I read a post that said "start each day with a smile at yourself in the mirror" (a selfie, in this case) if you want to see change in your habits, thoughts, etc.

I am game for trying a lot of things (prayer, especially) to redirect my morning blahs to more pleasant ones. It could be the weather change or upcoming time change, I suppose, or even the holidays, I don't know. I just know that I'm struggling with counting it ALL joy right now. My morning walk usually changes my perspective (probably because that's a solid hour of walking and talking with God).

But for now....

Good morning!

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits - or the Fruits of the Spirit - that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly and attain them more purely.

/2

I watched a thought-provoking video on unity last night.

The speaker reinforced that there is no unity with heretical theology & evil.

This is the ultimate unpopular opinion of the Christian believer because it undermines society's vision of a unified faith and utopian existence.

Go ahead, be unpopular.

Is it scary that you may lose friends, family & followers?

Perhaps, but holding fast and standing your ground in sharing the truth is God's way.

No other way will do.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits - or the Fruits of the Spirit - that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

-> Revisiting this:📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

People will come and go in our lifetime.

Our goal is to recognize those that are here in the good times and the bad, always supporting and cheering you on, and maybe giving you a good *talking to* when you need to be shaken out of your own arrogance or doldrums.

Those are the relationships we should pour our hearts and energy into.

And for every situation, there is an equal and opposite reaction:

We must also recognize those who are seemingly wrapped in gift wrap, promising to be the savior with big plans but end up being the sycophant your friends warned you about.

You may even have the best intentions, insisting you are just helping them, that they are trustworthy and "just misunderstood", but in the end, because of your own stubbornness perhaps, God himself must prune them out of your life because you are clinging to a false righteousness.

After they've moved on, you may spend a fair amount of time going over and over what you "did wrong", but ultimately, it was a toxic relationship and God always sees what's best for us.

Now, that's not to say you don't pray humbly and earnestly for that person, asking the Lord to bless them and grow in the knowledge of Him, but it's not always "loving" and "Christian" to remain in an emotionally abusive situation.

What God has shown me this week is that I was in the way. I was physically blocking the person's learning and growth in Him.

It's odd how letting go of this person ushered in an amazing sense of peace. Just as God had planned. And in that obedience of stepping aside, rather than feeling like I failed, I learned so much about the difference between enabling and helping.

Only one is the godly course of action.

The first step is always prayer. Humble yourself, admit your part in the enabling (if that's the case), then step aside so God's glory can shine in their life and your own.

I hope this all makes sense.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits - or the Fruits of the Spirit - that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

-> We are here again:📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

My dreams are getting more and more vivid, and sometimes I wish they were a little more abstract and blurry.

Last night's featured some really unfortunate behavior and I woke up feeling disgusted. I know, just a dream, but it has to have import. I mean, God revealed a LOT of His meaning in dreams all throughout the Bible.

I believe my takeaway will be that I will always have some improvement to do in my Jesus walk. Like Sunday's message: I'm a work in progress. I always will be until I get to Heaven.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
--> Backtracking to📍peace,
because I think it goes hand-in-hand with:📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

Thank you, Lord, for protecting these kitties and all the pets in the neighborhood from the predator last night. 🙏❤️

Proverbs 12:10 NLT
[10] The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel.

Psalms 145:9 NLT
[9] The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on ALL HIS creation. [Emphasis mine]

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
-->Still here today:📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

Gonna get a little preachy today after reading a few numbered points in a post about how a certain person lived their life, and you should follow that person's example.

It is an important distinction that *that person* lived their lives on Jesus' terms, not his own. Yet again, people have superimposed that person's life over Jesus', and while this person emulated the Jesus lifestyle (or seemed to), they still were imperfect. Striving to be godly, yes. Perfect in their walk with God? No.

So yes, it makes me tremendously sad when people look to anyone --ANYONE-- but Jesus alone for guidance on how to conduct our lives.

Stop putting people you admire on pedestals. This is a form of idolatry, and that idol will eventually topple right onto you and your humanly-crafted beliefs.

Open your Bible instead for direction on how to conduct your lives with godly intent and purpose.

Jesus literally gave His life for you -- yes, YOU-- and lived in a manner that pleased and pointed to God the Father.

Ask yourself why THIS isn't enough to warrant your devotion and loyalty before it's too late.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
-->Still here today:📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

Sitting on the patio, listening to the rain.

