#21 Ways to Enjoy and Understand Scripture

[suziegallagher]

How to Read the Bible: 21 Ways to Enjoy and Understand Scripture

by Miranda Threlfall-Holmes – A book review Miranda is clearly an academic of some note but this is readable. I read it in one session. Now that is me – and this is why… It was laid out like a map. It kept on stretching the corner. You wanted to see what was next. She dangled the carrot of experimental before me and I wanted to get to that chapter (near the end) The carrot dangling made me…

[walkswithmyfather]

Matthew 26:36-46 (NIV). [36] “Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” [37] He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. [38] Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” [39] Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” [40] Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. [41] “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” [42] He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” [43] When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. [44] So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. [45] Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. [46] Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”

“Understanding Jesus’ Sacrifice” by In Touch Ministries:

“In order to give us His righteousness, the perfect Savior willingly chose to bear the consequences of our sin.”

“In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus repeatedly prayed that “this cup” would pass from Him (Matt. 26:39-44). Christ was staring into a cup of wrath, sin, and judgment that must have made His soul recoil (Isaiah 51:17). According to Scripture, Jesus didn’t just die for our sin; He became our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). The holy, perfect Lamb of God took on Himself all that was vile and dark—and He understood the consequences of taking on our sin.

Jesus had always enjoyed perfect oneness with the Father. But God’s holiness was incompatible with the presence of sin, which is why Jesus felt “forsaken” on the cross (Matthew 27:46). There was never any question about whether He’d obey His Father’s will—the Son would become sin and experience the punishment for it if that’s what was required to save us. So, yes, in the garden, He pleaded for another route to our redemption. However, when the Father made clear there was no other way, Jesus obediently—and lovingly—gave Himself up for humanity.

Jesus Christ sacrificed more than His life. He exchanged perfection for punishment. Our Savior did this so we could be transformed into righteous men and women with an eternal future. No wonder all of heaven exalts Him. And we should as well!”

[Photo thanks to Aaron Burden at Unsplash]

[meracydia-miqo]

FFXIVWrite 2024 - Day 21: Shade

post-dawntrail; contains major spoilers for dawntrail and prior expansions

———

The sun was already well on its way to setting by the time Ahki woke up. After their return from Living Memory, as often happened with Ahki, it didn’t take long until she found herself waking later and later in the day. G’raha had long since gotten up and started his own day—she had woken up briefly when he got up that morning, wishing him well, before going back to sleep.

The sun was shining into the room, and she squinted as she rolled out of bed to look out at the sky. It was a few bells from sunset, by her judgement, meaning G’raha was likely still up and about. Or enjoying another late afternoon nap, she thought.

She yawned, and gave a long stretch to wake herself up, tail flicking. If she was quick, she might be able to go locate G’raha before Y’shtola inevitably pulled him away for more questions relating to inter-reflection travel. She’d come to visit herself and G’raha the previous day asking if she could borrow the ancient artefact Ahki had been entrusted for research, and Ahki knew that it would be lucky if the woman had got any sleep since then.

After carefully combing out the long fur of her tail, Ahki tied up her hair to get it out of the way, and set out.

When Ahki found G’raha not long later, he was leaning peacefully against a wall in the shade of some trees. Wildflowers were blooming up in the garden behind him in a dozen different colours, and with his red hair, and tail curled up around his knees, he looked like he was almost part of the landscape. His arm dangled beside him, a half-open tome lying discarded by his hand.

So you were asleep.

Ahki smiled, sitting down beside him quietly, putting his book aside being careful to make sure he didn’t lose his place. It was peaceful on this side of the city, with so much of the bustle happening further down the path in the marketplace. While much of the city was fairly built up, she appreciated the small patches of nature.

“Ahki..?” G’raha’s voice sounded beside her, groggy with sleep, and she turned to him.

“Morning, Raha,” she grinned, finding his hand still resting on the ground and intertwining her fingers with his.

He blinked, confused, looking up for a moment. “It’s late afternoon.”

She giggled. “What if I was speaking from Doma? It must be morning over there.”

“I’d certainly hope not, I can see you right here.” He smiled, squeezing her hand with his own and reaching around to hold her shoulder with his other, nudging against her gently as if to prove it.

She returned it, eyes sliding shut as they pressed their foreheads together.

A few moments passed in relative silence, listening to the breeze sweeping through the trees, and the waves as they lapped at the shore, before she blinked twice, distancing herself again. She shifted her attention to the book, picking it up and opening it to the page he seemed to have been open to. “What were you reading?”

“A tome Y’shtola borrowed from some people up in Everkeep. It seems to be detailing some history of the place; we were hoping it may provide us more clues about the exact circumstances under which the realities were merged.”

“About the use of the key, you mean?” Ahki asked, tilting her head slightly to one side.

“Indeed. While we still do not know how it functions, and locating scripture is unlikely to provide many answers, given the lack of knowledge even Preservation held of it, by the word of Krile’s parents, we hypothesised that perhaps if we cross-reference it with our own knowledge and experience, we may just be able to glean something that others could not.”

Ahki nodded along as she listened. She may not be as experienced of a scholar as either of the other miqo’te, she had enough interest and firsthand experience in the topic that she could, at the very least, understand most of what they were talking about.

“I could’ve sworn that, when Sphene activated it before we fought, that it lit up with Azem’s symbol too.” Ahki reached to dig out her soul crystal, with no intent to use it, simply staring at its smooth amber surface, engraven with that same symbol that the key seemed to have, if her own vision and memory was to be trusted. “I’m still curious about that also.”

