#⠇ scriptures ⠇ ��━━ find balance within ourselves.

[prodijedi-archive]

@spokewar      sent         …        “ have you met my new padawan? you're going to love her. ” >:3c

╰► SOURCE: Unprompted Asks / ACCEPTING

Dooku tilted his head, his curiosity picqued.

      “ You’ve taken a new padawan? ” He raised a brow, intrigued. This confirms, then, the RUMORS currently flying around the temple’s extensive GOSSIP MILL.

“ If you are thus inclined, Master Kenobi, please do tell me more. Master Yoda refuses to tell me anything about the identity of this new padawan of yours. ”

[prodijedi-archive]

THEY WERE RUNNING OUT OF TIME. With each second that passed, the chances of Darth Sidious discovering the investigation into his chancellorship — and subsequently, Dooku’s status as a TRAITOR to his cause — grew ever greater. Much to Dooku’s dismay, the majority of individuals involved were understandably reluctant to grant him a more PROMINENT role in the investigation, in spite of the fact that it was he himself who knew its subject better than anyone else in the galaxy.

⠀⠀ ⠀ Dooku was HOME AT LAST, but he was still so very despondent. What ought to be the greatest triumph of his life — overcoming the oppression of the dark side and living to tell the tale — was clouded by the fact that HE WAS NOW CUT OFF ENTIRELY FROM THE LIVING FORCE. The Jedi Temple's life and light ought to be touching his soul, chasing away the darkness in which he has willingly wallowed for more than ten years, and yet, there was NOTHING. He has been reunited with his (father) true master and his life partner, and yet, he's never felt so ALONE.

Granted, he did not have to spend these days in isolation. Aurelia granted him permission to visit the Archives and find sanctuary there if he desired, but Dooku did not wish to find himself caught up in public confrontation while he was so VULNERABLE. The handcuffs that he donned thoroughly defanged the predator at the top of the food chain; subjecting himself to the wrath of the prey that he once hunted in the name of darkness was a fool's errand.

⠀⠀ ⠀ Thus, he remained in his apartment out of self preservation, and remained solitary whilst battling through this stagnant waiting period. Aurelia, it seemed, had different plans.

Aurelia’s entry into his apartment SUPRISES him, much to Dooku’s personal shame. If he was able to access the Force, then he would have sensed her imminent arrival — and yet, she had startled Dooku. His pacing around the living room (reminiscent of a caged animal) arrived to a screeching halt. Before he could even greet her, his Dyad bondmate took hold of the reins for the conversation, bringing with her the unfortunate news that progress has not been made in the investigation.

⠀⠀ ⠀⠀THEY WERE RUNNING OUT OF TIME.

“The investigators chose Senator Amidala to make overtures to the Separatist Council?” Dooku repeats, INCREDULITY woven into his voice. “Foolish idiots!” He snaps, the previous incredulity becoming IRRITATION. “Honestly, Aurelia, the only decision more dense would be sending that Valorum girl of yours—”

⠀⠀ Dooku cuts himself off upon noticing the basket of baked goods that Aurelia had pushed towards him, his breath hitching in his chest. (Naturally, only his favorite handmade tarts had the rare and enviable ability to silence Dooku’s frequent political rants.) “Oh, my dear soul—” The pet name lodges itself in his throat, forcing him to swallow a lump of sudden emotion. “—you shouldn’t have.” Yet, even as he uttered these words, he could not stop his lips from tugging upward into a real, genuine smile. “Thank you.”

⊱ ⠀⠀ … ⠀⠀ @vendettavalor

A Heart In Chains

⚔️ For @prodijedi who liked for a starter ⚔️

To the surprise of absolutely no one, the discovery request was taking its sweet time being fulfilled. Whispers of suspicion were quick to rise and just as quick to die down with a few key words from a few key players. The last thing they needed was Palpatine to be made aware that there was an ongoing investigation occurring - one that could, and likely would, end with his execution. Unfortunately, the rumor mill had turned. And though it had been stopped, it was not without the ears of a certain few having been perked up and put on edge to the point where they were now digging their heels in, or otherwise dragging their feet in an attempt impede the investigation.

The High Chancellor? A traitor? Certainly not! We'll have no part of this witch-hunt.

So it went. And while many on the Council, including the Grandmaster, were convinced that they'd find enough evidence, the tension remained. Again, the idea of Dooku testifying and using his journals as evidence was raised, but that was a whole other debate that was ongoing in the council. To trust or not to trust the word of a treacherous count. The idea certainly had its merit. But the evidence was circumstantial at best. They needed concrete proof to back it up. At least, that was Master Yoda's belief.

Because if they could find that, then it could mean the fall of the Sith, and the exoneration of his old Padawan.

For now however, both the Council and their investigation were in gridlock. Still debating, still searching. And for Dooku, that meant he was stuck in a limbo of sorts. Back in the Temple at last but still donning his force-suppression cuffs, afforded only as much freedom as his leash would allow him and left in the care of his handler. His bond-mate.

"Nothing yet," she sighed as she walked in, carrying with her a datapad that displayed the current updates from the scribe recording all the ongoing conversations in the Council's chamber. "They're waiting on some sort of breakthrough from the investigation team. But they've been at a halt for the last two weeks because neither the Banking Clan nor Nute Gunray want to answer any questions. They won't even respond to invitations from the likes of Senator Amidala."

The datapad slipped from her hands into the basket tucked into the crook of one arm as she collapsed into a chair near the door, one paw rising to press at her temple. She was aggravated. Her brow and her tail were both twitching, indicating that she likely had a tension headache from all the stress. After a moment of trying to soothe it was some small circles, she looked back at Yan and smiled. Oh that smile. All these years and it never ceased to be so warm, so comforting, even with the exhaustion she felt lingering in the corners of her eyes. "I don't know how you were ever able to do all this. Politics, I mean. It all just seems so exhausting."

She sighed, trying to cast the thoughts from her mind for the moment. Trying to bask in the relief that came with the realization that such a job would never be hers. Instead, she redirected her attention to the basket still hanging off of her free arm and moved to pull it into her lap. The datapad was removed and banished to the table beside her and she moved to navigate through the actual contents within, verifying it was still intact before setting it on the floor and pushing it towards him. "Enough about that though. Here, I brought you something."

