#I think ESV?

[theworldoffandoming]

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. ~ Isaiah 55:7

Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord God: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? Ezekiel 18:23

Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye. ~ Ezekiel 18:30-32

As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? ~ Ezekiel 33:11

For the Lord will not cast off for ever: But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies. For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. ~ Lamentations 3:31-33

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance

2 Peter 3:9

God’s desire is that the wicked turn from their sin rather than die.

[thebirdandhersong]

dude why did I bring four Bibles to my dorm

[sootchild]

Hey, I’m just reaching out to people on Tumblr, it’s not one of those weird sexual blogs trying to get your attention. I’m just curious, you’ve probably heard of Jesus and God, but have you ever reached out to Jesus for problems in your life? Big or small. If you don’t want to talk, that is completely fine, I truly don’t want to force anything on you because that isn’t very kind and it kinda sucks. I hope you’re having an awesome day!!

Also!!

Your art is amazing!! 💕

If this wasn't an Anonymous, I'd have just politely ignored and deleted the message. I don't like to drag people but because in the book of Matthew (5:15-16, ESV) it states:

"Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

This ask is Anon so free game in my opinion.

This is the second time this type of message has been given to me. Now were I to have shared some sort of trepidation or worry of late, like for example my current contract coming to an end Fed 21 (which true), and you went, "Oh my, you are feeling insecure! Let me share with you something that gives me comfort, maybe you will find comfort in it!" Then fine, I'd thank you for the thought, BUT that isn't what prompted this.

You looked at my body of work and went, "Oh my! This person clearly has no relationship with the Lord! I must tell them there is a better way!" You made an assumption as to what my personal relationship with the divine is and unprompted and anonymously tried to "save" me. Being previously an Evangelical, I get it. I was once young and fervent, wanting to champion for the Lord. I learned that like anything in life, consent is king and leading by example and enriching the lives of others is so much better than proselytizing.

For clarity, I am in fact Christian. I maybe a Polyamourous, pansexual, hedonist, but my relationship with Jesus, pretty tight. Been so my whole 37 years of life. To the point that I tell my retired pastor of a father that I am older in the faith than he is (he hates this, it is hilarious). EDIT: Also it doesn't matter that I am Christian, I clarified to show that assumptions can one look foolish. Even if I were of any other faith or without faith, it is arrogant to assume to know a person's relationship with the divine. There is so many different ways to interact with the universe and as long as we are adding goodness to it, that is the important part.

I get that you meant well but rocking up to my Asks being like, "I think you need Jesus! But let me put a pretty bow on this message by saying you make nice art!" Not as flattering as you think it is.

I wish you the best and sorry if this cuts deep but so everyone knows, I don't appreciate this sort of unprompted messaging.

[canipleasegetthenumber15]

Wanted to draw a depiction of Jesus'/God's tender affection (not a huge fan of how I drew Him, but I think the message is more important than the appearance of the drawing).

This piece reminds me of Zephaniah 3:17, which says: "The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing." (ESV)

[gladstones-corner]

I usually avoid YouTube these days for a multitude of reasons, but recently I discovered a channel called ReligionForBreakfast. The host, Dr. Andrew Mark Henry, is a Ph.D. of Religious Studies from Boston University. He covers a wide range of topics on his channel, but I'm going to focus on just one today: "What is the Best Bible Translation?"

I won't give you a play by play; that would be redundant at best and insulting to his work at worst. Please just give the video a watch--it's about an hour but it's worth it.

Let's lay some groundwork: Dr. Henry focuses primarily on the Protestant Christian Bible, given that there are a proliferation of English translations. By contrast, the Roman Catholic Bible contains one official English translation. He also mentions the major English translation of the Hebrew Bible, the JPS Tanakh.

I was raised in a Protestant Christian family. Therefore, my comments here will mostly reflect my opinions on the Protestant Christian translations. I lack the proper context for the Roman Catholic and Hebrew Bibles, so I won't be commenting on them here.

Okay, with the preliminaries out of the way, let's get started.

It's extremely interesting that Dr. Henry doesn't discredit any of the major translations. Instead, he makes a distinction between translations designed for critical, scholarly Bible analysis and translations designed to impart doctrinal teachings. I'll call these translation camps "critical" and "denominational" here.

