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hunterartemis · 4 years ago

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Indian Magical School of Witchcraft and Wizardry Headcanon #1: The legends of it’s foundation

I love JKR and her magical world, but she completely ignored the South Asian region and a culture diverse as India, which could have been a great background for magical population. So I took the matters in my own hands and created some headcanons like I did previously with Mahoutokoro. Hope you will appreciate it.

The legend and the history of the school is so very overlapping that it is sometimes hard to distinguish between what is truth and what is myth. However the story goes something like this.

When the First Emperor of Aryavarta (Ancient India) Daksha was given the job to bring all earthly prosperity to the world, he was assisted by Seven Sages. These Seven Sages were the seven stars of the Great Dipper Constellations, who were called: Marichi, Atri, Angira, Pulascha, Pulaha, Kratu and Vashistha. To other Interpretation, these seven sages were called, Atri, Agasthya, Bharadvaja, Bhragu, Kashyapa, Jamdagni and Gautama. These Seven sages were wise and learned an knew many supernatural powers that governs the land of man without their common knowledge. Emperor Daksha wanted to control the seven sages and therefore made relations with them by marrying off his daughters with Bhragu, Kashyap and the sons of other sages: his demand was to have their power to his disposal only. The seven sages could do nothing, as in the Law of Dakshraj, harming or betraying the Kutumba (relatives and in-laws) were considered High Treason.

But the sages being the wise and kind men they were wanted to spread the greater knowledge of supernatural powers to the common man in order to help them understand their infinite potential. So they started to sought resources from the sages who were considered ��outcasts“ in Daksha’s rule for learning about the end of things (because Daksha wanted his kingdom to be eternal, these concepts were forbidden). One sage, named Dadhichi came to help the Saptarshi (the seven sages) and instructed them to journey southwards to the door of the Yama (the God of death). It was shocking enough for the sages, but one of the sage: Agasthya or in some other texts Marichi agreed to journey southwards. He bid his colleagues farewell and told them not to look for him and return to the capital; if their calling is true there would be a day they would meet again.

when the sages returned, they found themselves in a chaotic position. Daksha had insulted his youngest daughter and her husband in the front of the Royal Court and to protect her honour the youngest has self-immolated. The Husband of his youngest daughter was Shiva, the God of Destruction who was not worshipped or even mentioned in Daksha’s kingdom as something “unholy”. Although the sages did not mention Shiva in Daksha’s presence, but they knew that the Creation cannot last forever and to exist, it must always be destroyed and transformed. Thus when the sages could not convince Daksha to ask forgiveness from Shiva, they publicly renounced their special status and that of their being the Princes Consort and left the palace forever. Later Daksha was slain by the God of destruction Shiva in the crime of Pride and pushing his own flesh and blood to kill herself.

In the path away from the Capital, the Sage Agasthya appeared before the rest. The sages knew that it was not real Agasthya, but his astral projection. He did not speak but pointed towards the south, towards the deep forest surrounding a mountain that no human can cross. The sages understood that Agasthya had given his life to seek it. The sages, after thinking day and night, could think no other plan to reach the place, let alone establish a school there, because it was not ordinary mountain, but a Volcano. After great thinking, Bhragu, the master of Astrology came up with a plan and decided to summon Seven Celestial Planets and pray them to guide there. The Planets summoned were: Surya (sun), Soma (moon), Budha (Mercury), Shukra (venus), Mangal (Mars), Brihaspati (Jupiter) and Shani (Saturn).

The sages prayed for 14 lunar days and the Seven Celestial Planets were pleased with their dedication and each one promised one reward to the sages. The sages told them everything about their wish to build an establishment to teach sons of man about the infinite power of the universe, but they didn’t know how to go to the place Agasthya had instructed them to go.

After hearing everything the Sun said “I shall rise from the east, pure white on the blood smeared sky and my light shall point the way to the hallowed place.”

Then came Mars said “I shall follow the path of the sun and destroy every obstruction that stands on the way to put the standard of victory on the hallowed land I won in the name of the Sun��,

After Mars, the Moon said, “I shall call upon the sky, ask it to rain on the Volcano so that the lava solidified and creates ground for the building”,

after Moon Mercury said “I shall bring about such designs with my mind that no human has ever seen, A house that shall be marvelous and impenetrable to any ill-wisher”.

After Mercury, Venus says, “I shall give that design a habitable form, strengthen and beautify it with the igneous stones from this volcano”.

Then Jupiter said “Like my illusive body, I shall expand it to 1000 times greater, and bless it so that no occupant in this house ever experiences obstruction in learning and nourishment. And as the Eldest of the Planets, I name this house Vishakhtantra , a house where high magic spreads out like branches of holy banyan tree”

when all of the planets were done doing their jobs, everyone looked at the dark figure that lurked at the background, with a smirk in his lips. The sages asked why the last one, Saturn did not come forward and requested him to contribute. Smiling he said “illusive planets and sages, you are all brilliant but you have done wrong.” It evoked fear amongst the sages because Saturn, the God of Justice and Time is elemental to any establishment and angering him could be catastrophic. Bhragu asked Saturn’s pardon and asked him to correct them. Saturn smiled and said, “The mistake, illusive sages, was committed when you called us. You have forgotten that we are Navagraha (Nine Celestial Planets), not Seven. You have chose to ignore two and I know why. You fear that the North and South Node might Eclipse the Sun and Moon and chose to ignore them. But you have forgotten, they too have purposes and are deserving of contribution.”

This statement angered Sun and the Moon. The great luminaries decided to withdraw if Rahu (North node) and Ketu (South Node) joined, but Jupiter mediated amongst Saturn, Moon and Sun. Jupiter, the Eldest planet vowed to keep the mischievous side planets in check and implored Saturn to return. Saturn then called upon Rahu and Ketu, and a great bodiless head appeared through a storm.

Jupiter came forward and addressed Rahu and said “This hallowed house shall be the home of instruction, of sacred knowledge. We the planets and sages have summoned you to contribute and correct the unjust. Are you willing to help us?” Rahu being the cunning demon that he is, said “yes, upon one condition. I want the highest place amongst all. I am a headless body and my wishes are infinite. It is the only way I would help you all.”

Saturn knew this would happen, he smiled and said “it shall happen” to everyone’s great dismay. It hurt Sun’s pride greatly but knowing Saturn, no one could protest. Jupiter and Saturn then turned to the great headless snake that coiled the entire mountain. When Jupiter addressed it, it said “Greetings my elders, I am glad that my other body, Rahu had his position acquired. But I am most perplexed because I could feel all the pains of creatures, demonic and divine who have been displaced for the creation of this place. Their souls will not leave the place in peace.”

Saturn came forward and asked him, “oh headless body, the giver of results of past life, lord of the isolated, reside as the Vastu Naga and the Bhitti (Foundation) of the hallowed place. Upon your great coil shall the institution stand and the lives lost shall receive the result for their sacrifice.”

With the Ketu entering underground, the head of Rahu had to choice but to reside exactly at the opposite side of his other body. Saturn grabbed Rahu by the hair and said “Sun the the highest light, Jupiter is the Highest Wisdom and none in the universe, not even me can exceed their position in the universe. So reside at your highest place, on the topmost towering peak of this place. I forcibly command you so that you can eclipse every form of mal-spirit and power from above.”

With that done, Saturn returned to the final place and said “and I, Lord of limitation, time and justice, mark the boundary of this place and veil it with the Tamas, so it could be hidden from the common eye.”

The sages were eclectic after the creation. The eldest, Atri said, “heavenly presences, you are the influences that govern the actions, fates and deeds of the world, would you be so kind to reside in this place as guiding principles so that we the Acharya (teachers) and the shishya (pupils) shall prosper in their ways.” Saturn called upon the sages: “so it shall be Illusive sages but do not disregard the shadow planets, Rahu and Ketu, who represent the base and the peak of the house also have the right to represent: I deliver the choice to you.”

