Ephesians 6:10-18

 
Sabang Beach during sunset

**Bible Study Post: Ephesians 6:10-18 - Be Strong in the Lord and in His Mighty Power**

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**Introduction:**

In today’s study, we will delve into Ephesians 6:10-18, a powerful passage that encourages believers to find strength in God amidst spiritual battles. As we explore this scripture, let us open our hearts to understand the significance of standing firm in our faith and relying on God’s mighty power.

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**Scripture Passage:**

*Ephesians 6:10-18 (NIV)*

*“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”*

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**Key Themes:**

1. **Strength in the Lord:**
   - *"Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power."* 

   - This verse points to the source of our strength. It is crucial to understand that our ability to withstand challenges does not come from ourselves but from God. Reflect on ways you can cultivate your relationship with Him to draw strength daily.

2. **The Spiritual Battle:**
   - *"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood..."*

   - Paul reminds us that our conflicts often have deeper spiritual implications. Consider how this perspective shifts our responses to everyday challenges. Let’s be mindful of the fact that prayer and reliance on God’s strength are essential to overcoming these battles.

3. **The Armor of God:**
   - Each piece of the armor has a specific purpose:

     - **Belt of Truth:**
Holds everything together; truth sets us free.

     - **Breastplate of Righteousness:**
Protects our hearts; living righteously shields us from condemnation.

     - **Feet Fitted with Readiness:**
Prepared to share the gospel; readiness inspires action.

     - **Shield of Faith:**
Protects against doubt and fear; trust in God to extinguish arrows of negativity.

     - **Helmet of Salvation:**
Protects our minds; reminds us of our secured salvation.

     - **Sword of the Spirit:**
The Word of God; a powerful weapon against lies and temptation.

4. **Prayer:**
   - *"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions..."*
   - Prayer is fundamental in spiritual warfare. It connects us with God and empowers us through the Spirit. Discuss the importance of maintaining a consistent prayer life and how it affects your spiritual journey.

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**Discussion Questions:**

1. What does "being strong in the Lord" look like in your daily life?

2. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a situation and drawn on God's strength? Share your experience.

3. How can we actively put on the armor of God each day? What does that practice entail for you?

4. Why do you think Paul emphasizes prayer so heavily in this passage? How can we improve our prayer lives?

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**Conclusion:**

Ephesians 6:10-18 serves as a powerful reminder that as Christians, we are called to be warriors in a spiritual battle. By relying on God's strength and equipping ourselves with the armor He provides, we can stand firm against any challenges we face. Let us commit to strengthening our faith, arming ourselves with God’s truth, and engaging in fervent prayer for ourselves and each other.

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**Prayer:**

Heavenly Father, thank you for the strength you provide us. Help us to put on your armor daily and to be vigilant in prayer. Guide us in our struggles, and may we always seek refuge in your mighty power. Amen.

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Kaybiang Tunnel - Revisited

I had the chance to revisit the beautiful Kaybiang Tunnel, and wow, what a transformation it has undergone! 🚗💨 The once-secluded roads leading to the tunnel have blossomed into a vibrant destination that offers so much more than just stunning views. 

Now, there are charming restaurants that serve delicious food and coffee while you soak in the breathtaking sights of the mountains and the ocean stretching towards Bataan. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or just a comforting cup of coffee, there’s something for everyone! ☕🍽️ And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, don’t worry—just grab a coffee, sit back, and enjoy the refreshing breeze and the gorgeous scenery. 🌄🍃

As you approach the entrance of the tunnel, you'll find a lively array of vendors offering wonderful pasalubong (souvenirs) to bring back home! It’s the perfect way to support local artisans while taking a piece of this beautiful place with you.

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

 

If you haven’t been yet, I highly recommend visiting Kaybiang Tunnel.
It’s a fantastic spot to relax, indulge, and appreciate nature in all its glory.
Can’t wait to return! 

You may also visit the following link for my previous post;

KayBiang Tunnel

KayBiang Tunnel Road Trip

✨✨✨✨✨✨

 #KaybiangTunnel,
#TravelAdventures,
#MountainAndOceanViews,
#SupportLocal,
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Happy Birthday Sweet Heart 🎂

🎉🎂 Happy 15th Birthday, Sweetheart! 🎂🎉

Today, we celebrate not just another year, but the incredible person you’re becoming! Watching you grow over the years has been one of the greatest joys of my life. At 15, you are blossoming with talent, kindness, and creativity, and I couldn't be prouder of you!