It's probably about to get ugly in some parts of Southern California with this rainstorm, but as for me and my house, we will praise the Lord for this blessing.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

There really is something physiological to this positivity brain rewiring.

If I go to bed with a list running through my head of the things I'm thankful for that day, I wake up with the things I'm most hopeful for the next morning. Even if it's cleaning out a closet and giving stuff to charity.

Total win/win.

And I'm able to see and feel God in the blessings all day.

Old Mush: Garbage in, garbage out (stop shoveling nonsense into my brain on social media)

New Mush: You are what you feed (God-honoring, pleasing, worshipful things)

(Next post: my theme song for today)

/1 Forrest Frank - Good Day



/2

Today is Day 1 of zero meds.

I had been weaning myself off the BP and cholesterol meds for months after reading non-propagandist doctors' assessments & research.

I know in my heart (literally) what the truth is - the pharma and medical communities have been moving the goalposts. The *ideal* numbers for BP and cholesterol have been lowered year after year to keep us chained to their profit margins, which keep us sick and dying.

I will admit if I'm wrong, and I told my doctor as much. But as of today, my BP is 119/69 with a pulse of 62 BP. My cholesterol (last time it was checked was 170 (combined LDL/HDL) while on a 10m statin (lowering from the 40mg they put me on in the hospital in January). They also kept insisting I get a covid shot because it proved "helpful in stroke patients," said the nurse in a hijab.

My response?

"So you want to give me the *clot shot* while I'm recovering from a clot-induced TBI? Show me the studies."

She merely said I wouldn't understand because it was all in "medical terminology".

Anyway, my next blood test will be in December.

Y'all can hold me accountable, if you'd like.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

Mush update: I feel like I've let the "fruits of the spirit" rot in a bowl on the table, unused.

/2

"God's address is at the end of your rope." - Christian philosopher, Dallas Willard (1935-2013)

Common knowledge is that Jesus knocks at your heart's door.

I find myself knocking at His door today, desperately seeking His help.

*how he greeted me*

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

Mush update: I feel like I've let the "fruits of the spirit" rot in a bowl on the table, unused.

/2

Just saw a post that said:

"Life hack: make sure you have something to look forward to every day."

I often dismiss the secular-ish posts like this. I think I've become a tad arrogant in my thinking that everything must be biblical in order to have value.

That's not how God thinks AT ALL.

There is value in all of His creation, and I think I miss a lot of what God might have for me personally by holding my own thoughts and values above those of others.

I'm not sure how to turn my arrogance into renewed, invigorating faith, but I betcha awareness is half the battle.

Oh, and today? I look forward to this Bible study and also filling a couple more boxes for the charity pick-up tomorrow.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

I've fallen for a few community noted posts the past few days while technically true, a few key elements were left out intentionally to mislead or cause wonder and awe.

Granted, I came to my own conclusions what the poster was referring to, which provided them their clicks & intended response, but I read what I wanted to read. My *perception* stepped in and filled in the blank that he intentionally left out.

And while the community note was technically correct, I was left disappointed that my brain wasn't able to work out the initial deceptive practice.

You know who else purposefully deceives? The devil. He always presents his agenda or motives in a way that humans decide they must have or find out themselves.

It's a love/hate relationship, just the way the devil intends it.

You know who doesn’t use deceptive practices to enslave your loyalties?

God.

He puts his commands plainly and in a forthright manner so that we don't misconstrue his intent.

Now, that doesn't mean there aren't confusing issues in the Bible. As it states in Isaiah 55:8 in the NLT, Isaiah 55:8 NLT:

"My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.

In verse 9 of the same book & chapter of the NKJV, it explains:

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.

Consequently, there are some things *of God* too complicated for us to know while we are here in our human bodies.

But someday, all will be made known. In the meantime, I will lean more on developing discernment and stop giving in to my baser emotional perceptions.

I'll *learn how to read*, as the scolders say.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace
(Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide, from a previous day's study:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

Leaving this Mush update in from earlier in the week because it might be important in encouraging your own boldness of testimony & faith: Turns out donning the Full Armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-13) is giving me the confidence to speak hard truths to the world. This is what is leading me to developing the Fruits of the Spirit. There is an order to things. And I may have unlocked that door.

/2

I woke up in the wee hours of the morning, so I grabbed my phone, opened up this app and saw the most beautiful yet heartbreaking story of resilience.