“Very well“, said Bhragu, master of Astrology: “Since the shadow planets are unstable on their own, I assign them to the Two Intellectuals: The Head Rahu with Mercury, and the Tail Ketu with Jupiter.“

Thus formed the Seven Sacred Houses of Sapta Kula of Vishakhtantra.

Uttarashada (Sun), Anantasoumya (Moon), Punarvasu (Jupiter and Ketu), Bhadrapada (Saturn), Yajurmitra (Venus), Ksharagam (Mars) Rahavyasa (Mercury and Rahu)

#harry potter #harry potter headcanon #indian harry potter #11magicalschools #hpheadcanons #indian wizards #indian potterheads #astrology #india deserves it's own magical school

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mrlnsfrt · 7 years ago

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God With Us - Part 3

For the sake of perspective, I would like to begin this post quoting from John 1.

John 1

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend [or overcome] it.

...

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, “This was He of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.’”

And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.

John 1:1-5; 14-18 NKJV

The birth of Jesus as a human baby demonstrates infinite humility on the part of God. Jesus living and walking among us was the ultimate revelation of who God is. All the laws and lessons and stories and nuances of the character of God revealed in human form.

God With Us

This is our third post of our "God With Us" series. We have seen God’s desire to be with us revealed clearly on the seventh day of creation. (blog post here) We discussed the practical impact that “God with us” should have in our lives as we looked at the story of the crossing of the Red Sea. (blog post here) And on this post we will try to better grasp what the birth of Jesus means. What it teaches us about God and what it means to us today.

There is a book on the life of Jesus entitle "The Desire of Ages" and it open with the following words,

"His name shall be called Immanuel, . . . God with us." "The light of the knowledge of the glory of God" is seen "in the face of Jesus Christ." From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was "the image of God," the image of His greatness and majesty, "the outshining of His glory." It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world. To this sin-darkened earth He came to reveal the light of God's love,--to be "God with us." Therefore it was prophesied of Him, "His name shall be called Immanuel." (Desire of Ages 19)

Jesus, Creator among His creation

As we look at the world, we can’t help but be amazed by it all. The world amazes us by its size, how tall trees and mountains can be, how deep the caves and the ocean floor can be, the mysteries that our planet holds from massive weather patterns to the smallest insects, snowflakes, and single-celled organism. There is just so much wonder, in our world. That’s not counting what exists outside our world, the sun, moon and stars and the expanse of the universe. We can spend eternity studying and learning about all that exists around us.

I mention this because it helps frame a better understanding of Colossians 1:15-20, where speaking about Jesus Paul writes

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross.

Marveling at creation helps us better grasp what it meant for the Creator to decide to be born among us.

Do you realize the full extent of this!? I have been reading this passage for years, and it still amazes me every time. The more I think about it, the more it escapes the grasp of my mind.

The entirety of reality consists in Jesus.

All the things that boggle our mind exist because of Him. Jesus created, Jesus maintains, Jesus understands.

This same Jesus, set His infinite power and glory aside to walk among us.

To be born in a stable.

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2: 5-11 (NKJV)

Humility and Service

Here we have one of the core messages of the incarnation, God’s humility. God is willing to humble himself in order to teach and save us. God loves us that much!

“But turning from all lesser representations, we behold God in Jesus. Looking unto Jesus we see that it is the glory of our God to give. "I do nothing of Myself," said Christ; "the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father." "I seek not Mine own glory," but the glory of Him that sent Me. John 8:28; 6:57; 8:50; 7:18. In these words is set forth the great principle which is the law of life for the universe. All things Christ received from God, but He took to give. So in the heavenly courts, in His ministry for all created beings: through the beloved Son, the Father's life flows out to all; through the Son it returns, in praise and joyous service, a tide of love, to the great Source of all. And thus through Christ the circuit of beneficence is complete, representing the character of the great Giver, the law of life.”

Desire of Ages p21.

Stark Contrast

Now notice the contrast we see regarding Satan found in Isaiah 14.

“How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! For you have said in your heart: ‘I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation On the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.’ Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, To the lowest depths of the Pit.

Isaiah 14:12-15

Lucifer is the opposite, and so is the root of all sin, placing ourselves above God. Lucifer wanted to be God and he tempts us in similar ways. Lucifer tries to portray God as keeping good things things from us (discussed further here), while God reveals Himself as the giver of all good things, including His only Son.

It is not coincidence that the first commandment deals with worshiping other gods. We tend to think about this as bowing before an image so we think we are not guilty of it. But whenever anything outranks God in our lives, we just broke the first commandment.

We may not bow down to statues, but do we place ourselves above God? Our desires, our feelings, our possessions, our relationships, our work, our love of comfort, etc?

Jesus our example

Imagine, the creator God. Who sustains all of reality, being born as a baby, in a stable. I try to imagine the smell, the flies, the discomfort. Jesus experienced being a refugee, hunger, being misunderstood, he had people plotting behind His back, twisting His words. Jesus only did good and yet, was hated, persecuted, and killed.

Have you ever tried to help someone, done your best, sacrificed, only to have them turn around and offend you and attack you?

Jesus knows what that is like.

Jesus came and went through all that because He really wanted us to understand that God loves us, and to offer us salvation, eternal life.

There is a story of a man who had a flock of geese land on his property. He went out and threw some corn for them and watched them for a while. He enjoyed their temporary company as they headed south for the winter.

That night however, a snowstorm blew in unexpectedly. The temperature dropped, the wind picked up, and it got really nasty outside. Inside the safety and comfort of his warm house the man thought of the geese, grabbed his heaviest coat and and ran outside to see what he could do.

Outside he saw the barn and decided to open its doors. Inside there was no heater but at least the birds would be protected from the wind and snow.

The problem was, the geese were not going in. The man opened the door, the turned on the light, but the geese were all outside. He tried throwing food, but in the midst of all the wind and snow they didn’t see it, or didn’t care. The man then tried to herd them in, but they refused, they kept going around him and running in every direction except into the barn.

Frustrated the man wished he could communicate with the geese. If only he could explain that he wanted to help, that he was a friend, that they did not have to be afraid of him. If he could only become a goose and guide them into the barn.

Conclusion

The illustration is not perfect, but I think you get the idea. Throughout the Bible God can never show up to someone without having to say “Don’t be afraid.”

But Jesus could have children sit on His lap without being afraid. Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners.

Jesus gave up so much, everything, for us.

Is it too much for us to give ourselves to Him?

Is it too much to give up that which we cannot keep to gain the which we cannot lose?

Today, this week, this Christmas, despite all the distractions, can you take time to ponder what God has done for you?

Can you make room in your heart for Him?

Do not harden your heart. Invite Jesus in, and let Him change you. Trust Him, He knows what is best and He loves you more than you could ever imagine.

Invite Jesus in, give Him your heart.

And as we give our hearts to Him, let us be more like him, willing to give for the benefits of others.

And I am not talking about money. Money is easy to give and think of yourself as a good person.

This holiday season, I want you to give your time, your attention and your affection. Maybe even money as necessary, but monetary gifts flow naturally, they follow the heart.

Give time to a child, play with her. Give attention to a teenager, listen to him, without judgment. Give time to a parent or grandparent, listen to their stories. Turn off the TV, put away the phone, and give of yourself. Do something together, be present with loved ones.

Ask God to show you someone that you can give love, time, and attention to. And do it intentionally, do it desiring the best for the other, do it to be a blessing in their life.

I challenge you to give yourself, to give love, inspired by that Jesus gave. We can never match Jesus’ gift and we don’t have to. We just need to be willing to give what we have, according to His will, in order to be a blessing in the life of someone else.