 

May this year bring you endless opportunities, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Embrace new adventures, and never forget how loved you are. You have a bright future ahead, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things you’ll accomplish!

Enjoy your special day to the fullest. Here’s to 15 fabulous years and many more to come!

With all my love

❤️✨❤️✨❤️✨❤️✨

#HappyBirthday,
#MaligayangKaarawan,
#Happy15thBirthday,
#SweetHeart25moments,
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The GOD of Love & Wrath

Exodus 34:6-7

*“And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.’”* (Exodus 34:6-7, NIV)

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#### Reflection:

In this powerful passage, God reveals His character to Moses on Mount Sinai. It’s a moment of divine proclamation that encapsulates the essence of who God is. Let’s take a closer look at each aspect of His nature as described here:

1. **Compassionate and Gracious**: God is described as having deep compassion and grace. This indicates that He cares for us intimately and desires to act favorably toward us, despite our shortcomings.

2. **Slow to Anger**: God’s patience is highlighted here. He allows time for repentance and seeks relationship rather than immediate judgment. This encourages us to reflect on our own responses to others—are we quick to anger, or do we model God's patience?

3. **Abounding in Love and Faithfulness**: God's love is abundant and unwavering. He is faithful to His promises, always available to us, and committed to our growth and well-being.

4. **Forgiving Wickedness, Rebellion, and Sin**: God is willing to forgive even the gravest offenses when we turn to Him truly and sincerely. This reminds us of the incredible gift of forgiveness available through Jesus Christ.

5. **Justice**: While God is loving and forgiving, He is also just. The verse reminds us that sin has consequences, and while God offers grace, there are still repercussions for wrongdoing. This duality shows us the depth of His holiness.

#### Application Questions:

1. **Personal Reflection**: How have you experienced God’s compassion and grace in your life? Can you think of a specific instance where you felt His forgiveness?

2. **Character Reflection**: In what ways can you strive to embody the attributes of God mentioned in these verses? How can you show compassion and patience to those around you?

3. **Understanding Justice**: How do you reconcile God’s justice with His grace in your understanding of sin and forgiveness? What does this mean for your relationship with God and others?

4. **Generational Impact**: What does it mean for you to consider the effects of your actions on future generations? How can you live in such a way that positively influences those who come after you?

#### Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing Your character to us through Your Word. Help us to embrace Your compassion, grace, and forgiveness in our lives. Teach us to embody these qualities as we interact with others. May we always remember Your holiness and justice, and strive to reflect Your love and faithfulness each day. We ask that You guide our hearts and minds as we seek to grow in our understanding of You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Thailand 🇹🇭 🌏✈️

Pictures, not mine, credit to FB Post GLADEX

🌏✈️ ** Thailand Awaits!** 🇹🇭💖 

Hey everyone! I’m thrilled to share that I’ll be traveling to Thailand soon! I can hardly contain my excitement as I prepare to explore this amazing country. From its stunning landscapes to its vibrant culture, I know there will be so much to see and experience.

Here are the incredible places I plan to visit during my trip:

1. **Terminal 21:** This unique shopping mall features themed floors inspired by various cities around the world—perfect for some fun shopping and dining!

2. **Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn):** I can’t wait to admire the stunning architecture and beautiful riverside views that this iconic temple has to offer.

3. **Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha):** I’m excited to see the giant reclining Buddha statue and immerse myself in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic temple.

 

4. **ICONSIAM Mall:** Known as one of Bangkok’s premier shopping destinations, I’m looking forward to exploring this luxurious mall and enjoying the riverside views.

5. **Chao Phraya Princess Cruise:** A relaxing cruise along the Chao Phraya River sounds like a perfect way to see the city from the water and witness the beautiful skyline at sunset!

6. **Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew:** Visiting the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple is definitely on my list. I can't wait to learn more about Thailand's royal heritage!

7. **Mahanakhon SkyWalk:** I’m excited to take in breathtaking 360-degree views of Bangkok from this impressive skywalk. The view is sure to be unforgettable!

8. **Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya:** This stunning wooden temple is both an architectural marvel and a cultural experience. I can’t wait to explore its intricate carvings.

9. **Sanctuary of Truth View Point:** I’ll be sure to capture some amazing photos from this viewpoint overlooking the beautiful surroundings.

10. **Central Pattaya & Terminal 21 Pattaya:** I look forward to indulging in some shopping and local cuisine in these vibrant areas.

