#israel deserved 10/7 and we deserved 9/11

[87dvhnk]

in a fair world, all israeli-american dual citizens would be stripped of their american citizenship and banned from reapplying for citizenship. every single nation ought to do this with israelis (and americans as well, stripping american-x citizens of x citizenship). it's sickening to imagine the bloodthirsty cunts flooding back into this country for "sanctuary," no different from the sheltering of nazi war criminals in operatio paperclip but on a larger scale, by our equally bloodthirsty government when israel is finally torn to shreds. go down with that israel you felt you entitled to that you have the distinction of having commited the best documented genocide in history, you schizo, jewish supremacist cunts. you can't call israel, and god forbid america, pariah states if you don't do the right thing and make them real pariahs in the world. no citizenship, no visas, no trade, no aid. eat shit and die like you deserve, State and citizen.

[disgruntled-detectives]

I’ve been gaining a lot of followers lately, so here are a few things about me and what I believe in before you hit that follow button.

1: The Jewish community is my first priority here. They are my people. My community. Therefore, antisemitism of any kind is not welcome here. Am Yisrael Chai, motherfuckers.

And because far too many non-Jews have decided to be dog whistling, This includes the term “anti-Zionism.” If you are not Jewish, or someone I know personally, or I see your comments and see that you are actually educated on what Zionism actually is and what it means, any anti-Zionism comments will get you blocked.

1A: this obviously doesn’t mean you cannot criticize or speak out against the actions of the israeli government. Israel is being monstrous in its treatment of the people of Gaza. It is reprehensible, and I personally want and yearn for a two state solution. I believe that both Jews and Palestinians have a right to safety and self determination in that land. Both groups are indigenous to the land, and both have a right to be there. We can agree or disagree on how this is achieved. I am for civil, productive conversations surrounding this. However, if you are not Jewish, Palestinian, or have family or community ties to either group, then I am giving you a lot of side eye.

1B: However, this does not give you carte blanch to go after random Israeli citizens. Do you go after random Chinese citizens for what the Chinese government is doing to the Uyghurs? Do you go after random US or Canadian citizens for their government’s treatments of their Indigenous population? No. Because that’s asinine. Same goes for Israelis. People are not their government.

1C: Hamas is a terrorist organization. They are not freedom fighters. They are monstrous as well. What they did on October 7th 2023 was the single biggest Jewish massacre since the Holocaust. They need to answer for that. They need to release the hostages. Simple as that. That being said, racism or Islamophobia of any sort will get you blocked.

Okay. That out of the way…

2: Sex work is real, valid, work and it needs to be legalized, regulated and sex workers need and deserve protection and workers rights like any other worker.

3: UBI is one of the best things we can do for people.

4: People need to be creative. And not everything has to be a side hustle. People wouldn’t need a side hustle if they could survive on their wages.

5: We don’t invest nearly enough in the arts and humanities. STEM is necessary too, but humans need art. We’ve been creating since before we had language.

6: best way to end homelessness? Give them homes. The data shows again and again and again that just giving someone a home goes an enormous way to helping them get back on their feet. It helps the economy, it helps the job force and most of all, it helps them.

7: Healthcare should be free for all.

8: Abortion rights are human rights. Abortion is healthcare. Abortion access is vital and necessary.

9: while I think that children are obviously humans and deserve and need more spaces where they are welcomed and catered to, adults need adult only spaces too. Kids do not belong at wineries, bars, concerts (that aren’t geared for kids of course) and breweries.

10: you are not a temporarily embarrassed billionaire. Wealth inequality especially in America is disgusting. The rich only got that way by exploiting the poor and the working class. Your anger shouldn’t be directed at the dentist who makes 200k a year. Your anger should be directed at the billionaire who hoards so much wealth, they or their descendants could never even hope to spend it all. They could snap their fingers and end homelessness, world hunger, etc. Eat them.

11: ANYTHING anti-trans will get you insta blocked. TERFS; go eat a knife.

12: our puritanical views towards sex and sexuality does us all a huge disservice. Everyone involved is a consenting adult? Go for it. Your kink may not be my kink, but sexual freedom and liberation are everyone’s benefit.

13: Everything bagels are the best bagels.

[trustfallwithgod]

Via Steward & Son

Psalm 103 - David’s psalm of God’s Divine Goodness

1 Praise the Lord, my soul;

all my inmost being, praise his holy name.

2 Praise the Lord, my soul,

and forget not all his benefits—

3 who forgives all your sins

and heals all your diseases,

4 who redeems your life from the pit

and crowns you with love and compassion,

5 who satisfies your desires with good things

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

6 The Lord works righteousness

and justice for all the oppressed.

7 He made known his ways to Moses,

his deeds to the people of Israel:

8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious,

slow to anger, abounding in love.

9 He will not always accuse,

nor will he harbor his anger forever;

10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve

or repay us according to our iniquities.

11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,

so great is his love for those who fear him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,

so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

13 As a father has compassion on his children,

so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;

14 for he knows how we are formed,

he remembers that we are dust.

15 The life of mortals is like grass,

they flourish like a flower of the field;

16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,

and its place remembers it no more.

17 But from everlasting to everlasting

the Lord’s love is with those who fear him,

and his righteousness with their children’s children—

18 with those who keep his covenant

and remember to obey his precepts.

19 The Lord has established his throne in heaven,

and his kingdom rules over all.

20 Praise the Lord, you his angels,

you mighty ones who do his bidding,

who obey his word.

21 Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts,

you his servants who do his will.

22 Praise the Lord, all his works

everywhere in his dominion.

Praise the Lord, my soul.

[lea-labryssal]

List of countries that deserve no representation in the UN or to be recognised as subjects of international law, on the basis that they refuse to have a real name:

1. "South Africa" (that's a geographical expression)

2. "Georgia" (just call yourself Sakartvelo, idiot)

3. "The United States" and its contemptible colony "The United Kingdom" (self-explanatory)

4. "Congo" (most of the Congo Basin is located in the DRC, which is already called Congo, so it's easy to choose who should change its name).

5. "Central African Republic" (these are just adjectives that can apply to like, 10 different countries).

6. "East Timor" (it's a coward's move to name your country after part of an island. Ireland doesn't call itself South Ireland).

