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Forever Grateful: My Testimony (2026)

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Years ago, I shared my testimony during FRAN Day at Cross Pointe Church in 2018. At that time, I was simply telling the story of how God rescued me from a life of self-dependence and led me into a relationship with Him.


Looking back now, I realize that what I shared then was only the beginning of a much deeper journey. God was not just changing my life—He was slowly healing my heart, shaping my character, and teaching me what it truly means to trust Him.


My Life Before Christ


Before I fully surrendered my life to Christ, I lived with a strong sense of independence. I relied mostly on my own strength and often spoke without thinking about how my words affected others. I could be blunt, impatient, and stubborn—traits my parents know very well.


Growing up, our family went through many difficult seasons. Financial struggles and painful experiences with people around us shaped the way I viewed the world. Those moments left wounds that made it hard for me to trust others. Over time, bitterness quietly took root in my heart, and it affected how I related to people and relationships.


Because of these struggles, I became determined to succeed. I told myself that I would study hard and do everything I could to help my family rise above our circumstances.


By God’s grace, I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. But life did not unfold the way I expected. Opportunities in the clinical field were limited, so my path led me to ESL schools, outsourcing companies, and eventually a call center job.


At first, I saw it as temporary. But while I thrived professionally, stress and frustration slowly drained me. Beneath the busyness of life, there was a deeper emptiness I could not ignore.


How I Met Christ


During that season, our family faced another painful crisis involving my brother. It was a heavy burden that deeply affected us.


Around that time, a close friend spoke honestly with me about my life and my struggles. He reminded me that I did not have to carry everything alone because God is our refuge and strength.


His words stirred something in my heart. I began attending a life group, learning about God little by little. But even then, I had not fully surrendered. I still held tightly to my independence and placed conditions on my faith.


God, however, was patient with me.


When the situation with my brother worsened, I finally reached a breaking point. On my knees, I cried out to the Lord and surrendered my life to Him. I admitted my weakness and asked Him to take control of my life.


That moment taught me something I will never forget: there are battles we cannot win on our own. The only thing we can do is surrender them to God and trust Him to fight for us.


As Exodus 14:14 says,
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”


Looking back, I can see how God used my brokenness to draw me closer to Him. The walls of my self-reliance slowly came down so that I could learn to depend on Him.


The Journey of Healing and Ministry


Since surrendering my life to Christ, God has been faithfully transforming my heart.


I have been serving in ministry since 2013, and over the years, God has allowed me to walk alongside people—especially young adults—who are also navigating life, faith, and struggles.


But ministry did not mean that life suddenly became easy.


There were still seasons of pain, misunderstandings, and difficult relationships that tested my faith and my heart. Some of those who know my story have seen how God walked with me through seasons of healing—teaching me how to forgive, how to set healthy boundaries, and how to trust Him even when people fail.


Through those experiences, God slowly softened my heart. The same person who once struggled to trust others is now learning to listen deeply, love people genuinely, and extend grace more freely.
It has been a long and sometimes painful journey, but it has also been one of the most beautiful ways God has shaped my life.


Seeing God Answer Prayers


One of my deepest prayers has always been for my family to know the Lord.


There were many nights when I cried and prayed for them, wondering when God would move.


Today, I rejoice every time I see my parents listening to God’s Word. I will never forget the day my mother accepted Jesus and when my father expressed his desire to join a life group.


Those moments reminded me that God hears every prayer, even the ones that seem delayed.
I continue to pray and hope that one day my brother will also experience the same grace and transformation that God has shown me.


A New Chapter of Grace


Over the years, God has taught me to be content in every season—even in my season of singlehood. I learned to cherish the time I had with Him and to trust that His plans for my life were always good.


Then, in His perfect timing, God surprised me with something I had long prayed for but fully surrendered to Him—a relationship built on faith.


Today, I am grateful for the gift of a relationship where we encourage one another to grow closer to God and to serve Him faithfully. It is a reminder that when we entrust our desires to the Lord, He knows how to write our story in ways far more beautiful than we could imagine.


Lessons God Continues to Teach Me


Through every season, God has been teaching me to live with a heart of gratitude.


I learned to forgive quickly.


I learned to wait patiently.


I learned to trust God even when I do not understand His plans.


I learned to praise Him not only in victories but also in the waiting.


I praise God for the tears I have cried, because He has been my comfort.


I praise God for the moments I felt alone, because He became my closest listener.


I praise God for closed doors, because they led me to better opportunities.


I praise God for broken relationships, because through His grace, healing became possible.


I praise God for seasons of waiting, because they taught me that God’s timing is always perfect.


And I praise God for the life He continues to shape in me.


My Mission Field


Many people still ask if I will eventually return to the clinical field as a nurse.


For now, God has been clear in leading me to stay where I am. My workplace may look ordinary to others, but I believe God placed me there for a purpose.


What others call a job, I see as a mission field—a place where I can build relationships, listen to people’s stories, and share the love of Christ in everyday moments.


As long as God calls me to stay, I will continue to serve Him faithfully. Forever Grateful.


Looking back, I see how every chapter of my life—both joyful and painful—has been part of God’s faithful work.


He used my struggles to draw me closer to Him.


He used my brokenness to teach me dependence.


He used my story to reveal His grace.


And through it all, my heart continues to say the same words I once declared years ago:


I am forever grateful for His love, mercy, and faithfulness.


All glory belongs to Him.


Forever Grateful,
Charmaine🌿

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Finding My Anchor at the Edge of the Storm

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The other day, I was revisiting my sermon notes & scribbles and was reflecting again on a passage in Mark (6:53-56), where Jesus lands in Gennesaret, and immediately, people are clamoring to touch even the edge of his cloak, just to be healed. “All who touched it were healed,” it says. And as I read it, a wave of gratitude washed over me, because I realized how profoundly that passage speaks to my own journey, navigating the inevitable storms of life.

There was a time, not so long ago, when every wave felt so harsh. Before Christ, my life was one big blur. My career path was a winding road with no discernible destination. I drifted, picking up jobs, but never truly feeling a sense of purpose or direction. It was like being in a boat without a compass, just floating along, hoping I wouldn’t flip over.

But the biggest storms brewed closer to home. Family challenges, the kind that slowly erode your spirit, became my constant companions. My brother’s struggle with drug dependency cast a long shadow, filled with worry, heartbreak, and constant emotional turbulence. And then there was my dad, his gambling addiction creating its own set of unpredictable currents, pulling us all into financial and emotional uncertainty. It felt like I was always trying to bail water out of a sinking ship, exhausted, and feeling utterly alone, lost at sea. There were so many nights I cried myself to sleep, wishing for clarity, for a path, for just a moment of peace.

Looking back, the darkness felt absolute. I was so consumed by the chaos that I couldn’t see anything beyond the immediate crisis. Hope was a foreign concept.

Then came my local church—the unexpected shore. It was there I was finally introduced to Jesus my Savior. It wasn’t just hearing about him; it was an urgent spiritual touch, like reaching for that healing cloak. The darkness didn’t instantly disappear, but the light in my heart flared up. My whole perspective flipped. Suddenly, I had hope, not because the storms stopped, but because I had an unshakeable Anchor.

The passage in Mark talks about the people just needing to touch the edge of Jesus’ cloak. Like the people who rushed to the shore, I was seeking healing. I found it, not just for my broken spirit, but how I face the tides in life. For me, connecting with Christ wasn’t a physical touch, but a spiritual one – a surrender, a trust, a deep recognition of His presence. And with that connection came healing. Not that my family’s challenges vanished overnight, but my response to them fundamentally changed.

I found an inner strength I never knew I possessed. The frantic bailing of water slowed, replaced by a calm certainty that even in the storm, I had an anchor. My reactions to my brother’s relapses, to my dad’s struggles, were no longer purely emotional and reactive. Instead, I found myself responding with a divine patience, a boundless empathy, and a steadfast love that felt utterly beyond my own human capacity. I remember thinking, “This isn’t me. This can’t be just me.” It was, and still is, a powerful testament to the Holy Spirit flowing through me.

Today, as a single lady in my 30s, life still throws its curveballs. There are still moments of uncertainty about career, questions about my future, and ongoing ripples from those family storms. But now, when the waves roar, I don’t feel lost at sea. Where I once reacted with panic and anger, I now respond with patience and love. I personally know my Anchor. I have a clear direction, not because every step is illuminated, but because I know Who guides the ship.

My healing and my hope are rooted in that fundamental connection. I don’t have to perform or earn it; I just have to stay close to the source. When the storms hit, I remember that scene: like those people in Gennesaret, who just needed to touch Jesus to be made whole, I know that simply by staying connected to Him, I am not only healed but empowered to face anything. I have found deep healing from past wounds and a resilient hope for whatever tomorrow brings. From darkness to light, from blur to clarity – my journey with Christ has been nothing short of a miracle.

It’s a powerful lesson: When everything around us is chaotic, our anchor is not found in controlling the storm, but in knowing the one who calms it.

What area of your life feels like a chaotic storm right now, and how can you intentionally move closer to that “edge of the cloak” for peace?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus,

Thank you for being my Anchor when I was lost. Thank you for the light you brought into my darkness and for the healing and hope I found through knowing you.

Help me to remember that my strength in facing life’s waves comes not from my own effort, but from simply staying connected to you. Empower my spirit and my responses so that my life continues to reflect your divine peace. In Jesus my holy savior’s name. Amen.

Anchored & Forever Grateful,

Charmaine✨️🌷

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Finding My Tribe: A Heart Full of Gratitude

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I’ve been reflecting a lot lately on the idea of purpose—and more specifically, the purpose behind our relationships. The verse that keeps coming to mind, a true anchor for my heart, is Genesis 2:18: “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'”

This verse holds so much more weight for me now than it ever has before. There was a point in my life when I felt like my journey was one I had to walk alone. There was a season of deep hurt, a friendship heartbreak that left me feeling isolated and unwilling to trust. I built walls, believing they were protecting me, but in reality, they were just keeping me in a place that God Himself declared “not good“.

But God, in His infinite grace, did not allow me to stay there. He was so faithful in removing me from that painful situation and, in doing so, created a space for genuine connection to enter my life. It was a difficult journey back to vulnerability, but I am so profoundly grateful for that process because it led me to my true friends—the community I am blessed to be a part of today.

I am so thankful for the Lord’s guidance, for the way He placed a deep need for community in my heart and then began to fill it. First and foremost, I am grateful for my family. They are my rock, the ones who support my decisions and walk alongside me, no matter how rough the road gets. Their unwavering love is a tangible expression of God’s care.

And then, there are my sisters in Christ. These relationships are different—they are marked by a spiritual intimacy that is both rare and precious. We share our deepest struggles and our greatest joys, helping each other navigate this walk with Jesus. In their care, I see God’s love made manifest. They listen, they pray, and they treat me with a kindness that feels exactly like how the Lord treats me—like family. They have truly been the “helpers suitable for me” in this season.

This experience has taught me a profound lesson: that I, too, am meant to be a “helper.” My goal is to pour into them the same unconditional love and support they have given me. I want to give back the same grace and care that Jesus has modeled for us. And in this desire to serve, I find a beautiful humility. God has kept me from becoming boastful about these blessings, instead showing me that the truest joy comes not from receiving, but from giving.

As a single woman in my 30s, this season could easily feel defined by waiting. But thanks to this community, I see it differently. I am secure in God’s plan, knowing that He is using this time to prepare me—for a deeper walk with Him and, someday, for the man He has for me. I am not simply waiting for a partner; I am becoming a “helper” who will be a perfect fit for the man God has planned. This journey has given me the confidence to never settle for less, but to trust that I am being prepared for a partnership built on serving each other.

There are still moments of loneliness, yes. But th8ey are fleeting, temporary. I am secure in the promise that I am not meant to be alone forever. I am meant to be someone’s partner, and together, we will go through life as a team, with God as our guide. For now, I will continue to lean into this beautiful community and praise God for not letting me succumb to isolation but instead showing me the richness of living life with others. It is, without a doubt, one of His most perfect blessings.

I am so grateful to be right where I am,  by a community that fills my heart with so much joy and gratitude. God truly knows what is “good” for us, and for me, that is definitely not being alone.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine 🌷

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Beyond “Doing the Job”: Cultivating Respect as a Leader

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It’s another bustling week! Between managing my team at the call center and leading our life group at church, I’ve been reflecting a lot on what it truly means to lead. Lately, I’ve been diving into some really insightful material about “Learning to Lead Like Jesus,” and one of the biggest takeaways that keeps resonating with me is this: Leaders don’t force respect, they cultivate it.

It’s a strange thing, this journey of leadership. For a long time, I thought being a good leader meant having all the answers, being the smartest person in the room, or just making sure everyone did their job. It felt like I was constantly trying to force respect from my team at the call center and my life group at church.

This isn’t just some feel-good mantra; it’s a practical, actionable principle that has direct applications whether we’re handling customer queries or guiding spiritual discussions. I know, I know, sometimes it feels like just getting people to do what they’re supposed to do is a win. But as Dr. John Townsend explains, the real magic happens when they move from “supposed to” to “want to.” That’s where loyalty, dedication, and incredible results come from.

My recent devotion hit me hard. It wasn’t about forcing respect at all. It was about cultivating it. It’s a huge difference. Forcing respect is about my position. Cultivating it is about my actions.

So, how do we, as leaders in our unique spheres, cultivate that kind of respect and willingness to follow? My devotion points to four key skills, and I’m sharing how I’m trying to apply them.

1. Be Clear
At work, I’m trying to cut through the noise. I’ve stopped giving long-winded directions and just focused on what people need to know. “What’s the goal today?” “What’s the plan?” and “How does your part matter?” It’s a simple shift, but it makes a huge difference. When my team knows exactly what to do and why it matters, they feel more secure and waste less time.


In my life group, it’s the same. Instead of just reading a Bible verse and asking, “What do you think?”, I try to give a clear direction. “This week, let’s focus on praying 5 closest friends we are considering to disciple.” It gives people a clear purpose and a path to follow.

2. Be Warm
This is a challenge for me. I’m a “get-it-done” person. But I’ve learned that you can’t build a team on tasks alone. My team members aren’t just names on a schedule. They’re people with families and dreams. So now, I try to take a moment to ask, “How are you doing?” and really listen to the answer. I try to celebrate small wins, like a great customer feedback score or a breakthrough in a difficult conversation in life group. When people feel seen and valued, they want to put in their best effort. They feel like they belong.

3. Be an Influence
People don’t want to follow a leader who just stands still. They want to follow someone who is moving things forward.


At the office, I make sure to tell my team when I’ve fought for a better process or gotten a new tool to make their jobs easier. I want them to see me making a difference, not just managing from a desk.


For my life group, I try to inspire them to serve and grow. It’s not enough to just talk about our faith; we have to live it. I try to show them how we can make a real impact on our community, one small act of kindness at a time.

4. Be Authentic
This one is maybe the hardest, but also the most powerful. For years, I felt like I had to be perfect, like I could never show a weakness. But that just pushed people away. No one can relate to a “perfect” leader.
Now, I’m learning to say, “I messed up on that,” or “I’m struggling with this too.” When I admit my own mistakes or share a challenge I’m facing, it gives my team and my life group permission to be human. It creates a space of trust where we can all grow together.

Being open about my own faith walk, my doubts, my triumphs, and my continued need for God’s grace. Creating a space where people feel safe to share their struggles without fear of being judged, because they know I “get it” – or at least, I’m trying to. Showing my personality, my quirks, and sometimes even my exhaustion! It reminds everyone that we’re all on this journey together.

For me this is where Jesus’ example truly shines. He identified with our struggles, and that makes Him the ultimate relatable leader.

I know I’ve still got a long way to go in mastering these skills. Competency is crucial, absolutely. But moving beyond simply being good at my job to being a leader people genuinely want to follow is the goal.
Whether I’m navigating a busy shift at the call center or leading a heartfelt discussion in life group, my prayer is the same: “God, help me be approachable as a leader so I can lead with clarity and warmth. I want to create a team that respects each other so we can accomplish great things for Your glory.”

Leadership isn’t about a title. It’s about serving people and inspiring them to be their best. It’s not about being perfect, but about being real. And it’s a journey I’m on every single day.

How about you? Have you been trying to force respect, or are you actively cultivating it? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences, especially if you’re leading in unique ways.