A survivor of Oct 7, left for dead, rescued, then suffering extensive pain & suffering in recovering from the actions of terror*sts, walking down the wedding aisle on her own to the chuppa. (Link in next post in thread.)

I challenge you to watch the video and, laying down your own struggles and concerns before God, acknowledge faith in Jesus the Messiah, ask Him to forgive your stubbornness and sin, then courageously step back and watch God work in your life.

He will never fail you.

/1 Link to video:



/2

https://x.com/MummyisT/status/1973153648122163472?t=fHDooeq8bMwp-6Qb7XlVwA&s=19

I woke up to the most encouraging conversation in my timeline this morning.

Two people very much in the X public square, professing that they are no longer hesitant about expressing their faith to the world, and esp not afraid to mix faith and politics (convo in next post).

The responses that followed seemed to open a door to newly-courageous people who are now understanding the fork in the road as it relates to them: be loud and proud about sharing faith, or sit on the sidelines fretting about the state of the world.

It is encouraging that people are finding their literal God-given voice. It is our sole purpose on this earth, albeit many are given different avenues on which to begin their mission.

We no longer have the luxury of sitting by contently while others do the heavy lifting of sharing the gospel.

Start small. Tell someone you'll be praying for them, then do it. Eventually, you will be bold enough to tell people your story (*your testimony*) about how or what brought you to Christ.

This is what we need to combat the influx of evil into society. Or rather, it's not an influx because it's always been here, but an awareness of the evil that surrounds us.

No longer can we claim ignorance. Social media has seen to that. We have access to truth more than ever before. Our goal is now to discern it and disseminate it without fear or hesitation.

We, as a nation, have an opportunity to help steer the world towards the Lord.

Collectively, Christians, people of faith, are all Esther now and made for such a time as this (Esther 4:14).

/1 Related post & responses (yes, there are some pushback responses, but that's how you know you're hovering over the target):



/2

https://x.com/DataRepublican/status/1972182252969984090?t=I_-81as3o5NUTa1Pwd0FQg&s=19

It's interesting how much quicker Fridays get here when you're older & work at home.

That's it, that's the observation. Nothing super-spiritual about it, just a comment how quickly time flies by the older you get.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace (Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide, from a previous day's study:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

I saw a video last night of a psychologist breaking down 10 years of psychology study into 60 seconds (link in next post).

She asserts the following:

"Your brain doesn't believe what's true. It believes what you repeat. Your thoughts shape your feelings. Your feelings drive your actions. And your actions become your identity."

This not only explains the current psychosis of the radical leftists' group-think with regards to terrorism, murder and crime in general, it gives me a moment to pause and wonder, "Am I retraining my brain in the ways of 100% healing? Or am I training it to acknowledge and get stuck in my infirmities?"

One of the takeaways I have from this video is while I may not be positively affirming how far I've come on a daily basis, I am recommitting my faith every single morning by studying the Bible, depending on the Lord being who He says He is, and then stepping out in faith by sharing it you.

So even if the psychology behind my recovery or mental well-being is a bit shaky at times, my faith is not.

/1 Here's the link:

(Disclaimer: while I don't buy into all that she is saying, some of it is plausible. She, as with many psychologists today, completely ignores the faith aspect of wholeness or well-being, IMHO):



/2

https://x.com/thesigmamindset/status/1964931455584505972?t=c7EwFPO_3DIsaeNLI7FBaw&s=19

CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace (Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide, from a previous day's study:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

UPDATE 3: While patience and faithfulness are improving, I can see years of bad habits impeding improvement in gentleness and self-control. But I'll continue to listen and learn...

/2 PSALMS 22

THE SUFFERING, PRAISE AND POSTERITY OF THE MESSIAH

To the Chief Musician. Set to "The Deer of the Dawn." A Psalm of David.