Indeed she had.

Handmade tarts, just like the ones she used to bring to their picnics when they were still just younglings. Carefully folded pastries filled with sweet creams and jam made from various fruits across the galaxy. A rare sweet treat indeed. And to think, her first thought upon seeing them for sale was of him.

[junebugwriter]

Fortress Cathedral Theology

Conservatism as a thought process is inherently reactionary, by which I mean, it is done in reaction to perceived changes or threats. I like to call it “Fortress Cathedral” theology. Imagine, for the sake of argument, that there is a city in which there is a cathedral, and around the city is a fortress wall. Within the city are the only true believers in the world, and their cathedral is the only true church in the world. The cathedral has always been there for as long as anyone in the city remembers. Outside the city are other people who worship the same God—or at least they claim to. However, there are some differences between how people outside the cathedral worship, and how people who regularly go to the city cathedral worship. The people outside, well, they have some different ideas about how God works, and who is authorized to come and worship God, and how they worship God. Instead of learning from or communicating with the people outside the city, the people inside the city grow angry—how dare those people mock our God! How dare they worship differently, or just let any person worship God in whatever way they want to! There are rules that need to be enforced. There are boundaries that need to be maintained. Because of that, they see the solution not in understanding but in building up the other thing that the city is famous for: the wall. The wall needs to be secured! We must protect the sanctity and holiness of our God! Whereas the people outside the city see no need for such walls, and are surprised at the negative reaction that the city-dwellers are displaying. And so it goes, the solution is to cut the problem out entirely: seclude the city away from those who would threaten our way of life, and build the wall. 

Now, this is an imperfect metaphor, and perhaps I’m building a strawman—completely valid critique. However, the approach and methodology is the most important part of the analogy. The conservative-evangelical theological landscape is one that is defined by its need to protect and defend—in a word, conserve—the tradition of the church, to the exclusion of any and all alternative approaches or methodologies. The tradition is perfect, and we need to change ourselves to fit the mold that was cast long before we were born so that people long after we die can do exactly the same thing.  

Don’t get me wrong, tradition absolutely has its place in theology and religion. I’m a Methodist after all, apostate as I might be currently. Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience are essential aspects of how I do theology currently, and that won’t change anytime soon. However, there is a delicate balance to the big four. Scripture and tradition are the foundations, to be sure, but always interpreted with our reason and experience, and through the reason and experience of others.  

I’m a constructive theologian by nature. It's the methodology by which I’m most comfortable with, and that’s the approach that makes the most sense to me. I’ll explain with another metaphor. Imagine that you have a building, one that is very, very old. You have been tasked with upkeep and maintenance of the building. However, because of the age of the building, there are going to be some issues with it; any person who has been tasked with maintaining an old building will tell you this. The building, if it is going to last into the future, will need repair. As you investigate further and deeper into the structure, you find that not only will it need repair, it will need actual renovation. You'll need some analysis on the foundations. You'll need some inspection of the walls, the building materials inside and out, the roofing, the flooring, the plumbing, the wiring, the HVAC system, and so forth. The more you investigate, the more you realize that though the foundation is mostly good and needs relatively little updating, there are some rotten walls, warped floorboards, holes in the roof and all the plumbing, wiring and HVAC are in desperate need of replacement. However, there is still some good material in there. The bones of the house are good! But there’s going to need some major updating if it’s going to last another ten years, let alone another hundred. So, you take out or address that which needs addressing, reinforce it with things that need some updating, do your best to make sure that the structure is more solid, if not perhaps any more outwardly different than before.  

That is theology, to me. You take out the rotten wood and broken bricks, and you replace it with better materials. It might be costly in some ways, but better and longer lasting in the long term.  

--excerpted from my substack:

[hiswordsarekisses]

The only way to protect ourselves from self-deception is prayer. We can pray that God will deliver us from ourselves - that He will search us and reveal to us all the ways in which we are deceived by ourselves or in any other way. To pray this prayer takes a love of the truth (which we can also pray for) and a genuine desire to be self-aware and in right standing with God. Him and His truth (He IS truth & His Word is truth!) has to be the most important thing to us - more important than our pride and our need to be right or to protect our reputation. It only hurts thinking about it - once He reveals to us the things we need to see, it’s actually such a relief. There is freedom and peace in standing uncovered and forgiven in the eyes of God. We cannot be forgiven for things we refuse to see, admit, or repent for. [DJK]

[The following is an excerpt from Hebrew for Christians post that speaks on the dangers and evil of self-deception. It’s long but so good.]

“…There is a different kind of deception that is more insidious than being misled by an external enemy. This deception comes from within the heart and involves choosing to believe a lie, often for self-serving or self-flattering reasons. To be sure, it is paradoxical that we can knowingly lie to ourselves, but is quite a common practice, and it makes sense once you realize that the essence of the “self” is dialectical (i.e., dialogical), and that your soul finds its voice in the midst of an conversation it has within itself.

Self-deception is a universal problem of humanity. The Scripture declares: kol derekh ish yashar be’einav – “every person’s way is right in his own eyes” – indicating that by nature we are self-justifying creatures, prone to believe our own “propaganda” and engage in wishful thinking. We are apt to be biased in our self-examination and ready to excuse ourselves at every turn, rationalizing our behavior and suppressing the truth about ourselves in order to quell the voice of conscience within our hearts. When faced with an inconsistency between our behavior and our fictional self-image, we often regard ourselves as something other than what we really are. We prefer the lie to the truth. In short, we deceive ourselves.

“If anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives (or seduces) himself” (Gal. 6:3). When we hide (or suppress) our true motives from ourselves, things become spiritual precarious... If we suppress or squelch the inner voice of conscience and truth, we run the risk of becoming hardened, and ultimately locked into an irresolute and “divided self” in which the center does not hold... With no spiritual foundation within, we can become lost to ourselves. The Scriptures teach us, however, that we are responsible for our choices, and therefore we are responsible for how we think and negotiate the inner dialog of our heart. If we do not submit to the authority of God as our Creator and Lawgiver, we are left to sort through the clamor of passions on our own, in the transience of the moment...