7. "Guinea" its "Bissau" and especially its "Equatorial" variants (those countries are completing some 60 years of independence and still use fake colonial names. It's like living in your parent's basement in your mid-30s)

8. "Iceland" ('hee hoo, Iceland is green and Greenland is icy' hasn't been funny or insightful for years)

9. "Ivory Coast" (Côte d'Ivoire isn't any less of a fake stupid name)

10. "Kiribati" (I feel ati if when you detide to utie the Latin Alphabet for your language you are respontible for not uting it in tiuch a way that the S tiound is repretiented by "ti")

11. "Israel" (self-explanatory)

12. "The Netherlands" (also a geographical expression but one that is evocative of the name for an evil region of a poorly constructed fantasy worldbuilding project).

13. "New Zealand" (Old Zealand had the decency to create its own real name).

14. "Niger" (the only part that deserves the name are the regions of Niamey, Tillabéri and Dosso, all the rest has nothing to do with it, plus Nigeria has more of the river - including the delta - and already took name).

15. "North Macedonia" (tell the Greeks to go to court if they're so upset about your name. Everyone knows copyright laws aren't respected in Eastern Europe anyway)

16. "Philippines" (Philip hasn't been your - foreign - head of state for over 400 years it's time to get over it)

17. "Sierra Leone" (we know you don't speak Italian. Stop it).

18. "South Sudan" (see, South Africa)

19. "United Arab Emirates" (come on now)

[penitentwordsmith]

United Nation, it seems like I have to remind you once again about the 17 goals you outlined to attain sustainable development from 2015-2030.

1.) End poverty in all its forms everywhere.

2.) End hunger, achieve food security, and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.

3.) ENSURE HEALTHY LIVES AND PROMOTE WELL-BEING FOR ALL AT ALL AGES.

4.) Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

5.) Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

6.) Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

7.) Ensure access to affordable, realiable and sustainable and modern energy for all.

8.) Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

9.) Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

10.) REDUCE INEQUALITY WITHIN AND AMONG COUNTRIES.

11.) MAKE CITIES AND HUMAN SETTLEMENTS INCLUSIVE SAFE, RESILIENT AND SUSTAINABLE.

12.) Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.

13.) Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

14.) Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

15.) Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.

16.) PROVIDE PEACEFUL AND INCLUSIVE SOCIETIES FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, PROVIDE ACCESS TO JUSTICE FOR ALL and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.

17.) Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

So the highlighted goals were only applicable to other countries such as Ukraine but not Palestine? No, nevermind comparing countries with countries, who the fuck cares, ALL WE WANT IS FOR THOSE PEOPLE ESPECIALLY THE ELDERS AND CHILDREN TO BE SAFE AND AWAY FROM HARM, WHY THE HELL DO YOU JUST SIT THERE WHILE THOSE CHILDREN DIE FROM BOMBS SENT BY ISRAEL?

There are so many videos released online. Some of the UN members are just stupid, stupid enough to let Israel do what they want despite the evidence shown in front of them. We don't actually care about your internal conflicts, hamas, zionists, whatsoever, JUST LET THE PEOPLE BE SAFE.

LEAVE PALESTINE ALONE. NO ONE DESERVES TO BE TREATED LIKE THIS. NO ONE.

[wolint]

GRACE TO OVERCOME!

GRACE TO OVERCOME

Ephesians 2:8-9

 

What exactly is grace? It is the favourable influence of God in renewing the heart through the application of Christ’s righteousness. Grace is undeserved favour. It is mercy when we don’t expect it or deserve it. Grace is God’s adornment of His people. God’s decoration of His children, beautifying and dignifying them that are least qualified to overcome.

The Bible tells us how God has extended grace to us by offering us salvation-eternal life with him-for free! We don’t have to do anything to earn it. In fact, we can’t earn it or buy it. We simply accept it by believing that Jesus, God’s Son, died for our sins so we wouldn’t have to.

Psalm 84:11 implies that grace is God’s good will, kindness shown through encompassing love and unmerited favour. Grace begins with God and is given freely. His graciousness to us is our example for extending grace and mercy to others. Grace cannot be earned. It is freely given.

Grace is the gift of God by which He extends mercy, loving kindness and salvation to everyone.

It is by God’s grace that he decided to offer us the gift of salvation. There is nothing we can do to earn it. We simply receive it with faith and in thanks.

God is gracious in action!

God’s grace is revealed in Jesus Christ who demonstrates visibly the grace of God fulfilled through the ministry of Christ- see John 1:14-17.

God’s grace is our only hope in this fallen, twisted and messy world. It is the only hope we have to overcome every plan and purpose of the enemy.

Israel was devastated by times of intense rebellion and sin. Yet when the people repented and returned to God, he delivered them. God puts no limit on the number of times we can come to him to obtain mercy, but we must come to obtain it, recognizing our need and asking him for help. This miracle of grace should inspire us to say, “What a gracious and merciful God you are!” If there is a recurring problem or difficulty in our lives, continue to ask God for help, and be willing and ready to make changes in attitude and behaviour that will correct that situation. Read Ephesians 1:3-2:10. There are forces working tirelessly to limit, condemn, distract, fail or completely stop us from enjoying all the benefits available to the saints of God.

Every believer must arm themselves with two things the enemy fears the most if the grace to overcome must be impacting and those are the word and name of God according to Isaiah 59:19, Philippians 2:10 and Hebrew 4:12.

God is always ready to fight for us when we call His name and acknowledge His sovereignty over all things for Hid grace is always sufficient for us according to 2 Corinthians 12:9 and not dependent on our performance.

God has graced and will continue to grace us to overcome.

God’s grace finds goodness in everything.

Grace takes the blame.

Grace covers shame.

Grace finds beauty out of the ugly.

We've got to learn to hold on and out for grace, as it’s the only thing that makes life bearable.

Grace stopped Abimelech from being destroyed in Genesis 20:2-7.

Grace gave Cain a mark to save him from being killed in Genesis 4:13-15.

Grace stopped to meet the adulterous woman in John 8:1-1.

God’s grace is sufficient for us to overcome any and every situation and challenge if we accept the grace and allow it to empower us.

God's grace manifested in Jesus Christ makes it possible for God to cause us to reflect His grace in our character and relationships. Position yourself for grace to overcome! The condition for receiving God's grace is humility as stated in James 4:6, and 1 Peter 5:5.

Christ represents the fulfilment, the embodiment, and the dispenser of divine grace, and so, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all according to 2 Thessalonians 3:18.

PRAYER: Thank you, Lord for the gift of grace to overcome in every area of my life in Jesus’ name, amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN.

[roman-catholic-mass-readings]

11th July >> Mass Readings (USA)

Saint Benedict, Abbot 

on

Thursday, Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time.