No, Dr. Henry remains mostly neutral on the subject of critical and denominational translations. He points out clearly that--except for the KJV--the big modern translations, regardless of camp, were written by biblical scholars using wide-ranging critical techniques.

While Dr. Henry's neutrality is admirable (and definitely from a more experienced place than my own), I elect to be a bit biased on this topic.

Let me be clear: I think that any translation whose authors willingly sacrifice critical, ecumenical interpretation in favor of one or a few denominations' doctrinal teachings is invalid. This includes, but is certainly not limited to, the ESV and NIV.

And now we reach the KJV. Dr. Henry points out in his video that this translation is based on a much older set of scriptures--primarily the Bishop's Bible--and was revised based on the commonly accepted scholarly standards of the day.

While Dr. Henry essentially defends the KJV's existence as "doing the best with what you have", he does point out that it is one of the weakest in terms of accuracy. Again, his choice to remain neutral is admirable--and likely more correct--but I will not do the same.

The KJV is my least favorite translation of the Christian Bible by--at the very least--a country mile. I could devote an entire post to how disastrous the KJV and its consequences have been to global society. However, I'll constrain myself to the following comments: not only was the translation itself politically motivated, but it was based on translations that were also politically motivated. Further, in the last 400 years, our understanding of--and access to--biblical texts has greatly increased, such that the KJV is now an outdated relic.

So, what does Dr. Henry recommend as far as scholarly analysis goes? The NRSV. This is the preferred translation among biblical scholars of the Christian Tradition, whether Protestant or Catholic (the NRSV has editions with the deuterocanon).

The NRSV was translated by a diverse committee of different faiths--even including Harry Orlinski, who was the editor-in-chief of the NJPS Torah. The committee strove for an academic translation that was faithful to the meaning of the text as it existed within historical context while retaining modern scholarly discussion and consensus.

This is my favorite translation of the Christian Bible as well. However, it's not without its own quirks. For example, the move to use gender inclusive language wherever inferred is admirable--for example, when using language for God, or when Paul writes to the members of various churches. But, in some cases the translators erred a bit, obscuring what would normally be a clearer turn of phrase in ancient Hebrew or Koine Greek. But in all honesty, I'd take a translation that erred on the side of inclusivity than exclusivity any day.

At the end of the day, translations of the Christian Bible necessarily must take into account a polyglot's view. Finding the most ancient sources of a biblical text is critical, but most of our contextualization and explanation of these texts happen after the fact, usually through the study of major thinkers.

In the Christian world, that would be people like Augustine, Aquinas, and others; though I would argue that Christians should also read Maimonides and Spinoza, among others, as the Jewish context cannot be lost when reading these texts or else the whole exercise becomes moot.

All of that is to say, I'm cranky over how the Hebrew Bible has been bastardized over the years. To a lesser extent I'm cranky over how the Christian Bible--namely the Christian New Testament--has also been shredded and bastardized to fit narrow, bigoted viewpoints.

But as an armchair scholar, I'm so glad there are people out there like Dr. Henry who make centuries of biblical analysis and teaching easier to digest. They help me overcome several hurdles that I would have absolutely tripped over in my research--even to the point of wanting to give up (trust me, I've been there once or twice with Augustine).

Thank you for reading. As always, stay safe and stay tuned. Blessings to you and yours~

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

The "I Don't Care" Bible Passage by Mike Winger

This is the “I don’t care if you judge me” passage of the Bible.

But it’s saying that quite differently than people usually do. Can you spot the differences?

“But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me.” 1 Corinthians 4:3-4 ESV

Paul doesn’t care if people judge him, but not like you may think. He doesn’t care if they think lowly of him OR highly of him. It’s not just that he doesn’t care about being judged poorly. He also isn’t puffed up by those who esteem him.

Further, when Paul says he isn’t concerned about being judged by people he doesn’t mean this the way people often do today. They are, in effect, saying, ���you can’t judge me because I know I’m right.” Paul isn’t saying that. He is saying that neither you or even he can properly judge the full intentions and actions of a person. But God will. This is intimidating, alarming, sobering, and not exactly comforting to our insecurities.

Paul doesn’t KNOW of anything against himself (something to repent of or be ashamed of in relation to his service of Christ) but he also knows this isn’t the end of the issue. A man with a clear conscience can still be guilty of all manner of things. So, Paul says, “For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me.”