G’raha looked over at it also, carefully tracing his finger along the curved markings on the surface of the crystal, resting in her palm. It felt intimate, in a strange way, to allow another to touch such a thing, connected in a way to her very soul, but Ahki didn’t mind. Not with Raha. “‘Tis strange,” he said. “Azem’s abilities were primarily focused around calling allies to their side, are they not? Yet the interdimensional fusion the Alexandrians attempted using the device is much more akin to the rejoinings the Ascians strived for.”

“Strange enough for me to doubt my vision, at the very least.”

G’raha turned to lean over closer to her, voice quiet and soft as he spoke close to her ear. “You’re a hunter at heart. I trust in your eyesight.”

Ahki didn’t respond, simply smiling softly as she tucked away the crystal again for safekeeping. She knew what he was referring to, what he knew, and the simple fact of having somebody who did forever felt like a great burden had been lifted off her shoulders.

“I have to wonder if any Alexandrians have tales of mysterious masked mages telling them of all this to drive them to destruction; the lack of mention of Ascians has almost been driving me crazy,” Ahki said, diverting back to the topic at hand.

G’raha nodded. “Each of the reflections should have had someone assigned to it, much like Loghrif and Mitron on the First, though without knowing which one it is, we wouldn’t know who.”

Ahki let out a sigh, leaning back against the wall to stare up at the sky. It was clear, a deep blue expanse above them, currently free of both clouds and stars. “We have so many questions I’ve had half a mind to try and drag Emet-Selch back over here from the Aetherial Sea to get some answers out of him,” she said. “I doubt he’d take too kindly to me interrupting his sleep again, though.”

“A shame. Is that not your job as Azem’s shard?” G’raha mused, and Ahki laughed.

“What, waking others from their sleep?”

“You will always be more than welcome to wake me up for anything, my love. I will treasure the moment every time.”

Ahki let out a laugh, grinning as she leaned over to rest her head on his shoulder. “That hardly seems relevant right now, but I thank you again. I know, and I appreciate it.”

G’raha leaned to rest his head against hers, and her ears twitched slightly, their hands still interlocked. Neither of them moved for a time, simply appreciating the fresh air and the quiet, trusted company. Though few people ever passed by the secluded corners, anywhere else Ahki might have been slightly less likely to be so closely affectionate in a public space, unwilling to draw attention to herself. But in Tural, it felt more like they could simply be. Nobody knew who they were, even those who recognised her as an associate of the newly-appointed Vow of Resolve, so they could simply be just another happy pair of Hhetsarro.

It was Ahki who spoke up first, breaking the silence some time later, prompting Raha to sit up before he could drift off again. Ahki jumped back to her feet. “Anyway, want to get something to eat? I do know of a place nearby with some delicious tacos you might like,” she teased.

G’raha immediately jumped to his feet, and she couldn’t help but smile at the way his eyes seemed to sparkle at the mention, tail flicking from side to side.

“I would love to.”

[jakedailyart]

The Covenant of Marriage: A Christian Perspective on Sustaining Lifelong Love

In the Christian faith, marriage isn't just a legal or social arrangement but a holy covenant that reflects the spiritual union between Christ and the Church. It is a God-ordained institution designed for mutual growth, love, and support. So, how does one navigate the intricacies of marital life while keeping Christ at the center? Let's delve into some valuable Christian-based marriage advice that aims to uphold the sanctity and joy of this divine partnership.

Forge a Strong Spiritual Bond

Shared Spiritual Goals: Working towards common spiritual objectives, like mission work or raising children in the faith, can help focus your marriage on higher purposes.

Daily Devotionals: Spending time together in God’s Word not only nourishes your individual spirits but also fortifies the spiritual foundation of your marriage.

The Language of Love and Respect

Appreciate Individual Love Languages: While the Bible commands us to love unconditionally, understanding each other’s love languages can help make that love tangible.

Respect as a Two-Way Street: In Ephesians 5:33, husbands are called to love their wives, and wives are told to respect their husbands. Both love and respect should be mutual to foster a harmonious relationship.

Money Matters: Stewardship and Generosity

Joint Financial Decisions: Proverbs 21:5 advises diligent planning and hard work lead to prosperity. Jointly planning your finances can bring about unity and growth.

Open-handed Living: Reflecting God’s generosity in your financial decisions can deepen your trust in Him and each other.

Emotional and Physical Intimacy

Cultivate Emotional Intimacy: Vulnerability can be challenging but is essential for emotional closeness. James 5:16 encourages us to confess our faults to one another to foster a healing environment.

Celebrate Physical Intimacy: The Song of Solomon celebrates sexual love within marriage. This intimacy is God’s gift and should be enjoyed respectfully and lovingly within the bounds of marriage.

Navigating Challenges Through Forgiveness and Humility

Be Quick to Forgive: Christ’s parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35 is a strong reminder to forgive as we have been forgiven by God.

Embrace Humility: Philippians 2:3-4 advises us to consider others better than ourselves. In marriage, this means putting your spouse's needs above your own.

Effective Communication: More Than Words

Non-Verbal Cues: Paying attention to body language and tone can often tell you more than words can.

Speak Softly: Proverbs 15:1 says, "A gentle answer turns away wrath." Choose your words carefully, especially in heated moments, to maintain peace.

Conclusion

Marriage is a divine covenant that requires constant effort, eternal love, and Christ-like humility. It’s a journey that promises great joy but also inevitable challenges. By relying on scriptural principles and God's grace, you can build a strong, fulfilling marriage that not only brings you and your spouse happiness but also honors the One who brought you together.