#Jesus #Christmas

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aquariusinterpreter-blog · 8 years ago

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Libra female: The Charm

Principle: With the 7th zodiacal principle, the dissonance of Virgo gies way to the consonance of Libra and its Apollonian precepts of order, reason, and beauty. Design replaces mere function and societal rules are imposed on freeform nature.Libra woman stands for equality within the male-Apollonian vision of civilization, standing firm in her ideals, representing feminine authority in the world. Her mottoes "I balance" and "We are" expresses her need to stand up and be counted. Planetary symbol: The glyph of Venus-circle of spirit above cross of matter-represents the divine mind. Called the mirror of Aphrodite, it reflects Libra's image of righteousness, lending new meaning to the phrase "fairest of them all." Viewed also as a wand, it portrays Libra's ability to cast her designs onto the world, urging others to examine their own principles. Sign Quadrant: The zodiacal quadrants correspond to metaphysical planes of being - physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. The Third Quadrant is that of mental perception, particularly as it relates to existence. For Libra woman, importance lies on the abstract level of conscious thought and the projection of principled thought-forms onto society. Venus' subjective beautifying power is mentally objectified into such lovely concepts as justice, art, and social order. Sign glyph: The Libran emblem suggests balance between day and night, summer and winter-the autumnal equinox ushers in the sign of Libra. Libra is the only sign with an inanimate symbol. The Scales represent equality in the sexes. Astraea, The Lady of the Scales, was goddess of justice and karmic law. Libra women inspire similar respect as "symbols" of good. She is emblematic, especially to men, who view her as a pendant alternatively meaning counterpart and ornamental trinkey. Element+Quality: The air element connotes mental and social experience. The cardinal equality signifies a call to action and initiative. Together the cardinal-air combination particular to Libra is best illustrated as light in all its symbolic forms; the visible world, reality, "goodness," order, truth, and illumination. Polarity: Females in masculine (fire, air) are not aligned with the gender polarity of their sign and thus enact instead of embody the quality-element combination of the sign. Libra woman seeks to cast light (cardinal-air) in her establishment of myriad thought-forms and high ideals. As the zodiac's illuminating counselor, Libra champions the causes of her intimates, with whom she seeks to share a higher "courtly" love. Sign Number: 7 The number of divine order in the universe: Light is made of seven hues; diatonic scales in music are made of seven notes; as model for the week, the world was created in seven days. There are seven virtues, seven deadly sins, seven pillars of wisdom, seven sacraments, seven heavens. The Seven Sisters, also known as the Pleiades in Greek mythology, were daughters of Aphrodite-Venus, goddesses of justice and fate. Single Age Association: 42-49 The age group associated with Libra: the prime of life for women; focus is often on mothering and educating children. A pinnacle time-the peak of sexual power, as well as personal ideology. One has spellbinding sway over others; and mental power culminates. Psychology: The Libra woman often suffers from a superiority complex; she can be self-righteous, contrary, and argumentative. Fear of intimacy keeps her from committing and sees her bolting from relationships, seemingly without remorse. She is apt to be selfish and erratic, and she tends toward promiscuity as a way to prove herself passionate. Due to a highly competitive nature, she has difficulty befriending other women. Archetype+Myth: Libra personifies the high priestess, seer-sorceress, counselor-goddess archetype-psychological emanations of her patroness Aphrodite-Venus-as Fates, Muses, Graces, Gorgons, Furies, symbols of feminine power. The Furies were karmic redeemers for crimes against women- those breaking the ius naturale, or maternal law. They tormented Orestes for slaying his mother Clytemnestra, though Apollo (Libra man's archetype) acquitted him based on the imposition of patriarchal rule. The sorceress Medea/Medussa (who kills her son in a vengeful reversal of Apollo's creed), like her "aunt" Circe (circular wheel of karmic fate), are manifestations of Astarte, the morning star or Astral Venus, also called Astraea, Libra's Lady of the Scales - sovereign goddess of law.

Bible+Literature: Libra draws on the archetype of the Great Whore of Babylon, a demonization of the goddess Astarte or Ishtar, meaning "light of the world." She was lawgiver and judge. Euripide's Medea immortalized the sorceress as a righteous feminist who seeks revenge for being wronged. Muriel Spark's The Prime of Miss Jean Brokie portrays a masked goddess of fate-referring to broderie or embroidery - a weaver of others' destinies. Dickens's Estella is the stellar figure of Pip's Great Expectations. Tennessee William's Heavenly in Sweet Bird of Youth is the object of Chance's affection, hoping she'll be his lucky star, or charm.

Source: Sextrology

#libra traits #libra female #libra woman #zodiac traits

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dfroza · 3 years ago

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A baptism inside & out

being washed by Spirit and water is how the message of believing in Light began to spread as a living and pure seed throughout beautiful earth.

not as something forced upon people, but to be willingly chosen. and we have it documented (and conserved) as words for people to choose a book that reveals our Creator’s sacred Heart.

and we have to see that lies destroyed the world, and only spiritual truth sets us free. this is why it is absolutely impossible for Love to lie.

Today’s reading of the Scriptures from the New Testament is the 11th chapter of the book of Acts:

By the time Peter and his friends from Joppa returned to Jerusalem, news about outsiders accepting God’s message had already spread to the Lord’s emissaries and believers there. Some of the circumcised believers didn’t welcome Peter with joy, but with criticism.

Circumcised Believers: Why did you violate divine law by associating with outsiders and sitting at the table with them for a meal? This is an outrage!

Peter patiently told them what had happened, laying out in detail the whole story.

Peter: I was in Joppa, I was praying, and I fell into a trance. In my vision, something like a huge sheet descended from the sky as if it were being lowered by its four corners. It landed right in front of me. It was full of all kinds of four-footed creatures that we would call unclean—I could identify mammals, snakes, lizards, and birds. Then I heard a voice say, “Get up, Peter! Kill these creatures and eat them!” Of course, I replied, “No way, Lord! Not a single bite of forbidden, nonkosher food has ever touched my lips.” But then the voice spoke from heaven a second time: “If God makes something clean, you must not call it dirty or forbidden.” This whole drama was repeated three times, and then it was all pulled back up into the sky.

At that very second, three men arrived at the house where I was staying. They had come to me from Caesarea. The Holy Spirit told me I should go with them, that I shouldn’t make any distinction between them as Gentiles and us as Jews. These six brothers from Joppa came with me; and yes, we entered the man’s home even though he was an outsider.

The outsider told us the story of how he had seen a heavenly messenger standing in his house who said, “Send to Joppa and bring back Simon, also called Peter, and he will give you a message that will rescue both you and your household.” Then I began to speak; and as I did, the Holy Spirit fell upon them—it was exactly as it had been with us at the beginning. Then I remembered what Jesus had said to us: “John ritually cleansed people with water through baptism, but you will be washed with the Holy Spirit.” So, if God gave them the same gift we were given when we believed in the Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, who was I to stand in God’s way?

There was no argument, only silence.

Circumcised Believers: Well then, we must conclude that God has given to the outsiders the opportunity to rethink their lives, turn to God, and gain a new life.

The believers who were scattered from Judea because of the persecution following Stephen’s stoning kept moving out, reaching Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch. Until this time, they had only shared their message with Jews. Then some men from Cyprus and Cyrene who had become believers came to Antioch, and they began sharing the message of the Lord Jesus with some Greek converts to Judaism. The Lord was at work through them, and a large number of these Greeks became believers and turned to the Lord Jesus.

Word of this new development came to the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch to investigate. He arrived and saw God’s grace in action there, so he rejoiced and urged them to remain faithful to the Lord, to maintain an enduring, unshakable devotion. This Barnabas truly was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit, full of faith. A very large number of people were brought to the Lord.

Barnabas soon was off again—now to Tarsus to look for Saul. He found Saul and brought him back to Antioch. The two of them spent an entire year there, meeting with the church and teaching huge numbers of people. It was there, in Antioch, where the term “Christian” was first used to identify disciples of Jesus.

During that year, some prophets came north from Jerusalem to Antioch. A prophet named Agabus stood in a meeting and made a prediction by the Holy Spirit: there would be an expansive, terrible famine in the whole region during the reign of Claudius. In anticipation of the famine, the disciples determined to give an amount proportionate to their financial ability and create a relief fund for all the believers in Judea. They sent Barnabas and Saul to carry this fund to the elders in Jerusalem.