The Lord judges me. That’s why I don’t fear human judgments. Not to be beaten down by them OR puffed up by them. That’s why I don’t rest on my own opinion of how pure I am. God will judge and He will use his own eyes to do it. Not mine. And those eyes see all.

[fromhisgrace]

Studying the Bible Effectively: A Beginner's Guide

Studying the Bible can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and tools, it can allow so much spiritual growth!! Whether you're new to the faith or a seasoned believer, having a structured method can improve and ease your experience. Here's a straightforward guide to help you get started on your Bible study journey!

Choosing a Translation

One of the first decisions to make when studying the Bible is choosing a translation that suits your needs and preferences. There are several translations available, each with its own approach to translation. Here are the three categories they fall into.

1. Word for Word Translation: These translations, such as the King James Version (KJV) or English Standard Version (ESV), aim to follow the original texts as closely as possible, offering a literal rendering of the words and phrases. They are great for detailed study and analysis of the text.

2. Thought for Thought Translation: These translations prioritize clarity and readability, conveying the original meaning in modern language by updating language to be mor relevant to modern readers. They are ideal for easy comprehension, especially for beginners or those looking for a straightforward understanding.

3. Paraphrased Translation: These translations capture the essence or gist of the message rather than focusing on precise wording. They are often easier to understand and are suitable for new believers or younger children. However, they are most likely to stray from the original text and can sometimes be slightly inaccurate.

When I am reading to spend time with God (such as my daily reading) I use NLT, which is a thought for thought translation and therefore easier to understand. However, during bible study it is advisable to keep a word for word translation on hand (I use the KJV translation in the YouVersion bible app alongside a physical copy of the NLT).

Establishing a Study Routine

1. Prayer: Before sitting down to read, it's essential to prepare yourself spiritually and mentally. Begin your study session with a prayer, asking God to open your mind and heart to His word and guide you in your understanding.

2. Reading the Passage: Start by reading the passage without taking notes or annotating. Try to grasp the overall message and what God is communicating to you.

3. Annotation and Reflection: Read the passage again, this time making notes of any observations, questions, or insights that come to mind. Consider who is involved, what is happening, why, when, and how. Reflect on the message God is conveying through the text.

4. Consulting Study Tools: Dive deeper into the passage by using study tools such as Bible commentaries, online resources, or cross-referencing different translations. This helps gain a broader perspective and insight into the text. They often also include historical context and reasons for writing.

5. Application: Reflect on how the passage applies to your life. Identify one or two key messages and think about how you can incorporate them into your daily life. Is the scripture challenging you to change certain behaviours, draw closer to God, or strengthen your faith? Pray for guidance on how to apply these insights. Personally, I like to make an extra effort to apply these in the upcoming week.

Conclusion

Studying the Bible is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about cultivating a deeper relationship with God and living out His word in our lives. By choosing the right translation, establishing a study routine, and seeking guidance through prayer and study tools, you can embark on a fulfilling journey of spiritual growth and understanding. Remember, consistency and patience are key, so keep seeking God's wisdom as you delve into His word.

[godhasatenderheart]

Hello this is a bit personal. So for the past two years I had been going through a binge eating disorder where I only ate cookies and chocolate. I’m so scared to go to the dentist I never had a cavity beforee do you have any scripture or advice. I wanna go to the dentist

Hi. I want to preface by saying that I’m not doing the best mentally right now, so I’m very sorry if my message isn’t helpful.

I used to have a similar fear going to the dentist. I didn’t start brushing my teeth regularly until I was in my 20s, so my mouth was in pretty bad shape. When I got there, they could tell I was visibly embarrassed, and they assured me that they’ve dealt with many such things (and worse), and that they’re not there to judge—they’re there to help.

I think it’s wonderful that you’re going to the dentist despite your fears. I think your dentist will be very happy to be able to help you. It takes a lot of courage to go to the dentist!

(As a side note, if you’d like to, you can look into Hydroxyapatite toothpaste. It totally restored my enamel. It was recently discovered by Japanese dental scientists, and there’s information showing that it actually remineralizes teeth.)

