Learning to trust God more in the midst of transition

I’m sorry for the delay in sharing this update. Life and ministry have been full, and I’ve put this off longer than I should have. Thank you for your patience, prayers, and support. Here’s what’s been happening.

The closure of IHOPU has been heartbreaking for many of us. It was a place of growth and connection. Despite the sadness, I’m trusting God’s leadership and looking ahead with hope.

As many of you know (if not, please read my previous update 😊), I’m not exactly musically inclined, but I have to say, I’m so happy with the progress I’ve made on the keyboard! I’m still not at that level yet, but I can actually play now! Sometimes, I even play during our set.

During our transition and move, things slowed down, but I’m excited to get back on track this year and continue developing my skills. Serving God with what I have brings me so much joy, but striving for excellence in serving Him is something I’m always learning. There were times I complained about my lack of talent and compared myself with others. When I checked my heart, I realized that my posture wasn’t right. I had been listening to the enemy’s lies, that I wasn’t enough and didn’t have any talents or skills to offer to the Lord.

One night, while spending time with God and voicing out what was in my heart and mind, He met me. He reminded me that I am unique and that my voice moves His heart. He likes listening to my voice. That moment changed me. I also recognized that pride was hiding in my heart...the pride of wanting to be better than others and constantly comparing myself. I asked for God’s forgiveness, and He shifted my perspective.

New Location

In August 2024, we officially moved into our new location, where we’ve been granted the incredible blessing of staying rent-free for 50 years, with an option to extend for another 50 years, also rent-free! God’s heart is truly to establish a house of prayer here in Cebu City.

While renovations were still in progress, we gathered in a small room to worship, pray, and seek God together. It was a humble start, but His presence was undeniably tangible. Since our staff rooms weren’t finished, we stayed in one of the rooms at TC. We had to clear out the space and clean it to make it functional as both a bedroom and storage. Despite everything going on, we experienced God’s sustaining grace. God was incredibly faithful in providing for the renovations. The first phase was completed, and we had five finished rooms! There was still one more room to build, and while our kitchen was usable, it still needed work to be fully completed.

One of the most incredible blessings here is the amazing view. It’s truly a gift and a sign of God’s favor. However, we still need funds to complete all five phases of renovation. Each step forward has been marked by His provision, and we trust He will continue to provide through the generosity of His people.

The city view from our new location!

Unexpected Challenges

As we continue settling into our new ministry housing, we’ve encountered several unexpected challenges during the renovations. We had to address issues like roof and wall leaks, damaged gutters that needed replacement, low water pressure, and a deep well that stopped functioning. To restore the water system, we installed new pipes and a pump. Through it all, I see the Lord bringing restoration and doing something new.

However, the most unexpected challenge came when four teenage girls from the restoration program of our new ministry partner, TC, experienced five intense days and nights of simultaneous and noticeable manifestations. These young girls had endured severe abuse and trauma, and during that time, they became completely out of control, displaying behavior like something you’d only see in movies.

Our prayer room staff, including me, labored tirelessly to help them find freedom. By God’s grace, we witnessed His powerful deliverance in their lives! Beyond the restoration of the physical facilities entrusted to us, we are also witnessing the beautiful restoration of broken hearts and lives.

I learn to trust God more

The past year has been full of lessons about trust. It has been a season of challenges, some emotional and some physical, but through it all, God’s faithfulness has been a constant reminder. It’s easy to say "trust God," but living it out in the midst of uncertainty is a different story. In the middle of moving, transitions, and tough days, I have learned that trust is not about having all the answers or control. It is about resting in His promises, even when the path ahead is unclear. Isaiah 26:3 has deeply impacted me: "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you." Despite all the uncertainties, God has been faithful in providing peace, and that has made all the difference.

we're roofing here!

dismantling the prayer room in Bai Center