takot, at kawalan ng layunin sa buhay. Malaya kang mamuhay sa paraang ninais ng Diyos para sa iyo na mamuhay, at maaari kang magpahinga sa kalayaan na malaman na binigyan ka ni Jesus ng buhay na walang hanggan.

So the Cross of Christ is not the end of baby Jesus in the manger. He is alive and came on a mission to bring you home to the Father. That’s the reason for Christmas.

Ngayon, alam mo na kung ano ang tunay na kahulugan ng Pasko. 

What is your response to Him? We need to grow spiritually, in faith and assurance that we have a future in heaven. 

First, make Him the Lord of your life.

The Bible says that because Jesus was willing to walk in humility, “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11).

Ano ang ibig sabihin ng maging Cristiano, maging believer, o maging saved? Ibig sabihin, “Jesus is our Lord. Kinikilala natin ang katotohanan na siya ay Diyos, naniniwala tayo na kontrolado niya ang lahat, at ipinagkakatiwala natin ang lahat sa kanya.”

Ano ang ibig sabihin ng "Jesus is the Lord of my life"?

Tinatanggap ko na si Jesus ay aking Diyos. Siya ay higit pa sa isang tao o isang propeta. Siya ang Panginoon sa aking buhay, ibig sabihin ay gagawin ko ang sinasabi niya sa akin — it is a test of our commitment to Him.

Naniniwala ako na nasa ilalim ng kontrol ni Jesus ang lahat. Ang pagsasabi ng “Jesus is my Lord” ay isang comfort and encouragement. Kahit na mukhang malabo ang lahat, Jesus is my Lord, at alam kong kontrolado Niya ang lahat. Maaaring hindi ko makita kung ano mismo ang nangyayari, but Jesus is my Lord, at kinikilala ko ang katotohanan na kontrolado Niya ang lahat. Walang nalilingat sa kanyang pangangalaga o pag-aalala dahil Jesus is my Lord. Ang sabihing "Jesus is my Lord" ay para mo na ring sinabi na I don’t know what the New Year holds, but I know who holds the future.

Ialay mo ang buong buhay mo kay Hesus. May karapatan siyang alamin kung ano ang tama sa buhay mo at ayusin ito. Gusto mong mamuhay ayon sa kanyang mga plano.

Ito ang ibig sabihin ng pagiging isang believer of Jesus Christ, “If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

Second, He is coming back. Be prepared. 

In the meantime, grow up as obedient children, hayaan nating mahubog ang ating mga sarili sa isang paraan ng pamumuhay na hinubog ng buhay ng Diyos, isang buhay na masigla at napupuspos ng kabanalan. God said, “I am holy; you be holy”’ (1 Peter 1:14-16, MSG). Tanging ang Banal na Espiritu, na nagdudulot ng bagong buhay na ito at ngayon ay nasa sa atin, ang makapagpapabanal sa atin.

Iwanan ang buhay na puno ng galit at sama ng loob at, sa halip, mamuhay tayo ng may 'tapat na pag-ibig', nagmamahal sa isa't isa ng taos-puso. Ito ang pinakalayunin ng buhay Cristiano. (1 Peter 1:19–22). 

You may feel hopeless that you are in a bad place. O kaya baka isipin mong hindi mo kayanin ang mga nangyayari sa iyo. Maaari mo ring isipin na ang mga problema mo ay napakabigat para maunawaan ng sinuman. Alalahanin mo to, Jesus is your Lord. He is in control.

Kaya ngayong pasko, "Sa Panginoon mo hanapin ang kaligayahan, at ibibigay niya sa iyo ang ninanais mo." (Psalm 37:4) 

I just want to serenade the Lord with this song. Pwede mo akong samahan sa pagsamba kay Jesus.

Silent night, holy night!

All is calm, all is bright.

Round yon Virgin, Mother, and Child.

Holy infant so tender and mild,

Sleep in heavenly peace,

Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night!

Shepherds quake at the sight.

Glories stream from heaven afar

Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia,

Christ the Savior is born!

Christ the Savior is born

 

Silent night, holy night!

Son of God love's pure light.

Radiant beams from Thy holy face

With dawn of redeeming grace,

Jesus Lord, at Thy birth

Jesus Lord, at Thy birth

I hope you walk away from this episode feeling encouraged and inspired to be more loving as Christ did to you. Be sure to follow me on Spotify, and if this episode was helpful to you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. If someone else would enjoy it and it could help them improve their relationship with Jesus, please share it with them! And if you share on social media, the hashtag #CafeTayowithElisaCamara would be greatly appreciated!  

