LIVE A POSITIVE LIFE. INFLUENCE OTHERS.

By Philip Erpelo

I joined the music ministry when I was a third year high school student. Since then, I grew more mature in faith through having a consistent dosage of gospel music. My calling has been confirmed by God through people who approached me to simply encourage me to continue in it. My dream to become a professional singer is also one of the things that encourage me to improve my skill.

I consider singing or becoming part of the music team a calling from God because it is something that I love to do. In music, I find myself basking in supernatural grace, provision, and joy.

The best thing about being part of the music team is having a very close and intimate relationship with Jesus. That is my ultimate reward in being part of the music team. The joy that is felt as a result of obedience comes next. The thrill of seeing people worshiping God is a bonus.

I encountered a statement before that says, “When your greatest joy meets the world’s greatest need, then that’s God’s will.” True enough, I don’t get tired when I serve God through the music ministry. As a matter of fact, I find the worship experience with the congregation to be very relaxing, fulfilling, and rewarding. Honestly, I just love singing especially if it’s for God. It’s something that is supernatural because apart from Him, I can do nothing.

 I’ve always dreamt of becoming like Gary Valenciano - the best, living example of an excellent ‘Christian’ singer who uses his gifts to honor God.

I’ve told God, in numerous occasions, about this dream of mine. Someday, I want to become a very influential person in the field of music. I dream of being a famous singer. I’m so happy and excited because this dream is way beyond me! I can’t fulfill this on my own. No matter how hard I push, I can’t make this a reality. Only God can grant my dream that is why this year, my focus and goal is to have a deeper relationship with Jesus because  everything else will follow as I seek Him first and His righteousness as God says in Matthew 6:33.

My advice to those who are seeking a personal relationship with God is to just come as they are. Surrender all your hurts, pain, fears, insecurities, and sins to Jesus. Be free! Through Christ, boldly approach God’s throne of grace because it is His will for us to live our lives to the fullest! Receive forgiveness and unconditional love. Guilt and condemnation don’t have any foothold over our lives anymore because Jesus broke our chains. Whom the Son has set free is free indeed and this can happen to us as we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior. Having God in our lives is the best thing that can ever happen to us. I’ve experienced it, so now, it’s your turn.”

***Philip is formerly a TV news reporter, segment producer and floor director for ABS-CBN Baguio from June 2008 to July 31, 2009. He is now finishing his master’s degree in Media Studies major in Broadcasting at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.

Philip sings on alternate Sundays at the Victory Christian Fellowship Quezon City.  His lifeverse can be found in Philippians 4:13 (NIV):

“I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”

***If you have inspiring stories of personal triumph and hope, we gladly welcome contributions here. We at mannaforjenny.org believe that every good story deserves to be heard. E-mail us at iam_jen11@hotmail.com or send a private message at our facebook account.