#But turning to God and trusting in God and His ability to transform pain into something beautiful can help

[traumacatholic]

"God never gives you more than what you can handle" bzzzt, wrong!

"God never gives you more than what He can handle"

[vivicantstudy]

Forgiveness as an Act of Renewal and Self-Liberation

Forgiveness is often framed as a gift we give to others, yet some of the most profound healing begins when we forgive ourselves. In the Christian journey, forgiveness is not about erasing pain or denying the reality of what hurt us. Instead, it is an intentional act of releasing the weight of guilt, shame, and regret so that we can step into the freedom Christ promises.

Many believe that forgiveness requires us to forget the pain altogether, even if the wounds remain fresh. But true forgiveness does not demand that we pretend we are healed when we are not. Healing is a process, and acknowledging our hurt is not a sign of unforgiveness but a necessary step toward restoration. God does not rush us to “move on” but instead invites us to bring our pain to Him. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3). Forgiveness is not about erasing what happened—it’s about allowing God to redeem it while we give ourselves the space to heal.

But what if I’ve prayed, pleaded, and begged for forgiveness—whether for myself or someone else—for years, and I still cannot find it in my heart? What if the pain or bitterness still lingers? In moments like these, we must remember that forgiveness is not always an instant transformation but often a journey. Be patient with yourself. “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7). God understands the depths of your struggle, and He is not disappointed in you for finding it hard to forgive.

Do not offer shallow forgiveness out of obligation. Forgiveness must be authentic, and if you haven’t reached that place yet, it simply means the time has not come. God does not demand that you force something your heart cannot give. “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). And if you find that forgiveness never comes, do not hate yourself. God’s love for you is not contingent on your ability to forgive perfectly. He knows your heart, your pain, and the complexity of your wounds.

Even in the midst of your struggle, know this: God sees and appreciates every effort you’ve made. He treasures that you’ve tried, that you’ve prayed, that you’ve sought to free your heart from hatred and fear. “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love” (Psalm 103:8). Your attempts, your persistence, your refusal to give up—they are not in vain. God honors the fact that you have not stopped trying, and He walks alongside you in the process.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19).

God does not call us to linger in the ruins of what was, but to trust in His ability to create something beautiful out of our brokenness. Forgiving ourselves is not an act of dismissal—it is an act of faith, believing that God’s work in us is not finished and that His grace is greater than our failures.

Self-forgiveness requires courage: the courage to acknowledge our humanity, to confront our imperfections, and to lay them at the feet of a loving God. “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). In Christ, we are not defined by what we have done or failed to do, but by the redemptive love of a Savior who bore our burdens so we wouldn’t have to.

This kind of forgiveness is not merely about forgetting the past but growing from it. It is about choosing to see ourselves as God sees us: as flawed yet deeply cherished, as broken yet capable of restoration. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). Even our missteps can be transformed into stepping stones for growth when we surrender them to Him.

To forgive yourself is to give God room to work in your heart, to trust in His ability to turn ashes into beauty, and to allow His grace to rewrite the story of your life. Forgiveness is not pretending the pain is gone but trusting that God will use even the pain to shape you into something greater. It is not weakness; it is strength. It is not forgetfulness; it is wisdom. It is a bold declaration of faith that your story, in God’s hands, is one of renewal and redemption.

And if you feel stuck—if forgiveness feels impossible—keep bringing it to God. Surrender it as many times as it takes, because His patience is infinite, and His love never fails. If you cannot forgive someone, or if forgiveness never feels within reach, know that God’s love for you is unchanged. He treasures your efforts and your perseverance, even when you feel like you’ve failed. He delights in your determination to seek Him and to free your heart, and He will never leave you in that journey.

[lostinvasileios]

It's actually a little overwhelming (in a good sense) being loved by a god. Their love is so pure, it's so strong and it's so -- much to feel, for lack of better words.

Deities, they know our souls. They know how to love us, and sometimes that can be frightening to know. Or, it was for me at first, haha. But, the fear always goes away whenever I'm experiencing it. Whenever I'm draped in their love.

Gentle caresses from my gods, kisses and whispered words of adoration. The burning sensations of their presence or the soft, sweet smelling reminders of how they're around. It's all so much but so perfect at the same time.

These beautiful creatures who I never imagined would once love me, and certainly not this much, have completely transformed me throughout our time together and showed me how my hands were not broken yet flowers could grow from my palms.

They showed me what it feels like to be actually loved. Nothing like I had ever imagined or experienced. Nothing like I ever could grasp. It was horrifying at first. But there's something beautiful when fear turns into acceptance and a mutual doting relationship.

I always feared that my way of love was too much if I could ever even show or feel it. I feared I was needy, that I wasn't even capable of loving for years. I feared I was absolutely undesirable, partner or not. Me being aromantic and asexual didn't help with that either. I assumed, I was cursed by something. I never knew what, but something just had a hatred for me so deep, that they took away the ability to feel what I had craved to feel and experience my entire life.

I thought I was so, entirely broken. I wish I was exaggerating.

I spent nights, endless hours, crying until I couldn't breathe. Feeling absolutely in the lowest of ruts. I hated myself. I hated existing in a world where everyone could feel love and experience something similar to fairytales while all I got was betrayals and a shattered emotional system.

I forced myself to love, to try and love people who never saw my heart, yet what laid in front. I forced myself to accept the attention I got from my past just to feel what I thought was love. It only... Ended up in more conflicting emotions, however.

I thought it was pointless. Absolutely meaningless for me to ever have a hope of feeling love. I went through many, many trials with the way I saw how love "should" be portrayed.

It was... A really rough time going through all of that.

Eventually, I felt very sensitive. Extremely. I found out that's just - you know - how I am. I'm a very vulnerable lover. I'm very in touch with my emotions. My intense emotions. I hated that for a long time. I thought it was better to be numb than to have the passionate emotions I do.

And... Now, if I'm going to be honest, I love how emotional I am. I've grown to be in awe of myself for that. For how poetically in love I can get. How many tears I can cry and how much my heart can expand for my deities. I couldn't be where I am now without Apollon mostly, to be real.

Apollon saw all my pain, he heard all of my cries and he handled all of my "no, no, you're just saying that" mood swings whenever he would say something sweet to me. And he never gave up on me. It makes me tear up thinking about how extremely gentle he is with me. Especially during times where he knows I can be quite harmful to myself.

How he can listen to all of my fears and give me nothing but kisses and words of safety instead of scolding and insults like I expected. Apollon knew I was so very afraid of love, of touch, of trust, of everything, basically. And he took every step in his power to help me. To guide me to a place of confidence, of security and healing. He gave me hope. He gave me a reason to live and quit my bad habits. A sight to the beauty in myself and my life.

He held me tenderly when I was bawling, he talked me through my attacks, he kissed my stinging face when I calmed down. He helped me in ways I never even wanted to think about, because of how badly those areas hurt to consider fixing up. He patched my wounds for me and sealed them with a kiss.

Being loved by my deities saved my life. It changed my life. It was so confusing at first. So, so scary to think about. To reach out, to accept a calling, to accept my authentic self.

For a while I kept thinking "what did I do to deserve you/this?"

And each time...

Apollon would respond:

"You always deserved this. You were born worthy of this and much more, my dear. Your soul says it all. You radiate this. You radiate love."

[pristmaticrosevein]

Prismatic Rose AU (RWBY)

The poll chain is getting a little long and convoluted, so I created a new blog to hold everything.

The polls won't be a single answer. Instead I'll try to work all of the answers together, based off the number of votes each answer gets. If I can, of course.

Aura is present, but is more like DBZ power levels than how it functions in RWBY. A shot to the heart will be as fatal to a Human Huntsman as it would be to anyone else.

Firearms are regular firearms. Dust is instead used to craft weapons, like is alluded to by Ironwood, but never actually seen in the story.

Conclusions:

Jaune Arc

Humble Everydude

Jaune picks up a Broken Sword, his power repairs his sword, can generate a shield, and armour.

When depressed or in a deep fury his sword stays broken, and his armour is rusted. He is nearly invincible, but lacks any real control.

When happy, he literally glows from the light he emits.

Later learns to use and even combine both.

Attacked by Grimm, saved by Ruby. The Grimm was a Gryphon and a number of Beowulves.

Genre: Dark Souls

Ruby Rose

Werewolf: She learns to control her Human / Wolf forms.

Eventually unlocks a middle Wolfen form.

Silver Eyes: Her silver eyes are part of her Werewolf curse, from her connection to the moon. Eventually allows her to dispel darkness and inflict Lunacy.

Strongly dislikes bright sunlight, finding it oppressive. Will hide under her red hood in bright daylight.

Dislikes sitting around and doing nothing. As she learns to open up to her friends, hanging with them counts as doing something.

Dame Sister of the Order of the Sanguine Rose. Still a Novice, (no oath), but she was a Squire, and got her Accolade because of being a natural when fighting the forces of darkness.

Werewolves are normally turned over to the Church. Faith in God is the best way to gain control of their powers. Others can do so by living with wolf packs in the wilds, though they are rarely trusted.

