"And he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the stream, and put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag, and his sling in his hand, and approached the Philistine.” (1 Samuel 17:40)

RHEMA: 
Smooth stones from the stream are made ready for something greater.

MESSAGE:
Every person symbolized as a stone in which the stream where it lives on is the earth. Some remains bumpy, some with spikes, some still rough but some becomes smooth. The bumpy, spiky and rough stones are stiff, cannot be moved and even damage other stones beside them. Some of these stones might just been there a few years later so they are just starting to be refined. But some are resistant to the current and other creatures in the stream so they remain as they are. Smooth stones are open. They let the current and other creatures wash them and refine them although they may be hurt or even broken. These smooth stones are then chosen by their Maker and finally take them to a greater place where in they are more valuable and of purpose.

MOTIVATION AND APPLICATION: 
Back then, I refused I needed help or guidance from my parents and even from God. I do what I want and even say bad words to my parents. I was resistant. I believed that I know better. As I get older, I still believed I know what is best for me and so I chose to be dependent on one person only. And he was my all and I thought that he already defines who I am, that I am already one with him and believed that he was also like that with me. We attended mass some Sundays and visited Catholic and Evangelical churches. But I don't here God and was so busy in love for that person. I never did grew whatever relationship I have with God. Because I believe it was enough and never needed anyone aside from that person I so much held on to. But I was wrong. I was deaf and blind to what God wants me to be. And then this person left me. And I became more resistant. I never listened to what my sister told me about moving on and even from my friends who just wanted me to be happy. But then there was a time that I have tried attending a gathering from which I did not hesitated to go to since my friend Philip invited me. I thought that maybe it's time to let go of my pride, being resistant and all. And from there I knew, I am being refined. Each day of my life becomes different, how I react and how I handle situations. At times I still go back to being resistant but because God is helping me to be refined, He reminds me in ways I never imagined. And He keeps on pushing me to be open, to just let the current wash me but holds me strongly. And when the right time comes that I am completely smooth and refined, He will pull me out of the stream and I'll be with him forever.

Lord God, you are my shepherd and my only God. You are my King and you are my authority. Lord God, forgive me for being resistant and rebellious in situations I find hard or difficult to overcome but I really appreciate that you continue to hold me and never let go. May you bless the lives of the people you chose to protect me and transcend your love to. And may you continue to remind me and inspire me everyday to be open to the current of this life on earth. Keep me strong Lord until that time, that I may be ready to take your hand and be with You forever.