• THE REALITY OF DEATH

    WHERE WILL YOU GO WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR VERY LAST BREATH?

    “And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” — Hebrews 9:27

    Death is one of the realities that every human being eventually faces.

    We can avoid talking about it.

    We can stay busy.

    We can accumulate possessions.

    We can build businesses.

    We can pursue careers.

    We can become famous.

    We can become wealthy.

    We can travel the world.

    We can take care of our bodies.

    But eventually, every earthly journey comes to an end.

    One day, every heartbeat will stop.

    One day, every breath will cease.

    One day, the opportunities of this present life will come to an end.

    And when that final breath comes, there is one question that matters more than almost anything else:

    WHERE WILL YOU GO?

    Not:

    “How much money did I have?”

    Not:

    “How successful was I?”

    Not:

    “How many people knew my name?”

    Not:

    “How beautiful was my house?”

    Not:

    “How many possessions did I leave behind?”

    The question is:

    “AM I READY TO MEET GOD?”


    ---

    1. DEATH IS NOT RESPECTFUL OF AGE

    Death doesn't ask whether you're young or old.

    It doesn't ask whether you're rich or poor.

    It doesn't ask whether you're famous or unknown.

    It doesn't ask whether you're prepared.

    Death comes to kings and ordinary people.

    The Bible reminds us that our earthly lives are temporary.

    Psalm 90:12 says:

    > “Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.”



    Our time on earth is precious because it is limited.

    You don't know how many mornings you have left.

    You don't know how many sunsets you have left.

    You don't know how many birthdays you have left.

    You don't know how many times you will hear the voice of someone you love.

    Therefore:

    Don't waste the life God has given you.


    ---

    2. YOUR LAST BREATH WILL NOT BE THE END OF EVERYTHING

    For the Christian, death is not the end.

    Jesus said in John 11:25:

    > “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.”



    Jesus Christ conquered the grave.

    The resurrection of Jesus means death does not have the final word.

    For those who belong to Christ, there is the hope of resurrection and eternal life with God.

    That is why Paul could write in Philippians 1:21:

    > “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.”



    This doesn't mean we should seek death.

    It means that the believer can face death knowing that Jesus has already conquered the grave.


    ---

    3. BUT THE BIBLE ALSO WARNS US ABOUT JUDGMENT

    We cannot preach only the comforting parts of Scripture.

    The Bible tells us:

    Hebrews 9:27:

    > “Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.”



    There is accountability before God.

    Our lives matter.

    Our decisions matter.

    Our relationship with God matters.

    The Bible speaks about a final judgment.

    Revelation 20:12 describes the dead standing before God and being judged.

    This should awaken us.

    Not merely frighten us.

    Awaken us.

    Because God's warning is an expression of His mercy.

    God doesn't warn us because He wants humanity to perish.

    He warns us because He calls people to repentance and salvation.


    ---

    4. YOU CANNOT TAKE YOUR POSSESSIONS WITH YOU

    You may spend your entire life collecting things.

    But when your final breath comes, everything you accumulated remains behind.

    You cannot put your bank account inside your coffin.

    You cannot take your house into eternity.

    You cannot take your automobile.

    You cannot take your career.

    You cannot take your social-media followers.

    You cannot take your earthly reputation.

    The question is not:

    “What did I own?”

    The question is:

    “Whom did I belong to?”


    ---

    5. JESUS ASKED A QUESTION THAT SHOULD SHAKE EVERY HEART

    Jesus said in Mark 8:36:

    > “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?”



    Think about that.

    You could theoretically gain everything this world has to offer—

    and still lose the most important thing you possess.

    Your soul.

    You can be successful and spiritually lost.

    You can be admired and spiritually empty.

    You can have possessions and have no peace with God.

    You can fool people.

    You can even fool yourself.

    But you cannot fool God.

    God sees the heart.


    ---

    6. THE MOST IMPORTANT PREPARATION FOR DEATH

    The most important preparation isn't buying a cemetery plot.

    It isn't writing a will.

    It isn't organizing your possessions.

    Those things have their place.

    But the most important preparation is:

    BE READY TO MEET JESUS.

    Jesus said in John 14:6:

    > “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”



    Salvation is found in Jesus Christ.

    Not in our accomplishments.

    Not in our morality.

    Not in religious performance.

    Not in trying to make ourselves worthy.

    We need the grace of God.

    We need forgiveness.

    We need Christ.


    ---

    7. SALVATION IS NOT SOMETHING WE EARN

    Ephesians 2:8–9 teaches that we are saved by grace through faith—not because of our own works.

    This is incredibly important.

    You cannot make yourself worthy of salvation.

    You cannot become good enough to force God to accept you.

    The Gospel is that Jesus Christ came for sinners.

    He died for our sins.

    He rose from the dead.

    And He calls us to repentance and faith.

    Salvation is God's gift.

    But we must receive that gift.


    ---

    8. REPENTANCE MEANS TURNING TOWARD GOD

    Repentance isn't simply saying:

    “I'm sorry.”

    Biblical repentance means turning away from sin and turning toward God.

    It means surrender.

    It means:

    “Lord, I don't want to live my way anymore. I want Your way.”

    It doesn't mean you will never stumble.

    It means you stop making peace with sin.

    You stop treating rebellion against God as something you don't care about.

    You bring your failures to Christ.

    You confess them.

    You receive His forgiveness.

    And you keep walking with Him.


    ---

    9. DON'T WAIT UNTIL YOUR LAST BREATH

    One of the most dangerous lies is:

    “I'll get right with God later.”

    Later may never come.

    Tomorrow is not guaranteed.

    Next year is not guaranteed.

    Another decade is not guaranteed.

    Your next breath isn't something you can demand.

    Therefore:

    DON'T WAIT.

    If God is calling your heart today, respond today.

    If you need to repent, repent today.

    If you need to forgive someone, forgive today.

    If you need to return to Christ, return today.

    If you've been running from God, come home today.


    ---

    10. THE CROSS IS GOD'S ANSWER TO OUR SIN

    At the cross, Jesus took upon Himself the judgment deserved by sinners.

    He suffered.

    He bled.

    He died.

    And then He rose again.

    The cross tells us two things simultaneously:

    Sin is serious.

    And:

    God's love is astonishing.

    Romans 5:8 tells us that God demonstrated His love for us through Christ dying for us while we were still sinners.

    Think about that.

    Jesus didn't wait until we became perfect.

    He came to save sinners.


    ---

    11. THERE IS HOPE FOR THE PERSON WHO FEELS TOO FAR GONE

    Perhaps someone reading this thinks:

    “I've failed God too many times.”

    “I've sinned too much.”

    “God could never forgive me.”

    Listen carefully:

    The Gospel is not:

    “Fix yourself and then come to Jesus.”

    The Gospel is:

    “Come to Jesus.”

    Bring Him your brokenness.

    Bring Him your shame.

    Bring Him your failures.

    Bring Him your regrets.

    Bring Him your fears.

    Bring Him your past.

    Bring Him your sins.

    And surrender them to Him.

    Jesus is the Savior.

    You don't have to save yourself.


    ---

    12. WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN YOUR LAST BREATH COMES?

    One day, every one of us will face that moment.

    The room may become quiet.

    The sounds of this world may fade.