Thursday, Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time

(Liturgical Colour: White. Year: B(II))

(Readings for the feria (Thursday))

(There is a choice today between the readings for the ferial day (Thursday) and those for the memorial. The ferial readings are recommended unless pastoral reasons suggest otherwise)

First Reading Hosea 11:1-4, 8e-9 My heart is overwhelmed.

Thus says the LORD:

When Israel was a child I loved him, out of Egypt I called my son. The more I called them, the farther they went from me, Sacrificing to the Baals and burning incense to idols. Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk, who took them in my arms; I drew them with human cords, with bands of love; I fostered them like one who raises an infant to his cheeks; Yet, though I stooped to feed my child, they did not know that I was their healer.

My heart is overwhelmed, my pity is stirred. I will not give vent to my blazing anger, I will not destroy Ephraim again; For I am God and not man, the Holy One present among you; I will not let the flames consume you.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 80:2ac and 3b, 15-16

R/ Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.

O shepherd of Israel, hearken. From your throne upon the cherubim, shine forth. Rouse your power.

R/ Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.

Once again, O LORD of hosts, look down from heaven, and see: Take care of this vine, and protect what your right hand has planted, the son of man whom you yourself made strong.

R/ Let us see your face, Lord, and we shall be saved.

Gospel Acclamation Mark 1:15

Alleluia, alleluia. The Kingdom of God is at hand: repent and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Matthew 10:7-15 Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.

Jesus said to his Apostles: “As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.�� Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words – go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.”

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

--------------------

Saint Benedict, Abbot 

(Liturgical Colour: White. Year: B(II))

(Readings for the memorial)

(There is a choice today between the readings for the ferial day (Thursday) and those for the memorial. The ferial readings are recommended unless pastoral reasons suggest otherwise)

First Reading Proverbs 2:1-9 Inclining your heart to understanding.

My son, if you receive my words and treasure my commands, Turning your ear to wisdom, inclining your heart to understanding; Yes, if you call to intelligence, and to understanding raise your voice; If you seek her like silver, and like hidden treasures search her out:

Then will you understand the fear of the LORD; the knowledge of God you will find; For the LORD gives wisdom, from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; He has counsel in store for the upright, he is the shield of those who walk honestly, Guarding the paths of justice, protecting the way of his pious ones.

Then you will understand rectitude and justice, honesty, every good path.

The Word of the Lord

R/ Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11

R/ I will bless the Lord at all times. or R/ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth. Let my soul glory in the LORD; the lowly will hear and be glad.

R/ I will bless the Lord at all times. or R/ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

Glorify the LORD with me, let us together extol his name. I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.

R/ I will bless the Lord at all times. or R/ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

Look to him that you may be radiant with joy, and your faces may not blush with shame. When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him.

R/ I will bless the Lord at all times. or R/ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. Taste and see how good the LORD is; blessed the man who takes refuge in him.

R/ I will bless the Lord at all times. or R/ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

Fear the LORD, you his holy ones, for nought is lacking to those who fear him. The great grow poor and hungry; but those who seek the LORD want for no good thing.

R/ I will bless the Lord at all times. or R/ Taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

Gospel Acclamation Matthew 5:3

Alleluia, alleluia. Blessed are the poor in spirit; the Kingdom of heaven is theirs! Alleluia, alleluia.

Gospel Matthew 19:27-29 You who have followed me will receive a hundred times more.

Peter said to Jesus, “We have given up everything and followed you. What will there be for us?” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you that you who have followed me, in the new age, when the Son of Man is seated on his throne of glory, will yourselves sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times more, and will inherit eternal life.”

The Gospel of the Lord

R/ Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.

[coffeeman777]

Psalm 103

"1 I bless the holy name of YHWH-God with all my heart! 2 Yes, I will bless the LORD and not forget the glorious things He does for me!

"3 He forgives all my sins. He heals me. 4 He ransoms me from Hell. He surrounds me with loving-kindness and tender mercies. 5 He fills my life with good things! My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! 6 He gives justice to all who are treated unfairly. 7 He revealed His will and nature to Moses and the people of Israel.

"8 He is merciful and tender toward those who don’t deserve it; He is slow to get angry and full of kindness and love. 9 He never bears a grudge, nor remains angry forever. 10 He has not punished us as we deserve for all our sins, 11 for His mercy toward those who fear and honor Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. 12 He has removed our sins as far away from us as the East is from the West. 13 He is like a Father to us, tender and sympathetic to those who reverence Him. 14 For He knows we are but dust 15 and that our days are few and brief, like grass, like flowers, 16 blown by the wind and gone forever.

"17-18 But the loving-kindness of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting to those who reverence him; His salvation is to children’s children of those who are faithful to his covenant and remember to obey Him!

"19 The LORD has made the heavens His throne; from there He rules over everything there is. 20 Bless the LORD, you mighty angels of His who carry out His orders, listening for each of His commands. 21 Yes, bless the LORD, you armies of His angels who serve Him constantly.

"22 Let everything everywhere bless the LORD! And how I bless Him too!"

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

All of Creation Should Praise the Lord

1 With all my heart    I praise the Lord, and with all that I am    I praise his holy name! 2 With all my heart    I praise the Lord! I will never forget    how kind he has been.

3 The Lord forgives our sins, heals us when we are sick, 4    and protects us from death. His kindness and love    are a crown on our heads. 5 Each day that we live,    he provides for our needs and gives us the strength    of a young eagle.

6 For all who are mistreated,    the Lord brings justice. 7 He taught his Law to Moses and showed all Israel    what he could do.

8 The Lord is merciful! He is kind and patient,    and his love never fails. 9 The Lord won't always be angry    and point out our sins; 10 he doesn't punish us    as our sins deserve.

11 How great is God's love for all    who worship him? Greater than the distance    between heaven and earth! 12 How far has the Lord taken    our sins from us? Farther than the distance    from east to west!

13 Just as parents are kind    to their children, the Lord is kind    to all who worship him, 14 because he knows    we are made of dust. 15 We humans are like grass or wild flowers    that quickly bloom. 16 But a scorching wind blows, and they quickly wither    to be forever forgotten.

17 The Lord is always kind    to those who worship him, and he keeps his promises to their descendants 18 who faithfully obey him.