The remedy for self-deception is honest acceptance of ourselves as God sees us, since ve'tokhein libbot Adonai – “the Lord weighs the heart.” The Hebrew word for “weighs” is takhan, meaning to measure, balance, make even, or to adjust to a standard. God’s moral law functions as a “looking glass” of our inward condition, revealing both the divine standard of life required of us and also the truth of our own need for deliverance from ourselves…”

[prodijedi-archive]

@frxncaise    sent       …       i believed in you from day one.

╰► SOURCE:       Encouragement and Support Prompts

RATHER THAN FINDING some degree of comfort or reassurance, Dooku instead recoiled at his beloved’s words. The former SITH LORD glanced upward to meet Angèlique’s achingly familiar gaze, his own hazel hues clouded with utter anguish. He shook his head, swallowing the lump that had formed in his throat.

⠀ ⠀“ I have done NOTHING to deserve your faith, nor to deserve your love. ” Dooku’s voice was barely audible as he spoke; if he spoke any louder, he feared, he would crumble to pieces. “ All… ” His voice cracked, “ All that I have done is bring you and our family naught but pain and heartache. ”

[ravens-inquisition]

SESSION 5

V. Log Entry MCDLXII - Fated Festivities & Mournful Hearts

A tattered journal withered by the elements bearing several etchings ranging from fingerprints, signatures and childish drawings on its cover. The markings are evidently made by other people's contribution. One cannot but admire how the journal has survived the test of time.

"If we cannot find delight inspite of our misery then we are already defeated by it."

Madam Kyra has graced us with sincere hospitality, inviting us to share in the joy of celebration. She bears much resemblance of my past in responsibility, thrust upon the mantle of leadership at a young age. With all uplifted hearts beating within the camp, she has shown to be far greater than I at her age.

Violet and Pike's absence was of concern. To what grim undertakings the former relished I can only place faith in the latter's sense of duty to watch over her.

Frank's mind appear a darken cloud in desperate need of parting. I would but compel the heavens to break to soothe his ever militant downpour in exchange for joyous sunlight. Omen and Caland hastened such endeavour, convincing Frank to lay down his vigilance with disguises of their own. Perhaps such theatric display eased the man into a celebratory mood.

Little sister, forgive me for having lacked the power that could have granted you ever more breath in this world. For a sight of beating hearts dancing and singing such as this would have delighted you with no end.

The moonlit night graced a memory forever cherished when a Vistana lady invited myself to a dance. Hesitancy was my gesture. Insistence was hers.

I but wonder for a brief moment if I could ever again trust in Caland, Omen, and Frank. For they did not save me from her pursuit. Perhaps I should count my blessings that this was not life or death.

Dancing was never my forté, yet her enchanting presence coaxed skill I never knew I had. In unison was our hearts ignited, in passion was our feet in harmony, in endearing affection was my heart captivated.

So is the fate of all waning moons, to end after the crescendo of the night. Exhaustion overtook me as the embers of our dance flickered away.

Anabelle was the name of the enchanting beauty, and a cloak of intricate folktales inscribed was her gift. Her last parting words was forever a remembrance that whosoever I shall dance with in the future, she herself will remain ever more gifted. After countless years of dancing with death, I am forever grateful for having danced with life.

Caland's peerless skills could hurl a thunderbolt, for how else could one ever evoke such energy within the crowd. In ceaseless attempt he goaded Frank's inner vigour. In open arms do we find ourselves in the embrace of such warmth. To our resident bard do we owe our musical comforts tonight.

Omen's persistence was admirable beyond any doubt. No amount of pain or agony could have stayed his hand from inviting Sergei to a dance. While formality remained Omen's canvas, Sergei's whimsical paint coloured such with brushes of informality.

Frank's agitation seeped throughout the theatric vein of the night. I overheard Kyra's reading placed greater doubt in the man. To balance such annoyance, Frank leveraged skill to illustrate his worth. Despite Omen's prior reluctance, Frank silenced such doubts. For he left many pictures in frames within the hearts of those huddled in tears that night.

--

Omen was ever a barren drought absent of rain, yet a night such as this caused much downpour. A tale of his own mother's sacrifice weighing in sustaining life-- reminded me much of your teachings and scriptures, Master of Scales. For a man of silence could evoke such solemn contemplation within the hearts of many.

Violet and Pike's presence returned in beckoning shadows. Bathed in crimson was Violet's attire mirroring much of her unceasing grim smile, absent of conscience to weigh down the curve of her lips. Blood… Upon her lips. A sight not unfamiliar by these eyes. What madness lies behind the corpse maker?

Pike's ever stoic mannerism is one I would place trust on. Entreating the culture of our hosts, I brought him unto a semblance of understanding that to grace bloodshed and death unto their camp is to defile their way of life. Pike initiative could rival the rising tides, for he immediately covered Violet's presence with his imposing physique. Caland's arcane ways struck my thoughts and I beseeched his aid discreetly. One that proved fruitful with his return onto the fire.

Omen's abrupt departure from the festivities concerned me. Following his steps led me to a path of understanding the assassin deeply. There was a bridge of mutual ground awaiting to be travelled as he inquired about rumours of cannibalism.

Ol' Broken Hand, I am reminded of your sacrifice. The cruelty of you casting the dilemma upon a younger man unfit to even stand. What feverish thoughts gripped you with such intensity? You did not even grace us with honoring you a peaceful death. No… You forced us to endure pain of consuming a beloved brethren. Alive. Yet breathing. As strands of your flesh ripped apart… To elevate pain and agony above all else. Even now I hear your howls of euphoric rapture praising that name again and again… Loviatar. Loviatar. Loviatar.

--

… But I digress. Omen revealed much of his hardships. Desperation and starvation were not strangers etched in his past. For the misplaced blame towards Sergei was less to do with the man but more of what he represented. Yet leveraged in the balance was affection for the man. Omen professed otherwise and whilst perhaps he speaks true, there is much uncertainty and reluctance reflected behind those eyes. Yet above all we confided truths meant to be concealed from the prying gaze of the world. He… longed for home. For one who has never possessed such, I share in such sentimentality. I do not know what this home looks like for Omen, but nothing would make me prouder than to witness it firsthand once its within his grasp.