    The things that seemed so important may suddenly seem insignificant.

    And the question will no longer be theoretical.

    It will become personal:

    “WHERE AM I GOING?”

    For the person who belongs to Christ, there is hope.

    Jesus promised eternal life.

    Jesus promised resurrection.

    Jesus promised that He would never abandon His people.

    And ultimately, Scripture points us toward a future where death itself is defeated.

    Revelation 21:4 gives this glorious promise:

    > “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain.”



    That is the Christian hope.

    Death does not get the final word.

    Jesus does.


    ---

    13. THE FINAL CHOICE

    Every person must ultimately answer the question of what they will do with Jesus.

    Will you reject Him?

    Ignore Him?

    Postpone Him?

    Or surrender your life to Him?

    Jesus calls:

    Come home.

    Come to the cross.

    Come to forgiveness.

    Come to grace.

    Come to salvation.

    Come to eternal life.


    ---

    FINAL APPEAL

    My friend, don't wait for your final breath to think about eternity.

    Think about eternity now.

    You still have an opportunity to seek God.

    You still have an opportunity to repent.

    You still have an opportunity to pray.

    You still have an opportunity to forgive.

    You still have an opportunity to love.

    You still have an opportunity to serve.

    You still have an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus.

    And most importantly:

    You still have an opportunity to surrender completely to Jesus Christ.

    The question isn't merely:

    “WHEN WILL I DIE?”

    The deeper question is:

    “AM I READY WHEN I DO?”

    And an even more important question:

    “DO I BELONG TO JESUS CHRIST?”

    Because when your final breath comes, your earthly story will be finished.

    But your eternal destiny will not be.

    So make sure your heart is right with God.

    Make sure your hope is in Christ.

    Make sure your faith is genuine.

    Make sure you are walking with Jesus.

    And when that final moment comes, may you be able to say:

    “JESUS CHRIST IS MY LORD AND SAVIOR.”

    “MY HOPE IS IN HIM.”

    “I AM READY TO MEET MY KING.”


    ---

    DEEP PRAYER FOR SALVATION, REPENTANCE, AND ETERNAL LIFE

    Heavenly Father,

    I come before You with humility, reverence, and a sincere heart.

    Thank You for giving me the gift of life.

    Thank You for every breath.

    Thank You for every day You have allowed me to see.

    Father, forgive me for the times I have taken life for granted.

    Forgive me for the times I have focused more on this temporary world than on eternal things.

    Forgive me for my sins.

    Forgive my rebellion.

    Forgive my pride.

    Forgive my selfishness.

    Forgive the things I have said, thought, and done that have dishonored You.

    Create in me a clean heart, O God.

    Renew a right spirit within me.

    Lord Jesus Christ,

    I recognize that I cannot save myself.

    I cannot earn eternal life.

    I cannot make myself righteous.

    I need You.

    I need Your mercy.

    I need Your grace.

    I need Your forgiveness.

    I need Your blood to cleanse me.

    I need Your resurrection power to give me new life.

    Jesus, I surrender myself to You.

    Take control of my heart.

    Take control of my thoughts.

    Take control of my desires.

    Take control of my words.

    Take control of my decisions.

    Take control of my future.

    Teach me to hate what You hate and love what You love.

    Give me a genuine desire for holiness.

    Give me a genuine desire for Your Word.

    Give me a genuine desire for prayer.

    Give me a genuine desire for Your presence.

    Help me not merely to talk about Christianity.

    Help me truly follow Jesus.

    Holy Spirit, examine my heart.

    Reveal anything in me that needs to change.

    Expose the things I have tried to hide.

    Give me courage to repent.

    Give me strength to turn away from sin.

    When I stumble, keep me from running away from God.

    Teach me to run toward God.

    When I am tempted, give me strength.

    When I am discouraged, give me hope.

    When I am afraid, give me peace.

    When I feel condemned, lead me back to the cross.

    When I fail, teach me to confess and repent rather than surrender to despair.

    Father, prepare me for eternity.

    Don't let me become so comfortable with this temporary world that I forget the eternal world.

    Teach me to number my days.

    Teach me to live wisely.

    Teach me to love people while I still have time.

    Help me forgive those who have hurt me.

    Help me ask forgiveness where I have hurt others.

    Help me make peace where peace is possible.

    Help me use the remaining days of my life for Your glory.

    And when my final breath eventually comes, may I not be trusting in my possessions, my accomplishments, my religious performance, or my own goodness.

    Let my confidence be in Jesus Christ alone.

    Jesus, You are my Savior.

    You are my Lord.

    You are my hope.

    You are my resurrection.

    You are my life.

    And when I stand before You, let me be found trusting in You.

    Father, prepare my heart for that day.

    Until then, help me live every day with eternity in view.

    Let my life be a testimony.

    Let my words point people toward Jesus.

    Let my actions demonstrate Your love.

    Let my testimony give hope to the broken.

    And let me never forget:

    THIS LIFE IS TEMPORARY.

    ETERNITY IS FOREVER.

    JESUS IS THE WAY.

    JESUS IS THE TRUTH.

    JESUS IS THE LIFE.

    Father, I place my life and eternity into Your hands.

    May I live for Christ.

    May I die in Christ.

    And may I spend eternity with Christ.

