Blessed New Year 2024!

Dear Families, Loved Ones, PFC Brethren and Friends,

Greetings to you all for a prosperous New Year!

When God Says ...

"He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down." (Psalms 104:19 KJV)

In the beginning God marked the times so we can reset from season to season. "God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars" (Genesis 1:16 NIV). So that by knowing how we leave an old season, we can set the tone leaping into a new season. Let us therefore posture right looking into the new year 2024 to reflect and refresh with its terms and conditions, along with readiness to affirm, to agree and to sign in by faith.

The new terms and conditions are very reassuring. In Christ Jesus by His grace through faith, we have everything we need for life and godliness for this life, for 2024 onwards and for eternity.

Being born again by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, you and I have these words of Apostle Peter’s benediction to carry us all into the new year: “May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.” (2 Peter‬ ‭1:2-4‬ ‭ESV‬‬)

And I say, AMEN!

Lovingly from us, The Friases and PFC Mission Families

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC

P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 31:9 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Open thy mouth, judge righteously, And plead the cause of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:9 KJV)

It is God's intention for those who are in power to be the voice of the voiceless and to stand with and for the needy and the weak. These are lessons king Lemuel's mother continues to remind him, now that he sits in a position that makes a profound impact and transformation upon the lives of the powerless.

Each of us, we are called to judge righteously - as a ruler and the ruled. Let's beware! There are quarters in the world today - both in the pagan and so called religious "church" circles that abusively and hazardously throw on everyone's face the phrase "don't judge" or "you're judging". These are terms pulled out of the Bible out of context and used by the enemy to silence the voice of truth and life of God's holy Words. It is used to shut the voice of Godly moral standards of living from God’s holy and written Words.

Kings or slaves, as we accept the Lordship of Christ Jesus by His grace through faith, and when we receive the Holy Spirit to dwell in us, He leads us how we walk in the spirit. We are equipped and shielded. By His promptings, we open our mouth in righteous judgement by His Word. The Scriptures affirm in the exhortation of Apostle Paul: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one.” (1 Corinthians 2:14-15 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 31:8 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Open thy mouth for the dumb In the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.” (Proverbs 31:8 KJV)

This wise mother of king Lemuel continues to give sound counsel useful for both a pauper and a king. She is urging her royal son to speak for the voiceless. Those who have no weight to tilt the balance, the invisible members of society, the oppressed, those who are exiled to oblivion, and the defenseless, they need dire representation - not just to be heard, but to be rescued from destruction.

Like the Jews, who were exiled in the Empire of Persia during the reign of King Xerxes. They were appointed for annihilation, when a man named Haman who was full of arrogance coaxed the king to sign a decree to kill all the Jews throughout the empire. And, this rings a bell watching the terror attack on Israel that we just witnessed lately, that aims to wipe them out from existence. Then, Haman tricked the King, 'Just because one man, a Jew named Mordecai, refused to bow before him.' In such a time of great need, Esther herself a Jew and cousin of Mordecai was made queen in the Persian Empire, and was used by God to speak before the king to save the Jews from slaughter (Book of Esther 2-5).

So, this passage reminds king Lemuel, and us, too. Like Esther, we all have a call to open our mouth where we are to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute." We are to take a stand on the solid rock of His Words, as children of God by grace through faith in Jesus. We are called to stand behind the present day victims used as human shields, who are held captive by agents of terror. But sadly, many in the world, who claim and carry the tag "Christian", are standing for wickedness. These words should remind us to stand strong, as the Psalmist declared: “Blessed are those who have regard for the weak; the Lord delivers them in times of trouble. The Lord protects and preserves them— they are counted among the blessed in the land— he does not give them over to the desire of their foes.”(Psalms 41:1-2 NIV)

And, Apostle Paul exhorts us as members of the true body of Christ to: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 31:6-7 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, And wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, And remember his misery no more.” (Proverbs 31:6-7 KJV)

The queen mom, sarcastically alludes that alcohol is only suited to those who are perishing or anyone who needs it to forget their troubles and to ease their pain? Well, this gives a hint that wine when taken rightly and appropriately can be a help to one's health (1 Timothy 5:23). This is referring to the fruit of the vine. But, it is not for those who have missions to accomplish to take hard drinks, be it abusively or socially. Even in small volume which could start and lead to excess, definitely it is not for kings and princes or one who has authority and power in their hands to affect the lives of others. Contrary to the world’s view, surely, drinking is not for revelry, overindulgence and orgy.

As children of God by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, on the same way with kings and princes, we have a mission in this world. Hence, to keep our focus on the goal, we look to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Recognizing the importance of our mission, Apostle Paul exhorts us with these words: “Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ.” (Ephesians 5:17-21 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 31:4-5 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; Nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, And pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.” (Proverbs 31:4-5 KJV)

The mom continues to give her son the reminder. And, he is a king! This tells that a mom's care and love doesn't stop even after a child's emancipation from home. Here is a son - a king, who honors it by sharing it for our reflection to learn from! Even for an obvious caution about something everybody knows - the adverse effect of alcohol in a person's mental faculties. It affects a person's judgment and actions. Lives are lost on the streets because of its influence on the mind of those who abuse it. A king and a prince know that! But this wise and loving mother, worthy to emulate, could not presume and neglect it, but reminds him because of her love and concern.