Regeneration: Turned off with Silver, Fire, and direct sunlight. Indirect sunlight dims it. She's mostly fine in her cloak and hood, but better a night.

Extremely high metabolism. She can get blood thirsty if she doesn't eat, but sugar works extremely well. I.e. cookies are MANDATORY.

Pain causes her rage to ignite.

Shield of Faith and Miracle Die: 40K SoB reference. I'll explain if anyone asks.

Powered armour powered by prismatic energies. Summoned with transformation sequence. The catalyst for the transformation is a crescent moon broach with a deep red ruby.

Any equipment she holds while transforming gets turned into a magical girl version of it, like Ghost Rider.

Her scythe, Lunamaria, is made with a steel edge, and an iron blade inlaid with mythril and quicksilver. This allows her to defeat most dark foes without calling upon her moonfallen abilities.

Her Bolt Pistol, Lunalapina, uses custom made rounds, (made a lot easier with Dust forging equipment). She owns rounds customized to fight most dark things. Once converted, her mag changes use her prismatic energy to refill them. Think similar to Dante, but she still has to reload.

She can do something similar to Petal Burst while transformed, except more prismatic.

She can do a less conspicuous long-range teleportation that is guided by her faith, i.e. it cannot be used arbitrarily.

Pyrrha Nikos

A literal angel.

Angels are forbidden from most direct interventions. The exception is for the Creatures of Grimm, or other nefarious beings.

Angels can only whisper into your ear. Devils have the same restriction, but are not known for being good at following rules.

Often the intervention of angels will be perceived, (by the imperceptive), as luck. Others might see them in dreams.

Angels can only directly interact with people who have enough spiritual strength to fully perceive them.

She brought Ruby to save Jaune.

Weiss Schnee

Boreal Elf

Went to Thule University.

Major in Spellcrafting, the most difficult discipline that actually crafts new spells.

Magic affinities are Water, Wind, and Light.

Equipped with the mystical rapier Myrtenaster.

Can summon a Auroran Horse or a Kelpie. Auroran Horses work like Ruin from Darksiders, but made from light that blends into the darkness. Kelpies are water fey horses that are known for their... ill temperament. Will often act out against those that Weiss is irate with. Thoroughly enjoys chewing on Jaune's hair.

Minors in Fey summoning and economics.

Her main Fey summons are a Pixie, Will'o'Wisp, Banshee, and female Dullahan.

Her pixie is mischievous, much to Weiss' vexation. But, she'll only have fun with those Weiss holds dear. Otherwise, they might simply get lost in the woods.

Will'o'Wisps are incorporeal, and bear the water, wind, and light elements that Weiss is so wonderful with.

For those that don't know their Fey, Banshees are actually extremely loyal to their households. They are washer maids, and the wail is because their beloved family member is going to die. Her powers are water-based, along with a wail that can be modified to work in a wide variety of ways. He touch can chill, and her voice carries the wind.

Her Dullahan carries a great sword with a fluted tip in one hand, and can summon an Auroran horse to ride.

Her Dullahan is Nora, whom largely represents Weiss' desire to not have impulse control and selfishness. Naturally, they clash quite a big.

Her Pixie is Leanan Ren, a Leanan Sidhe. She largely represents Weiss's exceptionalism and selflessness. Her mistress, and her mistress' friends call her "Leeann."

When Leeann and Nora agree, and can convince Weiss, typically leads to epic bouts of violence.

Blake Belladonna

Nekomata (cat Youkai that can take Human form; known for being especially amorous).

Has Changeling blood, but must soon return to her original form.

The only form she is truly comfortable in is that of a black cat, or a black catgirl.

Can become amorphous, and crawl through the shadows, or strike out from them as tendrils. Learns to master greater abilities, think Shadow from DMC.

Class is Ninja, which is basically a Rogue with low-level magic.

Her Youkai blood provides basic shapeshifting. Her distant Changeling blood provides more advanced, though less stable shape shifting. Her Ninja abilities allow her to blend into shadow, briefly become intangible, or leave behind figments of her presence.

Yang Xiao Long

Dragon-blooded, from a Storm Dragon. Got it from Tai's side.

Appears Human.

Can learn to summon dragon features, such as claws, wings, scales, or a tail.

Can eventually learn to transform into a Storm Dragon, though she normally needs a LOT of rage to do so.

Her rage allows her to basically turn Super Saiyan. Which is basically just Yang's regular Semblance, but attached to someone as powerful as Vegeta.

Class is Stormclash Monk. Combines Monk with Bloodrager, with Storm-based spellcaster.

Weapons: Gauntlets, a stone sling, and an Iron Club. She can use all three as a catalyst for her lightning powers, and all count as monk weapons.

Ilia Amitola

Rainbow slime.

Before anyone, including her, knew that she was a sentient lifeform, Jaune finds her on the street and takes care of her.

After watching Jaune fail to flirt with Weiss, she realized she could adopt a Human-like form.

Despite attempts by Blake to convince her otherwise, she sees nothing wrong with being Jaune's pet. He has always taken such good care of her.

She is vexed that she is no longer allowed to sleep with her master. However, he hasn't shown any problem about napping with him if she does so in blob form.

Once Jaune unlocks his grandfather's broken sword, she quite insistently goes with him. He will comply if she does so in blob form, sitting on his shoulder, (and refusing to leave).

Ilia's main abilities are physical transformations, (think Kirby). This means she tends to transform into Jaune's weapons, particularily a rainbow wrecking ball.

She can also extend spikes are enemies trying to strike Jaune from outside his field of vision. He gets used to it to the point if she barely does something similar, he knows he needs to look in that direction.

A third main form is turning into a boulder that Jaune throws (rolls) at enemies.

She has low-level elemental abilities. Not as suitable for combat, but allows her to turn into a bbq.

Transforms into Jaune's left pauldron during combat.

Penny Polendina

Golem with the soul of Pietro's daughter attached. He was legitimately trying to save his daughter, though the means are not exactly generally accepted. Only Dwarves know how to do this, and most of them would completely refuse to do so.

All mana channels and ley chambres are internal.

Penny is an Artificer with a minor in Battle Augur. She can create animated combatants. She has a small host of magic abilities, but only learns attack spells through observation. Other than Magic Missile, but since Battle Augurs are basically Megaman, it's through an arm cannon.

Creates an army of myrmidons, (magic robots), along with tiny, fairy versions of them.

General James Ironwood

Known as the "King of Mantle" by Humans in almost seriousness, and affectionately by Dwarves as the "Mantle Piece".

As a General, he was given leave to seek out the Dwarves of Mountain Mantle. He succeeded, and this close relationship is what created modernity. Along with the Schnee Dust Company, (managed by Elves, with the mining done by Dwarves).

The bulk of his forces are Atlasian Dampjager, steam Dwarves. They are smaller and lighter, but fantastically stronger and more robust than adult Humans.

These are augmented by Atlasian Dampdragens, carbinemen riding Steam Destriers, Damp'hest Also known as D-tross. They are as strong as as a truck, and can cover terrain like a horse.

Avoided Soul-Bound Golems because of the inherent ethics, until the creation of Penny Polendina. Now, it is offered to soldiers who are dying or otherwise crippled. Kind of like Dreadnoughts from 40k.

Army uses D-tross-towed artillery.

Has two primary chicken walkers, the Cockatrix and Basilix. The Basilix isn't larger, but is more robust and heavily armoured. The Cockatrix is lighter, more mobile, and has limited hover capabilities.

Dwarves

Because you voted for my Dwarves from Ingir, so, how they work with the Prismatic Rose AU, and the technological development of the world. Need to do a poll on tech first.

Dwarves worked through the early steam era and went onto nuclear, which is still technically steam power. It was Humans, specifically Ironwood that developed the steam generator technology that made it actually useful.

They largely live underground now, not because they especially like it underground, but because their holds were always dug into cliff faces, and like everyone else, they spend most of their time in \doors, nowadays.

Dwarves don't view necromancy as inherently evil, but instead view it through the voluntary/involuntary lens.

This means that they have no problem with soul-bound golems, as long as the volunteer is willing.

Necromancy is also used to bring an ancestor's ghost for ongoing legal disputes. Ironwood earned the respect of all of the Dwarven tribes of Mountain Mantle because he manages to stay impartial for these disputes. He simply had to put aside his squeamishness about necromancy.

Moonfallen

Creatures that have fallen to darkness in the shadow of the moon. The moon reflects light from the sun, and as such is both the basis of the power of the dark creatures, and their bane. The shattered moon remnant of the disaster that created them.

Angel, Fallen

Fey, Unseelie (also Fallen)

Liches

Necromancers

Skeletons

Succubus/Incubus

Vampire

Werewolf

Witch, Black

Creatures of Grimm

Creatures of shadow and enmity.

As enmity builds in an area, a Grimm Fragment is created. This is not visible to those without Shadowsight.

If enough enmity is unleashed at the same time, a Grimm Fragment can be boosted into a full-fledged Grimm.