My thoughts stretch to Pike whose sudden acts to kneel in the past towards nobility unfamiliar even to him compelled my disapproval. But perhaps Omen's words of all of us being lost harboured truths. Pike longed for purpose in life and when presented with such he lunged at the opportunity. How could I ever disapprove of a man looking for home? There is much I've yet gleaned in the lives of others. Violet with her unending obsession with death, Frank a former toymaker exchanging creation for destruction, Caland a man of freedom bound to knightly oaths.

How am I suppose to elevate and lead humanity if I've never been a part of it? I stand a fool ill-equipped to save my brethren if I cannot offer a future nor purpose beyond the breaking of our chains. Perhaps if all of this is over and I am able to count myself amongst Strahd's court-- I may learn from a man of vision.

--

Breaking free of habits can present itself to be a greater challenge than chains. I found myself making the rounds ensuring all was safe no different than when I was still amongst my enslaved brethren. Caland's exhaustion is without equal and he yet speaks in his slumber, "To see the sun another day". Frank insisted on being left by himself in his own tent, but a man alone in chambers of his own thoughts would find no end to his sleep after a night such as this, at best I could only offer the warmth of a bottle to ease his journey to the realm of dreams.

Directing Sergei towards Omen was a pragmatic decision, such display of healing prowess earlier may ease Omen's wounds throughout the night. But I cannot feign that it was my only intent.

Violet's surprisingly docile when she has feasted upon a meal suiting her diet, though I find it distressing that she sleeps with her eyes open. She has much to explain tomorrow but for tonight I opted not to disturb her.

Pike remains ever vigilant with weighted armor and I knew more than anyone that I would not be able to persuade him to rest similarly to the rest of us. At best I offered words of reassurance and hope for him to one day be beyond a simple sentinel and count himself amongst those he tenderly guards.

It dawned upon me that I have been bereft of sleep, and now exhaustion beckons me to dreams. I shall acquit myself of this journal for the night.

"Keep the fire of life burning."

[almaqead]

"The Book." From Surah 17, Al Isra.

If humanity is God's most perfect creation, why do we find ourselves reading the Quran, looking at different ways to respond to all the evil we do? And why has it taken since Muhammad's time in the 7th Century to realize we have done so little about it? Why do we like to force God to reckon with us but never change?

The next section of Al Isra says change is a must. Man can indeed forsake wickedness and do all that the Quran says and be totally righteous.

The Book is easy to read and understand, its expectations are reasonable, God guaranteed He would not try to trick us within its pages:

Ma'idah 5:15:

O People of the Scripture, there has come to you Our Messenger making clear to you much of what you used to conceal of the Scripture and overlooking much.1 There has come to you from Allāh a light and a clear Book [i.e., the Qur’ān].

What is within the Quran that makes it a Book? For this we need to understand the basis for the term, which is found in the Torah. Books are like "books of business" they name the accounts and the balance of the persons which whom a company does business. All Muslims know how God views a balanced account; in the Torah the balanced book is called the Ark of the Covenant. About this the Quran states:

From Baqarah 248:

Their prophet said to them, ‘The sign of his authority will be that the Ark [of the Covenant] will come to you. In it there will be [the gift of] tranquility from your Lord and relics of the followers of Moses and Aaron, carried by the angels. There is a sign in this for you if you believe.’

Without tranquility however, God cannot hold onto us. So long as there is strife in Israel, He will let us go. Security and stability then are the next step on the Mir'aj, the Ladder to Heaven. They represent our comprehension of the Ark of the Covenant and an end to the stormy weather on land and sea that are destroying this planet:

17: 61-69:

"And ˹remember˺ when We said to the angels, “Prostrate before Adam,” so they all did—but not Iblîs,1 who protested, “Should I prostrate to the one You have created from mud?”

Allah responded, “Be gone! Whoever of them follows you, Hell will surely be the reward for all of you—an ample reward.

And incite whoever you can of them with your voice, mobilize against them all your cavalry and infantry, manipulate them in their wealth and children, and make them promises.” But Satan promises them nothing but delusion.

˹Allah added,˺ “You will truly have no authority over My ˹faithful˺ servants.” And sufficient is your Lord as a Guardian.

It is your Lord Who steers the ships for you through the sea, so that you may seek His bounty. Surely He is ever Merciful to you.

When you are touched with hardship at sea, you ˹totally˺ forget all ˹the gods˺ you ˹normally˺ invoke, except Him. But when He delivers you ˹safely˺ to shore, you turn away. Humankind is ever ungrateful.

Do you feel secure that He will not cause the land to swallow you up, or unleash upon you a storm of stones? Then you will find none to protect you.

Or do you feel secure that He will not send you back to sea once again, and send upon you a violent storm, drowning you for your denial? Then you will find none to avenge you against Us."

Commentary:

Peace in Israel is synonymous with peace on earth. We must volunteer to publish and hold onto it no matter who contests it. The moment we resist, and stop the plunder, the Age of the Masjid will begin. Innocent men will no longer drown in hot water or be trampled by falling rocks in its wake. So "...Incite whoever you can of them with your voice...mobilize against them all your cavalry and infantry, and make man keep his promises."

[dailyaudiobible]

11/20/2023 DAB Transcript

Ezekiel 40:28-41:26, James 4:1-17, Psalm 118:19-29, Proverbs 28:3-5

Today is the 20th day of November, welcome to the Daily Audio Bible. I am Brian, it is wonderful to be here with you today, like every day. It's great to be gathered together around the Global Campfire, everybody has a place, we’re all cozy together. It's a safe oasis for us to simply allow the Scriptures to come into our lives. So, let's do exactly that and focus our heart and attention on God's word. We’re reading from the New Living Translation this week and continuing our journey through the book of Ezekiel, today chapters 40 verse 28 through 41 verse 26.