Her love for her son and care for the impact his decisions would have on many lives, especially the afflicted and the helpless, are the deep-rooted impetus she has to look after her son, as any loving mother would. Well, there may be a few mothers that don't care. But, every loving ones do care. That's how our mothers love us all - her sons and daughters. And, God loves us the more. He comforts us, much more than a mother can and would.

The Lord comforts us with His ultimate expression of love, as His only begotten Son laid His life for us on the cross. On the streets of Jerusalem, to save us from the penalty of sin, He shed His blood. 

This loving mom of King Lemuel is worthy to emulate. God's holy and written Words affirm with these declarations:

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!” (Isaiah 49:15 NIV).

“As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 66:13 ESV) 

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 31:1-3 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him. What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? And what, the son of my vows? Give not thy strength unto women, Nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.” (Proverbs 31:1-3 KJV)

These writings are words of another personality, identified as a king, named Lemuel. He talks about revelation his mother taught him. This could possibly be a pen name of King Solomon, or a wise king used for illustration. Who specifically he is, the truth of the matter these are words from God revealed through Solomon - the writer. These are words of wisdom inspired by the Holy Spirit through the perspective of a mother to her son.

This is a revelation about a mother's counsel to her son, not to dedicate his strength chasing women! A mother's words are great wealth of wisdom for sons who listen. This somehow gives some hint why the mother is the one teaching this and not the father. Just a speculation, it could possibly be a subtle way of saying, 'don't follow your father's footsteps!' A great reminder to all men! Sadly though, in his youth King Solomon wasted his strength not only chasing women but built a harem for hundreds of them. Many of them were pagans, who led him to go after other gods. Another lesson to learn from, as it cost Solomon a stain in the legacy of his reign. This caused his descendants to miss God's blessings for a dynastic rule over the whole Kingdom of Israel.

As children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, we are to walk in His grace with wisdom, so as not to be separated from the God of heaven and turn to worship idols. The cost of Solomon’s turning away from the God of his ancestors Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is a lesson for us to reflect on. Taking these words as warning for us, it is written: “And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice and had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods. But he did not keep what the Lord commanded. Therefore the Lord said to Solomon, “Since this has been your practice and you have not kept my covenant and my statutes that I have commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom from you and will give it to your servant.” (1 Kings 11:9-11 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:33 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, And the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: So the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.” (Proverbs 30:33 KJV)

This bears to awareness what causes strife, using the analogies of butter extraction and bloody nose. Whenever milk is agitated and wrung, butter is formed, and done the same nose excretes blood out of its perforated veins. That's what these passages affirm. On the same manner, so as the force of wrath when confronted head on, always set an atmosphere of strife. When the constant agitation of bitterness in relationships is not stopped, conflicts and upheavals ensue. We are warned!

Issues that draw anger and wrath should not be pressed on. One should learn to let unpleasant things fly by. Nit-picking results nothing good. As God forgave us, we should forgive, as well. The Holy Scriptures imperatively instruct to, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 NIV)

Hence, through the grace of Christ Jesus by faith in Him, we are destined to be with the Lord, not for wrath. It is written: “For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”(1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:32 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, Or if thou hast thought evil, Lay thine hand upon thy mouth.” (Proverbs 30:32 KJV)

This passage gives a pop alert of two common and subtle behaviors one may think harmless and ‘normal’. But, really, these are roots of many very harmful and wicked acts we see committed by many around us. We are reminded here that when we are in that instant of doing it ourselves, we have to stop. Slap our mouth before it speaks! If it's already blurted, still need to hold back the tongue not to follow through. Take it back! Bury it to oblivion. It would require a major damage repair, though. Once it is released, its impact will certainly cause some damage.

This is a warning against acts of arrogance and thoughts of evil. These must not be entertained nor be empowered. Lifting up oneself is pride. Our posture is to bow down before the Lord, like the lesson of the tax collector in contrast to the self-lift of the Pharisee that the Lord Jesus taught in Luke 18:9-14.

In legal terms, scheming to do evil when acted upon is a premeditated commission of a crime. But, in God's eyes, having it in the thought is already a sin and not the kind of thought one should have. In such scenarios of self-aggrandizement and evil thoughts, we are to lay our hand upon our physical and spiritual mouth. We are to put a stop to it, by cleansing the battlefield of our mind! In Christ, being His redeemed by grace through faith, we are called to think humbly and nobly. We are to fill our mind with God's Words. It is written: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Philippians 4:8 NIV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Blessed Christmas 2023

When God says …

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Matthew‬ ‭1:23‬ ‭NKJV‬‬)

It is with a grateful heart that we declare, Blessed Christmas to you all, our Families and Loved Ones!🙌

Blessed day indeed it is to reflect! “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭9:6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬)

Yes, God is with us! He is the Prince of Peace! He left heaven and came to manifest the powers and provisions of heaven in this broken world.