May your marriage be a beautiful testimony of God’s enduring love and faithfulness. Amen.

[psalmonesermons]

How do we read/study the Bible?- practical suggestions continued-part 3(b)

In study 3 (a) we saw some possible approaches to choosing a good translation. We now turn to our next steps (2-7 below).

2. Always pray before you read your Bible and make sure that you are in fellowship with the Lord. This might involve you observing 1 John 1:9 if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Ask the Lord to deal with your worldliness. The Garbage In Garbage Out (GIGO) principle applies in our lives.

James 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. Only put good things into your soul such as the engrafted word. Give up your junk food (the filthiness and naughtiness) and eat God’s best!

1 Peter 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speaking,2 As new-born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

Ask the Lord to give you a revelation of what the scripture means.

3. Read the bible first before you try to do an in-depth study and it is OK to enjoy reading the bible! Go at your own speed but it is ok to pray for answers to specific questions you may have. With short books like Philippians read them through in one session to get the overall feel of the letter.

4. Good bible studies usually have good structures so it can be good to develop an overview of the book structure in the bible. Try doing this with, for instance with a book such as Genesis (see BBS083 for details in ‘additional resources’ section). This can also be done in other ways for instance, the four sections of King David’s life or according to historical time approach with 28 sections (see BBS083 for more information). If you can do a whole series of basic bible studies such as BBS series this will put some structure into your basic understanding of the Bible.

5. Sometimes developing an interest in a specific topic e.g. the life of Elijah can promote significant learning across the Bible. Or doing a topical study such love, faith, fasting etc. can increase your knowledge and understanding.

List of Reference aids for serious Bible study (many of these are available online)

a) a good concordance such as Young’s Analytical Concordance (I personally use Strong’s exhaustive concordance).

b) W. E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary Bible Words.

c) a study Bible such as Ryrie or Schofield (NB be aware of authors prejudices e.g. they are anti-baptism in the Holy Spirit).

Other study aids include companion bibles, topical bibles, chain reference bible (e.g. Thompson’s), an annotated Bible (by Dake), Unger’s bible studies, a Pictorial Encyclopaedia of the Bible,

6. Read good Christian books as well (this brought me on my understanding, particularly in my early years. It is advisable to read different authors and of course different topics.

7. Share the things that you have received from the Lord, you need to bring water out of the well so that fresh water can fill it! We can share with individuals as well as in groups.

Advanced Bible Studies (see also BBS 083) perhaps not for everyone

Learn the basics of the Biblical languages. You need to know English grammar before trying the Biblical languages to understand verb tenses etc. An interlinear translation i.e. English written out with Hebrew or Greek written below in line. Another useful tool for advanced study is a lexicon (word book of Greek explained in English e.g. Arndt and Gingrich or Thayer’s).

Other advanced study aids are suggested including the recommended commentaries please see BBS 083 for details.

Conclusion

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

So keep teaching the Word of God, keep teaching the truth, whether it is convenient or not, keep bringing correction or rebuke and patiently exhorting your hearers with your good teaching.

Amen

Personal Prayer

[geminiagentgreen]

Proverbs 26:4-5

New International Version

⁴ Do not answer a fool according to his folly,

    or you yourself will be just like him.

⁵ Answer a fool according to his folly,

    or he will be wise in his own eyes.

Now just what is one to do with a fool and his folly? If we engage according to his folly, we become just like him...but to keep him from being wise, we need to answer him according to said folly.

Well, I don't like leaning on my own understanding, so I wanted to look it up and see if someone wiser has something to say, ergo from BibleRef.com I come with this read:

[ This half of a two-part lesson (Proverbs 26:5) uses the phrase "according to" to mean "in the manner of." It's unwise to imitate a foolish person's attitude, mannerisms, or approach. A related modern English proverb advises, "don't wrestle with pigs, since you only get dirty and the pig enjoys it." In the book of Proverbs, "foolishness" means rejection of God and His truth (Proverbs 1:7). Insults, lies, tricks, anger, pettiness, and other things are foolish and should not be imitated. Being dragged down to that level is neither sensible, nor godly.

Jesus answered many questions, sometimes reflecting the style of the one asking (Matthew 12:1–8; 19:21; John 3:10; 4:16). However, Jesus did not respond to petty insults with insults, or to lies with lies. When His critics were unfair or unkind, Jesus could be firm—even forceful (John 9:40–41; Matthew 22:18). Yet He did not use the same foolish tactics as those who attacked Him. Nor did He bother to answer when the question, itself, was insincere. When Herod tried to coerce Jesus into performing a miracle Jesus refused to respond at all (Luke 23:8–9). Herod didn't need a sign to prove Jesus was the Son of God. His questioning was shallow and mocking.

Verses 4 and 5 seem like contradictory statements. And, in fact, they do suggest opposite actions. However, the context of each is subtly different; the intended lesson is about when to speak and when to remain silent. In fact, it's possible to think of them as two halves of a single proverb. This pair of statements provides an excellent example of Scripture presenting tension between two extremes. Careless reading—especially out of context—can interpret these as contradictions. Here, of course, the phrases are written together, making their intended meaning easier to untangle.