Jesus’ follower & Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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The Gift of Being Seen

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We’ve all had moments where we’re struggling, but we just can’t find the words to explain it. You feel completely alone, like you’re in a crowded room but no one can see you. But what if someone did? What if, in that moment of silent struggle, a friend noticed and reached out?


That powerful feeling of being seen is a theme that runs through one of the most moving stories in the New Testament: the woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34). This isn’t just a story about a miracle; it’s about a person who was made to feel seen after years of being invisible. And it reminds me that we, too, can be a source of that same comfort for those around us.


This story is a great reminder for me. I had a friend who did something similar. I was going through a really tough time, and I felt like I couldn’t explain how much it hurt. I didn’t want to burden anyone, so I kept my pain to myself, feeling totally invisible even when I was with people. It was like being in a crowd, but no one could see me.


A friend noticed. She reached out first, simply saying, “Hey, I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m here for you.” She didn’t push for details, but her presence was a constant source of support. She even helped me find and attend a few therapy sessions—a step I was too overwhelmed to take on my own.

Reflecting on that, I see that’s exactly what Jesus did for the bleeding woman. She didn’t have a voice to ask for help; she just reached out in quiet desperation. The crowd probably didn’t even notice her. But Jesus did. He stopped everything, and not only healed her physically, but he also called her “Daughter” and brought her out of the shadows. He didn’t just heal her and move on; he truly saw her. He made her feel seen and valued after many years of being invisible.

That single, intentional act of seeing had a transformative impact. My friend didn’t have to fully understand my pain to validate it. Her simple statement, “I’m here for you,” was enough to pierce through my sense of isolation. She saw my quiet struggle, and like Jesus, didn’t jusf offer a passive acknowledgment but actively walked with me by helping me find a therapy.


Likewise, I want to be that kind of friend. I want to pay attention to the silent cues and not wait for someone to have the perfect words to explain their pain. Like Jesus, I want to be the person who notices the quiet struggles and says, “I see you.” It’s a reminder that sometimes the most powerful act of friendship is simply showing up, acknowledging someone’s quiet struggle, and walking with them through it.

Seen and forever grateful,

Charmaine

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Leading with Purpose: Lessons from Jesus’ Kingship and Zeal

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Diving into Mark 11:1-25 has profoundly reshaped my understanding of leadership. .

It’s not just about managing; it’s about embodying the inspiring, transformative spirit of Jesus’ Kingship and Zeal.

As I reflect on these truths, I’m eager to explore how I can apply them in my leadership roles, both in the dynamic BPO industry and within my small Bible study group at church.

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The Humble King’s Arrival: Leadership by Example


Forget the warhorse. In Mark 11, Jesus enters Jerusalem on a humble donkey, completely rewriting the script for a conquering king. This wasn’t weakness; it was a powerful statement of Kingship rooted in humility and service. The crowds hailed Him not because He demanded it, but because His presence radiated authentic authority. He showed us that true leadership isn’t about dominance, but about a purpose so clear, it inspires others to follow.

How I Apply This in the BPO: In our busy BPO world, it’s easy to just focus on numbers. But Jesus’ example teaches me to lead with humility. This means:

Serving My Team: I try to clear paths for my team, celebrate their wins, and genuinely help them succeed, not just focus on my own goals.

Listening Carefully: I make sure to really listen to everyone’s ideas and concerns, even from the newest team member. Good ideas can come from anywhere!

Being Present: I try to be visible and available, not just hidden in an office. Spending time on the floor, understanding their daily work, and showing I care builds trust and loyalty more than any rule.

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The King’s Passionate Heart: Zeal for What Matters


Have you ever seen someone so passionate about something good that it just ignites them? That’s what we see in Mark 11:15-19. Jesus enters the temple and finds it filled with people focused on making money, not truly worshipping God. He reacts with a strong, righteous anger.

He drives out those exploiting God’s house, showing His power and correcting the disrespect. This act wasn’t just anger; it was a deep, passionate zeal for the holiness of God’s place and a burning desire for real worship to happen. His actions show His strong commitment to His Father’s plan. This reminds me that faith isn’t always quiet; sometimes, it calls for bold, right action.

Life Application in the BPO: Zeal, when rooted in righteousness, is a powerful force. In the BPO, this translates to:

Passion for Quality and Honesty: I am deeply committed to providing excellent service and being honest, even when it’s tough. I’ll speak up for fair practices and against anything that hurts our work quality or our relationships with clients and staff.

Driving Purpose, Not Just Profit: While hitting targets is important, my passion goes beyond that. I try to explain why our work matters, helping my team see how their daily tasks serve clients and create good experiences. This can spark their own passion.

Courage to Fix Problems: Like Jesus clearing the temple, sometimes leadership means fixing old problems or bad habits that are hurting our productivity or team morale. This takes courage to speak up, even when it’s uncomfortable, because I truly want what’s best for everyone.

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His Commands: Faith, Prayer, and Forgiveness – The Foundation of Leadership

Beyond His examples, Jesus’ instructions in Mark 11:22-25 about sincere faith, earnest prayer, and forgiveness are vital. They’re not just for me personally, but are key for leading others in faith.

How I Apply This in My Bible Study Group: Leading a small Bible study group is different, but these ideas are just as crucial:

Growing Sincere Faith: As a leader, my own faith needs to be real. Am I consistently reading the Bible, praying, and seeking God’s guidance? This genuine faith will naturally inspire others. I want our group to be a place where it’s safe to ask questions and explore doubts as part of growing in faith.

Showing Earnest Prayer: I want to encourage our group to truly pray, not just say words. This means praying specifically for each other, for our church, and for those who don’t know God. I can show this by sharing my own prayer requests and stories of how God has answered, making prayer feel powerful and real for everyone.

Championing Forgiveness: Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness in Mark 11:25 is so important for any group. In our Bible study, if disagreements happen, my role is to create an atmosphere of grace. I’ll encourage everyone to forgive each other, just as God has forgiven us. This might mean helping with tough conversations and always reminding us of God’s grace, leading by example in showing forgiveness. It’s all about building a group where love and making up are top priorities.

The lessons from Mark 11 give us an amazing blueprint for leadership, no matter our role. Whether in the bustling environment of a BPO or the intimate setting of a Bible study, embodying Jesus’ humble Kingship, righteous zeal, and unwavering commands provides a powerful foundation for inspiring, empowering, and transforming those we lead. I am committed to daily reflecting on these truths and striving to live them out wherever God calls me to lead.

And this I say, “Lord, refine me in this area.”

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Serving Like Our Servant-King: My Ongoing Journey of Service in the Call Center

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In the fast-paced world of call centers, it’s easy for leaders to lose sight of the “human” in human resources. We chase KPIs, manage queues, and strive for efficiency. But what if leadership was less about managing numbers and more about a continuous journey of humble service? Mark 10:32-52 offers a powerful guide for us, especially those of us leading teams right here.

The Path I Choose (Mark 10:32-34)
Jesus was heading to Jerusalem, knowing exactly what awaited Him: suffering, betrayal, death. Yet, He led the way. He didn’t shy away; He embraced His purpose.

As a call center leader, I often face my own “Jerusalem moments”—tough targets, frustrated agents, or escalated issues. Do I approach these with Jesus’ clear purpose, or do I shrink back? This passage makes me ask: Am I leading for my team’s success and well-being, even when it’s uncomfortable for me? Am I truly leading, or just managing?

This leadership path isn’t always easy, but it’s one I choose to walk with intention.

Checking My Entitlement (Mark 10:35-45)
This part hits hard. Right after Jesus talks about His suffering, James and John ask for the best seats in His kingdom. They felt entitled. The other disciples were mad, probably because they wanted those seats too! But Jesus completely redefines greatness: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

This is a constant check for me. Do I ever feel entitled to my position, my authority, or my team’s deference? Do I expect my agents to serve my goals more than I serve theirs? True leadership, Jesus shows, isn’t about getting a “right-hand seat” but about taking on the toughest “calls” myself, clearing roadblocks for my team, and genuinely listening to their struggles. It’s about remembering that my role is to uplift and empower them, not to be served by them.

Learning from Humble Faith (Mark 10:46-52)
Then there’s Bartimaeus, the blind beggar. He had no status, no “right” to Jesus’ attention. Yet, with humble, persistent faith, he cried out for mercy. He didn’t let the crowd silence him; he kept calling. And when Jesus called him, he immediately threw everything aside to follow Him.

This teaches me so much about the people I lead. Am I truly seeing the “Bartimaeuses” on my team—the ones who might be overlooked, struggling, or feeling silenced, yet have immense potential? Am I humble enough to listen to their voices, even when it’s uncomfortable? And am I willing to “throw off my cloak”—my own comfort or routine—to actively support them and help them grow, just as Bartimaeus decisively followed Jesus?

My Ongoing Journey of Service
Following Jesus, our Servant-King, means a constant re-evaluation of my heart and a continuous journey of transforming my leadership. It means consciously shedding any sense of entitlement and embracing a life of humble, purposeful service. It’s not just a strategy for better KPIs nor a destination I reach, but a path I commit to walking every single day.

What does it mean for your leadership, truly, to serve like the King who gave everything?

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Photo credits:  Azpired Inc
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My Single Journey in My 30s: Embracing God’s Gift and Purpose

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The air in my home city often hums with laughter and family life, and as a single woman in my 30s, I sometimes hear another sound too: the question, “Why are you still single?”

These questions can be gentle or they can carry a hidden message: “Are you worried you’ll miss out?” or “Isn’t it getting too late?” Well-meaning advice and curious glances often come with a quiet pressure to follow a timeline that isn’t mine.

For a while, these questions bothered me. They made me wonder if something was wrong, or if I was missing out on a big part of life. But as I’ve grown older and deeper in my faith, I’ve come to a peaceful understanding: being single isn’t just waiting; it’s a special time with its own gifts.

This understanding comes clearly from 1 Corinthians 7. The Apostle Paul, himself single, writes: “I wish that all of you were as myself am. But each has his own gift from God; one of one kind and one of another. To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is  good for them to remain single, as I am.” (1 Corinthians 7:7-8, ESV).

Paul calls singleness a “gift from God.” This really shifted my view. It’s not a lesser state, or a problem to be fixed. It’s a gift, just like marriage is a gift. It means God has a purpose for me in this season, and it’s a good one.

He goes on to explain why singleness can be a blessing: “I want you to be free from anxities. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. But the married man is anxious about wordly things, how to please his wife, and his interests are divided. And the unmarried or bethrothed woman is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to be holy in body and spirit. But the married woman is anxious about worldly things, how to please her husband. I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.” ( 1 Corinthians 7:32-35)

This verse hits home. It speaks of “undivided devotion to the Lord.” As a single woman, I have a unique freedom to focus my energy, time, and attention fully on God and His work, without the good but demanding responsibilities of a spouse and family. This isn’t to say marriage isn’t good or spiritual – it is! But singleness offers a different, powerful path to serve God with fewer distractions.

So, when people ask why I’m still single, my answer, though often just a quiet thought, comes from this understanding. I am waiting for God’s perfect time and His perfect choice for a lifelong partner. I believe marriage is sacred, as Jesus taught in Mark 10, a “one flesh” union. Because it’s so important, it’s not something to be rushed into. It’s not about checking a box by a certain age, but about entering into a holy covenant with the right person, at the right time, as God leads.

And yes, I have a non-negotiable list – not based on superficial things, but on what I believe is essential for a marriage that honors God and reflects His design:

  • A true follower of Jesus: Someone who loves God more than anything, even more than me.
  • A man of good character: Honest, trustworthy, and whose actions match his words.
  • Emotionally strong and stable: Able to talk openly, handle feelings well, and understand himself.
  • A caring heart: Someone who is kind, thoughtful, and willing to serve others, showing Christ’s love.
  • Desire to grow: Someone who wants to keep growing in faith and as a person.
  • Shared vision for family and purpose: While details can be figured out, a general agreement on raising children and serving God’s kingdom.

This list isn’t about finding a perfect person; it’s about finding a strong foundation. Because what God brings together is meant to last, and that takes two people who are truly committed to building a life focused on Him.

And in the meantime, I’m finding so many blessings in singlehood. This season has been a gift of:

  • Deep time with God: More space for prayer, reading the Bible, and serving Him without daily family demands.
  • Personal growth: Opportunities to understand myself better, use my unique gifts, and chase my passions.
  • Freedom to serve: The flexibility to say “yes” to helping others, joining ministries, and impacting my community.
  • Stronger bonds: Deeper connections with friends and family, building a strong support system.
  • Learning and independence: Managing my own life and resources, building a secure future.

Being single in my 30s isn’t a “waste” or “too late.” It’s a special chapter in my story, a time for preparing, growing, and trusting. It’s a time to enjoy today and to walk confidently in God’s perfect timing, knowing that when He does bring two into “one flesh,” it will be in His perfect way, for His perfect reason. And for that, it’s always worth the wait.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Leading with Empathy in the Call Center Trenches

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In the bustling, often chaotic world of a call center, we’re constantly surrounded by voices. Hundreds of them. Each one representing a customer, an agent, a person. On the surface, it’s about metrics, service level agreements, and resolving issues. But if you listen closely, if you really lean in, you’ll hear something else: stories! Stories of diverse struggles, triumphs, frustrations, and hopes.

As someone leading in this environment, my days are a whirlwind of coaching calls, reviewing performance, and navigating the unpredictable tide of customer interactions. It’s easy to get lost in the operational details, to see agents as just “numbers” or customers as just “problems.” But lately, I’ve been challenged to see beyond the surface, to lead with a different lens, to lead with a special kind of kindness – one that comes from being like Christ.

Looking Closer: Showing Jesus’ Heart
The idea that “a believer’s Christlike engagement changes lives and communities by showing Jesus’ heart and hands every day” has become a guide for me. I think about stories like Mark 5:1-6, where Jesus met a man who was very troubled.

Imagine it: a man living alone in old tombs, full of pain. Society had labeled him. People had given up on him. But Jesus didn’t just see a “crazy person”; He saw someone deeply hurting. His strong caring made Him act. He didn’t turn away from the hard or scary parts. He engaged with true empathy.

In our call center, this means a lot. Someone on my team might be having a “bad day.” Their voice might sound tired, or their work might slip. It’s easy to just look at their numbers and tell them what they did wrong. But what if they just got bad news about their family? What if they’re quietly struggling with worry or money problems?

Showing Jesus’ heart means I can’t just see a “low score.” I need to see the person. It means asking, “How are you really doing?” It means listening without judging, offering a safe space, and knowing that sometimes, the biggest problem isn’t about their job, but about a personal burden they carry. It’s choosing to care deeply, even if just for a moment, because that moment can change everything for them.

Taking Action: Guiding with Grace

But just caring isn’t enough; our kindness must lead to action. This is where Jesus’ “hands” come in, like in Mark 8:1-4, where He fed the four thousand. Jesus cared about the hungry crowd, and then He found a practical way to help them. He took the small amount of food they had (seven loaves, a few fish), thanked God, broke it, and told His followers to give it out. Everyone had plenty.

In the workplace, “practical help” isn’t about making food appear. It’s about:

Helping Others to Serve: Just as Jesus included His followers, a leader like Christ helps their team. Instead of just telling people what to do, I try to give my team the skills and trust to solve customer problems kindly and on their own. It means believing in them, guiding them through tough calls, and celebrating when they do well.

Plenty, Even with Little: We don’t always have perfect answers for every customer or team member problem. But like Jesus, we can work with what we have. Can we find a simple way to change a team member’s schedule if they have a personal issue? Can we use our existing help to connect them with support if they need it? Can we suggest better tools or ways of doing things? Even with few resources, a heart full of care can push us to find “plenty of solutions” for real needs, trusting that God can work through what we do.

These are not something that happened overnight. It took some time to wrestle with the Word and grasp it. Thankfully by God’s grace and the help of the Holy Spirit, needs were met and hearts were changed most especially mine.

The Good Changes We Make
When we lead with this kind of Christlike kindness, we see real changes. Our team members feel seen, valued, and understood. This makes them happier, often helps them work better, and makes them want to stay on the team. Our workplace feels more supportive, stronger, and more human.

And in the end, this kindness reaches our customers. A team member who feels truly cared for is much more likely to give that same real care to the person on the phone.