Always remember that God is right there with you. He’s going to take care of you, and ensure nothing happens to you. He’s your comforter and the mender of your heart.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

—Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”

—Deuteronomy 31:6 (ESV)

[supreme-leader-stoat]

Since this wasnt the point of the post, I'm actually going to mildly correct the thinking here. A lot of American protestant pastors get to "anything short of cheating means divorce isn't allowed" but that actually isn't what Jesus says. He says "unless it be unlawful" and he is talking about in exodus/leviticus where the Laws are talking about what other gentiles must follow while they live in the land of Israel. Mainly, that you can't marry someone related to you [sister, step mother] or the same sex as you [ei modern so-called gay marriage].

It is likely with this teaching in mind that the disciples/Apostles decided in Acts/the council of Jerusalem that gentile converts need only follow the gentile-pertinent laws found in the Scriptures, and not the whole of the Mosaic law. Because, essentially, that's what Jesus said the Jews should be following.

It is very recent in history that its been interpreted that adultery is viable for divorce and re-marriage, because while adultery is unlawful, it doesn't make the actual *marriage* unlawful. Because otherwise, the interpretation has to be "the person who was cheated on gets to get remarried, but the person who did the cheating is still married to their original spouse" which doesn't make a ton of sense.

While it is a Catholic source, I think the Shameless Popery podcast did a video about this topic and it's definitely worth the listen!!

I'll definitely have to do some more digging into the subject when I have some free energy for it. What you're saying doesn't match up with the way that I've always been taught the passage, but I'm open to hearing out other perspectives.

You're right that I technically paraphrased a bit. The full text of the verses (just for the benefit of anyone reading this without context), in the ESV translation I usually use, is

31 “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ 32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

—Matthew 5:31-32

The way I've always learned it is that the law given in Deuteronomy was addressing a culture where women were being cut loose by their husbands for petty reasons, and so they were being given legal protections in the form of a required certificate of divorce which would allow them to remarry and thereby regain the social and legal protections that came with marriage. The Sermon on the Mount then builds on that going "this is still a sacred institution, by continuing to divorce your wives (even if it's all formal and legal) over petty reasons, you're still missing the point and proliferating sexual immorality." And so the only time you should even consider divorce is when the marriage has already been broken by sexual immorality.

There's also the whole debate over how to approach the text in a time and place where either party in a marriage can initiate a divorce and how cases of spousal abuse and violence fit into things, but at that point we're getting into possible eisegetic readings.

[walkswithmyfather]

‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3:5‭-‬12‬ (‭ESV)‬‬. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.”

‭‭Galatians‬ ‭2:20‬ ‭(ESV‬‬). “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

“Living Abundantly” By In Touch Ministries:

“Our best life is found when we trust God completely and live surrendered to His will.”

“God created us with a longing to know that we matter. He also designed us to find the fulfillment of that desire through His Son.

Dependence on God is central to an abundant life. Trusting Him with all our heart means giving Him control over everything—our family, finances, emotions, and thoughts. Today’s passage emphasizes how essential trust is to a fruitful life: It cautions against being wise in our own eyes and warns not to lean on our own understanding (vv. 5, 7). When faced with decisions, it’s tempting to choose the answer we think is right. But we can’t know all the facts or predict with certainty how others will respond. The Lord, however, does know. He reads our heart and perceives every thought (1 Chronicles 28:9). No aspect of our situation escapes His notice (Psalm 11:4), and He cares about everyone. That’s why He alone is certain which decision will be best.

The abundant life also involves acknowledging God in all we do. Speaking about Him is just part of what it means to give Him recognition. As His children, we’re to have a marked resemblance to our heavenly Father—in thoughts, attitudes, and actions.

Life becomes fruitful as we surrender ourselves to God and carry out His will. When His Spirit lives through us (Galatians 2:20), our life will be characterized by significance and satisfaction.”

[Photo by Explore with Joshua at Unsplash].

[saras-devotionals]

Quiet Time 8/20

What am I feeling today?

I had a bit of a nightmare last night and I also spent wayyy too much time in bed today. Got up around noon which is hours later than I wanted to. I just feel like I’m in a depressive episode. I just don’t really feel much lately, numb and out of it but I need to get back in the rhythm of things! I’ll work on a study for my heart today and I’ll talk through these empty feelings w my discipler.

Six Keys to Sexual Purity

Key #6 - Seek Accountability Partners to Help with Temptation

Having friends who are on the same journey is always a plus when you want to avoid temptation. You can help each other stay focused on your goals. Just remember to be honest, transparent, supportive, and trustworthy.