Merry Christmas!

In my thoughts,

Elisa

Episode 4: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Homemakers

When you hear the word balanced life, what comes to mind first? Relationships, work, fitness, health, and emotional well-being? Yes, of course, but we rarely think about the home environment and how it supports our well-being. After carefully considering and studying creating a healthy home environment, I realized that everyone needs to develop essential habits that housewives do very effectively in their daily lives. Are you single and want to be an independent, working mother, young or old, with or without help, or a stay-at-home mom or dad? It would be best if you had these important habits.

But before that, I want to share a quick story with you. It is about my real-life homemaking mentor, ang Ate Perlie ko, and how a visit to her house inspired me. 

My name is Elisa. Welcome to the Café Tayo where I share what God has put on my heart. Dinala ako ng Diyos sa maraming karanasan sa buhay. Kaya naman narito ako para ishare ito sa inyo at sa mga susunod pang henerasyon. So grab your favorite coffee, make yourself at home and join me as God equips us on what to take each day.

The title of this 4th episode is the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Homemakers.

May isa akong mas nakakatandang kapatid na babae na sobrang sipag maglinis ng bahay at mangalaga ng kanyang pamilya. Ang una kong napansin sa kanya ay ang maayos na nakasalansan ang mga gamit sa loob ng bahay kahit ang dami, hindi magulong tingnan. kahit magbukas ka ng cabinet niya, para kang bumisita sa department store dahil nakafold ng pantay-pantay, pati yung mga nakahanger sobrang neat! Marunong ka ba magtupi ng mga fitted sheets? ask her how. Maganda ang atmosphere ng bahay niya, so light, very comfortable at warm. Marami rin siyang maghanda ng pagkain, lahat ng favorite food makikita mo sa table! Bubusugin ka talaga dahil masarap din siyang magluto! Habang kumakain nag-eenjoy kami sa napakaraming kwentuhan. 

Nakikita ko ang maraming memories sa table na iyon, ang mga holidays at special occasions na sinecelebrate, hosted parties, at mga friends na very welcome sa kanyang tahanan. Alam kong napaka strong ng bond niya sa kanyang family. She guided them with a strong faith and grace. Dahil mahusay na teacher ang kapatid ko, nagtayo siya ng sariling school. Maraming kamag-anak ang nagbenefit sa school na yun. Although my sister is a widow and our parents are gone, she has been our strong pillar. Sabi sa nabasa ko, "Everyone needs a home to live in, but a supportive family is what builds a home." And that's my sister to us. 

Hindi naman kakaiba ang ate ko sa iba. Pero ang balanseng pamumuhay niya bilang entrepreneur at homemaker ay nakakainganya para gawing magandang halimbawa sa buhay ko. Marami rin siyang natulungan na mga tao na magkaroon ng trabaho at mga batang napag-aral ng libre sa kanyang school. 

Habang tinitingnan ko ang mga homemakers na naging malaking influence sa aking buhay, Nakatulong ito sa akin na ayusin ang aking mga iniisip. Dumaan ako sa trial and error. Ang motherhood ay may parehong advantage at disadvantage. Kaya sa pagkakataong ito, let's learn the seven essential homemaking habits that highly effective homemakers embrace.

Habit #1: Live with Vision

A pleasant home to live in doesn’t just happen. Dapat mavisualized mo muna. Kung di mo alam kung saan ka pupunta, paano ka makakarating?

Effective homemakers have a vision.

kailangan natin ng matinding pag-iisip na may kasamang panalangin para maging makatotohanan ang isang puno ng kaayusan at mapayapang tahanan. Talagang tinatrabaho yun!

But it all starts with the vision.

Sasamantalahin ko ang opportunity na ito para pasalamatan ang Lord sa lahat ng Kanyang nagawa at ginagawa sa aking buhay. I have so many mistakes sa aking mga napagdaanan na naging dahilan para evaluate ko ang nakaraan at matutunan ko kung paano ang buhay ko ay umayon sa kalooban ng Diyos. Salamat sa Kanyang never ending grace na nagpalaya sa akin sa condemnation na bigyan ko rin ng grace ang sarili ko, whether sa motherhood ba yan o sa pagdevelop ng orderly and peaceful home!