    In the mighty, precious, holy, and victorious name of Jesus Christ,

    AMEN.
    THE REALITY OF DEATH WHERE WILL YOU GO WHEN YOU TAKE YOUR VERY LAST BREATH? “And just as each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” — Hebrews 9:27 Death is one of the realities that every human being eventually faces. We can avoid talking about it. We can stay busy. We can accumulate possessions. We can build businesses. We can pursue careers. We can become famous. We can become wealthy. We can travel the world. We can take care of our bodies. But eventually, every earthly journey comes to an end. One day, every heartbeat will stop. One day, every breath will cease. One day, the opportunities of this present life will come to an end. And when that final breath comes, there is one question that matters more than almost anything else: WHERE WILL YOU GO? Not: “How much money did I have?” Not: “How successful was I?” Not: “How many people knew my name?” Not: “How beautiful was my house?” Not: “How many possessions did I leave behind?” The question is: “AM I READY TO MEET GOD?” --- 1. DEATH IS NOT RESPECTFUL OF AGE Death doesn't ask whether you're young or old. It doesn't ask whether you're rich or poor. It doesn't ask whether you're famous or unknown. It doesn't ask whether you're prepared. Death comes to kings and ordinary people. The Bible reminds us that our earthly lives are temporary. Psalm 90:12 says: > “Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.” Our time on earth is precious because it is limited. You don't know how many mornings you have left. You don't know how many sunsets you have left. You don't know how many birthdays you have left. You don't know how many times you will hear the voice of someone you love. Therefore: Don't waste the life God has given you. --- 2. YOUR LAST BREATH WILL NOT BE THE END OF EVERYTHING For the Christian, death is not the end. Jesus said in John 11:25: > “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” Jesus Christ conquered the grave. The resurrection of Jesus means death does not have the final word. For those who belong to Christ, there is the hope of resurrection and eternal life with God. That is why Paul could write in Philippians 1:21: > “For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.” This doesn't mean we should seek death. It means that the believer can face death knowing that Jesus has already conquered the grave. --- 3. BUT THE BIBLE ALSO WARNS US ABOUT JUDGMENT We cannot preach only the comforting parts of Scripture. The Bible tells us: Hebrews 9:27: > “Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” There is accountability before God. Our lives matter. Our decisions matter. Our relationship with God matters. The Bible speaks about a final judgment. Revelation 20:12 describes the dead standing before God and being judged. This should awaken us. Not merely frighten us. Awaken us. Because God's warning is an expression of His mercy. God doesn't warn us because He wants humanity to perish. He warns us because He calls people to repentance and salvation. --- 4. YOU CANNOT TAKE YOUR POSSESSIONS WITH YOU You may spend your entire life collecting things. But when your final breath comes, everything you accumulated remains behind. You cannot put your bank account inside your coffin. You cannot take your house into eternity. You cannot take your automobile. You cannot take your career. You cannot take your social-media followers. You cannot take your earthly reputation. The question is not: “What did I own?” The question is: “Whom did I belong to?” --- 5. JESUS ASKED A QUESTION THAT SHOULD SHAKE EVERY HEART Jesus said in Mark 8:36: > “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul?” Think about that. You could theoretically gain everything this world has to offer— and still lose the most important thing you possess. Your soul. You can be successful and spiritually lost. You can be admired and spiritually empty. You can have possessions and have no peace with God. You can fool people. You can even fool yourself. But you cannot fool God. God sees the heart. --- 6. THE MOST IMPORTANT PREPARATION FOR DEATH The most important preparation isn't buying a cemetery plot. It isn't writing a will. It isn't organizing your possessions. Those things have their place. But the most important preparation is: BE READY TO MEET JESUS. Jesus said in John 14:6: > “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Salvation is found in Jesus Christ. Not in our accomplishments. Not in our morality. Not in religious performance. Not in trying to make ourselves worthy. We need the grace of God. We need forgiveness. We need Christ. --- 7. SALVATION IS NOT SOMETHING WE EARN Ephesians 2:8–9 teaches that we are saved by grace through faith—not because of our own works. This is incredibly important. You cannot make yourself worthy of salvation. You cannot become good enough to force God to accept you. The Gospel is that Jesus Christ came for sinners. He died for our sins. He rose from the dead. And He calls us to repentance and faith. Salvation is God's gift. But we must receive that gift. --- 8. REPENTANCE MEANS TURNING TOWARD GOD Repentance isn't simply saying: “I'm sorry.” Biblical repentance means turning away from sin and turning toward God. It means surrender. It means: “Lord, I don't want to live my way anymore. I want Your way.” It doesn't mean you will never stumble. It means you stop making peace with sin. You stop treating rebellion against God as something you don't care about. You bring your failures to Christ. You confess them. You receive His forgiveness. And you keep walking with Him. --- 9. DON'T WAIT UNTIL YOUR LAST BREATH One of the most dangerous lies is: “I'll get right with God later.” Later may never come. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Next year is not guaranteed. Another decade is not guaranteed. Your next breath isn't something you can demand. Therefore: DON'T WAIT. If God is calling your heart today, respond today. If you need to repent, repent today. If you need to forgive someone, forgive today. If you need to return to Christ, return today. If you've been running from God, come home today. --- 10. THE CROSS IS GOD'S ANSWER TO OUR SIN At the cross, Jesus took upon Himself the judgment deserved by sinners. He suffered. He bled. He died. And then He rose again. The cross tells us two things simultaneously: Sin is serious. And: God's love is astonishing. Romans 5:8 tells us that God demonstrated His love for us through Christ dying for us while we were still sinners. Think about that. Jesus didn't wait until we became perfect. He came to save sinners. --- 11. THERE IS HOPE FOR THE PERSON WHO FEELS TOO FAR GONE Perhaps someone reading this thinks: “I've failed God too many times.” “I've sinned too much.” “God could never forgive me.” Listen carefully: The Gospel is not: “Fix yourself and then come to Jesus.” The Gospel is: “Come to Jesus.” Bring Him your brokenness. Bring Him your shame. Bring Him your failures. Bring Him your regrets. Bring Him your fears. Bring Him your past. Bring Him your sins. And surrender them to Him. Jesus is the Savior. You don't have to save yourself. --- 12. WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN YOUR LAST BREATH COMES? One day, every one of us will face that moment. The room may become quiet. The sounds of this world may fade. The things that seemed so important may suddenly seem insignificant. And the question will no longer be theoretical. It will become personal: “WHERE AM I GOING?” For the person who belongs to Christ, there is hope. Jesus promised eternal life. Jesus promised resurrection. Jesus promised that He would never abandon His people. And ultimately, Scripture points us toward a future where death itself is defeated. Revelation 21:4 gives this glorious promise: > “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain.” That is the Christian hope. Death does not get the final word. Jesus does. --- 13. THE FINAL CHOICE Every person must ultimately answer the question of what they will do with Jesus. Will you reject Him? Ignore Him? Postpone Him? Or surrender your life to Him? Jesus calls: Come home. Come to the cross. Come to forgiveness. Come to grace. Come to salvation. Come to eternal life. --- FINAL APPEAL My friend, don't wait for your final breath to think about eternity. Think about eternity now. You still have an opportunity to seek God. You still have an opportunity to repent. You still have an opportunity to pray. You still have an opportunity to forgive. You still have an opportunity to love. You still have an opportunity to serve. You still have an opportunity to tell someone about Jesus. And most importantly: You still have an opportunity to surrender completely to Jesus Christ. The question isn't merely: “WHEN WILL I DIE?” The deeper question is: “AM I READY WHEN I DO?” And an even more important question: “DO I BELONG TO JESUS CHRIST?” Because when your final breath comes, your earthly story will be finished. But your eternal destiny will not be. So make sure your heart is right with God. Make sure your hope is in Christ. Make sure your faith is genuine. Make sure you are walking with Jesus. And when that final moment comes, may you be able to say: “JESUS CHRIST IS MY LORD AND SAVIOR.” “MY HOPE IS IN HIM.” “I AM READY TO MEET MY KING.” --- DEEP PRAYER FOR SALVATION, REPENTANCE, AND ETERNAL LIFE Heavenly Father, I come before You with humility, reverence, and a sincere heart. Thank You for giving me the gift of life. Thank You for every breath. Thank You for every day You have allowed me to see. Father, forgive me for the times I have taken life for granted. Forgive me for the times I have focused more on this temporary world than on eternal things. Forgive me for my sins. Forgive my rebellion. Forgive my pride. Forgive my selfishness. Forgive the things I have said, thought, and done that have dishonored You. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. Lord Jesus Christ, I recognize that I cannot save myself. I cannot earn eternal life. I cannot make myself righteous. I need You. I need Your mercy. I need Your grace. I need Your forgiveness. I need Your blood to cleanse me. I need Your resurrection power to give me new life. Jesus, I surrender myself to You. Take control of my heart. Take control of my thoughts. Take control of my desires. Take control of my words. Take control of my decisions. Take control of my future. Teach me to hate what You hate and love what You love. Give me a genuine desire for holiness. Give me a genuine desire for Your Word. Give me a genuine desire for prayer. Give me a genuine desire for Your presence. Help me not merely to talk about Christianity. Help me truly follow Jesus. Holy Spirit, examine my heart. Reveal anything in me that needs to change. Expose the things I have tried to hide. Give me courage to repent. Give me strength to turn away from sin. When I stumble, keep me from running away from God. Teach me to run toward God. When I am tempted, give me strength. When I am discouraged, give me hope. When I am afraid, give me peace. When I feel condemned, lead me back to the cross. When I fail, teach me to confess and repent rather than surrender to despair. Father, prepare me for eternity. Don't let me become so comfortable with this temporary world that I forget the eternal world. Teach me to number my days. Teach me to live wisely. Teach me to love people while I still have time. Help me forgive those who have hurt me. Help me ask forgiveness where I have hurt others. Help me make peace where peace is possible. Help me use the remaining days of my life for Your glory. And when my final breath eventually comes, may I not be trusting in my possessions, my accomplishments, my religious performance, or my own goodness. Let my confidence be in Jesus Christ alone. Jesus, You are my Savior. You are my Lord. You are my hope. You are my resurrection. You are my life. And when I stand before You, let me be found trusting in You. Father, prepare my heart for that day. Until then, help me live every day with eternity in view. Let my life be a testimony. Let my words point people toward Jesus. Let my actions demonstrate Your love. Let my testimony give hope to the broken. And let me never forget: THIS LIFE IS TEMPORARY. ETERNITY IS FOREVER. JESUS IS THE WAY. JESUS IS THE TRUTH. JESUS IS THE LIFE. Father, I place my life and eternity into Your hands. May I live for Christ. May I die in Christ. And may I spend eternity with Christ. In the mighty, precious, holy, and victorious name of Jesus Christ, AMEN. 🙏✝️❤️🕊️
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  • August 26
    “WHO GOD IS TO ME”
    MY HOPE
    Psalm 71:5 (LLV) —
    “For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You have been my trust since my youth.”
    Hope
    is often
    spoken of
    as something
    we wish
    will happen.
    “I hope
    things get better.”
    “I hope
    everything works out.”
    “I hope
    tomorrow
    will be easier.”
    But biblical hope
    is different.
    It is not
    a wish.
    It is
    confidence
    placed
    in Someone.
    “For You
    are my hope,
    O Lord GOD.”
    The psalmist
    does not say,
    “My hope
    is that
    my circumstances
    will improve.”
    His hope
    is God.
    Then he looks
    backward.
    “You have been
    my trust
    since my youth.”
    There is something
    beautiful
    about faith
    that has lived
    long enough
    to remember.
    Years
    bring memories.
    Some joyful.
    Some painful.
    Some we would
    gladly live
    again.
    Others
    we are simply
    grateful
    to have survived.
    But when
    we look back,
    we can often see
    something
    we could not see
    while we were
    living through them.
    God
    was there.
    Through doors
    that opened.
    Through doors
    that closed.
    Through prayers
    answered
    as we hoped.
    Through prayers
    answered
    in ways
    we did not
    understand.
    Through beginnings.
    Through endings.
    Through laughter.
    Through tears.
    God
    was there.
    And yesterday's
    faithfulness
    becomes
    today's reason
    for hope.
    The psalmist
    does not pretend
    the future
    holds no uncertainty.
    Later he prays,
    “Do not cast me away
    when I am old;
    do not forsake me
    when my strength
    is gone.”
    He knows
    life changes.
    Strength fades.
    Tomorrow
    contains things
    we cannot predict.
    But God
    does not change
    with our seasons.
    The God
    who held us
    when we were young
    does not become
    less faithful
    as the years
    pass.
    So hope
    does not require us
    to know
    what happens next.
    Hope says,
    “I know
    who will be there.”
    Perhaps
    that is why
    this is
    the right place
    to finish
    our journey.
    We have called Him:
    My Rock.
    My Shepherd.
    My Light.
    My Refuge.
    My Strength.
    My Keeper.
    The One
    who walks
    with me.
    My Hiding Place.
    And now,
    after remembering
    all those things,
    we can look
    toward whatever
    comes next
    and say:
    You are
    my hope.
    A new beginning can face an unknown tomorrow because it remembers a faithful yesterday:
    I may not know what lies ahead, but I know the God who will be there.
    Reflection: When I look back over my life, where can I see God's faithfulness giving me reason to trust Him with what still lies ahead?
    Prayer: Heavenly Father, You have been faithful through every season of my life. Thank You for the times I recognized Your hand and for the times You were working when I could not see it. When tomorrow feels uncertain, help me remember yesterday's faithfulness. You have been my trust, and You remain my hope. Whatever years or days lie ahead, let me face them with confidence—not because I know what they hold, but because I know You will be there. In Jesus' name, Amen.
    August 26 🌿 “WHO GOD IS TO ME” MY HOPE 📖 Psalm 71:5 (LLV) — “For You are my hope, O Lord GOD; You have been my trust since my youth.” Hope is often spoken of as something we wish will happen. “I hope things get better.” “I hope everything works out.” “I hope tomorrow will be easier.” But biblical hope is different. It is not a wish. It is confidence placed in Someone. “For You are my hope, O Lord GOD.” The psalmist does not say, “My hope is that my circumstances will improve.” His hope is God. Then he looks backward. “You have been my trust since my youth.” There is something beautiful about faith that has lived long enough to remember. Years bring memories. Some joyful. Some painful. Some we would gladly live again. Others we are simply grateful to have survived. But when we look back, we can often see something we could not see while we were living through them. God was there. Through doors that opened. Through doors that closed. Through prayers answered as we hoped. Through prayers answered in ways we did not understand. Through beginnings. Through endings. Through laughter. Through tears. God was there. And yesterday's faithfulness becomes today's reason for hope. The psalmist does not pretend the future holds no uncertainty. Later he prays, “Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone.” He knows life changes. Strength fades. Tomorrow contains things we cannot predict. But God does not change with our seasons. The God who held us when we were young does not become less faithful as the years pass. So hope does not require us to know what happens next. Hope says, “I know who will be there.” Perhaps that is why this is the right place to finish our journey. We have called Him: My Rock. My Shepherd. My Light. My Refuge. My Strength. My Keeper. The One who walks with me. My Hiding Place. And now, after remembering all those things, we can look toward whatever comes next and say: You are my hope. A new beginning can face an unknown tomorrow because it remembers a faithful yesterday: I may not know what lies ahead, but I know the God who will be there. Reflection: When I look back over my life, where can I see God's faithfulness giving me reason to trust Him with what still lies ahead? Prayer: Heavenly Father, You have been faithful through every season of my life. Thank You for the times I recognized Your hand and for the times You were working when I could not see it. When tomorrow feels uncertain, help me remember yesterday's faithfulness. You have been my trust, and You remain my hope. Whatever years or days lie ahead, let me face them with confidence—not because I know what they hold, but because I know You will be there. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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  • When Earthly Differences End