May the purity of our celebration of joy and gratitude not be drowned amidst the world's noise of anger, chaos and tribulation. Let us all declare the reign of our Prince of Peace in our lives. By faith in Christ Jesus through His grace, let us receive His peace, as it is written: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John‬ ‭14:27‬ ‭NKJV‬‬)

And I say, AMEN!!!

Lovingly in Christ,
Fel, Mae with all Friases & PFC Families

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:29-31 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“There be three things which go well, Yea, four are comely in going: A lion which is strongest among beasts, And turneth not away for any; An greyhound; an he goat also; And a king, against whom there is no rising up.” (Proverbs 30:29-31 KJV)

Adornment of virtues with beautiful demeanor grounded in God's Word is what Agur impresses in these passages.

Lessons to learn from these created things, three from the jungle with the fourth from the civil world, are the nuggets we should purposely sift through these texts.

The lion with its regal posture, strong and fearless, bold and majestic in its stride, this is a creature that fears no creature. It does not run away, with tails between its legs, from anyone. It runs toward, a trait that we mirror to have, as we are over-comers by faith in Christ Jesus (1 John 4:4-5). In whatever challenges we face, our stance should be like that of David facing Goliath. Scriptures said: "David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him (1 Samuel 17:48b)."

The greyhound with its streamlined body structure, designed for swiftness and speed, is a great reminder for us in our day to day living. We are expected to quickly fee from evil (2 Timothy 2:22 NIRV) and swiftly run to the safe ground of God's mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16 NIV).

The he goat is one who stands guard for his flock. Yes, that’s the ram with his elegant posture, long beard hanging and curvy horn, asserts his reassuring presence around his flock. This creature presents a picture of leadership and security to his tribe. This is such a good reminder for all men to care for their family. As it is written, Apostle Paul exhorts: "But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever"(1 Timothy 5:8 ESV).

Now, we consider an invincible king ordained of God. Not like so-called leaders we have today, who are chosen by people of bias and frailty, or ‘leaders’ who climb to their positions by cheat or by force and self-appointment. Rather, we look to kings like David who was anointed by God, one who seeks God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). When David's own son Absalom attempted to rise against him, his reign prevailed (2 Samuel 18:31). God protects His anointed.

In Christ Jesus, by His grace through faith in Him, God’s Words assure that things go well with His children (Romans 8:28). We can declare by faith, as King David did. He affirmed: “Now I know that the Lord saves his anointed; he will answer him from his holy heaven with the saving might of his right hand. Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.” (Psalm 20:6-8 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:28 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The spider taketh hold with her hands, And is in kings' palaces.” (Proverbs 30:28 KJV)

The fourth little thing, that awed Agur by its exceeding wisdom, is the spider. We should be awed, as well. This is another object of lessons to learn from. Spiders are easy to catch by the hand like house lizards. They are hated, not just because a few species of them are toxic and venomous. Their webs are nasty! They are usually dusted off along with the unpleasant webs they swiftly spin wherever they are.

Yet, in spite, they sneak in and make homes in palaces under the noses and keen eyes of custodians and palace keepers whose mission is to keep it spic-and-span. Even with all the efforts to keep them out, they somehow are wise enough to continue getting in both grand and modest homes. These are such a lesson to learn from, not only for their wisdom but for their tenacity, as well, to persevere. Right now, this very instant, they are somewhere in a corner of our homes busily weaving a new web.

This is a very profound reminder that if God takes good care of them - tiny creatures, how much more for you and I?! The Scriptures declare: “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”(Mathew 6:26 NIV) Yes, He takes care of us!

For those who have not received His Lordship, all you need is wisdom to believe, and persistence of coming to Him. Receive His saving grace by faith in Christ Jesus and be born again (John 3:3). The Lord Jesus is inviting everyone: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”” (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:27 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The locusts have no king, Yet go they forth all of them by bands;” (Proverbs 30:27 KJV)

Locusts are seemingly harmless and small, but enormously destructive gregarious insects. They are useful examples though, how to cohesively work together, even with no leader telling them what to do. They function like an army on a mission of swift demolition with no one roaring a marching order. They do their part on their own volition in orderly fashion. They move from one area of vegetation to another, flying on a set pattern and formation, with no one nor GPS guiding them. Such an amazing picture it is of cooperation and unity.

This passage is therefore giving us a nudge to reflect on the wisdom of these tiny creatures that can work as a unit. Yet, humanity who are created in God's image could not? Isn’t that a slap on the face, watching all the bickering, the divisions, the tearing apart and stepping on each other to get the bigger piece of the pie? Indeed, we are to learn lessons from these little pests to work with one accord in our own accord.

As children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, resting in His grace, we are called to be of one mind with one another. It is written: “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:5-7 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:26 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The conies are but a feeble folk, Yet make they their houses in the rocks;” (Proverbs 30:26 KJV)

Another small and fragile creatures which Agur considers as wise, are the conies - a kind of rabbit. They are not only small, but feeble and helpless. They are vulnerable to a variety of predators. Without ability to defend themselves, other than speed of retreat, these creatures need wisdom.