More commonly, nefarious beings use the Fragments to create Creatures of Grimm to do their bidding, (hopefully).

Some less than ethnical magic users can try to use this as a power source. It can work, or it can create a Creature of Grimm.

When a Creature of Grimm is spotted, it triggers an investigation.

Huntsmen and Huntresses

Those licensed to hunt Creatures of Grimm and/or Moonfallen.

Some are lone vagabonds, others join fraternities or orders-militant.

While fraternities and orders normally have their own rules of conduct, without them Huntsmen are defacto, and often dejure, immune to all by the most heinous of laws.

This is both out of privilege, and out of practicality. On one hand, you want the Huntsman hunting. On the other, trying to bring a Huntsman to trial, unwillingly, is a harrowing ordeal for everyone involved. The Church's Inquisition typically handles rogue Huntsmen.

Because of this, disreputable Huntsmen will often be shunned by most of society.

(CLOSED)

[lghitofgospel]

Christian Faith: A Journey of Belief, Hope, and Love

The concept of Christian faith is profoundly rooted in belief, hope, and an enduring commitment to love. This spiritual journey encourages individuals to trust in God’s plan, embracing both life’s triumphs and trials with a spirit of resilience. At its core, Christian faith is not just a religious expression but a personal relationship that shapes the heart, mind, and soul. Many who embark on this path find that faith provides purpose, peace, and strength in a world that often feels uncertain.

What is Christian Faith?

Christian faith can be seen as a foundational belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ, as conveyed through the Bible. It begins with the belief in God’s existence, His goodness, and His role as a loving Father. Yet, it extends beyond belief into trust, aligning one’s life with God’s promises and commands. Christian faith is often a journey of transformation, impacting a believer’s choices, relationships, and personal growth. Through faith, Christians are called to embody compassion, integrity, and humility—values that reflect Christ’s example.

The Foundation of Christian Faith

At the heart of Christian faith lies the belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the Saviour who redeemed humanity through His death and resurrection. This belief forms the cornerstone of Christianity, inspiring followers to surrender their lives to God. The teachings of the Bible reinforce these foundations, inviting believers to live with a sense of purpose. The Bible serves as a guide, showing how to handle life’s challenges with grace, patience, and hope—a path only made possible through a deep-seated Christian faith.

Living Out Christian Faith Daily

Living out Christian faith means allowing one’s beliefs to influence actions, decisions, and interactions with others. For many, this translates into daily prayer, reflection, and engaging with Scripture to seek God’s wisdom. In practice, Christian faith often requires the courage to love, forgive, and be patient, even when circumstances are difficult. Christians are encouraged to live with kindness and generosity, seeing others through God’s eyes. By following these principles, Christian faith becomes a way of life that encourages love, peace, and understanding.

The Role of Prayer in Christian Faith

Prayer is central to Christian faith, serving as a way to communicate with God and seek His guidance. For many, prayer provides solace and strength, especially in times of hardship. In moments of uncertainty, believers turn to prayer to find reassurance, believing that God listens and cares deeply. This personal connection with God helps to reinforce Christian faith, making it more than just an abstract belief. Through prayer, Christians seek divine wisdom, giving them clarity and purpose in every decision.

Christian Faith and Community

Christian faith is often strengthened within the community, where believers come together to worship, share, and support one another. Church services, Bible studies, and fellowship gatherings allow Christians to grow in their faith alongside others. These communal settings offer encouragement and accountability, fostering a deeper connection to God and one another. In a world that can sometimes feel isolating, Christian faith provides a community of like-minded individuals who strive to embody love, compassion, and unity.

Christian Faith in Times of Suffering

One of the profound aspects of Christian faith is its ability to provide comfort in times of suffering. Many believers find that, during trials, their faith grows stronger, offering a refuge that sustains them through hardship. The belief that God is present, even in pain, is a pillar of Christian faith. This faith reminds Christians that suffering is not meaningless but rather a part of life that can bring growth, resilience, and a closer relationship with God. For those going through difficult times, Christian faith offers a source of hope, knowing that God walks alongside them.

The Role of Faith in Forgiveness

Forgiveness is a key principle of Christian faith, encouraging individuals to let go of resentment and show mercy to others. Inspired by Christ’s own forgiveness, Christians are called to extend grace, even when it is difficult. This aspect of Christian faith can be transformative, freeing believers from bitterness and bringing peace to their hearts. Forgiveness is not just a moral duty; it is a reflection of the grace that God offers to humanity. By choosing forgiveness, Christians live out their faith, demonstrating love and compassion in their interactions with others.

Building a Life of Purpose Through Christian Faith

Christian faith inspires believers to pursue a life filled with purpose, aligned with God’s will. Whether through serving others, spreading kindness, or living with integrity, faith calls individuals to make a difference. Many Christians feel that their lives are meaningful when they contribute positively to society, seeing themselves as vessels of God’s love. Through Christian faith, they find the motivation to impact the world in ways that align with Christian values, knowing that their efforts serve a higher purpose.

Explore More About Christian Faith

The Future of Christian Faith

In an ever-changing world, Christian faith continues to be a beacon of hope, guiding believers toward a future rooted in love, peace, and justice. This faith has endured through centuries, adapting yet holding firm to its core beliefs. As society evolves, so too does the expression of Christian faith, finding new ways to reach people in diverse cultures and communities. Its timeless message of redemption, love, and purpose remains relevant, speaking to the hearts of people in every generation.

Conclusion

Christian faith is a journey that invites believers to experience life with hope, purpose, and love. It shapes character, strengthens relationships, and offers comfort in times of hardship. For those who embrace it, Christian faith is more than a set of beliefs; it is a profound relationship with God that brings joy and meaning. In a world filled with challenges, Christian faith remains a steady foundation, helping believers navigate life with grace and resilience, trusting in God’s unchanging love.

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. Thanks.

[tomthomasblog]

Strengthening Relationships Through Faith in God

Faith can be a powerful tool in our lives, especially when it comes to building strong relationships. When we place our faith in God, we open ourselves up to a world of guidance, comfort, and strength. Let's explore how faith can transform not just our personal lives but also our connections with others.

The Power of Faith

Faith in God serves as a wellspring of strength during difficult times. Whenever we face challenges, knowing that God is with us can provide a sense of comfort. For example, when someone faces tough decisions or experiences loss, faith can help them cope and heal. When we trust in God's plan, we develop resilience and the ability to rise above our circumstances.

Guidance in Difficult Times: Faith helps us find direction when we feel lost.

Comfort in Sadness: In painful moments, belief can bring peace.

Strength for Challenges: With faith, we can conquer obstacles that seem insurmountable.

Building a Foundation of Love and Trust

Surrendering to God's will encourages us to let go of our need for control. When we trust God, we establish a foundation of love and trust in our relationships. This allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. A relationship built on faith is not only strong but also rooted in mutual understanding and respect.

Creating Trust: When God is at the center, we can be more honest and open.

Fostering Love: Faith inspires us to love one another unconditionally.

Strengthening Bonds: Relationships grow stronger with shared beliefs.

The Role of Prayer and Scripture

Turning to prayer and reflecting on scripture can provide us with peace and clarity, especially when life gets chaotic. When we take time to pray, we seek God's wisdom, which helps us deal with everyday problems. It can also help us trust that everything happens for a reason and that God's timing is perfect.

Finding Peace: Prayer calms our minds and slows our racing thoughts.

Understanding God's Plan: Scripture offers insights that guide our decisions.

Trusting God's Timing: Believing that God knows best can ease fears about the future.

Faith as an Active Force

It’s important to remember that faith is not only about believing but also about taking action. When we truly have faith in God, we feel compelled to make a difference in the world. This active faith can inspire those around us to embody their beliefs as well.

Inspiring Change: When we live our faith, others see that it's possible.

Driving Action: Faith encourages us to step out into the world confidently.

Creating Ripples: Our actions can set off waves of positive change in our communities.

Embrace Faith for Stronger Relationships

In a world full of uncertainties, having faith in God can provide a strong foundation for our relationships and personal growth. By trusting in God's wisdom and seeking His guidance, we can navigate life's challenges with grace. Let your faith inspire you and others to foster love and positivity in the world around you.

As you reflect on this, consider taking a step of faith in your own life. What can you do to strengthen your relationships through your faith in God? Challenge yourself to trust Him more and watch how it transforms your connections and your spirit.