    Bible Text: Ecclesiastes 9:2

    “All things come alike to all: there is one event to the righteous, and to the wicked.”

    When you refuse to be equal with your fellow man, brethren, friends, colleagues, or relations in status, wealth, achievements, position, and accomplishments, remember this: you will certainly be equal with them in the grave.

    The grave does not recognize wealth or poverty, status or obscurity, position or power, achievement or failure. In death, every earthly distinction is stripped away. The rich and the poor, the influential and the insignificant, the celebrated and the unknown all pass through the same doorway of death.

    There, we are reminded that everything we possessed, attained, and accomplished on earth was temporary. The body returns to the dust, and the soul stands before its Creator.

    The grave may make us equal, but eternity reveals where our true destiny lies—before God, either in eternal separation from Him or in His eternal presence.

    Therefore, while we live, let us not allow pride, competition, wealth, status, or earthly accomplishments to make us despise or consider ourselves superior to others.

    For one day, the same grave awaits us all.

    “For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” — Genesis 3:19

    What matters most is not how highly we are regarded among men, but how we stand before God when this earthly journey ends.

    God's Loving Heart.
    When Earthly Differences End Bible Text: Ecclesiastes 9:2 “All things come alike to all: there is one event to the righteous, and to the wicked.” When you refuse to be equal with your fellow man, brethren, friends, colleagues, or relations in status, wealth, achievements, position, and accomplishments, remember this: you will certainly be equal with them in the grave. The grave does not recognize wealth or poverty, status or obscurity, position or power, achievement or failure. In death, every earthly distinction is stripped away. The rich and the poor, the influential and the insignificant, the celebrated and the unknown all pass through the same doorway of death. There, we are reminded that everything we possessed, attained, and accomplished on earth was temporary. The body returns to the dust, and the soul stands before its Creator. The grave may make us equal, but eternity reveals where our true destiny lies—before God, either in eternal separation from Him or in His eternal presence. Therefore, while we live, let us not allow pride, competition, wealth, status, or earthly accomplishments to make us despise or consider ourselves superior to others. For one day, the same grave awaits us all. “For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” — Genesis 3:19 What matters most is not how highly we are regarded among men, but how we stand before God when this earthly journey ends. God's Loving Heart.
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  • Gods Creation, 100 / evolution, 0
    GOD HANGS THE EARTH ON NOTHING

    Long before telescopes, satellites, or space travel, a statement was written that still stands untouched by time. In Book of Job 26:7, we read that God “hangs the earth on nothing.” No pillars. No animals. No mythological supports. Suspended. Exactly as it truly is.

    At the same time, cultures around the world were offering very different explanations. Hindu traditions spoke of the earth resting on elephants standing on a giant turtle. Greek mythology described Atlas carrying the world on his shoulders. These weren’t just stories. They were the best attempts of human reasoning trying to explain the unknown. And they were wrong.

    But the Bible was not.

    Job didn’t have a telescope. He didn’t have modern science. Yet he recorded a truth that aligns with what we now observe in space. The earth is not sitting on anything. It is held in place by forces God established, exactly as Scripture declared thousands of years ago. This wasn’t a lucky guess. This wasn’t poetic accident. This was revelation.

    As Second Epistle of Peter 1:21 explains, men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. That is why the Bible stands apart. It doesn’t echo the errors of man. It speaks with authority because its source is not human imagination.

    The earth hangs on nothing because the One who created it holds it exactly where it belongs.
    Gods Creation, 100 / evolution, 0 GOD HANGS THE EARTH ON NOTHING Long before telescopes, satellites, or space travel, a statement was written that still stands untouched by time. In Book of Job 26:7, we read that God “hangs the earth on nothing.” No pillars. No animals. No mythological supports. Suspended. Exactly as it truly is. At the same time, cultures around the world were offering very different explanations. Hindu traditions spoke of the earth resting on elephants standing on a giant turtle. Greek mythology described Atlas carrying the world on his shoulders. These weren’t just stories. They were the best attempts of human reasoning trying to explain the unknown. And they were wrong. But the Bible was not. Job didn’t have a telescope. He didn’t have modern science. Yet he recorded a truth that aligns with what we now observe in space. The earth is not sitting on anything. It is held in place by forces God established, exactly as Scripture declared thousands of years ago. This wasn’t a lucky guess. This wasn’t poetic accident. This was revelation. As Second Epistle of Peter 1:21 explains, men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. That is why the Bible stands apart. It doesn’t echo the errors of man. It speaks with authority because its source is not human imagination. The earth hangs on nothing because the One who created it holds it exactly where it belongs.
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  • The 𝐒𝐭. 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐰'𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐞 took place beginning on 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟒, 𝟏𝟓𝟕𝟐, in Paris and spreading across France, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 30,000 French Huguenots.

    The Third War of Religion in France between Roman Catholics and Protestant Huguenots had come to a negotiated end in 1570. Henry III of Navarre and Margaret of Valois were married in Paris on August 18, 1572, and consequently, a large number of leading French Huguenots were in the city for the event.

    On August 22, while walking home, French Huguenot Admiral Gaspard de Coligny was shot in the street by an unknown assailant who escaped. He was severely injured, but recuperating at home when, at the instigation of Margaret's mother, Queen Catherine de' Medici (mother of King Charles IX), Henry, Duke of Guise and his men finished the job by stabbing Coligny and throwing him out of his window.

    This led to a widespread, semi-organized wave of violence against French Huguenot leaders and citizens. Bodies were thrown into the River Seine (over 1000 washed ashore in the coming days). Petrus Ramus, the philosopher, was killed in Paris, and Claude Goudimel, the composer who played a major role in the production of the Genevan Psalter, was killed in Lyon. The severed head of Coligny was sent to the Pope (but apparently not delivered), and the Pope rejoiced in the slaughter of the Hugenots, celebrating with a gold medal created for the occasion, and ordering a Te Deum to be sung to God in thanksgiving for the event. When Philip I of Spain heard the news, he "laughed, for almost the only time on record."