Habit #2: Follow a Daily Routine

Sabi nga, effective homemakers don’t just let life happen to them. They have a plan.

kailangan mo ng sistema para mag work out ang naeenvision mo para sa bahay mo. Ito yung makakatanggal ng stress at overwhelming na mga obligations sa buhay.

Siyempre naman minsan di mo magagawa palagi. One time, nagkasakit ako, sobrang overwhelming sa akin to keep the house in good order. Pwede ka talagang ma-interrupt ng pagkakasakit, o maybe nagbrown-out, nawalan ng tubig, o may family affairs at circumstances na outside sa iyong control.

We live in a time when family life is very busy. Napakaraming dapat tandaan at napakaraming dapat gawin sa bawat araw. I can show you what my schedule currently looks like. I call it Daily Routines. Message me on my messenger account. It will also give you some helpful ideas for creating your own schedule. 

Habit #3: Get Up Early

Sabi sa nabasa ko sa isang article, the most successful people get up early. Kapag nagising ka ng mas maaga, may advantage ka na magkaroon ng some quiet time para sa sarili mo para magbasa, magpray, o kaya magexercise, or just get your day started.

As of now, nag-open ako ng store just a table with coffee and some snacks at the front of our house, dati online lang. During weekdays ko ito ginagawa at tatlong oras lang sa hapon, kaya maaga akong gumigising to do my quiet times and household chores.

Habit #4: Plan Meals

Consider preparing meals with local and seasonal ingredients. During my early stage in marriage, ang mother-in-law ko minsan sinasama niya akong mamili. Nagbabase siya sa kung ano ang available sa local market o sa mismong lugar ng mga bagsakan ng sariwang pagkain. Mas makakamura nga naman at mas marami ang mabibili mo sa konting budget. Much better if you have a plan. 

And also add foods that are rich in nutrient values. How can we know that? Just buy more of the darker-colored fruits and vegetables. Available naman sa palengke ang mga fresh meats. Pwede rin naman ang frozen meats pero huwag i-stock ng lalagpas sa isang linggo. 

Kung nahihirapan kang magplano ng iyong mga meals at kailangan mo ng tulong sa area na ito, dm me and I can give you a copy of my 4-week cycle menu. Magiging madali sa iyo na gumawa ng shopping list.

Habit #5: Declutter and Organize

Ang decluttering ay nangangailangan ng consistency. Ito yung mga bagay na paulit-ulit na ginagawa para maging habit. Hindi pwede yung mag-declutter tayo ngayon tapos tapos na. 

Alam ko, isa pa itong challenging, lalo na kung maliit ang space.

We have a relatively small space for our family. Kahit na may mga pangarap akong balang-araw ay magkaroon ng maraming spaces and storage, for now, I must actively work to keep clutter away and find a home for everything within the limits of our small space.

Once you’ve decluttered everything, make sure each item has a place, and your home will be so much easier to keep organized!

Habit #6: Use a Cleaning Schedule

Over the years, gumagamit ako ng isang plano, hindi man perfect pero pinanatili nitong organized ang isip ko kapag may plan akong sinusundan. If I miss a day, I can still catch up on another day. Ang mahalaga ay nagagawa ito. 

I can give you also my cleaning schedule bilang example. I developed my E-CLEAN daily routines. If you need help in this area, dm mo lang ako. I also highly recommend looking into FlyLady or Clean Mama on the internet. They are so inspiring na nakagawa ako ng sarili kong cleaning schedule dahil dito.

Ito yung sistema ng housework na kasalukuyang ginagamit ko para sa amin. Kung may helper ka, pwede niyang sundan ito para sayo.

Habit #7: Cultivate a Cheerful, Thankful Spirit

This is the most important habit.

Parang Mother Teresa, “It is not the magnitude of our actions but the amount of love that is put into them that matters.” Ito yung susi para maging selfless tayo sa ating pamilya. Hindi mo na iisipin kung gaano kabigat ang mga trabahong bahay, you will still slow down and focus on how to serve your family with love. There is always time for what matters most to you.

Huwag mong isipin na sinasabi ko na hindi ka effective homemaker kung nag-struggle ka sa depression o discouragement at times. Lahat tayo ay dumaranas sa mga panahon na yan. At kung mas malalim pa ang struggle mo, okay lang na humingi ng tulong.