When seeking an accountability partner, you should have standards, set expectations, and establish boundaries. Your accountability partner should be someone who is of the same sex. Selecting a same-sex accountability partner is major because there are instances when temptation can arise when opposite-sex accountability partners connect. Your accountability partner should also be someone who will tell you the truth–even if it hurts. Proverbs 15:22 says, "Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed" (ESV). If you're trying to live a pure life, you should seek counsel from someone whose life reflects the fruit associated with Godly living, not someone who isn't even trying to walk in sexual purity.

We want to offer you a few tips to make the most of your accountability partnership:

Tip 1: Plan and Set Aside a Designated Time for Check-in

Discuss expectations when you first connect. Identify a regular time to meet; determine how you'll meet (e.g., video chat, call, text); and decide how long you'll meet (e.g., 15 minutes, 30 minutes). Put the designated time on your calendar, and treat it as a fixed appointment.

Tip 2: Share Your Journey

Be vulnerable and honest with your struggles. We overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony, and we love not our lives to the death. This means, to experience true freedom, you must share your testimony.

Tip 3: Choose One Thing to Conquer

Sometimes, attempts to overcome multiple issues all at once lead to failure. Instead, create accountability sessions that focus on one problem at a time. This method will help you better track your progress and communicate strengths and challenges to your partner without being overwhelmed.

Tip 4: Celebrate Your Wins

Base all of your communication around positive reinforcement. This doesn't mean you're both perfect and everything is great. This means every step in the right direction toward purity should be acknowledged and applauded.

Tip 5: Be Willing to Change Partners

If your partner starts to disappear or misses a scheduled time on more than one occasion, politely end the partnership. Take responsibility and notify your partner that the partnership isn't working out for you. Then pray and ask God to connect you with someone more compatible. Time is of the essence. There is no time to waste, especially if you're serious about your purity journey.

These are just a few tips to get you started with your accountability partner. Please feel free to adjust as needed and create a mutually beneficial plan.

Reflection:

Do you have an accountability partner? If not, ask God to connect you with other Believers who can help support and encourage you on the journey.

I do!🙂‍↕️ Everyone who is a member of our church is assigned a discipler. They are basically someone who serves as a mentor, teacher, and someone to hold us accountable. We meet every single week and strive for daily communication because Christianity is not something that you can do on your own. You need the community and the church (although, this does not replace your personal relationship with God).

Proverbs 27:6 NIV

“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”

I think sometimes people struggle with this. We know that there are times when we make mistakes or need correction and when it comes from a friend it is out of love because they care about us, this is no malicious intent behind it and we shouldn’t treat as if it is.

Proverbs 15:22 NIV

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.”

This is very important! we might think that we know the correct way or that our plans are right, but we must seek counsel from God in prayer and from other righteous people. They may have advice or insight that you have not seen. Or maybe, some people refuse counsel because they either know that their plan is wrong or for fear that they’ll be given advice they don’t want. For the sake of your righteous, seek counsel no matter what.

Psalm 1:1-3 NIV

“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.”

Our goal and our desire should be to delight in the Lord! Cherishing and reading His word night and day instead of being caught up in the wickedness of the world. I want to be this person again. I used to be so fired up for Him but I feel that my flame has dimmed considerably. I’m trying to reignite my passion and I’m making progress but I’m still a far way off. Please pray for my heart in this area.

1 Peter 3:15 NIV

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,”

Sometimes I think about this and the only reason I can give is that it’s the truth. Women studied the Bible with me and taught me so much and I witnessed my life and my character transform into something new and time and time again God has listened to me, and answered my prayers, and blessed me even through my times of hardship. I know that it is nothing I have done but all through God working in my life. I pray that all of you

1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

‭‭there is great importance in this actually! There’s another scripture in Hebrews where it says we must encourage one another daily in order to protect our hearts from sin.

Proverbs 27:17 NIV

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Just a reiteration that we cannot do this alone. That we need other people to hold us accountable and being open with each other so we can help one another in our journeys.

[kingofmyborrowedheart]

Genuinely don’t know who will be taking home AOTY at the Grammy’s.

[404-found]

I Have Hidden Your Word in My Heart

The very fact that God has inspired His Word and preserved it through the centuries implies that He desires for it to be read. Why would He write a book if He did not care whether or not people read it?