Commentary:

Okay, so, James is doing what James does in giving us a nice quick kick in the pants today on our relationships. He asked this question today. And it really should perk all of our attention because we kind of all want to know. The question is, what is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Right, we want to know the answer to that. What is it that is bringing tension into a relationship that erupts into a conflict. But then James leads us to consider that maybe it's not the other person. He says, don’t those conflicts come from the evil desires at war with in you? In other words, before it ever becomes a conflict with another person, there's already something going on within ourselves. That's putting a mirror up in front of us; that snaps things into perspective. And he goes on to explain that these conflicts, they happen inside of us, because we have desires that we think we’re entitled to. We’re not getting what we think we deserve in some way, and we perceive that maybe somebody else is. And so, conflict and attempts to take things by force cause quarrels and fights among us. And we find that we’re lacking, or that we perceive that we’re lacking in our lives, and then we try to balance the scales because we’re in competition with everybody else. So, we try to force our will upon other people. We’re absolutely not going to get anywhere. We’re not going to get fulfillment. We’re looking in the wrong place. And James says it like this, you don’t have what you want because you don't ask God for it. And even when you ask, you don't get it because your motives are all wrong. You want only what will give you pleasure. James is trying to drill down; he’s trying to get down to the base of it all. And he tells us: don’t you realize that your friendship with the world, makes you an enemy of God. If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. So, let's just kind of reverse this out a little bit and think about it. If we’re going to use the system of the world to gain identity and to compete with one another to try to do better or worse or to be worshiped because we can throw ourselves into some kind of spotlight. If we’re gonna use this system, we’re not in the kingdom of God operating the way that the kingdom of God works. We’re making ourselves an enemy of God. I’m just like standing here thinking about this as we’re talking about it. And I’m like man, I don't, I don't want to be at odds with God, like at all, for any reason, at all. That's a big deal, to make yourself an enemy of God. Who's gonna win that one? So, this sense of lack and this sense of competition and this sense of identity and all these things that we jostle around and have quarrels and fights among us. If we just be honest and think about it. We’re saying, God's not coming through and we deserve more. We are entitled to more than we have, God isn't enough and so, we look outside the relationship to get what we need. We’re gonna go get our needs met outside the relationship. That's not gonna work in my house, and I don’t think that’s gonna work in your house either. And so, that shouldn’t work in our relationship with God. And so, James, sums up what he saying to us today with very famous passage of Scripture that kind of ties this all together for us. Here's what you do: humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Come close to God and God will come close to you. Wash your hand, you sinners, purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done, let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will lift you up in honor.

Prayer:

And so, Father, that's where we find ourselves in this posture of humility, with head bowed. Seeing ourselves for who we are and what we've done. We tell ourselves the story of ourselves, and we lie to ourselves all of the time, and we have to face the implications of what we do and the impact that it has on people. We realize that our lives matter because it's having impact. And it’s not always having the kind of impact that would be anything like Your kingdom. It’s all about our own kingdom. It’s all about our own desires and wants and what we’re gonna take and what we’re entitled to. We've been invited by James today to humble ourselves and so, here we are, resisting the urge to be entitled to something that we’re gonna take. We humble ourselves before You and come close to You. You are the only source of life. The only place of meaning. The only opportunity for fulfillment. Come, Holy Spirit, we humble ourselves before You. Forgive us, lead us into the truth we ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

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And so, I have something to tell you about, but it happened a couple of weeks ago. But now, we have the all-clear to talk about it. So, our daughter China and my wife Jill, they head up Daily Audio Bible Chronological, on the Chronological Channel. And so, everybody over there kind of knows China's been pregnant and she stepped away to have the baby and she did, a couple weeks ago. And we’ve been just kind of nesting and settling in. But China has had her daughter, her second daughter, and her name is Finley, Finley Beck Brave and she was born on 21st of October. A whopping nine and a, well 9 lbs. 2 oz. and she is the current joy of our lives. She’s very mild-mannered little thing, and we all love taking turns with her and loving on her and welcoming her into our story and becoming a part of her story as we all continue the stories that we are telling stories of our lives in relationship to God. So, thank you for your continued prayers over China and Ben as they adjust to having a newborn and adjust to having another child. And as we continue to take steps forward day by day in our lives and in the Scriptures and in community, but we want to welcome officially welcome Finley, Finley Brown, the newest addition to the Daily Audio Bible family here.

If you want to partner with the Daily Audio Bible, you can do that at dailyaudiobible.com. Thank you, humbly for your partnership. There is a link on the homepage. If you’re using the app, you can press the Give button in the upper right-hand corner or the mailing address is P.O. Box 1996 Springhill, Tennessee 37174.

And as always, if you have a prayer request or encouragement you can hit the Hotline button in the app, that's little red button at the top or you can dial 877-942-4253.

And that's it for today, I'm Brian, I love you and I'll be waiting for you here tomorrow.

Prayer and Encouragements:

Hi, Daily Audio Family, Daily Audio Bible Family that is. Thank you for your prayers. I wanna have a, give a praise for my son Mitchell. This is Brian in Huber Heights, Ohio. When I went to visit him, he brought his Bible out and he was reading it to me. And he’s been reading his Bible and seeking God. I just wanna ask a prayer request for him. They’re having trouble releasing him because his behavior in the past has been so, so horribly bad that he’s gotten kicked out of several rehabs and really, he’s burned a lot of the bridges that can help him. I just pray that and ask you to pray that he gets the right case management, the right case manager. Goes to the right rehab and has housing, that he would not be homeless anymore. Also, wanna continue to ask prayer for my ex-wife Kathy and I, that God would heal our lives and bring us together and reconcile us. And for my other two children, Matt and Ashley, that they would start seeking God and find a church and seek God with their lives. Bless Ashley with a healthy baby, my first grandchild. I have so much to be thankful for. Praise You, God. And I really thank Brian Hardin for this ministry, it is wonderful, it is a life changer. And I tell everybody I know about it. And I do pray for everyone here on this and on the Prayer Wall. Thank you very much. God bless.

Salutations, my DAB family. It’s His Little Songbird from Alberta, Canada. And I’m gonna address a few, a few prayer requests today. Sheena from Saskatchewan, in two weeks you go to court. I’m praying for both you and for my, for grace and for mercy and for God’s will to be done. Kingdom Seeker Daniel and Sam from Seattle, you also have court about the same time. I will be holding you all up in prayer as well. From Junk to Treasure, your son, sounds like he’s losing his job and his cars been sabotaged. One daughter fighting with her husband. Another daughter has a grand, or as a child that is having to go into the hospital with seizures. Father God, we just, I wanna lift up this entire family to You, Lord. I ask for a hedge of protection around them and for the blood of Jesus to be covering each and every member of the family, right down to the children, Lord. I’m asking for Your protection from Satan’s darts and from his evil schemes. And Lord, I’m asking that all assignments against the family, From Junk to Treasure, from her, all the way down to the end, Lord, I’m asking Lord, that the assaults of the enemy and the assignments of the enemy will be cancelled. That’s it. Done. Lord, I ask that You give this family Your strength, Your courage, Your determination, and Your will. Father, I ask that You shine Your face upon them, Lord, and I ask for Your favor on each and every member of her family. And I thank You so much for this, Lord. Amen.