11. **Chatuchak Weekend Market:** This massive market is a must-visit for anyone in Bangkok, and I can’t wait to wander through the stalls filled with local crafts, food, and treasures!

12. **Thai Massage:** I’m definitely treating myself to a traditional Thai massage — the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring!

13. **Siam Paragon & MBK Center:** These iconic shopping centers promise a fantastic mix of high-end shopping and local finds; I’m excited to see what they have to offer!

14. **Chinatown:** I can't wait to dive into the bustling streets of Chinatown, filled with delicious street food and vibrant market stalls!

I’ll be sharing my experiences, photos, and stories with all of you after my travels! Stay tuned for updates, and if you have any tips or places you think I should visit, please let me know!

See you in Thailand! 🇹🇭
✈️💖✨✈️💖✨✈️💖✨✈️💖✨

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Palazzo Verde at Night

**Enchanting Nights at Pallazo Verde** 

As the sun sets and dusk falls over Daang Reyna, Pallazo Verde transforms into a radiant jewel under the night sky. The entire glass dome comes alive, illuminated with a captivating blend of white and orange lights that cast a warm and romantic glow. This stunning spectacle creates an atmosphere that is nothing short of magical, inviting couples, families, and friends to gather and create unforgettable memories.

✨ **A Romantic Retreat:**
The soft orange hues mingle with the crisp white brilliance, wrapping the venue in a loving embrace that feels both enchanting and intimate. Whether you’re strolling along the pathways or enjoying a cozy coffee date, the ambiance of Pallazo Verde at night is truly a sight to behold.

🌠 **Visible from Afar:**
The shimmering lights can be seen from a distance, beckoning travelers and locals alike to experience the wonder. It’s not just a venue; it’s a beacon of beauty that draws people in, sparking curiosity and delight as the evening takes hold.

💖 **Create Lasting Memories:**
Whether it’s a romantic evening out, a special celebration, or simply a night of reflection, the ambiance at Pallazo Verde will leave your heart full. Capturing the essence of love and togetherness, every moment spent here feels extraordinary.

It's so love us under those stars and let the allure of our illuminated dome weave its magic around you
at Pallazo Verde!

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

#PallazoVerde,
#NightMagic,
#RomanticEvenings,
#IlluminatedGlassDome,
#LoveUnderTheStars,
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#BittanyPallazo,

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Loving GOD, Loving People 💓

 

**Bible Study Post: Loving God, Loving People** 🌟

**Scripture Focus:** Luke 10:25-27 (NIV)

*"On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. 'Teacher,' he asked, 'what must I do to inherit eternal life?' 'What is written in the Law?' he replied. 'How do you read it?' He answered: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your neighbor as yourself.'”*

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**Discussion Points:**

1. **Understanding Love for God:**

   - What does it mean to love the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind?

   - How can we cultivate a deeper relationship with God in our daily lives?

2. **Loving Our Neighbors:**

   - In what ways can we demonstrate love to those around us?

   - Consider who your "neighbors" are—family, friends, co-workers, and even those who are difficult to love.

3. **The Connection Between Loving God and Others:**

   - How does our love for God influence our ability to love others?

   - Reflect on times when your faith has motivated you to act with love and compassion towards others.

4. **Practical Applications:**

   - Identify one practical way you can express love to someone this week.

   - Share your experiences and encourage one another to actively seek opportunities to live out this commandment.

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**Closing Prayer:**

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your love. Help us to love You with all that we are and to extend that love to those around us. May our hearts be open to serve, care, and uplift others in Your name. Amen.

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💓💓💓💓💓💓💓

Remember, loving God and loving people are intertwined. As we grow in our relationship with God, our capacity to love others expands. Let’s encourage one another to embody this message in every aspect of our lives!

💖✝️

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Peeping Moon

Captured this beauty while walking in the street of Santan

 

"The moon, a shy observer, peeks through the tangled limbs of the trees,
painting the evening sky with delicate strokes of luminescence."





"With each branch cradling the moonlight, the dusk becomes a tapestry woven of dreams,
where nature and celestial beauty embrace in harmonious silence."





"As the sun bows to the horizon, the moon takes its gentle peep through the branches,
casting a silver glow that transforms the ordinary into a breathtaking masterpiece."

#PeepingMoon,
#Twilight, #Dusk, #Sunset,
#DapitHapon, #AgawDilimAtLiwanag,
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#istariray23travel,
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