Leading in a call center, with all its demands and many voices, gives us a great chance to live out our faith. It’s a daily process where true care, led by Jesus’ heart, turns into real, loving help from our hands. It’s about bringing His power to change lives into every talk, every coaching moment, and every choice we make, right here in our office.

Are you in a leadership role, no matter the industry? How do you strive to reflect Christ’s heart and hands in your daily interactions? Share your insights below!

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine ✨️🤍🌸

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From Call Center to Compassion Center: Lessons in Leading with Humility and Heart

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My years in a call center company weren’t just about metrics and KPIs; they were a profound training ground in the art of leading with humility and servanthood. It’s a world where you progressively learn that true leadership isn’t about authority, but about the ability to connect with and serve the people behind the headsets.


The struggles were real. High-pressure environments, demanding customers and clients, and the constant need to motivate teams through challenging situations. I saw firsthand how easy it was to slip into a top-down approach, barking orders and focusing solely on results. But something always felt…off.


It was in those moments of frustration, of feeling the weight of responsibility, that the example of Jesus became my compass. His words, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all,” weren’t just a nice sentiment; they were a radical blueprint for a different kind of leadership.


I began to realize that the most effective way to lead wasn’t from a place of power, but from a place of empathy. It meant:

  • Listening more than I speak: Truly hearing the concerns and challenges of my team members, not just waiting for my turn to talk.
  • Celebrating small wins: Recognizing and appreciating the daily efforts that often go unnoticed.
  • Leading with vulnerability: Admitting my own mistakes and showing that it’s okay to not have all the answers.
  • Advocating for my team: Shielding them from unnecessary stress and ensuring they had the resources they needed to succeed.


Over time, compassion became the cornerstone of my leadership. It wasn’t just about being “nice”; it was about genuinely caring for the well-being of each individual, understanding their unique circumstances, and creating a supportive environment where they could thrive.


This approach wasn’t always easy. There were times when I had to make tough decisions, but even then, I tried to do so with a spirit of humility and a focus on what was best for everyone involved. I learned that leading with compassion doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations; it means having them with honesty, respect, and a genuine desire to find solutions that honor everyone’s dignity.

The journey of becoming this kind of leader is ongoing. There are still a lot of moments when I fall short, when I let pressure get the better of me. But the lessons I learned in the call center – the power of humility, the transformative effect of servanthood, and the guiding light of Jesus’ example – continue to shape my approach to leadership in every area of my life.


It’s a reminder that true influence isn’t about climbing the ladder, but about lifting others as we climb. It’s about recognizing that the most profound impact we can have is often found in the quiet acts of service, the genuine expressions of compassion, and the unwavering commitment to putting the needs of others before our own.



How about you? In what ways can you practice humility and servanthood in your current role, whether at work, at home, or in your community?

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine 🌸✨️

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The Unfolding Dawn: My Journey Beyond the Instant

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We often hear stories of miraculous healings, the kind that happen in a flash, a sudden restoration that leaves everyone in awe. And while those testimonies are powerful and point to the undeniable power of God, my own journey has been a little different. It’s been more like the slow, steady unfolding – gradual, persistent, and ultimately bringing a beautiful, complete light.

There was a time when I desperately longed for that instant, dramatic breakthrough. I prayed fervently for a sudden removal of the pain, the limitation, the struggle that had become my constant companion. I read scripture after scripture about immediate healings, and a part of me wondered, even doubted, why my story wasn’t unfolding the same way.

Mark 8:22-26, the story of the blind man healed in stages, has become a touchstone for me during this journey. Jesus didn’t just snap his fingers and restore the man’s sight. First, the man saw blurry figures, “like trees walking around.” It was a start, a glimmer of hope, but not the full picture. It took a second touch, a further act of Jesus’ gentle power, for his vision to become crystal clear.

My own healing has mirrored this. It hasn’t been a single, defining moment, but a series of small steps, tiny victories, and moments of increasing clarity. There have been times of frustration, of feeling stuck in the “blurry” stage, wondering if I’d ever truly see clearly again. But just like Jesus didn’t give up on the blind man, I’ve learned that God’s healing is persistent. His touch might come in layers, peeling back the layers of pain, doubt, and limitation bit by bit.

This journey has taught me the beauty of patience. It’s revealed the strength that can be found in the gradual process, the deeper understanding that comes from walking through the “blurry” phases. I’ve learned to celebrate the small improvements, knowing that each step is a testament to God’s unwavering presence and his commitment to my wholeness.

Perhaps your own healing journey isn’t an overnight miracle either. Maybe you’re in that in-between space, seeing glimpses of hope but not the full picture yet. Take heart. Remember the blind man of Bethsaida. Remember the persistent touch of Jesus. Remember the unfolding of dawn, how the darkness slowly gives way to the full brilliance of day. Complete healing is coming. Trust the process. Trust the Healer. The light will break through, and you will see clearly.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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The Beauty of Letting Go: Gaining More of Christ

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Letting go is never easy. Our human nature craves comfort, familiarity, and control. We hold on to people, situations, and memories—even when they weigh us down—because releasing them feels like loss. But in God’s hands, letting go is not about losing; it’s about making space for something greater.

God’s Pruning Process

John 15:2 reminds us that God prunes every branch that bears fruit so it can become even more fruitful. That means sometimes, He asks us to release what is no longer serving His purpose in our lives. This may include relationships that drain us, friendships that remain surface-level, jobs that pull us away from Him, or memories that keep us stuck in the past.

Pruning is painful, but it’s necessary. If we refuse to let go, we risk stunting our spiritual growth. God’s desire is to refine us, to remove distractions, and to shape us into who He created us to be.

Letting Go as an Act of Faith

Releasing is an act of trust. It says, “Lord, I don’t fully understand, but I believe You know best.” When we surrender our burdens, we acknowledge that God is sovereign and that His plans far exceed our own.

There is no need to fear what lies ahead because God never removes something without purpose. If something is truly meant for us, He will restore it in His perfect timing—or He will replace it with something far better.

The Weight We Weren’t Meant to Carry

Many of us are walking through life carrying unnecessary burdens—heartbreaks, disappointments, betrayals, or even personal failures. We convince ourselves that holding on gives us control, but in reality, it only holds us back.

Hebrews 12:1 tells us to throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles so we can run with perseverance the race marked out for us. What’s slowing you down today? What is God asking you to release?

Unhealthy relationships?

Friendships that lack depth and authenticity?

A job that consumes your time but leaves you spiritually drained?

Painful memories that replay in your mind, keeping you stuck?


Whatever it is, surrender it to Him. Lay it at His feet. He never makes mistakes.


The Reward of Letting Go

The greatest reward of surrender is gaining more of Christ. When we let go of the things that consume our hearts and minds, we create room for His presence to fill us. We begin to desire Him more than the things we once held onto.

At the core of our faith is this truth: Jesus is enough. When we release our grip on the things of this world, we discover the beauty of holding onto Him alone.

Less of Me, More of Him

May we learn to trust in His wisdom, even when it’s hard. May we embrace the freedom that comes with surrender. And may our hearts echo the words of John 3:30—”He must become greater; I must become less.”

If you’re struggling to let go today, take it to God in prayer. Ask Him to give you the courage to release, the faith to trust, and the peace to move forward.

Because in the end, the beauty of letting go is gaining Christ.

My Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

I come before You with open hands and an open heart. You see the things I struggle to release—the relationships, the memories, the plans, and the burdens I’ve been holding onto. Some of them feel so familiar that letting go seems impossible. But Lord, I trust that You never ask me to release something without purpose.

Help me to surrender everything that is weighing me down. Prune my heart, Lord—cut away the things that are no longer serving Your purpose in my life. Even when it’s painful, help me to trust that You are making room for something greater.

Give me the faith to believe that if something is truly meant for me, You will restore it in Your perfect timing. And if it’s not, I know You have something even better prepared. Your ways are higher, Your plans are greater, and Your timing is always right.

Teach me to release control and walk in trust. Free me from the fear of the unknown and the weight of the past. I lay it all at Your feet, Lord, knowing that You never make mistakes.

Fill the empty spaces in my heart with more of You. Let me desire You above all else. Less of me, more of You, Jesus. That is my prayer.

In Your loving and faithful name, I pray,
Amen.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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God works for good

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A very dear officemate of mine has this habit of singing any song with wrong lyrics, most of the time unintentionally. One time he sang the Miley Cyrus song, “The Climb” . It was the funniest and worst rendition I have ever heard but for some reason it was entertaining and music to our ears. Then another real singer in our team joined him in perfect harmony. It shifted from mediocre entertainment to wordclass jive. People in our office started singing along at the top of their lungs. It was good! No, it was outstanding performance! The result was the most beautiful music. Good for our weary soul.

God calls us into a relationship that involves cooperation with him. Our faith and walk with him are primarily about what has been done for us by God in Christ Jesus. However, we are not just mere spectators. We are called to respond. God wants us to be involved in his plans. God comes and sits alongside us and in “all things…works for the good” (Roman’s 8:28). He takes our untuned melody and makes something beautiful out of our lives.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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BPO Confessions | How to be patient in agent’s progress

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I have been working in the business for over 10 years now and I can tell how tedious the job is. Aside from being stigmatized socially that call center job is a brainless work, the inside job is actually exhausting most especially when you work in the operations support team. It takes immense hard work and dedication to help each call taker control each calls with value and respect. Mind you, it’s not easy to be yelled at by an irate customer nor it’s fun to work as a night owl (consider world time conversion.) Making sure the operations is running smoothly and customer satisfaction is being maintained is indeed not an easy job.

So, how does the work really being done?

I, myself is not an expert in strategies and techniques in running the business. I am also a work in progress. Tenure employees in the field say that these aspects matter: effective coaching techniques or cultivating coaching culture, hiring the right people, providing comprehensive and onboarding training, ensuring proper scheduling, balancing workflow to meet demands, etc, and the list continues. Yes, they do work effectively but as for me being supportive, being readily available and being patient in agent’s progress is the key to success.

“I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Philippians 1:6

One of my roles is to listen to random calls and provide feedback stating agent’s strengths and areas for improvement. Whenever I do this, it’s just so tempting to just criticize the bad points but overtime I have learned to focus on the good. When I just started being a support member, I am actually very strict and I yell at my agents for their errors every single time. Back then, I am one of the terror and scariest people in the production floor no one should dare to displease. ( I was also a newbie Christian too. You see, we also fail. We aren’t perfect. We stumble and do crazy things too). It’s something I am not so proud of but I am grateful for I have gain worthy life lessons. Thankfully, God have gently rebuked and helped me build a stronger foundation and thought me lessons on love and patience. I have learned how is it really to become a great mentor at work. At present whenever I listen to each call and whenever I commend an agent especially the newbies for a good call, I didn’t mean that it was the best call ever but I know it was their best at their level.

In the same way, God does not wait for us to mature for him to start loving us. He doesn’t wait for us to clean up or straighten up to think we’re good enough for his love and that I shouldn’t do that with others, either. I’ve got to love them, warts and all. Just as the Lord has been very understanding and patient with me, I’ve got to be patient with their progress too whether it’s a matter concerning call handling or attendance.

Paul is a great example of this: “I am certain that God, who began the work within you, will continue his work until it’s finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.“(Philippians 1:6). He knew God was doing good, long work in the lives of the people of the Philippian church, and he was patient with their progress.

As a management head, why is important to my happiness? It’s because if I insist on perfection in my agents, I’m going to be miserable the rest of my life. If I’m always expecting perfection in my agents before I commend or accept them in my team, I’m never going to be happy because no one is perfect including me.

Here’s a little happiness hint: If you want to have happier and healthier relationships, then celebrate how far people have come rather judging them for far they still have to go. You’ve got to be patient with people’s progress.

When I think about the Lord and how he has been faithful and patient with me, it really set both of my feet on the ground. And this my friends is one of my biggest BPO journey victory. It is to be able to celebrate people instead of judging them for their imperfections, you’ll have to be patient. And the key to patience is above all is LOVE.

To add, Paul says in the next verse, “It is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. (Philippians 1:7). As for me, my team and the company absolutely have a special place in my heart. God have clearly put me here for a purpose.

A few of my memories with the team. Have fun!

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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I will not Fail

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What things would I do if I knew that success was assured? What things would I accomplish if there were no limitations? Do I feel that is more in me that I am able to express? These questions resonated with me as I go over my devotional readings this week. Failure may have shown up in me in the past but victory is in my future. I will not fail because:

1. We have been Chosen

It does not matter in which way we enter into the world or through what circumstances, we were meant to be here. “We did not happen to be, we were chosen by God to exist.” – Mother Angelica. Just as we go into a store and specifically choose what we need and what will be beneficial for our plans, God also chose us for a purpose. God thinks so highly of us that He sacrificed His only Son so that we would have the opportunity to be in a relationship with Him. He loves us with an unconditional love. He is omniscient, which means that He is all-knowing. That assurance that there is nothing about us that has or will catch Him off guard. He knows our start to finish and everything in between. He chose us despite anything that He knew and placed us here for such a time as this. Our life is not accidental because there is purpose flowing through our veins. He created us to be a solution to a problem. God’s view of us is nothing but lofty thoughts. His thoughts for us exceed anything we could ever think of ourselves, and relationship with Him is the only way to align those visions. We will begin to see our value through spending time with Him in prayer, meditating on His word and rehearsing those things He over us. We were purchased at a high price. We are full of purpose. We are chosen by the Most High God. It is time to live like that. With Him, we can’t fail.

2. We have been given Power

In a world with so much injustice, disruption and hatred, it can seem that we become powerless. If we are honest, there are times when we have felt powerless in our own life. This can be dangerous place to be because feeling powerless often leads to desperation, and desperation can lead to bad decision making. There are moments in life when we our human ability will reach its limit, but there is never a time when God is powerless. God is omnipotent which means that He is all-powerful. He has an endless supply of “super” that is at our disposal. It doesn’t matter what we have experienced or what we may be up against in the present; we have what it takes to take it through. He created us and equipped us to be victorious in any situation that we could face. He is our power source so we can handle anything that may rise up against us. So, let’s access that power. We may need to take a moment to recharge our battery and that is okay because He wants us to rely on Him. Prayer and meditation on His Word will refill us. We do not have to fear, worry or throw in the towel. We can rest in His power and we will not fail.

3. We have been given a new beginning

“We must be willing to let go of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” – Joseph Campbell.

The reason that many have a hard time believing that they are chosen or that they have access to God’s power is because of a wall of unworthiness. There are many with a past that seems to be unforgivable or even a present that we may not be proud of. Let’s be assured that God was already aware of our past, present or future. God is omnipresent which means he exist outside of time, giving Him access to all of time. He knew about every hardship, obstacle, bad decision and sin when He created and assigned purpose to us. Our flaws and mistakes did not get us off the book because all of those things were already accounted for. That was the purpose of God sending His Son- Jesus. He knew that we would have shortcomings and would be in need of redemption so He was proactive and put a plan into motion to provide us with a fresh start. God is not stuck on our perceived failures nor is He caught off guard by our mistakes. God’s purpose for our life is not contingent on perfection by our own right. God simply is looking for us to accept the gift that He has for us. He wants us to come and trade in our old life for a new one. He wants us to surrender our faulty plans for His perfect plan. There is no failure in Him. When we allow Him to abide in us and us in Him, we can access everything He has for us. Victorious living is not a chain of events but a posture of our mind and heart. When we know who God is, we know that no matter how something may look, it is and will always work out for our good. May this encourage us to embrace the new life available to us. We do not have to work for it. We do have to beg for it. We must simply accept the gift. We will not fail.

I will not fail.

Forever Grateful of my purpose,

Charmaine

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A Trap

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Have you ever felt trapped?

I recall an instance in the mall when a guy approached me and my mom and asked us to join a random game of chance. He assured us that we aren’t paying anything and they are just doing it for marketing. Drawn by his words, we played along and “won” one of the latest appliances at that time. In order for us to claim the prize, we needed to go to their nearby office which is just inside the mall. We were greeted and congratulated and was offered refreshments. At first, we were overwhelmed and then were asked to wait as they need to document and prepare the hotpot that we were supposed to receive. Another guy who claimed to be the manager asked us to fill out a form and we did as instructed. Then he started to introduce the business which is in fact an insurance company. It went on for 30-45 minutes. We were under the impression that it was just a simple business presentation but he then said that in order for just to claim the hotpot, we need to enroll to their program. My mom kindly declined as basically we were just supposed to buy groceries when the other guy invited us to join the game, and told the manager that we will not just take the prize. However, the manager insisted that we pay for the membership since he already started presenting the business plan and according to him we agreed of the terms when we joined the game and showed the paper that we filled out. I am very keen when signing documents but I swear the first page stating we are wiling to become members were not given to us. Had I known, we will never sign them. Needless to say, we were trapped. The first guy did not told us that. Clearly he said that we are not paying a single penny. My mom and I walked out and promised ourselves not to be drawn by something like that.