When that difficult situation arises as it always will, try to focus sa mga bagay na nakakapag build up sa iyong family. As Philippians 4:8 says, "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable if there is any excellence if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

Itapon natin ang pressure ng idealism. Kung sa umpisa ng araw ang sigla natin then 'pag dating ng lunchtime lanta na, okay lang yun, madalas mangyari sa akin yan. Tanggapin natin ang grace ng Lord, don't beat ourselves up. Ang pakikinig at pagsunod kay Hesus ay parang exercise, nagsisimula tayo sa kung saan at lumalago mula doon.

Ito ang isa sa mga main reasons ko kung bakit ako gumigising ng maaga. May pamilya akong inaasikaso at nagpapatakbo ng small business sa bahay. Ibig kong sabihin - I still have time, nagbabasa ako ng few chapters from the bible everyday, nagjojournaling, nagpepray, nakikinig ng podcast, nagk-kdrama, active ako sa social media, naliligo, at nag-aayos sa sarili. Maliliit na bagay na nagbibigay buhay sa akin at nagpapasigla sa araw-araw.

I've been a full-time homemaker for 32 years, and I'm still learning new things and growing. Hindi pa ako ganap na dumating pa don. Habang nagbabago ang ating mga condition sa buhay, we will find our methods and system need to be changed from time to time.

Join me in prayer. Lord, I come to you humbly. Help me to change. Help me to improve so I can be more loving, peaceful, organized, cheerful, and thankful for everything no matter what my condition is. In Jesus' name, amen.

I hope you walk away from this episode feeling encouraged and empowered to create a healthier home and to keep it with a bit more order, without worrying. Be sure to follow me on Spotify, and if this episode was helpful to you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. If you think someone else would enjoy it and it could help them improve their home environment, please share it with them! And if you share on social media, the hashtag #CafeTayowithElisaCamara would be greatly appreciated!  

In my thoughts,

Elisa

Episode 3: The Secret of Satisfying Life (Part 2 of the 10-Part Series of Enjoying the Rest of your Life)

 

What happens when you face a crisis in your life? 

Are you worried about your future? 

What if someone in your family gets sick? 

These are some of the apprehensions that most of us face. A person is never without problems, whether rich or poor. If this is how life is, how can we be happy and contented?

Instead of focusing on the problems that need to be changed, we can learn how to cultivate happiness and contentment by recognizing and practicing the habits of our Lord Jesus.

Another happy day to start my Café Tayo journey while having coffee. I hope you'll be with me until the end of this post!

For these past few days, I've been going through such fears and apprehensions that I can't sleep well at night. I had unimaginable thoughts that caused me so much worry and fear. What will I do? It would be good to know what God has to say on this matter. Jesus, the Son of the living God is with me through the Holy Spirit.

This episode, originally a sermon of Pastor Rick Warren, points out some of the steps I have learned to create a more pleasing and satisfying life to live.

People say that coping mechanisms make us stronger. The support system also helps. Experiencing trials in life is a test of our faith; others are just part of a larger plan to bring glory to God. If you think you can handle life much better tomorrow, I am sorry that you are not always right, and that coping skills and support systems will not always be there when disaster strikes. Here I found the secret to making this life satisfying through the life of Christ Jesus.

I'll be reading Philippians 4:8-13 in the bible, Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last, you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

The apostle Paul found the key to a life of peace and contentment in times of trouble. He tells how to find peace and shares the secret of being content.

My husband, Pastor Rainier, mentioned something to me that I was interested in. I looked on the internet and discovered this book, "Discovering the Leadership Styles of Jesus" by Ken Voges. The lesson to be learned here is to appreciate the diversity of leadership styles and when to apply them. Jesus is the model of the book. The author said, “The life of Christ shows the positive characteristics of every type of personality. He is the perfect balance of all four types."

He also said it is important to understand that no one leadership style is necessarily better than another. "Each individual style has its own set of strengths which, when left unchecked, can become unbalanced. Potential strengths can become great weaknesses. When all the styles function in concert together, balance and order have the best opportunity to occur."

I gather some of the steps I have learned to create a more pleasing and satisfying life to live.

1. Find His Purpose in You  

Purpose in life is far more important than property or possessions. Having more to live with is no substitute for having more to live for. ‘The two greatest days of your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why’.