Precious brothers and sisters across this globe, my name is Linda, in Wilsonville, Oregon. And I’m calling to ask that you will lift my 44-year-old daughter in prayer for a miracle. She has been newly diagnosed with a stage 4, triple negative breast cancer that has now affected her spine, her liver and her lungs. She’s in sever pain in her lower extremities. She has been treated for a different diagnosis for a year and a half, along with her daddy, who we lost in April. And she is now enduring this tragedy of cancer. She has two young children, a loving husband. She’s very strong and doing everything she can: dietary, wholistic and conventional interventions. She needs a miracle of healing and I know our sovereign God is capable of that. Please, pray with us for that miracle. I thank you with all my heart.

Good morning Daily Audio Bible. This is Brian from Huber Heights, thanking everybody for all your prayers for my son Mitchell. He is, they are considering releasing him from the mental hospital. I want that to be the right time and with all the things set up for him to go to rehab and having housing. Also, my other two children, Matt and Ashley, Lord, for all three of my children’s salvation. For my ex-wife Kathy and I to reconcile. I have, something I do want to ask for prayer about. I’m going to have a CAT scan tomorrow, which will be Friday, the 17th, to find out whether I have any issues in my lungs. I was exposed to asbestos in a job I was at for 23 years. Praying that the test will all come back negative. And I do wanna say one thing, one thing comes to mind when I listen to the Daily Audio Bible and it’s a verse from Acts, Acts 18:9-10. When it was speaking to Paul about him being afraid to go someplace. One night, the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision, do not stop speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you. No one will attack and harm you because I have many people in this city. There’s many, God has many people on the Daily Audio Bible, and I thank Brian Hardin and his family and all that makes this possible. It’s a real life-changer. God bless everyone and thank you.

[prodijedi-archive]

TEACHING WAS THE GREATEST HEALING SALVE that one could apply to Master Dooku’s wounded soul. Granted, the war-weary Serennian nobleman had taught numerous apprentices as a SITH LORD, but by no means could such an experience ever compare to mentoring young force-sensitives as a JEDI MASTER. With this foregone conclusion Master Yoda had agreed, and thus, allowed his former padawan to return to teaching despite the vehement objections of many on the Jedi Council. Hence, his present tutelage of one Caleb Dume.

⠀⠀ ⠀Caleb was a bright young lad, albeit a bit uncertain of himself. The always austere expression upon his visage softened when the boy offered him a small smile, one which Dooku could not help but return. Dooku hesitated, then deactivated his lightsaber — no longer crimson red or sky blue, but rather, the alabaster white of a purified kyber crystal — and lowered himself to the ground. He settled into a sitting position beside Caleb, crossing his legs over each other and resting his hands in his lap.

“ Your master flatters me, young man, but I nevertheless hesitate to classify myself amongst duelists of a high caliber. ” Even whilst Dooku sought valiantly to practice HUMILITY, he could not help the widening of the smile that tugged at his lips. He bowed his head, making a mental note to thank Master Billaba for her compliment. “ Once one ascends to Jedi Masterhood, learning does not cease. If anything, more learning occurs. Every day, the master learns something new — often, from their own student. I am still learning, just like you. Being a master isn’t all that different from being a padawan, really. We are all students of the force, and of life. ”

⠀Dooku’s hazel eyes flickered down to the lightsaber hilt sitting in his lap, and he picked it up so that he could examine its familiar design. “ I do not think that this curved hilt has been particularly useful, nor do I think that it has been particularly detrimental. ” He mused, brow furrowing. “ It was merely an aesthetic choice, that is all. I wanted to stand out from my peers in every aspect that I could, and came to believe that a unique ightsaber would aid me in distinguishing myself. In the end, it proved fruitless; my deeds were what mattered. ”

⊱ ⠀⠀ … ⠀⠀ @dumelived

               TIRED,   THE   YOUNG   PADAWAN   SLUMPED   TO   THE   GROUND.   HE   LET   out   a   soft   huff,   thankful   for   this   given   break.   He   looked   up   at   the   Master   Jedi,   teal   colored   eyes   a   little   wary.   He   heard   a   little   of   Count   Dooku   from   fellow   younglings   at   the   time,   and   from   his   own   Master   when   they   went   into   battles,   and   yet   here   Dooku   was—   almost   as   if   nothing   happened.   Caleb   wasn’t   so   sure   what   to   make   of   it.   He   guessed,   in   a   way,   it   didn’t   really   bother   him   too   much.   The   older   Jedi   was   here   now,   and   that’s   what   really   mattered.

               CALEB   BIT   DOWN   ON   HIS   LOWER   LIP,   PLACING   HIS   LIGHTSABER   on   his   hip.   He   pulled   his   knees   up   a   little,   and   then   placed   his   arms   over   his   knees,   “   I’m   grateful   for   your   teachings   in   lightsaber   duel,   ”   he   offered   Dooku   a   small   smile,   “   My   Master   mentioned   you   are   one   of   the   very   best,   ”   she   had   sent   him   here   for   some   extra   training   tips   and   moves   that   he   also   knew   he   needed,   “   Is   a   curved   lightsaber   hilt   better?   Does   it   help?   ”   He   was   a   curious   one.   @prodijedi

[churchofnix]