If we’re all honest, none of us enjoys feeling trapped. Some of us have felt trapped by financial debt. Others have felt trapped in a relationship. Many wake up to jobs they feel trapped by.

There’s another kind of trap many of us have fallen into throughout our lives,

“Fearing people is a dangerous trap…” (Proverbs 29:25)

The idea here is of a trap that ensnares an unsuspecting animal. We might find ourselves ensnared by the need to always say yes when others ask us to do something. Or perhaps we’re hesitant to speak up on social media due to the fear of what others might thing of us. There might  even be people who evoke a strong feeling of fear or anxiety in us while in their presence.

I’m so thankful for the second half of the verse above,

“..but trusting the Lord means safety.”

This means we place our full confidence in God alone. He’s a safe and secure foundation. God is in the business of setting trapped people free!

When we fear people, we are allowing them to dictate how we feel. This like putting our confidence in a rickety chair to hold our weight. Sooner or later, we’re bound to let others down or be down by others.

As our trust in the Lord increases, our fear of people will decrease. Before long, we’ll find ourselves living out these words of David,

“The Lord is my light and my salvation —

Who shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life —

of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)

My Prayer:

My Heavenly Father, we place our trust in You along. Apart from You, I walk on fragile ground that can give away at any moment. I ask that You drive away all fear of man and unproductive thoughts in our lives. Father, I am not always sure what the future will bring. But I know that You have a plan and purpose for my life. Thank you for guiding and protecting me. As I continue to follow You, I will not be afraid –instead, I will trust in you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Freed and Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Decluttering My Soul

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In my thirties, I convinced myself to be a grown-up and take on the things I tended to avoid, but when things got tough, budget formulas seemed inconsequential. Try as I might face reality, I had no idea what to do with a reality that didn’t match up to my ideals. Forget putting my fingers in my ears –I was now more like an ostrich with its head in the sand.

In life there are things so overwhelming that before you have time to think or process what’s happening, your mouth sputters out the likes of:

“I can’t handle this.”

“I can’t deal with this.”

“This is too much.”

When we don’t know how to cope, we cope by not coping; we avid. I am a master of avoidance myself. Avoidance becomes an option we don’t have to decide to take. It’s a place where we can pretend nothing is happening, and, therefore, we don’t have to change.

To the untrained eye, avoidance looks like doing a lot of nothing. I can tell you it’s anything but. It takes considerable energy to avoid something or someone, push back against change, overthink our circumstances, or pretend we don’t hear or see what’s going on when there’s actually no avoiding. You only delay things. I never fully viewed my avoidance as inaction because I was spending almost all my time introspecting, coping, managing, preparing for “when and then.” All of the mental gymnastics required a level of doing, even if just in the mind.

Think of the energy we exert when we avoid a physical uncluttering in our homes. Because it feels like a daunting project, we convince ourselves that it’s easier to tidy around clutter than to organize or get rid of it. Surely clearing out will take far more time and effort than cleaning up does, we tell ourselves as we exert more energy with all our emotional laboring over this looming task. In the long run we are exerting more energy because we are repeatedly tidying and cleaning things we wouldn’t have to, if only we’d take the time to go through the process of uncluttering.

At my worst, during bouts if depression, I spent an embarrassing amount of time staring at the wall, so vanquished mentally that I couldn’t move physically — too overwhelmed to even to make the bed or do simple house chores.

To some this may sound extreme, and others know exactly what this feels like. It feels like something is exceptionally wrong with you. There must be — if the smallest decisions, like to what to eat, wear, or watch, are debilitating. If you have no tears left to cry. It’s as though you voice is foreign; it’s forgotten how to communicate, or may it never knew how to in the first place. It seems everyone and everything are in motion, except you. One unkind word will swallow you whole. You feel as if you’ve been left behind–even when you are right in the middle of it all. You’re flawed, defective even. Trapped in your own clutter. And you feel so much shame for not being able to get out from under it — when other people seem able to just toss it off.

Why couldn’t I get moving? Take action? Make a decision? Friends of mine, along with every person I scrolled past on Instagram, were out there hustling, living their lives, making decisions, and watching their dreams come true. And me? I couldn’t get out of bed, off the couch, or out of my closet. I’d try to hype myself up on the success of others, social media quotes, and God’s promises.

It worked sometimes. But then I’d be right back where I started. Back to overanalyzing, not only my situation but why I procrastinated, why I couldn’t make decisions, or why I couldn’t take consistent action. I needed clarity.

As I kept paying attention, the clues began to point to a pattern. A toxic cycle. I had been dissociating from my life — and there had to be a reason.

Eventually I could no longer rely on my introspection and reflection: I needed the Holy Spirit’s revelation. I could see what I needed to change, but I needed Him to reveal the source, the root of my wounds, and I needed Him to keep showing me the Way.

He is the One who unlocks the door and turns on the lights in the forgotten spaces of my soul. Over ere, He whispers. First walking through the door, then staying to sort things out — participating with us.

With the help of the Holy Spirit to peel back layer upon layer, clarification came. I must take an honest look and ask: Do I withdraw from my life, or do I live it? I was withdrawing. I wasn’t living; I was fighting my life. I was battling the things I couldn’t control and avoiding the things I could control. Both led to self-sabotage.

My focus was on the lives of other people in my family and work, as well as strangers on the Internet that I was comparing myself to. I had been asleep to own life, and the Holy Spirit was walking me up and inviting me to participate in my life.

The Holy Spirit is waiting and He will do the same for you. Allow Him to show you how to begin to participate in your life today!

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I want to be fully participating in the life You intend for me and in sharing the love of Jesus.

Romans 12: 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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The Bella Swan in Me

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I came across a Netflix Instagram feed featuring Bella of the famous “Twilight” movie saga. I can’t believe it’s been 13 years since it was theatrically released. It’s definitely one of my favorite movie sequel! In that IG post, it features all the bloopers and literally all kinds of stumbling stunts of Bella. In the movie, she was just an ordinary girl, careless and weak. But what I love about her is that she is also reclusive, quiet, a bit of insecure but kind-hearted, compassionate and caring towards others.

In that moment, I thought to myself I am no different from Bella. I, myself have faced various tear-jerking and down-to-my-knees events. Like Bella, there are times that I hid in the shadow of my loneliness and depression. I hid in the dark woods of my despair waiting and hoping someone will call and rescue me. Like her, I persevere in life and never retreated in any kinds of obstacles that come my way. Like her, I stumble a lot and fall. Like her, I got hurt but still loved unconditionally and eternally.

The vampires’ so called eternity on the other hand is nothing compared to the eternity promised in the Bible. It has been written in Romans 10, if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” As Christians, we are promised of an eternal life through the blood of Jesus — we don’t have to do anything nor hunt for human blood to live, we just need to trust in Him. TRUST. Such a big and strong word. How is it really to trust someone then? Like Bella, I am so insecure and faithless. I rarely trust people. It’s hard for me to trust people. However, God’s Word has constantly reminded me that we are saved by grace through faith in Christ Jesus and not by our own efforts or works (Ephesians 2:8-9). We receive that grace through faith alone. God even gives us the faith that trusts him. We are not saved by obeying a list of do’s and don’ts, but by grace through faith in Christ. Even if I possess Bella’s super powers, I know I wouldn’t survive without my saviour, Jesus.

Bella may have the ability to shield her mind but it did not save her from getting hurt. Like Bella, there were numerous times that I escaped from my fears and doubts. I do ways to distract me and get away from the things that’s pulling me down. There were many times that I ran away from my problems and even ran away from the people that I love and people who care about me. There were many times that I lock myself up and push away others. However, I am repeatedly reminded that My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. (2 Samuel 22:3-4.). Day and night, God reminds me that I am not alone. (Deuteronomy 31:8)

Edward may have hurt and left Bella alone in the woods but I am consistently reminded that God will never abandon me. I may have faced battles big and small. I may have crashed into the wilderness of my depression and anxiety but never will the Lord will dessert me. The road may be tough and the attacks of the enemies may seem endless, but there’s no power greater than of the Lord’s. The load that I carry daily may seem so heavy and the journey to what I am called to do seems wounding and pounding, but the Lord will give me strength to carry on. Over and over and over again, the Lord has never forsaken me.

I will always remember the pain but I will also always remember how He took it away.

I will always remember the betrayals but I will also always remember how he saved me and filled me with His love.

I will always remember every blood that I shed when I was hurting but I will also always remember the BLOOD that HE shed for me.

I will always remember the times that I had nothing and I had no one on my side but I will always remember how he provided for me and how brought me back into his loving arms.

I will always remember the struggle but I will always remember to endure.

I am not perfect. I had too many flaws. Just like Bella, I had too many bloopers, foozles, clumsy attempts especially in my Christian Walk but I will always remember to call upon His name when I am down. I will always remember whom to reach out to. I will always remember He is a God of forgiveness, a God who accepts, a God who saves. He is the greatest shepherd to the lost lambs. I am never alone. – Joshua 1:9

Forever Grateful,

not Bella, but Charmaine

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Trying to Do It All

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Have you ever tried to do it all?

I have.

I do, and probably always will.

It’s not only in my nature; it’s also in my job description — and perhaps in yours too. Being a woman requires more stamina, more creativity, and more wisdom than I ever dreamed as a young girl. And that’s not just true for today’s busy women. It has always been the case, as we see in the story of Mary and Martha.

Ofthe we feel as if we’re not doing enough. Then we feel guilty because we’re supposed to be having quiet times with God too — but when we tried to slow down, our hearts and minds are still busy. The story of Mary and Martha offers us guidance as well as grace in this tension. It’s a story of sisters but actually it’s a story of each of us.

Perhaps no passage of Scripture better describes the conflict we feel as women than the one we find in Luke 10:38-42. We’ve all felt the struggle. We want to worship like Mary but the Martha inside keeps bossing us around.

LukE 10:38-42

Now as they went on geir way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister named Mary, who sat at the LORD’s feet and listened to his teachinv. But Martha was distracted with muchserving. And she went up to him and said, “LORD, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the LORD answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

In the midst of my own busyness, deep inside of me is a hunger, a calling, to know and love God. To truly know Jesus Christ and the fellowship of yhe Spirit. I don’t have to go after a more head knowledge—- it’s heart-to-heart intimacy I long for.

Yet part of me hangs back. Exhausted, I wonder how to find the strength or time. Nurturing my spiritual life seems like one more duty –one more thing to add to a life that is spilling over the responsibilities.

It’s almost as if I’m standing on the bottom rung of a ladder that stretches up to heaven. Eager but daunted. I name the rungs with spiritual things I know I should do: study the Bible, pray, fellowship. . . .

“He’s up there somewhere,” I say,swaying slightly as I peer upward, uncertain how to begin or if I even want to attempt. The long, dizzy climb. But to do nothing means I will miss what my heart already knows: There is more to this Christian walk than I’ve experienced.

“Mary has chosen what is better?” I say to GOD in the midst of my own whirl of activity, “You mean I have to do more?”

No, no, comes the answer to my tired heart. Jesus’ words in Luke 10 are incredibly freeing to those of us on the performance treadmill of life.

It isn’t “MORE” He requires of us. In fact, it may be less. It’s to have MARY HEART in a MARTHA World.

I end this blog with my favorite passage from Psalms 63:1-11

O GOD, you are my GOD, earnestly I seek you; my sould thirsts for you; my flesh faints you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise. So I will bless you as long as live. In your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips, when I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night. For you have been my help and the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me. But those who seek to destroy my life shall go into the depths of the earth, they shall be given over to the power of the sword, they shall be a portion for jackals. But the King shall rejoice in GOD; all who swear by him shall exult, for the mouths of liars will be stopped.

As Long As I live, I will sing praises to you.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine✨💕

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simple things

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In a world that we live in today, we’re so busy that we move in such a fast pace, and we end up filling up our days with so many things — everything from work and even to social media. None of these are bad but sometimes we tend to focus on what we believe especially the big things and forget about what is simple.

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good and what does the LORD require you, but to do justice, and to love kindness, to walk humbly with the LORD.

The passage reveals to us that GOD wants us to just the simple things:

✨ To treat people justly and fair.

✨ To walk in love, mercy, and kindness.

✨ and to walk humbly with GOD

As someone working in a call center and supervising a team, I find it really challenging to apply all of these. The piled up responsibilities, the stress and not to mention the unending tasks seem to be so overwhelming. If you have been following this blog, you pretty much know how I truly value the purpose that God has assigned me to and that’s one of the biggest reason why I stayed despite the hardships. However, with a the struggles faced I find myself trapped and burned out. Aside from that, I honestly feel unsupported especially from the church where I belong to. It’s sad to admit but it happened. With all of these in mind, I became ungrateful and just barely focusing on the external rather than the basic deeper things Lord has commanded — most specifically to LOVE no matter what. I took the ministry so seriously that I lost the joy to serve. I focused on finishing each goal at hand that it became an ordinary thing and it no longer spark joy deep inside. I wish I could just end all of these and start anew but I am already in the middle of the race, no turning back.

In order for me to achieve the simple things, I needed to unlearn the great things. In order for me to do what’s right, I needed the time to realign myself from the source of righteousness. In order for me to love others and show them compassion, mercy and kindness, I needed to fill up myself with God’s love. I needed to free myself from guilt and learn to forgive AGAIN. It’s tough. It’s easier said than done. In order to walk humbly with GOD, I needed to empty myself, understand that all that I have comes from him and apart from him I am nothing. Every time I think about that, it humbles me.

I am not sure how far this post will reach but I am writing this for people like me who are earnestly trusting and obeying the LORD with His purposes and plans — not to quit! People may not read this, there may be lack of appreciation of what you are doing but do not stop for He will not desert you and He for sure will be there at the end.

And here are the things I learned from the passage.

  1. DO WHAT’S RIGHT. Not what is easy. Not what is popular. I learned that it’s okay to pause, take a breath, and ask the Holy spirit of what your next move is. Doing what’s right may mean you actually have an honest empathetic conversation with someone you disagree with —but not to change their mind but to hear their perspective. This may mean postponing the conversation to a later date or time, or adjourning to a less public place. This means sticking up to your principles but never at the expense of hurting people.
  2. LOVE MERCY. This looks like extending grace to someone else, even if you don’t think they deserve it. In the call center, we normally check the quality of the work of each agent and review errors and most of the time it frustrates me especially if reminders and policies are in-place but still they fail to follow. But one thing that I also learned from our numerous coachings is to give them the benefit of the doubt, assuming that they didn’t mean to commit errors. In handling personal conflicts, it also assuming that they did not mean to be hurtful with their comments or opinions. I encounter this a lot in my team. If not from the agents, it’s from my co-managers and supervisors. When you give them the benefit of the doubt, you are actually showing them real empathy and compassion and overlooking any offenses for the sake of restoration in your relationship or stronger team at work. It’s also helpful to think before you act — pause and think what could have Jesus done if he is in your shoe. After all, we are all sinners. We also failed and yet GOD continues to forgive and show us mercy.
  3. WALK HUMBLY. Humility may not always fix our problems but it makes sure you’re not the problem. If you are, man you are in trouble. Haha. When we assume we don’t have all the answers, we have a much better chance of learning something new and keeping our relationships. Jesus often used questions during His ministry, because being curious invites conversation, whereas bringing all of the answers tends to shut it down. We all have a lot of opinion. But it’s a lot more effective to bring people our love rather than what we know. As the quote say, “people don’t care what you know until they know that you care.” It’s best to share our knowledge with love.

My prayer:

God, my Father , when divisive conversations come up, please give me your attitude. Help me love like you in every situation. Help me seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with You. Show me how to express my love more than my counterstatements and opinions, and give me yhe right words in every conversation in my day-to-day. Also, renew my spirit so I may serve you faithfully and joyfully forever. In Jesus name, amen.

