jerickreforba25

[jerickreforba25]

A Personal Reflection on Cody Simpson’s 2011 Hit “On My Mind”

Jerick Combate Reforba

Back in 2011, the airwaves were alive with the fresh pulse of new pop voices, but among them, there was something genuinely captivating about the warm, laid-back charm of Australian singer Cody Simpson. From his early days singing on YouTube to catching the eye of Atlantic Records, Cody was quickly carving out a unique space in the pop landscape—and his song On My Mind, from the Coast to Coast – EP, was the defining moment that truly put him on the map.

Released on September 20, 2011, On My Mind wasn’t just another catchy teen love song—it was the sonic embodiment of young longing and emotional vulnerability. At just 14 years old, Cody delivered a performance filled with sincerity and maturity beyond his years. I remember hearing that opening line—“I’m sleeping through the day, I’m trying not to fade”—and instantly feeling transported into the world of adolescent emotion, where every glance, every missed opportunity, every silent night spent thinking of someone meant everything.

The songwriting team behind it—Fraser T. Smith, Julie Frost, Mike Caren, and Nasri—crafted something special. Their pop pedigree brought a level of polish and nuance to the track, but Cody’s voice is what truly brought it to life. There was a tenderness to the way he sang, “I can’t get you off my mind”, like it wasn’t just a lyric—it was a confession. A truth. Something I—and many others at the time—deeply related to.

The beauty of On My Mind is that it walks that delicate line between bubblegum pop and honest-to-goodness soulfulness. It’s not trying to be too clever or too dramatic; it’s just real. The melody is light and breezy, with subtle acoustic strumming and pop-driven beats that make it incredibly infectious. Yet beneath the sunny surface lies a message that resonates with anyone who’s ever lost sleep over someone who might not even know how deeply they occupy your thoughts.

And then there’s the chorus—simple, yet achingly sincere:

“Give me the chance to love you / I’ll tell you the only reason why / ‘Cause you are on my mind…”

That plea, that earnest desire to just be seen and acknowledged by someone you care about, felt so raw. As a teenager then, or even now looking back, I can say without hesitation—it captured a universal emotion we’ve all felt at one point in our lives.

As Cody continues to evolve in his artistry, from pop heartthrob to a mature, multifaceted musician and even a competitive swimmer, On My Mind remains a beautiful snapshot of where it all began. It’s a time capsule of innocence, ambition, and heartfelt emotion. For many fans—including myself—it was the soundtrack to crushes, high school days, scribbled notebook lyrics, and moments of emotional daydreaming.

Looking back now, over a decade later, On My Mind still hits differently. It’s more than a pop song—it’s a memory. A reminder that even at 14, love can feel like the most powerful thing in the world. And thanks to Cody Simpson, we got a song that captured that feeling perfectly.

© 2025 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, and use of AI learning are prohibited.

[jerickreforba25]

My Blessed Journey with Papuri! and the Concert Night with Bong & Dang Hermosa

Jerick Combate Reforba

I am incredibly grateful for the amazing experiences I’ve had recently, particularly the concert night with Bong & Dang Hermosa at the LRV Heritage Hall in Balatas Road, Naga City. These events have strengthened my faith and deepened my connection with the Lord, and I’d like to share my journey with you all.

On the night of July 16, 2024, I attended a concert featuring Bong & Dang Hermosa. It was an evening filled with uplifting music and heartfelt worship, and I couldn’t have been more excited to be there. I was given this opportunity thanks to Ptr. Joey Piano and Ms. Eva Piano, who graciously allowed me to attend. I expressed my gratitude on Facebook with a post that read:

“By God’s grace, special thanks to Ptr Joey Piano & Eva Joey Piano for allowing me para makapanood ng concert with Doc Bong & Ate Dang Hermosa earlier tonight, and hope I’ll looking forward to see you again very soon. Soli Deo Gloria!”