Unveiling the Secrets: The Divine Scripture of the Scientific Method

In the realm of knowledge, where the pursuit of truth intertwines with the mysteries of the universe, we find ourselves drawn to the sacred path of exploration and discovery. Today, we gather to unveil the wisdom of the scientific method, a divine scripture guiding us towards the light of understanding. Prepare thy minds, dear seekers of knowledge, for a sermon that echoes with the echoes of ages past. In the beginning, there was curiosity – the spark that ignited the flame of humanity's thirst for knowledge. We dared to question the world around us and sought answers to the mysteries that lay shrouded in shadows. And so, the scientific method was bestowed upon us, a gift from the heavens, to unravel the tapestry of creation. Adorned with the robes of skepticism and reason, the scientific method reveals its three sacred stages – observation, experimentation, and inference. As we embark upon this sacred journey, we are reminded of an obscure, yet captivating discovery that has graced our mortal realm. Behold, the tale of the cosmic dance of Nebula 327, a distant star birthing its offspring of celestial wonders. Its luminous gas clouds twirling in harmonious, divine choreography, whispering secrets of the cosmos to those with eyes to perceive. How miraculous that such a revelation, hidden amidst the vastness of space, can reveal the majesty of creation and the delicate balance of the universe. As the sage Carl Sagan once proclaimed, 'Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.' Could it be within the intimate embrace of Nebula 327 that we uncover the secrets to life's most profound questions? Shall we forge ahead, armed with the power of the scientific method, to decode the language of the stars and transcribe their celestial poetry? Through the lens of the scientific method, we peer into the heavens, marveling at the radiance of distant galaxies and dwelling upon the mysteries of existence. Like ancient prophets, our hypotheses illuminate the path towards truth, guiding us ever closer to the elusive embrace of knowledge. With each experiment, we conjure fragments of wisdom, threading them together to weave the fabric of understanding. Yet, dear congregation, we must not forget the humility that accompanies this sacred journey. For with each answer we uncover, countless enigmas manifest before us. The pursuit of knowledge is an eternal pilgrimage, a dance with the enigmatic and unfathomable. It is in the face of uncertainty that our faith in the scientific method finds strength – an unwavering belief that truth shall reveal itself, even amidst the chaos of the unknown. Let us draw inspiration from the celestial dance of Nebula 327, for within its ethereal movements lies the wisdom that propels our quest for truth. As scientific disciples, let us evoke the spirit of curiosity and embrace the divine scripture of the scientific method, transforming the mundane into the miraculous. May our hearts be filled with awe and reverence, as we step into the boundless realm of discovery, bearing witness to the wonders that await us. In the grand tapestry of existence, we are but humble seekers of knowledge, tirelessly exploring the depths of the universe. With every observation, every experiment, and every inference, we reverently follow the celestial footsteps of Nebula 327, as it whispers its secrets into the cosmos. Let the divine scripture of the scientific method guide us, for we are destined to unlock the luminous secrets that lie within the vast expanse of creation. O seekers of truth, go forth into the world, carrying the torch of the scientific method, and may your path be illuminated by the brilliance of Nebula 327. For within the pursuit of knowledge, we find solace, purpose, and a glimpse into the divine. Amen.

[prodijedi-archive]

@sithisms       sent         …        “ Yes! Yes!! Push yourself. Grow stronger! Focus on your hatred. ”

╰► SOURCE: Unprompted Asks / ALWAYS ACCEPTING

“ My hatred … ” The padawan murmured, trailing off as that incessant voice in the back of his head once more made itself known. Dooku swayed back and forth ever so slightly, as though he were caught in some sort of trance. This was not the first time that Dooku had heard this voice; the warmth and comfort provided by Master Yoda found itself drowned out by the darkness of the unknown presence within his mind multiple times over the past few weeks. Nothing worked to silence it, not even the mind healers.

⠀ ⠀ Then, something inside him snapped, and he woke up. “ No. ” This single word, unusually stern for a boy of sixteen years, was snapped out like the crack of a whip, bringing Dooku out of his trance. “ No … this is wrong. I shouldn’t. Hatred and anger … it’s not the Jedi way. ”

[hiswordsarekisses]

The only way to protect ourselves from self-deception is prayer. We can pray that God will deliver us from ourselves - that He will search us and reveal to us all the ways in which we are deceived by ourselves or in any other way. To pray this prayer takes a love of the truth (which we can also pray for) and a genuine desire to be self-aware and in right standing with God. Him and His truth (He IS truth & His Word is truth!) has to be the most important thing to us - more important than our pride and our need to be right or to protect our reputation. It only hurts thinking about it - once He reveals to us the things we need to see, it’s actually such a relief. There is freedom and peace in standing uncovered and forgiven in the eyes of God. We cannot be forgiven for things we refuse to see, admit, or repent for. [DJK]

[The following is an excerpt from Hebrew for Christians post that speaks on the dangers and evil of self-deception. It’s long but so good.]

“…There is a different kind of deception that is more insidious than being misled by an external enemy. This deception comes from within the heart and involves choosing to believe a lie, often for self-serving or self-flattering reasons. To be sure, it is paradoxical that we can knowingly lie to ourselves, but is quite a common practice, and it makes sense once you realize that the essence of the “self” is dialectical (i.e., dialogical), and that your soul finds its voice in the midst of an conversation it has within itself.

Self-deception is a universal problem of humanity. The Scripture declares: kol derekh ish yashar be’einav – “every person’s way is right in his own eyes” – indicating that by nature we are self-justifying creatures, prone to believe our own “propaganda” and engage in wishful thinking. We are apt to be biased in our self-examination and ready to excuse ourselves at every turn, rationalizing our behavior and suppressing the truth about ourselves in order to quell the voice of conscience within our hearts. When faced with an inconsistency between our behavior and our fictional self-image, we often regard ourselves as something other than what we really are. We prefer the lie to the truth. In short, we deceive ourselves.

“If anyone thinks himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives (or seduces) himself” (Gal. 6:3). When we hide (or suppress) our true motives from ourselves, things become spiritual precarious... If we suppress or squelch the inner voice of conscience and truth, we run the risk of becoming hardened, and ultimately locked into an irresolute and “divided self” in which the center does not hold... With no spiritual foundation within, we can become lost to ourselves. The Scriptures teach us, however, that we are responsible for our choices, and therefore we are responsible for how we think and negotiate the inner dialog of our heart. If we do not submit to the authority of God as our Creator and Lawgiver, we are left to sort through the clamor of passions on our own, in the transience of the moment...