Simply Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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DAY 10- Am I happy?

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“Are you happy at where you are right now?” someone asked me recently. I couldn’t respond to such a profound question without doing some self-reflection.

Honestly, I am not always 100% happy with my life right now. Even though life is good and meaningful, I also have my doubts and insecurities. But I know I have a purpose and yes, I know my purpose. I strive for feeling my best every day –being energetic yet calm. I try my best to free myself from any worries, anxieties, and depressions and just cast them all to the Lord. I try my best to be able to manage stress and instead appreciate what I have- not focusing on what I don’t have. That’s a prerequisite of becoming grateful and happy.

They say happiness is made up of numerous small moments of joy. The more we experience joyous emotions, the happier you are. There is joy in much of the things you do if you pay attention. Let me share some of mine.

  1. Find hope in darkness. Never let disaster ruin us. There is always a silver lining, we just have to dig deeper.
  2. Practice gratitude. Before I get out of my bed, I smile and say a little prayer of gratitude in the morning. “Thank you, God, I am alive.” “What a beautiful day!” ‘It’s going to be a great day,” even with some hiccups. “Thank you mom and dad for giving me life.” “Thank you, for a great night’s sleep,” knowing many suffer from insomnia. “Thank you, I woke up” because some people don’t get to. “Thank you for my job” because many are unemployed. “Thank you for having the courage to face obstacles.” If we are grateful, it eliminates fear. Feeling blessed every morning shapes a healthy mindset towards life.
  3. Count thy blessings. As they say, “don’t count your money, count your blessings.” How often do we take things for granted? How often do we give thanks to what we’ve got? When I started this Forever Grateful blog, I searched and read many books about thanksgiving and gratefulness. It would feel weird to call this page so if I don’t have any idea how to appreciate the blessings in my life. From one of the books that I read, there was an exercise that asks to write “I can hear –thank God. I can see…I can read….” Then, think of the millions who couldn’t see or read. “I have a father…mother…brother… I can dance…sing…cook…read…write.” By the end of the exercise I found myself laughing, How silly am I. I felt alive and healthy. What on earth did I have to complain about?
  4. The joy of love. I don’t need much to say about love. Jesus’ demonstration of love in that cross is more than enough. Love gives joy and hate doesn’t.
  5. The joy of uplifting others. When you serve others. you experience joy, and you bring joy to others. The power of what we do and can do makes a difference in our perspective, which enhances your spirit. When we lift up the weak and the disadvantaged, we lift up ourselves. It’s also the joy of giving and sharing.
  6. The joy of inspiration. Nowadays, my sources of inspiration are derived from movies, devotional materials, books, and testimonies whether Christian or not.
  7. The joy of learning. I have allied health background but currently working in e-commerce and business processing and outsourcing company. I enjoy learning and developing my communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. At the same time, I find joy in keeping my healthcare and nursing skills up-to-date and sharp even if I am not practicing in my field physically. In my spare time, God knows how I am enjoying my time reading, blogging, doing art, and doing arts and crafts and even being a Sunday school teacher.

You see, there are many ways to keep a positive outlook, be content, be grateful and be happy. On the flip side, we can destroy bliss faster if we do the following:

  1. Feel sorry for oneself. Feeling sorry for yourself is a tough way to live. The easiest way to make yourself feel terrible is to yearn for what you don’t have and what others do. Or gripe about why others are more fortunate than you. You deserve more than your friends or colleagues. Those beliefs can prompt depression and sadness. Comparing yourself to others is silly, impractical, and time-wasting.
  2. Envy not. Envy and jealousy are unhealthy emotions. Stop being envious of someone’s abilities or possessions. Instead, focus on how you can achieve those goals yourself. If not, set other goals for yourself, and move on.

We can give a long list dos and don’ts to become happy but actually the most important question is:

  • Who is my source of happiness?
  • Who in my life today do I tend to seek approval from?
  • Am I content with my situation and where God has placed me right here and now?

Others may see my situation differently and may perceive that my life could be much better had I chosen a different course of path. I respect that and I appreciate the concern.

I’d like to end this blog with this verse

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, right;y handling the word of truth.

2 Timothy 2:15

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Day 9: Not Alone

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I’ve been single, I often get asked, “Aren’t you lonely?” My honest answer is “Yes, sometimes I get lonely, but although I may be on my own, I know I am never truly alone.” I have my biological family, my church family, my friends and most importantly my God by my side at all times. I know, and am thankful, that there is always someone with whom I can talk and spend time with and with whom I can share my joys and my sorrows.

“I am the church, you are the church, we are the church together”!

It is said that Jesus went to the cross alone; this is true in that he endured the pain and suffering alone, but those who gathered at the foot of the cross also wept and felt the sting and loss after his death. Though we, along with God the Father, Jesus’ earthly family, the Apostles and other followers of Jesus, felt the pain of grief and emptiness over Jesus’ death, we can thankfully all rejoice at his Resurrection and the hope that he left with us that we would all, once again, be given new life in the body of Christ.

In this life, none of us are alone regardless of whether we are single, widowed, or married. Each of us is connected in one way or another, just like pieces of a puzzle or parts of the body, and we cannot survive without that connectedness. The Lord has given us to each other—to love, to grieve with and to comfort; to celebrate with and to rejoice together. We are all members of the Lord’s family and will all share in the feast that has no end, on that glorious day, when he returns and gathers us all into his heavenly home to dwell as one family, connected, with him forever.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for each member of your church here on Earth. Help us to remember that we are never alone and that we need each other in this life. Let us reach out to and be there for one another; especially to those who do not yet know you. Amen

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Day 8: Honorable Care

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Part 1

The famous song “Nobody’s Perfect” by Miley Cyrus says “Everybody makes mistakes & everybody has those days.” She is right. None of us are perfect. All of us are prone to error and mistakes. The church in Corinth was not an exception.

When others look at the church today? What do you think they see?

We are hoping of a perfect united and loving church, right? Unfortunately, that’s impossible and usually the case. We long to see a church that is in one body of the Lord but in reality we are actually divided by our differences. When we have divisions amongst ourselves and are always arguing, does it show care for one another and does it glorify God?

According to Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:23-25, we need to avoid division within and we need to unite together. He reminds the church is the body of Christ. Even as the human body is one but formed of many parts so is the church. he church is one body with many functions. Each member in the church has been given a specific gift or gifts to execute one or more of these functions. But we can’t function alone. We have to depend on each other.

A great way of staying united is to take care for one another and love one another. Our church must be a church that maintains unity in diversity. We are not to quarrel with one another and fight with each other. Rather, we must care for each other. As we care for one another, we must suffer together when one member suffers. And when one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. We should value and take care of those members who are less honorable in the church or those who are lacking. The reason is God honors them.

We must see the beauty of Christ from one another in order not to contend with one another but to take care for one another. The body of Christ or the church is a living organism in which every member has a different role to fulfill for the benefit of the body as a whole. Although we are not equal we cannot function independently. There are subordination and dependence everywhere. Some have special gifts, some have insignificant gifts, some have several gifts, some only one, some have higher gifts while some have lower. But every individual has some function to execute, and everyone must work together for the common good.

Our church should be a mirror to imitate. It will be a mirror that shines the light of Jesus Christ in this world.

Heavenly Father, I am honored to belong to the body of Christ. Help us to become more committed to you and to continue to work in faith in propagating the Good News. Remind us to always look for each other and care for one another. Touch our hearts to accept another and so we can work interdependently for your glory.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Day 7: Admonish

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The Christian life in no way is to be spent in isolation, but instead in community. Perfect timing now that Cebu is back on MECQ (Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine).

Exactly the point of Paul while he was mentoring Timothy. The book is telling us to instruct one another with knowledge since we are filled with goodness. To admonish or counsel is something we are told to do with the Scripture. It’s not there to be kept all by ourselves but to be cherished and shared with our neighbors. Paul knew what we think about the Bible influences everything we believe and our behavior. The idea of training in this passage is to show the correct way to behave before mistakes are made. Every coach knows the importance of teaching their team what and how to think before they compete. 

2 Timothy 3:16 says that “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that we may be competent, equipped for every good work.”

God left us His word not simply to increase our knowledge, but to infect our character and conduct. Spending time daily in The Word is an essential component of every growing believer’s life. If we neglect to meet God in the words He preserved for us, we eventually lose our orientation in life and God seems distant. But God has promised to never leave us. He hasn’t moved. He still speaks to us through the Scripture, if we simply read and ask Him for direction.

So this quarantine season, how would you wish to spend your time? Who can you admonish this season?

Heavenly Father, may we hunger and thirst after Your Word, the Truth – Jesus Christ, getting to know Him better by the study of Your Word.  May the words in Your Holy Bible inspire us to live as You intend and to share these truths we mine for.  Open our eyes, mind, and heart to what You have for me. Enlighten us so that we may be encouraged in the hope of Your Word. Thank You, In Jesus’ Name – Amen.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Day 6: Accept

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When it comes to accepting one another regardless of who that person is, how do we square up on this? Even as Christians, someone can take into the room and the judgmental process begins. This could be about that person or about you not wanting to encounter that person.

Scripture tells us to welcome one another as Christ has welcomed us. “He first loved us.’ – 1 John 4:9

If social media has revealed anything about people, it’s that we can disagree on just about anything. And worse, we are quick to write each other off over those quibbles!

Sadly, that is often true of the church, too. We disagree, fight, and break fellowship over the tiniest issues. But it shouldn’t be that way!

That was the case among the believers in Rome. They found that church life had enormous potential for trivial conflict. So what Paul is saying here is that through Jesus Christ, God accepts all who come to Him in faith, no matter the strength of that faith, no matter the ethnicity or heritage of the one who believes. These brothers and sisters in Rome needed to accept that very reality: that they were brothers and sisters in the family of God, that they were fellow members of God’s covenant community.

All of us, at some point, in some circumstance, have felt like we were not “accepted”. But when we accept the reality that another human being is not only our equal, but also a member of our family, a fellow heir of life, a needed part in the body of Christ, it has to change the way we treat that person. It has to bring us back to the new commandment. If we are to “love one another” then we must “accept” one another in this way. And when that kind of acceptance takes place in our heart, then outwardly, the result is that we “welcome” others into fellowship with us. 

When we truly accept one another, our differences don’t become reasons for divisions, they become opportunities for service and sacrifice. When we truly welcome one another as fellow citizens of God’s community, then our differences drive us, not to focus on those non-essentials that might separate us, but to look to the common love for Jesus Christ that unites us. When we do this, we are, in love, opening the door of love, in order to walk in obedience to the new commandment of Jesus.

And what will that mean in terms of those on the outside, those who are not yet part of the “one anothers”? I believe that when we accept, when we welcome one another, the world will see the “acceptance”, the “welcome” of God.

Unlike most master-planned communities may our appeal, our attractiveness, not be based on our amenities, perks, or anything else on the surface. May those around us see the welcoming love of Jesus Christ in us as we welcome one another in grace.

My prayer:

Heavenly Father, I pray that we strive for unity with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. If there are any differences and unforgiveness that needs to happen to restore fellowship, I pray that you us the grace and the humility to do. Help me to have an attitude and desire for oneness for I now understand that it brings you glory. Help us to accept each other today and every day, remembering that Jesus has also accepted us. In His name, I pray. Amen.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

Day 5: Build Up

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Have you ever had those conversations with people that whatever you say, ends up becoming negative or turned around on you?

Have you ever been upset and continued in that feeling by others agreeing with you and you just kind of stay in that mindset for the whole day?

Paul tells us to pursue peace and mutual upbuilding of one another especially with fellow believers. We should stir up one another, not in anger, but in love and encouragement. Instead of wasting our time disagreeing with undisputable matters in the church, why not choose to build each other up so by doing so we can attract non-believers to share the love that Jesus showered upon us. It’s much easier to go out and share the Word when they how strong our bond would be. Yes, there’s no perfect church as we all our sinners but I say based on my experience, Christians who loves their fellow Christians are more attractive and convincing. Personally, I was drawn with the relationship and bond I see when I was just starting to attend Cross Pointe Church. But as days go by, I have also experienced firsthand some of the weakness inside of the church but I appreciate how they are encouraging one another. There are of course some disagreements but rebukes and upbuilding are done with love and gentleness, understanding that they too fail as humans. From then on, I was convinced that I am in a great flock. I am grateful to be blessed with loving and supportive family in Christ through my church and lifegroup.

In the same way, we need to apply this not just within our church family but also with everyone in our community. “Make every effort!” That’s quite a challenge. I must pursue and share peace if I am going to have it myself. I must edify, and be open to being edified. We are called to live with other people in God’s family. He wants us to be responsible for making relationships work in our spiritual family. He reminds us it will require strenuous effort. But, isn’t that true in every family relationship? Love means sacrifice, effort, and concern for others. When we share our love willingly, however, we’re much more likely to see it coming back to us!

My prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, forgive me for my impatience and selfishness. Defeat the bad attitude of competitiveness that I often display in arguments and disagreements with others in your family. Energize me by your Spirit to see areas where I can be a blessing and an encouragement to others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

Day 4: Same Mind To

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The Bible tells us not to be arrogant or superior but instead to associate with the lowly and not be wise in our own sight and judgment.

To me it means to have a modest opinion towards one another. As we go about our day with conversation and spending time with others, we need to to act in humility and count others more significant that ourselves. It also means to hear our other’s opinions and be mindful of the feelings of others.

This reminded me to stay grounded especially in the kind of work environment that I am in wherein people long to have power, position and control over things and ultimate say in the management. I admit it’s so tempting to be in control. Often times, I tend to be so restrictive and overly concerned in pushing things my way for I think that I am right and so instead of putting things in the right direction, I am pushing people away and breaking things apart. But the scripture has clearly stated that we need to live in harmony with another by genuinely accepting our weaknesses. Humility is not denying our strengths but actually being honest about our weaknesses. It’s funny how I memorized C.S. Lewis’ famous line, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking yourself less” but I can’t even apply it in my way of life. In most cases, I am more concerned that I am right or who is right rather than what is right. Today I learned that it’s actually pride. Pride is concerned with who is right while humility is concerned on what is right.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for teaching me that a haughty self-promoting spirit simply will not produce harmony between me and others. Instead, in humility, I need to notice and honor others. Help me Lord to show and apply thy wisdom with others instead of just proclaiming it to them. Dwell in my heart Lord and so I may live humbly like your son, Jesus. Undress me from my boastfulness and help me connect with others and that we’ll be in same mind in enriching your kingdom.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

Day 2: Brightly Relating to Others

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Hello friends! Today is the Day 2 of my blogging series on how to share our lives with others as part of God’s purpose in our lives.

Galatians 6:2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. | New International Version (NIV) | Download The Bible App Now

Today’s scriptures says teaches us that we will fulfill Christ’s law when we choose to come alongside and help carry the burdens of other people. As stated in John 15:12, “Love one another as I have loved you.” If we are going to take this command seriously, we can’t live the Christian life as a solo adventure. We must go together, and must carry one another.

In this context, Paul was talking about what happens when you find a friend who is struggling with sin. Each one of us must battle against his own flesh, the snares of the devil, and the traps of this world, but we don’t fight alone. God has given us the local church, brothers and sisters who also love the LORD, to help us. But all too often we reject this help out of pride, shame, or fear. We don’t share our struggles. We don’t ask for prayer. We don’t even confess our sins. And so, we don’t have someone by our side to pick us up when we fail. As Christians, I hope that we start cultivating a mindset like of a burden-bearing Galatian as Paul have mentioned. Let’s brightly relate with one another by praying for each other and just allowing God to intervene in our behalf. When a fellow believer fall short, may we learn to confront them gently and listen to them in a loving manner.

Clearly, we help the burdens of others when we choose kindness, mercy, and generosity. It happens as we take time to listen, to pray, and to offer a helping hand. No one is meant to walk alone and each of us can play a role in helping to make someone’s burden lighter. As we do, we discover that we are being lifted too. . by a God who cares!

My prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, just as you have been an encouragement to me, please help me to encourage others. Show me to approach all my relationships with your love, grace, and compassion. As I draw near to you, shape me into someone who eagerly supports others. Make me aware of the opportunities I have to daily demonstrate your sacrificial love. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

Day 1: Living Life by Christ’s Commands

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Happy 1st of August. It’s my birth month and I got inspired to write again. For the next 30 days I would be sharing my thoughts and life lessons about God’s purposes and leading in my life. I call it “31 days of Purposeful Serving”

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Romans 12:10
Be devoted to one another - Romans 12:10 Bible verse print, 30x40cm | Made by His grace
The key point of this verse is clear — this calls for an excessive care for one another. To love the people of the church specifically, and Christians wherever we meet them just like we love our brothers . . . with affection and commitment and caring and service and prayer.

Oh Yes! What a beautiful life for the members of such a church! Lord, help us do this!

“Outdo one another in showing honor.”

I love this command but it’s just so difficult to do. It’s not something that we turn our attention to often enough! It’s easy to ignore someone. Even easier to become annoyed with them. Yet honoring another person is what we are required to do.

What would it mean to outdo others in showing them honor? It took me sometime to fully grasp it. It would mean that I would always look for the good characteristics and behavior and service of others and commend them for it. As somebody to be in the middle management in the office, I say it would even be difficult to encourage somebody to achieve something. But as just Paul as written, as Christians, we are ought to encourage fellow believers to do great in whatever and in all they do for our Lord — and of course help them if they need it. It would mean that I speak well of my brothers and sisters in Christ, and praise God for their role in the ministry. If any should be in authority, that would mean that I would respect them as God-appointed, and cooperate with their leadership if they obey God’s will. Isn’t it a happy assignment?

P r a y e r

Dear God,

Teach me a blessing, a prayer,

a word of compassion to share.

For in the mystery of You,

help me discover the wonders of others.

A M E N.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

Mommy Dear: Our SPECIAL Love.

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A blog inspired by the life of a loving mother, Candy Pangilinan. This blog is to celebrate and honor mothers’ love and this is also a way of thanksgiving to the Lord for guiding our mothers on how to face life’s difficulties and challenges while raising us.

Copyright – Toni Talks. (Toni Gonzaga’s ministry in sharing the Good News.) Follow her on Instagram and subscribe to her Youtube channel for more inspiring stories.

 “We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” (Proverbs 16:9). It just reaffirmed that God is in control here, and that whatever our plans may be, ultimately God’s will for us will happen.

Candy, a well-known comedian/Filipina actress, shares her journey as a single-mom to a son with special needs. I am in tears while watching this moving video of grace and immense faith. I adore her humility acknowledging that she’s weak and in need of God’s leading and provision to meet not only her needs but most especially the needs of her only son who happens to have some developmental challenges. Her story taught me the following:

  1. Prayer is our ultimate weapon. God can answer our prayers regardless of our situation. Candy demonstrated that though she was feeling that she do not have what other mothers or children have or do normally, she feel supported and loved by God as she strengthens her relation with Him through praying. She knew that her situation is a blessing and made possible by the divine orchestration of our amazing God.
  2. He is a great Father. Candy has no father figure and so as his son Quintin but God demonstrated His undying love not just for both of them but to all the people around them. God has become Candy and Quintin’s source of strength and affection.
  3. God is able to change our hearts and direct our lives. Candy’s life before revolved around his unfaithful husband which produces anger and bitterness but when she surrendered to the Lord and focus in serving Him through loving Quintin unconditionally, her life changed. Not only in her ways but her heart and God gave her a new perspective in life – a life full of meaning and beauty. She learned to be content and appreciative of God’s daily answers and grace. She even mentioned in the video that when we get tired and let God, everything unfolds and becomes a miracle.
  4. God will provide. I am reminded on Elijah’s Testings by the brook in 1 Kings 17: 2-7. As the Lord works sovereignly in our lives, we nearly always faced with a number of tests that challenge our faith, obedience, love for God, our values and priorities, and demonstrate how real God is to us. Just like how God tested Elijah, Candy was called to trust in the Lord as He supplies her needs. TRUST and FAITH were such big and deep words for her.
  5. Share our testimony. Every time Candy shares her story, the same excitement comes back to her that Quintin and their situation is a blessing that is meant to be shared. It planted great joy in her heart and allowed her to experience His love in a special way.

If you wish to know more about her story, please support them by purchasing her love book.

I hope her story inspired you just as it inspired me to write this blog. My prayer is for us to learn to cling to God’s promises and to stay grateful despite our circumstances. My prayer as well is that we show our love not just to our moms, to our family but also to everyone especially to those are in need of God’s love. It ignited my passion in keeping this ministry fruitful and to keep loving others as God loves us. No matter how big the tides and how strong the currents pulling us down, we know to whom we take courage and trust.

To my mom, thank you for being so supportive in everything I do. Thank you for understanding me and the path that I chose. It may be different from the ones you envisioned but you continued to support in every way you can. Thank you for your love. Let’s continue to serve the Lord with gladness. I love you and Happy Mother’s Day!

  • at cousin’s wedding
  • a loving grandmom
  • whut? 😛
  • soulful wife
  • our HERO mama
  • ice cream time is always our thing
  • #fambam
  • ❤
  • with bro & family
  • say cheezzzz
  • a loving wifey
  • she feeds us all the time
  • at my Haggai Leadership seminar graduation
  • with her sisters in Christ
  • at church, honoring her
  • 🙂
  • her 1st time to serve at the church
  • the original plantita in the family
  • Beauty inside out
  • foodie
  • just our craziness 😛

Loved by a very SPECIAL GOD and will be Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Journal

Thank You

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Day 6 of 6: Six Days to a Grateful Heart

Psalm 68:13 . . though you men lie among the sheepfolds — the wings of a dove covered with silver, its pinions with shimmering gold.

Thank you for the cross, Jesus. When I look into your eyes, I remember — no one loves me like you do. Your nail-scarred hands still hold me. With your stripes you healed every sickness. You suffered in my place and bore my shame. Forgiveness was offered for my every sin.

Though bloody and beaten, You – Jesus radiated with the pure, perfect beauty of undefiled love. It was your passion for me that held you there is unfathomable.. My cries of praise and words of thanks are not enough.

I offer you this humble life. Even that isn’t my own –it was a gift from you. I will live in victory, rising above every opposition, just as you did when you rose from the dead. Your Holy Spirit flood me with eternal life, so rivers of living water will flow from the depths of my being.

My prince of peace, you did it for me. Thank you for the finished work of the cross –I am saved and forever grateful.

Charmaine

Journal

Steady

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Day 5 of 6: Six Days to a Grateful Heart

Psalms 26:3 for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness.

Heavenly Father, Lord, you know me better than anyone else does. You have searched my thoughts, examined every part of my life, and refined my heart. It is only by your mercy that I stand righteous. As long as I keep my eyes fixed on you, I will never stray.

I want the world to know I am immensely choosing to walk before you in honor. Your faithfulness steadies me. Your holiness reminds me that apart from you, I am nothing. I approach your presence with songs of thanksgiving, awed by the miraculous ways you changed my life. I owe everything to you.

My prayer is that you continue to guide me so I will never deviate from this remarkable path of faith. In your presence, I have found my home. Thank you for your love.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Journal

The Joy of Life

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Day 4 of 6: Six Days to a Grateful Heart

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Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. Psalm 34:5

Heavenly Father, I wonder if everyone can see my face glistening with glory. Or if they get tired of hearing over and over again how much you’ve blessed me. If I’m boasting, it’s only because of what you’ve done; it’s only because of what you’ve done; it’s only to make you known. It’s impossible for me to stay quiet! I want to tell everyone how kind you are so they too may experience it for themselves.

Lord, I ask that those who hear me (or read this blog) would listen. Really listen. I want them to know that when we join our lives to yours, joy comes. I want them to give you thanks for the beauty that fills each day. To know that when they turn and hide themselves in you, you’ll never turn them away.

When I indulge in your goodness, I think of those who haven’t yet experiences your joyous mercy. I want to shout, “Come to the One who passionately pursues you and let’s worship him in awe and wonder! Together, let’s discover the joy of life with him!”


Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Journal

Release

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These burdens that I carry are way too heavy for me, Lord. In despair, I call to you — I can’t see the path before me because it is hidden from view. As I stand at the border of your dwelling, you remind me that I wasn’t created to handle the torture of worry. You created me to live in faith, fully trusting you in every circumstance, experiencing joy and freedom.

Whether is is out of total obedience, or great despair, I’m not sure, but I lay these anxieties, doubts, and fears down. I choose to release the ownership of my life to you. Take control and direct me in the right direction.

With thanksgiving on my lips, I move closer to you. I choose to remember your faithfulness throughout my life. Praise begins to overflow from deep within, washing me from the residue of anxiety and ushering me before your royal seat. When I focus on you, I forget what I was worried about. This is the place of joy!

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Journal

When My Heart is Filled with Praise

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Day 2 of Thankfulness series: 6 Days to a Grateful Heart

Jesus, everything you do is righteous and holy. Though I don’t always understand the things that happen, my heart is set upon you. I will rest in the faithfulness of your ways for you know what’s best for me. You will make a way.

When my mind overwhelms my heart and fights for the right to complain, I will bow before your throne of grace and yield my thoughts to you. Though tempted with confusion, I will choose to praise. I will commit myself to thankfulness and call to mind the many ways you’ve blessed me.

These unanswered questions will be satisfied by your love. The hopes that felt defeated, you will bring back to life. My spirit is empowered as I lean into your strength. Darkness doesn’t stand a chance when my heart is filled with praise.

Thank you Jesus.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Journal

CONTENT

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Today, I am starting a series: Thanksgiving: 6 Days To Grateful Heart

Father, thank you for this amazing life you’ve given me. Although it is filled with ups and downs, you are teaching me the JOY OF CONTENTMENT. I can savor each day, knowing we walk through it together. Peace fills my soul as I remember your goodness and as I focus on your love.

I am so grateful for your blessings — both big and small. Everything you give me has been fashioned perfectly, just for me. May I never take your tender care for granted. Help me to never stress about what I don’t have, when you’ve given me so much.

There is always something to be thankful for.

I want to live in simplicity and peace, without striving to always have more. Teach me to rest and enjoy the many beautiful things around me –the elegance of summer’s glorious sunset and more. Tune my ear to hear the pleasure of a baby’s laugh or the voices of those I love.

Teach me Lord to be CONTENT — simply living every day enjoying you.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

I sow, He reaps

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i-sow-he-reapsDownload

The pursuit of purpose isn’t limited to the Christian faith our generation alone. Often we wonder, “Why am I here?” We search for meaning in our jobs, communities, relationships, and cultures. Something deep inside tells us that we were made for something significant. And we were! God wrote out a plan for each of our lives — plans full of goodness and hope.

I started the year contemplating what purpose God has assigned me to do for the year. I re-read Purpose Driven Life and even asked few friends about my previous ministries and if it was bearing fruitfully. Sooner I realized that it’s like planting seeds, we sow and we reap. Sometimes, we sow while others reap. I always find joy in gardening but a few days ago I realized that I am just good in germinating seeds. The moment they are about to bear fruit, circumstances lead me to be away and be sent to other places. My mom jokingly told me, “You’re a good plantita. You sow but others reap. Just keep planting, your cousins and our relatives are always happy to visit and consume the fruits of your green thumb.”

I believe this is what God is telling me. It gives Him overflowing joy when He watch us living out our God-given purpose multiplying in the lives of others and it glorifies Him. Like a healthy tree or a plant, our lives are meant to product fruit. The quantity and quality of the fruit we produce is directly linked to our motivations as we seek to fulfill our God-given purpose. We can either pursue our dreams out of selfish ambition or eternal ambition.

To test the motivation behind our ambition, it’s helpful to ask the questions, “Why am I doing this?” and, “Who am I doing this for?” Sometimes, while doing steps in pursuing our purpose we stumble. But God is always reminding us that He is not asking for perfection.  Our wholehearted pursuit of His purposes in our lives may not lead to worldly recognition or the spotlight. Instead, God is looking for our open-hearted AVAILABILITY and asking us to trust him with the process.

As we walk in our purpose, God will prune our lives and align our motivations with His will so that we are able to bear more good fruit. So, just as my mom keeps on telling me, I will continue to sow seeds and share the love of God and let Him harvest its fruits. I will continue to cultivate His love and proclaim His goodness for people to know and they can also grow their faith with Him. Wherever God leads me, may it be in the hospital or in the call center, I will use whatever gift, role, title, talent, and ability to bring honor to God and enjoy the process for I know that He is with me every step of the way.

Heavenly Father, thank you for creating, knowing, and loving me. Help me find peace in how I work and serve you in the process. Help me know that you have me where I am for a reason. Amen.

Purpose-Driven and Forever Grateful,

Charmaine ❤

Blog

DECIDE TO LOVE

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Think of a time when someone made you angry. How did you respond? My blog today will reflect on what it truly means to LOVE OTHERS DEEPLY.

It sounds beautiful but it’s really hard to do. Even the people who know you the best and you know the best will be the one’s who’s going to hurt you the most and they are the hardest to love. It’s easier to love those who are distant rather than those in close proximity and that’s one of the greatest challenge as love is not a feeling, it’s more of a decision, an action to take and you have to make an effort no matter what. After you have been married a little while, dated a little while –guess what? It’s the people you are closest to that you see the sins most clearly. My parents see my sins and it can irritate them. I see my brother’s fault and it can totally annoy me. In the same way, my brother sees my hot-temper and cause the both of us in trouble. There was even a time that I feel so bad with a close friend brought about overfamiliarity and lack of boundaries. Sometimes me and my co-workers get on each other’s nerves. Indeed, it’s easy to love someone from a distance, much harder to do it up close.

25 Bible Verses About Loving Others

Above all else, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

1 Peter 4:8-10

However, just right after Jesus’ resurrection, Peter continued his ministry and faced hardships but then it transformed him, and Peter’s heart was transformed too. In one of his letters, he said that we are being commanded to love. Yes, WE ARE COMMANDED TO LOVE. It’s not saying that we might love, or we may love, but WE MUST LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Imagine, despite his circumstances, he can still firmly say that we need to love. Not only that, we ought to love without grumbling. It kinda’ hit me. There are days that I woke up with a grumbling heart, but as I sat before the Lord and lift up all my worries and anxieties, everything changed – not externally but internally. From then I knew that my day– as busy as it was – would be transformed too. Getting lost in the middle of ingratitude happened so easily, but refocusing was the harder part. It could have been easier for Peter to complain knowing the difficulties he faced but he still chose to obey and love just as how Jesus taught them. He set his eyes on Jesus and the eternal life it promises.

Love isn’t an emotion when there are days that you don’t feel like it, you won’t just love. Jesus comes along and gives us a whole different paradigm for love — to love regardless, to love even those who are unlovable. It’s not a question of whether we feel it, it’s a question of what we decide to do it and so we have to learn to make a decision that we are going to act in a way that is loving towards someone.

Here’s what I have learned – the powerful part: eventually my emotions catch up to my obedience. And so how do I put Peter’s principle into practice? Today, I will decide to love someone who’s getting on my nerves and to continue to love through hardships and even if I feel weary. I will choose to praise instead of grumble, and to pause to find God in the midst of my busyness.

How about you? How can you love someone today? Perhaps you can forgive a friend who has offended you; or you can empathize with someone’s pain and comfort them; or you just simply let go of your expectations and ask God to help you see people the way He does.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I feel so weak when it comes to extending grace to others especially to those who have offended me. Please give me the courage to love others deeply, with genuine affection. When I am hurt, give me the courage to forgive. When I am angry, remind me of the hurt You endured so that I could know You personally. Remove any bitterness, hatred, or envy, and replace it with Your perfect love. All of these I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Loved and Forever Grateful

Charmaine

Journal

A CHILD OF GOD

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Long before I was conceived in my mother’s womb, long before I took my first  breath, took my first step, God knew me and loved me so much that He set in motion a plan that would allow me to be with Him forever.

Long before I ever sinned, God set the rescue plan in motion – Jesus came to this earth and died so that I could live with God forever. That’s enough to be grateful for. I believed that I am cherished, deeply loved by the Creator of the universe, and He wants us to spend all of the eternity with Him.  All that he asks is that we believe in Him and entrust the reins of our heart and life into His loving hands.

Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us,
That we should be called Children of God.

1 JOHN 3:1

How great is the Father’s love for me that I should be called the son/daughter of God! And that is what I am!

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Adventures

Deuteronomy, an enduring love

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Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake.