During the concert, I had the pleasure of meeting several notable individuals from the Papuri! community and CARE 104.3 DWAY-FM Legazpi City. I was particularly blessed to see Ptr. Abel Manzanilla, Ms. Melisa Cerio-Manzanilla, and Alvis Ayson. Their presence made the night even more special, and I posted on Facebook:

“Special thank you to our Ptr. Abel Manzanilla, Melisa Cerio-Manzanilla & Alvis Ayson of CARE 104.3 The WAY FM Legazpi City, and I’m really so blessed to see you right here in Naga City during Doc Bong & Dang Hermosa concert earlier tonight. Can’t wait to communicate Christ very soon. Soli Deo Gloria!”

Ptr. Abel Manzanilla reacted to this post on July 23, 2024, which further filled my heart with joy.

The night was indeed a divine appointment. Being there alone, watching the concert, meeting and greeting the artists, and taking selfies with such legendary Papuri! artists as Bong & Dang Hermosa was a profound experience. I shared my joy with another Facebook post:

“This is not an accidental, kasi mag-isa po akong nanood ng concert at nag-meet and greet. What a blessed night indeed, dahil napakasarap talagang magpuri sa Panginoon.

Special shout out to our Doc Bong & Ate Dang Hermosa. Thank you very much, and sa Diyos lang po ang papuri!

Every day I will thank you; I will praise you forever and ever. – Psalm 145:2 GNT”

Following this concert, on July 17, 2024, I tuned into the “Papuri! Radio Show” Wednesday edition with the Campañer family (Dennis Campañer, Charmaine Manalo-Campañer, and Trisha Denise) via 702 DZAS FEBC Radyo TV Mega Manila. I couldn’t help but comment on a post by 702 DZAS - FEBC Radio’s Facebook page, sharing my excitement and gratitude:

“Mapagpalang Miyerkules ng hapon po, Campañer family!

Kitang-kita ko sa mga posts ko sa aking Facebook timeline, this is not an accidental sa biyaya ng Diyos. Mag-isa po akong nanood ng isang concert yesterday (July 16) diyan sa LRV Heritage Hall, Balatas Road, Naga City. Personal kong nag-meet and greet, and then nag-selfie yung dalawang sikat na legendary Papuri! artists sina Doc Bong & Ate Dang Hermosa, dahil napakasarap talagang magpuri sa Panginoon.

Gusto ko pong mag-special shout out, and say hello to our Ptr. Abel & Ms. Melisa Cerio-Manzanilla, and Kuya Alvis Ayson of CARE 104.3 DWAY-FM Legazpi City.

Pa-request po ng kantang “Laban N’yo Ito, Panginoon!” from Papuri! 23 album. Listening right now via online streaming sa Magarao, Camarines Sur. Thanks and God Bless po, mga ka-Papuri!”

Charmaine Manalo-Campañer reacted to my comment, which was incredibly encouraging.

Earlier this afternoon (July 24, 2024), I was blessed to listen to the song I requested, “Laban N’yo Ito, Panginoon!” from the Papuri! 24 album of the same name was released in 2021, during the “Papuri! Radio Show” Wednesday edition. Despite some buffering issues while listening via online streaming, I was overjoyed to hear the familiar voices of the Campañer family. This song, performed by 29 legendary Papuri! artists and written by Arnel de Pano and Rommel & Susan Guevara, truly lifted my spirit.

As an avid fan of Papuri!, I am deeply moved by the life-changing, positive, and encouraging songs that are played, whether on the radio or streaming platforms. The “Papuri! Radio Show,” which airs every Monday to Friday at 4:30 PM on 702 DZAS FEBC Radyo TV Mega Manila, is particularly close to my heart. These songs of praise and worship to God and the nation resonate deeply with me.

Reflecting on all these experiences, I am filled with gratitude and praise to the Lord. Each encounter and every moment of worship through music has strengthened my faith and brought me closer to God. I look forward to more opportunities to praise Him and share His love with others.

Soli Deo Gloria!

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[jerickreforba25]

A Night of Worship and Transformation: My Testimony from the Kaogma 2024 Worship Fest

Jerick Combate Reforba

I had the incredible privilege of attending the “Kaogma 2024 Worship Fest” at Capitol Grounds, Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur. This event was not just a gathering; it was a divine appointment that marked a significant moment in my spiritual journey. I want to share with you the profound experience and how it has deeply impacted my faith.