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The Scripture Collection Playlist A compilation of 20 uplifting music videos inspired by a different Bible scripture. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLoBTz-QtgDhox4diwLqHBjD4W-CtzM-8v

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Website: https://bwpub.net/

I wrote the song "Trust in the Light" based on "Faith in God: A Key to a Strong Relationship."

hyper-blues rock https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vJMfitC324 russian afrikaner folk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GraxXR4TTIw electronic math rock https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFhB6vf_Tj0

[j2zara]

rotating vampire!j3 in my brain btw, and please elaborate with any thoughts you may have if you so wish. incredible idea omg

Also while I'm at it i'm gonna tag in @rebloggiest-reblogger b/c Vampire!J3 was. something they suggested and thank you for that b/c it is not mine but it will live in my head forever

Anyway. I will say First and Foremost. Vampire!J3 should exist for no other reason than it be so so so so so hot <3. It needs to be said <3

I do think this is such a fun concept that works for J3 tho b/c like. For j4 the reason the idea of her being a werewolf was appealing to me was. Like. I was overthinking abt Daphne and Apollo and this general Idea of. Violent Transformation that dooms a woman to death or inhumanity. but also in a way spares them from the desire of god. Of a man. either/or. Like. A werewolf is something hairy and violent and unpalatable and kinda the opposite of the male gaze. And its something that is base and violent and animalistic, like i just think she deserves to give in to her rage and hunger for violence <3

Meanwhile j3 is so like. Already Keyed In to The Vampire and themes of. Consumption and Predation and Desire and like. The ability to charm and deceive and seduce. It's about having urges, cravings, desires that you believe as so dark and despicable that your loved ones would turn away from you in disgust or horror (whether the desires are truly disgusting or not, the shame could be self imposed). He hungers for EVERYTHING, and yes that includes sex but its about all the highs and lows of life, he wants violence and pain and he wants to consume it all, every piece of people, of life, something essential. If he has to cause harm to get it, he will. Blood as proof of life, proof of desire, and J3 has so much desire, and wants to cram in as much life as possible. Vampires as a liminal undead existence. Not really alive or dead. The clones and their tenuous grasp at life, and J3 knowing his grasp is most tenuous at all unless he can charm his way into people's pants. And he can charm you, get in your head, make you think it was all your idea to give it to him in the first place <3. The vampire as the invader, the monster among us, a better Jace than Jace himself <3

But also i think he deserves to feed on J4. The idea of doing something so vulnerable and intimate would frighten her at first I think, as is the idea of her being the one to submit in that situation, we all know what the fangs are a metaphor for, but also. She is into it <3. The trust, right? Giving someone the power to hurt you, and maybe they can and do, but instead they provide pleasure? Willingly surrendering herself to give someone else sustenance, to let them take from you, that's the peak of free will, right? Doing something that might be a little bad for you? Against your better judgement?

Oh yeah. She's into it <3

[niche-fandom-obsessions2204]

Small snippet from my fanfic that I haven’t updated in ages so here’s some fluff for now:

Elsa had been sat in her study for most of the morning, giving the paperwork Hans and Anna had completed during her resting period, the glance over. Whilst she trusted Hans to do a good job, she couldn’t say the same for her sister who was still learning the ins and outs of the job.

She sighed, rubbing her temples as a dull ache had started to form behind her eyes. The Queen had grown frustrated at how fragile her body was because she had an important role to fulfil, she didn’t have time to rest and recover.

She placed the document she had just finished with onto the pile, when the soft creak of the door caught her attention, she glanced up briefly, not wanting to lose her train of thought.

She smiled softly, for it was her husband and their infant, who was fast asleep in his father's arms, how could a woman refuse. She immediately placed her quill back into the inkwell and placed her documents aside.

“Morning, my love” Hans whispered, as to not disturb their son quite yet, he carefully leant down and pressed a light kiss to her temple.

“Morning” Elsa leant towards his touch with a soft smile on her lips. She then carefully takes her babe into her arms, her index finger lightly tracing his little nose.

“Is it all up to scratch?” Hans queried as he sat in the window seat, Elsa stood from her chair, babe in arm, and she sat against her husband's chest, inhaling his scent as she nestled her face into the crook of his neck.

“Yes, you have taught Anna well, more so than I could have, but then again you have more patience. I on the other hand, find Anna challenging at times”.

“I am an expert at dealing with challenging siblings. Anna doesn’t mean to get frustrated and angry, she just takes your criticism as rejection, all she wants is to please you. Anna is a very intelligent woman, and I think God forbid if it does, but Arendelle would be safe in her hands should the worst happen to us”.

“I can sleep a little better at night then at least” Elsa jested “I am glad she has you to open up to, at least, I am not the best communicator” She sighed her grin dropping into an insecure frown.

“Are you alright? You’re quieter than normal”’.

“I am just tired darling”.

“Elsa why don’t you go rest, I can finish off for you?”

“Is it alright if we stay like this for a while”.

“Of course,” he smiled, amused at his Queen.

He wrapped an arm around his goddess, whilst the other arm cradled their son, supporting Elsa’s arm further.

“I love you” She murmured, savouring this moment in her mind, for it was so very rare for them to have quiet and peaceful intimacy with her family.

“I love you more” Hans uttered back to her.

“How has your training been going?”

“Challenging, no matter what I do let this monster out, the pain, it’s just too much, so I give up before I can even transform”.

“Yelena says that I need to relax, and not to be scared to give up control. It’s easy for her to say, I am still new to this, it’s not even been a year since I first discovered I had this magic and any memory I had of it prior is long gone” Hans sighed.

“My love, you will get the hang of it, you’re strong, and your magic is powerful, more so than my own, I have never seen anything like it. It seems to me that it is less of a battle for the body and more of the mind, you need to allow yourself to feel those uncomfortable emotions that the physical pain brings.” Elsa lifts her head from his shoulder, so that her eyes could meet his.

“You can do this, I believe in you” she paused before turning her attention to the sleeping prince “Harry will one day be in your position, and any future children that we may have, may also inherit this ability, and therefore they will need their father to guide them, so take your time in learning the ability properly.”

“I am terrified for him” Hans furrowed his brow.

“No one wants to see their child suffer Hans, which is why we as parents have to do everything, we can prepare them for the worst”.

“For me, that means educating him in the ways of politics and this way of life, for you that will be showing him the ways of magic, of battle, and together we will show him the love of a real family.”

“He doesn’t need me for that, he has a pretty badass mother who can show him all of those things.” Hans teased.

“Please” Elsa scoffed “My magic, and my battle skills pale in comparison”.

“I think you could beat me in a battle”.

“Maybe before you had your magic, I stood a chance, but now.” She shrugged.

“Elsa, why do I have a feeling this is about more than just Harry”.

“Now I am a mother, I worry that I will lose my old self, the woman that could tame the elements herself, a woman who could best pirates in a sword fight, a woman who could reduce a kingdom to her knees with the wave of a hand”.

“Elsa you are still that woman. If anything, becoming a mother has made you stronger, and you can still do those things, as your husband I promise you, we will do this as a team, you don’t have to lose yourself.”

“You’re amazing Elsa” he paused “I love you regardless of those things, I would love you in every lifetime and any circumstance, heck we could be simple farmers for all I care, no magic, no money or titles. Elsa, I just love you, as does Harry”.

Elsa brushed her nose tenderly with his before the king gently captured her mouth with his lips, Elsa let out a hum, as her free hand reached up to cup his jaw.

Harry began to stir, crying and cranky as he was rooting for his mother’s breast, he was hungry..

“Well hello to you too, mister!” Elsa chuckled, pulling away from her husband's mouth, with a smirk towards her grouchy infant who certainly had an appetite.

“Harry, not cool” Hans teased, which earned him a playful glare from the icy blonde.

Elsa adjusted her bodice, her ice magic working its wonders to quickly remove any obstacles from the babe satisfying its hunger. Which instantly quelled the little one’s cries.

“The council have really been pushing for me to get a milk nurse, they find the whole process of me having to leave to feed him in peace tedious and a waste of time.”

“I tried to explain to them that milk from their mother is better for babies and I only want what’s best for our son, but they would not have it, they are far too stuck in the past”.

Hans had to suppress his temper that started to bubble, for he couldn’t understand why the council would not respect their wishes, and he couldn’t understand why Elsa was getting the blame for this decision when it was one that they had decided on together.

“Why do they always do this when I am not present, they wouldn’t dare if I had been there. I’ll sort it, my love.” Hans’ chest heaved; Elsa tensed for she could feel his pulse racing.

“Hans, take a breath, anger is not good for you or your magic.”

Hans just sighed and buried his face into her hair, which earned him a laugh from Elsa, at his stubbornness and determination against those who’d seek to hurt their family.

“It’s okay, Hans not everyone is out to do harm to us, the council are just thinking about getting the job done quickly and to a time schedule, but unfortunately babies do not work that way”.

“I want another one” Elsa smiled down at her beautiful child.

Hans blanched “So soon?” He gulped it had barely been two weeks since Harry had arrived.

“Well not quite yet, but eventually, yes.”

“Are you up to the task, husband?” Elsa smirks flirtatiously, which pulls a bright flush of red onto his cheeks at her subtle hint of seduction.

“I’ll see what I can do” he laughed.

[gobboguy]

Chapter 10: A Deep Magic

In the quiet aftermath of the birth, Queen Alys found herself resting in her chamber, the weight of her recent ordeal settling upon her like a heavy shroud. Maeggar, his demeanor calm and composed, tended to her with practiced hands, his fingers tracing intricate patterns in the air as he channeled his magical abilities to ease her afterbirth pains.