The Book of Acts, Chapter 11 (The Voice)

A link to my personal reading of the Scriptures for Thursday, june 10 of 2021 with a paired chapter from each Testament of the Bible along with Today’s Proverbs and Psalms

A set of posts by John Parsons about morality and being connected to the True Source of Life which includes guarding the space of the heart:

The various moral rules of Torah (i.e., mishpatim: משׁפטים) may be likened to guideposts along the way, warning us about dangers up ahead. And just as a physical law like gravity describes material reality, so moral law describes spiritual reality. We can no more deny moral reality than we can deny physical reality, though the effect of violating moral truth is often not physical but spiritual - affecting our inner life, our conscience, our sense of value, our relationships, and so on. In either case, however, reality is self-correcting, and we shall deny its substance at our own peril...

Laws of any kind are generalizations, of course. In science, for instance, we inductively sample phenomena and then universalize that experience as a law applicable in all similarly controlled conditions, until proven otherwise. In the case of moral reality, we may have revealed and intuitive awareness of value, but we still must wrestle to discover how to apply such truth to practical matters of our lives. For example, a moral rule is to always “speak truth,” but in some cases this rule can be “broken” for the sake of a more important truth. For instance, the law of truth-telling may be suspended if we were hiding Jews in our attic and the Nazis asked if we were doing so. Moral and social rules speak to our need for boundaries, for sacred space, safety, and provide means to show respect to one another. That’s the “spirit of the law” (רוח התורה) the deeper reason for its expression. The “role of the rule” is to promote and upbuild life; a righteous rule helps us discern how to limit and redirect our impulses to express godly character. We are therefore to “walk in them,” that is, to live in accord with them and to apply their principles in our daily lives. As is also written in our Scriptures: "You shall therefore keep my statutes and my rules; if a person does them, he shall live by them: I AM the LORD" (Lev. 18:5). [Hebrew for Christians]

Yeshua taught us: “If anyone does not live in Me, he is cast off as a branch, and withers...” (John 15:6). We find life only as we remain connected to the Source and Conduit of life, who is the Messiah, the Savior and LORD. True life grows out a heart connection with Yeshua, and without that connection our lives become vain and yield no eternal significance (John 15:5). Be forewarned: it is the sacred truth of the Messiah that if you do not live in the Vine you will be suffer eternal loss, since life is found in no other Source (John 14:6; Luke 3:9). Be encouraged, however: The yoke of Messiah is easy, and His burden is light: we cannot create new life by our own best efforts nor effect regeneration by means of our own “good works” (John 1:3; Titus 3:5; 2 Tim. 1:9). No, the work of salvation is God’s alone, and we partake of that work as we abandon our self-efforts and religious conceits (see Isa. 32:17). There remains, therefore, a Sabbath for the people of God, “for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his” (Heb. 4:9-10). This “deep Sabbath” of rest is a matter of trusting that the finished work of salvation has been provided on your behalf. Therefore relax, for the LORD always effects what is best for you, and not much is under your control anyway. The path of peace is to surrender to God’s care for your life and let the evils and drama of this world flow past you. Look to heavenly reality and not to the shadows and deceits of this world (Col. 3:1-4). Live in Yeshua’s Presence, drawing strength and vitality from your relationship with Him. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is produced as we yield ourselves to the love and presence of God.

The “Torah of the Vine” (תּוֹרַת הַּגֶּפֶּן) also teaches us that “every branch that bears fruit will be pruned so that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:2). Note first that it is the healthy branch that will be cut back - not the withered one that will be altogether removed – and this purging process may be painful at times. The heavenly Vinedresser’s goal is for the fruitful branch to yield more fruit, to reveal more and more the connection to the Heart of the Vine, so that God is glorified (see John 15:8). The end here is the beatific vision: "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God" (Matt. 5:8). Note that the Greek word translated "pure" is katharos (καθαρός), sometimes used describe the cleansing of a wound (catharsis), or to describe the unalloyed quality of a substance revealed through refining fire. Sanctification involves “catharsis” of the ego – the exile of carnal desire, the mortification of our will, the release of truth in the inward parts. A faith that thinks God will make us immune to suffering, challenges, and tribulation is immature and imperfect. The goal of “purging” is fruitfulness and blessing, but the agency is not the will of man but the power of God. You are made “clean” through the word of God spoken within your own heart (John 15:3). Your sanctification, however, depends on your communion with God, staying connected to what is real, central, vital, the core truth of God’s Presence and love, the ultimate Reality of Life itself.

“If anyone does not live in Me, he is cast off and withers....” Yeshua here teaches that shared life is the goal of our relationship with him, but if that does not occur, destructive consequences follow. This has been called the “dark side” of God by some, by which they mean that God will destroy everything in us that is not fit to exist and that does not yield true blessedness (Luke 3:9). Of course this "destruction" (or correction) is really a great blessing, since it purges us from worthlessness that brings pain, disease, and sorrow (this in distinction to the devil, who seeks to destroy what is healthy and good). The upshot here is that we must carefully attend to our inner life and our connection with God, understanding that to be the utmost good for our lives, seeking God’s Presence in all our ways. Therefore we read, “Above all else guard your heart, for from it flow the springs of life” (Prov. 4:23). [Hebrew for Christians]

6.9.21 • Facebook

An email message from Glenn Jackson:

June 10th

* Christianity is not a religion; it is a family, a Father and His children. It differs from all the religions in the world in this respect,

...."The Father of the righteous will greatly rejoice".... Proverbs 23:24 NASB

Today’s message (Days of Praise) from the Institute for Creation Research

June 10, 2021

Esteem Others

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves.” (Philippians 2:3)

In this verse, Paul challenged us to refrain from any “strife” or “vainglory”—words that seem a bit stern in the colloquial terms of our day.

Eritheia is the Greek word for “strife”—a contentious political maneuvering for greater power. “Vainglory” is similar. It comes from the Greek word kenodoxia, an empty pride or groundless glory. Both are rather unpleasant descriptions of the foolish and sinful human behavior that is seen all too often among God’s people: “Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another” (Galatians 5:26).

On the contrary, we are challenged to “esteem” the others in our fellowship as “better than” ourselves. The precise words in this instruction insist that we are to use deliberate and careful judgment in our evaluation of others in our relationships as being more “excellent” than what we have thought of ourselves.

Now, that goes against most of what we have been taught in our Western educational systems. Self-esteem is de rigueur in our schools, songs, movies, and television programs. In fact, “positive thinking” and “prosperity thinking” are very little more than self-esteem dressed up in religious terms.

In the biblical “body” analogy, we are told that “those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour...having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked” (1 Corinthians 12:23-24).

God thinks differently. We are told to think of each other like God thinks. HMM III

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wutbju · 4 years ago

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This Texas-Based Christian Voters Guide should really be named “Christian” “Voters” “Guide.” The hermeneutic gymnastics that they use to justify supporting Donald Trump is astounding. Which “argument” is your favorite?

Abortion

The Bible condemns murder as a characteristic of wicked society (Deuteronomy 5:17; Isaiah 1:21; Hosea 4:2; Matthew 5:21). “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5).

Illegal Immigration

Romans 13:1–7 makes it abundantly clear that God expects us to obey the laws of the government. The only exception to this is when a law of the government forces us to disobey a command of God (Acts 5:29). Illegal immigration is the breaking of a government’s law. There is nothing in Scripture that contradicts the idea of a sovereign nation having immigration laws. Therefore, it is rebellion against God to unlawfully enter another country. Illegal immigration is a sin.

Global Governance (New World Order)

The Bible makes it very clear that all things associated with this life on earth with its sufferings, its decay, its discontent, and death will continue with this physical life (2 Corinthians 4:16; Hebrews 9:27). It is also clear that all these things are completely unknown in the heavenly city (Revelation 21:3-7 and Revelation 22). They will be done away with. YES, hope is needed. But it is the hope of heaven we need, not the false hope of a New World Order. The one hope for all believers lies only in heaven (John 14:1-4). It is not here on this earth.