The moment we believe in Jesus Christ, we love our Father in heaven and, therefore, we must love all his children. Over the years, If you notice, from their birth, we have had a special love for our friends' children. This is because of our love for their parents. Just as loving parents want their children to be confident in their future, God wants them to be confident in their future.

In this passage of the Scriptures, Paul turns his attention to what we think. We are surrounded by images and words from the media, conversations, and events, and it is very easy to tempt us almost every day into wrong thinking. But you can fight. As Martin Luther said, 'You can't stop a bird from flying overhead, but you can stop it from nesting in your hair.'

The way to get rid of wrong thinking is to get the right thinking. Your mind cannot be idle. If you do not occupy your mind with good thoughts, the enemy will fill it with bad thoughts. I'm not saying, "think good things and good things will happen." Is it that simple? This is the same as the prosperity gospel preached in many churches today (Ie, "name it and claim it"). Seems like something is wrong.

Let us follow the apostle Paul’s advice, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. He realizes that what you think about will affect every area of your life. Fill your mind with good things and God will lead you to His purpose.  

2. Pursue Spiritual Growth 

No one does not go through life without difficulties and hardships. Apostle Paul went through difficult times. He is in prison. No doubt he has a lot to worry about. The Bible never promises that we will not face hard times or difficult situations. But it promises us God's strength and grace in these times. Start your life back to God where you will fill your mind with good thoughts through prayer and meditation on the Bible.

The hardest part is always putting all this into practice. In verse 9, "Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice." The only way to learn any skill, trade, or sport is through practice. Make it a habit to avoid conflicts, stay united with other Christians and avoid anxiety through constant prayer. If we do, God promises that His peace will be with us.

If you know your direction in life the difficult becomes easy. God will lead you. As I talked with my husband, reading the Bible and praying are easy to do but require hard work! 

God has a plan for each of us. Whether you're a simple housewife or a church member, that's what you do. Serving God does not require a position. It doesn't mean that we won't volunteer in the church as a worker, because even if it's just a small thing done to the Lord, what He sees is your faithful service to Him.

The Bible is where you begin to know Jesus Christ. You know He is calling you for His purpose. There is no other choice in a life of peace and contentment. What good will it do to us if we have everything the world has to offer but our spiritual foundation is shallow? 

If we choose God, why not choose Him completely? It may not be easy but it is possible for those who believe. The question is how?

First, you need to know that you are responsible for your spiritual growth.

Second, you must decide to obey God in every way. Pray for repentance of your sins, ask Him for forgiveness, and from now on seek His will for your life.

Third, let someone mentor you. This is where your church can help you. I also sincerely want to help. I know you have concerns and questions. We all need a little help. Let's talk. You can message me privately on Instagram, messenger, or Viber.

God wants us to help one another. I am so grateful for the encouragement, support, and challenge over the years of close Christian friends and wiser mentors. It is very helpful to have mentors and be willing to help those who are younger in the faith than we are. As we challenge and help one another, we all grow in our discipleship.

But being Christ-centered does not only refer to the ministry or activity of the church. Christ's love shines through the home, workplace, school, or wherever you are. 

3. Find the secret in Christ Jesus

Paul did not worry about meeting his needs. He learned that the secret of contentment in every situation, in abundance or scarcity, is that in v13, "I can do all things through him that gives me strength." Regardless of your circumstances, God will strengthen you to do whatever he asks of you.

If you seek contentment and walk in obedience to God, you will discover a truly satisfying life.

In these past two weeks, I started selling snacks and cold brew coffee in front of our house. Because I prayed about it and promised God to serve Him in this way, I spent my day on what to prepare, bringing in and out the tables and chairs, unfastening the umbrella tent, selling a little, talking to people even though it was hot outside, and waiting for the right time to open a ministry because I knew it was purposely led by God. Of course, my husband and I are in this together.

In my vision, I see people whose lost are saved, the sick are healed, the hungry are fed, the abandoned can return to their families, the homeless will have homes, and the bondage of sins will be freed. I have no idea how to do it, but with visionary zeal, I think of introducing these people to the one who can change it all: His name is Jesus!

Every day I look for contentment wherever I am. I am ready to be where God is, in sweet fellowship with Him. It brings freedom and happiness every time.