19 God has set up his kingdom in heaven, and he rules    the whole creation. 20 All of you mighty angels, who obey God's commands,    come and praise your Lord! 21 All of you thousands who serve and obey God,    come and praise your Lord! 22 All of God's creation and all that he rules,    come and praise your Lord! With all my heart    I praise the Lord! — Psalm 103 | Contemporary English Version (CEV) The Holy Bible, Contemporary English Version Copyright © 1995 by American Bible Society. Cross References: Genesis 3:19; Exodus 15:26; Exodus 33:13; Exodus 34:6; Leviticus 19:18; Deuteronomy 6:12; Deuteronomy 7:9; Deuteronomy 8:11; 2 Samuel 12:13; 2 Samuel 12:20; 1 Kings 22:19; Ezra 9:13; Job 7:10; Job 8:18; Psalm 5:12; Psalm 8:5; Psalm 11:4; Psalm 12:5; Psalm 17:2; Psalm 25:10; Psalm 30:5; Psalm 36:5; Psalm 39:4; Psalm 90:14; Psalm 104:1; Psalm 145:10; Lamentations 3:22; Ezekiel 24:21; Malachi 3:17; Matthew 6:10; Luke 1:50; Luke 2:13; Hebrews 1:14; Hebrews 9:26; James 1:10-11; James 5:11

[creativewaygrace]

Bible Verses on Backsliding

1 John 1:9- If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2 Chronicles 7:14- And my people, who bear my name, humble themselves, pray and seek my face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.

2 Corinthians 13:5- Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith. Examine yourselves. Or do you not recognize that Jesus Christ is in you? Unless you fail the test.

2 Peter 2:20- For if, having escaped the world's impurity through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in these things and defeated, the last state is worse for them than the first.

2 Timothy 4:10- Because Demas has deserted me since he loved this present world, and has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia.

Galatians 5:4- You who are trying to be justified by the law and alienated from Christ, you have fallen from grace.

Galatians 6:1- Brothers and sisters, if someone is overtaken in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual, restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so that you also won't be tempted.

Hosea 11:7- My people are bent on turning from me. Though they call to him on high, he will not exalt them at all.

Hosea 14:1- Israel, return to the Lord your God, for you have stumbled in your iniquity.

Hosea 4:16- For Israel, is as obstinate as a stubborn cow. Can the Lord now shepherd them like a lamb in an open meadow?

Isaiah 30:15- Israel, has said You will be delivered by returning and resting; your strength will be in quiet confidence. But you are not willing.

James 4:6- But he says: God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

Jeremiah 14:7- Though our iniquities testify against us, Lord, act for your name's sake. Indeed, our rebellions are many: we have sinned against you.

Jeremiah 2:19- Your own evil will discipline you; your own apostasies will reprimand you. Recognize how evil and bitter it is for you to abandon the Lord your God and to have no fear of me. This is the declaration of the Lord God of Armies.

Jeremiah 24:7- I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be my people, and I will be their God because they will return to me with all their heart.

Jeremiah 3:12- Go, proclaim these words to the north, and say "Return, unfaithful Israel. This is the Lord's declaration. I will not look on you with anger, for I am unfailing in my love. This is the Lord's declaration. I will not be angry forever.

Jeremiah 3:14- Return, you fatherless children, this is the Lord's declaration, for I am your master, and I will take you, one from a city and town from a family, and I will bring you to Zion.

Jeremiah 3:22- Return, you fatherless children. I will heal your unfaithfulness, "Here we are, coming to you, for you are the Lord God.

Jeremiah 31:22- How long will you turn here and there faithless daughter? For the Lord creates something new in the land, a female will shelter a man.

Jeremiah 8:5- Why have these people turned away? Why is Jerusalem always turning away? They take hold of deceit: they refuse to return.

John 15:5- I am the vine: you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit because you can do nothing without me.

John 15:6- If anyone does not remain in me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

Luke 9:6- But Jesus said to him "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.

Matthew 24:11- Many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.

Matthew 26:41- Stay awake and pray, so that you won't enter into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Proverbs 14:14- The disloyal one will get what his conduct deserves, and a good one, what his deeds deserve.

Proverbs 24:16- Though a righteous person falls seven times, he will get up, but the wicked will stumble into ruin.

Revelation 2:4- But I have this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first.

Revelation 2:5- Remember then how far you have fallen, repent, and do the works you did at first. Otherwise, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

[crystal-methionine]

It’s time for my annual post about Eurovision and then disappearing from here for another year. So behold my rankings for the 2023 edition:

1. Finland 🇫🇮 - Cha Cha Cha by Käärijä

Oh Finland. So close to winning but a deserved 🥈. I wholly think that this song was a bit more original and stands out compared to Tattoo, but we all knew once Loreen was chosen by Sweden the the queen of Eurovision would take the crown.

2. Spain 🇪🇸 - EAEA by Blanca Paloma

5 pts. BITCH SERIOUSLY???!!! This was a masterclass of vocal performance with a touch of tradition, modernity, and ethnic music. Blanca killed it and the performance was so encapturing. I did not look away once. And then Europe have her only 5 pts (last place). I’m usually anti-jury but they at least put her 9th (could have been higher but better than fuckin last)

3. Sweden 🇸🇪 - Tattoo by Loreen

Way deserved 🥇. I listen to this and belt in the car. It was my #1 a good bit constantly switching between it and Finland. I remember thinking in the semi, what the point of even having the contest was bc she already won after performing. I do hate pulling the it’s Loreen card, but honestly when has she ever done wrong?? Perfectly fine with her winning it all.

4. Armenia 🇦🇲 - Future Lover by Brunette

Underrated imo. Also the dance break. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor in the semi. Vocally flawless both times. Amazing staging to boot. I understand this wasn’t everybody’s cup of tea. However, I think merit should have been awarded more.

5. Iceland 🇮🇸 - Power by Diljá

As already shown with Spain, we can’t have all the nice things can we, Europe? Vocal perfection. Rich gritty vocals and delicate. Is the song the best song lyrically, no. But the amount of performance prowess Diljá performed and stayed on point vocally was literally mind blowing. I knew she wasn’t going to qualify, but I so wanted her to. She deserved it more over some other countries *cough Poland*. The good news was she didn’t seem to care much and had a good time from what I was seeing.

6. Serbia 🇷🇸 - Samo Mi Se Spava by Luke Black

Like Armenia, I fully understand this isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. This is one of my personal favorites that I may repeat once or twice if it comes on my playlist. The last minute of the song is my hype jam. The performance was good. I’ll agree to that there were better performers, but I have to rank the song this high given my replay count.