There are more genders than Male & Female

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27).

Marriage can be between same genders

According to the Bible, marriage is ordained by God to be between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:21-24; Matthew 19:4-6). Gay marriage/same-sex marriage is a perversion of the institution of marriage and an offense to the God who created marriage.

Man is the creator of all Moral and Legal Standards

God has set in place certain standards, and it is sin to break those standards. Psalm 24:1 testifies to God’s authority: “The earth is the LORD’s, and all it contains; the world, and those who dwell in it.” He set the absolutes of our morality in His Word: “You shall therefore obey the LORD your God, and do His commandments and His statutes which I command you today” (Deuteronomy 27:10). The divine command theory of moral absolutism comes the closest to what the Bible teaches.

Religious Liberty

The foundations for the democratic ideal of religious liberty have their roots in the Bible. God Himself extends a “freedom of religion” to people, and the Bible has several examples of God giving men the freedom to choose or to reject Him (e.g., Luke 18:18–25).

Gun Control

The Bible was written long before the invention of any type of gun, so the phrase “gun control” will not be found in Scripture. However, the Bible records many accounts of wars, battles, and the use of weapons. Warfare is presented as an inevitable part of living in a fallen world (Mark 13:7; James 4:1), and weaponry is a necessary part of warfare. Weapons in the Bible were also used for personal protection. In some parts of Israel, robbers were common (see Luke 10:30), and many people carried weapons when they traveled. Carrying a weapon for self-defense is never condemned in the Bible. In fact, it was mentioned in a positive light by Jesus Himself on one occasion (Luke 22:35-38).

Decriminalizing “Street Drugs”

To begin with, Christians are under a universal mandate to respect and obey the laws of the land (Ecclesiastes 8:2-5; Matthew 22:21; 23:2-3; Romans 13:1-7; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13-17). The ONLY instance in which we are allowed to disobey the laws of the land is when the laws violate any divine imperatives (Daniel 3 and 6; Acts 5:29). There are no other exceptions to this rule. Contrary to popular belief, simply disagreeing with a law does not constitute a license for breaking that law.

Support of Israel

From the biblical declarations of God’s love and care for His chosen people, the nation of Israel, and from the history of nations being destroyed because of their evil dealings with God’s chosen people, the Jews, Christian believers should give support to the chosen people of God. This is not to say that we support necessarily the methods they use in their relationships with the Arab nations. The Bible warned that conflict would always characterize the relations between the descendants of Isaac and Ishmael. Sadly, this conflict will continue until Jesus comes back to judge the nations and sets up His 1,000-year reign of peace on earth. We must look at the "big picture” with a biblical worldview. While we do not have to support everything Israel does as a nation, we most definitely should support Israel’s right to exist. God will fulfill His promises and covenants with Israel. God still has a plan for Israel. Woe to anyone who seeks to defeat that plan; “whoever curses you I will curse” (Genesis 12:3).

Rioting

Rioting is a form of lawlessness, which the Bible condemns (1 John 3:4). Even if the rioters are seeking to advance a just cause, they are going about it in a sinful way. As the city clerk of Ephesus reminded the rioters in his city, “The courts are open and there are proconsuls. . . . If there is anything further you want to bring up, it must be settled in a legal assembly” (Acts 19:38–39).

Socialism (Including Socialized Medicine)

Socialism, for all its popularity in some circles, is not a biblical model for society. In opposition to socialism, the Bible promotes the idea of private property and issues commands to respect it: commands such as “You shall not steal” (Deuteronomy 5:19) are meaningless without private property. Unlike what we see in failed experiments in socialism, the Bible honors work and teaches that individuals are responsible to support themselves: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The redistribution of wealth foundational to socialism destroys accountability and the biblical work ethic. Jesus’ parable in Matthew 25:14–30 clearly teaches our responsibility to serve God with our (private) resources.

Obeying the Law of the Land

Romans 13:1-7 states, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is NO authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold NO terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”

Prayer In Public School

First, according to Romans 13, 1 Timothy 2, and 1 Peter 2, we are to submit to and pray for all authority, including those in authority in public schools. An application of this would be to pray that we as a culture return to our Christian heritage; may the Lord bring revival to our country and the salvation of souls.

Support of Islam, and Sharia Law in USA

Allah tells Muslims to kill anyone who rejects Islam, converts to Christianity, or becomes an atheist. Jesus tells Christians to love Muslims because He wants Muslims to join Christians in heaven. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44). Christians bless those who curse them and do good to those who hate them. This is not the way of Islam. Christians should be very concerned about the spread of Islam in general and the impact of Sharia Law in particular. And we should always be alert to opportunities to witness to Muslims about the love of God through Christ Jesus.

Man can control global climate

Climate change may or may not be real, and may or may not be human-caused. What we can know for certain is that God is good and sovereign, and that Planet Earth will be our habitat for as long as God desires it to be. Psalm 46:2-3, "Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging."

Christians Must Vote, Basing their Decisions on Biblical Truths

It is our contention that it is the duty and responsibility of every Christian to vote and to vote for leaders who promote Christian principles. God is most certainly in control, but that does not mean we should do nothing to further His will. We are commanded to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-4). In terms of politics and leadership, there is evidence in Scripture that God has been displeased with our choices of leadership at times (Hosea 8:4). The evidence of sin’s grip on this world is everywhere. Much of the suffering on earth is because of godless leadership (Proverbs 28:12). Scripture gives Christians instructions to obey legitimate authority unless it contradicts the Lord’s commands (Acts 5:27-29; Romans 13:1-7). As born-again believers, we ought to strive to choose leaders who will be themselves led by our Creator (1 Samuel 12:13-25). Candidates or proposals that violate the Bible’s commands for life, family, marriage, or faith should never be supported (Proverbs 14:34). Christians should vote as led through prayer and study of both God’s Word and the realities of the choices on the ballot.

#BOb Jones University #Klandamentalism #Christian Voters Guide

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thetruthseekerway · 5 years ago

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Abdullah ibn Rawahah: A Symbol of Heavenly Justice

New Post has been published on https://www.truth-seeker.info/jewels-of-islam/abdullah-ibn-rawahah-a-symbol-of-heavenly-justice/

Abdullah ibn Rawahah: A Symbol of Heavenly Justice

By Spahic Omer

Abdullah ibn Rawahah: A Symbol of Heavenly Justice

A “Just” Companion

Abdullah ibn Rawahah was a leading companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He was from the rank of Ansar (the Helpers, or the local inhabitants of Madinah). Moreover, he was a scribe and poet. During the battle of Mu’tah in the 8th year after Hijrah against the forces of the Byzantine Empire, he was third in command. He was killed in the same battle.

After the battle of Khaybar in the 7th year after Hijrah against the renegade Jews, the Jews were defeated and an agreement was signed. According to the agreement, the Jews were allowed to remain on their lands and in their fortresses, while obliging them to pay half their agricultural yield to the Prophet’s state.

The Prophet (PBUH) then appointed Abdullah ibn Rawahah to estimate the agricultural produce of the Jews and to make sure that the taxes were duly paid, as per the agreement.

However, the Jews attempted to bribe Abdullah ibn Rawahah, most probably with the jewelry of their women, so that he would estimate the amount of their harvests less, and would generally go easy on them.

When he realized what the Jews were up to, Abdullah ibn Rawahah got upset and said to them: “By Allah! I have come to you from the one who is the dearest of all creation to me (Prophet Muhammad), and you are the most unpleasant creatures of Allah in my view (especially now after this evil attempt of yours). What you offer me is bribery, which is illegal. We never accept it.”

Then, immediately after that, he told them something unheard of: “However, (you can rest assured that) neither my excessive love for him (the Prophet), nor my excessive hatred for you will prevent me in the slightest from being just with you.”