    English playwright Christopher Marlowe wrote a play to tell the story called 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑡 𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑠 (1593), and the massacre has been retold in many other works of literature since. It was one of the most infamous atrocities ever perpetrated against Christians since the time of the Reformation.
    The 𝐒𝐭. 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐰'𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐞 took place beginning on 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟒, 𝟏𝟓𝟕𝟐, in Paris and spreading across France, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 30,000 French Huguenots. The Third War of Religion in France between Roman Catholics and Protestant Huguenots had come to a negotiated end in 1570. Henry III of Navarre and Margaret of Valois were married in Paris on August 18, 1572, and consequently, a large number of leading French Huguenots were in the city for the event. On August 22, while walking home, French Huguenot Admiral Gaspard de Coligny was shot in the street by an unknown assailant who escaped. He was severely injured, but recuperating at home when, at the instigation of Margaret's mother, Queen Catherine de' Medici (mother of King Charles IX), Henry, Duke of Guise and his men finished the job by stabbing Coligny and throwing him out of his window. This led to a widespread, semi-organized wave of violence against French Huguenot leaders and citizens. Bodies were thrown into the River Seine (over 1000 washed ashore in the coming days). Petrus Ramus, the philosopher, was killed in Paris, and Claude Goudimel, the composer who played a major role in the production of the Genevan Psalter, was killed in Lyon. The severed head of Coligny was sent to the Pope (but apparently not delivered), and the Pope rejoiced in the slaughter of the Hugenots, celebrating with a gold medal created for the occasion, and ordering a Te Deum to be sung to God in thanksgiving for the event. When Philip I of Spain heard the news, he "laughed, for almost the only time on record." English playwright Christopher Marlowe wrote a play to tell the story called 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑎𝑐𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑡 𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑠 (1593), and the massacre has been retold in many other works of literature since. It was one of the most infamous atrocities ever perpetrated against Christians since the time of the Reformation.
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  • Psalm 19:1-14 CEB
    Heaven is declaring God’s glory; the sky is proclaiming his handiwork. [2] One day gushes the news to the next, and one night informs another what needs to be known. [3] Of course, there’s no speech, no words—their voices can’t be heard— [4] but their sound extends throughout the world; their words reach the ends of the earth. God has made a tent in heaven for the sun. [5] The sun is like a groom coming out of his honeymoon suite; like a warrior, it thrills at running its course. [6] It rises in one end of the sky; its circuit is complete at the other. Nothing escapes its heat. [7] The LORD’s Instruction is perfect, reviving one’s very being. The LORD’s laws are faithful, making naive people wise. [8] The LORD’s regulations are right, gladdening the heart. The LORD’s commands are pure, giving light to the eyes. [9] Honoring the LORD is correct, lasting forever. The LORD’s judgments are true. All of these are righteous! [10] They are more desirable than gold—than tons of pure gold! They are sweeter than honey—even dripping off the honeycomb! [11] No doubt about it: your servant is enlightened by them; there is great reward in keeping them. [12] But can anyone know what they’ve accidentally done wrong? Clear me of any unknown sin [13] and save your servant from willful sins. Don’t let them rule me. Then I’ll be completely blameless; I’ll be innocent of great wrongdoing. [14] Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
    Psalm 19:1-14 CEB Heaven is declaring God’s glory; the sky is proclaiming his handiwork. [2] One day gushes the news to the next, and one night informs another what needs to be known. [3] Of course, there’s no speech, no words—their voices can’t be heard— [4] but their sound extends throughout the world; their words reach the ends of the earth. God has made a tent in heaven for the sun. [5] The sun is like a groom coming out of his honeymoon suite; like a warrior, it thrills at running its course. [6] It rises in one end of the sky; its circuit is complete at the other. Nothing escapes its heat. [7] The LORD’s Instruction is perfect, reviving one’s very being. The LORD’s laws are faithful, making naive people wise. [8] The LORD’s regulations are right, gladdening the heart. The LORD’s commands are pure, giving light to the eyes. [9] Honoring the LORD is correct, lasting forever. The LORD’s judgments are true. All of these are righteous! [10] They are more desirable than gold—than tons of pure gold! They are sweeter than honey—even dripping off the honeycomb! [11] No doubt about it: your servant is enlightened by them; there is great reward in keeping them. [12] But can anyone know what they’ve accidentally done wrong? Clear me of any unknown sin [13] and save your servant from willful sins. Don’t let them rule me. Then I’ll be completely blameless; I’ll be innocent of great wrongdoing. [14] Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
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  • PROVERB OF THE DAY

    (Proverbs 22)

    1. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
    Loving favor rather than silver and gold.

    2. The rich and the poor have this in common,
    The LORD is the maker of them all.

    3. A prudent man
    foresees evil and hides himself,
    But the simple pass on and are punished.

    4. By humility and
    the fear of the LORD
    Are riches and honor and life.

    5. Thorns and
    snares are in the way of the perverse;
    He who guards his soul will be far from them.

    6. Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

    7. The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender.

    8. He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow,
    And the rod of his anger will fail.

    9. He who has a generous eye will be blessed,
    For he gives of his bread to the poor.

    10. Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave;
    Yes, strife and reproach will cease.

    11. He who loves purity of heart
    And has grace on his lips,
    The king will be his friend.

    12.The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge,
    But He overthrows the words of the faithless.

    13. The lazy man
    says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!”

    14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit;
    He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there.

    15. Foolishness is
    bound up in the heart of a child;
    The rod of correction will drive it far from him.

    16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches,
    And he who gives to the rich, will surely
    come to poverty.

    17. Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise,
    And apply your heart to my knowledge;

    18. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you;
    Let them all be fixed upon your lips,

    19. So that your trust may be in the LORD;
    I have instructed you today, even you.

    20. Have I not written to you excellent things
    Of counsels and knowledge,

    21. That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth,
    That you may answer words of truth
    To those who send to you?

    22. Do not rob the poor because he is poor,
    Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate;

    23. For the LORD will plead their cause,
    And plunder the soul of those who plunder them.

    24. Make no friendship with an angry man,
    And with a furious man do not go,

    25. Lest you learn his ways
    And set a snare for your soul.

    26. Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge,
    One of those who is surety for debts;

    27. If you have nothing with which to pay,
    Why should he take away your bed from under you?

    28. Do not remove the ancient landmark
    Which your fathers have set.

    29. Do you see a man who excels in his work?
    He will stand before kings;
    He will not stand before unknown men.
    PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 22) 1. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold. 2. The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker of them all. 3. A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, But the simple pass on and are punished. 4. By humility and the fear of the LORD Are riches and honor and life. 5. Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards his soul will be far from them. 6. Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. 7. The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender. 8. He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow, And the rod of his anger will fail. 9. He who has a generous eye will be blessed, For he gives of his bread to the poor. 10. Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave; Yes, strife and reproach will cease. 11. He who loves purity of heart And has grace on his lips, The king will be his friend. 12.The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, But He overthrows the words of the faithless. 13. The lazy man says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!” 14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit; He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there. 15. Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him. 16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, And he who gives to the rich, will surely come to poverty. 17. Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, And apply your heart to my knowledge; 18. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; Let them all be fixed upon your lips, 19. So that your trust may be in the LORD; I have instructed you today, even you. 20. Have I not written to you excellent things Of counsels and knowledge, 21. That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth, That you may answer words of truth To those who send to you? 22. Do not rob the poor because he is poor, Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate; 23. For the LORD will plead their cause, And plunder the soul of those who plunder them. 24. Make no friendship with an angry man, And with a furious man do not go, 25. Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul. 26. Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, One of those who is surety for debts; 27. If you have nothing with which to pay, Why should he take away your bed from under you? 28. Do not remove the ancient landmark Which your fathers have set. 29. Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.
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  • PROVERB OF THE DAY

    (Proverbs 22)

    1. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
    Loving favor rather than silver and gold.

    2. The rich and the poor have this in common,
    The LORD is the maker of them all.

    3. A prudent man
    foresees evil and hides himself,
    But the simple pass on and are punished.

    4. By humility and
    the fear of the LORD
    Are riches and honor and life.

    5. Thorns and
    snares are in the way of the perverse;
    He who guards his soul will be far from them.

    6. Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

    7. The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender.

    8. He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow,
    And the rod of his anger will fail.

    9. He who has a generous eye will be blessed,
    For he gives of his bread to the poor.

    10. Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave;
    Yes, strife and reproach will cease.

    11. He who loves purity of heart
    And has grace on his lips,
    The king will be his friend.

    12.The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge,
    But He overthrows the words of the faithless.

    13. The lazy man
    says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!”

    14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit;
    He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there.

    15. Foolishness is
    bound up in the heart of a child;
    The rod of correction will drive it far from him.

    16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches,
    And he who gives to the rich, will surely
    come to poverty.