And wisdom, they have! God gave them wisdom. He takes care of them, as He takes care all of His creation - the lilies in the field, the birds in the sky - all of us! (Matthew 6:26) ... most especially we, we are His beloved masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10).

In their frailty, the conies find their way to settle in the right dwelling for their protection and safety. They make their abodes on the crags of the rocks in mountain clefts, where they can run swiftly to hide in every sign of danger. This is a good reminder for us to build our house on the rock of the holy Word of God. It’s a place where the presence of the Lord is - a place of refuge in times of trouble. Yes, we are to build our house in His Word, as Lord Jesus said: “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24-25 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:24-28 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“There be four things which are little upon the earth, But they are exceeding wise: The ants are a people not strong, Yet they prepare their meat in the summer; The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks; The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands; The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.” (Proverbs 30:24-28 KJV)

These passages highlights to stir us four little creatures - the ants, the conies, the locusts and the spiders, that manifest wisdom in doing great things. Their traits are great examples to learn from.

Firstly, in today's reflection, we consider the ants. These are one of those small creatures we regularly encounter in our daily mundane routines. We don't usually give them notice, except when they interfere in our way - biting our skin, trample on our food or take a dip in our hot coffee. They are nuisances to our day, at times. But, looking deeply, in reality they are just as busy doing their daily rhythm of living, like we do. It just so, they happen to our paths, crossed each other as they too are in their toil to bring bread to their tables.

There are so much amazing lessons to learn from them, watching them work together in summer to gather food for the winter. Collectively, they accomplish unbelievable tasks moving loads hundreds of times heavier. I watched them one time doing such a beautiful community work, like the beautiful but unfortunately fading Filipino Bayanihan spirit.

So, as with the paradigm of the ants, in grace by faith in Christ Jesus, apostle Paul's exhortation calls us to - “Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.” (Philippians 2:14-16 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:21-23 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“For three things the earth is disquieted, And for four which it cannot bear: For a servant when he reigneth; And a fool when he is filled with meat; For an odious woman when she is married; And an handmaid that is heir to her mistress.” (Proverbs 30:21-23 KJV)

These passages expose three things that stun the earth and four that shake its foundations. These are four things unbearable to the earth which Agur finds disturbing. But, knowing that the earth has been tainted by sin, no wonder the earth is shaken by these seemingly reversal of fortunes. Otherwise, these are only normal outcomes of the changing fortunes of time.

The servant reigns. In the eyes of many in the world, a servant is expected to remain where he is. But, seeing past beyond into the kingdom of God, it's nothing to be surprised by. To reign is to serve. Lord Jesus said: “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,” (Matthew 20:26 NIV)

The fool (one who is ungodly) in abundance of material possessions, at times, triggers raised eyebrows. But, it should not. Lord Jesus said: “But I say to you, love your enemy and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be like your Father in heaven, since he causes the sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:44-45 NET)

A repulsive woman married? Well, God had prophet Hosea marry a prostitute to teach a lesson to His chosen people Israel worshipping idols. “When the Lord first began speaking to Israel through Hosea, he said to him, “Go and marry a prostitute, so that some of her children will be conceived in prostitution. This will illustrate how Israel has acted like a prostitute by turning against the Lord and worshiping other gods.””(Hosea 1:2 NLT)

Anything can happen in this world's scheme of things. When one takes over the control in the direction of how his or her life goes, undesired event arises. Like when Sarai, the wife of Abram, coerced him to take Hagar her servant to mother the child she and Abram longed to have, nasty things unravel. Hagar was contemptuous on Sarai her mistress, when she found she’s pregnant. “And Sarai said to Abram, “May the wrong done to me be on you! I gave my servant to your embrace, and when she saw that she had conceived, she looked on me with contempt. May the Lord judge between you and me!” But Abram said to Sarai, “Behold, your servant is in your power; do to her as you please.” Then Sarai dealt harshly with her, and she fled from her.” (Genesis 16:5-6 ESV)

These are the realities of this world. It has no bearing to a blessed life of grace by faith in Christ Jesus. As children of God in Christ, “By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know Him, the one who called us to himself by means of His marvelous glory and excellence.” (2 Peter 1:3 NLT)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:20 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Such is the way of an adulterous woman; She eateth, and wipeth her mouth, And saith, I have done no wickedness.” (Proverbs 30:20 KJV)

This passage is pointing to the path travelled by many. Yes, that pattern of life that chose to cuddle with the world and all its offerings to satisfy the desires of the flesh and for material things. It is adultery, a model for idolatry. Like an adulterer and adulteress allowing oneself to be captivated by pursuits for the physical, gobble it like a glutton, railroading others on the way, then say 'I'm good'. They make their material pursuits their god, turning away from the true God, akin to a spouse defiling the purity of marriage bed.