7. Israel 🇮🇱 - Unicorn by Noa Kirel

Is it my favorite, no. Do I hate the lyrics at times? Yes. It makes me think it’s supposed to be a track for a My Little Pony movie or something. Did the performance slap? Yes. She killed it, and I have to give props when they are due. Definitely ok with it in top 5.

8. Italy 🇮🇹 - Due Vite by Marco Mengoni

Is it a regular ye ole classic male ballad from Italy? Yes. Do I care? No. Did I love the performance? Yes? Would I break up with my partner and move to Italy and be with him? Absolutely (sorry babe, he’s so hot and if you had watched, you’d understand). Marco like in 2013 was vocally amazing and we had emotion. Idk what the trampoline people in the back were for, but tbh I didn’t pay them attention bc I was watching Marco.

9. Australia 🇦🇺 - Promise by Voyager

This song when it came out was my #1 until Cha Cha Cha and Tattoo came out. So happy they got a good result. They deserved it. Could have done better televote, but this year I agreed more with juries for the majority of the songs.

10. Slovenia 🇸🇮 - Carpe Diem by Joker Out

Oh you silly boys. You are the Miss Congeniality for sure. And on top of that, you should have been top 10. The performance was so fun and genuinely enjoyable. Vocally, they did well. I just fear that Slovenia always gets overlooked by everyone and that was why they stayed right side of the board this year.

11. Lithuania 🇱🇹 - Stay by Monika Linkyte

Lyrically felt and amazing voice. Glad she got her solo moment and just out of top 10. Loved the performance and she was so silly behind Finland all evening. Made me like her more.

12. Norway 🇳🇴 - Queen of Kings by Alessandra

Juries wtf? Why was this so low? She always did fairly well (maybe some whistle tones iffy). Glad she got a lot of televote points. Deserved top 10. I think for me it’s just I have heard it so many times that it’s not as impactful anymore.

13. Czechia 🇨🇿 - My Sister’s Crown by Vesna

I wasn’t sure vocally about this watching before the show concerts. However, they pulled it together though and the semi performance had me going. Deserved top 10. Well done ladies.

14. France 🇫🇷 - Évidemment by La Zarra

Vocally good. Performance was captivating. Idk why it was so low. It was quintessentially French, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.

15. Austria 🇦🇹 - Who the Hell is Edgar? by Salena and Teya

I thought this was too weird off the bat, but it grew on me. Hearing the crowd do the Poes was fun and glad they seemed to enjoy themselves. I get what the song is about, but idk if others missed it. Maybe that’s why it was low on televote??

16. Portugal 🇵🇹 - Ai Coraçao by Mimicat

Yes yes yes. Portugal did everything they should have always, which is authenticity. Mimicat was a joy to watch sashay around the stage in her feather skirt. Stole my heart for sure.

17. Latvia 🇱🇻 - Aīja by Sudden Lights

Oh Latvia. I’m so sorry you were in the semi of death. I think you’d have qualified otherwise. Very nice song and good performance. Definitely was brought to life more live than studio cut. Keep going this direction please.

18. UK 🇬🇧 - I Wrote a Song by Mae Muller

Song is good but I think vocals let it down slightly. Glad UK is in a good direction given the last 2 years. Keep it up.

19. Estonia 🇪🇪 - Bridges by Alika

I can’t dock this song for anything besides just personal opinion. It’s not that I was bored with it but I just liked others more. But live, she nailed everything and so I understand top 10 for her. Good job Estonia.

20. Germany 🇩🇪 - Blood and Glitter by Lord of the Lost

Look at me putting Germany in a non-last 5 overall position. What is this universe? Tbh it wasn’t high on my list until tonight. They killed it on the stage and rocked it out. Idk why it was last but at least it wasn’t 0 points again so hey improvements???

21. Albania 🇦🇱 - Duje by Albina and Fam

Just like Portugal, authentic. I’m a sucker for ethnic songs and while it wasn’t on my radar until the live shows, I’m glad it did after. Happy they qualified.

22. Georgia 🇬🇪 - Echo by Iru

NQ? Really?? This was so impactful vocally, visually. I don’t get it but truth be told, I still have no idea what the lyrics are. Idk if it was accent or what. But I don’t really care. So beautiful and passionate. Georgia, keep this up even if it was a NQ this time.

23. Belgium 🇧🇪 - Because of You by Gustaph

So this song is ok. I like the beat and the vogueing. I like the nod to ballroom. I think the lyrics are cliche and it sets something off in my brain where I can’t enjoy it like other people do. Idk what it is but glad they’re happy with the result.

24. Cyprus 🇨🇾 - Break a Broken Heart by Andrew Lambrou

Basic. Good but basic. Vocal iffy sometimes but a qualifier for sure.

25. Ukraine 🇺🇦 - Heart of Steel by Tvorchi

Glad they made it but the song is just ok. Elevated slightly by adding Ukrainian verse, but I would have liked more tbh. For a year celebrating Ukraine, I felt that the show did more than song in doing that imo. Czechia even did more tbh.

26. Moldova 🇲🇩 - Soarele si Luna by Pasha Parfeni

I prefer his 2012 song to this. Idk what is with the tribal influence, but I was so confused at the performance and the vocal was ok. At least it was enjoyable.

27. Netherlands 🇳🇱 - Burning Daylight by Mia and Dion

The studio was my #2 forever. It was so promising. Until I heard it live first. It was so bad. They fixed it, but I think they were kinda dead in the water already given how little their own people cared or wanted to promote them or the song, which is sad bc lyrically it was so relatable and felt by me.

28. Switzerland 🇨🇭- Waterguns by Reno Forrer

There’s nothing wrong with this song or him or his voice or the performance. I just was bored of it from the get go. I will merit his voice. It’s outstanding, but the song does nothing much for me. Would rather have had Latvia.

29. Denmark 🇩🇰 - Breaking My Heart by Reiley

I rather like this song. But only studio. The love was a struggle. Couldn’t seem to find the key for very long before losing it. May have simply been too high for his register. Either way, I enjoy it when on the playlist. Reminds me of the tracks for Heartstopper on Netflix.

30. Malta 🇲🇹 - Dance by The Busker

Is it bad? No. Is it good? No. Kinda middle ground. Would I dance to it? Yeah. Wasn’t too upset with the song. Just there.

31. Greece 🇬🇷 - What They Say by Victor Vernicos

Greece. We need to talk. I get wanting to fish for diaspora votes, but you have to qualify first. I don’t have anything against the song or the artist, but this was not putting the best foot forward. It gave Shawn Mendes wannabe and not Greek productions like we’ve seen in the recent years. It wasn’t broke. Put it back.