Another way to distinguish verses 4 and 5 is noting that there is a difference between giving an answer "to" foolishness, as opposed to giving an answer "in" foolishness. To correct something using wisdom is good; to imitate something unwise is not. ]

[albertfinch]

WE ARE FREE IN HIM

"You must work out your own salvation in fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you, inspiring both the will and the deed, for his own chosen purpose. - Philippians 2:12-13

The "religious spirits," in an attempt to put constraints upon our freedom as a result of the finished assignment of the Cross, add "human efforts for salvation," and deceitfully demand for the so-called scriptural "working out your own salvation" as justification!

That is "false doctrine."

The Apostle Paul was talking to young Believers who needed to find God's PURPOSE for their life in their walk -- he was not telling them to toil to obtain a "born-again" relationship with God. They were already Believers -- needing maturation.

Jesus accomplished victory for you in every area of your life upon the Cross with His decree, "It is finished."

Colossians 2:14-15 emphatically confirms this message:

"He canceled the record that contained the charges against us. He took it and destroyed it by nailing it to Christ's Cross. In this way, God disarmed the evil rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by His victory over them on the Cross of Christ."

THEREFORE BY THE POWER OF THE CROSS WE DECREE:

Jesus Christ did everything we need once and for all! We will not allow a false cross of works or religious rules anymore that promote a sin consciousness.

We do not need to work ourselves out of the religious sinful nature. No performance-based activity for a "false freedom" will ever be allowed again.

We will now display what we are in our hearts…we will not live with a sin "fear of sin," because we are forever "free indeed"!

Do not be angry about your past, because people unknowingly gave you the wrong directions. It is time we know that because Christ is in us we are no longer sinners, but instead we are living saints saved by Jesus Christ and covered by His Blood.

Our sins (past, present and future) are no longer imputed (or charged) against us. Romans 6:5-6 says: "Since we have been united with Him in His death, we will also be raised as He was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin."

Blind Guides Can Only Blind Others!

JESUS' COMPLETION OF HIS WORK ON THE CROSS HIGHLIGHTS THE MESSAGE OF THE HEART BY:

Christ exposing the rules of religion that trapped people into continuing in sin. Christ destroyed sin, giving grace over works so Christians grow in strength and endurance through the trials encountered by advancing His Kingdom through their calling in Christ, and instead of blaming the devil they praise God.

Our resurrected Christ takes away our focus on sin and directs our focus upon the thing that is the most important to Him – advancing His Kingdom.

We must come to an understanding of what generations have been incorrectly taught, that the phony seeds of "law over love" could produce holiness. Genuine holiness is good seed reproducing good fruit from a heart on fire after God through walking in the Spirit and repenting from sin immediately when it occurs and then turning your focus back to your Christ calling.

GOD'S RELATIONSHIP IS THE ENEMY OF RELIGION:

Now is the time to secure your loving relationship with a loving Father God. Today is the day to remove any bindings of "old religious" teachings.

Confirm that Jesus Christ is the Lord of your life and allow the Holy Spirit to destroy any fear of sinning (2 Corinthians 5:19).

Boldly decree your new security in His ever-present love and completion of your life, being sin-free through His Blood forever so you can move from glory to glory as you bear fruit that remains for His ever-advancing Kingdom through your Christ calling.

Now as we bask in the love of Jesus flowing through our heart and into the lives of others, we enjoy a life free of the sin consciousness indeed! We remember that we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21).

ALBERT FINCH MINISTRY

Statement Of Faith https://www.nf127.org/statement-of-faith

Ministry Phone: 281-396-4379

[otakween]

I'm Standing on a Million Lives - Volume 18

We get some nice "slice of real life" chapters in this one which is refreshing after a long, kinda blah arc. Still no ending in sight which makes me a little anxious. Apparently Japan is already up to volume 21 as of this month, so we're lagging behind.

Ch. 85

Not much going on in this chapter. Even though it's been 5 months since I've picked up this series, it was fairly easy to jump back in which is nice.

Still hate the awkward fantasy names in this (Mattsufo, Fohno, Ogatun, etc.)

It feels like we're getting close to the end of this arc. The writing was getting pretty stale, so that's a relief.

Ch. 86

Okay, this one was way more interesting. It was all about the history of religion and the bastardization of scripture. Iu and Glen sneaking modern science into Nophism was really cool. They acknowledged that no matter how well meaning scripture is it can still be twisted for wicked purposes, so maybe we'll see some weird effects from this in a future round.

I gotta say, Iu was acting pretty dumb when Glen was explaining how religion works lol. It felt unrealistic that it took her so long to catch on, it felt more like that was more for the benefit of the audience because the author wanted to info dump longer.

I feel like this is a really interesting thought experiment. If a civilization thought you were a savior and were primed to believe anything you said, what would you tell them to do?

I'm glad that Yotsuya acknowledged that some women dress modestly out of their own convictions and not because they're forced to. Definitely an important distinction to make.

Ch. 87

Hurray! The Ahtunu arc was wrapped up in a neat little bow :) The 2 year flash forward was pretty funny.

This was another "the author info dumps about his special interest" chapter, which I enjoy but I did give a big "(sigh) here we go" when Yotsuya was like "allow me to explain democracy."

As they've done in previous arcs, the gang use their modern wisdom to improve the lives of the fantasy world people. In this case Yotsuya gives them a new government system that's halfway between democracy and dictatorship. As someone who is kinda dumb politically, it sounded good to me lol. The main conceit was that trying to force democracy on people who are used to dictatorship was unrealistic, which makes sense. The explanation of how "dictatorship lite" would mitigate some of the issues of full blown dictatorship was interesting.