As the soothing energy washed over her, Alys returned the snake figurine to Maeggar, her eyes filled with curiosity and apprehension. "What was that, Maeggar?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. "What power did you invoke to aid me?"

Maeggar chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with enigmatic wisdom. "The figurine was a conduit, a tool to channel energies beyond our understanding. It was not the will of Miranda, Your Majesty, but rather a force that transcends the gods we know."

Alys's horror was palpable. "What have I brought upon my son? What curse have I laid upon his innocent soul?"

Maeggar's voice, though cryptic, carried a reassuring tone. "No curse could come from your own flesh and blood, Your Majesty. The child is a miracle, a convergence of forces we may never comprehend. His fate is entwined with mysteries that go beyond our mortal comprehension."

He leaned in closer, his eyes intense with purpose. "But, Your Majesty, you must guard this secret zealously. Do not share the events of this night with anyone, for the sake of your son's future. The succession is a delicate matter, and the knowledge of his miraculous birth could stir unwelcome ambitions and conflicts."

Alys nodded, her mind swirling with conflicting emotions. Gratitude and fear mingled within her, leaving her torn between the miracle that had saved her child and the unknown forces that had intervened. She wondered if it was truly Miranda she should thank or another deity altogether, one whose intentions and motives remained shrouded in obscurity. In the depths of her heart, a seed of doubt had been planted, casting a shadow over the joyous occasion and leaving her to question the very nature of the supernatural forces that governed their lives.

Later, in the dead of night, when the castle lay shrouded in the silence of slumber, the midwives who had attended the Prince's birth were summoned to Maeggar's room. Their hearts trembled with fear and uncertainty as they approached the sorcerer's chambers, their minds racing with thoughts of what he might want from them.

Inside, Maeggar sat in a dimly lit room, his presence imposing yet oddly soothing. With a calm demeanor, he questioned the midwives about the events they had witnessed earlier that evening. Their words spilled forth, laced with fear, as they described the glowing serpentine apparitions and the mysterious powers that had aided Queen Alys during the birth.

Maeggar, his voice smooth as silk, encouraged them to share their thoughts openly. "What do you believe happened, dear midwives? Speak your minds. Do not fear judgment."

The midwives exchanged hesitant glances before one of them, her voice quivering, uttered the words that had haunted her thoughts. "Black magic, sir. Unholy things were at work in that room tonight."

Maeggar tsked, his expression one of faux disappointment. "Such simplistic labels for forces beyond your understanding," he murmured. "But I trust you both to remain silent about what you have seen. Can I count on your discretion?"

They glanced at each other, their eyes filled with apprehension. After a moment's hesitation, they nodded in agreement, promising to keep the secret.

However, Maeggar's demeanor shifted, his eyes growing stern. "You see, I'd like to believe you," he said, his tone turning cold, "but I cannot simply trust your words alone." With a flick of his wrist, he began weaving a spell, the air crackling with arcane energy. The two midwives gasped in horror as they were transformed, their bodies shrinking and contorting until they became tiny mice, trapped within the sorcerer's spell.

Maeggar chuckled to himself, his satisfaction evident. "The first part of my plan is complete," he muttered, a sinister glint in his eyes. He reached into a cage nearby, releasing his pet snake, who slithered towards the mice with hunger in its gaze. As the midwives' fate was sealed, Maeggar congratulated himself on his cunning, the shadows of his dark intentions lurking just beneath his facade of calm and confidence.

[leonbloder]

Resilient Faith: Embracing God's Purposes

I had a pastor friend once who had a sign on his desk that read, "God loves you, and has a difficult plan for your life." 

That sign always drew a wry smile from me, but I was also troubled by the language of it.  I  grew up in a Christian culture that used the term "God's plans" pretty freely, and often in very unhelpful ways.  

People in that world I lived in frequently stated that all they wanted was to discover God's plan for their life, or to do God's will, which was nearly the same thing.  Interestingly, God's plans more often resembled their own, and when things didn't go as they planned, it created some challenging theological issues for them.  

Truth be told, I held onto those same notions for many of my early years in ministry.  However, things shifted for me after a serious crisis of faith in 2011, when I began to see a difference between what I thought were God's plans (which were really my own) and God's ultimate purposes. 

The resulting shift in my thinking became an exercise in resilience, which I needed to experience and internalize.  Instead of focusing on the concept of plans, I learned that believing there was a greater purpose at work in my life enabled me to become more resilient and to keep forging ahead even when the plans shifted, changed, or fell apart.  

You see, resilience is not simply the ability to endure hardships—it is the courage to keep moving forward when life takes unexpected turns. 

So often, when challenges arise, we find ourselves clinging to the plans we’ve carefully constructed, believing that if we follow them perfectly, life will unfold the way we think it should. 

But what happens when our plans fall apart? In those moments, God invites us to shift our thinking from “plans” to “purposes.”  

Plans are rigid and linear; they assume a predictable future. Purposes, however, are dynamic, fluid, and shaped by God’s transformative love. God’s purposes are not thwarted by detours, failures, or setbacks. In fact, they are often revealed most clearly when our own plans collapse, leaving space for something far greater to emerge.

Joseph Campbell once wrote, “We must be willing to get rid of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.” 

This is not a call to abandon our dreams, but rather a reminder that God’s purposes are always bigger and richer than anything we can script for ourselves. When we release our tight grip on “the way things should be,” we create room for the Spirit to work in ways that surprise and renew us.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” 

Notice Paul’s emphasis on God’s “purpose” rather than a strict plan. God’s purposes weave through every circumstance—even the painful and confusing ones—to bring about redemption and hope.

Resilience, then, is not just the act of enduring difficulty, but of trusting that God’s purposes are unfolding even when life looks nothing like we imagined. It is the faith to believe that what feels like an ending might be the beginning of a new chapter, a better chapter—one aligned with God’s heart for us.

If your plans have crumbled or your path seems unclear, take heart. Let go of the life you thought you needed and open your hands to the life that is waiting for you. Trust God’s purposes, for they are never derailed by obstacles but strengthened through them.

Prayer: Lord, help me release my need for control and my attachment to the plans I’ve made. Teach me to trust in Your purposes, which are always good and life-giving, even when I cannot see the way ahead. Give me the resilience to face each challenge with faith, knowing that You are guiding me into the life You have prepared. Amen.

[ericcooper153]

Theme: Mercy over exposure. Redemption over revenge.Scripture Focus: Genesis 45:1 – “Then Joseph could not restrain himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried out, ‘Make everyone go out from me!’” When Joseph finally revealed himself to his brothers in Egypt, something profound happened. Scripture tells us, “Joseph could not restrain himself… and he cried out, ‘Make everyone go out from me!’” (Genesis 45:1). That moment wasn’t just emotional—it was deeply intentional. Joseph chose to uncover his identity, but not his brothers’ shame. He cleared the room. He covered the betrayal. He protected the legacy. And yet, I often wonder… What did Benjamin think? Benjamin wasn’t part of the betrayal. He didn’t throw Joseph into a pit or dip his coat in blood. He grew up under a lie, mourning a brother he believed was dead, shaped by silence and grief. Imagine the swirl of emotions—confusion, grief, relief—as Joseph reveals the truth. What must it have felt like for Benjamin to realize his beloved brothers had buried the truth for years? Still, Joseph didn’t expose them—not even to Benjamin. He had every right to. He could have demanded a public confession in Pharaoh’s courts. But mercy won the moment. Joseph protected his brothers, not because they deserved it, but because God still had a plan to redeem it. This is the Joseph Anointing—the ability to live above the sun, where heaven’s justice and mercy collide. It’s what happens when healed people refuse to rehearse betrayal and instead choose to guard what God intends to restore. 🙏 Reflection: Have you ever discovered a hidden truth that changed how you saw your family or community? How does Joseph’s decision to clear the room—to protect rather than expose—challenge your own responses? 💔 The Pain of Exposure Betrayal stings deepest when it comes from those closest to us. I’ve lived this pain. I’ve felt the silence of those who knew the truth but chose not to speak. The false narratives crafted to preserve their comfort tore at my soul. But in that dark night of the soul, Yahweh whispered: “Will you let Me redeem it, or will you demand to be right?” And so I learned—anyone can expose a wound. Only the healed can cover a legacy. 🧥 The Modern “Bloody Coat” Joseph’s brothers dipped his robe in blood to craft a lie. Today, the “bloody coat” might be a Facebook post. A veiled accusation. A whisper in a backroom. But hear this, beloved: God’s truth outlasts every lie. When Joseph cleared the room, he wasn’t just silencing witnesses—he was declaring war on shame. He chose mercy so that healing could have the final word. He chose the mountain over the pit. And so must we. ✨ Declaration & Prayer “I am not disqualified. I am not forgotten.I am being refined.What was meant for evil, God will turn for good.My wounds will become wells of healing for others.” Take a moment. Ask Holy Spirit:Where is God calling you to cover instead of expose?Where is He inviting you to trust Him with your vindication? 🔥 Selah The pit.The prison.The palace.All of it forms the forge of legacy. A.W. Tozer once said, “It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply.” Joseph knew this. And so do you. Your pain is not wasted—it’s being transformed. Let God meet you in the fire.Let Him rewrite the story.Let Him turn your wounds into wells. Read the full article

[thefangdomcryptid]

With Astarion, it was just manipulation at first. Eve fell through a portal on earth and ended up in Faerun. She'd been trying to survive as a musician instead of selling her body as she'd done countless of times during her lifetime, but it was hard. When the mindflayers took her and she woke up on the beach, found Astarion and learned he was a Magistrate, her instincts kicked in, and like so many other powerful men (or so she thought), she did was she was good at and seduced him, making him think he was the one pulling the strings. After all, there's nothing more attractive for a man who craves power for whatever reason to have someone worshipping at their altar. Eve thought his connections could get her home, and little did she know that he was running a con as well. They both ended up falling in love with each other, despite their efforts not to.