When we look at Jesus, we do not see the joy in his outward life. He suffered a lot compared to all our lives. His disciples left him, like Peter. People said that he was with the devil, associated with evil people, tolerated adulterous women, and that miracles were fake. But he did not move, did not fight. That is the life of calmness. Except for the Pharisees, those were the only ones He dealt with because of their twisted thinking. True contentment is in His will. Even if things aren't good for you right now, it doesn't mean you can't have joy.

Father in heaven, thank you for giving this satisfying life through your Son, Jesus. Forgive us if we are worried or afraid about what lies ahead. We are trying hard, Lord, not to worry but pray instead. Lord, as we pray, Lead us to a safe place where we can find happiness, contentment, and strength. Help us not to be easily led astray by the temptations of this world. Lord, we come to You humbly with clean hands and pure hearts that you will lead us to a place of holiness and transformation. Set us free, Lord, if we have any slavery to fear, worry, anger, or bitterness. Help us wholeheartedly seek contentment and walk in obedience to you so that we may know Your purpose. Thank you, Lord, for this life is satisfying. In the name of Jesus, amen.

I hope you come away from this episode feeling encouraged and determined to live out your life with Jesus. Be sure to follow me on Instagram, @love_elisacamara, and if this episode was helpful to you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or any of my social media platforms, or If you think someone else would benefit and it could change their life, please share it with them! And if you share on social media, the hashtag #CafeTayowithElisaCamara would be greatly appreciated!  

Until the next episode every first Sunday at eight in the morning.

In my thoughts,

Elisa

Episode 2: How to be Joyful No Matter What (Part 1 of the 10-Part Series of Enjoying the Rest of Your Life)

Hi family! 

Welcome to Café Tayo with Elisa Camara!

It is another Sunday morning to start my Café Tayo! journey while having coffee. I hope you are here with me having coffee at the same time!

Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ih6WfJjbBPoaDtjDbC6Of

This episode is about when you are in a season of having difficulty in life and do not want to carry your burdens in life because you are no longer happy and you want to go back to your old life. May God fill you with the truth-revealing moment so that you can find happiness, courage, and strength to continue the journey for the rest of your life, despite all the problems it brings. 

 

The title of this episode, How to be Joyful No Matter What (Part 1 of the Enjoying the Rest of Your Life series)

I want to share with you two of my most joyful moments.

One is, on 29 September 1991, I, as the bride, walked down the aisle with my father and joined Rainier standing as the bridegroom in front of the altar at Cafe Adriatico in Makati. We made our vows before God and united in marriage. We left the place as Mr. and Mrs. Camara. It was a joyful moment that had huge implications for our lives. It was rooted in our mutual love and promise to love each other until the end of our lives. It's true. I am grateful to God for orchestrating this marriage. But to keep this joyful moment as we respond to life depends on us.

Almost three years before that, on 16 October 1988, I met Jesus Christ for the first time. A love relationship began, which completely transformed my life. I experienced God's love for me and committed to loving Him forever. It is another joyful moment, but the implications and effects are ongoing and all-encompassing. 

I thought these joyful moments never end. I just have to learn to be joyful in the middle of grief, stress, pressure, and all kinds of problems. But everything is not easy. It’s not easy when my children get sick or hurt. It's not easy when my spouse is having a hard time. No, Not everything is easy. I just have to see the purpose of God behind all these. God can bring us to His Words and be joyful even if there is no particular reason.

Philippians 4:4-7…

4 "Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.

6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." 

This passage comes in the context of Paul's letter to the Philippians while in prison, in the latter part of his missionary career. He was actively involved in establishing the church in Philippi, which endured mistreatment by the civil authorities. Paul encouraged them to adapt while journeying and struggling together for the proclamation of the gospel. Perhaps some of them are having second thoughts. Some may be counting the cost of following Jesus and hesitating, even considering turning back.

Paul did not write Philippians from a resort taking a vacation. He wrote it in prison. What was Paul’s secret? I created this HTTPS acronym to define the principles behind Paul's examples on how to be joyful no matter what.

1. If I am going to be joyful no matter what, hold on to the joy to be found in God. Philippians 4:4 "Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!"

Sometimes when we are struggling, we tend to look at what we see and we don't see God in heaven. If we think about it, here, Paul had all the reason to be tired and bitter, but he responded to life with joy. So, hold on to the joy that is found in God. We are only challenged by situations, problems, events, and people around us. No matter how hard we see, we can turn to God and rejoice.