We are warned to not love the world and the things in it, lest it takes the place of God. As His sons and daughters through grace by faith in Christ Jesus, let's be reminded always - “We know that we are from God, and the whole world lies in the power of the evil one. And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” (1 John 5:19-21 ESV) 

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:18-19 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“There be three things which are too wonderful for me, Yea, four which I know not: The way of an eagle in the air; The way of a serpent upon a rock; The way of a ship in the midst of the sea; And the way of a man with a maid.” (Proverbs 30:18-19 KJV)

These passages reveal three wondrous and four mysterious phenomena in God's magnificent creation and design, too deep for the limited wisdom of man. One can only surmise to a certain degree. It can't be fully grasped how these works.

The eagle in the sky is a metaphor for hope in times of weariness. “Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:30-31 NIV)

The serpent, even though glides on its belly, yet sleek and wily to simply deceive Eve. It is written: “But the snake said to the woman, “You will not die.”(Genesis 3:4 NCV) The result? God, "To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, 'You must not eat from it,' “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life"" (Genesis 3:17 NCV).

The ship in the vast waters, though crafted by the hands of men, yet it saved Noah. The ark in the flood, a picture of the promise of the saving grace of Jesus, the ark of salvation (1 Peter 3:18-22) - “... All were destroyed. The only people who survived were Noah and those with him in the boat.”(Genesis 7:23 NLT)

The way of man with his bride the instant love strikes, is the picture of Christ and His bride - the church who rests in His grace by faith. Man in love gives himself up for his maiden as Christ to the church. Man is ordained: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her,” (Ephesians 5:25 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:17 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The eye that mocketh at his father, And despiseth to obey his mother, The ravens of the valley shall pick it out, And the young eagles shall eat it.” (Proverbs 30:17 KJV)

This passage paints a picture of children disparaging and deriding the people they ought to honor next to God. This perennial problem has always been in the world as a result of man's fall. Children mock their father with verbal and body language like rolling of the eyes, as the passage says, or worse, and disobey their mother with utter disdain as if they haven't been nurtured in their mother's womb. This is a warning that it won't go by without consequences. The value of parental relationship is sanctified by God, as with other authority structure established by God. The Bible instructs: “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20 NIV)

This passage describes the gross consequence for such expressions of disrespect. Eyes plucked out by ravens and eaten by young eagles are such gross and hideous pictures. And it should be seriously reflected and heeded upon knowing that our eyes are the windows to our soul. So, as children of God by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, He warns us in one of His sermons: “And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell, ‘where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.’” (Mark 9:47-48 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:15-16 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The horseleech hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, Yea, four things say not, It is enough: The grave; and the barren womb; The earth that is not filled with water; And the fire that saith not, It is enough.” (Proverbs 30:15-16 KJV)

The leech analogy is a vivid and graphic picture of greed: a horseleech, that is. This talks about a greedy man described as a bloodsucker, who sucks out as much as he can get out of his innocent victim. He is a parasite. Like a leech his favorite cry is gimme! gimme! He exploits anyone he can - rich or poor.

He is insatiable and likened to four things that never have enough:

* The grave can never say "I have enough." Its mouth craves for more. It’s never filled. There's always an available room in Hades.

* The barren womb of women in the scriptures never ceased craving until children were born to Sarah and Hannah when their sons - Isaac and Samuel arrived to fill their desires. The womb is divinely designed by God a longing for children.

* The dry earth, a parch sand, caves water and lusts for the rain. No matter how much rain pours, yes it soaks, yet in a moment - it never says 'I am full'. Its thirst is never quenched.

* The raging fire licks water poured over it. Pointing to the fire of hell, it too could never have enough. The heavens will disappear, the elements destroyed by fire, and the earth will be laid bare (2 Peter 3:10 NIV).

These all are warnings of discontent in a material world living like a horseleech. Contentment is found only in knowing and appreciating what we have. Recognizing that God is our source, is the key to be content. In Christ Jesus, by faith resting in His grace, in abundance and in need, we have enough! As Apostle Paul declares in his testimonial exhortation: “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:11-13 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:11-14 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“There is a generation that curseth their father, And doth not bless their mother. There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, And yet is not washed from their filthiness. There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! And their eyelids are lifted up. There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, To devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men.” (Proverbs 30:11-14 KJV)

These are the signs of a wicked generation. These symptoms are now appearing intensely on the face of this world. These evil traits that flourish in this fallen world are now very profound. And, the sad reality is we have to deal with them. Yes, we are instructed to avoid them, but as long as we are in the world, Apostle Paul gave us this caution-“I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people— not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world.”(1 Corinthians 5:9-10 NIV)

In Christ Jesus our Lord by His grace through faith in Him, as we are still in this earthly realm, we are ordained face it. It is written: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18 NIV)

We are warned this day is coming, and now is here, running amok with cancel cultures and subjugation of the lives of the innocent and the needy with utter disregard of God's authority. It is written: “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. For among them are those who creep into households and capture weak women, burdened with sins and led astray by various passions, always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7 ESV)

But, we have nothing to worry at all! As we continue to hear and follow Him, the Lord Jesus who saved us by grace through faith in Him gave us this assurance: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:27-28 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:10 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Accuse not a servant unto his master, Lest he curse thee, and thou be found guilty.” (Proverbs 30:10 KJV)