Lae'zel provided protection since Eve wasn't really a skilled fighter. Yes, she knew how to stick someone with the pointy end, but she had never really had to take up arms, since she had always talked herself out of sticky situations, or into someone's bed who could provide her with whatever she needed. So when the Gith approached her quite quickly, she did what she had to do, but then slowly more feelings grew over time and they became more.

With Gale, it was different. Here was this deeply intelligent and awkward rude man she had no idea how to seduce, because he seemed...distant and uninterested in her, but they bonded over magic and the Gods. Eve's wild magic surges turned out to be quite challenging, but befitting of her nature as a wereleopard, wild and untamed. Back home she had no magical abilities she knew of , and in our world magic was much more raw and harder to grasp than in Faerun. He helped her control her magic. As for the Gods part, what Gale had with Mystra, Eve had with Zeus, being seduced at a young age, and then cursed by Hera because Zeus couldn't keep it in his pants and she found out. The immortality Zeus granted her was great, but her beast side, which was a "gift" from Hera, not so much. Anyway, when they did finally fall in love, they fell hard for each other.

With Halsin, it was much more natural. As a druid, even though her transformation was different than his, her being excruciating due to every bone in her body breaking every time she transformed (it had gotten easier over time, but never painless), he did understand her nature better than anyone. He cared for her, hunted with her in bear form, helped her through her heats, in the beginning by restraining her with his own body, then later on by having intercourse. They were perfect for each other. There is also a poly option if she is with Astarion on a good run, because while she did try to overcome her nature, Astarion felt she needed someone who could "help" her cope with her animal side and her sex drive that went with it. He wasn't quite ready for that yet, and Eve respected that. After all, their stories of prostitution are similar, and if it weren't for her condition, she probably would choose not to have intercourse if she didn't want to.

Shadowheart was... not her cup of tea. I have no idea how it happened, but it happened. She went from not liking or trusting the Sharran to something resembling friends, and then lovers.

Karlach and Wyll were also unexpected, but both of their relationships with Eve were so natural, much like Halsin's. She didn't even have to try. From the moment they met there was a spark there and it just evolved naturally. Even with her beast problems, Wyll/Karlach was there to take care of her, to help her through her pains. Wyll even taught her how to fight. (obviously they're separate romances, but they just feel the same because Karlach and Wyll are just the epitome of Good, and Eve deserves that, and so much more.

[yhwhrulz]

Today's Daily Encounter Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Drawing Closer to God with Confidence

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weakness, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."1

What are you thankful for this week? It can be because of something big or small.

Thank God for that. Don't let the shadows of life cause you to miss the little glimmers of beauty.

"Lament" may sound like an old-fashioned word, but we've found it to be transformative. The biblical genre of lament offers us a guide to process difficult times with Jesus.

Deep down, lament allows us to present our whole being to God. It is a Christian's "essential welfare." Expressing a painful emotion before God should not be seen as a renunciation of faith or a sign of weakness, but a cry of adoration to the One who weeps with us.

When we encounter passages of lament in Scripture, we are reminded that nothing needs to be hidden from our Savior. He can deal with what ails us. Our challenge, however, is to find the confidence to turn to God when life gets tough, rather than hiding and walking away.

Trust is a funny thing. It is not always possible to pin down. We all know what trust feels like. It may be easy to see but hard to find. Trust is fickle and sometimes elusive. It can grow for years and be lost in seconds.

In difficult times, how can we approach God's throne "confidently," as today's Bible passage exhorts us, especially if we feel weak or disillusioned?

The key is to identify who or what our trust is in and, if it is not in Christ, to redirect our trust immediately. The author of Hebrews does not tell us to invoke self-confidence every time we approach God. That will never work. He exhorts us to trust Jesus. The confidence we have as believers flows from the knowledge of Christ, and not from our abilities. Trusting Jesus is the way to establish a trusting relationship with God.

Thanks to the death and resurrection of Jesus, we can enter into God's holy presence and find a safe home there, even with our mistakes and blunders. This is the gospel. Jesus has opened the way for us to access our heavenly Father when we need him most.

Consequently, today's biblical passage is significant in the context of lamentation. It implies that, when we face suffering, we can express ourselves openly before God with the full conviction that he will welcome us with his love. Always remember, no matter how broken you feel, you can be completely confident as you step into God's presence.

If you're struggling, decide to become a "lamenter," as strange as that sounds. Draw near to Jesus and cry out to him. He understands you. Taking your pain to God is the most transformative thing you can do with it. It is a profound task that heals the soul. As Scripture promises, you will receive mercy and find the grace that will supernaturally help you in your time of need.

Suggested Prayer: Dear God, I am so thankful that, thanks to the sacrifice of your Beloved Son, I can approach you with confidence, and enjoy a personal relationship with you. I understand that I can come to you with all my regrets and that you will receive me with your arms of love. I'm here, grateful for all that I have in you. Even as life continues to present me with challenges, give me the strength and grace to overcome them with your blessing. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.

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[serafiel-jacobs]

Say no to this (Fanfic)

New Chapter of my Angst series 💜

“Paracelsus”

He wakes up, he always almost already awake as he can feel Simon’s tossing and turning, yet this is the first time Simon has ever called for him.

“I don’t feel well”

Paracelsus sits down and looks at Simon, he is in a really bad state, psychologically that is, his weak body is still the same, but that doesn’t matter Simon probably feels as if he is dying again at this moment.

“It’s okay my dear, you just need to sleep”

“I can’t”

Paracelsus examines Simon, his heart is racing, and he is sweating and trembling, clearly having a panic attack.

“Help me”

Simon has never asked for his help before and Paracelsus smiles because Simon is finally trusting him to care for him, he has never seen Simon so scared before, he has never seen such panic in his eyes, and that panic attack is turning into something else because it’s clear that Simon is hallucinating again.

Sophia is there again, starting at Simon, quiet as usual, the maggots slowly eating away her once beautiful body, yet Sophia stays still, just like she stood still while dying, while Simon kept her away, she did not scream in pain, she did not complain, she was always quiet.

That silence is killing him, it’s his punishment, more so because despite his ability to see memories, from some sick twist of fate he can no longer remember Sophia’s voice. He wants to hear her voice, he needs to hear her voice, but Sophia won’t say a word, she just stares, her mouth only open so that the ooze can drop out.

Simon grabs Paracelsus's hand, he needs to feel comfort, and he needs someone to make him feel better.

Paracelsus grabs some pills that will help Simon fall asleep, but instead of opening forcefully opening his mouth as he tends to do in situations like this, Paracelsus puts them in his mouth, and leads in closer to Simon, kissing him, Simon swallows them and falls asleep.

——

When Simon wakes up, Paracelsus isn’t there, he is probably working, but he is upset that he isn’t there by his side, and Simon can’t understand why, Paracelsus makes him feel strange, being with him makes him feel good, it makes him feel like someone cares for him.

It makes him feel loved.

Or at least, Simon thinks it’s love, how would he know? He had never loved someone before, not his friends, not his family, not even Sophia; she was his possession, she was everything he wasn’t, she was powerful, a true goddess, she was born with powers that it took him years to achieve and yet he still felt short, that’s why he wanted her, he wanted what could never be his.

Simon was always a failure, his destiny was to become a god like it was expected of his lineage, and he failed. All that pain, all that suffering he endured and all that pain and suffering he gave to others to achieve his goal meant nothing because as usual, he was nothing but a failure.

He could tell that Laxasia, no, Adriana loved him, but it was just because it was obvious and he never returned the affection, because she meant nothing to him, she was just a tool, an annoying tool that fell in love with him.

Yet the affection Paracelsus gives him makes him feel different, it makes him feel that truly for once in his life someone cares for him, he hid his weaknesses from the world, and how he is even more weak and pathetic, but Paracelsus doesn’t care about that, he cares for him regardless.

It was expected of Simon to be strong, it was that or death, his lineage wouldn't tolerate anything else, if they saw him now, they would put him out of his misery, not without telling him how they always knew he was destined to fail.

Simon falls asleep again, wondering when Paracelsus will be back.