The Atmosphere of Worship

From the moment I arrived, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. Worshippers from all walks of life had come together, unified by their love for Jesus. The event featured a guest performance by none other than JDP Jack D’ Preacher and Sharaine, whose music has been a source of inspiration for many.

As I joined the crowd, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The stage was set, and the worship leaders took their place. The first notes of worship began to fill the air, and instantly, I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit. There is something uniquely powerful about corporate worship—when voices unite in praise, heaven touches earth.

A Personal Encounter with God

During the worship session, five life-changing songs were performed by JDP Jack D’ Preacher and Sharaine. Each song was like a prayer, drawing us closer to the heart of God. The lyrics resonated deeply within me, speaking to my struggles, hopes, and dreams. As we sang together, I felt my anxieties and fears melt away, replaced by a profound sense of peace and joy.

One song, in particular, stood out to me. Its message of surrender and trust in God’s plan hit home. As the music played, I closed my eyes and lifted my hands in surrender. In that moment, I felt God’s reassuring presence, reminding me that He is in control and that I am never alone.

A Community of Believers

What made this experience even more special was the sense of community. I was not just a spectator; I was part of a family of believers, all worshipping the same God. I had the chance to take a picture with my dear friends in Christ, JDP Jack D’ Preacher and Sharaine. This moment of fellowship was a beautiful reminder of the support and love we have in the body of Christ.

Thankfulness and Reflection

Looking back on that night, I am filled with gratitude. I am thankful for the organizers of the Kaogma 2024 Worship Fest, for creating a space where we could encounter God in such a powerful way. I am thankful for JDP Jack D’ Preacher and Sharaine, whose ministry through music has touched countless lives, including mine.

Most importantly, I am thankful to God for meeting me where I am and for the continuous work He is doing in my life. This event was more than just a concert; it was a divine encounter that has left an indelible mark on my heart.

A Call to Worship

If there is one thing I have taken away from this experience, it is the importance of worship in our daily lives. Worship is not confined to events or gatherings; it is a lifestyle. It is a daily surrender to God, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness. I encourage everyone to seek opportunities for worship, whether in large gatherings or in the quiet moments of daily life.

To God be all the glory for the wonderful things He has done and continues to do. Let us continue to worship Him in spirit and in truth, for He is worthy of all our praise.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jerick Combate Reforba (@jerickreforba25)

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[jerickreforba25]

From Hearing to Listening: The Importance of Actively Seeking God’s Voice

Jerick Combate Reforba

Tony Litam’s powerful teaching “Learning to Listen to God’s Voice” delves deeply into the distinction between hearing and listening to God, emphasizing the importance of actively seeking and understanding His guidance.

The Importance of Listening to God

Jeremiah 29:13-14 promises that when we seek God with all our heart, we will find Him. This passage underlines the necessity of a genuine and wholehearted pursuit of God, marked by sincerity, devotion, and a longing to know Him intimately. This aligns with the essence of listening over merely hearing.

Differences Between Hearing and Listening

Hearing is a physiological act, the passive ability to perceive sound using our ears. It doesn’t require attention or effort; it’s automatic. Listening, however, is an active process involving multiple senses—seeing, hearing, and touching—and demands focused attention, intention, and conscious effort to understand and interpret the message. Listening is a psychological skill that involves the brain in making meaning from sound signals.

The Challenges of Hearing God’s Voice

Several factors can hinder our ability to hear God’s voice:

1. Pride: Believing more in our own knowledge and intellect rather than seeking God's wisdom.

2. Self-sufficiency: Thinking we don’t need God and relying solely on our own understanding.

3. Distractions: The noise and busyness of daily life can drown out God’s voice.

4. Unwillingness: A lack of desire or effort to seek God earnestly.

Why Listening to God is Crucial

Listening to God is foundational for the existence and welfare of His people. Sin originates from disobedience to God’s word, showing the critical need for listening to Him. The prophet Jeremiah calls for the people to hear the word of the Lord, emphasizing its importance.

Benefits of Hearing God’s Voice

Hearing God’s voice brings numerous benefits:

1. Guidance and Direction: God reveals His plans and purposes, helping us navigate our lives according to His will.

2. Protection and Provision: As highlighted in Psalm 91:15 and Joshua 1:7-8, God provides for and protects those who meditate on His word and follow His guidance.