The remedy for self-deception is honest acceptance of ourselves as God sees us, since ve'tokhein libbot Adonai – “the Lord weighs the heart.” The Hebrew word for “weighs” is takhan, meaning to measure, balance, make even, or to adjust to a standard. God’s moral law functions as a “looking glass” of our inward condition, revealing both the divine standard of life required of us and also the truth of our own need for deliverance from ourselves…”

[prodijedi-archive]

In a cruel twist of fate, HIS OWN APARTMENT was his temporary detainment cell. Despite the council’s protests, Master Yoda insisted that the prodigal son was not to be treated as a PRISONER — and house arrest within his former residence while wearing force-suppression handcuffs was the eventual compromise which resulted from heated debate.

⠀ ⠀At THE MERE SIGHT of Anakin Skywalker, Dooku could already feel a HEADACHE beginning to build just above his right eyebrow. The FORMER SITH LORD let out a long suffering sigh, but unlike their many encounters on the battlefield, there is no malice present within his war-weary visage. There is only bone-deep exhaustion and grief.

“ Sidious lied. I do not tolerate lies, nor can I tolerate the annihilation of the Jedi Order. ” His response was blunt — perhaps too blunt, come to think of it — but TRUTHFUL. Always truthful. “ That’s what he wants, you know — to destroy the light, and tip the scales of balance forever in favor of the Sith. ”

⊱ ⠀⠀ … ⠀⠀ @forcenexus

"DOOKU." ANAKIN WAS ON GUARD regardless of what Obi-Wan had said about him being redeemed. Too many innocents died because of him and he wanted justice. Probably why he was being detained in a cell right now because the council was being cautious too. "So it's true. You've changed sides. Why?" // @prodijedi

[brother-hermes]

YOU ARE THE TEMPLE

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone destroy God’s temple, God will destroy that person; the temple of God, which you are, is holy.”

-I Corinthians 3:16-17

As I continue the journey within I find more and more references to our bodies housing the Divine in scriptures. I wanted to site where Paul shares his insight on the subject as there are certain facets of Christians that feel Paul is the only one speaking to Gentiles. I know it’s a silly concept but I want people to be comfortable with meditative practice and to understand that it’s acceptable in the eyes of scripture, no matter their translation or creed.

What Paul is saying here is an echo of Christ’s teachings on the Kingdom of Heaven being within. Mystics don’t tend to struggle going inward for guidance as it is their path but the dogmatic tend to be more exoteric in their approach. If you are of the latter category take this as a sign to treat your body with reverence. Abstain from things that are unhealthy and nurture your physical being. If you are of the former category, a mystic, then learn to guard your thought life and treat your internal dialogue with the same reverence that you treat your body with. Now, if you want to experience tremendous spiritual growth do both and and bring balance between the two.

The way we carry ourselves marks who we are. So let the way you live your life be an outward sign of an inward desire. Let that desire be to cherish the life force within our being. It’s good to be alive.

[patiusarchivist]

A moment of September

Don't mind me. Some reason feeling a grave need to type this. You may read on, mere 'prayer' and message I suppose.

Dua, Sutekh. Thank you for the strength you've given me with iron onto my back to keep upright and onto my legs to keep stride despite the pain. Whilst I may never understand the painful Changes you given onto me in these erratic times, I can only hope it is for the best of intentions. I only wish one thing did not but I will do my best as always. Thank you for holding my shoulder while passions raged within and without, from keeping its fire from engulfing me and my forest.

Dua, Anpu. Thank you for holding my shoulder and keeping my heavy heart from tilting the scales more than they no doubt have. Your caress is felt and your care to let my spirit feel others. The compassion of my ancestors flows onto me, I hope to be worthy of their name and heritage. I know you are still watching me and I appreciate and hope to always honour your guardianship.

Dua, Atem-Re. Thank you for being the light over the slithering dark as you cross sky and illuminate Nut's body of stars. My eyes to be able to see my friends and foes in truth. As many bridges onto the beginning and names of many, the One whom I was taught of most, I thank you for guiding me into this view of the cosmic enlightening.

Dua, Thoth. Thank you for continuing to hold my long attachment of scripture, to keep me in the knowledge of many things and for continuing to urge my aching mind to answers when I crave them most. Thank you for always giving my mind something to distract and from. May my fingers continue to be of the creative craft, give peace onto myself with the grace of creating worlds and beings onto paper - both physical and electronic - and find kinship in others of similar desire.

Dua, the many facets, revolutions, and truths that guide and uplift the lost, the wanting, and hopeful. While I am not much of doctrines nor grand gatherings for man-led can be of fickle and changed desires, the spirit is all the more important and truthful to me.

While I and many others may not speak nor demand the herding and togetherness of worship, always find something to keep you grounded. Whether of spiritual or even self-acknowledging, theological or atheist. Respect yourself and others, be understanding and have your center - those who read this.

Love yourself and if you have strength, others. While we are individuals, we are many. We are chaotic by nature and seek that pillar of order that we can recognize ourselves in the great bodies of souls. It is right to fear but dangerous and cruel to project it onto others, as history of the far past, marching present, and no doubt looming future shows.

It is okay. It will be okay. Maybe not now, but balance will find its mark. We can't control everything but we can hold ourselves just a while longer. I believe in you as much as I try to believe in myself. Let this message be a moment for you to sit down and breathe from the drowning anxieties and aches. When you are ready, get up and walk with your spirit a little easier.

[prodijedi-archive]

" Do, or do not. There is no try. " Dooku quoted wryly, a hint of amusement flickering across his war-weary features. “ You, my old friend, have been spending far too much time with our dear Master Yoda. ”

    He let out a quiet sigh, falling silent while gazing out at the galaxy through the window of his ship. How many souls living within these planets and traveling amongst these stars have suffered because of him? An endless amount, surely, too mind-boggling to even ponder — and yet, more would have suffered had he remained with the dark. He sees that now.

“ You’ll be where you’re meant to be. ” Dooku murmured to himself, brow furrowing. “ Home is where I’m meant to be, then. With the Jedi. Why, then, did I leave? Why did I fall so far? Did you know that I was going to fall? ”

⊱ ⠀⠀ … ⠀⠀ @ofthestcrs

@prodijedi continued from x

"Right thing. Wrong thing. The point is that you did something." Ashla says with a roll of her eyes. "Often times it's best not to expect and just do. The Force wills it." Perhaps there's a bit of narcissism in her tone, but really, she thinks it funny. All of it.

"You'll be where you're meant to be just as everyone ends up where they are meant to be. That goes for the rest of the Galaxy as well."