Sin begins in the heart, and that’s where God looks (1 Samuel 16:7; Jeremiah 17:10; Romans 8:27). If we are not reading the Bible because we aren’t interested in what God has said, we are guilty of apathy. If we are not reading the Bible because we think we don’t need to, we are guilty of pride. If we are not reading the Bible because we can’t find the time or we don’t consider it important, we are guilty of having wrong priorities. Jesus said, “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33, ESV). Jesus also said, “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12:48). God expects us to invest our time, resources, passions, and service in that which has eternal value. Those who have God’s Word at their fingertips will answer to Him for what they did with that high privilege.

In Psalm 119, which is all about God’s Word, the psalmist “learns,” “considers,” “keeps,” “proclaims,” and “meditates on” the Word of God (Psalm 119:6–8, 13, 15). All of these actions presume a reading of the Bible. Not just a reading, but a deep desire to know God’s Word, apply it to life, and share it with others.

“I have hidden your word in my heart that I not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11). Reading the Bible contributes to spiritual growth (1 Peter 2:2).

“The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). We all need the scrutiny God’s Word brings to our lives. We need to be reading the Bible.

Christians have a responsibility to know the Word of God so that they can rightly explain it to the world. First Peter 3:15 commands us to always be ready to give an answer about the hope we have in Christ. Unbelievers have questions. When they encounter a Christian who does not know his or her Bible, it can appear that there are no answers, and this is a disservice to those with questions.

[awideplace]

Christmas gift ideas I recommend for a variety of ages:

❈ ◦••◦ ❈ ◦••◦ ❈ ◦••◦ ❈

i.

AnchoredNorthwest Candles $18.71 each; my personal favorite scents are Christmas Cottage, Fall Harvest, Boyfriend, Bookworm, Cabin Fever, and Lumberjack. Link here.

ii.

Ski Scene Paint by Numbers Canvas Art Kit - Hearth & Hand ($24.99 each). Link here.

iii.

Hinds' Feet on High Places: An Engaging Visual Journey (Visual Journey Series) Paperback – Illustrated ($13.59). Recommended for teenagers up to older adults; it is an allegorical Christian book even though it looks like a children's book for this edition. Link here.

iv.

Hudson Grace Moss Green Piano Stripe hand towels, set of 2 ($25.00). Link here.

v.

Garlic baker to make roasted garlic in the oven ($14.87). Link here.

vi.

Cambridge ESV Pitt Minion Reference Bible, Brown Goatskin ($109). This is my personal Bible I use. Link here.

vii.

Slingshot with felt balls ($15.50). Link here.

❈ ◦••◦ ❈ ◦••◦ ❈ ◦••◦ ❈

And one of my favorite gift ideas whether for a family member, close friend, etc. is simply time together over an activity, such as:

❈ Dinner at a nice, cozy place (think little local Italian restaurant)

❈ Doing a pottery class together and making each other tea/coffee mugs

❈ An overnight trip somewhere that's within 5 hours of driving time to make it feel like a quick little trip away

❈ Sending someone flowers or a green plant, always

[tamedgod]

thinking about how xiao's body becomes permanently visibly stained by his divinity over time, and how it affects his mental. the more xiao uses his abilities, the more they evolve. over time his control over death starts tying him to the afterlife, where he becomes able to hear and later see the dead. as these changes develop, a sort of sooty black coloring starts spreading from the tips of his fingers throughout his body. it's a slow spread, up his arms and to his chest, and looks necrotic in many facets, and it really shifts things for him.

xiao is very proud of his looks and physique, almost to the point of vanity. it is also important that he looks good in order to improve his influence over others (the psychological aspect of trusting someone who is attractive over someone who is not). so when the stainage starts to spread, he sort of... becomes self conscious about how he looks for the first time in his life. he wears gloves to cover his hands and begins wearing more sleeved clothing as the stains crawl up his arms. when haru sees them for the first time he feels ashamed and upset, because why would someone like that? it gives him this weird dysmorphia that he has no real coping mechanisms against, and so it is pretty tough on his mental state. this does translate over to other verses where this issue affects him, too (mha, spn, esv).

just some thoughts rattling in my head. maybe i'll draw something soft between haru and xiao in regards to this later. i don't draw them soft nearly enough.