2. If I am going to be joyful no matter what, take up the character of Christ. v5a "Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do." 

One of the challenges of following the Lord Jesus is to give up all the rights and accept the commitment to use the character of Christ in our daily lives. Paul urges the Philippians and specifically those who are having second thoughts about their commitment, to continue to live in the spirit of kindness.

Very challenging. It wasn't just marriage that transformed my life, I had to deal with the change in my character as a follower of Christ. Jesus wants me to change for my good. Jesus' sacrifice was his death on the cross for my sins. He paid the penalty I deserved. If this life is living by joy, we respond to life by being merciful.

3. If I am going to be joyful no matter what, take hold of the nearness of God. v5b Remember, the Lord is coming soon."

The vital part of the good news of Jesus Christ is the proclamation that the Lord is coming soon. God is so close to us through Jesus Christ that by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can come to Him with no requirement of sacrifice. If we experience pain in our lives, relationships, and workplace, “the Lord is coming soon.” Whatever struggles we are facing, in following Jesus, “the Lord is coming soon.” 

This declaration is intended to encourage and strengthen the commitment of all who have participated in the journey of following Jesus. We can be sure that they will be good followers/disciples, not perfect but will be role models of Paul's example of standing firm in the Lord.

In our quiet time with the Lord, we can see the light of being intimate with Him, He will deeply reveal Himself and we feel He is reaching out to us. Take hold of the nearness of God.

4. If I am going to be joyful no matter what, pray with thankfulness. v6 "Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done."  

The encouragement to pray is what we all need. Prayer leads us to trust God so we can enjoy life. That's what the passage meant when we rejoice, we get rid of every pessimistic thinking or feeling. Even when we don't know what will happen to the future or we don't know what to do.

5. If I am going to be joyful no matter what, stay in the peace of God. v7 "Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."

When life seems dark and lonely, we easily feel as if we are not protected. We become susceptible to making a wrong move and lose our commitment to being calm, loving, and good. But, it is clear to Paul that if we stay and pray, God's perfect peace will guard our hearts and minds.

Perhaps, you started well in the relationships or workplace you had, journeyed well with your loved ones, and somewhere along the way, your roads became crooked or bumpy. Where did I go wrong? You asked. The way to get back to where you started is very hard to achieve. Happiness does not depend on our situations or circumstances. We can still go back to where we want to be, even, more than we imagine. Though we feel our faith is lacking somewhere, God understands us. He will surely show you how good and how happy your life is with Him. 

What are the secrets of How to be joyful no matter what? The HTTPS principles. H, holding on to the joy to be found in God, T, taking up to the character of Christ, T, taking hold of the nearness of God, P, praying with thankfulness, and S, staying in the peace of God no matter what. So that our lives will be full of rejoicing and prayers.

I am going to ask for your response, those who need prayer today, this is the opportunity to come before the Lord and receive the gift of repentance and forgiveness. Let God's kindness lead you to repentance today. 

And for those who want to write their prayer request privately, you can send a DM or email me at elisa.camara07@gmail.com. Let's pray...

Our heavenly Father, thank you for the life that is in You. Thank you for the gift of repentance and forgiveness of our sins. Thank You for Your grace and mercy. Lord, as I pray for the person listening to this episode, Lead them to a safe place where they can find happiness, courage, and strength. Help them not easily sway from the temptations of this world. Lord, we come before You with humble hearts, with clean hands and pure hearts that you will bring us into a place of holiness and transformation. Set us free, Lord, if we have any bondage of fear, worries, anger, and bitterness. Help us to be wholeheartedly obedient to you so we will know Your purpose as being an expression of your goodness to the world. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for this joyful life with you no matter what. In Jesus' name, amen.

Screenshot photo from K-Drama series, "It's Beautiful now". 

I hope you come away from this episode feeling encouraged and purposefully living out your life with Jesus. Be sure to follow me on Instagram, @love_elisacamara, and if this episode was helpful to you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or any of my social media platforms, or If you think someone else would benefit and it could change their life, please share it with them! And if you share on social media, the hashtag #CafeTayowithElisaCamara would be greatly appreciated!  

Do you ever feel like you need a little help in your relationship with God? Let's chat. Just feel free to comment down below.  

Until the next issue every first Sunday at eight in the morning.

In my thoughts,

Elisa