This warns that slander is costly. So, this counsel is a solid rock to stand and abide on in every venues of professional and social relationship. This passage evokes the story of Daniel, who was one of the administrators and satraps of the Empire of Medes and Persia during the reign of King Darius. He was falsely accused of a preposterous crime against a preposterous law his corrupt fellow administrators concocted and tricked King Darius to enact, just to entrap Daniel whom they envied due to his exceptional qualities in doing his job. What crime was he accused of? He prayed to God! (Daniel 6:10)

King Darius was himself entrapped, too. Scriptures say: “So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!”” (Daniel 6:16 NIV)

However, as this proverb warns, the curse of the deceptive and wicked act of Daniel's fellow officials, befall upon them. God, whom Daniel served, was on Daniel's side to save him. So do we, in Christ Jesus, we are saved by grace through faith in Him. Daniel was saved from the mouth of the lions. And, as for his accusers, it is written: “Then the king was exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God. And the king commanded, and those men who had maliciously accused Daniel were brought and cast into the den of lions—they, their children, and their wives. And before they reached the bottom of the den, the lions overpowered them and broke all their bones in pieces.” (Daniel 6:23-24 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:7-9 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Two things have I required of thee; Deny me them not before I die: Remove far from me vanity and lies: Give me neither poverty nor riches; Feed me with food convenient for me: Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? Or lest I be poor, and steal, And take the name of my God in vain.” (Proverbs 30:7-9 KJV)

Agur's prayer request to the Lord reflects his genuine concern about his spiritual well-being. This plea shows he is cognizant of his frailty and weakness. He asked the Lord to remove from him, vanity and lies, as we should, too. Like the psalmist declares: “Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.” (Psalms 119:37 NIV)

This reminds us not to pursue things of the world which leads to arrogance and deception to ask, ‘Who is the Lord? Rather, as this man shows us, better settle in total dependence of the Lord's daily provisions. In Christ Jesus by faith in Him, His grace is sufficient for us (2 Corinthians 12:9). We look for today. Yesterday is past. And, tomorrow is not ours. We have only today. In Him, we'll never be in lack (Philippians 4:19).

With intimate relationship in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Scriptures declare this assurance: “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.” (2 Peter 1:3-4 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:5-6 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Every word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, Lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” (Proverbs 30:5-6 KJV)

This reminds us of the flawless nature of God's holy and written Word. We can visit several passages affirming this truth.

God stands by His words. “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19 NIV)

Lord Jesus pronounced upon those who believe in Him: “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”(John 17:17 NIV)

The Word is the person of Christ Jesus Himself. It is revealed - “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”(John 1:1, 14 NIV)

His Word assures - “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” (Psalms 46:1 NLT)

And, cursed are those who alter these Words of life, as it is written: “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.” (Revelation 22:18-19 ESV)

God's Word is power, as it is written: "And God said: "Let there be light," and there was light." (Genesis 1:3 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:4 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name, If thou canst tell?” (Proverbs 30:4 KJV)

These questions points to the only begotten Son of the Father who lived among us. Agur, the symbolic character who God used to pose directional questions, reveals that all power and wisdom belongs to God alone who sends down to earth His one and only Son. No one else, but the Son, He alone descended and ascended. He is, who is now seated on the right hand of the Father; He, who rebuked the wind and the raging seas. His name is Jesus, who on the boat, amidst the storm - “He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.”(Mark 4:39 NIV)

He who is the beginning and the end, the Alpha and the Omega (Revelation 22:13). He is the creator. “All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.” (John 1:3 ESV)

His name is Jesus. He is God with us, full of grace and truth (John 1:14)! In Him we are made children of God through grace by faith. And, in Him we depend and rest.  “For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.” (John 1:17-18 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 30:1-3 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, his utterance. This man declared to Ithiel—to Ithiel and Ucal: Surely I am more stupid than any man, And do not have the understanding of a man. I neither learned wisdom Nor have knowledge of the Holy One.” (Proverbs 30:1-3 NKJV)

Using symbolic names, in these passages God revealed to Solomon a declaration of humility by Agur, a son who failed to gain knowledge and understanding, as a man should and must. Interacting with students of the word, his statement of acceptance of stupidity for not having learned wisdom, and for failure to gain knowledge of the Holy One, is a heads up for us all. It is a warning for us not to forsake wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One who holds us by the palm of His mighty hand.

So, it is timely for us, as children of God by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, to reflect and heed the exhortations of apostles Paul and Peter.

Apostle Paul says: “For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;” (Colossians 1:9-10 NKJV)

And, Apostle Peter stirs us with these words: “You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:17-18 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:27 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“An unjust man is an abomination to the just: And he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.” (Proverbs 29:27 KJV)

We are reminded of the deep enmity between the wicked and the just. They run in contradictory paths going on opposite directions and are bound for a head on collision course. A just person is compelled to detest unjust behaviors of ungodly individuals. Every act of wickedness is repulsive to him who is righteous in God's eyes by faith in Christ Jesus. It is not a conflict between people. It is a conflict between light and darkness, right and wrong, love and hate, morality and immorality, virtue and vice, the just and the wicked. This passage is a declaration of reality - those who seek to honor God and His Word detest the actions of those who seek to reject God and His Word. This revelation is given to help us take a stand by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ.