As a bonus, the mangaka wrote a little blurb of how he would improve voter turnout in Japan. Essentially he would have them take a quiz to see which candidate they align with the most. Honestly, I would like something like that. Lately the choice for president is very obvious, but a matching quiz would come in handy for local elections.

Ch. 88

Ah yes, a nice real world reprieve chapter, so cozy 😌

The stage play (that naturally features our main characters) was really funny. Mostly just how absurd it was from the audience's POV (when they had the yuri-incest reveal and that one guy went "damn, for real?" lol).

The fact that Iu used the culture fest's play to deal with her isekai trauma prevented this from being filler. I'm glad they're taking the time for emotional processing.

Ch. 89

Oof, I'm not sure how to feel about them introducing romance into this series. I understand the viewpoint of being unable to date anyone who doesn't "get" the situation they're in, so that's sort of interesting. But I DON'T think any of these characters have romantic chemistry, yikes.

I'm aroace, so I'm not the best person to give an opinion here, but I feel like if I was fighting for my life and the fate of the universe all the time, I wouldn't be concerned with my love life. That's for after you're not in a constant state of panic.

Yotsuya's monologue about dissociating and feeling like he doesn't exist really made me wonder if the mangaka is writing from personal experience. Am I reading their therapy sesh? lol It just feels like a very specific POV that I haven't seen in a lot of isekai caliber stories

[bishopclimate]

Miracle Prayer Beads The Miracle Prayer Beads can be used to recite prayer affirmations, during prayer time and more. These Miracle Prayer beads are a special anointed item that is prayed for and left on the altar for 7 days. Below are ways of praying effectively with your Miracle Prayer Beads:

By Holding onto The Miracle Prayer Beads Directly

 Counting the beads on the wrist (As as bracelet)

Counting beads individually untied at a length.

Use 21 beads ( Miracle beads) when you say each affirmation (confession or scripture). In this way, you will not have to focus on counting your affirmations and you will be able to meditate on the affirmation while at the same time “feeling” it as well.

It is VERY important to say the affirmation slowly with feeling. Give yourself time to let your body and your spirit “feel” the affirmation. If your affirmation refers to “wealth,” then “feel” the wealth. If your affirmation refers to “Love,” then allow yourself to “feel” Love all around you. If you get side-tracked and miss a day then go back to Day 1 and start over. First, call to mind what caused you to divert your attention from your affirmations and second, be truly grateful for the awareness. Now you'll know how important it is to change your subconscious mind or your inner man. “Enjoy” saying your affirmations and the Power of your spoken word   * Remember this product is available at our London Office. Ready To pick up, due to high demand please call ahead to reserve ** Actual Product is Larger than Image * (Packaging bottles may differ than what is advertised) *** Here at Bishop Climate Ministries all our spiritual products are free. Please understand the price charged only covers the cost of packaging (including the product) and postage   Disclaimer: The picture advertised may  look difference  from the  package due the size. And no place that Prophet Climate to cure any   diseases or virus all its done by the power of God.  You should seek medical  help where necessary. This are faith and herbal healing products based on Faith and natural  products. https://thekingdomtemple.org/product/miracle-prayer-beads/

[wolint]

KNOWING WHICH WAY TO GO

KNOWING WHICH WAY TO GO

Isaiah 30:21

 

There are so many confused people in the world. Some know which way to go but not how to get there, where, or when to start. Others have no idea where they are going or where to go and are roaming around trying to find the way and the best means to reach their destination. And there are those who know where to go but not the best way to get there.

Do you know which way to go? Which way are you going and how will you get there?

Everyone is looking for a way to get somewhere.

Maybe you are embarking on a journey and have prayed about it but are still unsure of which way to go. Fear not! The Lord says He will always guide us on the way to walk.

Proverbs 3:6 says to trust the Lord in all our ways. Trust that He can lead and direct us the right way always.

You may be going through a lot of dark seasons right now and cannot find your way out of all the confusing paths ahead of you. Yet again, the scripture has an answer in Psalm 119:105, assuring us that God’s word is a lamp for our feet and a light on our path. Regardless of the darkness of the season, the Lord’s words will shine brightly for us to know which way to go and not stumble.

We must know God’s way for us so we can understand and recognize the ways set before us. If we don’t know His will about that issue, journey, or decision, we live outside His will and lose His protection.

The Lord always leads us on a particular path, and we can be confident that whatever happens along the way, we don’t need to worry because we are right where God wants us to be.

We are always in a rush to get to our destination so that we fail to enjoy the scenery, the process, the experience, and the journey itself. As John 14:6 declares, Jesus is the way, and He is full of glorious experiences for us to enjoy as we travel that unknown path that only He can lead us on.

But all too often we don’t hear God’s voice behind us telling us which way to go because we hear and allow the clamoring voices around us, our internal concerns and issues, and the need to hurry, to push us out of God’s will. We just forge ahead on the path we think is the right way and hope that it will work out well.

We must confidently, according to Hebrews 10:19, boldly enter the sanctuary of God through the blood of Jesus to hear, know, and see the path laid out before us and the voice of God directing us.

If, right now, you are seeking or waiting on the Lord to show you the way in any capacity, whether a career path, family, marriage, change of jobs or location, or even the way to go in ministry, then be assured that God’s got His eyes on you. As declared in Psalm 32:8, He will instruct and teach us in the best way to go while guiding us with His eye.

You can navigate your journey in life with confidence, knowing that God is leading you every step of the way. As we seek the Lord’s guidance on which way to go, we must listen for and to His voice. His voice is always there! Take a few moments to wait and hear Him.