In other words, Abdullah ibn Rawahah indicated to the Jews that his judgment will in no way be affected by his emotions, or any other internal or external factors. He was taught that justice must be relationships and emotions-blind. It must transcend the levels of human intrinsic and acquired variability. After all, justice, both as a concept and human way of life, is honorable and pure and must be preserved as such. It is divine. Only by promoting and practicing authentic justice, can humans and their societies be elevated to higher planes of meaning, proficiency, and experience.

Concept of Justice

Thus, according to the Qur’anic vocabulary and spirit, justice is always associated with piety, goodness, truth, and victory, while injustice is associated with falsehood, malice, and spiritual as well as moral darkness and bankruptcy.

Through the holy prophets, justice was presented to man as one of the greatest heavenly gifts. Man is not, and cannot be, the source of justice. God and His revelations are. Conceiving and actualizing absolute justice greatly outweigh man’s abilities. Hence, man can only be the target and conduit of divine justice. All forms of human justice are but shadows, or offshoots, of God’s justice.

When the Jews heard the words of Abdullah ibn Rawahah, they were stunned. What they just witnessed and heard was jaw-dropping stuff. People of the Book (ahl al-kitab), together with the Christians knew more about faith and virtue than others from those who did not follow the Prophet (PBUH). They were closer to the secrets of the truth-related treasures than anybody else, notwithstanding their actual relationship with the same truth.

The impact was so powerful and overwhelming that the Jews could not hide their amazement. Instantaneously, they retorted, rather intuitively: “This is the foundation upon which the heavens and earth were created (and are sustained).”

What did the Jews, in reality, hear and see, what was so spectacular about it, and what did they actually mean by their response?

The answer is twofold.

First, the Jews saw in Abdullah ibn Rawahah an embodiment of Almighty Allah’s final revelation to mankind through Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). They saw a phenomenon and realm. The last thing they saw was a biological being called Abdullah ibn Rawahah.

People As the Source of Good and Evil

As it is known, the Prophet (PBUH) aimed primarily to create or develop people (human capital). Everything else was secondary and in the service of people. The Prophet (PBUH) knew that it was people who would create and sustain or undermine and destroy, civilizations. It was people furthermore from whom all good and evil could originate, and to whom all the consequences, good or bad, were to return.

Man and his overall well-being topped the priorities. Everything was subjected to the stimulating and facilitating of the noble life mission and purpose of man. No surprise that the dignity of man in relation to his life, property and other human rights, is the holiest and most sanctified thing in Islam.

Justice is an instrument of preserving and elevating human honor and dignity. Since the latter is established by nobody else but Allah, the former, too, needs to be from the same metaphysical source. It needs to match the heavenly character of human distinctive qualities and to satisfy their delicate requirements.

The Jews witnessed in Abdullah ibn Rawahah an epitome and physical representation of this extraordinary worldview. The whole philosophy was transported from the world of abstract ideas to the world of palpable realities, and so effectively through the behavioral model of only one person.

The case of Abdullah ibn Rawahah also served as an example and evidence of the triumph of Prophet Muhammad’s entire prophet-hood mission. Apart from being his envoy, Abdullah ibn Rawahah was also a prototype of the Prophet’s above all spiritual and moral conquests.

Against the backdrop of Abdullah ibn Rawahah’s personality and conduct, one could discern the spiritual and moral deficiencies of the Jews, who stood for the antitheses of everything Abdullah ibn Rawahah exemplified. Everything that Abdullah ibn Rawahah was, the Jews were not but were supposed to be.

Second, the Jews saw in Abdullah ibn Rawahah the true meaning of justice, which is universal and all-pervading. It permeates the whole universe (the heavens and earth), cascading down to, and manifesting itself perhaps most impressively at the plane of human relationships and their daily interactions.

Balance, Measure, and Scale

What this furthermore means could be extracted from the Qur’anic chapter (surah) al-Rahman, verses 7-9.

In it, Allah firstly reveals, in verse 7, that He has raised high the firmament (the skies or heaven) and set up the measure or the balance of justice (mizan). This denotes that justice is a heavenly virtue and that the heavens have been created and are sustained on the basis of both mathematical and spiritual balance.

The word used is mizan, which means balance, measure, and scale. Thereby it is meant justice because justice is to place and keep things in their rightful places, and to allow them to function to the best of their capacities. Justice is synonymous with balance, measure, equilibrium, and perfect harmony. Yet, it is their clearest indicator. That is how the scale became a symbol of law and justice; hence, the concept of the lady of justice.

Then in verse 8, Allah says that He did what He did so that truth and justice could abound throughout His creation. The creation of the heavens set a template for man, Allah’s vicegerent on earth, putting the onus on him to comprehend, promote, sustain, and extend the same existential pattern to the spheres of not only his customary but also highest relations.

Allah says: “In order that you may not transgress due balance (mizan) (the measure of what is right and just)” (al-Rahman, 8).

It stands to reason that this is the most consequential form of what we call today sustainability and sustainable development. This principle marks the beginning and end of all authentic sustainability drives.

The same idea is further reinforced by the succeeding verse: “So establish weight with justice and fall not short in the balance (mizan)” (al-Rahman, 9).

This implies that in accordance with the heavenly mathematical and spiritual pattern, and the implications of his honorable status as the vicegerent of earth, man is bidden to be just and truthful in all his dealings and transactions: with his own self, other people, the rest of creation, and of course in his obedience to Allah’s commandments.

This is the only way for the human world to be just, balanced, harmonious, and peaceful, just as it is the case with the heavenly realm. Man is to replicate the justice, balance, and equilibrium of the heavens down on the earth.

Abdullah ibn Rawahah – like the other companions (sahabah) in their capacity as the products of the Prophet’s school and development system – was a microcosm and living example of that sophisticated paradigm. The Jews knew that and could not hide their astonishment. So, they reacted the way they did.

In passing, some examples of what Tanakh or Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament) says about total justice and the precision, balance and harmony of the world are found, for example, in: Isaiah 40:12, 51:4-5, Deuteronomy 16:20, Leviticus 19:15, Psalms 33:5.

Finally, this extraordinary Islamic view of justice is best summed up in these two Qur’anic verses: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is acquainted with what you do” (al-Ma’idah, 8).

And,

“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not (personal) inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort (your testimony) or refuse (to give it), then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, acquainted” (al-Nisa’, 135).

——–

Adapted with editorial adjustments from islamicity.org.

#Abdullah ibn Rawahah: A Symbol of Heavenly Justice #balance #Equity #Faith #Featured #Islam #Prophet Muhammad #sahabah

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frederickwiddowson · 5 years ago

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Revelation 14:1 ¶ And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. 2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: 3 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. 4 These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. 5 And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.

After the Translation or Rapture of the Saints;

These are the servants of Christ mentioned in chapter 7. Mount Sion here is a reference to the heavenly Jerusalem.

Hebrews 12:22 But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,

These 144,000 Jews were redeemed from the earth and we don’t know if that means they were translated [raptured] or martyred, although we cannot rule that out. They have a unique position in God’s plan and can sing a new song that no one but they can sing. They are male virgins, not hindered by any attachments to life. As men who have wives or women who have husbands and families have a sort of divided loyalty while, ordained by God, is not suitable for the purpose of these specific men.

There are many disturbing statements made in the Bible like this one about not being defiled by women but we must always remember that the Bible is written by men under the understanding and wisdom given to them by God, which the Bible calls given by inspiration. See 2Timothy 3:16; Job 32:8; and 2Peter 3:15 to learn that the Bible is not given by dictation but by inspiration. Therefore, you are going to read a lot of cultural phenomenon and biases, plus personal opinion in the writings. It would be inconsistent for us to take a statement and declare that something that God had ordained like the union between a man and a woman in marriage was somehow to be despised. For instance we know that religious groups that forbid lawful marriage are pushing doctrines of devils.