And, of course, the inverse of this verse tells that the believer is equally detested against by the unbeliever. Every person who received the saving grace of Jesus is even hated by the world. In Christ, we do not belong in the world. We belong in the Kingdom of Heaven. The world is the antithesis of heaven. In its eyes, heavenly realm is an abomination. The Lord Jesus, warned all believers of this fact. He said: “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.” (John 15:18-19 NLT)

He further declares this caution and assurance: “and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:22 ESV

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:

F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:26 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Many seek the ruler's favour; But every man's judgment cometh from the LORD.” (Proverbs 29:26 KJV)

Here is a warning of the world's and religion's patronage system. Many indeed ride on the coattails of the influential, the famous, the powerful and others they idolize. 'Hoping for favors and perhaps protection, some pander on them. But the reality is, they all have no say! Maybe, on the surface and perhaps, for things the world admires. Of fleeting things perhaps, they seem able to 'pretend' they have a say, but not on matters of eternal life and heavenly significance.

As the saying goes: 'It is not what you know, but it is who you know that matters.' That is both for here in this life and for eternity. The only ruler and power we should know and seek favor from is Christ Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords. He is truly the One who holds in His hands, our life now and our destiny, in this world and the next. His approval and blessing are of utmost importance, where none compares. Nothing else matter, no matter how powerful they might seem to be. Let us receive Him, our Redeemer and Lord Jesus Christ and His Words today, and seek His blessing by faith and total reliance in His grace.

The Words He speaks have the last say on the last day. As it is written, Lord Jesus says: “If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day.” (John 12:47-48 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:25 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“The fear of man bringeth a snare: But whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.” (Proverbs 29:25 KJV)

This reminds us that our trust must only be in the Lord. Very crucial reminder it is in this world where so many are competing to control our lives. Devious men and women who aim to ensnare and take advantage over those who are minding their own business, are on the prowl. But, no reason to be anxious and afraid! As we receive the Lordship of Christ Jesus by faith, totally dependent on His grace, we can declare with assurance:

“The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: What can man do unto me?”(Psalm 118:6 KJV)

“In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?”(Psalm 56:11 ESV)

“So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”” (Hebrews 13:6 ESV)

And our Lord Jesus Christ calls us His sheep with this promise: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are one.” (John 10:28-30 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:24 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says…

“Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: He heareth cursing, and bewrayeth it not.” (Proverbs 29:24 KJV)

This puts us in the know that being an accomplice or aiding and abetting a crime and a sin manifests hatred to one's own soul. You make yourself the enemy to your own well-being. It is an act of stepping on the line of fire. Knowingly or unknowingly stealing or lying or cheating or any action to harm others, works against the health of your soul. It is an act of hostility to yourself and to everyone around you.

This deals with being an accomplice to a crime before the fact - being a witness in the process of commission, and after the fact - in a court setting. One who keeps silent and refuses to get involved. One who ‘bewrayeth it not’ and won't refute false testimonies against the truth is a curse to harm the victim - one whose property, dignity or life has been stolen. This person is guilty as the criminal is. He is a partner in crime and a harm to himself, this passage reveals.

The Lord therefore, reminds to affirm the beauty of being members of the body of Christ Jesus, resting in His grace through faith in Him. We are called upon to authenticity. We are expected to get involved by speaking the truth. He exhorts us with these words: “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.” (Ephesians 4:25 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:23 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“A man's pride shall bring him low: But honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.” (Proverbs 29:23 KJV)

It is said that: "attitude determines altitude". On everyone's demeanor dashboard are buttons to either take you up or bring you down. To go up, humility is the button to push. To drop down, you hit the pride button.

The scriptures warn about pride. Being proud is a sin and root for other sins. Most sins and crimes we watch committed in our community and society emanate from pride. And the world promotes pride even to the extent of being proud of the mediocre, repugnant and ungodly things they do. They go around in 'pride' parades. They raise their 'pride' flags to display it everywhere. They even proudly flaunt abominable ‘drag queen’ shows, directly affronting God’s Words, as it is written: “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality” (1 Corinthians 6:9 ESV).

God is against pride and the proud, and we should, too. As children of the Most High God by grace through faith in Christ Jesus, we are reminded - "“But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.””(James 4:6 NIV)

Lord Jesus teaches this principle to rise in the altitude of greatness: “The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:11-12 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:22 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“An angry man stirreth up strife, And a furious man aboundeth in transgression.” (Proverbs 29:22 KJV)

Anger ruins people's lives. It is a catalyst of high population in prisons all over the world. Core relationships of families and friendships are broken, because of this dreadful expression of emotion. And, many lives are lost, too, because of anger. Wherever and whenever angry people are present, they stir up strife. There are only two options to stay away from strife - get rid of them who are full of wrath [by keeping them behind bars] or steer clear their path and proximity.