32. Ireland 🇮🇪 - We Are One by Wild Youth

You remember how U2 forced an album on us? This sounded like it was from that. I have nothing against the song bc I like Coldplay and U2, but come on Ireland. Surely you can do better than play it safe. Give us JR Eurovision level of taste. Give us Irish language and make a girl belt like a syren banshee.

33. Croatia 🇭🇷 - Mama ŠČ by Let 3

I am only putting this this high. I don’t get the hype or the reasoning. It’s weird in a not pleasant way. Parts are catchy so this is what I can give it.

34. Azerbaijan 🇦🇿 - Tell Me More by TuralTuranX

See Greece but Beatles instead of Shawn. Put it back. NOW.

35. San Marino 🇸🇲 - Like an Animal by Piqued Jacks

Take the lyrics away and the screaming at the end and it’s not bad music. Kinda reminds me of 1970-80s rock like Queen for a bit but bring back Achille.

36. Poland 🇵🇱 - Solo by Blanka

Just no. There I was minding my business and then all of a sudden, I hear this grating, irritating Bejba. I really didn’t like the song or her. Liking posts hating on fellow contestants in your national final. Immediate bottom even if you have a good song (see Armenia 2014).

37. Romania 🇷🇴 - DGT by Theodor Andrei

There weren’t many options for Romania this year tbh. Just unfortunately picked one where the song was just bad. Theodor can sing tho so give him a new song and act and would be higher on this list.

[thestarlitnights]

STAR’S INCOHERENT THOUGHTS OF SEMI 1 RAAHHHHHHH

1) norway - GIRLBOSS. QUEEN. i love her and wish her the best. i’d be happy if she qualified. she probably will. THE HIGH NOTE  2) malta - RELATABLE INTROVERT PARTY ANTHEM. STAGING WAS IMMACULATE. OUTFIT? CHANGED. CAR? DRIVEN. PARTY? LEFT. HOTEL? TRIVAGO. they’re so scrunkly 3) serbia - TALENTED BRILLIANT INCREDIBLE SHOWSTOPPING NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE SPECTACULAR NEVER THE SAME TOTALLY UNIQUE UNAFRAID TO REFERENCE OR NOT REFERENCE PUT IT IN A BLENDER SHIT ON IT VOMIT ON IT EAT IT GIVE BIRTH TO IT. if luke doesn’t qualify i’m going on a soul-searching journey. 4) latvia - INDIE ROCK/POP MY BELOVED. i really need them to qualify too because they deserve it this year!! and the eurofandom roots for them too i think!! 5) portugal - DRAMA KID’S FEVER DREAM. she’s so cool and i loved her performance too, her energy was astounding. 6) ireland - they’re so wholesome!! they didn’t deserve the crap they went through up to the contest, and even if they don’t qualify i wish them the best in what they do next :) 7) croatia - TRACTOR GODS. if they qualify that’d be cool 8) switzerland - his outfit was amazing and the dancers were dancing! two anti war songs with very different approached back to back tho lol 9) israel - U. NI. CORN. the dance was intense. cool if it qualifies but we’ll see 10) moldova - PASHA, GOD OF THE SUN AND MOON WITH HIS DISCIPLES AND DEMIGODS. PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS HOLY GET HIM TO THE FINAL. AND P L E A S E DON’T PULL A FULENN ON SATURDAY. 11) sweden - the queen loreen has come for her crown??? great song, great performance. her nails are amazing.  12) azerbaijan - they’ve been so scrunkly.... they truly served cunt on the turquoise carpet too 13) czechia - SESTRO KRASYVA!!! i’d love for them to qualify and their matching but not matching outfits suited their theme so well 14) netherlands - oh netherlands i loved your entry sm last year but now i’m scared for your qualification streak this year. i know it’s a bloodbath semi and they did their best 15) finland - IS CRAZY, IS PARTY!!!! he’s definitely going through. i need him to. please. this dionysian party banger is what we need

[cowbi-dandy]

1. I'd say so with my mum, but not my dad

2. My loving trans partner, whom I say it to everyday

3. Not finishing uni, self inflicted pressure was too much

4. Not overly, sometimes I worry about my belly. But I know I enjoyed the food, and I usually feel comfortable in my body

5. Happily dating ❤️

6. In a comfy bed, with loved ones around me

7. Chocolate Brazil nuts. The best snack

8. I did practice boxing. Helped lose a lot of weight in my teens and got me a better form than B A L L

9. I used to a lot, but I would hurt my fingers with how low they'd go. So usually just enjoy clipping them, but sometimes with bite them to groom.

10. Hard to recall, maybe my brother?

11. I genuinely like a lot of people ☺️

12. Not 48, but I have stayed up 26 hours I think. Not a great time and led to some regrets lol

13. Other than some figures around the world that are doing genuine evil, like Israel figure heads, trump etc. No one in my personal life that I just don't associate with any more

14. I think I miss people that are still alive but I just don't see much anymore. I always think the dead hang around, or come visit at times, so they never feel like they've left

15. I have a bunny rabbit, Bobby, but my mum and sister take care of him more than I do now. Really enjoyed watching horror movies with him.

16. ATM feel a bit melancholic, I think the previous questions were mostly sad lol

17. Nope

18. A little cause they can be fast moving guys, but other than that I don't fear them. I love the guys and galls with all the eyes.

19. Probably not, cause I'd waste the opportunity asking what the rules and consequences were more like. Back to the future or gravity falls

20. Proper English slang there, unless it's used somewhere else lol

In a little forest path, but it's not as twee as you might think

21. Well it's Christmas weekend, not got work. Might try to see if I can get some DND in on the Saturday. But plan on enjoying time with family.

22. Still considering but I think I'd just want 1

23. Nope, but my ear apparently always looked like they had been pierced

24. History, it's factual English, and you can do debates from the facts you know and what can be derived from them. And debates aren't opposing all the time, usually it's to help further an understanding on a topic

25. Feels similar to the other question, so I refer to my answer there

26. Hot sloppy sex. Only half joking, probably warm hot chocolate.

27. I think I have, I used to be an absolute cock to girls kinda dumping love on them and then when they seemed interested I took that as a win then I'd pretty much ignore them. Absolute twat little pre teen me, but very undeveloped socially and puberty did werid stuff.