Psalms 22:1-31 NKJV
[1] My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? Why are You so far from helping Me, And from the words of My groaning? [2] O My God, I cry in the daytime, but You do not hear; And in the night season, and am not silent. [3] But You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of Israel. [4] Our fathers trusted in You; They trusted, and You delivered them. [5] They cried to You, and were delivered; They trusted in You, and were not ashamed. [6] But I am a worm, and no man; A reproach of men, and despised by the people. [7] All those who see Me ridicule Me; They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, [8] “He trusted in the Lord, let Him rescue Him; Let Him deliver Him, since He delights in Him!” [9] But You are He who took Me out of the womb; You made Me trust while on My mother’s breasts. [10] I was cast upon You from birth. From My mother’s womb You have been My God. [11] Be not far from Me, For trouble is near; For there is none to help. [12] Many bulls have surrounded Me; Strong bulls of Bashan have encircled Me. [13] They gape at Me with their mouths, Like a raging and roaring lion. [14] I am poured out like water, And all My bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax; It has melted within Me. [15] My strength is dried up like a potsherd, And My tongue clings to My jaws; You have brought Me to the dust of death. [16] For dogs have surrounded Me; The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet; [17] I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. [18] They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots. [19] But You, O Lord, do not be far from Me; O My Strength, hasten to help Me! [20] Deliver Me from the sword, My precious life from the power of the dog. [21] Save Me from the lion’s mouth And from the horns of the wild oxen! You have answered Me. [22] I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will praise You. [23] You who fear the Lord, praise Him! All you descendants of Jacob, glorify Him, And fear Him, all you offspring of Israel! [24] For He has not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; Nor has He hidden His face from Him; But when He cried to Him, He heard. [25] My praise shall be of You in the great assembly; I will pay My vows before those who fear Him. [26] The poor shall eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the Lord. Let your heart live forever! [27] All the ends of the world Shall remember and turn to the Lord, And all the families of the nations Shall worship before You. [28] For the kingdom is the Lord’s, And He rules over the nations. [29] All the prosperous of the earth Shall eat and worship; All those who go down to the dust Shall bow before Him, Even he who cannot keep himself alive. [30] A posterity shall serve Him. It will be recounted of the Lord to the next generation, [31] They will come and declare His righteousness to a people who will be born, That He has done this.

/3

I woke up this morning with Dolly Parton's "9 to 5" song on a loop in my head.

Fed the dogs.

Fed the cats.

Took my supplements and meds.

Took my BP.

Made my coffee.

Sat down to start my Bible study, and thought, "Is this it? Is it the same thing, day after day, now?"

I quietly heard the whisper:

"This isn't 'it'. You are learning patience. You are learning obedience. You are learning to be quiet enough to hear Me."

"Be still, and know that I am God..." (Psalm 46:10a)

Thus saith the Lord to us, if we learn to be obrdient and quiet enough.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace (Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide, from a previous day's study:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" or "you have" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.

These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

UPDATE: I still cannot insert my name before any of the Fruits of the Spirit. And so I continue to listen and learn...

/2

I tried to re-post yesterday morning's Bible study, but I see it got stuck in the websphere along with a lengthy but timely intro.

I will post addresses (Bible verses to look up) for today's Bible study, but definitely wanted to post last night's failed-post intro here this morning:

/1 Yesterday's daily devotional I read by Dr. Charles Stanley. I'm sharing it here as a response to my own anger that still lingers today:

"The apostle Paul wrote extensively about the character and conduct of believers. He said that as Christians, we are to 'walk in a manner worthy of [our] calling' (Ephesians 4:1) and to 'be imitators of God' (Ephesians 5:1). His entire letter to the church at Ephesus is a beautiful explanation of what it means to live a godly life.

First of all, we must curtail some of our old habits and behaviors and replace them with new ones that are God-honoring. We have a new nature and should conduct ourselves accordingly. Galatians 5:19-21 lists 15 behaviors that we should avoid (adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries).

Notice the role anger plays in each of these. It fuels hard feelings and encourages hostility.

As we grow in the Lord, the fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. From Gal 5:22-23 NKJV) should replace our ungodly thoughts and actions.

If we've been quick-tempered, then we need to gain patience.

If our anger runs hot, then we're to become peaceful.

Foolishness in speech must give way to the quiet wisdom of Christ.

Change is possible because sin's power over us has been permanently broken.

As new creations, we no longer have to be defined by who we were before salvation (2 Corinthians 5:17). We have been set free to live in a way that is pleasing to God through the Holy Spirit's transforming work."

*************************************
The above seemed important today again because of a video I reposted earlier. We shouldn't confuse Jesus as being "nice".

He is "good", "just" and "holy". We are to emulate Him. The days of us conflating "nice" and "just" or "good" are over, but we must not give in to unrighteous or unholy anger.