The Scriptures reveal that not all anger is sin. Anger against wicked and vicious acts, especially sinful acts and ungodliness, are holy.  But, if it is nurtured to linger and infects your being, it could lead to sin. Especially, when the devil gets in to gain a foothold on it. God's holy Word reminds - “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” (Ephesians 4:26-27 NIV).

And, as children of God by faith in Christ Jesus through His grace, we have this guidance to live by: “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV).

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:21 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“He that delicately bringeth up his servant from a child Shall have him become his son at the length.” (Proverbs 29:21 KJV)

Here's another wise counsel dealing with master and servant relationship, which is very useful to look through the prism of today's employer and employee setting. When employees are not managed well in the context of reward for work done well, they become unproductive and lazy. Lack of motivation breeds laziness. When they are pampered or 'delicately brought' they will ultimately act like a wild undisciplined son, who expects a reward for doing nothing. Spoiling brings suffering. It leads them to demand 'rights' for laziness. Just like the prodigal son in one of our Lord’s teachings who said to his fully alive father: “Father, give me my share of the estate.” (Luke 15:11-30).

This reminds that in every relationship of authority and subject, of superior and subordinate, there are guardrails need to observe and abide with. Corrections, disciplines and reproofs are essential for mutual benefits of the parties involved. The lack of it ends in disaster and dismay. It degenerates on economic and social order. It brings curse, instead of blessings.

In such context, God's Words constantly exhort every child of God in grace by faith in Christ Jesus. As we are having His Lordship, totally dependent on His grace, we are to do our duties and roles as we should unto the Lord. It is written: “Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free. Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.” (Ephesians 6:5-9 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:20 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him.” (Proverbs 29:20 KJV)

This passage brings to light the sayings: "Look before you leap” and "Think before you speak". These sayings are helpful cautionary reminders. It prevents one from putting a foot in his mouth, so to speak. That's where haste leads. Hastiness is a hopeless act worse than foolery. Such a stunning revelation! The Scriptures warn: “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires” (James 1:19-20 NLT).

For God's children of grace by faith in Christ Jesus, the right attitude is sobriety. Always give time to reflect before blurting out a wagging tongue. Seek guidance by prayer, as apostle Paul exhorts: “Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:4-6 NIV).

Our posture is always to abide in the Lord's Word, as it calls us, “My son, be attentive to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Let them not escape from your sight; keep them within your heart. For they are life to those who find them, and healing to all their flesh.” (Proverbs 4:20-22 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:19 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says …

“A servant will not be corrected by words: For though he understand he will not answer.” (Proverbs 29:19 KJV)

This plainly warns that in a master and servant relationship, or employer and employees, or king and subjects, one should not assume that because proper corrections, instructions and orders are given, those are followed to the letter. A follow through is a must, most of the time. That's the unfortunate frailty nature of man, apart from the saving grace of Christ Jesus. With Adam's sin-tainted DNA flowing in his vein, man is as stubborn as a mule! (Psalm 32:9).

But, being a new creation as children of God by faith in Christ Jesus, in whatever roles we are in, we have to be conscious always that we all have tasks to accomplish. One word of instruction must be enough to do what's needed to be done. We have to have focus and readiness to act at once when told. We are to be always mindful that nothing else matters: Not comparison with others; Not to strive being better than others; Or, even to aim the impossible. What matters is the task in front of us, giving it the best we can, not by our self-effort, but by the promptings of the Holy Spirit, totally dependent in God’s grace by faith in Christ Jesus our Lord. 

When we receive the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ by faith, we are born again and become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). The DNA of righteousness in our Lord Jesus Christ is now flowing in our vein (Romans 5:17-19). 

We are therefore to abide in God's grace, and continuously correcting one another by His living Words of guidance and reproof. Reflecting on Apostle Paul's exhortation, we are called to be attentive and ready for action all the time. As he charged Timothy, we are too, with these words: “I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching.” (2 Timothy 4:1-2 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.

Proverbs 29:18 When God Says...I Say, AMEN!

When God Says ...

“Where there is no vision, the people perish: But he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” (Proverbs 29:18 KJV)

When this passage talks about vision, this is not talking about earthly dreams or goals or plans for the future. This is about God's communication and revelation to man, His commands, His precepts and His holy and written Words, which He directly gave through the prophets to His people Israel and to all who believe in Jesus. In the absence of revelation from God, people are left unguided and without direction. Yes, people are left hungry, thirsty and spiritually ill-nourished. The Lord warns in His Words: “The days are coming,” declares the Sovereign Lord, “when I will send a famine through the land— not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord. People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from north to east, searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it. “In that day “the lovely young women and strong young men will faint because of thirst.”(Amos 8:11-13 NIV)

In this post-resurrection dispensation of grace, in Christ Jesus our Lord by faith in Him, we are heirs of Abraham (Galatians 3:29). We are blessed with access to His holy and written Word - our vision for the now and for eternity. That is the object of this provocative reflection of the Book of Proverbs, challenging true seekers of truth to shift through the wealth of God's Words. As it is written: “But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” (Luke 11:28 ESV)

Yes indeed, happy and ...“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” (Psalm 1:1-3 ESV)

And I say, AMEN!

Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries

(When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.)

Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477

Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.