1Timothy 4:1 ¶ Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; 3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

Paul also wrote;

1Corinthians 7:2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

You would be well warranted to conclude that the defilement mentioned here is to point out that it is not given to these men to have families and to experience the joy of marriage. They have a certain path, a goal they must pursue and having a wife would get in the way. You and I can go back to Exodus to see a time when the union between husband and wife was to be halted for a time for a specific purpose. Read Exodus 19:15 and context.

We don’t exactly know what function these exemplary individuals performed but they are Christ’s servants who follow Him faithfully in that time.

14:6 ¶ And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, 7 Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. 8 And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. 9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. 12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

The everlasting gospel is; Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

Everyone is going to hear this. A second angel declares the fall of Babylon, the identify of we will explore more fully when we come to chapter 17. A third angel warns that anyone who takes the mark of the Beast is doomed. From reading verses 9 through 11 notice this cross reference.

Isaiah 66:22 For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain. 23 And it shall come to pass, that from one new moon to another, and from one sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the LORD. 24 And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh.

Verse 12 shows that during this time the faithful will follow God’s commandments and have faith in Jesus. This is important as one aspect of dispensationalism, the belief that it is not all the same and that God has a different plan of action for different generations of men and women.

If you believe that the entire Bible contains the same instruction for all peoples at all times then you will believe, based on this, that Christians in the time we are in must follow the commandments given to Moses. If that is the case for today then the Christian church does not belong to God as we do not follow those commandments. But in fact, Paul said;

Galatians 3:24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

So, there is a distinct difference in what is expected of the believer during the Great Tribulation and what is expected now if you believe in dispensations.

Another take on this is that Paul defined which commandments were to be diligently kept by the Christian.

Romans 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another; for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. 9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

So, this Great Tribulation and persecution even unto death requires an even more diligent adherence to the principles laid down by Christ in the popularly called Sermon on the Mount in Matthew, chapter 5. Look at these previous explanations of what is called for in the believers’ lives in this Great Tribulation.

Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

Revelation 13:10 He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.

This is a hard pill to swallow if you have a family and loved ones.

14:13 ¶ And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. 14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. 17 And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. 18 And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. 19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.

There is a special blessing for those who die after this pronouncement about those who worship the Beast and take his mark is made. One like unto Christ, is told by another angel to reap the harvest on the earth as judgment is upon them, the full force of God’s wrath. Outside of the city of Jerusalem it is said that the blood will rise to the level of horses’ bridles, about 4-5 feet in a space of 1600 furlongs which is roughly 200 miles. This can simply mean that the bloodbath cannot be imagined. This is usually associated by commentators with Armageddon coming up in 16:16 and linked to the 200 million number of the spiritual creatures in 9:16-19 and the kings of the east in 16:12. If this is true then the clearly supernatural creatures of chapter 9 mean that for every event on earth there are similar events happening in the invisible world that precede the events on earth. Or it means that the description in chapter 9 is a metaphorical description of the massive army that comes from the east to meet at Armageddon for a climactic battle that results in a huge bloodbath of unimaginable proportions. Whatever the case, the blood shows us that these events will happen in the physical world and not just the spiritual. What happens on earth is echoed in the world of the spirit.

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lightspeaker · 8 years ago

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My Stance on Abortion As Well As My Testimony Of Eternal Truth

I feel the need to state what is in my heart clearly and fully as well as I am able to do. Before, I have argued against abortion from a scientific standpoint. I feel as though that fell short. The problem is that man (as in all of mankind, both male and female) is imperfect, and thus science is imperfect, incomplete, vulnerable to agendas, biases, and the corruption of man. While there are perfectly legitimate scientific studies and evidence to support the fact that a human life starts at conception, thus condemning abortion and declaring it manslaughter if not murder. There are arguments that have been formulated by the limited wisdom of man that may or may not be logical, flawless, or complete. Because of the weaknesses and lack of complete knowledge and wisdom that humans possess, my argument would have possibly been no better than the opposing side. It seems as though people can justify anything.

Because of this, I must use more than just the scientific, man-devised evidences and opinions in my argument. And believe me, there is so much more.

I have received many evidences for the existence of a Divine Creator and of Eternal Laws that are absolute and immovable. I know with every fiber of my body that God exists, that He loves us, He sent us, His children, here to Earth to gain physical bodies, to learn and grow and work to become like Him. Before we came to this Earth, in our premortal lives, our spirits were created by God in such a way that made us His literal children. (To learn more about what has been revealed about the premortal life, search lds.org for these answers and many more, especially see https://www.lds.org/youth/article/what-we-know-about-premortal-life?lang=eng for an article about the premortal life) We learned, grew, and chose righteous paths which are all part of a great and eternal plan to become like our Heavenly Father. As part of our testing, we all chose of our own agency to come to Earth, to gain a physical body just like our Heavenly Father has. We have come to experience all things: pain and pleasure, sadness and happiness, trial and blessings. We were also sent here in families. Families are an essential part of the Great Plan that will bring us joy if we follow it.

The family is central to the Creator's plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

THE FAMILY

A PROCLAMATION TO THE WORLD

The First Presidency and Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

WE, THE FIRST PRESIDENCY and the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.

ALL HUMAN BEINGS—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose.

IN THE PREMORTAL REALM, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshipped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny as heirs of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.

THE FIRST COMMANDMENT that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.

WE DECLARE the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s eternal plan.

HUSBAND AND WIFE have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. “Children are an heritage of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.

THE FAMILY is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.

WE WARN that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.

WE CALL UPON responsible citizens and officers of government everywhere to promote those measures designed to maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society.

This proclamation was read by President Gordon B. Hinckley as part of his message at the General Relief Society Meeting held September 23, 1995, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Abortion is so serious because sons and daughters of our Holy God are being deprived of their chance to come to earth to gain these experiences. It is the murder of innocent, holy children of God who have souls and potential and wanted so badly to come to this earth.

We have been given commandments by God. If we follow them, we will not only be greatly blessed, but we will find joy. We are beings of light and cannot find true joy in sin. One of the commandments given to us by our loving Heavenly Father is a command to not kill. This has been expanded on by Jesus Christ, our Savior, who commanded further, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Thou shalt not steal; neither commit adultery, nor kill, nor do anything like unto it.”(Doctrine and Covenants 59:6)

(The Doctrine and Covenants is a book of scripture containing revelations from the Lord to the Prophet Joseph Smith and to a few other latter-day prophets. It is unique in scripture because it is not a translation of ancient documents.

Additional Information

The Doctrine and Covenants is one of four books of scripture used in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the other three are the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Pearl of Great Price).

The Lord said to the Prophet Joseph Smith, “This generation shall have my word through you” (D&C 5:10). In the Doctrine and Covenants we learn doctrines concerning the eternal nature of families, the degrees of glory awaiting men and women after this life, and the organization of Christ's Church on earth today. We also read about the covenants God makes with those who are willing to keep His commandments.

Concerning the Doctrine and Covenants, the Lord said:

“Search these commandments, for they are true and faithful, and the prophecies and promises which are in them shall all be fulfilled.

”What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same“ (D&C 1:37-38).

The Prophet Joseph Smith said that the Doctrine and Covenants is ”the foundation of the Church in these last days, and a benefit to the world, showing that the keys of the mysteries of the kingdom of our Savior are again entrusted to man“ (section heading for D&C 70).) https://www.lds.org/topics/doctrine-and-covenants?lang=eng&old=true

It doesn’t matter if it is made legal by man’s law, or is excused by people. Abortion is the murder of people, who have the desire and the right to be born and to experience this earthly experience.

Isaiah 5:20,21

20 ¶Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!

21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!

Isaiah 55:6-9

6 ¶Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

7 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.

8 ¶For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Book of Mormon: 3 Nephi 30:1-2

1 Hearken, O ye Gentiles, and hear the words of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, which he hath commanded me that I should speak concerning you, for, behold he commandeth me that I should write, saying:

2 Turn, all ye Gentiles, from your wicked ways; and repent of your evil doings, of your lyings and deceivings, and of your whoredoms, and of your secret abominations, and your idolatries, and of your murders, and your priestcrafts, and your envyings, and your strifes, and from all your wickedness and abominations, and come unto me, and be baptized in my name, that ye may receive a remission of your sins, and be filled with the Holy Ghost, that ye may be numbered with my people who are of the house of Israel.