3. Peace: Psalm 23 illustrates that God’s voice brings peace during difficulties, offering comfort and assurance in challenging times.

Conclusion

Learning to listen to God’s voice is an essential practice for believers, transforming the passive act of hearing into an active, engaging process that fosters a deeper relationship with God. It requires a genuine, heartfelt pursuit of His guidance, overcoming barriers of pride, self-sufficiency, and distractions. The profound benefits of listening to God—guidance, protection, provision, and peace—underscore its significance in the life of every believer.

Reaction

The emphasis on actively listening to God rather than just hearing is profound and timely. In our busy lives, it’s easy to let distractions and self-sufficiency drown out God’s voice. This message reminds us of the need for a wholehearted, sincere pursuit of God to experience His guidance and peace.

Takeaways and Final Thoughts

The key takeaway is the distinction between hearing and listening to God. Hearing is passive; listening is active and intentional. Overcoming pride, self-sufficiency, and distractions is essential to genuinely seek God. Listening to God brings guidance, protection, and peace, highlighting its vital role in a believer’s life.

The final thought is make a conscious effort to seek God with your whole heart, engage in His word, and be open to His voice for a deeper, more fulfilling spiritual journey.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your presence and guidance. Lord, we acknowledge that often we hear but do not listen. We ask for Your help in transforming our passive hearing into active, intentional listening. Open our hearts and minds to truly seek You with all our being, as promised in Jeremiah 29:13-14. Help us overcome the barriers of pride, distractions, and self-sufficiency that hinder us from hearing Your voice.

Teach us to quiet our hearts amidst the noise of our daily lives, and to focus on Your word and guidance. May we find peace, direction, and purpose in Your voice. Lord, let Your words bring comfort during our challenges, and wisdom in our decisions. We long to experience the depth of Your love and the fullness of Your plans for us.

Guide us, protect us, and provide for us as we meditate on Your word, as You promised in Joshua 1:7-8. Let us rest in the assurance of Your presence, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. We commit to seeking You earnestly, trusting that You will reveal Yourself to us.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What are some practical steps you can take to transition from merely hearing God’s word to actively listening and understanding His voice?

2. How have pride, distractions, or self-sufficiency hindered your ability to listen to God, and what changes can you make to overcome these obstacles?

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[jerickreforba25]

ELEVATE UNITE 2024 @ CCF NAGA

Jerick Combate Reforba

Thank you very much for celebrating 11 years of taking students to the next level since 2013. To God alone, be the glory, honor and praise! 🙏❤️🔥

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[jerickreforba25]

Celebrating 76 Years of Communicating Christ: A Memorable Visit to FEBC PH

Jerick Combate Reforba

Philippians 1:6 GNT declares, “And so I am sure that God, who began this good work in you, will carry it on until it is finished on the Day of Christ Jesus.” This powerful scripture encapsulates the journey and mission of FEBC Philippines, an organization devoted to bringing Christ to the world through radio for the past 76 years.

Four months ago, I had the distinct privilege of visiting the 38th Floor of One Corporate Center in Ortigas, Pasig City, the home of FEBC Philippines. This visit holds a special place in my heart, marking a significant moment in my longstanding partnership with FEBC. It was a dream come true to step into the very place where the message of Christ is broadcasted across the nation and beyond.

FEBC Philippines has been a steadfast presence in my life, nurturing my spiritual growth and providing comfort through its diverse programming. I have been an avid listener and supporter of their initiatives, faithfully tuning into my favorite shows on CARE 104.3 DWAY-FM Legazpi City, such as “Oras Na, Bicolandia!” hosted by Raquel Camo-Landong and Rico Gelit, “Buhay Pamilya,” “TNT: Your Lunch Break Café On-Air” with Cecil Amog, “Youth Today,” and “Digdi sa Bicol” with Sam Zenarosa. Each program has offered invaluable insights, encouragement, and a sense of community, making them an integral part of my daily routine.

Additionally, I eagerly follow the programs of 702 DZAS Mega Manila. Shows like “Oras Na, Pilipinas!” with Haydee Bernardo-Sampang, “Inspirations Unlimited,” and the “Papuri! Radio Show” have also deeply resonated with me. These programs not only provide spiritual nourishment but also foster a sense of connection with fellow believers across the country.

