IN THESE LAST DAYS, the Administration in the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) consistently reminds Church members to persevere and hold on firmly to their divine election as the world nears its end. Meanwhile, because of the challenges, persecutions, and troubles, some people find it very difficult to live the life they dream of. Undeniably so, peace of mind seems to elude many. But despite these conditions, members of the Church Of Christ make sure to have strong faith in God and focus on the spiritual rather than the material.  

In a Bible-based homily during a worship service officiated by the Church’s Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, at the Local Congregation of Marikina Centro, Ecclesiastical District of Marikina, he taught the brethren that they have no one else to trust but the Almighty God as He is the only One Who gives inner peace. During the worship service, Brother Cyrus Jose E. Dizon, the district supervising minister, led the opening prayer. Brother Romer D. Galang led the prayer after the Executive Minister’s homily. The prayer for the voluntary offerings was led by Brother Ernesto V. Suratos and the benediction was said by Brother Bienvenido C. Santiago.

Sister Rodelia Roque, a deaconess, has shown how much she trusts God by devotedly fulfilling her Church duties and staying steadfast in the true faith all these years. “My conviction is that for as long as I have life and strength, I will never be remiss in performing the duties I took oath for in God’s sight. At the age of 87, I’m still able to serve with the help of the Lord. I believe that this is because of His mercy,” she said. 

For Sister Rodelia, inner peace is given by God when His servants stand strong in the face of adversities. She said, “I always prioritize attending the worship services. God’s truths preached during these holy gatherings nourish our souls and strengthen us. We are so blessed because the Executive Minister visited us and personally taught us God’s words to guide us.”

In times of hardship, many people, especially the youth, often turn to worldly pleasures as a means of escape. Others vent their frustrations on social media instead of turning to prayer. However, true Christians know where to place their trust when faced with trials—they turn to God, Who provides the ultimate comfort and solutions.

Brother Dexter Sulit, a 22-year-old college student, strives to achieve his dreams in life, but always gives utmost importance to serving God. He is a secretariat officer, Christian Brotherhood International (CBI) district director, Children’s Worship Service (CWS) president, and KADIWA local officer. 

At a considerably young age, Brother Dexter knows that peace is hard to attain in this world filled with turmoil and misery. He said, “He continues to entrust me with duties in the Church, which I regard as treasures in my life. Whenever I perform my duty to God, especially in the worship service, I always feel that He gives me inner peace.”

Brother Dexter emphasized one of the biblical teachings he learned from the Executive Minister. “I learned that I can show my complete trust in God by faithfully obeying His commands and by remaining united with the Church Administration. We are also taught during worship services that when we pray to God, we should never doubt. Nothing is impossible with Him,” Brother Dexter said.

Brother Dexter continues sharing his faith with his loved ones and friends. He said, “I want them to experience what I feel every time I go to the house of worship, every time I attend the worship services, and every time I fulfill my Church duties—I find peace in my heart. My happiness comes from serving the Lord.”

By Dexie Salcedo