PRAYER: Father, grant me listening ears and a heart to hear You speak to me about Your will and the best way to go in every season. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Shalom,

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN.

[jdgo51]

Daily Devotion

Understanding Jesus’ Sacrifice

In order to give us His righteousness, the perfect Savior willingly chose to bear the consequences of our sin.

March 6, 2025

Related Scripture

Matthew 26:36-46

Isaiah 51:17

2 Corinthians 5:21

Matthew 27:46

Joshua 4-6

Matthew 26:36-46

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus repeatedly prayed that “this cup” would pass from Him (Matt. 26:39-44). Christ was staring into a cup of wrath, sin, and judgment that must have made His soul recoil (Isaiah 51:17). According to Scripture, Jesus didn’t just die for our sin; He became our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). The holy, perfect Lamb of God took on Himself all that was vile and dark—and He understood the consequences of taking on our sin.

Jesus had always enjoyed perfect oneness with the Father. But God’s holiness was incompatible with the presence of sin, which is why Jesus felt “forsaken” on the cross (Matthew 27:46). There was never any question about whether He’d obey His Father’s will—the Son would become sin and experience the punishment for it if that’s what was required to save us. So, yes, in the garden, He pleaded for another route to our redemption. However, when the Father made clear there was no other way, Jesus obediently—and lovingly—gave Himself up for humanity.

Jesus Christ sacrificed more than His life. He exchanged perfection for punishment. Our Savior did this so we could be transformed into righteous men and women with an eternal future. No wonder all of heaven exalts Him. And we should as well!

Bible in One Year:

Joshua 4-6

Copied from Intouch Ministries - 2025

[walkswithmyfather]

2 Peter 1:12-21 (GNT). [12] “And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. [13] I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. [14] I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. [15] I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death. [16] We have not depended on made-up stories in making known to you the mighty coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. With our own eyes we saw his greatness. [17] We were there when he was given honor and glory by God the Father, when the voice came to him from the Supreme Glory, saying, “This is my own dear Son, with whom I am pleased!” [18] We ourselves heard this voice coming from heaven, when we were with him on the holy mountain. [19] So we are even more confident of the message proclaimed by the prophets. You will do well to pay attention to it, because it is like a lamp shining in a dark place until the Day dawns and the light of the morning star shines in your hearts. [20] Above all else, however, remember that none of us can explain by ourselves a prophecy in the Scriptures. [21] For no prophetic message ever came just from the human will, but people were under the control of the Holy Spirit as they spoke the message that came from God.

John 17:17 (NLT). [17] “Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.”

“Know Your God” By In Touch Ministries:

“Every day we have the privilege of drawing closer to God through His Word.”

“Throughout the world, and even within the church, there’s a wide range of beliefs about the Lord. It’s important for believers to recognize that the Bible is without error and that it reveals the truth we need to understand about our triune God (John 17:17).

The inerrancy of the Bible. Without a firm belief in this doctrine, all of a person’s ideas about the Lord will be subjective. Scripture is the compilation of God’s thoughts written without error by men who were governed by the Holy Spirit (2 Pet. 1:20-21).

An accurate understanding of the Lord. God is one divine being expressed in three eternal persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are equal in every way, but their jobs differ. All three were involved in creation as well as in the plan of salvation.

The Son came to earth through a virgin birth. He lived a perfect life, died a sacrificial death for our sins, rose from the grave, and ascended to the Father in heaven. The Holy Spirit is our source of power. He indwells every believer in Christ, transforming character, revealing truth, and enabling obedience to God.

Our Creator wants us to know Him. Isn’t that amazing? He invites us to enjoy an intimate relationship with Him. Every day we have the privilege of opening His Word and having a heart-to-heart conversation with our triune God.”

[Photo thanks to Priscilla Du Preez at Unsplash]

[yhwhrulz]

Charles Spurgeon's "Morning & Evening" Devotional for December 10

Morning

“Brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord.”

Philemon

This has been called “the polite epistle,” for Paul used great courtesy and tact in writing it. Onesimus, a slave, had robbed his master Philemon, and had then run away from him. Hoping to conceal himself best in the metropolis, Onesimus had fled to Rome, where he heard Paul preach and became converted. The apostle sent him back to his Christian master with the following letter of apology. Although its first object was only to restore a runaway slave to his master, it is a weighty letter, and every syllable has substance in it.

Philemon 1:4-6

Paul knew Philemon was a true believer, and therefore prayed that others might feel the power of his piety, by seeing how he acted in the present case.

Philemon 1:9

This is the best of pleading. Philemon’s heart would be sure to yield to it.

Philemon 1:12

who is so dear to me that he carries my heart with him wherever he goes.

Philemon 1:13 , Philemon 1:14

Though he felt sure that Philemon would have been glad to spare his servant to care for his aged friend, yet Paul would not take the liberty of using his services, but gave Philemon the opportunity to do it of his own accord if he thought fit.

Philemon 1:16

Providence suffered him to run away that he might come under Paul’s influence and become a Christian: the gracious purpose of God overrules evil for good.

Philemon 1:17-19

partner or true comrade in Christ

Philemon 1:21

Is not this a graceful way of putting it? Who could have the heart to resist such pleading? Yet every word is gentle and quiet. Mild language is mighty.

Our Father in heaven, we hallow thy name,

O’er earth may thy kingdom establish its claim!

Oh, give to us daily our portion of bread;

It is from thy bounty that all must be fed.