I need the Holy Spirit's guidance in changing my human frailties & bad habits. I'm obviously a work in progress, but I choose to continue the change to be more like God in character. Starting with the unrighteous anger I still have in my heart and developing it into righteous anger.

I've got a long way to go.

/2

There is a lot of hate & division in the world right now.

Understandable.

But the Lord has given us another way.

Jesus said, “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. [19] If you were *of* the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you." John 15:18-19 NKJV

It has been declared: those *of* the world *will* hate you.

Those who have chosen *the world* over Jesus have given over to bloodlust because they themselves do not have love.

They have divisiveness, jealousy, rage, confusion, depression, arrogance, and especially pride.

Their god is a god of want, desire, have-at-all-costs belief *in* the things *of* this world.

You know who the perpetrator of all of this is?

No, not Soros, or Obama, or Fauci, or Gates, but the prince of lies, the devil himself. He has found these men to be *useful idiots* in his attempted destruction of mankind.

But the devil has been set up to fail. Jesus promises: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NKJV)

People got an up-close and personal glimpse of the devil this week, and many -- without even realizing it yet -- rejected his repulsive demands.

They've rejected the lies and manipulation and evil in favor of a kinder, gentler world - a world that grieves while still mustering joy in the Lord because of their salvation and knowledge of His truth.

We have a choice today:

Be a person *in* the world, but not *of* the world, whose foundation is based on Jesus, the embodiment of love, compassion, justice, and forgiveness

**or**

Be a person *of* the world, whose entire existence and belief structure is based on darkness, deceit, and death.

Choose wisely.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace (Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide, from a previous day's study:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.
These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2

I had an unusual dream last night.

I was overseeing some of the contestants on Master Chef. Gordon Ramsay was there, and we (a team of us) were explaining how production & recipes would work.

At the end of the day, I showed the contestants to their hotel rooms, and then the shuttle driver dropped me off a couple blocks from my home. My childhood home.

So I figured I could make the walk, even with the limp, and then I realized there was a large highway I had to cross, with a crosswalk, but also with blind tunnels. I remember peeking down the tunnel & being scared because many drivers don't pay attention anymore.

There were 3 other men in the crosswalk area waiting for the "walk" signal: two gaffers from the show, and Gene Hackman, clutching tightly to what he excitedly claimed was his "musical instrument" case. It was obviously not a music case. It was one of the gaffer's light fixtures from the show.

It seemed I was dealing with dementia Gene Hackman, and it made me sad. I signaled to the gaffers I'd handle things, and Gene & I continued our walk into the crosswalk & to the other side.

Suddenly, we were in my childhood neighborhood with pretty front yards and many cats running around, playing in the bushes. I realized they were mostly my cats who had either passed away or ones that just disappeared.

Then I woke up.

That was one of the most detailed, emotionally-driven dreams I've had in a while.

I often believe God is trying to impart wisdom or information in my dreams, but this one has me a bit confused.

Maybe I'll figure out if God was trying to tell me something today in my waking hours.

Or maybe I won't.

/1 CHRONOLOGICAL YEAR THROUGH THE BIBLE
with Daily Grace (Note: you can find this daily Bible reading on Youversion dot com)

Also: before you begin reading, pause for a moment to pray that God will help you know Him more today than yesterday. As you read today’s chapters, consider these questions:

1. What attributes of God’s character are revealed in the passage?

Consider places where the text directly states the character of God, as well as how His character is revealed through His words and actions.

2. How does the passage point to Jesus?

Consider how the passage reveals the problem of sin and the forgiveness of sins offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What do I learn about myself in light of who God is?

3. How should the truth of this passage change me?

Consider how you fall short of God’s character, how the text reveals your sin nature, and what it says about your new identity in Christ.

Consider how you might pray for God to change your heart or what practical steps you can take toward cultivating habits of holiness.

4. How do the events of today's reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?

Mush additions to this study guide, from a previous day's study:

Here are God's character traits, or the fruits of the Spirit, that we are to strive for every day from Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

📍love,
📍joy,
📍peace,
📍patience,
📍kindness,
📍goodness,
📍faithfulness,
📍gentleness,
📍self-control.

There is no law against these things!"

Until we can insert the phrase "[our name], you are" in front of each of God's characteristics, or *fruit*, we have work to do.
These character traits do not come naturally to most of us, and daily study of God's Word will help us understand more clearly.

/2