The Articles of Faithof The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Chapter 1

1 We believe in God, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost.

2 We believe that men will be punished for their own sins, and not for Adam’s transgression.

3 We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

4 We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

5 We believe that a man must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority, to preach the Gospel and administer in the ordinances thereof.

6 We believe in the same organization that existed in the Primitive Church, namely, apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and so forth.

7 We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, and so forth.

8 We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.

9 We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.

10 We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten Tribes; that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.

11 We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may.

12 We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.

13 We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.

Part of our learning and experience here on Earth is to have agency and to learn how to use it. It is given to men to choose, but know that choices are not without consequences. Fortunately, as part of Heavenly Father’s plan, Jesus Christ, through His eternal sacrifices and atonement, has provided a way to repent of our sins and return to Him if we will humble ourselves, be obedient to the things He has commanded us to do and be, and endure to the end doing the best we can do. Though the sacrifice has been made and the way provided, that does not mean that we can do whatever we want, we have to choose to let it work in our lives.

This is my testimony concerning abortion. It is against Eternal Law, against God’s commandments, against the Great Plan of Happiness, and an act against the pure, innocent, and holy. Whether you choose to seek after this knowledge for yourself is up to you. I know these things for myself. There is forgiveness, mercy, and so much more available to those who truly seek it. Those who act without knowledge of these truths won’t necessarily be judged for doing them since they were without the truth. Yet it is so much better to know the truth. Those who seek it and find it will be greatly profited by this knowledge in this world and in the world to come. God’s plan is one of strictness and obedience, but also one and of mercy. To gain our fullest potential and to receive the highest amount of joy, it is necessary to obey God’s laws and to follow His plan. God does not want to hold us back or restrict us or make us unhappy, but to help us grow, and become so much more than we are. He wants us to have joy.

Doctrine and Covenants 64:11

11 And ye ought to say in your hearts—let God judge between me and thee, and reward thee according to thy deeds.

Book of Mormon: Alma 41:10-15

10 Do not suppose, because it has been spoken concerning restoration, that ye shall be restored from sin to happiness. Behold, I say unto you, wickedness never was happiness.

11 And now, my son, all men that are in a state of nature, or I would say, in a carnal state, are in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity; they are without God in the world, and they have gone contrary to the nature of God; therefore, they are in a state contrary to the nature of happiness.

12 And now behold, is the meaning of the word restoration to take a thing of a natural state and place it in an unnatural state, or to place it in a state opposite to its nature?

13 O, my son, this is not the case; but the meaning of the word restoration is to bring back again evil for evil, or carnal for carnal, or devilish for devilish—good for that which is good; righteous for that which is righteous; just for that which is just; merciful for that which is merciful.

14 Therefore, my son, see that you are merciful unto your brethren; deal justly, judge righteously, and do good continually; and if ye do all these things then shall ye receive your reward; yea, ye shall have mercy restored unto you again; ye shall have justice restored unto you again; ye shall have a righteous judgment restored unto you again; and ye shall have good rewarded unto you again.

15 For that which ye do send out shall return unto you again, and be restored; therefore, the word restoration more fully condemneth the sinner, and justifieth him not at all.

Book of Mormon, 2nd Nephi 9:20-42

20 O how great the holiness of our God! For he knoweth all things, and there is not anything save he knows it.

21 And he cometh into the world that he may save all men if they will hearken unto his voice; for behold, he suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creature, both men, women, and children, who belong to the family of Adam.

22 And he suffereth this that the resurrection might pass upon all men, that all might stand before him at the great and judgment day.

23 And he commandeth all men that they must repent, and be baptized in his name, having perfect faith in the Holy One of Israel, or they cannot be saved in the kingdom of God.

24 And if they will not repent and believe in his name, and be baptized in his name, and endure to the end, they must be damned; for the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has spoken it.

25 Wherefore, he has given a law; and where there is no law given there is no punishment; and where there is no punishment there is no condemnation; and where there is no condemnation the mercies of the Holy One of Israel have claim upon them, because of the atonement; for they are delivered by the power of him.

26 For the atonement satisfieth the demands of his justice upon all those who have not the law given to them, that they are delivered from that awful monster, death and hell, and the devil, and the lake of fire and brimstone, which is endless torment; and they are restored to that God who gave them breath, which is the Holy One of Israel.

27 But wo unto him that has the law given, yea, that has all the commandments of God, like unto us, and that transgresseth them, and that wasteth the days of his probation, for awful is his state!

28 O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish.

29 But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God.

30 But wo unto the rich, who are rich as to the things of the world. For because they are rich they despise the poor, and they persecute the meek, and their hearts are upon their treasures; wherefore, their treasure is their god. And behold, their treasure shall perish with them also.

31 And wo unto the deaf that will not hear; for they shall perish.

32 Wo unto the blind that will not see; for they shall perish also.

33 Wo unto the uncircumcised of heart, for a knowledge of their iniquities shall smite them at the last day.

34 Wo unto the liar, for he shall be thrust down to hell.

35 Wo unto the murderer who deliberately killeth, for he shall die.

36 Wo unto them who commit whoredoms, for they shall be thrust down to hell.

37 Yea, wo unto those that worship idols, for the devil of all devils delighteth in them.

38 And, in fine, wo unto all those who die in their sins; for they shall return to God, and behold his face, and remain in their sins.

39 O, my beloved brethren, remember the awfulness in transgressing against that Holy God, and also the awfulness of yielding to the enticings of that cunning one. Remember, to be carnally-minded is death, and to be spiritually-minded is life eternal.

40 O, my beloved brethren, give ear to my words. Remember the greatness of the Holy One of Israel. Do not say that I have spoken hard things against you; for if ye do, ye will revile against the truth; for I have spoken the words of your Maker. I know that the words of truth are hard against all uncleanness; but the righteous fear them not, for they love the truth and are not shaken.

41 O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteous. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there; and there is none other way save it be by the gate; for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name.

42 And whoso knocketh, to him will he open; and the wise, and the learned, and they that are rich, who are puffed up because of their learning, and their wisdom, and their riches—yea, they are they whom he despiseth; and save they shall cast these things away, and consider themselves fools before God, and come down in the depths of humility, he will not open unto them.

This great wickedness (abortion, as well as all other unrighteousness and sin) pains my soul. For I know the sorrow that will arise from it, and from the inevitable consequences that follow (both temporary as to this life, as well as eternal). I also know of the joy that comes from the atonement, and from the Gospel, the great plan of happiness. I long for all to know these things that they might have joy. My soul aches for all those whose lives are robbed of them before their time. My soul aches for those who do not know what they do. My soul aches exceedingly more for those who know what they do yet reject their knowledge, and for those who reject the chance to gain the knowledge when they have the opportunity. Please, here is a chance. Take it, I plead of you. I do not condemn you but seek to bring you to this great knowledge that has blessed my life. I do not hate you but do sorrow of you and for you because of your unrighteousness. May God bless you and guide you and may you find joy.

For additional info:

Lds.org

Mormon.org

Disclaimer: While I seek to be a witness of God and to spread His word and His way, I am not an official representative of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the Mormon church, the lds church) and my views don’t necessarily reflect those of the aforementioned church. Please also note that as I am still on the earth in this mortal experience, I have not yet reached perfection (which cannot be achieved in this life, although I strive my best to become as perfect as I can be), and my statements, actions, and views are not necessarily God’s ways, the truth, or perfect. I don’t profess to have knowledge of all things but am seeking after knowledge of “everything virtuous, lovely, of a good report, or praiseworthy.”

#abortion #prolife #eternal truth #truth #law #god #divine potential #divine purpose #life #happiness #gospel #my stand #stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things and in all place

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