Forgive our transgressions, and teach us to know

The humble compassion that pardons each foe;

Keep us from temptation, from weakness, and sin,

And thine be the glory for ever. Amen.

Evening

“Unto the Son He saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever.”

Hebrews 1

We have now reached that wonderful part of Holy Scripture which is found in the epistle to the Hebrews. Fully to understand it we ought to study closely the Book of Leviticus. Diamonds only will cut diamonds; the Word of God is its own expositor; the New Testament is the key of the old.

The epistle opens with the declaration that whatsoever was communicated by the prophets was spoken by God. He spoke whatsoever was uttered by his prophets. The Scriptures are very jealous on this subject; how different from the language of many who seem desirous to exclude God from being the author of his own word!

Hebrews 1:1 , Hebrews 1:2

Ours is the clearest of all revelations. In Jesus we see far more of God than in all the teachings of the prophets.

Hebrews 1:3

The priest stood while he performed service, and only sat down when his work was done. Jesus enthroned in glory enjoys the honours of his finished work.

Hebrews 1:5

But he does say this to Christ in the second Psalm.

Hebrews 1:5

And again speaking to Solomon as the type of Christ in the Second Book of Samuel 12:14

Hebrews 1:6

Or “worship him all ye gods,” Jesus is by nature infinitely superior to the noblest created beings, for he is essentially God, and to be worshipped as Lord of all.

Hebrews 1:7 , Hebrews 1:9

And of the angels in Psalms 104:4

Hebrews 1:7 , Hebrews 1:9

Psalms 45:6, Psalms 45:7

Hebrews 1:7 , Hebrews 1:9

Angels are servants and not kings, they fly upon the divine errands like flames of fire, but they do not sway a sceptre, neither have they a throne existing for ever and ever. Jesus is the anointed king, and though we share in the anointing yet is he far above us. Christ is infinitely greater than Christians. We are right glad to have it so.

Hebrews 1:10-12

again we read in Psalms 102:25-27

Hebrews 1:10-12

Since the Messiah is thus described as immutable and eternal he must be divine, and to deny the Godhead of the Saviour is a deadly error. Dr. Owen most comfortingly remarks: ”Whatever our changes may be, inward or outward, yet Christ changing not, our eternal condition is secured, and relief provided against all present troubles and miseries. The immutability and eternity of Christ are the spring of our consolation and security in every condition. Such is the frailty of the nature of man, and such the perishing condition of all created things, that none can ever obtain the least stable consolation but what ariseth from an interest in the omnipotency, sovereignty, and eternity of Jesus Christ.”

Hebrews 1:13 , Hebrews 1:14

They are servants of God and our willing guardians; but they are not to be worshipped. Jesus is Lord of all, and we are bound to adore him, and him only.

Copyright Statement This resource was produced before 1923 and therefore is considered in the "Public Domain".

[fordecree7]

THE BIBLE BOOK OF GOD

New Testament

Romans 15

The Example of Christ

15 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Christ the Hope of Jews and Gentiles

8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,

“Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles,     and sing to your name.”

10 And again it is said,

“Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.”

11 And again,

“Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles,     and let all the peoples extol him.”

12 And again Isaiah says,

“The root of Jesse will come,     even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.”

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Paul the Minister to the Gentiles

14 I myself am satisfied about you, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge and able to instruct one another. 15 But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God 16 to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in the priestly service of the gospel of God, so that the offering of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. 17 In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to be proud of my work for God. 18 For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience—by word and deed, 19 by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God—so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ; 20 and thus I make it my ambition to preach the gospel, not where Christ has already been named, lest I build on someone else's foundation, 21 but as it is written,

“Those who have never been told of him will see,     and those who have never heard will understand.”

Paul's Plan to Visit Rome

22 This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you. 23 But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, 24 I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while. 25 At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints. 26 For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. 27 For they were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings. 28 When therefore I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will leave for Spain by way of you. 29 I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.

30 I appeal to you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf, 31 that I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, 32 so that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company. 33 May the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

Romans 15

Diane Beauford

[pinestripe37]

1, 5, 6, 7, 12, 14, 21, 23, 26, 27, and 36! (this is a TON of questions so don’t feel pressured to answer all of them XD you can pick & choose if you’d like!)

Yayy I am so excited!!

Do you have freckles?

Teeny tiny bit, not really noticeable I don't think.

Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?

Yes! I have my favorite Lucy in bed next to me lately and it's nice because she's my special soft kitty from when I was a toddler :)

I am ALSO GETTING A STUFFED MISTPAW FOR MY BIRTHDAY! :D

Do you prefer drawing or writing?

I actually don't know! :0 Because I really really enjoy both! And I'm certainly so blessed to be able to express my feelings through both! I'd say it varies based on the time. Which is also nice because I can just switch back and forth between both whenever I don't have inspiration for one. It's so wonderful that God gives us multiple gifts, and lets us serve Him in such different ways! :'D I've been writing a quite a bit lately but I have been starting to think of some art ideas so perhaps I'll be drawing shortly!

What’s your ideal number of blankets to sleep with?

Two! One to cover myself with and one next to me in case I get cold. DEFINITELY NOT ZERO ZERO IS THE LEAST IDEAL NUMBER- I have so much trouble sleeping when it's hot because it feels weird to not cover myself with a blanket.

Who are five (or more) people you want to hug right now?

~ you of coursee <33 I love you friend :')

~ My irl friend who has been so wonderful to me, it's still hard to believe that I'm appreciated, y'know?