Deuteronomy 31:6

These are the words that echoed in my mind as I grasp for air and catch my breath. Two weeks ago, I went trekking with my adventure-goer friends. It was from the foot of Budlaan Falls in Pit-os Talamban going to the flowery peak of Sirao.

I was a bit stressed at work and when my closest workmate invited me for that hike, just as the YES person as I am, of course I confirmed right away. I thought it would be a great stress-reliever. I did my quick research just the day prior our trek and when I knew how steep the trails are, I had my second thoughts. At first I was bit apprehensive knowing that I haven’t climbed for few months and with my current work-lifestyle, I wasn’t sure if I can endure it. I do not have regular exercise, though I walk every morning from IT Park to Mabolo I thought it wouldn’t still be enough for me to survive that day. Not to mention, I am on graveyard shift. With no adequate rest, I was a bit afraid of fainting thus I hesitated. But of course, I am born NOT a quitter. So, Vamonos!

Image may contain: 8 people, including Janine Largo and Jerome Tubog, people smiling, outdoor
Notice the energy. This was at our starting point.
Photo Credits to Janine. Check her blog as well: https://www.timelesstiara.com/about-us/

So, that was a Retreat-No-Surrender moment for all of us. It’s like when you say YES in following Jesus. There’s no turning back.

Image may contain: one or more people, people standing, plant, tree, outdoor and nature

The climb was a bit rough and exhausting. I can already feel a bit of soreness of my thighs even at the first few kilometers that we had. I was third on line to follow the lead-hiker who is a professional one. He has amazing agility. As much as I could, I tried to keep my pace while making sure to conserve every stored energy left. I can literally hear the sound of my fast-beating heart. Thank God it didn’t stop! There were few trails that we need to literally kiss the wall of the hill and swing through the big roots of Mahogany trees. One wrong step or move can instantly end our life.

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We need to go down then climb up that huge rock to get into the creek.
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Me still on the 3rd spot trying to keep up with the lead hiker. NOTE: Trekking is not a race, it’s a test of agility and endurance.
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That’s how dangerous it could have been. You need to bend and flex a little more or else. . .
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and yes! we made it to the 1st phase of the trek. 😀 That was nerve-racking and knees-trembling climb!

Every hard climb, we took some rest then resumed. I can still remember myself asking to the lead-hiker, “Hapit na?” or “Are we there yet?”, “How far is it?”, “Can we stop?”, “I am tired“, “my legs hurt“, and the likes. I became impatient and I complained a lot. I am not different from the grumbling people of Israel when they had their journey to the Promised Land. Now the study of Exodus to Deuteronomy made lots of sense. God taught me to stay faithful and content while He is preparing the good things he planned for my life. I asked myself few times if this climb is worth every sweat and strength lost, then I say surely, it was. Not to mention the beauty I saw up there when we reached the peak but also how this whole experience mold my character and well-being.

Budlaan Falls
Great Practice Hike Area for Mountaineers
The area itself is very suitable for practice hikes that require eye to hand coordination, pacing, assault pacing negotiation, river treks and being close to Nature. This falls should somehow be conserved for what it is worth so that future generations will be able to utilize this. The trails leading to the falls itself should be safeguarded. -TripAdvisor
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The falls in Budlaan is usually called “Kabang Falls.” It has seven (7) level falls with the highest one of more or less 15 meters high. To go there, you have to ride a motorcycle (habal-habal) from Talamban proper to Sitio Baugon with the fee of P25 to 30 pesos. The other option is via JY Square then drop by Crossing Buslot in Busay area and walk down to Sitio Baugon or ride a motorcycle from JY Square to Sitio Baugon with a bit expensive fare of around 70-75 pesos. -TripAdvisor
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Sometimes we need to look back and see how far we’ve come through. Just as what the Lord wanted the Israelites to remember how they were saved out from slavery in Egypt. Deuteronomy 5:6 says, “I am the LORD your God who brought you out from the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.”
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This is how serene it is up there.
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Beauty of nature awaits you.
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Me and my childhood friend, Janine.
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it’s cold when you’re almost at the peak of Sirao.
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the team is still intact, complete, alive and enthusiastic
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The view of the city. Sorry I do not have much closer shot of that panoramic view.

I thank the Lord for the gift of life that we are able to see and enjoy. I am reminded that he is my strength and my steadfast love; and that I should continue to follow His statutes.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience. It was tiring but I had fun. I gain wisdom, I gained new friends and stress was released. Though it only took 5-6 hours, unlike the 40 years of the Israelites, I have learned a lot from it and for that I am FOREVER GRATEFUL for He is my utmost guide, my protector.

photo credits to Carlos Itoh. Follow him on instagram @kenrel1973

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It has also served a good bond for me and my friend. No matter what happens, we know that we should stick with each other and support one another as we continue our Christian walk.
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Enduring and Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

His protection

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I can no longer count how many times I have been mocked or ridiculed for being tagged as “different” when it comes to my faith. They say things like, “ahh Christians, the hallellujiah”, or “the conservatives”, the “religious type”, and the likes. There are also some instances when people provoke or test me for they knew that I am a Christian; they’ll keep eyes on you and wait until when you will stumble and respond wrongly for they will automatically take it against you and conclude that I am no saint and just like the other, we are going to die sinners and rotten.

When times like that arise, I just thought that it’s the work of the enemy then I pray. Yes, Christians are sinners. I am sinner but what makes us different and shall I say special is because of our perfect Saviour — Jesus! The mighty name! No one’s perfect and will ever be qualified just like him. But because I believed that Jesus died for me and saved me from my rottenness, then I may be able to live a more enjoyable life — different and special life for I am designed and called for a unique purpose. I can never avoid mockers nor will be able to live a perfect life yet I can fully surrender my life to Him and trust that though there are lots of temptations and burdens, my faith will be much heavier than those. The battle against those mockers is NOT my battle, it’s God’s battle. There are just fights that I can never win and all I need to do is to hand it over to Him for He is righteous and powerful. By the help of the Lord, I am confident that everything would turn out all right.

Without God, I can do nothing! With Him by my side, I am protected from the enemy’s attack and empowered to be all He has called me to be.


“You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. “

Psalm 139:5

Heavenly Father, thank you Lord for always being there for me and guarding my back. I live in the hedge of Your full protection. I pray that the enemy cannot get to me no matter how hard he tries. Thank you for the abounding love and grace. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

Protected and Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Blog

SPECIAL TASK

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“God has a plan for your life and He has chosen you for a very special task.”

-Chosen One Daily Devotional

These are the words that I wrote on my whiteboard to remind me every time I wake up that I am living for a purpose. However, it took me a very long time to realize what is really God wants me to do. When I became a Christian, I know that He called me to serve His Kingdom and that I opt to be sharing His Word especially to those who are lost. Just as how lost I was before then I let me see His light.

As I have mentioned on my previous posts and in my testimony, I worked in a call center. A licensed nurse would be least likely to be supervising call-takers in a fast-paced outsourcing world but that’s how God led me to a very special task. In my testimony, I have also shared about the struggles I faced related to my brother who was once a drug-dependent individual. With God’s grace, I was able to surpass those dark days and He gave me wisdom on how to deal with families experiencing the same thing. The other night, I attended an admin hearing related to the absences of one of my agents that I am supervising at work. On that said session, she mentioned that she has a family member who’s also addictive to narcotics and this has contributed greatly to how she lived her life and eventually affected her workmanship. I thank the Lord for His presence that night for I was able to display an appropriate response to her. Now, I am reflecting that indeed He called me for a very important mission in that call center. This has been one of those many confirmations of how He wants me to live my life. He led me to people whom I can share my past experiences. When I experienced them before, it did not really make sense but now they do. His purpose of my life is clear. He has chosen me for this special task. The thing is, however, I cannot do anything on my own. Jeremiah 1:7-8 has taught me to rely on Him at all times and His power working through me, I can accomplish more than I can ever imagine possible.

But the LORD said to me,
“Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’;
for to all to whom I send you, you shall go,
and whatever I command you, you shall speak.
8 Do not be afraid of them,
for I am with you to deliver you,
declares the LORD.”


Prayer:
Lord, I will go wherever you send me and I will do whatever you command me to do. Please do not allow my fears hinder me in my calling. I know full well that Your power is within me whenever I go and there is nothing that can overcome me. In Jesus’ name.


Taking your call and Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

Prayer

God’s Amazing Promises

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Not only that I am chosen by God to be His child, but he has also adopted me into His wonderful family. He has made amazing promises in His word, promises that he is committed to fulfilling in my life. And he has not only made these promises, but He stands ready to perform them, to make them come to pass in incredible, sometimes surprising ways.

 

Then the Lord said to me, “You have seen well, for I am ready to perform my Word.” – Jeremiah 1:12

This has promised that His goodness and mercy will follow me, all the days of my life. All He asks is to trust in Him.

 

Thank you, Lord for calling me out from the darkness and to be back into your wonderful light. Father, you know better than me and You have designed specific destiny for my life. Give me the patience to wait and to appreciate the amazing things You have bestowed. Thank you for letting me soar high through Your daily reminders of just how much you matter. I will continue to celebrate Your grace in my life beginning today.

 

 

Forever Grateful,

 

Charmaine

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Blog

Broken, Yet Blessed

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Even if you’ve never paid much attention to God before, a severe crisis has a way of turning you to Him. Then you understand that unless God comes through, you are not going to make it. And so you cry out, “Oh, God, help me!”

Some of us may be there right now. May it be a health issue; unless God intercedes, there’s no hope. Perhaps it’s a grave family problem, a monetary problem or a despairing need for work. It may be a personal problem, such as isolation, guilt, resentment, bitterness, or anxiety. It could be some life-dominating sin, such as alcohol, drugs, pornography, or gambling. But whatever the problem, you know that you need God, and you’re calling to Him for help.

In Genesis 32, Jacob faced that kind of crisis. He was returning to Canaan in obedience to God, but that meant he would have to face his brother, Esau, whom he had sin against for 20 years. Jacob was worried about how Esau would receive him. When Jacob’s messengers came back and said that Esau was coming to meet him with 400 men, Jacob froze with fear. And so he prayed, “Oh, God, deliver me from Esau!” (32:9 12).

What Jacob didn’t know, and what we often don’t realize in situations like that, is how God goes about helping us. What we have in mind is that God would somehow remove our problem or make our enemy go away. But God doesn’t do it that way. God answered Jacob’s prayer for protection from Esau by wrestling with Jacob until He left him limping as he approached his brother. His plan had been that if Esau attacked one camp, Jacob (in the other camp) could escape. But now he couldn’t run from Esau if he tried! He was totally dependent on the Lord.

The way God helps us is by breaking us of our inherent self-dependence so that we lean totally on Him. In that context, we can properly receive His blessings. Our problem, like Jacob’s, is that all too often we want to use God and His blessings to further our own ends. All his life Jacob had been using God and people to get what he wanted for himself. Ever since has been a grabber. But now God brings Jacob to see that you don’t use God you submit to Him. When we submit to God, He blesses us.

God must break us of our self-dependence so that He can bless us as we cling to Him in our brokenness.

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Jacob is transformed by this extraordinary meeting, and his name is changed from “Jacob” to “Israel”. It means “strives with God” or “God strives”. Jacob’s new name marks the end of a lifetime of struggling with others and just by letting God. He has finally come to realize the importance of being blessed by God. The God of his father has now become his God.

We’re all like Jacob: We won’t cling to the Lord with all our strength until we have to. As long as there’s an ounce of the self-dependence left, we’ll trust in ourselves. Like Jacob, there are times that I don’t see the need to trust in Christ as Savior because I hang on to my belief in my own goodness. My pride blinds me to my great need before God.

The Scripture has taught me that if we come into the proper relationship with God, of clinging to Him in our brokenness, then we have power with Him. We prevail with Him who has prevailed over us. As Jacob went limping to face Esau, he was more powerful in God’s strength and his own weakness than he ever could have been in his own scheming and strength.

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Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I want to see your face as Jacob did. Help me, Father, to be totally dependent on you. My prayer is that you give me the desire to devote myself to seeking your blessing. I believe that you will take care of my problems and enemies. Allow me to submit to You and cling by faith with You.

The Seeker & Forever Grateful,

Charmaine

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Blog

When God Teaches Me to Rest Too

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Lately, I’ve been sitting with a quiet tension in my heart.

Our Young Adults Camp is coming up, and I’m usually one of those who helps lead small-group discussions. Part of me feels that familiar call to serve—even if it means stepping into an uncomfortable space. This time, however, the camp is being organized by someone I once considered a close friend, and whose patterns have made me uncomfortable. The thought of serving alongside her already feels emotionally tiring.

And yet, I wonder: Could this be another area where God is asking me to grow?

Scripture tells me, “Through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). I know that following Christ will not always feel comfortable. There are times when obedience requires humility, patience, forgiveness, and choosing love when my feelings would rather withdraw.

But I am also learning that discomfort itself is not always a command from God.

Jesus said to His disciples, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). Even in the middle of ministry, Jesus recognized that His disciples needed rest. He Himself often withdrew to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16).

Maybe rest isn’t something I have to feel guilty about.

Maybe sometimes trusting God means believing that His work will continue even when I step away for a while.

I’ve also been reminded that God looks deeper than the appearance of my choices. “Man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

I could choose the camp because I genuinely want to serve. But I could also choose it because I feel guilty saying no, because I am afraid that resting will make me look selfish, or because I think the harder choice must automatically be the more spiritual one.

And I don’t want to serve God from guilt.

I want to serve Him from love.

At the same time, I don’t want to use “rest” as an excuse to avoid something He is actually asking me to surrender. There are still things in my heart that God is working on—especially forgiveness, releasing resentment, and learning to live peacefully around people whose choices I cannot control.

Romans 12:18 reminds me, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

That verse gives me both responsibility and freedom.

I am responsible for my own heart. I can forgive. I can pray. I can refuse bitterness. I can maintain healthy boundaries. But I don’t have to manage another person’s behavior or carry responsibility for choices that aren’t mine.

And perhaps that’s part of my growth too.

I don’t have to prove that I’ve forgiven someone by putting myself in every uncomfortable situation with them. I don’t have to monitor them. I don’t have to fix them. I don’t have to make myself responsible for everyone else’s spiritual stumbling.

Jesus’ words to Peter come to mind: “What is that to you? You follow me!” (John 21:22).

So maybe my question shouldn’t simply be, “Which choice is harder?”

Maybe it should be, “Which choice can I make with a peaceful, willing, surrendered heart before God?”

James tells me that the wisdom from above is “peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits” (James 3:17). And Proverbs reminds me, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).

So I am learning to bring both possibilities before Him.

Maybe He will ask me to serve even when it stretches me.

Maybe He will allow me to rest without guilt.

Maybe the real work isn’t even about the camp or the outing. Maybe the deeper work is learning that I don’t have to constantly prove my faithfulness through what I do.

Ephesians 2:8–9 reminds me that I am saved by grace, not by my works.

My worth isn’t measured by how many people I lead, how much I serve, or how much I can endure.

So I’m praying for something deeper than an answer.

I’m praying for discernment. For a heart that can say yes without resentment and no without guilt.
For the wisdom to know when God is stretching me and when He is inviting me to rest. For the grace to forgive without pretending. For the humility to serve without needing recognition.
And for the faith to believe that even when I pause, God is still at work.

“Lord, search my heart. If You want me to serve, give me a willing heart. If You are inviting me to rest, give me the freedom to receive it. Keep me from choosing out of fear, guilt, avoidance, or people-pleasing. I don’t want to choose what merely looks spiritual. I want to follow You.

Teach me that obedience isn’t always the harder choice. Sometimes obedience is simply trusting You enough to do what You are actually asking of me.”

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine🌿

1 Peter, Devotions

🌿 1 Peter 1:1–2 | “Chosen, Known, and Set Apart”

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I am now starting a new devotion on 1 Peter. After I went through Ecclesiastes and Songs of Solomon, the Lord has led me to go through 1 Peter as it speaks beautifully about who I am becoming while I wait, walk, love, and endure.

Here’s for 1 Peter 1:1-2 introduction:


Peter begins his letter by addressing believers as “elect exiles”—people who belong to God even while living in a world where they may feel like they don’t quite belong. Before Peter talks about suffering, obedience, relationships, or perseverance, he starts with identity.

