✝️🔥 Deus X Mushina 🔥 ✝️ Profile picture
Faithful not flawless Jesus lover... Gospel spreader... Indefatigable prayer warrior... Dogs n kitties... FinsUp 🐬... DBacks 🐍... Ellipsis abuser...
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Oct 13 7 tweets 6 min read
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
Oct 8 7 tweets 6 min read
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.

/1Image 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
Oct 7 8 tweets 11 min read
"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 Image 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
Oct 5 8 tweets 13 min read
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
Oct 2 8 tweets 13 min read
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
Oct 1 10 tweets 8 min read
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
Sep 28 8 tweets 9 min read
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
Sep 26 7 tweets 7 min read
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
Sep 23 8 tweets 9 min read
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
Sep 21 7 tweets 9 min read
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
Sep 19 8 tweets 13 min read
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
Sep 15 4 tweets 4 min read
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
Sep 14 7 tweets 7 min read
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
Sep 5 7 tweets 8 min read
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
Sep 1 12 tweets 22 min read
I've been *stewing* over something all weekend. I've stayed in prayer over it, I've asked friends to pray about it...

I'm stuck.

However I'm supposed to handle it eludes me. I believe it will be something I grow in my faith over, but it can't be as simple as turn the other cheek when it is my own morals and ethics at stake here.

This is the perfect time to study the Bible and follow the ol' *WWJD* model.

/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.

Additionally, 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.

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

/2
Aug 28 8 tweets 15 min read
I woke up to blood test results, and I couldn't be happier.

As I've mentioned before, I've weaned myself off of acid reflux meds completely (replacing them with Betaine hcl) and started lowering the other two meds' milligrams. My BP meds have been lowered from 40 mg/day to 10 mg/day, and my BP is consistently in the 120/68 range.

Next up is getting myself off the statins completely. I'm down from 40 mg (doubled from 20 mg/day when I was in the hospital from the stroke even though my cholesterol had registered 170 at the time & for the past year) down to 10 mg/day with no obvious spikes or changes in my cholesterol (I know they need to be out of my life for good, but weaning is the best way, in my opinion, to get them out of my system without repercussions). Another month & I hope to be off statins completely.

Keep in mind, I have changed my diet drastically, as well, since about March (zero alcohol, no pain meds, a low dose of aspirin daily, almost zero processed food or sugar, mainly sticking to carnivore/keto) and I believe that has been key to me getting back to 100%.

TBH, I think the acid reflux meds were causing problems with my A1c. I'd been on them for 4 decades, and my body wasn't taking in nutrients because I had no stomach acid.

Since I switched that up, the sleep has been longer & more restful, I'm slowly losing weight and the acid reflux flare-ups have been maybe once a month for about 10 minutes. Dropping my A1c back to non-pre-diabetes range (5.9, down from 6.3) is within reach. I can't prove it, but I think removing the PPIs are the reason.

Anyway, even though I still struggle with balance, coordination & the occasional brain issue, my body, for the most part, is righting itself with my consistency of diet.

I'm not there yet, but it'll just take some time. And some God-inspired guidance.

Someday, I hope to never refer to the stroke in casual conversation again.

/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.

Additionally, 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.

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

/2
Aug 26 9 tweets 15 min read
Something is changing in me. My tendency towards procrastination seems less like habit, & more like the occasional signal that I'm just tired & need to take a rest instead.

I got one long-time thing off my to-do list yesterday (after 6 months of putting it off because I couldn't handle it in my brain), and now the floodgates of productivity have opened.

I've alsonbeen able to have my house professionally cleaned a couple of times in the last six months. Additionally, broken relationships have either been removed from my life (not by my choice) or been healed through love & forgiveness.

Coincidence? Perhaps not.

Chaos in the home leads to chaos in the heart, mind, & soul. I believe that. And it now seems there has been a new *level* unlocked in my life.

Lord, keep me on my toes before things get chaotic and unmanageable again. Amen.

/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.

Additionally, 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.

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

/2
Aug 24 10 tweets 17 min read
Watched this in the middle of the night last night. Thought it was a good lesson.

Billy Graham expressed something similar. He emphasized the importance of preparing one's heart before speaking, stating he would prepare enough material for five talks so he could speak "out of the overflow". 

This concept is directly linked to Jesus' teaching in Matthew 12, which says, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks". 

Graham's practice of filling his heart with material and spiritual preparation reflects the biblical principle that what is stored in the heart will eventually be expressed through words.

This is one of the best reasons for reading the Bible daily: preparedness & overflow.

Praying that your heart is overflowing with the Lord today.

/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?

/2
Aug 23 10 tweets 16 min read
Happy Saturday morning, y'all!

You ever notice how faith life & healthy life are very similar in that people are interested in your life *hacks* but never really have the fortitude to do the things that make life better for themselves?

Several times, my friends have asked me about my diet or prayer life, but it's only so much lip service they're paying me. I know they don't really have the determination to make these changes on their own. It was the same for me until I had a life altering event.

As much as I'd like to save themselves from heartache (or heartburn) and help prepare them more physically or spiritually, I'm more like a parent or grandparent, wanting to help but ultimately letting go and letting them learn the *hard way*.

I know many people here are parents & know exactly what I'm talking about, and probably more so because I'm *not* a parent.

I honestly don't know how y'all do parenting. I guess the good outweighs the bad, so you press on.

I, however, feel like walking away in frustration because I see where their destructive habits are leading them, and it's not pretty (I know first-hand about destructive habits). They don't see the connection of poor diet or not reading the Bible, for example, to their own situations.

But even in these relationships, God calls me to love like He does: unconditionally; a hard task to think about, let alone put into practice. So I'll just continue living my best life (as much as I can now), and hopefully, it rubs off on them.

/1 (I hope the above didn't sound condescending. I'm just working out my thoughts out loud.)

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?

/2
Aug 22 10 tweets 13 min read
Anyone else notice that if you search for something like "earthquake" in your *top* file, you get the most popular account's news, not necessarily a *news* source, but if you look under *trending*, you get the crypt0 randos latching onto a current newsworthy hash tag or keyword?

Super-annoying when you're looking for news on a topic that perhaps your go-to sources haven't picked up on it yet.

Sorta reminds me of all the hundreds of thousands of accounts looking for answers to life on social media or from their followers, but rarely think to look at the main source for life's answers (Jesus and God's Word).

Why do we have to *hit a wall* of desperation or calamity before we admit our need for the Creator?

Reminds me of a pastor that said "Let God be your first line of defense, not your last resort."

Good advice.

/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?

/2
Aug 20 8 tweets 11 min read
Faced with so much godless fallacy this morning in my timeline makes me hyper-aware of my lack of earnest prayer for the lost, the deceiving, and those whose egos won't let them consider the wrongness of their theology.

This site is exactly as the devil wants it: self-absorbed bluster & chaos & obfuscation of the truth in God's word.

I've been challenged with my own understanding of God's Word here on X. This is why I study, year after year. God works out my understanding through constant study until I'm ready for the knowledge and grasp His meanings for useful context in daily conversation with others.

I will never be a theologian or a scholar, but in God's economy, I will be useful for His purposes in the Kingdom.

/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?

/2