~ ahfhijkjh allll my friends really, aaahh I love my friendss :')

~ a person I've been wanting to be friends with for many years and still pray for and will forever pray for. I have faith that if it's in God's Plan someday we will meet again and someday we will be friends and someday we will hug.

~Jesus, definitely, my Lord and Shepherd and Savior and First Love. Being with Him forever in His Presence is the best and safest Place always and He's the One who Saved me and died for me and loves me most. <3

What’s your favorite color?

Mint green and/or teal! :D But really I actually find all colors beautiful, all the colors God painted His creation in are beautiful!

How was your day today?

Pretty good. :) Pretty tiring and I'm probably gonna nap soon lol. Tiring but also blessed and peaceful day, so I'm grateful for that! :')

Do you believe in aliens?

I just stick with the answer of... Only God really knows so knowing that only He knows is enough for me. Leaning not on my own understanding is the way to go with anything I don't know for sure.

What are some seemingly childish things you like?

A bunchh! :D Stuffed animals, playing with toys, a bunch of shows including Peep and the Big Wide World and Odd Squad, picture books (my mom and I both), I feel like probably a bunch of other stuff.

What’s your favorite book? Or just one you’ve read a few times?

My favorite favorite Book is forever the Bible. I mean, it's God's Word and I can talk to Him and hear from Him, and He's blessed me with such amazing incredible moments in Scripture with the Guidance of the Holy Spirit, and taught me so much, and I can literally read it forever and still be amazed with a new insight from the Holy Spirit each time even after reading a passage over and over because the Word is Living and God continues to teach us through it. Such a wonderful blessing indeed!! :'D

My favorite fiction book would be.. maybe Little Women, or The Vanderbeekers of of 141st street (by Karina Yan Glaser) it's suchh a sweet series :') Ooh, and the Wingfeather Saga! Still gotta finish reading but I'm enjoying those books so much!

Do you like your middle name?

Yes! I've actually had a very interesting and lovely conversation with my friend about name meanings, recently-ish, and we figured out interpretations of my middle + first name meanings that fit my life and come from a Christian perspective, so that was fun! :D

Eeeee thank you for sending an ask, my dear friend!! :D <3

[gatekeeper-watchman]

Daily Devotionals for June 5, 2024

Proverbs: God's Wisdom for Daily Living

Devotional Scripture:

Proverbs 18:4(KJV): 4 The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook. Proverbs 18:4(Amp): 4 The words of a (discreet and wise) man's mouth are as deep waters (plenteous and difficult to fathom); and the fountain of skillful and godly Wisdom is as a gushing stream (sparkling, fresh, pure and life-giving).

Thought for the Day

The words of a wise man do not just come from the surface, but rather, out of his very being. Someone with godly wisdom has greater depth than one who is merely intellectual. Out of the godly man's innermost being flows living water, and he can instruct others in the way of life. His words are truly like a "gushing stream whose waters are sparkling, fresh, pure and life-giving." Jesus is the Word that brings life and refreshing to others. We can all be filled with His Holy Spirit. In yielding to Him, we can be His spokesmen through whom He can impart that same life to others. "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified)" (John 7:37-39).

Before the charismatic renewal, there were only a few people in denominational churches who knew about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. God saw the need for this truth to be restored to His church, so He began pouring out His Spirit upon all of His people regardless of their church affiliation. Many received the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11; Acts 1:4-8; Acts 2:1-4, 38, 39; Acts 10:44-46) and began "speaking in tongues and praising the Lord."

Peter, addressing the crowd that gathered the first time when the Holy Spirit was poured out, quoted the prophecy of Joel 2:18-32, which foretold that the baptism in the Holy Spirit would be available to all believers in the last days (Acts 2:16-18). The term "last days" refers to the time between Christ's First Advent (His birth) and Second Advent (His return to earth to establish His kingdom). The First Advent has already occurred and He is coming soon to establish His reign. It is obvious that we live in the last days and that the baptism in the Spirit is being poured out today upon all who will receive Him to give them the power to live the overcoming life.

The Lord desires us to enjoy all of His blessings. The baptism of the Spirit should not be a point of contention. Those who have received spiritual gifts must not think less of those who do not know the blessings of Pentecost. Those who have not experienced the baptism in the Spirit must not view those who "speak in tongues" with distaste, especially if they have not sought the Lord regarding this experience. We should not reject something we do not understand. We would have never been saved with this attitude because none of us really understood how salvation worked at the time we received it. We simply repented and received and we were saved. We need to bring new things before God in prayer and prove them against Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21). If we bring our questions before God with an open heart, asking Him to show us the truth, He will certainly do so. He will not give us a stone if we ask for bread. If we ask Him for the gift of the Holy Spirit, He will not give us something else (Luke 11:11-13).

Prayer Devotional for the Day

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for Your wonderful gift of the Holy Spirit. When You baptized me in the Holy Ghost, you gave me a gift of boldness to witness and a desire to pray more. I also appreciate the power the Holy Spirit that enables me to resist sin and temptation. Lord, without You and Your Holy Spirit, I would be overcome by the enemy. With Your Spirit, I am able to resist the devil and cause him to flee. I also appreciate the freedom to worship You by praying in the Spirit. Through Your gift of the Spirit, you have also revealed more of the Bible to me. Lord, fill us all daily with Your love and Your Holy Spirit. Thank you for Your grace and mercy in my life, and the lives of those I pray for. We need You, Lord. Use us as Your servants and help us to be open to receive all You have for us. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.