28. Far as I'm aware no

29. I think I have, both kinds of tears. Relationships are hard, but always worth it.

30. The chair in my room has a bad wheel so it slightly off balance as times.

31. Lots of people, and lots more that I don't know I hope lol

32. I love too many colours, but black and other dark colours are cool. Until it's dark and I'm looking for my phone against black bedding with black pillows.

33. Not anymore I don't think, I feel like I put a wary amount of trust and then give more as I know them.

34. Hard to say, barely remember my dreams. I think I dreamt about apex??? I remember ziplines and being a trio or something

35. Probably my mum and Step dad

36. I wouldn't say too easily, very generously, but I know the point where people don't deserve them. Until they make some new effort

37. I can genuinely forget things too easily, forgiving I don't think I take too long with.. I can't hold strong negative emotions for longer than a week even though I tried lol

38. Probably not and I hope it isn't in retrospect

39. I think like 4, had a little girlfriend. I do think the straight narrative is pushed a little hard. But then I was kissing boys for a laugh cause I could pick them up and do it lol

Maybe we really don't change much from when we were kids

40. Yes in my back garden late night, and it's pretty covered. Usually cause it too hot, but other reasons too lol

41/51? Lol

I'd say chili dogs, has everything good on it

42. I know there's the random factor in the universe, but some things do just come together.

43. Blowing a load

44. I think people can be complex, so I don't like the simple question. There can be a lot to this

45. I think I'm a nice person, but I feel I can be cruel at times. never been told I'm mean or anything though. At least recently

46. Well lots of play fighting, and boxing. Probably 30-40? Maybe

47. I don't, but I think you can always find people that can fit that role.

48. Warmish rain lol

49. Yes, it's a nice weather to get from time to time

50/60?. I really do

51. Not overly, but I like to see the people that do

52. Too many things lol

53. Maybe if I wanted to transition, but I don't think I want that. I don't think I'm an egg, I think it's just cause boys like girls and girls like boys, was ingrained into me, when I wanted girls stuff I thought I had to be a girl. So when I wanted boys, well more accurately men. I had that thought to myself.

54. Probably not, but I don't know where they are now lol

55. Well I'm happy in my current relationship with my best friend

56. I guess my partner, but other than them not really

57. Probably my mum, or co-workers, or customers lol actual conversation other than family, my friends Alice and mell.

58. 59. 60. Yes, my loving partner

70 horrible questions ... Fuck it

01: Do you have a good relationship with your parents? 02: Who did you last say “I love you” to? 03: Do you regret anything? 04: Are you insecure? 05: What is your relationship status? 06: How do you want to die? 07: What did you last eat? 08: Played any sports? 09: Do you bite your nails? 10: When was your last physical fight? 11: Do you like someone? 12: Have you ever stayed up 48 hours? 13: Do you hate anyone at the moment? 14: Do you miss someone? 15: Have any pets? 16: How exactly are you feeling at the moment? 17: Ever made out in the bathroom? 18: Are you scared of spiders? 19: Would you go back in time if you were given the chance? 20: Where was the last place you snogged someone? 21: What are your plans for this weekend? 22: Do you want to have kids? How many? 23: Do you have piercings? How many? 24: What is/are/were your best subject(s)? 25: Do you miss anyone from your past? 26: What are you craving right now? 27: Have you ever broken someone’s heart? 28: Have you ever been cheated on? 29: Have you made a boyfriend/girlfriend cry? 30: What’s irritating you right now? 31: Does somebody love you? 32: What is your favourite color? 33: Do you have trust issues? 34: Who/what was your last dream about? 35: Who was the last person you cried in front of? 36: Do you give out second chances too easily? 37: Is it easier to forgive or forget? 38: Is this year the best year of your life? 39: How old were you when you had your first kiss? 40: Have you ever walked outside completely naked? 51: Favourite food? 52: Do you believe everything happens for a reason? 53: What is the last thing you did before you went to bed last night? 54: Is cheating ever okay? 55: Are you mean? 56: How many people have you fist fought? 57: Do you believe in true love? 58: Favourite weather? 59: Do you like the snow? 60: Do you wanna get married? 61: Is it cute when a boy/girl calls you baby? 62: What makes you happy? 63: Would you change your name? 64: Would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed? 65: Your best friend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do? 66: Do you have a friend of the opposite sex who you can act your complete self around? 67: Who was the last person of the opposite sex you talked to? 68: Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with? 69: Do you believe in soulmates? 70: Is there anyone you would die for?

[spiritsoulandbody]

#DailyDevotion Don't Be One Of Those People Who Will Say, "I Could Have Been Saved!"

#DailyDevotion Don't Be One Of Those People Who Will Say, "I Could Have Been Saved!" Amos 4 6 “And so I also gave you —nothing for your teeth to bite in all your cities and no food in all your places. But you didn’t return to Me,” says the LORD. 7 “Yes, I stopped the rain from falling on you three months before the harvest. And I made it rain on one town and one field got rain, and another field got none and dried up. 8 And so two or three towns staggered to another to drink water and couldn’t get enough. But you didn’t return to Me,” says the LORD. 9 “I struck you down with a scorching wind and mildew. The gnawing grasshopper consumed your many gardens, your vineyards, your fig trees, and your olive trees. But you didn’t return to Me,” says the LORD.  10 “I sent plagues among you, like those in Egypt. I killed your young men with a sword and captured your horses. And so I made the stench of your camps come up to your nostrils. But you didn’t return to Me,” says the LORD. 11 “I laid you waste as God laid waste Sodom and Gomorrah. And you were like a brand snatched from fire. But you didn’t return to Me,” says the LORD. 12 “That is why I do this to you, Israel. Because I do this to you, Israel, prepare to meet your God!” 13 Remember, He formed the hills and made the wind: He tells man what He’s thinking; He makes the dawn dark and walks on the high places of the earth — the LORD, the God of armies, is His name. I really think we need to pay attention to this. I don't think a lot of commentary on each of the details is necessary. What do we have here? We have what we might dismiss in verses 6-10 as just acts of nature. The insurance companies know better. They are acts of God. But that is seemingly too much for us to handle. If it happens to those people over there, then we may think and say, “Well those people are so bad, they deserve this punishment from God.” If it happens to us, we may either try to dismiss it as Mother Nature or we may think God is being unjust because we are really not all that bad. We don't deserve to be treated this way. We might think those around us deserve it, but not us. We see this similar trend in Revelation 16, “9When they were badly burned, they blasphemed the name of God, Who controlled these plagues, and they did not repent to give Him glory.” All the disasters, the wars, etc., are given to us so that we repent of our sins and return to the LORD of Armies, Jesus Christ. This means you, no matter how good you may think you are, no matter how much faith you may think you have, God brings these things into our lives so we may examine ourselves, confess our sins, repent of our sins and put our faith in Jesus Christ for our salvation. Jesus says as much in Luke 13, “2Do you think, because this happened to them, those Galileans must have been worse sinners than all the other Galileans? 3I tell you, no. And if you don't repent, you will all perish as they did.” He tells the Israelites to prepare to meet their God. This is not going to be pretty. He has let them know and us know He is the Almighty and the Creator. He can even make the dawn dark. He knows what we are thinking. He is Omnipotent and Omniscient. Are you prepared to meet your God? You have been warned by God through nature and through war judgment is coming. He has called you to meet Him in repentance and faith so you may meet Him with joy. If you will not turn from your sins and embrace Jesus, you will meet Him in fear and terror. Almighty God, merciful Father, grant us Your Holy Spirit, so we may recognize our sins, repent of them and embrace Jesus as our Savior. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. Read the full article