    17. Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise,
    And apply your heart to my knowledge;

    18. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you;
    Let them all be fixed upon your lips,

    19. So that your trust may be in the LORD;
    I have instructed you today, even you.

    20. Have I not written to you excellent things
    Of counsels and knowledge,

    21. That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth,
    That you may answer words of truth
    To those who send to you?

    22. Do not rob the poor because he is poor,
    Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate;

    23. For the LORD will plead their cause,
    And plunder the soul of those who plunder them.

    24. Make no friendship with an angry man,
    And with a furious man do not go,

    25. Lest you learn his ways
    And set a snare for your soul.

    26. Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge,
    One of those who is surety for debts;

    27. If you have nothing with which to pay,
    Why should he take away your bed from under you?

    28. Do not remove the ancient landmark
    Which your fathers have set.

    29. Do you see a man who excels in his work?
    He will stand before kings;
    He will not stand before unknown men.
    PROVERB OF THE DAY (Proverbs 22) 1. A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold. 2. The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker of them all. 3. A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself, But the simple pass on and are punished. 4. By humility and the fear of the LORD Are riches and honor and life. 5. Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards his soul will be far from them. 6. Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. 7. The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is servant to the lender. 8. He who sows iniquity will reap sorrow, And the rod of his anger will fail. 9. He who has a generous eye will be blessed, For he gives of his bread to the poor. 10. Cast out the scoffer, and contention will leave; Yes, strife and reproach will cease. 11. He who loves purity of heart And has grace on his lips, The king will be his friend. 12.The eyes of the LORD preserve knowledge, But He overthrows the words of the faithless. 13. The lazy man says, “There is a lion outside! I shall be slain in the streets!” 14. The mouth of an immoral woman is a deep pit; He who is abhorred by the LORD will fall there. 15. Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him. 16. He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, And he who gives to the rich, will surely come to poverty. 17. Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise, And apply your heart to my knowledge; 18. For it is a pleasant thing if you keep them within you; Let them all be fixed upon your lips, 19. So that your trust may be in the LORD; I have instructed you today, even you. 20. Have I not written to you excellent things Of counsels and knowledge, 21. That I may make you know the certainty of the words of truth, That you may answer words of truth To those who send to you? 22. Do not rob the poor because he is poor, Nor oppress the afflicted at the gate; 23. For the LORD will plead their cause, And plunder the soul of those who plunder them. 24. Make no friendship with an angry man, And with a furious man do not go, 25. Lest you learn his ways And set a snare for your soul. 26. Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, One of those who is surety for debts; 27. If you have nothing with which to pay, Why should he take away your bed from under you? 28. Do not remove the ancient landmark Which your fathers have set. 29. Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.
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  • Our hero makes a cup of Turkish coffee, gets his pack of cigarettes, and goes into his room, responding to some emails and messages, then goes to exercise in his home gym; the workout is the same with dumbbells, sometimes light barbell deadlifts, and simple moves with weights.
    He posts the workout live on YouTube; he has a YouTube channel, even though he does not know why he cares, but it gives him something to do when there is no work; it was a Monday; that's when he goes to church for bible study and a family prayer meeting.

    Being a Coptic Orthodox Christian is different; he loves the church, but he is always uneasy and confused and does not know where he stands about his faith; he believes in the creed.

    He was born on 9/9/1986; now he is 39 years old, has a lot more wisdom and knowledge about life and work, and he tries to follow Christ, but he always feels like he is not doing enough; being with mental illness determines what he can and cannot do, although he may pass as totally normal.

    It goes into his head: what is normal, who defines it, or how being normal can be defined; he is like 60% analytical, and the rest is just total and utterly unrealistic “he is out of his mind in the remaining 40%.”

    He comes back from church, takes his medication, and goes to sleep. He dreams of his father; they are having a conversation. Before he gets up, he tells his father I will talk to you when I get up, that is weird.
    :
    His father passed away like 10 years ago, and before that he had progressive supranuclear palsy and became paralyzed for the last 10 years of his life.

    This is the way with dreams, unrealistic and never complete, but sometimes his thinking is more unrealistic than his dreams.
    But if you ask him what his dreams are, he will not be able to answer; this is a question that he never had an answer to.

    Others dream of fame and fortune, but he thinks being unknown is amazing. Money for what? All lives start the same and end the same; money can buy luxuries that are unessential, and the most expensive foods, which go down the same.


    The world is fascinated with Alion Musk, President Trump and Mohamed Slah, without noticing the sacrifices they had to make, to live for their work and it only, they may look happy, they do what they love so they are happy, so do the work that makes you happy, but life and work is not that simple, young adults get married and within after 9 months their first born, they are not ready, but it is dictated by the community they live in, and it is a disaster not to have kids after 2 years of marriage, that is if the relationship happens in the context of marriage.

    This is thought that passed through his head, he realizes that he does not conform with his community and church, he grew up in a mix of ideas and beliefs, adding to that the tragedies that happened in his life, these morphed the person he is now, he believes in Christ, he loves others as he loves himself, but he knows that not one denomination has a monopoly on Christianity and that only God knows the hearts of his creation.

    But when he enters his church, he feels that God is truly present with him. When he listens to Christian songs that praise and glorify God, his spirit rejoices, and he feels a deep sense of peace and closeness to Him. He is also inspired by the way Catholics serve their communities, helping those in need and putting their faith into action through love, compassion, and service.

    But all these thoughts just hit a wall when he tries to articulate them to someone, specially to Orthodox and Catholics, he sees great understanding in Evangelicals.

    He realizes that those thoughts pop up because he has not gotten a project in a long time, but that is freelancing for you, he was unable to hold a steady paying job for more than 5 days, most of those was call center jobs, others were busboy jobs, he did not understand life as he does now.

    He works from home, but like all freelance jobs there is no steady salary, that is a problem for when and if the miracle happens and he finds a wife, it is not only the age and work it is also the medication he must take.

    May be deep down he think he does not deserve love; he cannot imagine his life with a wife and kids, how can he have children to face this life in this world, how can he repeat the cycle, and of course his feelings of impending doom and end, he is fascinated with Bible prophesy and the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

    Today he has a confession, he goes in and tries his best, he confesses his hesitation in the Orthodox faith, and that he cannot fast and be ready for communion, with his condition and all.

    He is sure of one thing that gods answer his prayers all of them, something happens and he remembers he prayed for that a long time ago, some answers are in the way.

    The medication timing can make or break the patient’s life, taking a sedating medication in the morning is very counterproductive, and if psychiatrists have their way all patients will be walking zombies, he sees this happens.

    Talking about the hospital, anyone how goes there may see it as a horrible place, he sees it as therapeutic, when you see people who can’t walk or unable to take care of their basic needs you really thank God for everything you can do and have.

    He sometimes thinks of his father and the cross he caried, to be totally paralyzed for 9 years, unable to speak, unable to move, unable to eat sold food, his father was a good man, he has his downfalls, but he had a good heart.

    Our hero remembers his first day in university, he was young and outright weird, with his father in this condition, he was unable to adapt, this is when his illness started, he tried his best to study but after his father passed away, he left this university in his third year.