The visit to FEBC’s headquarters was more than just a physical journey; it was a spiritual pilgrimage. Standing in the place where dedicated individuals work tirelessly to broadcast the gospel filled me with immense gratitude and admiration. The sight of the FEBC logo, proudly displayed, reminded me of the countless lives touched by their ministry over the decades.

The theme “WHAT HE BEGAN, HE WILL COMPLETE” aptly reflects FEBC’s unwavering commitment to its mission. Since its inception in 1948, FEBC Philippines has continually evolved, adapting to the changing times while steadfastly proclaiming the unchanging message of Christ. This 76th anniversary marks not just a milestone but a testament to God’s faithfulness in sustaining and expanding their ministry.

Reflecting on Philippians 1:6, I am reminded that every trial and challenge I face is part of the good work God is performing in my life. FEBC’s programs have been a source of strength and hope, reinforcing my faith and reminding me of God’s promises. As FEBC celebrates its anniversary, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to supporting their mission.

In conclusion, my visit to FEBC Philippines was a profoundly enriching experience. It reinforced my belief in the power of media to transform lives and spread the gospel. As FEBC continues its journey of communicating Christ to the world, I am honored to be a part of their story, a story of faith, perseverance, and divine purpose. Here’s to many more years of bringing Christ’s love and message to every corner of the globe. To God be all the glory! 🙏❤️📻

© 2024 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.

[jerickreforba25]

Live Out Your Purpose, Bear Much Fruit!

Ran Mojica

This message emphasizes connection with Jesus, knowing His love, and experiencing His power to live a fruitful life, as a part of Elevate Naga’s 11th Anniversary for UNITE 2024.

1. Connect to Jesus

Connecting to Jesus is foundational for a fruitful Christian life. John 15:1-6 NASB 1995 emphasizes the necessity of remaining in Jesus to bear fruit: “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned.”

What Bearing Much Fruit Looks Like:

• Loved and Secure: Knowing and experiencing God’s unconditional love provides a deep sense of security. This love helps believers to live confidently, knowing they are cherished by their Creator.

• Christ-like Character: Exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). This character transformation is evidence of abiding in Jesus.

• Loving and Truthful: Balancing love with truth in interactions, as Jesus did. This involves speaking the truth in love, being honest yet compassionate.

• Fulfilled: Living a life of purpose and meaning through God’s guidance. Fulfillment comes from knowing and doing God’s will.

• Blessed to Bless Others: Using one’s blessings to positively impact others. This reflects the principle that we are blessed to be a blessing, extending God’s love and provision to those around us.

“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.” – John 15:7-9 NASB 1995

2. Know His Love

Understanding the depth of God's love is crucial for living a fruitful Christian life. Key scriptures illuminate this:

• GOD’S LOVE: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 NASB 1995

• OUR PROBLEM:

- “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” – John 10:10 NASB 1995

- “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full. This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you.” – John 15:10-14 NASB 1995

- “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” – Romans 3:23 NASB 1995

- “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 6:23 NASB 1995

- “And according to the Law, one may almost say, all things are cleansed with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness. ... And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment,” – Hebrews 9:22, 27 NASB 1995

- “But for the cowardly and unbelieving and abominable and murderers and immoral persons and sorcerers and idolaters and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” – Revelation 21:8 NASB 1995

- “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit.” – 1 Peter 3:18 NASB 1995

3. Experience His Power

Experiencing God’s power is essential for living a victorious and fruitful Christian life. However, there are several reasons why we may miss out on this power:

Why We Miss Out on God’s Power:

• Listen to the Wrong People: Taking advice or following the lead of those who are not aligned with God’s word can lead us astray.

• Spend Time Mostly with the Wrong Crowd: Associating primarily with people who do not share or support our faith can weaken our spiritual resolve.

• Give in Constantly to Our Lusts: Yielding to sinful desires rather than seeking God’s will can hinder our spiritual growth.

• Don’t Trust or Seek God: Lacking faith or neglecting our relationship with God can prevent us from experiencing His power.

