#Season of Giving

[geezerwench]

[penmanshipeb]

"If you can't beat them, join them."

In Numbers 22, Balak, the king of Moab, saw the Children of Israel and was afraid of them, so he sent to fetch Balaam to curse them. Balaam said he would check with the LORD first. The LORD told him No, don't go with them. This happened more, because king Balak was serious and the prophet desired the king's pay for doing this deed, and so, the LORD said if you go with them, only say what I give you to say. He went the following morning. The ass he rode spared his life and God gave the ass the ability to open his mouth and say words to him, yet the prophet made his way to Balak. He ended blessing the children of Israel three times instead of cursing them because that was all the LORD spoke through him . . . Balak was mad and upset. He was upset with Balaam the prophet. So, Balaam, in his greed, counseled the king of Moab towards his goal of dismantling the threat of the children of Israel. He advised that he should cause self-sabotage through causing the children of Israel to worship their gods and such. This would make the LORD's anger kindle against them to destroy them (Numbers 22-25). Balaam got his prize.

This very same act occured in the Church during the time of the Roman Empire under the emperor Constantine's reign, and is yet ongoing, occurring today. It takes a sense of history to know and follow God's word and promises adequately. The messages to the Churches in Revelation address this history, because it is for "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches."

During the time of emperor Constantine, there was a union of church and state. There became an infiltration of the world into the Church. Paganism became transformed into "Christian" customs and traditions. Satan said since killing them in the Coliseum wasn't getting it, let me change strategy. A feast/festival for a day called Saturnalia or Yule to some in paganism became recognized and celebrated as the birth and celebration of the Christian deity instead. Its customs became adopted into the Christian faith. No big deal to man but to God, spiritually, it is. Christ speaks about this worldly conquest of the Church saying this:

[13] “I know your works, and where you dwell, where Satan’s throne is. And you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. [14] But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. - Revelation 2:13-14

False teachers will teach that this observation is just a part of one's conviction . . . Meaning, it is your prerogative to do as you will here . . . All is pleasing to God. Don't allow these false preachers and teachers as Balaam, who have the word of God or the calling of God on their lives to preach the Word, to steer you to being rejected by God . . . God finishes to this people, saying, "REPENT, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth. [17] “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches" (Revelation 2:16-17). Many pastors, bishops walk in blindness, no different than the world. "IF THE BLIND LEAD THE BLIND BOTH SHALL FALL IN THE DITCH." Many pastors, elders, teachers, prophets, evangelists, or people of God in general are covetous just as Balaam, unwilling to shine light on Truth or be for Truth.

📜 Therefore “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.” [18] “I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty.” - II Corinthians 6:17-18

[navybrat817]

Is Bucky going to see Sweet Pea and her mom for Christmas if they celebrate? 🥺

He saw them, nonnie! Love and thanks for the inspiration. ❤️

[bibibusinessman]

As we are currently in the midst of the holiday season please take time to appreciate the people you love. I fully expected to have my father here with me this December but cancer had other plans. Since this is the season of giving consider donating to a cause you feel close too. Do me a favor and hug your loved ones extra tight the need time you see them. Grief hits extra hard during a time where others are spending time with their families, I hope everyone who lost someone this year is doing ok.

Happy holidays x Bibibusinessman

[ryey22]

Christmas cards

RYEY22.redbubble.com

[froopa-coopa]

"I never asked for this"

[eikaebana]

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from all of us at Eikaebana! This festive season, may your days be filled with laughter, love, and the beauty of nature. May the spirit of Christmas fill your home with warmth and happiness.

[jaydove-writes]

Today is Christmas Eve and we'll be celebrating Christmas early today because tomorrow @starlightprincess98's mom has to work. She's a nurse so it's tough for her to get every holiday and birthday off. However I'll hold off on talking about what we got and gave until tomorrow, for solidarity reasons.

[danscarf]

An Extra Gift In Preparation for Tomorrow's First Season of Giving Winner!

[lavandamichelle]

Heartwarming Christmas Quotes to Inspire the Holiday Spirit

The holiday season brings with it a feeling of warmth, joy, and togetherness, and what better way to express these feelings than through words? Christmas quotes have the magical ability to encapsulate the spirit of the season, whether they are shared in holiday cards, written on decorations, or simply used to brighten someone’s day. Here’s a collection of heartwarming Christmas quotes that will…

[navybrat817]

Hope you and hubbie had a great day Navy! The kids too 😊

This morning is better than yesterday, nonnie! I have a dentist appointment today, so I'm happy! I actually love getting my teeth cleaned.

And the kiddos keep adding things to their Christmas list. 😂 I actually told my hubby that I think the kiddos should pick gifts for kids in need in our town. It's the season of giving and I want them to remember that. ❤️

I hope you had a great day! Or have if your day is just getting started. ❤️

Love and thanks! ❤️

[fish-in-need-of-a-bicycle]

The World Central Kitchen is back go full operation in Gaza and if you donate between now and the end of the year, your donation will be matched!

[andrewjbernhard]

Bringing Holiday Cheer: Bernhard Law Firm's Toy Drive Success

This holiday season, Bernhard Law Firm came together to support a local toy drive, delivering a trunk full of hundreds of toys to children in need. Thanks so much to the Miami community and Jackson Memorial for making this happen.

[frnwhcom]

Day 4: Four Calling Birds - The Season of Giving: Charitable Acts That Warm the Heart

The holiday season is often symbolized by gifts and celebrations, but it’s also a pivotal time for charity and community outreach. In the spirit of the “Four Calling Birds” from the classic carol, which represents the call to spread the message, this article highlights four charitable organizations dedicated to different causes. Each embodies the spirit of giving and community support, inviting…

[tessaannedesigns]

♥️💚💛

[postscript-mc]

Melted Candles & Midnight Wishes

One day in, "Will you be a mean one, December?"

Don't want a spiteful Grinch nor any haunting nightmares before Christmas.

The only gift I ask for: Let me keep the spirit of holiday cheer.

Wrapped in the scent of my candles ㅡ melting into bed in my pajamas.

A two-decade-old child ㅡ I still write to Santa.

I might have been a little too inspired by Sabrina.

Naughty or nice, I know he'll never read my lists.

Yet, to the North Star, I still wish ㅡ until granted, I will persist.

'Tis the season of giving, so I'm giving in ㅡ faithfully;

Restless midnights lost in the Advent calendar ㅡ no more!

Here I am, present, open to receive what's meant for me ㅡ gratefully.

Under the tree with holly and in my jolly socks ㅡ my heart's desire galore!

ㅡ M.C.