    At the beginning of his healing journey his psychologist and mother were trying to push him to have a social life, like going to church meetings and university and other social events, she is a virtuous woman but narrowminded.
    Our hero makes a cup of Turkish coffee, gets his pack of cigarettes, and goes into his room, responding to some emails and messages, then goes to exercise in his home gym; the workout is the same with dumbbells, sometimes light barbell deadlifts, and simple moves with weights. He posts the workout live on YouTube; he has a YouTube channel, even though he does not know why he cares, but it gives him something to do when there is no work; it was a Monday; that's when he goes to church for bible study and a family prayer meeting. Being a Coptic Orthodox Christian is different; he loves the church, but he is always uneasy and confused and does not know where he stands about his faith; he believes in the creed. He was born on 9/9/1986; now he is 39 years old, has a lot more wisdom and knowledge about life and work, and he tries to follow Christ, but he always feels like he is not doing enough; being with mental illness determines what he can and cannot do, although he may pass as totally normal. It goes into his head: what is normal, who defines it, or how being normal can be defined; he is like 60% analytical, and the rest is just total and utterly unrealistic “he is out of his mind in the remaining 40%.” He comes back from church, takes his medication, and goes to sleep. He dreams of his father; they are having a conversation. Before he gets up, he tells his father I will talk to you when I get up, that is weird. : His father passed away like 10 years ago, and before that he had progressive supranuclear palsy and became paralyzed for the last 10 years of his life. This is the way with dreams, unrealistic and never complete, but sometimes his thinking is more unrealistic than his dreams. But if you ask him what his dreams are, he will not be able to answer; this is a question that he never had an answer to. Others dream of fame and fortune, but he thinks being unknown is amazing. Money for what? All lives start the same and end the same; money can buy luxuries that are unessential, and the most expensive foods, which go down the same. The world is fascinated with Alion Musk, President Trump and Mohamed Slah, without noticing the sacrifices they had to make, to live for their work and it only, they may look happy, they do what they love so they are happy, so do the work that makes you happy, but life and work is not that simple, young adults get married and within after 9 months their first born, they are not ready, but it is dictated by the community they live in, and it is a disaster not to have kids after 2 years of marriage, that is if the relationship happens in the context of marriage. This is thought that passed through his head, he realizes that he does not conform with his community and church, he grew up in a mix of ideas and beliefs, adding to that the tragedies that happened in his life, these morphed the person he is now, he believes in Christ, he loves others as he loves himself, but he knows that not one denomination has a monopoly on Christianity and that only God knows the hearts of his creation. But when he enters his church, he feels that God is truly present with him. When he listens to Christian songs that praise and glorify God, his spirit rejoices, and he feels a deep sense of peace and closeness to Him. He is also inspired by the way Catholics serve their communities, helping those in need and putting their faith into action through love, compassion, and service. But all these thoughts just hit a wall when he tries to articulate them to someone, specially to Orthodox and Catholics, he sees great understanding in Evangelicals. He realizes that those thoughts pop up because he has not gotten a project in a long time, but that is freelancing for you, he was unable to hold a steady paying job for more than 5 days, most of those was call center jobs, others were busboy jobs, he did not understand life as he does now. He works from home, but like all freelance jobs there is no steady salary, that is a problem for when and if the miracle happens and he finds a wife, it is not only the age and work it is also the medication he must take. May be deep down he think he does not deserve love; he cannot imagine his life with a wife and kids, how can he have children to face this life in this world, how can he repeat the cycle, and of course his feelings of impending doom and end, he is fascinated with Bible prophesy and the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Today he has a confession, he goes in and tries his best, he confesses his hesitation in the Orthodox faith, and that he cannot fast and be ready for communion, with his condition and all. He is sure of one thing that gods answer his prayers all of them, something happens and he remembers he prayed for that a long time ago, some answers are in the way. The medication timing can make or break the patient’s life, taking a sedating medication in the morning is very counterproductive, and if psychiatrists have their way all patients will be walking zombies, he sees this happens. Talking about the hospital, anyone how goes there may see it as a horrible place, he sees it as therapeutic, when you see people who can’t walk or unable to take care of their basic needs you really thank God for everything you can do and have. He sometimes thinks of his father and the cross he caried, to be totally paralyzed for 9 years, unable to speak, unable to move, unable to eat sold food, his father was a good man, he has his downfalls, but he had a good heart. Our hero remembers his first day in university, he was young and outright weird, with his father in this condition, he was unable to adapt, this is when his illness started, he tried his best to study but after his father passed away, he left this university in his third year. At the beginning of his healing journey his psychologist and mother were trying to push him to have a social life, like going to church meetings and university and other social events, she is a virtuous woman but narrowminded.
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  • THE LORDSHIP OF THE MAN JESUS CHRIST IS BASIC
    One of things the Devil fears the most is our understanding of the man Jesus Christ; who He is to the believer. The Bible says God has made this man—Jesus Christ—both Lord and Christ. Did you notice the order it arranges these titles? Lord and then Christ (that is, Messiah or Saviour)
    Many want Jesus to be their Saviour but they do not want Him as their Lord. That is why they jump from prophets to prophets, prayer meetings to prayer meetings, all in search of solutions. They want Jesus to save them but He must never dictate to them. But He must your Lord before He can save you. If you will not trust Him enough to accept that He knows the way, how can He rescue you from drowning? Yet this same people will not argue with their doctor!
    The Lordship of Christ is where the power in Christianity is. You must surrender your will to that of Christ to become powerful. God’s power is manifestly strong only when you become weak in the eyes of man.
    In the eyes of the world, you will look weak and powerless but this is the exact position that qualifies you for God’s divine visitation and intervention. Jesus said He has not come to call the righteous to repentance. He hasn’t come to save those who believes they are strong enough to save themselves either.
    Who will teach this generation the dynamics of power? To be strong, you have to be ready to look weak, to be rich you have to be willing to become poor. To be known, you have to be ready to become unknown, while following Christ. This is God’s way. It is called the way of the Cross. Until you learn it, you remain in the wilderness.
    THE LORDSHIP OF THE MAN JESUS CHRIST IS BASIC One of things the Devil fears the most is our understanding of the man Jesus Christ; who He is to the believer. The Bible says God has made this man—Jesus Christ—both Lord and Christ. Did you notice the order it arranges these titles? Lord and then Christ (that is, Messiah or Saviour) Many want Jesus to be their Saviour but they do not want Him as their Lord. That is why they jump from prophets to prophets, prayer meetings to prayer meetings, all in search of solutions. They want Jesus to save them but He must never dictate to them. But He must your Lord before He can save you. If you will not trust Him enough to accept that He knows the way, how can He rescue you from drowning? Yet this same people will not argue with their doctor! The Lordship of Christ is where the power in Christianity is. You must surrender your will to that of Christ to become powerful. God’s power is manifestly strong only when you become weak in the eyes of man. In the eyes of the world, you will look weak and powerless but this is the exact position that qualifies you for God’s divine visitation and intervention. Jesus said He has not come to call the righteous to repentance. He hasn’t come to save those who believes they are strong enough to save themselves either. Who will teach this generation the dynamics of power? To be strong, you have to be ready to look weak, to be rich you have to be willing to become poor. To be known, you have to be ready to become unknown, while following Christ. This is God’s way. It is called the way of the Cross. Until you learn it, you remain in the wilderness.
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