[moreapples]

Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples. For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord.

—Psalms 117

~~~~~

A Global Call to Praise

By Jennifer Kane

A call rings out to the world—

A global call to praise the Lord God,

Praise be to the LORD for His mercy and truth.

So praise the LORD, all nations,

praise Him, all peoples.

For His merciful kindness reaches toward us,

and His truth endures forever.

Praise the LORD.

I see Christ revealed in these words:

A promise that all peoples,

from every nation and every island,

shall come to know Him—

the King of His everlasting kingdom,

the Savior in His church.

In His kingdom flows mercy and grace,

forgiveness of sins,

eternal life,

and everlasting hope.

Through His word, these truths are preached:

Victory over sin,

over death,

over the devil's power,

and over all evil.

So let all creation lift its voice!

Praise God far into eternity,

praise Him—

the Almighty One.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Psalms 117:1-2

Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible, but its message carries eternal weight. In just two verses, this psalm encapsulates the essence of worship, the scope of God’s kingdom, and the enduring qualities of His character.

The psalm begins with a universal invitation: “Praise the LORD, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples!”

This call extends beyond Israel to include all nations. In doing so, it reveals the expansive heart of God—a heart that longs for every tribe, tongue, and nation to experience His grace. While Israel was chosen as a light to the nations, this psalm reminds us that God’s plan was always global. As believers, we are invited to reflect that same openness, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with all people.

Paul echoes this psalm in Romans 15:11, emphasizing that the Gospel’s reach includes Jews and Gentiles alike. Jesus Himself sang this psalm at the Passover, knowing His sacrifice would unite all who believe under one covenant of grace (Matthew 26:30). How can I share the invitation to praise God with someone who may not know Him yet?

The psalmist provides two compelling reasons to praise God: His merciful kindness and His enduring truth. The Hebrew word ‘hesed’ signifies loyal love, steadfast mercy, and covenant faithfulness. It is a love that prevails over sin and adversity—a love that "abounds much more" than our failures (Romans 5:20).

God’s truth is unchanging and eternal. In a world where promises are often broken, His faithfulness remains a firm foundation. His truth assures me that His mercies will never fade and His promises will never fail.

Together, these qualities—mercy and truth—point us to Jesus, who embodies grace and truth (John 1:17). Through Christ, I can see the ultimate expression of God’s love and faithfulness. How have I experienced God’s mercy and truth in my life this week?

Psalm 117 concludes with a simple yet profound declaration: “Praise the LORD!” This call echoes the universal worship that will one day resound in heaven, as described in Revelation 7:9-10. People from every nation, tribe, and language will stand together, united in worship.

As I praise God today, I join a global and eternal chorus. My worship is not isolated but part of a larger story—a story of redemption, love, and hope that spans the entire world. How can I make my worship today a reflection of the global and eternal praise that God deserves?

Today let Psalm 117 inspire your prayers and actions. Pray for the Nations. Choose a country or people group to pray for, asking God to reveal His mercy and truth to them. Share the Gospel. Look for an opportunity to share God’s love with someone in your community. Praise Intentionally. Spend time in worship, reflecting on God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. Finally, let your heart echo the psalmist’s cry: Hallelujah! Praise the LORD!

~~~~~

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your great mercy and enduring truth. Teach me to praise You with all my heart and to share Your love with others. May my worship join the voices of people from every nation, glorifying You now and forever. In the name of Jesus Christ, hallelujah and amen.

[ruffboijuliaburnsides]

Reminder that Overwolf is an Israeli company that very quickly realized that their response in the wake of the October 7th attack to support IDF specifically was not the tone they wanted to set, removed the post calling for support, and afterwards posted links to relief organizations for victims of the attack, not all of whom were Jewish and all of whom deserved the support.

Reminder that being Israeli and wanting to support other Israelis in the wake of a long-planned, organized terrorist attack on a largely liberal, pro-peace community in the south of Israel does not mean supporting every action of the Israeli gov't or Israeli right-wing talking points.

Also reminder that in the wake of 9/11 a lot of people in the US were pretty pro-military if only briefly because we were scared, and it's a reasonable response to respond to fear with a desire to support those saying they'll defend you.

Move off curseforge if you want, but don't do it for antisemitic reasons. And yes, refusing to look at anything that's happened since VERY shortly after 10/7 to actually come to a proper conclusion as to what Overwolf as a company supports is, in fact, antisemitic.

Overwolf (Who owns Curseforge) is an israeli company which is supporting the genocide in palestine and funding the IDF

A lot of modders have been steadily moving to Modrinth to publish their mods, but a lot of mods and modpacks are stil available only through CurseForge or FTB apps (FTB is partnered with Overwolf).

if you are using the CurseForge launcher, I'm here to tell you that you can very easily migrate to PrismLauncher.

Thankfully, the CurseForge launcher offers a convenient way to extract your instances (profiles as it calls it) which you can then import into Prism.

Go into your profile and press the 3 dots. There, click "Export profile"

Select all the files and folders

This will create a zip file of your instance and open the folder in which it saved it. Just drag and drop the zip into Prism.

With certain modpacks, Prism will show you a message saying some mods aren't available for download through 3rd party launchers. It will give you a link to the mod as well as the folder which it is watching. Just manually download that mod into that folder and Prism will take it and put it where it needs to.

Ta-da! Your instance is now on a different launcher, with all your worlds and settings.