That feels significant to me in this season.

There are moments when I can become too focused on what is happening around me—how people respond, whether things are moving according to my expectations, whether I’m making the right decisions, or whether something I value will remain. I can easily make my sense of peace dependent on circumstances I cannot control.

But 1 Peter begins somewhere deeper:

I belong to God.



I am not defined by how secure or uncertain a season feels. I am not defined by someone’s consistency, someone’s approval, a relationship, a role, or even by my own ability to understand what God is doing. My identity was established before I understood the whole story.

Peter also says they were chosen according to the foreknowledge of God, sanctified by the Spirit, and called to obedience to Jesus Christ.

There is something comforting about that progression.

God knows me.
God is refining me.
God is calling me to follow Him.

And perhaps I don’t need to have everything figured out beyond that.

Being chosen doesn’t mean life will always feel easy or predictable. Being set apart doesn’t mean I will never experience uncertainty. It means that even in an ordinary, imperfect, sometimes confusing season, God is still at work in me.

I’m learning that faith isn’t always about receiving immediate answers. Sometimes faith looks like continuing to walk while the answers are still unfolding.

Maybe that’s part of what God is teaching me now: to stop trying to secure the future before I have even arrived there.

I can love people without making them my foundation. I can enjoy what God is giving me without demanding that it guarantee tomorrow.
I can set healthy boundaries without building walls. I can receive affection without constantly measuring it. I can acknowledge my fears without allowing them to lead me.

Because underneath all of it is this truth:

I already belong to Christ.

And when that becomes secure in me, I don’t have to grasp so tightly at everything else.


🤍 A prayer

Lord, thank You that before I am anything else, I am Yours. Help me remember that my identity is not something I need to earn or constantly prove. Teach me to trust Your choosing, Your timing, and Your work in me. When I feel uncertain, remind me that You already know me completely. When I feel the urge to control what comes next, teach me to walk faithfully with You today. Keep softening my heart without making me careless, and keep strengthening my faith without making me hard. May my life increasingly reflect the grace and peace that come from knowing I belong to You. Amen.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine🌱🤍✨️

Blog

Let Incense Arise

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There are moments when God doesn’t reveal something entirely new, but gently reveals something that has been there all along. At IDMC 2026, I found myself confronted by a quiet truth about my own heart: I can do many Christian things and still fail to slow down enough to simply be with God. I can serve, lead, attend church, read His Word, listen to sermons, pray for others, and keep showing up—and yet, somewhere in all the doing, I can forget the One I am doing it for.

The IDMC conference named something that felt uncomfortably familiar: performance-driven living, self-preoccupation, and self-sufficiency can become obstacles to genuine worship and prayer. In a busy, competitive, high-performance world, even faith can quietly become another place where we measure ourselves by how much we accomplish.  Sometimes I catch myself approaching my relationship with God the same way I approach everything else—show up, do well, stay disciplined, keep moving.



But Psalm 51:10 became a quiet prayer of my heart: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” David’s life reminded me that God is not only present in our victories, but also in our wilderness, failures, waiting, and ordinary seasons. The conference captured it beautifully: David did not find God despite his seasons; he found God in them.  Maybe that is what I am learning too—that I don’t need to arrive before God with everything figured out. I don’t need to make my faith look impressive. I simply need to come honestly, bringing Him what is actually happening in my heart.

Psalm 141:2 says, “Let my prayer be counted as incense before You.”  IDMC reminded me that worship and prayer were never meant to be separated. Prayer is not merely another discipline to complete or preparation for the “real work.” It is where I return my heart to God. It tunes my eyes to see again, my ears to hear again, and my heart to beat again with His heartbeat. Worship consumes the whole person and gradually transforms us into His likeness.

The conference also brought me back to the call in Joel 2:12–13: “Return to Me with all your heart… rend your hearts and not your garments.” And what moves me is the grace surrounding that invitation: “Yet even now.”  Yet even now—when I have drifted, when prayer has become rushed, when service has become easier than surrender, when I have been more focused on doing for God than being with God, He still calls me back. Not with condemnation, but with grace. Not asking for more performance, but for my whole heart.

Perhaps this is what it means to let incense arise—not simply filling the air with words, songs, or activity, but allowing a surrendered life to become worship. A worship that begins in the secret place, a prayer that is honest, a heart that is yielded, and a life that becomes an overflow of love for the One who first loved me.

Forever grateful for the reminders God gives me—not always through something completely new, but through the gentle uncovering of what my heart needs to return to. Back to His presence. Back to prayer. Back to worship. Back to the feet of Jesus. I think I will keep learning this for the rest of my life: I am not called to perform my way into God’s presence. I am invited to remain in it. Forever grateful for the grace that keeps calling me deeper.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine 🤍🌿

Thank you Cross Pointe Church Family! 🤍🍃

Blog

Bless the Broken Road

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There are seasons in life when I look back and wonder why the road had to be so winding. Why some doors had to close. Why some people had to leave. Why certain dreams took longer than I expected. At the time, I could only see the disappointment in front of me. I couldn’t always see where the road was leading.

“Bless the Broken Road” reminds me that sometimes, what feels like a detour is still part of God’s direction.

The heartbreaks, the waiting, the wrong turns, the seasons of feeling lost—none of them were wasted. I don’t believe every painful thing was something God caused, but I do believe He is faithful enough to redeem even the things that once hurt.

There were moments I thought I was simply passing through. I thought I was losing time. I wondered if I had missed something along the way. But perhaps God was quietly using every season to shape my heart, deepen my faith, and teach me to trust Him with what I could not yet see.

And then, somehow, I arrived at a season I once prayed for.

Not because the road was perfect, but because God was faithful through it.



The song says, “God blessed the broken road that led me straight to you.” And today, I hear those words differently. I hear them not as a celebration of everything that broke my heart, but as gratitude for the God who never stopped leading me—even when I couldn’t recognize the way.

I am grateful for the things that didn’t work out. Grateful for the lessons. Grateful for the waiting. Grateful for the people who helped me grow, even if they weren’t meant to stay. And grateful that I no longer have to understand every turn to trust the One who sees the whole road.

Maybe some roads are broken.

But broken doesn’t always mean wasted.

Sometimes, grace meets us right there.

And when I look back now, I don’t just see the road that brought me here.

I see God’s faithfulness along every mile.

Forever grateful for the road I didn’t understand then, but can now look back on and quietly say: God was there all along.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine 🤍🌿

Relationships

Another Birthday, Another Grace

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Birthdays have a way of making us look at our lives and ask, What am I grateful for? Who remembered me? Who made me feel loved? What did this year give me? And perhaps there is nothing wrong with wanting to feel celebrated. There is something beautiful about receiving messages, surprises, laughter, and thoughtful gestures from the people we love. But this year, I find myself wanting to approach my birthday differently—not by measuring how much I received, but by recognizing how much grace has already been given.

I know my friends will probably shower me with their usual sweet birthday messages, surprises, and thoughtful gestures, and I will genuinely treasure every one of them. But I also know that love cannot be measured by the size of a surprise or the length of a birthday message. Today reminded me that people express love differently, and sometimes the person who matters most may not always give love in the way the world would consider impressive.

Paulo even felt that he hadn’t made enough effort for my birthday. But I wanted him to know something before the day unfolded: he is enough for me—more than enough. I didn’t want him comparing himself to the people who might send sweeter messages or prepare bigger surprises. I didn’t want him thinking that his worth in my life could be measured by what he was able to do for me on one particular day.

Because I don’t want to love that way.

I want to learn to see the heart behind the gesture. I want to appreciate the people who celebrate me without using their love as a measuring stick against someone else’s. I want to receive every blessing with gratitude while remembering that the deepest gift isn’t found in what people can give me, but in the God who gave me another year of life in the first place.

Jesus never taught us to measure our worth by how much attention we receive. His life constantly pointed toward gratitude, presence, generosity, and love. So perhaps a Christ-centered birthday isn’t simply asking, “How loved did I feel today?” but also asking, “How can I love more because I have been so deeply loved?”

This birthday, I want to celebrate without comparison. I want to receive without entitlement. I want to be grateful without keeping score. I want to cherish the beautiful messages, laugh at the silly ones, embrace the surprises, and hold close the people God has entrusted to me.

And most of all, I want to remember that my life itself is already grace.

Another year doesn’t mean I have everything figured out. It means God has given me another year to know Him more, love Him deeper, grow in wisdom, love people better, forgive more freely, and become more like Jesus.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12

So here’s to another year—not necessarily a more impressive one, but a more intentional one. A year of choosing what matters. A year of deeper faith, gentler love, meaningful relationships, and a heart that remembers where every good gift comes from.

Another birthday. Another year. Another undeserved, beautiful evidence of grace.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine🤍🌱

Journal

Alice stepping out of faith

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“The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.” — Psalm 121:5

Today, my heart is thankful because my dear friend Alice arrived home safely after a long 24-hour journey. Traveling that far is never easy, and I’m grateful that God watched over every mile, every stop, and every moment until she reached her destination safely.

This journey marks more than the end of a trip—it marks the beginning of a new chapter. Alice has chosen to settle in another province to pursue her career and be closer to her family. While goodbyes are never easy, I’m reminded that sometimes God leads us to new places to accomplish His purposes. New beginnings often require courage, faith, and the willingness to leave behind what is familiar.

I thank God for opening this door for her and for surrounding her with the love and support of her family as she starts this new season. My prayer is that she will flourish wherever God has planted her, that He will establish the work of her hands, guide every decision she makes, and continue to remind her that His presence goes before her.

Moments like this remind me that one of the greatest blessings in life is seeing the people we care about walk confidently into the future God has prepared for them. Though distance may change how often we see each other, it can never diminish the gratitude I have for our friendship or the joy of witnessing God’s faithfulness in her life.

Forever grateful for God’s protection, His guidance, and the beautiful new beginnings He writes for those who trust Him.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine 🤍🌿

Journal

Thankful for Evangelism Training. 🤍

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Today, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for the privilege of being equipped to share the gospel. Evangelism is more than learning a method or memorizing a presentation—it is learning to love people the way Jesus does and being willing to step out in faith, trusting that God will do what only He can do.

What made today even more meaningful was that we didn’t just learn about evangelism—we immediately had the opportunity to put it into practice at the nearby mall. I walked in with a mixture of excitement and nervousness, but as we began talking with people, I experienced the quiet yet undeniable presence of the Holy Spirit. He gave me peace when I felt hesitant, wisdom when I didn’t know what to say, and compassion for people I had never met before. It was a beautiful reminder that evangelism is never about having all the right words; it is about being available for God to work through us.

I’m especially thankful for Ate Keren, whom God graciously partnered me with today. Beyond serving together, I had the privilege of hearing her testimony and sharing ours together. Listening to how God has been faithful in her life encouraged my own faith, and it reminded me that every testimony points to the same Savior who rescues, restores, and redeems. I’m grateful for the fellowship, the encouragement, and the opportunity to labor side by side for God’s kingdom.

I’m also deeply thankful for Adam for faithfully facilitating the training. His heart to equip believers reminded me that evangelism is not reserved for a select few but is the joyful calling of every follower of Christ. Through his teaching, I was reminded that our role is simply to be faithful in sharing the gospel while trusting God to work in people’s hearts.

One truth that especially resonated with me today was Ephesians 2:8–9:

> “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”



This verse reminded me that the message we shared today is not about asking people to earn God’s love or prove themselves worthy. The gospel is the good news that salvation is a gift of grace through faith in Jesus Christ. We are not saved because of what we do, but because of what Christ has already done for us. That truth humbles me because I, too, am a recipient of the same grace. Before I could ever share the gospel with others, I first needed to receive it myself.

Today reminded me that the Great Commission is not simply a command to obey but a privilege to embrace. We don’t save anyone—God does. We simply sow the seeds, share the good news, and trust the Holy Spirit to bring the growth.

> “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” — Acts 1:8



Thank You, Lord, for the gift of salvation by grace, for the privilege of being trained, for the opportunity to share the gospel alongside Ate Keren, for Adam’s faithful leadership, and for allowing me to experience the presence of the Holy Spirit as we witnessed to others. May I never lose the wonder of the gospel or the joy of telling others about Jesus.

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine 🤍🌿

Journal

Amidst the Storm

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“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” — Psalm 46:1–2


Today’s weather reminded me how little control I have over life. The rain fell relentlessly, the winds were strong, and many plans had to adjust. Yet instead of dwelling on what could have gone wrong, God gently opened my eyes to everything that went right.

My family arrived home safely. I made it to work without harm. Paulo finished playing indoor pickleball, traveled home safely, and had food waiting for him to enjoy after a long day. At home, we were also blessed with warm food on our table. These may seem like ordinary moments, but they are quiet miracles of God’s daily faithfulness. Safety, provision, and the comfort of knowing that the people I love are cared for are gifts I never want to take for granted.

Beyond these tangible blessings, God also filled my heart with joy through community. Even though we weren’t physically together, our group chats were full of laughter, playful conversations, and genuine friendship. It’s amazing how a few messages, shared jokes, and heartfelt exchanges can brighten a rainy day. They reminded me that God often ministers to us through the people He has placed in our lives. Joy has a way of finding us, even through the small glow of a phone screen.

Today wasn’t extraordinary by the world’s standards. There were no major milestones or life-changing events. But perhaps that’s exactly why I’m grateful. God has been teaching me that His faithfulness is often hidden in the ordinary—in safe journeys, warm meals, meaningful friendships, and quiet moments of peace while the storm rages outside.

I am reminded that gratitude is not the absence of storms but the choice to recognize God’s goodness in the middle of them. The weather may be uncertain, but His character never is. He continues to watch over our coming and going, provide for our needs, and surround us with people who make the journey lighter.

“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” — Psalm 121:8

Tonight, my heart rests in the simple yet profound truth that we are safe, we are provided for, we are surrounded by love, and above all, we are held by a faithful God.



Forever Grateful.

Charmaine🤍🌿

Blog

Friends in Christ

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Some prayers are answered in unexpected ways. Mine looked like people God gently placed in my life—friends in Christ who became reminders of His faithfulness.

The ones who stayed. The ones who prayed. The ones who listened without rushing, spoke truth with grace, celebrated every victory, and carried burdens when the weight felt too much to bear.

They’ve seen seasons of joy and seasons of waiting. They’ve witnessed tears, doubts, answered prayers, growth, and quiet victories. Through it all, they never pointed me to themselves—they always pointed me back to Jesus.

Their friendship has reminded me that the Christian life was never meant to be lived alone. God, in His kindness, gives us people who encourage us to keep going, challenge us to grow in holiness, and lovingly remind us of the hope we have in Christ.

Looking back, I can see His fingerprints in every conversation, every prayer, every shared meal, every act of kindness, and every moment of simply doing life together.

To my friends in Christ—thank you for being part of the story God is writing in my life. You have been a living picture of His love, His grace, and His steadfast faithfulness.

Forever grateful for friendships that don’t just make life richer, but draw my heart closer to Jesus. May we continue to walk faithfully together until the day we see Him face to face.

“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds… encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:24–25 🤍

Forever Grateful,

Charmaine🤍🌿

Journal

Thanksgiving So Far | July 21, 2026

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As I look back on this season, I can’t help but notice how gracious God has been. Not because everything has gone according to plan, but because He has faithfully walked with me through every high and low. He has been present in answered prayers and uncomfortable conversations, in joyful celebrations and quiet moments of uncertainty.

I’m thankful for a love that is teaching me to become more patient, more honest, and more willing to grow. I’m thankful for someone who doesn’t just celebrate the easy days with me but is willing to stay through the difficult ones. The conversations that once felt frightening have become reminders that love isn’t the absence of conflict—it’s the commitment to return, listen, and choose each other again.

I’m thankful that God continues to soften my heart. He’s teaching me that strength isn’t always found in having the right answers, but in remaining teachable. That peace isn’t the absence of fears, but His presence in the middle of them. That waiting isn’t wasted when it is spent walking closely with Him.

Most of all, I’m thankful that through every blessing, relationship, opportunity, and lesson, God continues to draw me closer to Himself. Every good gift points back to the Giver. Every season reminds me that His grace has always been enough.

Looking back, I don’t see a perfect story.

I see a faithful God.

And for that, my heart can only say:

Forever grateful.

Charmaine🤍🌿