——

Paracelsus is giving Simon a warm bath, he needs something to relax, he is been so tense lately and he needs Simon to gain some strength before he can proceed with his special treatments.

As he washes his arms he sees that his veins are in a delicate state again, “Looks like the leeches are going to have to help you again”

Paracelsus hums as he keeps bathing Simon, when he is almost done Simon grabs his hand.

“What’s wrong?”

Simon looks at him with pleading eyes, he can’t say it out loud but Paracelsus knows what he wants.

He wants a hug.

So Paracelsus, despite being fully clothed himself, gets inside the bathtub, there is enough room for the two of them, and he gives Simon a hug, he holds him with care, and tells him that everything is going to be okay, that he won’t let anyone harm him, that he will take care of him.

——

“Now, remember, hold still”

Paracelsus applies the leeches to Simon’s veins, and they begin to do their work. He gives comforting words to his dear Simon, his beloved is in a lot of discomfort, but everything will be okay.

“You are my favorite patient Simon, that’s why you get your special treatments, that’s why you get all of my love”

Paracelsus kisses Simon’s neck, and just like the leeches are biting the veins, Paracelsus bites Simon’s neck and drinks a little of his blood.

Simon starts shaking and crying, he is turning into a big crybaby and Paracelsus loves it.

“I love you” Paracelsus is whispering in his ear.

“You are mine Simon”

——-

Simon wakes up from another nightmare, he dreams about his past, about his childhood, and he hates it.

“Did you have another nightmare my dear?~”

He buries his face in his hands, this is too much, Simon used to have a lot of nightmares as a child too, but when he woke up in a cold sweat back then, no one was there to comfort him, no one was there for him, and now he has Paracelsus here, offering him that, offering his love.

So Simon takes it.

Paracelsus is cradling him and he likes it.

Simon feels pathetic, no, he is pathetic.

“Does my favorite patient want kisses to feel better?” Paracelsus's voice sounds so sweet, so lovely.

“Yes, please”

Paracelsus gently kisses him, kisses his hands, his veins, his face.

His mouth.

——

“Paracelsus”

“Mmm, yes my dear?~”

“It hurts”

Simon’s body is completely filled with needle marks, today’s treatment was very special after all.

“I know my love, but I’m doing what’s best for you”

Simon is a man of science, deep down he knows all of this is wrong, all of this is bad, this isn’t helping him, it’s torture, he is being tortured.

“I’m almost done, when I’m done do you want cuddles?”

Simon nods because he would love that.

Once Paracelsus is done he cuddles him, he tells him how strong and brave he is. Paracelsus grabs a package of adhesive bandages he uses on his child patients, and he hums as he starts putting them all over Simon.

“All my love and care for my favorite patient”

Favorite, I’m his favorite.

Paracelsus also grabs a lollipop, he opens it and puts it in his mouth first, savoring it, and then he makes a motion for Simon to open his mouth, and Simon does, both now sharing the sweetness.

“Simon, my dear, give me a kiss”

No no no no no

Simon can’t resist, he can’t resist because he is Paracelsus's favorite patient, and because he wants to get better he does what the doctor tells him.

[childofchrist1983]

And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. - Luke 21:34-36 KJV

When our hearts are loaded down with carousing, drunkenness and cares of this life, our hearts are not on God. If we become overwhelmed by the cares of life, we can turn to ways of easing the pain that actually increase the problems. Some people will turn to gambling thinking that a solid win will solve all their problems. Another might turn to drugs or alcohol to ease the pain, not realizing the trap that they are. One of the problems with trying to use pleasures such as carousing and drunkenness for the emptiness we can sometimes feel, or to escape the cares of this life, is that we can be led to other forms of sin. We can fall into traps that can damage us or others. Many people have used the money they that they should be using for the family for such pleasures. This taking money away from the family and the ability to adequately provide food or shelter just adds to the problems they were trying to fix. We have seen that too much drink or drugs can lead to taking a person's life with a car or forms of violence. It has led to domestic abuse of a spouse or a child because a person's ability to control one's behavior is diminished.

When we turn to God to fill the void, and trust that He will provide for us and protect us, our cares seem a little less burdensome. It isn't always easy, but Jesus Christ Himself told us that He would help carry our burdens. In the end, life's difficulties are easier to carry when we allow Jesus to help, and don't look to the temptations of the world to save us. He warns us about the temptations of the world and the importance of relying on Him in every moment of our lives. May He give us the graces we need to avoid the snares of the devil, and instead, to trust and allow Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ to help us carry whatever load we are unable to carry by ourselves. In good times and bad, we must trust Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ and we must remain humble and faithful as we continue forward on our journey with Him. May Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ strengthen us, forgive us for our sins and set out feet back on the right path as we grow spiritually everyday.

We come to Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ with sincere hearts to ask forgiveness and follow Him and His Holy Word and Spirit always. May Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ open our minds and hearts more and more to perceive and embrace Him and His truths. May He help us to find time to pray and read and study the Holy Bible daily and to find power in prayer, praying according to His Holy Word and will. May He help us to come to Him in true repentance and with faith in Him and His grace and merciful nature. We must never cease in worship. We praise Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for the mercy He bestows upon us and we are grateful for His grace and mercy and infinite blessings. May He forgive those times when we complain that His way is too hard, and may He give us the grace, courage and strength we need to walk with Him and do His will daily. May He teach us to watch our words when we pray to Him and to speak reverently and rightly. And may He teach us also to speak only kindness and truth with our neighbors that we may be men and women of our word. We must always respect God and His power and remain hopeful in His plans for our lives. May we continually ask God to transform our hearts and make us faithful and humble as we walk with Him daily. By surrendering our hearts and our lives to His will, we see all the blessings He has bestowed upon us. God our refuge and our salvation and our constant provider. We lift our voices to Him in praise for His steadfast love, mercy and understanding. Let us seek Him and a better understanding of His Holy Word daily, not for the sake of entertainment or mere accumulation of knowledge, but that we may love and serve Him more and more with each day that passes. We must come to Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ with honest, humble and repentant hearts. We must seek Him and His will and choose to follow Him all the days of our lives. May He help transform our hearts, help us to seek and live for Him above all else and to grow spiritually and build our faith and relationship with Him with each passing day. May He forgive our sinful nature and help us always make Him and our relationship with Him top priority.

As true and born-again Christians, we choose to walk in His righteous path and lead a life that is pleasing to Him. We desire Him and His will above anything else. We desire to walk in accordance with the love and light He has shown to us through His Holy Word and Spirit. We long for a deeper relationship with Him and a deeper fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ as well. When we fall into temptation and sin, we must turn to Him for forgiveness, strength and guidance. When believers learn to walk in accordance with God's Holy Word and Spirit, they have deeper fellowship with both God and one another. And the sin that could threaten to destroy that fellowship, if confessed (1 John 1:9), is covered in the blood of Jesus Christ and no longer a barrier between us and God. May we ask Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ to forgive us for any sins we have sinned this day or in days past. May we be faithful to Him and His Holy Word always. May He help us to walk more consistently in the light and to not neglect long to confess and forsake any sins that hinder our walk with Him. May He lead us in the direction He wants us to go so that we may seek and serve Him faithfully. God is holy and almighty and deserving of all praise honor and glory. We rejoice in Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ, knowing He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He is the Alpha and the Omega (Revelation 1:8). May our hearts always be filled with thanksgiving and rejoicing. May He help us to praise Him freely and honestly like all believers who came before us. May we live a life that showcases our love and trust in Him and His Holy Word and Spirit as He uses us draw others to Him and His soul-saving Gospel Truth daily. May He continue guide, correct and protect us, so that we continue to grow in Him and not weaken and stray. May we all remain faithful to Him and to this duty and purpose He has called us to. Seek and put your faith and trust in Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ and let Him do the rest. May He humble our hearts and help us focus on following and serving Him daily and helping others with joy and happiness. We lift our voices in praise to Him for His love, mercy, peace, faithfulness and grace - For EVERYTHING!

It is vital that we remain rooted in Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ through prayer and His Holy Word and Spirit and that we live and walk as a beacon of His light and love and share and spread the Gospel Truth daily, so that the lost souls in this world can come to know Him and be saved. The more we focus on Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ, growing spiritually by building our relationship with Him, leaning on Him and His Holy Word and Spirit, the better off we will be. Thanks to this and our faith in Him, we know that everything will be alright. And we will forever be grateful to Him. As true and born-again Christians, we believe in Him and His Holy Word and we strive daily to walk in His Holy Spirit. We know though our mortal bodies should die, He will raise us up and into new and glorious bodies (The Rapture). We who are truly His and alive at His second coming will never die, and our bodies will be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and so shall we ever be with Him in His Kingdom of Heaven forevermore (1 Corinthians 15:51-52, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). This is one of many promises given to us by God Himself. Thank God for His strength and guidance when we are faced with sin and temptation. Thank Him for His mercy and grace. Through Bible study and prayer, God reveals His wisdom and guides us to see opportunities to grow closer to Him and grow spiritually. He gives us direction to live our lives daily according to His will.

Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to Heaven (John 3:5, 14:6), the ONLY way to salvation (Acts 4:12, Ephesians 2:8-9) and He is the resurrection and the life (John 11:25-26). Jesus Christ the LORD of lords, the KING of kings, the GOD of gods (Deuteronomy 10:17, 1 Timothy 6:15, Revelation 17:14, Revelation 19:16) - He is the Living, Almighty and Everlasting God (Isaiah 9:6, Revelation 1:8, John 3:16, John 3:36, Jeremiah 10:10). There is no other God besides Him (Isaiah 45:5). We MUST humble ourselves before Him, turning our backs on false teachers, false gods and idols and our sinful ways. We MUST repent and turn back to God and recognize who He is and love Him in return for His great love for us. We MUST make God top priority everyday! May we be motivated to spread God's Holy Word and Gospel Truth to all the Earth, knowing that it is the only hope of all those lost in their sins. Let us not hold out a false hope for men to be saved without the Gospel, but instead, strive to do our part to get the Gospel out to a lost and dying world.

Leaning on Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ through prayer and His Holy Word and Spirit strengthens us and our knowledge and wisdom about God and His Gospel Truth, exposing these imposters. May God help us to seek and lean on Him daily to gain the strength, wisdom and spiritual discernment needed to expose Satan and his imposters who seek to destroy us and God's ultimate Truth. Everyday, we must remember to share Jesus Christ's Gospel Truth with the world and to thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for the grace that He poured out for us on the cross at Calvary. He has freed us from the burdens of sin and from the eternal damnation of Hell. In all we say and do, may all praise, honor and glory always be given to Him and His Kingdom of Heaven.

With renewed minds, hearts and wills, let us serve Him humbly and faithfully out of pure love and grateful rejoicing. May He remind us of His presence and to remain at peace, fully knowing that all will be well because He is always with us. Let us seek Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ today and everyday with all our heart and being, looking for His love, light and will for our lives with each step we take. Let us seek to please Him with our thoughts, words, and deeds and seek to advance His Kingdom of Heaven and His glory with our lives. Let us seek Him from a pure and humble heart, and when we so seek, we believe Him and His promise that we will find. May He help us all to be more sensitive to the teaching ministry of His Holy Word and Spirit, relying on Him and allowing Him to speak to us and guide us every step of our Christian journey.

God gave us the Holy Bible - His living and Holy Word - to let us know of Him and His abiding love and care as well as guide and prepare us for all our lives. May He help us encourage one another as we continue our walk with Him and our duty to Him daily. Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for being present for all our new beginnings and all our lives. May He redirect any anxiety we feel as He provides countless opportunities for growth and change. May we humble ourselves before God always, asking Him to forgive our sins and make our hearts and lives anew through His Holy Word and Spirit. May He help us make Him and His Holy Word top priority, so we can grow spiritually and grow in our relationship with Him as we apply it to our daily lives. Thank God that we can focus on Him and everything about Him, for that is what keeps us sane and at peace. May our words and actions always be a reflection of Him and His Holy Word and Spirit and will.

May He help us to always walk in His grace and Holy Spirit, not by our own measure. May He give us the humble humility to know that our freedom and eternal salvation is found only in Him, so that His grace may sustain us, and we may never lose sight of His love and light and mercy. Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for calling us to Him and to serve Him. May He equip us to do all that He has called us to do so that as He works through us, He may use us to produce fruit, to reach others, and to encourage all brothers and sisters in Christ. May He work all of these things in us and through us for His Kingdom and His glory. Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for all His creation, for His miraculous ways and for everything He does and has done for us! Keep the faith and keep moving forward in your walk with Jesus! He loves us and He knows what is best for us. Seek, follow and trust in Him - Always!

Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for His Holy Word and for sending His Holy Spirit so that we might have His grace, not only to awaken us and transform our hearts in our spiritual rebirth and guarantee our eternity with Him, but to also call upon Him whenever we are in need. Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for all the reminders of His love and mercy and faithfulness within His Holy Word. He is bigger than any challenge or circumstance in our lives. Knowing this within our minds and our hearts, nothing can deter our faith in Him and His Truth. May we all accept Him and His eternal gift of salvation and ask that He would transform our hearts and lives according to His will and ways. Thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for His Holy Spirit who saves, seals and leads us. May we always thank Father God Almighty and the LORD Jesus Christ for His almighty power and saving grace. For He is our strength, and He alone is able to save us, forgive our sins and gift us eternal salvation and entry into His Kingdom of Heaven.

May we make sure that we give our hearts and lives to God and take time to seek and praise Him and share His Truth with the world daily. May the LORD our God and Father in Heaven help us to stay diligent and obedient and help us to guard our hearts in Him and His Holy Word daily. May He help us to remain faithful and full of excitement to do our duty to Him and for His glorious return and our reunion in Heaven as well as all that awaits us there. May we never forget to thank the LORD our God and our Creator and Father in Heaven for all this and everything He does and has done for us! May we never forget who He is, nor forget who we are in Christ and that God is always with us! What a mighty God we serve! What a Savior this is! What a wonderful LORD, God, Savior and King we have in Jesus Christ! What a loving Father we have found in Almighty God! What a wonderful God we serve! His will be done!

Thanks and glory be to God! Blessed be the name of the LORD! Hallelujah and Amen!

[fruitanddarkness]

Do you have any headcanons for your Demon AU! Muichiro? 👀

OOc: Sort of?? I'm happy to share them! Though they might come across as ramblings for the moment but I did try to put a lot of thought into them;; I hope you enjoy them!

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-I tried to apply 'Muzan-Logic' when deciding on a name for a demonized Muichiro. Muzan likes to name his subordinates in a literal sense; so I tried to pick a name that would not only fall into a literal rebranding category but also tie him to a relative, Kokushibo. The 'koru' in his name comes from 'のこる' 'nokoru'; which means to be left behind or forgotten about. While the 'こ' 'ko' at the end is a suffix for 'small'; so his name broken down means 'The small one who was left behind'. This refers to a lot of things involving his character on a personal and narrative level; which is why I believe it fits.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-I'd place his transformation shortly after Rengoku's death in that 2 to 3-month time skip. Losing a Lower Moon that was given quite a power boost would likely frustrate Muzan and push him to bolster forces he's willing to invest more trust into; IE upper moon material. What better way than to turn to the Hashira as a potential means to achieve his goals? If Upper 3 was able to take out a Hashira alone, then surely going after them one by one in an ambush... well, the plan writes itself. Especially if there's evidence that one of the Hashira has blood ties to his current 'business partner' who has proven to be an excellent investment. During that time, it seems safe to assume Muichiro would be searching for a means to get stronger. If he was ambushed by an Upper Moon in the top 3, it wouldn't be too hard of a fight. I'd like to think Kokushibo is the one who did the dirty work, but Doma's powers also could easily overwhelm him and knock him out without much of a fight.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-I like the idea of him being a Kitsune-esque demon. Originally it started because I wanted to give myself an excuse for him to turn into a cute little fox. But the more I thought about it the more it made sense on a character level? As Yokai, Kitsune are well known as demons who specialize in illusions, deceptions, and manifesting into dreams. I feel like with Muichiro's memory problems and his own theme of being 'lost in a mist', demonic powers that reflect falsehoods and keep the truth hidden match up nicely. Especially since he will still have his mist breathing techniques.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-Koru-ko gets migraines when memories of his human life resurface or get triggered. Muzan put a lot of blood into this one as a means to keep him watched, controlled, and compliant. Compared to his human self, he appears as he did when we were first introduced to him. Some would even call him largely braindead as pain is a means to suppress and control him. If the memories that could 'awaken' him come too close to the surface, the migraines become so painful Koru-ko loses consciousness. The pain goes away if he's close to Muzan, another Upper moon, consumes flesh, or stops trying to remember. A trigger for these memories are people he's known as a human.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-Like Nezuko, he has the ability to regain his strength through sleeping. Although he's tasted human flesh and has a craving for it now, so it's not his primary method to recover. It's also another means to have eyes on him or at least know he's not out wandering in god knows where.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-Since every demon's personality is some sort of trauma response, Koru-ko has a tendency to try and find what he's lost. In this case, memories of his human life. Including family. It's as if his mind and body are on auto-pilot when this happens... but he's forged some relationships he considers 'familial' in a sense.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-He's annoyed by demons. A distaste for them was one of the few things carried over. He tolerates the Upper Moons but seems to only show any sort of positive demeanor towards three demons: Muzan his master, Kokushibo as his replacement father, and Akaza as an older brother.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-Koru-ko is not at all above dealing physical or emotional damage as a retort to any creature who may have offended him. If anything, he's worse now than he was as a human. He will also immediately become aggressive if anyone he has come to like is threatened or disrespected... sadly, Doma is a constant target of his sass.

︵‿︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

-He can often be found sparring with Akaza and Kokushibo. Both obviously have to temper their strength to not completely deplete Koru-ko of his blood, but I also feel Muzan would put these two on babysitting duty while the new former-Hashira learns to be a demon. They're the most trustworthy and seem to have the most free time to do so.