• Seek Love in the Wrong Places: Looking for fulfillment in things or people rather than in God can leave us spiritually empty.

Despite these challenges, there is a promise of empowerment: “God is faithful, His love never changes, and He will empower you, if you surrender to Him.”

“You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. ... When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me, and you will testify also, because you have been with Me from the beginning.” – John 15:16, 26-27 NASB 1995

“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6 NASB 1995

By understanding and applying these principles, believers can live a life that truly bears much fruit, fulfilling their God-given purpose.

[jerickreforba25]

Assurance of Salvation

Pio Samonte

This teaching explores the certainty and benefits of being saved through faith in Christ, emphasizing security, forgiveness, and living out one’s faith.

I. Salvation is from God Alone.

• Jonah 2:9: “But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the LORD.’”

II. What Our Salvation Means:

A. We are saved through faith in Christ.

• Romans 10:13: “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

B. We are saved from sin.

• Romans 6:22: “But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life.”

C. We are saved from death (physical, spiritual, and eternal death).

• 2 Timothy 2:10: “Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.”

D. We will spend eternal life with God in heaven.

• 1 John 5:11-13: “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.”

III. Benefits and Assurance of Our Salvation:

A. We are SECURED in Christ.

• John 10:28-30: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”

B. We are assured of Christ’s PRESERVATION.

• John 6:37-40: “All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day. For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”

1. Assured of Christ’s protection and strength.

• 2 Thessalonians 3:3: “But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.”

2. Assured of Christ’s love.

• Romans 8:35, 38-39: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

C. We are assured of God’s FORGIVENESS.

1. Assured of God’s forgiveness of all our sins.

• Colossians 2:13: “When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins.”

2. Assured of God’s forgiveness when we commit sin.

• 1 John 2:1-2: “My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.”

D. We are assured of our SONSHIP.

• John 1:12: “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

• Galatians 3:26: “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.”

1. The Holy Spirit confirms it to us.

• Romans 8:14-16: “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.�� The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”

2. The Holy Spirit himself is our assurance.

• Ephesians 1:13-14: “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory.”

E. We are RECONCILED to God and with one another.

• 2 Corinthians 5:18: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

IV. LIVING OUT Our Salvation:

A. Our salvation produces good works.

• Ephesians 2:8-10: “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. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

B. Our salvation results in an obedient life.

• 2 Corinthians 9:13: “Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.”

C. Our salvation results in Holy Living.

• 1 John 3:5-6: “But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him.”

[jerickreforba25]

“Yes, I just want to recommit my life with Jesus.”

Jerick Combate Reforba

I just want to look back and re-live my own testimony story that I’ve shared a year ago.

At my younger age, I was suffered from Autism spectrum disorder and I’ve got addicted to online pornography and masturbation. Due to the rest of my darkest situations, I’m feeling brokenhearted or triggered. This I know that I’m a disabled person. Romans 5:5 NKJV reminds us, “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

I’ve realized that no one cares if I’m not sure how to surrender my life to Jesus for good. I want to overcome my sin forever. I’m asking for forgiveness and understanding. I need to receive love and respect, in my own personal life. I know, all the dark situations have been overcome for a long time, due to my mental health status, as an Autism survivor. It’s in the middle of my healing. Psalm 30:2 NASB 1995 says, “O Lord my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.”

Thank you for changing my life that when I personally met Jesus as our Lord and Savior for a long time. As I shared in Psalm 37:5 ESV, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.” I have been baptized in water for a long time, on May 20, 2017, in a swimming pool. Until my lifestyle changed again, as if God’s door had been reopened. Ephesians 4:5 NLT says, “There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism.”

By God’s grace, I’m currently attending to Elevate Naga’s Saturday youth service and CCF Naga’s Sunday worship service since 2017. The best is yet to come. I can’t wait to continue praying in Psalm 18:28 NLT, “You light a lamp for me. The Lord, my God, lights up my darkness.”

My prayer that I just want to say thank you for helping me through the toughest times of my life. You continued to shower me with blessings even when I was at my lowest. For this, I am eternally grateful to You. In the name of Jesus.

AMEN.

To God alone, be the glory, honor and praise!

© 2023 Jerick Combate Reforba. All rights reserved.